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Published 07:24 IST, February 1st 2025

No Reduction in Public Spending on Capital Expenditure: Sitharaman in Post-Budget Presser

Union Budget 2025 Speech Updates: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announces the government will introduce a new Income Tax Bill next week.

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Income Tax Simplication Completed, Bill to be Brought Next Week: Sitharaman | LIVE
Income Tax Simplication Completed, Bill to be Brought Next Week: Sitharaman | LIVE | Image: ANI

Union Budget 2025: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled her eighth consecutive Union Budget presentation. Earlier, she visited President Droupadi Murmu to obtain her signature on the Budget. The Union Cabinet has approved the Budget.

After her hour and 25-minute-long Budget speech ,Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed it as the "People's Budget."

Finance Minister Sitharaman will address a press conference at 3 PM.
 


22:40 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget is foundation stone to fulfil vision of Viksit Bharat: CM Yogi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lauded the Union Budget presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, stating that the Prime Minister has categorised the budget into four parts, poor, youth, farmers and women and the budget lays the foundation for achieving the steps needed to fulfil the vision of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).
CM Yogi Adityanath said, "Under the vision of PM Modi, the finance minister has tabled the Union Budget 2025 today. This budget is the foundation stone for achieving the steps taken to attain the res of Viksit Bharat. PM Modi has categorised this budget into four parts: Poor, youth, farmers and women. Under the leadership of PM in the last 10 and half years, the economy has developed and with this budget, it will grow further. The interest-free loan for improving infrastructure will benefit the states."


21:53 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget looked at those sections which were never looked at before: Jitan Ram Manjhi

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi says, "The budget has also looked at those sections which were never looked at before. Makhana Board was formed for Bihar and there have been talks of improvement in IITs. There have been talks of improvement in the Kosi Project. Any person having income up to Rs 12 lakhs will not have to pay income tax."



21:35 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget will give new direction to middle-class people: Praful Patel

On the Union Budget 2025, NCP Working President Praful Patel says, "The budget is really good and it will give a new direction to the middle-class people. They always want to get some relief from Income Tax. Such a huge step has been taken for the middle class by raising the Income Tax slab from Rs 7 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs. This will benefit the people staying in the urban areas. Apart from this, there are several other things in the budget, especially for the farmers, for technology innovation, education, medicines and to increase the country's exports. The opposition has always been saying ill about the budget, they keep finding some or the other issues in the budget..."


21:06 IST, February 1st 2025

MP CM on budget criticism says, "Naach Na Jaane Aangan Tedha"

On opposition criticising the Union Budget 2025, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav says, "Naach Na Jaane Aangan Tedha..."

He further added, "This is one of the best budgets that have been presented...I would like to congratulate the Finance Minister for presenting a budget which has balanced things..."



20:35 IST, February 1st 2025

Chidambaram slams government over union budget

Congress on Saturday slammed the Union Budget 2025-26, stating that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is walking on a worn-out path and she and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have not followed the advice of Chief Economic Advisor on the need to deregulate and that the government's "stranglehold" on the activities of the people is getting tighter.
Addressing a press conference, former Finance Minister P Chidambaram said the economy will trudge along on the old path and deliver no more than the usual 6 or 6.5 per cent growth in 2025-26.
"This is a far cry from the 8 per cent growth rate that the CEA estimated in order to become a developed country. In our view, this is a government with no new ideas and no will to reach beyond its grasp," he said.


20:34 IST, February 1st 2025

GST collections in January soar 12.3 pc to Rs 1.96 lakh crore

Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections in January, in gross terms, stood at Rs 1.96 lakh crore, with a yearly jump of 12.3 per cent, according to data from the finance ministry released Saturday.
In January 2024, the total collection was to the tune of Rs 1.74 lakh crore.
CGST, SGST, IGST, and cess all showed an increase on year-on-year basis in December 2024, official data made available showed today.



19:21 IST, February 1st 2025

Ramdas Athawale lashes out at opposition's statements on Budget

Union Minister Ramdas Athawle on Saturday sharply criticised the opposition's statements on the Union budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, stating that their perspective is "useless." He asserted that the budget had taken into account all sections of society and would serve to boost the economy.

Athawale said "The opposition says that the budget is useless, but their perspective is only useless... this budget will boost the economy, all sections have been considered in this budget..."


