Thursday, July 31, 2025
spot_img

Conrad seeks 25% hike in devolution share for smaller Northeast states

Date:

Share post:

spot_imgspot_img

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, July 7: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday urged the 16th Finance Commission to recommend at least a 25% increase in the devolution share for the smaller states of the Northeast over the 15th Finance Commission period and a special infrastructure fund for them.
He made this plea during a meeting of a delegation of four smaller states of the region with Dr Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of 16th Finance Commission, and its members.
Apart from Sangma, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Tripura Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy and officials of the Sikkim government attended the meeting.
Sangma highlighted that a 20% increase in the devolution share from the 14th to the 15th Finance Commission saw a 100% increase in capital expenditure of the states.
This enhanced fiscal space enabled marked improvements in health indicators, growth in the tourism sector and critical infrastructure development across sectors.
The region’s current growth trajectory and the imperative to sustain this momentum were also emphasised by the Mizoram Chief Minister and the Tripura Finance Minister.
This collective demand received unanimous support from the four states. The Chairman and the members of the 16th Finance Commission responded positively, acknowledging both the unique challenges and the notable economic progress achieved by these smaller states.
The Northeast delegation expressed its gratitude to Dr Panagariya and his colleagues for giving the smaller states of the Northeast the opportunity to articulate the challenges and region’s priorities.
The Finance Commission’s recommendations on the share of central taxes allocated to states for a five-year period are pivotal for their economic advancement, particularly for the smaller states of the Northeast which face resource constraints.
A joint memorandum by the four states, outlining shared concerns and aspirations, was submitted to the 16th Finance Commission.
The event, coordinated by the Finance Department of Meghalaya, concluded on an optimistic note, with all participants expressing hope for positive outcomes that will further the development of these smaller states.

spot_imgspot_img

Related articles

Prakash Raj appears before ED in online betting case

Did not take any payment from betting app, actor tells ED Actor Prakash Raj on Wednesday appeared before the...

Actor Malaika Arora during the ‘ET Inspiring Women Conclave and Awards 2025’, in Mumbai

Actor Malaika Arora during the ‘ET Inspiring Women Conclave and Awards 2025’, in Mumbai, on Tuesday. (PTI)

Hrithik, Kiara look hot together in first still of War 2

The first song Aavan Jaavan from Ayan Mukerji’s directorial War 2 is all set to be unveiled soon....

Shekhar Kapur directs AI-driven film Warlord

Ace filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has stepped into new creative territory with Warlord, a science fiction series made entirely...