Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Union Budget 2025: Expert Opinions and Outlooks

Must Read

Following the 2025 budget announcement, food industry pioneers have expressed their expectations, aspirations, and hopes with the proposed changes. Below are the direct quotes from some of the leading experts in the retail sector.

  1. Ramadass Selvaraj, Chief Operating Officer at Pathfinder Global

“The Union Budget 2025 brings growth opportunities to the retail sector. The exemption of annual income up to Rs 12 lakh from income tax, along with the rejigged tax slabs, will significantly boost disposable income for consumers. This is set to increase consumer spending, especially in retail and e-commerce. We at Pathfinder are excited by the potential of these measures, as they lay the foundation for an even more vibrant, digitally-driven retail landscape. The future of Indian retail is brighter than ever!”

  1. Ravin Saluja, Director with STERLING AGRO INDUSTRIES LIMITED (Nova Dairy Products)

“The increase in the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan limit from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh is a commendable step towards strengthening financial support for India’s 7.7 crore farmers, including those in the dairy sector. Access to higher credit at subsidised interest rates will enable dairy farmers to invest in better livestock, improve farm infrastructure, and enhance productivity. This initiative will not only support rural livelihoods but also contribute to the growth of the dairy industry, ensuring a stable and self-reliant supply chain. The enhanced loan cap within the revised interest subvention scheme further reduces financial strain, empowering farmers to meet rising operational costs. We appreciate the government’s commitment to uplifting the agricultural and dairy sectors, reinforcing India’s position as a global dairy leader.”

  1. Gagan Anand, Founder, Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic, India’s Fastest-Growing Gelato and Live-Popsicle Brand

“The newly announced union budget 2025 comes with a series of positive actions that will stimulate economic growth and have a positive impact for citizens and companies alike. Most noticeably, the individual income tax exempted level has been boosted to Rs. 12 lakh, effectively reducing taxes for most and putting additional purchasing power in citizens’ pockets. That will stimulate consumption, and in its wake, stimulate industries such as ours. Besides, the Finance Minister announced that credit guarantee cover for micro ventures will be boosted to Rs. 10 crore, with a view to providing an additional Rs. 1.5 lakh crore in credit in five years’ time. That will provide a much-needed financial boost to small ventures, and enable them to expand and generate additional jobs for citizens.”

  1. Simranjeet Singh, Director, CYK Hospitalities 

“The Union Budget 2025 marks the beginning of substantial financial reforms that are going to reshape the F&B consultancy and hospitality sectors. The expansion of credit guarantee coverage will provide better financial support for startups and small enterprises, reducing risks while paving the way for innovation. The strengthening of the role played by financial institutions will provide much-needed support toward funding early ventures to scale up quickly in the hospitality and food businesses. The establishment of a dedicated startup credit ecosystem is a game changer, particularly for first-time women entrepreneurs and businesses from SC and backward communities, creating a larger scope of participation in the industry. In addition, simplifying access to credit could be a boon in itself, particularly with schemes such as the Rs. 2 crore loan initiative for women entrepreneurs that would encourage newer ventures and diversify and promote inclusivity in the F&B space. It is in this context that the sector expects accelerated growth, decked in furtherance of enhancement of supply chains, going into the promotion of regional cuisines, and the development of the agriculture sector, all of which pave the way.”

  1. Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder, Samosa Singh

“A Prospect for Inclusivity and Sustainable Growth The budget takes a progressive stance in promoting sustainability and growth in a number of industries, including the food and beverage sector. Making significant investments in education, digital literacy, and skill development will help create a workforce that is more resilient and equipped to meet the changing needs of companies, particularly those in the food and beverage industry. Supply chains will be strengthened by improved regulations, streamlined infrastructure, and more assistance for rural and agricultural development, which will help businesses that depend on locally produced, fresh ingredients. A big step toward financial inclusion and gender equality has been taken with the provision of tax exemptions and incentives for new firms, especially female entrepreneurs. These actions will promote resilience and growth over the long run. If effectively carried out, the budget stands out as an established path for a more dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive economy, setting up sectors for long-term success.”

