As Budget Week kicks off, anticipation builds for the Economic Survey 2026, India’s key annual economic review, scheduled for presentation in Parliament on January 29. Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran will table the document before both Houses at 11 a.m., setting the stage for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Union Budget speech on February 1.
This survey offers a comprehensive snapshot of India’s economic health, analyzing growth trajectories, inflation patterns, employment trends, trade dynamics, and fiscal balances. It evaluates sector performances in agriculture, industry, services, and infrastructure, while flagging challenges like job concerns, inequality, and global risks amid resilient domestic consumption. Policymakers, markets, and analysts scrutinize it for cues on upcoming fiscal priorities, as it shapes debates without announcing new policies.
Budget Session Timeline
The Budget Session commenced on January 28 with President Droupadi Murmu’s joint address to Parliament, running until April 2 as announced by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. Key dates include:
January 28: Session begins.
January 29: Economic Survey 2026 presented.
- February 1: Union Budget unveiled by Nirmala Sitharaman, her ninth consecutive presentation.
- April 2: Session concludes.
This timeline underscores the survey’s role in framing Budget themes, with optimism around consumption (35.6% of surveyed respondents) and political stability, tempered by worries over employment and external shocks.
Viewing and Access Options
Live coverage streams on Sansad TV, Doordarshan channels, and Parliament’s official YouTube handles, with updates via CNBCTV18, its website, Finance Ministry platforms, and PIB social media. Post-presentation, the full PDF releases on indiabudget.gov.in, activating the dedicated link for downloads.
Why It Matters
The Economic Survey drives transparency, highlighting reform needs and growth opportunities ahead of FY27 planning. As India eyes 6.6% growth in 2026 despite global headwinds, it reinforces domestic demand as an anchor while urging focus on jobs and fiscal prudence. Stakeholders await insights that could influence capex, tax relief, and inequality measures in the Budget.
