Budget 2026: From Blue Book to Red Tablet – The Long Road to India's Economic Compass

• India's budget is a crucial economic compass, guiding the nation's economy and the lives of 1.25 billion Indians for the coming year.
• The budget preparation is a multi-stage, months-long process led by the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance.
• It begins in September with 'Budget Circulars' to all departments, followed by fund negotiations in October-November.
• December sees the creation of the 'Blue Book', the confidential first draft written on blue paper, outlining the budget framework.
• By January, the Finance Minister consults with various stakeholders like bankers, industrialists, and farmers to finalize the budget, aiming for balance and growth.

Why It Matters: India's budget is a complex, months-long process, shaping the nation's economic future and government's priorities.