The Union Budget is a key event in India that impacts the country’s economy. In 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to present the budget on February 1, a Saturday at 11 AM. However, this is yet to be officially confirmed. Here is a quick look at what the budget presentation means and its key aspects.
Expected Date for Union Budget 2025
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will likely present the Union Budget on February 1, 2025 at 11 AM. This budget will be the second full one under the Modi 3.0 government and the eighth consecutive budget by Sitharaman. While the date is expected, an official confirmation from the government is still awaited.
Significance of Budget Timing
The Union Budget is usually presented on the first day of February. However, if this day falls on a weekend or a public holiday, the date may shift to a Saturday or another working day. In 2017, the government moved the budget presentation to February 1, instead of the traditional last working of February, to align with the new financial year, which starts on April 1.
Why Saturday Presentations?
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, the Union Budget is typically presented on Saturdays. This practice started in 2015 to allow Parliament more time for discussion and reduce delays in the process. For example, the 2015-16 budget was presented on February 28, and the 2016-17 budget was presented on February 27.
Stock Market and the Budget
On the days of the Union Budget presentation, the stock market will remain open. This allows investors to react immediately to any announcements made in the budget. The market will follow its regular trading hours to ensure smooth operation.
The Economic Survey
Before the Union Budget is presented, an Economic Survey is published. This document reviews the country’s economic performance over the past year and highlights key challenges. It also gives suggestions for future economies policies. The Chief Economic Adviser, Dr. V Anantha Nageswaran, is responsible for preparing the Economic Survey.