Shimla: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Mahila Morcha organized a “Mahila Samvad” programme at the party office in Deepakmal, Chakkar, Shimla, focusing on key provisions for women in the Union Budget 2026–27. The event was presided over by Mahila Morcha President Daisy Thakur, while party leader and MLA Randhir Sharma addressed the gathering as the keynote speaker.
Over 30 women’s groups from across the parliamentary constituency participated in the interactive session. Participants raised several questions regarding the Budget, which were addressed in detail by the keynote speaker.
Daisy Thakur stated that the objective of the programme was to create awareness about women-centric schemes and financial provisions introduced in the Union Budget 2026–27. She emphasized that Mahila Morcha office bearers and workers actively engaged in discussions, ensuring clarity on various aspects of the Budget.
Addressing the gathering, Randhir Sharma described the Budget presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2026, as a visionary document aimed at strengthening a self-reliant and developed India. He termed it the ninth consecutive progressive Budget focused on reforms, economic growth, and global competitiveness.
He highlighted major allocations, including ₹12.2 lakh crore for infrastructure development and a significant increase in the defence budget to promote domestic manufacturing of defence equipment, semiconductors, and industrial products. He noted that improved infrastructure — including roads, railways, waterways, airports, and modern railway stations — would directly benefit women by enhancing connectivity and employment opportunities.
Sharma further outlined special provisions for women, such as the proposal to establish women’s hostels at district headquarters to support education and overseas employment aspirations. Under the Lakhpati Didi initiative, “She-Marts” will be set up to strengthen self-help groups by providing better marketing platforms for their products.
The Budget also continues support for key women-focused schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and other welfare initiatives. Increased loan limits under the Kisan Credit Card scheme are expected to benefit women engaged in agriculture, while rural employment and livelihood programmes will support working-class women.
He added that upcoming investments in manufacturing, pharma hubs, chemical parks, and textile clusters are set to expand employment opportunities for young women.
Concluding the programme, party leaders stated that the Union Budget 2026–27 reflects a strong commitment to national development, public welfare, and women’s empowerment, marking a significant step toward building a self-reliant India.
