Chandigarh

Reacting to the budget, Haryana Congress President Rao Narendra Singh said that this budget is disconnected from ground realities and far removed from public welfare.

He stated that the budget has ignored the common man, farmers, and rural India.

He said that the budget offers no concrete relief to address inflation, unemployment, farmers’ loan waiver, or the water and electricity crisis (especially in Haryana). Cuts in schemes like MGNREGA continue, along with delays in payments, which are weakening rural employment. Rao Narendra Singh said that this budget benefits only big industrialists and the wealthy class.

While the increase in capital expenditure (capex) may benefit the infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, its impact appears to be limited to only 5–10% of the population. Direct benefits for the poor, SC/ST communities, the middle class, and youth are minimal.

He said that the government talks about development and reforms, but these are not reaching the ground level. There is “more distortion than reform.” In the name of reforms, the problems of the common people are increasing.

He further said that Haryana is facing farmers’ protests, unemployment, and a deep rural crisis, yet the budget contains no special package for the state. This is a blatantly anti-poor budget.

Rao Narendra Singh said that the budget focuses on fiscal discipline and long-term growth (Viksit Bharat 2047), with an attempt to attract private investment by making capex the engine of growth. The government claims that this will focus on stability, manufacturing, and technology, thereby increasing employment and self-reliance. However, this is only “paper development,” because there are no decisive or concrete steps on immediate issues such as inflation control, job creation, and poverty alleviation.

He said that this budget does not reflect the sentiments of Haryana and rural India at all, where the big budgetary figures do not match the ground-level hardships. Overall, the budget may be reform-oriented, but it is not people-centric.

He concluded by saying that in reality, this budget will only strengthen capitalists. This budget is nothing but a deception—it is neither connected to ground realities nor to public interest; it is baseless and far removed from the expectations of the people.

Chandigarh, February 1 – Haryana’s Power, Transport and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said that Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Ji gave the greatest message: “मन चंगा तो कठौती में गंगा,” meaning that if we set our mind right, everything will come to us on its own. Whatever work we do, we should do it with pride—this is Guru Ji’s message.

Sh. Vij was addressing devotees today after bowing his head at the Ravidas Temple in Ambala on the sacred occasion of the birth anniversary of Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Maharaj.

Extending greetings on Guru Ravidas Jayanti, Energy Minister Anil Vij said that Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Ji made a very significant contribution to the building of our society and civilization. He worked in many ways to unite society. Although Guru Ravidas Ji earned his livelihood by making and repairing shoes, he did so with pride. This is the lesson and teaching—that whatever work we do, we should do it with pride. It was the era of the Bhakti movement, and he gave the core message of all scriptures: “मन चंगा तो कठौती में गंगा.” If the mind is right, everything will come to you effortlessly—this is the great message given by Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Ji. He also gave the message of equality, which is a very important message and is most needed today, so that we all remain united and work to take the country forward.

Earlier, on the occasion of Guru Ravidas Jayanti, Energy Minister Anil Vij participated in religious programs organized at the Ravidas Temple in village Ghasitpur and at the temple located in the Jatav Panchayat Dharamshala complex at 12 Cross Road. He bowed his head and received blessings. During this time, office-bearers of the temple committee honored Minister Anil Vij by presenting him with a turban, a shawl, and a memento as a mark of respect.

Meanwhile, during the program organized at the Jatav Panchayat Dharamshala at 12 Cross Road in Ambala, Minister Anil Vij, on the demand of the Dharamshala committee office-bearers, announced a grant of Rs. 1 lakh from his voluntary fund for the Dharamshala.

On this occasion, Municipal Council Vice-Chairperson Lalta Prasad, BJP Mandal President Pravesh Sharma and Ravi Budhiraja, along with Master Avinash, Kulbir Singh, Pinka, Ram Charan, Ramesh Kumar, Pawan Kumar, Jagir Singh, Shivram, Ram Das, Sunil Nandariya, Ajay Gupta, Dr. Mogiya, Ashish Agarwal, Sachin Budhiraja, Deepak Bhasin, as well as other office-bearers and eminent persons, were present.

Chandigarh, February 1 — Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27 presented by Union Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha on Sunday. He said that the budget is people-centric and visionary, aimed at the upliftment and welfare of every section of society, in line with the spirit of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” and the goal of Viksit Bharat@2047.

Praising the Finance Minister and her team for their dedication and foresight, Sh. Panwar said that key provisions of the Union Budget related to rural empowerment and village self-governance are inspired by the ideals and vision of Mahatma Gandhi.

