Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia, revealed that the Central Government spent more than double the allocated budget for the Northeast in the last financial year. Against an initial allocation of ₹51,000 crore, the total expenditure from 54 ministries exceeded ₹1.06 lakh crore.
Speaking in Parliament, Scindia emphasized the government’s commitment to the region’s development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s directive for a “whole-of-government” approach. He stated, “All 54 ministries have been instructed to allocate at least 10% of their Gross Budgetary Support specifically for the Northeast. Last year, we spent 106% more than what was originally allocated.”
Scindia assured that the funds were being utilized effectively, with ministries working in coordination to ensure optimal use. However, concerns over delays in project implementation under schemes like the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) were also highlighted. Of the ₹1,223.49 crore sanctioned for 27 key projects since 2017-18, only ₹206.88 crore—just 16.91%—had been released so far.
The minister reiterated the government’s focus on transparency and efficiency, introducing web-based systems to streamline project approvals and monitoring. As the Northeast emerges as a growth engine for India, the increased spending reflects the government’s dedication to transforming the region’s infrastructure and economy.
Stay tuned for more updates on Northeast development and related news.
