KHADC passes Rs 16.93 lakh deficit budget; focus on protecting Raid land

SHILLONG, June 17: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Wednesday presented a deficit budget of Rs 16.93 lakh for the financial year 2026-27, while announcing key policy measures aimed at protecting Raid land, strengthening land administration, and improving revenue collection.
Executive Member in charge of Finance, Revenue and Budget, Seiborlang Warbah, presented the budget during the opening day of the Council’s summer session. He estimated a total expenditure at Rs 214.60 crore against projected revenue receipts of Rs 214.43 crore, leaving a deficit of Rs 16.93 lakh.
Warbah said the full budget had been brought before the House as the three-month Vote-on-Account would expire on June 30, making it necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of the Council’s administration.
A major highlight of the budget was the Executive Committee’s decision to regulate the allotment of Raid land amid concerns over the shrinking availability of community-owned land due to large-scale transfers to private individuals and companies.
The Executive Member said the continued allocation of vast tracts of Raid land poses a serious threat to future generations, particularly farmers, landless families, and economically weaker sections who depend on such land for cultivation and settlement.
To address the issue, the Executive Committee resolved to introduce a land ceiling mechanism through an official notification that will regulate the extent of Raid land that can be allotted. The proposed notification will take effect immediately, although land acquired by the state and central governments will remain outside its purview.
In another significant move, the Council proposed the creation of a Land Recording Officer’s post to strengthen land management and modernisation efforts. The officer will be required to possess expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geomatics, Geography and Land Management, and will oversee the implementation of the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme.
Warbah informed the House that applications for Title Rights Certificates have increased considerably in recent years, making it necessary to strengthen land verification procedures, boundary surveys, and record maintenance. The Council also plans to utilise GIS and modern survey technology to facilitate the effective implementation of the KHAD (Regulation and Administration of Land) Act, 2021.
On the revenue front, the Executive Member said the Council has launched an awareness campaign on professional tax by publishing informational pamphlets in Khasi and English under the Meghalaya Professions, Trades, Callings, and Employment Taxation Act, 1947.
He noted that many taxpayers, especially those engaged in the unorganised sector, remain unaware of their obligations under the Act. The awareness drive aims to improve compliance and promote a better understanding of tax-related responsibilities.
Warbah further stated that the Taxation Wing is working towards fully digitising tax collection services, including extending online payment facilities to branch offices, to make tax payments more convenient for the public.
The Council also expects to receive substantial financial support under the recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission. According to the budget, Meghalaya has been allocated Rs 1,479 crore for Rural Local Bodies for the period from 2026-27 to 2030-31, with KHADC’s share for the current financial year estimated at Rs 85.50 crore.
The grants will be distributed under Basic and Performance Grant categories in a ratio of 80:20, with tied grants earmarked for sanitation, solid waste management, and water management projects.
The budget provides for expenditure across various departments, including General Administration, Law, Revenue and Finance, Forest Administration, Judicial Administration, Legislative Affairs, Education, and Civil Works and Development.
Among other proposals, the Judicial Department’s allocation includes provisions for the appointment of an Additional Judge and two Magistrates, whose appointments are awaiting clearance from the High Court.
Warbah further said the Executive Committee would continue to explore avenues for enhancing the Council’s revenue base, improving governance and ensuring prudent financial management.
He urged all members to support the budget and work collectively towards strengthening the Council’s financial position and advancing development across the Khasi Hills region.