Union Budget 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive budget today, February 1, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Income tax payers, who were expecting tax rebates or Standard Deduction changes, did not get relief. The markets crashed while the budget was being presented and currently stand in red.
Sitharaman’s ninth budget was inspired by three ‘kartavyas’ or responsibilities to accelerate and sustain economic growth by enhancing competitiveness; fulfill aspirations; ensure every family, community and region has access to resources and opportunities for participation.