  1. Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & MD – Inspira Global

“The Union Budget 2025-26 lays a strong foundation for transformative growth, particularly for the restaurant and hospitality industry and the real estate sector. The government’s focus on increasing disposable income through tax relief and job creation is a significant boost for our sector. We anticipate increased consumer spending, leading to higher foot traffic in restaurants, more frequent dining out, and sustained demand for food delivery services. The budget’s emphasis on urban redevelopment, including the Rs. 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund and enhanced infrastructure spending, creates exciting opportunities for mixed-use developments and real estate projects. Additionally, the allocation of Rs. 1.5 trillion fiscal support for MSMEs is expected to drive capacity expansion, creating a ripple effect that will further fuel demand for industrial real estate. The support for Tier-2 cities and the focus on urban innovation will not only stimulate real estate growth beyond the metros but also bolster homebuyer confidence and encourage further expansion. From gig worker welfare to the development of smart, sustainable cities, this budget’s holistic approach will drive India’s next wave of economic progress, creating new avenues for investment, innovation, and growth across our industries.” 

  1. Vikram Agarwal, Managing Director, Cornitos

“The budget strategically focuses on strengthening the consumer spending and purchasing power. The proposed increase in income tax exemption slab will boost investments and consumption, which will have a positive impact on the FMCG and retail sectors. In addition, considering the growing awareness of healthier food options and the increase in the demand for nutritious food, the government’s initiative towards improving the accessibility and affordability of these essential food items in itself is a remarkable move. These significant steps along with the investments in rural infrastructure and health sectors will accelerate the overall growth of the economy.”

  1. Brahmani Nara, Executive Director, Heritage Foods Ltd.

“We at Heritage Foods Ltd., welcome the Union Budget 2025-26 for its forward-thinking initiatives in the agriculture & export sectors. We are delighted to see the various missions to boost agricultural productivity align strongly with our own commitment to farmers. And the plan to transition one crore farmers to natural farming methods over the next two years resonates with our dedication to sustainable and organic practices. The holistic approach to strengthen India’s agriculture and dairy sectors by improving credit access, with the increase in Kisan Credit Card loan limit to Rs. 5 lakhs and improving infrastructure with investments in post-harvest storage, irrigation, and crop diversification under the ‘Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana’ and Developing Agri Districts Programme will drive sustainable long-term growth of agri-economy. As a company deeply engaged with lakhs of farmers across 9 states, we believe these policies will enhance financial security, foster sustainable farming, and elevate India’s global competitiveness in agriculture and dairy. On exports, we welcome the introduction of the Export Promotion Mission, and the sectoral and ministerial targets to drive global competitiveness. As an organization committed to expanding India’s dairy exports, such structured initiatives will help streamline processes, and improve market access, for all of us on the world stage. As India’s second largest listed dairy company, we are optimistic that these measures will contribute to the growth and prosperity of the agricultural community and the broader economy, while also accelerating India’s journey toward becoming a global agri-food powerhouse.”

  1. Haresh Karamchandani, MD & Group CEO, HyFun Foods 

The Union Budget 2025-26 solidifies the commitment of the government toward food processing, agriculture, MSMEs, and exports—the very strong pillars of the economy. Under ‘Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana,’ there will be efforts toward enhanced agricultural productivity, improved post-harvest storage, and credit availability to farmers. It would lead to a more resilient supply chain for food processing industries like ours. The ‘National Mission on High Yielding Seeds’ will improve yield, quality and climate resilience further, which improves the raw material base for this food processing segment. The government is continuing to push farm exports to a new level, with a strategic goal of reaching $80 billion by 2030. This is also in line with India’s aspiration to be a global food powerhouse. Improved cold chain infrastructure and streamlined export logistics will empower Indian food brands to expand their global footprint. The MSME sector, which forms the backbone of India’s food industry, has received a much-needed boost with enhanced credit guarantees, allowing businesses to invest in advanced technology and expand production. The increase in the Kisan Credit Card loan limit from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh will also strengthen the farming ecosystem. The National Institute of Food Technology in Bihar will further accelerate the innovation in food processing and extend value addition, which will further enhance India’s competitiveness in the global market. Combined with the Export Promotion Mission and BharatTradeNet for seamless trade facilitation, these measures will make it easier for food processors like HyFun Foods to scale and access international markets with ease. These transformative initiatives will well establish the budgetary foundation for a thriving food ecosystem. At HyFun Foods, we look forward to utilizing these opportunities and contributing to India’s economic growth.

