Budget 2026: The nation’s eyes are once again fixed on the Union Budget. Last year, the government announced several important schemes keeping in mind farmers, youth, and the poor. Now, expectations for Budget 2026 have increased even further. The general public wants to know if the government will expand the scope of relief and benefits this time as well. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present her ninth consecutive budget today, and discussions about several major potential announcements have already intensified.

Increased Coverage Expected in Ayushman Bharat Yojana

To strengthen healthcare facilities, the government may make significant changes to the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. It is believed that the maximum limit for treatment under this scheme may be increased so that the cost of treating serious illnesses does not become a burden on the poor and middle class. Given the rising medical inflation, this step could be a priority for the government.

Reconsideration of Pension Amount in Atal Pension Yojana

Millions of people associated with the Atal Pension Yojana are hoping for relief from the budget. Currently, the scheme provides a monthly pension of Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000. Due to continuously rising inflation, this amount is no longer considered sufficient. Subscribers have been demanding an increase in pensions for a long time, and the government may make an important decision in this regard.

PM Internship Scheme May Be Expanded

The PM Internship Scheme, launched to prepare youth for employment, may now be fully implemented. Until now, this scheme has been running as a pilot project, but in Budget 2026, there is a possibility of expanding it at the national level. This will give young people work experience in large companies and open up new avenues for employment.

New Initiatives Possible for Youth Employment

In the last budget, the government launched an employment incentive scheme for first-time job seekers, providing Rs. 15,000. This time, it is expected that either the scope of this scheme will be expanded or a new employment-based scheme will be introduced for the youth.

Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana likely to be expanded

The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana, launched for senior citizens, may also see a major change. Currently, this scheme is for elderly people aged 70 years or older. There are discussions that the government may reduce the age limit to 60 years, allowing a larger number of senior citizens to avail of free treatment.

Door-to-door solar panel scheme may get a new boost

The subsidy provided under the PM Surya Ghar Bijli Yojana is expected to increase. Currently, a fixed subsidy is provided for 2 kW and 3 kW solar systems, but the government may increase it to up to Rs 40,000 per kilowatt. The objective is not only to reduce electricity bills but also to promote renewable energy.

Major announcement possible on PM Kisan and PM-KUSUM 2.0

The Budget 2026 is considered very important for farmers. There are discussions that the annual financial assistance provided under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana may be increased from Rs 6,000 to Rs 9,000. Along with this, there may be a significant increase in the budget for the second phase of the PM-KUSUM scheme. PM-KUSUM 2.0 is likely to be launched after the current scheme ends in March 2026, which will provide farmers with an opportunity to earn additional income through solar energy.