Mrs. Harpreet Oberoi, Partner at Jotwani Associates:
"Multiple tax reform measures within the Union Budget 2025-26 seek to both increase economic growth and ease business operations throughout India. Under the new tax system, all people earning less than ₹12 lakh per year will not need to pay income tax. The tax exemption policy for middle-class citizens will generate increased financial reserves to boost economic activity in all sectors.
Welcoming the new TDS and TCS relaxation policies will help businesses, together with individuals, reduce their tax compliance responsibilities. Simplification of tax compliance takes place when TDS rates get rationalized and thresholds are adjusted together with interest deduction limits for senior citizens and rental income TDS exemption limits are increased. This creates an efficient, business-friendly tax structure.
Taxpayers will experience simpler financial operations because the government has eliminated TCS on education loan remittances and optimized international transactions tax rules.The government should formally eliminate specific tax provisions from criminal penalties while simultaneously making tax legislation more straightforward. The reforms eliminate unnecessary penalties and legal hurdles that develop and improve relationships between taxpayers and the government based on transparency and trust. Startups alongside MSMEs will reduce their regulatory exposure through minimized litigation risks, thus they can pursue expansion opportunities without anxiety about uneconomical monitoring.
The Indian budget aims to achieve long-term economic targets through its main objectives, which combine investment promotion and financial system enhancement for sustainable development. The government, through these tax reforms, demonstrates its dedication to simplifying business processes and increasing consumption while developing a growth-oriented economic infrastructure.Jotwani Associates considers these developments to be modern enhancements that yield benefits to people and enterprises and investors while accelerating India's economic progress".
"The Union Budget 2025-26 lays a strong foundation for India's digital-first economy, with a clear emphasis on AI, deep tech, and digital public infrastructure. The introduction of the Deep Tech Fund of Funds is a significant move to accelerate next-generation startups in AI, blockchain, and advanced computing, fostering innovation and global competitiveness. Expanding broadband access under BharatNet to rural schools and health centers is a critical step in bridging the digital divide and enhancing last-mile connectivity.
The establishment of a ₹500 crore Centre of Excellence in AI for Education reinforces India's commitment to AI-driven learning, ensuring a future-ready workforce. The National Framework for Global Capability Centers (GCCs) will further strengthen IT and outsourcing hubs in Tier-2 cities, driving infrastructure development and talent expansion. Additionally, with increased PPP support for digital infrastructure under the India Infrastructure Project Development Fund (IIPDF), private sector investments in broadband and connectivity are expected to gain momentum. Together, these initiatives position India as a leading player in the global digital economy, accelerating the adoption of AI, deep tech, and emerging technologies. However, areas like data centers required more focused policy support to establish India as a regional digital hub. Clarity in AI regulation and security frameworks is also essential to ensure responsible AI adoption while fostering continued innovation."By Mr Pinkesh Kotecha, MD & Chairman, Ishan Technologies.
Anil Verma, Executive Director and CEO, Godrej Enterprises Group:
The Union Budget 2025-26 is holistic in its approach and has been well thought out as it addresses all sections of the society - students, farmers, the economically weak and women - which is a must for India to move forward.
The Budget takes significant steps to strengthen India's manufacturing sector, boost MSMEs, and enhance supply chains, reinforcing the Make in India vision. By supporting domestic industries and easing business regulations, it paves the way for companies like Godrej Enterprises Group to contribute more effectively to the country's progress through innovation and engineering.
The government's focus on advanced technology, with funding for deep tech and 10,000 new research fellowships, will drive growth in critical sectors such as clean energy, aerospace, and defence where we continue expanding our expertise. The ₹20,000 crore investment in Small Modular Reactors under the Nuclear Energy Mission is a strong step toward energy self-sufficiency and sustainability, strengthening India's position in green technology and reinforcing our commitment to Atmanirbharta.
The focus on warehousing infrastructure, particularly for air cargo and high-value perishable products, will improve logistics efficiency and support businesses reliant on fast, secure supply chains. This, along with continued investments in industrial infrastructure, will strengthen India's manufacturing ecosystem.
