Historic, Futuristic Union Budget 2026–27 Gives Major Push to Northeast

 Guwahati, February 11: Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday described the Union Budget 2026–27 as “historic and futuristic,” asserting that it will bring transformative change to the nation and provide a strong boost to the Northeastern region. He was addressing a press conference in Guwahati.

The Minister said the Budget reflects the vision of a Viksit Bharat and lays a robust foundation for building a self-reliant, empowered and prosperous India by 2047. Emphasizing inclusive growth and social prosperity, he stated that the government is committed to ensuring that the benefits of development reach every section of society.

Highlighting the Centre’s focus on the Northeast, Shri Chouhan informed that ₹6,812 crore has been allocated to the Ministry of Development of Northeastern Region (MDoNER), which is ₹897 crore more than the previous budget. The enhanced allocation, he said, clearly demonstrates the Union Government’s priority to accelerate development in the region.

Focusing on Assam, he stated that ₹49,725 crore has been earmarked towards tax devolution for FY 2026–27. Since 2014, Assam has received approximately ₹3.12 lakh crore through tax devolution. Among key healthcare initiatives, the Minister highlighted Biopharma SHAKTI (Strategy for Healthcare Advancement through Knowledge, Technology and Innovation), with an outlay of ₹10,000 crore over five years. The initiative aims to strengthen domestic capabilities in biologics and biosimilars to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases. As part of this effort, institutions such as NIPER Guwahati will be upgraded to enhance research, innovation and skilled manpower development.

The agriculture budget has been increased to ₹1,32,561 crore this year, with ₹9,967 crore allocated for agricultural education and research. A fertiliser subsidy of ₹1,70,944 crore has been provided to ensure affordable fertilisers and reduce farmers’ production costs.

Under the Ministry of Rural Development, the budget has risen by 21 per cent, with over ₹1.51 lakh crore allocated for the ‘VB - G RAM G’ Act, compared to ₹86,000 crore under the previous MGNREG Act.

The Minister also announced approval for procurement of 60,500 MT of Rapeseed/Mustard for the Rabi 2026 season in Assam at Minimum Support Price under the Price Support Scheme to prevent distress sales. Additionally, ₹104.17 crore has been allocated to Assam for FY 2026–27 under the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses.

Assam Agriculture Minister Shri Atul Bora and Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Shri Krishnendu Paul were also present.