Will the Union Budget 2026–27 Reflect an Inclusive Vision?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to unveil the Union Budget 2026–27 on Sunday, leaders from the ruling parties are expressing hope and excitement. They believe the budget will embody an inclusive vision, catering to the ambitions of farmers, youth, women, industrialists, and the underprivileged. Conversely, opposition leaders have voiced skepticism, claiming the Centre has overlooked multiple states.
Uttar Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak spoke to the media, asserting that the budget is a reflection of the government’s dedication to inclusive growth.
“Tomorrow, the nation’s budget will be introduced in Parliament. This budget will demonstrate how an inclusive framework is designed — one that represents the voices of farmers, youth, women, industrialists, and the poor.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the remarkable changes accomplished since 2014, including elevating nearly 25 crore individuals above the poverty line,” he remarked.
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal emphasized the significant nature of the forthcoming budget.
“Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be presenting the Union Budget for the ninth consecutive time. The Prime Minister's vision is to establish India as a ‘Viksit Bharat’. Economic assessments clearly delineate indicators such as growth in manufacturing and agriculture’s contribution to the GDP, alongside fortifying overall economic metrics.
“As India approaches its goal of becoming the world’s third-largest economy, these targets must be ambitious, and the budget will be structured accordingly,” he added.
BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma characterized the moment as emblematic of women’s empowerment.
“What could exemplify women's empowerment more than a woman Finance Minister presenting the budget for the ninth time? Prime Minister Modi frequently discusses the empowerment of women, and this scenario powerfully reflects that vision. Although the budget will be revealed tomorrow, the Economic Survey has already painted a clear picture of the nation's economic trajectory,” he noted.
Former Cabinet Minister Jai Parkash Dalal indicated that the budget aims to achieve the long-term objective of a developed India by 2047.
“This budget is intended for the entire nation and is crafted to propel India towards the vision of Viksit Bharat. It takes into account all segments of society and does not prioritize any single group. It will be pivotal in shaping India’s future advancements,” he added.
JD(U) National Spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad stated that rectifying regional disparities was a key focus for the NDA government.
“The uneven allocation of resources has been a significant issue, and Prime Minister Modi’s administration has tackled this via data-driven strategies. Bihar has received nearly 3.5 times the central assistance in the past 11 years compared to the Congress era. The last two Union Budgets have particularly focused on Bihar and addressed long-standing concerns,” he explained.
Nonetheless, the opposition remains critical and expressed disappointment ahead of the Union Budget.
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge stated he holds “zero expectations” for the budget.
“It has been 12 years, and the Modi government has made no significant contributions to Karnataka. Despite Finance Minister Sitharaman being elected twice from the state, Karnataka has not received any special focus,” he lamented.
RJD Spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari shared similar sentiments, particularly regarding Bihar.
“What hope does Bihar possess? The state has only seen announcements during election times. There has been no special state status, no dedicated package for Patna University, and no acknowledgment for central universities. Bihar has continually been overlooked in successive Union Budgets,” he accused.
Meanwhile, following the presentation of the Budget in the Lower House, a copy will also be tabled in the Rajya Sabha. This will mark the third Budget of the Modi government in its third term.