Budget 2025 expectations highlights: What Indian industry wants from FM Nirmala Sitharaman's eighth budget

Budget 2025 expectations LIVE: Rajeev kr Gupta, MD, Thermocool Home Appliances LTD said, “As the retail sector continues evolving according to changing consumer patterns and technology, the Union Budget 2025 should prioritize digital transformation, infrastructure development, and consumption facilitation. As the Indian retail environment increasingly turns to e-commerce, the sector awaits more regulatory clarity and support for online retail platforms. The industry is constantly looking for measures that would make e-commerce policies more streamlined, GST compliance easier, and offer tax incentives to small and medium retailers to adapt to digital tools, thus making them more efficient and reaching greater markets.

The retail sector heavily relies on logistics and supply chain networks, hence, it's likely to see infrastructure development investment, especially in areas such as last-mile delivery and warehousing. Measures under PM Gati Shakti are expected to further reduce transportation costs and make the supply chain more efficient, which will benefit both physical stores and online businesses.

For consumers, we anticipate an increase in tax exemptions or rebates for stimulating discretionary spending, especially on discretionary goods and services commonly used such as clothes, electronics, and home products. Such consumption spending is vital for continuing retail growth, and targeted assistance to middle-income households is expected to significantly contribute to this.

Overall, the 2025 Budget is set to ensure further strengthening of the retail sector in India through digitalization, infrastructure, and consumer expenditure, laying the foundation for a resilient and competitive ecosystem that can thrive both in the physical and digital marketplaces.”

Budget 2025 expectations LIVE: Gaurav Burman, Managing Director, APAC Operations, 75F said, "Energy-efficient solutions along with the latest in IoT technologies can play a transformative role in urban environments, especially as the infrastructure industry drives progress in urban development and smart city initiatives.

As we await the Union Budget 2025, we seek increased government attention and support on green incentives and smart infrastructure projects, along with enhanced financial and policy support around energy-efficient technologies. Subsidies or tax breaks will be effective for adopting IoT-driven smart building solutions, such as those offered by 75F, which will not only reduce carbon footprints but will also make energy efficiency a more accessible option for both businesses and homes alike.

Additionally, programs aimed at upgrading existing infrastructure with modern, sustainable technologies could accelerate India’s energy transition. Investments in skilling and innovation will further empower the industry to create unique solutions to address India’s specific needs effectively."

Budget 2025 expectations LIVE: Vineet Dhawan, CEO of Digital Convergence Technologies (DCT) said, "The technology sector is optimistic about policies that will catalyze innovation, support growth, and strengthen India's position as a global tech hub. The rapid adoption of cloud migration, cybersecurity, and OTT video management solutions like our own dcafe’ underscores the need for a robust digital infrastructure backed by forward-looking reforms.

We hope for enhanced incentives to accelerate digital transformation for businesses, support for Global Capability Centers (GCCs) to drive employment and innovation, and clear guidelines to strengthen data security frameworks. Simplified taxation structures for IT exports and R&D investments will further encourage companies to innovate and expand.

Additionally, a focus on skilling programs aligned with emerging technologies is critical to ensuring India remains future-ready. A collaborative approach between the government and industry will not only drive economic growth but also empower businesses to deliver secure, scalable, and innovative solutions on a global scale.

At DCT, we are committed to harnessing the potential of these advancements and look forward to a budget that aligns with India's aspirations for a digitally empowered future."