Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2026-27 on Sunday, February 1, at 11 AM in Parliament. This marks a historic first for a Sunday budget amid the session starting January 28 and running till April 2 in two phases. Sitharaman's ninth budget nears Morarji Desai's record.
In a move that underscores the government's commitment to tradition despite calendar quirks, Om Birla's announcement on January 12 dispels speculation over the Sunday slot, February 1, 2026. This Budget Session structure allows ample time for debate on fiscal policies shaping India's economic trajectory amid global uncertainties. Markets watch closely for signals on capex, reforms, and sector allocations. The ninth outing for Sitharaman highlights continuity in fiscal stewardship under the current administration.
Key Highlights
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Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla confirmed the Union Budget for 2026-27 will be tabled on February 1, a Sunday, breaking from weekday norms due to the date falling on a weekend.
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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's presentation at 11 AM in the Lok Sabha will be her ninth, one shy of the record 10 budgets by former minister Morarji Desai.
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The Budget Session commences January 28 with President Droupadi Murmu's address to both Houses, followed likely by the Economic Survey on January 29 or 30.
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Parliament skips sessions on January 29 for Beating Retreat and January 31, building anticipation for Budget Day.
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First phase ends February 13, reconvening March 9 till April 2 for committee scrutiny of proposals.
Sources: Hindustan Times, Times of India, Business Standard