Rekha Gupta Government's First Budget: What Gifts Await Delhiites?

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The BJP-led Delhi government is set to present its first budget for the financial year 2025-26 on Tuesday, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also taking on the role of Finance Minister. Sources suggest that the budget size may see a 5–7% increase from last year’s ₹77,700 crore, potentially touching ₹80,000 crore. The budget is expected to reflect key promises from the BJP’s election manifesto and will be themed around “Developed Delhi,” focusing on core areas like women empowerment, quality education, and improved health infrastructure.

Key announcements likely include continued free schemes such as electricity, water, and bus travel for women, along with a dedicated allocation for the Mahila Samridhi Yojana, under which women may receive ₹2,500 in financial aid. The government is also expected to invest heavily in the Delhi Jal Board to address issues of water scarcity, sewage, and waterlogging. Additional funds may go toward road construction, expanding public transport, accelerating Metro Phase 4, and launching a Yamuna Riverfront project alongside ongoing efforts to clean the river.

The government’s revenue sources for funding these initiatives include various state taxes like VAT, GST, income tax, property tax, and vehicle registration charges. Financial aid from the central government is also anticipated, especially with stalled central schemes expected to resume under the BJP’s leadership in Delhi. Overall, the budget aims to strike a balance between new development initiatives and the continuation of popular welfare schemes.