As the Union Budget 2026 draws closer, expectations across key sectors of the Indian economy are steadily rising. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers are urging the government to ensure that the upcoming budget goes beyond numbers and spreadsheets, and instead delivers practical, people-centric reforms that make everyday life easier while strengthening long-term economic growth.
With challenges such as an ageing population, rising healthcare costs, urban pollution, employment generation, and the transition to a technology-driven economy, stakeholders believe Budget 2026 is a crucial opportunity. Sectors like healthcare and AYUSH, electric mobility, battery manufacturing, startups, human resources, and critical minerals have placed clear demands before the government, calling for policy continuity, targeted incentives, and faster execution.
Healthcare and AYUSH: Focus on Prevention Over Cure
The healthcare and AYUSH sectors are strongly advocating a shift toward preventive healthcare, arguing that early intervention can significantly reduce long-term medical costs. Dr. Pratap Chauhan, Founder of Jiva Ayurveda, highlighted that government spending on healthcare remains limited compared to the country’s growing needs.
According to industry experts, systems like AYUSH and Ayurveda can provide cost-effective preventive care, reducing dependence on expensive treatments later. They believe that if Budget 2026 increases allocations for the Ministry of AYUSH, especially in areas such as research, digital health platforms, tele-AYUSH services, and healthcare startups, India could reduce its overall healthcare expenditure by 30–40% over the long term. Strengthening preventive care would also ease pressure on hospitals and improve overall public health outcomes.
E-Mobility and Clean Transportation: Making Green Travel Accessible
Rapid urbanisation has led to worsening air pollution and traffic congestion in Indian cities. Industry leaders argue that while current EV policies focus largely on private vehicles, the real impact lies in promoting shared and low-speed electric vehicles.
R.K. Mishra, Co-founder of Ecosystem Partnerships at Yulu, emphasized that shared EVs can significantly reduce emissions and traffic density. For Budget 2026, the sector is seeking GST simplification and wider subsidy coverage for shared electric mobility solutions. Such steps could help bring clean transportation within the reach of the common citizen and accelerate India’s transition to sustainable urban mobility.
Batteries, Swapping Infrastructure, and Energy Storage
Battery cost and availability remain the biggest barriers to widespread EV adoption. Muthu Subramaniam, MD of Yuma Energy, noted that affordable batteries are key to scaling electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, which form the backbone of India’s mobility ecosystem.
Industry players are urging the government to support domestic battery cell manufacturing, rationalise GST on batteries, and invest in battery-swapping infrastructure. These measures, if announced in Budget 2026, could dramatically lower EV prices and improve convenience for users, especially in urban and semi-urban areas.
Advanced Batteries and ‘Make in India’ Push
Beyond basic manufacturing, experts believe Budget 2026 should focus on advanced battery technologies, including R&D, recycling, and next-generation energy storage solutions. Samrath S. Kochar, CEO of Trontek Electronics Ltd, stressed that strengthening local manufacturing capabilities could position India as a global battery hub.
Support for innovation, recycling ecosystems, and sustainable supply chains would not only reduce import dependence but also create skilled jobs and export opportunities.
Startups, Technology, and Skill Development
India’s startup ecosystem, especially in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, and deep-tech, is calling for targeted tax reforms and employee-friendly policies. Raghu Pareddy, Founder and CEO of Wissen Technology, believes that reforms in ESOP taxation and startup incentives are essential to retain top talent and foster innovation.
Industry leaders want technology to be treated as a core economic driver, not just a support function. Budget 2026 could play a critical role by encouraging R&D, easing compliance, and enabling startups to scale globally.
HR, Labour Codes, and Employment Growth
According to Subramaniam S., CEO of AscentHR Technologies, India’s biggest employment challenge is not a lack of jobs but complex compliance systems. Simplifying and digitising labour codes could significantly improve hiring across sectors.
Budget 2026 is expected to address this by reducing administrative hurdles, enabling businesses—especially MSMEs and startups—to expand their workforce with confidence.
Critical Minerals and Mining: Building Self-Reliance
To support clean energy, EVs, and advanced manufacturing, India must secure access to critical minerals. Dr. Hanuma Prasad Modali, MD & CEO of Deccan Gold Mines Ltd, highlighted the need for faster project approvals, digital land banks, and import duty relief.
Industry experts believe Budget 2026 should focus on translating existing policies into on-ground execution, ensuring that India moves closer to self-reliance in strategic resources.
The Road Ahead
Across sectors, the common expectation is clear: Budget 2026 should be forward-looking, execution-focused, and inclusive. Rather than short-term announcements, industry leaders want long-term policy clarity that boosts confidence, attracts investment, and improves quality of life.
If these expectations are met, Budget 2026 could become a key catalyst in strengthening India’s economy and positioning the country for sustainable growth in the years ahead.
