The Union Budget for 2025 has garnered praise from the Chief Ministers of Northeast India, who see it as a catalyst for growth in key sectors such as agriculture, MSMEs, and investment. With a series of progressive measures, the budget aligns with the region’s aspirations for economic prosperity and development. From Assam to Sikkim, the leaders of the Northeast have expressed their optimism, recognizing the historic nature of the proposals and the potential for transformative change.
Assam: A Game Changer for Agriculture
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been one of the most vocal advocates of the Union Budget’s benefits for the region. Sarma welcomed the announcement of a 12.7 lakh metric tonne urea plant in Namrup, Assam, calling it a “game changer.” This much-awaited project, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the people, is set to revolutionize the agricultural landscape in the state. With agriculture being a primary economic driver in Assam, the new urea plant will improve fertilizer access, benefiting farmers and boosting productivity across the Northeast.
“This is a historic day for Assam!” Sarma exclaimed, highlighting the transformative potential of the urea plant and its broader implications for the region’s agricultural development.
Meghalaya: Focus on Key Sectors
In Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma praised the Union Budget for its emphasis on ten critical sectors that can drive growth, particularly through four key growth engines: agriculture, MSMEs, investments, and exports. The Meghalaya government expressed appreciation for the initiatives that aim to enhance these sectors, acknowledging that they would lead to significant positive changes in the state.
By targeting agriculture and MSMEs, the budget sets the stage for both immediate and long-term development. The focus on exports and investments offers the potential for expanding trade and increasing job opportunities for the people of Meghalaya.
Tripura: A Blueprint for Development
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha described the Union Budget as a “blueprint for a developed India,” recognizing its focus on critical areas such as farmers’ welfare, education, healthcare, and innovation. The budget also ensures support for start-ups and innovation, which is crucial for India’s economic growth.
In Tripura, where agriculture remains a key part of the economy, the allocation of resources towards these sectors will provide farmers with the tools they need to enhance productivity. Additionally, the budget’s focus on innovation and start-ups will likely stimulate the region’s growing entrepreneurial spirit.
Arunachal Pradesh: Empowering the Middle Class
Arunachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who also oversees Finance, Planning, and Investment, lauded the Union Budget for empowering the middle class. The introduction of a zero-tax slab for incomes up to Rs 12 lakh is a historic move, which will provide financial relief to millions of people.
“This is a historic move that empowers the middle class,” said Mein, who believes the budget will lead to higher savings and foster economic growth throughout the state. With a growing middle class in Arunachal Pradesh, this initiative will have a direct impact on the state’s financial stability.
Sikkim: Transformative and Inclusive
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang hailed the Union Budget as “transformative and inclusive,” aligning it with the broader vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). The budget addresses the needs of various sectors, ensuring that no part of society is left behind. With a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, Sikkim stands to benefit greatly from the Union Budget’s forward-looking initiatives.
Manipur: Boosting MSMEs
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh focused on the Union Budget’s proposal to enhance investment and turnover limits for MSMEs, an initiative that will positively impact the state’s small businesses. The expansion of MSME limits is expected to provide greater financial flexibility, encouraging entrepreneurship and boosting the state’s economic potential.
The Union Budget for 2025 has been widely applauded by the Chief Ministers of Northeast India, with leaders across Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Manipur recognizing its potential to drive growth in agriculture, MSMEs, and investment. From the historic urea plant in Assam to the inclusion of support for start-ups and the middle class, the Union Budget promises a bright future for the region. With these strategic investments and reforms, the Northeast is poised for a new era of development, aligned with the vision of a prosperous and developed India.