Sikkim's fiscal deficit widens as state unveils Rs 18,455‑crore budget

The Comptroller and Auditor General reported that Sikkim's fiscal deficit grew to Rs 2,980 crore in 2024‑25, equal to 5.59 % of its Gross State Domestic Product, and public debt rose to 28.09 % of GSDP, slightly above the statutory ceiling. Off‑budget liabilities reached Rs 1,295 crore, while the state still posted a revenue surplus of Rs 482 crore amid double‑digit growth.

For the 2026‑27 financial year the state presented a Rs 18,455‑crore budget, allocating Rs 5,896 crore to capital expenditure and Rs 11,733 crore to revenue spending. Key proposals include weather‑proof road works, a State Interest Subvention Scheme for farmers, an Assisted Reproductive Technology centre at STNM Hospital, and construction of 197 houses under the Sikkim Garib Awas Yojana. The BJP's Sikkim unit welcomed the budget but urged greater focus on revenue generation, reduced borrowing, and expanded employment and skill‑development programmes.