SHILLONG, FEB 13: BJP national spokesperson Shazia Ilmi on Friday said the Union Budget 2026 empowers Meghalaya with a higher tax devolution, allocating Rs 9,600 crore in untied funds for state development.
“It gives the state more flexibility and of course more responsibility,” Ilmi said, adding, “What does this Rs 9,600 crore mean to a citizen of Meghalaya? We are looking at tourism as year round livelihood.”
Ilmi emphasized improved delivery systems under Prime Minister’s leadership, stating, “The delivery systems have become so much better and leakage free.”
She highlighted key projects is driving development, including: development of 170 km national highways worth Rs 2,703 crore to improve connectivity, construction of 88 rural roads (782 km) and 55 bridges for rural connectivity, sanction of an IT park in Tura, West Garo Hills, to promote digital infrastructure and jobs, funding for the Dhubri-Phulbari bridge, described as one of India’s longest, to transform market access, two Swadesh Darpan projects with Rs 184 crore sanctioned and utilized for tourism and investments in Umiam lake tourism infrastructure, tribal rejuvenation centres, and water sports, inaugurated by Meghalaya’s chief minister.
Ilmi said the budget reflects central commitment to Meghalaya’s development, focusing on tourism and infrastructure.
Budget 2026 reflects govt’s focus on inclusive growth:
Bihar MLC and convener of Budget Publicity Campaign for North East, Devesh Kumar, said the Union Budget 2026 is guided by the philosophy of ensuring the last person benefits from government measures.
“Every budget has a philosophy and every budget is a product of the time,” Kumar said, highlighting the government’s response to the pandemic.
Kumar praised the prime minister’s initiatives, including the 5 kg ration scheme, and noted a significant increase in capital expenditure from Rs 3.08 lakh crore in 2018-19 to Rs 12.22 lakh crore in the current budget.
“The government is working on the philosophy that the last man standing in the queue should benefit from whatever measures the government is taking,” he said.
The budget focuses on three key areas: taking India to prosperity, scaling up people’s capacity, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Kumar highlighted pushes in industrial growth, employment generation, new-age economy, and emerging technologies like AI and biotechnology.
“The entire budget… has a significant portion devoted to the development of the North East as our Prime Minister believes that India cannot grow until the North East of India grows,” Kumar said, citing initiatives like seven trade corridors and focus on women, youth, and farming sector empowerment.
