India, Feb. 1 -- Presenting the Union Budget 2026-27 in Parliament on Sunday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the Government is guided by three Kartavyas, the first of which is to accelerate and sustain economic growth by enhancing productivity, competitiveness, and building resilience against volatile global dynamics.

Recognising micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as a vital engine of growth, the Finance Minister proposed a three-pronged approach to help them grow as "Champions" under the first Kartavya.

Sitharaman introduced a dedicated Rs.10,000 crore SME Growth Fund to create future champions, incentivising enterprises based on select criteria. She also proposed topping up the Self-Reliant India Fund, set up in 20...