Itanagar | January 11, 2026

Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has urged the Union government to provide robust support for the state’s key infrastructure priorities during the pre-budget consultations for the Union Budget 2026–27, highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s strong fiscal discipline and developmental achievements despite its geographical and logistical challenges.

The pre-budget consultation meeting, chaired by Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, was held in New Delhi on Saturday. The high-level event brought together governors, chief ministers, deputy chief ministers, finance ministers of states and union territories, and senior officials from the Ministry of Finance. The discussions focused on state-specific priorities, fiscal challenges, and policy inputs that could inform the framing of the forthcoming Union Budget.

Deputy Chief Minister Mein, representing the state government of Arunachal Pradesh, outlined the state’s development trajectory and sought the Centre’s support for infrastructure projects of strategic and socio-economic importance. Despite the state’s remoteness, sparse population, and historical developmental constraints, Mein emphasised that Arunachal Pradesh has consistently pursued a path of fiscal prudence while steadily improving public infrastructure and service delivery.

Fiscal Discipline and Governance

In his presentation, Mein highlighted that Arunachal Pradesh adheres strictly to the provisions of the Arunachal Pradesh Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2006. “The state has consistently maintained fiscal discipline, ensuring that committed liabilities are met on time and that developmental priorities are not compromised,” Mein stated. This commitment to fiscal responsibility, he argued, has helped Arunachal Pradesh demonstrate sound governance and financial management despite limited resources.

Mein also noted that the state has achieved notable progress in sectors such as health, education, and basic civic infrastructure, attributing much of the success to careful planning, prudent expenditure management, and the prioritisation of projects with long-term socio-economic impact. He expressed confidence that continued central support would further strengthen the state’s ability to undertake transformative infrastructure initiatives.

Priority Infrastructure Projects

During the consultation, Deputy Chief Minister Mein outlined several key infrastructure projects requiring central assistance. Among the primary priorities, he highlighted the need to augment urban water supply and drainage systems in Itanagar and other growing urban areas. The urban centres of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly the state capital, have experienced increasing pressure on existing civic infrastructure due to population growth, rising urbanisation, and the inflow of business and tourism activities. According to Mein, modernised water supply networks and improved drainage systems are critical not only for public health and sanitation but also for sustainable urban growth.

Another strategic initiative highlighted by Mein was the Rupai to Wakro Parashuram Kund railway line. The proposed railway corridor is envisioned to enhance connectivity across eastern Arunachal Pradesh, bridging remote border districts and facilitating the movement of people and goods. Mein pointed out that this railway line holds multiple dimensions of importance: it would strengthen border infrastructure in a sensitive region, improve accessibility for residents of remote areas, and promote religious tourism, particularly around Parashuram Kund, which attracts thousands of pilgrims annually. He further noted that the project has already received clearance from the Ministry of Defence, underscoring its strategic significance.

Bridging Resource Gaps

Deputy Chief Minister Mein also highlighted the limited access that Arunachal Pradesh has historically had to externally aided projects and large-scale private investment. He emphasised the continued need for central assistance to bridge resource gaps, ensuring that the state can maintain its current development momentum and achieve its long-term economic and social objectives.

“The state’s unique geography and its location along international borders create both challenges and opportunities,” Mein said. “While we have made significant strides in connectivity, public service delivery, and urban infrastructure, the state requires continued central support to undertake projects that are capital-intensive but crucial for inclusive development.”

Mein underscored the importance of coordinated planning between the state and central governments, particularly in areas such as transportation, renewable energy, healthcare, and education. He suggested that joint planning mechanisms and structured funding partnerships could help optimise resource utilisation and accelerate project implementation, ensuring that benefits reach the widest possible segment of the population.

Commitment to Inclusive Development

Throughout his presentation, Deputy Chief Minister Mein reiterated the state government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. He emphasised that Arunachal Pradesh is committed to improving the quality of life for all its residents while maintaining environmental sustainability and preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage.

He also drew attention to the potential for strategic infrastructure projects to generate employment and foster regional economic growth. “Investments in transportation, energy, and urban infrastructure will not only improve connectivity but will also create opportunities for local entrepreneurship, tourism, and trade,” he said. “Such initiatives will help integrate remote areas into the broader economic framework of the country.”

Urban Development and Sustainability

The expansion of urban infrastructure was another area highlighted during the meeting. As the state capital and other towns experience rising populations, the demand for modern civic amenities, efficient waste management systems, and reliable public utilities has grown. Deputy Chief Minister Mein stressed that central support for projects such as water supply augmentation, urban drainage improvements, and smart city initiatives would be essential to sustain the pace of urban development and ensure that residents have access to safe and reliable services.

Strategic Importance and National Integration

Mein also underscored the broader strategic significance of Arunachal Pradesh, noting that its border location requires infrastructure that supports both civilian development and national security objectives. Enhanced road networks, rail connectivity, and improved logistics infrastructure are not only vital for economic growth but also for the rapid deployment of resources and personnel in the event of emergencies.

“The development of Arunachal Pradesh is intrinsically linked to national integration, border security, and regional stability,” Mein said. “Infrastructure projects here are not just investments in the state but investments in the security and prosperity of the nation.”

Concluding Remarks

In conclusion, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein reiterated Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to fiscal prudence, strategic planning, and sustainable development. He expressed hope that the Centre would consider the state’s infrastructure priorities while framing the Union Budget for 2026–27.

“The state government remains committed to working closely with the Union government to accelerate inclusive development, strengthen connectivity, and enhance the quality of life for our citizens,” Mein said. “With continued support, Arunachal Pradesh can achieve its vision of balanced, sustainable, and strategic growth.”

Officials attending the pre-budget consultation noted that Arunachal Pradesh’s emphasis on fiscal responsibility, combined with its clear articulation of priority projects, provides a strong basis for the Union government to consider targeted allocations and policy support in the forthcoming budget.

The Union Finance Ministry, represented by senior officials, acknowledged the proposals and assured that they would be given due consideration while preparing the Union Budget. This engagement reflects the ongoing collaboration between the state and central governments to promote development in India’s north-eastern regions while addressing fiscal, strategic, and socio-economic priorities.

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