NEW DELHI: In a significant announcement, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has declared that the Delhi government will actively pursue inclusion of the proposed Narela education hub among the five new university townships unveiled in this year's Union Budget. Speaking at a press conference, Gupta emphasized the strategic importance of this move for the capital's educational landscape.
Balanced Budget with Broad Opportunities
Chief Minister Gupta described the Union Budget as "balanced," noting that it provides substantial opportunities for every segment and category, including women and youth across the nation. She affirmed that Delhi is poised to leverage the budget's provisions to derive maximum benefits, aligning with the city's developmental goals.
Enhanced Financial Allocations for Delhi
Gupta highlighted key financial boosts for Delhi in the budget. She pointed out a significant increase in special assistance to states for capital transfer, specifically for Delhi and Puducherry, which has risen from Rs 6,275 crore in the previous budget to Rs 15,380 crore in the 2026-27 budget. This represents a substantial enhancement in funding aimed at infrastructure and capital projects.
Additionally, the chief minister noted an enhanced allocation under centrally sponsored schemes, with Rs 13,611 crore earmarked for Delhi compared to Rs 12,483 crore in 2025-26. This uptick is expected to support various state-level initiatives and programs, furthering Delhi's growth trajectory.
Key Schemes and Direct Benefits for Citizens
Rekha Gupta elaborated on several schemes announced in the Budget that are set to directly impact lakhs of Delhi residents. These include the establishment of hostels for girls in every district, which aims to promote female education and safety. Clean energy incentives were also highlighted, reflecting a push towards sustainable development in the city.
Furthermore, enhanced funds allocated to central government hospitals in Delhi are anticipated to improve healthcare services and infrastructure, benefiting a wide segment of the population. Gupta underscored that these measures will have a tangible, positive effect on the daily lives of Delhi's citizens.
Infrastructure and Sectoral Development Initiatives
The announcement of the Delhi-Varanasi high-speed rail corridor was singled out by Gupta as a project that will provide a massive boost to transport infrastructure in the national capital. This initiative is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic activity along the corridor.
In the realm of education and technology, Gupta stated that Delhi will strive to maximize benefits from the budget's announcement to open content creator labs at campuses. The government plans to associate its schools and colleges with these labs to promote the animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics (AVGC) sector. This move aims to foster innovation, skill development, and job creation in emerging digital fields.
Overall, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's statements reflect a proactive approach by the Delhi government to harness the Union Budget's provisions for comprehensive development, spanning education, infrastructure, healthcare, and technology.
