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Budget 2025 Expectations highlights: Union Budget may announce innovative measures to boost infrastructure, agriculture, MSMEs
30 Jan 2025 | 12:45:34 AM IST
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present Budget 2025 on February 1
Synopsis
Union Budget 2025 Expectations highlights: Budget may announce innovative measures to boost infrastructure, agriculture, MSMEs.
India Union Budget 2025 Expectations highlights: The Union government, in its upcoming Budget 2025, may announce innovative measures to boost infrastructure, agriculture, MSMEs, and other critical sectors, according to a report by the State Bank of India.
These measures could include alternate funding sources, targeted production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes, and strategies to strengthen India's green economy and disaster management.
It said: "Government may introduce alternate sources of funding to infrastructure projects, which are generally cheaper than loan markets for better rated borrowers like Tax Free Bonds, Tax Paid Bonds, etc." This approach could lower financing costs and boost infrastructure development.
In agriculture, the report suggested the creation of an omnibus Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Agri & Allied Sectors (CGFTAAS). This would act as a credit accelerator by ensuring coverage for fresh agricultural loans, including Agri Value Chain Financing (AVCF).
It also recommended implementing the 2021 report on the agricultural value chain to improve the sector's efficiency.
The housing sector could see changes in the definition of Priority Sector Lending (PSL). Projects costing Rs 65 lakh in six metro cities and Rs 50 lakh in other regions may now qualify as affordable housing under PSL, a revision from the 2018 criteria.
For MSMEs, the report recommended introducing PLIs for key sectors such as textiles, garments, handicrafts, food processing, leather, electronics, and auto components.
It also suggested increasing the allocation to the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) and incentivising banks to expand MSME loan coverage.
The budget may also focus on sustainability with the introduction of a green taxonomy to channel funds towards India's climate commitments under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) submitted to the UNFCCC.
Additionally, the report proposes the establishment of a Disaster Pool to manage risks of natural disasters. Modelled on the existing Nuclear and Terrorism Pools, this public-private insurance initiative could mitigate financial losses from calamities.
The education sector could see reforms through collaborations with global institutions and the establishment of overseas centres for Indian institutes to attract international students. This move aligns with India's goal of becoming a knowledge-driven economy.
As per report, these recommendations aim to promote economic growth, resilience, and sustainability across key sectors.
Budget 2025 date
The budget will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.
Show moreThese measures could include alternate funding sources, targeted production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes, and strategies to strengthen India's green economy and disaster management.
It said: "Government may introduce alternate sources of funding to infrastructure projects, which are generally cheaper than loan markets for better rated borrowers like Tax Free Bonds, Tax Paid Bonds, etc." This approach could lower financing costs and boost infrastructure development.
In agriculture, the report suggested the creation of an omnibus Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Agri & Allied Sectors (CGFTAAS). This would act as a credit accelerator by ensuring coverage for fresh agricultural loans, including Agri Value Chain Financing (AVCF).
It also recommended implementing the 2021 report on the agricultural value chain to improve the sector's efficiency.
The housing sector could see changes in the definition of Priority Sector Lending (PSL). Projects costing Rs 65 lakh in six metro cities and Rs 50 lakh in other regions may now qualify as affordable housing under PSL, a revision from the 2018 criteria.
For MSMEs, the report recommended introducing PLIs for key sectors such as textiles, garments, handicrafts, food processing, leather, electronics, and auto components.
It also suggested increasing the allocation to the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) and incentivising banks to expand MSME loan coverage.
The budget may also focus on sustainability with the introduction of a green taxonomy to channel funds towards India's climate commitments under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) submitted to the UNFCCC.
Additionally, the report proposes the establishment of a Disaster Pool to manage risks of natural disasters. Modelled on the existing Nuclear and Terrorism Pools, this public-private insurance initiative could mitigate financial losses from calamities.
The education sector could see reforms through collaborations with global institutions and the establishment of overseas centres for Indian institutes to attract international students. This move aligns with India's goal of becoming a knowledge-driven economy.
As per report, these recommendations aim to promote economic growth, resilience, and sustainability across key sectors.
Budget 2025 date
The budget will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.
1 New Update
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Will Modi govt unlock PLI goldmine this budget?
Back in 2015, the US released a statement about India's notorious bureaucracy and red tape, but also hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government for making 'remarkable' progress in its first 15 months in power. Nearly a decade later, India has significantly shed those infamous labels, steadily positioning itself as a global manufacturing alternative to China. Among various initiatives driving this transformation, the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme stands out as a game-changer, earning widespread praise for its impact. While we are days away from the Union Budget for the next fiscal year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman may have a big task to do for PLI schemes.
Read more at: Modi govt has a key task in Budget 2025: Unlocking the PLI goldmine
Read more at: Modi govt has a key task in Budget 2025: Unlocking the PLI goldmine
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: 'Tax benefits on total expenditure for fintech operating in rural regions'
Budget 2025 Expectations Live:
"As we gear up for Budget 2025, India’s rural heartland, Bharat, stands at the forefront of fostering equitable economic development. The journey towards a $7 trillion economy hinges on transforming these rural areas, driven by ground breaking financial and digital solutions from leading fintech players. However, to ensure the last-mile delivery of essential financial and digital services, including banking, credit, assurance (insurance + assets), and e-commerce, making them accessible to Bharat, technology, security, trust, and Government support are crucial.
We urge tax benefits on total expenditure for fintech operating in rural regions, which can improve cash flow and ensure smooth operations. Simplified and supportive tax policies will boost sustainable growth and encourage more agents to deliver seamless services to everyone, everywhere," said Anand Kumar Bajaj, Founder, MD & CEO, PayNearby.
"As we gear up for Budget 2025, India’s rural heartland, Bharat, stands at the forefront of fostering equitable economic development. The journey towards a $7 trillion economy hinges on transforming these rural areas, driven by ground breaking financial and digital solutions from leading fintech players. However, to ensure the last-mile delivery of essential financial and digital services, including banking, credit, assurance (insurance + assets), and e-commerce, making them accessible to Bharat, technology, security, trust, and Government support are crucial.
We urge tax benefits on total expenditure for fintech operating in rural regions, which can improve cash flow and ensure smooth operations. Simplified and supportive tax policies will boost sustainable growth and encourage more agents to deliver seamless services to everyone, everywhere," said Anand Kumar Bajaj, Founder, MD & CEO, PayNearby.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: 'Reduction in the TDS rate from 1% to 0.1% for e-commerce operator'
Budget 2025 Expectations Live:
"We anticipate continued positive developments for the e-commerce sector, particularly in light of last year's impactful changes. We hope the government will further build on the reduction in the TDS rate from 1% to 0.1% for e-commerce operators, potentially extending additional support to enhance liquidity and simplify compliance processes. We also expect continued focus on promoting entrepreneurship and small businesses, possibly through expanded initiatives like Mudra Loans.
Furthermore, we foresee the government recognizing the need for stronger collaboration between fintech entities and traditional banks. This partnership could enhance financial inclusion, especially for the 70 million micro-scale businesses that are integral to non-farm employment. With fintech playing a major role in extending financial services to rural and underserved areas, we anticipate the budget addressing this by offering incentives for fintech companies to create products tailored to these regions. The government can foster innovation in the fintech sector by establishing AI Centres of Excellence or offering grants for R&D," said Nilay Patel, Founder & Managing Director, Easy Pay.
