Guwahati, February 1: Chief Ministers of Northeastern states have praised the first full-year budget of Modi 3.0, presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, highlighting key provisions that cater to the region’s development and aspirations.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, speaking after the inauguration of the Jaji Bhagat Bridge over the Kopili River on his 56th birthday in Morigaon on Saturday, hailed the approval of a 12.7 lakh MT urea plant in Namrup, a long-pending demand of the people of Assam.
“This will not only help in achieving self-sufficiency in fertiliser availability but also optimise the utilisation of our natural gas resources,” Sarma said.
He also applauded the revised income tax slab, which exempts annual incomes up to ₹12 lakh from taxation. “Earlier, those earning ₹7 lakh had to pay income tax. This relief will significantly benefit middle-class families,” he added.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma welcomed the modified UDAN scheme, which aims to enhance regional air connectivity. Under this initiative, helipads and smaller airports will be developed, specifically targeting hilly and remote districts, improving accessibility in the Northeast.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio appreciated the budget’s focus on inclusive growth, highlighting the government's commitment to farmers, rural prosperity, regional connectivity, and women entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh praised the budget’s emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), particularly the announcement of three Centres of Excellence in AI for agriculture, health, and sustainable cities.
“The introduction of these Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence is a major step towards achieving the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Singh wrote on social media.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay expressed his gratitude, appreciating the government’s commitment to Vikshit Bharat and GYAN (Garib, Youth, Nari, and Annadata), which focuses on empowering marginalised communities, fostering youth development, and generating employment opportunities.
“The central government’s initiatives, under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble PM, aim to boost economic growth, improve social welfare, and enhance infrastructure, fostering a people-centric and inclusive future while advancing ‘Make in India’,” Golay said.
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also lauded the budget on social media. “This is a historic move that truly empowers the middle class! HPM Shri @narendramodi ji's visionary leadership continues to bring financial relief and prosperity to millions. A zero-tax slab up to ₹12 lakh is a game-changer, ensuring higher savings and greater economic growth,” he wrote on X.
With strong endorsements from Northeast leaders, the Modi 3.0 budget is widely seen as a step towards economic growth, regional connectivity, and technological advancement in the region.
