Budget 2025: The Hits, Misses & New Schemes to Watch Out For

India: As India gears up for the FY2025-26 Budget on February 1, several government schemes—both new and old—are under the spotlight. While some recent initiatives have received significant allocations, others, including once-prominent schemes, have seen consistent budget cuts.

New & Emerging Schemes

Among the latest initiatives, the Solar Rooftop Installation Scheme launched in 2024 has been allocated a hefty ₹6,250 crore for FY25. Other key schemes include:
✔ Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan – Aimed at strengthening panchayati raj institutions.
✔ ITI Upgradation Scheme – Focused on enhancing vocational training.
✔ PM Vishwakarma Scheme – Controversial yet ambitious, this program nurtures traditional skills under the guru-shishya parampara.
✔ INDIA AI Mission & Centres of Excellence for AI – Designed to boost artificial intelligence research and adoption.

Older Schemes Facing Budget Cuts

Several well-known programs have seen a sharp decline in funding, including:
❌ Regional Connectivity Scheme – Originally launched to improve air connectivity in underserved areas.
❌ Smart Cities Mission – Once a flagship project, now facing reduced allocations.
❌ Digital India & Startup India – Despite their early success, these initiatives have seen funding shrink in recent years.
❌ Promotion of Digital Payments – Received zero allocation in the last Budget.

PLI Schemes & Electric Mobility Focus

The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme remains a priority, with the Electronics & IT Hardware sector receiving the highest allocation of ₹6,200 crore. Meanwhile, electric mobility initiatives continue to gain traction, with the FAME Scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) leading the pack in terms of budgetary support.

As Budget 2025 unfolds, all eyes will be on whether these trends continue or if the government re-prioritizes funding for key sectors. Will we see a revival of Digital India and Startup India, or will the focus remain on AI and renewables? Stay tuned for the Budget Day announcements!