{"id":4079,"date":"2025-02-03T12:14:59","date_gmt":"2025-02-03T12:14:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/?p=4079"},"modified":"2026-01-05T13:09:39","modified_gmt":"2026-01-05T13:09:39","slug":"indian-budget-2025-26","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/","title":{"rendered":"Budget 2025-26: Key Highlights, Impacts, and Insights"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>While the previous budget seems fairly capable on paper, it has many loose ends according to experts. These include stringent taxes, impractical incentives for MSMEs, feeble credit facilitation, stern duty on life-saving drugs, so on and so forth. Nevertheless, the recently introduced Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emerged as a huge relief for many, especially salaried individuals, small industries, startups, healthcare, and farmers. Let\u2019s delve into what this budget has to offer and whether it will be able to reshape the struggling sectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_78 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Economic_Growth_and_Fiscal_Policy\" >Economic Growth and Fiscal Policy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Nominal_Taxes_A_Much-needed_relief_for_middle-class_taxpayers\" >Nominal Taxes (A Much-needed relief for middle-class taxpayers)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Agriculture_and_Rural_Development\" >Agriculture and Rural Development<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Support_for_Farmers\" >Support for Farmers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#MSMEs_and_Startups_Enhanced_Support_Under_Budget_2025-26\" >MSMEs and Startups (Enhanced Support Under Budget 2025-26)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Infrastructure_and_Investment\" >Infrastructure and Investment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Urban_Development_and_Smart_Cities\" >Urban Development and Smart Cities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Education_and_Skill_Development\" >Education and Skill Development<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Healthcare_and_Social_Security\" >Healthcare and Social Security<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Green_Energy_and_Sustainability\" >Green Energy and Sustainability<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/indian-budget-2025-26\/#FAQs_on_Budget_2025-26\" >FAQs on Budget 2025-26<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Growth_and_Fiscal_Policy\"><\/span>Economic Growth and Fiscal Policy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Financial Consolidation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Budget 2025-26<\/strong><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indiabudget.gov.in\/doc\/budget_speech.pdf\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.indiabudget.gov.in\/doc\/budget_speech.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>[1]<\/strong><\/a><\/sup> has a lot to offer to solidify the nation\u2019s economy. The government with the launch of this budget is expecting the following numbers, which seemingly add to the growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The total receipts are projected at Rs 34.96 lakh crore.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meanwhile, the total expenditure is expected to be poised at \u20b950.65 lakh crore. The net tax receipts are estimated at around \u20b928.37 lakh crore.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The FM has confirmed to keep the fiscal deficit at 4.4% of GDP. The market borrowing to finance this deficit is estimated at Rs.14.82 lakh crore.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>Key Fiscal Measures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>While efforts have been made to ease the tax obligations and compliance, the majority of sectors fail to avail of the benefits. The Budget 2025-26 aims to patch this gap by easing the bureaucratic hurdles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Another major step involves the promotion of public-private partnerships. This could be a transformative decision as it is expected to give a much-needed thrust to infrastructure projects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>MSMEs remained the staple of the nation\u2019s growth, contributing nearly 33% of India\u2019s GDP. The Budget 2025-26 aims to support them with much-needed financial aid through seamless credit support.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nominal_Taxes_A_Much-needed_relief_for_middle-class_taxpayers\"><\/span>Nominal Taxes (A Much-needed relief for middle-class taxpayers)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With the release of Budget 2025-26, the FM brings delight to most taxpayers, majorly salaried individuals, by ensuring zero taxes up to Rs 12 lakh income. This significant move will boost the disposal income of the taxpayers, enabling greater tax returns via increased purchases. For salaried individuals, this limit is poised at Rs 12.75 lakh due to a standard deduction of Rs 75,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the revised tax slabs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>\u20b90-4 lakh<\/strong>: NIL<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">\u20b94-8 lakh<\/strong><span style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); font-weight: var(--fontWeight); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">: 5%<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">\u20b98-12 lakh<\/strong><span style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); font-weight: var(--fontWeight); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">: 10%<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">\u20b912-16 lakh<\/strong><span style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); font-weight: var(--fontWeight); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">: 15%<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">\u20b916-20 lakh<\/strong><span style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); font-weight: var(--fontWeight); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">: 20%<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">\u20b920-24 lakh<\/strong><span style=\"background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--fontFamily); font-size: var(--fontSize); font-style: var(--fontStyle, inherit); font-weight: var(--fontWeight); letter-spacing: var(--letterSpacing); text-transform: var(--textTransform);\">: 25%<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Above \u20b924 lakh<\/strong>: 30%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Notably, the taxpayers shall be taxed as follows under the new regime:<br><br><em>A person earning \u20b912 lakh will save \u20b980,000 (100% tax-free).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>A person earning \u20b918 lakh will save \u20b970,000 (30% tax reduction).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>A person earning \u20b925 lakh will save \u20b91,10,000 (25% tax reduction).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Agriculture_and_Rural_Development\"><\/span>Agriculture and Rural Development<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In an effort to boost the low-yield regions, 100 districts have been selected under Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana wherein apt resources and credit will be provided to farmers for boosting productivity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Also, farmers in these states shall get access to storage facilities at the panchayat and block levels for improved crop protection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Through this Yojana, the government is eyeing strategic partnerships with concerned states to elevate agri production, benefiting around 1.7 crores of farmers. &nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Support_for_Farmers\"><\/span>Support for Farmers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>Mission for Cotton Productivity- A Brand New Initiative for Cotton Farmers.