Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Khanna Applauds Union Budget 2026-27 for State's Holistic Growth
Finance Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Suresh Khanna, has extended a warm welcome to the Union Budget 2026-27, asserting that it will chart a new course for the comprehensive, balanced, and rapid development of the state. In his detailed assessment, Khanna emphasized that the budgetary provisions are strategically designed to accelerate Uttar Pradesh's progress across multiple sectors.
Infrastructure and Industrial Development Receive Major Boost
The minister highlighted that the significant increase in capital expenditure outlined in the budget will fast-track the development of critical infrastructure projects. This includes expressways, industrial corridors, logistics hubs, railways, and urban infrastructure, which are expected to attract substantial investments into Uttar Pradesh. Khanna noted that such infrastructural enhancements are pivotal for improving connectivity and fostering economic growth.
Support for MSMEs and Digital Initiatives
Industrial incentives and robust support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are set to strengthen small and medium industries within the state. This initiative is anticipated to create numerous opportunities for local employment and self-employment, thereby boosting the state's economic fabric. Additionally, the establishment of a Digital Knowledge Grid is projected to be extremely beneficial for the youth, equipping them with essential skills for the digital era.
Tourism, Electronics, and Healthcare Advancements
Khanna welcomed several key decisions in the budget, including the promotion of 15 historical cities to boost tourism and the creation of 10,000 tourist guides. The budget also allocates Rs 40,000 crore for the electronic sector, aiming to bolster manufacturing and innovation. In healthcare, the minister praised the reduction in prices for medicines treating seven serious diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, and the creation of Ayurvedic hospitals to enhance traditional medicine access.
Environmental and Social Welfare Provisions
A notable provision of Rs 20,000 crore has been earmarked to mitigate climate change and provide relief to cities with poor air quality. High-speed rail corridors, including the Delhi-Varanasi and Varanasi-Siliguri routes, along with waterway projects, are expected to give new momentum to connectivity, trade, and tourism. Social welfare measures include the appointment of 1.5 lakh caregivers for the elderly and the establishment of women's hostels, directly benefiting vulnerable sections of society.
Empowering Rural and Agricultural Sectors
Through the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana, the budget aims to empower villages by increasing farmers' income, strengthening irrigation facilities, and boosting the rural economy. Khanna emphasized that these provisions will play a crucial role in uplifting rural communities and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
Focus on Youth and Inclusive Growth
Education, skill development, and employment schemes for youth are designed to provide Uttar Pradesh's young population with the opportunity to play a decisive role in the country's development. Provisions related to health, women empowerment, and social welfare are expected to directly benefit the poor, women, elderly, and deprived sections in the state, fostering inclusive growth.
In summary, Finance Minister Suresh Khanna's endorsement of the Union Budget 2026-27 underscores its potential to drive transformative changes in Uttar Pradesh, addressing infrastructure, industry, healthcare, environment, and social welfare comprehensively.
