19:12 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE

FP Explained | What are lab-grown diamonds mentioned in FM’s budget speech?

Lab-grown diamonds are manufactured inside laboratories using cutting-edge technology. They have a similar physical appearance, chemical composition, and optical qualities as natural diamonds.

17:04 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

India on track to become $5 trillion economy: FM

16:57 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

'Amrit Kaal’s first budget provides foundation for developed India,' says PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauds the Union Budget 2023-24 presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Calling it “Amrit Kaal’s first budget,” the PM said that the Budget gives priority to the deprived and will fulfil the dreams of the aspirational society, farmers and the middle class.

16:27 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

New taxation regime has got greater incentives: FM

15:51 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Poll-bound Karnataka gets Rs 5,300 crore aid for Upper Bhadra project in Budget 2023

Earlier, Bommai had repeatedly urged the Union government to declare the Upper Bhadra project as a national project as “it will help get a central grant of Rs 16,000 crore”. He had also met Sitharaman, multiple times and requested her to allocate funds for the project

15:48 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Finance Minister unveiled a budget that is truly for 'Amrit Kaal', says Union Minister R Chandrasekhar

15:44 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Industrialists hail new budget

Union Budget 2022 has left big industrialists happy with many hailing the speech given by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at the Parliament on Wednesday.

15:43 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Finance Minister opens up a goodie bag for all stakeholders

The Union Budget 2023 has attempted to touch every aspect of the economy and continues to give 7 per cent growth guidance. It was expected that this Budget would have something for everyone and it did meet those expectations. The FM has focused on every key stakeholder from enterprises to startups to individual taxpayers and farmers.

15:33 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Budget presented keeping elections in mind, says SP's Dimple Yadav

It's a Budget presented keeping the elections in mind, while some relaxations given to the middle class. Govt hasn't said anything about MSP for farmers, employment and youth. Railways also ignored in this budget. It has been a disappointing budget, said Dimple Yadav, Samajwadi Party MP.  

15:31 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Want to thank PM Modi and congratulate FM Sitharaman for presenting a spectacular budget, says Uttarakhand CM PS Dhami 

15:29 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

This budget is for the welfare of every sector and every state of the country, says MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan

15:08 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

First budget of Amrit Kaal shows the visionary and far-sighted leadership of PM Modi, says JP Nadda

15:03 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

What's cheaper, what do you have to pay more for?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made some major announcements such as increasing the income tax rebate limit from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh under the new tax regime while presenting her fifth Union Budget.

Sitharaman’s Budget speech also touched on which items will burn a hole in the pocket of the consumers and which will become affordable.

14:57 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Centre hikes farm credit target by 11% to Rs 20 lakh crore for FY24

Among other big-ticket announcements for agriculture and allied sectors, Nirmala Sitharaman -- in her budget speech -- said the Centre will launch a new sub-scheme of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana with an investment of Rs 6,000 crore to improve value chain efficiencies and fisheries market

14:51 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Govt has announced a targeted Amritkaal Budget for Amritpidi

Budget 2023 proposals are thematic, thoughtful, thorough, and therapeutic. While it strengthens the fundamentals, it also empowers the peripherals to such a foundation. Adhering to the ‘Amritkaal’– the unique theme of this Union Budget visualises a new dream for India @100.

14:41 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

What are the new income tax slabs and how much tax will you pay?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Budget 2023 speech announced changes to the tax slabs in the new regime, providing relief to the middle class. She also announced that there would be no tax on an annual income of Rs 7 lakh under this

14:39 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Govt has taken several steps to empower the middle class and ensure ease of living, says PM Modi

14:30 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

This budget is for a sustainable future, says PM Modi

14:29 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Govt has taken several steps to make the lives of women easy, says PM Modi

14:24 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Balanced and prudent budget with no negative surprises

The Union Budget 2023 announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is a balanced budget with no negative surprises, prudently maintaining a fiscal deficit target at 5.9 per cent while delivering a Rs 10 lakh crores capex and rationalising personal income tax.

14:21 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Scheme related to training, support for 'Vishvakarma' has been brought into the budget, says PM Narendra Modi 

14:16 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

First budget of Amrit Kaal will build a strong foundation for building a developed India, says PM Modi

This budget will fulfil the dreams of an aspirational society including poor people, middle-class people, and farmers, PM Narendra Modi added.

