In political and working cadres, there are mixed reactions over Union Budget 2026-27. The ruling party welcomed the Budget for addressing issues of poor, youth, farmers and women while the Opposition criticised it calling a document of hollow promises. The Employees’ Forum has written a letter to Prime Minister and the Finance Minister demanding that the Union Budget 2026 be amended to include provisions for implementing the Eighth Pay Commission. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27, he said the Budget focuses on and will accelerate development while strengthening India’s position in the global economy. Key provisions for Madhya Pradesh include urban development, pilgrimage sites, women’s hostels, district hospital upgrades, textile sector reforms, PM MITRA Park and biopharma initiatives. Simplified income tax, a fiscal deficit target of 4.3%, AI research, manufacturing growth and tourism promotion will also benefit the State. He expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

 

Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Jagdish Devda termed the Budget a major step towards a developed India. He congratulated Prime Minister Modi and Finance Minister Sitharaman, saying the Budget will benefit fast-developing states like Madhya Pradesh. Highlighting allocations under Special Capital Assistance Scheme, he said the State may receive around Rs 15,000 crore, boosting infrastructure. The Budget also supports MSMEs, women entrepreneurship, AI research, healthcare, tourism and urban development. Simplified tax procedures, focus on youth and farmers and a projected 10% GDP growth were praised as progressive steps for inclusive growth. Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar slammed the Union Budget 2026–27, calling it a ‘document of hollow promises’ that ignores struggles of farmers, youth, labourers and middle class.

 

He highlighted farmers selling maize below cost, youth seeing little Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar slammed the Union Budget 2026–27, calling it a ‘document of hollow promises’ that ignores struggles of farmers, youth, labourers and middle class. He highlighted farmers selling maize below cost, youth seeing little benefit from startup schemes and MGNREGA workers still searching for employment. He also criticised lack of funds for Jal Jeevan Mission, no relief for salaried middle-class taxpayers and massive loan waivers for industrialists. Singhar said the budget prioritises big businesses over citizens, failing to address real challenges on the ground. Commoners remained unimpressed with the Budget. Disha Choukssey, a housewife, said there is nothing much for middle class and lower middle class people. I was looking for control on inflation. See the rates of cooking gas and pulses they are rising year after year. We were expecting more for us the middle class.