Budget 2026: Middle Class Expectations- Tax Cuts Or Education Boost?

New Delhi: The Union Budget 2026 is going to be announced on February 1, and the number of headlines is increasing rapidly as the government's budget document comes out. This budget is not only being seen as a new economic agenda, but stakeholders from many sectors have also put forward their demands. From taxpayers to big industries, real estate to MSMEs, every section of society is keeping an eye on this budget, as it is expected that the new announcements will accelerate economic activity and also bring changes in the standard of living.

What are the tax slabs and expectations of the common man?

There is a strong discussion among the salaried class and the middle class about whether Budget 2026 can provide relief in the income tax slab or not. Experts say that the top tax slab limit of 30 percent can be increased to reduce the tax burden in view of rising inflation. If the upper slab is increased to Rs 30-35 lakh instead of above Rs 24 lakh, then this will bring more money into the hands of taxpayers living in cities, and the expenditure will also increase.

What do MSMEs and startups want from this budget?

Business organizations have put forward their demands strongly regarding the budget. Small and medium businesses (MSMEs) and startups want the budget to improve liquidity and have measures to reduce operating costs. They are calling for simplification of rules, ease of implementation, and making financial assistance more effective so as to increase their competitiveness in domestic and export markets.

What does the health sector expect?

Health sector experts suggest that there should be increased expenditure on healthcare in this budget. This will not be limited to just hospital facilities but will also include areas like digital health, telemedicine, and nursing and paramedical education. Providing tax benefits for health expenses to senior citizens and middle-income groups can help in reducing the health expenditure of the people.

What are the demands of the real estate sector?

The real estate industry has demanded several important policy supports from Budget 2026. The industry says tax relief, higher tax benefits on home loan interest, and expansion of funds to resolve stalled projects are necessary to boost demand for affordable housing. This will not only benefit home buyers but will also increase investor confidence in the real estate sector.

Will there be a roadmap for economic development in the budget?

Investors and market experts are considering this budget as providing stability and direction to the economy. Many analysts say that there is a need to strike a balance between fiscal discipline and growth while keeping inflation under control. For this, it will be necessary to increase capital expenditure and give new investment signals so that private sector investment is encouraged.

What are the expectations for government spending and investment?

Again in the budget, the media and industry are raising the point that the government should increase public capital expenditure and encourage private investment. This will improve infrastructure and provide new opportunities for employment generation.

Why is Budget 2026 special?

This budget will be the ninth Union Budget of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and will set an important economic direction for the country. Considering global uncertainties, domestic demand, and pace of development, this budget may prove to be decisive for many sections.