New Delhi, Feb. 1 -- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday mounted a strong defence of the union Budget 2026-27, asserting that it strikes a careful balance between accelerating economic growth, protecting vulnerable sections and adhering to the government's fiscal consolidation roadmap, amid sharp criticism from the Opposition.
Addressing a press conference shortly after presenting the Budget in Lok Sabha, Sitharaman, flanked by senior officials from the finance ministry, said the government remained focused on "sustaining growth momentum while maintaining macroeconomic stability".
"This Budget is aimed at ensuring policy continuity, supporting investment, and creating conditions for long-term, inclusive growth," the Finance Mini...