SHILLONG: The stage is set for a high-voltage political and financial showdown as the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly prepares to convene its Budget Session 2026, scheduled to begin on February 16.
Speaker Thomas A. Sangma confirmed the dates following a high-level Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting, signalling the start of a crucial 10-day session that will shape the state’s fiscal and developmental roadmap for the coming year.
The Budget Session promises intense debate and policy direction, with several critical moments lined up:
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February 16: The session opens with the Governor’s Address, outlining the government’s vision, priorities, and strategic direction.
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February 20: The centrepiece of the session, as Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who also holds the Finance portfolio, presents the State Budget 2026.
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February 27: The session concludes after deliberations and legislative business.
The 10-day session has been carefully structured to balance governance and democratic participation:
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7 days earmarked for Government Business, including financial matters and legislative proceedings.
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3 days allocated for Private Members’ Business, allowing MLAs to raise grassroots issues and move independent resolutions.
The BAC meeting reflected a blend of traditional and digital governance. Speaker Thomas A. Sangma chaired the meeting, with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong attending in person.
Leader of the Opposition Dr Mukul Sangma and BAC member Paul Lyngdoh joined the meeting virtually, underlining the Assembly’s adoption of technology to ensure smooth coordination. Senior officials, including Commissioner & Secretary Dr Andrew Simons, were also present to finalise procedural details.
“This session is a critical platform for deliberating on development projects and assessing the government’s performance,” Speaker Thomas Sangma said.
With the Budget presentation approaching, expectations are high as attention turns to allocations for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic resilience amid evolving fiscal challenges.
