Governance – Delhi CM Pushes for Greater Central Support and Administrative Reforms
Governance – Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has called on the Central government to provide greater financial assistance to the national capital and expedite the release of pending funds linked to Delhi’s public account. The demand was raised during the Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog held on Thursday, where the chief minister outlined several measures aimed at strengthening the city’s growth and governance framework.
Demand for Release of Public Account Funds
During the meeting, Gupta emphasized the need for an early settlement of the remaining balance associated with Delhi’s Public Account. She pointed out that after the account was separated from the Centre’s financial structure last year, the pending amount should now be reconciled and transferred without further delay. According to the Chief Minister’s Office, the release of these funds would support ongoing development efforts and improve the city’s financial flexibility.
Call for Increased Financial Assistance
The chief minister also highlighted Delhi’s unique fiscal position, noting that the city does not receive a share of central tax revenues or grants recommended by the Finance Commission. In view of this situation, she urged the Union government to enhance financial support to Delhi and bring the level of assistance closer to what is provided to other states. Gupta argued that additional resources would help the capital address growing infrastructure and service demands more effectively.
Proposal for Independent Engineering Cadre
Another key issue raised by the chief minister concerned the functioning of the Public Works Department. Gupta requested the complete separation of Delhi’s PWD engineering cadre from the Central Public Works Department. She said such a move would streamline project execution, improve administrative efficiency, and create a clearer chain of command for public infrastructure works. The proposal is aimed at accelerating development projects and reducing procedural delays.
Inclusion in Industrial Development Programme
Gupta also sought Delhi’s inclusion under the Centre’s Bhavya Yojana, a programme designed to encourage manufacturing growth. While acknowledging the capital’s distinct economic and environmental conditions, she proposed that the scheme be expanded to cover emerging technologies, service-sector industries, and environmentally sustainable manufacturing activities within Delhi. She maintained that such support would help generate investment opportunities while aligning with the city’s pollution-control objectives.
Vision for Delhi’s Future Growth
Presenting her broader vision for the national capital, the chief minister outlined the role Delhi could play in contributing to the national goal of Viksit Bharat@2047. She highlighted several initiatives launched by her administration, with particular attention to programmes focused on women’s empowerment and social development. Gupta said that strengthening opportunities for women, improving civic infrastructure, and promoting efficient governance remain central priorities of her government.
The chief minister’s proposals reflected a wider effort to secure additional resources and administrative autonomy for Delhi. Through increased financial support, institutional reforms, and targeted development programmes, the government aims to accelerate the capital’s progress while contributing to India’s long-term development objectives.