A budget allocation of Rs 6,216 crore was presented for various programs within the Social Welfare Department, Women and Child Development Department, and SC/ST/OBC Welfare Department. Notably, approximately 9.03 lakh beneficiaries will receive pensions ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500 per month.
Delhi Arogya Kosh
Free healthcare services received a significant boost with an allocation of Rs 80 crore through the Delhi Arogya Kosh, along with a proposed Rs 194 crore for acquiring new ambulances for the Centralized Accident and Trauma Services (CATS) in Delhi.
‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana.’
During her inaugural budget speech, Delhi’s Finance Minister Atishi introduced the ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana.’ This scheme will provide women above 18 years of age with a monthly stipend of Rs 1,000 starting from the fiscal year 2024–25.
‘majboori se majbooti‘
With a focus on strengthening the healthcare sector, the Delhi government earmarked Rs 8,685 crore, emphasizing a transformation from ‘majboori se majbooti’ and ‘despair to faith’ under the Arvind Kejriwal administration.
Public transportation
Allocating Rs 500 crore for the Delhi Metro, Finance Minister Atishi highlighted its increasing popularity, serving over 60 lakh daily commuters compared to 24 lakh in 2014.
In the 2024–25 Budget, Atishi stressed the government’s commitment to providing quality public transportation for all Delhi residents, with a total outlay of Rs 76,000 crore.
Legal aid
Atishi emphasized the significance of access to legal aid through the Delhi State Legal Aid (DSLA) for those who cannot afford lawyers, with beneficiaries increasing from 33,000 in 2016–17 to 1,25,000 in 2022–23.
She stated, “The real Ram Rajya is where no one sleeps hungry,” noting that the scheme has been proposed to the LG and awaits funding approval from the BJP. Under the AAP Aadmi Party’s social service scheme, 1000 food stalls will be opened in Delhi, offering meals at Rs 1 to ensure that no one goes hungry.
