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Budget 2026: Urban push to reshape realty demand beyond metros
The Union Budget is set to transform property demand significantly. By accelerating urbanisation, it will invigorate city economies and foster new property opportunities beyond the traditional hubs. Urban centres stand to become vital growth engines, with real estate gaining from enhanced connectivity and the clustering of jobs.
Budget charts path to $5 trillion economy milestone within few years: LG Sinha
Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday hailed the Budget 2026-27 as pragmatic which he said will prioritize economic acceleration, create future-ready infrastructure, sustain growth momentum, chart path to $5 trillion economy milestone within few years and comprehensive fiscal strategy will balance growth ambition with social welfare. Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and []
Union Budget: REC, PFC set for rejig to scale up power financing
As per industry officials, the announcement suggests a move toward modernising their business models, which may include better risk management and adoption of market-driven approaches.
Budget 2026: Two more years of easier duty on key inputs for electronics
The exemptions, which were due to expire in March, will now remain in place for another two years, according to the memorandum to the Finance Bill, 2026. The move removes the risk of near-term price increases that manufacturers had been weighing in case the benefits were to be withdrawn.
A Budget of Calibrated Ambition: Reading FY27 fiscal tea leaves
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget 2026-27 prioritizes stability and resilience. The fiscal deficit remains controlled, while capital expenditure sees a historic rise. Strategic sectors like electronics and biopharma receive a boost. The services sector, a key growth driver, gains renewed emphasis with tax reforms. Direct tax laws are simplified.
16th Finance Commission keeps states tax share at 41%
The Sixteenth Finance Commission proposes ending revenue deficit grants. States' share in divisible taxes remains 41% from April 1, 2026. A new criterion, states' GDP contribution, is added for fund distribution. Stricter fiscal discipline is advised for states. The Centre has accepted most recommendations, including vertical and horizontal devolution.
Build, India, Build: Govt assures backing for infrastructure developers
A new partial credit guarantee fund will support private developers. This will help lenders by reducing risks. Investments will flow into long-gestation and urban infrastructure projects. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated the fund aims to boost private sector confidence. This initiative will lower capital costs, making public services more affordable.
High-level panel to review bank ownership and consolidation for Viksit Bharat
A new committee will review India's banking sector. It aims to create fewer, larger banks. This will help fund big projects for India's growth. The panel will also look at ownership rules for private banks. This could attract more foreign investors. The goal is to align banks with India's vision for a developed nation by 2047.
Samrat: Ship repair centre in Patna to boost state economy
In a spirited show of support, Bihar's NDA leaders praised the newly unveiled Union Budget, marking its emphasis on infrastructure and manufacturing as pivotal for realizing a developed India by 2047.
View: Beyond basics, clear and present prudence anchors the Budget
The Union Budget emphasizes fiscal discipline and growth. It supports ease of doing business and living, boosting employment. Key initiatives target sunrise sectors and MSMEs. Investments in digital infrastructure, tourism, and healthcare are highlighted. Banking reforms and infrastructure project support are also planned. Public capital expenditure remains a priority for infrastructure creation.
Union Budget 2026: Urbanisation to reshape real estate growth
The Union Budget 2026-27 is set to transform India's real estate market. It will boost urbanisation and extend economic opportunities to cities beyond the largest metros. This budget focuses on developing regional economic hubs, integrating tier-2 and tier-3 cities. An allocation of 5,000 crore will improve urban infrastructure. This will support housing, retail, and hospitality sectors in smaller urban centers.
From tax terror to KISS: Why Budget 2026 gets the basics right
While the capital expenditure allocation has not increased sharply this year, it comes on the back of a multi-year expansion in public capex, which now stands at over 12.2 lakh crore for FY 202627
A Budget that strengthens base
The Budgets focus on rural resilience helps build a more dependable and sustainable demand base, rather than relying on short-term stimuli
Union Budget 2026-27: Business as usual with capex push, modest fiscal consolidation and risks
India's latest budget prioritizes fiscal consolidation with a gentle approach, focusing on capital expenditure to counter elusive private investment and geopolitical risks. The industrial strategy aims to boost electronics, support labor-intensive sectors against rising tariffs, and derisk critical supply chains. However, risks include state fiscal wobbles, potential disruption in rural employment schemes, and neglect of mega-city livability.
Budget 2026: Making India attractive hub for sustained investment
India's 2026 budget focuses on predictable growth. It aims to attract global investment with clear tax rules for technology and data centers. Manufacturing in critical areas like defense and advanced electronics is also a priority. Reforms simplify business operations. This strategy positions India for long-term growth and a key role in global supply chains.
