Jammu, February 3: Adv. Purnima Sharma, Spokesperson of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jammu and Kashmir, and former Deputy Mayor Jammu, today hailed the Union Budget for FY 2025-26 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emphasizing the comprehensive provisions aimed at empowering the middle class and women, marking a significant step towards the realization of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The Union Budget has introduced a host of progressive reforms aimed at empowering the middle class, which is the backbone of India’s economy.
In a press release issued here today, Adv. Purnima Sharma expressed her appreciation for the increased tax relief provided to the middle-income groups, a move that is bound to alleviate their financial burdens and empower them to contribute to the nation’s development.
The senior BJP leader said “Among the notable provisions is the raising of the “Nil” tax slab to ₹12 lakh, ensuring that individuals earning ₹1 lakh per month will no longer have a tax liability. Taxpayers with an income of ₹12 lakh will benefit from a rebate of ₹80,000, representing a 100% reduction in tax as per previous rates, and ₹70,000 for those earning ₹18 lakh. Furthermore, the doubling of the tax deduction limit on interest for senior citizens to ₹1 lakh is a significant relief, along with an increase in the TDS exemption on rent payments to ₹6 lakh. These initiatives will provide much-needed financial relief and increase disposable income for millions of middle-class families across India.”
She said that the Budget also continues the Modi Government’s commitment to affordable housing with the launch of the ‘SWAMIH Fund 2’, which will see the creation of over 1 lakh homes for low and middle-income urban families. This initiative, with a ₹15,000 crore outlay, is a testament to the Government’s continued focus on improving the standard of living for the urban middle class.
Adv. Purnima Sharma further highlighted the Union Budget’s focus on women’s empowerment, which remains a cornerstone of the Modi Government’s development agenda. The budget includes several transformative provisions aimed at ensuring women’s participation in the economy and enhancing their social well-being.
A major step towards women empowerment is the inclusion of women in the gig economy. The budget recognizes over 1 crore gig workers and proposes the issuance of identity cards, healthcare benefits under PM Jan Arogya Yojana, and registration on the e-SHRAM portal, securing their social identity and economic dignity.
Additionally, the Modi Government’s commitment to the welfare of children, pregnant and lactating women, as well as adolescent girls, is reflected in the enhancement of the Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0 programs. These schemes will provide crucial support to millions of women and children, focusing on their health and nutrition.
She said that the Budget also aims to accelerate women’s participation in the workforce by focusing on upskilling and providing opportunities for women to excel in industries traditionally dominated by men. With the launch of various programs and initiatives, including access to education and training in emerging sectors, the government is laying the groundwork for an inclusive future.
“This Budget marks another milestone in the Modi Government’s journey towards ensuring a Viksit Bharat by 2047. By focusing on the welfare of the middle class and women, it demonstrates the Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and the empowerment of every citizen,” said Adv. Purnima Sharma.
She said that the Union Budget FY 2025-26 sets a strong foundation for long-term growth, with a focus on infrastructure development, fiscal consolidation, and economic self-sufficiency, ensuring that India’s growth trajectory continues on its upward path.