The state executive prepares estimates, but expenditure from the Consolidated Fund requires legislative authorisation through the constitutional budget and appropriation process. The Annual Financial Statement is presented for a financial year running from 1 April to 31 March. Demands for grants divide proposed expenditure by department or service. A Finance Bill deals with taxation proposals, while an Appropriation Bill authorises withdrawal for voted and charged expenditure. These documents should be studied together, not as one undifferentiated “budget”.

During the year, departments receive budget release orders and incur expenditure under rules. Revised Estimates incorporate observed and expected changes. Supplementary demands may seek additional authority when the original provision is insufficient. At the end of the year, accounts and audit provide the record against which BE and RE can be evaluated. A provision of ₹100 crore does not prove ₹100 crore was released, paid or converted into a functioning service.

The Finance Department's 2026-27 portal publishes the Annual Financial Statement, receipt estimates, department volumes, an outcome budget and Budget at a Glance. For exam facts, record the precise document and column. The Budget at a Glance is ideal for headline comparisons; a scheme-specific question needs a demand or outcome statement. If two official pages conflict, prefer the signed, dated 2026-27 volume over a microsite panel that still displays a 2023-24 row.

Worked example: Trace a school proposal through the budget calendar: department request, Budget Estimate, Assembly authorisation, release, purchase or construction, Revised Estimate and audited account. A figure in the speech establishes an intention; a release shows funds made available; a completed classroom needs physical verification. A supplementary demand can change legislative authorisation during the year. The correct answer to 'what was spent' must come from accounts, not the opening BE.

Active recall: Put BE, appropriation, release, RE and accounts in order. Which document gives the legislature's authority to withdraw funds?