2026 Union Budget: A Pathbreaking Blueprint for Viksit Bharat by 2047

• The 2026 Union Budget, the ninth under Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, aims to be a cornerstone for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047, building on previous reforms.
• India's economy is projected to grow at 7.4% for FY 2025-26, with the budget likely targeting a 4.3% fiscal deficit for FY27, balancing growth with fiscal discipline.
• The budget emphasizes job creation, infrastructure development (10-12% capex increase), and tax reforms, including potential income tax slab adjustments for the middle class.
• Key initiatives include designating 350 poorest districts as Special Employment Zones and scaling up Lakhpati Didi scheme for women empowerment.
• Focus on innovation with incentives for startups, R&D funding, and expansion of Digital India, alongside increased MSPs and irrigation projects for agriculture.

Why It Matters: The 2026 Union Budget is set to be a transformative plan for India's economic growth, inclusion, and innovation.