Delhi’s 2026–27 Budget was unanimously passed, with the Chief Minister highlighting governance reforms, fiscal discipline, and a shift toward performance-driven development.
27 March 2026, New Delhi.
On the final day of the Delhi Legislative Assembly session, the Budget for the financial year 2026–27 was passed unanimously, marking a key milestone in the government’s policy agenda. During the discussion, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta sharply criticised the financial record of the previous administration, stating that it had left behind a substantial debt burden which the current government is now working to manage. She emphasised that Delhi is entering a new phase focused on delivery and outcomes rather than excuses, describing it as a shift toward a more accountable and result-oriented governance model.
Focus on Development and Governance Reform
The Chief Minister described the budget as the largest ever in terms of capital expenditure, underlining that it is not limited to welfare schemes but is aimed at ensuring real and measurable development across the city. She noted that capital spending had already been prioritised in the previous year and has now been further increased to bring about a structural transformation in governance and public service delivery.
She assured that the government would prioritise the completion of unfinished projects, maintain strict accountability in public expenditure, and ensure that every citizen receives their due benefits. Emphasising the new approach, she stated that governance in Delhi would now be driven by performance, transparency, and timely execution of work.
Criticism of Opposition and Previous Government
Rekha Gupta criticised the Opposition for not respecting the dignity of the House, stating that despite being given full opportunity to present their views, they chose to protest outside rather than participate in the Assembly proceedings. She remarked that the Opposition raised irrelevant and misleading issues due to the absence of substantive arguments.
The Chief Minister also alleged that the previous government left behind a debt exceeding ₹47,000 crore, with a significant portion still outstanding. She pointed out that several major infrastructure projects were left incomplete, leading to additional financial liabilities for the current administration. These included pending dues in expressway, metro, hospital construction, and integrated infrastructure projects, many of which have seen costs escalate over time.
Fiscal Discipline and Borrowing Strategy
Addressing concerns regarding borrowing, the Chief Minister clarified that loans have been a routine practice followed by governments since 1999. However, she stressed that the current government has maintained fiscal discipline by limiting borrowing to 1.17% of Gross State Domestic Product, well below the permissible limit of 3%. She also highlighted that the loans have been secured at one of the lowest interest rates in the country, at approximately 7.4%, ensuring better financial management.
She criticised attempts to create confusion around borrowing, stating that the focus should be on responsible utilisation of funds and ensuring that borrowed resources contribute to development outcomes.
Infrastructure and Environmental Initiatives
The budget outlines several major infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and urban development. These include the construction of an elevated road along the Munak canal, expansion of metro networks, and large-scale road carpeting initiatives to improve city infrastructure.
Environmental sustainability is also a key focus, with the government promoting electric vehicle adoption, developing charging infrastructure, and undertaking large-scale plantation drives. The declaration of 4,200 hectares of ridge area as forest land and a target of planting 3.5 million trees over four years are among the major environmental measures announced.
Education and Healthcare Reforms
In the education sector, the government plans to invest in improving infrastructure and ensuring timely provision of essential resources such as textbooks, uniforms, smart classrooms, modern laboratories, and sports facilities. The Chief Minister also expressed concern over declining student enrolment, raising questions about the factors contributing to students dropping out of schools.
In healthcare, the government has approved 4,478 new posts and recruited 1,194 nursing and paramedical staff to strengthen public health services. Efforts are also underway to complete pending hospital projects and improve access to quality healthcare facilities across Delhi.
Administrative Reforms and Welfare Measures
The Chief Minister highlighted a series of administrative reforms aimed at improving efficiency and transparency. These include simplifying licensing procedures, digitising approvals such as fire No Objection Certificates, and expanding access to electricity connections in more than 1.5 lakh properties.
For economically weaker sections, the government has introduced measures such as subsidised meals at ₹5 and reforms in the ration card system to eliminate duplication and ensure that benefits reach eligible beneficiaries. Direct Benefit Transfer initiatives have also been strengthened to enhance transparency and efficiency in welfare delivery.
Vision for Future Governance
Concluding her address, Rekha Gupta reiterated that the government is committed to a governance model based on accountability, performance, and timely delivery of projects. She stated that Delhi will now move forward with a renewed focus on development, leaving behind past inefficiencies and adopting a forward-looking approach.
She emphasised that the capital will witness transformation rather than confrontation, with governance driven by results rather than political rhetoric. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that Delhi will progress rapidly and emerge as a model for development and effective administration in the country.
