Union Cabinet Approves ₹77,101 Crore Package for Infrastructure and Subsidies
The Union Cabinet has sanctioned a substantial ₹77,101 crore for various projects, including a metro extension and a fertiliser subsidy.
Approval of an 8.45-km extension of the Noida-Greater Noida Metro.
Fertiliser subsidy for Rabi 2026-27 raised to ₹62,370 crore.
Continuation of the Stand-Up India scheme until March 2031.
On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet approved a comprehensive package of projects and schemes totaling ₹77,101 crore, aimed at enhancing infrastructure and providing financial support across various sectors. Key highlights include the extension of the Noida-Greater Noida Metro's Aqua Line and a significant increase in the fertiliser subsidy for the upcoming Rabi season.
The metro extension, which will span 8.45 kilometers, is projected to cost ₹2,390 crore. It will connect Noida Sector 51 to Greater Noida Sector 4, featuring five new stations. This project is expected to improve connectivity between residential and commercial areas, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, ultimately reducing traffic congestion and travel times for commuters.
In addition to the metro project, the Cabinet has approved a fertiliser subsidy of ₹62,370 crore for the Rabi 2026-27 season, which is approximately ₹24,417 crore higher than the previous year's budget. This subsidy will ensure that essential phosphatic and potassic fertilisers remain affordable for farmers, addressing rising international prices and securing the availability of these products.
The Cabinet also extended the Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU) for another five years, with a corpus of ₹5,000 crore, aimed at supporting micro enterprises through collateral-free loans. Furthermore, the Stand-Up India scheme, designed to promote entrepreneurship among women and marginalized communities, has been extended until March 2031, targeting an additional 2.5 lakh entrepreneurs.
Looking ahead, the government plans to implement these projects in phases, with the metro extension expected to significantly enhance the transport network in the National Capital Region. The fertiliser subsidy will help stabilize agricultural productivity, while the extended schemes for micro units and entrepreneurship are anticipated to foster economic growth and job creation in the coming years.
