{"id":"aigc-v0-d368bb78-a9d0-5899-9f66-42e860ce5b7f","title":"Budget 2026: Key Highlights & Updates","description":"This article provides a detailed overview of the Union Budget 2026, focusing on key announcements and their potential impact. It covers crucial aspects such as the defense budget, health sector updates, and the new income tax regime for the fiscal year 2026-27. Stay informed about the important financial decisions that shape the future.","timestamp":1770022134,"category":"business","headline":"Budget 2026: Key Highlights & Updates","modifiedHeadline":"Budget 2026: Key Highlights & Updates","subCategories":["scid_edbc7f13"],"region":"IN","bundleMetaData":{"bundleId":"7b48871c-c993-4956-b43d-6f46f8e1b036","bundleTitle":"Today In India","cardData":null},"iabCategoryId":"84","fcSummary":"the union budget 2026 features a substantial defense spending increase to rs 7.85 lakh crore, with rs 2.19 lakh crore for modernization. it also waives customs duty on cancer and rare disease drugs, making them more accessible. income tax reforms clarify slabs and rates for fiscal year 2026-27, and 'india semiconductor mission 2.0' aims to boost domestic chip manufacturing.","summary":"Budget 2026: Defense, health, and new income tax regime updates detailed. Key financial decisions for fiscal year 2026-27 revealed.","ctaUrl":"https://trends.glance.com/newz/daily_digest/IN/en/feedpost-specials/aigc-v0-d368bb78-a9d0-5899-9f66-42e860ce5b7f?byte=true","sourceUrl":"https://trends.glance.com/newz/daily_digest/IN/en/feedpost-specials/aigc-v0-d368bb78-a9d0-5899-9f66-42e860ce5b7f?byte=true","bannerImage":"https://g-mob.glance-cdn.com/public/fc/image/29yhynG7GSd0.webp","content":"

\n The Union Budget 2026, presented by FM Nirmala Sitharaman, brought forth significant developments across various sectors. From defense allocations to tax reforms, the budget aimed to address key economic challenges and promote growth. This article dives into the essential highlights, ensuring readers are well-informed.\n

Defense Budget Allocation

The Union Budget 2026 showcased a substantial increase in defense spending. The total defense budget reached Rs 7.85 lakh crore, a significant allocation

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reflecting the government's commitment to national security. Within this, Rs 2.19 lakh crore was specifically earmarked for modernisation efforts. This signifies a strategic focus on enhancing the capabilities of the armed forces through advanced equipment and technology. The substantial investment in defense indicates a proactive approach to addressing the evolving security landscape and ensuring the country's preparedness.

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Health Sector Updates

The health sector also received notable attention in the Union Budget 2026. A significant announcement was the waiver of customs duty on drugs used to treat cancer and rare diseases. This move is expected to make these essential medicines more accessible and affordable for patients, particularly benefiting those facing critical health challenges. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and affordability for all citizens. Furthermore, the budget highlighted other key health sector updates, indicating a comprehensive approach to strengthening the healthcare infrastructure and services.

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Income Tax Reforms

The Union Budget 2026 introduced updates to the income tax regime for the fiscal year 2026-27. This included details on the new and old tax regimes, including the latest income tax slabs and rates. The government's goal was to clarify the financial implications for taxpayers. These changes aimed to streamline the tax process and provide clarity on financial obligations. Taxpayers were encouraged to assess their financial positions and select the regime that best suited their situation. Understanding the tax slabs and rates was crucial for planning and managing finances effectively.

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Semiconductor Mission 2.0

FM Sitharaman launched 'India Semiconductor Mission 2.0' as part of the Union Budget 2026. This initiative is designed to bolster the country's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities and promote technological advancement. The mission aims to establish a robust ecosystem for semiconductor design, manufacturing, and research within India. This strategy intends to lessen dependency on foreign imports and foster domestic innovation in this crucial technology. The mission highlighted the government's forward-thinking approach to technological self-reliance and economic growth.

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Budget 2026: Key Highlights & Updates

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