With Union Budget 2026 around the corner, industry leaders in fintech and insurance are emphasizing the urgent need for policy support to boost India’s MSME sector. Small businesses, which form the backbone of the economy, face challenges such as limited credit access, high compliance costs, and inadequate insurance coverage.

Fintech experts like Chirag Shah, Founder & CEO of Pulse, stress the importance of smoother credit flow and stronger digital lending infrastructure. Simplifying compliance, expanding credit guarantee schemes, and encouraging technology adoption can help MSMEs grow while ensuring responsible data usage under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA).

Insurance leaders are advocating for policies that treat insurance as core financial infrastructure rather than a regulatory formality. Tejas Jain, Founder & CEO of BimaKavach, highlights the need for broader coverage for MSMEs, including digital risk policies and targeted access for rural and women-led businesses. Additionally, relief on GST for employee insurance premiums could reduce costs for small businesses, improving employee welfare and reducing dependence on government subsidies.

Collectively, these measures aim to create a more inclusive, affordable, and secure ecosystem for MSMEs. Budget 2026 presents an opportunity to strengthen small businesses, enhance worker protection, and support sustainable economic growth across India.