Union Budget 2026-27 Sets Aside ₹1,102 Crore for Key Government Functions
The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha, has earmarked a substantial sum of ₹1,102 crore for various critical expenses. This allocation covers the Council of Ministers, the Cabinet Secretariat, the Prime Minister's Office, and hospitality for state guests, reflecting the government's commitment to administrative efficiency and diplomatic engagements.
Increased Allocation for Council of Ministers
In a notable development, the budget has allocated ₹620 crore specifically for the expenses of the Council of Ministers in the upcoming fiscal year. This represents a significant increase from the ₹483.54 crore allocated in the previous fiscal year 2025-26. The provision is designed to cover a range of expenditures, including:
- Salaries for cabinet ministers, ministers of state, and ex-prime ministers
- Sumptuary and other allowances
- Travel expenses for official duties
- Special Extra Session Flight Operations for VVIPs
This enhanced funding underscores the government's focus on supporting the operational needs of its ministerial teams.
Support for National Security and Scientific Advisory
The budget also includes allocations for key advisory and security bodies. The National Security Council Secretariat has been granted ₹256.19 crore for 2026-27, which is a slight decrease from the ₹279.74 crore allocated in 2025-26. This provision is intended to meet administrative expenses and support the space programme under its purview.
Additionally, the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor receives ₹65 crore, up from ₹61.32 crore in the previous year. This funding will help cover administrative costs and support the activities of the National Research Foundation, highlighting the government's emphasis on scientific advancement and innovation.
Cabinet Secretariat and Prime Minister's Office Funding
The Cabinet Secretariat has been allocated ₹80 crore in the new budget, a marginal increase from the ₹78 crore provided in 2025-26. This allocation is crucial for meeting administrative expenses and supporting the National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC), ensuring compliance with international protocols.
Similarly, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) sees an allocation of ₹73.52 crore for the coming fiscal year, up from ₹68 crore in the previous year. This funding is essential for covering the administrative expenses of this high office, which plays a pivotal role in governance and policy implementation.
Hospitality and Entertainment for State Guests
A key component of the budget is the allocation for hospitality and entertainment of state guests. The budget has set aside ₹5.76 crore for this purpose in 2026-27, compared to ₹6.20 crore in 2025-26. This provision covers:
- Government hospitality and entertainment for foreign state guests
- Official entertainment events at Rashtrapati Bhawan on behalf of the Vice President and Prime Minister
- Receptions on National Days
- Investiture ceremonies and presentations of credentials
This allocation reflects India's commitment to fostering strong diplomatic relations and hosting international dignitaries with appropriate protocol.
Assistance for Former Governors
The budget also includes ₹1.53 crore for secretariat assistance to former governors, an increase from the ₹1.40 crore allocated in 2025-26. This provision ensures that former governors receive necessary support in their post-tenure roles, acknowledging their contributions to public service.
Overall Budget Context
The total allocation of ₹1,102 crore for these expenses marks an increase from the revised estimate of ₹978.20 crore in 2025-26. This upward trend indicates the government's prioritization of administrative and diplomatic functions in the upcoming fiscal year. The budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, aims to balance fiscal prudence with the need for effective governance and international engagement.
As India continues to navigate economic challenges and global dynamics, these allocations are poised to play a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency and strengthening diplomatic ties. The detailed breakdown of funds across various offices and purposes underscores a strategic approach to resource allocation in the Union Budget 2026-27.