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The FM has launched the \u2018Mission for Cotton Productivity\u2019- 5 years initiative that will place cotton farming on a growth trajectory. The initiative aims to provide cotton farmers with apt credit and technological aid to grow a variety of cotton yields, especially the extra-long staple cotton, helping boost the textile sector. Aligned with the government&#8217;s \u201cintegrated 5F vision\u201d, this initiative is likely to boost farmers\u2019 income manyfold, ensuring financial propensity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans &#8211; Increased Credit Threshold for Farmers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>By providing hassle-free credit on short-term, Kisan Credit Card (KCC) has played a pivotal role in endorsing the well-being of farmers, dairy farmers, and fishermen. The FM has promised to increase the loan limit from 3 to 5 lakhs under the <em>Modified Interest Subvention Scheme <\/em>for loans availed under KCC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>Urea Plant in Assam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Recognizing the importance of urea in agri production, the government breathed life into three dormant urea plants. To boost production further, the government is all set to open a massive plant in Namrup, Assam with a projected production of 12.7 lakh metric tons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>Rural Infrastructure and Economy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>India Post, in tandem with India Post Payment Bank, has reminded a lifeline to millions thanks to a widespread presence, boasting 1.5 lakh rural post offices and 2.4 lakh Dak Sevaks. The government is eyeing to reposition them to benefit the rural areas. Also, <em>India Post will be transformed into a large public logistics organization<\/em>, upholding the majority of start-ups, MSMEs, women, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"MSMEs_and_Startups_Enhanced_Support_Under_Budget_2025-26\"><\/span>MSMEs and Startups (Enhanced Support Under Budget 2025-26)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Constituting 45% of the nation\u2019s exports, MSMEs&#8217; contribution to India\u2019s growth cannot be overstated. Recognizing their unmatched contribution, the government has decided to revise the MSME classification as follows, paving the way for increased growth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"752\" height=\"293\" src=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4080\" style=\"width:641px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The credit guarantee cover is all set to be increased by 2 times, largely benefiting small businesses and startups. The latter belonging to 27 focus sectors will be charged a minimum guarantee fee of 1 percent for loans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A&nbsp; term loan of up to&nbsp; 20 crore shall be made available to prolific export facilities led by an MSME.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The government will roll out bespoke credit cards via the Udhyam Portal with a Rs 5 lakh limit for registered micro-enterprises. The 10 lakhs of such cards shall be made available in the first year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The additional Rs 10,000 crore as a FoF shall be made accessible to the startup ecosystem.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The new incentive will provide a credit worth Rs 2 crore to first-time entrepreneurs, especially women and marginalized groups.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A <em>focus product scheme<\/em> will be implemented to boost the production of non-leather quality footwear. The scheme is likely to generate employment for 22 crore individuals, a turnover of Rs 4 lakh crore, and exports of over Rs 1.1 lakh crore.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To boost the production of high-quality, unique, innovative, and sustainable toys, the government will take the <em>National Action Plan<\/em> for Toys to the next level by implementing a robust scheme, supporting the manufacturers on all fronts, including production, material procurement, and quality management. Etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>With a strong commitment to fulfilling goals under the \u2018Purvodaya\u2019, the government will set up an apex institution viz. National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management in Bihar, providing an apt boost to food processing activities in the Eastern region, paving the way to increased farmers\u2019 income.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Infrastructure_and_Investment\"><\/span>Infrastructure and Investment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The government has proposed an outlay of Rs 1.5 lakh crores for the 50-year interest-free loan available to states for managing capital expenditure and incentives for reforms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The second phase i.e. 2025-30 of the Asset Monetization Plan shall be implemented to make an investment worth Rs 10 lakh crore in new projects.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The FM has announced the extension of the Mission until 2028 to make potable water accessible to almost 100% of the rural population. The extended outlay shall be launched to support the mission.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Urban_Development_and_Smart_Cities\"><\/span>Urban Development and Smart Cities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The government has decided to roll out an Urban Challenge fund worth Rs 1 lakh crore, aiming to elevate city growth and redevelopment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Extended support shall be provided to the regional airports and rail connectivity to keep the network intact, making transportation a breeze for travelers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UDAN scheme will get the much-needed fillip to amplify air travel accessibility.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Education_and_Skill_Development\"><\/span>Education and Skill Development<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Education is the key pillar to the nation\u2019s growth, providing opportunities to tap into innovation in various sectors. To support the sustainable growth of the education sector, the government has come up with notable announcements as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Establishment of National Centres of Excellence for Skilling in collaboration with global leaders, equipping individuals with competitive skills to cater to modern demand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Expansion of prestigious institutes like IITs<\/em> to address ever-evolving demand for diverse educational programs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The addition of 10,000 new medical education seats.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plan to equip government schools and health centers with robust broadband connectivity so that they can align with the nation\u2019s initiative of Digital India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Healthcare_and_Social_Security\"><\/span><a><\/a><strong>Healthcare and Social Security<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The government has decided to include gig workers (individuals with temporary jobs, like freelancers) in the PM Jan Arogya Yojana.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The district hospitals shall be equipped with 200 daycare cancer treatment centers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Savings Schemes shall be fine-tuned to render increased benefits to the senior citizens.