Union Budget 2026–27: Buddhist Circuit Scheme for Northeast

In the Union Budget 2026–27, the Government of India announced a Scheme for Development of Buddhist Circuits in the Northeast along with plans to extend the Integrated East Coast Industrial Corridor into the region, as part of its Purvodaya and Northeast-focused development strategy.

About the Buddhist Circuit Scheme

• The Buddhist Circuit is a heritage cum tourism initiative focused on the preservation, development, and promotion of Buddhist monasteries and pilgrimage sites across the northeastern states.
• Objective: The scheme aims to preserve, restore, and promote Buddhist temples and monasteries in the North Eastern states.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Tourism.
• Geographical Coverage: The scheme will cover Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura.
• Components of the Buddhist Circuit:
  • Heritage Conservation: Preservation and restoration of Buddhist temples and monasteries across Northeastern States.
  • Pilgrimage Interpretation Centres: Development of pilgrimage interpretation centres to explain the spiritual, historical, and cultural significance of Buddhist locations.
  • Connectivity and Amenities: Improved connectivity and provision of pilgrim-friendly facilities to enhance visitor experience.

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Key Budget Announcements Linked to the Scheme

• Extension of East Coast Industrial Corridor: Industrial Expansion: The Budget proposed extending the Integrated East Coast Industrial Corridor into the Northeast to attract industry and investment.
• Nodal Connectivity: Durgapur was identified as a key nodal point for industrial and logistical integration
• Associated Tourism and Connectivity Measures:
  • Tourism Destinations: Development of five tourism destinations across five Purvodaya states.
  • Green Mobility: Provision of 4,000 electric buses to enhance regional connectivity and promote sustainable transport

• CITY Economic Regions (CERs): An allocation of ₹5,000 crore over five years has been made for the development of CITY Economic Regions.
  • CERs are designed to promote integrated urban–industrial development, improving regional competitiveness.

Major Buddhist Monasteries in the North East

• Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang Monastery- among the largest Buddhist monasteries in India.
• Sikkim: Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery (Gangtok).
• Assam: Hayagriva Madhava Temple, Hajo- revered by Buddhists and Hindus.
• Manipur: Historic Buddhist communities and temples.
• Mizoram: Lesser-known Buddhist heritage sites reflecting cultural diversity.
• Tripura: Kalachand Temple and other heritage locations

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Significance of Buddhist Heritage

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