Budget 2025: A Mixed Bag for the Common Man

The Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has been a subject of much discussion and debate. While it introduces several measures aimed at boosting economic growth and development, its impact on the common man, particularly those in the poor, middle, and upper classes, appears to be a mixed bag.  

Key Highlights of the Budget

• Increased Income Tax Exemption Limit: The budget has raised the income tax exemption limit to Rs 12 lakh under the new tax regime. This is expected to provide some relief to individual taxpayers and boost household savings.  
• Focus on Infrastructure Development: The government has allocated significant funds for infrastructure development, including railways, roads, and urban infrastructure. This is aimed at creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.  
• Support for MSMEs: The budget includes several measures to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), including easier access to credit and incentives for innovation.  
• Emphasis on Green Energy: The government has reiterated its commitment to green energy and announced several initiatives to promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions.  

Impact on Different Classes

Poor Class:

• Positive Impacts: The budget’s focus on infrastructure development and support for MSMEs could lead to increased employment opportunities for the poor. Additionally, the government’s continued emphasis on social welfare schemes may provide some relief to the most vulnerable sections of society.
• Negative Impacts: The budget does not include any significant direct benefits for the poor, such as increased subsidies or direct cash transfers. The rising cost of living, particularly food and fuel prices, continues to be a major concern for this class.

Middle Class:

• Positive Impacts: The increased income tax exemption limit is a welcome relief for the middle class. The budget’s focus on infrastructure development could also lead to improved living standards and increased job opportunities.  
• Negative Impacts: The middle class is likely to be impacted by the rising cost of education and healthcare. The budget does not address these concerns adequately.

Upper Class:

• Positive Impacts: The budget’s focus on economic growth and development is likely to benefit the upper class. The government’s emphasis on ease of doing business and attracting foreign investment could also lead to increased business opportunities.  
• Negative Impacts: The upper class may face higher taxes on certain goods and services. However, the overall impact on this class is likely to be positive.

• Overall Analysis

The Union Budget 2025 is a mixed bag for the common man. While it includes some positive measures, such as the increased income tax exemption limit and focus on infrastructure development, it does not adequately address the concerns of the poor and middle classes, particularly the rising cost of living and access to education and healthcare.

Expert Opinions

Experts have expressed mixed opinions on the budget. Some have praised the government’s focus on economic growth and development, while others have criticized the lack of direct benefits for the poor and middle classes.  

Conclusion

The Union Budget 2025 is a step in the right direction, but it needs to do more to address the concerns of the common man. The government should focus on providing more direct benefits to the poor and middle classes, while also taking steps to control the rising cost of living and improve access to education and healthcare.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the information available in the public domain and is not intended to be a comprehensive analysis of the budget.