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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her eighth consecutive budget on February 1, the most by any minister in a row. This brings her closer to Morarji Desai’s record of 10 budgets. She remains India’s first full-time woman finance minister, retaining her role under PM Modi’s third term.
Budget 2025 is expected to prioritize the agriculture sector and may introduce significant tax reforms, such as phasing out the old tax regime and offering zero income tax for individuals earning less than Rs 10 lakh annually. However, these reforms have not been confirmed yet.
A key theme of the budget will be balancing fiscal consolidation with economic growth, especially amid rising inflation. Additionally, there are expectations for the real estate sector to receive ‘industry’ status and for the government to provide budgetary support for the development and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI).
Economic Survey
Earlier today, the Economic Survey was tabled which highlighted that India’s employment growth witnessed a marginal 1.5 per cent rise, and corporate profitability was the most in the last 15 years. A strong growth in financials, energy and automobiles contributed to this.
Corporate profitability rose to its highest in FY24 since FY08, while the profit-to-GDP ratio among the Nifty 500 companies went up to 4.8 per cent from 2.1 per cent in FY03. Large corporations outperformed small firms in terms of profitability, especially in non-financial sectors.
Follow the Budget 2025 live with Pratidin Time here.
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Feb 01, 2025 13:01 IST
Budget Speech Ends
Live updates end here.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:55 IST
Budget Live: Time limit for filing updated returns for any assessment year to be extended
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced key tax reforms, including an extension of the deadline for filing updated tax returns from two years to four years for any assessment year.
She also proposed exempting Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on remittances for educational purposes, provided the education loan is taken from specified financial institutions.
Additionally, she highlighted the success of the Vivad Se Vishwas 2.0 scheme, revealing that 33,000 taxpayers have utilized it to settle direct tax disputes.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:27 IST
Budget Live: Annual income of up to Rs 18 lakh to get tax benefits upto Rs 70,000
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that individuals with an annual income of Rs 18 lakh will receive a tax benefit of Rs 70,000, while those with an annual income of Rs 25 lakh will benefit by Rs 1,10,000. The new tax structure introduces a tiered system, with a 20% income tax on income between Rs 16-20 lakh, 25% on income between Rs 20-24 lakh, and 30% on income above Rs 24 lakh.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:25 IST
Budget Live: Proposed new tax slab
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Feb 01, 2025 12:21 IST
Budget Live: TDS deduction rates and thresholds revised
The government has proposed several changes to enhance tax benefits:
- The limit for tax deduction on interest for senior citizens will be doubled from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh.
- The annual limit for TDS on rent will be increased from Rs 2.40 lakh to Rs 6 lakh.
- The threshold for collecting tax at source on remittances under RBI’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme will be raised from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:18 IST
Budget Live: No Income Tax upto 12 lakh, announces FM
The government is revising tax slabs and rates across the board to provide significant relief. The new structure is designed to substantially reduce taxes for the middle class, leaving more money in their hands to boost household consumption, savings, and investment.
The "nil tax" slab will now extend up to Rs 12 lakh (Rs 12.75 lakh for salaried taxpayers, with a standard deduction of Rs 75,000).
Nirmala Sitharaman said, "I am now happy to announce that there will be no income tax up to an income of Rs 12 lakhs per year."
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Feb 01, 2025 12:17 IST
Under RBI's liberalised remittance scheme, TCS to be increased from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh: FM Sitharaman
The government will increase the TCS on remittances under RBI's Liberalised Remittance Scheme from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, announced Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Sitharaman further stated, "In the budget of July 2024, the delay of payments of the TDS up to the due date of filing statements was decriminalised; I propose the same for the TCS provisions as well."
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Feb 01, 2025 12:14 IST
Budget Live: Tax compliance burden reduced
"Compliance burden for small charitable trusts & institutions to be reduced, by increasing their registration period from 5 years to 10 years. Taxpayers will be allowed to claim the annual value of two self-occupied properties as nil without any condition," said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting the Union Budget 2025.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:10 IST
Nirmala Sitharaman says fiscal deficit or FY25 at 4.8% of GDP; 4.4% for FY26
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the fiscal deficit for FY25 is projected to be 4.8 per cent of GDP, with a target of 4.4 per cent for FY26. During her Budget 2025-26 presentation, she also revealed that net market borrowings for the next fiscal year are estimated at Rs 11.54 lakh crore.
