In this post-Budget 2025 exclusive interview, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed key economic issues, policy measures, and government priorities. The discussion, hosted by Aaj Tak’s Anjana Om Kashyap and Shweta Singh, covered topics such as taxpayer benefits, inflation, employment, investment, economic reforms, Make in India, GST, and political criticism from the opposition.
Key Highlights:
- Taxpayer Relief & Middle-Class Benefits:
- The new tax regime simplifies tax compliance.
- Income up to ₹12 lakh has been made tax-free, benefiting salaried individuals.
- This aims to increase disposable income, boost consumption, and stimulate the economy.
- Opposition claims that this move is an election strategy, but Sitharaman insists it is about “respecting taxpayers” rather than political gains.
- Inflation & Economic Challenges:
- Inflation remains a concern, especially food inflation due to supply-side issues.
- The government is taking steps like importing pulses, stabilizing onion prices, and improving storage facilities.
- Employment & Investment:
- The government is focusing on rural prosperity, skill development, and economic expansion.
- Sitharaman countered Rahul Gandhi’s criticism about unemployment and Make in India, stating that:
- Manufacturing, semiconductor plants, AI research centers, and mobile exports are growing.
- Infrastructure investments (roads, ports, and airports) are attracting FDI from countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Australia.
- Criticism of Opposition:
- She dismissed Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on economic stagnation, stating that the Modi government lifted India from being among the bottom 5 economies to the top 5 globally.
- On GST, she clarified that rate changes are under the GST Council, not the Finance Ministry.
- She accused the Congress and opposition states of making election promises they cannot fulfill, blaming Modi when they fail to deliver.
- State-Specific Budget Allocation:
- Some critics claimed the budget favored Bihar over states like Punjab and Maharashtra.
- Sitharaman defended it, saying every state receives its fair share.
- Rupee Depreciation & Global Economy:
- The rupee is weakening against the dollar, but remains stable compared to other currencies like the Euro and Yen.
- Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also acknowledged that the dollar’s strength is a key reason for global currency volatility.
- Women’s Welfare & Free Schemes (“Revdi” Culture):
- Opposition parties (AAP, Congress) have promised cash handouts to women (₹2100–₹2500 monthly).
- Sitharaman stated that welfare schemes must be financially sustainable and not just political giveaways.
- Delhi Elections & Political Speculation:
- When asked about the Delhi elections, she dismissed allegations that the budget was designed for political gains.
- Future Economic Vision:
- The government aims to sustain 6.3%–6.8% GDP growth but needs 8% for India to become a developed nation by 2047.
- The focus remains on infrastructure, industrial growth, and economic stability.
Conclusion:
Sitharaman strongly defended the Modi government’s economic policies, dismissed opposition allegations, and emphasized the long-term vision for India’s development. She asserted that the budget prioritizes taxpayer respect, economic reforms, and rural empowerment, not just election politics.
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