Union Budget 2025-26: Major Tax Reliefs, Economic Boost, and Sectoral Reforms

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presenting the Union Budget 2025-26

Union Budget 2025-26: Key Highlights and Major Reforms

On February 1, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, introducing significant reforms aimed at stimulating economic growth and providing relief to the middle class. A notable highlight is the complete tax exemption for individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh annually, a move poised to enhance disposable incomes and boost consumption. 

Key Highlights of the Union Budget 2025-26:

Income Tax Reforms:

The income tax exemption limit has been raised to ₹12 lakh, offering substantial relief to middle-class taxpayers. 

Fiscal Deficit Reduction:

The government has set a fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of GDP for 2025-26, down from the revised estimate of 4.8% in the previous fiscal year.

Capital Expenditure:

Capital expenditure is projected at ₹11.21 lakh crore, reflecting the government's commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth. 

Agriculture and Rural Development:

A national mission has been launched to boost crop productivity, targeting 17 million farmers. Additionally, subsidized credit limits for farmers have been increased to support the agricultural sector.

Support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs):

The government will introduce a 'Customized Credit Card' with a ₹5 lakh limit for micro enterprises registered on the Udyam portal, aiming to enhance credit access for small businesses. 

Clean Technology Manufacturing:

Initiatives to support clean tech manufacturing have been announced, focusing on domestic value addition and job creation in sectors such as solar PV cells, EV batteries, and wind turbines.

Healthcare Initiatives:

The budget proposes the establishment of Day Care Cancer Centres and exempts certain cancer drugs from customs duty, aiming to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability. 

Infrastructure and Connectivity:

A modified version of the UDAN Scheme will be launched to boost regional connectivity, aiming to connect 120 new destinations and serve 40 million passengers in the next decade. 

These measures reflect the government's strategy to stimulate economic growth through increased consumer spending, infrastructure development, and support for key sectors, while maintaining fiscal prudence.