Tue Jan 28 13:52:38 UTC 2025: ## India Awaits Budget 2025: Boosting Infrastructure, Consumption Key Expectations

**New Delhi, Jan 27, 2025** – As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present her eighth Union Budget on February 1st, expectations are high for measures to revitalize India’s economy. The budget, coming amidst subdued economic momentum and global uncertainty, is anticipated to focus heavily on infrastructure development, agriculture, MSMEs, and consumption boosts.

Industry stakeholders have voiced a range of hopes. Elara Securities anticipates a balance between capital and consumption expenditure, projecting a 14% increase in capital expenditure for FY26. Many echo this call for increased infrastructure investment, citing its role in job creation and economic growth. HIL Limited, for example, hopes to see continued momentum in infrastructure spending, particularly supporting sustainable building solutions and existing schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission.

Other sectors have specific requests. The fashion industry seeks a GST reduction on apparel to boost consumer demand, while the EV sector urges inclusion of EV financing under Priority Sector Lending guidelines to lower borrowing costs. The EdTech sector hopes for infrastructure support for skill development institutions, and higher education seeks a 6% GDP allocation to the sector, alongside increased foreign investment. The logistics sector advocates for investment in smart logistics parks and green initiatives, and the e-commerce sector calls for simplified compliance for MSMEs and investments in AI-driven technologies. Furthermore, several sectors including renewable energy, healthcare (specifically fertility treatments), and manufacturing (especially robotics and automation) are seeking specific policy interventions and financial incentives.

The Finance Ministry’s traditionally publicized “Halwa Ceremony,” marking the commencement of the budget printing process, was held privately this year. The Budget Session of Parliament will run from January 31st to April 4th. The overall sentiment is one of anticipation for bold policy decisions aimed at fostering inclusive growth and strengthening India’s position on the global stage.

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