Higher Allocation for Northeast Development
Underlining the Centre’s commitment to the Northeast, Chouhan announced that ₹6,812 crore has been allocated to the Ministry of Development of Northeastern Region (MDoNER), marking an increase of ₹897 crore over the previous year. He said this enhanced allocation demonstrates the government’s continued focus on accelerating infrastructure and socio-economic development in the region.
For Assam specifically, ₹49,725 crore has been earmarked towards tax devolution for the financial year 2026–27. Since 2014, the State has received approximately ₹3.12 lakh crore through tax devolution, reflecting sustained fiscal support from the Centre.
Major Boost for Agriculture and Farmers
The Union Minister emphasized that agriculture remains central to the government’s development agenda. The total agriculture budget has been increased to ₹1,32,561 crore this year. Additionally, ₹9,967 crore has been allocated for agricultural education and research to strengthen scientific innovation and technological advancement.
To reduce input costs and ensure affordable fertilisers, the government has provided a fertiliser subsidy of ₹1,70,944 crore. Chouhan stated that these measures are aimed at enhancing farmers’ income and improving productivity across the country.
In a significant announcement for Assam, the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has approved procurement of 60,500 metric tonnes of rapeseed/mustard for the Rabi 2026 season under the Price Support Scheme at Minimum Support Price. This move is expected to ensure remunerative prices and prevent distress sale by farmers.
Further strengthening agricultural self-reliance, ₹104.17 crore has been allocated to Assam under the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses for FY 2026–27.
Rural Development and Employment
The Minister also highlighted a 21 percent increase in the budget for the Ministry of Rural Development. A provision of over ₹1.51 lakh crore has been made under the ‘VB – G RAM G’ Act, compared to ₹86,000 crore earlier under the previous MGNREG framework.
He noted that the enhanced allocation will strengthen rural infrastructure, create employment opportunities and promote sustainable livelihoods across villages.
Healthcare and Biopharma SHAKTI Initiative
The Union Budget also includes a major healthcare initiative titled Biopharma SHAKTI (Strategy for Healthcare Advancement through Knowledge, Technology and Innovation), with an outlay of ₹10,000 crore over five years. The programme aims to strengthen domestic capabilities in biologics and biosimilars, addressing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases.
As part of this initiative, institutions such as NIPER Guwahati will be upgraded to enhance research, innovation and skilled manpower development in the Northeast.
Vision for a Self-Reliant Northeast
Chouhan reiterated that the Budget aims to ensure balanced and inclusive development, particularly for regions that have historically required focused attention. With increased fiscal support, agriculture reforms and targeted schemes, the Northeast is positioned to play a pivotal role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The press conference was attended by Assam Agriculture Minister Shri Atul Bora and Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Shri Krishnendu Paul, who welcomed the announcements and expressed confidence in their positive impact on the State’s farmers and rural communities.