Additionally, the simplification of business regulations under the Jan Vishwas Bill 2 will encourage industry growth and investment, allowing companies like ours to focus on expansion rather than navigating complex compliance processes.
On an individual level, it addresses current challenges such as personal consumption by ensuring higher disposable incomes across a large section of the populace through Income tax reliefs. It also aims to generate employment among the youth by continuing to invest in skilling which will further boost incomes and hence consumption.
With a well-balanced approach to business and people, this budget lays a strong foundation for the future. We at Godrej Enterprises Group look forward to supporting these initiatives and strengthening India's position as a global manufacturing hub.
Nikhil Mansukhani, Managing Director, Man Industries Ltd. (steel pipes)
"The Union Budget 2025 prioritizes India's infrastructure and manufacturing sectors with strategic initiatives like the National Manufacturing Mission and 'Make in India,' aimed at enhancing domestic production capabilities. The ₹1.5 lakh crore interest-free loan for infrastructure and PPP projects will improve logistics, reduce bottlenecks, and boost multimodal connectivity, which is crucial for industries such as steel, oil & gas, and heavy engineering.
The introduction of Bharat Trade Net and easier export credit access will streamline international trade, making Indian manufacturers more competitive in global supply chains. However, to fully capitalize on these opportunities, it is essential to ensure faster execution, sector-specific incentives, and continuous policy support. With India's manufacturing sector set to contribute 25% of GDP by 2030, these initiatives are key to driving long-term growth and positioning India as a global manufacturing leader."
Gaurav Burman, Managing Director, APAC Operations, 75F:
The focus on accelerating India's clean energy transition and infrastructure modernization is much needed to meet India's goal to become a global powerhouse by 2047. Complementing this vision, incentivizing electricity distribution reforms, and supporting clean-tech manufacturing aligns well with the urgent need for energy efficiency in commercial buildings.
We believe that smarter HVAC systems with automation, and predictive energy management technology will play a pivotal role in reducing carbon footprints in our country today. With India rapidly urbanizing, this is much needed. The National Manufacturing Mission is also set to boost domestic value addition in critical sectors. That being said, the challenge will now be to ensure seamless adoption of these reforms and to ensure complete cooperation within the industry.
Nikhil Mansukhani, Managing Director, Man Industries Ltd. (steel pipes)
"The Union Budget 2025 prioritizes India's infrastructure and manufacturing sectors with strategic initiatives like the National Manufacturing Mission and 'Make in India,' aimed at enhancing domestic production capabilities. The ₹1.5 lakh crore interest-free loan for infrastructure and PPP projects will improve logistics, reduce bottlenecks, and boost multimodal connectivity, which is crucial for industries such as steel, oil & gas, and heavy engineering.
The introduction of Bharat Trade Net and easier export credit access will streamline international trade, making Indian manufacturers more competitive in global supply chains. However, to fully capitalize on these opportunities, it is essential to ensure faster execution, sector-specific incentives, and continuous policy support. With India's manufacturing sector set to contribute 25% of GDP by 2030, these initiatives are key to driving long-term growth and positioning India as a global manufacturing leader."
Pankaj Bajaj, Founder & Director, Bajaj Foundation:
"The Union Budget 2025-26 makes notable strides in sustainability, particularly in e-waste management and clean tech manufacturing. The emphasis on recycling critical minerals and promoting circular economy practices is a step in the right direction. Additionally, greater digital access in schools creates opportunities to integrate sustainability education, fostering awareness about responsible e-waste disposal among the next generation. Such measures are essential for building a greener, more responsible future."
“With the Union Budget 2025's bold investment in AI Centres of Excellence and skill development, India is not just preparing for the future—it is architecting it. The ₹500 crore push for AI research, coupled with expansive upskilling initiatives, will create a dual impact: India will emerge as both the largest consumer of AI and one of the world's most formidable AI talent hubs. This is a defining moment—where innovation meets opportunity, and India positions itself at the forefront of the global AI revolution.”— Hitesh Motwani, CEO, Skillopedia.
Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor, World University of Design:
"The Union Budget underscores the crucial role of AI and the need for upskilling, with the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence in AI being a pivotal step. This focus on AI will particularly benefit the design and creative sectors, propelling them to new heights and driving progress toward a 'Vikshit Bharat.' Additionally, the increase in seats for technological research, as announced in the budget, will strengthen the academic landscape and pave the way for groundbreaking innovations across various industries."
Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice Chancellor, Mahindra University:
“With a focus on equipping the youth for global opportunities, the National Centres of Excellence in AI and the establishment of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs will help students hone their skills in cutting-edge technologies towards achieving “Make for India, make for the world”. The announcement of 10,000 scholarships dedicated to fostering innovation and research, along with a National Digital Repository for knowledge systems will create a robust and future-ready education ecosystem. The budget has introduced strategic initiatives in technical education expansion which will broaden the horizon for India’s youth and empower emerging Tier-2 cities to become global hubs for tech innovation, positioning India as a leader in global manufacturing and skilling.”
Mr. Sahil Saharia, CEO, Bengal Shristi Infrastructure Development Ltd:
The introduction of the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund is a welcome step toward transforming cities into dynamic growth hubs. This initiative will accelerate urban redevelopment, improve infrastructure, and enhance water and sanitation facilities, making cities more sustainable and livable.
Additionally, the new tax regime, with its simplified structure and potential savings for taxpayers, could improve homebuyers' purchasing power. With higher disposable income, more individuals may consider investing in real estate, providing a much-needed boost to the housing sector. This, combined with the government's focus on urban infrastructure, is expected to drive demand and contribute to overall market growth.
Mr Debashis Dhar, Senior Vice President , GPT Healthcare Limited (ILS Hospitals)
“The government's move to grant concessional duty advantages to essential medications and exclude 36 life-saving medications from basic customs duty is a praiseworthy step towards making essential healthcare more affordable. India's healthcare workforce will be greatly strengthened by the creation of 75,000 new medical seats, guaranteeing improved access to high-quality medical treatment. Additionally, the opening of 200 day-care cancer centres will improve early diagnosis and treatment results by giving cancer patients much-needed assistance. When taken as a whole, these programs represent a revolutionary change towards a stronger, affordable and more inclusive healthcare system.”
Prof. Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group
The Union Budget 2025 has introduced several transformative initiatives for the education sector, aiming to enhance accessibility, skill development, and technological integration. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme will provide digital-form Indian language books to help students better understand their subjects in their native languages, promoting linguistic diversity. The establishment of National Centers of Excellence for Skilling, in collaboration with global experts, will equip youth with the skills required for advanced manufacturing, driving the Make for India vision. The expansion of IIT infrastructure, including the addition of 6,500 student seats and enhanced facilities across various IITs, will further strengthen India's premier institutes of higher learning. Additionally, the Rs 500 crore allocation for a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Education will revolutionize learning by integrating AI to personalize educational experiences, improve outcomes, and support data-driven decision-making. These steps collectively underscore the government's commitment to building a robust, inclusive, and future-ready education system in India.
Mr Vinod Kumar Gupta, Managing Director, Dollar Industries Ltd
The Union Budget 2025 focuses on enhancing economic growth through significant tax reforms, agricultural missions, and social security for gig workers. The emphasis on technology upgrades and tariff adjustments aims to bolster our traditional textile sector. The Cotton Productivity Scheme will rejuvenate cotton farming and boost quality production. Together, these measures will drive prosperity and competitiveness across industries.
Mr Rishi Jain, Managing Director, Jain Group
"One lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund will play a key role in boosting investments, infrastructure, and redevelopment in cities, turning them into growth magnets. Tourism will be increased by integrating hospitality into infrastructure and promoting the top 50 tourist spots. By adding 120 more locations, UDAAN will boost local economies and create jobs. Higher disposable income and a more straightforward tax system will make homes more affordable, which will increase demand for real estate and spur economic expansion."
