India Budget 2026
Budget and Markets
Budget 2026 not headline-grabbing but fiscally prudent and growth-oriented
Union Budget 2026: SGBs bought from secondary markets to attract capital gains tax, effective April 1
Defence stocks face test of nerves as 22% capex lift in Union Budget meets lofty valuations; BEL, HAL, Mazagon Dock top picks
Budget impact: What makes Morgan Stanley's Ridham Desai remain bullish on Indian stocks
Budget 2026: Shankar Sharma cheers derivatives STT hike, calls F&O a ‘poison’ for investors
CXO Corner
A quiet confidence: How India’s Budget steadies the economy in a turbulent world
Budget 2026: Infra boost may create $175 billion investment opportunity over 7 years
Budget 2026: Vision for future-ready India with clarity and continuity
Budget’s AI infra push could reshape India’s growth story: Raamdeo Agrawal
Budget 2026 signals continuity with reform push, says Nilesh Shah
Taxes and You
Get up to Rs 1.05 lakh income tax exemption on meal cards: Draft tax rules 2026 boost salaried savings
Beneficial capital gains law removed in tax act, 2025
Pay reduced tax at 39% rate on unexplained income compared to 78% earlier, with close eye on penalty, Budget 2026 announcement?
Confused about income tax deduction on pre-EMI interest? Budget 2026 brings clarity on Rs 2 lakh home loan deduction
No need to pay income tax if your land is acquired by government giving payout under RFCTLARR Act; Budget 2026 proposal
Renewables
India records lowest-ever price for green hydrogen in tender
JSW MG Motor to invest up to $440 million on expansion, deepen bet on hybrids, EVs
PM Modi's rooftop solar push slowed by reluctant lenders, states
TVS, Bajaj, Hero capture 60% of electric two-wheeler market as startups lose ground
Silver’s sizzling surge suggests a brighter future for solar
Sectors In Focus
SME
Global speech AI struggles to understand India: Report
Vadodara to host ET Make in India SME Regional Summit on February 20
How China built a chip industry, and why it's still not enough
Rampant AI demand for memory is fueling a growing chip crisis
Limelight Diamonds targets 200+ stores by 2027 as lab-grown demand surges
Luxury
Halle Berry and Van Hunt's engagement comes with a nod to vintage elegance
Zuckerberg set to join California billionaires with Miami home
Two Milan insiders share itineraries for a perfect day in town
New York Fashion Week spotlights American brands that have bucked luxury slowdown
Meet the new MVPs of art
Defence
Ahead of Russia-Ukraine talks, Trump says Kyiv must negotiate 'fast'
Tie up Processes under National Aero Engine Mission launched
Japan says China's militarism warning not based on facts
French defence major Thales sets up R&D centre in Bengaluru
US Ambassador Sergio Gor, Admiral Samuel J Paparo visit Indian Army's Western Command Headquarters
Housing
ET Graphics: Active buyers go for premium homes
'Gap between capital value growth and rental gains widens in housing market'
In God they trust: Realtors make a beeline for temple towns
AU Real Estate targets Rs 2,000 cr from NH-24 luxury residential project
India realty to hit ₹88 lakh cr by 2030: Report
Banking
Banks ramp up bad loan sales to ARCs in December quarter, retail NPAs at Rs 24,814 crore
Tit for TAT: Lenders seek reset of compensation rules on ATM fraud
Rising middle class, talent make India a good place to invest in: Bernard Mensah, President of International, Bank of America
Three senior bankers including country head at Raine Group are said to depart advisory firm
More banks may queue up to be pension managers: PFRDA chief
Insurance
PM Rahat Scheme for road accident victims: Check how to get cashless treatment, eligibility, coverage and claim steps
I am 45 and have corporate health insurance of Rs 5 lakh and an additional policy of Rs 3 lakh. Should I get additional health cover?
Union Budget 2026: Has government made any changes to the Ayushman Bharat scheme? Check details here
How better training is changing India’s health insurance conversations
India’s life insurance sector crosses $1 trillion, driven by rising digital policy purchases
Real Estate
RBI announcement: Higher return for REIT investors?
Family can’t block sale of inherited land by owner: HC
Builder didn't take insurance, what should you do?
Tenants sold property bought from landlord’s wife on the basis of a Will, son raised disputes against Will; Delhi HC stays property sale till final trial
House razed as ‘encroachment; High Court gives relief
Borrow
How a loan app simplifies borrowing compared to traditional loans
How Bank Seva Kendra is building a scalable access layer for PSU home loans in Bengaluru
Everything you need to know about CIBIL Score for a housing loan
How to increase your chances of getting personal loan approval in 2025
Exploring the features of personal and education loans
Auto
Nissan Gravite launch: Check expected price, engine, features, seating and more
JSW MG Motor to invest ₹3,000 crore in plant expansion and new vehicle launches
MG Motor India gears up for four new SUVs including plug-in hybrid model
2026 Maruti Brezza facelift spied: Check leaked interior, exterior changes, engine and launch date
CNH India to resume US tractor exports; invest Rs 1,800 cr in capacity expansion after tariff cut
Travel
EaseMyTrip plans to raise Rs 500 crore to fund its expansion plans
Lushescapes launches Meridian One, an invitation only around the world journey
Thomas Cook India, SOTC tie up with Mauritius tourism body
MakeMyTrip inks deal with Minor Hotels to expand premium and luxury stays access worldwide
In temple run from Varanasi to Sikkim, faith's in fast lane

