Union Budget 2026 Live Updates: FM Nirmala Sitharaman presents budget in Lok Sabha
The central government is set to present budget in Parliament on Sunday, February 1, with high expectations from citizens, businesses and policy experts. With the economy navigating global uncertainties and domestic growth priorities, stakeholders are keenly watching for announcements on tax relief, policy clarity and measures aimed at boosting consumption, investment and employment.
The Budget is expected to outline the government’s fiscal roadmap for the coming year, balancing welfare commitments with capital expenditure and long-term reforms. From middle-class taxpayers hoping for relief to industry leaders seeking incentives and economists assessing macroeconomic signals, the annual exercise remains a key moment for economic direction-setting.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Budget at 11 am, marking her ninth consecutive Budget speech — a record first for any Indian finance minister. The milestone underscores continuity in fiscal leadership as the government lays out its vision for the year ahead.
Live Updates
- 1 Feb 2026 10:41 AM IST
Nirmala Sitharaman Arrives at Parliament
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reached Parliament. She is set to present the Union Budget in the Lok Sabha shortly. The Union Cabinet will hold a meeting prior to the presentation.
- 1 Feb 2026 10:26 AM IST
Nirmala Sitharaman to Break Tradition in Budget Speech
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, set to present her ninth budget, is reportedly planning a departure from a long-standing tradition. Indian media reports suggest she will focus mainly on Part-B of the annual Budget 2026, rather than Part-A.
Typically, Part-A covers the country’s economic status, statistics, and policy statements, while Part-B contains tax proposals and technical announcements, usually explained briefly. However, this year, Sitharaman is expected to deliver an extensive reading of Part-B.
This change is believed to be aimed at emphasising both immediate policy measures and long-term economic objectives.
- 1 Feb 2026 9:23 AM IST
The two Telugu states have pinned high hopes on this year’s budget. Ahead of the Union Budget, a pre-budget meeting was held, during which both states presented their demands. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Telangana Chief Minister K. Revanth Reddy have already submitted their states’ requirements to the central government.
- 1 Feb 2026 8:34 AM IST
Stock markets to remain open today amid presentation of budget my Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
- 1 Feb 2026 8:04 AM IST
The whole nation is eagerly looking forward to the budget, which will be announced in a few hours. People across the country are expecting positive measures in the budget.
