Guwahati, Feb 2: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday praised the Union Budget 2026-27, describing it as a “Viksit Bharat Budget” that balances India’s global ambitions with regional growth.

In a post on X, Sarma commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, noting that Assam and the Eastern region will gain from the budget’s reform-oriented measures. He highlighted the implementation of the 16th Finance Commission recommendations, which will raise Assam’s tax devolution share from 3.128% to 3.258%, increasing overall state transfers.

Sarma emphasized the budget’s focus on futuristic industries such as semiconductors, electronics manufacturing, data centres, chemical parks, and rare earths, which are expected to generate employment for the youth. He also welcomed initiatives like Self-Help Marts, aligned with Assam’s Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan (MMUA), aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs.

The budget’s emphasis on skill development supports Assam’s goal of becoming a hub for professionals in healthcare, artificial intelligence, and allied sectors. Targeted measures for fisheries, commercial farming, and Amrit Sarovars will benefit farmers and cooperatives, while new tourism circuits, along with investments in infrastructure and public transport in Tier-3 and Tier-4 towns, are expected to enhance connectivity and urbanisation.

Sarma also noted support for the “Orange Economy” to promote creative talent, including content creators, and welcomed the proposed upgrade of the National Mental Health Institute in Tezpur.

The Union Budget allocates Rs. 2 lakh crore under Special Assistance to States for capital investment and Rs. 6,812 crore for North-East development. Sarma appreciated the government’s focus on fiscal discipline and price stability. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget in the Lok Sabha.