"We anticipate continued positive developments for the e-commerce sector, particularly in light of last year's impactful changes. We hope the government will further build on the reduction in the TDS rate from 1% to 0.1% for e-commerce operators, potentially extending additional support to enhance liquidity and simplify compliance processes. We also expect continued focus on promoting entrepreneurship and small businesses, possibly through expanded initiatives like Mudra Loans.
Furthermore, we foresee the government recognizing the need for stronger collaboration between fintech entities and traditional banks. This partnership could enhance financial inclusion, especially for the 70 million micro-scale businesses that are integral to non-farm employment. With fintech playing a major role in extending financial services to rural and underserved areas, we anticipate the budget addressing this by offering incentives for fintech companies to create products tailored to these regions. The government can foster innovation in the fintech sector by establishing AI Centres of Excellence or offering grants for R&D," said Nilay Patel, Founder & Managing Director, Easy Pay.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What can Sitharaman do to drive growth in the luxury and ultra-luxury real estate sector?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "The 2025 Union Budget presents a chance to drive growth in the luxury and ultra-luxury real estate sector, which is transforming to cater to buyers seeking curated experiences and contemporary lifestyles, We look forward to measures such as tax benefits, infrastructure enhancements, and service reforms, particularly for senior living communities, to elevate comfort, sophistication, and inclusivity while meeting the unique demands of this expanding segment, said Anantharam Varayur ,CO Founder of Manasum Senior Living.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Budget 2025 needs to pull off a big growth trick for the untapped half of its firepower
Budget 2025: India’s efforts to become a $10 trillion economy by 2032 will not likely see much success unless it overcomes the big losses it faces due to the untapped potential of its women workforce. The participation of women in India's workforce remains the lowest among the top 10 economies, and the losses incurred because of this currently amount to billions of dollars annually. With Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman all set to present Modi 3.0's second full-fledged budget, all eyes are on what measures and incentives the govt brings this time to unleash the full potential of the country's female workforce.
Read more: Budget 2025 needs to pull off a big growth trick for the untapped half of its firepower
Read more: Budget 2025 needs to pull off a big growth trick for the untapped half of its firepower
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What can push India's start ups further?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: “India’s startup ecosystem is a thriving hub of innovation, and we hope that the Union Budget 2025 reflect its potential. Startups, particularly those focusing on health-focused innovations, stand to benefit greatly from policies that streamline GST processes, introduce R&D tax incentives, and provide easier access to funding could ignite a wave of innovation, empowering manufacturers and startups to meet the increasing demand for wellness products. Encouraging startups to scale manufacturing for global markets will also be crucial in reinforcing the Make in India for the world initiative. With the right support, entrepreneurs can position India as a global hub for wellness and ergonomic solutions, showcasing the country’s ingenuity and innovation on the world stage," said Ganesh Sonawane, Founder and CEO of Frido.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What is gaming sector expecting from govt?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "In 2024, India’s online gaming industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, overcoming regulatory challenges and the impact of the 28% GST. Despite these hurdles, the sector has exceeded expectations, reaching $3.8 billion in revenue in FY24.
As we approach the Union Budget, we remain hopeful that the government will consider reducing the GST rate and addressing retrospective taxation issues, which would provide much-needed clarity and enable further growth and innovation. The government's focus on advancing the AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) sector is promising, and we look forward to increased funding and policy support for this initiative.
With continued efforts, we envision a future where more Indian developers and gaming studios create world-class games and content, solidifying India's position as a global leader in gaming. Further emphasis on supporting startups and fostering innovation will be crucial to ensure the industry’s sustained growth and contribution to India's digital economy," said Roland Landers, CEO at All India Gaming Federation (AIGF).
As we approach the Union Budget, we remain hopeful that the government will consider reducing the GST rate and addressing retrospective taxation issues, which would provide much-needed clarity and enable further growth and innovation. The government's focus on advancing the AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) sector is promising, and we look forward to increased funding and policy support for this initiative.
With continued efforts, we envision a future where more Indian developers and gaming studios create world-class games and content, solidifying India's position as a global leader in gaming. Further emphasis on supporting startups and fostering innovation will be crucial to ensure the industry’s sustained growth and contribution to India's digital economy," said Roland Landers, CEO at All India Gaming Federation (AIGF).
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What can Sitharaman do for SMEs?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: As the Union Budget approaches, SMEs are hopeful for policy measures that address critical challenges and foster growth in the sector. Payments to MSMEs within 45 days by corporates, as mandated by policy, are often delayed, and there are concerns about the rumoured withdrawal of this policy, which would be a regressive move. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms is crucial to ensure timely payments and support liquidity for MSMEs. To ensure financial discipline, Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act should be given more teeth, allowing for stringent penalties on cheque-bouncing cases, which negatively impact SME cash flows. SMEs also require dedicated incentives and subsidies to adopt advanced technologies, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly digital economy. These measures, if implemented, can provide much-needed relief to SMEs, enhancing their resilience and contribution to India’s economic growth," said Ankit Jain, Co- Founder , Aksum Trademart Pvt. Ltd.( Msme ).
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What are booster shots needed for India's healthcare sector?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: “As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India finds itself at a pivotal juncture where the commitment to healthcare must match its aspirations for progress. To meet the demands of our 1.4 billion-strong population, particularly in regions with low human development indices, the national budget must allocate more resources to healthcare. While high-income countries spend an average of 13% of their GDP on health, and low-income countries spend 5%, India’s spending of approximately 2% of the GDP is insufficient to address its unique challenges. This allocation needs to be significantly stepped up to build resilient health systems and advance universal health coverage.
The government must prioritize strategic fiscal planning, optimize resource allocation, and invest in capacitating the healthcare workforce. Women's health, especially maternal and child health, must remain a key focal point, with increased access to quality care for these critical demographics. In this regard, the integration of the private sector will play an essential role in complementing public health measures. We commend the government’s efforts in accelerating the adoption of digital health initiatives, which will enable informed, evidence-based policymaking and look forward to further developments that can drive better health outcomes and lasting improvements across India’s healthcare ecosystem," said Pompy Sridhar, Director, MSD for Mothers, India.
The government must prioritize strategic fiscal planning, optimize resource allocation, and invest in capacitating the healthcare workforce. Women's health, especially maternal and child health, must remain a key focal point, with increased access to quality care for these critical demographics. In this regard, the integration of the private sector will play an essential role in complementing public health measures. We commend the government’s efforts in accelerating the adoption of digital health initiatives, which will enable informed, evidence-based policymaking and look forward to further developments that can drive better health outcomes and lasting improvements across India’s healthcare ecosystem," said Pompy Sridhar, Director, MSD for Mothers, India.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Streamlining credit access, introducing skill-building opportunities and more on wish list of stakeholders
Budget 2025 Expectations Live:
“At the crossroads of innovation and social impact lies social entrepreneurship, showing immense potential to tackle critical challenges ranging from livelihood generation to healthcare. As India lays the groundwork for a Viksit Bharat, we recognize the significant strides that the Government has made to advance social entrepreneurship as a catalyst for inclusive growth, such as with the Atal Innovation Mission and Startup India. We look forward to it amplifying the impact of such flagship schemes while also expanding the scope of programs like Digital India. To sustain its momentum, targeted measures are essential: streamlining credit access, introducing skill-building opportunities tailored to social entrepreneurs and supporting gender-inclusive digital skilling, and increased funding pools will form crucial pieces of this puzzle.