19:13 IST, February 1st 2025

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat says 50 iconic destinations get infra status

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat says, "... For a long time, the tourism industry has been trying for infrastructure status in private investment, this permit has been given to 50 iconic destinations, the vision to develop them globally, will give a new boost to the tourism in India..."



18:59 IST, February 1st 2025

'Budget will lay the foundation for Viksit Bharat' says BJP leader

BJP leader CP Joshi says, "The budget has been presented as per the hopes and expectations of the country...even the opposition is appreciating it (income tax exemption). Today's budget will lay the foundation for Viksit Bharat and will work to strengthen it further. In accordance with the hopes and expectations of this country, be it farmers, women, youth or labourers, this budget is for everyone... education, medical, railways, civil aviation, every sector has been included in it..."


18:43 IST, February 1st 2025

Jairam Ramesh says GST 2.0 is becoming a dream

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh says, "GST 1.0 has become a nightmare. But GST 2.0 is becoming a dream now. We have been calling for reforms of GST.  The chief economic advisor himself has said that Indian companies are making huge profits but salaries are not increasing, wage rates are not increasing. So who is benefiting? Ultimately, even economic inequality is a very serious issue. But there's been no attempt even to address it, to mention it. It's very disappointing..."



18:25 IST, February 1st 2025

'Budget focuses on the development of all four sections' says Chhattisgarh CM

On Union Budget 2025, Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai says, "The income tax relief limit has been raised up to Rs 12 lakhs, this will prove to be a boon for the middle class... this will be a foundation for PM Modi's vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047... The budget focuses on the development of all four sections - women, farmers, youth and poor..."


17:54 IST, February 1st 2025

'This development-oriented budget for the middle class' says Prahlad Joshi

Union Minister Prahlad Joshi says, "This is a progressive and development-oriented budget for the middle class. It is for both the middle and poor classes. This budget can take the Indian economy to greater heights... I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman."



17:33 IST, February 1st 2025

Giriraj Singh says Union budget 2025 is 'inclusive'

Union Minister Giriraj Singh says, "... PM Narendra Modi focussed on 4 sectors- women, poor people, youth, and farmers. All four sectors have been covered (in the budget)... Whichever angle you look at it from, it is an inclusive budget for the whole society... If the PM talked about a food processing training centre for the people of Purvanchal, then what was wrong with that? Do they (the opposition) hate the people of Bihar?... If PM Narendra Modi talked about developing ITI then what is there to hate in this?... This (hatred) is because of a flaw in the mentality of Congress and the opposition."


17:26 IST, February 1st 2025

'FM has presented an excellent budget' says Hiranandani group Chairman

Chairman, Hiranandani Group, Dr Niranjan Hiranandani says, " Nirmala Sitharaman has presented an excellent budget with a fiscal deficit consolidation which has been a target of the budget, despite that she has been able to invest into various sectors of the economy including the idea of creating funds like Swamy funds for real estate...introduction of Swamy funds 2 with Rs 15,000 crores contribution by the central govt and there will be more contribution by banks and financial institutions..."



17:10 IST, February 1st 2025

'One crore more people will pay no tax' says Sitharaman

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman says, "One crore more people will pay no tax. On the CAPEX, I think there are two things playing out. One, of course, this particular year has had the elections happening and because of that both central government and state governments were catching up with investments, public spending on investments only from the second and the third quarter. So, it showed. It is equally true that when fundamental requirements are taken care of, when you are bringing in additional over it, there is a pace at which those additions happen..."


16:49 IST, February 1st 2025

Tax changes benefit earners up to Rs 24 lakh more, says Nirmala Sitharaman

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman says, "If you compare what we have done today with what was done in 2014 under the Congress government...the change in rates has also benefited people earning Rs 24 lakh. Now they have Rs 2.6 lakh more than under the old system. So, it is not just those earning up to Rs 12 lakh who are benefited, because they do not have to pay any tax due to exemptions..."



16:37 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget support to boost India’s maritime sector: Sarbananda Sonowal

On Union Budget 2025, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal says, "... To make India the world's leading maritime nation, PM Narendra Modi has set the target of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. Through Ship Building Financial Assistance Policy 2.0, we have a huge opportunity for shipbuilding and ship recycling till 2034. ... One thing is clear from all the announcements- In the coming days, we will get an opportunity to move further ahead in our sectors. With the support given in the budget, we can develop this sector on a very large scale..."
 


