Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman Likely to Present on February 1
Stock market to remain open on February 1, 2025, for Union Budget day. Stay tuned for key updates on FM Sitharaman's announcements and industry reactions.
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The Union Budget 2025 is expected to be presented on February 1 at 11 a.m. by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This will mark her eighth budget presentation, including previous annual and interim budgets. While the official confirmation of the date is awaited, industries and citizens alike are preparing for significant announcements.
Despite February 1 falling on a Saturday, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) will remain operational to facilitate trading during the budget announcement. The exchanges confirmed this in a circular, noting that live trading sessions will be conducted.
The Finance Ministry recently concluded extensive consultations with various stakeholders to shape the Union Budget. Starting December 6, 2024, the discussions involved over 100 representatives from sectors such as agriculture, trade unions, MSMEs, health, education, infrastructure, and financial markets. The month-long exercise aimed to address diverse economic challenges and expectations. Key industries have outlined their priorities for the upcoming budget. The NBFC sector, for instance, seeks reforms to ease operational hurdles. Proposals include reducing the SARFAESI Act threshold to Rs 1 lakh for improved loan recovery and exempting 10 per cent TDS on interest income to enhance liquidity.
This budget will be the second comprehensive financial plan under the current administration's third term. Stakeholders are closely watching for measures to stimulate economic growth, boost employment, and strengthen critical sectors. Economic analysts predict a focus on infrastructure, digital economy, and tax reforms.
