The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by the Finance Minister, outlines the Indian government’s vision for economic growth, fiscal consolidation, and social welfare. It focuses on boosting infrastructure, technology, employment, and agriculture while maintaining a balanced approach toward fiscal prudence. This summary highlights key aspects of the budget essential for UPSC aspirants.
GDP Growth Projection: The government estimates a GDP growth rate of 7.2% for FY 2025-26, reflecting economic resilience and recovery post-pandemic.
Fiscal Deficit: Target set at 4.5% of GDP, aligning with the medium-term fiscal consolidation roadmap.
Disinvestment Target: The government aims to raise ₹1.2 lakh crore through strategic disinvestment of public sector enterprises.
Inflation Control: Measures include stabilizing food prices, increasing agricultural productivity, and monitoring global supply chain disruptions.
Direct Taxes
Income Tax Slab Changes:
Basic exemption limit increased to ₹3.5 lakh.
Standard deduction for salaried individuals raised to ₹75,000.
Corporate Tax: Retained at 22% for domestic companies and 15% for new manufacturing units.
Tax Incentives:
Startups to enjoy a tax holiday extended for one more year.
Deductions for Research & Development expenses increased.
Indirect Taxes
GST Reforms:
Rationalization of tax rates in various sectors.
Streamlining input tax credit procedures to reduce compliance burden.
Customs Duty Changes:
Duty reduction on key raw materials to promote domestic manufacturing.
Higher taxes on imported luxury goods to boost Make in India.
National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP): Investment of ₹111 lakh crore in roads, railways, ports, and airports.
Railway Expansion: Allocation of ₹2.5 lakh crore, including the introduction of new semi-high-speed trains and increased electrification projects.
Smart Cities Mission: Additional funds allocated to improve urban mobility, sustainable housing, and digital governance.
PM Gati Shakti Yojana: Strengthening logistics infrastructure with a focus on multi-modal connectivity.
PM-KISAN Scheme: Increased direct cash transfer to farmers, benefiting over 12 crore farmers.
Irrigation Projects: Expansion of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana with an additional allocation of ₹10,000 crore.
Agri-Startups & FPOs: Encouragement of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and rural agri-tech startups with easier credit access.
MSP Guarantee: Higher minimum support prices for key crops to ensure farmers’ income security.
MNREGA Budget Increase: ₹90,000 crore allocated for rural employment under MGNREGA.
Skill India Mission: Enhanced funding for vocational training and employment-linked skill development programs.
Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance: Expansion of health coverage to include more beneficiaries.
National Digital Health Mission: Increased investment in digital healthcare records and telemedicine.
5G Rollout: Special incentives for telecom firms to expand 5G networks.
AI & Robotics: New policies for Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, and robotics innovation.
Digital India Initiative: ₹10,000 crore allocated for broadband expansion in rural areas.
Crypto Regulation: Introduction of new framework for taxation and regulation of digital assets.
Green Energy Mission: ₹15,000 crore for renewable energy projects like solar and wind power.
EV Infrastructure: Expansion of charging stations and incentives for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.
Water Conservation Projects: Increased funds for the Jal Jeevan Mission to provide clean drinking water to rural areas.
Carbon Credit Market: Establishment of a regulated carbon trading system.
The Union Budget 2025-26 is a forward-looking document emphasizing economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and welfare-oriented policies. UPSC aspirants must analyze its implications on various sectors, government schemes, and long-term economic planning.
This summary provides a structured approach to understanding the budget’s key highlights and their relevance in governance, policymaking, and national development.
Maximize the benefits of mock tests for IAS and KAS preparation with guidance from Amoghavarsha IAS Academy . For more details, visit https://amoghavarshaiaskas.in/.
Youtube: click here
Amoghavarsha IAS/KAS Academy was founded in 2014 since from their we have been excellence in the field of civil Service examination preparation and state services. The Academy is completely dedicated to provide excellent quality education by experts and bringing innovations etc.
Copyright © 2014 – 2024 Amoghavarsha IAS Academy. All Rights Reserved
Developed & Maintained by BIGGSITE
Amoghavarsha E Magazine
Current Affairs ( Prelims )
UPSC
KPSC