Budget 2026: Manufacturing push, PLI schemes boost domestic production
India's new budget champions manufacturing, aiming to significantly increase its contribution to the nation's GDP. Key sectors like semiconductors, electronics, and textiles receive substantial funding. Initiatives like the Biopharma SHAKTI program and production-linked incentives are designed to build domestic capacity and reduce reliance on imports. This strategic focus supports job creation and economic growth.
Centre to go big on asset monetisation for collecting 80,000 cr under Miscellaneous Capital Receipts
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said 10 per cent of nominal GDP growth is realistic
Budget 2026 gives biologics & biosimilars a major policy boost
India is set to become a global biopharmaceutical manufacturing hub. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a dedicated 10,000 crore program over five years. This initiative focuses on biosimilars and biologics, crucial for treating non-communicable diseases. The move aims to boost manufacturing, regulation, and clinical trials, positioning India for future global competition.
Budget 2026: Customs relief extended for nuke rojects
Budget 2026: India's nuclear power ambitions receive a boost. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has extended customs duty exemptions on imports for nuclear projects until 2035. This move supports the nation's goal of increasing nuclear capacity significantly. Both large and small reactors will benefit from this policy. This encourages a cleaner energy future for India.
Finance Bill 2026 rewrites MAT rules, nudges firms to concessional tax regime
India's minimum alternate tax rules are changing significantly from April 1, 2026. The MAT rate will drop to 14%. New MAT credits will not be allowed. Companies can use old MAT credits, but only a quarter of their tax bill each year. This aims to simplify taxes and guide businesses to a lower 22% corporate tax rate.
Budget 2026: Revival of 200 legacy clusters on the anvil
In an exciting move, the government is unveiling a comprehensive plan aimed at rejuvenating 200 historic industrial clusters across the nation. With a substantial 3,000 crore budget earmarked for state-of-the-art plug-and-play industrial parks, this initiative promises to elevate infrastructure and technology, enhancing their competitive edge.
No coercion: Govt places greater trust on taxpayers in Finance Bill 2026
India Budget: The Finance Bill 2026 introduces significant changes to the Income Tax Act. Minor and technical tax offenses will no longer lead to criminal proceedings. Instead, these will be resolved through fines and penalties. This move aims to streamline tax processes and ease the compliance burden for businesses.
Budget 2026: Duty relief for exports to brave trade winds
In an effort to support its economy, India is slashing import duties on marine products and footwear, seeking to counterbalance tariffs imposed by the US. Additionally, the government is extending the timelines for exporters in the leather and textile sectors, allowing for improved financial management and reduced uncertainties.
India Budget: Customs overhaul to cut costs, boost manufacturing
India's Union Budget 2026-27 introduces a comprehensive customs overhaul, featuring duty relief for manufacturing and exports, and a single digital window for faster clearances. Measures aim to boost competitiveness in sectors like textiles and footwear, while rationalizing duties on strategic imports to enhance market access with the US.
Budget 2026 puts India on a new course with Rs 10,000 crore for containers & waterways
India plans to launch 20 inland waterways and boost local container manufacturing. A new scheme will support coastal cargo movement. This aims to reduce empty container imports and promote domestic production. Initiatives will also incentivize shifting cargo from road and rail to waterways.
Union Budget 2026: Railways gets fresh thrust with freight and bullet train corridors
India is set to develop seven new high-speed rail corridors spanning 4,000 km, aiming to significantly reduce travel times and promote sustainable transport. These ambitious projects, expected to attract 16 lakh crore in investments, will build upon existing bullet train experiences. The government also announced an East-West Dedicated Freight Corridor to enhance cargo movement.
Union Budget 2026: For investors, a boring budget is a beautiful thing
On budget day, investors and savers will notice that life goes on as usual. Despite some tweaks in tax regulations and the investment arena, there are no dramatic upheavals. The updates include slight modifications to the securities transaction tax affecting equity derivatives and capital gains on sovereign gold bonds. Meanwhile, the emphasis on nurturing a vibrant corporate bond market persists.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday rebutted Rahul Gandhi's criticism of the Union Budget, saying it focuses on MSMEs, farmers, women entrepreneurs, and rural workers amid global uncertainty. She said political criticism is welcome but must be backed by facts. Gandhi had termed the Budget blind to issues like unemployment, farmers' distress, and falling manufacturing.
Budget 2026: Prudent push for sustainable growth
The Indian budget aims for long-term economic growth, competitiveness, and future readiness. It focuses on strategic sectors like nuclear power, data centers, and semiconductors. Incentives are provided for manufacturing and global capability centers. The budget also supports MSMEs with a new growth fund. This plan offers a credible path to boost the economy.