  1. Amit Jatia, Chairperson, Westlife Foodworld

“I would congratulate the Finance Minister for presenting a prudent budget that lays out a futuristic blueprint, aligning with India’s consumption driven economy and the vision of Viksit Bharat. The measures announced today are well-positioned to fuel India’s consumption engine through a smart fiscal framework. An increase in the tax ceiling to INR 12 lakh is a welcome move which will certainly strengthen household purchasing power, driving demand across sectors. I am particularly excited with the announcement of the proposed National Institute of Food Technology in Bihar. It is a significant step towards advancing food innovation and strengthening India’s retail and food ecosystem, fostering innovation, skill development, and economic growth. With a smart fiscal framework and a five-pillar strategy for inclusive growth, this budget paves the way for an optimistic business environment and stronger consumer confidence benefiting the overall economy and organized sector players like us.”

  1. Saugata Gupta, MD & CEO, Marico Limited.

“The Union Budget 2025-26 is a bold and forward-looking plan that places the middle class at its core while ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth across all sectors. By prioritizing, agricultural reforms, health & nutrition, education, middle class consumption and economic acceleration, this budget aligns with government’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047. For middle-class families, strategic focus on targeted tax relief and enhanced social security measures, will uplift household sentiments, boost disposable income and drive consumption. This will provide much-needed financial stability to the masses. Inclusivity is at the heart of Budget 2025, with strategic initiatives to bridge economic disparities and foster equal opportunities for all. Support for women, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and marginalized communities will drive equitable growth, making economic prosperity more accessible. The continued focus on rural development, with enhanced credit availability for farmers and initiatives like the National Mission for Edible Oilseeds and Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, will drive agricultural productivity and strengthen rural economies. The allocation of Rs. 1.71 lakh crore to agriculture and allied activities, coupled with initiatives like the National Mission for Edible Oilseeds, Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, and the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, will drive agricultural productivity, stabilize rural economies, and ensure farmers have access to essential resources. In the realm of health and nutrition, the enhancement of cost norms for nutritional support programs like Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 is a significant step. The emphasis on MSMEs, including credit support for micro enterprises, and emphasis on upskilling the youth and reforms in education is a step forward in fostering entrepreneurship and job creation. The focus on accelerated sectoral growth is evident through incentives for manufacturing, technology, infrastructure, and sustainable energy. By investing in digital infrastructure, skill development, and supply chain enhancements, the Budget paves the way for direct and indirect jobs, innovation, and long-term economic resilience. Overall, Budget 2025 strikes a crucial balance between fiscal responsibility and progressive reforms. This is a budget that fuels aspirations, strengthens the middle class, drives simplicity, and charts a clear path toward a more prosperous and inclusive future.”

  1. Smita Jatia, Chairperson Chairwoman, RMHC India.

“This Union Budget struck a good balance between unlocking India’s economy and improving quality of life, which is commendable. Our Hon’ble Finance Minister beautifully emphasized that true progress lies in creating policies and reforms that can build overall social equity. The Budget gave a clear direction towards critical healthcare access and livelihood security. The nationwide rollout of cancer care centers which will directly address critical gaps in pediatric oncology support, is a welcome move. It reflects a compassionate approach to systemic challenges. Coupled with urban welfare programs that empower communities. These initiatives will definitely create a multiplier effect, essential for India’s next phase of equitable growth”.

  1. Gaurav Manchanda, the Founder & Director, The Organic World

“I appreciate Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman’s focus on agriculture in the Union Budget, particularly with the introduction of the Prime Minister Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana. By targeting 100 low-productivity districts, this initiative aims to support crop diversification, improve storage facilities, enhance irrigation, and expand credit access for farmers. These steps are essential for promoting sustainable farming practices and increasing the availability of nutritious, clean-label foods for consumers. As the Founder and Director of The Organic World, I welcome the government’s support for a health-conscious society and the organic food ecosystem. This budget provides a solid framework for strengthening the agricultural sector, benefiting farmers and ensuring better access to clean, healthy, worry-free food across India.”