In addition, Sitharaman shared that the government will establish a high-level committee to oversee regulatory reforms across non-financial sectors. She also mentioned that the National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) will introduce a partial credit enhancement facility for corporate bonds.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:09 IST
Budget Live: Govt to unlock maritime sector's potential with framework
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the importance of unlocking India's marine sector potential during her speech on Saturday. She announced that the government would introduce a framework for the sustainable harnessing of fisheries, particularly focusing on the Andaman and Lakshadweep regions.
"India is the second-largest producer of fish globally and a leader in aquaculture. Seafood exports are valued at Rs 60,000 crore. To tap into the untapped potential of the marine sector, our government will create an enabling framework for the sustainable development of fisheries in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and high seas, with special attention to the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands," she stated.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:07 IST
Budget Live: Importing drugs and medicines to get cheaper
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines will be added to the list of those fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty. Additionally, 37 more medicines and 13 new patient assistance programs will be exempted from Basic Customs Duty, provided they are supplied free of cost to patients.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:06 IST
Budget Live: New tax slab to be tabled next week
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans to introduce a new Income Tax Bill during her Union Budget presentation for 2025-26. The bill will be based on the Direct Tax Code (DTC) and is designed to replace the 1961 Income Tax Act, aiming to simplify tax compliance for both individuals and businesses.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:05 IST
Budget Live: Sitharaman announces Rs 1.5 lakh crore outlay for interest-free loans to states
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced Rs 1.5 lakh crore in interest-free loans over 50 years to states for infrastructure development.
She also introduced a new asset monetisation initiative for 2025-30, targeting Rs 10 lakh crore in capital for new ventures.
In the 2025-26 Budget, Rs 500 crore has been allocated to establish an AI centre of excellence focused on education.
The Budget also includes an increased allocation for the Jal Jeevan Mission to ensure nationwide coverage.
Sitharaman highlighted that incentives will be provided for urban reforms, focusing on governance, land use, and planning.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:04 IST
On fiscal deficit, net tax receipts, FM Sitharaman says...
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated, "The fiscal deficit is estimated to be 4.4 per cent of the GDP."
Regarding net tax receipts, she added, "The revised estimate of total receipts, excluding borrowings, is Rs 31.47 lakh crore, with net tax receipts at Rs 25.57 lakh crore."
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Feb 01, 2025 12:03 IST
Budget Live: Boost for tourism sector
India is revamping its tourism sector with a comprehensive approach, aiming to increase its GDP contribution from 5 per cent to 9-12 per cent, aligning with global standards. Key initiatives include improving last-mile connectivity, expanding the UDAN scheme, upgrading tourist destinations, simplifying visa regulations, and enhancing overall hygiene standards.
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Feb 01, 2025 12:02 IST
Budget Live: FDI limit for insurance sector raised to 100%
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced, "The FDI limit for the Insurance Sector will be raised from 74 to 100 percent. This enhanced limit will be available for those companies which invest the entire premium in India."
FM further stated, "The current guardrails and conditionalities associated with foreign investment will be reviewed and simplified."
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Feb 01, 2025 11:51 IST
Budget Live: FM Sitharaman announces 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in next five years
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined several initiatives in her 14th consecutive budget under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. She announced plans to set up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs over the next five years to nurture scientific thinking among youth.
In addition, Sitharaman revealed the establishment of five national skilling centres with international expertise. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pushtak scheme will be launched to provide digital access to Indian language books for educational institutions at all levels.
To support the growth of India's education infrastructure, the government will also focus on expanding five IITs and enhancing nutritional support across the country.
Sitharaman highlighted the ongoing success of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), a key initiative established by the Modi government to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. Through the Atal Tinkering Labs, young minds will have the opportunity to transform ideas into reality and develop critical innovation skills.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:50 IST
Budget Live: Boost for public education and health
The government plans to set up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme will be implemented to provide Indian language books in digital form for schools and higher education. Additionally, Day Care Cancer Centres will be established in all district hospitals over the next three years, with 200 centres planned for FY 2025-26.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:50 IST
Budget Live: Something for street vendors and gig workers
The government will provide identity cards and registration for gig workers of online platforms on the e-Shram portal. A scheme for the socio-economic upliftment of urban workers will also be implemented. Additionally, the PM SVANidhi scheme will be revamped, offering enhanced loans from banks, UPI-linked credit cards with a Rs. 30,000 limit, and capacity-building support.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:45 IST
Budget Live: Outlay for Jal Jeevan Mishan increased for 100% coverage
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while discussing the Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat, stated, "Development of at least 100 gW of Nuclear energy by 2047 is essential for our energy transition. For active partnerships with the private sectors towards this goal, amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for the Nuclear Damage Act will be taken out."