Mr Sanjay Jain, Managing Director, Siddha
The Budget 2025 has set a transformative course by empowering the middle class with enhanced disposable income, thus leaving additional cash- flow with aspirational homebuyers. This forward-thinking move is expected to boost consumer spending power, fostering growth in the housing sector and unlocking new opportunities for families to achieve their homeownership dreams.
Mr Beas Dev Ralhan, CEO, Next Education:
"The expansion of infrastructure in IITs set up after 2015 to accommodate 6,500 more students is a commendable move that will strengthen our higher education ecosystem. Additionally, the allocation of ₹500 crore for a Centre of Excellence for AI in Education marks a crucial step in integrating cutting-edge technology into learning. AI-driven education has the potential to personalize learning experiences and enhance outcomes at scale.
The plan to set up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Laboratories (ATLs) in government schools over the next five years will ignite a scientific temperament among students from an early age. Furthermore, the provision of broadband connectivity to all secondary schools ensures digital inclusivity, making quality education accessible to every learner. As India marches towards becoming a global knowledge hub, these initiatives will play a key role in empowering students and educators with the right skills, infrastructure, and technology.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for the financial year 2025-26. In this budget, some announcements were also made regarding the health sector. While presenting the budget, the Finance Minister said that the government will provide facilities for setting up day care cancer centers in all district hospitals in the next 3 years. Apart from this, to provide relief to patients suffering from cancer and rare diseases, it has been announced to give complete exemption from customs duty to 36 life saving medicines. Let us tell you in detail what is the opinion of health experts about the benefits given to the health sector in this budget?
--
Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital
The government's decision to rationalize customs duties with exemption and rate cuts on a large number of life-saving medicines. Particularly for rare diseases, this is a very welcome step. This will make advanced treatments more accessible for patients and institutions, reducing financial burdens. The announcement of 200 daycare cancer centers in district hospitals will significantly improve cancer care accessibility in underserved areas. We also appreciate the expansion of medical education with an additional 10,000 seats this year and a goal of 75,000 seats in five years, addressing the growing need for trained professionals in neurology and other critical specialties. Strengthening Ayushman Bharat and expanding telemedicine initiatives will further ensure that specialized care reaches rural and remote regions. We look forward to an effective implementation that bridges the gap in healthcare accessibility.
--
Dr. Archana Dhawan Bajaj, Gynaecologist, Obstetrician and IVF Expert, Nurture IVF Clinic, New Delhi
As the healthcare sector welcomes the Union Budget 2024 presented by the honorable Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, several key initiatives have been announced.hv
Furthermore, programmes like Poshan 2.0 and Saksham Anganwadi will continue to provide nutritional support to over 8 crore children and 1 crore pregnant women, mothers and 20 lakh adolescent girls despite increased cost constraints.
The budget has brought much needed relief for cancer patients, those suffering from rare diseases, and chronic conditions with the addition of 36 life-saving drugs to the list of medicines fully exempt from basic customs duty. Six life-saving medicines will be added to a list with a concessional customs duty of 5%. Full exemption and concessional duty will apply to bulk drugs used for manufacturing these medicines.
The inclusion of 10,000 new seats in medical education this year, as well as 1.1 lakh UG and PG seats over the next ten years, is a positive step forward.
Moreover, the establishment of daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals over the next three years to enhance cancer care accessibility with 200 centres to be set up in FY 2025-26 alone is a welcome move.
