Economic Survey 2026 Live Updates: PM Modi Says ‘Reform Express’ Gaining Speed Ahead of Budget 2026
New Delhi:
The Economic Survey 2026 was tabled in Parliament on Monday, setting the tone for the Union Budget 2026 and offering a detailed assessment of India’s economic performance, reform momentum, and future growth prospects. Ahead of the Budget presentation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India’s “Reform Express” is gaining speed and highlighted what he described as the “mother of all deals” with the European Union.
The Economic Survey, presented by the Chief Economic Adviser, provides a comprehensive overview of macroeconomic trends, sectoral performance, fiscal health, and key policy challenges facing the country. It serves as a roadmap for policymakers and a crucial reference point for investors, businesses, and analysts ahead of Budget Day.
PM Modi on Reforms and Global Engagement
Addressing the media before the start of the Budget Session, Prime Minister Modi said India is moving forward with confidence despite global uncertainties. “Our Reform Express is gaining speed. Structural reforms carried out over the last decade are now delivering results on the ground,” he said.
The Prime Minister also praised India’s growing engagement with global partners, particularly the European Union. Referring to the India-EU trade and investment negotiations, he termed the agreement the “mother of all deals,” underlining its potential to boost exports, technology transfer, and employment opportunities.
According to government sources, the deal with the EU is expected to significantly enhance India’s access to global markets while strengthening supply chains and strategic cooperation.
Key Themes of Economic Survey 2026
The Economic Survey 2026 highlights resilience in the Indian economy amid a challenging global environment marked by geopolitical tensions, inflationary pressures, and slowing growth in major economies. The Survey notes that India continues to remain one of the fastest-growing major economies, supported by strong domestic demand, public investment, and a stable financial system.
One of the key themes of the Survey is the role of sustained structural reforms in driving long-term growth. It emphasizes reforms in taxation, digital infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics, and financial inclusion as critical enablers of economic expansion.
The Survey also underlines the importance of macroeconomic stability, prudent fiscal management, and targeted welfare measures in maintaining growth momentum while protecting vulnerable sections of society.
Growth Outlook and Fiscal Position
According to the Economic Survey, India’s growth outlook for the coming financial year remains positive, supported by robust capital expenditure, improving private investment, and strong performance in services. Manufacturing and infrastructure are expected to benefit from continued government spending and policy support.
On the fiscal front, the Survey acknowledges progress in fiscal consolidation while noting the need to balance growth priorities with fiscal discipline. It highlights efforts to improve tax compliance, expand the tax base, and rationalize expenditure to ensure long-term sustainability.
Focus on Employment and Innovation
Employment generation remains a central focus of the Economic Survey 2026. The Survey stresses the need to align education and skill development with industry requirements, particularly in emerging sectors such as green energy, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and digital services.
Innovation and entrepreneurship are identified as key drivers of future growth. The Survey points to India’s expanding startup ecosystem, digital public infrastructure, and research initiatives as major strengths that can help the country move up the global value chain.
Green Growth and Sustainability
Another major highlight of the Survey is the emphasis on green growth and sustainable development. It outlines India’s progress toward renewable energy targets and climate commitments, while calling for increased private participation and technology adoption in the green transition.
The Survey notes that balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability will be critical in the coming years, especially as India pursues ambitious development goals.
Markets and Investor Sentiment
Markets and investors are closely tracking the Economic Survey for signals on policy direction ahead of Budget 2026. Analysts believe the Survey’s focus on reforms, infrastructure, and fiscal prudence indicates continuity in the government’s economic strategy.
The emphasis on global partnerships, including the EU deal, is also being seen as a positive signal for foreign investment and trade expansion.
Road to Budget 2026
As the country moves closer to Budget 2026, expectations are high for measures that support growth, boost employment, and strengthen India’s global competitiveness. The Economic Survey 2026 lays the groundwork for these expectations, highlighting both achievements and challenges.
With the government reiterating its commitment to reforms and global engagement, Budget 2026 is expected to build on the themes outlined in the Survey, focusing on inclusive growth, innovation, and long-term economic resilience.
