Budget reflects actual finance Ministry operations: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said the Modi government has reshaped the Union budget in the last 10 years from a mere record of expenditure to a strategic blueprint for equitable distribution, and stressed that the pace of reforms will continue to make India a developed nation.

In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Sitharaman also stated that the annual budget process has become more transparent, revealing how taxpayer money is allocated.

Also read/watch - Trades on Wall Street will settle in one day for the first time in 100 years

Sitharaman said the government will continue to maximise the value and impact of hard-earned taxpayer money, ensuring it is put to the best possible use for the benefit of all.

The minister said the Modi government has prioritised transparency in its budgeting practices and numbers. Countries with transparent budgets are often viewed favourably by international bodies such as the IMF and the World Bank. This can lead to improved global trust.

She further noted that the budget now reflects the actual workings of the finance ministry. Additionally, the budget language has been simplified to help citizens understand the changes and their implications.