If the fiscal deficit was brought down to 5.6% in 2023-24, it was more because of a cut in revenue expenditure than because of growth in tax collections.
The I-T dept Thursday released time-series data on direct tax collections between 2000-01 & 2023-24, showing an increasing reliance on direct taxes versus indirect taxes.
Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget proposals regarding investment in infrastructure, heath and other sectors are capital intensive and will usher significant funds in the Indian economy.
Direct tax collections are growing at around 5% against a budgeted 17% growth and GST revenues have been growing at nearly 12% against a budgeted 15% growth.
Finance ministry says the proposed revamp will focus on structural reforms, rate rationalisation & ease of living, & will be deliberated upon in the coming weeks.
The project is meant to be a ‘protective shield that will keep expanding’, the PM said. It is on the lines of the ‘Golden Dome’ announced by Trump, it is learnt.
Standing up to America is usually not a personal risk for a leader in India. Any suggestions of foreign pressure unites India behind who they see as leading them in that fight.
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