New Delhi : The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved a series of key decisions spanning agriculture, urban infrastructure, and energy, aimed at boosting farmer welfare, improving urban mobility, and strengthening power generation.
Fertiliser Subsidy for Kharif 2026 Approved
The Cabinet approved the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for the Kharif 2026 season (April 1 to September 30) on phosphatic and potassic (P&K) fertilisers. The estimated budgetary outlay stands at ₹41,533.81 crore, marking an increase of around ₹4,317 crore compared to the previous Kharif season.
Under the scheme, farmers will continue to receive fertilisers such as DAP and NPKS at subsidised and affordable prices. The subsidy will be provided to fertiliser companies based on approved rates to ensure smooth availability.
The move comes amid fluctuating global prices of key inputs like urea, DAP, MOP and sulphur. The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring affordable fertiliser access under the NBS scheme, which has been in force since 2010.
Jaipur Metro Phase-2 Gets Green Light
In a major urban transport push, the Cabinet approved the Phase-2 expansion of the Jaipur Metro. The 41-km North–South corridor from Prahladpura to Todi Mod will include 36 stations and will be developed at a cost of ₹13,037.66 crore.
The project will be implemented by Rajasthan Metro Rail Corporation Limited, a joint venture between the central and state governments.
The new corridor will connect key areas such as Sitapura Industrial Area, VKIA, Jaipur Airport, SMS Hospital, and Vidhyadhar Nagar. It will integrate with the existing Phase-1 corridor, enhancing connectivity across Jaipur.
With Phase-1 currently handling around 60,000 daily passengers, Phase-2 is expected to significantly boost ridership, reduce congestion, and cut vehicular emissions. The project, aligned with sustainable urban transport goals, is targeted for completion by September 2031.
Revision of HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the revision of HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited (HRRL) project cost from Rs.43,129 Crore to Rs.79,459 Crore and additional equity investment of Rs.8,962 Crore by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). The total equity investment of HPCL after increment will be Rs.19,600 Crore.
₹40,000+ Crore Hydro Projects Approved in Arunachal Pradesh
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs also approved two major hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh, aimed at strengthening India’s power infrastructure.
- Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project:
With an investment of ₹14,105.83 crore, the 1,200 MW project on the Lohit River in Anjaw district is expected to generate 4,852.95 million units annually. It will be developed through a joint venture between THDC India Limited and the state government. The Centre will provide financial support for infrastructure, including roads and transmission lines. - Kamala Hydro Electric Project:
Approved at a cost of ₹26,069.50 crore, this 1,720 MW project will be developed across Kamle, Kra Daadi, and Kurung Kumey districts. It is expected to generate 6,870 million units of power and also provide flood moderation benefits in the Brahmaputra basin.
Both projects will enhance power supply, support peak demand management, and contribute to national grid stability. Additionally, they are expected to bring infrastructure development, employment opportunities, and socio-economic benefits to local communities, along with provisions like free power to the state and funds for local development.
Overall Impact
These decisions underline the government’s multi-sectoral approach—supporting farmers through subsidies, improving urban transit infrastructure, and expanding renewable energy capacity—while also promoting regional development and sustainability.