Agartala, January 29, 2026: The opening day of the Budget Session 2026-27 witnessed a strong reaffirmation of India’s developmental strides and resilience in the face of challenges. In his remarks, MP Biplab Kumar Deb thanked President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that the President’s address reflected the nation’s progress and achievements over the past year.

Deb emphasized that in the last 11 years, India has consolidated its strength across sectors under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, with a clear roadmap to achieve the vision of a “Developed India” by 2047. He highlighted the government’s historic Rs 70,000 crore package for the shipping sector, recognition of large vessels as infrastructure, and amendments to outdated maritime laws. These measures, he said, would reduce dependence on foreign shipping, where India currently spends nearly Rs 6 lakh crore annually.

Healthcare initiatives also featured prominently. Deb pointed to the upcoming women and children’s hospital in Agartala, part of a broader effort to strengthen health infrastructure in the Northeast. He noted that Ayushman Bharat has provided free hospital treatment to over 11 crore citizens, including 2.5 crore poor patients in the past year. Senior citizens have benefited from nearly 1 crore Vaya Vandana Cards, while insurance schemes have disbursed claims worth Rs 26,000 crore.

On economic growth, Deb praised the success of Startup India, which has transformed India into the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. From fewer than 500 startups a decade ago, the country now boasts nearly 2 lakh, with 50,000 added in the past year alone. Over 20 lakh youth are employed in this sector, with 45 percent of startups led by women.

Infrastructure investment has been another cornerstone, with more than ₹50 lakh crore spent in recent years. Projects such as the Pradhan Mantri Setu initiative, upgrading 1,000 ITIs, and training youth in semiconductors and artificial intelligence are creating a future-ready workforce. Deb noted that 25 crore citizens have crossed the poverty line, 4 crore houses have been built for weaker sections, and piped water has reached 12.5 crore families under Jal Jeevan Mission.

Agriculture and rural development were also highlighted. India has become the world’s largest rice producer and the second-largest in fish production. More than 400 Eklavya Model Schools have been established for tribal students, while 18,000 km of rural roads and a 1,000 km metro network have expanded connectivity.

Deb concluded by stressing the government’s focus on the Northeast, with ₹80,000 crore invested in railway projects and 50,000 rural roads built. He said the region is poised to become a hub for semiconductor industries, symbolizing India’s inclusive and forward-looking development path.