Sitharaman tables Economic Survey ahead of crucial Union Budget

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey in Parliament on Thursday, ahead of the Union Budget on Sunday, offering the first official snapshot of the government’s reading of the economy.

Traditionally seen as the intellectual scaffolding for the Budget, the survey lays out the macroeconomic context, policy priorities and risks that frame the government's fiscal choices.

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Prepared by the Chief Economic Adviser’s office, the survey takes stock of growth, inflation, employment, fiscal health and external balances, while also flagging structural challenges confronting Asia’s third-largest economy.

It blends data-driven assessment with policy signalling, often telegraphing the government’s thinking on reforms, spending priorities and the balance between growth and stability.

This year’s document is expected to have particular emphasis on domestic demand resilience, capital expenditure-led growth and the need to strengthen manufacturing and exports amid global uncertainty. It is also seen to assess the impact of geopolitical tensions, tighter global financial conditions and shifting trade patterns on India’s medium-term prospects, while underscoring the importance of macroeconomic prudence.

The Budget Session of Parliament formally got underway on Wednesday with President Droupadi Murmu’s customary address to a joint sitting of both Houses.

In her speech to lawmakers assembled in the Lok Sabha chamber, the President framed the year ahead as pivotal for India’s march toward “Viksit Bharat” — a developed nation — spotlighting priorities such as social justice, inclusive growth, national security and infrastructure development.

All eyes now turn to Sunday’s Union Budget, where the finance minister will translate the survey’s diagnosis into policy action.