March 26, Kohima: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described the State Budget 2026-27 as inclusive, sustainable, and a strategic roadmap for a developed Nagaland by 2047.
Presenting the budget in the State Assembly today, he said that for the first time in the State's fiscal framework, the 2026–27 Budget has introduced an SDG-linked Budget architecture and a Gender Budget Statement.
Mr. Rio, who is also the Minister in charge of Finance, highlighted the objective of this year's Budget in supporting ongoing efforts and aligning interventions with the country's goal of a Viksit Bharat 2047.
Addressing the media after presenting the budget, Mr. Rio said that the 16th Finance Commission has discontinued the Revenue Deficit Grant for the state from 2026 to 2031.
He said that this has reduced Nagaland's share in central taxes from 0.569 percent to 0.48 percent, resulting in a projected deficit of over 7,000 crore rupees.
He said that the state had projected over 8,100 crore rupees to the Commission but did not receive the expected amount.
Noting that the issue has been raised with the Union Finance Minister, he said that without adequate funds, the state may struggle to meet expenses such as salaries, pensions, debt servicing, and emergency needs.
Mr. Rio said that the state government has presented the current budget based on the Central assurance of a minimum 4,500 crore rupees.
