Budget 2026–27 Aims Inclusive Growth, Says Chandrasekhar

Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Pemmasani Chandrasekhar on Sunday said the Union Budget 2026–27 is aimed at inclusive growth and improving livelihoods across all sections of society.

Addressing a press conference here, he said the Budget was framed with a focus on middle-class welfare and strengthening India’s global standing. Health and life insurance premiums have been reduced to zero, while duties on several goods have been cut to ease the financial burden on the public, he said. The railway budget has been increased by 10 per cent, and seven high-speed rail corridors have been proposed.

The Minister said Rs 10,000 crore has been allocated to the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB–G RAM G), adding that enhanced funding under the scheme would significantly boost development at both national and State levels.

Referring to the manufacturing sector, he said India has moved from importing key components for mobile phone manufacturing to producing them domestically with the adoption of new technologies.

On women’s welfare, Mr. Chandrasekhar said women’s hostels are being established in every district, along with dedicated funding to promote self-employment. He also highlighted government support for sectors such as fisheries, animal husbandry, coconut, and cashew. Tax holidays for data centres, he said, would be particularly beneficial to Andhra Pradesh.

Steps would be taken to ensure a higher share of funds for Andhra Pradesh through the 16th Finance Commission, he added.

A.P. TDP president Palla Srinivasa Rao, North MLA Vishnukumar Raju, East MLA Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu, BJP district president Parasurama Raju, and other leaders were present.