Union Budget 2026: Development Push in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, 2026, at 11 am in the Lok Sabha. While the Budget sets out India’s fiscal priorities, this year’s document carries added political weight as multiple states prepare for elections.

Key Highlights:

• Poll-Bound States: West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry expected to receive special focus.
• Infrastructure Push: Allocations likely for roads, railways, ports, and urban transport projects in these states.
• Healthcare & Education: Increased spending anticipated to strengthen public health systems and expand educational access.
• Political Messaging: Past Budgets have blended symbolism with substance such as references to regional icons alongside financial commitments.
• Electoral Strategy: The Centre may use targeted schemes to expand its footprint in southern and eastern states.
• Fiscal Discipline: Despite political signaling, experts expect the government to maintain its growth and deficit targets.

Budget 2026 is thus poised to balance economic priorities with electoral considerations, making it a crucial policy document for both governance and politics.

Sources: The Economic Times, CNBC-TV18, The Indian Express