Will PM Modi Consult Leading Economists Before Budget 2026-27?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) In preparation for the Union Budget 2026-27, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to convene with prominent economists and specialists on Tuesday to gather their insights.
This gathering is part of the government's continuous dialogue ahead of significant economic decisions for the upcoming Union Budget. Attendees will include not just economists but also Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery, NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam, and various other members, as indicated by officials.
The meeting aims to create a space for these experts to share their analyses regarding the current economic landscape of the country.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to unveil the Budget on February 1, amidst geopolitical uncertainties and US tariffs.
She has previously engaged with economists, trade union representatives, and labor groups to lay the groundwork for the Union Budget 2026-27.
These discussions are part of the ministry’s annual stakeholder engagement initiative. Recent dialogues have also involved stakeholders from various sectors, including banking, hospitality, IT, and startups. Extensive discussions are underway focusing on stimulating growth and generating more employment and income within the agriculture, MSME, and manufacturing sectors.
Additionally, the CII has suggested a four-pronged fiscal approach ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27, which encompasses debt stability, fiscal transparency, revenue mobilization, and expenditure efficiency.
According to a statement from CII, the foundation of this strategy is compliance with the government's debt glide path, aiming for 50 percent (plus or minus 1 percent) of GDP by FY31.
Maintaining Central debt at approximately 54.5 percent of GDP and the fiscal deficit at 4.2 percent of GDP in FY27 is critical for upholding macroeconomic credibility while fostering growth.