Union Budget 2025: 4 Technology-Related Key Announcements

Union Budget 2025

The Union Budget 2025 introduced several measures to boost technology, digital infrastructure, and manufacturing in India. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced initiatives aimed at expanding broadband connectivity, strengthening local manufacturing, and supporting deep tech startups. These announcements align with India’s long-term vision of becoming a global technology hub.

1. AI and Skill Development Get a Major Boost

The government will establish five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling, ensuring better training opportunities. A new Centre of Excellence for AI in Education will also be set up with an outlay of ₹500 crore. Additionally Infrastructure of newer IITs established after 2014 will be upgraded, thereby adding 6,500 seats. However these investments should put India firmly in its pursuit of emerging technologies.

2.Expansion of Broadband to Schools and Health Centres

The Bharat Net program will provide broadband connectivity to all secondary schools and primary health centers in the country. This expansion will enhance digital access in rural areas, improving education and healthcare services. During the next five years, the government will also establish 50,000 Atal Thinking Laboratories (ATLs) in government schools to encourage innovation and scientific thinking among students.

3.Deep Tech, and Trade digitalization takes central stage

The creation of a fund-of-funds for Deeptech research and development shall be considered by the government. More importantly, data from the PM Gati Shakti initiative shall be shared with the private sector to eventually make logistics more efficient. International trade documentation via the Bharat Trade Net will be automated, making transactions quick and transparent. In the meantime, India Post will be modernized to improve its logistics and delivery capabilities.

Union Budget 2025

4. Make in India Initiative Expands to New Sectors

The “Make in India” program will now include a new manufacturing mission for grid-scale batteries, solar photovoltaic (PV) cells, and electrolysers. This will boost India’s green energy sector and reduce reliance on imports. For local manufacturing support, the government has amended the Basic Customs Duty (BCD). The duty on open cells and carrier-grade Ethernet switches has been reduced, while BCD on flat panel displays has increased from 10% to 20%. These measures are aimed at promoting domestic production and reducing dependence on foreign components. 5. Financial Support for Gig Workers and Digital Payments

The budget introduces government-funded insurance for over 1 crore gig workers, which will give them better financial security. They will also get e-Shram registration and identity cards, through which they can avail social benefits. The government has also announced a new UPI-linked credit card with a usage limit of ₹30,000. Loan limits under the PM Swanidhi Scheme will also be increased to support small businesses and street vendors.

Conclusion: A Strong Push for Digital and Manufacturing Growth

The Union Budget 2025 sets the foundation for India’s technological and economic growth. With investments in AI, broadband expansion, deep tech, and local manufacturing, the government is trying to position India as a leader in innovation. The financial support to gig workers and digital payments also strengthens the country’s approach to inclusive development. These policies will shape India’s tech landscape in the coming years, fostering growth across multiple sectors.

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