Meghalaya holds pre-budget consultation, CM cites growth, capex push

Shillong: The Meghalaya gov held its pre-budget consultation meeting on Feb 6 for the financial year 2026–27, with CM Conrad K. Sangma, who also holds the finance portfolio, chairing the open discussion session.

Participants included academicians, economists, civil society organisations, farmer associations, government officials and journalists.Sangma outlined the state’s key achievements over the past eight years, citing Meghalaya’s position as the “second fastestgrowing state” in real GSDP, behind Tamil Nadu. He said growing capital expenditure and increased private investment have been central to this growth.The consultation was held to gather stakeholder inputs for strengthening the upcoming budget, which Sangma will present for the ninth time.“Meghalaya is noted as the only state in India to record a real GSDP growth rate of 10% for three consecutive post-COVID years. The total public expenditure has risen more than three-fold consequently, public service delivery has improved, key infrastructure projects are being built and creating better opportunities for people,” an official statement points out.

“Currently, 15 externally aided projects are under implementation with an estimated cost of Rs 12,100 crore, of which 90% is funded by the Govt of India and 10% funded by the State,” the statement says.“Noting that this momentum is visible on the ground with growth of high-value tourism, Meghalaya has moved from having zero 5star properties to now having two operational and four more are under development, with additional four more to come up by 2032.

Over 800 homestays have been sanctioned across the state, creating new income opportunities,” the statement says. “Highvalue agriculture is also growing, with rapid expansion in spices, Lakadong turmeric, and pineapples.

Social indicators like maternal mortality have reduced by 42% since FY 22 in the state through initiatives like the Chief Minister’s Safe Motherhood Scheme,” the release reads.The budget session of the Meghalaya assembly is scheduled from Feb 16 to 27.The chief minister encouraged citizens to continue sharing suggestions through email at [email protected] or the CM Connect helpline to support an “inclusive, people-centric budget”.