With the Union budget to be presented On Sunday, people from diverse backgrounds have different expectations from the Union Finance Minister. Some seek tax relief, others want to focus more on healthcare, while still others advocate reducing education costs.
“As a working professional, I hope that Union Budget The year 2026 will prioritize significant tax reduction and long-term economic security for wage earners. With inflation and daily expenses constantly increasing, rationalized tax slabs that actually reduce the burden on middle-income people will go a long way to improving disposable income and financial stability. Enhanced deductions for savings, insurance and retirement planning are essential to help employees plan with confidence for the future,” said Shivani Awalkanthe, a professional living in the Rasta Peth area.
“Access to affordable, quality healthcare should extend beyond members’ incomes, to households and homemakers. Strengthening healthcare Infrastructure and increased support for preventive care and health insurance will ease financial strain on families and ensure overall well-being.
“A balanced, people-centered budget focused on tax relief and affordable healthcare would strengthen household finances and contribute to a safer, more inclusive economy,” he said.
Monica Sharma, a resident of Kalyani Nagar, said, “I strongly believe that urban development in today’s fast-paced world must go beyond roads and buildings and focus on the physical and mental well-being of citizens. With the rise in stress, lifestyle disorders and mental health challenges in cities like Punethe Union Budget should prioritize preventive healthcare by supporting government-backed Ayurveda, yoga and wellness centers within residential neighbourhoods. These centers should be accessible at minimal cost or preferably free so that citizens of all economic levels can benefit equally. Services such as Ayurvedic consultations, natural therapies, meditation spaces and herbal gardens can help address stress, anxiety, fatigue and joint-related problems before they become serious health problems.”
He said there is also an urgent need for interactive science and learning centers for children, where young minds can explore, experiment and learn beyond screens and textbooks. These spaces, often seen abroad, encourage curiosity and innovation and should be affordable and inclusive.
Deepa Rangan, a homemaker and resident of Udhyam Nagar, Pimpri-Chinchwad, said, “Since our Prime Minister has been emphasizing on taking India to the top 3 in growth and development, I hope that the union budget will have more thrust on job creation, social security and also some tax-based incentives.”
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“If there is a greater allocation of funds, it will help strengthen capabilities, accelerate digital transformation and take care of the underdeveloped regions of the country.”
“It is also important that the budget puts more emphasis on AI-based learning platforms and cybersecurity training. Also, like the last budget, we expect the budget to put emphasis on Atal Tinkering Labs, which was planned over five years to foster innovation.”
“The budget should address the shortage of teachers, improve the quality of education and promote skill development. The budget should be in line with the National Education Policy and focus on aligning education with the demands of the future labor market. Simply put, the increase in allocation will only facilitate the creation and improvement of educational infrastructure, which will help schools provide a conducive atmosphere,” said Sahil Bista, an education expert.
From a woman’s point of view, the rising cost of education and healthcare remains a growing concern, said Divya Kontam, a resident of Sinhagad Road.
“Higher education is becoming increasingly expensive, often forcing families to limit opportunities for girls. The budget is expected to address this through better scholarships, fee controls and greater support for public education. Post-COVID, healthcare and health insurance have become essential rather than optional. However, high premiums and limited tax benefits remain a challenge. Women-focused health insurance reforms and greater tax relief are needed,” she said.
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“With the arrival of the Union Budget, the education sector is abuzz with expectations, especially in view of the challenges emerging on the ground almost every day.
“Like several people, I too believe that the budget should allocate more funds for the education sector given India’s ambition to become a global talent and education hub. If there is more allocation of funds, it will help strengthen skills, accelerate digital transformation which is the need of the hour and take care of the underdeveloped regions of the country,” said Sahil Bista, who works in the field of education.
“I hope that this year’s budget is per capita and that enough allocations are made for Health and Education as we will end up spending such a huge amount of our income on this. The general income tax and GST should be reduced so that the general public has more money to spend, which in turn will bring back some vitality to the markets,” said Yasmin Charania, a project consultant.