14:07 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Budget: Centre aims to eliminate sickle cell anaemia by 2047

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during her budget speech in Parliament, said that the central government aims to eliminate sickle cell anaemia by 2047, and a mission will soon be launched in this regard. 

The mission will create awareness among the common people with a universal screening of seven crore people in the age group of 0 to 40 years in the tribal areas and counselling through collaborative efforts of central ministries and state governments.

ANI

13:59 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

What Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's red saree signifies

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is one of the most inspiring women in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2.0 cabinet in many ways.

Besides being the first full-time female Defense Minister, she has built a name for herself since delivering her maiden Budget speech in 2019.

All eyes are on Sitharaman today as she presents her fifth Union Budget 2023.

13:58 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

What Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's red saree signifies

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is one of the most inspiring women in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2.0 cabinet in many ways.

Besides being the first full-time female Defense Minister, she has built a name for herself since delivering her maiden Budget speech in 2019.

All eyes are on Sitharaman today as she presents her fifth Union Budget 2023.

13:51 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Focus was made on technology, health sector says Union MoS for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar

13:45 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

A vision for Amrit kaal, emphasis on inclusive development

The budget for the year 2023-24 emphasises Infrastructure creation, expenditure on human development and reforms in the financial sector. Tax structure in the new personal income tax regime, to change by reducing the number of slabs to five and increasing the tax exemption limit to Rs 3 lakh.

13:43 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Stock market investors cheer, Sensex up over 1,000 points

Indian stock markets reacted positively to the Union Budget for 2023-24 with benchmark indices rising over 1,000 points to breach the 60,000 mark.

Barring the Nifty oil and gas index, all other indices traded in the green, National Stock Exchange data showed. Nifty bank, financial services, and private bank rose the most.

ANI

13:37 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

I welcome the announcement of National Digital Library for children & adolescents, says Smriti Irani

13:35 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

A believer in a low tax regime, says Karti Chidambaram

I am a believer in a low tax regime. So, any tax cuts are welcome because giving more money into the hands of the people is the best way to boost the economy: Karti Chidambaram, Congress MP

13:33 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Some good things in Union Budget 2023 but there was no mention of employment & inflation, says Shashi Tharoor 

There was no mention of MNREGA, poor rural labour, employment and inflation. Some fundamental questions remained to be answered, added the Congress MP 

13:24 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Agriculture Accelerator Fund will be set up to encourage agri-startups by young entrepreneurs, says FM

An Agriculture Accelerator Fund will be set up to encourage agri-startups by young entrepreneurs, said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Sitharaman added, “The agricultural credit target will be increased to Rs 20 lakh crores with a focus on animal husbandry, dairy and fisheries.”

Sitharaman’s budget for the fiscal year starting April 2023 is her fifth straight since 2019.

13:22 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Rs 5.94 lakh cr for Defence

Defence Ministry has been allocated Rs 5.94 lakh crores for the financial year 2023-24.

13:13 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Budget 2023 hopes to build on foundation of previous budget, blue print for India@100: Nirmala Sitharaman

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday tabled Union Budget 2023-24, which is the last full Budget of the second term of the BJP-led NDA government ahead of the general elections in 2024.

The Finance Minister got straight to the point, starting her Budget speech with focus on rural India.

She said the Budget for 2023-24 hopes to build on the foundation of the previous budget and blue print for India@100.

13:11 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

India's first Amrit Kaal Budget inspired by 'Saptarishi' or the seven great sages

India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that the Budget 2023 adopts seven priorities to guide India through the Amrit Kaal.

Terming these seven priorities as the ‘Saptarishi’, or seven great sages, the finance minister said that they are supposed to guide the country toward a better future and handle the major challenges it is currently experiencing.

13:09 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Sensex trading over 1,000 points higher after Budget speech

After FM Sitharaman's budget speech, Sensex trading over 1,000 points higher.

Ahead of finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s speech, Sensex breaches 60,000 points (up 0.9 per cent).

13:09 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Big announcement for MSMEs

"Credit guarantee for MSMEs - Rs 9000 crores infused in the corpus which will allow additional collateral-free credit of Rs 2 lakh crores; to be effective from April 1, 2023. The cost of raising funds for MSMEs will come down," said FM Sitharaman.

