The second phase of the 8th Session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly resumed on Thursday, March 26, during which Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio presented the State Budget for 2026–27, describing it as a strategic roadmap for achieving “Developed Nagaland @ 2047.”
On fiscal matters, the Chief Minister highlighted concerns over the reduction in Nagaland’s share of central taxes and the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants, which are expected to impact the State’s finances.
Presenting the fiscal outlook, Rio stated that the Budget estimates a surplus of Rs 74.77 crore for 2026–27. However, due to a negative opening balance of Rs 411.81 crore, the State is expected to close the year with a deficit of Rs 337.04 crore. Gross receipts are estimated at Rs 22,507.10 crore, while gross expenditure is projected at Rs 22,127.33 crore.
Earlier, the Chief Minister also tabled key reports, including of the Comptroller and Auditor General and the Nagaland State Finance Commission, along with the supplementary demand for grants for 2025–26.
Nagaland announces 17 new initiatives, Rs 62 cr allocated
The Nagaland government has announced 17 new budget initiatives with a total allocation of Rs 62 crore, aimed at inclusive human capital development, income generation for youth and women, education, and building a sustainable and resilient economy. The initiatives also seek to enhance the State’s Gross State Domestic Product and revenue. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio during his budget presentation in the Assembly on Thursday. The initiatives include the Nagaland Strategic Water Resilience Initiative with an allocation of Rs 24 crore and the Chief Minister’s Community Solar Partnership Initiative under the Nagaland Solar Mission with Rs 11 crore.