Panel discussion at Rajasthan Bhawan highlights AI labs, MSME growth, and healthcare reforms in the national vision
CHANDIGARH – The Intellectual Cell of BJP Chandigarh organized a high-level panel discussion titled ‘Union Budget 2026: From Economic Policy to National Vision’ on February 9 at Rajasthan Bhawan. The session was designed to demystify the fiscal roadmap for the general public, highlighting its focus on employment, self-reliance, and inclusive economic growth.
BJP Chandigarh President Jitender Pal Malhotra attended the event as the chief guest, while Dr. Monica B. Sood, Convenor of the Intellectual Cell, led the discussions alongside the cell’s core team.
“The programme was organised as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s nationwide outreach to demystify the Union Budget and connect economic policy with everyday life,” Dr. Monica B. Sood stated during a media interaction. “The panel discussion aimed at breaking down the key provisions of the budget in simple terms.”
Focus on Technology and Digital Sovereignty
A significant portion of the discussion centered on the shift in global power dynamics. Dr. Sood noted that while past conflicts were fought over fuel, the future would be defined by semiconductors and data control.
To address this, the Union Budget 2026 has allocated significant funding for the establishment of 15,000 advanced technology laboratories across India. These labs are intended to train students in AI, robotics, data science, and quantum computing. The budget also prioritizes STEM education for girls and proposes the construction of hostels in every district to ensure equitable access to technical training.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The panel, moderated by Advocate Pooja Nayar (Chairperson, TiE Women), discussed the role of robust infrastructure in national strength. Key highlights noted by the panelists included:
- Rail & Waterways: The proposed development of seven high-speed rail corridors and the operationalization of 20 national waterways to lower logistics costs.
- Defense Exports: A sharp rise in defense exports under the ‘Make in India’ initiative was cited as a primary driver of GDP growth.
Strengthening MSMEs and Healthcare
The panelists, including financial expert CMA Rakesh Bhalla and Puneet Verma (President, TiE Chandigarh), examined the ₹10,000 crore allocation aimed at strengthening MSMEs and SMEs. Dr. Sood highlighted that under the Prime Minister’s Start-up Mission, approximately 1.4 lakh startups are launched annually, acting as a major source of job creation.
In the healthcare sector, the discussion focused on the removal of import duties on critical life-saving drugs to enhance affordability. Furthermore, the establishment of three AIIMS-level Ayurveda institutions and the Bio-Shakti Mission were identified as pivotal steps toward pharmaceutical self-reliance.
The session concluded with an emphasis on the long-term nature of the fiscal plan. Dr. Sood characterized the Union Budget 2026 as a “future-building roadmap” aligned with the vision of transforming India into a global super economy, urging citizens to engage more deeply with finance and technology.