16:23 IST, February 1st 2025

There is no reduction in the public spending on capital expenditure: Sitharaman

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman says, "There is no reduction in the public spending on capital expenditure. We continue to place emphasis on the multiplier effect that capital expenditure done by government has shown has sustained us. We continue on that, and with all this, our fiscal prudence has been maintained..."



16:18 IST, February 1st 2025

Tariffs are being brought down, tariffs are being simplified: FM Sitharaman

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at a press conference said, "...One thing which I certainly would like to highlight is responding to the voice of the people, which is what Prime Minister Modi is known for in his administration. It's a very responsive government and as a result, the income tax simplification which I announced in July is already completed in its works and we shall bring the bill in the next week...So if we are talking of reform inclusive of taxation, the work is done. This budget also speaks about rationalization and customs. Tariffs are being brought down, tariffs are being simplified..."


16:00 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: Law Ministry Gets Over Rs 14,000 Cr

The Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated more than Rs 1,400 crore to the law ministry to meet carry forward expenditure for holding the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and purchase of new electronic voting machines for the Election Commission.

The legislative department in the law ministry is the nodal agency for the Election Commission (EC), polls, electoral laws and appointment of members to the poll panel.

According to the Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday, the law ministry has been allotted Rs 500 crore for Lok Sabha elections, another Rs 300 crore for identity cards for voters, and Rs 597.80 crore for "other election expenses".



15:51 IST, February 1st 2025

Here's What FM Announced for the Education Sector: AI Push, Infrastructure Expansion at 5 New IITs

Infrastructure expansion at the five new IITs to facilitate 6,500 more students, 10,000 new medical seats and a big Artificial Intelligence push. These are among the big announcements made by the government for the education sector in the 2025-26 budget.

The Ministry of Education has been allocated more than Rs 1.28 lakh crore in the Union Budget 2025-26, higher than the revised estimate of Rs 1.14 lakh crore in 2024-25.

While the Higher Education department has been allocated an amount of Rs 50,067 crore, the school education department has received Rs 78,572.
 


15:45 IST, February 1st 2025

'Budget Announcement on MSMEs Will Greatly Benefit': Manipur CM

 Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Saturday said the enhancement of investment and turnover limits for the classification of MSMEs proposed in the Union Budget will be highly beneficial for the state.

He also hailed the zero tax on income up to Rs 12 lakh per annum as a significant step towards alleviating the "financial burdens of hardworking families".

"The New Classification Criteria for MSMEs will be greatly beneficial to Manipur which has been a major contributor to the MSME business registration among the North East states," the CM said in a post on X.
 



15:41 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: Sports and Youth Affairs Budget Raised by Over Rs 350 Crore

The government's flagship Khelo India programme to scout and nurture athletes at the grassroots level was the biggest beneficiary as the allocation for sports and youth affairs was hiked substantially by Rs 351.98 crore in the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here on Saturday.

The ambitious scheme has been allocated Rs 1,000 crore for the financial year 2025-26. This is Rs 200 crore more than the grant of Rs 800 crore in 2024-25.

Overall, the Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports was designated Rs 3,794.30 crore.
 


15:39 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: Govt to Set Up National Manufacturing Mission

The government on Saturday announced to set up a National Manufacturing Mission to further promote Make in India initiative.

The Mission's mandate will include five focus areas ease and cost of doing business; future ready workforce for in-demand jobs; a vibrant and dynamic MSME sector; availability of technology; and quality products.

The scheme will cover small, medium and large industries, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in her Budget speech.



15:37 IST, February 1st 2025

BJP President J P Nadda Hails Union Budget 2025 As 'Visionary Roadmap'

BJP president J P Nadda on Saturday hailed the Union Budget as a "visionary roadmap" that embodies the aspirations of 140 crore Indians and lights the way towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Viksit Bharat.' Presenting the Union Budget for 2025-26 in Lok Sabha, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made a slew of announcements, including exempted annual income of up to Rs 12 lakh from income tax and rejigged tax slabs.


15:22 IST, February 1st 2025

How Long Was Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget Speech?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget speech for 2025 lasted 1 hour and 14 minutes. Her interim Budget speech in 2024 was the shortest, lasting just 57 minutes.



15:06 IST, February 1st 2025

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Congratulates Finance Minister for Massive Tax Relief

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting a "wonderful" Budget that promotes the development of youth, poor farmers, and women, as well as all sections and regions of society. He also welcomed the decision to give income tax relief on annual income up to Rs 12 lakh.


