New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has revealed a remarkable net surplus budget of Rs 143.05 crore for the fiscal year 2026-27, all without increasing property taxes or introducing any new levies. Chairperson Keshav Chandra outlined ambitious initiatives, including fully mechanized road sanitation, a commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions, hydrogen generation, and the introduction of a night bazaar.

During a special council meeting presided over by Delhi Minister and New Delhi MLA Parvesh Verma, Chandra presented the budget, which notably includes no increases in property tax rates or new taxes.

Key highlights of the budget include plans to advance AI learning in schools through hands-on training, an expansion of the “AI for All” initiative, and a push towards a Green and Smart City. This initiative aims to ensure dust-free streets, promote e-mobility, create Miyawaki-style urban forests, and enhance safety through the installation of 2,000 CCTV cameras.

Chairman Keshav Chandra emphasized that this budget showcases a commitment to transforming New Delhi into a city that honors its rich heritage while embracing innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth. He referred to this approach as “Vikas Bhi Virasat Bhi”, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The budget also focuses on upgrading infrastructure, particularly in sewerage and drainage systems, with a significant increase in capital expenditure projected at approximately Rs 943.84 crore for the upcoming fiscal year.

Chandra noted that effective monsoon management has largely achieved the goal of a water-logging-free NDMC.

An extensive drainage master plan is under development for the next 25 years. To modernize the sewerage infrastructure, repairs on 10 km of sewer lines have been completed using trenchless technology, with plans to rehabilitate an additional 30 km of lines.

Additionally, NDMC has established an “Innovation Fund” to align with the Government of India’s vision for promoting innovative initiatives and the adoption of new technologies.

Vice-Chairperson Kuljeet Singh Chahal stated, “NDMC is on a path to becoming the most progressive municipality in the nation concerning sustainability and self-reliance.”

Chahal also mentioned ongoing developments, such as creating a Miyawaki forest near Nazaf Khan Road and plans to plant 5.53 lakh tulip bulbs, many produced under the “Make in India” initiative. A Tulip Festival is also in the works.

As part of the plantation effort, 3,500 trees, 29.93 lakh shrubs, and 502 bamboo plants have already been planted, with a target of 5,100 trees and 4,71,150 shrubs for 2026-27.

Chahal explained that under the Safe City Project, integration of CCTV with Delhi Police is underway, with 82 cameras already connected to the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC), and plans to add more than 2,000 additional cameras.

In public amenities, all public toilets will be upgraded to eco-friendly designs, with seven Smart Pink Toilets already constructed.

Bansuri Swaraj, MP-New Delhi, remarked after the budget meeting that the NDMC is undertaking a comprehensive transformation of its urban infrastructure in line with “Vision @ 2047” to create a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready city.

The Annual Budget for 2026-27 outlines total receipts of Rs 5,953.07 crore, up from Rs 5,689.27 crore in the previous year’s revised estimates.

The revenue receipts for 2026-27 are projected at Rs 5,211.92 crore, with capital receipts estimated at Rs 741.15 crore.

The total expenditure for the budget is set at Rs 5,810.02 crore.

Chahal highlighted an initiative in education, noting that NDMC has a dedicated team of 300 AI-trained students. He articulated that “Aspirational India in AI” aligns with PM Modi's vision of integrating Artificial Intelligence with the nation’s growth drive, forming a ‘Double AI’ engine for development.

Collaboration with Homi Lab has led to hands-on workshops in AI Basics and responsible tool usage to prepare students for the future.

2026 is designated as the year of “AI for All”, with plans to expand the program to include students from Classes 7 to 12. The Navyug School at Pandara Road is being developed as a City Model School, expected to complete in 2026-27.

It's also planned to develop the Navyug School in Sarojini Nagar as a model institution.

Under the PM Poshan Scheme, nutritious mid-day meals will be provided, and an Alumni Model is being finalized. Additionally, training in 10 sports is being offered by 14 specialized coaches.