<p dir="ltr"><span>Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth Union Budget 2025 on Saturday </span><span>(Feb 1), announcing new classification criteria for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>She said that the Union Government will enhance credit guarantee cover for micro, small and medium enterprises to Rs 10 crore ($1,153,437) from the existing Rs 5 crore ($576,718).</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Sitharaman said that customised credit cards with a limit of Rs 500,000 ($5767) will be started for small businesses registered on the Udyam Portal. These credit cards will be given to around 1 million businesses in the first year.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Also read | </span><strong><a href="FM%20Sitharaman%20commences%20Budget%20speech%20amid%20protest%20by%20Samajwadi%20Party%20MPs%20as%20opposition%20stages%20walkout">FM Sitharaman commences Budget speech amid protest by Samajwadi Party MPs as opposition stages walkout</a></strong></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Investment and turnover limits of MSMEs to be enhanced</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The finance minister said that the investment and turnover limits for the classification of all MSMEs will be enhanced to 2.5 and 2 times, respectively.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>This will give them the confidence to grow and generate employment for youth.</span><b></b></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Making it Easier for MSMEs to get Loans<br>Credit guarantee cover for MSMEs to be significantly enhanced<br>Customized Credit Cards for Micro Enterprises to be introduced<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViksitBharatBudget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViksitBharatBudget2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnionBudget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnionBudget2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/mLJTmKKnPt">pic.twitter.com/mLJTmKKnPt</a></p>
&mdash; Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/FinMinIndia/status/1885565881834770848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p dir="ltr"><span>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The Economic Survey, which was tabled in the Parliament on Friday (Jan 31), forecast a robust growth rate for India's economy, predicting an expansion between 6.3 and 6.8 per cent in the coming financial year (2025-26).</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>This survey illustrates India's robust economic fundamentals backed by a stable external account, fiscal consolidation, and private consumption.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>"The fundamentals of the domestic economy remain robust, with a strong external account, calibrated fiscal consolidation and stable private consumption. On the balance of these considerations, we expect that the growth in FY26 would be between 6.3 and 6.8 per cent," it said.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

India, Business, Economy: Finance Minister Sitharaman introduces new MSME classification criteria to boost growth and streamline business operations.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth Union Budget 2025 on Saturday (Feb 1), announcing new classification criteria for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). She said that the Union Government will enhance credit guarantee cover for micro, small and medium enterprises to Rs 10 crore ($1,153,437) from the existing Rs 5 crore ($576,718). Sitharaman said that customised credit cards with a limit of Rs 500,000 ($5767) will be started for small businesses registered on the Udyam Portal. These credit cards will be given to around 1 million businesses in the first year. Also read | FM Sitharaman commences Budget speech amid protest by Samajwadi Party MPs as opposition stages walkout Investment and turnover limits of MSMEs to be enhanced The finance minister said that the investment and turnover limits for the classification of all MSMEs will be enhanced to 2.5 and 2 times, respectively. This will give them the confidence to grow and generate employment for youth. Making it Easier for MSMEs to get Loans Credit guarantee cover for MSMEs to be significantly enhanced Customized Credit Cards for Micro Enterprises to be introduced#ViksitBharatBudget2025 #Budget2025 #UnionBudget2025 pic.twitter.com/mLJTmKKnPt — Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) February 1, 2025 The Economic Survey, which was tabled in the Parliament on Friday (Jan 31), forecast a robust growth rate for India's economy, predicting an expansion between 6.3 and 6.8 per cent in the coming financial year (2025-26). This survey illustrates India's robust economic fundamentals backed by a stable external account, fiscal consolidation, and private consumption. "The fundamentals of the domestic economy remain robust, with a strong external account, calibrated fiscal consolidation and stable private consumption. On the balance of these considerations, we expect that the growth in FY26 would be between 6.3 and 6.8 per cent," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

India Union Budget 2025: Finance Minister announces new classification criteria for MSMEs

<p dir="ltr"><span>Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting the Union Budget for 2025-26 from 11 am local time on Feb 1 (Saturday).</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>In other news, dozens of FBI agents and supervisors involved in now-dropped criminal investigations into President Donald Trump are facing scare of termination.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Meanwhile, Donald Trump revealed on Friday that his administration has engaged in &ldquo;very serious&rdquo; discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2025-26-live-updates-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-to-unveil-this-years-budget-today-narendra-modi-pm-modi-budget-session-india-budget-president-droupadi-murmu-1st-feb-8679670"><strong>India Union Budget 2025-26 LIVE | Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents 'Bahi Khata' to President Droupadi Murmu</strong></a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/c0Ig16NT5Ex6KVDo7iZn.png" alt=" India Budget Session Day 2 LIVE Updates Photograph: (WION Web Team) "></strong></p>
<p>Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting the Union Budget for 2025-26 on Saturday (Feb 1), a day after the unveiling of the Economic Survey.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-agents-who-investigated-us-president-donald-trump-under-the-sword-amid-reports-of-mass-firings-or-sweeping-purge-8679596">'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/9xnX6XDV8jkK852Wx3aU.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump gestures as he arrives at Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach Florida on January 31, 2025, as he travels to the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Photograph: (AFP) "></strong></p>
<p>Dozens of FBI agents and supervisors involved in now-dropped criminal investigations into President Donald Trump are facing termination, suggest reports on Friday (Jan 31). Quoting sources, US media publications, including CNN and NBC News, indicated that a sweeping purge is targeting senior FBI officials and field office heads.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hints-at-major-steps-with-putin-to-end-ukraine-conflict-8679710">Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/yDCTCkeR9etMFkmElCfD.png" alt=" Trump hints at major steps with Putin to end Ukraine conflict Photograph: (Reuters ) "></strong></p>
<p>US President Donald Trump revealed on Friday (Jan 31) that his administration has engaged in &ldquo;very serious&rdquo; discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/small-plane-crashes-in-philadelphia-engulfs-homes-in-flames-8679847"><strong>Small plane crashes in Philadelphia, homes lit on fire</strong></a></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/ZRhip3C9vMwsEVxUG5Vr.png" alt=" Small Plane crashes in Philadelphia, engulfs homes in flames  Photograph: (Reuters ) "></strong></p>
<p>A small medical transport plane carrying six people crashed into a densely populated neighbourhood in northeast Philadelphia on Friday (Jan 31) evening, setting homes and vehicles ablaze.</p>
<p><strong>Watch: Delhi assembly elections: Denied tickets by ruling party, 7 AAP MLAs resign from party</strong></p>
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Wake up informed with WION's Morning News Brief, bringing you the latest headlines and insights to kickstart your day with a global perspective and clarity.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting the Union Budget for 2025-26 from 11 am local time on Feb 1 (Saturday). In other news, dozens of FBI agents and supervisors involved in now-dropped criminal investigations into President Donald Trump are facing scare of termination. Meanwhile, Donald Trump revealed on Friday that his administration has engaged in “very serious” discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine. Click on the headlines to read more: India Union Budget 2025-26 LIVE | Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents 'Bahi Khata' to President Droupadi Murmu Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting the Union Budget for 2025-26 on Saturday (Feb 1), a day after the unveiling of the Economic Survey. 'Retire, resign or be fired': FBI agents who investigated Trump under the sword amid reports of mass firings Dozens of FBI agents and supervisors involved in now-dropped criminal investigations into President Donald Trump are facing termination, suggest reports on Friday (Jan 31). Quoting sources, US media publications, including CNN and NBC News, indicated that a sweeping purge is targeting senior FBI officials and field office heads. Trump hints he and Putin could soon take 'decisive steps' to end Ukraine conflict US President Donald Trump revealed on Friday (Jan 31) that his administration has engaged in “very serious” discussions with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine. Small plane crashes in Philadelphia, homes lit on fire A small medical transport plane carrying six people crashed into a densely populated neighbourhood in northeast Philadelphia on Friday (Jan 31) evening, setting homes and vehicles ablaze. Watch: Delhi assembly elections: Denied tickets by ruling party, 7 AAP MLAs resign from party

Morning news brief: India Union Budget 2025; Trump administration to fire FBI agents, and more

<p dir="ltr"><span>The flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet that crashed in the US.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>In other news, the budget session of India will begin today with President Droupadi Murmu addressing the joint sitting of the two Houses.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Meanwhile, Donald Trump insisted that Egypt and Jordan would take in displaced Gaza citizens.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-plane-crash-black-boxes-recovered-from-crashed-plane-in-washington-us-media-trump-confirms-no-survivors-8676429"><strong>Washington DC Plane Crash: 'Black boxes' recovered from crashed passenger jet</strong></a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/I8HT0ER0YpGIUbhnLwKy.png" alt=" A police boat gathers wreckage along the Potomac River after American Airlines flight 5342 on approach to Reagan National Airport crashed into the river after colliding with a US Army helicopter, near Washington, DC, on January 30, 2025 Photograph: (AFP) "></strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">The National Transportation Safety Board on Thursday (Jan 30) announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet that crashed into Washington's Potomac River after a deadly mid-air collision with a military helicopter late on Wednesday (Jan 29).</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-centre-to-introduce-16-bills-including-waqf-amendment-act-during-budget-session-8676528">India: Centre to introduce 16 bills including Waqf Amendment Act during Budget session</a></strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/USr8LB8ZXrbx5aQXiWAQ.jpg" alt=" File Photo: Inside visuals of Indian Lok Sabha Photograph: (ANI) "></strong></p>
<p>Sixteen key bills are set to be tabled in Parliament's Budget session, which kicks off on Friday (Jan 31). These bills include the Finance Bill 2025, amendments to the Waqf Act and Banking Regulations Act, and a proposal to merge the Indian Railways Act and the Indian Railways Board Act. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-insists-egypt-and-jordan-will-accept-displaced-gaza-citizens-theyre-going-to-do-it-8676637">Trump insists Egypt and Jordan will accept displaced Gaza citizens: 'They're going to do it'</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/50kLcdY0PrXnw9GROmTv.png" alt=" U.S. President Donald Trump talks to reporters from the Resolute Desk after signing an executive order to appoint the deputy administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration in the Oval Office at the White House on January 30, 2025 in Washington, DC. Photograph: (AFP) "></strong></p>
<p>US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) insisted that Egypt and Jordan would take in displaced Gaza citizens after the two nations dismissed the American leader's plan to "clean out" the Palestinian territory.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-gun-epidemic-amid-rising-shootings-by-youth-us-appeals-court-overturns-unconstitutional-handgun-ban-for-under-21s-sandy-hook-shooting-8676442">US Gun Epidemic: Court overturns 'unconstitutional' handgun ban for under-21s, despite rising shootings by youth</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/31/tDzOHHj1tH7lwFz4A7tx.png" alt=" A person tries out a handgun during the National Rifle Association (NRA) annual convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S., April 15, 2023. Photograph: (Reuters) "></strong></p>
<p>A conservative US court on Thursday (Jan 30) ruled that a federal law preventing licensed dealers from selling handguns to individuals aged 18 to 20 was "unconstitutional" and a violation of their rights.</p>
<p><strong>Watch: Delhi assembly elections: last few days of campaign for Delhi polls</strong></p>
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Kickstart your morning with WION's Morning News Brief, delivering essential updates and insights to keep you informed and ready for the day ahead.

The flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet that crashed in the US. In other news, the budget session of India will begin today with President Droupadi Murmu addressing the joint sitting of the two Houses. Meanwhile, Donald Trump insisted that Egypt and Jordan would take in displaced Gaza citizens. Click on the headlines to read more: Washington DC Plane Crash: 'Black boxes' recovered from crashed passenger jet The National Transportation Safety Board on Thursday (Jan 30) announced that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered from the passenger jet that crashed into Washington's Potomac River after a deadly mid-air collision with a military helicopter late on Wednesday (Jan 29). India: Centre to introduce 16 bills including Waqf Amendment Act during Budget session Sixteen key bills are set to be tabled in Parliament's Budget session, which kicks off on Friday (Jan 31). These bills include the Finance Bill 2025, amendments to the Waqf Act and Banking Regulations Act, and a proposal to merge the Indian Railways Act and the Indian Railways Board Act. Trump insists Egypt and Jordan will accept displaced Gaza citizens: 'They're going to do it' US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) insisted that Egypt and Jordan would take in displaced Gaza citizens after the two nations dismissed the American leader's plan to "clean out" the Palestinian territory. US Gun Epidemic: Court overturns 'unconstitutional' handgun ban for under-21s, despite rising shootings by youth A conservative US court on Thursday (Jan 30) ruled that a federal law preventing licensed dealers from selling handguns to individuals aged 18 to 20 was "unconstitutional" and a violation of their rights. Watch: Delhi assembly elections: last few days of campaign for Delhi polls

Morning news brief: 'Black boxes' recovered in US Plane crash; Indian Budget session begins today, and more

As India prepares for its 2025 budget, the youth of the nation are eagerly anticipating changes in education, employment, and social welfare that will shape their future.

India Union Budget 2025: What is the youth expecting?

<p>Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2025 on Saturday (Feb 1). This will be her eighth consecutive budget presentation, and she will become the first Finance Minister to achieve this feat.&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What is the Union Budget 2025?</strong></h2>
<p>The Union Budget 2025 is an annual financial statement that will provide a proposal of expenditures and revenues of the federal government for the next fiscal year, starting April 1, 2025, till March 31, 2026.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-date-time-when-and-where-to-watch-live-8668228">Union Budget 2025 - Date, time, when and where to watch live?</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Prime Ministers who have presented the Union Budget</strong></h2>
<p><strong>1. Jawaharlal Nehru</strong></p>
<p>India&rsquo;s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, presented the Union Budget in 1958. Nehru assumed responsibility for the finance ministry and presented the budget after the then-finance minister, T T Krishnamachari, resigned on February 12 amid the Mundhra Scandal.</p>
<p><strong>2. Morarji Desai &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Moraji Desai presented a total of 10 Union Budgets between 1959 and 1967, becoming the only person to hold this record. He served as prime minister of India from 1977 to 1979 and was a member of the Janata Dal party.</p>
<p><strong>3. Indira Gandhi &nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Indira Gandhi, the first female prime minister of India, presented the Union Budget for 1970. She took control of the finance ministry in 1969 after the resignation of Morarji Desai for about a year.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2025-senior-citizens-demand-tax-rationalisation-8674183">Budget 2025: Senior citizens demand tax rationalisation</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>4. Rajiv Gandhi </strong>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Rajiv Gandhi presented the Union Budget when he briefly took charge of the finance ministry from January to July 1987 after then-finance minister, V P Singh, was removed from his position.</p>
<p><strong>5. Manmohan Singh </strong></p>
<p>Former prime minister Manmohan Singh also served as the finance minister under P V Narasimha Rao's government between 1991 and 1996. In 1991, the budget that he presented was regarded as one of the most transformative budgets of India.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

India news | Business & economy | The Union Budget 2025 is an annual financial statement that will provide a proposal of expenditures and revenues of the federal government for the next fiscal year, starting April 1, 2025, till March 31, 2026. 

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2025 on Saturday (Feb 1). This will be her eighth consecutive budget presentation, and she will become the first Finance Minister to achieve this feat. What is the Union Budget 2025? The Union Budget 2025 is an annual financial statement that will provide a proposal of expenditures and revenues of the federal government for the next fiscal year, starting April 1, 2025, till March 31, 2026. Also read | Union Budget 2025 - Date, time, when and where to watch live? Prime Ministers who have presented the Union Budget 1. Jawaharlal Nehru India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, presented the Union Budget in 1958. Nehru assumed responsibility for the finance ministry and presented the budget after the then-finance minister, T T Krishnamachari, resigned on February 12 amid the Mundhra Scandal. 2. Morarji Desai Moraji Desai presented a total of 10 Union Budgets between 1959 and 1967, becoming the only person to hold this record. He served as prime minister of India from 1977 to 1979 and was a member of the Janata Dal party. 3. Indira Gandhi Indira Gandhi, the first female prime minister of India, presented the Union Budget for 1970. She took control of the finance ministry in 1969 after the resignation of Morarji Desai for about a year. Also read | Budget 2025: Senior citizens demand tax rationalisation 4. Rajiv Gandhi Rajiv Gandhi presented the Union Budget when he briefly took charge of the finance ministry from January to July 1987 after then-finance minister, V P Singh, was removed from his position. 5. Manmohan Singh Former prime minister Manmohan Singh also served as the finance minister under P V Narasimha Rao's government between 1991 and 1996. In 1991, the budget that he presented was regarded as one of the most transformative budgets of India. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: Prime Ministers who presented Union Budget

With India’s Union Budget 2025 approaching, citizens and analysts share their expectations. Will the government's proposals match the country's needs, or will there be a gap between promises and outcomes?

India Union Budget 2025: Expectations vs. reality – what can people anticipate?

<p>Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2025 on Saturday (Feb 1). This will be her eighth consecutive budget presentation, becoming the first Finance Minister to achieve this.&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What is the Union Budget 2025?</strong></h2>
<p>The Union Budget 2025 is an annual financial statement that will provide a proposal of expenditures and revenues of the federal government for the next fiscal year, starting April 1, 2025, till March 31, 2026.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Since 2019, various government policies on fiscal, spending, income and economy have been included in the budget paper, which is also called the bahi-khaata.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/will-the-budget-provide-tax-cuts-to-revive-indias-growth-story-8662975" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Will the budget provide tax cuts to revive India's growth story?</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Union Budget 2025: Date and time</strong></h2>
<p>The Union Budget 2025 will be presented in the Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Her speech will start at 11 am on Saturday (Feb 1) in the Lok Sabha.</p>
<h2><strong>Union Budget 2025: Where to Watch?</strong></h2>
<p>India&rsquo;s Union Budget presentation will be broadcast on the official TV channels of the government, Doordarshan and Sansad TV.</p>
<p>The budget speech can also be streamed on the official YouTube channels of the&nbsp;government.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/beneath-the-rising-new-regime-adoption-some-issues-that-must-be-addressed-8658833" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Budget 2025: Beneath the rising new regime adoption, some issues that must be addressed</a></strong></p>
<p>Sitharaman&rsquo;s budget presentation can be watched live at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/">https://www.wionews.com/</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To track the latest updates on the Union Budget 2025, follow WION&rsquo;s live Budget blog <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/india-budget-2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The budget documents can be accessed on the Union government&rsquo;s official website: <a href="https://www.indiabudget.gov.in">www.indiabudget.gov.in</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Union Budget Mobile App can also provide access to the budget documents, which include the Annual Financial Statement, Demand for Grants (DG), Finance Bill and others, as per the Consitution.</p>
<p>These documents will be available in Hindi and English languages.</p>

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2025 on Saturday (Feb 1). This will be her eighth consecutive budget presentation, becoming the first Finance Minister to achieve this. What is the Union Budget 2025? The Union Budget 2025 is an annual financial statement that will provide a proposal of expenditures and revenues of the federal government for the next fiscal year, starting April 1, 2025, till March 31, 2026. Since 2019, various government policies on fiscal, spending, income and economy have been included in the budget paper, which is also called the bahi-khaata. Also read | Will the budget provide tax cuts to revive India's growth story? Union Budget 2025: Date and time The Union Budget 2025 will be presented in the Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Her speech will start at 11 am on Saturday (Feb 1) in the Lok Sabha. Union Budget 2025: Where to Watch? India’s Union Budget presentation will be broadcast on the official TV channels of the government, Doordarshan and Sansad TV. The budget speech can also be streamed on the official YouTube channels of the government. Also read | Budget 2025: Beneath the rising new regime adoption, some issues that must be addressed Sitharaman’s budget presentation can be watched live at https://www.wionews.com/. To track the latest updates on the Union Budget 2025, follow WION’s live Budget blog here. The budget documents can be accessed on the Union government’s official website: www.indiabudget.gov.in The Union Budget Mobile App can also provide access to the budget documents, which include the Annual Financial Statement, Demand for Grants (DG), Finance Bill and others, as per the Consitution. These documents will be available in Hindi and English languages.

Union Budget 2025 - Date, time, when and where to watch live?

As India’s Union Budget 2025 nears its final stage of preparation, all eyes are on key measures and reforms that could shape the nation’s economy. Here’s a glimpse at what the budget may hold for individuals, businesses, and the country.

