The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, lays out a strategic roadmap for India’s economic growth. With a focus on tax relief, infrastructure development, MSME support, and digital transformation, the budget aims to empower individuals and businesses alike. From a major tax overhaul to groundbreaking initiatives in AI and urban development, this budget sets the stage for a stronger, more inclusive India
Personal Income Tax Overhaul: A Windfall for the Middle Class
Tax-Free Income Limit Raised: In a landmark move, the income tax exemption threshold has been elevated to ₹12 lakh, effectively making income up to ₹12 lakh tax-free
Revamped Tax Slabs: The introduction of a new 25% tax slab for incomes between ₹20 lakh and ₹24 lakh offers substantial relief to middle-income earners.
Agricultural Renaissance: Empowering Our Farmers
Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: This ambitious initiative aims to uplift 1.7 crore farmers across 100 low-productivity districts, focusing on enhancing agricultural output and sustainability
Pulses Self-Reliance Mission: A six-year mission targeting self-sufficiency in pulses like Tur, Urad, and Masoor, ensuring better procurement and support for farmers
Infrastructure and Innovation: Building the Future
Nuclear Energy Mission: With an eye on sustainable power, the government has launched a mission to develop 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047, including a ₹20,000 crore investment in Small Modular Reactors
Urban Challenge Fund: A substantial ₹1 lakh crore fund dedicated to city redevelopment projects, aiming to modernize urban infrastructure and enhance living standards
Social Welfare and Inclusion: Nurturing Every Citizen
Enhanced Credit for MSMEs: The credit guaranteed cover for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises has been doubled from ₹5 crore to ₹10 crore, facilitating easier access to capital
Support for Women and Marginalized Communities: A new scheme has been introduced to support first-time entrepreneurs from women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, fostering inclusivity and economic diversity
Technological Advancement: Embracing the Digital Age
Artificial Intelligence in Education: The establishment of new Centres of Excellence in AI, backed by a ₹500 crore allocation, aims to revolutionize the education sector through cutting-edge research and applications
Broadband Expansion: Under the Bharat Net initiative, all government secondary schools and primary health centers in rural areas will receive broadband connectivity, bridging the digital divide
The Union Budget 2025-26 strikes a balance between economic growth and social welfare, ensuring relief for taxpayers while investing in the nation’s future. With strategic investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation, the government is paving the way for a self-reliant and progressive India. As these measures take effect, they promise to drive sustainable growth and improve the quality of life for millions