Bharat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted with applause and accolades at the NDA parliamentary meeting on Tuesday following a landmark trade agreement between India and the US. The meeting, held at the Parliament complex, concluded with alliance MPs congratulating the Prime Minister for securing the deal, which promises immediate tariff relief for Indian exports. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, speaking after the session, welcomed newly elected BJP president Nitin Nabin and noted the visible enthusiasm among MPs over the recent trade developments. Chants of “Jai Modi,” “Vande Mataram,” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai” echoed through the hall as party members praised Modi for the landmark agreement with US President Donald Trump.

In this edition of 'To The Point', the big talking point is the political confrontation in Lok Sabha following Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s references to an unpublished memoir by former Army Chief General MM Naravane.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India’s 140 crore citizens are no longer content with being the world’s fastest-growing economy and want the country to become the world’s third-largest economy “as soon as possible.” He said the Union Budget gives equal importance to multiple sectors and lays the groundwork for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Highlighting Nari Shakti, Modi praised Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, calling the Budget historic for underscoring India’s commitment to women’s empowerment. “As a woman Finance Minister, Nirmala ji has set a new record by presenting the Union Budget for the ninth consecutive time,” the Prime Minister said, lauding her leadership and consistency.

On this special broadcast of the Business Today show on India Today, Shweta Singh and Rajdeep Sardesai analyze the expectations and political symbolism surrounding the Union Budget 2026. Shweta Singh highlights the significance of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s attire, noting, 'She's wearing a hand-woven Kanjiwaram saree, sending a message to Tamil Nadu.' The discussion delves into the shift from 'Dream Budgets' to a long-term vision for 'Vixit Bharat 2047'. Rajdeep Sardesai questions the translation of intent into ground-level action, particularly regarding deregulation and the fiscal health of states. Guest Shankar Iyer critiques the slow pace of labor reforms and the persistent 'Tax Inspector Raj' affecting MSMEs. The panel also examines the 16th Finance Commission's role in addressing the North-South divide and the impact of upcoming state elections on fiscal policy. The programme concludes with observations on how the government’s 'reform express' faces challenges in sectors like power and ease of doing business despite a decade of intent.

In this India Today special report, Maria Shakil leads coverage as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present her ninth Union Budget. For the first time in 75 years, the Finance Minister is expected to read 'Part B' of the budget speech in its entirety, focusing on custom reforms and deregulation. The government aims to balance CAPEX-led growth with consumption relief while emphasizing digital transformation through a tablet-based 'Bahi Khata' at the new Kartavya Bhawan. Key discussions include potential tweaks to the Security Transaction Tax (STT), recalibration of capital gains tax, and increased allocations for PM Awas Yojana and Ayushman Bharat. Union Minister Piyush Goyal provides insights into India's trade deal with the European Union. Analysts examine the 'K-shaped' economy, global headwinds, and the role of cooperative federalism in driving labor-intensive manufacturing. The program also highlights the participation of women in the budget drafting team to address household economic concerns ahead of crucial elections in five states.

On this special broadcast, Rajdeep Sardesai discusses the historic significance of the Union Budget 2026 as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present her ninth consecutive budget, surpassing Morarji Desai's consecutive record. Sardesai notes that this occurs 'at a time of uncertainty and global headwinds.' Business Today TV Head Siddharth Zarabi joins the discussion, highlighting a potential 'fundamental change' in the budget's structure, specifically regarding Part B, which may shift toward a long-term vision for 'Viksit Bharat' rather than just taxation changes. The panel, including Shailender Bhatnagar and Abha Bakaya, analyzes market expectations amid lackluster trade and global political shifts. The program also announces the National Stock Exchange as the new prime sponsor for the network's market shows. The discussion focuses on whether the government will provide a 'major reform push' to incentivize private CAPEX and boost consumption to maintain India's robust growth trajectory in a challenging global environment.

On this broadcast, economist Sanchita Mukherjee analyses the expectations and strategic direction of the Union Budget. Mukherjee highlights the importance of fiscal consolidation and execution, stating, 'The tiger lies low, not in fear. The tiger lies low when it's taking in .' She emphasizes that while India's macroeconomic parameters remain pristine, the challenge lies in attracting FDI and translating education into productive skilling and job creation. The discussion covers the need for public-private partnerships to mitigate regulatory risks and the importance of simplifying execution to cut through red tape. Mukherjee also suggests enhancing agricultural productivity through credit guarantee schemes similar to the MSME sector and proposes aggressive asset and gold monetisation to fund urban infrastructure. The transcript further explores the role of women in the budget drafting team, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and DEA Secretary Anuradha Thakur, noting how female participation influences social sector allocations and household budget concerns.

