Anshul Singhal, Managing Director, Welspun One
Credit: Welspun One
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today presented her historic eighth Budget and the second one of the Narendra Modi 3.0 government. The Budget, lauded by NDA members, has a slew of measures to improve infrastructure growth in the country.
Sitharaman on Saturday said Rs 1.5 lakh crore will be provided towards 50-year interest free loans to states, for infrastructure development.
Reacting to this, and more in the Budget, Anshul Singhal, Chairperson of ASSOCHAM said "The Union Budget 2025-26 highlights the Modi government’s commitment to infrastructure-led growth, digital integration, and investment-friendly reforms, laying the foundation for a robust and future-ready India."
He added, "By prioritizing agriculture, MSMEs, investments, and exports - the four critical engines driving industrial expansion and supply chain efficiency - the budget seemed to be aligned to strengthen India’s position as a global manufacturing and trade hub. The Rs 1.5 lakh crore allocation for infrastructure, the Rs 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund, and PPP-driven initiatives will catalyze the next wave of industrial expansion, transforming cities into economic hubs."
"In logistics and warehousing, streamlining cargo screening, upgrading air cargo infrastructure, and evolving India Post into a national logistics powerhouse will redefine supply chain efficiencies and last-mile connectivity across urban-rural markets. Additionally, the budget’s strong focus on developing port facilities and strengthening port-based logistics hubs will accelerate our global trade ambitions," he further noted.
Singhal also said. "The introduction of the Bharat Trade Net, access to PM Gati Shakti data, and the Bilateral Investment Treaty reinforce the government's push for an integrated and investment-friendly economy. Reducing turnaround times, optimizing supply chains, and fostering structured logistics clusters - these initiatives will decongest cities, enhance trade competitiveness, and drive economic growth. These measures, with the incentives for warehouse enhancements and dedicated logistics infrastructure, highlight a progressive shift towards sustainability, digitalization, and private-sector collaboration."
While this has been a step in the right direction, there's still some ways to go, as per Singhal, who is also MD at Welspun One. He said, "for sustained industrial expansion - simplified land acquisition, incentives for green warehousing, and tax clarity for AIFs remain crucial."
Further, he added, "Recognizing warehousing as a capital-intensive sector and extending GST benefits for industrial real estate will further encourage large-scale investments, helping India cement its position as a leader in global trade and industrial infrastructure. As India moves toward a $5 trillion economy, industry and policymakers must work together to execute these visionary reforms."
Union Budget 2025 | Nirmala Sitharaman, as Finance Minister, presented her record 8th Union Budget this time. While inflation has burnt a hole in the pockets of 'aam janata', the Modi govt gave income tax relief for those making up to Rs 12 lakh per year in salaried income. Track the latest coverage, live news, in-depth opinions, and analysis only on Deccan Herald. Also follow us on WhatsApp, LinkedIn, X, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.