India's Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, has presented the Union Budget for the ninth time. This year's budget centers around the theme of 'Developed India' and places special emphasis on enhancing crucial sectors such as healthcare, defense, agriculture, youth, and infrastructure.
Reactions from various sectors and political parties have been mixed. While some economists and business groups praise the budget for boosting the economy, critics argue that it lacks direction and fails to address the concerns of the common people.
Congress leader and opposition figure Rahul Gandhi expressed his views on the Union Budget. In a post on X, Rahul stated, 'Unemployed youth. Declining manufacturing. Investors are withdrawing capital. Domestic savings are plummeting. Farmers are troubled. Upcoming global shocks - all ignored. A budget that refuses reform remains oblivious to India's real challenges.'
Source: aajtak
Punjab's Chief Minister noted the budget failed to meet the state's expectations. He pointed out the absence of solid announcements on the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers or relief measures for employment, industry, or taxes.
He criticized the budget for not taking strong steps to strengthen Punjab's economy, describing the central government's approach towards Punjab as neglectful.
Source: aajtak
What did Mamata Banerjee say?
West Bengal's Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, criticized the budget for its lack of direction. She labeled it anti-poor, anti-women, anti-farmer, and anti-SC/ST/OBC. Pointing out reductions in subsidies for education, she claimed the economy is off-track and economic corridors promised are false.
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What did Misa Bharti say?
Misa Bharti, an MP from Bihar and part of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, commented that she didn't hear the word 'Bihar' in the budget. Despite winning elections in the state, she expected more focus on Bihar, considering the talk of a developed India. However, she indicated that this vision remains unclear.
What did Akhilesh Yadav say?
Akhilesh Yadav, former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and leader of the Samajwadi Party, remarked on the lack of expectations from the BJP. He argued the budget favors select individuals, lacking concrete provisions for infrastructure development.
How did Kerala respond?
Minister P. Rajeev accused the central government of discrimination against Kerala, highlighting that the demands of the state are consistently ignored. He described the budget outcome as disappointing, noting significant bias against Kerala's needs.
What did Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi say?
Congress MP, Gaurav Gogoi, raised significant concerns over economic policies and the budget. Despite the government's absolute power, he feels that preparing a budget conducive to development and growth isn’t prioritized.
What did DMK MP Kanimozhi say?
Dr. Kanimozhi, a DMK MP, reacted to the budget by stating dissatisfaction due to the inadequate allocation of funds. Most states sought a 50% allotment, but they only received 41%, proving disappointing for the states.
