The Aryavarth Express
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna on Sunday expressed optimism about the Union Budget 2026, saying he expects it to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” and meet the expectations of all sections of society.
Speaking ahead of the Budget presentation, Khanna said the extensive consultations held by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with various sectors, industries and state governments would ensure a well-balanced outcome. “I believe the concept of Modi ji is one that will satisfy everyone — ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.’ After consultations with all sectors and states, the decisions taken will certainly fulfil our aspirations and expectations,” he said.
The minister also lauded the Centre for extending substantial financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh under the ‘Special Assistance to States’ scheme. “Uttar Pradesh has received significant funds under the scheme, and we are utilising them effectively. We hope this Budget will be very beneficial for the state,” Khanna added.
Meanwhile, ahead of the Union Budget presentation in Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday offered ‘dahi-cheeni’ (curd and sugar) to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at Rashtrapati Bhavan, a traditional gesture considered auspicious.
Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary was also present during the meeting, where Sitharaman was seen discussing the broad contours of the Budget proposals with the President. The Finance Minister arrived carrying her trademark ‘bahi-khata’—a tablet wrapped in a red cloth bearing the national emblem.
Senior officials accompanying Sitharaman included Chief Economic Adviser Dr V. Anantha Nageswaran, Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Ravi Agrawal and other officials from the Finance Ministry.
Sitharaman is set to present her ninth consecutive Union Budget at 11 a.m. in the Lok Sabha, equalling the record of former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and surpassing that of Pranab Mukherjee. Former Prime Minister Morarji Desai continues to hold the record for presenting the highest number of Union Budgets in independent India.
The Finance Minister will present the statement of estimated receipts and expenditure of the Government of India for the financial year 2026–27.
