The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has charted an ambitious financial roadmap for the upcoming fiscal year, presenting a substantial budget of Rs 5,953 crore for the financial year 2026-27. The budget was officially unveiled by NDMC Vice-Chairman Satish Upadhyay, outlining a vision focused on enhancing civic infrastructure, promoting sustainability, and improving the quality of life for residents in the heart of the national capital.
Key Financial Allocations and Revenue Projections
The council's financial plan is built on a foundation of robust revenue expectations. The NDMC has projected total receipts of Rs 5,953.40 crore against estimated expenditures of the same amount, aiming for a balanced budget. A significant portion of the revenue, approximately Rs 4,500 crore, is expected to come from the council's own sources, demonstrating confidence in its internal revenue generation capabilities.
Property tax remains a major contributor, with an estimated collection of Rs 1,900 crore. Other important revenue streams include fees from parking facilities and charges from hoardings and advertisements. The budget also anticipates receipt of Rs 1,453.40 crore as a share from the divisible pool of taxes, which includes funds from the central government.
Major Infrastructure and Development Initiatives
The 2026-27 budget places a strong emphasis on capital works and infrastructural upgrades. A major highlight is the allocation for the construction of a new community centre at Gole Market, a project designed to serve as a hub for social and cultural activities for local residents. In line with modern urban management, the NDMC plans to install 1,000 smart poles across its area. These poles will integrate features like public Wi-Fi, electric vehicle charging points, and environmental sensors, contributing to the smart city vision.
Further infrastructure development includes the ambitious plan to convert 100 kilometres of roads into concrete surfaces. This initiative aims to improve road durability, reduce maintenance costs, and provide a smoother commute. The council is also focusing on enhancing its green cover and recreational spaces, with proposals to develop new parks and rejuvenate existing ones.
Sustainability, Civic Services, and Future Outlook
Echoing the national push for environmental conservation, the NDMC budget incorporates several green initiatives. The promotion of solar energy and water conservation measures are key components of this sustainability drive. The council is actively working on projects to boost the use of renewable energy sources within its jurisdiction.
For day-to-day civic services, the budget ensures continued focus on essential areas like sanitation, water supply, public health, and education in NDMC-run schools. The financial plan is designed to ensure that these fundamental services see improvement and reliable delivery. Vice-Chairman Satish Upadhyay emphasized that the budget is pro-people and development-oriented, crafted with the goal of making New Delhi a more livable, efficient, and modern urban space.
The successful implementation of this budget will hinge on the NDMC's ability to meet its revenue targets and efficiently execute the planned projects. The proposals, particularly the large-scale infrastructure works, signal a period of significant transformation for the Lutyens' Delhi area under the council's administration.