We also see great promise in fostering public-private partnerships and integrating technology-driven solutions with grassroots initiatives – which can enable social enterprises to scale sustainably. The upcoming Union Budget offers an opportunity to position India as a global leader in social entrepreneurship, advancing equitable development through resilient livelihood opportunities and uplifting underserved communities. With robust support from the govt. and ecosystem, change-makers can continue to engage meaningfully in addressing pressing development challenges, ensuring that no one is left behind on India’s path to social and economic progress," said Subhashree Dutta, Managing Partner, Social Entrepreneurship at The/Nudge Institute.
“At the crossroads of innovation and social impact lies social entrepreneurship, showing immense potential to tackle critical challenges ranging from livelihood generation to healthcare. As India lays the groundwork for a Viksit Bharat, we recognize the significant strides that the Government has made to advance social entrepreneurship as a catalyst for inclusive growth, such as with the Atal Innovation Mission and Startup India. We look forward to it amplifying the impact of such flagship schemes while also expanding the scope of programs like Digital India. To sustain its momentum, targeted measures are essential: streamlining credit access, introducing skill-building opportunities tailored to social entrepreneurs and supporting gender-inclusive digital skilling, and increased funding pools will form crucial pieces of this puzzle.
We also see great promise in fostering public-private partnerships and integrating technology-driven solutions with grassroots initiatives – which can enable social enterprises to scale sustainably. The upcoming Union Budget offers an opportunity to position India as a global leader in social entrepreneurship, advancing equitable development through resilient livelihood opportunities and uplifting underserved communities. With robust support from the govt. and ecosystem, change-makers can continue to engage meaningfully in addressing pressing development challenges, ensuring that no one is left behind on India’s path to social and economic progress," said Subhashree Dutta, Managing Partner, Social Entrepreneurship at The/Nudge Institute.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: 'Expansion PLI schemes and more'
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "Expanding PLI subsidies to include impact firms working in agriculture and grassroots sectors, alongside the creation of a Financial Inclusion Fund and Rural Ventures and Impact (RVI) Fund for capacity building, will strengthen the BC ecosystem, Address liquidity challenges by establishing a dedicated fund for last mile BCs through NABARD and RBI.
Budget could prioritise climate-resilient financial products, such as tailored livelihood insurance, to mitigate risks from climate disruptions affecting vulnerable communities.
If we can have overall GST of 5% overall especially for firms working in rural ecosystems," Seema Prem, co-founder & CEO, FIA Global.
Budget could prioritise climate-resilient financial products, such as tailored livelihood insurance, to mitigate risks from climate disruptions affecting vulnerable communities.
If we can have overall GST of 5% overall especially for firms working in rural ecosystems," Seema Prem, co-founder & CEO, FIA Global.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What are expectations of real estate and affordable housing finance segments?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "Reviving economic momentum requires immediate measures to address food inflation through MSP reforms and supply-side interventions. This will help increase disposable incomes and stabilize family budgets. Blanket monetary tightening has adverse effects on industries like affordable housing, driving up EMIs and increasing default risks. A targeted approach to inflation, especially in essential commodities, is crucial.
PMAY Urban 2.0 must be relaunched with a simplified framework, similar to its earlier structure, to effectively cater to low-income groups (LIG). The current delays and cumbersome processes hinder progress and create operational and technological challenges. Centralized administration with robust checks and balances can streamline the scheme, ensuring that it directly addresses the needs of LIG households. The immediate rollout of the mortgage credit guarantee fund will further facilitate housing finance penetration in semi-urban and rural areas, driving deeper structural reforms and contributing significantly to India’s GDP.
Additionally, introducing tax incentives on home loan principal or interest will make EMIs more affordable for the LIG segment, empowering them to achieve homeownership under PMAY Urban 2.0. This will significantly advance India’s Housing for All mission, foster infrastructural growth, and provide support to the 400 allied industries linked to real estate.
To improve the ease of doing business, a fully digitized SARFAESI process is imperative. Integrating courts, police, and judiciary on a unified platform will streamline repossessions, auctions, and enforcement. Additionally, integrating the Centre and state governments through a transparent network with clearly defined turnaround times (TAT) and exception management will significantly enhance the process. This model will strengthen coordination, close procedural gaps, and ensure swift, transparent action against defaults and fraud," said Manish Jaiswal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Grihum Housing Finance.
PMAY Urban 2.0 must be relaunched with a simplified framework, similar to its earlier structure, to effectively cater to low-income groups (LIG). The current delays and cumbersome processes hinder progress and create operational and technological challenges. Centralized administration with robust checks and balances can streamline the scheme, ensuring that it directly addresses the needs of LIG households. The immediate rollout of the mortgage credit guarantee fund will further facilitate housing finance penetration in semi-urban and rural areas, driving deeper structural reforms and contributing significantly to India’s GDP.
Additionally, introducing tax incentives on home loan principal or interest will make EMIs more affordable for the LIG segment, empowering them to achieve homeownership under PMAY Urban 2.0. This will significantly advance India’s Housing for All mission, foster infrastructural growth, and provide support to the 400 allied industries linked to real estate.
To improve the ease of doing business, a fully digitized SARFAESI process is imperative. Integrating courts, police, and judiciary on a unified platform will streamline repossessions, auctions, and enforcement. Additionally, integrating the Centre and state governments through a transparent network with clearly defined turnaround times (TAT) and exception management will significantly enhance the process. This model will strengthen coordination, close procedural gaps, and ensure swift, transparent action against defaults and fraud," said Manish Jaiswal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Grihum Housing Finance.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: How to boost India's retail sector?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "As we approach the Union Budget 2025-26, there is a strong need for measures that address the evolving dynamics of India’s retail sector, which witnessed a 7% surge during the recent festive season, with food and grocery leading at 14%. Retailers are eagerly looking forward to the faster implementation of the National Retail Policy, which can provide a structured framework to support growth. Additionally, initiatives such as low-interest financing and targeted tax breaks could ease operational challenges, especially for MSMEs. Promoting technology adoption in retail is equally crucial to help traditional players compete effectively with the growing quick commerce segment. A budget with these measures can unlock significant potential, driving sustained growth and innovation in the retail ecosystem," said Rohan Bhargava, Co-Founder of CashKaro and EarnKaro,
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: How the Indian pharma biz can become a global powerhouse
Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: “The upcoming budget offers a crucial opportunity to position the Indian pharmaceutical industry as a global powerhouse, aligning with its projected growth from $55 billion to $130 billion by 2030 and further to $450 billion by 2047. To achieve this, a strategic focus on reducing reliance on imports through enhanced domestic production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) is imperative. With nearly 70% of APIs currently imported, primarily from China, targeted policy measures and financial incentives are essential to bolster local manufacturing capabilities and ensure pharmaceutical self-reliance," said Shaunak Amin, the Managing Director of Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited.
"Equally important is the need for increased allocation toward research and development, a cornerstone of innovation in the sector. Encouraging public-private partnerships and investing in shared research infrastructure can provide the much-needed impetus for cutting-edge drug development and clinical research. Investments in the upgradation of National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPERs) to global standards will further establish India as a leader in pharmaceutical innovation," he added.
