Delhi Government Initiates New Budget Preparation Protocols for 2025-26

The Delhi government has commenced the budget preparation process for 2025-26, instructing departments to submit estimates by early October. The finance department has issued guidelines to ensure realistic financial assessments and avoid unnecessary fund re-appropriations. Departments must classify expenditures and submit proposals for centrally sponsored schemes for timely approval and implementation.

The Delhi government has initiated the budget preparation process for the fiscal year 2025-26, directing its departments to submit budget estimates and proposals by the first week of October. Officials stated that the finance department has set an October 7 deadline for submissions, which include Revised Estimates for 2024-25 and new Budget Estimates.

In a detailed 'Budget Circular,' the finance department emphasized the need for realistic financial assessments, directing departments to classify expenditure into categories like establishment costs, government schemes, projects, and centrally sponsored schemes. The circular highlighted issues of excessive re-appropriation due to inaccurate financial assessments.

The finance department stressed the importance of submitting correct budget proposals to avoid discrepancies in actual expenditure and budget provisions. Departments are urged to ensure timely approval for centrally sponsored schemes from the Government of India and to have a proper projection of funds to avoid delays and adverse audit comments.

(With inputs from agencies.)