National Mission on Manufacturing aims to double manufacturing contribution to GDP by 2035
India's National Mission on Manufacturing targets a significant boost by 2035. The plan aims to double the manufacturing sector's contribution to GDP to 25 percent. It also seeks to create 143 million new jobs. Merchandise exports are projected to reach USD 1.2 trillion. This initiative focuses on strategic sector development and improving business conditions.

Economic Survey 2026: India's real GDP for FY27 projected at 6.8% to 7.2%
India’s Economic Survey projects growth of 6.8–7.2% in FY27, highlighting resilience despite global uncertainty. The economy is expected to expand 7.4% in FY26, beating RBI estimates, supported by investment, manufacturing and rate cuts, with GDP crossing $4 trillion. India is now the world’s fourth-largest economy.

A clever hack is rewriting India’s tax playbook
Economic Survey 2026: India's tax administration is shifting towards a data-driven, behavioral approach, utilizing "nudges" to enhance compliance and reduce litigation. The NUDGE framework, focusing on timely information and gentle prompts, has successfully encouraged voluntary corrections, leading to significant increases in declared assets, income, and tax collections.

Gold and silver prices won’t lose their glitter just yet
Gold and silver prices are expected to rise, driven by safe-haven demand amid global uncertainties even as global commodity prices are set to soften in FY27 due to lower crude oil prices and modest growth. This divergence impacts India's inflation and credit. High gold prices are boosting personal loans, especially against jewellery. India's imports remain dominated by petroleum and gold.

Rupee punching below its weight. But, why it does not 'hurt'
The Economic Survey 2026 said the rupee underperformed in 2025 and is trading below levels suggested by India’s economic fundamentals. It noted that a weaker rupee does not hurt for now, as it helps soften the impact of higher US tariffs on Indian exports and poses no immediate inflation risk from costlier crude imports.

India well on track to achieve 4.4% fiscal deficit target for FY26
India's government is set to achieve its fiscal deficit goal of 4.4 percent of GDP this financial year. This achievement follows a period of fiscal consolidation and increased public investment. The nation has seen three sovereign rating upgrades. Markets have responded positively to the government's commitment to fiscal discipline. This positive trend is expected to continue.

Trade deal talks with US may end this year, says Economic Survey
India's trade negotiations with the United States are anticipated to conclude this year, potentially easing external uncertainties. Despite global growth slowdowns and trade disruptions, the agreement's finalization could significantly benefit India's economic outlook. This development follows ongoing talks and previous tariff impositions by the US.

