Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is making history today as she prepares to present the Union Budget 2026-27. This marks her 9th consecutive budget presentation, a feat that places her in an elite league of Indian finance ministers, second only to the legendary Morarji Desai in terms of total budgets delivered.
A Historic Milestone
By presenting her 9th budget today, Sitharaman surpasses the records of several predecessors and draws closer to Morarji Desai’s long-standing tally of 10. Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously described this achievement as a "matter of pride in India's parliamentary history," highlighting the continuity in India's fiscal policy under her leadership.
Morning Rituals: A Visit to Rashtrapati Bhavan
Following the long-standing tradition, the Finance Minister began her day by calling on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. During the meeting:
The Customary 'Dahi-Cheeni': President Murmu fed the Finance Minister curd and sugar, a traditional Indian gesture wishing success for the momentous task ahead.
The Digital 'Bahi-Khata': Outside Kartavya Bhavan, Sitharaman posed with her team, proudly displaying the digital tablet enclosed in a traditional red silk pouch the modern avatar of the colonial briefcase. P Lankesh Samagra kathegalu ಪಿ. ಲಂಕೇಶ್ ಸಮಗ್ರ ಕಥೆಗಳು Perfect Paperback – 1 January 2023
Cultural Statement: The Kanjeevaram Silk
Apart from the economic figures, Sitharaman’s sartorial choice has once again become a trending topic. To honor the weaving heritage of Tamil Nadu, she chose a handwoven Kanjeevaram silk saree.
Design Details: The saree features a purple kattam (checked) body with light golden-brown accents, a coffee-brown border, and a rich mustard-gold pallu.
The Message: Observers note that the choice subtly pays homage to her home state while promoting India’s indigenous handloom industry on a global stage.
What to Expect at 11:00 AM
The Finance Minister will deliver the speech in a paperless format starting at 11:00 AM in the Lok Sabha. Investors and the public are closely watching for:
Tax Slabs: Potential relief for the middle class under the new tax regime.
Infrastructure: Continued push for 'Viksit Bharat' with high capital expenditure.
Employment: New schemes for youth and rural development. Also Read: 'Heads Bowed in Shame': Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif Admits Disgrace Over Global 'Begging' for Loans