Why in News?
The Puducherry government presented a ₹14,300 crore tax-free Budget for 2026-27, combining social-welfare measures with spending on education, power and public services.
What are the major priorities?
- The Budget includes free tablets for students and funding for NEET and JEE preparation in government and aided schools.
- It raises several welfare benefits, including pensions for freedom fighters and marriage assistance for eligible beneficiaries.
- As a Union Territory with a legislature, Puducherry prepares its own Budget within the constitutional and financial framework applicable to such UTs.
Exam Connect
- Puducherry → Union Territory with legislature
- Article 239A → special provision for legislatures/councils of ministers in certain UTs