Union Budget 2025: Date, Time, and Key Highlights of FM Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget Presentation

The much-anticipated Union Budget 2025, the eighth consecutive budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is set to make headlines across India. Here’s everything you need to know about the date, time, how to watch it live, and key expectations from this monumental financial statement.

What is the Union Budget 2025?

The Union Budget is the Government of India’s annual financial statement, outlining its proposed expenditures and revenues for the fiscal year from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. The budget provides a comprehensive overview of fiscal policies, government spending, tax structures, and economic priorities. Since 2019, this document, also referred to as the “bahi-khaata,” has been fully digital, reflecting the government’s push towards modernization.

Key Details: Date, Time, and Place

Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM IST
Location: Lok Sabha, Parliament of India

Where to Watch the Union Budget 2025 Live?

You can watch FM Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget speech live through the following channels:

Parliament’s Official Channels: Doordarshan and Sansad TV.
Government YouTube Channels: The speech will be live-streamed for wider accessibility.
Livemint.com: Access live updates and streaming on their website.
Union Budget App: All budget documents will be available for download on the official app for hassle-free access.
Government Web Portal: Visit www.indiabudget.gov.in for digital access to official budget documents.

Budget Preparation: A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

The Finance Ministry began budget preparations in October 2024. This process included extensive discussions with various ministries to finalize financial estimates and funding needs. The budget’s preparation was marked by the traditional Halwa Ceremony, symbolizing the final stage of document compilation.

Significance of the Halwa Ceremony

A tradition since the 1980s, the Halwa Ceremony signifies the commencement of the printing of budget documents. The ceremony is attended by key officials of the Finance Ministry, who remain in isolation until the budget is presented to ensure confidentiality.

Key Changes Introduced by the Modi Government

The NDA government has introduced significant reforms to the budget process, including:

Combining the Rail Budget with the Union Budget: First implemented in 2017.
Shifting the Budget Date: From the last week of February to February 1.
Going Digital: The 2021 Union Budget marked the transition to a paperless format.

Top 5 Expectations from Union Budget 2025

As India awaits the financial blueprint for 2025-26, Emkay Global highlights five key expectations:

1. Tax Reforms

The budget is expected to focus on rationalizing income tax slabs to boost disposable income and drive consumption. Additionally, tax incentives for startups and small businesses may take center stage.

2. Infrastructure and Capital Expenditure (Capex)

Investments in infrastructure—including roads, railways, and urban development—are anticipated to continue, with a focus on creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

3. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Enhanced allocation for renewable energy, electric vehicles (EVs), and sustainable agriculture is expected to align with India’s climate commitments.

4. Digital India Initiatives

Expansion of digital infrastructure, including 5G rollout and support for fintech innovations, is likely to feature prominently in the budget.

5. Fiscal Consolidation

While fostering growth, the government is expected to aim for fiscal consolidation by balancing public spending with revenue generation.

Stock Market Outlook for 2025

Research agency Emkay Global has issued a cautious outlook for Indian stock markets in the first quarter of 2025.

Nifty 50 Index: Closed 0.49% lower at 23,092.20 points.
BSE Sensex Index: Declined 0.43% to 76,190.46 points.

Despite near-term challenges, long-term prospects remain optimistic due to the government’s focus on economic resilience and structural reforms.

Accessing Budget 2025 Documents

All official documents, including the Annual Financial Statement, Demands for Grants, and the Finance Bill, will be available on the following platforms:

Union Budget Mobile App
indiabudget.gov.in

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1. Break Down Key Budget Highlights

Include detailed expectations or announcements like tax reforms, infrastructure investments, healthcare allocations, or education sector funding. Example:

Tax Updates: Anticipated changes in income tax slabs.
Capex Growth: Focus on infrastructure investment to boost economic growth.
Digital Economy: Allocations for digital transformation, AI, and tech development.

2. Impact Analysis

Discuss how the Union Budget 2025 could impact different sectors:

For Corporates: Policies on corporate taxes or incentives for startups.
For Common Citizens: Benefits for taxpayers, subsidies, or schemes for the middle class.
For Farmers: Expectations around agriculture subsidies and rural development.

3. Comparison with Previous Budgets

Include a short section comparing the 2025 Budget with the previous years, such as the focus areas or allocation trends. Example:

“While the 2024 Budget emphasized infrastructure development, the 2025 Budget is expected to focus on fiscal consolidation and social welfare schemes.”

4. International Perspectives

Mention how the world perceives India’s 2025 Budget, focusing on foreign investments and India’s economic positioning in global markets.

5. User-Friendly Details

Provide direct, concise information for easy access:

Where to Find Budget Documents: Mention the Union Budget mobile app and official website.
How to Understand the Budget: Link terms like “Annual Financial Statement” or “Fiscal Deficit” to explain their importance.

6. Key Quotes or Statistics

Include noteworthy quotes from analysts, economists, or government representatives. Example:

“The Union Budget 2025 is expected to accelerate India’s journey toward becoming a $5 trillion economy.”

7. Infographic Details

Add hypothetical ideas for charts or infographics, such as “Top 5 Allocations by Sector” or “Timeline of Budget Evolution Since 2014.”

8. FAQs

What is the Union Budget?

The Union Budget is an annual financial statement presented by the Indian government, outlining proposed revenues and expenditures for the next fiscal year.

How does it affect taxpayers?

The budget impacts taxpayers through changes in tax policies, exemptions, and deductions, directly influencing their financial planning.

How are budget announcements implemented?

Budget proposals are implemented after parliamentary approval through specific legislation, department notifications, and budget allocations.

9. Call to Action (CTA)

Encourage readers to stay updated:

“Subscribe for insights on how the budget will affect you.”

“Follow our live blog for real-time updates during the Union Budget presentation.”

Conclusion

The Union Budget 2025 is poised to set the tone for India’s economic trajectory in the coming fiscal year. From tax reforms to infrastructure investments, the budget will address key priorities while navigating the challenges of fiscal consolidation. Stay tuned for live updates and analysis as FM Nirmala Sitharaman delivers her budget speech on February 1, 2025.