13:08 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Rs 7,000 cr outlay for Phase 3 of eCourts project

For efficient administration of justice, Phase 3 of the eCourt's project will be launched with an outlay of Rs 7000 crores, announced FM Nirmala Sitharaman.

13:08 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

DigiLocker service and Aadhaar as foundational identity: FM

"A one-stop solution for reconciliation and updating of identity and address of individuals maintained by various govt agencies, regulators and regulated entities will be established using DigiLocker service and Aadhaar as foundational identity," said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.  

13:05 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Government to launch Rs 2,200-crore Aatmanirbhar clean plant programme, says Sitharaman

The government will launch a Rs 2,200-crore Aatmanirbhar clean plant programme, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Wednesday. Presenting the Budget for 2023-24, she said an agriculture accelerator fund will also be set up to encourage agri-startups in rural areas.

She further said to enhance the yield of extra-long staple cotton, the government will adopt a cluster-based and value-chain approach.

13:04 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Financial support for poor in prisons and unable to afford penalty, bail amount, says Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said financial support will be provided to poor persons who are in prison and are unable to afford penalty and bail amounts.

The minister said this during her Budget speech in the Lok Sabha.”Support for poor persons who are in prisons and are unable to afford penalty or bail amount, required financial support will be provided,” she said.

13:02 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

PAN to be used as single business ID for all digital systems

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said Permanent Account Number (PAN) will be used as a common identifier for all digital systems of specified government agencies.

The move would help in further promoting ease of doing business in the country.

Following its adaption, businesses will be able to use PAN without the requirement of any other data as a unique identifier for getting access to the national single window system.

13:01 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

66% hike in Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojana outlay to Rs 79,000 crore

The Union government will create Urban Infrastructure Development Fund on the lines of the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund and it will be managed by the National Housing Bank, says Finance Minister. 

13:00 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

After ‘Make in India’, government launches ‘Make AI in India, for India’

India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday in her Budget 2023 speech said that the Indian government plans to set up three ‘Centres of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence (AI)’ in top educational institutions for realising the vision of Make AI in India and Make AI work for India.

Presenting the Budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 in Lok Sabha, Sitharaman further said that leading industry players will partner in conducting inter-disciplinary research, developing cutting-edge applications and scalable problem solutions in the areas of agriculture, health and sustainable cities.

The aim is to establish a strong AI ecosystem in India and to train skilled AI professionals.

12:55 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Driving the nation to Aatma Nirbhar, this budget will equip India with new-age infrastructure, says Nitin Gadkari

Nitin Gadkari said "Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji, this first budget in Amit Kaal was presented by FM Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Ji is envisioning a prosperous and inclusive India in which the fruits of development will reach all sections and citizens, especially our youth, women, farmers, OBCs, SCs, and STs."

"Driving the nation to Aatma Nirbhar, this budget will equip India with new-age infrastructure, decline imports and strengthen our energy sector with a futuristic approach."

12:46 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Here's what has changed in taxes

 FM Nirmala Sitharaman, says government to reduce customs duty on shrimp feed to promote exports

Taxes on cigarettes hiked by 16 %

Basic import duty on compounded rubber increased to 25 % from 10 %.

Basic customs duty hiked on articles made from gold bars

Customs duty on kitchen electric chimney increased to 15 % from 7.5 %.

Customs duty on parts of open cells of TV panels cut to 2.5 %

Govt proposes to reduce customs duty on the import of certain inputs for mobile phone manufacturing.

12:43 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

K-shaped recovery pushes government to focus on agricultural economy

Veer Trivedi, Research Analyst, SAMCO Securities, says, “As evidenced by the latest few quarterly results although the demand for premium products has been strong, the low and mid-segment products are witnessing poor growth. This is a classic example of a K-Shaped recovery where the economically lower segment has not been able to make a significant comeback. This has pushed the government to increase its focus on the Agri economy. The Government increases its agri credit target to Rs 20 lakh crore. The Government has also laid out comprehensive steps for Fisheries where an outlay of Rs 6,000 crore is announced. Further, the centre has also set up an agricultural accelerator fund to be set up to support agricultural startups.”

12:41 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Efforts on ease of doing business to improve India’s global ranking

Lalit Kumar, Partner, JSA, says, “Further carrying Government's agenda for ease of doing business. This is a routine announcement in every year's budget. The Government's efforts on ease of doing business have significantly improved India's global ranking in the last several years. Further steps announced will only enhance India's competitiveness. Easing of legal provisions is a need of the hour and therefore good announcements in the Budget."

