Nashik Municipal Corporation's 2026-27 Budget to Prioritize Kumbh Mela Infrastructure
The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) is gearing up to present its budget for the financial year 2026-27, with a primary focus on projects related to the upcoming Kumbh Mela. Commissioner Manisha Khatri has initiated department-wise reviews to ensure thorough preparation for the budget, which is expected to be tabled before the municipal corporation's standing committee by the end of February or early next month.
Strategic Emphasis on Kumbh Mela Works
Senior officials from NMC involved in the budget preparation have highlighted that the next financial year holds significant importance due to the Kumbh Mela. Consequently, the budget will concentrate on essential works such as road development, sewerage network upgrades, water supply enhancements, and various initiatives under the central government's Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme. For projects under AMRUT, NMC is required to contribute 50% of the funds, as per official statements.
Financial Provisions and Funding Strategies
NMC officials have disclosed that the civic body must allocate financial provisions in the budget for its 25% share of the total funds for Kumbh Mela projects, as approved by both the Kumbh Mela Authority and the state government. Currently, over Rs 3,000 crore worth of Kumbh Mela works have been initiated in the city. With NMC's share set at 25%, the corporation needs to mobilize Rs 750 crore in funds.
In the budgets for the previous financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26, NMC made financial provisions totaling Rs 425 crore. For the upcoming financial year 2026-27, NMC plans to allocate Rs 400 crore, which will be raised through bonds. The corporation has already secured Rs 200 crore through municipal bonds and intends to raise an additional Rs 200 crore via green bonds, with this process expected to be completed by the end of February or in the first week of March.
Historical Context and Approval Process
Last year, in February, Commissioner and Administrator Manisha Khatri presented a draft budget of Rs 3,053 crore before the standing committee. This draft was subsequently forwarded to the general body and approved, setting a precedent for the current budget cycle. The ongoing preparations underscore NMC's commitment to ensuring that infrastructure and urban development projects are adequately funded to support the successful hosting of the Kumbh Mela.
