Shimla | February 1, 2026
Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur on Saturday lauded the Union Budget 2026–27, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling it a comprehensive and forward-looking roadmap towards the goal of “Viksit Bharat 2047”.
Addressing party leaders after listening to the live Budget broadcast at the Shimla party office, Thakur described the Budget as a “strong foundation stone” for a self-reliant and developed India. He termed it the 13th consecutive Budget of the Modi government and the ninth consecutive Budget presented by Sitharaman, calling it an “Amrit Kal milestone” that balances economic strength with inclusive growth.
Highlighting key announcements, Thakur said the projected 7% growth rate and record infrastructure investment of ₹12.2 lakh crore would accelerate sectors such as IT, semiconductors and healthcare. He also welcomed the provision of tax-free income up to ₹12.75 lakh, calling it a significant relief for the middle class.
For Himachal Pradesh, Thakur emphasized the announcement of eco-tourism initiatives, including the development of eco and mountain trails, as a transformative step that would boost tourism, create employment, and promote environmentally sustainable growth in the hill state. He said the move would help position Himachal prominently on the global tourism map.
He further appreciated initiatives such as customs duty exemptions on cancer medicines, credit guarantee support for MSMEs, and enhanced financial mechanisms to strengthen Himachal’s pharma sector. The extension of assistance through multilateral development banks for disaster management and reconstruction was described as crucial for the state’s recovery from last year’s natural calamities.
Thakur also welcomed the push for digital public infrastructure in agriculture, promotion of natural farming, and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, stating that these measures would enhance farmers’ income and promote energy self-reliance in hill regions. He noted that allocations under the Vibrant Village Programme would strengthen connectivity and infrastructure in border areas of the state.
Concluding, Thakur said the Budget reflects the spirit of “development with heritage” and is dedicated to the welfare of the poor, empowerment of women, upliftment of farmers and expansion of opportunities for youth. He also paid tribute to Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas at the end of the programme.
