New Delhi, March 24, 2026
Delhi’s Budget 2026–27 has been described as development-oriented, welfare-focused, and environmentally conscious, with a strong emphasis on education, infrastructure, and inclusive growth, according to Education Minister Ashish Sood.
The minister highlighted that the budget reflects the government’s broader vision of economic progress combined with social welfare, while also aligning with environmental sustainability goals.
Budget Reflects Development and Public Aspirations
Ashish Sood stated that the budget presented under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is not merely a financial document but a roadmap for Delhi’s economic and social future.
He emphasized that the budget determines the direction of key sectors such as power, roads, transport, education, health, and women and child welfare. The government, he said, is focused on translating policy commitments into measurable outcomes on the ground.
The overall budget size has witnessed a steady increase in recent years. It rose from ₹76,000 crore in 2024–25 to ₹1,00,000 crore in 2025–26 and further to ₹1,03,700 crore in 2026–27, indicating a consistent push toward development and expansion of public services.
Rising Capital Expenditure Signals Infrastructure Growth
The minister highlighted the importance of capital expenditure (Capex) as a key driver of long-term development. According to him, Capex increased significantly from ₹15,089 crore in 2024–25 to ₹28,115 crore in 2025–26, and further to ₹30,800 crore in 2026–27.
This growth reflects the government’s focus on strengthening infrastructure and ensuring sustained economic expansion. Increased capital investment is expected to enhance public facilities and generate employment opportunities.
Economic Indicators Show Positive Growth Trends
Sood noted that Delhi’s economic performance has improved in recent years. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate reached 8.53% in 2025–26, surpassing the national average of 7.4%.
This marks a significant improvement compared to 2024–25, when Delhi’s growth rate was 6.21%, lower than the national average of 6.5%.
Per capita income has also increased, reflecting a rise in living standards. The average monthly income grew from ₹23,676 in 2024–25 to ₹25,453 in 2025–26, registering a growth of 7.09%.
However, the minister emphasized that economic indicators hold value only when their benefits reach citizens directly, underscoring the government’s focus on inclusive growth.
Education Sector Receives Highest Allocation
A major highlight of the budget is the allocation of ₹19,148 crore to the education sector, accounting for 18.64% of the total budget—the highest share among all sectors.
The government has introduced several initiatives aimed at strengthening education infrastructure and improving student outcomes. These include:
Free bicycles for 1.30 lakh Class 9 girl students to support school attendance, with an allocation of ₹90 crore
Establishment of medical rooms in all government schools
Exposure visits for students
Allocation of ₹10 crore for integrating Artificial Intelligence into education systems
Focus on Infrastructure and Skill Development
The budget also prioritizes expansion of school infrastructure. An allocation of ₹200 crore has been made for constructing new school buildings, while ₹275 crore has been earmarked for expanding existing institutions.
Additionally, ₹50 crore has been allocated for sports facilities, including hostels, playgrounds, and swimming pools, aimed at promoting holistic development among students.
Technical education has received ₹700 crore to enhance skill development and prepare youth for employment and entrepreneurship. The government is also focusing on creating an innovation ecosystem through startup and incubation policies.
Digital and Policy Reforms in Education
The government plans to develop 8,777 smart classrooms in government schools with an allocation of ₹150 crore. These will eventually be expanded to 21,000 classrooms, enhancing access to modern learning tools.
New policy initiatives include the introduction of a Private Play School Policy and a Private Sports Academy Policy, aimed at improving standards and regulatory frameworks in these sectors.
Social Welfare and Green Initiatives
The budget also includes significant allocations for social welfare and community development. A total of ₹2,392 crore has been allocated for social welfare, women and child development, and SC/ST/OBC communities.
Additionally, ₹634 crore has been earmarked for the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) to improve living conditions in JJ clusters.
A notable feature of the budget is its focus on environmental sustainability. Around 21% of total expenditure has been allocated for green initiatives, making it an eco-friendly budget aimed at long-term environmental protection.
Balanced Approach to Growth and Sustainability
The minister concluded that the Budget 2026–27 represents a balanced and forward-looking approach, integrating economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
He stated that the budget not only addresses current challenges but also lays the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive future for Delhi, ensuring that development benefits reach all sections of society.