"Equally important is the need for increased allocation toward research and development, a cornerstone of innovation in the sector. Encouraging public-private partnerships and investing in shared research infrastructure can provide the much-needed impetus for cutting-edge drug development and clinical research. Investments in the upgradation of National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPERs) to global standards will further establish India as a leader in pharmaceutical innovation," he added.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Steps to boost security & facility management industry
Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: "As the Union Budget 2025 approaches, the security and facility management industry is keenly anticipating measures that will bolster growth and address emerging challenges. According to a Gartner report, end-user spending on security and risk management in India is projected to reach $2.9 billion in 2024, marking a 12.4% increase from 2023. This upward trend underscores the critical need for enhanced security infrastructure and risk management solutions," said Sandeep Gupta, Global Chief Executive Officer, Tenon Group
"In light of these developments, as well as focus on creating jobs, the industry is hopeful that the upcoming budget will allocate resources to support the modernization of security frameworks, promote the adoption of advanced technologies, and facilitate training programs or skill development initiatives to equip professionals with the necessary skills to navigate the evolving security landscape. Such initiatives are essential to ensure the safety and resilience of India's infrastructure and institutions in the face of increasing cyber threats and complex security challenges," he added.
"In light of these developments, as well as focus on creating jobs, the industry is hopeful that the upcoming budget will allocate resources to support the modernization of security frameworks, promote the adoption of advanced technologies, and facilitate training programs or skill development initiatives to equip professionals with the necessary skills to navigate the evolving security landscape. Such initiatives are essential to ensure the safety and resilience of India's infrastructure and institutions in the face of increasing cyber threats and complex security challenges," he added.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: How the agrochemical sector can help the agro industry
Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: "India is on its way to becoming a global leader in agriculture, with the Ministry of Agriculture projecting a record-breaking Kharif food grain production of 1,647.05 LMT for 2024-25—a remarkable increase from the previous year. This achievement owes much to the unwavering support of the Indian agrochemical industry. However, challenges persist, and to sustain this momentum and bolster India’s leadership in the agriculture and agrochemical sectors, robust government policies are essential," said Vimal Kumar Alawadhi-MD, Best Agrolife Ltd.
"One of the key hurdles is the 18% GST on agrochemicals, which makes quality crop protection expensive for farmers. Reducing this tax to 5% would make these products more accessible, boosting productivity and profitability. Additionally, India’s reliance on imports highlights the need for Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) benefits to encourage local manufacturing," he added.
"One of the key hurdles is the 18% GST on agrochemicals, which makes quality crop protection expensive for farmers. Reducing this tax to 5% would make these products more accessible, boosting productivity and profitability. Additionally, India’s reliance on imports highlights the need for Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) benefits to encourage local manufacturing," he added.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Upcoming budget an opportunity to advance in infrastructure, energy transition, and technological innovation.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE) views the FY 2026 Budget as a key opportunity to advance India's infrastructure, energy transition, and technological innovation. We expect continued capital investment in water supply, metro systems, and climate-resilient infrastructure, along with support for Smart Cities, Transit-Oriented Development, and affordable housing.
A stronger push for renewable energy, including offshore wind, green hydrogen, and small modular reactors (SMRs), coupled with grid expansion, viability gap funding, and single-window approvals, will accelerate the energy transition. Strengthening nuclear energy through Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) and a contingency reserve for disaster management will bolster long-term energy security.
Modernising ports, promoting shipbuilding, and developing industrial clusters for semiconductors, EV batteries, and clean technologies will boost self-reliance and export competitiveness. Coastal industrialisation and inland logistics hubs will further drive efficiency and reduce costs. Smart infrastructure, digital twins, AI-driven mining, and integrated water management will be crucial for sustainability.
Skill development, gender diversity in engineering, and incentives for public-private partnerships will help bridge workforce gaps. Enhanced climate finance, including green bonds, R&D funding for energy storage, and low-interest loans for critical projects, will support India's journey towards decarbonisation, innovation, and global leadership in engineering and consultancy," said Amit Sharma, MD & CEO, Tata Consulting Engineers.
A stronger push for renewable energy, including offshore wind, green hydrogen, and small modular reactors (SMRs), coupled with grid expansion, viability gap funding, and single-window approvals, will accelerate the energy transition. Strengthening nuclear energy through Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) and a contingency reserve for disaster management will bolster long-term energy security.
Modernising ports, promoting shipbuilding, and developing industrial clusters for semiconductors, EV batteries, and clean technologies will boost self-reliance and export competitiveness. Coastal industrialisation and inland logistics hubs will further drive efficiency and reduce costs. Smart infrastructure, digital twins, AI-driven mining, and integrated water management will be crucial for sustainability.
Skill development, gender diversity in engineering, and incentives for public-private partnerships will help bridge workforce gaps. Enhanced climate finance, including green bonds, R&D funding for energy storage, and low-interest loans for critical projects, will support India's journey towards decarbonisation, innovation, and global leadership in engineering and consultancy," said Amit Sharma, MD & CEO, Tata Consulting Engineers.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What will the budget have for the startup sector?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: “The upcoming budget offers a critical opportunity to strengthen India's innovation capabilities, particularly in emerging sectors like Defence & Space Tech, Cybersecurity, and Precision Manufacturing— which are set to take center stage at Startup Mahakumbh. As India’s startup ecosystem matures, we look forward to fiscal measures and policies that encourage multiple forms of capital investments in startups that help enable R&D , technological self-reliance, and build stronger collaboration between startups, industry, and government. As we move forward, these strategic budgetary provisions will be crucial for positioning India as a global innovation hub and catalyzing the next wave of entrepreneurial growth. By enabling innovation-led entrepreneurship, the government can unlock immense potential, creating opportunities that propel the next wave of startup success and reinforce India’s standing as a hub for transformative ideas, said Prashanth Prakash , Founding Partner, Accel India.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Greater tax benefits needed for affordable housing.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Regularisation and standardisation of GST, to give infrastructure status to affordable housing, focuses on sustainability, support for MSMEs, tax benefits that people get on housing are insufficient and it need to be raised under section 24B.
Infrastructure development is the biggest key to growth of this country and we are on the right track at the moment," said Farook Mahmood Managing Director Of Silverline Realty and founder Of BRAI.
Infrastructure development is the biggest key to growth of this country and we are on the right track at the moment," said Farook Mahmood Managing Director Of Silverline Realty and founder Of BRAI.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Infrastructure development to continue to be in focus?
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "With the upcoming Union Budget marking the end of a quarter-century of growth and laying the foundation for India’s next phase of development, infrastructure must be a central focus. As one of the world’s fastest urbanizing nations, India faces the urgent challenge of building infrastructure that can effectively accommodate this population shift. However, this development cannot be limited to concrete structures, but it must include a sustainable foundation that enables the adoption of greener public and private infrastructure.
Last year’s allocation of INR 11.11 trillion for infrastructure demonstrated the government’s commitment to progress, but this must now evolve to push sustainability a step further and include more initiatives that prioritise the net zero vision, and one such step in the direction should be to incentivize green certifications for building project owners. Simplifying the certification processes and educating all segments of developers across the small to large paradigm about the long-term benefits of sustainable infrastructure will accelerate adoption across the sector. Furthermore this growth must extend beyond metropolitan areas, and should be complemented across all tiers including the Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, creating opportunities for balanced and environmentally conscious development. Finally, technology should remain core to all our priority areas of growth, the budget must incorporate allocations for widespread adoption of new age smart and green technologies which could further support India’s 2070 net zero vision and its transition toward its long-term vision of becoming Viksit Bharat," said Mahesh Ramanujam, CEO of Global Network for Zero.
