Nirmala Sitharaman Budget Boosts Education, Empowers Gig Workers

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the eighth consecutive Union Budget, introducing initiatives to bridge the digital divide, promote scientific temperament, and provide social security to gig workers, in line with the government's vision for a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).

The budget announces the expansion of broadband connectivity to all government secondary schools, aiming to reduce the digital gap between government and private schools. Additionally, 50,000 Atal tinkering labs will be set up in schools to foster scientific curiosity and temperament among students. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak scheme will also be implemented, enabling students to understand subjects in their local language, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in education.

In another significant move, the government has announced a social security scheme for gig workers, providing them with identity cards on the e-Shram portal, as well as healthcare benefits under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana scheme. This initiative is expected to benefit nearly 1 crore gig workers, recognizing their contribution to the new-age services economy. Furthermore, the Centre has revamped the PM SVANidhi scheme, offering enhanced loans and UPI-linked credit cards to street vendors, empowering them to grow their businesses.

The budget also focuses on reforms across six key areas: taxation, urban development, mining, financial sector, power, and regulatory frameworks. The expansion of capacity in 5 IITs will accommodate 6,500 additional students, marking a significant step towards improving access to quality education. With these initiatives, the government aims to create a more inclusive and developed India, with a strong focus on education, healthcare, and social security.

As the government strives to achieve its vision of a "Viksit Bharat", the budget presents a comprehensive plan to address the needs of various sectors, from education and healthcare to social security and economic growth. With its emphasis on empowerment and inclusivity, the budget is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of millions of Indians, particularly the poor and marginalized sections.