14:53 IST, February 1st 2025

'Force Multiplier Budget': PM Modi on Union Budget 2025

In his post budget remarks, PM Modi called the Budget a force multiplier that will boost investment, consumption and growth. He also said the Budget's announcements for farmers will revolutionise agriculture sector and rural economy



14:43 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: PM Modi Hails It As People's Budget

In an address PM Modi said this Budget fulfils dreams of every Indian, reflects aspirations of 140 cr Indians. 

“It is a people's Budget", he added.

“Budgets often focus on filling treasury, this Budget aims to fill people's pockets and increase savings”, he further stated.


14:32 IST, February 1st 2025

It's a Dream Budget for Middle Class: Maharasthra CM Fadnavis on Union Budget

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday described the Union Budget as a "dream budget" for the middle class, stating that it will spur growth and lead to an inclusive economy.

Talking to reporters here after the Union Budget for the fiscal 2025-26 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Fadnavis hailed the decision to raise the income tax exemption for income up to Rs 12 lakh from Rs 7 lakh under the new tax regime.



14:30 IST, February 1st 2025

Govt Increases Environment Ministry Budget by 9 Pc to Boost Conservation Efforts

The central government has allotted Rs 3,412.82 crore to the Union Environment Ministry in the 2025-26 Union Budget, an increase of 9 per cent from 3,125.96 crore in 2024-25.

The Budget allocates more funds for ecosystem conservation, wildlife protection and expanding forest cover.


13:29 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: FM Proposes to Fully Exempt 36 Life-Saving Medicines from Custom Duty

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday proposed to fully exempt customs duty on 36 drugs used in the treatment of cancer, rare diseases and other severe chronic diseases.

The government had earlier cut customs duties on Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, Osimertinib and Durvalumab from 10 per cent to nil.

"To provide relief to patients, particularly those suffering from cancer, rare diseases and other severe chronic diseases, I propose to add 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines to the list of medicines fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty (BCD)," Sitharaman said while presenting 8th consecutive Budget.



13:19 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget 2025: What gets expensive?

Union Budget 2025: To address the inverted duty structure, the government has proposed raising the basic customs duty on interactive flat panel displays from 10 percent to 20 percent. 
 


13:17 IST, February 1st 2025

'Middle Class Always in PM Modi's Heart': Home Minister Amit Shah

Union HM Amit Shah tweets, "The middle class is always in PM Modi’s heart. Zero Income Tax till Rs 12 Lakh Income.The proposed tax exemption will go a long way in enhancing the financial well-being of the middle class..."



13:13 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: Nitin Gadkari Praises Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari took to X to praise the Finance Minister, “Anchored in the pillars of Innovation, Inclusion, and Investment, it emphasizes reforms, youth leadership, community participation, women empowerment, and Centre-State collaborations to drive holistic development. By fostering entrepreneurship, digital expansion, and robust infrastructure, it paves the way for sustained prosperity. With resilience and sustainable growth at its core, this budget reaffirms Bharat’s commitment to self-reliance, progress, and global excellence.”


12:58 IST, February 1st 2025

‘Very Good’: PM Modi Congratulates FM Nirmala Sitharaman In Parliament

Union Budget Live: PM congratulates Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament saying "Everybody praising you, Budget is very good''.



12:49 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: What Gets Cheaper?

Fish Products – Basic Customs Duty (BCD) reduced from 30% to 5%
Cobalt Powder – Fully exempted from customs duty
Lithium Battery Scrap – Fully exempted from customs duty
EV Battery Components (Lithium Iron Battery)
Fisheries Industry – Special customs duty exemption introduced
Certain Leather Items – BCD exemptions provided
Cancer, chronic diseases – 36 life-saving drugs exempted from basic customs duty


12:44 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: FM Announces Rationalisation of TDS

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday announced rationalisation of TDS (Tax Deduction at Source) regime to ease compliance burden.

Presenting the Budget for 2025-26, she said tax proposals are guided by income tax reforms for middle class, TDS rationalisation, and easing compliance burden.

The government will also be introducing a new Income Tax (I-T) bill in Parliament next week.



12:32 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: Zero Income Tax Under New Tax Regime

Revised Tax slabs under New Tax Regime


12:26 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Speech LIVE: Nirmala Sitharaman Announces Massive Tax Relief for Middle Class

FM Nirmala Sitharaman announces the biggest tax relief for the middle class, says no income tax up to ₹12 lakh.