----
Dr. N. K. Pandey, Chairman & Managing Director, Asian Hospital
Overall, the Budget looks progressive for healthcare sector. Creating a new healthcare economy needs right policy push and the Union Budget 2025-26 paid serious attention on infrastructure development, capacity building, digital health, tech-enabled services, and medical tourism. Even allowing 100 per cent FDI in insurance sector would go long way to benefit the healthcare sector. We observe that the Budget surely lays the foundation for a robust and inclusive healthcare system. The exemption of customs duties on 36 lifesaving drugs is a landmark decision that will reduce treatment costs for critical illnesses such as cancer and rare diseases. Additionally, the government’s plan to set up 200 daycare cancer centers in district hospitals will ensure that specialized oncology care reaches smaller towns and rural areas, reducing the burden on major hospitals. The boost to medical tourism through easier visa norms will attract international patients, reinforcing India's reputation as a global healthcare hub. These initiatives, coupled with broadband connectivity to PHCs, will also drive digital healthcare adoption. We welcome policies that ensure smooth execution, ensuring better healthcare access for all.
---
Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director, Aakash Healthcare
The provisions for healthcare are on expected lines. The Union Budget 2025-26 presented a progressive vision for strengthening India's healthcare system. Capacity building is the most crucial aspects to create a new healthcare ecosystem. The addition of 10,000 medical seats this year and a target of 75,000 seats in the next five years will significantly bridge the shortage of trained medical professionals. The 200 new daycare cancer centers in district hospitals will enhance accessibility to cancer treatment, particularly in underserved regions. The government’s rationalization of customs duties on lifesaving drugs for cancer and rare diseases is a welcome step that will make treatments more affordable for patients. Furthermore, the push for broadband connectivity to Primary Health Centers (PHCs) under the BharatNet project will boost telemedicine and digital health services.
Mr. Anup Mehra, DGM Finance - PSRI Hospital:
The Budget 2025-26 proved that the healthcare sector has been accorded a priority. Medical Travel Value (Medical Tourism) has emerged as a main revenue earner for the sector and the country. The renewed push for medical tourism, backed by easier visa norms, will also bring significant economic benefits. From a financial standpoint, these measures will improve healthcare affordability while fostering long-term growth in the sector. A well-planned execution of these initiatives will be crucial to their success. Additionally, exemption of customs duties on 36 lifesaving drugs, including those for cancer and rare diseases, is a significant step in reducing treatment costs. This move will greatly aid hospitals in making advanced treatments more accessible. The establishment of 200 daycare cancer centers in district hospitals will enhance oncology care, reducing the burden on tertiary hospitals.
Dr. Rajendra Patankar, Chief Executive Officer, Jupiter Hospital, Baner Pune:
The government’s increased focus on healthcare infrastructure in Budget 2025-26 is a step in the right direction. The expansion of medical education with 10,000 more seats this year will help bridge the gap in skilled manpower across specialties, including oncology and critical care. The Economic Survey has projected that India will achieve WHO’s doctor-to-population ratio of 1:1000 by 2030. This budget reaffirms that we are on the right path in terms of capacity building, with the government prioritizing medical education. With 780 medical colleges now operational, India is making significant strides in strengthening its healthcare workforce.
Clinically speaking, we find that the exemption of customs duties on 36 lifesaving drugs will make specialized treatments more accessible, reducing the financial burden on patients. The push for broadband connectivity to Primary Health Centers (PHCs) will further strengthen telemedicine, ensuring remote access to quality care. This budget lays a strong foundation for a resilient and inclusive healthcare system, and we look forward to its effective implementation.
Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO, City X-Ray & Scan Clinic:
Diagnostics are the backbone of quality healthcare, and Budget 2025-26 has introduced progressive measures to strengthen this sector. The expansion of telemedicine infrastructure through broadband connectivity in PHCs will significantly enhance digital diagnostics and AI-driven radiology services. The government’s decision to exempt customs duties on 36 lifesaving drugs and rationalization on duties on medical including diagnostic equipment will ensure affordability for patients undergoing prolonged treatments that require advanced diagnostic support.
With the 200 new daycare cancer centers set to be established in district hospitals the demand for early and precise diagnostics will surge. Encouraging investments in digital healthcare and medical tourism will further improve the diagnostics sector’s reach. A well-implemented PPP model in diagnostics could also accelerate last-mile healthcare delivery. We hope to see further steps that encourage indigenous manufacturing of imaging and laboratory equipment to support the diagnostics industry’s long-term growth.
