Public interest has surged regarding the exact date for Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27. Since 2017, the Budget has consistently been tabled on February 1 to allow adequate parliamentary discussion and approval ahead of the new financial year commencing April 1. However, February 1, 2026, falls on a Sunday, leading to speculation about a potential shift to Monday, February 2.

The debate centers on adhering to tradition versus calendar constraints. Parliamentary conventions suggest the Budget could proceed on Sunday, February 1, as officials indicate a preference to maintain the established date. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has stated that the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs will finalize the schedule at the appropriate time, with no official announcement yet.

Presenting the Budget on weekends is not unprecedented. In 2025, it occurred on a Saturday, while former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley delivered budgets on Saturdays in 2015 and 2016. Parliament has also convened on Sundays for special occasions, including during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and in 2012 for a commemorative session.

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The February 1 norm was introduced in 2017 by Arun Jaitley to eliminate delays associated with the previous practice of late-February presentations, which necessitated a Vote on Account for interim funding. This shift ensures full budgetary approval before the fiscal year begins, promoting efficient implementation.

As preparations advance, including provisional finalization of estimates, the government is expected to resolve the scheduling issue soon. The decision will weigh longstanding practices against practical considerations, with sources indicating February 1 remains the likely date despite it being a Sunday.

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