UP Government Plans Dedicated Hostels in Delhi-NCR, Allocates Funds for Student Housing and Mental Health Support in 2026–27 Budget
In a significant step aimed at supporting students from Uttar Pradesh pursuing higher education in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the state government has announced a financial provision of ₹5 crore in the 2026–27 Budget to establish dedicated hostel facilities.
Officials said the proposed hostels are intended to offer secure, reasonably priced and well-managed accommodation exclusively for students from Uttar Pradesh who relocate to Delhi-NCR for university studies or preparation for competitive examinations.
The initiative reflects the government’s broader effort to provide structured institutional backing to students studying in one of India’s largest academic centres.
For years, the shortage of hostel seats has posed a major challenge at institutions such as Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University.
A large proportion of students enrolled in these universities come from outside Delhi and are often compelled to rely on paying guest accommodations or private rental housing due to limited on-campus options.
As per available data from 2019, only 20 colleges under Delhi University had hostel facilities.
The budget document confirms that ₹5 crore has been set aside in the current financial year for constructing the hostels.
Authorities indicated that the first step will be to identify suitable land within the NCR region. Once land is finalised, comprehensive guidelines will be drafted outlining eligibility criteria and the admission process for students seeking accommodation.
The move is expected to ease both financial and logistical pressures faced by students and their families.
Each year, a large number of students from Uttar Pradesh migrate to the Delhi-NCR region for academic and career advancement. The proposed hostels aim to reduce reliance on private housing, cut living expenses and create a more stable environment conducive to focused study.
Previous reports have highlighted that space constraints remain a major obstacle in expanding hostel infrastructure at Delhi University. Notably, the Delhi University Act of 1922 acknowledged the importance of residential facilities for students.
Section 33 of the Act states that every university student, except those enrolled in correspondence courses, should reside in a college, hall, or under conditions prescribed by university ordinances.
In addition to housing, the Uttar Pradesh government has also addressed rising concerns around student stress and emotional health.
The 2026–27 Budget includes a separate allocation of ₹14.50 crore under the higher education head to introduce a ‘Student Mental Health and Wellness Policy’ across universities and colleges in the state.
According to budget provisions, this funding will support the implementation of counselling services, mental health awareness initiatives and structured support mechanisms within higher education institutions, to foster a more balanced and supportive campus environment.
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