As the nation reels under food inflation and general upward trend in hike in prices of goods, the common man expects the UPA-II government to come forward with measures aimed at mitigating his difficulties. With oil prices rising due to instability in the Middle East, the Finance Minister has very few options to avoid a hike in fuel prices. If fuel prices are hiked, it will not only affect the common man, but also most of the sectors of industry. The budget next week should therefore aim to shore up fiscal prudence and chalk out tax reform for the medium term and beyond. The overall objective of policy ought to be geared to stem inflation, ... ... ...