It may be noted that the Union Budget was presented by the Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, this week for the seventh time in a row, establishing a record of sorts. In an interview to NDTV’s Editor-in-Chief Sanjay Pugalia, Sitharaman discussed the finer details of the budget and answered questions that have done the rounds since the release of the same.
Describing the budget’s coverage, Sitharaman stressed the following: “This budget is a comprehensive budget for you people, especially for the development of the youth. Moreover, she announced the future action plan that the government would focus on ‘soft-touch regulation. ’
This brought into view the question of debt reduction, which, according to the Finance Minister, has to be achieved in a sound manner. On how to overcome the problem of debt, she stated, “Borrowing is not a good way to reduce debt. Even if you are borrowing, grow your assets. Debts should be cleared without compromising growth.”
Sitharaman also clarified that states are indeed being provided allocations similar to what they have been receiving earlier; no state is being ignored. ” This is in sync with the BJP government’s approach of encouraging the center-state relationship.
Moreover, the Finance Minister briefly explained that the government also pays great attention to technological and innovative approaches to enhance the existing cities and make them more habitable and technocratic. This strategic approach shows that the administration is closely engaged in urban planning and in creating a viable future for the entire nation.
Nirmala Sitharaman’s seventh consecutive Union Budget undoubtedly has created a new benchmark, knowing her honest and down-to-earth comments during this exclusive interview about the government’s views and plans for India’s development and economic prosperity.