  1. Chandan Polekarm, CEO, Adinath Agro.

 “As a packaged foods company, I view the Union Budget as a positive step forward. The reduction in taxes is expected to boost consumer spending, which will undoubtedly benefit our industry. Additionally, the government’s focus on improving agricultural fields will help stabilize prices. The continued support for food subsidies and rural employment will sustain strong demand in both urban and rural areas. As a company, we remain committed to offering healthy and affordable food options, and the budget’s emphasis on boosting consumption is highly encouraging”.

  1. Ashvini Jakhar, Founder and CEO, Prozo.

The Union Budget 2025, guided by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s vision of ‘Reform, Perform, and Transform,’ presents transformative opportunities for India’s supply chain sector. With a record Rs. 11.21 lakh crore infrastructure outlay (up 10% YoY) and a strong push for multi-modal logistics parks, the budget prioritizes seamless connectivity—a critical enabler for Prozo’s tech-driven warehousing and logistics network. The Rs. 1.5 lakh crore interest-free loan scheme extension for 50 years to states will further accelerate infrastructure development, including last-mile connectivity. Additionally, the Rs. 4,000 crore allocation for the PM-Drive scheme aligns with Prozo’s commitment to sustainable logistics through EV adoption. The introduction of BharatTradeNet (BTN) as a unified digital infrastructure for trade documentation and financing is a significant step toward reducing inefficiencies in trade facilitation. If seamlessly integrated with the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP), BTN could enhance transparency, eliminate redundancies, and streamline cross-border trade. However, ensuring interoperability with private logistics networks is crucial to achieving real-time, end-to-end supply chain visibility. While the FM’s emphasis on ‘ease of doing business through digital public infrastructure’ is commendable, the absence of sector-agnostic, PLI-like incentives for logistics technology remains a gap. As Prozo scales to 10 million sq. ft. of smart warehouses, policy tailwinds in rail electrification, GST simplification, and AI-driven supply chain intelligence can play a pivotal role in reducing logistics costs by 20-25%—a key driver for India’s $2 trillion e-commerce vision. At Prozo, we believe this budget lays a strong foundation for a digitally connected, globally competitive supply chain ecosystem.

  1. Varun Tangri, Founder & CEO, QueueBuster:

The budget represents a substantial boost to firms across sectors, particularly MSMEs. The increased classification limit will allow them to expand operations and drive economic growth. The introduction of customised credit cards for micro enterprises will enhance access to tailored financial solutions, ensuring smoother cash flow and growth opportunities. Additionally, the Rs. 10,000 crore corpus for MSMEs and startup term loans will provide much-needed financial support, fostering innovation and expansion. This budget also strengthens the retail industry, creating a more dynamic and inclusive business environment. With these reforms, India is poised for rapid growth, job creation, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

  1. Rishi Bagla, Dy Chairman, CII Western Region

The budget announced by the finance minister outlines the vision for Viksit Bharat. The income tax rationalisation will leave people with higher spending power in their hands, which will  boost manufacturing and job creation. Schemes to foster innovation and relief provided for exports will aid India’s competitiveness in the global markets. This will make India a manufacturing powerhouse. The thrust on MSMEs and startups  will not just promote job creation but also technological advancements. Overall the budget clearly outlines the government’s priorities, focusing on fostering economic growth, promoting inclusive development, supporting industries, and enhancing household confidence.

  1. Abhishek Jain, Director, Green Economy and Impact Innovations, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW)

“The announced National Mission on High Yielding Seeds rightly focuses on improving climate resilience of the seed varieties while improving yields. However, it should not only look at the kilograms of output but also the micronutrient profile of the output. Chasing quantity, our produce is increasingly becoming deprived of important micronutrients, contributing to a rampant issue of micronutrient deficiency in the country.”

  1. Anshul Garg, Director & CEO, Aroma AAT Basmati Rice

The Union Budget 2025 offers a forward-looking outlook on the Indian agriculture space, “The PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana in partnership with states will be a significant boost in Basmati production domestically. This is a meaningful and era-appropriate announcement to increase India’s agri productivity and will benefit increasing Indian Basmati rice’s increased penetration in global key markets. As productivity increases, the emphasis on helping up to 1.7 Crore Indian farmers with both short and long term credit lines will also help to advance the rural economy and the creation of employment opportunities in the space will help position India as the global food basket.”

