Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on January 10 sought strong support from the Centre for the state’s major infrastructure requirements during the pre-budget consultation meeting for the Union Budget 2026–27. The meeting was chaired by Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.The consultation brought together governors, chief ministers, deputy chief ministers and finance ministers from various states and Union Territories, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Finance. The discussions focused on fiscal challenges, development priorities and policy suggestions ahead of the presentation of the next Union Budget. Speaking at the meeting, Mein said that Arunachal Pradesh, despite its difficult terrain, remoteness and long-standing development challenges, has made steady progress over the years. He stressed that the state government has maintained strict financial discipline and has followed the provisions of the Arunachal Pradesh Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2006.
The deputy chief minister informed the Centre that Arunachal Pradesh has been meeting all its committed liabilities on time. He said the state has taken careful steps to ensure that spending remains within limits and that financial management remains transparent and responsible.Placing the state’s demands before the Centre, Mein highlighted several key infrastructure projects that require central assistance. He said there is an urgent need to improve water supply and drainage systems in Itanagar and other growing urban areas of the state. According to him, better urban infrastructure is essential to address public health concerns and improve the quality of life for residents.A major point raised by the deputy chief minister was the importance of the strategic Rupai–Wakro–Parashuram Kund railway line. He said the project would play a crucial role in improving connectivity in eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Mein pointed out that the railway line would not only strengthen border infrastructure but also help boost religious tourism, especially to Parashuram Kund, which attracts a large number of devotees every year. He added that the project has already received clearance from the Ministry of Defence, underlining its strategic importance.
Mein also drew attention to the limited access Arunachal Pradesh has to externally aided projects. He said that due to its geographical and logistical challenges, the state often faces difficulties in mobilising additional resources. In this context, he urged the Centre to continue providing support to help bridge resource gaps and maintain the current pace of development.Reiterating the state government’s approach, the deputy chief minister said Arunachal Pradesh remains committed to fiscal prudence and close coordination with the Centre. He emphasised that sustained cooperation between the state and central governments is essential to ensure inclusive and balanced development across all regions of the state.