He said  that the ‘Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Initiative’ announced in the budget will help promote khadi and handicrafts and strengthen industries in villages. It will improve the production of khadi textiles. This initiative will benefit traditional weavers and also create new employment opportunities for the youth, he added.

The Development and Panchayat Minister expressed hope that Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini would give special emphasis to the Development and Panchayat Department while allocating the budget 2026-2027. He said that this department plays a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy, empowering Panchayati Raj institutions, and realising Mahatma Gandhi’s Gram Swaraj vision at the grassroots level.

Sh. Panwar further expressed confidence that the Union Budget 2026–27 will prove beneficial for all sections of society and will accelerate inclusive and sustainable development across the country.

Chandigarh February 1: Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini today described the Union Budget presented in Parliament by the Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman as a visionary and historic document that will help realise the vision of a developed India. He said the budget is truly dedicated to public welfare and embodies the spirit of Antyodaya uplifting the poorest of the poor.

He added that the inclusive budget will further accelerate growth in industrial development, infrastructure, MSMEs, biopharma, healthcare, rural industries, agriculture, and sports sectors in Haryana.

The Chief Minister was responding to queries of media persons in Panchkula today. Earlier, he watched the live telecast of the Union Budget on a screen.

          The Chief Minister said that the budget embodies the spirit of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for the welfare-oriented budget. He added that speed, capacity, and inclusivity are the three core pillars of the budget. Speed refers to accelerating economic growth through higher productivity; capacity focuses on enhancing people’s skills so they can actively participate in the nation’s progress; and inclusivity ensures that every family and region has adequate resources and opportunities for income generation.

          The Chief Minister said that the budget marks a major step towards a self-reliant and developed India. He noted that the country has strengthened domestic manufacturing and energy security, thereby reducing dependence on imports. He added that India’s economy has remained stable over the past 12 years, and the budget’s three-pronged approach—economic development, fulfilling aspirations, and inclusivity will empower every section of society. The Chief Minister further said that achieving a 7 percent growth rate amid global turmoil is a testament to the able leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi.

                   Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that the historic capital expenditure of Rs 12.2 lakh crore for the financial year 2027 and the development of City Economic Regions will provide fresh momentum to the growth of an industry- and infrastructure-driven state like Haryana. He said that the budget’s allocation of Rs 10,000 crore for the MSME sector will be highly beneficial for Haryana. It will revitalise major industrial hubs such as Faridabad, Gurugram, and Panipat, and generate ample employment opportunities for youth.

          The Chief Minister said that the all-inclusive budget fulfils the aspirations of 140 crore citizens, including farmers, youth, women, and the poor. Calling the budget particularly encouraging for Haryana, he said the emphasis on the Khelo India Mission will further motivate athletes, while the development of 15 archaeological sites will bring global recognition to the state’s historical heritage, including Rakhigarhi. He added that investments in artificial intelligence and the Quantum Mission will further strengthen Gurugram’s position as a global technology hub, while the focus on manufacturing and MSMEs will create new employment opportunities for the state’s youth.

Referring to the agriculture sector, Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that by increasing allocations and emphasising the Digital Agriculture Mission, the central government has taken a significant step towards boosting farmers’ income. He added that the provision of central assistance for the reclamation of saline and waterlogged land in Haryana will prove to be a boon for the state’s farmers. He further said that proposals for a ‘Fund of Funds’ for startups and the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence hub will create new opportunities for Haryana’s youth and give fresh momentum to the IT and AI sectors, particularly in cities such as Gurugram and Panchkula.

Similarly, the development of a logistics hub in the National Capital Region and higher capital expenditure on infrastructure will open new avenues for investment and generate employment opportunities across Haryana. The expansion of skill-development programmes for women and schemes such as Lakhpati Didi will also make the women of Haryana more economically self-reliant.

The Chief Minister said that the budget is a decisive step towards making India the world’s third-largest economy, and that the Haryana government is fully committed to implementing its provisions and ensuring that the benefits reach every citizen of the state. He added that the budget provides for the establishment of large textile parks and seven high-speed rail corridors across the country. An allocation of Rs 11.4 lakh crore has also been made for the development of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities with populations exceeding five lakh, while the One District–One Product scheme has been further strengthened.

The Chief Minister said that the budget provides exemptions from basic customs duty in the defence sector and will also make several items more affordable, including 17 medicines for cancer patients; medicines for seven rare diseases; drugs for cancer, diabetes, and other serious illnesses; solar-energy equipment; EV batteries and Mobile batteries; microwave ovens; biogas-blended CNG; clothing; footwear, bags, and leather goods; as well as foreign travel. He added that private imports will also be exempt from duty.

