New Delhi, Feb 2 (NationPress) Following the unveiling of the Union Budget 2026, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized critical insights for the capital within the proposals, stating that the Budget unlocks fresh opportunities in infrastructure and health sectors.

During a press conference at the Delhi Secretariat, CM Gupta expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Home Minister Amit Shah for their unwavering support regarding Delhi’s security, law enforcement, and administrative duties.

Discussing essential elements of Delhi-oriented proposals and initiatives in the Union Budget, CM Gupta highlighted that areas like roads, water supply, transportation, health, job creation, and security flourish best when there’s collaboration between the Centre and the State, a sentiment echoed in this Budget.

Focusing on the Budget's overall significance, the Chief Minister described it as development-centric, with increased capital spending stimulating construction activities and job opportunities nationwide.

She pointed out that capital expenditure has risen from Rs 11.2 lakh crore last year to Rs 12.2 lakh crore this year, leading to the development of more roads, projects, and substantial employment, which will greatly benefit major urban centers like Delhi.

In her remarks about women and youth, the Chief Minister mentioned provisions in the Budget for building hostels for girls, aiding them in completing their education. New pathways for youth are being introduced through skills enhancement, technology, and employment.

There’s also a distinct focus on generating jobs in sectors such as health, sports, and tourism. Overall, she remarked that the Budget maintains a balance between development, reform, and relief, detailing specific allocations made for Delhi.

CM Gupta commended the Finance Minister’s acknowledgment of the Orange Economy in the Budget address, stating that to foster emerging fields like AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), the Central Government plans to establish ‘Content Creation Labs’ in 15,000 secondary schools.

Addressing the Special Assistance Scheme for Capital Investment (SASCI), CM Gupta noted its expansion from Rs 1.5 lakh crore to Rs 2 lakh crore, marking an increase of nearly 33 percent. This will empower Delhi to fast-track development projects such as roads, flyovers, buses, and water and sewerage systems without additional strain on its budget.

Emphasizing MSMEs and the service sector, the Chief Minister pointed out that Delhi’s economy relies heavily on small traders, shopkeepers, and service providers.

She lauded the Budget for allocating a Rs 10,000 crore fund to support small businesses, ensuring quicker access to capital, simplified credit processes, and business growth. With a vast number of small traders and service professionals in Delhi, the capital is set to gain significantly.

According to the Chief Minister, numerous initiatives in the Budget will facilitate smoother business operations. Municipal authorities will receive assistance to mobilize funds, regulatory relief has been extended to the IT and service sectors, and reforms have been implemented in corporate bonds.

Given Delhi's significant concentration of companies, start-ups, and professionals, the repercussions of these decisions will be most substantial here, making capital mobilization easier, enhancing investment and employment, and injecting new vigor into Delhi’s economy.