12:41 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Middle class I-T concerns addressed

S Murlidharan, senior columnist, said that at last middle-class income tax concerns were addressed. The salaried class gets its due too.

12:39 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Increase in PMAY, capital outlay positive

Apurva Sheth, Head of Market Perspectives & Research, SAMCO Securities on PMAY and Capital Outlay, says, “The Budget for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana has increased by 66 per cent to Rs 69,000 crores. This is a major positive for low-cost housing providers and financiers. Further, the Budget for Capital Outlay increased 33 per cent to Rs 10 lakh crore, giving a significant boost to Capital Goods and Infra companies.”

12:38 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Focus on green growth to create job opportunities

Gaurav Kedia, Chairman of Indian Biogas Association, says the budget prioritises the adoption of green fuel, energy, and building practices to reduce carbon intensity and create new green job opportunities. The seven main priorities, referred to as "Saptrishi," aim to drive sustainable and environmentally-friendly economic development. The government's commitment to this "green growth" approach is a step towards building a cleaner and more prosperous future for all Indians. This is in the direction of India seeking a leadership role in mitigating the global climate crisis.

12:37 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Budget focus on food security commendable

Sharmila Oswal, Founder and MD of Gudmom and Millet Evangelist says, the government’s focus on food security is commendable with the strategic empowerment of the farmers and the agriculture sector. The agriculture accelerator fund to be set up for agri-startups and empowerment of women by way of self-help groups is also a powerful step to help women-led agriculture start-ups. The government's strong focus on millets, termed and respected as shrianna, will further help drive the harvest of and manufacturing of millet-based healthy food products, with financial assistance for scaling up Millets in emerging markets. 

12:34 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

FM Sitharaman introduces Jan Vishwas bill

FM Sitharaman introduces Jan Vishwas bill, reducing over 39,000 business compliances. More than 3,400 legal provisions have also been decriminalised. This is expected to facilitate ease of doing business. The bill will amend 42 central acts. This is a major step in improving business sentiment and releasing animal spirits.

12:29 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Custom duty on cigarettes increased: FM

Custom duty on cigarettes increased, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.   I propose to reduce the number of basic custom duty rates on goods other than textiles and agriculture, from 21 to 13. As a result, there are minor changes in the basic custom duties, cesses and surcharges on some items including toys, bicycles, automobiles, added FM Nirmala Sitharaman.   I propose to provide relief on Customs Duty on import of certain parts and inputs like camera lens and continue the concessional duty on lithium-ion cells for batteries for another year, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.

12:29 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Relief for common people, Income Tax rebate extended up to Rs 7 lakh

Income tax-rebate extended on income up to Rs 7 lakh in new tax regime, said FM Sitharaman   Average processing time for income tax returns reduced from 93 days to 16 days. The government intends to roll out next-gen common IT Return forms and strengthen grievance redressal mechanism, added FM Sitharaman.

12:22 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Revised fiscal deficit is at 6.4 pc of GDP: FM

The revised fiscal deficit is at 6.4 per cent of GDP, said FM Sitharaman.  

"FY-2024 fiscal deficit target at 5.9 per cent of GDP", added FM Sitharaman.   

"I reiterate my intention to bring the fiscal deficit below 4.5 per cent of GDP by 2025-26", said FM.  

12:19 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Jan Vishwas Bill introduced to unleash the potential of our economy, says FM

For enhancing Ease of Doing Business, more than 39,000 compliances have been reduced & more than 3,400 legal provisions have been decriminalized, says FM

The Jan Vishwas Bill has been introduced to amend 42 central acts & unleash the potential of our economy, added Sitharaman.

12:17 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

100 labs for developing apps using 5G services will be set up in engineering institutions, says FM

100 labs for developing apps using 5G services will be set up in engineering institutions. To realize new range of opportunities, business models & employment potential, labs will cover among others, apps like Smart Classrooms, Precision Farming, Intelligent & Transports Systems, added FM Sitharaman

12:16 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Nursing colleges to National Digital Library; check out what all Govt has in store for students, youngsters

157 new nursing colleges will be established in colocation with the existing 157 medical colleges established since 2014: FM Nirmala Sitharaman. 

