The Rs 20,000-crore allocation to drive research, the expansion of AI and geospatial initiatives and further push to Atal Tinkering Labs are some of the significant steps taken in the Union Budget 2025-26 to strengthen the country's research & development (R&D) ecosystem, but the country needs more, industry players said. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has allocated Rs 20,000 crore to the Department of Science and Technology to promote private sector-driven innovation. Sitharaman further said 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs will be set up in the next five years to cultivate scientific temper in young minds. The 2025 Union Budget marks a significant step forward in strengthening India's R&D ecosystem, Shirshendu Mukherjee, Managing Director, Wadhwani Innovation Network, said. "The Rs 20,000 crore allocation for private & public sector-driven research, the expansion of AI and geospatial initiatives, and the push for Atal Tinkering Labs demonstrate the government's .
Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) are now classified as undisclosed income. So if unreported crypto gains are detected, tax authorities can levy a 60% tax along with a hefty 50% penalty on the tax amount
If you're a salaried employee, you could be saving up to Rs 96,000 in tax annually, all thanks to the NPS and standard deduction.
Budget 2025 Highlights: The budget's emphasis on consumption-oriented measures, coupled with a relatively modest increase in capital expenditure allocation, signals a shift in focus
The Budget proposes revised slabs and rates, which Sitharaman said would reduce the tax burden on the middle class, allowing for greater disposable income
To facilitate credit accessibility, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced a customised credit card scheme for micro enterprises registered on the Udyam portal
Budget 2025 Highlights: The Budget is likely to be positive for sectors like FMCG, Auto, consumer durables, EVs, Battery, Travel and Retail
Budget Highlights: The personal taxation relief for the middle class should be positive for discretionary spend, particularly in autos, jewellery, travel and somewhat in real estate
Budget 2025 Highlights: It is important to note that in 2025, investors will make money, albeit at a slower pace. Right stock picking will be key to creating wealth
'On one side, there is provision for Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and on other there are provisions to provide farmers with low cost fertiliser, urea, DAP', Agriculture minister added
Further talking about GST, she alleged that everyday items have been taxed, increasing costs for people, which in turn has made it difficult for people
Sitharaman spoke on issues ranging from the theme of the Budget to income tax relief and challenging geopolitical environment
Experts say domestic, international, spiritual and medical tourism set to receive a significant boost
Poll promises ahead of the Assembly elections in Delhi emphasise cash transfers and subsidies, while critical concerns like pollution, women's safety, and civic infra take a backseat
The land for building key infrastructure in these destinations will be provided by states
Banking on the Budget's tax relief, the BJP seeks to energise Delhi's middle class; the AAP is doing its bit too. But will their outreach mobilise this politically crucial yet disengaged electorate?
Experts foresee a case to liquidate investments ahead of tax hike
The Budget contains facilitation measures to help exporters of handicrafts, leather goods, and marine products
Will the 2025-26 Budget's focus on Bihar's infrastructure, agri, and flood management swing the 2025 polls in the NDA's favour, and how will I-T relief for the middle class pay off in the rural state
"The Prime Minister decided that we need to recognise the taxpayers and their contribution, and if there's a way in which we can reward them, we should. Yes, it will lead to consumption"