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Green_Energy_and_Sustainability\"><\/span>Green Energy and Sustainability<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A corpus of Rs 20,000 crore under the Nuclear Energy Mission is proposed for Small Modular Reactors (SMR) to cater to energy consumption.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To promote green shipping, an outlay of Rs 25000 crores has been announced under the Maritime Development Fund.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>From minimal taxes, and improved credit facilitation, to amplified support to affected sectors comprising small businesses, Budget 2025-26 seems to hit the right nodes, addressing the areas that matter. Among all the announcements, tax relaxation has emerged to be the most exciting one as it would ease the blow for salaried individuals belonging to the middle-class category.&nbsp; Besides, Budget 2025-26 will bring smiles to farmers and small businesses thanks to the corpus released by the government. The Budget 2025-26 has all the bells and whistles to steer the nation towards the path of unmatched growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Also Read:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/top-5-strategies-to-improve-your-business-performance\/\">5 Top Strategies to Improve Business Performance in 2025<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_on_Budget_2025-26\"><\/span><a><\/a><strong>FAQs on Budget 2025-26<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>1. What is the fiscal deficit target for 2025-26?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The government aims to restrict fiscal deficit to 4.4% of GDP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>2. What changes have been made in income tax slabs?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Income up to \u20b912 lakh is tax-free, with revised slabs benefiting middle-class taxpayers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>3. How does the budget support MSMEs?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Higher investment limits, credit guarantee expansion, and a Fund of Funds worth \u20b910,000 crore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>4. What are the key reforms in agriculture?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>New Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, increased KCC limits, and Mission for Cotton Productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>5. Has GST been changed in this budget?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No major GST rate changes were announced, but compliance has been simplified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>6. What is the Urban Challenge Fund?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A \u20b91 lakh crore initiative to modernize Indian cities and enhance urban living standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>7. Are there any changes in education policies?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools and increased seats in IITs and medical colleges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>8. What steps are taken for infrastructure growth?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Investment pipelines, higher state capital expenditure, and a \u20b910 lakh crore Asset Monetization Plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>9. What support is given to startups?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Higher credit limits, tax benefits, and a Fund of Funds with \u20b910,000 crore allocation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a><\/a><strong>10. How is green energy promoted?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Nuclear energy expansion, incentives for EV manufacturing, and investment in clean-tech projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/2025\/01\/31\/\"><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\"><br \/>\n{<br \/>\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",<br \/>\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",<br \/>\n  \"mainEntity\": [{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What is the fiscal deficit target for 2025-26?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"The government aims to restrict fiscal deficit to 4.4% of GDP.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What changes have been made in income tax slabs?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Income up to \u20b912 lakh is tax-free, with revised slabs benefiting middle-class taxpayers.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"How does the budget support MSMEs?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Higher investment limits, credit guarantee expansion, and a Fund of Funds worth \u20b910,000 crore.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What are the key reforms in agriculture?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"New Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, increased KCC limits, and Mission for Cotton Productivity.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"Has GST been changed in this budget?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"No major GST rate changes were announced, but compliance has been simplified.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What is the Urban Challenge Fund?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"A \u20b91 lakh crore initiative to modernize Indian cities and enhance urban living standards.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"Are there any changes in education policies?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Yes, 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools and increased seats in IITs and medical colleges.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What steps are taken for infrastructure growth?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Investment pipelines, higher state capital expenditure, and a \u20b910 lakh crore Asset Monetization Plan.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"What support is given to startups?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Higher credit limits, tax benefits, and a Fund of Funds with \u20b910,000 crore allocation.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  },{<br \/>\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",<br \/>\n    \"name\": \"How is green energy promoted?\",<br \/>\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {<br \/>\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",<br \/>\n      \"text\": \"Nuclear energy expansion, incentives for EV manufacturing, and investment in clean-tech projects.\"<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n  }]<br \/>\n}<br \/>\n<\/script><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>While the previous budget seems fairly capable on paper, it has many loose ends according to experts. These include stringent taxes, impractical incentives for MSMEs, feeble credit facilitation, stern duty on life-saving drugs, so on and so forth. Nevertheless, the recently introduced Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emerged as a huge relief [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":4082,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[933],"tags":[931,930,932],"class_list":["post-4079","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-india-budget","tag-budget-2025-tax","tag-budget-2025-26","tag-budget-highlights"],"blocksy_meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4079","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4079"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4079\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6274,"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4079\/revisions\/6274"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4082"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4079"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4079"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisou.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4079"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}