Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said that the interim government has moved away from previous emphasis on high growth figures and focused on people's welfare in the proposed budget for FY26.
"We have stepped back from the constant focus on growth. Who has really achieved such remarkable growth in the past?" he questioned while speaking at a post-budget press conference.
"This is the first time the budget size has not increased compared to the previous fiscal year," he also said.
He explained that instead of chasing abstract growth targets, the current budget prioritizes improving the quality of life for common people, reforming systems, and creating a better business environment.
Acknowledging the challenges, Salehuddin stated: "It's difficult to meet all expectations within the budget."
However, he highlighted that there are efforts to ensure sustainable debt management and avoid the risks of falling into foreign debt dependency.
"While some traditional elements remain, there are also new features — particularly in the tax system," he added.
Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin said no institution has been granted special benefits under this year's revenue policy.
He also highlighted that the previous government had provided such benefits.
"This is the beginning and future administrations will take it further," he added.
The proposed budget for FY26 amounts to a total expenditure of Tk790,000 crore, 12.7% of Bangladesh’s GDP.
This includes a proposed allocation of Tk560,000 crore for operating and other sectors, and Tk230,000 crore for development programs.
The revenue target is set at Tk564,000 crore, accounting for 9% of GDP.
The budget deficit of Tk226,000 crore (3.6% of GDP) is planned to be financed through domestic and foreign sources.