Shivakumar also accused the Centre of weakening MGNREGA, ignoring farmers' concerns, and failing to revise sugar prices and MSP, warning that sugar factories in Karnataka are running at losses. He further questioned the Centre's focus on AI-driven initiatives, stressing that farmers' immediate needs and agricultural support should be prioritised over such projects.
Budget 2026-27 aimed at empowering poor and increasing farmers' income: PM Modi [Watch]
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the Union Budget 2026 will empower the poor, increase farmers' income and strengthen villages while boosting Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. Addressing a gathering in Jalandhar on Sant Ravidas Jayanti, Modi said the budget focuses on youth and women power. The budget was presented earlier in Parliament by FM Nirmala Sitharaman.
A strategic Budget for Indias future
This is a Budget that thinks about Indias future rather than short-term giveaways
Fiscal prudence coupled with sustained RAM focus
The Union Budget 2026 has announced incremental measures to strengthen Indias rural economy.
FM Sitharaman takes a shot at securing the future
Capex up 22% at 17.14 lakh cr; electronics parts manufacture allocation doubled to 40,000 cr; SME Growth Fund gets 10,000 cr; markets crash on higher STT on F&O
FM Nirmala Sitharaman said the New Income Tax Act would come into effect from 1 April 2026. She had proposed to overhaul the six-decade-old Income Tax Act of 1961 in her budget presentation last year. Here's all you need to know about the changes.
Budget highlights the imperative of an AI literate India
Indias semiconductor moment depends on capability, not just capacity
X down outage: What is going on with Elon Musk's Twitter?
Twitter down: There were more than 19,281 reports of issues with the social media platform 'X'.
Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, is gearing up for its digital premiere after a mixed theatrical run during the Christmas 2025 period. Directed by Sameer Vidwans, the romantic comedy revolves around a modern wedding planner whose practical approach to relationships is challenged when he crosses paths with a writer who believes in old-school romance. The film explores contrasting ideas of love, personal responsibility, and family commitments as their worlds collide.
How buyback taxation changes after Budget 2026
If the proposal in the Finance Bill, 2026 were to come into effect, buybacks will be taxed as capital gains itself
Seeds of change take root for dairy sector
Get ready for exciting initiatives like a major boost in veterinary services and cool tech tools, including a multilingual AI platform called Vistaar to help farmers level up their game
Union Budget 2026: Parliament gets an allocation of Rs 1,492
The Union Budget has allocated significant funds for Parliament's operations. The Lok Sabha will receive Rs 1,009 crore, covering staff, MPs' facilities, and Sansad TV. The Rajya Sabha is allocated Rs 482.99 crore for its secretariat, chairman, deputy chairman, and leader of the opposition. The Vice President's secretariat also receives funds for staff and expenses.
Why Bharat Vistaar must be built as foundational layer
S. Sivakumar advocates for Bharat Vistaar to provide farmers actionable insights, empowering them to make smarter decisions and increase earnings.
16th Finance Commission retains states devolution share at 41% till FY31
Finance Commission keeps states share, grants rise, GDP-based criteria added
From Lone Samurai to Thieves Highway: 5 action movies to stream now if you crave high-stake thrills
From elegant swordplay and meditative samurai combat to WWII tank warfare, buddy-cop chaos, and hard-edged revenge, these five action films offer a wide range of thrills. Spanning historical epics, war dramas, action comedies, and gritty modern shootouts, each pick delivers standout performances, striking visuals, and high-stakes storytellingmaking them strong streaming choices for viewers craving adrenaline in different forms.
Budget positions India deeper into global supply chains
This Budget re-empowers Indias global role, says Modi
Rs 3,400 crore allocated for Ministry of Minority Affairs
The Union Budget for 2026-27 earmarks Rs 3,400 crore for the Ministry of Minority Affairs. This represents an increase from the previous year's estimate. A significant portion, Rs 831.7 crore, is dedicated to educational empowerment for minority students. Central sector schemes and projects receive Rs 1,197.97 crore.
Restructuring PFC & REC to improve credit flows, execution discipline in power sector
The restructuring of Power Finance Corporation and Rural Electrification Corporation is a transformative move, say experts
Depository route for declarations, online route for relief
Budget 2026 seen driving cyclical growth, nominal GDP growth pegged at 10% for FY27: Morgan Stanley
The Union Budget 2026-27 is set to boost economic growth. Morgan Stanley reports the budget balances fiscal consolidation with growth support. Capital expenditure remains a focus, aiding near-term expansion and future capacity. The budget signals a strategic shift towards manufacturing, particularly in high-value sectors like semiconductors. Support for services exports aims to increase India's global trade share.
