Union Budget 2025-26: Emphasis on Women-Led Development
The Union Budget 2025-26 underscores the government's dedication to inclusive development by prioritizing the well-being of four key groups: the poor, youth, farmers, and women. India's vision as a Developed nation includes significant goals such as zero poverty, universal quality education, and a target of 70% women in economic activities by 2047.
Notable Budgetary Advancements
- Gender Budget Increase: Allocation increased to 8.8% of the total budget, the highest in two decades, totaling ₹4.49 lakh crore across 49 ministries.
- Whole-of-Government Approach: 12 additional central ministries have integrated gender budgets, expanding the focus to include non-conventional sectors.
Female Labour Force Participation
- The female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) rose to 42% in 2023-24, nearing the global average of 47%.
- A significant 37-percentage point gap remains compared to men's participation rate of 79%.
Key Initiatives and Schemes
- Increased allocation for programs like Skill India Programme, Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP), and MGNREGS, with 52% of funds directed towards women and girls.
- Introduction of new schemes such as the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and Centres of Excellence for Make in India.
- Focus on formalising gig workers, which primarily includes women, through identity cards and e-Shram portal registration.
Technological Advancements and Financial Inclusion
- Establishment of a Centre of Excellence on AI for education and a dedicated ₹600 crore gender budget under the India AI Mission.
- Financial institutions are encouraged to recognize women's roles in agriculture and entrepreneurship through simplified documentation and credit facilities.
- 20.5% of MSMEs are women-owned, employing about 27 million people, highlighting the need for targeted financial literacy programs and collateral-free loans.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
- Establishing 30 million additional women-owned businesses could generate 150-170 million jobs by 2030, supporting over 25% of job creation needed for India's workforce.
The Budget 2025-26 lays a strong foundation for advancing women's economic participation, aiming for 70% involvement in economic activities by 2047 through gender-responsive budgeting, social protection, and labour market inclusivity.