Last year’s allocation of INR 11.11 trillion for infrastructure demonstrated the government’s commitment to progress, but this must now evolve to push sustainability a step further and include more initiatives that prioritise the net zero vision, and one such step in the direction should be to incentivize green certifications for building project owners. Simplifying the certification processes and educating all segments of developers across the small to large paradigm about the long-term benefits of sustainable infrastructure will accelerate adoption across the sector. Furthermore this growth must extend beyond metropolitan areas, and should be complemented across all tiers including the Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, creating opportunities for balanced and environmentally conscious development. Finally, technology should remain core to all our priority areas of growth, the budget must incorporate allocations for widespread adoption of new age smart and green technologies which could further support India’s 2070 net zero vision and its transition toward its long-term vision of becoming Viksit Bharat," said Mahesh Ramanujam, CEO of Global Network for Zero.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Here is what the mutual funds and personal finance sector wants from the budget.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "Equity participation in India has always been low and thanks to all the efforts made by the regulators and the government together the safe, compliant & digital environment makes investing in equity easier and rewarding too. Also, it will be extremely helpful in supporting the long-term growth of our country and our vision led by our visionary Prime Minister to become a developed nation by 2047. In the bargain taxation and rising transaction costs have impacted the scrupulous players in the Industry dearly. Revenue pressures have led to innovative but unsuitable products thriving in the market on the one hand and encouraged participation in leveraged trades leading to higher volumes on the other. This defeats the purpose of long-term wealth creation and the power of compounding, especially for a retail investor. Budget is a good tool to control behavior in the long run and hence incentivizing the senior citizens with higher tax relief majorly in debt options and supporting long-term investor behavior by offering tax reliefs in long term equity holding could be considered. Infrastructure funding through REITs & Inveits may also need government support for higher investor participation. At the same time controlling unscrupulous practices by higher taxation on speculative and unregulated products could well compensate the government as well as help reduce such practices too," said Sachin Jain, Managing Partner, Scripbox.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: The healthcare sector expects healthcare expenditure to touch 2.5-3% of GDP.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "For Budget 2025, we expect a strong focus on improving India’s healthcare system. We hope the government will expand the "Make in India" initiative in healthcare to reduce import reliance and boost local production. Given the increasing global demand for traditional healthcare, we believe the Ayush Ministry’s budget should rise to around Rs. 4,500-4,700 crore. Additionally, we urge the government to increase healthcare spending to 2.5-3% of GDP to enhance infrastructure and access to care in both urban and rural areas. Extending the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for 2-3 years will support local manufacturers. Addressing urban-rural healthcare disparities through public-private partnerships, strengthening diagnostics, and incorporating AI in healthcare will also help improve treatment quality and accessibility for everyone, said Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director Dr Basu Group.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Tourism sector wants simpler policies, and more funding for digital transformation.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "The tourism industry is one of the most vibrant and resilient sectors. It is a key driver of economic growth and employment generation. The industry requires focused support through investments in infrastructure and marketing initiatives to position India as a leading global destination. We hope the Budget strengthens policies that further enhances connectivity and simplifies regulatory frameworks, enabling the industry to flourish. Additionally the industry could get more funding for digital transformation and skill development ensuring long-term growth and job creation," said Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.
Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Real estate sector looks forward to GST slashes.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "The 2025 Union Budget presents a chance to drive growth in the luxury and ultra-luxury real estate sector, which is transforming to cater to buyers seeking curated experiences and contemporary lifestyles, We look forward to measures such as tax benefits, infrastructure enhancements, and service reforms, particularly for senior living communities, to elevate comfort, sophistication, and inclusivity while meeting the unique demands of this expanding segment. Current GST on services to Seniors is samr 18% like any other sevices. Since Seniors have paid all taxes through their life and their current earnings are limited to interest earned from deposits or depends on Pension, GST has to be minimal between 2 to 5%," said Anantharam Varayur ,CO Founder of Manasum Senior Living.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: What Budget can do for the tech ecosystem
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Yamini Bhat, CEO and Co-founder of Vymo said, "The Union Budget 2025 is an opportunity to not just accelerate India’s tech evolution but also ensure that this growth is inclusive and equitable. Startups, particularly in the SaaS and AI-driven innovation spaces, are reshaping industries, but sustained momentum requires a supportive ecosystem. I believe that policies that encourage R&D investments, reduce compliance hurdles and provide tax incentives for cloud-based and automation solutions will be instrumental in scaling India’s digital capabilities globally.
"I also think that it becomes important to boost entrepreneurial initiatives, especially by women in tier II and III cities. Here, women-led startups, despite their potential, often face barriers in accessing capital and networks. A dedicated fund to support women entrepreneurs, coupled with tax breaks for organizations that actively invest in gender-diverse leadership teams, can create a more level playing field. Additionally, targeted skilling programmes in digital technologies for women in Tier 2 and 3 cities would ensure that talent from all parts of India participates in and benefits from the tech revolution.
"A budget that champions both tech advancement and women’s entrepreneurship has the power to shape a future where India leads not just in economic metrics but in creating an inclusive growth story."
"I also think that it becomes important to boost entrepreneurial initiatives, especially by women in tier II and III cities. Here, women-led startups, despite their potential, often face barriers in accessing capital and networks. A dedicated fund to support women entrepreneurs, coupled with tax breaks for organizations that actively invest in gender-diverse leadership teams, can create a more level playing field. Additionally, targeted skilling programmes in digital technologies for women in Tier 2 and 3 cities would ensure that talent from all parts of India participates in and benefits from the tech revolution.
"A budget that champions both tech advancement and women’s entrepreneurship has the power to shape a future where India leads not just in economic metrics but in creating an inclusive growth story."
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Affordable housing to be given a priority?
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: The Union Budget 2025 presents a critical opportunity to address key challenges and propel the real estate sector towards sustainable growth. Revising the affordable housing price cap from ₹45 lakhs to ₹60 lakhs, which has remained unchanged for a decade, is imperative to account for rising input costs and inflation. Similarly, increasing the income tax deduction limit on interest payments under Section 80C from ₹2 lakhs to ₹5 lakhs and reducing home loan interest rates will make homeownership more accessible.
Policy reforms such as reintroducing Section 80IBA incentives and removing MAT provisions are essential to reviving affordable housing development. Buyers will benefit from measures like restoring the interest subvention under PMAY for loans up to ₹6 lakhs and offering fixed interest rates of 5% for loans up to ₹25 lakhs.
To further encourage investment, the ₹10 crore cap on capital gains tax exemption should be lifted, and a uniform long-term capital gains tax across asset classes should be introduced. Additionally, discontinuing the deemed rental income tax on unsold inventory under Section 23(5) and increasing the safe harbor limit from 10% to 25% will align stamp duty rates with market realities, fostering higher transaction volumes.
