Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed surprise regarding any potential merger talks between NCP factions, stating Ajit Pawar always confided in him. This follows Sharad Pawar's claim that Ajit Pawar had set February 12 for a merger announcement. Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra Pawar, was recently sworn in as Deputy CM.

The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Charuni has strongly criticized the Union Budget 2026-27, deeming it anti-farmer and detached from ground realities. The union highlighted the budget's focus on technology over pressing farmer issues like MSP, rising costs, and loan waivers, calling the PM-Kisan assistance a mockery.

A wedding ceremony in Simranjit Singh Mann's family sparked debate after a video showed religious symbols like the Chaur and Chhatar being used for an individual. Critics argued this disrespects Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the sole recipient of such reverence. The groom later apologized, acknowledging the mistake and emphasizing the sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Union Budget 2026 as «historic,» charting a roadmap for a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and boosting India's reform journey. He also highlighted the «mother of all deals» with the EU, aimed at benefiting youth and MSMEs, and praised Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's record ninth consecutive budget presentation.

Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have strongly criticized the Union Budget 2026-27, labeling it as out of touch with India's critical issues. They argue the budget ignores widespread unemployment, economic distress among citizens, and farmers' struggles, while failing to offer concrete solutions or a clear policy vision for the nation's challenges.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27, her ninth consecutive, with major announcements across defence, railways, income tax, and healthcare. Prime Minister Modi hailed it as «historic» and a «high flight toward Viksit Bharat.» Key proposals include a significant defence allocation, seven high-speed rail corridors, a simplified Income Tax Act, and support for rare-earth mineral development.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor emphasized that the Union Budget must translate projected economic growth into job creation, warning that jobless growth offers no benefit to India's youth. He highlighted employment generation as a key expectation, especially with robust growth prospects flagged by the Economic Survey. States, including Kerala facing upcoming elections, are also keenly awaiting central government support.

Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta anticipates the upcoming Union Budget will significantly boost the city's development, particularly in achieving a 'developed Delhi'. She highlighted ongoing central support for crucial projects like Yamuna cleaning, sewage treatment, and Delhi Metro expansion, underscoring a strong partnership.

Aam Aadmi Party convener Arvind Kejriwal asserted Goans desire honest, people-centric politics, pledging his party will fulfill these aspirations. During a Goa visit, Kejriwal met local leaders to bolster the party's base, emphasizing grassroots connections and addressing concerns over ecological damage and land conversion. AAP aims to be the voice of Goa, fighting for citizens' rights and livelihoods.

Sharad Pawar faces a dilemma over merging NCP factions following Ajit Pawar's death. While initial merger talks were advanced, with a February 12 date set, uncertainty now looms. Sunetra Pawar's swift oath as deputy CM complicates matters, potentially forcing Sharad Pawar to align with the BJP, a move he has previously opposed.