India's Union Budget 2025: What's in it for you? | Final stage of budget prep underway

<p dir="ltr">The Halwa ceremony, marking the final stage of the Union Budget 2025-26 preparation process, will be held on Friday (Jan 24) at 5 PM in the Central Secretariat's North Block, New Delhi, in the presence of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The ceremony will be led by Finance Minister Sitharaman in the presence of Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary and secretaries. The officers and staff involved in the preparation and compilation of the budget would also be present.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Also read | </span><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-budget-2025-personal-tax-reformswhat-to-expect-for-individual-taxpayers-8647084">Indian Budget 2025: Personal tax reforms&ndash;What to expect for individual taxpayers?</a></strong></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>What is the Halwa ceremony?</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The halwa ceremony is a customary ritual observed a few days before the budget presentation in the Parliament, involving the preparation and serving of "halwa" to officials and staff involved in the budget's preparation.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The halwa ceremony also marks the beginning of the lock-in period at the finance ministry, meaning that no official involved in the budget process is allowed to leave the North Block premises.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>During this period, they are cut off from external communication, including mobile phones, and are allowed to leave only after the financial document is presented in Parliament. This ensures the confidentiality of the budget documents.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Also read | </span><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2025-middle-class-hopes-for-relief-as-tax-reform-takes-centre-stage-8647823">Budget 2025: Middle class hopes for relief as tax reform takes centre stage</a></strong></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Significance of Halwa ceremony</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The making of the sweet dish is not just a festive event but majorly celebrates the hard work that goes in before the final stage of the budget preparation. Consequently, all the staff members who have been involved in the drafting of the budget are acknowledged for their contribution to the process.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Finance Minister Sitharaman is known for her active participation in the ceremony and is often photographed stirring the halwa in a large &lsquo;kadai&rsquo; (wok) in the North Block and serving the sweet dish to everyone involved in the budget-making process.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The ceremony also symbolises the start of the lock-in period, which is done to maintain the confidentiality and security of the Union Budget.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The budget session of parliament will begin on January 31 and end on April 4, with an inter-session break from February 14. President Droupadi Murmu will address the joint sitting of the two houses of Parliament on January 31.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

India News | Business & Economy: The Halwa ceremony, a traditional event marking the final stage of Union Budget preparations, will take place on January 24 at PM in the North Block.

The Halwa ceremony, marking the final stage of the Union Budget 2025-26 preparation process, will be held on Friday (Jan 24) at 5 PM in the Central Secretariat's North Block, New Delhi, in the presence of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The ceremony will be led by Finance Minister Sitharaman in the presence of Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary and secretaries. The officers and staff involved in the preparation and compilation of the budget would also be present. Also read | Indian Budget 2025: Personal tax reforms–What to expect for individual taxpayers? What is the Halwa ceremony? The halwa ceremony is a customary ritual observed a few days before the budget presentation in the Parliament, involving the preparation and serving of "halwa" to officials and staff involved in the budget's preparation. The halwa ceremony also marks the beginning of the lock-in period at the finance ministry, meaning that no official involved in the budget process is allowed to leave the North Block premises. During this period, they are cut off from external communication, including mobile phones, and are allowed to leave only after the financial document is presented in Parliament. This ensures the confidentiality of the budget documents. Also read | Budget 2025: Middle class hopes for relief as tax reform takes centre stage Significance of Halwa ceremony The making of the sweet dish is not just a festive event but majorly celebrates the hard work that goes in before the final stage of the budget preparation. Consequently, all the staff members who have been involved in the drafting of the budget are acknowledged for their contribution to the process. Finance Minister Sitharaman is known for her active participation in the ceremony and is often photographed stirring the halwa in a large ‘kadai’ (wok) in the North Block and serving the sweet dish to everyone involved in the budget-making process. The ceremony also symbolises the start of the lock-in period, which is done to maintain the confidentiality and security of the Union Budget. The budget session of parliament will begin on January 31 and end on April 4, with an inter-session break from February 14. President Droupadi Murmu will address the joint sitting of the two houses of Parliament on January 31. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Budget 2025: What is halwa ceremony and its significance

Tax reforms dominate middle-class expectations as we await Budget 2025. The government is expected to unveil a slew of initiatives, including tax cuts, capital expenditures, and additional jobs, or some combination of these, to boost sentiment and help the economy overcome the speed-breaker that has stalled its growing momentum. Take a look at this budget report for more on this.

Middle class hopes for urgent tax relief

The Indian middle class bears a substantial tax burden compared to their counterparts in many developed and emerging economies. In India, the recent union budget raised taxes on capital gains from equities and real estate, compounding the middle class’s financial strain.

Why Indians are unhappy with their tax structure

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<p>Earlier this week, the Indian&nbsp;Finance Minister&nbsp;Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament. Since then, the internet has been filled with multiple satirical videos of content creators telling people how to avoid income tax has gone viral.</p>

<p>Content creator Shrinidhi Hande shared this hack in a video that has entertained millions. The video was posted shortly after Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024, which quickly became a target for numerous jokes and memes.</p>

<p>In his witty video, Hande described a method for salaried professionals to save 100 per cent&nbsp;on income tax by selling grass to their employers.</p>

<p>“In this video, I will tell you how to save 100 per cent on income tax,” Hande, who hails from Udupi, Karnataka, explained.</p>

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<p>He described it as a “very easy, legal and simple process” although it isn't.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-mic-was-muted-west-bengal-cm-mamata-locks-horns-with-pm-modi-during-niti-aayog-meet-744740">'Mic was muted': West Bengal CM Mamata locks horns with PM Modi during NITI Aayog meet</a></strong></p>

<p>“Step one: You have to grow grass in your home or on your balcony or your terrace, and it is a very, very legal process,” the content creator said.</p>

<p>“Now, go to the HR and tell them you don’t want any salary. They would be happy. Tell your HR that your company should buy grass from you to the tune of your salary. If your salary is ₹50,000, maybe they can buy 50 strands of grass for ₹1,000 each. Completely legal process,” he continued.</p>

<p>“Now what happens, your income from salary becomes zero and all you have is income from selling agricultural produce which is not taxable in India. This way, you can save 100 per cent on income tax. No need to worry about TDS or investment,” he concluded.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-opposition-leader-expelled-from-house-for-mimicking-bihar-cm-nitish-kumar-744772">India: Opposition leader expelled from House for 'mimicking' Bihar CM Nitish Kumar</a></strong></p>

<p>“Written with humorous intent only,” the disclaimer of the post read.</p>

<p>Since being shared on July 23, the video has received numerous views and reactions.</p>

<p>"Perfect s**la actually only educated are bullied to pay because they maintain accounts ethically. this is ethical tax otherwise the rediwalas earn more than us and agriculture everybody knows who becomes farmer overnight," one comment read</p>

<p>“How funny it's going to be when the company's financial statement shows 40-80% of revenue is spent in purchasing GRASS,” another wrote.</p>

<p>“I did, HR called the police and asked me what type of grass it is that I am trying to sell in 50k,” the third one said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Earlier this week, the Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament. Since then, the internet has been filled with multiple satirical videos of content creators telling people how to avoid income tax has gone viral.

Earlier this week, the Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament. Since then, the internet has been filled with multiple satirical videos of content creators telling people how to avoid income tax has gone viral. Content creator Shrinidhi Hande shared this hack in a video that has entertained millions. The video was posted shortly after Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024, which quickly became a target for numerous jokes and memes. In his witty video, Hande described a method for salaried professionals to save 100 per cent on income tax by selling grass to their employers. “In this video, I will tell you how to save 100 per cent on income tax,” Hande, who hails from Udupi, Karnataka, explained. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shrinidhi Hande (@enidhi) × He described it as a “very easy, legal and simple process” although it isn't. Also read: 'Mic was muted': West Bengal CM Mamata locks horns with PM Modi during NITI Aayog meet “Step one: You have to grow grass in your home or on your balcony or your terrace, and it is a very, very legal process,” the content creator said. “Now, go to the HR and tell them you don’t want any salary. They would be happy. Tell your HR that your company should buy grass from you to the tune of your salary. If your salary is ₹50,000, maybe they can buy 50 strands of grass for ₹1,000 each. Completely legal process,” he continued. “Now what happens, your income from salary becomes zero and all you have is income from selling agricultural produce which is not taxable in India. This way, you can save 100 per cent on income tax. No need to worry about TDS or investment,” he concluded. Also read: India: Opposition leader expelled from House for 'mimicking' Bihar CM Nitish Kumar “Written with humorous intent only,” the disclaimer of the post read. Since being shared on July 23, the video has received numerous views and reactions. "Perfect s**la actually only educated are bullied to pay because they maintain accounts ethically. this is ethical tax otherwise the rediwalas earn more than us and agriculture everybody knows who becomes farmer overnight," one comment read “How funny it's going to be when the company's financial statement shows 40-80% of revenue is spent in purchasing GRASS,” another wrote. “I did, HR called the police and asked me what type of grass it is that I am trying to sell in 50k,” the third one said. (With inputs from agencies)

Grass for cash: Karnataka content creator’s hilarious tax hack goes viral after Union Budget 2024

<p>Global pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca is poised to reap massive gains from the Indian Union Budget 2024-25.</p>

<p>On July 23, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced customs duty exemptions on three critical cancer drugs—Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, Osimertinib, and Durvalumab. All three drugs are manufactured by AstraZeneca plc and supplied in India by its subsidiary Bengaluru-based AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited.</p>

<p>The drugs were previously subject to a ten per cent customs duty. Now, with the exemption, their prices will lower, potentially boosting AstraZeneca's market share and sales in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-modi-30-announces-spate-of-women-centric-schemes-mayawati-calls-it-a-disappointment-743470">India Budget 2024: Modi 3.0 announces spate of women-centric schemes; Mayawati calls it a 'disappointment'</a></strong></p>

<p>On Budget day, after Union Minister Sitharaman's announcement, AstraZeneca Pharma India's shares surged significantly — 13 per cent to ₹7,064.65. The stock has gained nearly 28 per cent year-to-date and reached a 52-week high of ₹7,550 on July 4, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>Industry reactions</strong></h2>

<p>The Union Health Ministry, in a statement, said that the request for exemption was forwarded by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to the Ministry of Finance "in view of the 27 lakh cancer patients in the country".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To improve the affordability of these drugs, Ministry of Finance has exempted them from the customs duty," it added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-congress-slams-bjp-government-says-budget-speech-more-focused-on-posturing-than-action-743389">India Budget 2024: Congress slams BJP government, says budget speech more focused on posturing than action</a></strong></p>

<p>Pharmaceutical analysts believe this reform could enhance AstraZeneca's market position in India. Vishal Manchanda, Senior Vice President of Institutional Research at Systematix, said that "AstraZeneca is likely to benefit from this move, which should help make drugs more affordable and increase access. The company is the only multinational introducing its complete drug pipeline from its parent portfolio in India".</p>

<p>Expressing appreciation for the government's decision, Dr Sanjeev Panchal, Managing Director &amp; Country President of AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited, said: "The National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) report estimates that one in nine people are likely to develop cancer in his/her lifetime in India."</p>

<p>"The pivotal announcement by the government, to fully exempt three more medicines from customs duties to provide relief to cancer patients, is a welcome step," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Global pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca is poised to reap massive gains from the Indian Union Budget 2024-25. On July 23, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced customs duty exemptions on three critical cancer drugs—Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, Osimertinib, and Durvalumab.

