Budget 2023 expectations highlights: Experts expect higher infra spending, the budget to enhance disposable income of middle class households, and list out what the key priorities should be for the government in the upcoming budget.
Budget 2023 may see India stepping up on capex with major thrust on Gati Shakti and National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) targets and National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) targets. Nirmala
Sitharaman's last full Budget before elections, may also have dedicated allocations for specified large infrastructure projects such as High-Speed Rail, Jal Jeevan Mission, Bharat Mala, Sagar Mala, Smart Cities, and Inland Waterways development.
Address demand side issues
India Inc expects the FM to address demand-side issues at a time when the world may soon shift their sights from taming inflation to keeping recession at bay. "Creating positive sentiment and consumption should be a priority and I think the government is on track for that," says Rajesh Jejurikar, executive director (auto & farm sectors) at Mahindra & Mahindra.
A shot in the arm for healthcare
Healthcare has been eyeing more budgetary support from the government. Apollo Hospitals wants reforms in GST for the sector. GST at present is applicable on medicines and implants, and from July last year, it is also imposed on hospital rooms that cost more than Rs 1,000 per day. "We should have GST reforms for healthcare...Now that we have an opportunity, give us infrastructure status," said Shobana Kamineni, executive vice-chairperson of Apollo Hospitals.
Push for EVs
Budget 2023 could see a push for adoption of electric vehicles in India. The government is expected to offer tax rebate on buying an electric vehicle by another two years till 2025, making it convenient for potential buyers to switch to the cleaner fuel mobility instead of an internal combustion one.
For taxpayer
For the taxpayer, a hike in the deduction limit of Rs 1.5 lakh/year under Section 80C may see a revision. The Centre is expected to increase this limit to at least Rs 2 lakh/year or Rs 2.5 lakh this year.Additionally, Budget 2023 may see a hike in the basic exemption limit under Income Tax Act to Rs 5 lakh.