A Review On The Indian Budget 2025 Now

India’s 2025–2026 Union Budget includes a Rs. 1.5 lakh crore state spending package that includes improvements in the infrastructure, technology, healthcare, and agriculture sectors. In a significant move, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the budget, charting a comprehensive roadmap aimed at fostering economic growth, enhancing social welfare, and promoting technological advancement. The budget placed a strong emphasis on the modernisation of defence capabilities, the enhancement of cybersecurity measures, and the ambitious pursuit of space exploration initiatives. The latest developments showcase an impressive array of initiatives aimed at bolstering the economy. Farmers are set to benefit from increased credit, while the middle class can look forward to significant tax reductions. Additionally, there are record investments earmarked for healthcare and education, alongside a strong emphasis on fostering innovation and enhancing manufacturing capabilities.

The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, which spans 100 districts and aims to improve agricultural output, irrigation, storage, and credit availability, is included in Agriculture & Rural Development. The initiative aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in pulses centres on the cultivation of Tur, Urad, and Masoor dal, marking a significant step towards Aatmanirbharta. The Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables & Fruits is revolutionising the agricultural landscape by enhancing production, streamlining supply chains, and ensuring fair prices for farmers. This initiative stands as a beacon of support for those dedicated to cultivating the earth’s bounty. The Mission for Cotton Productivity is set to revolutionise the cotton industry by harnessing the power of science and technology to enhance cotton yields.

The current state of healthcare is evolving with significant initiatives such as the expansion of medical colleges, the establishment of day care cancer centres in district hospitals, and the introduction of social security for gig workers. Additionally, the focus on medical tourism and the “Heal in India” campaign, alongside the enhancement of broadband services for primary health centres (PHCs), marks a transformative era in the sector.

A Centre of Excellence in AI for Education, five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling, broadband connectivity for schools, the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme, the growth of IITs, and 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs are all part of Education and Skilling.

The world of Technology and Innovation is bustling with exciting initiatives, including the National Geospatial Mission, the Deep Tech Fund of Funds, PM Research Fellowships, the Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm, the expansion of Nuclear Energy, and the ambitious Gyan Bharatam Mission. Each of these projects represents a significant stride towards a more advanced and sustainable future.

The world of Infrastructure & Urban development is bustling with initiatives designed to transform urban landscapes and enhance connectivity. Among these are the Urban Challenge Fund, a groundbreaking 50-Year Interest-Free Loan to States, and the ambitious Jal Jeevan Mission Extension. The sector is also witnessing a surge in public-private partnerships aimed at bolstering infrastructure, alongside a strategic Asset Monetisation Plan. Notably, the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme is making waves, complemented by the development of a Greenfield Airport in Bihar, all contributing to a vibrant future for urban development.

The latest developments in personal taxes and financial reforms reveal a significant shift in the landscape. Notably, individuals earning up to Rs. 12 lakh will enjoy a tax-free threshold. Additionally, the introduction of new income tax slabs promises to reshape the tax obligations for many. Senior citizens will benefit from higher exemptions, while updated return filing extensions offer greater flexibility for taxpayers navigating their financial responsibilities. The National Manufacturing Mission is set to invigorate the manufacturing sector and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing enhanced credit facilities specifically tailored for micro and small enterprises, startups, and exporter MSMEs. This initiative promises to elevate the landscape of manufacturing and entrepreneurship, fostering growth and innovation across the board.

The 2025-26 Union Budget in India unfolds a promising blueprint for economic growth, social welfare, and technological innovation across key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, technology, and infrastructure.

India is making significant strides with a range of initiatives aimed at bolstering diverse sectors. From empowering microenterprises to enhancing exports and trade, the country is committed to fostering growth. Efforts are also underway to promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, while tourism and cultural development receive a fresh boost. The shipping and maritime industries are being revitalised, alongside substantial investments in infrastructure, all contributing to a vibrant economic landscape. In a significant move to bolster the nation’s export capabilities, the Ministry of Commerce, MSME, and Finance has unveiled the Export Promotion Mission, BharatTradeNet, and an innovative warehousing initiative for air cargo. This strategic focus aims to enhance the export of high-value perishable goods, particularly in the realms of horticulture and seafood, setting the stage for a thriving trade landscape. The National Framework for Global Capability Centres (GCCs) is paving the way for the establishment of IT and R&D hubs in Tier-2 cities, fostering innovation and growth in these emerging urban landscapes.

