Budget expectations: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has emphasised that the government’s policies will prioritise the welfare of youth, women, farmers, and the poor, TOI reported. The remarks are being viewed as a preview of the interim Budget, which is set to be presented in Parliament next week.
Speaking at an event at Hindu College on Thursday, the Finance Minister referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent statement on these target groups, stating that the focus will be on their upliftment without considering caste, community, or religion.
“…yuva, women, those who give us the food security, good farmers, and then the unfortunate poor, who still need some more support for them to get uplifted. So, (focus on) just these four groups, everything will be focused towards their betterment. Then you don’t really get into this whole thing about you know which caste which community which religion, everybody is covered,” she said.
The union minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance skilling, improve agricultural tools, and provide healthcare and other benefits to citizens.
Also Read: Higher capex for infrastructure likely with green focus
“Make sure everybody who’s actually eligible to get those should get it and equally make sure that every local talent, every product that comes out should also find a market should also find local access to markets,” she added.
Sitharaman also shed light on the importance of modernizing post-harvest practices and promoting manufacturing in various. “High priority is being given to these sectors, and not just in the budget. We are also looking at improving R&D and bringing in top experts as advisors.”
She also revealed that the government and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) are actively working to improve the central bank digital currency (CBDC) for cross-border payments. This development aims to expedite transactions at a reduced cost, making inward and outward remittances more affordable.
Also Read: FM seals the Interim Union Budget 2024 with Halwa ceremony
Addressing concerns about the Indian economy, Sitharaman countered the narrative that it is not performing well.
Despite India being the fastest-growing major economy and witnessing positive performance in companies and the stock market, there is a misleading perception that the economy is “sick.” Sitharaman challenged those making such claims to provide evidence for their assertions.
“I want them to stand up and say on what basis are they saying it but they wouldn’t be available for you to answer. They throw that idea and go away,” she said.
