Mr. Ravi Goel, CBO RapidShyp:
The Union Budget 2025 is a significant step forward for India's logistics sector, focusing on technology, infrastructure, and efficiency. The transformation of India Post into a next-generation logistics provider highlights the government's commitment to modernizing last-mile delivery and strengthening the national supply chain. This initiative is going to enhance competition, foster innovation, and improve accessibility, particularly benefiting MSMEs and e-commerce businesses.
Besides, strategic investment in multimodal logistics parks, AI-driven supply chain management, and better infrastructure in terms of roads, warehousing, and connectivity will boost operational efficiency and reduce costs and sustain growth. At RapidShyp, we welcome these reforms and look forward to leveraging this evolving ecosystem to deliver faster, smarter, and more resilient logistics solutions.
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Mr. Rohit Beri, CEO & CIO ArthAlpha
The Union Budget 2025/26 takes a measured approach to personal income tax, delivering a welcome boost to consumption and much-needed relief for individuals earning up to ₹2.5 million annually. While the tax cuts are meaningful—potentially exceeding 6.5%+ of total personal income tax collections—the expectation was for a more ambitious restructuring to drive broader economic impact.
On the fiscal front, the government has prioritized prudence over expansion, ensuring long-term stability but missing a near-term opportunity to accelerate growth through higher capital expenditure. A more aggressive capex push could have provided the momentum needed to stimulate investment and job creation.
In terms of compliance, marginal adjustments to TDS and TCS offer little more than a gesture. The real test will be in the upcoming tax code—whether it truly simplifies taxation or adds another layer of complexity remains to be seen.
Mr Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation - Quote on Budget 2025
"The 2025 Budget's focus on child nutrition and education aligns closely with our mission to eliminate classroom hunger and support quality education. The government's focus on enhancing the Sashakt Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 programs, which aim to address malnutrition is a crucial step towards achieving SDG 2 – Zero Hunger. These initiatives will provide robust nutritional support to needy community, directly benefiting the children we serve through our Anganwadi Feeding Programme.
Additionally, the establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology will strengthen food processing activities, potentially enhancing the quality and reach of the public feeding programs.
Additionally, investments in digital education infrastructure - including broadband access, AI-driven learning, and Atal Tinkering Labs at school's complement SDG 4 – Quality Education. Our Digital Education Programme is already making a difference. The government's push for digital infrastructure will further expand our reach.
We welcome these commitments and remain dedicated to our efforts to ensure no child in India is deprived of education due to hunger. The Akshaya Patra Foundation remains committed to working collectively through the PPP model with the government and other stakeholders to realize these ambitious goals."
Ajinkya Firodia, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Kinetic Engineering Ltd, "The Union Budget 2025-26 introduces several transformative measures for the automotive and electric vehicle (EV) sectors. Tax exemptions for lithium battery production, the removal of Basic Customs Duty on critical minerals, and the duty-free import of key EV battery production equipment reflect the government's strong commitment to bolstering domestic manufacturing and reducing import dependency. These steps will significantly enhance India's position as a global hub for electric mobility and clean energy technologies. By fostering local innovation and ensuring cost efficiency, this budget lays the foundation for rapid industry growth and broader adoption of electric vehicles.
In addition, the focus on expanding charging infrastructure, incentivizing electric buses for public transport, and ramping up domestic battery production marks a decisive move in India's EV revolution. The reduction in customs duties on key EV components and the continued subsidies under the FAME scheme will make EVs more affordable and accessible to consumers. Moreover, the emphasis on integrating renewable energy for charging infrastructure aligns perfectly with India's net-zero goals, reinforcing its ambition to lead in clean mobility.
This strong policy push not only paves the way for rapid adoption of EVs but will also create jobs, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and position India as a global leader in sustainable transportation. With these initiatives, India is set to become a dominant player in the global EV supply chain, ushering in a future of green, self-reliant mobility."
