BJP Nagaland President Benjamin Yepthomi lauds Union Budget 2026-27, highlighting the increased DoNER allocation and focus on Northeast development.
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DIMAPUR — The BJP Nagaland President, Benjamin Yepthomi, has lauded the Union Budget 2026–27, terming it a "futuristic and people-centric" budget that underscores meticulous economic planning and inclusive growth as the cornerstones of achieving the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.
In a press release, Yepthomi appreciated Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting one of the "most comprehensive and inclusive budgets to date," covering domestic production and consumption, strengthening Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows, and effectively navigating global and geopolitical uncertainties.
Yepthomi stated that since the formation of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in 2014 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s policy outlook has transformed from “Look East” to “Act East”.
He noted that this shift has translated into action-orientated initiatives focused on economic integration, improved connectivity, enhanced cultural ties, and stronger people-to-people engagement, thereby deepening cooperation across socio-economic and security dimensions, particularly in the Northeastern region.
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The president highlighted that the budget reinforces the belief that India cannot truly develop unless the Northeast develops. ‘In a clear demonstration of this commitment, the budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) has been increased from INR 5,915 crore in 2025–26 to INR 6,812.30 crore in 2026–27,’ the release stated.
It added that this enhanced allocation would accelerate infrastructural development, regional connectivity, livelihood generation, and holistic growth across all Northeastern states.
According to the update, the budget places special emphasis on improving rail, road, air, and digital connectivity to ensure last-mile access; strengthening border and remote area infrastructure; promoting tourism and eco-tourism; supporting agri-based and handloom industries; and encouraging youth entrepreneurship through Start-Up India, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and skill development programmes.
It also noted that increased investments in healthcare, education, renewable energy, and urban development will significantly improve the quality of life for the people of the region.
Yepthomi remarked that Nagaland stands to benefit from these initiatives through enhanced infrastructure projects, expanded connectivity, tourism promotion, employment generation, and continued support through centrally sponsored schemes. He added that the state will continue to receive vital central grants and tax devolution, which remain crucial for addressing resource constraints and sustaining development momentum.
The president emphasised that this "transformative budget" presents immense opportunities for the Northeastern states and called upon all citizens to actively participate and make optimal use of these initiatives.