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Feb 01, 2025 11:43 IST
Budget Live: FM proposes Makhana board in Bihar
During her Budget address, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar, recognizing the state's prominent role in producing Makhana (foxnuts), valued for their nutritional benefits. The One District One Product initiative has played a significant role in supporting Makhana producers. Additionally, the Makhana Research Centre has been elevated to national status, and the product has received a GI tag.
Sitharaman began her speech by emphasizing her government's commitment to the welfare of the poor, youth, farmers, and women. "Our economy is the fastest-growing among all major global economies. Our development track record of the past 10 years and structural reforms have drawn global attention. Confidence in India's capability and potential has only grown in this period. We see the next five years as a unique opportunity to realize 'Sabka Vikas', stimulating balanced growth of all regions," she stated.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:42 IST
Budget Live: Sitharaman announces Rs 2 crore term loan for 5 lakh first-time women, SC, ST entrepreneurs
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a Rs 2-crore term loan scheme for 5 lakh first-time women, SC, and ST entrepreneurs in the Union Budget for 2025-26. She also revealed plans to launch a manufacturing mission aimed at boosting both SME and large industries.
To enhance productivity in labour-intensive sectors, the government will increase the credit guarantee cover to Rs 20 crore, with the guarantee fee reduced to 1 percent.
Additionally, Sitharaman announced the establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management in Bihar.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:41 IST
Budget Live: 75,000 new UG medical seats in next five years, promises Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of five national centres for skilling with global expertise aimed at promoting "Make for India, Make for the World."
The government will also add 75,000 new undergraduate medical seats over the next five years, building on the 1.1 lakh new medical seats added in the last decade, marking a 130 per cent increase.
Additionally, cancer day care centres will be set up in all district hospitals, and the PM Swanidhi scheme has benefited 68 lakh street vendors.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:40 IST
Budget Live: Boost to fast-growing AIF industry
An additional budgetary allocation of Rs 10,000 crore will boost the rapidly growing AIF industry and encourage greater domestic institutional fund flows into the sector.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:39 IST
Budget Live: Bihar to get National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management
The Finance Minister announced the establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar to boost food processing activities across the Eastern region. This initiative aims to enhance farmers' income by adding value to their produce and will provide skilling, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities for the youth.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:35 IST
Budget Live: Opposition led by SP walkout as Sitharaman presents budget
Opposition MPs walked out of the Lok Sabha on Saturday as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman started her record eighth budgetary speech. The protests were led by Samajwadi Party MPs, including party chief Akhilesh Yadav.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:34 IST
Budget Live: FM Sitharaman announces five key areas of focus
Five key areas of focus
- Accelerating growth
- Inclusive Development
- Private Sector Investments
- Uplifting household sentiments
- Enhancing the spending power of India's rising middle-class
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Feb 01, 2025 11:32 IST
Budget Live: New classification for MSMEs
The Budget proposes to increase the investment limit for MSME classification by 2.5 times and double the turnover limits for MSMEs.
It also aims to simplify loan access for MSMEs, with significant enhancements to credit guarantee cover. Additionally, customized credit cards for micro-enterprises will be introduced.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:31 IST
Budget Live: India to become global hub for toys?
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, discussing steps to boost the toy sector, stated, "Building on the national action plan, we will implement a scheme to make India a global hub for toys."
She also announced the development of clusters, skills, and a manufacturing ecosystem to produce high-quality toys.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:31 IST
Budget Live: PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced, "PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana - developing agri districts program...Our government will undertake a PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana in partnership with states. Through the convergence of existing schemes and specialized measures, the program will cover 100 districts with low productivity, moderate crop intensity, and below-average credit parameters. It aims to enhance cultural productivity."
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Feb 01, 2025 11:28 IST
Budget Live: Govt set to bring enabling framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries
India ranks as the second-largest fish producer globally, with seafood exports valued at Rs 60,000 crore. The government aims to establish a framework for the sustainable exploitation of fisheries from India's exclusive economic zones.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:25 IST
Budget 2025: Focus on driving growth, inclusive development, says FM Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated on Saturday that the Union Budget 2025-26 continues to drive economic growth and promote equitable development.
While presenting her record eighth Budget, she remarked, "Together we embark on a journey to unlock our potential for greater prosperity."
She highlighted that India is the fastest-expanding economy among developing nations.
In her eighth consecutive Budget presentation, the Finance Minister declared, "We see the next five years as a unique opportunity to stimulate growth."