Present on the occasion were Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda, former Speaker of the Haryana Legislative Assembly Gian Chand Gupta, District President Ajay Mittal, Vice Chairman of the Haryana Shivalik Development Board Om Prakash Devinagar, State Vice President Banto Kataria, former Mayor Kulbhushan Goyal, Chief Minister’s Media Secretary Praveen Atrey, and other dignitaries.

Earlier, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Sant Shiromani Shri Guru Ravidas Ji, the Chief Minister visited Guru Ravidas Bhawan in Sector-15, offered prayers at the Guru Ravidas Temple, and sought blessings for the happiness and prosperity of the people of the state. On the occasion, the Shri Guru Ravidas Sabha Panchkula honoured Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini with a memento.

Chandigarh, February 1 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27 presented in Parliament by Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, describing it as extremely significant for the development of Haryana. He said this budget will provide new direction and fresh energy to the state’s infrastructure, agriculture, industry and youth employment.

The Chief Minister said for the first time in the country’s history, the Union Budget has been presented on a Sunday. This reflects the visionary approach of the central leadership and its strong resolve to take the nation forward at a rapid pace.

He said this budget is inspired by three major commitments—accelerating economic growth, building people’s capabilities and aspirations, and the spirit of “Sabka Saath–Sabka Vikas.” Its direct benefits will reach the youth, farmers, women, MSMEs and working class of Haryana. The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for this people-centric budget.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the total size of the Union Budget is ₹53.5 lakh crore, with capital expenditure increased to ₹12.2 lakh crore—about 9 percent higher than last year. This enhanced capital expenditure will prove to be a boon for fast-developing states like Haryana.

He said that the budget provides for an additional tax devolution of ₹1.4 lakh crore to states. As per the recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission, the states’ share has been maintained at 41 percent. Haryana, which makes a significant contribution to central taxes, will receive stronger and more stable financial support through this. This amount will be utilized in education, health, rural development, roads and other infrastructure projects, leading to better public facilities.

The Chief Minister stated that increased capital expenditure will accelerate key projects across the country, including railways, roads, RRTS (such as the Delhi–Gurugram–Faridabad corridor), EV charging networks, Industrial Model Townships (IMTs) and other critical initiatives. In Haryana, new investments will come to IMT Kharkhoda, Manesar and other areas, creating lakhs of employment opportunities. The enhancement of RIDF and UIDF will also strengthen rural and urban infrastructure.

*Focus on developing skill development and technology hubs*

The Chief Minister said that the budget lays special emphasis on Semiconductor Mission 2.0, which will significantly benefit Haryana’s electronics, automobile and manufacturing sectors. This budget will support new investments, skill development and the creation of technology hubs. Special provisions for MSMEs, startups and the biopharma sector will create better employment opportunities for the state’s youth.

He said that Haryana is an agriculture-dominated state, and this budget places special focus on agriculture and rural development. Emphasis has been laid on crop diversification, water conservation and increasing farmers’ income. These provisions will directly benefit Haryana’s farmers and agro-industries. Additionally, state schemes like ‘Mera Pani–Meri Virasat’ will gain recognition at the national level.

He further said that the budget also focuses on future-oriented sectors such as medical tourism, artificial intelligence, skill development, carbon capture and container manufacturing. Steps for inflation control, tax simplification and relief to the middle class will also benefit citizens of Haryana. A new ₹10,000 crore initiative for biopharma and life sciences will strengthen the state’s healthcare sector.

*A budget that establishes Haryana as a growth engine*

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that this budget will play a key role in establishing Haryana as a growth engine in realizing the vision of “Viksit Bharat @2047.” He added that with the strong partnership of the double-engine government, the state will gain new momentum in infrastructure, employment, prosperity and youth empowerment. This Union Budget will give new speed to Haryana’s progress.

LUDHIANA, 1st February 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday, at the inauguration of the terminal building at Halwara International Airport in Ludhiana, reiterated his demand to the Government of India to name the airport after legendary martyr Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, calling it a fitting tribute to one of the youngest icons of India’s freedom struggle.

The Chief Minister also urged the Centre to further strengthen international connectivity from Mohali Airport, while asserting that Punjab is steadily moving towards a moment where all four of its airports will bear the names of the state’s revered Gurus and martyrs, seamlessly linking modern infrastructure with the state’s spiritual and revolutionary legacy.

Raising the issue in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu during the virtual inauguration of the airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha laid down his life for the motherland when he was just 19 years old. His supreme sacrifice inspired millions to rise against British imperialism, and even Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh regarded him as his role model.”

