The BJP-led Delhi government is set to present its first budget in 27 years, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure development, cleaning of the Yamuna, and strengthening basic public services. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who also holds the finance portfolio, performed a traditional “kheer” ceremony on Monday, symbolizing the “sweetness” of a “Viksit Delhi.”
In 2024, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government had presented the Delhi Budget 2024-25 worth ₹76,000 crore, later revised to ₹77,000 crore. According to government sources, the 2025-26 Delhi Budget is expected to exceed ₹80,000 crore. The BJP is introducing significant measures focused on the economic empowerment of women, improved education and healthcare, better infrastructure, and solutions for pollution and waterlogging.
Rekha Gupta on BJP’s Vision for Delhi
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the BJP is presenting the Delhi Budget after a 27-year gap. She drew an analogy between the BJP’s return and Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. Gupta emphasized that the budget will prioritize public welfare, job creation, and strengthening basic facilities for Delhi’s citizens.
The Delhi government has engaged in extensive consultations before finalizing the budget. Over 10,000 suggestions were received from citizens via email and WhatsApp. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta personally interacted with various sections of society to incorporate their feedback into the budget proposals. She assured that the budget will align with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Delhi.”
Key Budget Deliberations and Opposition Criticism
The budget will be tabled in the Assembly today, with a general discussion scheduled for Tuesday. Members of the Assembly will deliberate and vote on the proposed budget on March 27.
Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Atishi criticized the BJP-led government for not presenting the Economic Survey before tabling the budget. She remarked that a budget cannot be prepared merely by performing ceremonies like “kheer,” but must be based on economic data. Her statement was a pointed criticism of the BJP’s symbolic ritual marking the beginning of the budget session.
In response, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the Economic Survey would be presented soon as audits in various departments were still ongoing. The BJP government aims to implement a budget that addresses key developmental issues while reflecting the aspirations of Delhi’s citizens.
With infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and public welfare as key priorities, the budget is expected to set the foundation for the BJP’s governance roadmap in the capital.