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Feb 01, 2025 11:24 IST
Budget Live: Urea plant in Assam's Namrup approved
A urea plant will be set up in Assam to further augment the production and supply. The plant with an annual capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons will come up at Namrup. Three dormant urea plants in the Eastern region have been reopened, Sitharaman said.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:22 IST
Budget Live: FM Sitharaman on key targets of Budget
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated, "Budget aims to invigorate private sector investments, uplift household sentiments, bolster the power of India's rising middle class."
She further added, "In this Budget, the proposed development measures span 10 broad areas, focusing on the poor, youth, farmers, and women."
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Feb 01, 2025 11:18 IST
Budget wil continue to accelarate growth: FM Sitharaman
Presenting the Budget for FY26, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that the budget continues efforts to accelerate growth and provide inclusive development.
This marks the 14th consecutive Budget under the Narendra Modi government since 2014, including two interim Budgets presented ahead of the general elections in 2019 and 2024.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:17 IST
Budget Speech Begins
On Saturday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the first full budget of Modi 3.0. The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the 2025 Budget on the same day before its presentation in Parliament.
"Budget aims to invigorate private sector investments, uplift household sentiments, bolster power of India's rising middle class," said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Earlier, Union ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Pralhad Joshi were seen heading to Parliament for the proceedings.
After meeting President Droupadi Murmu, where Sitharaman carried the 'Bahi-Khata' and was accompanied by MoS Finance Pankaj Chaudhary and ministry officials, the Cabinet convened. Following tradition, President Droupadi Murmu offered 'dahi-cheeni' to the Finance Minister before the Budget presentation.
This is Nirmala Sitharaman’s eighth consecutive budget presentation. The budget address will outline the government’s fiscal strategies, revenue and expenditure proposals, tax reforms, and other key announcements.
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Feb 01, 2025 11:02 IST
Union cabinet approves Budget
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday approved the Budget ahead of its presentation in the Parliament. Earlier Union ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Pralhad Joshi arrived at the Parliament.
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Feb 01, 2025 10:44 IST
Budget Live: Here's what Rajnath Singh has to say
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived at Parliament on Saturday in preparation for the Union Budget presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Speaking to the media, Singh stated, "The Budget will be presented, and it will cater to every section of society."
Sitharaman is set to deliver her record eighth consecutive budget today in the Lok Sabha, covering the government's fiscal policies, proposals for revenue and expenditure, taxation reforms, and other significant announcements.
Earlier in the day, Sitharaman, along with Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan prior to the Budget presentation.
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Feb 01, 2025 10:12 IST
Budget 2025: FM Nirmala Sitharaman arrives at Parliament
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrived at Parliament after her meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. She is set to present the Union Budget shortly.
Earlier, Finance Minister Sitharaman, along with Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan ahead of the Union Budget presentation.
FM @nsitharaman arrives at the Parliament, to present the Union Budget shortly #Budget2025 #UnionBudget2025 #UnionBudget #BudgetWithDDNews #ViksitBharatKaBudget #BudgetForViksitBharat@FinMinIndia @nsitharamanoffc pic.twitter.com/cFmYtlxoJc
— DD News (@DDNewslive) February 1, 2025 -
Feb 01, 2025 09:57 IST
Budget Live: Markets open higher ahead of presentation
Benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, opened with a positive momentum on Saturday, advancing ahead of the Union Budget presentation. The 30-share BSE Sensex rose by 136.44 points to reach 77,637.01 in early trading, while the NSE Nifty increased by 20.2 points to 23,528.60.
Among the top performers in the blue-chip segment were ITC Hotels, IndusInd Bank, Mahindra & Mahindra, Sun Pharma, UltraTech Cement, and NTPC.
Conversely, Titan, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Nestle, Asian Paints, HCL Tech, and ICICI Bank were the major decliners in the initial trade.
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Feb 01, 2025 09:54 IST
Budget Live: Nirmala Sitharaman meets President Droupadi Murmu ahead of presenting Union Budget
Ahead of presenting the Union Budget 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman accompanied by MoS Finance Pankaj Chaudhary met President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday. The President offered 'dahi-cheeni' (curd-sugar), to Sitharaman, which is considered auspicious.
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Feb 01, 2025 09:49 IST
FM Sitharaman leaves Finance Ministry, heads to Rashtrapati Bhavan
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has left the Ministry of Finance for Rashtrapati Bhavan ahead of meeting with President Droupadi Murmu. She can be seen with her trademark tablet wrapped in red 'bahi khata' sleeve.
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Feb 01, 2025 09:38 IST
Budget Live: Report projects India's nominal growth at 9.8-10.3%
The Economic Survey has projected India's real GDP growth for FY26 to be between 6.3 per cent and 6.8 per cent. Meanwhile, a Bank of Baroda report estimates that nominal GDP growth could fall within the range of 9.8 per cent to 10.3 per cent, assuming a GDP deflator of 3.5 per cent.
