Budget 2026 Expectations: Economic Survey Presentation Today Ahead of Sunday Budget
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is poised to present the Economic Survey 2026 in Parliament today, Thursday, January 29. This crucial document sets the stage for the highly anticipated Union Budget 2026, which is scheduled to be announced on Sunday, February 1.
A Historic Budget Presentation
This Budget presentation marks a significant milestone as it will be Finance Minister Sitharaman's ninth consecutive Budget speech. Notably, this year's Union Budget breaks tradition by being presented on a Sunday, an occurrence not seen in at least a decade. The Economic Survey, which offers a comprehensive analysis of the nation's economic health, is traditionally presented by the finance minister one day prior to the Budget announcement.
Budget 2026: Key Dates and Parliamentary Schedule
The Budget Session follows a detailed parliamentary calendar:
- January 28: The Budget Session commenced with a joint address by President Droupadi Murmu to both Houses of Parliament.
- January 29: According to the provisional calendar issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the House will convene. At 11 AM, Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran is expected to present the Economic Survey.
- February 1: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2026 at 11 AM in the Lok Sabha.
- February 13: The first half of the Budget Session concludes.
- March 9: The second half of the Budget Session begins.
- April 2: The final day of the Budget Session, after which both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will be adjourned sine die.
Sectoral Focus and Growth Expectations
Budget 2026 is expected to prioritize India's growth trajectory through strategic allocations across key sectors. The spotlight this year is likely to shine on:
- Infrastructure and Development: Railways, urban development, and logistics.
- Manufacturing and Industry: Auto, defense, electronics, and MSME sectors.
- Technology and Innovation: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and renewable energy.
- Social Sectors: Healthcare, tourism, and agriculture are also anticipated to receive beneficial allocations from the government.
Reflecting on Budget 2025's Key Announcements
In the previous Budget 2025, Finance Minister Sitharaman delivered substantial relief to Indian taxpayers. Key measures included:
- A significant income tax cut on earnings up to ₹12 lakh, providing major benefits to millions of middle-class taxpayers.
- For the salaried class, the non-taxable income under the new tax regime increased to ₹12.75 lakh after accounting for the standard deduction.
- The announcement of the New Income Tax Act, 2025, which is set to come into effect from April 1.
As the nation awaits the detailed fiscal roadmap, all eyes are on Parliament for the unfolding of Budget 2026, which aims to consolidate India's economic standing and drive inclusive growth across diverse sectors.
