Preparing the Union Budget 2026 – 27 is one of the most complex and critical responsibilities of the Government of India. This key economic plan outlines nationwide spending, tax policy, and fiscal priorities for the coming year. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Budget in Parliament on 1 February 2026, marking her ninth consecutive budget presentation. Behind this massive exercise is a skilled team of officials from the Ministry of Finance who shape the policy, analyze data, and prepare the final budget document.
Finance Ministry: The Core of Budget Preparation
At the heart of the budget process is the Ministry of Finance, which coordinates inputs from central ministries, analyzes economic data, and drafts the final proposals. The process typically begins months in advance, with each ministry submitting its expenditure requirements and funding proposals. These requests are thoroughly reviewed and negotiated based on revenue forecasts, fiscal deficit goals, and broader economic priorities.
The Budget Division within the Department of Economic Affairs serves as the nerve center, crunching numbers and drafting major sections. Senior economists, tax experts, and policy specialists provide macro-economic projections and recommendations that shape the Budget’s assumptions on growth, inflation, and revenue.
Meet the Key Members of the Budget Team
A dedicated group of senior officials supports the Finance Minister in preparing Budget 2026 – 27. These experts oversee different aspects of the budget process:
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Anuradha Thakur – Economic Affairs Secretary. She plays a leading role in coordinating resource allocation and final document preparation.
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Arvind Shrivastava – Revenue Secretary. Responsible for revenue estimates and tax policy proposals.
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Vumlunmang Vualnam – Expenditure Secretary. Oversees government spending plans and expenditure allocations.
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M. Nagaraju – Financial Services Secretary. Focuses on banking, insurance, and financial sector reforms.
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Arunish Chawla – Secretary, Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM). Manages public asset strategies and privatisation frameworks.
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K. Moses Chalai – Secretary, Department of Public Enterprises. Manages public sector enterprises under government oversight.
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V. Anantha Nageswaran – Chief Economic Adviser (CEA). Provides macro-economic analysis and growth forecasts.
Together, this team forms a strategic “war-room” that assesses economic trends, evaluates fiscal choices, and ensures that the Budget reflects government priorities and economic realities.