On this Special Report, Maria Shakil and Piyush Mishra analyze the expectations surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 13th budget. Maria Shakil highlights the consistent rise in social sector spending, noting that 'the projection is 73K, it is likely to go up again' for the Awaas Yojana residential scheme. Piyush Mishra, reporting from Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's residence, details potential reforms including a 50% hike in Kisan Samman Nidhi from ₹6,000 to ₹9,000 and a reduction in the Ayushman Bharat age limit from 70 to 60 years. The discussion covers the transition from the traditional briefcase to the digital budget and the political significance of these schemes ahead of assembly elections in five states. The bulletin outlines the customary pre-budget schedule, including the Finance Minister's meeting with President Droupadi Murmu before tabling the budget in Parliament at 11 AM, with a focus on providing relief to the common man and salaried individuals through increased standard deductions.

On this India Today special report, Maria Shakil provides live coverage as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present her ninth Union Budget. Maria Shakil notes that 'This budget is therefore not just about numbers, it is about direction,' highlighting the critical choice between CAPEX-led growth and consumption relief. The bulletin details a historic shift where the Finance Minister will present the budget on a Sunday and place unprecedented emphasis on 'Part B' of her speech, focusing on significant custom reforms and deregulation. With the Economic Survey projecting growth between 6.5 to 7 percent, the broadcast explores whether the government will maintain fiscal discipline amidst political pressure from five poll-bound states, including West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Reporter Karishma Asudani joins from the new Finance Ministry venue at Kartavya Bhavan, suggesting that the 2025-2026 fiscal year will prioritize simplifying import tariffs and strengthening international trade deals to accelerate India's journey toward the 'Viksit Bharat 2047' goal despite global uncertainties and a record low rupee.

On this Special Report, the focus is on Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as she prepares to present her ninth straight Union Budget, notably the first to be held on a Sunday. The budget aims to lay down a roadmap for 'Viksit Bharat' through tax reforms and a significant growth push amidst global uncertainties and Trump tariffs. Union Minister Piyush Goyal, in an exclusive conversation with India Today regarding the India-European Union trade agreement, stated, 'India has the potential and 140 crore Indians today have made it a collective vision to make India developed and prosperous nation by 2047.' The programme highlights that while government revenues and support for MSMEs remain challenges, capital expenditure on infrastructure and sops for poll-bound states are expected to be the centerpiece. The discussion explores the holistic vision of a developed India and the potential outcomes of the trade deal with the EU.

This news bulletin provides an inside scoop on the upcoming 2026 Union Budget, which sources suggest will be unique compared to those of the last 75 years. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present a record ninth budget tomorrow, with a significant pivot expected in the presentation style. Unlike previous years where Part A held the most detail, this budget is expected to see a detailed Part B, focusing on both short-term and long-term goals. The speaker notes that 'Part B of the will play a strong emphasis on both short-term and long-term goals', reflecting the government's strategic vision. The shift acknowledges that indirect tax matters are now handled by the GST Council, allowing the budget to serve as a medium-to-long-term statement of intent. The programme highlights how this aligns with the Vixit Bharat goal and India's aspiration to become the world's third-largest economy.

In this special report, former Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha joins Maria Shakil to decode the health of the Indian economy ahead of Budget 2026. Sinha hails the recently signed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement as the 'mother of all deals', predicting it will significantly boost employment in sectors like textiles. He provides a detailed breakdown of India's GDP, noting that the private sector accounts for two-thirds of economic activity. Sinha outlines the vision for 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, explaining how the income pyramid is shifting as more households move from the 'Aam Janata' category into the middle and global classes. Addressing concerns over jobless growth, he cites stable unemployment rates and rising EPFO subscriptions as evidence of formalisation. Sinha also discusses the impact of AI and the necessity of increasing productivity to compete with global economies like China and the United States.