  1. Mohit Malhotra, CEO, Dabur India Ltd. 

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Union Budget 2025-26 marks a pivotal step towards enhancing the financial well-being and quality of life for millions of middle-class families. The substantial tax relief measures, particularly making income up to Rs. 12 lakh tax-free, will provide essential financial respite to middle-class families, increasing their disposable income, encouraging spending, and promoting overall economic growth. This focus on the middle class addresses a long-standing demand and is a positive step towards a more inclusive and robust economy. I am optimistic that this move will help stem the slowdown in urban consumption and bring it back on the growth track. Additionally, the budget’s emphasis on the agricultural sector, with enhanced support for farmers through increased Kisan Credit Card limits and targeted financial incentives, is commendable. These measures will not only strengthen the agricultural backbone of our country but also ensure food security and sustainable growth in the sector. The government’s continued focus on rural infrastructure development is another step in the right direction, as it would further boost consumer demand in the hinterland. Providing farmers access to global best practices marks a pivotal step towards modernizing Indian agriculture, promising to enhance yields and farm incomes. Overall, I feel the Union Budget 2025-26 paves a transformative path towards ‘Viksit Bharat,’ striking a harmonious balance between economic growth, social welfare, and structural reforms.

  1. Shubham Jhuria, CFO & Partner at Aeravti Ventures

The latest Budget brings an immediate positive impact to four key sectors—Infrastructure, Energy, Healthcare, and Consumption. The Government’s emphasis on developing both rural and urban infrastructure will not only fuel the broader consumption story but also strengthen the supply chain and agricultural sectors. Rather than focusing on direct tax rebates for startups, this Budget prioritizes long-term, business-building policies. The strategic push toward clean energy, the Nuclear Mission, and healthcare expansion creates a strong foundation for innovation. These positive policy movements are likely to attract more investors, providing a significant boost to founders operating in these spaces.

Overall, India’s growth trajectory remains intact, with strong tailwinds supporting the startup ecosystem.

  1. Mayank Prasad, Founder, Curated Catering by Design

“The 2025 budget brings encouraging developments for the food and beverage industry, particularly for catering and hospitality businesses. The establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology will drive innovation and skill development in food processing, benefiting the entire ecosystem.

The push to enhance tourism by developing 50 key destinations is a welcome move that will directly boost demand for premium catering services. Additionally, government support for hospitality training programs will help bridge the skill gap, ensuring a well-trained workforce for the sector. These measures collectively create a strong foundation for growth, allowing the catering industry to innovate, scale, and contribute more significantly to India’s evolving culinary landscape.”

  1. Abhay Parnerkar, CEO, Godrej Foods Ltd

“The Union Budget 2025 takes significant strides in strengthening the F&B and frozen food industries by focusing on self-reliance, value-added processing, and global competitiveness. The emphasis on edible oils and pulses will enhance supply chain stability, while reduced customs duties on marine products will drive seafood exports and bolster India’s presence in global markets. Investments in post-harvest infrastructure and food processing will not only improve efficiency but also create better income opportunities for farmers by expanding market access. Strengthening the farm-to-fork ecosystem will ensure better quality, reduced wastage, and wider availability of frozen and ready-to-eat foods, ultimately benefiting both producers and consumers.”

  1. Sanjay Nayar, President, ASSOCHAM   

“Finance Minister Mrs Nirmala Sitharaman has lived up to wider expectations by giving significant relief to individual taxpayers, maintaining the fiscal deficit of 4.4 per cent of GDP. ‘Priorities to agriculture, rural demand, agro and food processing, warehousing and marine products would infuse a greater vibrancy in the country’s rural landscape. Leaving annual income of individuals up to Rs 12 lakh a year tax -free and rationalising TDS/TCS thresholds and slabs would not only provide ease of living for common citizens but also provide an ease of doing business for small and micro entrepreneurs. As was indicated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, his government has foregone a revenue of Rs 1 lakh crore, on account of direct tax exemptions and reliefs, mainly to the middle class. This is quite a bold approach and should pay off to the economic growth.” 

