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Introduction
The Union Budget 2025-26, tabled by the Government of India, marks a pivotal step in the nation’s journey toward becoming a $5 trillion economy. With a strong focus on inclusive development, technological innovation, and sustainable growth, this budget aims to address pressing challenges while capitalizing on emerging opportunities. Let’s dive into the key highlights and what they mean for India’s future.
Key Highlights of Budget 2025-26
1. Economic Growth and Fiscal Discipline
GDP Growth Target: 7.5% for FY 2025-26, driven by robust manufacturing and services sectors.
Fiscal Deficit: Narrowed to 5.1% of GDP, signaling tighter fiscal management.
Tax Reforms: Simplified GST slabs and incentives for MSMEs to boost compliance and ease of business.
2. Infrastructure Boost
₹12.5 lakh crore allocated for infrastructure projects, including:
Expansion of highways, railways, and metro networks.
Green energy corridors for solar and wind power integration.
Smart Cities Mission 2.0 to enhance urban livability.
3. Agriculture and Rural Development
Farmers’ Welfare: ₹2.25 lakh crore for PM-KISAN, crop insurance, and cold storage facilities.
Doubling Farmers’ Income: Focus on agro-tech startups and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations).
MGNREGA: Increased allocation to ₹1.2 lakh crore to support rural employment.
4. Healthcare and Education
Ayushman Bharat Expansion: Coverage extended to 75% of India’s population.
Education for All: ₹1.8 lakh crore for the National Education Policy (NEP) 2025, emphasizing digital learning and skill development.
5. Digital India 2.0
AI and Quantum Computing: ₹10,000 crore fund to establish research hubs.
5G Rollout: Tax breaks for telecom companies to accelerate nationwide connectivity.
Startup India 2025: Tax holidays extended for tech startups in Tier-2/3 cities.
New Initiatives
Green Budget 2025:
₹50,000 crore for renewable energy projects, including green hydrogen.
Carbon credit trading platform to incentivize sustainability.
Women-Led Development:
₹25,000 crore fund for women entrepreneurs and self-help groups.
Subsidized loans for female-led agribusinesses.
Defense Modernization:
₹6.2 lakh crore allocated for indigenous defense manufacturing under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Challenges and Opportunities
Global Headwinds: Rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions may impact inflation.
Job Creation: Emphasis on labor-intensive sectors like textiles, tourism, and construction.
Tech-Driven Growth: Leveraging AI, blockchain, and IoT to drive efficiency.
Expert Reactions
Economists: Praise the focus on fiscal consolidation but urge faster implementation of reforms.
Industry Leaders: Applaud infrastructure spending but seek clarity on PLI (Production-Linked Incentive) schemes.
Citizens: Hopeful about healthcare and education reforms but demand quicker delivery.
Conclusion
The Union Budget 2025-26 strikes a balance between growth and welfare, innovation and tradition. While challenges remain, the budget’s forward-looking policies position India as a global economic powerhouse ready to embrace the future.
Call to Action:
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