The Puducherry government, led by Chief Minister N Rangasamy, has presented a budget of ₹13,600 crore for the financial year 2025-26, emphasizing welfare measures and development initiatives. The budget was tabled in the legislative assembly on Wednesday, detailing allocations for various sectors, including education, green projects, and infrastructure.
Out of the total budget, ₹11,624.7 crore has been earmarked for revenue expenditure, while ₹1,975.3 crore has been allocated for capital expenditure. Additionally, the government has set aside ₹689 crore for green projects, aligning with sustainable development goals. N Rangasamy, who also holds the finance portfolio, highlighted that a significant portion of the financial resources is committed to recurring expenditures such as salaries, pensions, loan repayments, and interest payments.
One of the key welfare measures introduced in the budget is a special financial assistance scheme aimed at students who have completed their education from classes 6 to 12 in government schools and are pursuing higher education. Under this initiative, eligible students will receive ₹1,000 per month for a period of three years to support their educational pursuits. The government has allocated ₹9.34 crore for this scheme, reflecting its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students from economically weaker backgrounds.
In addition to student welfare, the budget also includes enhancements to the midday meal scheme for schoolchildren. Currently, the scheme provides eggs three times a week, but as per the new budget, students will now receive eggs daily. This move is aimed at improving the nutritional intake of children studying in government schools, ensuring better health and academic performance.
Chief Minister N Rangasamy, who heads the All India N R Congress-led NDA government in the union territory, expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the continued support of the Union government. He acknowledged the Centre’s role in rolling out several schemes and infrastructure projects in Puducherry, which have contributed to the region’s development.
The budget presentation underscored the government’s commitment to welfare and infrastructure growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility. By prioritizing education, sustainability, and public welfare, the Puducherry administration aims to drive socio-economic progress in the union territory, ensuring long-term benefits for its citizens.
