Meghalaya budget session kicks off, illegal mining and development programs in focus

The budget session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly began on Monday with a formal opening that set the tone for the state’s financial and policy agenda ahead of the 2026‑27 budget . The session will run until February 27 , with the state budget scheduled for presentation on February 20 .

The proceedings opened with the ceremonial playing of Vande Mataram , followed by the national anthem and the state anthem , in accordance with a recent directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Members from both the treasury and opposition benches were present as the Governor delivered the inaugural address to the House, outlining the state’s economic progress and future goals.

In his address, the Governor highlighted continued growth prospects and called for collective efforts toward development, emphasising the need for improved service delivery, infrastructure expansion, and inclusive opportunities for citizens.

Today’s discussions in the House saw legislators raise several pressing concerns ahead of the budget presentation. Illegal mining remained a major focus, with members pressing for stronger enforcement and regulation following recent actions by state authorities, including seizures of over 15,000 metric tonnes of illegally extracted coal and numerous FIRs filed.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma also made a suo motu statement outlining the government’s efforts to curb illegal mining and announcing a judicial commission to probe a recent mine blast, aimed at identifying administrative lapses and recommending reforms.

Apart from mining, legislators touched on financial allocations, governance reform, development programmes, and sector‑specific policy measures as priorities for the upcoming budget debates.

Security was heightened around the Assembly complex today to ensure smooth conduct of proceedings, with additional police deployments reported.

With the budget set for February 20 , lawmakers are gearing up for detailed scrutiny of fiscal priorities, revenue strategies, and planned expenditures for the coming financial year.