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Difference Between Union Budget and Interim Budget in Detail

Union Budget and Interim Budget are two different in their timing, scope, and duration. Check here all aspect of Difference between Union Budget and Interim Budget.

Sakshi Gupta Published On February 5th, 2024 Leave a comment

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Difference Between Union Budget and Interim Budget

This article deals with the Difference Between Union Budget and Interim Budget which is a two important terminology. The Union Budget and Interim Budget are both financial plans presented by the government of India, but they serve different purposes and are presented in different circumstances. In the realm of financial planning and governance, budgets hold significant importance, serving as comprehensive blueprints that outline a nation’s economic vision and fiscal priorities.

Among the various types of budgets, the Union Budget and Interim Budget stand out as crucial pillars in shaping a country’s financial trajectory. As these terms evoke curiosity and often intertwine, it becomes essential to understand the Difference Between Union Budget and Interim Budget, their distinctions and the roles they play in steering the nation’s financial course. You can also check here the Difference Between Interim Budget and Vote on Account.

Major Difference Between Union Budget and Interim Budget

Here is the major Difference Between Union Budget and Interim Budget discussed below from every aspect:

Aspect	Interim Budget	Union Budget
Timing	Presented before the general elections or during a transition period when a full-term government is not in place.	Presented by the government with a clear mandate and a full-term tenure.
Duration	Covers only the immediate financial needs for a few months until the new government is formed and can present a full-fledged budget.	Encompasses the entire fiscal year, typically from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.
Policy Direction	Focuses on maintaining continuity of government policies and programs.	Sets new policies and financial allocations for the upcoming fiscal year in line with the government’s vision and priorities.
New Schemes and Projects	Usually avoids announcing significant new schemes or projects that could commit the upcoming government.	Introduces new schemes, projects, and allocations for various sectors to drive economic growth and development.
Tax Changes	Generally, no significant changes in tax structure are introduced.	Often includes proposals for changes in tax rates, exemptions, and other fiscal measures to boost revenue collection.
Vote on Account	A provision is made for a Vote on Account to grant the government permission to spend during the transition period until a full budget is passed.	A full budget is presented, including detailed estimates of revenue and expenditures, along with proposals for new taxes and spending.
Parliament’s Role	Parliament’s approval is sought only for the Vote on Account.	Parliament debates and approves the Union Budget, and its proposals become law once passed.
Economic Survey	The Full Economic Survey is not usually presented along with the Interim Budget.	The Economic Survey is typically released a day before the Union Budget, providing an analysis of the economy’s performance and outlook.
Purpose	Serves as a temporary budget to meet essential expenses until a new government takes office and presents a comprehensive budget.	Forms the comprehensive financial plan for the fiscal year, outlining government’s revenue and expenditure, and policy direction.
Government’s Status	The government presenting an Interim Budget is usually a caretaker government.	Presented by a stable government that has a full mandate to govern.
Importance	The Interim Budget is considered essential for maintaining financial stability during transitional periods.	The Union Budget is of paramount importance as it outlines the government’s fiscal priorities and economic policies.
Long-term Planning	Usually lacks long-term planning as it is a stop-gap arrangement.	Includes provisions for long-term planning and the execution of government policies throughout the fiscal year.
Pre-election Populism	Often avoids announcing major populist measures to avoid influencing the election outcome.	May include populist measures and schemes to appeal to the electorate, especially if presented close to elections.

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Difference Between Union Budget and Interim Budget FAQs

What is the difference between Union Budget and interim budget?

The difference between Union Budget and Interim Budget lies in their timing, scope, and duration, with the Union Budget being presented by a full-term government for the entire fiscal year, while the Interim Budget is presented during a transitional period or before general elections to meet immediate financial needs.

What is interim budget?

An Interim Budget is a temporary budget presented during a transition period when a full-term government is not in place, covering essential expenses until a comprehensive budget can be presented.

What are the 3 types of budgets?

The three types of budgets are Union Budget (Annual Budget), Interim Budget, and Supplementary Budget.

What is Union Budget?

The Union Budget, also known as the Annual Budget, is a comprehensive financial plan presented by the government for the entire fiscal year, outlining revenue, expenditures, and policy direction.

Why is it called Union Budget?

It is called Union Budget because it presents the financial plan for the entire country, including all the states and union territories, making it a "union" of their financial affairs.

Who prepares Union Budget?

The Union Budget is prepared by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, under the leadership of the Finance Minister.

About the Author

Sakshi Gupta

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I, Sakshi Gupta, am a content writer to empower students aiming for UPSC, PSC, and other competitive exams. My objective is to provide clear, concise, and informative content that caters to your exam preparation needs. I strive to make my content not only informative but also engaging, keeping you motivated throughout your journey!