New Delhi – The Union government has allocated ₹12,846.15 crore to the Delhi Police in the 2026-27 budget estimates, marking a significant increase in financial support for the national capital’s law enforcement operations. This Delhi Police budget represents an increase of ₹586.99 crore, or nearly 4.79%, over the 2025-26 estimates, demonstrating the government’s commitment to strengthening policing capabilities and infrastructure in the capital.
Revenue and Capital Allocation Breakdown
The Delhi Police budget has been strategically divided between revenue and capital categories to address both immediate operational needs and long-term infrastructure development. Of the total allocation, ₹11,881.55 crore is earmarked under the revenue category specifically for establishment-related expenditure, covering the day-to-day operational costs of running one of India’s largest metropolitan police forces.
The capital section of the Delhi Police budget receives ₹964.60 crore dedicated to infrastructure development and long-term asset acquisition. The revenue allocation rose by ₹565.92 crore from the previous fiscal year, while the capital allocation increased by ₹21.07 crore, reflecting prioritization of operational expenditure while maintaining steady investment in physical infrastructure.
Personnel Costs Dominate Revenue Expenditure
A senior police officer revealed that a major portion of the Delhi Police budget revenue allocation is spent on salaries for over 88,000 personnel, apart from contractual employees. This substantial workforce represents a significant financial commitment, as personnel costs typically constitute the largest single expense category for law enforcement agencies.
“The procurement of office-related stationery, equipment and other items is also done using the money allotted for establishment-related expenditure,” the officer explained, highlighting how the Delhi Police budget revenue component covers diverse operational necessities beyond just salaries. These routine expenses ensure that the force can function effectively on a daily basis while maintaining administrative efficiency.
Capital Investment in Long-Term Assets
Another senior officer stated that funds under the capital section of the Delhi Police budget are utilized for acquiring long-term assets that enhance the force’s operational capabilities. This includes construction of new buildings to house expanded operations, procurement of vehicles for patrol and rapid response, weapons for personnel safety and law enforcement, and specialized equipment for modern policing challenges.
“The numbers are likely to change in the revised budget allocation depending upon the requirements and demands made by us and the availability of funds with the Union government,” the officer noted, acknowledging the dynamic nature of the Delhi Police budget allocation process. This flexibility allows the force to adapt to emerging needs and priorities throughout the fiscal year.
Comprehensive Law Enforcement Responsibilities
The Delhi Police are responsible for maintaining law and order, and managing traffic throughout the National Capital Territory. The Delhi Police budget allocation must cover these extensive responsibilities across a densely populated metropolitan area with unique security challenges given its status as the nation’s capital. The force handles everything from routine policing to high-level security operations for government functions and diplomatic events.
The allocation covers both routine operational expenses and implementation of specialized schemes designed to modernize and enhance policing capabilities. The Delhi Police budget supports initiatives that go beyond traditional law enforcement to embrace contemporary challenges facing urban police forces.
Modernization and Technology Integration
The Delhi Police budget includes funding for several critical modernization initiatives that position the force at the forefront of technological advancement in law enforcement. Development of traffic and communication networks in NCR Mega Cities represents a significant component, recognizing that effective policing requires seamless communication infrastructure across the broader National Capital Region.
Model traffic systems development receives dedicated funding within the Delhi Police budget, addressing the capital’s notorious traffic congestion and road safety challenges. Upgradation of communication infrastructure ensures that officers can coordinate effectively during emergencies and routine operations, leveraging modern technology for enhanced response capabilities.
Training and Skill Development
Training upgrades constitute an important element of the Delhi Police budget allocation, ensuring that personnel remain equipped with contemporary skills and knowledge necessary for effective policing. As law enforcement challenges evolve with technological advancement and changing crime patterns, continuous training becomes essential for maintaining operational effectiveness.
The induction of latest technology through the Delhi Police budget enables the force to adopt cutting-edge tools for crime prevention, investigation, and traffic management. This includes forensic equipment, surveillance systems, data analytics capabilities, and other technological solutions that enhance policing efficiency.
Traffic Infrastructure Development
Installation of traffic signals and related infrastructure receives specific attention within the Delhi Police budget, reflecting the critical importance of traffic management in the heavily congested capital. Modern traffic signal systems, surveillance cameras, and integrated traffic management centers require substantial capital investment that this budget allocation facilitates.
Future Budget Revisions and Flexibility
The Delhi Police budget figures presented represent initial estimates that may undergo revision based on actual requirements and fund availability. This flexibility ensures that the force can respond to emerging challenges and opportunities throughout the fiscal year, adjusting allocations to maximize operational effectiveness while maintaining fiscal responsibility within the broader framework of government finances.