The expansion of nuclear energy is underway, marked by the establishment of a dedicated Nuclear Energy Mission focused on the research and development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR). This ambitious initiative comes with a substantial investment of Rs. 20,000 crore, indicating a significant commitment to advancing this vital sector. In an exciting development for the manufacturing sector, new incentives aimed at promoting green practices are making waves. States are set to benefit from an additional 0.5% of their Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) in borrowing capacity, specifically earmarked for crucial upgrades in electricity distribution. This initiative not only underscores the commitment to sustainability but also paves the way for a more efficient energy future.

The promotion of tourism and cultural development is taking centre stage with initiatives such as the Top 50 Tourist Sites Development, the expansion of PM SVANidhi, the burgeoning field of medical tourism, and the innovative ‘Heal in India’ initiative, alongside advancements in shipping and maritime sectors. The Maritime Development Fund, with a substantial allocation of Rs.25,000 crore, is making waves in the shipbuilding industry and enhancing port infrastructure. Meanwhile, the revamp of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy introduces innovative credit notes aimed at revitalising the shipbreaking sector.

In the vibrant state of Bihar, exciting developments are underway as new major airports are being constructed to complement the existing Patna Airport, alongside a significant brownfield expansion at Bihta. This ambitious initiative promises to enhance connectivity and boost the region’s growth potential. The Western Koshi Canal Project, nestled in the Mithilanchal Region, is making waves in agricultural development by offering financial support for irrigation, positively impacting a staggering 50,000 hectares of farmland. The National Institute of Food Technology (Purvodaya) is at the forefront of revolutionising food processing, championing the growth of agro-based industries, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers. This initiative is set to transform the landscape of food production and economic stability in the agricultural sector.

Uttar Pradesh is setting its sights on enhancing its appeal with a spotlight on the top 50 tourist destinations, expanding medical college facilities, and striving for complete tap water connectivity in rural regions. Mumbai and various other cities are poised to reap substantial rewards from the Urban Challenge Fund, which amounts to an impressive Rs. 1 lakh crore. Meanwhile, Gujarat’s ports and shipping sector is anticipated to experience significant advantages as well.

Karnataka is poised to launch a groundbreaking Centre of Excellence in AI for Education, with the PM Research Fellowships taking centre stage in this innovative initiative. In a significant move towards enhancing urban living standards, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are channelling investments into vital upgrades for water and sanitation systems. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme is making waves by promoting the availability of digital books in the Telugu language, fostering a rich literary culture in the region.

Rajasthan is embarking on an ambitious journey with the Mission for Cotton Productivity, aiming to enhance yield through scientific support while also broadening the horizons of healthcare education. The states of Punjab and Haryana are reaping the rewards of enhanced support for pulse cultivation, coupled with improved credit access through Kisan Credit Cards (KCC). In a strategic move, the Northeast is setting its sights on the establishment of new uranium plants alongside a robust fisheries development initiative. Meanwhile, West Bengal is making strides in enhancing its infrastructure and boosting export promotion efforts.

The recent initiatives launched by India’s new government are set to transform the agricultural landscape. With a focus on enhancing domestic fertiliser production, the administration is also modernising land records and revamping urban planning and infrastructure design. These strategic moves promise to pave the way for a more efficient and sustainable future in the country. In a bold move to enhance the landscape of medical education, the government has announced plans to add 10,000 undergraduate and postgraduate medical seats by the academic year 2025-26. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to introduce a remarkable 75,000 new seats over the next five years, signalling a commitment to addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals. In an ambitious move to enhance healthcare accessibility, plans are underway to establish Day Care Cancer Centres in every district hospital across the nation within the next three years. By the fiscal year 2025-26, a total of 200 centres are expected to be operational, marking a significant step forward in cancer treatment and support. The Social Security Scheme for Gig Workers offers a comprehensive package that features identity cards, seamless registration on the e-Shram portal, and access to healthcare services under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana.

The “Heal in India” initiative is set to revolutionise the landscape of medical tourism by fostering collaboration with the private sector and streamlining visa regulations. This forward-thinking approach aims to attract international patients seeking high-quality healthcare services in India. The National Geospatial Mission is set to revolutionise the way we approach land records, urban planning, and infrastructure design, ushering in a new era of modernisation and efficiency. The Deep Tech Fund of Funds is making waves in the startup ecosystem by backing advanced startups and providing an impressive 10,000 fellowships for research at prestigious institutions like IITs and IISc, all while offering enhanced financial support to fuel innovation. The Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm stands as the nation’s second pivotal repository dedicated to ensuring food security and the preservation of biodiversity.

The ambitious nuclear energy mission sets its sights on achieving a remarkable 100 GW of nuclear power by the year 2047, with a strategic focus on investing in innovative Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The Gyan Bharatam Mission is making waves in the world of heritage preservation by digitising and conserving an impressive collection of over 1 crore ancient manuscripts. In a significant move, personal taxes have seen a reduction, featuring revamped tax slabs and increased tax rebates that promise to lighten the financial load for many individuals. The recent reforms in TDS and TCS have brought about significant changes, particularly with elevated exemption limits tailored for senior citizens and those earning rental income.

