Parliament’s Budget Session 2026 to Begin on January 28, President Murmu Approves Summoning

New Delhi, Jan 2026 : President Droupadi Murmu has approved the summoning of both Houses of Parliament for the Budget Session 2026, following the recommendation of the Union government, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced on Friday. The crucial session will begin on January 28, 2026, and is scheduled to continue until April 2, 2026, marking a key phase in the government’s legislative and economic agenda.

In a post on social media platform X, Rijiju stated that the Budget Session will be held in two phases. The first phase will run from January 28 to February 13, after which Parliament will adjourn to allow standing committees to examine budgetary proposals in detail. The second phase will commence on March 9 and continue until April 2, during which the remaining legislative business, including the passage of financial bills, will be taken up.

The session is expected to open with President Murmu’s address to a joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on January 28. The President’s address traditionally outlines the government’s priorities, policy direction, and vision for the coming year, setting the tone for debates during the session.

According to reports, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to present the Union Budget for the financial year 2026–27 on February 1. Notably, February 1 falls on a Sunday this year, making it a rare instance that would require special logistical and procedural arrangements. The Union Budget is the most significant financial statement of the government and is expected to focus on economic growth, fiscal discipline, and policy measures to address emerging challenges.

Ahead of the Budget presentation, the Economic Survey—an annual document reviewing the state of the economy—is expected to be tabled in Parliament on January 29 or 30. The survey provides a comprehensive assessment of macroeconomic trends, sectoral performance, and future outlook, forming the analytical foundation for the Budget.

Rijiju emphasised that the two-phase structure of the Budget Session is designed to facilitate meaningful debate and people-centric governance. The break between the two phases allows parliamentary committees to scrutinise expenditure proposals and policy initiatives in depth, strengthening legislative oversight.

The upcoming session assumes added significance as the government seeks to balance economic expansion with fiscal consolidation, while addressing concerns related to infrastructure development, employment generation, sustainability, and social welfare. Lawmakers from across the political spectrum are expected to participate in extensive discussions on taxation, public spending, and reforms.

With President Murmu’s formal approval, preparations for the Budget Session are now underway, setting the stage for one of the most important parliamentary exercises of the year and a packed legislative calendar in the weeks ahead.