The Union Budget for 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, introduces significant reforms aimed at stimulating economic growth and providing relief to the middle class. Key highlights include: Income Tax Reforms: Revised Tax Slabs: The budget proposes new income tax slabs under the 'New Income Tax Regime': Income up to ₹4 lakh: Nil ₹4 lakh to ₹8 lakh: 5% ₹8 lakh to ₹12 lakh: 10% ₹12 lakh to ₹16 lakh: 15% ₹16 lakh to ₹20 lakh: 20% ₹20 lakh to ₹24 lakh: 25% Above ₹24 lakh: 30% Additionally, individuals earning up to ₹12.75 lakh annually will not be subject to income tax, considering a standard deduction benefit of ₹75,000. livemint.com Fiscal Measures:Fiscal Deficit Reduction: The government aims to reduce the fiscal deficit to 4.4% of GDP, with plans to borrow ₹14.82 trillion through bonds to fund this deficit. reuters.com Sectoral Initiatives: Agriculture: A nationwide program for high-yielding crops will be launched, benefiting 17 million farmers. The budget also increases subsidized credit limits to support the agricultural sector. apnews.com Manufacturing and Exports: The budget emphasizes boosting manufacturing and exports, including measures to attract private investment and enhance economic inclusivity. apnews.com Clean Energy: A new fund for startups and the Nuclear Energy Mission aims to develop 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, reflecting India's commitment to innovation and clean energy transition. apnews.com Subsidies and Social Welfare: Subsidy Allocation: The budget allocates ₹4.57 trillion for food, fertilizer, and rural employment subsidies, maintaining support for the rural economy. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) continues to offer minimum-wage work for at least 100 days annually. reuters.com These measures aim to drive sustainable economic growth, support various sectors, and provide relief to the middle class, aligning with India's longer-term economic goals.
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