Fix the freebies, Economic Survey 2026 warns and tells how
The Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights the rapid expansion of unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) in Indian States, noting their significant impact on beneficiaries' incomes. However, it warns that their scale and persistence strain State finances, potentially crowding out crucial growth-enhancing public investments and leading to fiscal rigidity without consistently improving long-term outcomes.

Economic Survey sees higher inflation as weaker rupee poses risk, soft commodities offer relief
India's inflation is set to increase slightly in the coming fiscal year. It is expected to remain within the Reserve Bank of India's target range. Soft global commodity prices and easing food inflation will help manage price pressures. The rupee's depreciation may cause some imported inflation. However, its impact is anticipated to be limited. Precious metals prices are firm.

India’s future cities must make life easier, not just bigger
India's future cities will prioritize saving time and boosting creativity. The Economic Survey 2025-26 suggests designing urban spaces for easier living and economic growth. This includes rethinking streets as social hubs and fostering creative zones. The focus shifts to productivity, dignity, and quality of life for all residents. Governance reforms will empower citizens in decision-making.

Economic Survey 2026 sees steady job gains, Labour Codes in focus
India's Economic Survey 2025-26 reveals a robust labour market. Participation is up, unemployment is down, and jobs are growing in all sectors. The government is focusing on quality employment and worker welfare through new Labour Codes. These reforms aim for better job security and incomes. The survey points to a strengthening economy despite global challenges.

Squeeze the 'orange' for more juice from India's concert economy
India's Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights the 'Orange Economy,' emphasizing live entertainment and concerts as significant growth drivers. The report identifies the concert economy's potential to boost urban services, tourism, and employment, while also noting existing bottlenecks like venue shortages and regulatory hurdles that need addressing for India to scale up this sector.

Why Indians behave in the metro but not in buses
The Economic Survey 2025-26 argues that public behavior is driven by contextual design and institutional trust, not culture. Systems with clear design, predictable enforcement, and reliable service foster cooperation, as seen in metro systems, leading to orderly conduct by making rule-following the rational choice.

Public and private hands must team up to deliver India’s next infra growth
Economic Survey 2026: India is making significant strides in infrastructure development, blending public investment with the dynamism of the private sector. This holistic approach is enhancing operational efficiency and connectivity across the nation. We can observe remarkable innovations in transportation—be it roads, railways, or aviation—as well as advancements in digital frameworks.

Don't have time to read 800 pages? Here's the Eco Survey, broken down
Economic Survey Budget 2026 Highlights: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey 2025-26 in the Parliament today. The document provides the government's view on India's economy and its future direction. It will cover growth, stability, and reform priorities.

Crores of children at risk from the food you are feeding them, Economic Survey 2026 warns
Economic Survey 2026: India's Economic Survey 2026 flags a major health crisis: rising obesity. Unhealthy diets, ultra-processed foods, and inactive lifestyles are driving this trend across all ages. This surge in obesity is linked to serious diseases like diabetes and heart ailments. The government is implementing strategies to tackle this growing concern through awareness and regulation.

'Swadeshi' is the way for self-reliance against external shocks
India's economic future hinges on disciplined Swadeshi, moving beyond naive globalisation. The nation must build strategic indispensability by strengthening state capacity. This involves fostering durable productive capabilities and reducing external vulnerabilities. Focus shifts to effective governance and execution for long-term economic strength and global integration.

Economic Survey flags concerns over fiscal populism in states
The Economic Survey highlights growing worries about states' fiscal populism and rising revenue deficits. Unconditional cash transfers are expanding, potentially crowding out growth-enhancing spending. This fiscal indiscipline at the state level now affects India's sovereign borrowing costs. Coordinated fiscal discipline is crucial for productive capacity and income growth.

How Kochi can show the 'way' to other cities
India's Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights the Kochi Water Metro as a model for sustainable urban transport. This project revitalizes inland waterways, offering cost-effective and green connectivity. It integrates with existing metro systems for seamless travel. The success of Kochi Water Metro is inspiring similar projects in 21 other Indian cities, transforming natural water assets into efficient urban infrastructure.

CEA confident of India's 6.8%-7.2% growth aim for FY27 in real terms despite an upcoming tweak
India's economy is set for robust growth in FY27, with projections between 6.8% and 7.2%. This strong momentum is fueled by solid domestic demand and easing inflation. Private consumption and investment activity are showing significant acceleration. These trends highlight a resilient Indian economy poised for sustained high growth, even with statistical adjustments.

Ban advertising of ultra-processed foods from 6 am-11 pm
India faces a growing challenge with ultra-processed foods. The Economic Survey highlights rising obesity, especially in children. It proposes banning advertisements for these foods from morning to night. Restrictions on marketing infant milk are also suggested. This aims to curb unhealthy eating habits and improve public health across the nation.
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BUDGETPHOTO GALLERY
BUDGETFAQS
Four Balance Sheet Challenge issue was hughlighted by a paper. India's economy has overcome significant financial stress. Now, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman states India has a 'twin balance sheet advantage'. Corporate and financial sectors have recovered and are in excellent shape to support growth.
India Budget 2026: As India prepares for Union Budget 2026, this explainer details its significance as the government's annual financial blueprint. The Budget outlines revenue and expenditure plans, crucial for converting policy promises into action and managing finite resources to drive economic growth and social welfare.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, 2026. This marks a continuation of her tenure, joining a select group of finance ministers with multiple consecutive budgets. The meticulous preparation process, involving extensive consultations and departmental reviews, culminates in the budget's presentation to Parliament.
Union Budget 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for FY 2026-27 on February 1, 2026. Ahead of this, understanding key budget terms like Annual Financial Statement, Fiscal Deficit, and Revenue Expenditure is crucial for grasping the government's financial blueprint and economic strategy.
Full Budget and Vote on account explanation: A Full Budget is the government's comprehensive annual financial plan, detailing past performance and future revenue and spending. In contrast, a Vote on Account is a temporary measure for essential expenses when a full budget cannot be presented, typically during elections. Unlike a full budget, it doesn't introduce new policies or tax changes.
India Budget: Fiscal policy guides government revenue and spending to maintain economic health, addressing deficits through borrowing or reserves. It aims to control inflation, generate employment, and boost investments. In India, it's vital for revenue collection, encouraging savings, and reducing income inequality, working alongside monetary policy to shape economic growth and development.
Government Budgeting Understanding types of Budget Advantages Disadvantages: Governments utilize budgets to manage national finances, categorizing them into balanced, surplus, and deficit types. Each budget offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, impacting economic stability, public welfare, and national development. Effective planning and execution are crucial for a budget's overall success.
Budget 2026: A buyback tax, currently at 23.29%, was extended to listed companies in July 2019, having initially targeted unlisted firms in 2013. This tax discourages profit distribution via share repurchases over dividends. The dividend distribution tax was abolished in 2020, shifting the burden to dividend recipients.
India Budget: Governments resort to deficit financing when spending exceeds earnings, often to stimulate growth through tax cuts or infrastructure projects. While crucial for developing nations like India, it risks inflation and increased production costs, potentially deterring investment and widening economic inequality if overused.
Union Budget: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present India's Union Budget 2026 in February. The budget's core is projecting nominal GDP growth. This estimate drives calculations for tax revenue, government spending, and borrowing needs. Key figures are often percentages of projected nominal GDP. Crude oil prices also significantly influence budget allocations, especially for subsidies. Realistic projections are crucial for budget credibility.
Union Budget 2026 fiscal glide path: India's fiscal deficit reached 52.6% of annual estimates in the first seven months. The government targets a 4.4% deficit for the current fiscal year. This fiscal glide path aims to reduce budget gaps. The NK Singh Committee proposed this plan. Deviations are allowed in extraordinary circumstances. Balancing fiscal discipline with economic needs is crucial for India's growth.