Rakesh Bohra , Chief Operating Officer, Pioneer Urban Land & Infrastructure Ltd:
“The real estate sector continues to be a major contributor towards the country’s GDP and the Union Budget 2025 has outlined measures to further fuel its recovery and long-term growth. India’s real estate market will contribute immensely to the transformation of India as a developed economy. Initiatives such as new-age cities, ease of tax compliances, and allowing two self-occupied properties will ensure balanced development across all price points. The Budget’s emphasis on affordable credit and incentives for sustainable development is a significant step forward for developers across all segments, from residential to commercial. Zero tax for income upto Rs12 lacs & 12.75 lacs for salaried people will help consumption and increased interest in housing. Reducing compliance burdens and enhancing clarity in regulatory frameworks will expedite project timelines and create a more investor-friendly environment, mirroring the Government of India’s commitment towards becoming ‘Viksit’ by 2047.”
Mr. Dilip Modi, Founder & CEO of Spice Money
"We commend the government’s strong focus on the holistic development of rural India in the Union Budget 2025-26. The initiative to transform India Post into a public logistics organisation is a significant step toward strengthening rural commerce and boosting entrepreneurship opportunities. With 1.5 lakh rural post offices and 2.4 lakh Dak Sevaks, this initiative will serve the needs of women entrepreneurs, self-help groups, MSMEs, and even large businesses. The presence of Dak Sevaks at the last mile will play a crucial role in driving employment-led growth and ensuring seamless access to financial and logistical services for underserved communities.
The launch of customized credit cards with a INR 5 lakh limit for micro-enterprises and a new scheme providing term loans of up to INR 2 crore for first-time women entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities will be game changers in promoting financial inclusion and inclusive development. These initiatives, along with support for MSMEs and investment in innovation, will drive grassroots entrepreneurship and economic resilience.
At Spice Money, our focus has always been on empowering rural India on the back of our extensive network of 14 lakh digital nanopreneurs (Spice Money Adhikaris), bringing essential banking services closer to the underserved. We believe that public-private partnerships are key to solving the challenges of rural India and accelerating job creation. By collaborating with the government and harnessing technology, we can build a truly inclusive and self-reliant Bharat.”
"The Union Budget FY2025-2026 introduces a strong demand stimulus, particularly with personal income tax relief up to ₹12 lakh. This move will significantly boost disposable incomes, especially among young consumers, who are key drivers of India's growing FMCG culture. The increased spending power is expected to benefit premium FMCG segments, including specialty coffee, and strengthen the out-of-home experiences in quick-service restaurants and cafés.
The government's focus on agriculture through initiatives like the Agri Programme to support 1.7 crore farmers and the plan to cover 100 districts with low productivity is a welcome move. These measures have the potential to improve coffee cultivation in key regions, enhancing both yield and farmer incomes and boosting local coffee production.
However, while domestic consumption is set to rise, the budget misses an opportunity to enhance coffee exports. For coffee exporters like us, measures to support global competitiveness, such as incentives for value-added coffee exports and easing trade barriers would have provided a dual advantage of strengthening domestic production and positioning Indian coffee more aggressively in international markets. Overall, the budget's focus on demand generation and agriculture is encouraging, but a more holistic approach, including export-oriented reforms, would have further fueled the growth of India's coffee industry", said Praveen Jaipuriar, CEO, CCL Products (India) Ltd.
Dr. H. Sudarshan Ballal, Chairman, of Manipal Hospitals: The major take home message of the budget just announced by the Finance Minister is that it is a middle class friendly budget.
As far as the healthcare sector is concerned a few notable points are -
1. Day-care cancer centres in all district hospitals. 200 hospitals to be established in 2025-2026. This will certainly help take care of the increasing burden of cancer patients especially in the non- metros.
2. Cancer, rare diseases and chronic severe ailments 36 life-saving drugs will be fully exempted from basic custom duties. Adding 6 life-saving medicines and bulk drugs attract concessional duties. Patient assistance programs will be expanded and will be exempt from duties. This will help reduce the cost of some of the very essential but expensive drugs in these serious diseases.
3. 10,000 additional medical seats to be added in medical colleges, aim to add 75,000 seats in next 5 years which will improve the doctor to population ratio.
