Mumbai: Sanjay Mehta, Deputy Director General of the Indian Merchants Chamber (IMC) Chamber of Commerce, praised the Union Budget 2026 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marking her ninth consecutive budget. He described it as a positive and forward-looking financial plan that balances traditional sectors with emerging technologies.
Mehta said, “The budget that was presented by Nirmala Sitharaman, the ninth consecutive budget by her, I, the IMC, and industry see that overall this budget is a very positive and forward-looking budget. It has covered all traditional areas as well as new frontier technology areas.” He highlighted the government’s focus on blending tried-and-tested sectors with innovation-driven industries, reflecting a comprehensive approach to economic growth.
However, Mehta noted a disconnect between the Budget and market reactions. “I do not see any correlation between the market and the budget. There is nothing in the budget that should prompt the market to react as it is now,” he added, suggesting that current market fluctuations may be influenced by factors beyond the Budget’s scope.
His remarks emphasize the business community’s approval of the Budget’s balanced vision, while also recognizing that stock market movements often respond to broader economic and geopolitical factors rather than fiscal policy alone.
