MCD unveils citizen-friendly budget with no new taxes; focus on sanitation, education and health

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on Friday presented a citizen-centric budget for the upcoming financial year, emphasising improved civic services, ease of doing business, and fiscal discipline, without introducing any new taxes.

Commissioner Ashwani Kumar tabled the proposals before the Standing Committee, outlining strengthened revenue mechanisms and major administrative reforms.

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According to the Revised Budget Estimates (RBE) for 2025–26, MCD expects an income of Rs 15,679.72 crore against an expenditure of Rs 16,296.19 crore.

For 2026–27, projected income stands at Rs 15,664.07 crore, with planned spending of Rs 16,530.50 crore.

Kumar, while briefing, noted that the corporation aims to boost revenue through an expanded tax base and improved recovery systems, adding that 58% of receipts are expected to come from taxes.

He highlighted the success of the SUNIYO property tax scheme, which has already generated an additional Rs 600 crore.

“This budget reflects MCD’s unwavering commitment to better service delivery, environmental sustainability, and citizen convenience—without increasing the tax burden,” Kumar said.

Sanitation and environmental management remain the top priority, receiving Rs 4,795 crore—29% of the total budget. Education accounts for 15% and health 12%.

To combat pollution and upgrade waste management, MCD is procuring 60 mechanical road sweepers and 60 battery-operated litter pickers, while new waste disposal facilities are under development.

The Commissioner also thanked the Delhi government for funding extensive road repair works. So far, 250 km of roads have been repaired, with 600 km expected to be completed by March.

In a major ease-of-doing-business reform, processes for factory and general trade licences have been fully integrated with the property tax system, eliminating the need for separate applications. Similar integration for health trade license is planned.

Kumar assured that despite financial stress, employee salaries and pensions are being paid on time, with dues being cleared through disciplined fiscal management.