Union Budget 2026-27: ₹12.2 Lakh Crore CapEx, Growth, Youth in Focus

New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27 today, prioritizing economic growth, social inclusion, and youth empowerment.

Public capital expenditure is set at ₹12.2 lakh crore, up from ₹11.2 lakh crore last year, with investments in seven high-speed rail corridors, new freight routes, 20 national waterways, and City Economic Regions.

The Biopharma SHAKTI programme and a ₹10,000 crore SME Growth Fund aim to boost biotech production and support small enterprises.

Education initiatives include AVGC labs in 15,000 schools, girls’ hostels in STEM institutions, and a National Institute of Hospitality.

Khelo India expansion and training for 10,000 tourist guides were also announced.

Healthcare and regional development include five Regional Medical Hubs, upgraded mental health institutes, and infrastructure projects in the East Coast Industrial Corridor and North-East tourism hubs.

Digital tools like Bharat-VISTAAR will enhance farm productivity, and SHE Marts will support women-led retail.

Fiscal measures project a fiscal deficit of 4.3% of GDP and debt-to-GDP ratio of 55.6%, with tax reforms and customs exemptions aimed at easing business and trade.