The Economic Times article, published around January 17, 2026, discusses the anticipation surrounding the Union Budget 2026 and its potential impact on the Indian stock market, with a specific focus on 13 stocks across three sectors that are currently in a precarious position. The article posits that these sectors are heavily reliant on government policies and spending, and their future performance hinges on the announcements made in the upcoming budget. Historically, sectors like infrastructure, roads, power, railways, defense, and manufacturing have been priorities for the government, receiving policy clarity, removal of hurdles, and fund allocations. The article suggests that while the government has been working on various sectors, recent budgets have only hinted at this broader focus. The upcoming budget is expected to continue this trend, with a particular emphasis on infrastructure, defense, and manufacturing, according to various analyst reports and expectations. However, the performance of the specific 13 stocks mentioned remains uncertain, and their turnaround will depend on the budget's ability to provide the necessary support. Analysts are divided on the immediate market reaction to the budget, with some predicting a short-term dip due to fiscal constraints and others anticipating long-term gains driven by policy direction. The budget is scheduled to be presented on February 1, 2026, and market participants are keenly watching for announcements that could influence the economic landscape and provide a much-needed boost to struggling sectors. The article implies that the budget's success in turning around these specific stocks will be a key indicator of its overall effectiveness in stimulating growth and addressing sector-specific challenges.