Today, Delhi's BJP government unveils its budget in the legislative assembly. With Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, also holding the finance portfolio, delivering the speech herself, she declared, 'I am Delhi's sister, Rekha. I will prove my worth. I will repay every vote cast for Modi Ji.' Her passionate address was met with applause.
Chief Minister Gupta remarked on Delhi's enduring image tied to flowing water and sewer systems. She commenced with a poetic note, asserting 'Where there's a will, there's a way. Even a candle can burn away sheltered from the wind.' At a quieter moment, she encouraged fellow assembly members, asking, 'Are you exhausted, my friends?'
Referencing the historic significance of the day, she underlined that this is no ordinary budget. It's crafted by a newly appointed government borne from a remarkable mandate. The nation watches as Delhi presents this vision—not just fiscal reports, but a roadmap for overcoming a decade's stagnation. For the first time in history, the 2024-25 budget sees reduction. This time the government of Delhi presents a budget of one lakh crore rupees, with 9000 crore allocated to the water board.
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Compared to last year, the budget is 31.5% higher. Delhi's per capita income has grown slower than the national average. Capital expenditure is doubled this time, focusing on developmental projects. Due to political reasons, schemes were stalled—like the Ayushman Bharat scheme, delayed despite repeated requests from the central government. Simply, because earlier ministers wanted personal credit. The new government swiftly implemented Ayushman Bharat in Delhi on day one. The Ayushman plan will soon be operational.
The Chief Minister announced an additional 5 lakh insurance on top of the scheme's existing offer. She detailed 16 pledges made, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision where women's issues take precedence. Accordingly, a monthly stipend of 2500 rupees for women was declared. This year, 5100 crore has been allocated for this category.
An amount of 210 crore is earmarked for pregnant women. Considering the revenue and income status of the current fiscal year, a revised budget of 59600 crore has been proposed. Former governments underspent relative to budget announcements. Tax revenue will constitute the largest segment of the 2025-26 budget supply, reinforcing infrastructure. Smart infra is set to become Delhi's new image.
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Taking a jibe at Kejriwal, she noted that once those in charge aimed to transform Delhi into London. But broken roads, traffic congestion, and uncompleted projects turned it into a chaotic capital. The government focused only on ads, just sticking posters. The Prime Minister advocates investing in infrastructure. Collaborating with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, 1000 crores is designated to enhance NCR's connectivity. For women's safety, 50,000 additional cameras will be installed, aiming for Delhi to lead as a capital for all. Previously ignored, 696 crores is dedicated to slum development for prioritization. Past governments withheld PM Awas Yojana benefits. 20 crores directed to urban poor welfare in this plan. Constituency development funds of 350 crore are allocated. Legislators will receive their full development fund quota.
For food security, 100 Atal Canteens will be established. These canteens will open at 100 locations under the Atal Canteen label, with a 100 crore budget provision allocated.
