Meghalaya Government Holds Comprehensive Pre-Budget Consultation for 2026-27 Fiscal Year
On February 6, the Meghalaya government conducted a significant pre-budget consultation meeting in Shillong to gather inputs for the upcoming financial year 2026-27. The session was chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who also serves as the state's Finance Minister, and featured an open discussion format to ensure broad participation.
Stakeholder Engagement and Key Achievements Highlighted
The consultation brought together a diverse group of participants, including academicians, economists, representatives from civil society organizations, farmer associations, government officials, and journalists. This inclusive approach aimed to incorporate multiple perspectives into the budget formulation process.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Sangma outlined Meghalaya's remarkable economic progress over the past eight years. He emphasized that the state has emerged as the second fastest-growing state in India in terms of real Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), trailing only behind Tamil Nadu. This impressive growth has been driven by substantial increases in capital expenditure and a significant rise in private investment across various sectors.
Record Economic Performance and Infrastructure Development
An official statement released after the consultation highlighted Meghalaya's unique economic achievement. The state is noted as the only state in India to record a real GSDP growth rate of 10% for three consecutive post-COVID years. This sustained high growth has resulted in a more than three-fold increase in total public expenditure, leading to improved public service delivery and the development of key infrastructure projects that are creating better opportunities for residents.
The statement further detailed that 15 externally aided projects are currently under implementation in Meghalaya, with an estimated total cost of Rs 12,100 crore. Notably, 90% of this funding is provided by the Government of India, while the state contributes the remaining 10%. These projects are expected to significantly boost the state's development trajectory.
Tourism and Agricultural Sectors Show Remarkable Growth
The economic momentum is visibly transforming Meghalaya's tourism landscape. The state has progressed from having zero five-star properties to now operating two such establishments, with four more under development and an additional four planned to be established by 2032. Furthermore, over 800 homestays have been sanctioned across the state, creating new income opportunities for local communities and promoting sustainable tourism.
In the agricultural sector, high-value farming is experiencing rapid expansion. There has been significant growth in spice cultivation, Lakadong turmeric production, and pineapple farming, contributing to both economic diversification and farmer prosperity.
Social Development and Public Health Improvements
Meghalaya has also made substantial progress in social indicators. The state has achieved a 42% reduction in maternal mortality since the financial year 2022, largely attributed to initiatives like the Chief Minister's Safe Motherhood Scheme. This demonstrates the government's commitment to improving healthcare outcomes alongside economic development.
Upcoming Budget Session and Continued Public Engagement
The budget session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly is scheduled to take place from February 16 to 27, during which Chief Minister Sangma will present the budget for the ninth time. To ensure the budget remains inclusive and people-centric, Sangma encouraged citizens to continue sharing their suggestions through email at megh.finead@gmail.com or via the CM Connect helpline.
This pre-budget consultation represents a crucial step in Meghalaya's democratic budgeting process, aiming to align fiscal planning with the needs and aspirations of its diverse population while building on the state's impressive economic momentum.
