LUCKNOW, Feb. 1 -- Industry bodies hailed the Union Budget-2026 as progressive with a long-term vision for India, focusing on infrastructure, youth, agriculture, women, export promotion and making the country ready to tackle AI with focus on data centres. They opined that the budget focuses on increasing capex to boost the economy.

According to experts, the budget shows vision towards long-term goals. Major announcements included new schemes for semiconductors, biopharma, rare earth corridors, and increased capital expenditure.

The government aims to lower the fiscal deficit further, a stated target of around 4.3% of the GDP for FY-27, continuing the medium-term consolidation path and reducing borrowing pressure on the economy. The fisc...