Chief Minister Pramod Sawant of Goa has strongly advocated for a more balanced and fair financial partnership between the state and the central government. He presented Goa's case during the crucial pre-budget consultation for the Union Budget 2026-27, held in New Delhi on Saturday, January 11.
Key Demands for Sustainable Development
The meeting, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, saw participation from finance ministers of various states and union territories. CM Sawant used this platform to outline Goa's specific developmental needs and perspectives for the upcoming national budget. He emphasized the necessity of sustaining momentum in critical infrastructure projects already underway in the state.
In a detailed statement following the deliberations, Sawant explained that Goa's requests were built around its unique geographical and national role. The core appeal was for a "more equitable Centre-state funding pattern under the centrally sponsored schemes." This request is grounded in the recognition of Goa's distinct challenges, which include managing its extensive coastline, preserving the sensitive ecology of the Western Ghats, and fulfilling its responsibilities as a prime national tourism hub.
Focus on Infrastructure and Connectivity
The Chief Minister placed special emphasis on enhancing the state's industrial and logistical framework. Key priorities presented at the meeting included:
- Improving industrial and logistics connectivity.
- Enhancing rail links to major urban centres within and beyond the state.
- Developing climate-resilient infrastructure to tackle coastal erosion and environmental vulnerabilities.
These infrastructure upgrades are seen as vital for Goa's long-term economic resilience and growth.
Welfare, Healthcare, and Green Energy
Beyond hard infrastructure, the discussions covered a broad spectrum of socio-economic needs. Sawant highlighted the need to strengthen social welfare schemes and ensure continued support for capital investment. The state also pushed for carrying forward recommendations made by state-specific Finance Commissions.
Other critical areas discussed included:
- Augmenting healthcare capacity across the state.
- Strengthening waste management and sanitation systems.
- Supporting tourism diversification and skill development for the workforce.
- Accelerating the transition to renewable and clean energy sources, aligning with India's national climate commitments.
Chief Minister Sawant concluded by stating that such consultations are essential for aligning state-level aspirations with national development objectives. He framed Goa's journey towards "Viksit Goa 2037" as an integral part of the broader national vision of "Viksit Bharat 2047." The pre-budget meeting thus served as a strategic forum to ensure Goa's specific challenges and contributions are factored into the central government's financial planning for the coming year.
