Feb 07 2024, 08:17
2024 Interim Budget: Emphasizing policy continuity in a mature economy:
The interim budget is reassuring with no big surprises. The fiscal deficit target for FY24 will be met and a tighter target is proposed for FY25, freeing up space for private borrowings. The budget focuses on trade, tourism, and transportation, with investments in railway corridors, airports, and public transport. It also supports the PLI and IDEAS schemes and emphasizes managing inflation and inclusive growth. The budget addresses women's and children's health, housing, and sustainability through the rooftop solar scheme. Overall, it indicates the government's intent and sets expectations for the full budget.
The interim budget is reassuring, given the lack of big surprises. Budgetary allocations to most programmes, such as those for farm and allied sectors, skill development, PLI and MSME development, remain consistent.
A fine balance It is heartening that the fiscal deficit target for FY24 - at 5.8% - will undoubtedly be met, and a tighter fiscal deficit target of 5.1% is proposed for FY25. This will free up space for private borrowings and bond markets as they pick up pace during the year. It is also anticipated
Mobility matters While a capital outlay of 11.1 lakh crore has been proposed for infrastructure, the tilt towards transportation is evident with a thrust on the development of railway corridors and coach upgradation. Capex for expanding airports will help meet the requirements of one of the world's fastest-growing markets. Likewise, promoting public transport investments across metro, rail, electric buses and regional rail projects will meet several objectives by enabling urban transformation, decongesting cities and driving our decarbonisation agenda for transport. The transport development agenda has been thoughtfully linked with the tourism opportunity through the programme to develop iconic destinations in states and port connectivity projects for island destinations.
Trade winds Apart from continuity, another important characteristic of this budget is its positive long-term view on trade in light of the impact of recent geopolitical events on India's trade performance. Specifically, support has been reaffirmed for the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC).
source:et
Feb 07 2024, 08:52