 Early Times Report
LUCKNOW, Feb 2: Addressing a press conference on Monday on the Union Budget 2026-27, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the development journey undertaken by the country over the past 11 years is now clearly visible at the grassroots level.
He described the budget as a balanced document of reform, growth and fiscal discipline, which will not only contribute to building a New India but will also provide Uttar Pradesh with new opportunities for development, investment and employment. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the Union Budget 2026-27 will enable Uttar Pradesh to play a leading role in achieving the goal of 'Viksit Bharat-2047'.
CM said, "The budget clearly reflects a balanced integration of reform, growth and fiscal discipline. By weaving these three elements together, the budget lays a strong foundation for building a powerful and self-reliant India while connecting future generations. It has been prepared keeping in mind the aspirations of farmers, youth, women and the poor. Naturally, it opens new avenues to meet the expectations and development needs of Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in the country."
He further added that one of the most significant and far-reaching provisions in the budget is the allocation of ?10,000 crore for MSMEs. Uttar Pradesh leads the country in this sector and has the largest MSME base in India. Currently, nearly 96 lakh MSME units are active in the state, providing direct or indirect livelihoods to around 3 crore people.
He said this fund will be especially crucial for the ODOP (One District One Product) initiative, which Uttar Pradesh has successfully promoted by linking it with branding, design, packaging and exports. The budget will pave the way for MSMEs to adopt new technologies, skill training, modern packaging and access to global export markets.
The Chief Minister said, "The announcement of a massive infrastructure fund of ?12.20 lakh crore will play a decisive role in accelerating infrastructure development in Uttar Pradesh, strengthening connectivity and energizing key sectors. Both the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors pass through the state, leading to the development of the country's largest logistics hub within Uttar Pradesh. This will directly benefit industry, trade and employment generation in the state.
CM Yogi said that Uttar Pradesh will play a crucial role among the 20 inland waterways announced in the country. India's first inland waterway between Varanasi and Haldia has already become operational and proposals have been prepared to extend waterways to Prayagraj and the Yamuna River. Strengthening cargo movement through the development of a ship repair and maintenance ecosystem, especially in Varanasi, will further reinforce the state's inland waterway network, significantly reducing logistics costs and making transportation more efficient.
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