By: News Reporter, Tripura24.in Agartala, Tripura Sunday, February 1, 2026
Agartala: In a historic moment for India’s parliamentary history, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for 2026-27 today, Sunday, February 1st. This marks her ninth consecutive budget, making her the first Finance Minister to achieve such a streak. Breaking with colonial-era traditions, the budget was presented on a Sunday, emphasizing the government’s “Reform Express” momentum aimed at achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The budget, with a total expenditure estimate of ₹53.5 lakh crore, centers around three core Kartavyas (Duties): accelerating economic growth, fulfilling citizen aspirations, and ensuring inclusive participation (Sabka Vikas). For the people of Tripura and the Northeast, the budget brings significant “Ashtalakshmi” focused gifts, ranging from tourism infrastructure to tribal welfare.
Major Boost for Tripura: The Buddhist Circuit & Tribal Package
One of the most celebrated announcements for the state is the launch of a dedicated Scheme for the Development of Buddhist Circuits. This initiative will cover six Northeastern states, including Tripura, to preserve temples and monasteries, build pilgrimage interpretation centers, and enhance connectivity.
Furthermore, the Minister announced a special package of ₹50 crore specifically for the tribals of Tripura. This fund is designated for infrastructure and development projects aimed at uplifting marginalized communities in the state.
Key Highlights of Budget 2026-27:
- Infrastructure Capital (Capex): Increased to a record ₹12.2 lakh crore, a 9% rise from the previous year, to strengthen India’s foundation.
- Economic Corridors: Seven new high-speed rail corridors were proposed, including a critical link from Varanasi to Siliguri, which is expected to drastically improve logistics and travel for the Northeast.
- Youth & Education: The budget proposes establishing AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) Content Creator Labs in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges across India.
- Taxation: While income tax slabs remain unchanged, the New Income Tax Act 2025 was confirmed to take effect from April 1, 2026, aimed at simplifying the tax regime.
- Green Energy: A push for 4,000 electric buses in the Northeast was announced to promote sustainable public transport.
Political and Local Reaction
In Agartala, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha hailed the budget as “welfare-centric and forward-looking.” He noted that the integration of AI and new technologies, along with the focus on the “last mile delivery,” will transform the lives of farmers, women, and the youth in Tripura.
Traders and merchant associations across Agartala gathered to watch the speech, expressing optimism over the ₹10,000 crore SME Growth Fund, which is expected to provide much-needed liquidity and support to local small businesses.
As the Finance Minister concluded her 83-minute speech, the consensus among the state leadership is that Budget 2026-27 has solidified Tripura’s position on the national development map, promising a brighter and more connected future for the “Land of Fourteen Gods.”
