Union Budget 2026-27 Raises Education Allocation to INR 1,39,290 Cr

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27 in Parliament with a higher allocation for the education sector. The total outlay for education has increased to INR 1,39,290 crore, up from INR 1,28,650 crorein the previous financial year. The Budget continues to highlight education as a key pillar for India’s long-term growth.

School Education Budget 2026-27 Supports NEP and Samagra Shiksha

The Department of School Education and Literacy has been allocated INR 83,562.26 crore, higher than INR 78,572 crore in 2025-26. The increased outlay is expected to support the implementation of the National Education Policy, strengthen Samagra Shiksha, and expand digital infrastructure in government schools.

The Budget also continues its focus on foundational learning, teacher training reforms, and STEM education initiatives. Programmes such as Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools remain an important part of the innovation and problem-solving push at the school level.

Higher Education Funding 2026-27 Shows Mixed Trend Across Institutions

The Department of Higher Education has received INR 55,727 crore, compared to INR 50,078 crore last year. The Budget reflects a mixed funding pattern across key institutions. The Budget has increased funding for large technical institutions and central universities. However, select research and IT-focused institutions have seen moderation in support.

• Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have been allocated INR 12,123 crore, up from INR 11,349 crore.
• Central Universities received INR 17,740 crore, compared to INR 16,691 crore last year.
• Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) have been given INR 292 crore, rising from INR 251 crore.
• Indian Institute of Science (IISc) allocation reduced to INR 845 crore, from INR 900 crore.
• Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs) saw a cut to INR 441 crore, down from INR 522 crore.

Skill Development and Technology Integration Remain Key Priorities

The Union Budget 2026-27 reiterates the importance of linking education with employability. Continued emphasis has been placed on skill development, apprenticeships, and the integration of emerging technologies, including AI-led learning models across schools and higher education.

Union Budget 2026-27 Education Allocation Table

The Budget provides a clear comparison of education allocations across departments and institutions. The figures highlight where increases and reductions have been made in 2026-27.

Education Funding Linked to India’s Vision 2047

With increased allocations for school education, IITs, central universities and IIMs, the Budget aligns education spending with the government’s broader vision of building a developed India by 2047. Further scheme-wise details are expected in the detailed Budget documents.