Union Budget 2026: Nirmala Sitharaman announces three-Kartavya framework to accelerate economic growth

NEW DELHI: The Union Budget 2026 introduced a structured three-Kartavya framework to accelerate economic growth, fulfill citizen aspirations, and ensure universal access to resources. "This three-part approach aims to strengthen inclusivity and resilience, benefiting farmers, youth, women, disadvantaged groups, and every region through sustained reform momentum," said Union finance minister Nirmala SitharamanHere are the key points of the ambitious framework Kartavya No. 1: Economic Growth FocusThe first Kartavya emphasizes accelerating and sustaining economic growth by enhancing productivity, competitiveness, and resilience to volatile global dynamics.Kartavya No. 2: Capacity BuildingThe second Kartavya targets fulfilling people’s aspirations by building their capacity and enabling them to become strong partners in the nation’s prosperity path.Kartavya No.3: Universal AccessThe third Kartavya aims to ensure that every family, community, region, and sector has equitable access to resources, amenities, and opportunities for meaningful participation.During her address (ninth consecutive Budget speech), FM Sitharaman also set out a growth-focused roadmap announcing targeted interventions across six areas to accelerate and sustain the economy.She underlined the government’s reform drive, saying, "The reform express is running on its way and will maintain its momentum to help us fulfill our Kartavya." Under what she described as the first Kartavya, the government has identified six priority sectors to strengthen India’s economic foundation and support long-term expansion.These include scaling up manufacturing in seven strategic and frontier sectors, rejuvenating legacy industries, and creating champion micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). A strong infrastructure push, ensuring long-term security and stability, and developing city economic regions complete the list.Alongside structural reforms, Sitharaman announced major transport and sustainability measures. "In order to promote environmentally sustainable passenger systems, we will develop seven high-speed rail corridors between cities as growth connectors, namely Mumbai to Pune, Pune to Hyderabad, Hyderabad to Bengaluru, Hyderabad to Chennai, and Chennai to Bengaluru. Delhi to Varanasi, Varanasi to Siliguri," she said.The Budget also backs eco-tourism. "India has the potential and opportunity to offer world-class trekking and hiking experience."