Jaipur, Feb 7 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C. R. Paatil, referred to the Union Budget 2026–27 as a comprehensive development plan, marking a significant move towards Viksit Bharat 2047. He made these remarks during a press briefing at the BJP State Office on Friday.

Paatil highlighted that this year marks the first time in Indian history that a woman Finance Minister has presented the Union Budget for the ninth time consecutively, showcasing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering dedication to women’s empowerment.

He also pointed out that this occurrence is unprecedented, as it is the first time a Finance Minister has delivered nine successive budgets under a single Prime Minister's leadership.

Thanks to PM Modi's forward-thinking approach and resolute political determination, India has evolved into a formidable economy over the past 12 years, achieving a commendable standing on the global platform.

Discussing Rajasthan specifically, the Union Minister confidently stated that the State will not encounter any water shortages in the years ahead.

He commended Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma for his proactive approach to water-related challenges and his persistent advocacy for projects like the Ramjal Setu, ERCP, and the Yamuna water agreement during his trips to Delhi.

On the Yamuna water agreement, Paatil indicated that Rajasthan has a longstanding entitlement to Yamuna water, which previous administrations failed to capitalize on.

He mentioned that under the guidance of PM Modi and the collaborative efforts of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, a historic memorandum of understanding was achieved.

Additionally, he noted that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been completed, allowing Rajasthan to access surplus Yamuna water.

Providing insights into the revised PKC–ERCP (Ramjal Setu Link Project), Paatil stated that an MoU has been signed between Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, and the DPR is currently under active review by the ministry.

This project is projected to require an investment ranging from Rs 77,000 crore to Rs 1 lakh crore, with work set to begin soon.

The Union Minister remarked that flagship initiatives like the Amrit Sarovar Yojana and the Jal Jeevan Mission are monumental achievements.

Under the Amrit Sarovar Yojana, over 69,000 ponds have been constructed nationwide, leading to a significant improvement in groundwater levels.

Paatil indicated that Rs 67,300 crore has been allocated under the Jal Jeevan Mission, providing tap water connections to over 16 crore households to date. The initiative has been extended until 2028.

As a result, nearly nine crore women have saved approximately 4.5 crore hours of time.

Moreover, 24.8 lakh women have been trained in water quality testing, with regular assessments conducted through 2,868 laboratories.

Paatil noted that every time Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma visits Delhi, he returns with concrete achievements for Rajasthan, supported by BJP State President Madan Rathore.

He reiterated that the Union Budget is not tailored for any single group or institution, but aims for the comprehensive growth of the nation, prioritizing youth, women, farmers, the impoverished, and the marginalized.

Paatil recalled PM Modi’s commitment to continuous reforms, which he discussed from the Red Fort on August 15, 2025, noting that in just six months, over 350 reforms, including significant GST reforms, were enacted.

He mentioned that suggestions from the youth were integrated through the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue, and the budget embodies the Prime Minister’s three core objectives — stimulating economic growth, meeting public aspirations, and building capacity — in alignment with the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”.

Paatil also stated that an additional allocation of around Rs 1 lakh crore has been made to bolster national security.

He emphasized that India has achieved self-reliance in defense and has become an arms-exporting nation.

The budget incorporates substantial provisions for industrial progress, chemical parks, textiles, MSMEs, infrastructure development, increased capital investment, a five-year energy sector roadmap, and seven dedicated rail corridors, all of which are expected to create large-scale job opportunities.

Special focus has been placed on innovation, start-ups, Digital India, green energy, and skill enhancement.

Paatil described the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi as a significant advantage for farmers, declaring a special allocation of Rs 550 crore to supply water for agricultural fields, fostering water conservation and efficient use.

BJP State President Madan Rathore was also present at the press conference.