Delhi's Viksit Budget 2025-26: Traders, Public Voices Emerge

The Chamber of Trade and Industry has urged Delhi's Chief Minister to address traders' concerns in the upcoming budget. Key demands include making industrial areas freehold, rectifying circle rate discrepancies, and rationalizing high electricity rates. Public suggestions are being gathered to shape the budget, promised to prioritize development.

Amid preparations for the Delhi Budget 2025-26, the Chamber of Trade and Industry has reached out to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta with a list of pressing concerns from the business community. In a letter dated March 9, the Chamber urged the government to convert industrial areas like Bawana and Bhorgarh from leasehold to freehold and rectify circle rate inconsistencies in areas such as Narela. The letter also highlighted the disparity in minimum wages and electricity rates compared to neighboring states, calling for their rationalization.

The Chamber recommended a distinct warehouse policy and continuation of past market redevelopment projects. Suggestions also included organizing shopping festivals similar to those in Dubai and China, establishing an online 'Delhi Bazaar' portal, and abolishing the MCD's factory license for easier business operations. Chief Minister Gupta, who has been actively engaging with the public for budget suggestions, assured that these inputs would be considered as part of the 'Viksit Delhi' budget that aims to prioritize comprehensive city development.

In line with gathering public sentiment, Gupta interacted with residents in disadvantaged areas such as RK Puram and Vasant Vihar. The upcoming budget, expected to be presented between March 24 and 26, will focus on inclusive growth, as Gupta emphasized in a media session, acknowledging the grievances of the business sector against bureaucratic hurdles. The initiative underlines a commitment to development by involving the community's viewpoints, marking a stride towards a prosperous, 'Viksit Delhi'.

(With inputs from agencies.)