Shazia Shah
New Delhi
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In her budget speech on Saturday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted several key initiatives and reforms in the Union Budget for 2025. Some of the notable announcements include:
- Jal Jeevan Mission Extension: The mission will be extended until 2028 with increased funding to ensure access to clean drinking water for rural households.
- Income Tax Relief: Individuals with an income of up to Rs 12 lakh will not be required to pay any income tax.
- Healthcare Benefits: 36 life-saving drugs and medicines have been added to the list of items fully exempt from basic customs duty, providing relief to patients suffering from cancer, chronic illnesses, and other serious conditions.
- Support for Micro Enterprises: Customised credit cards with a Rs 5 lakh limit will be provided to registered micro enterprises, helping them access necessary capital.
- Connectivity in Education and Healthcare: Broadband connectivity will be extended to all government secondary schools and primary healthcare centres, improving access to essential services.
- Expansion of Medical Seats: An additional 10,000 seats will be added to medical colleges next year, and 75,000 seats will be added over the next five years to meet growing demand for medical education.
- Nuclear Energy Mission: A new initiative focused on advancing nuclear energy will be launched, aiming to bolster India’s energy sector.
- National Institute of Food Technology: The establishment of this institute in Bihar aims to promote food technology, entrepreneurship, and management in the region.
- Support for Gig Workers: In a move to support gig workers, the government will soon issue ID cards for this growing workforce, enhancing their access to benefits.
- Funding for Jammu & Kashmir: An allocation of Rs 41,000.07 crore has been proposed for Jammu & Kashmir in the Union Budget for 2025-26, underscoring the government’s commitment to the region’s development.
These announcements reflect a broad approach to economic growth, social welfare, and infrastructure development.