Eklavaya Model Residential Schools -in the next 3 years the Centre will recruit 38,800 teachers and support staff for 740 schools serving 3.5 lakh tribal students, added FM Sitharaman.

A National Digital Library for children and adolescents will be set up for facilitating the availability of quality books across geographies, languages, genres and levels and device-agnostic accessibility, she added.

12:14 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

States and cities to be encouraged to undertake urban planning reforms

States and cities to be encouraged to undertake urban planning reforms and actions to transform our cities into sustainable cities of tomorrow

12:13 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Outlay for PM Awas Yojana is been enhanced by 66% to over 79,000 crores, says FM

Poor persons who are in prisons and aren’t able to afford penalty or bail amount, required financial support will be provided: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

12:06 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Govt proposes package for traditional handicraft makers: FM

PM Vishwa Karma Kaushal Samman-package of assistance for traditional artisans and craftspeople has been conceptualised, will enable them to improve quality, scale & reach of their products, integrating with MSME value chain, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament.

12:05 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

FM Sitharaman announces scheme to improve socio-economic condition of vulnerable tribes

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday proposed to launch a scheme to improve the socio-economic condition of particularly vulnerable primitive tribal groups.    

An amount of Rs 15,000 crore will be made available to implement the Prime Minister Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PM-PVTG) development mission in next three years under the development action plan for Scheduled Tribes, she said while presenting the Union Budget for 2023-24 in Parliament.

PTI

12:03 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

National Data Governance Policy will be brought: FM

To unleash Innovation and research by Startups and Academia, a National Data Governance Policy will be brought out. This will enable access to anonymized data, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.

12:02 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

50 tourist destinations will be selected to be developed for domestic and international tourism: FM

12:01 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Govt announces old vehicles replacement policy

Government announced old vehicles replacement policy which will scrap all the old government vehicles and old state ambulances, said FM.

11:59 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

The government will launch Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0: FM

The government will launch Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 to skill the youth for international opportunities, 30 Skill India International Centres will be set up across different States, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.

11:58 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

National Data Governance Policy will be brought out to unleash Innovation and research by Startups and Academia, says FM

To unleash Innovation and research by Startups and Academia, a National Data Governance Policy will be brought out. This will enable access to anonymized data: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

11:56 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

50 additional airports will be revived to improve regional air connectivity: FM

50 additional airports, helipods, water aero drones, advanced landing grounds will be revived to improve regional air connectivity, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.   Rs 35,000 crores priority capital for the energy transition, she said.   Battery storage to get viability gap funding, added the FM.  

11:54 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

One crore farmers will get assistance to adopt natural farming, over next three years, says FM

Over the next 3 years, one crore farmers will get assistance to adopt natural farming. 10,000 bio input resource centres will be set up: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

11:53 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

PAN must for business establishments, says FM

For business establishments required to have Permanent Account Number, the PAN will be used as a common identifier for all Digital Systems of specified government agencies, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.   

Leading industry players will partner in conducting inter-disciplinary research, and develop cutting-edge applications and scalable problem solutions in the areas of agriculture, health and sustainable cities, added Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

11:52 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Three Centres of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence to be set up

Three Centres of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence will be set up in top educational institutions for realising the vision of Make AI in India and Make AI work for India, Sitharaman said.

11:49 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Capital outlay of Rs 2.40 lakh cr for Railway

Capital outlay of Rs 2.40 lakh cr for Railways in next financial year, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.

11:47 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

50-year interest free loan to state govts extended for one more year: FM

50-year interest free loan to State governments extended for one more year, said FM Sitharaman.   

All cities and towns will be enabled for 100 per cent mechanical de-sludging of septics tanks and sewers to transition from manhole to machine hole mode, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman. 

11:46 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Capital investment outlay is 3.3% of GDP: FM

Capital investment outlay being increased by 33 per cent to Rs 10 lakh crores, which would be 3.3 per cent of GDP, said FM Sitharaman

11:41 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

PM Awaas Yojana outlay raised by 66 pc to over Rs 79,000 cr: FM

PM Awaas Yojana outlay raised by 66 per cent to over Rs 79,000 crore, said FM.     

States will be encouraged to set up physical libraries for them at panchayat and ward levels and provide infrastructure for accessing the National Digital Library resources, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman.