Budget 2026: The 2025-26 Union Budget significantly boosted India's public health. It expanded Ayushman Bharat to gig workers and offered duty exemptions on life-saving drugs. New medical seats were added, and district hospitals will get cancer centers. Digital health infrastructure also received a boost. These measures aimed to improve healthcare access and coverage across the nation.
Union Budget 2026- how to read budget: The Union Budget is the government’s annual financial blueprint outlining projected income, expenditure and policy priorities for the fiscal year.
Types of Deficits Explained: As Union Budget 2026 approaches, understanding fiscal deficits is crucial for assessing a nation's financial health. A deficit signifies the imbalance between the government’s expenditures and revenues. A deficit occurs when a government spends more money than it collects through various sources of revenue. There are mainly three types of budget deficits: Revenue deficit, fiscal deficit and primary deficit.
What is a Budget Plan: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget for 2026-27 on February 1, 2026. The budget, a comprehensive financial statement, outlines the nation's economic performance and future aspirations. Its preparation involves months of meticulous planning, consultations with diverse stakeholders, and final approval from the Cabinet. The Union Budget includes revenues and expenditures as its main components.
India has successfully met its fiscal deficit target for FY25 at 4.8% of GDP, with a further reduction planned to 4.4% for FY26. This achievement was bolstered by strong tax revenues and a significant dividend from the RBI. The government aims to continue this trend by managing revenue growth and controlling expenditure, particularly subsidies, while maintaining capital investments.
Union Budget 2026: Pre-Budget consultations for Union Budget 2026-27 have already started but a large question looms-its presentation date. February 1, 2026, a Sunday, coincides with Guru Ravidas Jayanti, a restricted holiday. Historically, the Indian Union Budget has been presented on Saturdays and even Sundays, with recent instances in 2015 and 2016.
What is government borrowing and how does it impact fiscal deficit? A key question ahead of the big day. As the Union Budget 2026 approaches, government borrowing and its impact on the fiscal deficit are under scrutiny. The Centre raises funds through securities to finance public expenditure, especially when revenues are low. Higher borrowing increases interest burdens, impacting future spending flexibility.
India Budget 2026: Work on Budget 2026 has commenced, following a meticulous five-step process initiated by the Department of Economic Affairs. This involves pre-budget estimates, inter-ministerial consultations, Cabinet approval, and parliamentary presentation. The final approved budget then guides the implementation of national financial plans and schemes for the upcoming fiscal year.
India's annual budget is its economic roadmap. It guides how the nation earns and spends money. The budget ensures fair resource distribution. It supports growth, reduces inequality, and strengthens key sectors. Public funds are used effectively for development and economic stability.
Details on Budget 2026
Presenting her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the Budget for 2026-27 is driven by Yuvashakti and anchored in three core kartavyas -- accelerating growth, fulfilling aspirations and ensuring Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. While the government kept personal income tax rates unchanged, the Budget packed in a wide-ranging growth and reform agenda spanning infrastructure, railways, manufacturing, semiconductors, MSMEs, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, defence and skills, alongside a surprise hike in Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on derivatives.
The total Budget size was pegged at Rs 53.5 lakh crore, with a sharp focus on capital expenditure, fiscal consolidation and reform delivery.
Taxpayers: Status quo on rates, procedural relief
In a major signal of continuity, Sitharaman proposed no change in personal income tax rates. The New Income Tax Act, 2025 will come into force, it was announced.
To ease compliance, the government extended the ITR filing deadline for non-audit businesses and trusts to August 31, while individuals filing ITR-1 and ITR-2 will continue to have time till July 31. The deadline for revised returns has been extended to March 31, subject to payment of a nominal fee.
TDS, TCS rationalisation
The Budget proposed sweeping rationalisation of Tax Collected at Source (TCS). TCS on the sale of overseas tour packages has been slashed to 2%, while TCS on overseas education and medical expenses under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) has also been reduced to 2%. Interest awarded by the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal will now be fully exempt from income tax.
