UnionBudget 2026 : Focus on curbing inflation, providing relief to the kitchen by the government

The country's attention is focused on the upcoming 2026 Union Budget, with indications that the central government's main focus in this budget will be on curbing rising inflation and providing relief to the common man's kitchen. Due to global economic uncertainty, fluctuations in international markets, and domestic demand directly affecting the prices of food grains and essential commodities, controlling inflation has become a major challenge for the Ministry of Finance.

Against this backdrop, the government may consider increasing food subsidies and reducing import duties on essential goods to keep food prices stable. This is expected to provide relief to middle-class and low-income families from rising prices. The government is likely to take active steps to curb price increases on essential items such as pulses, edible oils, rice, and wheat. A significant provision may be made in the 2026 budget to continue the uninterrupted supply of free food grains to the poor under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). This scheme has ensured food security for millions of poor families, and the government will continue to focus on strengthening it in the future. Additionally, a separate fund is likely to be announced to strengthen the infrastructure of the Public Distribution System (PDS) by improving warehouses, transportation systems, and technology.

The government may take a reassuring decision regarding cooking gas and fuel prices, which directly affect the household budget. If the excise duty on petrol and diesel is reduced, transportation costs may decrease, helping to control inflation. Additionally, there is talk that the government is considering increasing the gas subsidy under the Ujjwala scheme to provide relief to rural and poor women. To keep the prices of pulses and edible oils under control, the government has the option to reduce or temporarily eliminate import duties. Along with this, effective management of buffer stocks will be done to bridge the gap between domestic production and demand. The government appears to be taking vigilant steps to ensure that the impact of international market price increases does not affect Indian consumers.

There will also be an emphasis on improving the supply chain to reduce inflation. It is likely that increased loans will be announced under the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund to expand cold storage, warehouses, and storage facilities. If the wastage of fruits and vegetables is reduced, the supply in the market will increase and help keep prices stable. Additionally, the government may consider the option of changing the income tax slabs to provide relief to the middle class. Tax concessions will leave more money in people's hands, increase purchasing power, and thus boost the economy. Overall, the 2026 budget is expected to balance inflation control, food security, and inclusive development, as economic experts believe.