The countdown to India’s Union Budget 2026–27 has officially begun, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman set to present the budget in Parliament today. Marking a historic moment, this will be the first time since Independence that the Union Budget is being presented on a Sunday. For the ninth consecutive time, Sitharaman will deliver the crucial budget speech, underlining continuity in the government’s economic vision. As per protocol, the budget document will be handed over to the President at 9:00 AM, followed by the budget speech in the Lok Sabha at 11:00 AM. Due to the budget presentation, Indian stock markets will remain open today with normal trading activity. Expectations are high across sectors, with investors closely tracking policy signals related to growth, infrastructure, and capital expenditure. At the same time, common citizens are keenly watching for relief measures amid rising living costs, including possible tax concessions and steps to control inflation. Attention is also on whether the government will address soaring gold and silver prices. Overall, the budget is expected to balance fiscal discipline with growth and public welfare priorities.


