The Economic Times

Manufacturing stuck at 14% for years; P Chidambaram slams Budget 2026, questions Modi govt's economic strategy

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram has strongly criticized the Union Budget 26. He stated the budget lacks a clear economic strategy. Key concerns include India's manufacturing sector remaining stagnant, a persistent unemployment crisis, and a slow pace of fiscal consolidation. Chidambaram also pointed out a significant cut in capital expenditure and a widening trade deficit with China.