Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to present the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 on February 1, 2026. This date aligns with the convention followed since 2017 to ensure timely implementation of the budget measures from April 1, the beginning of the new financial year. However, as February 1, 2026, falls on a Sunday, the final decision regarding the budget presentation date rests with the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs (CCPA). The CCPA is expected to meet soon to finalize the schedule.

While presenting the budget on a Sunday is uncommon, it is not unprecedented in Indian parliamentary history. Former Finance Minister Yashwant Sinha presented the budget on a Sunday, February 28, 1999. This session also marked a shift in the presentation time from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m., ending a long-standing British colonial-era tradition. More recently, Parliament has convened on weekends for important milestones and urgent legislative matters.

The February 1 tradition, established in 2017, allows the government sufficient time to scrutinize, pass, and implement the budget before the April 1 financial year begins. This early tabling ensures seamless fund allocation from the start of the fiscal cycle, preventing disruptions.

Ahead of the budget, the Finance Ministry is expected to release the Economic Survey, providing a clear view of the country's economic health. The Economic Survey tracks key indicators such as GDP growth, price movements, job trends, and the fiscal deficit. It also examines the performance of major sectors, including agriculture, industry, and services, and considers social welfare schemes, infrastructure progress, and global factors influencing India's economic outlook.

Market analysts and taxpayers are closely watching the CCPA's decision regarding the budget presentation date. If the Sunday presentation is confirmed, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) are anticipated to hold special trading sessions to react promptly to the Finance Minister's announcements, ensuring real-time market response.

In preparation for the Union Budget 2026-27, the Finance Ministry has already begun engaging with industry bodies. The PHD Chamber of Commerce submitted pre-budget suggestions to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, advocating for easier taxes, cheaper loans, and simpler rules to support the growth and global competitiveness of small businesses.