Budget 2024 expectations: Priorities highlighted for poor women, youth, and farmers

As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present the Budget 2024 on February 1, there is anticipation surrounding the focus areas and measures that will be emphasised.

With poverty alleviation, agricultural support, women empowerment, and MSMEs in the spotlight, the upcoming Interim Budget is expected to address key concerns affecting these sectors.

Farmers, a key priority since 2019, could witness a substantial increase in financial assistance under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi program, potentially rising from ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 per farmer, marking a significant boost.

The participation of women in the workforce has garnered attention, with recent policy interventions aiming to increase their involvement.

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) remain a focal point, with considerations for enhancing the interest subvention scheme to benefit these enterprises.

While a modest increase in capital expenditure is expected in this interim Budget, significant reforms may be deferred until after the general elections when the full Budget is presented.