On February 1, 2026, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the ninth consecutive Union Budget. The Budget aims to raise productivity across sectors and create more jobs. Ms. Sitharaman stressed India's need to stay integrated with global markets by exporting more and attracting long-term investments. No major direct tax cuts were announced for individuals or companies. However, customs duties were lowered to promote exports of marine, leather, and textile products and support India's energy shift. The Budget plans ₹12.2 lakh crore capital expenditure for 2026-27, up from ₹10.9 lakh crore in the revised 2025-26 figures. Several infrastructure projects will benefit poll-bound states like Tamil Nadu, Odisha, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh. Ms. Sitharaman highlighted three key duties of this Budget: accelerating economic growth, fulfilling people's aspirations by building their capacities, and ensuring all communities get access to resources and opportunities. Special focus will go to mineral-rich states such as Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu to develop rare earth corridors supporting mining and manufacturing. A new national waterway connecting important Odisha ports is also planned. Kerala will get eco-friendly turtle trails for tourism and a Coconut Promotion Scheme to boost productivity. Cashew and cocoa production support programs will also be launched. An integrated East Coast Industrial Corridor linking West Bengal and a dedicated freight corridor connecting West Bengal to Gujarat were announced to enhance trade and industry. The Budget targets manufacturing growth in seven strategic sectors, revitalization of old industries, champion MSMEs, better infrastructure, energy security, and city-economic region development. Services sector growth will be driven by education, training, and skills in healthcare, medical tourism, animal husbandry, and creative fields like animation and gaming. Efforts to improve farmer incomes, support differently-abled people, and focus on the northeast region were also outlined. Ms. Sitharaman described this Budget as paving the way to 'Viksit Bharat 2047' and promoting steady growth.