Budget 2025 Expectations Highlights: Railways, Technology, Income Tax, Green Energy, Real Estate And EV: What’s In Store? All Eyes On FM Nirmala Sitharaman

Budget 2025 Expectations Highlights: This will be Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's second full-fledged Budget in Modi 3.0, and her eighth budget presentation overall in Parliament.

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Budget 2025 Expectations Highlights: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2025 on February 1. The first part of the Parliament's Budget session will run from January 31 to February 13, while the second part is scheduled from March 10 to April 4, 2025. Traditionally, the finance minister delivers the Budget speech at 11 AM on February 1, but an official confirmation from the Finance Ministry is still awaited.

As in previous years, the Narendra Modi government faces high expectations to provide income tax relief for the salaried middle class and the common man, particularly amid rising living costs and an economic slowdown. Economists suggest that the Budget should focus on boosting consumption to stimulate the economy, as GDP growth has slowed to a multi-quarter low.

This will be Sitharaman's second full-fledged Budget in Modi 3.0, and her eighth budget presentation overall in Parliament. Furthermore, despite February 1 being a Saturday, the BSE and NSE will remain open for trading, as per official announcements, to accommodate the Union Budget 2025-26 proceedings.

23 January 2025

19:56 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Experts Call for Reforms to Boost Real Estate Growth

"The Indian real estate sector is a vital contributor to the GDP. The upcoming budget will focus on various measures to boost growth, affordability, and sustainability. The growing commercial and luxury residential segments highlight the need for reforms which enable ease of doing businesses and streamlined approvals. The real estate market will reach new heights if the upcoming budget addresses these areas, attracting domestic and international investors. With supportive policies, Delhi NCR is poised to remain at the forefront of India’s real estate growth." said Gaurav K Singh, Founder and Chairman of Womeki Group.

19:30 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Could Be Catalyst For Fintech Innovation And MSME Growth?

"For the fintech ecosystem, the Union Budget 2025 is an important moment. Startups are eager for legislative support to reduce the ongoing credit bottleneck, particularly for NBFCs, which are essential for advancing financial inclusion. We aim for loosened credit standards, more funding options, and tax benefits that promote innovation and growth.

 Initiatives such as R&D tax credits and dedicated innovation hubs, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, have the potential to promote entrepreneurship and provide new possibilities. Skill 2.0 programs and Skill Credits could be game changers for MSMEs, allowing them to strengthen their workforce and remain competitive on a global scale", says Mr. Manish Kumar Goyal, Managing Director at Ikeda LTD (Finkeda).

18:43 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Catalyzing India’s Transition To Green Hydrogen Economy 

“Budget 2025 offers India an opportunity to lead the global green hydrogen revolution. To fully harness this potential, we urge the government to take decisive measures to make green hydrogen economically viable. This includes introducing subsidies, offering tax incentives, and mandating a 20% substitution of fossil fuel imports with green hydrogen to boost demand. Additionally, reworking the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes to prioritize production over sales and simplifying compliance requirements would significantly improve industry participation.    

Adding further, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation and storage of green hydrogen also demands early notification of standards and regulations. This will enable companies to proactively plan and implement the necessary infrastructure and safety measures, ensuring a smoother rollout of green hydrogen projects.India must also establish its own network of testing and certification laboratories to support the early adoption of green hydrogen. We recommend the government allocate at least INR 1,000 crore for this purpose while encouraging private players to set up testing and certification units across all states", says Sandeep Agarwal, Founder and Managing Director of Greenzo Energy.

17:27 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Sugar Sector’s Roadmap To Energy Security And Growth 

“The sugar sector is calling for an extension of the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to promote value-added products such as ethanol and biofuels, aligning with the government’s renewable energy goals. Incentives for raw material procurement, especially for sugarcane farmers, are essential to stabilize the sector. A more robust financial framework to support mills in clearing farmer dues and improving cane quality is also needed", says Mukesh Kumar, Executive Director at Vishwaraj Sugar Industries Limited. 

16:59 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Industry Experts Urge Tax and Policy Reforms to Boost Real Estate Growth

“Last year, the real estate sector witnessed strong growth driven by rising urbanization and increasing demand across affordable, mid-income, and luxury segments. We are hoping that the upcoming budget will prioritise tax relief for homebuyers and streamline regulations. Additionally, introducing tax benefits for those investing in REITs focused on premium commercial or residential assets would encourage more investments and boost the sector. We are also hoping that the government will continue to invest in infrastructure projects. These measures will help the housing sector remain a key contributor to economic progress.” says Aditya Kushwaha, CEO and Director, Axis Ecorp

16:43 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Catalyzing India's Journey To Become Global Digital Powerhouse 

"For realising the Prime Minister’s dream of Viksit Bharat, Digital Economy will be key component led by AI, on which startup is currently invested in leading the disruption with confidence that Union Budget of 2025 will play significant action to catalyze India's position as a global tech powerhouse & will be supported by government's continued investment in AI, data-driven innovation, and advanced technologies like 3D modeling and CGI to lay the groundwork for a robust digital economy & make India a global digital power house. At the immersive technology platform, we've seen firsthand how AI and data analytics are not just industry disruptors but enablers of efficiency, scalability and personalisation with Government’s special focus on fostering a deeper integration of AI in key sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and retail could unlock unprecedented value, says Mr Prashant Sinha, CEO & Founder, BiUP.ai. 

