KOHIMA, FEBRUARY 3 (MExN): BJP Nagaland President Benjamin Yepthomi has described the Union Budget 2026–27 as futuristic and people-centric, stating that it underlines meticulous economic planning and inclusive growth as key pillars in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed India by 2047.
In a statement on the Union Budget presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Yepthomi said the budget was among the most comprehensive and inclusive to date, covering domestic production and consumption, strengthening foreign direct investment inflows and addressing global and geopolitical uncertainties.
He said that since the formation of the NDA government in 2014, India’s policy outlook has transformed from “Look East” to “Act East,” adding that this shift had translated into action-oriented initiatives focused on economic integration, improved connectivity, enhanced cultural ties and stronger people-to-people engagement. According to him, these initiatives have deepened cooperation across socio-economic and security dimensions, particularly in the North Eastern region.
Referring to the Union Budget 2026–27, Yepthomi said it reinforced the view that India cannot achieve overall development unless the North East develops. He pointed out that the budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region had been increased from ₹5,915 crore in 2025–26 to ₹6,812.30 crore in 2026–27. He said the enhanced allocation would accelerate infrastructure development, improve regional connectivity, generate livelihoods and promote holistic growth across all North Eastern states.
He further said the budget placed emphasis on improving rail, road, air and digital connectivity to ensure last-mile access, strengthening infrastructure in border and remote areas, promoting tourism and eco-tourism, supporting agri-based and handloom industries, and encouraging youth entrepreneurship through Start-Up India, MSMEs and skill development programmes. He added that increased investments in healthcare, education, renewable energy and urban development would improve the quality of life in the region.
According to Yepthomi, Nagaland is expected to benefit from the budget through enhanced infrastructure projects, expanded connectivity, tourism promotion, employment generation and continued support under centrally sponsored schemes. He said the state would also continue to receive central grants and tax devolution, which remain critical for addressing resource constraints and sustaining development momentum.
Yepthomi said the budget presented significant opportunities for the North Eastern states and appealed to citizens to actively participate and make optimal use of the initiatives to contribute towards building a stronger, self-reliant and developed India.