4. Medical tourism and heal in India a major component for push in collaboration with private sector. Medical tourism and Heal in India to be promoted by easier visa norms and capacity building. This certainly is a very welcome move as India has the talent and infrastructure to attract medical value tourism at a fraction of the cost compared to many other countries.
5. AI development centre for education and healthcare 500 crores allocation. PPP 1.5 lakh crore for infra push through national infra mission - will help health infra and financing.
6. Nutrition mission and poshan abhiyan push across all states and schools. A very important measure to prevent malnutrition and improve nutrition especially in the under privileged population.
7. Broad band connectivity to primary health centres will help in expanding Telemedicine consultations for rural patients at village level which will be a big boon in bridging the gap of lack of healthcare personnel in the rural areas.
Mr. Alekh Yadav, Head of Investment Product at Sanctum Wealth:-
The current budget has shifted its emphasis on infrastructure and manufacturing in previous budgets to a more consumption-driven approach. While this shift was somewhat expected, the larger-than-anticipated reduction in personal income tax could help support the recovery of consumption demand. The trade-off is lower than expected capital expenditure allocation. The budget also prioritizes the rural economy by supporting agriculture and strengthens MSMEs through reclassification and expanded credit access. Additionally, the government has signalled upcoming regulatory reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business.
Dr. Malini Saba, Businesswoman, Human Rights Activist, Founder of Saba Group & Anannke Foundation, said:
"The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced a series of welcome measures that demonstrate the government's commitment to making healthcare more accessible and affordable for all. By adding 36 life-saving medicines, including those for cancer, rare diseases, and chronic conditions, to the list of drugs fully exempt from basic customs duty, this budget brings much-needed relief to patients who are often burdened with the high cost of treatment.
Moreover, the addition of six life-saving medicines to the list with a concessional customs duty of 5%, along with the exemption for bulk drugs used in the manufacturing of these medicines, will strengthen domestic pharmaceutical production and encourage affordable treatment options. These initiatives are sure to benefit millions of patients across the country, especially those who rely on life-saving medications.
The full exemption of patient assistance programs from Basic Customs Duty, provided the medicines are supplied free of charge to patients, is another significant move. By including 37 new medicines and 13 new assistance programs in the exemption list, the government is ensuring that more people have access to the care they need, regardless of their financial situation.
These steps in the budget reflect the government's recognition of healthcare as a critical sector and its commitment to making essential medicines more accessible. It is an encouraging sign of progress, and I look forward to seeing how these measures will improve the lives of patients across India."
Education Sector
Dr. Malini Saba, Human & Social Rights Activist & Founder, Anannke Foundation said:
"The Union Budget 2025-26 takes important steps toward strengthening education, innovation, and healthcare in India. Establishing Atal Tinkering Labs in 50,000 government schools is a transformative move that will ignite curiosity and scientific thinking among young minds. Fostering a culture of innovation from an early age is crucial for India's global competitiveness, and this initiative has the potential to shape future leaders in science and technology.
The expansion of broadband connectivity to all government schools is another significant step in bridging the digital divide. With access to digital learning tools, students across the country—especially in remote areas—will have greater opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge. Ensuring that this infrastructure translates into impactful learning experiences will be key.
The continued focus on expanding medical education is commendable. The addition of 10,000 more medical seats this year, as part of a broader plan to add 75,000 over five years, strengthens India's healthcare capacity. Investing in medical education not only addresses the growing demand for healthcare professionals but also paves the way for better access to quality healthcare across the country.
Overall, this budget reflects a strong commitment to long-term development. With the right execution, these initiatives will empower students, support innovation, and strengthen the healthcare system, driving India toward a more inclusive and prosperous future."
Environment & Climate
Dr. Malini Saba, Environmentalist, Former Chairman of Saba Group & Founder & Chairwoman of Anannke Foundation, said:
"The ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund is a visionary step towards building smarter, more sustainable cities. It's exciting to see the government's commitment to transforming urban spaces into hubs of innovation and economic growth while also focusing on critical infrastructure like water and sanitation. This initiative will not only enhance the quality of life for urban dwellers but also contribute to building more resilient and eco-friendly cities.
