Union Budget visionary, pro people: DyCM

Lucknow: UP's deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak on Monday described the Union Budget 2026 as "visionary and pro-people", asserting that it would play a key role in achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047.Addressing a ‘Budget Par Choupal' programme in Lucknow, Pathak said the Budget places strong emphasis on capital expenditure and infrastructure creation. He said higher allocations for roads, railways, logistics networks, digital infrastructure and the energy sector would strengthen manufacturing and generate large-scale employment.The deputy CM said UP received special priority, with approval granted for two major infrastructure corridors in the state that are expected to boost connectivity and economic activity.He highlighted that the total outlay stands at Rs9,12,696.35 crore, reflecting a 12.9% increase. Allocations include Rs34,468 crore for roads and bridges, Rs65,926 crore for the energy sector, and Rs18,290 crore for irrigation and flood control. Health and family welfare was earmarked Rs37,956 crore, while medical education received Rs14,997 crore, including Rs1,023 crore for 14 new medical colleges.Rural development was allocated Rs25,500 crore, with Rs6,102 crore for PM Awas Yojana Gramin. The education sector accounts for 12.4% of the total budget, while Rs 2,374 crore was set aside for the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Sashaktikaran Yojana. Pathak said the budget is inclusive and aims to uplift farmers, youth, women and the poor.