L K Advani finds Budget 'one of the best so far'

Lauding the initiatives taken in this year's budget, Advani said, "All this shows that the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister have adopted an approach that promises to make India stronger and more prosperous, while making 'Antyodaya' the central theme of economic growth. This is a befitting tribute to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya in his birth centenary year." The veteran leader said the most heartening aspect of the budget is its strong emphasis on the neglected task of revitalisation of agriculture and rural development, since more than two-thirds of India's population continues to live in rural areas.

He said the Budget has made "unprecedented" provision for accelerating and modernising India's infrastructure in critical areas such as highways, railways and rural roads.

"The strengthened focus on health, education and housing is also most welcome. Moreover, the Finance Minister has expanded the scope of the use of digital technologies in every area of the economy and administration, which is essential for Good Governance.

"At a time when the global economy remains weak, India's growth is laudable. It looks to become even brighter in the coming years," he said.