Union Budget 2026-27 Allocates ₹13,949 Crore to Himachal Pradesh

On February 1, 2026, the Indian government announced its Budget for the financial year 2026-27. The Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, presented the budget details to the country. However, it remains unclear whether specific funds have been allocated to Himachal Pradesh, as there is no official confirmation about the amount of ₹13,949 crore designated for the state. Leaders from Himachal Pradesh expressed mixed feelings about the budget. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, criticized the budget heavily. He called it 'anti-poor and anti-farmer,' arguing that it did not serve the interests of important sections of society in the state. The Chief Minister pointed out that the budget failed to consider the needs and concerns of the state's residents. Apart from its critique of the overall budget, the Chief Minister also highlighted issues related to financial support from the central government. He raised concerns about the 16th Finance Commission, which is responsible for distributing funds to states. Sukhu said that despite sending multiple requests, the state has not received meaningful revenue deficit grants, or RDGs, from the commission. These grants are important because they help states cover financial gaps and promote development. In addition, Himachal Pradesh's Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan shared hopefulness about the budget. He expressed optimism that the government would allocate a generous amount to Himachal Pradesh, especially through the Revenue Deficit Grant. He believes that such support would improve the financial condition of the state and help in development projects. Another leader, Vikramaditya Singh, who is the Minister of the Public Works Department in Himachal Pradesh, described the budget as disappointing for the hill state. He specifically criticized the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant, which he feels is crucial for the state's infrastructure development and overall financial health. Despite these concerns, it is important to remember that as of the latest information available on February 2, 2026, no official confirmation has been made regarding the specific allocation of funds to Himachal Pradesh in the Union Budget. The amount of ₹13,949 crore, which is mentioned in various reports, has not been officially confirmed for the state. Why does this matter? The financial support from the central government can significantly impact the development and welfare of Himachal Pradesh. Proper funding can help improve infrastructure, support farmers, and aid disaster management. Conversely, lack of proper support might hinder the state's growth and well-being. Himachal Pradesh leaders are keenly watching the government’s decisions and allocations. Their reactions reveal the importance they place on financial support from the national level and highlight ongoing concerns about how effectively resources are being distributed to their state. The situation underscores the need for clear and direct communication regarding funds, especially in a country with diverse needs across regions. In summary, the Union Budget 2026-27 has been met with mixed reactions from Himachal Pradesh leaders. The Chief Minister and other ministers voiced concerns about the lack of specific support and the discontinuation of key grants. As the country moves forward, the official confirmation of fund allocations will be crucial for understanding the financial future of Himachal Pradesh and its development plans.