Mandi Municipal Corporation Presents Rs. 85.46 Crore Budget for 2026–27, Focus on Development and Welfare.
Shimla:
The Mayor of Mandi, Virendra Bhatt Sharma, on Tuesday presented the Municipal Corporation’s budget for the financial year 2026–27, outlining a comprehensive roadmap focused on infrastructure development, social welfare, and improved civic services.
Presenting the budget, the Mayor recalled that at the beginning of the previous financial year, the corporation had expressed confidence in continuing development work despite a shortage of staff. He noted with pride that those commitments have translated into results, highlighting that Mandi Municipal Corporation secured the top position across the state in the second-phase assessment of the Citizen Service Portal launched by the Himachal Pradesh government.
He credited this achievement to the collective efforts of municipal officers, employees, and elected representatives, emphasizing that public cooperation remains central to governance. Reiterating the corporation’s “Citizen First” approach, he said inclusive participation from residents is key to the city’s progress.
Highlighting welfare initiatives, the Mayor stated that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, a total of 371 houses have been sanctioned for eligible families, out of which 310 have already been completed, while the remaining are in various stages of construction. Work under the second phase of the scheme is also underway, with efforts being made to include more beneficiaries.
Under the Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi scheme, financial assistance of up to Rs. 50,000 is being provided to street vendors, with around 250 beneficiaries expected to gain support. Self-help groups have also been encouraged through participation in fairs and festivals, generating business worth several lakhs and strengthening livelihood opportunities for women.
The corporation has also made efforts to support the urban poor through night shelters, where over 100 people were provided free accommodation during special drives last year, while more than 200 availed shelter services overall. Plans are in place to expand capacity and upgrade facilities in the coming year.
Focusing on youth and education, the Mayor announced expansion of library services. The capacity of the Town Hall library will be increased, and a new library will be established in Ward No. 7. Additionally, the corporation plans to develop book cafés at prominent locations in the city.
In the area of sanitation, the Municipal Corporation reported significant improvements. Scientific disposal of thousands of tonnes of solid waste has been carried out, and the city has maintained its ODF+ status, reflecting continued commitment to cleanliness and public health.
The total proposed budget for 2026–27 stands at approximately Rs. 85.46 crore, comprising revenue receipts, capital receipts, and grants. Major allocations have been made for development works, including road construction and maintenance, drainage systems, installation of street and solar lights, and development of parking spaces and parks.
To strengthen its financial position, the corporation has proposed several measures to enhance revenue, including improved collection of house tax, advertisement fees, parking charges, and recovery of pending dues. Strict action has also been proposed against illegal hoardings.
Addressing emerging urban challenges, the budget includes provisions for installation of CCTV cameras, improving public transport systems, and development of new community centres. Plans have also been outlined for expanding health and wellness centres, constructing animal shelters, and launching special drives to manage the growing monkey menace in the city.
The Mayor stated that Mandi, known for its historical and cultural significance, must preserve its identity while moving towards modernization. Adequate provisions have been made in the budget for organizing traditional fairs and festivals that form an integral part of the city’s heritage.
Concluding his address, the Mayor expressed gratitude to councillors, officials, employees, and citizens for their continued support, and called for collective efforts to transform Mandi into a cleaner, more beautiful, and progressive city.
