States Call Pre-Budget Meet with FM Sitharaman Constructive, Flag Key Financial Concerns

New Delhi, Jan 2026 : Chief Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers and Finance Ministers from several states on Saturday termed the pre-budget consultation meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as constructive and meaningful, saying it provided an important platform to present state-specific financial requirements and development priorities ahead of the Union Budget.

The meeting witnessed wide-ranging discussions, with states highlighting fiscal challenges, pending dues, sectoral funding needs and regional concerns, while also placing suggestions for inclusive and balanced growth.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the state government raised several Goa-specific issues during the consultation. He emphasised the need to continue Central Sector Schemes that have been in operation for the past five years, stating that these programmes have played a significant role in Goa’s development journey. Sawant urged the Centre to extend these schemes further to ensure continuity and sustained growth.

Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna said the Centre invited suggestions from all participating states and that Uttar Pradesh presented proposals aligned with its vision of becoming an “Uttam Pradesh.” He noted that the discussion reflected a shared aspiration among states to strengthen their financial position and accelerate overall development. According to Khanna, states focused on long-term growth strategies while seeking greater fiscal support.

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said his state used the platform to highlight the challenges being faced by states, particularly in mobilising adequate resources. He stressed the need for increased central funding for key sectors such as education, health and irrigation, describing them as critical pillars for sustainable development and public welfare.

West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya said all ministers spoke firmly on behalf of their respective states and placed their concerns before the Centre. She stated that West Bengal requested fair treatment and sought the release of nearly Rs 1.97 lakh crore in pending dues. Bhattacharya said the state explained in detail the sectors to which these dues pertain and emphasised the financial strain caused by delays in fund disbursal.

Jharkhand Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishor raised concerns about financial constraints and delays in receiving central funds. He pointed out that under several central schemes, states are required to bear a significant share of the expenditure despite having limited financial resources. Kishor also alleged that central agencies are sometimes misused in states where the ruling party at the Centre is not in power.

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema highlighted the economic losses suffered by Punjab due to border tensions and recent floods. He said a relief package of Rs 16 crore was announced earlier but has not yet been received, adding that the issue was once again raised during the consultation.

Overall, state leaders said the meeting allowed them to voice concerns openly and expressed hope that their inputs would be reflected in the forthcoming Union Budget.