Is the Union Budget a Disappointment for Rajasthan? Asserts Ashok Gehlot
Synopsis
Ashok Gehlot's recent critique of the Union Budget emphasizes a troubling trend of neglect towards Rajasthan. Highlighting key omissions like the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project, he argues the budget fails to address the needs of the state's citizens. This raises questions about the Central government's commitment to regional development and support for vulnerable populations.
Key Takeaways
Ashok Gehlot criticizes the Union Budget for ignoring Rajasthan.
The budget neglects the crucial Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project .
No new infrastructure projects were announced for the state.
The budget fails to support the economically vulnerable populations.
Gehlot's remarks highlight the ongoing struggle for equitable development in Rajasthan.
Jaipur, Feb 1 (NationPress) The former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, expressed strong discontent with the Union Budget on Sunday, alleging that the state has been treated unfairly and labeling the budget as deeply disappointing for Rajasthan.
He remarked that it was extremely unfortunate that Rajasthan, the largest state in India, was not even acknowledged in the Union Budget address.
Gehlot argued that this lack of mention highlights the discriminatory stance of the Central government towards Rajasthan.
The former Chief Minister emphasized that the budget has completely overlooked the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), a crucial and long-standing initiative aimed at resolving the drinking water and irrigation requirements of numerous districts in the state.
“In spite of repeated commitments, the ERCP was absent from the discussions, showcasing the Centre's indifference towards Rajasthan's water crisis,” he stated.
Furthermore, Gehlot pointed out that the budget did not propose any new railway lines, metro systems, or significant infrastructure projects for Rajasthan, despite the fact that such developments are essential for job creation and economic advancement.
He also raised alarms about the lack of significant support for the underprivileged, laborers, farmers, and the extensive unorganised sector, which has been suffering from escalating inflation and unemployment.
“The budget has failed to deliver tangible solutions for those at the bottom of the economic ladder,” Gehlot remarked, stressing that the needs of the general populace were completely disregarded.
Taking a jab at the BJP's proclamation, Gehlot noted that despite the claims of a double-engine government, Rajasthan has not received any substantial benefits from this budget.
“For Rajasthan, this budget is merely a damp squib,” he concluded, accusing the Centre of neglecting the state's developmental needs.
Overall, Gehlot asserted that the budget lacks vision, equity, and empathy towards Rajasthan and its citizens.
The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, criticized the Centre for failing to tackle pressing national issues.
Similarly, Akhilesh Yadav, the chief of the Samajwadi Party, charged the BJP with neglecting the concerns of ordinary citizens.
Point of View
The Union Budget's apparent neglect of Rajasthan raises significant concerns about regional equity and government accountability. The absence of crucial projects and support measures suggests a need for greater responsiveness to the diverse needs of all states. This situation warrants further scrutiny and dialogue to ensure that the developmental priorities of every region are adequately addressed.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Ashok Gehlot's main criticism of the Union Budget?
Ashok Gehlot criticized the Union Budget for its lack of acknowledgment of Rajasthan and the omission of key projects like the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project, calling it deeply disappointing.
Why is the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project important?
The Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project is vital for addressing the drinking water and irrigation needs of several districts in Rajasthan, making its neglect in the budget particularly concerning.
What are the implications of the budget for Rajasthan's infrastructure?
The budget's failure to announce new railway lines, metro projects, or major infrastructure initiatives raises concerns about job creation and economic growth in Rajasthan.
How did Gehlot describe the support for the poor in the budget?
Gehlot expressed disappointment over the lack of meaningful relief measures for the poor, laborers, farmers, and the unorganised sector, which are struggling due to inflation and unemployment.
What does Gehlot's remark about the 'double-engine' government imply?
Gehlot's remark implies that despite the BJP's claims of effective governance, Rajasthan has not benefitted significantly from the Union Budget.
