The BJP-led Delhi government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, presented its maiden ₹1 lakh crore Budget on March 25, 2025, marking a significant 31.5% increase from the previous year. A notable ₹2,144 crore allocation was made for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), which will provide ₹10 lakh insurance coverage to economically weaker families—a ₹5 lakh top-up over the central scheme.

Gupta emphasised the government’s commitment to modernising healthcare services and criticised the previous AAP government for its inefficiencies in health services and infrastructure.

Historic Healthcare Push 

In a groundbreaking move, the Delhi government has earmarked ₹6,874 crore for healthcare in its latest budget. This funding will facilitate the establishment of 400 wellness centres across the capital, aimed at providing accessible primary care to residents. Additionally, the introduction of “Ayushman Arogya Mandirs” is set to enhance community health services.

Chief Minister Gupta stated, “We are determined to build a robust, modern healthcare system for Delhi—one that serves everyone efficiently.” The budget also allocates ₹10 crore for the Ayushman Digital Mission, which aims to digitise medical records and streamline access to healthcare services. With the adoption of AB-PMJAY, Delhi becomes the 35th state or Union Territory to implement this vital scheme, potentially benefiting around 55 crore individuals nationwide.

The recent Delhi Budget for the financial year 2025-26, presented by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on March 25, 2025, includes several key allocations aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, and social welfare in the capital. Below is a comprehensive list of the major budget allocations:

• Total Budget: ₹1 lakh crore, a 31.5% increase from the previous year.
• Capital Expenditure: ₹28,000 crore allocated for infrastructure development.
• Healthcare:
  • ₹2,144 crore for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
  • ₹6,874 crore for the overall health sector, including the establishment of health and wellness centres.
• Women’s Welfare:
  • ₹5,100 crore for the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana, providing ₹2,500 per month to eligible women.
• Yamuna River Cleaning:
  • ₹500 crore allocated for cleaning the Yamuna River through decentralisation of sewage treatment plants (STPs).
• Infrastructure Improvements:
  • ₹1,000 crore for enhancing connectivity in Delhi-NCR.
  • ₹3,843 crore for road and bridge infrastructure.
  • ₹100 crore for setting up 100 Atal Canteens across the city.
• Slum Development:
  • ₹696 crore allocated for development in slum clusters.
• Water Supply and Sanitation:
  • ₹9,000 crore dedicated to improving water supply and sanitation systems.
• CCTV Installation:
  • Plans to install 50,000 CCTV cameras for women’s safety.
• Education Initiatives:
  • ₹750 crore allocated to provide free laptops to 1,200 students passing class X.
  • Establishment of new ‘CM Shri schools’ with an allocation of ₹100 crore.

These allocations reflect the government’s focus on enhancing public welfare and addressing critical infrastructure needs in Delhi.

Context and Political Dynamics 

This budget presentation follows the BJP’s recent electoral victory over the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in February’s Assembly elections. Gupta took this opportunity to criticise AAP’s previous rejection of AB-PMJAY in favour of its own Sanjeevani Yojana, asserting that it failed to deliver essential healthcare services effectively.

She announced plans for audits and a comprehensive white paper reviewing AAP’s governance record in health services. The BJP’s focus on improving healthcare and infrastructure aligns with its broader agenda of transforming Delhi into a “Viksit Delhi.” This strategic shift aims not only to address systemic gaps left by the previous administration but also to enhance public trust and satisfaction with government services.

Public Response and Expectations

The public reaction to these proposed budget allocations has been mixed. Many citizens have welcomed the increased investment in healthcare as a much-needed improvement, especially in light of ongoing challenges faced by the healthcare system during previous administrations. However, some remain sceptical about whether the government can effectively execute these ambitious plans.

Local health activists have called for greater transparency and community involvement in monitoring the implementation of AB-PMJAY, insisting that it must meet the needs of vulnerable populations who stand to benefit most from such initiatives. There are also calls for regular updates from the government regarding progress on health infrastructure projects and service delivery.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

The Delhi Budget 2025 signifies a pivotal step towards achieving equitable healthcare access and enhancing infrastructure development across the capital. While the allocation for AB-PMJAY is commendable and reflects a proactive approach to addressing healthcare disparities, effective implementation will be crucial in ensuring that benefits reach those who need them most.

As we move forward, it is essential for citizens and policymakers to collaborate closely to ensure transparency and accountability in delivering these ambitious promises. How can we engage our communities in this process and ensure that everyone has a voice in shaping their healthcare future? We invite you to share your thoughts and ideas!