  1. Shriti Malhotra, Executive Chairman, Quest Retail – The Body Shop

“The increase in the income tax exemption limit to Rs. 12 lakh is a decisive step toward boosting urban consumption, allowing middle-class households greater financial flexibility and spending power. Additionally  Atal Tinkering Labs and the expansion of skilling programs will empower the workforce of tomorrow, while the inclusion of gig workers in social security schemes provides much-needed recognition and stability for this crucial segment of the new-age economy. However, to truly unlock the full potential of India’s dynamic retail sector, we look forward to a structured National Retail Policy that streamlines compliance, supports omnichannel growth, and fosters sustainable employment opportunities.”

  1. Kishor Fogla, Founder of Yellow Slice

“One key observation on Budget 2025 is its synergetic focus on retail sector advancement via digital transformation and startup assistance. This strategy will pay off over the next 18 months, as we expect a 30% increase in retail technology adoption. The government’s focus on ease of doing business paired with manufacturing initiatives establishes a strong base to allow for sustainable retail growth for both offline and online channels. With increased focus on local manufacturing, retailers will be able to respond to shifts in consumer behavior more effectively while reducing lead times and improving profit margins. Overall, this budget satisfies both short term and long term goals.”

  1. Yash Kela, Founder, Singularity Ventures

”The Union Budget 2025-26 reinforces India’s commitment to startups, deeptech, and sustainable innovation. The Rs. 10,000 crore Fund of Funds for Startups and the proposed Deeptech Fund will provide vital financial backing, while 10,000 research fellowships at IITs and IISc will strengthen the design first , product + service export ecosystem we want to build in the country.  The focus on clean tech manufacturing—spanning solar PV cells, EV batteries, electrolyzers, and wind turbines—positions India as a global leader in climate-friendly industrial growth.  Additionally, the Rs. 2 crore funding scheme for first-time women entrepreneurs is a significant step toward fostering inclusive business leadership.At Singularity , we believe these bold initiatives that will accelerate startup growth, drive deeptech breakthroughs, and propel India toward global innovation leadership.”

  1. Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailers Association of India. 

Budget 2025 has delivered on several key expectations for the retail sector. The increase in income tax exemption to Rs. 12 lakh is a welcome relief for the industry that had witnessed reduced consumption in the past year. Better consumption means better business for retailers. The expansion of MSME benefits, including easier access to credit, customised credit cards, and the new Fund of Funds, should drive a wave of new products and innovations, increasing supply and competition in the market. Ease of doing business has been a key focus, with regulatory simplifications and the push for state-level reforms expected to improve the retail environment. Gig worker recognition, with e-Shram ID cards and health cover, will support the growing omnichannel retail ecosystem by strengthening last-mile delivery and digital commerce. Industry-specific measures, including support for the footwear, leather, toys, and electronics sectors, will help these industries scale up. Women workers in retail will benefit from initiatives like working women’s hostels and crèches, making workforce participation easier. Overall, this is a progressive, growth-driven budget that strengthens retail, empowers businesses, and prioritises consumption as a key driver of economic momentum.

  1. Gaurav Grover, CEO, ofi India

“The 2025 Budget’s emphasis on agriculture as the ‘first engine’ of growth is a decisive step towards strengthening India’s food and agri-sector. The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana targeting 100 low-productivity districts and benefiting 1.7 crore farmers will drive sustainable agriculture and better credit access. The six-year ‘Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses’ will enhance post-harvest management, and ensure remunerative pricing—critical for meeting India’s growing demand. Additionally, the increase in Kisan Credit Card loan limits from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh will provide much-needed financial support to farmers. The emphasis on food processing, FPOs, and skilling will further strengthen the agri-value chain, creating opportunities for innovation and growth in the F&B industry. With the National Mission on High Yielding Seeds focusing on over 100 new seed varieties and the establishment of a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar, India is poised for a transformative leap in agri-productivity and food processing.”

