New Delhi, March 18, 2026 — The Delhi government has adopted a participatory approach for preparing Budget 2026 by engaging multiple stakeholder groups. A consultation session at the Delhi Secretariat included students, teachers, working women, and sports representatives, who presented sector-specific concerns and recommendations. The process aims to align fiscal planning with real-world requirements.
Education and Future Priorities
Students highlighted the need to strengthen education systems and improve long-term career readiness. A major recommendation was to extend the mid-day meal scheme up to Class 12 to ensure consistent nutritional support.
Participants also emphasized regular sports training in schools and improvement of academic infrastructure. They suggested increasing industry exposure through internships and practical learning modules to better connect education with employment opportunities.
Students further recommended expansion of hostel facilities in colleges to match rising enrolment. Structured career counseling sessions and improved access to libraries for competitive exam preparation were also proposed.
Infrastructure and Women-Centric Issues
Teachers and working women raised concerns about infrastructure gaps affecting daily life. They highlighted the lack of playgrounds in schools and residential areas and recommended developing such spaces.
Improving pedestrian safety through foot overbridges and underpasses was also suggested. Waterlogging during monsoon seasons was identified as a recurring issue requiring permanent solutions.
Working women proposed the introduction of crèche facilities to support childcare needs. They also recommended workplace provisions related to menstrual health and policies to encourage women’s participation in commercial driving roles.
Teachers called for AI-based training programs, addressing staff shortages, and organizing academic exposure visits to enhance teaching quality.
Sports Infrastructure and Training
Sports stakeholders emphasized strengthening training systems and infrastructure. They recommended making sports compulsory in schools and establishing residential sports academies.
Participants suggested rationalizing stadium usage fees, appointing permanent coaches, and increasing the number of women coaches. They also highlighted the need for rehabilitation centers for athletes and provision of training allowances.
Additional demands included improved availability of sports equipment in schools, hiring trained physical instructors, and providing financial support to sports associations. Expansion of sports academies across the city was also proposed.
Budget 2026 as Policy Framework
The government indicated that Budget 2026 will serve as a policy framework addressing sector-specific needs. Inputs collected through consultations are expected to guide program design and resource allocation.
The approach reflects a shift toward participatory governance, where policy decisions are informed by stakeholder feedback. The objective is to ensure that development measures are aligned with practical needs across sectors.
Earlier consultations were also held with healthcare professionals and women commercial drivers, focusing on improving service delivery and workforce participation. The engagement process is expected to continue with additional groups.
The ongoing consultations indicate that Budget 2026 will incorporate diverse inputs, aiming to create a structured and inclusive development framework.
