Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her record eighth consecutive budget, balancing middle-class relief with fiscal prudence. With the Indian economy projected to grow at 6.3-6.8% in 2025-26, structural reforms and investment momentum remain key priorities.
Ahead of the Budget, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the government’s efforts in overcoming “policy paralysis” despite global challenges, including post-pandemic recovery and geopolitical uncertainties. During the session, 16 bills including the Finance Bill 2025 and amendments to the Waqf and Banking Regulations Act will be tabled.
A major highlight of Budget 2025 is broadband connectivity for all government secondary schools and rural health centers. The government also plans to establish 50,000 Atal tinkering labs to foster scientific curiosity and launch the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak scheme to support regional language education.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a “people’s budget,” emphasizing that it prioritizes citizens’ welfare over treasury accumulation. Industry experts lauded the tax exemption increase to ₹12 lakh, calling it a boost for middle-class spending power. Maruti Suzuki’s RC Bhargava noted that the tax cuts would drive consumer demand, while economists pointed to long-term capex reforms and regulatory simplifications aimed at strengthening India’s global trade footprint.
With a mix of direct tax relief, education investments, and structural reforms, Budget 2025 aims to drive economic resilience while empowering citizens.
