LUCKNOW, Oct. 1 -- The Uttar Pradesh government has begun preparations for the state's annual budget for 2026-27, the last of the Yogi 2.0. All departments have been directed to submit their budgetary proposals to the finance department by November 30, 2025.

With assembly elections likely to be announced by early January 2027, chief minister Yogi Adityanath is expected to get the budget passed by February 2026 to allow departments enough time to utilise funds before the model code of conduct kicks in. The budget may also carry populist announcements and special allocations to ensure the completion of major development projects.

"Yes, we have begun preparations for the state's annual budget. All the departments have been asked to submit ...