Global pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca is poised to reap massive gains from the Indian Union Budget 2024-25. On July 23, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced customs duty exemptions on three critical cancer drugs—Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, Osimertinib, and Durvalumab. All three drugs are manufactured by AstraZeneca plc and supplied in India by its subsidiary Bengaluru-based AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited. The drugs were previously subject to a ten per cent customs duty. Now, with the exemption, their prices will lower, potentially boosting AstraZeneca's market share and sales in India. Also read | India Budget 2024: Modi 3.0 announces spate of women-centric schemes; Mayawati calls it a 'disappointment' On Budget day, after Union Minister Sitharaman's announcement, AstraZeneca Pharma India's shares surged significantly — 13 per cent to ₹7,064.65. The stock has gained nearly 28 per cent year-to-date and reached a 52-week high of ₹7,550 on July 4, 2024. Industry reactions The Union Health Ministry, in a statement, said that the request for exemption was forwarded by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to the Ministry of Finance "in view of the 27 lakh cancer patients in the country". "To improve the affordability of these drugs, Ministry of Finance has exempted them from the customs duty," it added. Also read | India Budget 2024: Congress slams BJP government, says budget speech more focused on posturing than action Pharmaceutical analysts believe this reform could enhance AstraZeneca's market position in India. Vishal Manchanda, Senior Vice President of Institutional Research at Systematix, said that "AstraZeneca is likely to benefit from this move, which should help make drugs more affordable and increase access. The company is the only multinational introducing its complete drug pipeline from its parent portfolio in India". Expressing appreciation for the government's decision, Dr Sanjeev Panchal, Managing Director & Country President of AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited, said: "The National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) report estimates that one in nine people are likely to develop cancer in his/her lifetime in India." "The pivotal announcement by the government, to fully exempt three more medicines from customs duties to provide relief to cancer patients, is a welcome step," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Budget 2024 hands AstraZeneca a custom duty-free jackpot. Details here

<p><strong>Union Budget 2024:</strong>&nbsp;Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament today. This will be the Modi 3.0 government’s maiden budget for the fiscal 2024-25.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With today’s budget, Sitharaman is set to create history by presenting the budget seven times in a row, surpassing the record of six budgets held by former prime minister Morarji Desai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sitharaman, 64, was appointed as India’s first full-time woman finance minister in 2019 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi won a decisive second term. Since then, she has presented six straight budgets, including an interim one in February this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-nirmala-sitharaman-wears-a-white-checkered-handloom-saree-for-union-budget-2024-743280">Nirmala Sitharaman wears a white checkered handloom saree for Union Budget 2024</a></p>

<p>The full Budget for the 2024-25 fiscal (April 2024 to March 2025) will be her seventh straight. She will better Desai’s record, who presented five consecutive full budgets and one interim budget from 1959 to 1964.</p>

<p>The 2020 budget presented by Sitharaman is also iconic for her speech in the parliament, which was the longest speech in history. Her speech lasted for two hours and 40 minutes. At the time, she cut short her speech with two pages remaining.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former finance minister Manmohan Singh set the record for the longest speech in terms of words. His budget speech consisted of 18,700 words in the 1991 budget presentation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Budget 2024: Indian youngsters call for tax reforms | Nirmala Sitharaman | Narendra Modi |Vibe Check</strong></p>

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<p>This year witnessed two budgets – an interim one in February and a full one this month. This is because an incumbent government cannot present a full Budget just before general elections.</p>

<p>The presentation on July 23 will be the first Budget by the BJP-led NDA government since its re-election last month. The budget will be presented at 11:00 am on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-budget-a-roadmap-to-a-developed-nation-what-to-expect-743238">India budget: A roadmap to a developed nation. What to expect?</a></p>

<p>An interesting trivia related to the time of budget presentation is that the Budget was traditionally presented on the last day of February at 5:00 pm. The timing followed a colonial era practice when the announcements could be made in London and India at the same time. India is 4 hours and 30 minutes ahead of the British Summer Time, and so presenting the budget at 5:00 pm in India ensured that it was happening in the daytime in the United Kingdom.</p>

<p>The timing was changed in 1999 when the then finance minister Yashwant Singh in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government presented the budget at 11:00 am. Since then budgets are presented at 11:00 am.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Union Budget 2024: Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament today. This will be the Modi 3.0 government’s maiden budget for the fiscal 2024-25.

Union Budget 2024: Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament today. This will be the Modi 3.0 government’s maiden budget for the fiscal 2024-25. With today’s budget, Sitharaman is set to create history by presenting the budget seven times in a row, surpassing the record of six budgets held by former prime minister Morarji Desai. Sitharaman, 64, was appointed as India’s first full-time woman finance minister in 2019 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi won a decisive second term. Since then, she has presented six straight budgets, including an interim one in February this year. Also Read | Nirmala Sitharaman wears a white checkered handloom saree for Union Budget 2024 The full Budget for the 2024-25 fiscal (April 2024 to March 2025) will be her seventh straight. She will better Desai’s record, who presented five consecutive full budgets and one interim budget from 1959 to 1964. The 2020 budget presented by Sitharaman is also iconic for her speech in the parliament, which was the longest speech in history. Her speech lasted for two hours and 40 minutes. At the time, she cut short her speech with two pages remaining. Former finance minister Manmohan Singh set the record for the longest speech in terms of words. His budget speech consisted of 18,700 words in the 1991 budget presentation. Watch | Budget 2024: Indian youngsters call for tax reforms | Nirmala Sitharaman | Narendra Modi |Vibe Check × This year witnessed two budgets – an interim one in February and a full one this month. This is because an incumbent government cannot present a full Budget just before general elections. The presentation on July 23 will be the first Budget by the BJP-led NDA government since its re-election last month. The budget will be presented at 11:00 am on Tuesday. Also Read | India budget: A roadmap to a developed nation. What to expect? An interesting trivia related to the time of budget presentation is that the Budget was traditionally presented on the last day of February at 5:00 pm. The timing followed a colonial era practice when the announcements could be made in London and India at the same time. India is 4 hours and 30 minutes ahead of the British Summer Time, and so presenting the budget at 5:00 pm in India ensured that it was happening in the daytime in the United Kingdom. The timing was changed in 1999 when the then finance minister Yashwant Singh in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government presented the budget at 11:00 am. Since then budgets are presented at 11:00 am. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2024: Nirmala Sitharaman's budget already set a record. Here's how.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament. FM Sitharaman said that the budget's focus is on employment, skilling, MSME & the middle class. This budget promises significant changes across various sectors, from infrastructure to social welfare. Among the key announcements, Sitharaman revealed substantial reductions in customs duties on several items. Here’s a look at a list of what will get costlier and cheaper in this Financial Year .

India Budget 2024: What gets cheaper, what gets costlier?

<p>On Tuesday (July 23), facing tough questions from the opposition over job creation and inflation, Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will deliver the first Union Budget of Modi 3.0.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pre-budget economic survey predicted growth of 6.5-7 per cent for fiscal year 2025. This suggests that India's economy is poised to grow at a rate that ranks among the highest in the Asia-Pacific region in the next two years.</p>

<p>By all accounts, July 30 will see the passing of the Union Budget 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the opposition leaders have confronted the administration on four fronts: rising prices, high unemployment, stagnation in important economic areas, and agricultural hardship.</p>

<p>What remains to be seen is whether the budget will be able to address those and the wish lists of businesses and people.</p>

<h2><strong>Broad expectations from the budget:</strong></h2>

<p>Job creation and manufacturing: In her seventh budget, Sitharaman is expected to incentivise 'Made in India' procurement across industries and provide tax breaks for new manufacturing setups and factories. The goal is to create jobs for millions of students entering the workforce.</p>

<p>With the help of its allies, Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regained power after narrowly losing the general election due to widespread dissatisfaction with employment prospects.</p>

<h2><strong>Capital expenditure:</strong></h2>

<p>Building better infrastructure has been a top priority for the Modi government. The government's capital expenditure (capex) plans have increased from 9.5 lakh crore rupees in the previous fiscal year to 11.1 lakh crore rupees this time around.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The federal government prioritizes infrastructure development and has provided incentives to the states to increase capital expenditures.</p>

<p>What remains to be seen is the measures to encourage private capex, which has been lagging over the last few years.</p>

<h2><strong>Tax relief:</strong></h2>

<p>Most are waiting to see if the finance minister will mention middle-class tax relief in her budget statement. The middle class has high hopes because they did not get anything in the interim budget before the election.</p>

<p>Among the Asia-Pacific region's economies, India is expected to rank among the top performers in growth in 2024 and 2025. The main reason for this is not exports or domestic consumption but government spending.</p>

<p>So, tax relief is important to drive domestic consumption and is considered one of this budget's broad themes.</p>

<h2><strong>Schemes for MSMEs:</strong></h2>

<p>Micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) are a key component of India's economic growth engine, and Sitharaman has hinted that she may unveil measures to support them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The defence, electronics, and electric vehicle (EV) industries all present opportunities for MSMEs to expand.</p>

<h2><strong>Fiscal discipline:</strong></h2>

<p>Compared to 5.8 per cent in the previous fiscal, the anticipated deficit for this year is 5.1 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fiscal deficit forecasts in the final budget are anticipated to be more optimistic than those in previous versions. The disparity between tax revenue and government spending is known as the fiscal deficit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a surplus bumper from the Reserve Bank of India, the government has more room to fund its welfare plans, manage its finances and bring down the deficit.</p>


On Tuesday (July 23), facing tough questions from the opposition over job creation and inflation, Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will deliver the first Union Budget of Modi 3.

