The Sixteenth Finance Commission (XVIFC), chaired by Dr. Arvind Panagariya, submitted its report to the President on 17 November 2025, setting the framework for central–state fiscal transfers, tax devolution, and grants for the period 2026–27 to 2030–31. The recommendations will shape India’s fiscal federal architecture for the next five years.

BulletsIn:

* XVIFC submits report for 2026–31 to President on 17 Nov 2025

* Finance Commission formed under Article 280; advises on Centre–State tax sharing

* Chaired by Dr. Arvind Panagariya; members include Mathew, Panda, Rabi Sankar, Ghosh

* Mandate: vertical & horizontal tax devolution, grants, disaster financing

* Covers performance-based grants (health, education, sanitation, green goals)

* Recommends revenue deficit grants for states with structural gaps

* Reviews & strengthens disaster risk financing mechanisms

* Local body finance: proposals to empower rural & urban bodies

* Extensive consultations with States, Union ministries, experts, global institutions

* Report split into two volumes: recommendations + annexures/data

* Will become public when tabled in Parliament under Article 281