Budget 2026 Connects With Youth Through National Knowledge Initiative

The Government of India has introduced an innovative initiative aimed at deepening youth engagement with national economic policy through the launch of MY Bharat Budget Quest 2026 . Announced by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya , the programme seeks to make the Union Budget more understandable, relatable, and citizen-focused for young people across the country. Hosted on the MY Bharat digital platform, the initiative reflects the broader national vision of building an informed generation that actively participates in India’s development journey under the idea of Viksit Bharat.

The programme begins with a national online quiz running from February 3 to February 17, 2026 , open to registered youth from colleges, institutions, and coaching centres. The quiz focuses on the Union Budget 2026–27 , covering major fiscal priorities , sectoral allocations, and policy measures. By encouraging participants to connect macroeconomic decisions with daily life, the exercise moves beyond textbook knowledge and promotes real understanding of how public finance shapes employment, education, and opportunities.

Top performers from each State and Union Territory will advance to the second phase, an essay-writing competition scheduled between February 17 and March 3 . Participants will choose from eight development-focused themes linked to national growth and budget priorities, presenting their perspectives and ideas in structured essays. The evaluation process will take place from March 3 to March 10 , with merit lists announced on March 10, 2026 . This stage emphasizes critical thinking , policy awareness, and the ability of youth to articulate constructive solutions.

A distinctive feature of the initiative is the opportunity for State and UT winners to interact with Prime Minister Narendra Modi , where they will discuss their ideas on shaping a future-ready national economy. This direct engagement with leadership elevates the programme beyond a competition, transforming it into a platform where youth voices can enter mainstream policy dialogue. The move signals the government’s commitment to participatory governance and informed civic involvement.

The initiative gains added significance in the context of the Union Budget 2026–27 , which outlines India’s fiscal roadmap with emphasis on infrastructure growth , social development , technological advancement, and employment generation. By translating complex economic themes into accessible formats, the Budget Quest strengthens economic literacy and bridges the gap between policymaking and the younger generation.

Overall, MY Bharat Budget Quest 2026 represents a forward-looking model of civic education that blends digital participation, policy awareness, and youth empowerment. It encourages young citizens not only to understand the Budget but also to question, interpret, and contribute ideas, reinforcing the belief that meaningful youth participation is essential to shaping India’s long-term development trajectory.