Assam Unveils Rs 2.85 Lakh Crore Budget for 2026-27

Finance Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah presented the 2026-27 state budget in the Legislative Assembly on July 10, 2026, outlining a Rs 2.85 lakh crore expenditure plan. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the blueprint as a roadmap for a "Surakshit, Samriddh and Viksit Assam," emphasizing fiscal discipline and inclusive growth.

Infrastructure and technology are central to the plan, featuring the development of an aerotropolis satellite city around the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport with Rs 2,100 crore for land acquisition. The state will also launch AssamSAT, the first state-owned Earth observation satellite, and establish a semiconductor ecosystem in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency and Tata Power Company Limited. The government further committed to creating 200,000 public sector jobs over five years.

Social policy changes include a strict ban on government welfare benefits for any male practicing polygamy and any person convicted of a criminal offense. Government employees found practicing polygamy may face dismissal. These measures are intended to promote gender justice and women's empowerment following the state's Uniform Civil Code Bill.

Agricultural reforms prioritize the tea industry through increased subsidies for Orthodox tea, a VAT reduction on piped natural gas from 14.5% to 5%, and the introduction of the Assam Tea and Golf Trail. Tourism goals include placing Assam among the top 10 Indian states for tourist footfall via a new Homestay Policy and luxury hotel developments in Umrangso, Haflong, and Manas.