11:40 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Govt to raise farm credit target to Rs 20 lakh crore: FM

Indian Institute of Millet Research will be supported as a centre of excellence, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament.   The agricultural credit target will be increased to Rs 20 lakh crores with a focus on animal husbandry, dairy and fisheries, added FM Sitharaman.  

11:37 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

157 new nursing colleges will be established, says FM

157 new nursing colleges will be established in colocation with the existing 157 medical colleges established since 2014: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

11:34 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

More digital payments show Indian economy has become formalised: FM

The Indian economy has become more formalised as witnessed by a significant enhancement in digital payments, said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

11:34 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

Promotion of tourism will be taken up on mission mode: Sitharaman

Promotion of tourism will be taken up on mission mode. The country offers immense attraction for domestic as well as foreign tourists. There is a large potential to be tapped in tourism. The sector holds huge opportunities for jobs and entrepreneurship for youth in particular, said FM Nirmala Sitharaman

11:33 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

India is at the forefront of popularising millets, says FM 

India is at the forefront of popularising millets (or sree Anna), says FM Sitharaman. 

To make India a global hub of "sree Anna", the Indian Institute of Millets Research in Hyderabad will be declared as a center of excellence to promote Millets and empower small farmers. The focus will be on sharing best practices, research, and technology at an International level. It indicates that the stress on popularising the eco-friendly and nutritious crop, native to India, will continue. 

11:32 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

157 new nursing colleges will be established, says FM Sitharaman

11:30 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE 

FM Nirmala Sitharaman announces PM Vishwa Karma Kaushal Samman

PM Vishwa Karma Kaushal Samman-package of assistance for traditional artisans and craftspeople has been conceptualised, will enable them to improve quality, scale & reach of their products, integrating with MSME value chain: FM Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament.

11:27 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Govt proposes Agriculture Accelerator Fund: FM Sitharaman

Government proposes Agriculture Accelerator Fund to encourage agri-startups by young entrepreneurs, said FM.

The agricultural credit target will be increased to Rs 20 lakh crores with a focus on animal husbandry, dairy and fisheries, added FM Sitharaman.

11:25 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

FM lists priorities of Budget 2023-24

Govt proposes package for traditional handicraft makers, said FM Sitharaman.   

"Promotion of tourism will be taken up on mission mode," says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Budget 2023-24 presentation.  

Priorities of Budget 2023-24 - inclusive development, reaching the last mile, infra and investment, unleashing the potential, green growth, youth and financial sector, said  Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

11:24 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Indian economy has increased in size from being 10th to fifth in the world: FM

The size of the Indian economy improved from tenth to fifth largest in past nine years, said Sitharaman.   

In these times of global challenges, India’s G20 presidency gives us a unique opportunity to strengthen India’s role in the world economic order, added the Finance Minister.   

The government's efforts since 2014 have ensured all citizens, a better quality of life & life of dignity. The per capita income has more than doubled to Rs 1.97 lakh. In these 9 years, the Indian economy has increased in size from being 10th to 5th largest in the world, said FM.  

11:23 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

We envision a prosperous and inclusive India, says FM 

The Financial Minister said that the government’s efforts have been to ensure a better quality of life and life of dignity for citizen since 2014.

We envision a prosperous and inclusive India in which the fruits of development reach all, she added.

11:21 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Economic empowerment of women is one opportunity which can be transformative, says FM

Economic empowerment of women is one opportunity which can be transformative in achieving our vision by focusing on the above areas, states Finance Minster

"Economic agenda for our vision focuses on 1) facilitating opportunities for citizens, 2) providing strong impetus to growth and job creeation and 3) strengthening macroeconomic stability", adds FM Sitharaman.

11:20 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Indian economy has increased in size from being tenth to 5th largest in the world, says FM

"Indian economy has increased in size from being tenth to 5th largest in the world in the last 9 years, we have made significant progress in many SDGs, economy has become lot more formalized, efficient implementation of schemes has brought about inclusive development", states Finance Minster.

11:17 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Our vision for the Amrit Kaal includes a technology-driven, knowledge-based economy, says FM Sitharaman

Our vision for the Amrit Kaal includes a technology-driven and knowledge-based economy, with strong public finances and a robust financial sector. To achieve this 'janbhagidari' through 'sabka saath, sabka prayaas' is essential: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

11:16 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

'Promotion of tourism will be taken up on mission mode,' says Finance Minister 

"Promotion of tourism will be taken up on mission mode," says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during Union Budget 2023-24 presentation.

