The Finance Ministry has initiated pre-budget consultations with industry stakeholders and citizen groups, seeking suggestions for tax simplification and rationalization ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27, scheduled for presentation on February 1.
Consultation Framework
The ministry has invited detailed submissions from various stakeholders:
- Industry associations (FICCI, CII, ASSOCHAM)
- Tax professionals and chartered accountants
- Citizen groups and consumer organizations
- Academic institutions and think tanks
Key Discussion Areas
The budget consultation process is focusing on several critical areas. The ministry is particularly interested in feedback on personal income tax rationalization, including potential reduction in tax slabs and simplification of exemptions.
Tax Simplification Proposals
Industry bodies have submitted proposals covering multiple aspects:
- Reduction in personal income tax rates for middle-income earners
- Increase in standard deduction from Rs. 75,000 to Rs. 1,00,000
- Simplification of capital gains tax structure
- Review of TDS provisions for ease of compliance
Corporate Tax Expectations
The corporate sector has requested review of minimum alternate tax provisions and rationalization of sector-specific tax incentives.
Consumer Expectations
Individual taxpayers are hoping for higher exemption limits under Section 80C and 80D, along with simplified ITR filing procedures.
Industry Submissions
Major industry associations have submitted comprehensive memoranda covering taxation, infrastructure spending, and sector-specific relief measures.
Timeline
The pre-budget consultation process will conclude by January 15, 2026, giving the ministry adequate time to evaluate suggestions before finalizing budget proposals.
