The Budget was on expected lines, with an emphasis on agriculture, SMEs
and infrastructure. A major announcement of the Budget was on healthcare
that will give a firm push to social security.
Broaden the tax base - only 3 per cent of population pay taxes, i.e.
3.5 crore people out of 125 crore. For comparison 45 per cent of US
citizens pay taxes.
The government has a serious challenge in the Budget as it has to
balance the three objectives of maintaining the growth momentum, fiscal
discipline and continuing with the inclusive growth strate...