Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting her ninth consecutive Union Budget, emphasised the government’s ‘Purvodaya’ (Rise of East) initiative. The Budget 2026–27 outlines plans to develop five new tourism destinations in the Purvodaya states, integrating local culture, heritage, and natural attractions.
The government also plans an East Coast Industrial Corridor to stimulate economic activity and improve infrastructure. A key node at Durgapur will enhance regional trade and connectivity.
The Finance Minister announced the creation of Buddhist circuits across Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.
The programme will preserve temples and monasteries while providing pilgrims with improved facilities and transport links, highlighting the region’s rich Theravada and Mahayana/Vajrayana traditions.
“In line with our commitment towards ‘Purvodaya’, we will establish a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar,” Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman added in her Budget speech.
Infrastructure and Skill Development Initiatives
To boost the food processing sector, a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management will be established in Bihar. The institute aims to increase farmer incomes, provide skilling opportunities, and encourage entrepreneurship across Eastern India.
The Budget also provides for 4,000 e-buses to strengthen public transport in the region, promoting sustainable mobility.
“The people engaged in these activities will be organized into FPOs (Farmer Producer Organisations). The board will provide handholding and training support to makhana farmers and will also work to ensure they receive the benefits of all relevant Government schemes,” she mentioned.
The government will also develop rare earth corridors in Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. These corridors will reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic supply chains.
Launched in Budget 2024, the Purvodaya scheme aims at holistic development of Eastern India. Through infrastructure upgrades, tourism promotion, and industrial expansion, the initiative seeks to make the region a key contributor to Viksit Bharat 2047, while safeguarding its cultural and natural heritage.
Also Read: Union Budget 2026–27 Lays Out Major Textile Reforms With New Parks And Export Incentives
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