Union Budget 2026 Highlights: Push to Economy to Maintain Growth Momentum, Says Nirmala Sitharaman

New Delhi:Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday presented the Union Budget 2026, her ninth consecutive budget, outlining a roadmap aimed at sustaining India’s economic growth while strengthening fiscal discipline. Describing the budget as a “push to the economy to maintain growth momentum,” the Finance Minister said the proposals are designed to balance development priorities with long-term stability.

Presenting the budget in Parliament, Sitharaman said the formulation of Budget 2026 was guided by three ‘kartavyas’ (responsibilities) — nation-building, inclusive growth, and economic resilience. These principles, she noted, reflect the government’s commitment to transforming India into a developed nation while ensuring that growth benefits reach all sections of society.

The Finance Minister highlighted that the budget focuses on capital expenditure, job creation, infrastructure expansion, and support for key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, MSMEs, and digital innovation. She said higher public investment would continue to play a catalytic role in crowding in private investment and strengthening domestic demand.

Emphasising macroeconomic stability, Sitharaman stated that the government remains committed to fiscal consolidation while protecting growth-oriented spending. Measures announced in the budget aim to improve tax compliance, simplify procedures, and enhance ease of doing business, she added.

The Finance Minister also underlined the government’s push towards social welfare and human capital development, with continued focus on education, healthcare, women-led development, and skill enhancement. “Our objective is not just rapid growth, but sustainable and inclusive growth,” she said.

Addressing global economic uncertainties, Sitharaman said India is well-positioned to navigate external challenges due to strong fundamentals, robust domestic consumption, and ongoing structural reforms. She asserted that Budget 2026 lays the foundation for maintaining growth momentum in the coming years while preparing the economy for future opportunities.