Experts explained the key provisions of the Union Budget 2026 in simple language during a panel discussion in Chandigarh.
Chandigarh, February 6, 2026:
The BJP Chandigarh Intellectual Cell organised a panel discussion on “Union Budget 2026: From Economic Policy to National Policy” on Friday, with the aim of explaining the Union Budget 2026 in a simple and accessible manner for common citizens.
The programme was held at Rajasthan Bhawan, Sector 33. It was organised by Dr Monika B. Sood, Convener of the Intellectual Cell, BJP Chandigarh, along with the cell’s core team. BJP Chandigarh President Jitendra Pal Malhotra attended the event as the chief guest.
Speaking to the media, Dr Monika B. Sood said the discussion was part of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s nationwide public outreach initiative. She said the objective was to connect Union Budget 2026 with the daily lives of citizens by explaining economic policies in clear and simple language.
Union Budget 2026 Focuses on Technology and Self-Reliance
During the panel discussion, speakers highlighted that the Union Budget 2026–27 places strong emphasis on technology-driven development, employment generation, innovation, and self-reliance. Dr Sood said the global balance of power is changing rapidly.
She explained that while wars 30 to 40 years ago were centred around oil and fuel, future global competition will revolve around semiconductors and control over data. She said semiconductors form the backbone of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.
Investment in AI, Semiconductors, and Education
Dr Sood said artificial intelligence will play a defining role in sectors such as defence, education, agriculture, healthcare, and medicine. She added that investment in semiconductor manufacturing and advanced technology has therefore become a strategic national priority under the Union Budget 2026.
To support this vision, the budget provides for setting up 15,000 advanced technology laboratories across the country. These laboratories will train students in AI, robotics, data science, gaming technology, and quantum computing. Special emphasis has also been placed on STEM education for girls, along with the construction of hostels in every district to ensure equal access to advanced technical education.
Infrastructure, Connectivity, and Economic Growth
The panelists said strong infrastructure is the foundation of economic growth and national strength. They noted that the proposed seven high-speed rail corridors and the operation of 20 national waterways will reduce logistics costs, connect Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and boost trade, tourism, and employment.
The speakers also highlighted the significant increase in defence exports under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, calling defence self-reliance a key factor in strengthening the economy and increasing GDP.
Support for Start-ups, MSMEs, and Employment
Budget provisions for start-ups and MSMEs were discussed in detail. Under the Union Budget 2026, an allocation of ₹10,000 crore has been made to strengthen MSMEs and SMEs, with the goal of promoting entrepreneurship among youth and generating employment.
Dr Sood said that under the Prime Minister’s Start-up Mission, around 1.4 lakh start-ups are launched every year. Although each start-up creates limited jobs, collectively they are generating millions of employment opportunities.
Healthcare and Traditional Medicine
Healthcare reforms were also a major focus of the discussion. Dr Sood said import duties on life-saving medicines have been removed, making essential drugs more affordable for citizens.
She also said that three AIIMS-level Ayurveda institutions will be established to revive India’s traditional systems of medicine. In addition, special financial provisions have been made under the ‘Bio-Shakti Mission’ to promote domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Panelists and Conclusion
The panel discussion was moderated by advocate and Chairperson of TiE Women, TiE Chandigarh, Pooja Nair. The panel included academician and entrepreneur Dr Dharinder Tayal, financial expert CMA Rakesh Bhalla, CA and LLB Naveen Kumar Soni, and TiE Chandigarh President Puneet Verma.
Concluding the discussion, Dr Sood said Union Budget 2026–27 is not a short-term exercise but a long-term roadmap for nation-building. She said the budget aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a global economic superpower. She urged citizens to better understand finance, technology, and the tax system, noting that the world is closely watching India’s rapid economic progress.
