According to the union minister of state (MoS) (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, the Union Budget 2026–27 pushes technology-driven artificial intelligence (AI)-integrated structural reforms to shape India’s future and lays down a forward-looking roadmap for the next quarter century.
He said the budget may take time to be fully appreciated, but it reflects a clear, sequential vision where structural reforms are powered by cutting-edge technologies, and cutting-edge technologies are increasingly driven by AI. He said this makes the budget inherently futuristic and places a responsibility on informed stakeholders, including the media, to communicate its long-term benefits to citizens.
Calling the National Geospatial Mission a foundational reform, the minister said it will play a decisive role in planned urbanisation, infrastructure design, and land management, especially as India witnesses rapid rural-to-urban migration. Implemented through the PM Gati Shakti platform, the mission will enable evidence-based planning using satellites, drones, and advanced mapping tools.
He also announced structured deployment of AI in agriculture, ensuring farmers benefit from technology while being safeguarded from its unintended effects.
Meanwhile, director general, CSIR and secretary, DSIR, said CSIR will play a central role across multiple budget initiatives, including carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), semiconductors, critical minerals, rare earth magnets, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. She said CSIR laboratories have been designated as centres of excellence for critical metals and minerals, aligning national research capabilities with industrial and strategic needs.
Concluding the interaction, the minister said the budget reflects a mission-oriented approach, where research, manufacturing and deployment move together. He said science-led reforms announced after the budget underline India’s readiness to compete in technology-intensive global sectors, while ensuring that growth remains inclusive, sustainable, and citizen-centric.
