Union Budget 2026 vs 2025: The Biggest Shifts You Shouldn’t Miss
The Union Budget is India’s most important financial statement, outlining government priorities, spending plans, taxation policy, and structural reforms. The Budget 2026–27, presented and passed in Parliament on 1 February 2026, builds on the framework of Union Budget 2025–26 and sets new targets for growth, fiscal discipline, and sectoral development. In this article, we compare the Union Budget 2026 vs Budget 2025 highlights how India’s fiscal strategy is evolving from broad-based support to targeted, technology-driven growth. 1. Fiscal Targets & Expenditure Budget 2025–26 Budget 2026–27 Interpretation:The government is increasing spending to boost economic growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility. This balance is essential for long-term stability. 2. Taxation & Compliance Budget 2025 Highlights Budget 2026 Changes Impact: 3. Infrastructure & Transport Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Effect: 4. Defence & Security Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Significance: 5. Agriculture & Rural Development Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Effect: 6. Healthcare Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Impact: 7. Education & Skill Development Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Effect: 8. MSMEs, Industry & Services Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Impact: 9. Energy, Environment & Technology Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Effect: 10. Social Welfare & Inclusive Growth Budget 2025 Budget 2026 Impact: Comparison Table: Budget 2025 Vs 2026 (Sector Wise) Sector Budget 2025–26 Budget 2026–27 Fiscal Deficit 4.4% of GDP 4.3% of GDP Total Expenditure ₹50.65 lakh crore ₹53.5 lakh crore Capital Expenditure ₹11.21 lakh crore ₹12.2 lakh crore Defence ₹4.91 lakh crore ₹5.94–7.84 lakh crore Transport & Infrastructure Major roads & rail funding ₹5.98 lakh crore + high-speed rail & waterways Agriculture & Rural ₹1.71 lakh crore ₹1.62 lakh crore + ₹95,692 crore VB‑GRAM Healthcare ₹98,311 crore ₹1.06 lakh crore + mental health & cancer focus Education & Skills ₹1.28 lakh crore AVGC labs, National Institutes of Design, STEM & girls’ hostels MSMEs & Industry Credit support & digital push ₹10,000 crore growth fund, exports & electronics support Energy & Technology Renewable, urban projects Battery storage, semiconductors, green tech Social Welfare Urban & rural schemes Expanded employment, housing, women-focused programs Read This For detailed information :- Indian Union budget 2026: Key Highlights Of All Sectors. Conclusion This Union Budget 2025 vs 2026 comparison shows India’s shift from broad fiscal support toward targeted, sector-driven growth. While Budget 2025 focused on general relief measures, infrastructure expansion, and welfare support, Budget 2026 takes a more strategic approach, emphasizing technology adoption, skill development, and inclusive growth. Key highlights include record capital expenditure, stronger allocations for healthcare and education, enhanced support for MSMEs and rural development, and a clear push for green energy and modern infrastructure. Overall, Budget 2026 reflects a balanced approach, combining economic growth, fiscal prudence, and social welfare, setting the stage for a resilient and competitive India in the years ahead.