Page 102 - Bs Opinion

Budget's consumption bet: Tax cuts boost demand, capex lag poses risks

The gross fiscal deficit (GFD) target for 2025-26 has been budgeted at 4.4 per cent, a tad better than the 4.5 per cent target set out in 2021

Budget tweaks Customs duties to boost local manufacturing amid US tariffs

Average tariff levels: India's average import tariff stands at 17 per cent, while the trade-weighted rate is lower at 12 per cent, according to the World Trade Organization's 2024 report

Budget bets on tax cuts over capex-will it boost private investment?

An income-tax cut instead of a corporate tax cut in 2019 would have done more for the economy

The upside of Trump's disruptions: A push for better alternatives

India will come on his radar soon, but while we wait for Mr Trump's other disruptive shoes to drop, taking a helicopter view of his actions serves us better than reacting in a knee-jerk fashion

Increasing threshold: Ensuring more people contribute to income tax

The most important question is this: In a country at India's income level, is it right or wise to exempt those earning ₹12 lakh a year from the income-tax net?

Debt management: India must focus on sustained fiscal consolidation

Although public debt has gone up across the world after the pandemic, it is in India's interests to reduce it to a more manageable level

Looking beyond Budget to fund defence: Need for ambitious restructuring

The government cannot entirely overlook the need to evaluate and determine expenditure based on the military threats and capabilities of China and Pakistan

Becoming Bangalore: Roopa Pai's book explores the city's history, culture

The book is an introduction to the city as seen through the eyes of one of its own

Nuclear focus promising but risky; strong regulatory measures key

While accelerating nuclear adoption and private sector involvement, the government must ensure strong regulatory measures to maintain safety

Platforms for Viksit future: Driving growth without replacing kiranas

The fear that platforms will replace kiranas is misplaced. India needs a platform-driven economy to fuel growth and innovation

A new model: Revamping BIT calls for a fresh approach to boost FDI

With India facing consequences such as having its foreign assets seized as a result, government has essentially been defensive, including terminating BITs with some 75 countries between 2016 and 2021

Prepare to bargain: India must create a strategy to deal with US tariffs

The tariffs on Canada and Mexico are so high precisely because the President will want to sort out a favourable deal with these two neighbours as soon as possible

Budget 2025: Govt shows resolve to take bold steps for transforming economy

Among the key pillars of this Budget, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is a sweeping regulatory reform agenda aimed at reducing red tape and fostering a pro-business environment

Union Budget 2025: Setting a road map to transform India's economy

The people, economy, and innovation underpin the investment strategy of the Government

Technology as a national priority amid rising AI investments worldwide

Meity has seen 50% increase in the Budget. While the fund allocation is crucial, several policy measures will have to be taken to ensure that investment in advanced manufacturing systems increases

50:50 chance: Will RBI cut rates, infuse liquidity amid currency pressure?

It can, if it is convinced that the adjustment in the rupee valuation has already been done and the local currency has found its own level

Consumer protection: Hotel to face action over swimming pool death

The National Commission concluded that the absence of the attendant and the failure to attempt rescue and revive Neeraj constituted a breach of duty and negligence

Manmohan Singh, a gentle giant with vision and commitment to change

Singh also had his pre-proposed ideas; what was in the textbook or his experience. But he opened the door; because he had an openness of thought, driven by his commitment to change

Budget 2025: Focused on fiscal discipline, growth, and tax relief

Overall, the government has taken a disciplined approach in this Budget, keeping long-term benefits in mind

Budget: Unlocking India's path to a prosperous future with inclusive growth

To unlock India's growth potential and make it truly Atmanirbhar, the Budget has offered a major credit boost to MSMEs as well as start-ups