New Delhi, Sept. 30 -- India's fiscal deficit rose in the first five months of 2025-26, as compared with the same period last year, due to higher government capital expenditure while net tax revenue declined.

The Union government reported a fiscal deficit of Rs.5.98 trillion for April-August, amounting to 38.1% of the target for the entire 2025-26 fiscal year, according to data released by the Controller General of Accounts on Tuesday.

For the same period last year, the fiscal deficit was Rs.4.35 trillion.

The government has maintained a strong commitment to fiscal consolidation, with the deficit for FY26 projected at Rs.15.69 trillion, lower than the Rs.16.85 trillion reported in FY25, and pegged at 4.4% of GDP.

Finance minister Nirm...