Kohima: The Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Saturday approved the Rs. 24,699.83 crore state budget for 2025-26 by voice vote, concluding its session with significant development-focused proposals.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who also holds the finance portfolio, had presented the budget on Thursday.
Following the approval of grants for 82 departments, the House also passed the Nagaland Appropriation (No. 3) Bill 2025, authorising the withdrawal of funds from the state’s consolidated fund for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026.
The budget outlines several transformative initiatives, including a Skill Mission aimed at training 5,000 youth for self-employment and private-sector opportunities, particularly in emerging industries.
Other notable projects include the Living Morung Initiative to preserve Naga culture, a Solar Power Mission to address energy deficits, and the establishment of a Drone Training Centre to equip youth with job-linked skills in drone technology.
Additional measures focus on infrastructure and governance improvements.
These include expanding banking access in unbanked blocks, launching a Chief Minister’s Fellowship Programme to cultivate future leaders, introducing a fleet of 40 buses to enhance transportation, and fast-tracking development in interstate border areas.
NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer commended the budget, calling it one of the most holistic and transformative in recent years.
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He praised Rio and his team for their commitment to addressing the state’s challenges and fostering progress.
“This budget reflects a resurgent and transformed Nagaland,” Longkumer remarked.
He also announced the formation of various financial and non-financial committees for 2025-26 before adjourning the House sine die.
The approved budget is expected to set the stage for economic growth, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation in the state, heralding a new era of development for Nagaland.
