Department of Commerce in association with Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAI), Mangaluru Branch, organised a seminar on “The Union Budget -Gateway to Economic Empowerment on February 20, 2025. CA. Gautham Pai D, the Chairman of the Mangaluru Branch of ICAI, was the Chief Guest of the Programme. In his address, he said that the Union Budget for 2025 demonstrates a strong commitment to the youth of India by addressing critical areas in education, skill development, and healthcare. Sir mentioned about the establishment of National Centres of Excellence for Skilling, and the expansion of IITs, medical education and also the focus on digital tools, AI research, and Innovation.
The resource person for the seminar CA. Vrinda Konnar presented the Union Budget in a very clear manner, which made the students understand better about the concept of budget and its importance to the country.
The session highlighted a fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of GDP. Key initiatives including boosting agriculture with programs like the Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, supporting MSMEs with revised classification criteria, and enhancing credit access for micro enterprises. She also focused on investments in education, infrastructure, and healthcare, with plans for 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs and new medical colleges. On the tax front, personal income tax exemptions have been increased, and tax slabs have been revised for middle-class relief. The indirect tax changes include a rationalization of customs duties, relief on drug imports, and support for domestic manufacturing. Infrastructure development sees an emphasis on public-private partnerships, with outlays for transport, urban development, and regional connectivity.
It was an interactive session with many students clarifying doubts, which made the entire seminar very interesting. The students expressed their sincere gratitude during the feedback, stating that the complex content was demonstrated to them in a very simple and useful way. The seminar was attended by 87 students. This programme aimed at achieving the NAAC Core values of Inclusive Development and quest for Excellence.
Report By,
Mrs. Anasuya Bhagvath
