Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Charts Ambitious Path for 'Developed Delhi'
In a detailed interview with ANI, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta articulated her government's unwavering commitment to transforming the national capital into a model city under the banner of 'Developed Delhi.' Emphasizing a holistic approach, she vowed to enhance infrastructure and health facilities while ensuring active public involvement in this transformative journey.
Comprehensive Development and Public Participation
"Every single work that should be done in Delhi—as the capital of the country—we will bring all of that and take the public along," Gupta declared. She linked this vision to the broader national goal of Viksit Bharat, noting that as India approaches its centenary of independence in 2047, there is a growing awareness and responsibility among the youth.
"Today the youth of our country is also becoming aware. They are also understanding their responsibility, and continuously I see many NGOs or many platforms where youth are coming forward and working. This is showing that people want a direction now," she observed. Gupta stressed that both 'Disha' (direction) and 'Dasha' (condition) must evolve, creating a synergistic opportunity where the government fulfills its duties and citizens embrace their roles.
She affirmed that all segments of Delhi's population, including youth, students, and workers, will be integral to improving the city, fostering a collaborative environment for progress.
Transparency in Schemes and Healthcare Enhancement
The Chief Minister underscored the critical need for transparency and robust mechanisms in schemes targeting underprivileged sections. "For a poor person, whether it's a school or such a hospital, we will have to work with great transparency. Full-proof schemes will have to be brought, with time, so that no one's right is denied anywhere," she asserted.
Gupta highlighted plans to implement stringent regulations and expand health infrastructure to ensure universal access to treatment. "I believe the government will make very strict rules on this—whether it's a hospital or a school—we will work on that and also increase our health infrastructure so that every person gets treatment," she added, vowing that no Delhi resident should succumb due to inadequate medical care.
She detailed efforts to upgrade healthcare facilities across all levels, from primary centers to major hospitals, by improving machinery and recruiting more doctors. Critiquing past administrations, Gupta noted, "the previous governments always said 'there is no budget, no budget'." In a landmark move, her government recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Reserve Bank of India, integrating Delhi into the RBI's comprehensive banking, cash management, and debt framework to stabilize finances.
Financial Stability and Infrastructure Development
This financial overhaul is poised to unlock resources for extensive infrastructure projects. Gupta explained that the capital's financial outlay will be strategically deployed to construct schools, roads, flyovers, and colleges, ensuring Delhi no longer faces monetary constraints. She also acknowledged the supportive role of the Central government in these endeavors.
Women's Empowerment and Personal Reflections
Addressing women's empowerment, Gupta reflected on the significant strides made, citing initiatives like "Beti Bachao" and the leadership roles of women such as the President and Union Finance Minister. "In the country's armed forces, you are seeing how the participation of girls is increasing," she remarked, crediting schemes under the Modi government for these advancements.
On her own ascent to Chief Minister, Gupta expressed a profound sense of representation, feeling that half of India's population sees its reflection in her. "Today, if I work well, then the faith in women will grow...If I can give better results, then daughters will get a chance to move forward," she stated, highlighting her role in inspiring future generations of women.
Waste Management and Environmental Initiatives
Turning to environmental concerns, Gupta outlined ambitious plans to tackle legacy waste at key landfill sites. She expressed confidence that the Okhla and Bhalaswa sites will be cleared by the end of this year, thanks to enhanced bio-mining capacity exceeding 30,000 metric tonnes daily under the BJP government.
"I want to tell people of Delhi that by the end of 2026, we will end the legacy waste of two garbage mountains in Okhla and Bhalaswa. The Ghazipur landfill site might take two more years," she announced. Efforts include building processing plants to manage generated waste and segregating legacy waste systematically, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable urban management.
Through these multifaceted initiatives, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta envisions a 'Developed Delhi' that serves as a beacon of progress, inclusivity, and resilience, aligning with the national vision for a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
