Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Friday described the Union Budget 2025-26 as a reflection of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forward-looking vision for India.
Addressing a press conference at the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in Ahmedabad, he said, “This budget provides a roadmap for a technologically advanced and self-reliant nation.”
Dr Singh highlighted key initiatives in the Budget, particularly in technological innovation and energy independence. “The decision to allow private sector participation in the nuclear industry is a historic move that will transform India’s energy sector,” he said.
“These reforms will support energy self-sufficiency and position India as a global leader in advanced nuclear technology by 2047.”
He outlined the government’s commitment to making nuclear power a key part of India’s energy strategy.
“The ‘Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat’ has been introduced to enhance domestic nuclear capabilities, encourage private sector involvement, and implement advanced nuclear technologies,” he stated.
A total of Rs 20,000 crore has been allocated for research and development in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with a target to operationalise at least five indigenously designed SMRs by 2033. “This initiative aligns with India’s goal of achieving 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047, supporting carbon reduction and sustainable energy solutions,” he added.
Referring to the liberalisation of the space sector, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “Just as opening up the space sector led to unprecedented growth, similar reforms in the nuclear sector will drive innovation and development.”
He noted that for decades, the nuclear industry had operated under stringent regulations, but new policies aim to promote openness and collaboration, in line with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Describing the Budget as bold and revolutionary, he said, “It reflects conviction and courage.”
He further stated, “This budget is also middle-class oriented, with income tax relief as a major component.”
He pointed out that in 2014, the income tax exemption limit was Rs 2.5 lakh, whereas in 2025 it stands at Rs 12 lakh. “Under the previous tax structure, a person earning Rs 12 lakh in 2014 would have paid Rs 1.90 lakh in taxes, whereas now the tax liability is zero. This relief has led to widespread satisfaction among taxpayers,” he said.
Dr Jitendra Singh also spoke about the significance of the Nuclear Energy Mission, stating, “Achieving 100 GW nuclear energy was a long-standing vision of Prime Minister Modi. This milestone has only been possible due to his leadership.”
He further stated, “We now have over 300 startups in the nuclear and space sectors, whereas earlier there were only a few.” He said these sectors have greatly benefited from the Budget, and in the coming years, the economy would transition into a bio-economy.
Emphasising India’s growing global recognition, he said, “All nations, including the United States, now acknowledge our capabilities.” He recalled India’s leadership in healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that “nearly 36 drugs were exempted from taxation as part of the country’s efforts.”
He concluded by stating, “This Budget strengthens India’s path towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.”
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