As the interim budget presentation by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman approaches on February 1, expectations are high among experts who are calling for measures such as support for women entrepreneurs, the formulation of a stable long-term taxation policy, and initiatives to bolster consumption and savings.
Experts are particularly hopeful for incentives addressing maternity leave benefits, an emphasis on skill training for young women, tax relaxations to support women entrepreneurs, and an increase in paid holidays for working mothers.
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Radhika Dalmia, chairperson of FICCI Ladies Organisation (Kolkata chapter), advocated tax relaxations for women entrepreneurs and more paid holidays for working mothers.
"Increasing the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana allowance and enhancing education benefits for girls are crucial steps. Strengthening financial inclusion and healthcare infrastructure along with prioritising education, particularly for girls, is vital for a more inclusive Bharat," she said.
Not only this, Jyoti Bhandari, Founder and CEO of Lovak Capital, called upon Budget 2024 to prioritize skill training for young women, advocating for vocational programs post-class 12.
She urged the fulfillment of promises to economically empower women and foster the emergence of "Lakhpati Mahilas" from Women’s Self Help Groups.