In a bold move towards economic revitalisation, significant allocations and investments are being rolled out. Among these are the groundbreaking 50-Year Interest-Free Loans to states, aimed at fostering sustainable growth. The Asset Monetisation Plan for 2025-30 promises to unlock value across various sectors, while the Jal Jeevan Mission Extension seeks to enhance water accessibility. The Urban Challenge Fund is set to tackle urban issues head-on, and the Nuclear Energy Mission is poised to advance energy solutions. Additionally, the Research & Innovation Initiative and the Deep Tech Fund of Funds are paving the way for technological advancements. The SWAMIH Fund 2 is dedicated to revitalising stressed housing projects, and the Maritime Development Fund is set to bolster maritime infrastructure. These initiatives collectively represent a transformative approach to development and investment in the nation’s future.

The government is making significant strides in modernising the Armed Forces, placing a strong emphasis on indigenisation through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This commitment is reflected in the increased funding for next-generation weapon systems, the integration of AI-driven defence technologies, and the acquisition of advanced surveillance equipment, all aimed at enhancing national security. The expansion of infrastructure for strategic readiness marks a significant advancement, while enhanced cybersecurity measures have emerged through fruitful collaborations with leading private tech firms.

In summary, the new government of India has achieved remarkable progress across multiple sectors, showcasing advancements in agriculture, rural development, technology, defence, infrastructure, and cybersecurity. The latest initiatives are set to invigorate domestic fertiliser production, elevate healthcare standards, and strengthen the nation’s economy.

The 2025-26 Budget in India is set to propel domestic growth and enhance fiscal consolidation, all while introducing a more rigorous tax framework for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly targeting students and young professionals living overseas. In a decisive move, the government is ramping up regulatory oversight and intensifying efforts to combat tax evasion. This initiative introduces an intricate web of financial complexities for individuals navigating their responsibilities between their host country and India.

The Union Budget 2025 unveils a series of tax reforms designed to provide significant advantages for middle-class taxpayers, with a particular focus on senior citizens. The latest development in the financial landscape is the introduction of a new income tax exemption limit, now set at ₹12 lakh within the revamped tax regime. The latest development showcases the streamlining of Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) compliance. In a significant move for senior citizens, the threshold for Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on interest income from fixed deposits has been elevated from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh, effective from the financial year 2025-26. This change aims to provide greater financial relief and encourage savings among the elderly population.

The annual TDS limit on rent has seen a significant increase, rising from ₹2.40 lakh to an impressive ₹6 lakh per year. In the past, tenants were required to withhold TDS at a rate of 10% prior to making their rent payments. This initiative seeks to reduce the transactions that fall under TDS, providing benefits to taxpayers earning modest rental incomes.

The TDS threshold for senior citizens has seen a significant increase, now set at ₹1 lakh, up from the previous ₹50,000. In a significant move for senior citizens, banks will now deduct TDS from interest income on fixed deposits only when it exceeds ₹1 lakh within a financial year. This change brings a breath of fresh air to the financial landscape for retirees, allowing them to enjoy their hard-earned savings with greater ease. This shift not only reduces tax obligations for senior citizens but also enhances their disposable income, allowing for greater financial freedom. For many senior citizens, the prospect of filing income tax returns (ITRs) may become a thing of the past, significantly lightening their compliance burden.

Starting from the financial year 2025-26, the new tax rates and slabs are set to take effect, marking a significant change for the upcoming assessment year of 2026-27. The Budget 2025 has chosen to maintain the status quo, leaving the old tax regime untouched.

Income Tax Slab: Tax Rates for Senior Citizens Aged 60 to 79 Years

As much as ₹3 lakh Tax-free threshold ₹3 lakh – ₹5 lakh: 5%
₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh: 20%
Over ₹10 lakh, 30%
Income Tax Slab: Exploring Tax Rates for Super Senior Citizens Aged 80 and Above

Income up to ₹5 lakh is completely tax-free, while earnings between ₹5 lakh and ₹10 lakh are subject to a 20% tax rate.
Exceeding ₹10 lakh, a significant 30%.
Understanding the Income Tax Slab: A Guide to Tax Rates

The 2025-26 Budget in India is poised to drive domestic growth and enhance fiscal stability. With a focus on implementing structural changes across multiple sectors, it promises to bring about significant policy adjustments and strategic funding allocations. The impending changes are set to play a pivotal role for students aspiring to secure permanent residency or citizenship overseas, all while keeping their financial connections to India intact.