UDAIPUR, February 1 (Udaipur Kiran): Udaipur Member of Parliament Dr Mannalal Rawat on Saturday said the Union Budget presented by the Central government is a “Reform Express” that will rapidly take every section of society forward. He said the budget strengthens ongoing reforms and benefits farmers, labourers, women, youth, the middle class, exporters and entrepreneurs associated with MSMEs.

Dr Rawat said the budget includes major announcements for women, particularly for self-help groups under the Rajeevika programme, taking the “Lakhpati Didi” initiative further with new schemes. He noted that the budget also focuses on tourism development, including the creation of 10,000 trained guides and promotion of cultural tourism.

Calling the reduction of the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) rate to 2 per cent for students pursuing education abroad a major relief for middle-class families, he said the formation of a high-level committee on Education to Employment and Enterprise reflects the government’s intent to link education with jobs and entrepreneurship, rather than limiting it to degrees.

The MP said the budget strongly embodies the spirit of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas”. He added that it will promote women empowerment, youth development, security for senior citizens, encouragement for traders and industries, and relief for the general public. According to him, the budget is not just an economic document but a roadmap for a strong, prosperous and inclusive India.

Dr Rawat said special emphasis has been placed on women-centric schemes related to education, skill development, self-employment and self-reliance, which will further strengthen their social and economic position. He added that focused attention on employment generation, startups, Skill India and technical education will provide a solid foundation for the country’s future.

He also highlighted provisions related to social security and healthcare for senior citizens, saying these steps will help ensure a dignified and secure life for them. At the same time, decisions aimed at improving ease of doing business and promoting investment for traders, small industries and large businesses will give fresh momentum to the economy.

Terming the decision to make medicines for diseases such as cancer and diabetes more affordable as highly commendable, Dr Rawat said it will directly benefit poor, middle-class and needy families and make healthcare more accessible.

The MP said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Finance Minister have presented a people-centric budget that will take India towards becoming a global leader. He said the budget meets the expectations of all sections of society.