Budget allocation for 'control of pollution' increases
The Union Budget 2026-27 boosts funding for pollution control initiatives. Allocations for schemes like the National Clean Air Programme and the Central Pollution Control Board have seen increases. The budget also earmarks funds for Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage projects. This move signals a commitment to environmental protection and a green transition.
$2 trillion export goal within reach by 2032: Piyush Goyal
In an interview with businessline, the Minister highlighted the focus on labour-intensive sectors, boost to data centres and the services sector as well as a calibrated push for SEZ sales in the domestic market
A Reddit post has sparked debate after a restaurant manager claimed upper management pressured employees to report to work during severe winter storms, even suggesting they walk to work when roads were unsafe. With blizzard conditions disrupting travel and business sharply down, workers questioned the lack of empathy and safety considerations.
Iran warns of regional conflict if US attacks, designates EU armies 'terrorists'
Iran has warned of regional conflict if the United States attacks. This comes amid heightened tensions and increased U.S. naval presence in the Middle East. Iran also designated European Union armies as terrorist groups. This move is a direct response to the EU's earlier decision to label Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization.
Top 5 cities in India for real estate investment in 2026
Indias real estate market has seen a significant boom in the last 10 years. Its a perfect combination of development, and demand that make some cities stand out as prime investment centres.
We didn't protect Prez Trump: DoJ reveals stunning Epstein case details; Bill Gates, Musk named
Delhi receives Rs 1348 crore from MHA for 2026-27, same as last year's budget allocation
Delhi's budget for 2026-27 stands at Rs 1,348 crore, unchanged from the previous year. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta welcomed the allocation. Funds will support revenue and capital projects, including water infrastructure upgrades. A grant for 1984 riot victims and disaster response is also included. Delhi's connection to a high-speed rail network is highlighted as a significant development.
Budget blow for counter-terror data grid as NATGRID allocation drops 27%
National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) funding has been significantly reduced by 27.11% in the Union Budget 2026-27, with an allocation of Rs 108.98 crore. This marks a substantial decrease from previous years, suggesting a shift in expenditure towards operations rather than infrastructure enhancement for combating terrorism and internal security threats.
New Delhi, February 01: The Union Budget was announced today in Parliament by the Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman. Presenting a transformative roadmap for Indias education and skills ecosystem, the Finance Minister outlined key initiatives to promote the Orange Economy and strengthen the countrys creative industries. Highlighting the rapid growth [] The post Union Budget 2026-27: FM Nirmala Sitharaman Announces Major Boost for Orange Economy and Creative Education appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Focus on structural levers of farm income growth, support to MSMEs to sustain consumption tailwinds
Union Budget 202627 is not designed to stimulate consumption in the short term
Budget FY27: FMCG industry says focus on MSMEs, infra, rural demand to drive growth
Top executives said the budget reflects continuity and resilience, while avoiding short-term populism. They noted that measures such as MAT credit relief, higher public capex, focus on Tier II and III cities, and support for traditional medicine and AYUSH will create sustained demand tailwinds across rural and semi-urban markets.
Cess on pan masala to fetch Rs 14,000 cr in FY27
The government will collect Rs 14,000 crore from a new health and national security cess on pan masala in the next fiscal year. This cess, levied over the 40% GST, aims to create a dedicated resource for health and national security initiatives. The total tax incidence on pan masala will remain at 88%.
Custom duties rejig to promote domestic manufacturing, enhance export competitiveness
Experts pointed out that this will also result in lowering ofbarriersfor certain capital-intensive and technology-led exports from the US to India
Sectoral swings across the last nine Budgets
FMCG resilient, Financials sensitive and Oil & Gas lag
Budget 2026: Safe harbour threshold for IT services raised to 2,000 crore
The threshold for availing safe harbour for IT services is being enhanced from 300 crore to 2,000 crore
Missed declaring foreign assets? Budget 2026 offers a fresh start
The scheme proposes to allow students, young professionals, salaried employees, technology sector workers and people who have recently returned to India after living abroad to voluntarily declare foreign income and assets that were missed to be declared earlier
Global defence majors hail Rs 7.85 lakh crore defence budget, strategic tax waiver
The nearly 22 per cent hike in capital budget combined with the government's decision to scrap basic customs duty on components and parts for production of civilian and other aircraft is being seen by the industry as a major move.
