Meghalaya is gearing up for an important legislative session as Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma is set to present the Budget for the financial year 2025 on March 5. The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly’s Budget session will officially commence on February 28, marking the beginning of crucial deliberations on the state’s economic and developmental roadmap.
Assembly Speaker Thomas Sangma confirmed these dates, highlighting that the session will last 10 days. The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) met on February 6 to finalize the session details. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Opposition Leader Mukul Sangma, and senior officials from the Parliamentary Affairs Department and the Assembly Secretariat.
This session holds major importance, as Meghalaya faces economic challenges, rising inflation, and the need for strategic infrastructure investments. The Budget is expected to focus on economic revival, employment generation, welfare schemes, and financial management.
Key Highlights of Meghalaya’s Budget Session 2025
- The session will last for 10 days, allowing in-depth discussions on fiscal policies, government programs, and opposition concerns.
- Seven days will be dedicated to government business, which will include the presentation and discussion of the Budget.
- Three days have been reserved for private members’ business, enabling legislators to raise and debate key public issues.
- The Budget presentation on March 5 will outline the state’s financial priorities, economic policies, and developmental projects.
This Budget is expected to set the financial direction for Meghalaya, ensuring the equitable allocation of resources for different sectors, including education, healthcare, rural development, and industrial growth.
Government Takes Action Against Rising Prices of Essential Commodities
One of the major concerns ahead of the Budget is the rising cost of essential commodities, which has been affecting households across Meghalaya. On February 6, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma called for an emergency meeting with officials from the Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department and key market stakeholders.
The meeting aimed to investigate the causes of price hikes and implement measures to regulate market prices. With public frustration growing over inflation, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for immediate intervention to ensure fair pricing of essential goods.
This move highlights the government’s commitment to economic stability and consumer protection, ensuring that Meghalaya’s citizens are not burdened by excessive market fluctuations.
CM Conrad Sangma’s Visit to MUDA Shopping Complex to Support Local Businesses
On the same day, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma visited the MUDA Shopping Complex, where he interacted with local shopkeepers and vendors who are restarting their businesses after a challenging period.
During his visit, he expressed optimism about the revival of local commerce and stated, “Seeing the joy and hope in the eyes of vendors and shopkeepers as they prepare to restart their businesses is truly heartwarming.”
This visit reinforces the government’s focus on small business support, local entrepreneurship, and economic recovery efforts. The Budget is expected to include financial assistance, tax incentives, and business-friendly policies to strengthen Meghalaya’s economy.
What to Expect from Meghalaya’s Budget 2025?
As Meghalaya prepares for the Budget session, there are high expectations for progressive policies, economic relief measures, and infrastructure development projects. Some of the key areas likely to be addressed include:
1. Economic Relief Measures & Inflation Control
- Steps to control the rising cost of essential commodities and ensure market price stability.
- Subsidies and financial assistance for low-income families affected by inflation.
2. Infrastructure Development & Connectivity
- Investments in road networks, bridges, and public transportation to boost connectivity.
- Strengthening urban infrastructure in Shillong and other major towns.
3. Education & Healthcare Expansion
- Increased budget allocations for schools, colleges, and skill development programs.
- Investments in healthcare infrastructure, new hospitals, and medical services in rural areas.
4. Employment & Skill Development
- Government initiatives to generate employment opportunities for youth.
- Promotion of entrepreneurship, startups, and small-scale industries.
5. Agriculture & Rural Development
- Financial support for farmers, self-help groups, and cooperatives.
- Programs to enhance agriculture productivity and promote organic farming.
6. Social Welfare Programs
- Strengthening existing schemes such as Orunodoi to provide financial aid to the underprivileged.
- Expansion of pension schemes and other social security initiatives.
The Meghalaya Budget 2025 will be a crucial financial blueprint for the state’s economic growth, welfare programs, and infrastructure expansion. With rising inflation and the need for economic recovery, the government is expected to take bold steps to stabilize prices, support businesses, and improve public services.