AP & Telangana State Head – Anandam Dundi :-
For the second consecutive year, the Union Budget has proved a disappointment for Telangana, with its ambitious flagship projects failing to secure allocations.
The Regional Ring Road (RRR), Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase II, and Musi Riverfront Development were among the 47 projects awaiting Centre’s funding, but none found mention in Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget speech. Telangana had sought over Rs. 1.5 lakh crore for these projects across infrastructure, industry, and social sectors.
The Union Budget 2026–27 has, however, unveiled an ambitious plan to develop seven high‑speed rail corridors across India, with three of them directly connecting Hyderabad. The announcement positions Telangana as a central hub in the country’s next phase of modern rail infrastructure. Hyderabad will be connected to Bengaluru, Chennai, and Pune through dedicated high‑speed rail lines. These corridors are expected to drastically cut travel time, improve regional connectivity, and strengthen Hyderabad’s role as an economic and transport hub.
The Centre’s continued neglect is expected to trigger another round of blame game between the State and the Union Government. The Congress party is likely to make this a campaign issue in the upcoming municipal polls, while the BJP faces pressure to convince voters that Telangana will not be sidelined. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has already launched a sharp attack, urging MPs from the state to jointly press the Centre to undo what he termed “injustice.”
Political reactions have been sharply divided. While Congress leaders expressed dissatisfaction over the Centre ignoring Telangana’s repeated requests, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy described the Budget as growth‑oriented and inclusive. He highlighted support for Hyderabad Metro Phase II and Musi River rejuvenation, insisting that Telangana will see gains under the broader national roadmap.
While flagship projects missed out, BJP leaders argue Telangana could benefit indirectly from national allocations. Hyderabad, known as a pharma and biotech hub, may gain from the Rs. 10,000 crore Biopharma Shakti scheme. Industry leaders have welcomed the move, though clarity is awaited on how much the state can leverage. Similarly, the Rs. 10,000 crore MSME Growth Fund could support hubs in and around Hyderabad, though direct benefits remain uncertain
The announcement of five Regional Medical Hubs has drawn strong positive reactions from Hyderabad’s healthcare institutions, which see it as recognition of the city’s growing role in medical tourism. The textile and handloom sector also stands to gain, with clusters in Karimnagar, Warangal, and Nalgonda expected to benefit from a five‑part programme focusing on fibre self‑reliance, cluster modernization, artisan support, sustainability, and skilling.
The Budget’s ₹1.63 lakh crore allocation for agriculture and allied activities, aimed at diversifying crops, strengthening fisheries and livestock, and deploying technology, could also bring opportunities for Telangana’s farmers.