On Tuesday (July 23), facing tough questions from the opposition over job creation and inflation, Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will deliver the first Union Budget of Modi 3.0. The pre-budget economic survey predicted growth of 6.5-7 per cent for fiscal year 2025. This suggests that India's economy is poised to grow at a rate that ranks among the highest in the Asia-Pacific region in the next two years. By all accounts, July 30 will see the passing of the Union Budget 2024. According to reports, the opposition leaders have confronted the administration on four fronts: rising prices, high unemployment, stagnation in important economic areas, and agricultural hardship. What remains to be seen is whether the budget will be able to address those and the wish lists of businesses and people. Broad expectations from the budget: Job creation and manufacturing: In her seventh budget, Sitharaman is expected to incentivise 'Made in India' procurement across industries and provide tax breaks for new manufacturing setups and factories. The goal is to create jobs for millions of students entering the workforce. With the help of its allies, Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regained power after narrowly losing the general election due to widespread dissatisfaction with employment prospects. Capital expenditure: Building better infrastructure has been a top priority for the Modi government. The government's capital expenditure (capex) plans have increased from 9.5 lakh crore rupees in the previous fiscal year to 11.1 lakh crore rupees this time around. The federal government prioritizes infrastructure development and has provided incentives to the states to increase capital expenditures. What remains to be seen is the measures to encourage private capex, which has been lagging over the last few years. Tax relief: Most are waiting to see if the finance minister will mention middle-class tax relief in her budget statement. The middle class has high hopes because they did not get anything in the interim budget before the election. Among the Asia-Pacific region's economies, India is expected to rank among the top performers in growth in 2024 and 2025. The main reason for this is not exports or domestic consumption but government spending. So, tax relief is important to drive domestic consumption and is considered one of this budget's broad themes. Schemes for MSMEs: Micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) are a key component of India's economic growth engine, and Sitharaman has hinted that she may unveil measures to support them. The defence, electronics, and electric vehicle (EV) industries all present opportunities for MSMEs to expand. Fiscal discipline: Compared to 5.8 per cent in the previous fiscal, the anticipated deficit for this year is 5.1 per cent. Fiscal deficit forecasts in the final budget are anticipated to be more optimistic than those in previous versions. The disparity between tax revenue and government spending is known as the fiscal deficit. With a surplus bumper from the Reserve Bank of India, the government has more room to fund its welfare plans, manage its finances and bring down the deficit.

India budget: A roadmap to a developed nation. What to expect?

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Government's budget for the year 2024-2025 including some significant changes in taxes as well as some major economic initiatives. Watch the video to know more.

Union Budget 2024: Plastic & Telecom equipment get costlier; custom duty on gold & silver slashed

<p>Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Union Budget 2024, introducing significant initiatives across various sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The budget also brought about substantial modifications to the capital gains tax structure and income tax frameworks. Sitharaman emphasised that the government has been given a unique opportunity by the people to guide the nation towards robust development and comprehensive prosperity. She stated that this interim budget would present a detailed roadmap for the pursuit of 'Viksit Bharat'.</p>

<p>A major highlight of the budget was the allocation of INR 26,000 crore for enhancing road connectivity projects. This initiative is part of a broader development plan for Bihar and other eastern states under the 'Purvodaya' scheme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The scheme aims to boost human resource development, infrastructure growth, and create economic opportunities in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. Specific to Bihar, the Finance Minister announced plans to develop the Amritsar-Kolkata industrial corridor, with Gaya as an industrial node. This move is expected to stimulate industrial development in the eastern region. The transformation of Gaya is intended to serve as a model for developing ancient cultural centers into hubs of modern economy, embodying the principle of "Vikas bhi, virasat bhi" (Development along with heritage).</p>

<p>The infrastructure boost for Bihar includes the development of the Patna-Purnia expressway, Buxar-Bhagalpur expressway, and an additional two-lane bridge over the Ganga river in Buxar.</p>

<p>In a significant move towards mineral security, the budget introduced a 'Critical Mineral Mission' aimed at domestic production, recycling, and overseas acquisition of critical mineral assets. This mission will focus on technology development, workforce skilling, and establishing financing mechanisms. The government announced the exemption of customs duties on 25 critical minerals and a reduction in Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on two others. This measure is expected to significantly boost the processing and refining of these minerals, ensuring their availability for strategic sectors such as nuclear energy, renewable energy, space, defense, telecommunications, and high-tech electronics.</p>

<p>To stimulate job creation in the manufacturing sector, the Finance Minister introduced a scheme to incentivise the employment of first-time workers. This initiative will provide benefits to both employees and employers regarding EPFO contributions for the initial four years of employment. The scheme is projected to benefit 30 lakh youth and cover additional employment across all sectors. The government plans to reimburse employers up to INR 3,000 per month for two years towards EPFO contributions for each additional employee, aiming to incentivize the employment of 50 lakh people.</p>

<p>Support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) featured prominently in the budget, with eight new measures proposed. These include a credit guarantee scheme for MSMEs making capital investments in the manufacturing sector, with coverage up to INR 100 crore. Public Sector Banks are tasked with developing new assessment models for providing credit to MSMEs. The budget also proposes credit support for MSMEs during stress periods from a government-promoted fund. The MUDRA loan limit has been enhanced to INR 20 lakh for credit-worthy entrepreneurs. Other measures include reducing the turnover threshold for mandatory onboarding in TReDS, establishing 24 new SIDBI branches in MSME clusters, setting up new MSME units for food irradiation and quality testing, and creating e-commerce export hubs for MSMEs and traditional artisans.</p>

<p>Lastly, the Finance Minister announced a comprehensive review of the Income Tax Act to enhance its clarity and readability. Changes to the new tax regime slabs were introduced, along with an increase in the standard tax deduction from INR 50,000 to INR 75,000.</p>


Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Union Budget 2024, introducing significant initiatives across various sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Union Budget 2024, introducing significant initiatives across various sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The budget also brought about substantial modifications to the capital gains tax structure and income tax frameworks. Sitharaman emphasised that the government has been given a unique opportunity by the people to guide the nation towards robust development and comprehensive prosperity. She stated that this interim budget would present a detailed roadmap for the pursuit of 'Viksit Bharat'. A major highlight of the budget was the allocation of INR 26,000 crore for enhancing road connectivity projects. This initiative is part of a broader development plan for Bihar and other eastern states under the 'Purvodaya' scheme. The scheme aims to boost human resource development, infrastructure growth, and create economic opportunities in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. Specific to Bihar, the Finance Minister announced plans to develop the Amritsar-Kolkata industrial corridor, with Gaya as an industrial node. This move is expected to stimulate industrial development in the eastern region. The transformation of Gaya is intended to serve as a model for developing ancient cultural centers into hubs of modern economy, embodying the principle of "Vikas bhi, virasat bhi" (Development along with heritage). The infrastructure boost for Bihar includes the development of the Patna-Purnia expressway, Buxar-Bhagalpur expressway, and an additional two-lane bridge over the Ganga river in Buxar. In a significant move towards mineral security, the budget introduced a 'Critical Mineral Mission' aimed at domestic production, recycling, and overseas acquisition of critical mineral assets. This mission will focus on technology development, workforce skilling, and establishing financing mechanisms. The government announced the exemption of customs duties on 25 critical minerals and a reduction in Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on two others. This measure is expected to significantly boost the processing and refining of these minerals, ensuring their availability for strategic sectors such as nuclear energy, renewable energy, space, defense, telecommunications, and high-tech electronics. To stimulate job creation in the manufacturing sector, the Finance Minister introduced a scheme to incentivise the employment of first-time workers. This initiative will provide benefits to both employees and employers regarding EPFO contributions for the initial four years of employment. The scheme is projected to benefit 30 lakh youth and cover additional employment across all sectors. The government plans to reimburse employers up to INR 3,000 per month for two years towards EPFO contributions for each additional employee, aiming to incentivize the employment of 50 lakh people. Support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) featured prominently in the budget, with eight new measures proposed. These include a credit guarantee scheme for MSMEs making capital investments in the manufacturing sector, with coverage up to INR 100 crore. Public Sector Banks are tasked with developing new assessment models for providing credit to MSMEs. The budget also proposes credit support for MSMEs during stress periods from a government-promoted fund. The MUDRA loan limit has been enhanced to INR 20 lakh for credit-worthy entrepreneurs. Other measures include reducing the turnover threshold for mandatory onboarding in TReDS, establishing 24 new SIDBI branches in MSME clusters, setting up new MSME units for food irradiation and quality testing, and creating e-commerce export hubs for MSMEs and traditional artisans. Lastly, the Finance Minister announced a comprehensive review of the Income Tax Act to enhance its clarity and readability. Changes to the new tax regime slabs were introduced, along with an increase in the standard tax deduction from INR 50,000 to INR 75,000.

Union budget 2024: FM allocates INR 26,000 cr for roads, custom duties on critical minerals exempted

The Indian government has recently announced significant changes to the income tax regime, providing substantial relief to salaried individuals and pensioners. With the revised tax slabs and increased standard deductions, many taxpayers are set to benefit from significant savings. Watch in for more details!

India Union Budget 2024: New tax regime slabs revised, standard deduction raised to INR 75K

<p>The Indian government’s budget allocation for the Ministry of External Affairs in the fiscal year 2024-2025 has marked increased allocations to Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Seychelles, with a drop in support for other neighbouring countries.</p>

<p>The increase is dependent on the needs and requirements of each country. These allocations are intended for infrastructure support and development projects.</p>

<h2><strong>Increased Allocations</strong></h2>

<p>Nepal stands out as a significant beneficiary with an allocation of Rs 700 crore, marking a substantial increase of Rs 150 crore from the previous year's budget of Rs 550 crore, which was later revised to Rs 650 crore. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-congress-slams-bjp-government-says-budget-speech-more-focused-on-posturing-than-action-743389">India Budget 2024: Congress slams BJP government, says budget speech more focused on posturing than action</a></strong></p>

<p>Sri Lanka has also seen a noteworthy increase in its allocation, with Rs 245 crore earmarked for FY 2024-2025, up by Rs 95 crore from last year’s allocation of Rs 150 crore. This rise comes as Sri Lanka continues to navigate economic recovery, and India's support is seen as crucial in these efforts. Delhi had provided a support of $4 billion to aid Colombo's recovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-neighbourhood-first-sagar-outlook-foreign-policy-frameworks-at-centre-of-modi-30-inauguration-730111">What is Neighbourhood First, SAGAR outlook? Foreign policy frameworks at centre of Modi 3.0 inauguration</a></strong></p>

<p>Seychelles has received an additional Rs 30 crore, bringing its total allocation to Rs 40 crore from the previous financial year's Rs 10 crore. This increase, although modest, signals India’s continued interest in strengthening ties with the Indian Ocean region.</p>

<h2><strong>Steady Allocations</strong></h2>

<p>Afghanistan and the Maldives have not seen any changes in their allocations, remaining at Rs 200 crore and Rs 400 crore, respectively. For Afghanistan, the allocation holds steady despite a revision in the previous year's budget to Rs 220 crore, reflecting a responsive approach to the people of Afghanistan despite Taliban rule. India has in recent months sent wheat to the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-modi-hails-budget-says-it-will-give-new-strength-to-countrys-middle-class-743418">India Budget 2024: Modi hails budget, says it will give new strength to country's middle class</a></strong></p>

<p>The Maldives also saw a significant increase in the revised budget for FY 2023-2024, rising to Rs 770.90 crore, indicating ongoing support for its major infrastructure projects.</p>

<h2><strong>Decreased Allocations</strong></h2>

<p>Bhutan and Myanmar have experienced reductions in their aid. Bhutan’s allocation has decreased by Rs 332.02 crore, and similarly, Myanmar’s budget has been reduced by Rs 150 crore to Rs 250 crore. Last year, Myanmar received Rs 400 crore, with Rs 370 crore being utilised. Despite the cut for Bhutan, the Himalayan country continues to get the lion's share of India's allocation at Rs 2068.56 crore.</p>

<p>Bangladesh has seen its allocation drop by Rs 80 crore to Rs 120 crore.</p>

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<p>The previous year saw an allocation of Rs 200 crore, with only Rs 130 crore utilised. Mauritius and Mongolia are also on the list of countries receiving decreased aid. Mauritius’ allocation is reduced by Rs 90.79 crore, now standing at Rs 370 crore, and Mongolia’s allocation sees a minimal reduction of Rs 2 crore.</p>

<h2><strong>Strategic Continuity</strong></h2>

<p>The Chabahar port project in Iran continues to receive a steady allocation of Rs 100 crore, unchanged for the past three years. This consistent funding underscores the strategic importance India places on the port as a critical gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.</p>


The Indian government’s budget allocation for the Ministry of External Affairs in the fiscal year 2024-2025 has marked increased allocations to Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Seychelles, with a drop in support for other neighbouring countries.