Streamlining approval processes and adopting color-coded zoning for height and environmental clearances can significantly reduce project delays. These measures will not only stimulate housing demand, particularly in Tier 2 and 3 cities, but also strengthen the real estate sector's contribution to GDP growth," said G Hari Babu, National President, NAREDCO.
Policy reforms such as reintroducing Section 80IBA incentives and removing MAT provisions are essential to reviving affordable housing development. Buyers will benefit from measures like restoring the interest subvention under PMAY for loans up to ₹6 lakhs and offering fixed interest rates of 5% for loans up to ₹25 lakhs.
To further encourage investment, the ₹10 crore cap on capital gains tax exemption should be lifted, and a uniform long-term capital gains tax across asset classes should be introduced. Additionally, discontinuing the deemed rental income tax on unsold inventory under Section 23(5) and increasing the safe harbor limit from 10% to 25% will align stamp duty rates with market realities, fostering higher transaction volumes.
Streamlining approval processes and adopting color-coded zoning for height and environmental clearances can significantly reduce project delays. These measures will not only stimulate housing demand, particularly in Tier 2 and 3 cities, but also strengthen the real estate sector's contribution to GDP growth," said G Hari Babu, National President, NAREDCO.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Will Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announce a youth-centric budget?
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "India has one of the largest populations of young people. Almost 40% of the population is less than 25, or at an age where they could be in education. To educate this large number, several steps need to be taken. This is critical if India has to achieve a developed economy status by the time the demographic transition is over. It is obvious that the education and research budget has to go up – right now at 2.9% of GDP there is a lot of room for this funding to grow. Over the last few budgets skilling was prioritized. However, it is not clear what that investment in skilling has delivered. If India is unable to build a solid education system, mere skilling will not help.
In higher education, NEP has laid down an ambitious plan. In this budget funds need to be allocated to support some of those initiatives. Funds have to be allocated to help universities and colleges to transform themselves to be truly multi-disciplinary. To ensure we do well in research and we have faculty members to teach this large population, much more funding needs to be channeled toward Phd scholarships.
The budget should also take steps to ensure more private fundings. This will include enabling the Higher Education Financing Agency to provide loans to private universities. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to be agnostic about where research proposals come from. It should give incentives for philanthropies and private universities to create endowments, ” said Partha Chatterjee, Dean of Academics and Professor of Economics, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi NCR.
In higher education, NEP has laid down an ambitious plan. In this budget funds need to be allocated to support some of those initiatives. Funds have to be allocated to help universities and colleges to transform themselves to be truly multi-disciplinary. To ensure we do well in research and we have faculty members to teach this large population, much more funding needs to be channeled toward Phd scholarships.
The budget should also take steps to ensure more private fundings. This will include enabling the Higher Education Financing Agency to provide loans to private universities. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to be agnostic about where research proposals come from. It should give incentives for philanthropies and private universities to create endowments, ” said Partha Chatterjee, Dean of Academics and Professor of Economics, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi NCR.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: FinTech sector expects expenditure in research and development.
The Union Budget 2025 is an opportunity to not just accelerate India’s tech evolution but also ensure that this growth is inclusive and equitable. Startups, particularly in the SaaS and AI-driven innovation spaces, are reshaping industries, but sustained momentum requires a supportive ecosystem. I believe that policies that encourage R&D investments, reduce compliance hurdles and provide tax incentives for cloud-based and automation solutions will be instrumental in scaling India’s digital capabilities globally.
I also think that it becomes important to boost entrepreneurial initiatives, especially by women in tier II and III cities. Here, women-led startups, despite their potential, often face barriers in accessing capital and networks. A dedicated fund to support women entrepreneurs, coupled with tax breaks for organizations that actively invest in gender-diverse leadership teams, can create a more level playing field. Additionally, targeted skilling programmes in digital technologies for women in Tier 2 and 3 cities would ensure that talent from all parts of India participates in and benefits from the tech revolution.
A budget that champions both tech advancement and women’s entrepreneurship has the power to shape a future where India leads not just in economic metrics but in creating an inclusive growth story," said Yamini Bhat, CEO and Co-founder, Vymo.
I also think that it becomes important to boost entrepreneurial initiatives, especially by women in tier II and III cities. Here, women-led startups, despite their potential, often face barriers in accessing capital and networks. A dedicated fund to support women entrepreneurs, coupled with tax breaks for organizations that actively invest in gender-diverse leadership teams, can create a more level playing field. Additionally, targeted skilling programmes in digital technologies for women in Tier 2 and 3 cities would ensure that talent from all parts of India participates in and benefits from the tech revolution.
A budget that champions both tech advancement and women’s entrepreneurship has the power to shape a future where India leads not just in economic metrics but in creating an inclusive growth story," said Yamini Bhat, CEO and Co-founder, Vymo.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Crypto tax policy to be reeloked?
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "As we look forward to the Union Budget 2025, it is essential for the Indian government to establish clear regulatory frameworks and streamline taxation policies related to cryptocurrencies. The existing uncertainty hinders innovation and discourages investors from engaging in this fast-growing sector.
The crypto industry has been advocating for clearer regulations, tax relief, and incentives for innovation. Creating a well-defined regulatory landscape will not only safeguard investors but also promote technological progress within the country.
Additionally, the proposed increase in tax rates on Bitcoin ETFs from 12.5% to a flat 30% raises significant concerns. Such a change could deter investment in digital assets and impede the development of the crypto ecosystem in India.
We remain hopeful that the government will take these concerns into account and introduce measures that encourage growth and innovation in this transformative sector. A balanced approach in the budget can create an environment where technology thrives, investments flourish, and India solidifies its position as a leader in the global digital economy. With the right policies, the future of India's tech-driven industries looks incredibly promising," said Dipankar Sarkar, Co-Founder & CTO of KiranaPro,
The crypto industry has been advocating for clearer regulations, tax relief, and incentives for innovation. Creating a well-defined regulatory landscape will not only safeguard investors but also promote technological progress within the country.
Additionally, the proposed increase in tax rates on Bitcoin ETFs from 12.5% to a flat 30% raises significant concerns. Such a change could deter investment in digital assets and impede the development of the crypto ecosystem in India.
We remain hopeful that the government will take these concerns into account and introduce measures that encourage growth and innovation in this transformative sector. A balanced approach in the budget can create an environment where technology thrives, investments flourish, and India solidifies its position as a leader in the global digital economy. With the right policies, the future of India's tech-driven industries looks incredibly promising," said Dipankar Sarkar, Co-Founder & CTO of KiranaPro,
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: FMCG sector wants a boost rural consumption, simplify GST.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Balasubramanian A, Senior VP and Business Head at TeamLease, said, "While the sector grew by around 7%, demand remained muted in urban areas owing to inflationary pressures, while rural expansion outpaced that of urban areas by nearly 20%, especially in the food and beverages segment. The sector is projected to expand by 9.5% in 2025. driven by continued rural expansion and demand for premium and sustainable products in urban areas. While some green shoots are already visible, the second half of 2025 is expected to drive more growth than the first half.
To sustain growth momentum in such a challenging environment, targeted interventions to boost workforce productivity will be essential - initiatives like digital upskilling programs, the development of robust and adaptive distribution networks, and improving rural market penetration through a multi purpose workforce. Additionally, fostering collaborations between industry players and government agencies will be crucial to address skill gaps and ensure the workforce is equipped to navigate the evolving demands of the sector.
