Union Budget 2026: FM announces ship repair ecosystem for inland waterways at Varanasi, Patna

• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a ship repair ecosystem for inland waterways in Varanasi and Patna during the Union Budget 2026.
• This initiative aims to enhance last-mile connectivity, promote tourism, and support the indigenization of seaplane manufacturing.
• A Seaplane VGF Scheme will be introduced to provide operational support for seaplanes.
• Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget, becoming the longest-serving finance minister.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the budget as "historic," reflecting the aspirations of 140 crore Indians and charting a roadmap for Viksit Bharat.

Why It Matters: FM Sitharaman announced a ship repair ecosystem for inland waterways in Varanasi and Patna in Union Budget 2026.