Dikshit hails Union Budget as inclusive, growth-oriented

Hailing the Union Budget 2010-11 as "inclusive" and "growth-oriented" Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit said she was not unhappy over the steep cut in Central allocation to the city government.

"It is a very good Budget under the current circumstances which will ensure inclusive growth in the country," Dikshit said.

Asked about the steep drop in Central assistance to Delhi, Dikshit evaded a direct reply, saying the Centre always extends a helping hand to the city government whenever it was necessary.

"It should be alright. We are almost at the fag end of our preparations for the Commonwealth Games," she said.

A total plan outlay of Rs 1,228 crore was allocated to the city government in the Union Budget as against last year's Rs 2,435 crore.

The Delhi government was also given a meagre allocation of Rs 50 crore for projects related to the Commonwealth Games.

Dikshit also justified increase in customs and excise duties on petrol and diesel. She said people's savings will go up significantly because of concessions on income tax.

"The savings will go up because of concessions on income tax. So increase in the petrol and diesel prices should not have an adverse affect," she added.

Petrol and diesel prices will go up by Rs 2.71 a litre and Rs 2.55 per litre, respectively following the increase in customs and excise duties.