What stands out is the focus on simplifying compliance for businesses. By fostering voluntary compliance and rationalizing taxes, the government is empowering businesses to grow while encouraging sustainable investments. These reforms are key drivers of growth, enabling businesses to contribute more meaningfully to our economy and the environment. The middle class is poised to benefit from tax reforms that align with their aspirations, which is essential for more inclusive and balanced development.
I believe these efforts will provide the necessary foundation for long-term sustainability in our urban landscapes. The Budget demonstrates a clear intent not just to grow economically but also to ensure that growth is inclusive and mindful of our environmental impact. With the right implementation, these measures have the potential to create lasting change in our cities, and I look forward to seeing them come to fruition."
Women, Startups, Human Resources, and Entrepreneurship
Dr. Malini Saba, Businesswoman, Philanthropist, Human Rights Activist, and Founder of Saba Group & Anannke Foundation, said:
"I wholeheartedly commend the Union Budget 2025-2026 for its forward-thinking approach in empowering India's youth, women, and entrepreneurs. The government's focus on strengthening the food processing sector, with the establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management in Bihar, is a game-changer. This initiative will not only boost the economy but also elevate the livelihoods of countless families in the region by enhancing farmers' incomes and creating new opportunities for skilling, entrepreneurship, and employment.
The commitment to improving nutrition through programs like Sashakt Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0—benefiting children, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls—is critical for laying the foundation for a healthier, more productive future. These programs are investments in our nation's greatest asset: its people. Empowering women, particularly in rural and underserved areas, is essential to driving socio-economic progress.
The decriminalization of over 1,000 legal provisions under the Jan Vishwas Act is a powerful step toward creating a more business-friendly environment. This reduction in regulatory hurdles is particularly beneficial for women entrepreneurs, allowing them to grow their businesses without unnecessary legal complexities. It is an essential move in making India more attractive for both existing and new businesses.
I am particularly encouraged by the government's vision for the development of Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in Tier-2 cities. By fostering talent, infrastructure, and industry collaboration outside of metro areas, India is creating an inclusive growth model that taps into the untapped potential of our youth, ensuring that opportunities are accessible across the country.
The reduction in customs duties on critical minerals such as cobalt and lithium-ion battery waste is a strategic move that will foster innovation in electronics manufacturing and create job opportunities for youth in high-tech sectors. This will play a pivotal role in India's transition into a global manufacturing hub.
Overall, this budget sets a strong foundation for empowering India's youth, women, and entrepreneurs. It presents a robust framework for inclusive growth, where every individual has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the nation's success. I am eager to see how these initiatives will transform the lives of millions of people across the country."
Philanthropy & CSR
Dr. Malini Saba, Philanthropist and Founder of the Anannke Foundation, said:
"The Union Budget 2025-2026 demonstrates a significant commitment to advancing corporate social responsibility (CSR) by prioritizing the needs of underprivileged and vulnerable communities. The government's focus on nutrition, healthcare, education, and skill development provides a powerful framework for businesses to engage in impactful social initiatives. I am particularly encouraged by the emphasis on enhancing opportunities for the underprivileged—especially women, children, and rural populations—to access essential services that will uplift their socio-economic status.
This budget presents a unique opportunity for the CSR sector to not only contribute to national development goals but also make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have long been left behind. Companies can play a crucial role in addressing these disparities by aligning their CSR efforts with initiatives that empower marginalized communities and foster inclusive growth. It's a call to action for businesses to move beyond profit-making and truly invest in building a more equitable and sustainable future for all."
Tourism
Dr. Malini Saba, Businesswoman, Founder & Ex-chairman of Saba Group & Founder of Anannke Foundation, said:
"I commend the Union Budget 2025-2026 for its visionary approach to boosting India's tourism sector. The focus on developing 50 top tourist destinations in partnership with state governments through a challenge-based model is an excellent initiative. This will not only enhance India's tourism infrastructure but also create valuable employment opportunities, fostering growth in local economies.
The introduction of visa fee waivers and the expansion of e-visa options for select tourist groups is a smart move. By easing travel, India is positioning itself as a more accessible and attractive destination for international visitors, which will contribute significantly to our global tourism appeal.
