Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday after she presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in Parliament. According to sources, PM Modi walked up to Sitharaman’s bench and congratulated her, saying, “Everybody is praising you, the Budget is very good.”
This marks Sitharaman’s eighth consecutive Budget presentation and the first for the Modi 3.0 government. The Budget focuses on boosting economic growth and enhancing the spending power of key demographics, including the middle class, farmers, women, and youth.
Key Highlights of Budget 2025:
- Tax Relief for Middle Class: Taxpayers earning up to ₹12 lakh annually will not have to pay any tax under the new tax regime, providing significant relief to the middle class.
- Focus on GYAN: PM Modi described the Budget as one for “GYAN”—Garib (poor), Yuva (youth), Annadaata (farmers), and Nari (women).
- Six Key Reforms: The Budget prioritizes reforms in taxation, power, urban development, mining, the financial sector, and regulatory policies.
- Empowering Key Groups: The government aims to strengthen the economy by focusing on the needs of farmers, women, and young individuals.
PM Modi’s Reaction:
Addressing a Cabinet meeting earlier in the day, PM Modi emphasized that the Budget is designed for the common man. He said, “This is the budget of GYAN—garib, yuva, annadaata, and nari. It reflects our commitment to inclusive growth and development.”
Why the Budget is Being Praised:
- Middle-Class Relief: The tax exemption for incomes up to ₹12 lakh is seen as a major win for middle-income families.
- Focus on Growth: By targeting key sectors and demographics, the Budget aims to drive economic expansion and improve living standards.
- Reforms-Driven Approach: The emphasis on structural reforms is expected to create a more robust and sustainable economy.