Budget 2025: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting her eighth consecutive Budget in Parliament on Saturday. In her address, she highlighted that the next five years represent a unique opportunity to realize “Sabka Vikas” (development for all) and stimulate growth across all regions of India.
“Our economy is the fastest-growing among all major global economies,” Sitharaman said. She also noted that the country’s track record over the past decade, supported by structural reforms, has attracted global attention. Confidence in India’s capabilities and potential has only grown during this period, she added.
One of the key initiatives outlined by Sitharaman is the Dhan Dhaniya Krishi Yojna, which, in partnership with state governments, will cover 100 districts with low agricultural productivity. This initiative aims to assist 1.7 crore farmers, generating rural prosperity and providing ample opportunities in rural areas to make migration an option, not a necessity.
Sitharaman further elaborated on her vision for a Viksit Bharat (developed India), which encompasses:
- Zero poverty
- 100% quality school education
- Access to quality, affordable, and comprehensive healthcare
- 100% skilled labor with meaningful employment
- 70% women in economic activities
- Farmers making India the food basket of the world
The Finance Minister also announced a new classification criteria for MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), which includes increasing the investment limit for classification by 2.5 times and doubling the turnover limits.
A new Fund of Funds for startups will be created to further promote entrepreneurship, with an additional Rs. 10,000 crore in government contributions, bringing the total government-backed fund to Rs. 20,000 crore. A new scheme will be introduced for five lakh women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes first-time entrepreneurs.
Regarding agriculture, Sitharaman described it as a crucial engine for growth. The PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojna, a developing agri-districts program, will cover 100 districts. A national mission for high-yielding seeds will be launched, along with a comprehensive program for vegetables and fruits in partnership with the states.
This is Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s eighth Budget presentation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a significant milestone in her tenure.