11:56 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: New Income Tax Bill To Be Introduced Next Week, FM Says

Finance Minister announced that a new Income tax bill will be introduced next week.


11:50 IST, February 1st 2025

Bihar Takes Centre Stage in FM Sitharaman's Union Budget

Bihar has emerged as one of key focus as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the second Budget of Modi Govt 3.0 on Saturday.

Govt announces institute for food processing and Makhana Board.
The Makhana Board will train farmers in getting maximum benefits of all the government schemes.
Makhana Board to be set up in Bihar. The board will handhold and train Makhana farmers and help them to get access to all relevant government schemes, Sitharaman said.



11:48 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: FM Announces Makhana Board in Bihar

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has proposed the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar which will improve the production, processing, value addition, and marketing of Makhana.


11:43 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: Govt Announces PM Dhan Dhyan Krishi Yojana, to Benefit 1.7 Cr Farmers

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday announced PM Dhan Dhyan Krishi Yojana, covering 100 districts with low yields, modern crop intensity and below-average credit parameters.

Presenting her record eighth consecutive budget, she also said that the scheme would benefit 1.7 crore farmers.

She added the government will launch rural prosperity, and resilience programme focusing on youth, women and farmers.

Nafed (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) and NCCF will procure pulses in the next four years.



11:40 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: Govt to Launch Rs 2-Cr Term Loan for 5 Lakh First-Time Women, SC, ST Entrepreneurs

The government will launch a Rs 2-crore term loan for 5 lakh first-time women, SC and ST entrepreneurs, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Saturday.

Presenting the Union Budget for 2025-26, the finance minister also said a manufacturing mission will be set up for SME and large industries.

Besides, the government will undertake facilitation measures to enhance productivity of labour-intensive sectors, Sitharaman said.

The credit guarantee cover will be doubled to Rs 20 crore, guarantee fee moderated to 1 per cent, she added.


11:38 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: FM Announces 'Transformative Reforms' Across Six Domains

The government aims to initiate "transformative reforms" across six domains, including taxation and financial sector, in Union Budget 2025-26, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Saturday. Presenting her eighth consecutive budget, Sitharaman said the government's development track record of the past 10 years and structural reforms have drawn global attention.

A Viksit Bharat will have zero poverty, quality education, high-quality, affordable and comprehensive healthcare, she said and added that the Budget's focus is to take everyone together on inclusive growth path.

"... this Budget aims to initiate transformative reforms across six domains during the first five years. These will augment our growth potential and global competitiveness. The domains are taxation, power sector, urban development, mining, financial sector and regulatory reforms... agriculture as the first engine," Sitharaman said.
 



11:35 IST, February 1st 2025

Investment Is The Third Engine Of Growth, FM Says

Union Budget 2025 Live: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lists investment as the third engine of growth in the country.


11:30 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025-26: FM Sitharaman Charts Growth Roadmap with Focus on Agri, Msmes, Investment and Exports

Union Budget 2025 Live: Nirmala Sitharaman said that the focus will be on 5.7 crore MSMEs- which include over one crore registered businesses employing 7.5 crore people and contribute 36% to India’s manufacturing. The government will enhance the investment and turnover limits for MSMEs, increasing them by 2.5 times and 2 times, respectively, the Finance Minister said in her Budget speech.



11:22 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025: Budget to Accelerate Growth, Says Nirmala Sitharaman

This bugdet continues efforts to accelerate growth and provide inclusive development, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman presenting Budget for FY26. 


11:16 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget focussed on driving growth, inclusive development: Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday said the Union Budget 2025-26 continues efforts to accelerate growth and provide inclusive development.

Presenting the 14th consecutive Budget under the Narendra Modi government since 2014, Sitharaman said, "Together we embark on journey to unlock our potential for greater prosperity." She asserted that the Indian economy is fastest-growing among all developing economies.



11:07 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: FM Nirmala Sitharaman Begins Budget Speech


10:49 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: FM Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget 2025 Gets Cabinet Nod

The Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday approved the Union Budget 2025-26.

Following this, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her eighth record Budget in the Lok Sabha that comes in the backdrop of growth slowing down to four-year-low of 6.4 per cent and clamour for tax relief amid moderation in consumption.



10:45 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 LIVE : When and Where to Watch Finance Minister’s Budget Speech

The Union Budget will be streamed live on Parliament's official channels, Doordarshan, Sansad TV, and the government's official YouTube channels.