The GDP deflator is a vital measure that adjusts nominal GDP (which includes inflation) to calculate real GDP, providing a more accurate representation of economic growth by factoring in changes in the overall price level.
"We assume a GDP deflator of around 3.5 per cent, which would translate nominal GDP growth to 9.8-10.3 per cent in FY26," the report added.
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Feb 01, 2025 09:06 IST
Budget 2025 Live: Nirmala Sitharaman reaches finance ministery ahead of meeting with President
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has arrived at the Ministry of Finance ahead of presenting the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament today.
This marks her record eighth consecutive Budget, where she is expected to introduce measures aimed at boosting economic growth while maintaining fiscal prudence. The Budget is also likely to address concerns of the middle class grappling with high prices and stagnant wages.
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Feb 01, 2025 09:04 IST
Budget 2025 Live: What can Indian consumers and retail sector expect?
The upcoming Budget 2025 is expected to focus on boosting consumption by enhancing disposable income and stimulating demand. Industry experts suggest measures such as income tax reduction, lower import duties, and GST rationalization to promote private spending. Rationalization of customs duties is also recommended—reducing duties on raw materials for manufacturing while increasing duties on finished imports to support domestic production under the Make in India initiative.
Digitization of customs processes is another key expectation. Experts call for eliminating delays in Special Valuation Branch (SVB) assessments, setting statutory time limits, and streamlining customs duty payments through digital means. The high cost of bank guarantees due to pending verifications should also be addressed. Additionally, an amnesty scheme, similar to Vivad se Vishwas, could help resolve long-pending customs disputes.
Expanding the Product Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for consumer goods could further boost domestic manufacturing, reduce import reliance, and improve India’s global competitiveness in electronics, household appliances, food, textiles, and furniture. Strengthening the PLI scheme aligns with the government’s Make in India vision, promoting self-reliance and economic growth in key consumer sectors.
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Feb 01, 2025 08:17 IST
What to expect from Budget 2025?
The Union Budget 2025-26, set to be presented on Saturday, is expected to balance economic growth with fiscal prudence while addressing the needs of taxpayers, businesses, and key industries. Anticipation is high for tax relief, with expectations of revised tax slabs, increased exemption limits, and higher standard deductions. Businesses, particularly in real estate, MSMEs, healthcare, AI, EVs, and renewable energy, seek supportive measures, while fiscal consolidation remains a priority, with a projected fiscal deficit reduction to 4.8 per cent in FY26.
Industry leaders are advocating for sector-specific reforms, including tax rationalization for real estate, increased home loan interest deduction limits, and LTCG tax relief. The healthcare sector seeks a spending boost to 2.5 per cent of GDP, GST reduction on health insurance premiums, and incentives for digital health solutions. MSMEs demand improved credit access, while emerging sectors like AI, EVs, and renewable energy expect financial support and policy incentives. Businesses also favor a 15 per cent rise in capital expenditure to sustain economic momentum, with 60 per cent anticipating GDP growth between 6.5 and 7 per cent in FY25.
Tax simplification remains a key focus, with expectations of a modernized Direct Tax Code (DTC) to replace the outdated Income Tax Act and streamline TDS/TCS provisions. Infrastructure development is another critical area, with calls for increased investments in roads, railways, and logistics to enhance export competitiveness. Businesses seek efficiency improvements and an extension of interest equalization schemes to strengthen India’s global trade standing. Additionally, greater collaboration between educational institutions and industries is expected to build a job-ready workforce in IT, healthcare, and manufacturing.
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Jan 31, 2025 21:28 IST
Employment Growth Sluggish While Corporate Profits Rise: Economic Survey
While India’s employment growth witnessed a marginal 1.5 per cent rise, corporate profitability was the most in the last 15 years. A strong growth in financials, energy and automobiles contributed to this, according to the Economic Survey.
Read more here.
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Jan 31, 2025 21:27 IST
Budget Session: Highlights of President Murmu's Address
President Droupadi Murmu remembered former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away last year and paid tributes. Here are the highlights of her address:
- The government has allocated Rs. 5.36 lakh to expand the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, aiming to provide new homes for three crore additional families.
- The "Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh" campaign has been launched to uplift five crore people from the tribal community, with a budget of Rs. 80,000 crore.
- Additionally, under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, six crore senior citizens aged 70 and above will receive health insurance, offering an annual health coverage of Rs. 5 lakh.