MUDRA loans for homestay businesses will empower local entrepreneurs and provide a unique opportunity to showcase India's cultural diversity, creating authentic experiences for tourists while generating jobs at the grassroots level. These steps are a clear reflection of the government's commitment to driving inclusive growth and making tourism a pillar of the nation's economy.
The tourism sector's growing contribution to India's GDP is a testament to its potential, and with these new initiatives, we are well on our way to solidifying our position as a global tourism powerhouse. I'm optimistic about the positive impact these changes will bring to India's economy and the lives of millions across the country."
Healthcare & Mental Health
Dr. Malini Saba, Psychologist, Human Rights Activist, Founder of Anannke Foundation, said:
"The 2025-26 Union Budget brings forward some commendable initiatives for the healthcare sector, particularly for gig workers who have long been overlooked. The extension of healthcare facilities under the PM Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY) for gig workers will benefit nearly one crore workers, providing them with much-needed support and healthcare access. This is an excellent step towards ensuring the welfare of India's growing gig economy.
Furthermore, the government's plan to add 10,000 seats in medical colleges next year and its goal of increasing medical education capacity by 75,000 seats over the next five years is a forward-thinking approach. This will significantly strengthen India's healthcare infrastructure, helping meet the increasing demand for doctors across the country.
The focus on broadband connectivity for primary healthcare centers and secondary schools is another impactful move. It will improve access to healthcare in rural areas and facilitate better healthcare delivery, especially in remote locations.
Overall, this budget strikes a balanced approach to healthcare, investing in both the physical infrastructure and the well-being of workers, especially those in the gig economy. With these initiatives, the government is paving the way for a healthier and more inclusive future for all citizens."
Dr. Malini Saba, Businesswoman, Founder & Ex-Chairman, Saba Group, said:
"The Union Budget 2025-2026 demonstrates the government's strong commitment to strengthening India's agricultural sector, which remains the backbone of our economy and rural livelihoods. The launch of the Agricultural District Programme under the Prime Minister Krishi Yojana is a transformative step. By targeting 100 districts with low productivity and enhancing crop diversification, sustainable farming, post-harvest storage at the Panchayat and block levels, and irrigation facilities, this initiative has the potential to benefit 1.7 crore farmers and significantly boost agricultural resilience.
The government's six-year mission for self-reliance in pulses, with a special focus on tur and masoor, is another progressive move aimed at reducing import dependence and ensuring food security. The role of NAFED and NCCF in procurement will provide stability and financial assurance to farmers. A well-structured implementation strategy and active farmer participation will be crucial in maximizing the impact of this initiative over the next four years.
The increasing demand for nutritious food, fruits, and vegetables is a positive shift, and the budget's emphasis on improving accessibility, affordability, and supply chains in this sector is commendable. Expanding cold storage infrastructure and market linkages will ensure that increased production translates into better availability for consumers, promoting a healthier society.
The extension of Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) to 7.7 crore farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers, along with an increase in the loan limit from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 under the modified interest subvention scheme, is a significant boost for the agricultural economy. This financial support will empower farmers with better access to resources, improving productivity and long-term sustainability.
Additionally, the establishment of the Makhana Board in Bihar is an important step toward recognizing and scaling up the production, processing, and global market potential of this high-value crop. Such targeted initiatives are essential for unlocking India's diverse agricultural potential.
Overall, this budget lays a strong foundation for India's agricultural future by focusing on innovation, infrastructure, and financial support for farmers. These measures will drive inclusive growth, enhance rural prosperity, and strengthen India's position as a global leader in agriculture."
Real-Estate Sector:
Dr. Malini Saba, Businesswoman, Founder & Ex-Chairman Saba Group said:
"The Union Budget for 2025-2026 introduces a visionary approach for the real estate sector, with the government's focus on developing a national framework to promote Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in Tier-2 cities. This will unlock tremendous opportunities, driving growth by leveraging local talent and upgrading infrastructure, fostering stronger regional economies.
The government's push to enhance infrastructure and warehousing, particularly for air cargo, is a critical step in improving efficiency and enabling smoother logistics. This will significantly benefit sectors like horticulture and agriculture, with new possibilities for real estate development in warehousing and distribution spaces.
