For the Indian middle class and investors, this budget holds immense significance. It is set against the backdrop of a brand-new Income Tax Act and shifting global trade dynamics. Understanding these changes is crucial for personal financial planning in the coming fiscal year.
The Budget Session Calendar: Key Dates
The Budget Session of Parliament will be conducted in two distinct phases. This allows for a deep-dive scrutiny of ministry demands before the final bill is passed. The schedule is tight, and market volatility often accompanies these dates.
The table below outlines the critical events you must track:
| Date | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 28 | Presidential Address | President Murmu sets the legislative tone. |
| Jan 29 | Economic Survey | The "Report Card" of India’s economic performance. |
| Feb 1 | Union Budget 2026 | FM Nirmala Sitharaman presents the financial roadmap. |
| Feb 13 | Phase 1 Concludes | Parliament recesses for committee reviews. |
| April 2 | Session Adjourns | Final passage of the Finance Bill. |
Note: This will be only the second time in history that the Budget is presented on a Sunday. The government has chosen to prioritize the February 1 tradition over the holiday, signaling a "business as usual" approach.
The "Milestone" Budget: New Income Tax Act
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to make history by presenting her 9th consecutive budget. However, the headline grabber is the transition to the New Income Tax Act.
Expected to go live on April 1, 2026, this act aims to replace the 60-year-old existing laws. The goal is to create a simpler, leaner, and more digital-friendly tax code that reduces litigation and eases compliance for the common taxpayer.
Middle-Class Expectations: Tax Relief & Deductions
With the 8th Pay Commission likely to be implemented in early 2026, salaried employees are expecting significant relief to combat inflation. The focus is on increasing disposable income.
- Standard Deduction Hike: Experts anticipate an increase from ₹75,000 to ₹1,00,000. This would directly reduce taxable income for salaried individuals.
- Joint Filing for Couples: There are discussions about introducing joint tax filing. This move could significantly lower the tax burden for dual-income households, aligning India with global best practices.
Related Articles from MoneyMinted.in:
Industry & Infrastructure: The Viksit Bharat Push
Beyond personal tax, the government is focusing on industrial growth to achieve the "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) vision. The strategy revolves around Import Substitution and green energy.
1. Unified TDS Framework
Currently, there are roughly 37 different sections for Tax Deducted at Source (TDS). This creates massive compliance headaches. Budget 2026 is expected to unveil a Unified TDS Framework, collapsing these into just 3 or 4 standardized rates.
2. Manufacturing the Machines
The government will likely maintain double-digit growth in Capital Expenditure (Capex). However, the focus is shifting. Instead of just building roads, the incentives will target manufacturing heavy machinery locally to reduce reliance on imports from China and Europe.
3. The Green Transition
Expect a massive push for Renewables Manufacturing. This includes fresh PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes for:
- Battery chemicals
- Green hydrogen electrolyzers
- Specialized glass for solar panels
Global Economic Headwinds
While India’s internal growth remains robust—projected at 7.4% to 8.2%—the budget must navigate external challenges. Potential new tariffs from the U.S. and shifts in the "China Plus One" strategy mean India must make its manufacturing costs globally competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Union Budget 2026 be presented?
The Union Budget 2026 will be presented on February 1, 2026. It is a Sunday, but the presentation will proceed as scheduled.
What is the expected Standard Deduction limit for 2026?
Market experts and analysts anticipate the Standard Deduction for salaried employees may be hiked to ₹1,00,000 to counter inflation.
When does the New Income Tax Act come into effect?
The comprehensive New Income Tax Act is expected to be implemented starting April 1, 2026, replacing the existing 1961 Act.
Key Takeaways
- Budget Date: February 1, 2026 (Sunday).
- Tax Reform: Introduction of the New Income Tax Act.
- Relief: Potential hike in Standard Deduction to ₹1 Lakh.
- Growth: Focus on Green Energy and machinery manufacturing.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. The projections regarding Union Budget 2026 are based on current reports. Please consult a qualified professional before making decisions.
For professional inquiries regarding MoneyMinted blog, contact us at contact@moneyminted.in