The Indian government’s budget allocation for the Ministry of External Affairs in the fiscal year 2024-2025 has marked increased allocations to Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Seychelles, with a drop in support for other neighbouring countries. The increase is dependent on the needs and requirements of each country. These allocations are intended for infrastructure support and development projects. Increased Allocations Nepal stands out as a significant beneficiary with an allocation of Rs 700 crore, marking a substantial increase of Rs 150 crore from the previous year's budget of Rs 550 crore, which was later revised to Rs 650 crore. Also read | India Budget 2024: Congress slams BJP government, says budget speech more focused on posturing than action Sri Lanka has also seen a noteworthy increase in its allocation, with Rs 245 crore earmarked for FY 2024-2025, up by Rs 95 crore from last year’s allocation of Rs 150 crore. This rise comes as Sri Lanka continues to navigate economic recovery, and India's support is seen as crucial in these efforts. Delhi had provided a support of $4 billion to aid Colombo's recovery. Also read | What is Neighbourhood First, SAGAR outlook? Foreign policy frameworks at centre of Modi 3.0 inauguration Seychelles has received an additional Rs 30 crore, bringing its total allocation to Rs 40 crore from the previous financial year's Rs 10 crore. This increase, although modest, signals India’s continued interest in strengthening ties with the Indian Ocean region. Steady Allocations Afghanistan and the Maldives have not seen any changes in their allocations, remaining at Rs 200 crore and Rs 400 crore, respectively. For Afghanistan, the allocation holds steady despite a revision in the previous year's budget to Rs 220 crore, reflecting a responsive approach to the people of Afghanistan despite Taliban rule. India has in recent months sent wheat to the country. Also read | India Budget 2024: Modi hails budget, says it will give new strength to country's middle class The Maldives also saw a significant increase in the revised budget for FY 2023-2024, rising to Rs 770.90 crore, indicating ongoing support for its major infrastructure projects. Decreased Allocations Bhutan and Myanmar have experienced reductions in their aid. Bhutan’s allocation has decreased by Rs 332.02 crore, and similarly, Myanmar’s budget has been reduced by Rs 150 crore to Rs 250 crore. Last year, Myanmar received Rs 400 crore, with Rs 370 crore being utilised. Despite the cut for Bhutan, the Himalayan country continues to get the lion's share of India's allocation at Rs 2068.56 crore. Bangladesh has seen its allocation drop by Rs 80 crore to Rs 120 crore. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) × The previous year saw an allocation of Rs 200 crore, with only Rs 130 crore utilised. Mauritius and Mongolia are also on the list of countries receiving decreased aid. Mauritius’ allocation is reduced by Rs 90.79 crore, now standing at Rs 370 crore, and Mongolia’s allocation sees a minimal reduction of Rs 2 crore. Strategic Continuity The Chabahar port project in Iran continues to receive a steady allocation of Rs 100 crore, unchanged for the past three years. This consistent funding underscores the strategic importance India places on the port as a critical gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.

India’s budget sees increased allocation for Nepal, Sri Lanka, Seychelles

<p>India's budget for 2024-25 has a special focus on women-led development. On Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;23), Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the BJP-led coalition government has come up with more than Rs 3 lakh crore for schemes benefiting women and girls.</p>

<p>These schemes are targeted at increasing women's participation in the workforce.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Increasing the participation of women in the workforce will be a priority," said Sitharaman.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-congress-slams-bjp-government-says-budget-speech-more-focused-on-posturing-than-action-743389">India Budget 2024: Congress slams BJP government, says budget speech more focused on posturing than action</a></strong></p>

<p>"This will be facilitated by setting up hostels and creating partnerships to organise women-specific skilling programmes and promotion of market access for women Self Help Group enterprises," she added.</p>

<p>"We need to focus on the poor, women, youth, and farmers."</p>

<p>With this, the allocation for women's welfare and empowerment has undergone a 218.8 per cent jump between FY14 to FY25.</p>

<p>"The growth is indicative of India's determination to shift from women-led development to women's development, as stated in the Economic Survey 2023–2024," said the finance minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Stamp duty rebates</strong></h2>

<p>Sitharaman also said that the central government is encouraging the states to lower charges for&nbsp;high stamp duties,&nbsp;especially for women.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/budget-2024-fm-sitharaman-announces-economic-policy-framework-for-next-gen-reforms-to-boost-economic-growth-743397">Budget 2024: FM Sitharaman announces economic policy framework for next-gen reforms to boost economic growth</a></strong></p>

<p>"We will encourage states which continue to charge high stamp duty to moderate the rates for all, and also consider further lowering duties for properties purchased by women. This reform will be made an essential component of urban development schemes,"&nbsp;said Sitharaman.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mayawati says budget neglects women&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Even as the government touted the benefits for women, Bahujan Samaj Party&nbsp; (BSP) chief Mayawati slammed the financial bill as a "disappointment" for the poor, unemployed, farmers, women, marginalised and neglected 'bahujans' (communities) of the country.</p>

<p>"The Union Budget presented in Parliament today follows the same old pattern, where except for a handful of rich and wealthy people, it offers little hope of good days for the country's poor, unemployed, farmers, women, labourers, marginalised and neglected communities and is more full of disappointment for them," she said in a Hindi language post on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">1. संसद में आज पेश केन्द्रीय बजट अपने पुराने ढर्रे पर कुछ मुट्ठी भर अमीर व धन्नासेठों को छोड़कर देश के गरीबों, बेरोजगारों, किसानों, महिलाओं, मेहनतकशों, वंचितों व उपेक्षित बहुजनों के त्रस्त जीवन से मुक्ति हेतु ’अच्छे दिन’ की उम्मीदों वाला कम बल्कि उन्हें मायूस करने वाला ज्यादा।</p>
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1815644112789348763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's budget for 2024-25 has a special focus on women-led development. On Tuesday (Jul 23), Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the BJP-led coalition government has come up with more than Rs 3 lakh crore for schemes benefiting women and girls.

India's budget for 2024-25 has a special focus on women-led development. On Tuesday (Jul 23), Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the BJP-led coalition government has come up with more than Rs 3 lakh crore for schemes benefiting women and girls. These schemes are targeted at increasing women's participation in the workforce. "Increasing the participation of women in the workforce will be a priority," said Sitharaman. Also read | India Budget 2024: Congress slams BJP government, says budget speech more focused on posturing than action "This will be facilitated by setting up hostels and creating partnerships to organise women-specific skilling programmes and promotion of market access for women Self Help Group enterprises," she added. "We need to focus on the poor, women, youth, and farmers." With this, the allocation for women's welfare and empowerment has undergone a 218.8 per cent jump between FY14 to FY25. "The growth is indicative of India's determination to shift from women-led development to women's development, as stated in the Economic Survey 2023–2024," said the finance minister. Stamp duty rebates Sitharaman also said that the central government is encouraging the states to lower charges for high stamp duties, especially for women. Also read | Budget 2024: FM Sitharaman announces economic policy framework for next-gen reforms to boost economic growth "We will encourage states which continue to charge high stamp duty to moderate the rates for all, and also consider further lowering duties for properties purchased by women. This reform will be made an essential component of urban development schemes," said Sitharaman. Mayawati says budget neglects women Even as the government touted the benefits for women, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati slammed the financial bill as a "disappointment" for the poor, unemployed, farmers, women, marginalised and neglected 'bahujans' (communities) of the country. "The Union Budget presented in Parliament today follows the same old pattern, where except for a handful of rich and wealthy people, it offers little hope of good days for the country's poor, unemployed, farmers, women, labourers, marginalised and neglected communities and is more full of disappointment for them," she said in a Hindi language post on X. 1. संसद में आज पेश केन्द्रीय बजट अपने पुराने ढर्रे पर कुछ मुट्ठी भर अमीर व धन्नासेठों को छोड़कर देश के गरीबों, बेरोजगारों, किसानों, महिलाओं, मेहनतकशों, वंचितों व उपेक्षित बहुजनों के त्रस्त जीवन से मुक्ति हेतु ’अच्छे दिन’ की उम्मीदों वाला कम बल्कि उन्हें मायूस करने वाला ज्यादा। — Mayawati (@Mayawati) July 23, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

India Budget 2024: Modi 3.0 announces spate of women-centric schemes; Mayawati calls it a 'disappointment'

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidbVW7zlXlWbeq" />Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;23) expressed his thoughts on the Union Budget 2024-25 which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Addressing the country, PM&nbsp;Modi said that this budget strengthens every section of the society. "It takes the country's poor, village and farmer on the path of prosperity."</p>

<p>"This budget will provide a new scale to education and skill. It will give new strength to the middle class. It has come with strong schemes aimed at strengthening tribals, Dalits and backwards," Modi added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | "This Budget will provide a new scale to education and skill. It will give new strength to the middle class. It has come with strong schemes aimed at strengthening tribals, Dalits and backwards. This Budget will help assure financial partnership," says PM Modi on Union… <a href="https://t.co/VQXhlB4UL1">pic.twitter.com/VQXhlB4UL1</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1815669143913292152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>He also pointed out that the budget would help ensure financial partnership. Hailing the budget, the PM said, "I congratulate all my countrymen on this landmark budget, poised to propel our nation to unprecedented heights of progress. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Ji and her dedicated team deserve accolades for their tireless efforts."</p>

