Dimapur: Union minister of state for environment, forest & climate change and external affairs Kriti Vardhan Singh on Monday said the Union Budget 2026-27 proposed special attention to the northeastern states through the development of five key tourism destinations and the creation of a Buddhist Circuit covering several states in the region. These initiatives aim to promote heritage conservation and improve connectivity, Singh said while addressing media persons at the Nagaland BJP’s head office in Kohima.
Singh said tourism has been identified as a priority sector, with a pilot scheme to train 10,000 tourist guides across the country to enhance ecotourism potential.Outlining the key priorities and projected impact of the budget, he said it is designed to sustain a consistent growth trajectory while strengthening regional cooperation with like-minded govts, noting that in an increasingly multi-polar world, regional priorities have assumed greater significance.He added that emphasis has been laid on economic integration, fostering a competitive workforce, and enhancing India’s global engagement through initiatives such as the migration and mobility agreement.Highlighting trade and security, he said the proposed Free Trade Agreements would focus on facilitating market expansion while moving towards technology-driven border management systems.The budget, he added, is anchored around the three duties outlined by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, accelerating economic growth, building human capacity, and ensuring inclusive development.He said special focus has been placed on empowering youth by generating self-employment opportunities and addressing their aspirations.