11:13 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

The world has recognized India as a bright star: FM Sitharaman

"Indian economy on right track despite challenges, and is headed for a bright future," she added.

11:11 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

The Indian economy has increased in size from being 10th to 5th largest in the world: FM Sitharaman

11:10 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we ensured that nobody goes to bed hungry, says Nirmala Sitharaman

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we ensured that nobody goes to bed hungry with a scheme to supply free foodgrains to over 80 crore persons for 28 months, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman as she presents Union Budget 2023.

11:08 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

FM presents the First budget in 'Amritkaal'

Indian economy on the right track, and heading towards a bright future, says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

"G20 presidency gives us unique opportunity to strengthen India's role in world economic order," said Ms Sitharaman.

11:03 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents Union Budget 2023-24

"This is the first Budget in Amrit Kaal," says Finance Minister .

10:57 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Cabinet approves Union Budget 

The Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday approved the Budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 (April 2023 to March 2024), sources said.

Following this, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Budget in the Lok Sabha. 

PTI

10:56 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Rupee gains 12 paise to 81.76 against US dollar ahead of Union Budget

The rupee opened on a positive note and gained 12 paise to 81.76 against the US dollar in early trade on Wednesday ahead of the Union Budget presentation.

At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened at 81.76 against the dollar, registering a rise of 12 paise over its previous close.

10:53 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

FM Sitharaman to unveil Budget in Parliament shortly 

FM Nirmala Sitharaman to unveil the Budget in Parliament shortly after Cabinet gives its nod at 11 am.

10:49 (ist)

Union Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Nirmala Sitharaman with her team at Parliament, to deliver her fifth Budget

10:38 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Copies of Union Budget 2023 arrive at Parliament

Copies of Union Budget 2023 arrived at the Parliament.   

Sniffer dog sniffed copies of Union Budget 2023 that were brought to the Parliament.  

10:37 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Sensex breaches 60,000 points ahead of FM's speech

Sensex breaches 60,000 points (up 0.9 per cent) ahead of finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s speech.

BSE's Sensex went up over 500 points and NSE's Nifty surged 105 in the opening of Wednesday session. 

10:24 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Union Cabinet meeting begins at Parliament

Union Cabinet meeting chaired by PM Modi begins at Parliament   After the Cabinet approves the Budget 2023, it will be presented in Parliament by FM Sitharaman.   

This year's Budget holds much significance as the country is scheduled to have the next Lok Sabha election in April-May 2024.

10:17 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Key numbers to be watched

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be presenting her fifth Budget that may do a tightrope walk between staying fiscally prudent and meeting general public expectations of lower taxes and a wider social security net, while at the same time firing the engines of the economy. Here are the key numbers to watch for in Budget 2023-24, which is widely expected to boost spending towards policies that create jobs, leave more money in hands of the common man and boost manufacturing, while increasing tax revenues.

• Fiscal Deficit
• Disinvestment/Privatisation
• Capital Expenditure
• Tax Revenue 
• Borrowing
• Nominal GDP

PTI

10:12 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

MoS Finance says Union Budget will match people's expectations

Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary on Wednesday said that this budget would match the expectations of the general public and that India's economy is on track. 

In an exclusive interview with ANI, MoS Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said, "Ever since the Modi government has been formed, it brings the budget keeping in mind all the sections of the society."

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will table the Budget 2023 in Lok Sabha today at 11 am.

ANI

10:02 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrives at the Parliament.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrives at the Parliament. A Union Cabinet meeting will be held at 10 am following which the Finance Minister will present the Union Budget in the Parliament at 11 am.

09:51 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Sitharaman, sixth Finance Minister to present budget five times in a row

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is the sixth minister in independent India to present five consecutive budgets, joining a select league of legends likes of Manmohan Singh, Arun Jaitley and P Chidambaram.

Sitharaman's budget for the fiscal year starting April 2023 is her fifth straight since 2019.

Other ministers who have presented five straight annual financial statements include Arun Jaitley, P Chidambaram, Yashwant Sinha, Manmohan Singh and Morarji Desai.

PTI

09:43 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

FM Sitharaman to present Budget on digital device instead of 'bahi-khata'

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for 2023-24 with a digital device instead of the traditional 'bahi-khata' in her hands. 

