Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Hon’ble Member of Parliament for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, has urged the Central Government to substantially increase budgetary allocations for the Union Territory and to sanction a one-time special grant of ₹5,000 crore to address critical infrastructure gaps across the Islands.
In separate communications to Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah and Finance Minister Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, the MP stated that the current allocations—particularly under the Capital Head—are inadequate to meet the pressing developmental requirements of the geographically remote archipelago.
According to the MP, additional funds are essential for improving rural and urban road networks, State Highways, municipal roads, bridges, culverts, and high drains. He also highlighted the need to strengthen assets of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and municipal councils, construct retaining and protection walls in vulnerable zones, develop sports fields and community facilities, and expand water storage infrastructure, including dams and replacement of aging pipelines.
Mr. Ray noted with concern that although the Ministry of Home Affairs had forwarded his earlier request to the UT Administration, the Administration’s response dated 19 November 2025 did not include any proposal for the requested ₹5,000 crore special grant, even while acknowledging the need for enhanced allocations under both the Revenue and Capital Heads. He further pointed out that capital allocations in recent budgets have not been increased — and in some cases have even been reduced — despite rising demands from local bodies and the general public.
The MP also drew attention to the expansion of the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council from 18 to 24 wards in 2015, noting that the lack of additional financial support has left both the municipality and 70 Gram Panchayats struggling to maintain basic civic infrastructure, especially in newly added areas.
Given the Islands’ limited local resources, geographical challenges and rising tourism potential, Mr. Ray stressed that a special grant of ₹5,000 crore is vital for upgrading core public infrastructure and ensuring sustainable development.
He has requested the Centre to enhance allocations under the Revised Estimates (RE) 2025–26 and Budget Estimates (BE) 2026–27, particularly under the Capital Head, and to sanction the special grant in phases while directing the UT Administration to prepare a detailed action plan for its effective utilisation.
The MP reiterated that the people of Andaman & Nicobar Islands remain hopeful of continued central support for the region’s holistic development.
