India’s economic sectors are buzzing ahead of the February 1 Budget 2026-27 unveil. Real estate, vital for common citizens, share markets reeling from global woes, and groups like women and elderly are pinning high hopes. Conversations with specialists reveal targeted reforms needed.
Govind Agarwal from Eastern Bihar Industries emphasizes real estate’s massive role—7% GDP share and top employment post-agriculture. He wants the affordable housing threshold lifted from Rs 45 lakh to Rs 75 lakh, reflecting current realities. GST input credit denial inflates builder costs, passed to buyers; granting it would make homes cheaper.
Expectations include repo rate cuts and enhanced tax deductions on home loans, fueling a mid-segment housing surge.
Pradeep Jhunjhunwala, a local CA-economist, insists the budget reach the masses. Seniors merit expanded TDS exemptions and tax-free slabs. Real estate deductions should hit Rs 1 crore; long-term capital gains relief to Rs 5 lakh would invigorate savings into property and stocks.
Bhagalpur’s handloom, textiles, farm-based units, and tourism need focused allocations for local revival.
Stock volatility, blamed on US tariff tensions by CA Sanjay Sakl, demands LTCG tax rollback from 12.5%. Investors fled after hikes from nil; reversal could spark a market rally.
Priya Soni, a woman business owner, praises self-reliance drives but seeks grassroots awareness via simple campaigns. Aid under maternity and nutrition schemes lags inflation—time for upgrades. Crucially, provide marketing networks and women-only marketplaces to scale enterprises.
This budget holds potential to address sectoral distress, empower the overlooked, and steer India towards balanced prosperity.