Arvind Kejriwal: Ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections scheduled for February 5, 2025, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal has made a strong appeal to the central government. In a video message, he urged Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharamanto prioritise the middle class in the upcoming Budget 2025, which will be presented on February 1. Kejriwal presented seven key demands, aimed at benefiting the middle-class population, emphasising crucial areas such as education, healthcare, tax exemptions and senior citizens’ welfare.
Arvind Kejriwal’s 7 Key Demands for Budget 2025
In his message, Arvind Kejriwal emphasised the need for a more balanced and people-centric budget.
Watch Here:
Increase in Education Budget
Kejriwal demanded a substantial increase in the education budget, raising it from the current 2% to 10%. He also called for capping private school fees to make education more affordable for middle-class families.
Support for Higher Education
To ensure that the youth and parents are not burdened with hefty education costs, Kejriwal proposed the introduction of subsidies and scholarships for higher education. This move would provide significant relief to students pursuing higher studies.
Key Proposals on Healthcare and Taxes
Increased Health Budget & Tax Relief on Health Insurance
Kejriwal’s third demand called for a boost in the healthcare budget, increasing it from the current allocation to 10%. Additionally, he urged the government to remove taxes on health insurance, making healthcare more accessible for all.
Income Tax Exemption Limit Raised to ₹10 Lakhs
In his fourth demand, Kejriwal proposed an increase in the income tax exemption limit from ₹7 lakhs to ₹10 lakhs, providing much-needed relief to the middle class and allowing them to save more.
GST Removal on Essential Commodities
Kejriwal also called for the removal of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on essential commodities, which would reduce the burden on the common man, especially in terms of basic necessities.
Senior Citizens’ Welfare
Retirement Plans & Pension Schemes for Senior Citizens
A key aspect of Kejriwal’s proposal includes the introduction of robust retirement plans and pension schemes for senior citizens. These schemes would ensure financial security for the elderly.
Free Medical Services & 50% Concession in Rail Travel
Finally, Kejriwal demanded free medical services for senior citizens in both government and private hospitals. Additionally, he proposed a 50% concession for senior citizens on rail travel, making transportation more affordable for them.
With these demands, Kejriwal is advocating for a budget that directly addresses the pressing needs of the middle class, ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections.