Global economic environment a concern with inflation becoming an issue across the world, says Economic Survey 2021-22, tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament.
On development front, 33% Indians want agriculture to be top focus while 31% prefer roads & highways to be the key area, the survey says, adding 47% seek health focus on social front.
FM Sitharaman is likely to raise NHAI capex, but its borrowings from external sources will be curtailed. Highways asset monetisation's plans are on track.
Budget should offer immediate relief to people worst hit during pandemic, focus on public investment in infrastructure, continue disinvestment plans for PSUs.
Budget could also look at tax rebates to stimulate housing demand, raising standard deduction, getting rid of redundant stock market taxes to encourage households to invest.
In the first paperless Union Budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said there will be 100% electrification of broad gauge rail tracks by December 2023.
Modi govt may have to strike a fine balance between health finance and economic reality even as the pandemic has tested the capacity of Indian health system.
Like Turkey and Egypt, Pakistan is one of a handful of powers with the human resources and infrastructure to help secure the Persian Gulf as Trump’s America draws down its military presence.
ACM Katre was 2nd IAF chief to die in harness. It was at a memorial lecture in his honour where IAF chief AP Singh revealed that India shot down 6 Pakistani aircraft in Op Sindoor.
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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