Union Budget 2026 Explained: Who Gains, Who Loses & What It Means for You

The Union Budget 2026, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emphasizes infrastructure-led growth, manufacturing expansion, and MSME support, aiming to drive economic growth and job creation

Infrastructure and construction sectors are major beneficiaries, with significant capital expenditure allocated to roads, railways, and urban connectivity projects, boosting employment and business opportunities

MSMEs, crafts, and traditional sectors like khadi and textiles receive strong support through growth funds, easier credit access, and modernization schemes to enhance employment and exports

Strategic industries such as biopharma, semiconductors, and rare-earth processing are prioritized for investment, fostering job creation and deepening supply chains

Initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs and regional tourism development, particularly in the Northeast, aim to enhance economic participation and local economies

The budget introduces tax incentives for non-resident professionals, offering a five-year exemption on foreign income, benefiting NRIs working in India

Wealthy investors face tightened investment rules and increased taxes, including a doubled Securities Transaction Tax on futures and options trading, impacting speculative traders