Sat Feb 01 09:20:07 UTC 2025: ## Sitharaman Presents Eighth Consecutive Budget Focused on Middle Class Relief

**New Delhi** – Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today presented her record eighth consecutive Union Budget, prioritizing measures to alleviate the burden on the middle class grappling with high inflation and stagnant wages. The budget, presented amidst an anticipated economic growth of 6.3-6.8 percent for 2025-26 (as per the Economic Survey), aims to strike a balance between fiscal prudence and targeted relief.

President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to Parliament ahead of the budget, highlighted the government’s efforts to overcome policy paralysis and steer the economy through global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical uncertainties.

The budget session will see the tabling of sixteen bills, including the crucial Finance Bill 2025, along with amendments to the Waqf and Banking Regulations Acts, and the integration of the Indian Railways and Indian Railways Board Acts. While the details of the budget are still emerging, the focus on middle-class relief suggests a significant portion will be dedicated to addressing cost of living concerns. Further details are expected as the budget presentation unfolds.

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