Budget 2023: FM Sitharaman lists 'saptrishi' mantras for 'Amrit Kaal'

Budget session 2023: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting her fifth straight budget today, February 1. It is the final full budget fo the Modi 2.0 before the next elections in 2024. The FM, like last two years, presented he budget in paperless form. Nirmala Sitharaman carried a digital tablet wrapped in a traditional Bahi-khata still pouch with the national emblem embossed on it as she arrived at the parliament. Dressed in a red saree, she posed for pictures outside her office along with her team. This is her sixth budget since taking the charge of the finance ministry in 2019. 

Indian economy the biggest star: FM Sitharaman

Ahead of presenting the Union Budget 2023, the Finance Minister addressed the parliament and said that the world has recognised Indian economy as the brightest star. She highlighted that the Indian economy has increased in size from being tenth to 5th largest in the world in the last nine years. 

We have made significant progress in many Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), she said, adding promotion of tourism will be taken on mission mode. “Our vision for the Amrit Kaal includes a technology-driven and knowledge-based economy, with strong public finances and a robust financial sector. To achieve this 'janbhagidari' through 'sabka saath, sabka prayaas' is essential,” said FM Nirmala Sitharaman. 

Seven priorities - saptarishi - guiding us through Amrit Kaal. Among these, Inclusive development, green growth, youth power and financial power, she said. 

7 Priorities of Budget2023

1. Inclusive development

2. Reaching last mile

3. Infrastructure and investment

4. unleashing potential

5. Green growth

6. Youth Power

7. Financial Sector

Also read: Union Budget 2023: Will FM Sitharaman be able to balance the economic expectations and political aspirations?

Agriculture Accelerator Fund will be set up for agri-startups

Further, she said Agriculture Accelerator Fund will be set up to encourage agri-startups by young entrepreneurs. 9.6 crore LPG connections, 220 crore Covid vaccination for 102 crore people given, 47.8 crore JanDhan accounts opened, she said. 

“The Agri Accelerator Fund is a good step, it will help young entrepreneurs navigate government regulations and connect all stakeholders in the farm supply chain and network. It may prove to be a game changer in addressing chronic problems in India’s agri value chains,” the FM said. 

"G20 Presidency gives us a unique opportunity to strengthen our role in the world economic order, we are steering an ambitious people-centric agenda to address global challenges and facilitate sustainable economic development," Sitharaman said.

“Entire Expenditure of around 2 lakh crore to be borne by Center to ensure Food security needs of the nation. Agri credit to be enhanced to 20 lakh crore,” she added.