The tax relief for the middle class is a positive and impactful measure. The removal of income tax up to Rs. 12 lakhs and the tax benefits for those earning Rs. 18 lakhs will have a direct and positive effect on consumer spending, boosting demand for real estate and driving sectoral growth. The reduced tax burden will empower the middle class, strengthening their purchasing power and stimulating demand for both residential and commercial properties.
Overall, this budget sets the stage for significant economic progress and offers a solid foundation for the real estate sector to thrive. The reforms, investments in infrastructure, and tax benefits reflect the government's commitment to fostering sustainable growth and building a brighter future for all sectors, including real estate."
Mr. Pradeep Misra, Chairman & MD- Rudrabhishek Enterprises Limited (REPL) for the Infrastructure & Real Estate Sector.
""This was a real difficult budget to formulate, considering the overall macro-economic scenario, GDP growth curve and changing equations of geo-politics affecting the international trade. The Hon'ble Finance Minister has tried to create a balance of sustainable growth, welfare initiatives and employment generation. Focus of capital expenditure and infrastructure spending is clear signal that the government is determined to put the GDP growth back on the track of 8% or more in couple of years.
This is also important to notice that the global trade vibrancy is tapering down, and hence it is crucial to focus on the domestic front in terms of production. The budgetary emphasis on sectors like Make in India, MSME, technology, defense and agri-infra are initiative in this direction.
Infrastructure & Urban Development has multiple focal points in the infrastructure such as reemphasis on PPP, setting up fund of Rs 1 lakh crore on redevelopment of cities, 120 news airports under UDAN. It is also a very positive thing that the government has decided to give access of relevant data and maps under PM Gati Shakti scheme to the private sector.
The budget also has made noticeable provisions in the income tax slabs for increasing the disposable income in the hands of common people which will in turn strengthen domestic demand and household consumption necessary for ensuring growth.
The MSME sector has rightly been put as second engine of growth as it is a major export contributor. However, export oriented MSMEs could get the support from the government in terms of PLI, technology upgrade, capacity building and tax-benefits. We strongly believe that in the follow up policy announcements, these issues will be addressed by the FM.
The Real Estate sector was expecting rationalization is GST rates of building material and other policy announcements to address the liquidity issues. However, as it remains unaddressed, the Realtors will feel a bit disappointed.
Overall the Budget is in line with the expectations and it should lead to steady revival in GDP growth. A lot will depend on how speedily the large scale flagship programs are rolled out, while keeping the fiscal deficit in check.""
Mr. Rajesh Doshi, Co-founder & Director at Zebronics: "The Union Budget 2025's introduction of the National Manufacturing Mission will bolster the 'Make in India' initiative significantly along with the reforms for MSMEs and start-ups which will greatly encourage employment opportunities including women workforce, across all spectrums. Additionally, the revised New Income Tax regime, with no tax on income up to ₹12 lakh, underscores an increase in disposable income, stimulating consumer spending and economic growth.
Eswara Rao Nandam, CEO and Founder of Polymatech Electronics:
"The Government of India's commitment to empowering MSMEs and driving technological upgradation is a commendable step towards positioning India as a global manufacturing hub. The enhanced credit facilities and increased investment and turnover limits for MSMEs will provide significant support for businesses, helping them scale efficiently and foster innovation. These initiatives will undoubtedly boost India's export potential and drive growth in sectors such as opto-semiconductors, 5G, and LED lighting solutions."
Mr Ritesh Goenka, Managing Director of Damson Technologies.
"Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement of the National Manufacturing Mission in the 2025 Union Budget is a commendable step towards strengthening India's manufacturing sector. By providing policy support and a structured framework, this mission is poised to enhance domestic production and self-reliance, aligning seamlessly with our objectives at Damson Technologies.
The emphasis on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as pivotal growth engines, responsible for 45% of India's exports, is particularly encouraging. The introduction of customized credit cards for micro-enterprises and the enhancement of classification limits for MSMEs will undoubtedly facilitate greater financial inclusion and operational expansion.