15:57 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Strategic Investments For Manufacturing And Sustainable Real Estate Growth 

"As India gears up for the upcoming Union Budget, the manufacturing and real estate sectors are key in driving the nation's economic growth. Historically, budgetary allocations towards infrastructure development and housing have significantly contributed to urbanization and industrial expansion. In recent years, initiatives like the PM Gati Shakti plan and incentives for affordable housing have showcased the government's commitment to creating a robust ecosystem for these sectors.

This year, we anticipate measures to further strengthen the manufacturing sector through investments in technology, skill development, and green energy transitions. Similarly, incentives for sustainable construction practices and support for mid-tier cities can stimulate real estate growth while addressing urban housing challenges", says Amit Gossain, Managing Director, KONE Elevators India.

15:29 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Strategy To Enhance Organic Farming And Food Processing 

"The upcoming budget to include significant support for the organic farming industry, focusing on both financial incentives and infrastructure development. Key recommendations include providing monetary support to certified organic food organizations to facilitate the transition of farmers from conventional to organic farming, along with exemption or reduction of APMC and mandi fees to make organic produce more affordable for consumers. He also calls for capital subsidies for investments in land, buildings, and plant/machinery to strengthen the organic food processing ecosystem,says Rohit Mehrotra, Co-founder of Organic Tattva.

14:46 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: How Budget 2025 Can Accelerate EV Adoption? 

The Union Budget 2025 is a critical opportunity to address key challenges in India’s EV transition. To achieve the ambitious target of 30% EV penetration by 2030, it’s crucial to tackle both manufacturing and consumer-centric challenges. "Simplifying the GST structure with a uniform 5% tax across EVs, components, and charging infrastructure is essential to reducing costs and fostering growth., says Mr. Dinkar Agrawal, Founder, CTO & COO, Oben Electric. 

13:55 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Focus On Skilling And Supporting Small Businesses 

"With the Union Budget approaching, we urge the government to prioritize revamping India’s skilling ecosystem to meet digital age demands and empower startups and small businesses to create quality jobs.  Overhauling the apprenticeship program, aligning training with employer needs at a hyperlocal level, supporting small businesses equally as startups, and leveraging AI-driven learning can bridge the skills gap and enable youth to seize entrepreneurial opportunities. Strategic skilling and entrepreneurship investments can unlock India’s demographic dividend and drive a thriving, knowledge-based economy to generate millions of jobs in the coming decades", says  Dr. Ajay Kela, President & CEO, Wadhwani Foundation. 

13:28 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Strengthening Real Estate Growth With Tax Relief And Policy Reforms 

"As we approach the 2025 Union Budget, the real estate sector, which contributes around 8% to India’s GDP, expects the government to bring measures to help sustain its growth trajectory. We urge the government to consider raising the tax deduction ceiling on home loan interest under Section 24(b) of the Income Tax Act from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, which would significantly benefit first-time homebuyers. Additionally, revising the affordable housing price cap in urban areas from Rs 45 lakh to Rs 75 lakh is critical, given the rising costs of land and construction. Granting real estate sector status would also unlock enhanced financing opportunities. We strongly believe that incorporating these policies into the budget will not only strengthen the real estate industry but also contribute significantly to the nation’s economic expansion." says, Mr. Abhishek Raj, Founder & CEO of Jenika Ventures.  

12:57 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Boosting Disposable Incomes for Middle Class and Senior Citizens 

“As Budget 2025 approaches, the middle class and senior citizens are eagerly awaiting relief measures. For the middle class, increasing the basic exemption limit and revising tax slabs would provide financial relief. Introducing a 25% tax slab for incomes between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 30 lakh, while retaining the 30% slab for incomes above Rs 30 lakh, could reduce the steep progression in tax rates and create a fairer structure.

Increasing the home loan interest deduction from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh would also address housing affordability challenges, especially in urban areas. For senior citizens, exempting pension income from tax or enhancing deduction limits under Sections 80C and 80D would support healthcare and retirement needs.

