{"id":"aigc-v0-c4c4e64b-7f1c-50e4-8811-cc07f199aea5","title":"Decoding India's Union Budget 2026: Key Highlights","description":"The Union Budget 2026-27, presented by the Indian government, saw significant changes and announcements across various sectors. This article breaks down the budget's key takeaways, including defense spending, tax reforms, and allocations for healthcare and infrastructure. We delve into the implications of these decisions and their potential impact on India's economic landscape.","timestamp":1770027738,"category":"national_v_two","headline":"Decoding India's Union Budget 2026: Key Highlights","modifiedHeadline":"India's 2026 Union Budget Explained","subCategories":["scid_2c0dc4ac"],"region":"IN","bundleMetaData":{"bundleId":"7b48871c-c993-4956-b43d-6f46f8e1b036","bundleTitle":"Today In India","cardData":null},"iabCategoryId":"386","fcSummary":"the union budget 2026-27 prioritizes defense with a substantial increase, allocates funds for semiconductor mission 2.0, and details income tax changes. it also boosts healthcare, including mental health services and duty waivers on essential drugs, while drawing mixed reactions from political figures.","summary":"India's Union Budget 2026-27: Key highlights include defense, tax reforms, healthcare & infrastructure allocations, impacting economic landscape.","ctaUrl":"https://trends.glance.com/newz/national/IN/en/feedpost-specials/aigc-v0-c4c4e64b-7f1c-50e4-8811-cc07f199aea5?byte=true","sourceUrl":"https://trends.glance.com/newz/national/IN/en/feedpost-specials/aigc-v0-c4c4e64b-7f1c-50e4-8811-cc07f199aea5?byte=true","bannerImage":"https://g-mob.glance-cdn.com/public/fc/image/s2Elz2SkV7U0.webp","content":"

\n The Union Budget 2026-27 has been unveiled, sparking discussions about its impact on the Indian economy and citizens. This piece will dissect the budget's core aspects, examining areas like defense, taxation, and social programs. Get ready for a comprehensive look at the announcements and their likely consequences.\n

Budget's Financial Framework

The Union Budget 2026-27 introduced a series of key financial allocations and targets. A significant aspect was the government's setting of a capital expenditure

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target for fiscal year 2027 at Rs 12.2 lakh crore. The defense budget experienced a substantial increase, reaching Rs 7.85 lakh crore, with Rs 2.19 lakh crore specifically earmarked for modernization efforts. Additionally, there was a focus on the semiconductor industry, with the launch of the 'India Semiconductor Mission 2.0'. Furthermore, the budget included provisions for income tax, the new income tax regime, and Section 87A rebate limits.

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Defense and Modernization Boost

A pivotal element of the Union Budget 2026-27 was the significant allocation towards defense, showcasing the government's commitment to national security. The defense budget saw a notable surge, reaching Rs 7.85 lakh crore, a clear indication of prioritizing strengthening the armed forces. Moreover, a substantial portion, Rs 2.19 lakh crore, was explicitly allocated for the modernization of defense capabilities. This investment underscores the government's intention to enhance the country's military infrastructure and technological prowess, ensuring that the armed forces are equipped with the latest advancements. These financial commitments reflect a strategic vision aimed at bolstering India's defense preparedness.

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Taxation and Economic Policies

The Union Budget 2026-27 also presented several crucial adjustments to the tax regime, impacting various income brackets. Details were provided regarding the new income tax slabs and rates for the fiscal year 2026-27, alongside information on the old versus new tax regimes. The budget outlined the Section 87A rebate limit under the new income tax regime for the financial year 2026-27, providing clarity for taxpayers. These adjustments were aimed at streamlining tax regulations and potentially offering relief to taxpayers. These provisions represent a concerted effort to create a more efficient and transparent tax system.

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Healthcare and Social Initiatives

The Union Budget 2026-27 displayed an emphasis on healthcare, including mental health, and other social programs. The budget allocated funds to enhance mental healthcare services, particularly focusing on the establishment of a NIMHANS center in North India. This initiative is aimed at improving access to specialized mental health facilities. Additionally, the government waived customs duty on specific drugs, such as those for cancer and rare diseases. This measure seeks to reduce the financial burden on patients. These initiatives reflect a commitment to bolstering the healthcare infrastructure and improving the quality of life for citizens.

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Reactions and Reactions

The Union Budget 2026-27 drew varied responses from political figures and analysts. Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders voiced their criticisms, with some expressing concerns over the budget's approach. Congress, in its initial reaction, criticized the budget, calling it 'completely hollow'. Conversely, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the budget as 'historic,' highlighting its focus on the 'Viksit Bharat' vision. These divergent views reflect differing perspectives on the budget's potential impact and priorities.

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Decoding India's Union Budget 2026: Key Highlights

SUMMARY