The Chief Minister said that naming Halwara Airport after Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha would be a befitting honour to a martyr who hailed from the region and had gone to Berkeley University to pursue a career in aviation, but chose instead to return and dedicate his life to the freedom movement. “Punjab is the land of great Gurus, prophets, saints, seers and martyrs. Every inch of this sacred soil carries the imprint of their sacrifices,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that if Halwara Airport is named after Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, two of Punjab’s four airports would be named after revered Gurus and two after martyrs. “Sri Guru Ramdass International Airport, Amritsar and Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji Airport, Adampur, are named after Gurus, while Shaheed Bhagat Singh Airport, Mohali and Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha Airport, Halwara, will commemorate our martyrs,” he said.

Congratulating the people on the parkash purab of Guru Ravidas, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said it was a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that Adampur Airport has been named after the great proponent of the Bhakti movement. “The path shown by Sri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji to create an egalitarian society is the core pillar of our government’s commitment to serve the masses,” he said, adding that it was a historic day for Punjab as the Prime Minister dedicated two airports to the people on this auspicious occasion.

Highlighting the strategic importance of Halwara Airport, the Chief Minister said it has played a significant role over the years and has been used by the armed forces during critical operations. He expressed gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for their contribution in developing the terminal at Halwara, which has now been dedicated to the public. “The state government will hold deliberations with the Government of India in the coming days to enhance connectivity from this airport,” he said.

Recalling the earlier initiative, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that on March 22, 2023, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha had unanimously passed a resolution requesting the Government of India to name the International Airport at the Indian Air Force Station, Halwara, Ludhiana, as Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha International Airport. “As an active leader of the Ghadar Party, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha worked tirelessly for India’s freedom, first abroad and then within the country. Naming the airport after him would be a humble tribute to his unparalleled contribution,” he said.

The Chief Minister further pointed out that Mohali International Airport has already been named after Shaheed Bhagat Singh due to the sustained efforts of the state government. “Naming airports, universities and other institutions after our iconic martyrs is an integral part of our government’s vision to preserve their legacy and inspire the youth to dedicate themselves to selfless service of the nation,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said.

Chandigarh 1 February 2026:

Reacting to the Union Budget, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the Union government has once again ignored the legitimate concerns of Punjab and Haryana farmers, exposing its hollow claims of being pro-farmer. Cheema pointed out that there has been no increase in the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund nor any concrete assistance to strengthen market infrastructure, leaving the agrarian states in a state of disbelief.

He said that the farmer of Punjab feeds the nation, yet the Union government is continuously neglecting investment in systems that ensure food security. The Finance Minister also criticised the selective approach adopted to promote high-value crops.  While the budget mentions crops like coconut, cashew, sandalwood and dry fruits, there is nothing for farmers in North India who depend on crops suited to their agro-climatic conditions. Harpal Singh Cheema said that this budget clearly shows the Centre’s bias and its continued indifference towards the farmers of foodgrain producing states, especially Punjab. These farmers deserve respect, support and appropriate investment, not empty slogans.

Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema said that there is nothing for Farmers of Punjab and Haryana in terms of increased allocation to Agriculture Infra Fund or strengthening Mandi Infrastructure in this Union Budget 2026. He added that States will have to do it from their own funds for the development.    Talked about development of High-Value Crops but left out Punjab fully.

He said Urea Subsidy reduced from 1,26,475 Crore last year to 1,16,805 Crores.   Nothing for “Aam Aadmi” in this budget, Zero tax relief in today’s times when incomes are not increasing and inflation is eating up savings of common man. Infact, Government of India has increased STT (Securities Transaction Tax) which will adversely affect common man. No relief on Long-Term Capital Gains since STT has been increased. It is like squeezing the common man from all sides.

Speaking on Defence he said  we were hoping that Union FM would announce major schemes to make India stronger on Defence Production and meaningfully increase the Defence Budget in view of last year’s tensions with Pakistan. Nothing of that sort has happened. Total mention of defence was “Four (4)” Times in Union FM’s Speech.

Highlighting PM-Vishwakarma Scheme, he informed that launched with so much fan-fare last year to provide holistic, end-to-end support to traditional artisans and craftspeople, offering skill training. Budget reduced from 5,100 Crore to 3,861 Crore. On one side they say this budget is aimed at developing legacy industries and a Yuva-Shakti Budget ; then they cut budget for scheme meant exactly for this.