<h2><strong>A look at the priorities of the budget</strong></h2>

<p>This time, the budget identified nine priorities for generating ample opportunities in the country. These priorities are- productivity and resilience in agriculture, employment and skilling, inclusive human resource (HR) development and social justice, manufacturing and service, urban development, energy security, infrastructure, innovation, research and development, and next-generation reforms.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2024-key-announcements-and-implications-743392">Union budget 2024: Key announcements and implications</a></strong></p>

<p>During her budget speech, Finance Minister Sitharaman said that subsequent budgets would build on these priorities and more priorities and actions would be added. Sitharaman said the interim Budget presented in February this year highlighted the government's focus in four key areas - poor, women, youth, and farmers.</p>

<p>"We need to focus on the poor, women, youth, and farmers. The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana was extended for five years, benefiting more than 80 crore people. For Annadatta, the government announced higher Minimum Support Prices for all major crops," she said.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jul 23) expressed his thoughts on the Union Budget 2024-25 which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jul 23) expressed his thoughts on the Union Budget 2024-25 which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Addressing the country, PM Modi said that this budget strengthens every section of the society. "It takes the country's poor, village and farmer on the path of prosperity." "This budget will provide a new scale to education and skill. It will give new strength to the middle class. It has come with strong schemes aimed at strengthening tribals, Dalits and backwards," Modi added. VIDEO | "This Budget will provide a new scale to education and skill. It will give new strength to the middle class. It has come with strong schemes aimed at strengthening tribals, Dalits and backwards. This Budget will help assure financial partnership," says PM Modi on Union… pic.twitter.com/VQXhlB4UL1 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 23, 2024 × He also pointed out that the budget would help ensure financial partnership. Hailing the budget, the PM said, "I congratulate all my countrymen on this landmark budget, poised to propel our nation to unprecedented heights of progress. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Ji and her dedicated team deserve accolades for their tireless efforts." A look at the priorities of the budget This time, the budget identified nine priorities for generating ample opportunities in the country. These priorities are- productivity and resilience in agriculture, employment and skilling, inclusive human resource (HR) development and social justice, manufacturing and service, urban development, energy security, infrastructure, innovation, research and development, and next-generation reforms. Also read | Union budget 2024: Key announcements and implications During her budget speech, Finance Minister Sitharaman said that subsequent budgets would build on these priorities and more priorities and actions would be added. Sitharaman said the interim Budget presented in February this year highlighted the government's focus in four key areas - poor, women, youth, and farmers. "We need to focus on the poor, women, youth, and farmers. The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana was extended for five years, benefiting more than 80 crore people. For Annadatta, the government announced higher Minimum Support Prices for all major crops," she said.

India Budget 2024: Modi hails budget, says it will give new strength to country's middle class

<p>Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (Jul 23) in her Budget speech announced that the Centre will come up with an economic policy framework that would steer next-generation reforms aimed at speeding up the economic expansion.</p>

<p>"We will formulate an economic policy framework to delineate an overarching approach to economic development and set the scope of next-generation reforms for facilitating employment opportunities and for sustaining high growth," Sitharaman said.</p>

<p>She said that the government will initiate and incentivise&nbsp;reforms to improve productivity of factors of production and facilitate markets and sectors to become more efficient.</p>

<p>The next-generation reforms are set to cover aspects related to the factors of production, including land, labour, capital, entrepreneurship and technology as facilitators of refining the total factor productivity and traversing inequality.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-sitharaman-allocates-rs-148-lakh-crore-for-education-employment-skilling-743355">India Budget 2024: Sitharaman allocates Rs 1.48 lakh crore for education, employment, &amp; skilling</a></p>

<h2>Next Generation Reforms&nbsp;</h2>

<p>- Technology to speed up the digitalisation of the economy.</p>

<p>- Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 to improve Ease of Doing Business.</p>

<p>- States to be incentivised to implement Business Reforms Action Plans and digitalisation.</p>

<p>- Sectoral database for improving data governance and management.</p>

<p>- Committee to review New Pension Scheme to evolve solution which addresses relevant issues while maintaining fiscal prudence.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2024-govt-announces-five-schemes-for-employment-skilling-allocates-rs2-lakh-crores-743337">Union Budget 2024: Govt announces five schemes for employment, skilling, allocates Rs2 lakh crores</a></p>

<h2><strong>Nine priority areas of Union Budget</strong></h2>

<p>FM Sitharaman listed nine priorities while presenting the Budget 2024-25 aimed at generating ample opportunities for all.</p>

<p>1. Productivity and Resilience in Agriculture</p>

<p>2. Employment and Skilling</p>

<p>3. Inclusive Human Resource Development and Social Justice</p>

<p>4. Manufacturing and Services</p>

<p>5. Urban Development</p>

<p>6. Energy Security</p>

<p>7. Infrastructure</p>

<p>8. Innovation, Research, and Development</p>

<p>9. Next Generation Reforms</p>

<p>"This Budget envisages sustained efforts on the following nine priorities for generating ample opportunities for all - Productivity and Resilience in Agriculture, Employment and Skilling, Inclusive Human Resource Development and Social Justice, Manufacturing and Service, Urban Development, Energy Security, Infrastructure, Innovation, Research and Development and Next Generation Reforms. Subsequent budgets will build on these and add more priorities and actions," the finance minister&nbsp;said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (Jul 23) in her Budget speech announced that the Centre will come up with an economic policy framework that would steer next-generation reforms aimed at speeding up the economic expansion.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (Jul 23) in her Budget speech announced that the Centre will come up with an economic policy framework that would steer next-generation reforms aimed at speeding up the economic expansion. "We will formulate an economic policy framework to delineate an overarching approach to economic development and set the scope of next-generation reforms for facilitating employment opportunities and for sustaining high growth," Sitharaman said. She said that the government will initiate and incentivise reforms to improve productivity of factors of production and facilitate markets and sectors to become more efficient. The next-generation reforms are set to cover aspects related to the factors of production, including land, labour, capital, entrepreneurship and technology as facilitators of refining the total factor productivity and traversing inequality. Also read: India Budget 2024: Sitharaman allocates Rs 1.48 lakh crore for education, employment, & skilling Next Generation Reforms - Technology to speed up the digitalisation of the economy. - Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 to improve Ease of Doing Business. - States to be incentivised to implement Business Reforms Action Plans and digitalisation. - Sectoral database for improving data governance and management. - Committee to review New Pension Scheme to evolve solution which addresses relevant issues while maintaining fiscal prudence. Also read: Union Budget 2024: Govt announces five schemes for employment, skilling, allocates Rs2 lakh crores Nine priority areas of Union Budget FM Sitharaman listed nine priorities while presenting the Budget 2024-25 aimed at generating ample opportunities for all. 1. Productivity and Resilience in Agriculture 2. Employment and Skilling 3. Inclusive Human Resource Development and Social Justice 4. Manufacturing and Services 5. Urban Development 6. Energy Security 7. Infrastructure 8. Innovation, Research, and Development 9. Next Generation Reforms "This Budget envisages sustained efforts on the following nine priorities for generating ample opportunities for all - Productivity and Resilience in Agriculture, Employment and Skilling, Inclusive Human Resource Development and Social Justice, Manufacturing and Service, Urban Development, Energy Security, Infrastructure, Innovation, Research and Development and Next Generation Reforms. Subsequent budgets will build on these and add more priorities and actions," the finance minister said. (With inputs from agencies)

Budget 2024: FM Sitharaman announces economic policy framework for next-gen reforms to boost economic growth

<p>The Indian National Congress (INC) has slammed the BJP-led government over its latest budget. On Tuesday (July 23), after Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the India Union Budget 2024-25, the opposition party claimed that the Narendra Modi 3.0 government's budget speech was "more focused on posturing than action".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mass employment, national crisis and the 'non-biological PM'</strong></h2>

<p>Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said that the Modi government seems to have finally "tacitly admitted" that "mass unemployment is a national crisis" that requires urgent attention.</p>

<p>In a post on X, he said that "After ten years of denial -- where neither the non-biological PM nor his party's Lok Sabha Elections Manifesto would even mention jobs -- the Union Government seems to have finally come around to tacitly admitting that mass unemployment is a national crisis that requires urgent attention."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's far too late, and as it turns out, far too little - the Budget speech is more focused on posturing than action," Ramesh further added.</p>

<h2><strong>Did BJP steal ideas from Congress?</strong></h2>

<p>He alleged that the BJP has taken a leaf out of the Congress party's 2024 Lok Sabha polls manifesto by announcing an internship programme but that "in their trademark style" the scheme has been designed to "grab headlines with arbitrary targets&nbsp;rather than a programmatic guarantee to all diploma holders and graduates."</p>

<p>"The Finance Minister has taken a leaf out of the INC's Nyay Patra 2024, with its internship program clearly modelled on the INC's proposed Apprenticeship Program that was called Pehli Naukri Pakki," he said.</p>

<p>In the 2024-25 Union Budget, FM Sitharaman&nbsp;announced that the central government will launch a scheme to provide internship opportunities to 10 million or one crore youth in 500 top companies over five years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian National Congress (INC) has slammed the BJP-led government over its latest budget. On Tuesday (July 23), after Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the India Union Budget 2024-25, the opposition party claimed that the Narendra Modi 3.

