Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present her ninth consecutive Union Budget in the Lok Sabha, a rare milestone that underscores continuity in fiscal leadership. Expectations are high that the Budget will outline priorities aimed at sustaining economic momentum, addressing sector-specific concerns and aligning public spending with long-term growth objectives. Budget 2026 is already the subject of intense discussion, with stakeholders keenly watching for measures that could directly impact their operating environment.
As Budget 2026 approaches, expectations are centred on people-friendly tax reforms that directly affect household finances and everyday costs. A GST-style overhaul of customs, with rationalised duty slabs, deeper digitisation and a one-time amnesty for legacy disputes, could reduce clearance delays, ease working capital stress for businesses and improve trade efficiency, with benefits passing on to consumers.
On income tax, the progressive slab-based system under the new tax regime for FY 2025–26 offered major relief to many earners. With income effectively tax-free up to ₹12 lakh under the new regime, taxpayers are now watching whether Budget 2026 builds further on GST and income tax reforms to simplify compliance and increase disposable income.
Union Budget 2026 to be presented at 11 am on February 1, Lok Sabha speaker confirms.
Follow along for LIVE Updates on Budget 2026 expectations.
