Lucknow, Feb. 4 -- Amid challenges of mobilising additional funds and making use of them, the U.P. government has stepped up preparations to present its annual budget for 2025-2026 of a likely larger size of Rs.8 lakh crore to Rs.8.5 lakh crore.

Those aware of the development said the state government may convene the budget session later this month and work on giving a final shape to it has now begun at a faster pace.

A final draft of the budget would be worked out based on the guidelines that chief minister Yogi Adityanath may give to officials about incorporating some new development projects and the allocations of increased central funds as indicated in the Union Budget for 2025-2026.

"Yes, we have been waiting for indications about...