The 8th Pay Commission is another focus. The lowest entry-level basic pay of Rs 18,000, with DA at 53%, currently totals Rs 27,540, expected to rise to Rs 29,000 by January 2026. Based on historical trends, an average increase of 28.5% could raise it to ₹37,265, with a fitment factor of 2.07x. However, aligning with the 7th Pay Commission’s fitment factor of 2.57x could increase basic pay to Rs 46,260, significantly boosting disposable incomes, driving demand, and fostering economic growth", says Sakchi Jain- CA and Financial Educator. 

12:03 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Indian Railways: Catalyst For Jobs, Logistics, And Economic Progress  

"Railways is a crucial component to unleash the full potential of multimodal logistics in India. Today, it offers a highly cost-effective and more climate friendly medium of transportation as compared to road. It is also one of the largest employers in India, upliftment of this sector directly influences the quality and volume of jobs created in the country. Be it for passenger or cargo movement, the Indian railways is one of the most efficient and trusted modes of transportation.

The growth in Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), multimodal cargo parks and similar handshake points has already started yielding better efficiencies in logistics. As more stations get developed, widening the cargo-handling footprint, it will decrease the overall logistics cost for India and is bound to increase efficiency rapidly. This will directly improve India's current 38th rank in the Logistics Performance Index curated by the World Bank.

Therefore, we are hopeful for an overall increase in the capital expenditure by 12-15% in the upcoming Union Budget for FY’26. A continued focus on infrastructure development and rail connectivity to key logistics hubs, technology transfer for advanced and modern trains, digitization, simplification of documentation and improvement of safety features will further enhance the overall efficiency of rail operations.

All of this will enable the logistics sector to harness the full potential of the Indian railways. Furthermore, a deeper integration with the manufacturing industry will bring more revenues to the railways sector, making it a key driver not just for the manufacturing sector but also for overall economic growth.", says Vineet Agarwal, Managing Director, Transport Corporation of India Ltd. (TCI). 

11:07 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Empowering Women Through Budget 2024 In Modi 3.0

"The number of women taxpayers in India is reaching new heights. In the year 2023-24 there were over 22 million women who filed tax returns. Moreover, the budget plays a vital role in promoting economic growth and transforming the future of our nation. A budget may foster financial independence, providing several opportunities to ensure equal pay.  Moreover, it would be a step towards an inclusive and sustainable economy for all. Besides, women's expectations for the upcoming budget are:

1.Greater financial inclusivity.
2.Tax relief and incentives to support working women.
3.Prioritizing gender sensitivity and taking suitable measures for it.

This budget is crucial as it presents an opportunity to empower women by creating a more equitable tax framework. Besides, it not only fosters economic independence but also removes barriers that limit women's potential. Thus, we at Gradding believe in a progressive approach that will uplift women and benefit the entire economy in the long term", said Mamta Shekhawat, Founder of Gradding.com, a study abroad platform.  

20:52 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Expert Wants Tax Reductions To Boost Co-working Space Growth

“In this post-pandemic era, we have seen significant growth in the co-working space sector as organizations seek economical, flexible, and well-equipped working environments. This segment supports entrepreneurs, SMEs, MSMEs, and other organizations across cities, offering cost-effective yet employee-friendly spaces.” said Sreenivas Tirdhala, Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer of iSprout 

19:46 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Expert Demands Cybersecurity Focus In Digital Economy Growth

“As India strives to become a worldwide leader in the digital economy, the 2025 Budget must include cybersecurity as an essential factor. Strategic investments in advanced security infrastructure, as well as incentives for research and development in digital security solutions, are critical for promoting innovation and retaining India's economic advantage.” said Pawan Yadav, Product Manager of Jukshio Technologies

18:55 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Experts Calls For Revision Of Section 80(C) Deduction Limit 

"Ahead of Budget 2025, we seek a balanced approach from the government that will benefit both developers and buyers. However, a revision of the current deduction limit from 2 lakh to 5 lakh under section 80(C) to ease the homeownership experience should also be considered. This is a much-needed step as it would provide significant relief to homebuyers, especially amidst rising property prices and interest rates.” said Rajjath Goel, the Managing Director of MRG Group.

17:34 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live Updates: Expert Demands Promotion Of Green Finance Schemes For EV Growth

"It is imperative that the government creates a supportive ecosystem for EV adoption. This includes incentivizing EV purchases and promoting green finance initiatives. The EV market in India is poised for exponential growth, but the high initial cost of EVs is a barrier for many consumers. To address this, we expect the expansion of the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) scheme to offer higher subsidies for both commercial and personal EVs," said Shalya Gupta, CEO of Credifin Limited.

17:07 IST

Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Boost For Railways And Mega Wagon Orders 

The Union Budget 2025 is expected to focus on mega wagon orders, enhanced funding for safety and technology, and the introduction of advanced 12,000 HP electric locomotives in railways.