Traditions and Changes in India's Union Budget Presentation and Timing

As India prepares for Union Budget 2026, traditions around its presentation are highlighted. Historically, some Finance Ministers like Kshitish Chandra Neogy and Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna never presented a budget due to brief tenures or political changes. The budget date shifted from late February to February 1 in 2017 to allow better fiscal planning and eliminate the need for a temporary 'Vote on Account.' Additionally, the budget speech timing changed in 1999 from 5 PM to 11 AM to move away from colonial-era scheduling.