India's economy is expected to become the fourth largest in the world by 2026, surpassing Japan, said industry body PHDCCI on Wednesday, as it projected the nation's GDP to grow 6.8 per cent in the current financial year ending March and 7.7 per cent in FY26. With the Indian economy growing resiliently over the past three years, it is expected to become the fourth largest economy in the world by 2026, surpassing Japan, said Hemant Jain, President, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Ahead of the Budget, the industry chamber also said the peak rate of income tax, which is currently applicable at 30 per cent on income above Rs 15 lakh, should be applied only to individuals having income above Rs 40 lakh, whereas the income tax exemption limit should be increased to Rs 10 lakh, arguing that boosting consumption through more disposable income in the hands of people is essential. Besides, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) expects the Reserve Bank to slash the bench-mark