Union Minister and Uttar Pradesh BJP chief Pankaj Chaudhary has described the 2026-27 Union Budget as far more than a mere financial statement, labeling it a comprehensive vision document crafted by the Narendra Modi government. This blueprint aims to propel India toward becoming a developed and self-reliant nation by the year 2047.
A Budget for Present and Future Generations
Addressing the media at the state party office in Lucknow, Chaudhary emphasized that this budget is designed not only to address current needs but also to secure the future for coming generations. He reflected on the past eleven budgets under the Modi administration, noting their consistent focus on enhancing public facilities, boosting economic activity, generating employment, and fostering all-inclusive development across the nation.
Infrastructure Development: A Key Priority
Chaudhary highlighted that infrastructure development has been a special focus since 2014. He provided striking figures to illustrate this growth: the infrastructure budget, which stood at only Rs 2 lakh crore in 2014-15, has seen a progressive increase, reaching an impressive Rs 12.2 lakh crore in the 2026-27 budget. This substantial rise underscores the government's commitment to building a robust foundation for India's future.
Uttar Pradesh's Significant Gains
The Union Minister detailed how Uttar Pradesh is poised to benefit significantly from the budget's provisions. Key infrastructure projects include proposed high-speed rail corridors such as Delhi-Varanasi and Varanasi-Siliguri, along with a dedicated freight corridor that will connect the eastern and western regions of the country. These initiatives are expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth in the state.
Furthermore, the budget outlines plans to develop city economic regions in tier-2 and tier-3 cities with populations exceeding 5 lakh. Under this scheme, up to Rs 5,000 crore will be invested in each city over the next five years, aiming to boost urban development and local economies.
Boosting Tourism and Employment
Recognizing the immense employment potential in the tourism sector, the budget identifies five major tourist destinations for development. In Uttar Pradesh, historical and environmentally significant sites like Sarnath and Hastinapur will be transformed into experiential tourism centres. This move is anticipated to promote both domestic and international tourism, creating numerous job opportunities in the process.
Enhanced Defense Allocations Post-Operation Sindoor
Chaudhary noted that this budget is the first following Operation Sindoor, a military action launched by the armed forces in 2025 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. In light of this, the defense sector has received a 15% higher budget allocation. Of the total Rs 7.85 lakh crore earmarked for defense, approximately Rs 2.19 lakh crore is allocated specifically for infrastructure, strengthening national security and preparedness.
Support for Manufacturing and MSMEs
The manufacturing sector has also received a significant push through various measures in the budget. Chaudhary mentioned that the government plans to hand-hold micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by establishing a growth fund of Rs 10,000 crore. This initiative aims to support small businesses and foster economic resilience.
Focus on Education and Youth Empowerment
In a bid to empower young people, the budget includes provisions for establishing girls' hostels in every district to support young women. Additionally, content labs will be set up in schools and colleges to provide job-oriented education, equipping students with practical skills for the future workforce.
Agriculture Sector Allocation
Chaudhary highlighted an allocation of Rs 1.62 lakh crore for the agriculture sector, which represents a 7% increase from the previous year. This boost is intended to support farmers and enhance agricultural productivity, contributing to rural development.
Response to Political Allegations
Meanwhile, reacting to allegations from SP chief Akhilesh Yadav that the BJP conspired to remove names of his party supporters from electoral rolls, Chaudhary advised Yadav to lodge a formal complaint with the Election Commission if he has any grievances. He pointed out inconsistencies in Yadav's statements, noting that the SP chief initially claimed the BJP lost 70,000-75,000 voters after 2.88 crore names were reduced, but is now making different assertions.
Overall, Pankaj Chaudhary's remarks underscore the budget's multifaceted approach to driving India's growth, with a clear emphasis on infrastructure, regional development, defense, and social welfare, all aligned with the vision of a developed India by 2047.