TCS on goods was rationalised -- alcoholic liquor, scrap and mineral products at 2%, while Tendu leaves saw a reduction from 5% to 2%.
Markets: STT hike on derivatives
In a move that surprised market participants, the government raised STT on futures to 0.05% from 0.02%, and STT on options premium to 0.15% from 0.10%. However, Sitharaman clarified that there will be no change in short-term or long-term capital gains tax.
NRIs: Disclosure and investment access
For non-resident Indians, TDS will be deducted on the sale of immovable property. A foreign investment disclosure scheme was announced. Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) will now be permitted to invest in equity instruments of listed Indian companies through the Portfolio Investment Scheme.
Railways and infrastructure: High-speed push
The Budget proposed seven high-speed rail corridors and one dedicated freight corridor. High-speed corridors will connect major economic centres, including Mumbai–Pune, Pune–Hyderabad, Hyderabad–Bengaluru, Hyderabad–Chennai, Chennai–Bengaluru, Delhi–Varanasi and Varanasi–Siliguri.
Infrastructure measures include a new freight corridor at Dankuni in West Bengal, operationalisation of 20 new waterways, and a Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme aimed at doubling modal share by 2047.
Education and skilling
The Budget proposed one girls’ hostel in every district, support for the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies, Mumbai, to set up content labs in 15,000 secondary schools, and a new National Institute of Design in eastern India through a challenge-based route. States will be supported to develop five university townships near major industrial and logistics corridors.
Healthcare: Cancer drugs, trauma care, mental health
Sitharaman exempted basic customs duty on 17 cancer-related drugs and announced nationwide strengthening of emergency and trauma care centres at district hospitals. The government will establish NIMHANS 2.0 in North India and add seven rare diseases to the list eligible for import duty exemption on personal medical imports.
Semiconductors and critical minerals
The Budget launched ISM 2.0, a semiconductor mission with an outlay of Rs 40,000 crore, and announced rare-earth corridors across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
Industry, MSMEs and services
To boost industry, the government proposed a tax holiday for foreign companies offering cloud services using Indian data centres, mandated foreign digital firms to serve Indian customers through Indian reseller entities, and announced Rs 10,000 crore investment in biopharma over five years. Outlay on electronics manufacturing will rise to Rs 40,000 crore in FY27.
A Rs 10,000 crore MSME Growth Fund will be set up to create future champions. Customs will move to trust-based systems, with advance ruling validity extended to five years. A high-level committee will work towards raising the services sector’s contribution to 10% by 2047.
The Budget also reduced the APA timeline to two years (extendable by six months), cut MAT to 14% and made it the final tax, and raised the safe harbour threshold for IT services to Rs 2,000 crore.
Economy and fiscal math
Sitharaman pegged the fiscal deficit at 4.3% of GDP for 2026-27, with the debt-to-GDP ratio targeted at 55.6%. Capital expenditure will rise to Rs 12.2 lakh crore, while Rs 1.4 lakh crore will be devolved to states. Net tax receipts are estimated at Rs 28.7 lakh crore, and gross market borrowings at Rs 17.2 lakh crore. The FM said that since the PM's Independence Day announcement in 2025, over 350 reforms have been implemented
Agriculture and fisheries
Measures include coconut and cashew promotion, rejuvenation of old orchards, high-density cultivation of walnuts, almonds and pine nuts, and integrated fisheries development across 500 reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars. Fish caught in India’s EEZ or high seas will be duty-free even if landed at foreign ports. Sandalwood cultivation will be strengthened, and dividend income exemption granted to notified national cooperative federations for three years.
Tourism, jobs and defence
Tourism initiatives span trekking and hiking in J&K, Uttarakhand, Araku Valley and Pudigai Malai, wildlife and Buddhist heritage trails, development of 15 archaeological sites, a National Institute of Hospitality, and training of 10,000 tourist guides. India will host the first Global Big Cat Summit.
For defence, Rs 7.85 lakh crore has been allocated for 2026-27, including Rs 2.19 lakh crore capital outlay. Customs duty exemptions were announced for aircraft manufacturing and MRO. Civil aviation received Rs 4,699.92 crore, with UDAN allocation raised 27% to Rs 550 crore.



















