Nirmala Sitharaman: India-US Trade Deal Wouldn't Alter 2026-27 Budget

• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that the India-US trade deal's timing would not have impacted the 2026-27 budget, stating it would be neither more aggressive nor less ambitious.
• Sitharaman emphasized that government reforms are a continuous process, not limited to the budget, with significant policy steps expected outside the budget in coming months.
• She extended an open invitation to foreign investors, positioning India as the best alternative for the "China Plus One" strategy, with interest from Norway and Canada.
• The government will prioritize manufacturing, technology, skilling, education, and health to strengthen India's long-term growth story.
• Sitharaman addressed fiscal deficit, stating the government aims for a balance between growth and fiscal discipline, and highlighted the High-Level Banking Committee's role in preparing banks for 'Developed India 2047'.