Ahead of the Budget’s preparation, the Finance Minister held a series of pre-Budget consultations with a wide range of stakeholders. These included economists, trade unions, representatives from the education and health sectors, MSMEs, trade and services, industry bodies, as well as participants from the financial sector and capital markets. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also conducted extensive consultations on agriculture and rural development and submitted a consolidated report of suggestions to the Finance Minister.

Ms. Sitharaman is set to present a record ninth consecutive Union Budget since assuming office in 2019. In her Budget speech, she is expected to outline the government’s revenue and expenditure priorities for the next financial year and present the broader economic roadmap, with emphasis on growth, employment generation and fiscal consolidation. Inputs from citizens, including youth, were also sought through various platforms during the Budget formulation process and are expected to be reflected in the proposals.

The Budget documents will be made available on the Union Budget Mobile App and the official website after the completion of the Finance Minister’s speech in Parliament. Following the presentation, Ms. Sitharaman will interact with around 30 college students from different parts of the country.

The Budget Session of Parliament, which commenced on January 28, will continue until April 2.