Government of Meghalaya Conducts Pre-Budget Consultation for FY 2026–27

Shillong, February 6, 2026 – Continuing the tradition of previous year, the Government of Meghalaya held the Pre-Budget Consultation Meeting today for the Financial Year 2026–27. Hon’ble Chief Minister, i/c Finance Department, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, chaired this open discussion session. Participants included academicians, economists, civil society organisations, farmer associations, government officials and journalists.

Shri Conrad K. Sangma outlined the State’s key achievements over the past eight years, noting Meghalaya’s position as the second fastest‑growing State in real GSDP, just behind Tamil Nadu. He highlighted that growing capital expenditure and increased private investment have been central to this growth. The purpose of the pre‑budget consultation was to gather stakeholder inputs for strengthening the upcoming Budget, which he will present for the ninth time. Sharing the State’s Vision@2032 to triple the economy from its 2022 baseline. While discussing Mission 10, the roadmap to drive this vision through focused growth across priority sectors.

In a comprehensive presentation on the State finances, it was highlighted:

• 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.
• State’s strong performance under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), which offers 50‑year interest‑free loans, which is like a grant, has enabled large‑scale asset creation, with its higher absorption capacity allowing Meghalaya to secure greater normative allocations under the programme.
• Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) are supporting multiple community‑led initiatives, including MeghLAMP, MeghARISE, and the Climate Adaptive Community‑Based Water Harvesting Project.
• Currently, 15 EAPs are under implementation with an estimated cost of ₹12,100 crore, of which 90% funded by the Government of India and 10% funded by the State

Noting that this momentum is visible on the ground with growth of high-value tourism, Meghalaya has moved from having zero 5‑star 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. High‑value 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 (CM-SMS).

The Hon’ble Chief Minister engaged with participants by responding to questions and suggestions on finances, education, skilling, entrepreneurship, tourism, and overall development. These inputs were noted by the department for consideration. Public views shared online were also acknowledged, and the Budget Session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly is scheduled from February 16 to 27. In his concluding remarks, he encouraged citizens to continue sharing suggestions through email email at megh.finead@gmail.com or the CM Connect helpline to support an inclusive, people‑centric Budget.

Sd/-

Commissioner & Secretary

Department of Finance