National Budget 2025-26 and urban reforms

Throughout her speech, the FM frequently referenced the July 2024 budget, underscoring its role in shaping the government’s fiscal strategy and priorities. As a result, the latest budget serves as a continuation of those foundational decisions. This article examines the budget’s proposals related to urban development, critically analyzing their implications for cities and urban settlements. Paragraph 8 of the budget outlines transformative reforms essential for India’s economic progress, structured across six key domains. Among them, Urban Development emerges as a critical pillar, reaffirming the significance of well-planned and thriving cities in India’s growth trajectory. Notably, Urban Development was also a focal point in the July 2024 budget, which identified seven key urban priorities: Cities as growth hubs Creative city redevelopment Transit-oriented development Urban and rental housing Water supply, sewerage, and sanitation Street markets Stamp duty reforms Many of these priorities have been reiterated in the February 2025 budget, signaling a sustained commitment to urban transformation.