Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s succinct Budget speech for 2024 has left a trail of insights and expectations for the upcoming fiscal year. While the emphasis on boosting tourism, housing, and renewable energy adoption is evident, some sectors saw a divergence from anticipated allocations. This blog will delve into the key highlights, fiscal moves, and sector-specific developments outlined in the budget, providing a comprehensive overview for financial enthusiasts and professionals.
Fiscal Moves and Expenditure:
1. Capital Expenditure Surge: The government has raised the capital expenditure target by 11.1%, reaching Rs 11.11 lakh crore for the next fiscal year, constituting 3.4% of the GDP. This reflects a significant commitment to infrastructure development.
2. Fiscal Discipline: The fiscal gap for FY24 has been revised to 5.8%, a slight reduction from the estimated 5.9%. Looking ahead, the government aims for a 5.1% fiscal deficit in 2024-25, signaling a commitment to fiscal consolidation.
3. Divestment Targets: A divestment target of Rs 50,000 crore for FY25 has been set, with a revision of the current fiscal year’s target to Rs 30,000 crore. This move aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to streamline public sector assets.
Sector-Specific Allocations:
Healthcare:
– Ayushman Bharat extended to Aasha and Aanganwadi workers.
– Vaccination drive for cervical cancer for girls aged 9-14.
Infrastructure:
– Railways: A substantial allocation of Rs 2.55 lakh crore, a notable increase from the previous year, indicating a continued focus on rail development.
– Defence: A boost with raised expenditure to Rs 6.25 lakh crore, a 4% increase from the budgeted estimate.
Agriculture:
– Emphasis on post-harvest investment, dairy farmer empowerment, and control of Foot and Mouth disease.
– Allocation hike of 43.3% for MNREGA, reaching Rs 86,000 crore.
Aviation:
– Successful rollout of Udan schemes.
– Launch of 517 new routes under Udan scheme.
– Almost 20% increase in defence allocation to Rs 6.22 lakh crore.
Taxation:
– No significant changes in tax rates for FY25.
– Withdrawal of outstanding direct tax demands up to Rs 25,000, benefitting up to one crore taxpayers.
Housing:
– Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Grameen) close to achieving its target of 3 crore houses.
– Launch of Housing for Middle-Class scheme.
Other Key Announcements:
1. Tax Reforms and Taxpayer Benefits:
– Extension of tax breaks for start-ups until March 31, 2025.
– Withdrawal of old disputed direct tax demands, easing the burden on taxpayers.
– Improved taxpayer services and reduced processing time for tax returns.
2. Panchamrit Goals for Sustainable Growth:
– Ambitious targets for renewable energy, carbon intensity reduction, and net-zero emissions by 2070.
3. Infrastructure Spending and Economic Growth:
– Nominal GDP growth projected at 10.5%.
– Infrastructural spending to increase by 11.1%, aligning with the growth estimates.
Budget 2024 reflects a balanced approach, prioritizing key sectors while demonstrating fiscal prudence. From healthcare to infrastructure, the government’s initiatives aim to propel India towards sustainable growth. For financial enthusiasts, this budget provides a nuanced understanding of the nation’s economic trajectory and the government’s commitment to inclusive development.