On this Special Report, host Maria Shereen decodes the significance of the traditional 'halwa ceremony' ahead of the Union Budget. Former Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha highlights the shift in India's fiscal landscape, stating, 'The mirchi of taxes has become the sugar of these budgets' due to revised tax slabs and GST simplification. The panel, featuring economist Professor Arun Kumar and Gaurav Vallabh of the PM’s Economic Advisory Council, debates the impact of tax relief on the middle class versus the unorganised sector. Sinha emphasizes that India is currently in a 'Goldilocks zone' with steady 7% growth and low inflation. The discussion further explores anticipated hikes in the defence budget following 'Operation Sindoor' and the need for self-reliance in production. The experts also deliberate on rural employment schemes, agricultural productivity, and the necessity of increasing R&D expenditure to compete globally. The programme provides a comprehensive outlook on the economic priorities and fiscal space available for the upcoming financial year.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the ongoing investigation into the phone tapping case in Telangana involving former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR). The BRS chief has sought a fresh date for his examination by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), stating in a written reply that he is 'unable to appear on Jan 30th as directed in the notice, as it is the last date for filing nominations to elections for 150 municipalities and seven municipal corporations.' KCR cited his preoccupation with issuing authorizations to party candidates as the reason for his absence. The case involves allegations that the previous BRS government breached the privacy of politicians, celebrities, and businessmen. While the Congress government maintains that strict action will be taken against those responsible, the BRS has dismissed the allegations as a 'time lapse' and political vendetta. The SIT, led by the Commissioner of Police, is expected to issue a new date for the former Chief Minister's statement recording.

In this special report, Chief Economic Advisor Dr. V. Ananta Nageshwaran discusses the Economic Survey 2025-2026 following its tabling in Parliament. Speaking with Siddharth Zarrabi, Neha Batam, and Maria Shakeel, Dr. Nageshwaran highlights the 'reform yatra' and the synergy between Union and state governments in deregulation. He notes, 'We are prepared and that's it' regarding global geopolitical turbulence, emphasizing that preparation is an ongoing process. The discussion covers the impact of trade deals with the European Union, the potential for job creation in labour-intensive sectors, and the role of Artificial Intelligence in India's growth. Dr. Nageshwaran also addresses the Indian rupee's competitiveness, suggesting that a weaker currency currently benefits manufacturing exports. He provides insights into the upcoming overhaul of macro statistics and the reliability of India's statistical systems amidst international scrutiny. The programme explores the priorities of the Indian economy as it moves towards the goal of Viksit Bharat.

In this India Today exclusive, Chief Economic Advisor Dr V Ananta Nageshwaran discusses the Economic Survey 2025-2026 following its tabling in Parliament. Speaking during an exclusive conversation with India Today TV, Dr Nageshwaran highlights the 'reform yatra' and the synergy between Union and state governments in deregulation. He notes, 'We are prepared and that's it' regarding global geopolitical turbulence, emphasising that preparation is an ongoing process.

This special report examines the India Today-CVoter 'Mood of the Nation' January 2026 poll results, where panelists discuss findings suggesting a consolidation for the NDA, which is projected to win 352 seats if Lok Sabha elections were held today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintains a 57% approval rating, reflecting a perceived political stability despite global turbulence. In contrast, the INDIA alliance is projected to slip to 182 seats.

Bands of the Army, Navy, and Air Force and paramilitary enthralled the audiences with an array of foot-tapping melodies, including 'Vande Mataram', 'Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja', 'Vijay Bharat', 'Sitare Hind' and 'Brave Warrior', at the Beating Retreat ceremony at Delhi's Vijay Chowk on Thursday.

In this Special Report, the focus is on the tabling of the Economic Survey 2025-26 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address at the start of the Budget Session. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the survey in the Lok Sabha, projecting a robust GDP growth of 7.4% for FY26. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, stating, 'In the beginning of this quarter, the free trade agreement between India and the European Union is a glimpse of how bright the future of the youth of India is.' The Prime Minister emphasized that the next 25 years are crucial for achieving the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047' and noted that India is now on the 'reform express.' The bulletin also covers the political friction in Parliament, with the opposition demanding a rollback of the G. Ramji law while the BJP accused them of disrespecting constitutional traditions. The survey highlights fiscal prudence, with the deficit met at 4.8% of GDP.

On this Special Report, the focus is on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at the commencement of the Budget Session. The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of the current era, marking the start of the second quarter of the 21st century and the journey towards a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. He lauded Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for her historic achievement, stating, 'Nirmalaji is the first woman Finance Minister who is going to present the budget in the country's Parliament for the ninth consecutive time.' PM Modi emphasized the 'Reform, Perform and Transform' mantra, noting that India has now boarded the 'Reform Express.' He specifically mentioned the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement as a 'mother of all deals' that opens vast markets for Indian manufacturers, urging them to prioritize quality to win global hearts. The Prime Minister concluded by calling upon all Members of Parliament to prioritize constructive solutions over disruptions to ensure last-mile delivery of government schemes.