The FMCG sector expects Budget 2025 to address inflation, boost rural consumption, simplify GST, and support R&D, e-commerce, and sustainability initiatives, alongside lower taxes on essentials and health-focused products to drive growth," said
To sustain growth momentum in such a challenging environment, targeted interventions to boost workforce productivity will be essential - initiatives like digital upskilling programs, the development of robust and adaptive distribution networks, and improving rural market penetration through a multi purpose workforce. Additionally, fostering collaborations between industry players and government agencies will be crucial to address skill gaps and ensure the workforce is equipped to navigate the evolving demands of the sector.
The FMCG sector expects Budget 2025 to address inflation, boost rural consumption, simplify GST, and support R&D, e-commerce, and sustainability initiatives, alongside lower taxes on essentials and health-focused products to drive growth," said
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Here is what the FnB sector expects.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: “The industry has reasons to be optimistic about this year’s Union Budget and hoping it builds on the positive steps from last year. We’re expecting that this Budget will prioritize boosting high-yielding, climate-resilient crops and natural farming practices. These measures can go a long way in supporting the government allocation of ₹1.52 lakh crore to agriculture and allied sectors as announced in the previous budget.
As we look ahead to the upcoming Union Budget, the food processing industry has high hopes for measures that can enhance ease of doing business. Simplified tax processes, reduced complexities in regulations, and faster GST refunds could be game changers in the food ingredient manufacturing sector, enabling smoother operations, and enhancing competitiveness. Better infrastructure—like improved logistics, cold chain facilities, and connectivity—would also go a long way in cutting transportation costs, and ensuring products move efficiently across the supply chain.
With a growing focus on increasing disposable income for the middle class, we also hope for initiatives that drive growth in domestic demand, which will fuel opportunities for high-quality, processed food products. These initiatives have the potential to bring multiple benefits to the sector: lower raw material costs, develop new market opportunities, improve access to credit, extend product shelf life, and even facilitate exports. The food and beverage ecosystem has much to gain if these priorities are addressed," said Gaurav Grover, CEO, ofi India.
As we look ahead to the upcoming Union Budget, the food processing industry has high hopes for measures that can enhance ease of doing business. Simplified tax processes, reduced complexities in regulations, and faster GST refunds could be game changers in the food ingredient manufacturing sector, enabling smoother operations, and enhancing competitiveness. Better infrastructure—like improved logistics, cold chain facilities, and connectivity—would also go a long way in cutting transportation costs, and ensuring products move efficiently across the supply chain.
With a growing focus on increasing disposable income for the middle class, we also hope for initiatives that drive growth in domestic demand, which will fuel opportunities for high-quality, processed food products. These initiatives have the potential to bring multiple benefits to the sector: lower raw material costs, develop new market opportunities, improve access to credit, extend product shelf life, and even facilitate exports. The food and beverage ecosystem has much to gain if these priorities are addressed," said Gaurav Grover, CEO, ofi India.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Healthcare needs to focus on mental health too.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "According to a recent report by Deloitte India, “Poor mental health in employees is causing Indian companies a loss of over $14 Billion (INR 1,19,000 crores) annually” - Investing in mental health is crucial for not only enhancing productivity but enhancing overall happiness across sectors. The Union Budget for 2024-25 allocated approximately ₹90,659 crore to the healthcare sector, a modest increase of 2% from the previous fiscal year. However, only about 1% of this allocation is dedicated to mental health initiatives, with ₹850 crore for the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), ₹60 crore for the Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health, and ₹90 crore for the National Tele-Mental Health Programme (TELE Manas).
Despite these allocations, there remains a significant need for increased funding and awareness, particularly concerning postpartum depression. Approximately 22% of new mothers in India experience postpartum depression, yet many remain unaware of their condition.
By allocating more resources to mental health services and launching targeted awareness campaigns about conditions like postpartum depression, the government can directly improve national well-being. Such investments would not only enhance individual quality of life but also contribute to a more productive and prosperous society," said Manun Thakur, Founder & CEO of Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness.
Despite these allocations, there remains a significant need for increased funding and awareness, particularly concerning postpartum depression. Approximately 22% of new mothers in India experience postpartum depression, yet many remain unaware of their condition.
By allocating more resources to mental health services and launching targeted awareness campaigns about conditions like postpartum depression, the government can directly improve national well-being. Such investments would not only enhance individual quality of life but also contribute to a more productive and prosperous society," said Manun Thakur, Founder & CEO of Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: The tech and IT sector wants an increased spending in digital skill development.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "TechChefz is optimistic that the upcoming Union Budget will introduce measures to support the growth of IT service SMEs. Implementing single-window clearances to streamline regulatory processes would simplify compliance, enabling SMEs to focus on innovation and service delivery. Parity in long-term capital gains tax rates between listed and unlisted securities would attract investment into the SME sector, fostering expansion and competitiveness. Increased spending on digital skill development, particularly in smaller cities, would broaden the talent pool, addressing skill shortages and promoting regional growth. Investments in cybersecurity infrastructure are essential to protect digital enterprises, ensuring business continuity and building trust in online ecosystems. Additionally, policies that facilitate easier access to funding and promote innovation hubs would create an environment where IT service SMEs can thrive. A budget that addresses these areas will significantly enhance the resilience and growth of India's digital economy," said Mayank Maggon, Founder, CEO & CTO, Techchefz Digital.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Real estate sector looking forward to more tax benefits.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: "The 2025 Union Budget presents a chance to drive growth in the luxury and ultra-luxury real estate sector, which is transforming to cater to buyers seeking curated experiences and contemporary lifestyles, We look forward to measures such as tax benefits, infrastructure enhancements, and service reforms, particularly for senior living communities, to elevate comfort, sophistication, and inclusivity while meeting the unique demands of this expanding segment." Current GST on services to Seniors is samr 18% like any other sevices. Since Seniors have paid all taxes through their life and their current earnings are limited to interest earned from deposits or depends on Pension, GST has to be minimal between 2 to 5%," said Anantharam Varayur ,CO Founder of Manasum Senior Living.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Will GST be simplified this budget?
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Anurag Shrivastava, Startup Founder, KISAAN MITRA, NAARI expects the following.
• Unified Filing System
Currently, businesses can opt for monthly or quarterly GST return filing. If this is streamlined by a single, simplified filing system it will reduce administrative burdens.
• Protection against Supplier Non-Compliance
When MSMEs provide GST credit to buyers, and if the suppliers fail to deposit the tax, the liability often reverts to the MSMEs, leading to legal complications. there should be a mechanism to safeguard MSMEs against such scenarios, ensuring that they are not penalized for the non-compliance of others.
• Increased Exemption Thresholds
Raising the GST exemption limit, especially for service-oriented MSMEs, would alleviate tax burdens and encourage growth within the sector.
• Unified Filing System
Currently, businesses can opt for monthly or quarterly GST return filing. If this is streamlined by a single, simplified filing system it will reduce administrative burdens.
• Protection against Supplier Non-Compliance
When MSMEs provide GST credit to buyers, and if the suppliers fail to deposit the tax, the liability often reverts to the MSMEs, leading to legal complications. there should be a mechanism to safeguard MSMEs against such scenarios, ensuring that they are not penalized for the non-compliance of others.
