Budget 2023-2024
Speech of
Nirmala Sitharaman
Minister of
Finance
February 1, 2023
Hon’ble
Speaker,
I
present the Budget for 2023-24. This is the first Budget in Amrit Kaal.
Introduction
1.
This
Budget hopes to build on the foundation laid in the previous Budget, and
the blueprint drawn for India@100. We envision a prosperous and inclusive
India, in which the fruits of development reach all regions and citizens,
especially our youth, women, farmers, OBCs, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled
Tribes.
2.
In
the 75th year of our Independence, the world has recognised the
Indian economy as a ‘bright star’. Our current year’s economic growth is
estimated to be at 7 per cent. It is notable that this is the highest among all
the major economies. This is in spite of the massive slowdown globally caused by
Covid-19 and a war. The Indian economy is therefore on the right track,
and despite a time of challenges, heading towards a bright future.
3.
Today as Indians stands with their head held high, and
the world appreciates India’s achievements and successes, we are sure that
elders who had fought for India’s independence, will with joy, bless us our
endeavors going forward.
Resilience amidst multiple crises
4.
Our
focus on wide-ranging reforms and sound policies, implemented through Sabka
Prayas resulting in Jan Bhagidari and targeted support to those in
need, helped us perform well in trying times. India’s rising global profile is
because of several accomplishments: unique world class digital public
infrastructure, e.g., Aadhaar, Co-Win and UPI; Covid vaccination drive in
unparalleled scale and speed; proactive role in frontier areas such as
achieving the climate related goals, mission LiFE, and National Hydrogen
Mission.
5.
During
the Covid-19 pandemic, we ensured that no one goes to bed hungry, with a scheme
to supply free food grains to over 80 crore persons for 28 months. Continuing
our commitment to ensure food and nutritional security, we are implementing,
from 1st January 2023, a scheme to supply free food grain to all
Antyodaya and priority households for the next one year, under PM Garib Kalyan
Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). The entire expenditure of about ` 2 lakh crore will be borne by the
Central Government.
G20 Presidency: Steering the global
agenda through challenges
6.
In these times of
global challenges, the G20 Presidency gives us a unique opportunity to
strengthen India’s role in the world economic order. With the theme of ‘Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam’, we are steering an ambitious, people-centric agenda to address
global challenges, and to facilitate
sustainable economic development.
Achievements since 2014: Leaving no one
behind
7. The government’s efforts since 2014 have ensured for all citizens a better quality of living and a life of dignity. The per capita income has more than doubled to ` 1.97 lakh.....
0 Comments