Budget 2026: High Expectations and Key Dates to Watch
Expectations are running high as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gets ready to deliver her ninth consecutive Budget speech. This important event is scheduled for February 1, which falls on a Sunday this year. The upcoming Budget marks the second full-fledged financial plan of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term in office. People across the nation are eagerly waiting to see what new policies and allocations the government will announce.
Important Dates for the Budget Session
The Budget Session of Parliament follows a detailed calendar with several key events leading up to the main presentation. Here is a clear timeline of what to expect:
- January 28: The Budget Session officially begins with a joint address by President Droupadi Murmu to both Houses of Parliament. This speech sets the tone for the legislative agenda.
- January 29: According to the provisional calendar from the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the House will meet on this day to continue preliminary discussions and preparations.
- January 31: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to present the Economic Survey. This document provides a comprehensive overview of the economy's current state. Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran prepares the survey, which serves as a crucial backdrop for the Budget.
- February 1: At 11 AM in the Lok Sabha, Nirmala Sitharaman will present Budget 2026. This is the main event where she outlines the government's financial plans for the coming year.
- February 13: The first half of the Budget Session concludes, allowing for initial debates and reviews of the Budget proposals.
- March 9: The second half of the Budget Session resumes, focusing on further discussions and potential amendments.
- April 2: The Budget Session ends on this final day. Afterward, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will be adjourned sine die, marking the completion of this legislative period.
What to Expect from Budget 2026
With this being Sitharaman's ninth Budget, stakeholders from various sectors have high hopes. The Economic Survey presented a day earlier will offer insights into economic trends and challenges. Observers are keenly watching for announcements on taxation, infrastructure spending, and social welfare schemes. The Budget is likely to reflect the government's priorities for sustaining growth and addressing public needs.
As the dates approach, all eyes are on Parliament for the latest developments. This Budget holds significant importance as it shapes India's financial direction for the upcoming year.