The Indian National Congress (INC) has slammed the BJP-led government over its latest budget. On Tuesday (July 23), after Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the India Union Budget 2024-25, the opposition party claimed that the Narendra Modi 3.0 government's budget speech was "more focused on posturing than action". Mass employment, national crisis and the 'non-biological PM' Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said that the Modi government seems to have finally "tacitly admitted" that "mass unemployment is a national crisis" that requires urgent attention. In a post on X, he said that "After ten years of denial -- where neither the non-biological PM nor his party's Lok Sabha Elections Manifesto would even mention jobs -- the Union Government seems to have finally come around to tacitly admitting that mass unemployment is a national crisis that requires urgent attention." "It's far too late, and as it turns out, far too little - the Budget speech is more focused on posturing than action," Ramesh further added. Did BJP steal ideas from Congress? He alleged that the BJP has taken a leaf out of the Congress party's 2024 Lok Sabha polls manifesto by announcing an internship programme but that "in their trademark style" the scheme has been designed to "grab headlines with arbitrary targets rather than a programmatic guarantee to all diploma holders and graduates." "The Finance Minister has taken a leaf out of the INC's Nyay Patra 2024, with its internship program clearly modelled on the INC's proposed Apprenticeship Program that was called Pehli Naukri Pakki," he said. In the 2024-25 Union Budget, FM Sitharaman announced that the central government will launch a scheme to provide internship opportunities to 10 million or one crore youth in 500 top companies over five years. (With inputs from agencies)

India Budget 2024: Congress slams BJP government, says budget speech more focused on posturing than action

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidbVW7zlXlWbeq" /></p>

<p>The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 will provide Rs 1.48 lakh crore (1,768.27 USD) for education, employment, and skilling in India. Presenting the budget in the Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that 20 lakh youth would be skilled over a five-year period, adding,&nbsp;that 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) will be upgraded in hub and spoke arrangements in five years.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2024-live-updates-fm-sitharaman-will-present-the-union-budget-in-parliament-changes-in-tax-slabs-743214">Click here to follow all updates on the India Budget 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>Sitharaman said that&nbsp;the model skill loans scheme would be revised to facilitate loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh (6,27,70,125.00 USD) with a guarantee from a government-promoted fund. "This measure is expected to help 25,000 students every year."</p>

<h2><strong>Education loans</strong></h2>

<p>She added that the central government would provide support&nbsp;up to Rs 10 lakhs (11,948.85 USD) for higher education in domestic institutions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Union Budget 2024-25 proposes Prime Minister's Package in a boost to skilling:<br />
<br />
✅ Skilling Programme &amp; Upgradation of Industrial Training Institutes<br />
<br />
✅ Internship in Top Companies <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetForViksitBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetForViksitBharat</a> <a href="https://t.co/9QzAKjJG49">pic.twitter.com/9QzAKjJG49</a></p>
— Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/FinMinIndia/status/1815633281687388364?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Expanding on this point, the finance minister said that&nbsp;e-vouchers for this purpose will be given directly to 1 lakh students every year for annual interest subvention of 3 per cent of the loan amount.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Employment of youth over next 5 yrs</strong></h2>

<p>During her budget speech, Sitharaman proposed the creation of employment for about 4.1 crore youth over the next five years. And towards this, the finance minister has made an allocation of Rs 2 lakh crore.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Budget 2024 Speech Highlights: "Internship in top companies - As the fifth scheme under Prime Minister's package, our government will launch a comprehensive scheme providing internship opportunities in 500 top companies to one crore youth in five years. They will gain… <a href="https://t.co/GDAr3LQHyw">pic.twitter.com/GDAr3LQHyw</a></p>
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<p>Sitharaman also said that the government would launch internship opportunities in 500 companies for 1 crore youth over the next five years. Interns would get exposure to real-life environments and an allowance of Rs 5,000 per month.</p>


The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 will provide Rs 1.48 lakh crore (1,768.27 USD) for education, employment, and skilling in India. Presenting the budget in the Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that 20 lakh youth would be skilled over a five-year period, adding, that 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) will be upgraded in hub and spoke arrangements in five years.

The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 will provide Rs 1.48 lakh crore (1,768.27 USD) for education, employment, and skilling in India. Presenting the budget in the Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that 20 lakh youth would be skilled over a five-year period, adding, that 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) will be upgraded in hub and spoke arrangements in five years. Click here to follow all updates on the India Budget 2024 Sitharaman said that the model skill loans scheme would be revised to facilitate loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh (6,27,70,125.00 USD) with a guarantee from a government-promoted fund. "This measure is expected to help 25,000 students every year." Education loans She added that the central government would provide support up to Rs 10 lakhs (11,948.85 USD) for higher education in domestic institutions. Union Budget 2024-25 proposes Prime Minister's Package in a boost to skilling: ✅ Skilling Programme & Upgradation of Industrial Training Institutes ✅ Internship in Top Companies #Budget2024 #BudgetForViksitBharat pic.twitter.com/9QzAKjJG49 — Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) July 23, 2024 × Expanding on this point, the finance minister said that e-vouchers for this purpose will be given directly to 1 lakh students every year for annual interest subvention of 3 per cent of the loan amount. Employment of youth over next 5 yrs During her budget speech, Sitharaman proposed the creation of employment for about 4.1 crore youth over the next five years. And towards this, the finance minister has made an allocation of Rs 2 lakh crore. VIDEO | Budget 2024 Speech Highlights: "Internship in top companies - As the fifth scheme under Prime Minister's package, our government will launch a comprehensive scheme providing internship opportunities in 500 top companies to one crore youth in five years. They will gain… pic.twitter.com/GDAr3LQHyw — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 23, 2024 × Sitharaman also said that the government would launch internship opportunities in 500 companies for 1 crore youth over the next five years. Interns would get exposure to real-life environments and an allowance of Rs 5,000 per month.

India Budget 2024: Sitharaman allocates Rs 1.48 lakh crore for education, employment, & skilling

India's Finance Minister will be announcing the Union Budget on July 23rd. Just weeks after the election, the government seeks to push economic growth via inflation stabilisation across sectors. Here's a report on what small business owners have to say on the challenges they face, and hopes they have from the budget.

Small business owners on budget expectations

Budget 2024: Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's seventh union budget has raised expectations of increased expenditure in education and healthcare. With unemployment as key issue, here's how India's youngsters assessed of Sitharaman's tenure.

Budget 2024: Indian youth rates Nirmala Sitharaman's record | Narendra Modi | Union Budget 2024

Budget 2024: Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's seventh union budget is filled with a mood of cautious optimism. WION turned to Indian youngsters to figure out what do they think of India's current state of economy.

Budget 2024: Indian youngsters call for tax reforms | Nirmala Sitharaman | Narendra Modi |Vibe Check

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey document in Parliament today. The Economic Survey is an exhaustive and detailed annual report analysing the performance of the Indian economy over the past year and detailing insights. The pre-budget document is typically presented by the Chief Economic Adviser (CEA).

Union Budget 2024: Economic survey says capital markets to drive India's growth story

<p>India's Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be presenting the Economy Survey on Monday (Jul 22) - a day before presenting the Union Budget for the first time (seventh overall) under the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is Economic Survey?</strong></h2>

<p>The Economic Survey is an exhaustive and detailed annual report analysing the performance of the Indian economy over the past year and detailing insights.&nbsp;The pre-budget document is typically presented by the Chief Economic Adviser (CEA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Usually, the Economic Survey is tabled on January 31, a day before the Budget is presented in the parliament on February 1. However, owing to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the process was postponed and instead, a report titled "Indian Economy – A Review" was released.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Who prepares the Economic Survey?</strong></p>

<p>The Economic Survey is prepared by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance.</p>

<p><strong>When will the Economic Survey be presented?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Economic Survey will be tabled on Monday (Jul 22) at 2:30 pm Indian Standard Time (IST) by Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman.&nbsp;Chief Economic Adviser Anantha Nageswaran will be holding a press conference after the survey is presented.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>When was the first Economic Survey presented?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The first economic survey reportedly came into existence in 1950-51, when it used to be a part of the budget documents. However, in the 1960s, the survey was separated from the Budget documents and presented a day before the Union Budget.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-budget-indias-growth-map-to-a-developed-economy-741916"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India Budget: India's growth map to a developed economy</strong></a></p>

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<p><strong>What to expect from Economic Survey?</strong></p>

<p>The Economy Survey document may give some idea about the tone and texture of the actual Budget for 2024-25, to be presented on Tuesday (Jul 23).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What were the themes of previous Economic Surveys?</strong></p>

<p>Last year, the key theme of the Economic Survey was 'Recovery Complete' as India was looking to bounce back after the COVID-19 pandemic while manoeuvring the international economy in the backdrop of Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2022. the central theme was 'Agile Approach' that focused on the country's economic response to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2024-date-time-where-to-watch-nirmala-sitharamans-full-budget-speech-live-complete-guide-741609"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Union Budget 2024: Date, time, where to watch Nirmala Sitharaman’s full budget speech live | Complete guide</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Where to watch the Economic Survey?</strong></p>

<p>The Economic Survey and its presentation will be broadcast&nbsp;live on Doordarshan, Sansad TV and their respective&nbsp;YouTube channels while the Press Information Bureau (PIB) India will live-stream it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>WION</em> will be carrying the live presentation as well. <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv">Click here to watch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a></strong></p>


India's Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be presenting the Economy Survey on Monday (Jul 22) - a day before presenting the Union Budget for the first time (seventh overall) under the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India's Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be presenting the Economy Survey on Monday (Jul 22) - a day before presenting the Union Budget for the first time (seventh overall) under the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. What is Economic Survey? The Economic Survey is an exhaustive and detailed annual report analysing the performance of the Indian economy over the past year and detailing insights. The pre-budget document is typically presented by the Chief Economic Adviser (CEA). Usually, the Economic Survey is tabled on January 31, a day before the Budget is presented in the parliament on February 1. However, owing to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the process was postponed and instead, a report titled "Indian Economy – A Review" was released. Who prepares the Economic Survey? The Economic Survey is prepared by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance. When will the Economic Survey be presented? The Economic Survey will be tabled on Monday (Jul 22) at 2:30 pm Indian Standard Time (IST) by Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Chief Economic Adviser Anantha Nageswaran will be holding a press conference after the survey is presented. When was the first Economic Survey presented? The first economic survey reportedly came into existence in 1950-51, when it used to be a part of the budget documents. However, in the 1960s, the survey was separated from the Budget documents and presented a day before the Union Budget. Watch | India Budget: India's growth map to a developed economy × What to expect from Economic Survey? The Economy Survey document may give some idea about the tone and texture of the actual Budget for 2024-25, to be presented on Tuesday (Jul 23). What were the themes of previous Economic Surveys? Last year, the key theme of the Economic Survey was 'Recovery Complete' as India was looking to bounce back after the COVID-19 pandemic while manoeuvring the international economy in the backdrop of Russia-Ukraine war. In 2022. the central theme was 'Agile Approach' that focused on the country's economic response to COVID-19 pandemic. Also read | Union Budget 2024: Date, time, where to watch Nirmala Sitharaman’s full budget speech live | Complete guide Where to watch the Economic Survey? The Economic Survey and its presentation will be broadcast live on Doordarshan, Sansad TV and their respective YouTube channels while the Press Information Bureau (PIB) India will live-stream it. WION will be carrying the live presentation as well. Click here to watch.

Economic Survey to be tabled in Indian Parliament. What is it? When, where and how to watch

India is set to present its interim budget on February 1. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the interim budget in Parliament. But, what is the interim budget?

Budget 2024: What is an interim budget & how it is different from the union budget?

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