On Sunday, February 1, 2026, Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, announced the Union Budget for 2026-27 in Parliament. During her address, she proposed the development of seven high-speed rail corridors throughout India. To foster eco-friendly transportation systems for passengers, the Finance Minister highlighted the plan to establish these corridors as key ‘growth connectors’ between major cities. Read on for all the information.
During the presentation of the Union Budget for 2026, Nirmala Sitharaman revealed plans for seven new high-speed rail corridors.
These corridors include – Mumbai to Pune, Pune to Hyderabad, Hyderabad to Bengaluru, Hyderabad to Chennai, Chennai to Bengaluru, Delhi to Varanasi, and Varanasi to Siliguri.
Currently, a high-speed rail corridor between Ahmedabad and Mumbai is under construction. This 508-kilometer Mumbai-Ahmedabad line is India’s first high-speed rail project and is designed for bullet trains traveling at 320 km/h. It will enable passenger journeys across the entire stretch in just 2 hours and 17 minutes, passing through Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
Also Read: India’s First Bullet Train To Roll Out On August 15, 2027
Union Budget 2026: Development Of 15 Archaeological Sites And Buddhist Circuits Announced
In the Union Budget 2026, Nirmala Sitharaman also announced plans to develop 15 archaeological sites, such as Lothal, Dholavira, Rakhigarhi, Adichanallur, Sarnath, Hastinapur, and Leh Palace, transforming them into engaging cultural hubs.
Furthermore, she highlighted that excavated landscapes will be accessible to the public with guided pathways, incorporating immersive storytelling and advanced technology for conservation and interpretation centers.
Additionally, a new initiative will promote the development of Buddhist Circuits across Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, focusing on the preservation of temples, monasteries, and improving pilgrim facilities and connectivity.
Medical Tourism Announced
The government plans to create five regional medical hubs with private sector collaboration. These hubs will integrate medical, educational, and research services, featuring AYUSH centers and facilities for medical tourism. According to Nirmala Sitharaman, these hubs will also include resources for diagnostics and rehabilitation, offering various job opportunities for healthcare professionals, including doctors and allied health practitioners.
