FM Nirmala Sitharaman Tables Economic Survey in Lok Sabha

As India prepares for the Union Budget on February 1, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey of India in Parliament today.

Prepared by the Economic Division of the Ministry of Finance under the guidance of the Chief Economic Adviser, the Survey reviews India’s economic performance and key indicators for 2025–26 and presents an outlook for the next financial year. Sitharaman is scheduled to present the Union Budget on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

The second day of the Budget Session began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the media outside Parliament. In his remarks, he hailed President Droupadi Murmu’s address, delivered a day earlier, as an “expression of the confidence of 140 crore citizens,” noting that it outlined the aspirations of the youth.

The Prime Minister also welcomed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union, calling it a step towards an “ambitious India,” and urged manufacturers to take advantage of new global market opportunities.

What the Survey Typically Covers

The Economic Survey usually maps out the major economic themes, including GDP growth and demand trends, inflation and monetary policy signals, the fiscal position, external sector performance—such as exports, imports, and foreign exchange trends, and social indicators like employment, health, and education. It also features special chapters that highlight emerging policy priorities.

With markets on edge ahead of Budget day, investors closely track the Survey’s assessment of global headwinds, fiscal consolidation priorities, and sector-specific trends, as these often shape sentiment across equities, bonds, and the rupee. While the Survey itself does not announce policy measures, it frequently sets the narrative that influences Budget messaging and subsequent economic decisions.