Hamirpur, February 1:
Senior spokesperson of Himachal Pradesh BJP and former Sujanpur MLA Rajendra Rana on Saturday hailed the Union Budget 2026–27 presented in Parliament by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, calling it a “visionary, balanced and people-centric budget” that lays a strong foundation for a developed India.
Addressing a press conference, Rana said that the budget — presented for the ninth consecutive time — reflects the resilience and growing strength of India’s economy. He remarked that the country is steadily progressing towards becoming one of the world’s leading economic powers.
Focus on Growth and Stability
Rana highlighted that the budget places special emphasis on employment generation, healthcare, investment, and infrastructure development while also addressing global uncertainties and domestic economic demands.
Key announcements, according to him, include:
Nearly 9% increase in capital expenditure to boost infrastructure, including roads, railways, digital connectivity, and industrial growth.
New schemes for MSMEs, startups, and green energy to accelerate the vision of a self-reliant India.
Introduction of the ‘Bharat Vistaar’ multilingual AI tool for farmers, aimed at transforming agriculture through technology.
Special provisions for youth, women, and tribal communities to ensure inclusive growth.
Development of eco-friendly tourism trails in Himachal Pradesh and other hill regions, expected to generate employment and promote sustainable tourism.
Expansion of hostels and higher education institutions for girl students in every district to strengthen women’s education and safety.
Reduction of Total Cost of Education Tax (TCS) from 5% to 2%, easing financial pressure on students and families.
Boost for Education and Creative Careers
Rana also welcomed the announcement of AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics) Content Creator Labs in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges, saying it would unlock new career opportunities for the youth. Support for five university townships and planned educational zones, along with the establishment of a girls’ hostel in every district, would further strengthen regional education infrastructure.
Healthcare, Sports and Tax Relief
He noted that 17 anti-cancer drugs and seven medicines for rare diseases will now be exempt from basic customs duty, providing relief to patients.
The initiative to link the sports sector with employment and skill development under the Khelo India Mission was described as a “golden opportunity” for young athletes.
Rana added that the budget includes significant measures benefiting taxpayers, investors, farmers, the middle class, and industries.
Special Gains for Himachal Pradesh
Calling the budget particularly advantageous for Himachal Pradesh, Rana said eco-tourism trails, road and connectivity projects, and tourism-driven employment will directly benefit the hill state’s youth and local businesses.
“This budget will give a fresh boost to Himachal’s economy,” he said.
Roadmap to 2047
Referring to the Central Government’s long-term vision, Rana stated that the budget charts a clear roadmap toward making India the world’s largest economic power by 2047. He praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the financial plan as a “budget of youth power, women empowerment, and technology-driven development.”
“This budget is not merely a financial statement,” Rana said. “It is a commitment to fulfil the aspirations of farmers, youth, women, and ordinary citizens. It will strengthen both the nation and the state, and bring the dream of a developed India closer to reality.”
