Budget 2026 expectations: Things like global tensions, climate problems and a tough job market are making Gen Z think more about what the government should do. A new Deloitte 2025 survey shows this clearly which says 36% of Gen Z people in India feel stressed or worried most of the time. That is why they expect much more from Budget 2026 than just tax cuts or job
Young Indians between the ages of 20 and 25 shared their views. Many of them said they want real changes that make daily life easier and less stressful. Health care, education, climate safety and simple tax rules are high on their list.
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Health Care
Many Gen Z voices say public hospitals still have big problems. Long lines, poor service and lack of trust stop people from getting proper treatment. “Increasing budgetary allocation is needed, but it’s not enough unless it results in better facilities and accountability on the ground,” said Ishita Bhalla, 22, an MBA student at IIM Indore. “Young people are looking for public hospitals that are functional, transparent and accessible.”
Mental Health
India spends only about 2% of GDP on public health. In the Union Budget 2025–26, ₹99,859 crore was given to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This is just 1.97% of the total budget. Many young people feel this is still too low.
Mental health is another big worry. As per the National Mental Health Survey, 10.6% of adults in India face mental health issues. “There’s a clear need for mental health services to be treated as essential healthcare,” Bhalla said. She also pointed out the need for counselling in colleges and low-cost care for working youth.
Young women also want basic hygiene products to be cheaper. Sanitary napkins are still costly for many. “There should be a stronger push to reduce the final retail price of sanitary napkins,” said Anisha Sen, 22, a brand specialist at an art gallery.
Education and Jobs
Education quality is another big concern. Many degrees do not lead to jobs anymore. “Degrees no longer guarantee jobs, and the system hasn’t fully caught up with the real situation of the job market,” said Archit Agarwal, 25, an MBA student at IIT Delhi. He wants better classrooms and more skill training like AI courses.
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Taxes also matter to Gen Z. The higher standard deduction in 2024 helped many. “The increase in the standard deduction in 2024 brought a big difference to take-home pay,” said Dakshta Gautam, 22. Young taxpayers now want simple rules and clear guidance.
Many Gen Z investors are worried about short-term capital gains tax. “For students and first-time investors, high STCG can act as a demotivating factor,” said Tanmay Arora, 20.
Climate fear is also growing. Big cities often cross safe air limits by 5% to 10%. “There’s a sense of constant climate anxiety,” said Suyash Gupta, 22. He added, “Higher budgetary allocations for renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure and stricter enforcement of environmental norms can bring real change.”
Some also want more spending on defence and space. “Stronger defence capabilities and ambitious space missions are important for the country’s development,” said Arnav Singh, 22.