Damson Technologies is a leading OEM and manufacturer of computer peripherals, accessories, and lifestyle products. Our flagship brand, JUST CORSECA, embodies innovation and quality. With a ₹200 crore investment, our state-of-the-art Ahmedabad facility produces high-quality audio systems and smart accessories, reducing import dependence and meeting domestic demand.
The government's focus on clean technology manufacturing and attracting investments across various sectors resonates with our vision of integrating advanced innovations, including AI-powered products and app-based controls, into our offerings.
We are optimistic that these budgetary measures will nurture a more robust manufacturing ecosystem, enabling companies like ours to thrive and contribute significantly to India's economic growth and global competitiveness."
Mr. Anshul Jain, Chief Executive, India & SE Asia & APAC Tenant Representation, Cushman & Wakefield:
"At a broad level, the Union budget for 2025-26 has touched upon elements that promise strengthening the governance aspect, while also addressing major industry pain points. In particular, we are excited about the boost that it would provide to commercial real estate through manufacturing, hospitality, retail and knowledge-based sectors such as GCCs and start-ups. Initiatives around enhanced capacities of COEs, IITs and medical professionals, along with bringing Gig workers into the organised framework are all seen as extremely positive moves. These would benefit the new-age start-ups, GCCs and e-commerce industries benefit significantly.
On the housing sector, the addition of one more self-occupied house that can be claimed without conditions for nil value for taxation purpose is a big plus. Besides, enhanced outlay and reach of SWAMIH fund 2 and enhance scope of asset monetisation of PSUs could revive interest in affordable homes. A roadmap to install 100 GW of nuclear power capacity over next 20 odd-years (from merely ~8GW installed in 2024), along with other power sector reforms, is a big initiative that helps secure clean source for power for India's critical data center industry."
Boman Irani, President, CREDAI National:
"The Union Budget 2025 reaffirms India's growth trajectory towards a 'Viksit Bharat' with a strong focus on inclusive development and economic expansion. Exemption of income tax payable for income up to ₹12 lakh, coupled with increasing the TDS threshold on rent from ₹2.4 lakh to ₹6 lakh, will significantly enhance disposable income, boosting housing demand and overall consumption. This budget supports economic stability and positive market sentiment; however, the sector was expecting additional measures, such as further incentives to boost demand for affordable housing, a higher threshold for home loan interest exemptions which has remained stagnant for a long time and a revision in the definition of affordable housing based on a minimum dwelling unit size instead of a uniform ₹45 lakh value across the country. These steps could have provided an added stimulus to the market and improved housing affordability. CREDAI welcomes the announcement of allocating the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund, which will enable better urban planning, while the new UDAN scheme will enhance regional connectivity and catalyse real estate and infrastructure growth. The ₹15,000 crore SWAMIH Fund 2 is a crucial step towards expediting stalled housing projects, ensuring homebuyers' interests are safeguarded. Additionally, allowing benefits for two self-occupied properties without conditions will further boost homeownership.
The sector remains optimistic that the various announcements made by the Finance Minister today will be followed by a Repo rate cut later this month, further strengthening homebuyer sentiment and investment in real estate. With these progressive measures, India remains firmly on track to become the world's third-largest economy by 2027"
Rakesh Bohra, Chief Operating Officer, Pioneer Urban Land & Infrastructure Ltd:
'The real estate sector continues to be a major contributor towards the country's GDP and the Union Budget 2025 has outlined measures to further fuel its recovery and long-term growth. India's real estate market will contribute immensely to the transformation of India as a developed economy. Initiatives such as new-age cities, ease of tax compliances, and allowing two self-occupied properties will ensure balanced development across all price points. The Budget's emphasis on affordable credit and incentives for sustainable development is a significant step forward for developers across all segments, from residential to commercial. Zero tax for income upto Rs12 lacs & 12.75 lacs for salaried people will help consumption and increased interest in housing. Reducing compliance burdens and enhancing clarity in regulatory frameworks will expedite project timelines and create a more investor-friendly environment, mirroring the Government of India's commitment towards becoming 'Viksit' by 2047.
~ 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."
