NEW DELHI— Prime Minister Narendra Modi today described the Union Budget 2026 as the foundational pillar for India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation—Viksit Bharat—by 2047. In a video message following the budget presentation, the Prime Minister emphasized that the fiscal roadmap provides “new energy and momentum” to the nation’s Reform Express.
Highlighting the historic nature of the day, Shri Modi lauded Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for her record-breaking ninth consecutive budget. He noted that the 2026 provisions strike a unique balance between reducing the fiscal deficit and maintaining high capital expenditure to drive growth.
“India is not content with simply being the fastest-growing economy,” the Prime Minister stated. “We are determined to soon become the world’s third-largest economy.”
Key highlights of the Prime Minister’s address included:
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Youth & Innovation: Dubbed a “Youth Power Budget,” it introduces initiatives in semiconductors, gaming, and a “BioPharma Shakti Mission” to nurture global leaders and creators.
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Empowering MSMEs: New schemes aim to transition small-scale industries from “local to global” through enhanced credit and trade support.
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Women-Led Development: A focus on modernizing Self-Help Group (SHG) ecosystems and building girl student hostels in every district.
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Infrastructure: Expansion of dedicated freight corridors, high-speed rail, and a new “Rare Earth Corridor.”
The Prime Minister concluded by asserting that the budget fulfills the dreams of the present while securing a “high flight” for India’s future.
