In a significant initiative to foster youth engagement with India's financial governance, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will interact with approximately 30 college students from diverse regions across the country following the presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27 on Sunday. The Ministry of Finance announced this unique program aimed at bridging the gap between young citizens and the nation's economic policymaking processes.
Historic Budget Presentation and Student Participation
Sitharaman is poised to present her record ninth Budget, which includes two interim budgets, on February 1. This landmark presentation will be witnessed live by the selected students from the Lok Sabha Gallery, providing them with a rare opportunity to observe one of Parliament's most crucial annual proceedings firsthand. The experience is designed to offer students an immersive understanding of democratic processes at the highest level of governance.
Diverse Academic Representation
The participating students hail from various states and represent a broad spectrum of academic disciplines. Their educational backgrounds span commerce, economics, medical education, and vocational courses, ensuring a multifaceted perspective during the interactions. This diversity reflects the government's intention to include voices from different educational streams in the national economic dialogue.
Ministry Visit and Policy Insights
As part of the comprehensive program, the students will visit the Ministry of Finance at Kartavya Bhawan-1. During this visit, they will engage with senior officials to gain insights into the ministry's daily operations, the intricate policy-making process, and the vital role institutions play in nation-building. This behind-the-scenes exposure aims to demystify governmental functions and inspire future participation in public administration.
Informal Dialogue with the Finance Minister
Later in the evening, Sitharaman will conduct an informal interaction session with the students. The discussion is expected to cover key Budget priorities, the vision for India's future development, and the specific impact of economic policies on the youth demographic. Students will have the platform to share their ideas, perspectives, and aspirations, while also offering their views on issues pertinent to young people and national progress.
Objectives of the Youth Engagement Initiative
The ministry emphasized that this initiative seeks to enhance awareness among students about finance, economics, governance, and democratic processes. By encouraging informed and constructive youth participation in India's financial and parliamentary systems, the program aims to cultivate a generation of economically literate citizens who can contribute meaningfully to policy discussions.
Furthermore, the ministry highlighted that inputs gathered from citizens, including youth, during the Budget preparation process will be reflected in the Union Budget 2026-27. This approach underscores the government's commitment to incorporating public feedback into its economic planning, making the budgetary process more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all demographic groups.
