Union Budget 2024 | Reaction from Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder and Chairman, EKA Mobility & Pinnacle Industries
This Union Budget marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a $5 trillion economy and solidifies its role as a global growth engine. The government’s comprehensive approach to supporting various sectors, especially MSMEs and start-ups, is commendable. Introducing a credit guarantee scheme for MSMEs, which facilitates term loans without collateral or third-party guarantees, is a game-changer. By reducing the turnover threshold for mandatory onboarding on the TReDS platform from Rs 500 crore to Rs 250 crore, the government is making it easier for smaller MSMEs to benefit from this essential online platform. Additionally, opening 24 new SIDBI branches will enhance support for MSME clusters nationwide.
Likewise, the abolition of the ‘Angel Tax’ for all start-up investors is another progressive move, offering substantial relief and encouraging greater investment in innovation and entrepreneurship. While, in agriculture, the allocation of ₹2.66 lakh crore for rural development and the focus on climate-resilient crop varieties reflect a forward-thinking strategy. The initiative to introduce 1 crore farmers to natural farming over the next two years, supported by certification and branding, will contribute significantly to the sector’s sustainability and productivity. Overall, these measures underscore the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth, supporting innovation, and driving sustainable development across sectors.