Union Budget 2026 Updates: Scholarships, Student Loans Will Ease Education Expense For Middle Class,' Says Indore University Principal Dr. Raju C John

Jaibhan Singh Pawaiya hails investments in infrastructure

Former minister Jaibhan Singh Pawaiya said that the Union Budget presented a forward-looking blueprint for a 'Developed India', masterfully balancing industrial growth, job creation and social equity. By prioritising healthcare, it offers vital relief to patients battling cancer, diabetes, and chronic illnesses.

Significant investments in infrastructure—ranging from freight and high-speed rail corridors to expanded waterways—lay a robust foundation for future connectivity. Ultimately, this budget is a dedicated commitment to empowering our Youth, Farmers and Women, ensuring inclusive prosperity for every segment of society, he added.

Scholarships, student loans will ease education expense for middle class: Dr. Raju C John

Dr. Raju C John, Principal of Sri Aurobindo Institute of Journalism and Mass Communication, Sri Aurobindo University, Indore, said that the Union Budget focuses on strengthening the education sector while addressing the concerns of the middle class and taxpayers.

For the middle class, education remains one of the largest household expenses. The budget acknowledges this by supporting scholarships, student loans, and vocational training programs that reduce financial stress on families.

In alignment with India’s 'self-reliant aspiration: Dr. Akhilesh Kumar Singh

Dr. Akhilesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chancellor of Prof. Rajendra Singh (Rajju Bhaiya) University, Prayagraj said that the budget reflects a forward-looking vision aligned with India’s aspiration to become a knowledge-driven and self-reliant nation. The emphasis on education, research, digital infrastructure, and skill development is particularly encouraging for universities and higher education institutions.

Provisions aimed at strengthening research funding, promoting innovation, and enhancing collaboration between academia, industry, and government will significantly contribute to improving academic quality and employability of graduates.

'Education & Skills Key Drivers,' Says TISS Prof. D.P. Singh

Prof. D.P. Singh, Chancellor at TISS Mumbai & Former Chairman of UGC, New Delhi, said that the Union Budget positions education and skills as key drivers of future productivity. It pays emphasis on aligning higher education and skill training with evolving industry needs, especially in technology-driven and emerging sectors.

Investments in digital infrastructure, research ecosystems, and Centres of Excellence, particularly in artificial intelligence, signal an effort to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian institutions. Yet public spending on higher education remains modest relative to rising enrolments, raising questions about scale and inclusiveness.

While the strategic direction is promising, its success will depend on effective implementation and the ability to translate skills into sustainable employment opportunities.

STT Hike 'unhealthy' for share market

Ratlam Financial Advisor Sanjeev Gaba expressed his disappointment on STT (Securities Transaction Tax) hike, calling it unexpected and unhealthy for the share market.

Raising STT on Futures from 0.02% to 0.05% and on options premium and exercise from 0.1% and 0.125% to 0.15% respectively, will badly hit future and options activities. This is not a positive step, given the consistently high volume of futures and options in stock market activities, he said.

Not a Populist budget, but definitely a 'pro-growth' budget'

Rajiv Agrawal, President of Mandideep Industries Association said that while it is not a Populist budget, it surely focuses on Manufacturing, SMEs and growth. From an industry perspective, Budget 2026 is pro-growth and pro-manufacturing. The record ₹12.2 lakh crore infrastructure capex strengthens order pipelines for infra, capital goods, cement, steel and logistics companies. Strong push for manufacturing, semiconductors, rare earths, electronics and SME funding signals long-term supply-chain resilience and job creation.

Yogesh Mehta, President of Association of Industries MP hails budget, says Finance Minister Sitharaman covered all important sectors.

'Nothing for middle class& salaried people,' LoP Umang Singhar

Madhya Pradesh Assembly LoP Umang Singhar criticised budget 2026. "The central government did not allow anything new for farmers. Nor did Madhya Pradesh get anything. In fact, the state was deprived of incentives and schemes to boost startup ecosystem here. It is highly disappointing that there was nothing for middle-class salaried people."

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan calls budget a game changer for Rural Development

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan hails Budget 2026. He called the budget rural economy friendly as Finance Minister allocated ₹2,73,108 crore for rural development. He praised govt's Coconut Incentive Scheme, stating it will boost production and directly benefit approximately 3 crore people, including 1 crore farmers.

Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya watches Live budget with BJP workers at booth number 30 of Lavkush Mandal in Indore.

CM keeps an eye on budget from Indore

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav watched budget from Daly College in Indore. He was spotted sitting in the conference hall, along with other politicians, faculty members, and watched Union Finance Minister's Nirmala Sitharaman Live budget speech.