Haryana Seeks ₹2,000 Crore for Rural Infra, Rs 500 Cr Urban Project Cap Hike in Budget

Haryana Pushes for Higher Budget Allocations in FY27

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has formally requested the central government to significantly boost allocations for the state's critical sectors, including rural and urban infrastructure, agriculture, and medical education, in the upcoming Union Budget for Fiscal Year 2027. Saini emphasized the state's growing development needs and its strategic proximity to the National Capital Region (NCR) during a pre-Budget meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Infrastructure Funding Boost

A central demand involves increasing the allocation under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF). Saini proposed raising this to ₹2,000 crore for FY27, citing the necessity to maintain momentum in rural development projects. Furthermore, he highlighted constraints within the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF), suggesting the project size cap be increased from the current ₹100 crore to ₹500 crore. This adjustment is deemed crucial for facilitating the execution of larger urban development schemes.

Agricultural Support Demands

Recognizing Haryana's significant agrarian profile, which positions it as the 'breadbasket of India', Saini sought central financial assistance to combat land salinity and waterlogging affecting approximately six lakh acres. The state also aims to modernize agriculture through digital initiatives, micro-irrigation, and enhanced agri-logistics and value addition, viewing agri-processing clusters and MSMEs as key drivers of rural prosperity.

Social Sector Needs & Economic Growth

On the social front, Haryana plans to establish a medical college in each district, requiring substantial support through centrally sponsored schemes. The Chief Minister also called for increased assistance for social security pensions, which currently benefit over 44 lakh individuals in the state. To foster economic growth, Saini pointed to Haryana's position as the fourth-largest state for startups, announcing a ₹2,000 crore Fund of Funds. Additionally, the development of 10 new Industrial Model Townships (IMTs) to attract investment and support MSMEs was highlighted, with a plea for additional central assistance.

Human Capital Focus

Looking towards future growth, Saini stressed the importance of human capital development. He advocated for intensified focus on education, health, and skills training, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, green technology, and biotechnology, aligning with India's vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.