  1. Rohan Bhargava, Co-Founder of CashKaro and EarnKaro

“The government’s decision to enhance investment and turnover limits—by 2.5x and 2x, respectively—is a transformative step for India’s MSME sector. With 5.7 crore MSMEs contributing 36% to manufacturing and 45% to exports, this move will empower small businesses to scale, innovate, and drive economic growth. By enabling greater access to capital, fostering technological advancements, and creating more employment opportunities, this policy shift strengthens India’s position as a global manufacturing hub. Given that MSMEs employ 7.5 crore people, this boost will open new avenues for skilled talent.”

  1. Swati Bhargava, Co-founder of CashKaro and EarnKaro

“With the announcement of an additional Rs. 10,000 crore for the Fund of Funds for Startups (FoF for Startups) scheme, the government has reinforced its commitment to India’s thriving startup ecosystem. This initiative, now totaling Rs. 20,000 crore, significantly strengthens the funding landscape for emerging ventures. With the FoF for Startups already securing commitments exceeding Rs. 9 lakh crore, it’s clear that confidence in India’s startup potential is at an all-time high. This move will accelerate innovation, reduce reliance on foreign capital, and empower homegrown businesses to expand globally.”

  1. Sumit Kumar, Chief Strategy Officer, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship

“The budget places a strong emphasis on education and digital empowerment, ensuring that India’s talent pipeline is built from the ground up. The establishment of three Centres of Excellence on AI for Education, with an outlay of Rs. 500 crore, will drive AI-integrated learning, research, and innovation, preparing students for next-generation careers in artificial intelligence and automation. To further strengthen technical education, IITs set up after 2015 will see an expansion, adding 6,500 more student seats, enhancing access to world-class learning and research opportunities. At the school level, 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) will be established in government schools, fostering scientific curiosity, innovation, and problem-solving skills among students. Additionally, the government’s commitment to broadband connectivity for all secondary schools will play a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide, particularly in rural and underserved areas, where millions of students still lack access to quality digital education. In today’s technology-driven economy, digital literacy is no longer optional—it is a fundamental skill for employability and economic mobility. Ensuring that youth across India, regardless of socio-economic background, have access to digital resources will level the playing field, empower them with future-ready skills, and enable them to participate in India’s growing digital economy. By integrating early exposure to STEM education, AI-driven learning, and higher technical training, these initiatives create a seamless learning-to-employment pathway, equipping youth with the tools needed to thrive in the global digital landscape and accelerating India’s journey toward a Viksit Bharat.” 

33. Arvind Dadu, Managing Director, Anand Sweets

With the vision of Viksit Bharat at its core, this Budget has charted a bold and strategic roadmap for India’s economic resilience. One of the biggest highlights is the significant income tax cuts and higher exemptions, which put more money in the hands of individuals and businesses. The hope is that this extra disposable income will drive consumer spending, which, in turn, will encourage businesses like ours to expand, invest in new capacities, create jobs, and contribute to a stronger economy. The recognition of Makhana as a superfood and the proposal to establish a Makhana Board in Bihar is a great step towards improving production, processing, value addition, and marketing. Additionally, the announcement of a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management in Bihar signals a deeper commitment to the food processing sector, an industry with immense potential to uplift farmers, boost exports, and create employment opportunities. Finally, I was hoping this budget would simplify GST, especially to make compliance easier for businesses. The whole ‘ease of doing business’ initiative should focus on reducing the complexity of GST, particularly for restaurants, delivery partners, and the food industry. Right now, GST is way too complicated, with different rates based on specific product characteristics. If we had broader tax categories instead of these micro-level distinctions, it would be so much more manageable. That relief is still missing, and I really hope we see it soon.

34.  Pramesh Goyal, Managing Director, Goyal Salt

“The Centre’s move to revise the tax slabs is expected to stimulate middle class spending, boosting disposable income and fuelling socio-economic growth. By promoting private consumption, the budget announcements will support the growth of the rural and urban economies. The budget creates substantial development prospects for the FMCG sector by laying a solid foundation for an economy that is more driven by consumption.”

Latest News

Jubilant FoodWorks Limited Reports 9MFY’25 and Q3FY’25 Results

Jubilant FoodWorks Limited, one of the leading emerging markets’ food-tech Company, today announced its financial results for the nine...