UP Budget: Braj tourism, heritage & healthcare to get boost

Agra: Presenting the 2026-27 Budget in the state assembly on Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh govt announced a major development push for the Braj region, with significant allocations for tourism, heritage conservation, healthcare and infrastructure.Finance minister Suresh Khanna presented a Rs 9,12,696.35 crore budget, outlining sector-wise allocations, including key projects in the Braj belt.Govt has earmarked Rs 30 crore for the integrated development of Bateshwar, the ancestral village of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The project aims to transform the Yamuna-side cluster of 101 ancient Shiva temples into a major religious tourism hub.Another Rs 30 crore has been allocated for the under-construction Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum near the Taj Mahal, expected to broaden Agra's tourism narrative beyond its Mughal legacy by adding a new historical dimension.Healthcare also received a substantial boost, with over Rs 130 crore sanctioned for Agra's Sarojini Naidu Medical College. This includes Rs 125 crore for constructing a new modern building and Rs 5.5 crore for procuring advanced medical equipment.Govt has set aside Rs 800 crore for infrastructure development in Mathura-Vrindavan, as well as Meerut and Kanpur. Officials said the funds for Mathura-Vrindavan will be used for road widening, creation of parking spaces, ghat beautification, and installation of smart lighting systems. The aim is to scientifically manage heavy footfall during festivals and special occasions.Welcoming the proposals, Tourism Guild of Agra president Amulya Kakkar said the budget would boost the tourism sector in Agra and Mathura. "The allocation for Mathura-Vrindavan and Rs 750 crore for the Jewar airport is a huge relief. This will significantly strengthen the Agra-Mathura tourism circuit. With better infrastructure and improved connectivity, overnight tourist stays will increase, benefiting the entire ecosystem, including hotels, handicrafts and tourist guides."