Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman assured fresh steps to sustain India’s position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. Addressing the Lok Sabha, she highlighted a strong economic rebound, outlined fiscal priorities, and dismissed concerns about cuts in social sector spending.

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• FM Sitharaman emphasized India’s economic recovery after slowing in the September 2024 quarter.
• The 2025-26 budget balances growth with fiscal discipline amid global uncertainties.
• Economic growth is projected at 6.3-6.8% for 2025-26, averaging 8% over three years.
• The government aims to reduce debt to 50% of GDP by March 2031, from the current 57.1%.
• Unspent funds in central schemes like Swachh Bharat and education must be utilized by states.
• No cuts in key sectors: agriculture (₹1.71 lakh crore), rural development (₹2.67 lakh crore), health & education (₹2.27 lakh crore), defense (₹4.92 lakh crore).
• Inflation reduced to 5.3% under Modi govt, down from 6.5% and 11% under UPA.
• The rupee remained among the best-performing currencies, depreciating less than 3% against the US dollar.
• The government has allocated over ₹3.22 lakh crore in revival packages for BSNL since 2019.
• The budget focuses on boosting private investment, household sentiment, and economic stability.