The Budget has attempted to balance near-term growth imperatives with long-term priorities.
In line with expectations, a big push has been accorded to infrastructure and logistics via Gati Shakti. The National Master Plan aims to massively upgrade India’s infrastructure; this will not just support near-term growth but will enhance the competitiveness of the Indian industry. The focus on 7 key engines helps to bring about much-needed synergy between infrastructure and logistics sectors. National Highway expansion by 25,000 km is a vital cog in this scheme. Gati Shakti is expected to create 60 lakh new jobs. The financing plan for these investments now looks much more robust and credible; both the Centre and States will now need to focus on its speedy implementation.