As American retail store anchors fade, private clubs are taking over more commercial real estate
Affluent consumers are key to retail centers as the K-shaped economy hits lower-end shoppers hard, and that's leading the private club concept to more... As American retail store anchors fade, private clubs are taking over more commercial real estate
The Union Budget is set to boost India's maritime sector and inland waterways. A new Container Manufacturing Assistance Scheme will create jobs and reduce import dependence. Twenty new National Waterways will become operational, promoting greener cargo movement. Training institutes will enhance skills in the waterways sector. These initiatives aim to strengthen India's logistics and achieve self-reliance.
Centre expects Rs 3.16 lakh cr dividend from RBI, banks in FY27
The Centre anticipates Rs 3.16 lakh crore in dividends and surpluses from the RBI, nationalised banks, and financial institutions for 2026-27, a 3.75% increase. This, along with Rs 75,000 crore from public sector enterprises, contributes to an expected Rs 6.66 lakh crore in non-tax revenue for the next fiscal year.
Budget 2026 lifts aviation outlook, industry sees clear runway for growth
India's aviation sector welcomes the Union Budget 2026-27. Industry leaders find clarity and confidence in its focus on fiscal discipline and infrastructure. The budget supports long-term capacity building and sustainable expansion. Initiatives for air connectivity, domestic manufacturing, and tourism are highlighted. This budget signals a pragmatic approach for resilient and sustainable growth in the aviation industry.
Budget FY27 gives boost to high-speed, multimodal infra creation
Public capital expenditure proposed at 12.2 lakh crore in FY27 as allocations rise across roads, railways and waterways
Union Budget 2026: Govt extends nuclear power projects exemption till 2035
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced an extension of basic customs duty exemption for nuclear power project imports until 2035, supporting India's goal of 100 GW atomic energy capacity by 2047. The government also plans to establish Rare Earth Corridors in mineral-rich states to boost domestic capabilities and reduce strategic dependencies.
Leaders from poll-bound Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu slam Union Budget, Assam CM welcomes it
While Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman did not make any big-ticket announcements for the poll-bound states in her Budget speech, there were proposals for high-speed rail links for Chennai, an ecologically-sustainable mountain trail at Podhigai Malai in the Western Ghats and a rare-earth minerals corridor in southern states.
Cigarette prices have surged by at least 22-25 per pack following a new excise duty. Premium cigarettes will see an increase of 50-55 per pack. Distributors are billing existing stock at the new 40 percent GST rate. Revised MRPs are expected by month-end. This hike could encourage smuggling and impact honest retailers.
Exemption on drugs for cancer, rare disease: Patient-first or minimal benefits?
The proposal exempted 17 drugs from basic customs duty, reducing it from 5/10% to nil, and another seven rare diseases were exempt from import duties on personal imports of drugs, medicines, and Food for Special Medical Purposes
Not reporting crypto transaction will lead to daily penalty of 200
The proposed amendment seeks to rationalise the penal consequences under these provisions
Defence outlay increases by 22%, but stocks fall
This has positive implications for the defence industry, but the stock reactions have been negative
Defence budget up by unprecedented 15% at 7.84 lakh crore
Union Budget signals strategic defence focus with higher allocations across capital, revenue
Budget prioritises building clean energy value chain with BCD exemptions, rare earths corridor
The Centre aims to support Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu for creating dedicated rare earth corridors to promote mining, processing, research and manufacturing
PM rooftop solar scheme getsmoreto speed up implementation
The current budget allocation is 5,000 crore more than the revised estimates for 2025-26, and 2,000 crore higher than the budget estimate for that year
Budget 2026 boosts the foundation for sustained economic growth says Pawan Goenka
Goenka added that the simplification of tax processes, decriminalisation of compliance-related provisions, and GST rationalisation will ease adherence, improve predictability for businesses and encourage entrepreneurship
'Marriage is not an emergency': Techie says boss ignored his leave despite advance notice of wedding
A Reddit post by a tech employee has triggered widespread discussion after he claimed his managers dismissed his upcoming engagement and marriage as non-essential and asked him to continue working through the weekend. Despite informing the company months in advance and applying for leave, the request was reportedly ignored, exposing issues of poor planning and micromanagement.
Budget 2026: Govt eases compliance for NRIs selling property in India
Currently, when the seller of the immovable property is a non-resident, the buyer is required to obtain a TAN to deduct tax at source
How much one has to cough up for F&O trading
While the impact may be marginal for participants who trade less volume, those dealing in large volumes, such as high-frequency traders, could see a meaningful rise in their trading costs
According to the Income tax Department, a fee is imposed on the total income that has been filed during revised return
Tax penalties, prosecution rules eased
Under the Income Tax Act, 2025, prosecution rules in sections 473 to 485 and 494 are proposed to be reworked to make punishment lighter and more proportionate
