Talking points of Union Budget 2021

Union Budget 2021 is one of its kind. First, it is the first paperless Budget in Indian history. Second, it is more like a prescription to “get well soon” from the impact of the pandemic. Let us look at some of the proposals aimed to aid the economic revival.

Proposals impacting common people:

Better healthcare facilities

With a total outlay of Rs 2,23,846 cr as opposed to Rs 94,452 cr last year, the healthcare sector truly stole the show. Of the total outlay, Rs 35,000 cr is expected to be earmarked for COVID-19 vaccines. Well, its high time we realise health is wealth!

Better rail experience

Union Budget 2021 has proposed introducing 2 new technologies: metro lite and metro neo in tier II and tier III cities. If these are accepted, you would enjoy relatively cheaper metro services with the same convenience and ease.

Suraksha kavach for bank deposits

Thanks to the previous bank-related scams, Union Budget 2021 proposed a measure to protect depositors of funds from default risk. The proposal is to offer a cover of up to Rs 5 lakh per depositor on their deposits in stressed banks. In addition, streamlining the provisions may also be on cards so you have timely access to the cover.

Wealth creation for retail investors

LIC IPO has been long overdue now. But the FM has reassured that necessary amendments will be made to the law so as to divest LIC this year. In addition, 2 public sector banks would also be up for divestment during the year. If this happens, retail investors would get an opportunity to participate in wealth creation.

Tiny steps to fight pollution

In a bid to address the pollution, Budget 2021 has proposed a voluntary vehicle scrappage policy. As per this, personal vehicles and commercial vehicles would undergo fitness tests after 20 yrs and 15 yrs of usage, respectively. The policy would also spur the demand in the automobiles sector. On taking the year 1990 as the base, approximately 52 lakh passenger vehicles and 37 lakh commercial vehicles are eligible for voluntary scrapping as of now.

Because cleanliness is next to Godliness

The Budget 2021 also proposed the ‘Swachh Bharat 2.0’ campaign for which Rs 1.41 lakh cr has been allocated for 5 yrs from 2021. This mission would focus on wastewater treatment, complete faecal sludge management, reduction in single-use plastics, and segregation of garbage. Ultimately, it would result in a reduction in air pollution.

Shell out more for mobile phones

Budget 2021 has proposed to increase the customs duty on mobile phone parts from 0 to 2.5% and that of a battery charger from 10% to 15%. Although mobile phones would get costlier, the move would create opportunities for domestic manufacturers and promote the Make in India campaign.

Kyuki apna ghar apna hota hai

Budget 2021 has proposed to extend the tax holiday on affordable housing projects for a year more till 31st Mar 2022. Similarly, the additional tax deduction of Rs 1.5 lakh on home loans availed up till 31st Mar 2022 to buy a house under the affordable housing scheme would also be extended up till 31st Mar 2022. This will spur demand for housing and aid the related sectors.

On the tax front

Budget 2021 has exempted those aged 75 and above earning only pension income from filing returns, reducing the burden of senior citizens. Further, individual taxpayers are also relieved as the income tax rates are unchanged, if not reduced. What’s more, the Budget 2021 has also proposed a faceless dispute resolution system to fast-track the process.

Here’s an infographic before moving on to proposals impacting the businesses.

Proposals impacting businesses:

More foreign money and control in the insurance sector

Budget 2021 increased the FDI limit in the insurance sector from 49% to 74%. This proposal would not only attract more capital inflow into the sector but also aid the growth of the entire economy. It would also encourage new insurers to step into the market and create competition. Thanks to this, you may get access to new, innovative, and better insurance products.

Indian Railways to boost infrastructure

₹ 1.1 lakh cr is proposed to be allocated for the Indian Railways. Not only will this boost the railway sector, but also enhance the infrastructure. Further, 100% electrification of broad-gauge routes by December 2023 is also proposed.

Recapitalisation of public sector banks

Union Budget also proposed to infuse Rs 20,000 cr in public sector banks in the FY 2022. This move would replenish their capitals and enhance their lending capability. Further, the creation of Asset Management Companies to take over bad loans is also a welcome move for banks as it will improve the health of the overall sector.

Continue to read other proposals of Budget 2021 here.