The Economic Times

Budget 2026 unlikely to see a hike in personal income tax slab rate as govt bets on widening the base

India's direct tax strategy is shifting towards broader participation and better compliance, not rate hikes, according to the Economic Survey. Expect stability and fewer surprises for taxpayers in Budget 2026. The focus is on system clean-up and nudges over notices, encouraging voluntary compliance and simplifying tax administration for a growing taxpayer base.