The Arunachal Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday passed the state budget for the financial year 2025-26 by voice vote after over eight hours of discussion. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who also holds the Finance, Planning, and Investment portfolios, had presented the ₹39,842 crore budget on March 10, highlighting social and economic empowerment as key priorities.In his concluding remarks, Mein reiterated the government’s commitment to uplifting the poor, youth, farmers, and women, calling them the backbone of the state’s development. He assured that all schemes and projects outlined in the budget would be implemented effectively for holistic progress across sectors. “The government has a clear roadmap for development, and funds are not a constraint. What matters is timely execution through efficient coordination between departments and implementing agencies,” Mein stated. The Deputy CM highlighted that strategic initiatives in border areas have led to reverse migration, with people returning to their native villages. He credited the Pema Khandu-led government for setting new benchmarks in governance over the past eight years, propelling Arunachal Pradesh toward sustained growth.
The 2025-26 budget is built on four key pillars:
Investment in people
Strengthening infrastructure
Economic growth
Innovation
Aligning with the Union Budget’s vision for ‘Viksit Arunachal,’ the budget focuses on:
Zero poverty and universal quality education
Accessible and affordable healthcare
Full employment through a skilled workforce
Economic inclusion of over 70% of women
Transforming Arunachal into the ‘fruit bowl of India’ by empowering farmers
Mein emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing capital expenditure to create socially and economically productive assets that drive inclusive growth.
The Deputy CM assured that major infrastructure and power projects would soon be commissioned, transforming the energy sector. Additionally, efforts are underway to strengthen healthcare services by ensuring adequate manpower in all district hospitals. The budget received appreciation from members across party lines, with several constructive suggestions incorporated into the discussion. Following the deliberations, the budget was passed unanimously by voice vote, after which Speaker Tesam Pongte adjourned the House sine die.