Digital copies of the budget documents can be accessed from the central government's official website, www.indiabudget.gov.in. These documents, available in both Hindi and English, will include financial statements, finance bills, and grant requests as mandated by the Constitution.


10:41 IST, February 1st 2025

Stock Market Update: Sensex Up By 180 Pts and Nifty Above 23,500

Union Budget 2025 Live: As the budget day is here, the Indian stock market is performing decent only with Sensex Up by 180 Pts and Nifty Above 23,500. 
Top Gainers - IndusInd Bank, ITC Hotels, Sun Pharma, Infosys and Tata Motors 
Top Losers - Titan, Dr Reddy, Nestle India, TCS and HUL
 



10:37 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: A Look At Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget Day Sarees Through The Years

Union Budget 2025 Live: A combination of file images shows Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with the ‘Union Budget’ in the previous years. 


10:34 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: Home Minister Amit Shah Arrives at Parliament

Union Budget 2025 Live: Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrives at parliament ahead of Union Budget 2025 will be tabled in Lok Sabha, today, by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.



10:27 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: Suhel Seth On Budget Expectations

In a conversation with Republic world, Suhel Seth, Founder And MD Counselage India, said that “There is an employment issue and it is almost crisis-like. The jobless growth is something they need to act with firmness…”. The statement comes ahead of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman 's presentation of the budget today, Februrary 1, 2025.
 


10:26 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: PM Modi Chairs Cabinet Meeting in Parliament Ahead of Budget Presentation

PM Modi chairs meeting in Parliament ahead of Budget Presentation by Finance Minister. 



10:20 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 LIVE: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Arrives at Parliament

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrives at the Parliament.  He says, "Budget will be presented. It will be for every section of society.


10:08 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025-26 Live: FM Nirmala Sitharaman Arrives at Parliament

Union Budget 2025 Live: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reached the Parliament ahead of her Budget speech today.



10:12 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025 Live: President Feeds 'Dahi-Cheeni' To Nirmala Sitharaman Ahead Of Budget Speech

Union Budget 2025 Live: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman along with Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan before presenting the Union Budget. The President expressed best wishes to the Union Finance Minister and her team for the presentation of budget.


10:04 IST, February 1st 2025

Union Budget 2025-26 Live: Ajay Bagga On Budget 2025

Union Budget 2025-26 Live: Speaking to Arnab Goswami, Editor-in-Chief of Republic TV, in a pre-budget discussion, market expert Ajay Bagga made one thing clear: there will definitely be headlines. Here are the key factors that could make or break the budget, according to Bagga.

Hope for trade deals
The global economy will be shaping India’s budget priorities. Bagga stressed the ongoing trade tensions between the US and its partners, particularly China, which continue to unsettle the global supply chain. With US tariffs impacting countries like Canada, Mexico, and China, India finds itself in a precarious position, particularly when it comes to exports.



09:52 IST, February 1st 2025

Will Indian Stock Market Remain Open on Budget day?

The Indian stock market will remain open on February 1, 2025, despite being a Saturday.


09:46 IST, February 1st 2025

FM Meets President Droupadi Murmu

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and MoS Finance Pankaj Chaudhary meet President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.



09:36 IST, February 1st 2025

FM Nirmala Sitharaman to Present Budget Digitally via Tab

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament today. Breaking away from tradition, she will read out the Budget using a digital tablet instead of the customary 'Bahi Khata.'


10:03 IST, February 1st 2025

FM Sitharaman Dons a Saree as a Tribute to Madhubani Art

Dulari Devi is a 2021 Padma Shri awardee. When FM visited Madhubani for a credit outreach activity at Mithila Art Institute, she met Dulari Devi and had a cordial exchange of thoughts on Madhubani art in Bihar. Dulari Devi had presented the saree and asked FM to wear it for the budget day.
 



09:30 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget Documents Being Taken Inside the Parliament


09:28 IST, February 1st 2025

Ratun Lahiri On Union Budget 2025

Ratun Lahiri, Senior Advisor at Unicorn Ventures India, shares her perspective on what has changed in this year’s budget compared to last year’s. He said, "The government has made significant efforts to support startups, including the removal of angel tax, which has provided a boost to the startup ecosystem. India remains optimistic about economic growth, but challenges persist, including slow expansion and financial strain on the middle class. To drive sustained progress, there is a need to increase disposable income for the middle class, which has been most affected."



