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India Presents Union Budget 2026-27: Growth & Fiscal Consolidation

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 7:55 GMT by Zee Business
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New Delhi, January 31st, 2026 - Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today presented the Union Budget for 2026-27, outlining a strategic roadmap for sustained economic growth coupled with a commitment to fiscal consolidation. The budget, delivered in Parliament this morning, focused on bolstering infrastructure, promoting renewable energy, and providing targeted relief to taxpayers, while simultaneously addressing concerns surrounding the fiscal deficit.

The Finance Minister began her address by acknowledging the resilience of the Indian economy despite global headwinds. She highlighted the government's commitment to achieving 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047, framing the budget as a crucial step towards realizing that vision.

Income Tax Reforms: Simplifying the System and Boosting Disposable Income

One of the most keenly anticipated aspects of the budget was the revision of income tax slabs. Recognizing the need to simplify the tax system and put more money in the hands of citizens, the government announced a recalibration of the existing structure. The new slabs, effective April 1st, 2026, are as follows:

• Income up to INR3 Lakh: No tax
• INR3 Lakh - INR6 Lakh: 5% tax
• INR6 Lakh - INR12 Lakh: 10% tax
• INR12 Lakh - INR20 Lakh: 15% tax
• Above INR20 Lakh: 20% tax

These revised slabs represent a significant adjustment, particularly for individuals in the lower and middle-income brackets. The government estimates that approximately 2 crore taxpayers will benefit from these changes.

The budget also addressed concerns regarding the New Tax Regime (NTR), which was introduced in recent years. Several refinements were announced to make the NTR more attractive, including the removal of certain exemptions and deductions previously unavailable under the scheme. The government aims to incentivize more taxpayers to opt for the NTR, streamlining the tax administration process. Analysis suggests that the NTR's enhanced benefits, combined with the new slabs, could see a 40% increase in adoption over the next fiscal year.

Infrastructure Push: Building a Future-Ready India

The Union Budget 2026 reaffirms the government's commitment to infrastructure development as a key driver of economic growth. A substantial allocation of INR10 lakh crore has been earmarked for infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on improving connectivity and logistics. This includes investments in:

• National Highways: Expansion and modernization of the national highway network.
• Railways: Development of dedicated freight corridors and passenger rail infrastructure.
• Ports: Enhancement of port capacity and efficiency.
• Urban Infrastructure: Investment in smart cities and sustainable urban development.

The budget also emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology to improve infrastructure planning and implementation. The adoption of digital tools and data analytics will ensure greater transparency and efficiency in project execution.

Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development

Recognizing the urgency of addressing climate change, the government announced a new scheme to promote renewable energy sources. The scheme, titled 'Green India Initiative,' will provide incentives for investment in solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects. A dedicated fund of INR50,000 crore has been allocated to support research and development in green technologies. This initiative directly aligns with India's commitments under the Paris Agreement and aims to reduce the country's carbon footprint.

Fiscal Deficit and Government Debt

Managing the fiscal deficit remained a key priority for the government. The Finance Minister announced a commitment to reducing the fiscal deficit to 5.1% of GDP in 2026-27, down from 5.9% in the previous year. This will be achieved through a combination of increased revenue collection and expenditure rationalization.

The budget also outlines a plan to gradually reduce government debt over the next five years. The government intends to achieve this through prudent fiscal management and the implementation of structural reforms.

Healthcare and Education: Investing in Human Capital

The Union Budget 2026 recognizes the importance of investing in human capital. Allocations for healthcare and education have been increased, with a focus on improving access to quality healthcare services and enhancing educational opportunities. The budget includes provisions for:

• Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure: Expanding the network of primary healthcare centers and hospitals.
• Promoting Digital Education: Providing access to online learning resources and digital literacy programs.
• Skill Development: Investing in vocational training and skill development initiatives.

In conclusion, the Union Budget 2026 presents a balanced approach to economic growth and fiscal prudence. By prioritizing infrastructure development, promoting renewable energy, and providing targeted relief to taxpayers, the government aims to build a future-ready India.