Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27, saying it is a reform-oriented budget that will bring direct benefits to Assam and the Northeastern states through higher financial transfers, infrastructure development and support to key sectors. Reacting to the Budget presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Sarma said the proposals balance India’s national growth goals with the development needs of regions like the Northeast. He stated that the Budget focuses not only on long-term economic growth but also on practical outcomes at the grassroots level. The Chief Minister said one of the most important gains for Assam is the Centre’s acceptance of the 16th Finance Commission recommendations. According to him, this will increase Assam’s share in tax devolution from 3.128 per cent to 3.258 per cent, giving the State greater financial strength to carry out development projects. He added that higher transfers to states will allow more flexibility in planning and execution.
Sarma also welcomed the Budget’s focus on future-oriented industries such as semiconductors, electronics manufacturing, data centres, chemical parks and rare earths. He said investments in these sectors will create new employment opportunities, especially for the youth, and help Assam connect better with national and global production networks.Highlighting support for women, the Chief Minister praised the proposal to set up Self-Help Entrepreneur (SHE) Marts across the country. He said this will strengthen women-led economic activities and support Assam’s Mukhyamantrir Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan by providing better market access to products made by women’s self-help groups and Lakhpati Didis. On skill development, Sarma said the Budget’s emphasis on industry-linked training in areas such as healthcare, artificial intelligence and related fields is in line with Assam’s plans to build a skilled workforce. He welcomed the focus on training programmes that are closely linked to actual job opportunities.
The Chief Minister also appreciated targeted measures for fisheries, commercial farming and the rejuvenation of Amrit Sarovars. He said these initiatives will support farmers, cooperatives and rural communities while strengthening the rural economy of the State.Referring to tourism and urban development, Sarma said new tourism circuits in the Northeast and investments in infrastructure and public transport in smaller towns will improve connectivity and support Assam’s urban growth. He also welcomed the focus on the Orange Economy, saying it will open new opportunities for artists, cultural workers and young entrepreneurs.On healthcare, Sarma welcomed the proposal to upgrade the National Mental Health Institute at Tezpur, calling it an important step towards improving specialised healthcare services in Assam. He also highlighted the ₹2 lakh crore allocation under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme, saying it will speed up infrastructure projects. He further welcomed the ₹6,812 crore allocation for Northeast development.