Budget 2026 boost for future-ready India, says Shah; blind to real crises: Rahul

NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh and home minister Amit Shah were joined by other NDA bigwigs in applauding the Budget, with Shah asserting that it accelerates the vision of a future-ready India where growth goes beyond big cities.“Making MSMEs the champions of India’s growth story, ‘Viksit Bharat Budget’ realises PM Narendra Modi’s vision of galvanising the economy from the grassroots through a clear three-pronged framework with a Rs 10,000 crore growth fund,” Shah said, highlighting the allocation of Rs 12.2 lakh crore for capex, initiatives for Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and boost for education and tourism, including Buddhist circuits. Rajnath said it will boost the journey towards a developed India, adding that the Budget seeks to “transform aspiration into achievement” and “potential into performance”. “This Budget is designed to ensure that the dividends of growth reach every section of society, with special focus on the poor, the underprivileged, and the disadvantaged.”BJP president Nitin Nabin said the Budget reflects strong intent backed by concrete action, from economic reforms to infrastructure expansion and social welfare. It is a truly inspired by vision for the youth and chooses reform over rhetoric, he added.BJP allies were equally effusive in praising the Budget. JDU president and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar said it is progressive and futuristic, and highlighted its measures that will help the state. Bihar’s cities and products will benefit a lot from its proposals for high-speed rail corridor and waterways, he said.“The Budget accelerates economic growth, fulfils people’s aspirations through capacity building, and advances inclusive development in the true spirit of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. Anchored in a strong growth outlook of 7.4%, the Budget also reflects firm fiscal discipline,” Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu said.Union minister Chirag Paswan of Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) said the Budget focuses on infrastructure, rural development, urbanisation, and self-reliance. He added that it lays a strong foundation for a developed India. RPI MP Ramdas Athawale termed the Budget “revolutionary as it touches every segment of society”.