When is the Union Budget 2026?
- Paisa and More team
- 17 hours ago
- 3 min read
Every year, the month of February kicks off with one of the most significant events for the Indian economy: the Union Budget.
From small business owners to corporate giants and salaried employees, everyone is eager to see how the government plans to spend money and, more importantly, how it will affect their pockets.
If you are wondering when and where to watch the financial event of the year, here is everything you need to know about Budget 2026.
When is the Union Budget 2026?
Mark your calendars! The Union Budget for the financial year 2026-27 is scheduled to be presented on Sunday, February 01, 2026.
While Sunday is usually a holiday for Parliament, the government has decided to stick to the traditional date to ensure businesses and markets have clarity before the new work week begins.
Who will present it? Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman.
What time? The speech will begin at 11:00 AM.
Where to watch? You can catch it live on Sansad TV, Doordarshan, and various news YouTube channels.
A Milestone for the Finance Minister
This is a historic moment for Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, as this will be her 9th Union Budget.
Over the years, she has moved the budget into the modern era, replacing the traditional leather briefcase with a digital tablet wrapped in a red "Bahi-Khata" cover. This shift symbolizes the Digital India mission, making the budget document accessible to everyone via a mobile app instantly.
The Full Schedule: Budget Session 2026
The budget isn't just a one-day event. It involves a detailed parliamentary process divided into phases:
January 28: The Budget Session officially begins with the President's address.
January 29: The Economic Survey 2025-26 is tabled. Think of this as the country’s "annual report card" that shows how the economy performed in the last year.
February 01: The Big Day – The Union Budget is presented.
February 13: Phase 1 of the session concludes.
March 09 – April 02: Phase 2 begins, where various ministries discuss their specific fund requirements before the final "Finance Bill" is passed.
The Secret "Lock-in" and the Halwa Ceremony
Have you ever wondered how the budget details don't leak out early? It all starts with the Halwa Ceremony.
About 10 days before the budget, a large vat of halwa is prepared and served to the staff of the Ministry of Finance. Once the ceremony is over, more than 100 officials are "locked in" at the North Block office. They cannot go home, call their families, or use the internet until the Finance Minister finishes her speech on February 1st. This creates a "fortress" of secrecy to protect sensitive financial data.
Why is Budget 2026 Crucial?
This budget is particularly important because it follows the "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) roadmap. The government is focused on making India a global powerhouse by 2047.
Common expectations for 2026 include:
Tax Relief: Many are hoping for changes in the Income Tax slabs to help with the rising cost of living.
Infrastructure: More investment in "Vande Bharat" trains, better highways, and green energy.
Support for Farmers: New schemes to boost agricultural technology and rural income.
Jobs for Youth: Incentives for startups and manufacturing to create more employment opportunities.
Conclusion
The Union Budget 2026 is more than just numbers; it is a vision of where India is heading. Whether you are a student, a homemaker, or a CEO, the announcements made on February 1st will shape your financial year.
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