197% jump in Delhi’s budget share

Delhi's budget share grew by a whopping 197 per cent to Rs 2,495.68 crore, but even this seemingly huge allocation under Central Plan Assistance may not be enough to help Delhi tide over its expenses.

Delhi's budget share grew by a whopping 197 per cent to Rs 2,495.68 crore, but even this seemingly huge allocation under Central Plan Assistance may not be enough to help Delhi tide over its expenses.

HT Image

Delhi Finance Minister AK Walia said the government might approach the Planning Commission with a request for an enhanced share in the central kitty of Rs 3,472 crore meant for Commonwealth Games.

While Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit was happy that Delhi got more funds, she did not rule out the possibility of needing more money at a later stage.

"The Budget works fine for us. We have received over Rs 1,000 crore under JNNURM and another Rs 1,000 crore for Commonwealth Games," said Dikshit, adding that effective spending could merit more funds.

Walia was a little more upfront. "We have received Rs 1,000 crore for Games-related projects. We had asked for Rs 2,000 crore. As such our revenue collections have dipped and the expenses have shot up. We may approach the Centre for more funds," said Walia.

Dikshit said she was yet to discuss the matter of a shortfall with her finance minister and secretary.