Wednesday's Budget will be Sitharaman's fifth Budget presentation as Finance Minister.

In 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government had to take necessary steps to maintain the security and safety of everyone. The Finance Minister moved ahead with the first paperless Budget holding a digital tablet wrapped in a red-coloured cover with the national emblem emblazoned on it. 

The same year, the minister also launched the 'Union Budget Mobile App' for hassle-free access to Budget documents by the parliamentarians and the general public. 

Following the same trend the next year, the Union Budget 2022 was also a paperless budget.

ANI

09:41 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

FM Nirmala Sitharaman meets President Droupadi Murmu

Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman, MoS Dr Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad, MoS Pankaj Chaudhary and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan before presenting the Union Budget 2023-24.  

09:40 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Everything interesting about the annual financial statement

It’s Budget Day and all eyes are on Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, as she will present her fifth Union Budget in Parliament today. This is this government’s last full-fledged Budget before the Lok Sabha polls early next year.

09:21 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Ahead of budget, market opens in green

Ahead of the Union Budget, the stock market opens in green. Sensex is up by 347points and Nifty is up by 106 points

09:07 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

FM Nirmala Sitharaman all set to present Union Budget

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is all set to present the Union Budget 2023 at 11 am today.

This is the BJP government's last full Budget before the 2024 general elections.

09:05 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Union Budget 2023 to incorporate every section's expectations: MoS Finance

Ahead of the presentation of Union Budget 2023-24 in the Parliament on Wednesday, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said that the budget will incorporate the expectations of every section of society and will stand on everyone's expectations. 

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will table the Budget 2023 in Lok Sabha today at 11 am.

ANI

08:53 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

BJP plans nationwide campaign on Union Budget to highlight pro-people measures

The BJP will start a 12-day nationwide campaign on Wednesday to make people aware of the “pro-people” measures that are to be announced in the Union Budget, party leaders said.

The campaign will be coordinated by senior BJP leader Sushil Modi and conclude on 12 February, they said.

08:43 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

MoS Finance arrives at the Ministry of Finance

MoS Finance Dr Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad arrives at the Ministry of Finance. Union Budget will be presented today. Country has made good recovery from COVID. If we look at Economic Survey, all sectors are making progress. Compared to other countries, our economy is good. When PM took oath in 2014, India was 10th (in terms of economy), today it is 5th, said Dr Karad.  

08:39 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Nirmala Sitharaman arrives at the Ministry of Finance, ahead of the Budget presentation

08:27 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

What’s capex, fiscal deficit and non-tax revenue? Your go-to guide to Budget lingo

It’s the big Budget day. India has a lot to cheer about with the Economic Survey saying that recovery from the pandemic is complete. There are some challenges but the International Monetary Fund (IMF) says the country is a “bright spot” amid global uncertainty.

Today, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the country’s financial statement for the upcoming fiscal year. Terms such as fiscal deficit, revenue receipts, capital expenditure, cess, tax, gross domestic product (GDP) and many more will be the buzzwords of the day. But what do these terms mean?

08:25 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

MoS Finance offers prayers before the presentation of the Modi government's Union Budget 2023

08:19 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Temptation to see the budget as populist might exist, but there is a hope that won't happen

The upcoming Union Budget provides an opportunity for the government to revive the economy as India begins its historic leadership at the G20. All of us are anticipating a thoughtful, comprehensive, and forward-looking Budget. The Ministry of Finance and department of economic affairs released a budget circular to systematically drive the narrative of various elements in India’s Union Budget 2023–24.  With a focus on growth and supporting development, it aims to set the country’s economy up for success for the next 25 years.

08:16 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

What respite can India’s middle class expect?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the last full Union Budget of the Narendra Modi government on Wednesday (1 February) ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

While the expectations of various sectors and income groups remain high, the middle class hit by inflation and job losses will be keenly watching Sitharaman’s fifth Budget speech.

07:55 (ist)

Budget 2023 LIVE Updates

Budget needs to be a growth-oriented in line with economic outlook of India: USISPF

This year's annual budget needs to be a growth-oriented one in line with the country's economic outlook, a top American India-centric strategic and business advocacy group said Tuesday.

The previous budgets were focused on pandemic recovery.

This current budget needs to be a growth-oriented budget in line with India's economic outlook, said Mukesh Aghi, president of the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum.

PTI