Speaking on 16th Finance Commission,he said the vertical devolution (total share of all states in tax pool) is kept at 41 percent. No change. Finance Commission has completely ignored the plight of states and failed to increase this share despite the fiscal stretch faced by states. Horizontal Devolution to Punjab increased to 1.996 percent from 1.807 percent in 15th Finance Commission. No Revenue Deficit Grants from 16th FC. 15th FC had recommended these grants.    Conditions on SDRF are overly restrictive and will affect the State like Punjab’s ability to effectively mitigate and manage disasters. He added that  No Mention of State in Budget Speech. They have completely forgotten about Punjab and Punjabis.

On  Education front, it is very Uninspiring. He said   Less than 10% Growth from last year (~8%) on Education buget.   Budget remains unchanged from last year at 7,500 Crore on PM- SHRI scheme.

     Special Assistance to States for Capital Creation (SASCI)- he said No mention of the scheme. All states has requested extending and enhancing the outlay of scheme meaningfully to continue high-levels of CAPEX.

On   Health point of view, he said AYUSHMAN Bharat Scheme Budget remains unchanged at 9,500 Crore. Swacchh Bharat Mission Budget halved at 2,500 Crore from 5,000 Crore last year. VB-G-RAM-G Budget at Rs 95,692 Crore up from Rs 88,000 Crore under MGNREGA.

Furthermore he added that Border Infrastructure and Management Scheme (Central Scheme) Budget reduced from 5,597 Crore last year to 5,577 Crore in the current budget.

 Harpal Singh Cheema said that this Budget is more inclined towards South and Nort-East India side. Nothing for Punjab or even North India. Nothing for Farmers and Agriculture. Nothing for Jobs and Youth in this union budget.

Chandigarh, February 1:

 Punjab’s Public Works Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO has accused the Central Government of discriminating against the state in the Union Budget 2026. He said the government, which claims to be pro-farmer, has once again failed to provide a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) to Punjab’s farmers.

He added that the Central Government is discriminating against Punjab on every front.

Harbhajan Singh ETO noted that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had demanded a special package to repair the heavy damage caused to the state’s roads by torrential rains in 2025, but the Central Government took no action.

He further stated that the Punjab government had sought a special financial package of Rs 1,000 crore for border security to modernize the police force, along with Rs 7,757 crore in arrears from the Rural Development Fund, a higher crop diversification incentive of Rs 15,000 per acre, GST compensation for revenue losses, and funds for health services and water supply. However, none of these demands were addressed by the Central Government.

Harbhajan Singh ETO said the people of Punjab had expected the Union Budget to announce special concessions to promote the state’s farmers and industries, but this did not happen.

Chandigarh, February 1:

 Punjab’s Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, expressed profound disappointment and concern over the Union Budget, stating it continues the trend of neglecting Punjab and the critical needs of its farmers.

Responding to queries on the union budget, S. Khudian stated, “The true impact will be known when the detailed provisions are unveiled. However, I have a strong apprehension that BJP-led Central government has done nothing for Punjab and its farmers.” He emphasized that Punjab faces persistent discrimination, even after enduring massive flood damage for which the requested Central relief package was never granted.

Elaborating on the agricultural crisis, the Minister pointed out that while the country’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, the budget failed to address the sector’s core challenges. “The cost of every input is skyrocketing—diesel, fertilizers, pesticides—but the budget offered no solace. There was hope for a dedicated allocation or a higher MSP for all crops, but that hasn’t happened,” he said.

 He specifically criticized the reduction in the budget for the Crop Insurance Scheme and the lack of significant announcements on Minimum Support Price (MSP). “Instead of increasing support, they are cutting it. At a time when farmers are in distress, the central government has stepped back,” S. Khudian stated.

 Drawing a sharp contrast, the Minister highlighted the Punjab Government’s proactive measures. “Where the Centre failed, the Punjab Government acted. For the farmers affected by floods, our government provided compensation of ₹20,000 per acre promptly,” he said.

The Agriculture Minister S. Khudian also linked the economic neglect to national security concerns, noting, “Punjab contributes massively to the nation’s food security and its youth guard the borders. Yet, the state’s rightful due is always ignored.”

“Previous governments with cosy ties with the Centre could have sought debt waivers but didn’t, as they wanted to keep Punjab subdued. We are facing this situation head-on and will do everything possible to put Punjab back on the path to progress,” he asserted.

 “The need of the hour was for the Central Government to come forward with a substantial package to address the deepening crisis in agriculture and revive the rural economy. Unfortunately, this budget has only added to the difficulties and complexities faced by our farmers,” said S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian.