Current Affairs is the most important area in all competitive exams. But the difficulty level is very high. That’s why; many aspirants get confused, how to select Current Affairs for Preparation of Competitive Examination? In this Post, Daily Current Affairs 1, 2 & 3 February 2025, we have tried to cover each and every point and also included all important facts from National/ International news that are useful for upcoming competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Railway, State Govt. etc.

Sunita Williams Sets New Spacewalk Record

Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams has broken the record for the longest spacewalking time by a woman, surpassing the previous mark set by former astronaut Peggy Whitson. Williams has now accumulated a total of 62 hours and 6 minutes of spacewalking time over nine spacewalks. This milestone was achieved during her most recent extravehicular activity (EVA) with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore on the International Space Station (ISS). The two have been on the ISS since June 2024 due to technical difficulties with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, where they performed maintenance work outside the station.

Key Highlights

Record-Breaking Spacewalk

• Sunita Williams has now accumulated 62 hours and 6 minutes of spacewalking time, breaking Peggy Whitson’s record of 60 hours and 21 minutes.
• Williams ranks fourth on NASA’s all-time spacewalking list.
• The record-breaking spacewalk lasted 5 hours and 26 minutes, beginning at 7:43 am ET and ending at 1:09 pm ET.

Purpose of the Spacewalk

• Williams and Butch Wilmore removed degraded radio communications hardware.
• They collected samples to check for possible microorganisms on the exterior of the ISS.

Extended Stay on the ISS

• Williams and Wilmore launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft in June 2024 for an eight-day mission.
• Due to helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, NASA deemed the Starliner unsafe for their return.
• NASA now plans to bring them back to Earth in late March 2025 aboard a SpaceX spaceship.

Williams’s Achievements

• This was her ninth spacewalk and Wilmore’s fifth.
• In 2012, Williams became the first person to complete a triathlon in space, using ISS exercise equipment.

NASA’s Announcement

• NASA confirmed the milestone via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
• The agency continues to monitor Williams and Wilmore’s health and mission progress as they await their return.

PM Modi’s Decade of Transformation – A Literary Analysis Launched

The launch of Indian Renaissance: The Modi Decade, an anthology edited by Dr. Aishwarya Pandit, was launched at the NDMC Convention Center in New Delhi. Released by Westland Non-Fiction, this book delves into India’s evolution under Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 2014 to 2024. Featuring insights from 27 esteemed authors, the anthology examines the political, economic, social, and cultural shifts that have contributed to India’s emergence as a global powerhouse.

About Book Launch Event

• Venue: NDMC Convention Center, New Delhi
• Chief Guest: Union Home Minister Amit Shah
• Guest of Honour: Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs
• Other Dignitaries Present
• Kartikeya Sharma (MP, Contributing Author)
• Biplab Kumar Deb (MP, Former Tripura CM)
• Rakesh Sinha (Former MP)
• Mahesh Jethmalani (Former MP)
• Industrialist Naveen Jindal

Discussions

• India’s growth under Modi’s leadership
• Governance reforms and political stability
• Economic and digital transformation
• India’s global stature and diplomatic advancements

Amit Shah’s Remarks on PM Modi’s Leadership

• Political Stability & Governance: Modi is the first leader in 40 years to secure a third consecutive term.
• Economic Growth: India is now one of the fastest-growing economies globally.
• Poverty Alleviation: Over 25 crore people lifted out of poverty.
• Infrastructure & Welfare: Basic necessities provided to millions, transforming lives even in remote areas.
• Global Image: India has emerged as a strong and self-reliant nation under Modi’s leadership.

About the Editor – Dr. Aishwarya Pandit

• Associate Professor at Jindal Global Law School
• Former Visiting Fellow at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies
• Visiting faculty at IIM Indore
• Author of Claiming Citizenship and Nation: Muslim Politics and State Building in North India, 1947-1986 (Published by Routledge in 2022)
• Columnist for The Sunday Guardian

Contributors to the Book

• The book features essays from 27 distinguished authors, including,
• Global Leaders & Experts: Tony Abbott, Robert Clark, Don Ritter, Grant Newsham
• Indian Thinkers & Analysts: Rajiv Kumar, Samir Saran, Avatans Kumar, Bharat Kaushal
• Security & Diplomacy Experts: Satoru Nagao, Cleo Paskal, Jonathan Fleming
• Media & Policy Commentators: Pankaj Vohra, Priya Sahgal, Ashish Chauhan

Themes Covered in the Book

• India’s Political Transformation – Modi’s leadership in reshaping governance
• Economic Reforms – Growth, digital revolution, and financial inclusion
• India’s Global Standing – Strengthening ties with the US, Arab nations, and other global powers
• Social Welfare & Development – Education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements
• New Nationalism – Redefining India’s identity in the 21st century

Budget 2025: 10 Important Points About the Union Budget

The Union Budget of India, known as the Annual Financial Statement under Article 112 of the Constitution, is prepared by the Ministry of Finance for the upcoming financial year. It details the government’s planned expenditures, anticipated revenues, and economic strategies. The budget is unveiled on February 1 and is set to take effect by April. Prior to 2016, it was traditionally presented on the last working day of February. The Budget Division of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) oversees its preparation.

Facts About the Union Budget:

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 on February 1. Here are 10 interesting facts about the Union Budget.

1. Change in Presentation Date: Until 2016, the Union Budget was traditionally presented on the last working day of February. However, this changed with the presentation date now set for February 1.
2. Historical Timing Shift: Until 1999, the Union Budget announcement occurred at 5:00 pm, following a colonial tradition. Finance Minister Yashwant Sinha changed the timing to 11 am starting in 2001.
3. Halwa Ceremony Tradition: A week before presenting the Budget, a ‘Halwa ceremony’ is conducted where the Finance Minister distributes ‘Halwa’ among ministry officials, marking the beginning of the ‘lock-in’ period.
4. Digital Transition: With the adoption of digital methods, the lock-in period has been reduced to just five days from the previous two weeks.
5. Briefcase Tradition Discontinuation: The tradition of finance ministers carrying the Budget in a leather briefcase, in practice until 2018, has been discontinued.
6. Paperless Budget Innovation: On February 1, 2021, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the first paperless Budget using a digital tablet.
7. Two Parts of the Union Budget: The Union Budget comprises two parts – the Annual Financial Statement and the Demand for Grants. The Annual Financial Statement summarizes the government’s revenue for the upcoming year, while the Demand for Grants outlines estimated expenditures.
8. Parliamentary Procedure: The finance minister presents the Union Budget in a speech, which is followed by discussions and voting in the Lok Sabha.
9. Mid-Year Review: A ‘mid-year review’ or ‘half-yearly report’ provides updates on the government’s financial performance during the fiscal year.
10. Presidential Approval Tradition: Before presenting the Union Budget in Parliament, the finance minister meets the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan to seek approval, a custom followed for many years. Following the Budget speech, the finance minister, along with other ministers, engages in discussions with stakeholders.

Goa CM Inaugurates Sci-Fi Science Film Festival in Panaji

The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, officially opened the Sci-Fi Science Film Festival of India in Panaji on January 30, 2025. This festival, organized by Vidnyan Parishad Goa, honors science, innovation, and the spirit of curiosity, paying tribute to the esteemed scientist Dr. M. Swaminathan. This year’s theme, “Green Revolution,” seeks to motivate young minds and advocate for a sustainable future. Spanning four days, the event highlights the crucial role of science and innovation in India’s development and encourages the youth to actively participate in scientific pursuits.

Key Highlights of the Event

• Inauguration: Goa CM Pramod Sawant inaugurated the Sci-Fi Science Film Festival in Panaji.
• Organisers: The festival is organised by Vidnyan Parishad Goa in collaboration with the Goa Science and Technology Department.
• Theme: This year’s theme is “Green Revolution,” focusing on sustainability and encouraging curiosity in young minds.
• Tribute to Dr. M. Swaminathan: The festival is held in honour of Dr. M. Swaminathan, known for his contributions to science.
• Festival Duration: The event is a 4-day celebration of science, innovation, and cinema.
• Encouragement for Youth Participation: CM Sawant highlighted the importance of such festivals in fostering scientific curiosity among the youth, promoting careers in science, and contributing to India’s vision of “Viksit Bharat.”
• Scientific Institutions in Goa: Sawant also emphasized that Goa is emerging as a hub for scientific research, home to institutions such as IIT, NIT, NIO, and the National Forensic Sciences University.

Additional Information

• Involvement of Dignitaries: The festival was attended by Dr. Soumya Swaminathan (scientist), Harilal Menon (Vice-Chancellor of Goa University), and Prasad Rangnekar (President of Vidnyan Parishad Goa).
• Festival’s Origin: The Sci-Fi Science Film Festival was conceptualised by the late Manohar Bhai Parrikar and Jayantrao Sahasrabuddhe, reflecting their dedication to science and innovation.
• The Goa CM also stressed the critical role of sci-fi films in fostering curiosity, enthusiasm, and a scientific temperament among students, which can play a vital role in India’s growth trajectory.

India Adds 4 New Ramsar Wetlands, First for Jharkhand & Sikkim

India has taken a major step forward in wetland conservation by adding four new sites to the esteemed Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. This increases the total number of Ramsar sites in India to 89. The new additions include two wetlands from the northeastern region, one from Gujarat, and Udhwa Lake from Jharkhand. The recognition of these sites, particularly the first-ever Ramsar designations for Jharkhand and Sikkim, underscores India’s dedication to protecting its rich ecosystems.

What are the Four New Ramsar Sites in India?

India’s Ramsar list has expanded with four new sites across various regions. Notable among them are:

Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand: This is the first Ramsar-designated wetland for Jharkhand, showcasing the region’s significant biodiversity.

Sikkim’s Inaugural Ramsar Site: Sikkim, known for its unique Himalayan ecosystems, makes its debut on the Ramsar list.

A Site in Gujarat: This site further bolsters Gujarat’s position in environmental conservation.

A Wetland in Northeast India: A location in the northeastern states has also been included, representing the region’s unique ecological zones.

These sites serve as crucial habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife, playing an essential role in the local ecosystem and beyond. The recognition of these wetlands emphasizes their international ecological importance and marks a key milestone in India’s environmental conservation efforts.

How Do These New Wetland Sites Contribute to India’s Environmental Goals?

The designation of these new wetlands is a key part of India’s long-term environmental strategies. By adding these sites to the Ramsar List, India aims to:

Enhance Conservation Efforts: This recognition will lead to stronger environmental protections, ensuring these wetlands are better managed for the benefit of biodiversity.

Support Sustainable Tourism: With international attention on these sites, eco-tourism initiatives will thrive, allowing local communities to benefit economically while also preserving the wetlands.

Promote Scientific Research: The recognition opens up new opportunities for research into these unique ecosystems, contributing to the global understanding of wetland biodiversity.

India’s commitment to protecting its wetlands is reinforced by these designations, which align with global conservation efforts and sustainable management practices.

What Does This Expansion Mean for India’s Ramsar List and Conservation?

India’s Ramsar list now includes 47 wetlands, highlighting the country’s progress in environmental protection. Historically, India has steadily added more wetlands to the Ramsar list over the years, and the new additions further solidify this trajectory.

Historical Context: Over the years, India has identified key wetlands for conservation, many of which are vital for sustaining local biodiversity, water resources, and livelihoods.

Present Achievement: The recent inclusion of Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand and a wetland in Sikkim is a testimony to India’s ongoing efforts to conserve its natural heritage. These recognitions reflect the nation’s evolving approach to balancing development and environmental protection.

Centre Allocates Rs 3,027 Cr for Disaster Mitigation

A High-Level Committee (HLC), led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, has given the green light for a significant funding of Rs 3,027.86 crore for various disaster mitigation initiatives across several states in India. The committee, which features prominent members like Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, evaluated and sanctioned a variety of projects focused on improving lightning safety, supporting drought-prone areas, and managing forest fires. These projects are intended to strengthen India’s disaster preparedness and reduce the impact of natural disasters.

Key Highlights

• Total Financial Approval: Rs 3,027.86 crore approved for disaster mitigation projects.
• Committee Members: Led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and NITI Aayog Vice Chairman.
• National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF): The funds will be sourced from the NDMF.

Approved Projects

Drought-Prone Areas

• Total Cost: Rs 2,022.16 crore.
• Central Share: Rs 1,200 crore.
• Target: 12 drought-prone states.
• States Covered: Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh.

Lightening Safety

• Total Cost: Rs 186.78 crore.
• Target: 10 states with high lightning-prone areas.
• States Covered: Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal.

Forest Fire Risk Management

• Total Cost: Rs 818.92 crore.
• Central Share: Rs 690.63 crore.
• Target: 144 high-priority districts.
• States Covered: Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Manipur, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand.

Urban Flood Risk Mitigation

• Previous Approval: Rs 3,075.65 crore for 7 major cities.

GLOF Risk Mitigation

• Previous Approval: Rs 150 crore for 4 states.

Landslide Risk Mitigation

• Previous Approval: Rs 1,000 crore for 15 states.

Financial Assistance Released

• State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF): Rs 17,479.60 crore released to 27 states.
• National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF): Rs 4,808.30 crore to 18 states.
• State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF): Rs 1,973.55 crore to 13 states.
• National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF): Rs 719.72 crore to 8 states.

Objective

• The government is working towards enhancing disaster risk reduction systems, fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a disaster-resilient India by supporting states with adequate funding and resources for effective disaster management.

Union Budget 2025-26: Detailed Analysis

The Union Budget for 2025-26 presents a detailed plan for boosting India’s economic growth, focusing on expanding infrastructure, maintaining fiscal discipline, and promoting inclusive development. With a total expenditure of ₹50.65 lakh crore, the budget emphasizes capital investment, social sector initiatives, and tax reforms, with a goal of lowering the fiscal deficit to 4.4% of GDP. Major allocations include substantial funding for railways, highways, defense, and rural development, highlighting the government’s dedication to long-term economic stability and job creation.

Key focus of the 2025-2026 Budget includes:

Agriculture & Rural Prosperity

• Programs like the National Mission on High Yielding Seeds and Makhana Board aim to improve agricultural productivity.
• Enhanced credit for farmers, with short-term loans through Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) and the launch of missions to promote pulses production and sustainable cotton farming.

Support for MSMEs

• Revision of MSME classification to encourage growth with revised investment and turnover limits.
• Credit guarantees and customized credit cards for micro-enterprises, supporting up to 10 lakh micro-businesses.
• Focus on labor-intensive sectors, including footwear, leather, toy, and food processing industries to create jobs.

Infrastructure & Urban Development

• The Urban Challenge Fund allocates ₹1 lakh crore for redeveloping cities and water management.
• Support for states through a ₹1.5 lakh crore outlay for capital expenditure, including interest-free loans.

Technological & Educational Advancements

• Expansion of medical education, artificial intelligence initiatives, and Atal Tinkering Labs.
• Broadband connectivity in rural schools, Centers of Excellence for skilling, and development of IITs.

Tax Reforms

• Proposals for rationalizing tax structures and extending the deadline for filing updated returns.
• Income tax reform focused on the middle class, with deductions for senior citizens and adjustments in TDS limits for rent payments.

Financial Sector Reforms

• Increased foreign direct investment limits for the insurance sector and revamped credit score frameworks for rural areas.
• Introduction of the Grameen Credit Score to serve rural credit needs, and revamped KYC registry for speedier approvals.

Rupee Comes From (Budget 2025-26)

The government’s total revenue comes from various sources, categorized as follows:

• Corporation Tax – 17%
• Income Tax (includes Securities Transaction Tax) – 22%
• Customs Duty – 4%
• Union Excise Duties – 5%
• Goods & Services Tax (GST) & Other Taxes – 18%
• Non-Tax Receipts – 9%
• Non-Debt Capital Receipts – 1%
• Borrowings & Other Liabilities – 24%

Rupee Goes To (Budget 2025-26)

The government’s expenditure is divided into multiple categories:

• Central Sector Schemes (excluding Defence & Major Subsidies) – 16%
• Interest Payments – 20%
• Defence – 8%
• Major Subsidies (Food, Fertilizer, Petroleum, etc.) – 6%
• Finance Commission & Other Transfers – 8%
• State Share of Taxes & Duties – 22%
• Pensions – 4%
• Other Expenditure – 8%
• Centrally Sponsored Schemes – 8%

Total Revenue and Expenditure

Revenue Estimates

• Total Revenue Receipts: ₹34,20,409 crore
• Tax Revenue (Net to Centre): ₹28,37,409 crore
• Non-Tax Revenue: ₹583,000 crore
• Capital Receipts (including borrowings): ₹16,44,936 crore

Expenditure Estimates

• Total Expenditure: ₹50,65,345 crore
• Revenue Expenditure: ₹39,44,255 crore
• Capital Expenditure: ₹11,21,090 crore
• Effective Capital Expenditure: ₹15,48,282 crore

Deficit Indicators

Key Deficit Figures

• Fiscal Deficit: ₹1,56,89,36 crore (4.4% of GDP)
• Revenue Deficit: ₹5,23,846 crore (1.5% of GDP)
• Effective Revenue Deficit: ₹96,654 crore (0.3% of GDP)
• Primary Deficit: ₹2,92,598 crore (0.8% of GDP)

Deficit Financing

• Market Borrowings: ₹11,53,834 crore
• Securities against Small Savings: ₹343,382 crore
• External Debt: ₹23,490 crore

Sector-Wise Allocation

Major Expenditures

• Interest Payments: ₹12,76,338 crore
• Defence: ₹4,91,732 crore
• Pension: ₹2,76,618 crore

Subsidies:

• Food: ₹203,420 crore
• Fertilizer: ₹167,887 crore
• Petroleum: ₹12,100 crore

Key Infrastructure and Development Allocations

• Rural Development: ₹2,66,817 crore
• Education: ₹1,28,650 crore
• Healthcare: ₹98,311 crore
• Urban Development: ₹96,777 crore
• Transport Infrastructure: ₹5,48,649 crore

Transfer to States & UTs

Total Transfer to States & UTs: ₹25,01,284 crore

• State Devolution: ₹14,22,444 crore
• Finance Commission Grants: ₹1,32,767 crore
• Centrally Sponsored Schemes: ₹541,850 crore
• Other Grants & Loans: ₹3,74,725 crore

Key Government Schemes and Allocations

Agriculture & Rural Development

• PM-KISAN: ₹63,500 crore
• Mahatma Gandhi NREGA: ₹86,000 crore
• PM Awas Yojana (Grameen & Urban): ₵74,626 crore

Education & Employment

• PM Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI): ₹7,500 crore
• Samagra Shiksha: ₹41,250 crore
• Skill Development & Apprenticeships: ₹13,560 crore

Health & Social Welfare

• Ayushman Bharat – PMJAY: ₹9,406 crore
• POSHAN 2.0 (Nutrition Mission): ₹21,960 crore
• Social Assistance Programs: ₹9,652 crore

Infrastructure & Industrial Development

• Jal Jeevan Mission: ₹67,000 crore
• PM Gram Sadak Yojana: ₹19,000 crore
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes: ₹2,445 crore

Budget Allocations for All Ministries (2025-26):

Top Ministries by Budget Allocation

1. Ministry of Finance – ₹19,39,001.26 crore
2. Ministry of Defence – ₹6,81,210.27 crore
3. Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution – ₹2,15,767.09 crore
4. Ministry of Railways – ₹2,55,445.18 crore
5. Ministry of Road Transport & Highways – ₹2,87,333.16 crore

Key Ministry Allocations

Infrastructure & Development

• Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs – ₹96,777.00 crore
• Ministry of Power – ₹21,847.00 crore
• Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways – ₹3,470.58 crore

Social Sectors

• Ministry of Education – ₹1,28,650.05 crore
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare – ₹99,858.56 crore
• Ministry of Women & Child Development – ₹26,889.69 crore
• Ministry of Rural Development – ₹1,90,405.53 crore

Scientific Research & Technology

• Department of Space – ₹13,416.20 crore
• Ministry of Science & Technology – ₹38,613.32 crore
• Ministry of Electronics & IT – ₹26,026.25 crore

Agriculture & Industry

• Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare – ₹1,37,756.55 crore
• Ministry of Commerce & Industry – ₹18,446.05 crore
• Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers – ₹1,61,965.21 crore

Law & Governance

• Ministry of Home Affairs – ₹2,33,210.68 crore
• Ministry of Law & Justice – ₹5,850.37 crore
• Ministry of External Affairs – ₹20,516.61 crore

BCCI Awards 2024: Honoring Cricket Legends and Rising Stars

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) held its esteemed annual awards ceremony on January 31, 2025, in Hyderabad. This event celebrated the outstanding performances in Indian cricket from 2019 to 2023. This awards night not only honored cricketing legends but also recognized the contributions of current players who have shaped the game on the global stage.

Income Tax Budget 2025: No income tax for upto ₹12 lakh

In the Union Budget 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced significant changes to the income tax system. These changes aim to provide relief to the middle class and boost economic growth. The proposed measures are expected to increase disposable income, enhance consumer spending, and contribute to India’s economic development. The key focus is on simplifying the tax structure and ensuring a more progressive tax environment.

Income Tax Exemption for Up to ₹12 Lakh Income

• Individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh will not need to pay any income tax under the new tax regime.
• For salaried individuals, the exemption limit is ₹12.75 lakh, considering the standard deduction of ₹75,000.

Revised Tax Slabs

• The government has restructured tax slabs to reduce the burden on the middle class and promote savings, consumption, and investment.
• The following are the new income tax slabs.

Tax Rebate for earning Up to ₹12 Lakh

• For those earning up to ₹12 lakh (excluding special rate income such as capital gains), a tax rebate is provided, resulting in zero tax liability.

Impact on Various Income Groups

• A person earning ₹12 lakh will benefit from a tax reduction of ₹80,000.
• Someone earning ₹18 lakh will see a tax benefit of ₹70,000.
• A person earning ₹25 lakh will receive a tax benefit of ₹1,10,000.

Key Advantages of the New Tax Regime

• Increased Disposable Income: The changes are designed to leave more money in the hands of middle-class citizens, enabling increased consumption and savings.
• Relief for Senior Citizens: The tax structure includes measures such as an increase in the TCS threshold limit from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh and a doubling of the TDS threshold for senior citizens.

Overall Economic Impact

• These changes are expected to significantly boost demand in sectors like FMCG, automobiles, and retail, driving economic growth.
• The tax reforms aim to increase consumer confidence, simplify the tax system, and foster a progressive tax environment.

Budget 2025 Prioritizes Healthcare with ₹98,311 Cr Allocation

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Union Budget 2025, highlighting the importance of healthcare development, medical tourism, and better access to medical services. The government has set aside ₹98,311 crore for the healthcare sector, up from ₹90,658.63 crore in the last fiscal year. Significant announcements included customs duty exemptions on life-saving medications, the expansion of medical education, initiatives for cancer care, and improved connectivity for healthcare services.

Budget 2025 Healthcare Allocation

1. Healthcare Budget Allocation

• ₹98,311 crore allocated for healthcare in FY2025-26.
• Increase from ₹90,658.63 crore in FY2024-25.
• ₹2,445 crore set aside for the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost the pharmaceutical industry.

2. ‘Heal in India’ Initiative for Medical Tourism

• New program to promote medical tourism in collaboration with the private sector.
• Aim: Position India as a global medical hub by leveraging its affordable and high-quality healthcare services.

3. Customs Duty Exemptions on Life-Saving Drugs

• 36 critical medicines for cancer and rare diseases fully exempted from basic customs duty.
• Expected to reduce treatment costs for patients suffering from chronic and life-threatening illnesses.

4. Expansion of Medical Education & Cancer Care

• 10,000 new medical seats to be created in the next year.
• Target: 75,000 additional medical seats over the next five years.
• 200 cancer daycare centers to be established across districts within three years.
• Gig workers to receive healthcare benefits under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana.

5. Enhancing Connectivity & Healthcare Access

• Government secondary schools and primary healthcare centers to receive broadband connectivity.
• Objective: Strengthen telemedicine, e-learning, and digital health services in rural and remote areas.

6. Economic Survey 2025: Mental Health & Lifestyle Choices

• Highlights the role of lifestyle choices in mental well-being.
• Healthy habits like avoiding ultra-processed foods and staying active improve mental health.
• Sedentary lifestyles (desk jobs, social media overuse) linked to mental health decline.
• Calls for preventive strategies to promote better mental health, particularly among India’s youth.

Railway Budget 2025: Key Highlights and Analysis

The Railway Budget 2025 has been announced, with a total allocation of ₹2.65 lakh crore, the same as last year. Although the budget prioritizes capital expenditure (Capex) and the expansion of infrastructure, there are worries due to cuts in funding for customer amenities, public sector investments, and freight corridors. Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that maintaining last year’s budget allocation is crucial for ongoing infrastructure development while emphasizing the importance of long-term investments. Let’s delve into the key highlights of the 2025 Railway Budget.

Rail Budget 2025 Allocation and Expenditure

• Total Allocation: ₹2.65 lakh crore (unchanged from last year)
• Capital Expenditure (Capex): ₹2.52 lakh crore, including Public-Private Partnership (PPP) investments
• Expenditure in FY 2024-25: ₹2.09 lakh crore (79.33% utilization till January 23, 2025)
• Actual expenditure for FY 2023-24: ₹2.45 lakh crore

Major Infrastructure Projects in Budget 2025 Railway

The Railways has announced new projects amounting to ₹4.6 lakh crore, which include:

• Laying of new railway lines
• Doubling and quadrupling of existing tracks
• Construction of flyovers, underpasses, and workshops
• Investment in rolling stock and station redevelopment
• Installation of modern signaling systems for improved safety

Decline in Customer Amenities and Freight Corridor Investment

Customer Amenities Budget Reduction

The allocation for customer amenities has seen a continued decline:

• FY 2024-25 (Budget Estimate): ₹15,510 crore
• FY 2024-25 (Revised Estimate): ₹12,993.97 crore
• FY 2025-26: ₹12,118.39 crore

These funds are crucial for maintaining station hygiene, improving ticketing systems, modernizing seating areas, repairing trolleys, and enhancing passenger safety measures.

Freight Corridor Corporation Investment

A sharp decline is seen in the allocation for the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL):

• FY 2024-25 (Revised Estimate): ₹5,499 crore
• FY 2025-26: ₹500 crore

This could impact freight transportation capacity and delay critical projects aimed at reducing logistics costs.

Public Sector Unit (PSU) and Joint Venture Investments

The budget for investments in PSUs and JVs has been reduced significantly:

• FY 2024-25 (Revised Estimate): ₹27,570.77 crore
• FY 2025-26: ₹22,444.33 crore

This reduction raises concerns about the modernization and expansion of railway PSUs.

Railway’s Growth in Freight and Electrification Targets

Record Freight Capacity

Minister Vaishnaw announced that by March 2025, Indian Railways will achieve a milestone of 1.6 billion-tonne cargo carrying capacity, making it the second-largest railway cargo carrier globally, after China (3.7 billion tonnes).

100% Electrification Goal

The Railways is set to achieve 100% electrification of its network in FY 2025-26, reducing its carbon footprint and improving energy efficiency.

Bullet Train and High-Speed Rail Developments

Indigenous Bullet Train Project

India is progressing towards indigenous production of high-speed bullet trains, in collaboration with Defence PSU BEML and NHSRCL. These trains are designed to run at 280 kmph, with continued support from the Japanese government.

• FY 2023-24 Bullet Train Expenditure: ₹18,295 crore
• FY 2024-25 Budget Estimate: ₹21,000 crore
• FY 2025-26 Budget Allocation: ₹19,000 crore

Expansion of High-Speed Rail Fleet

The Rail Budget 2025 includes manufacturing of:

• 100 non-AC Amrit Bharat trains
• 50 NAMO Bharat trains (130 kmph for city connections)
• 200 Vande Bharat trains (Sleeper and chair car versions)
• 17,500 general coaches, of which 1,200 have already been manufactured