Union Budget 2026: Rare Sunday Presentation by FM Nirmala Sitharaman - Here’s What to Expect

In a historic break from convention, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to present the Union Budget for 2026–27 today at 11:00 AM. This is her ninth consecutive budget, an unprecedented milestone in Indian legislative history.

Budget Presentation: The government chose to keep the February 1st timeline for Budget Presentation even though it was on a weekend. As part of this live announcement, NSE and BSE are executing a rare Sunday trading session that allows the local investors to immediately respond to the policy shifts. 

The Economic Overview

The budget’s preparation comes after the Economic Survey 2026, which forecast 6.8% to 7.2% GDP growth for the following fiscal year. And while the Indian economy is poised to become a global “bright spot,” the Finance Minister faces a delicate balancing act of fiscal consolidation and the need for high-octane growth. Expectations of Budget 2026

1. Income Tax: The Salaried Wishlist

After heavy reforms in 2025, the middle class wants “Phase 2” of tax relief.

• Standard Deduction: Rumors are rampant that under the New Tax Regime the standard deduction for salaried employees will be increased from ₹75,000 to ₹1,00,000.
• Slab Rationalization: Experts have proposed the government simplify slabs even more to make the New Tax Regime the undeniable choice for all, where income up to ₹13 lakh will be essentially tax-free. 

2. Capex Engine

Capital spending has been cornerstone at the core of “Viksit Bharat.” Analysts expect:

• An 8–10% increase in infrastructure outlay.
• A hefty push for Railways, such as new corridors for Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains. 
• More funds for green energy, especially for green hydrogen and battery storage.

3. AI and Digital Infrastructure

According to the Economic Survey, AI is a strategic economic weapon in the future, and in 2026’s

• Budget: The 2026 Budget will offer incentives for AI-driven startups and robotics.
• Special tax holidays will be issued to Data Centers that use green energy.
• Liquidity openings for MSMEs to utilize high-tech manufacturing tools. 

4. "Make in India" 2.0

The manufacturing industry anticipates that this will support PLI schemes.

• Especially for: Semiconductors and electronic components.
• Textile and leather labor-intensive industries to provide employment. 

Budget Day: Key Schedule

Remark: This is only the second time since Independence that the stock markets will be fully operational on a Sunday to coincide with the Budget.