India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her record ninth straight Budget on February one. For the first time in independent India, the Budget is presented on a Sunday.
This makes her the longest-serving finance minister for uninterrupted presentations. She surpasses her own previous records and those of many predecessors. The upcoming Budget 2026-27 marks a significant historical moment.
Usually, the Budget is presented on working days. However, the government has chosen this unique schedule for the current cycle.
Continuing a Legacy of Economic Policy
Sitharaman first presented the Union Budget in 2019. Since then, she has become the longest-serving Finance Minister under the same Prime Minister. She currently equals the total of nine Budgets presented by former minister P Chidambaram.
Now, she is approaching the legendary record of Morarji Desai. Desai presented 10 Budgets during his career. Sitharaman’s ninth presentation reinforces her role as a central figure in India’s growth story.
A Focus on Growth and Global Buffers
The Budget 2026-27 arrives at a complex time for the global economy. India remains one of the fastest-growing major nations. Nevertheless, global trade frictions and geopolitical uncertainties create significant risks.
Recently, US President Donald Trump imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods. Sitharaman has previously used tax cuts and infrastructure spending to withstand these pressures. Investors now look for reassurance that this momentum can continue.
Navigating Domestic and Global Challenges
Domestic demand in India has held up well recently. However, the Finance Minister faces pressure to boost consumption and create more jobs. High commodity prices and volatile markets continue to cloud the outlook.
Sitharaman’s biggest challenge will be finding a new growth driver. She must balance capital spending with the need to reduce the fiscal deficit. Recent tax cuts have also reduced government revenue, limiting her options for new spending.
Traditions and the Paperless Future
Sitharaman is known for changing long-standing Budget traditions. In 2019, she replaced the colonial-style leather briefcase. Instead, she introduced a traditional “bahi-khata” wrapped in red cloth.
The FY27 Budget continue the paperless trend. This will be the fifth year of digital Budget documents. This move aligns with the government’s focus on technology and efficiency.
Overall, the Budget is expected to prioritise continuity over surprise. It will reinforce the long-term strategy while navigating immediate economic risks.
Q&A: The Significance of Budget 2026-27
Why is this Budget presentation historical?
It is the first time a Budget is being presented on a Sunday in independent India. It is also Sitharaman’s ninth straight presentation.
How does Sitharaman compare to previous Finance Ministers?
She has equalled P Chidambaram’s total of nine Budgets. She is now just one presentation away from Morarji Desai’s record of ten.
What are the main economic threats mentioned?
The main threats include 50 per cent US tariffs, high commodity prices, and slowing demand in key global markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a “bahi-khata”?
It is a traditional Indian ledger. Sitharaman used it to replace the traditional Budget briefcase in 2019.
When did the Budget presentation move to February 1?
While the text focuses on the 2026 date, it notes that Sitharaman has presented the Budget consistently since 2019.
Will there be paper copies of the Budget?
No, the Budget will be in a paperless form. This has been the practice for the last four years.
What was the previous record for Sunday presentations?
There is no previous Sunday record. In 1999, when the date fell on a Sunday, the Budget was moved to Saturday instead.
What is the “FY27” Budget? It refers to the fiscal year 2026-2027.
