Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has presented a strong case for enhanced financial support from the Central government for the state's development projects in the upcoming Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27. The demands were raised during the crucial pre-Budget consultation meeting chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with state finance ministers.
Key Demands for Infrastructure and Agriculture
Nayab Singh Saini, who also holds the finance portfolio, specifically requested a significant boost in funding for core infrastructure sectors. He urged the Centre to increase the general allocation under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) to Rs 2,000 crore for 2026-27. The Chief Minister stated this infusion is critical to maintain the ongoing momentum in rural development across Haryana.
For urban development, Saini pointed out a major constraint in the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF). He argued that the existing cap of Rs 100 crore on individual project size is severely limiting the execution of large-scale urban projects. To overcome this hurdle, he proposed that the ceiling be raised substantially to Rs 500 crore, enabling more ambitious urban transformation.
Addressing Haryana's Unique Position and Agrarian Needs
The Chief Minister thanked the Centre for continuing the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme. However, citing Haryana's strategic location within the National Capital Region (NCR), he sought higher untied allocations and relaxations in utilisation conditions. He emphasized that the state's proximity to Delhi creates unique development requirements and opportunities.
Highlighting Haryana's pivotal role in national food security, Saini noted the state ranks second in the country in foodgrain production and is often called India's breadbasket. He brought attention to a pressing environmental issue, stating that approximately six lakh acres of land are affected by salinity and waterlogging. He appealed for central financial assistance to prevent further degradation of this vital agricultural land.
To modernize the sector, the CM stressed the need for focused investment in:
- Digital agriculture technologies
- Micro-irrigation systems
- Agri-logistics infrastructure
- Value addition facilities
He identified agri-processing clusters and MSMEs as potential engines for driving rural prosperity.
Focus on Social Sector, Logistics, and Human Capital
On the social development front, Saini outlined an ambitious plan to open a medical college in every district of Haryana. He indicated that achieving this goal would require substantial support under centrally sponsored healthcare schemes. Furthermore, he requested higher central assistance for social security pensions, a benefit currently received by over 44 lakh people in the state.
Recognizing the economic potential of the NCR region, Saini said Haryana is developing it into a major logistics hub. This vision, he added, necessitates higher central capital investment to improve connectivity and ensure time-bound movement of goods.
The Chief Minister also underscored Haryana's growing startup ecosystem, where the state ranks fourth nationally. To support this, the state government is setting up a Rs 2,000 crore Fund of Funds. Additionally, he revealed plans for developing 10 new Industrial Model Townships (IMTs) to boost MSMEs and attract investment, for which additional central aid is needed.
Concluding his presentation, Saini emphasized the importance of investing in human capital. He called for a greater focus on education, health, and skill development, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, green technology, and biotechnology. He expressed confidence that the upcoming Union Budget would pave the way for Haryana's accelerated progress and reaffirmed the state's commitment to contributing to India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
