Chandigarh, 1 February 2025: The Union Budget 2025-26 sets a bold roadmap for economic transformation with a strong push for innovation, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure, says CII.
Key measures for MSMEs, skill development, and urban growth will drive industrial expansion and job creation in the Northern Region.
CII welcomes these initiatives and looks forward to collaborating with the government for a more competitive and inclusive economy.
Agriculture & MSMEs:
Mr. Madhav Singhania, Chairman, CII Northern Region & Deputy MD & CEO, JK Cement Ltd, called the budget “pragmatic and forward-looking.”
The focus on high-value crops under the comprehensive program for vegetables, fruits, and Sri Anna will support agricultural diversification, improve nutrition, and enhance farmer incomes.
Strengthening private sector investments and the MSME ecosystem will sustain industrial growth and create jobs, adds CII.
Increased credit availability, the National Manufacturing Mission, and streamlined tax policies will fuel entrepreneurship and innovation.
Infrastructure & Urban Growth:
Mr. Sunjay Kapur, Deputy Chairman, CII Northern Region & Chairman, Sona Comstar, said the budget builds a strong foundation for urban growth, infrastructure, and investment.
The National Manufacturing Mission under Make in India will drive industries like solar PV, electrolysers, and grid-scale batteries.
The ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds will boost startups, while the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund will spur city development.
The UDAN scheme, adding 120 new destinations, will unlock trade, tourism, and investment. Expansion of Atal Tinkering Labs, National Centres of Excellence, and IITs will equip youth with future-ready skills.
Manufacturing & Global Competitiveness:
Mr. Anurag Gupta, Chairman, CII Chandigarh & MD, Usha Yarns Limited, welcomed the focus on manufacturing, exports, and agriculture.
The enhanced PPP model in infrastructure and incentives for high-value manufacturing will boost competitiveness.
The BharatTradeNet digital platform will streamline trade. Agri-focused schemes like PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and expanded credit access will enhance productivity and rural prosperity.
Technology & Innovation:
Mr. Navesh Narula, Chairman, CII Himachal Pradesh & Director, Tesna Tech Pvt Ltd, called the budget a game-changer for India’s digital and industrial future.
The ₹20,000 crore push for private sector-driven R&D and AI Centres of Excellence will drive innovation and global tech leadership.
These steps will boost productivity, create jobs, and position India as a hub for cutting-edge research and emerging technologies.