09:14 IST, February 1st 2025

Nirmala Sitharaman's Core Team Poses for Group Pic With 'Bahi Khata' Ahead of Union Budget 2025

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister Pankaj Chowdhary and other officials pose with 'Bahi Khata' for a photograph.

The finance minister will leave for president's house at 9.15 AM for approval and signing of the budget. 


09:10 IST, February 1st 2025

CEA Dr V. Anantha Nageswaran Reaches Finance Ministry

Chief Economic Advisor Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran Arrives at Ministry of Finance.



09:06 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget Expectations: D. S. Negi

D. S. Negi, CEO, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC) comments on healthcare expectations of the healthcare sector, "The budget must prioritize digital health solutions such as telesurgery, electronic health records (EHRs), and AI-driven diagnostic tools to improve healthcare delivery. There should also be a strong focus on enhancing nationwide cancer screening programs and providing access to cutting-edge treatments like immunotherapy and personalized medicine."


08:55 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget 2025: Saurabh Dhanorkar's Expectations on Urban Development

Saurabh Dhanorkar, Managing Director, Finolex Industries Limited said, “The Union Budget 2025-26 presents an opportunity to drive sustainable growth by focusing on urban development and modernization. Enhanced allocations for affordable housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana will significantly boost urban housing projects, increasing the demand for reliable plumbing infrastructure and durable PVC pipes and fittings."



08:52 IST, February 1st 2025

Ajay Bagga's Expectations on Union Budget 2025

“Fiscal space is constrained, you are borrowing Rs 16 lakh crore. To give relief you have to tax or get money, Monetary stimulus from RBI , they should have cut rates earlier. This is part of the reason of slowdown.” He also said that the government have to create ease of living and cut down regulation," Market Expert Ajay Bagga


08:51 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget Expectations - Suhel Seth On Employment

Suhel Seth, an Indian businessman and columnist who is the founder and managing partner of the consultancy firm Counselage India, said, “There is a crisis like employment growth, they need to address jobless growth." Mineral rich states are impoverished, which is ironic, he said. "Not optimistic about the budget I am realistic about it." he added. “Freebie culture needs to stop. More and more people don't want to work anymore.” he added.



08:54 IST, February 1st 2025

Nirmala Sitharaman Arrives at Finance Ministry

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has arrived at the Finance Ministry ahead of her eighth Budget presentation in the Parliament.


08:39 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget 2025: Manufacturing Likely to be Top Focus

Top sources say manufacturing will be main focus of Union Budget 2025
 



08:25 IST, February 1st 2025

Nirmala Sitharaman To Arrive at Finance Ministry Ahead of Budget Presentation

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is arriving at the Finance Ministry. She is expected to present the Union Budget for the financial year 2025-26 later today. 

She will soon leave for North Block to present the budget, followed by visits to Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament.


07:59 IST, February 1st 2025

How Will the Union Budget 2025-26 Affect Businesses?

Businesses expect a growth-oriented budget while maintaining fiscal discipline. A survey by FICCI found that 68 per cent of businesses favor at least a 15 per cent increase in capital expenditure allocation to fuel economic growth. The government is expected to continue its fiscal consolidation roadmap, bringing down the fiscal deficit from 4.9 per cent in FY25 to 4.8 per cent, with a target of 4.5 per cent in FY26.
 



07:40 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget 2025: Expected Changes for Taxpayers

One of the most anticipated aspects of the budget is tax relief for individuals and businesses. Taxpayers are expecting changes in tax slabs under the new tax regime, with hopes of an increase in exemption limits and standard deductions. There is a demand for making annual income up to Rs10 lakh tax-free. Taxpayers are also expecting an increase in the standard deduction limit, which is currently set at Rs50,000 under the old tax regime and Rs75,000 under the new tax regime.


07:43 IST, February 1st 2025

Budget 2025: Are Banks Open Today?

All banks will remain open today as it's the first Saturday of the month. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), both public and private banks are open on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of every month.



07:51 IST, February 1st 2025

When Will FM Nirmala Sitaharam Present the Budget?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the PM Modi 3.0 government's second full budget today, February 1, at 11:00 AM.

This will be the eighth consecutive time FM Sitharaman will be presenting the budget. The Union Budget 2025-26 is expected to focus on economic growth with equity.

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Updated 23:52 IST, February 1st 2025