Budget 2026 Preparations Intensify: Finance Minister Meets States, Focus on Key Priorities

• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held a pre-budget consultation meeting with state and UT Finance Ministers in New Delhi on January 10.
• The meeting aimed to incorporate states' priorities and suggestions for the Union Budget 2026-27, to be presented on February 1.
• Attendees included Union MoS Finance, Governors, Chief Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers, and Finance Ministers from various states and UTs.
• States emphasized continuing and increasing funds for the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme.
• The SASCI scheme has provided over ₹4.25 lakh crore as 50-year interest-free loans since FY 2020-21, aiding infrastructure development.

Why It Matters: Finance Minister consults states for Budget 2026, focusing on capital investment and inclusive budget planning.