Today, Atishi, the Finance Minister of Delhi, unveiled the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 in the Delhi assembly. The budget, amounting to ₹76,000 crore, reflects the government’s commitment to realizing the vision of “Ram Rajya,” a governance model centered around the welfare of the people, particularly the poor and marginalized.
In her maiden budget speech, Atishi emphasized the principles of “Ram Rajya” as highlighted by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The AAP party sees “Ram Rajya” as a model that prioritizes free and high-quality healthcare, education, and essential services for all Delhi residents.
The budget allocates 21.57% of the total expenditure to education, reflecting the government’s focus on improving educational infrastructure. Atishi announced the construction of 11,000 new classrooms in government schools over the past nine years, underscoring the administration’s commitment to providing quality education.
Despite a reduction of approximately 11% in the health budget compared to the previous fiscal year, Atishi assured that the government would purchase 194 new ambulances to enhance emergency medical services in the city. She also highlighted the profitability of electricity companies in Delhi, even after providing 24 hours of free electricity to residents.
The budget introduces new initiatives, including the expansion of the Business Blaster program to colleges and the launch of the “Mahila Samman Yojana,” providing Rs 1000 per month to women above 18 years of age. Additionally, the budget ensures that Delhiites will continue to receive 20,000 liters of free water and emphasizes the expansion of sewer systems in unauthorized colonies.
Atishi expressed gratitude to the citizens of Delhi for placing their trust in Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, whom she described as a beacon of hope. She acknowledged the absence of Manish Sisodia, the former deputy chief minister, who was arrested by the CBI in February, and sought the blessings of his family before presenting the budget.
The Finance Minister highlighted the significant economic growth of Delhi over the past decade, with the city’s GDP nearly tripling and per capita income doubling. She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that “nobody will sleep hungry in Ram Rajya,” with a dedicated budget allocation for food security.
Atishi concluded her speech by praising the efforts of the AAP government in transforming the lives of Delhi residents through various policies and initiatives aimed at inclusive development. She reiterated the government’s collective pledge to realize the vision of “Ram Rajya” in Delhi, inspired by the principles of Lord Ram.
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