• Increased Exemption Thresholds
Raising the GST exemption limit, especially for service-oriented MSMEs, would alleviate tax burdens and encourage growth within the sector.
Union Budget 2025 News Live Hospitality and tourism sectors target tier 2 and 3 cities.
India Budget News Live Updates “As the Union Budget 2025-26 approaches, we remain optimistic about the continued emphasis on infrastructure development and strategic initiatives to drive growth in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Targeted investments in tier II and tier III cities can unlock significant opportunities for regional tourism while spurring job creation and economic development. Granting infrastructure status to the hospitality industry would further facilitate hotel expansions, meeting rising demand and enhancing India’s position as a premier global travel destination,” said Sunjae Sharma, Managing Director, India and Southwest Asia, Hyatt India Consultancy Pvt. Ltd.
Union Budget 2025 News Live: Agriculture needs a reform.
India Budget News Live Updates “The agriculture sector in India faced several challenges in 2024, from unpredictable weather patterns and supply chain disruptions to growing sustainability pressures. However, there has also been significant progress, particularly in agri-tech innovations and the government’s commitment to farmer welfare. Looking ahead to Budget 2025, there’s a valuable opportunity to build on this momentum.
For the agrochemical sector, the focus should be on incentivising research into eco-friendly and latest new age solutions and PLI. Supporting small-scale farmers with better access to technologies and crop protection solutions will be crucial to increasing yields and reducing losses.
I am hopeful that the Budget will prioritise improving infrastructure to support rural communities. Expanding access to digital tools and technologies will empower farmers to make data-driven decisions, enhancing productivity and food security. Additionally, increased budget allocation for R&D will drive the development of novel products and solutions, enabling organizations to better meet the evolving needs of the sector.” said Mr. Rajesh Aggarwal, Managing Director, Insecticides (India) Ltd.
For the agrochemical sector, the focus should be on incentivising research into eco-friendly and latest new age solutions and PLI. Supporting small-scale farmers with better access to technologies and crop protection solutions will be crucial to increasing yields and reducing losses.
I am hopeful that the Budget will prioritise improving infrastructure to support rural communities. Expanding access to digital tools and technologies will empower farmers to make data-driven decisions, enhancing productivity and food security. Additionally, increased budget allocation for R&D will drive the development of novel products and solutions, enabling organizations to better meet the evolving needs of the sector.” said Mr. Rajesh Aggarwal, Managing Director, Insecticides (India) Ltd.
Union Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Water and sanitation needs to prioritised.
India Budget 2025 News Live Updates: “We hope the upcoming Union Budget continues to prioritize sustainability and resilience in the water and sanitation sector, building on the progress made in previous allocations. It is essential to focus on ensuring the long-term functionality of water distribution and sanitation infrastructure by addressing operational and financial sustainability. With over 80% of piped water supply dependent on rapidly depleting groundwater, resource sustainability, particularly in agriculture, must be a priority to secure drinking water systems. Strengthening decentralized governance and institutional capacity at the local level is crucial to ensuring accountability and sustainable service delivery. Additionally, leveraging circular principles such as reusing treated wastewater for agriculture and non-potable uses and integrating treated sanitary waste for soil fertility, can promote water quality and efficiency.
Climate resilience should remain central to these efforts, with targeted measures for adaptation and preparedness. Also, provisions for extending services to left-out beneficiaries and emerging households will be key to ensuring equity and inclusivity in water and sanitation access,” said Bishwadeep Ghose, Country Director for Water For People India.
Climate resilience should remain central to these efforts, with targeted measures for adaptation and preparedness. Also, provisions for extending services to left-out beneficiaries and emerging households will be key to ensuring equity and inclusivity in water and sanitation access,” said Bishwadeep Ghose, Country Director for Water For People India.
Budget 2025 News Live: Here is what the housing sector expects.
India Budget News Live Updates: "Under the visionary leadership of Honourable Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi, the Government of India has achieved significant milestones in housing through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). Expanding the programme to include 2 crore additional rural houses and 1 crore urban houses by FY 2024-29 highlights the government’s dedication to uplifting marginalised communities.
Further policy interventions, such as enhanced subsidies for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS), can reduce financial barriers and improve access to quality housing. To advance the Government of India’s vision of ‘Housing for All,’ incorporating affordable housing for EWS under Schedule VII of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) provisions in The Companies Act will empower corporates entities and foundations to contribute to affordable housing initiatives.
Encouraging public, private banks and financial institutions to prioritise affordable housing loans; introducing preferential interest rates and affordable repayment options (EMIs) for such loans will advance access to affordable housing. Additionally, blending CSR funds with government grants can address funding gaps.
We advocate for a Public Private People Partnership (P4) model to foster effective collaboration among stakeholders. This will accelerate progress toward ‘Housing for All’ and support inclusive, sustainable development aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," said Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director of Habitat for Humanity India
Further policy interventions, such as enhanced subsidies for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS), can reduce financial barriers and improve access to quality housing. To advance the Government of India’s vision of ‘Housing for All,’ incorporating affordable housing for EWS under Schedule VII of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) provisions in The Companies Act will empower corporates entities and foundations to contribute to affordable housing initiatives.
Encouraging public, private banks and financial institutions to prioritise affordable housing loans; introducing preferential interest rates and affordable repayment options (EMIs) for such loans will advance access to affordable housing. Additionally, blending CSR funds with government grants can address funding gaps.
We advocate for a Public Private People Partnership (P4) model to foster effective collaboration among stakeholders. This will accelerate progress toward ‘Housing for All’ and support inclusive, sustainable development aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," said Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director of Habitat for Humanity India
Union Budget 2025 News Live: EV sector to get a further boom?
India Budget News Live Updates "To boost the adoption of EVs, the government should consider the following recommendations:
First, India lags behind global leaders like China in battery production. The 2025 budget could incentivize local manufacturing through: favourable policies to attract investments in battery production facilities and provide tax incentives and subsidies to reduce dependency on imports.
2. Secondly, to reduce setup costs the government should classify charging stations as part of the “infrastructure industry”. Also, cheaper financing options should be available for the developers.
3. Third, additional tax credits for consumers and businesses would further incentivize EV adoption. While the lower 5% GST on EVs encourages adoption, the 18-28% GST on raw materials creates high working capital demands, increasing the costs unnecessarily. Addressing this taxation disparity and refining policies will create a stronger foundation for the sector's efficiency and competitiveness, providing a much-needed boost for sustainable growth," said Ayush Lohia, CEO, Lohia Auto.
First, India lags behind global leaders like China in battery production. The 2025 budget could incentivize local manufacturing through: favourable policies to attract investments in battery production facilities and provide tax incentives and subsidies to reduce dependency on imports.
2. Secondly, to reduce setup costs the government should classify charging stations as part of the “infrastructure industry”. Also, cheaper financing options should be available for the developers.
3. Third, additional tax credits for consumers and businesses would further incentivize EV adoption. While the lower 5% GST on EVs encourages adoption, the 18-28% GST on raw materials creates high working capital demands, increasing the costs unnecessarily. Addressing this taxation disparity and refining policies will create a stronger foundation for the sector's efficiency and competitiveness, providing a much-needed boost for sustainable growth," said Ayush Lohia, CEO, Lohia Auto.
Union Budget 2025 News Live: The Union Budget will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
India Budget News live Updates: Sitharaman will present the budget on February 1.
