Delhi Finance Department Initiates Preparations for 2026-27 Budget
The Delhi government has officially commenced preparations for the Budget 2026-27, with the finance department directing all departments to submit their detailed expenditure and revenue estimates. This early start aims to streamline the budgetary process and prevent delays that could impact funding and implementation timelines.
Departments Asked to Propose New Schemes and Projects
According to an official statement, departments have been instructed to submit proposals for new schemes, programmes, and projects planned for implementation in the financial year 2026-27. These proposals will be reviewed by the finance and planning departments to ensure alignment with the government's fiscal priorities and growth objectives.
The finance department has conducted multiple review meetings to monitor progress and enhance data collection efficiency. Officials emphasize that timely preparation is crucial to guarantee uninterrupted funding and facilitate a smooth approval and presentation process for the budget.
Building on Last Year's Record Budget
In the previous fiscal cycle, the Delhi Budget for 2025-26 was presented on March 25 by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. It featured an outlay of Rs 1 lakh crore, marking a significant 31.5% increase from the 2024-25 estimate of Rs 76,000 crore. This made it one of the largest budgets in the capital's history, highlighting the government's commitment to expansive development and welfare initiatives.
Anticipated Focus Areas and Presentation Timeline
The upcoming 2026-27 budget is expected to:
- Outline the government's achievements over the past year
- Detail plans for economic growth and infrastructure development
- Prioritize welfare schemes and fiscal management strategies
While the exact date for presenting the budget has not been finalized, officials indicate that it is likely to take place in March, following ongoing discussions. This timeline aligns with previous years, ensuring consistency in the budgetary cycle.
Return of the Economic Survey
In a notable development, the government is expected to table the Economic Survey this year, which was not presented in the previous cycle. Typically released a day before the budget, the survey provides essential data and analysis that guide evidence-based policymaking, offering insights into economic trends and informing budgetary decisions.
As preparations advance, stakeholders await further details on the budget's specific allocations and strategic directions, which will shape Delhi's development trajectory in the coming year.
