'Bold and inclusive': Sunil Mittal hails Union Budget 2026

Bharti Enterprises Founder and Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal welcomed the Nirmala Sitharaman’s ninth consecutive Union Budget 2026–27 on Sunday.

The industry tycoon described it as a bold and forward-looking exercise that blends economic growth with social inclusion while strengthening India’s long-term capabilities.

The Airtel-owner further said that the Budget’s strong push on skilling, coupled with sustained investments in science, innovation and research, comes at a crucial moment for the economy.


“A bold Budget that combines growth with inclusion. The strong emphasis on skilling, alongside sustained investments in science, innovation, and research are timely & will strengthen domestic capabilities, advancing import substitution in critical sectors,” he said.

According to him, these measures will help deepen domestic capabilities and reduce reliance on imports in critical sectors, aligning with India’s broader push for self-reliance.

He further noted the PM Modi-led Central government’s continued focus on infrastructure and logistics. “Bolstering infrastructure and logistics with a focus on energy-efficiency & impetus to data centre ecosystem will further reinforce confidence in our burgeoning digital economy.”

“Bharti remains highly committed to play its part in enabling technology-led growth, expanding financial inclusion, and accelerating future-ready education through Bharti Airtel Foundation to secure India’s talent dividend,” the business leader added.

The Union Budget 2026–27 presented on February 1 placed public investment at the centre of the government’s growth strategy, with capital expenditure raised to Rs 12.2 lakh crore for FY27.

The finance minister pitched this as a lever to crowd in private investment, strengthen infrastructure and support job creation amid global uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the Budget also sharpened focus on skilling and education, research and innovation, digital public infrastructure, and logistics efficiency.

Measures aimed at strengthening the data centre ecosystem, improving energy efficiency and supporting emerging technologies are intended to reinforce India’s position as a global digital and services hub.