Pride of Hills Scheme 2026: ₹3,880 Crore for Nagaland

Centre Allocates Funds to Strengthen Hill States

The Government of India has approved ₹3,880 crore for Nagaland under the “Pride of Hills” scheme for 2026–27. This scheme is part of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI). It focuses on improving development in hill states that face challenges like tough terrain, poor connectivity and limited resources.

Purpose and Key Objectives

The main aim of the scheme is to increase capital expenditure and promote balanced regional growth. Hill states often struggle with higher costs of building roads, infrastructure and public services. This financial support is meant to reduce such gaps and improve living conditions, connectivity and economic opportunities.

Allocation Across Hill States

The scheme has a total budget of ₹25,000 crore for nine hill states. Arunachal Pradesh received the highest share of ₹4,900 crore. Himachal Pradesh got ₹3,920 crore, followed closely by Nagaland with ₹3,880 crore. Uttarakhand and Tripura received ₹3,460 crore and ₹3,450 crore respectively. Other states like Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Mizoram were also allocated funds based on their needs.

Expected Benefits and Impact

This funding will help improve roads, transport systems and public utilities in these regions. It will also support large infrastructure projects, which can boost local economies and create jobs. Over time, the scheme is expected to reduce regional inequality and support sustainable development in hill areas.

Exam-Focused Points

• Scheme: Pride of Hills (under SASCI)

• Nagaland allocation: ₹3,880 crore

• Total outlay: ₹25,000 crore for 9 states

• Focus: Infrastructure and capital investment

• Capital expenditure: Spending on assets like roads, buildings

Government Response and Significance

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio welcomed the decision and thanked the central leadership. The scheme shows the government’s focus on inclusive growth by supporting regions with geographical challenges and improving their long-term development prospects.