Budget 2026 Expectations Highlights: Income tax relief, customs changes, exports push in focus for FM Sitharaman’s ninth Budget

Budget 2026 Expectations Highlights: Union Budget 2026 is set to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at the end of this week on February 1, 2026. The Budget speech usually begins at 11:00 AM. This is reportedly the first time that the Union Budget will be presented on a Sunday. This year’s Budget comes at a time when the global economy is in a flux due to the trade and tariff war started by US President Donald Trump. FM Sitharaman’s Budget is being looked at to provide relief to export facing sectors to cushion the blow of 50% tariffs. Like every year, middle class and salaried taxpayers are seeking tax relief. There is also an ask for simplifying compliances and rationalising TDS and TCS requirements. Post Operation Sindoor, the defence sector budget is also in focus. Track TOI’s Budget coverage to know what all is being expected from FM Sitharaman’s ninth budget: