The Union Budget 2026 has received mixed reactions from the public. Instead of announcing big-ticket tax cuts or populist schemes, the government has focused on stability, simplified compliance, healthcare relief, and long-term job creation.
1. Income Tax and Compliance
Budget 2026 keeps tax slabs unchanged but eases compliance with extended ITR deadlines and automated lower/NIL TDS certificates.
Impact on the Common Man
There may be no immediate increase in take-home salary, but the reduced paperwork, fewer errors, and lower risk of penalties will save time and mental stress for ordinary taxpayers.
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2.Relief for Travelers and Consumers
Reducing TCS on overseas tour packages, education, and medical remittances to a flat 2% brings direct financial relief.
Impact on the Common Man
Foreign travel, children’s education abroad, and medical treatment outside India become more affordable.
3.Investments and Financial Markets
The increase in Securities Transaction Tax on futures and options raises transaction costs for traders. Additionally, taxing share buybacks as capital gains, especially for promoters, makes market-related activities costlier.
Impact on the Common Man
Small investors may remain largely unaffected, but active traders could see reduced profits due to higher costs.
4. Healthcare and Cost of Living
By removing customs duty on 17 life-saving medicines, especially cancer drugs, the government has taken a significant step toward affordable healthcare. The announcement of new mental health institutes and centres further strengthens healthcare infrastructure.
Impact on the Common Man
Lower medicine costs and better access to mental health services reduce both financial and emotional burdens on families dealing with serious health issues.
5.Employment and Economy
The government’s decision to raise capital expenditure to ₹12.2 lakh crore focuses on infrastructure development, MSME support, and women entrepreneurship.
Impact on the Common Man
Although benefits will not be immediate, increased infrastructure spending is expected to create jobs, support small businesses, and improve income stability in the long run.
Happy or Dejected?
Budget 2026 leaves the common man with mixed feelings: it focuses on long-term growth but offers little immediate relief, leaving people hopeful yet disappointed.
