Budget to fix manufacturing stagnation, reach fiscal deficit targets? Panel debates

This special News Today edition covers Pakistan's decision to boycott its T20 World Cup match against India following Bangladesh's withdrawal. The program features analysis by Sunil Gavaskar regarding potential ICC sanctions. The coverage transitions to a detailed breakdown of Union Budget 2026 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Key highlights include a 15% increase in defence spending, a capital expenditure reach of 12.2 lakh crore, and a 22-year tax exemption for data centres.

A 'Budget Face-Off' between Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Professor Dr. Gaurav Vallabh examines the fiscal deficit reduction to 4.3% and manufacturing stagnation at 12.8%. Panellists including Amitabh Kant and Dr. Surjit Bhalla discuss private investment challenges, Trump tariffs, and IMF data positioning India as a top global GDP contributor. The report concludes with Moody's Ratings on India's fiscal consolidation and sovereign credit profile amidst global trade shifts and the push for Atma Nirbharta in manufacturing.