Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Interim Budget as more than just an interim budget, calling it “inclusive and innovative.” He expressed confidence in its continuity, emphasizing its potential to empower various sectors crucial to India’s development, including the youth, the poor, women, and farmers.
Commending Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for her vision, PM Modi stated that the budget is geared towards building the country’s future. He highlighted its commitment to strengthening the foundation of a developed India by 2047.
The Prime Minister noted that the budget reflects the aspirations of Young India and pointed out two significant decisions. First, a fund of Rs. 1 lakh crore has been allocated for research and innovation. Second, tax exemptions for startups have been extended, fostering entrepreneurial growth.
Despite keeping the fiscal deficit in check, PM Modi revealed that the total expenditure in this budget has reached a historic Rs. 11,11,111 crores. He described it as a “sweet spot” in economists’ terms, expecting it to generate millions of new employment opportunities and modern infrastructure in the 21st century.
PM Modi outlined plans for manufacturing 40,000 modern bogies of Vande Bharat Standard to enhance travel comfort for passengers on various rail routes. He emphasized the government’s commitment to ambitious goals, setting targets and achieving them.
Addressing the welfare initiatives, PM Modi spoke about the construction of over 4 crore houses, with an additional target of building 2 crore more, benefiting both urban and rural areas. He highlighted the goal of making 3 crore women ‘Lakhpatis,’ showcasing the government’s dedication to women’s empowerment.
Praising the Ayushman Bharat Yojana for assisting the poor, PM Modi mentioned its extension to Anganwadi and ASHA workers. He reiterated the focus on empowering the poor and middle class, highlighting initiatives such as the Roof Top Solar Campaign, providing free electricity to 1 crore families, and the income tax remission scheme benefiting 1 crore citizens in the middle class.
Discussing agricultural welfare, PM Modi mentioned initiatives like the use of Nano DAP, new schemes for animals, the expansion of PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, and the Atma Nirbhar oil seed campaign. These measures aim to increase farmers’ income and reduce expenses.