Budget 2025 bolsters new-age technology, domestic electronics, expansion of capacity in IITs, and Centre of Excellence in AI for education.
The Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at propelling the technology sector in India. India’s technological advancement aligns with the nation’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision. These measures are designed to strengthen the domestic electronics sector, promote sustainable energy solutions, and position India as a global leader in technology and innovation.
Key Announcements: Technology Budget 2025
Here are the key highlights for technology in Union Budget 2025:
Centre of Excellence (CoE) for AI
With an investment of INR 500 crore, a new Centre of Excellence (CoE) for AI in Education is set to be established. AI is poised to be a transformative force in education, facilitating personalized learning and integrating AR/VR-powered modules to enhance accessibility and the quality of education across India, including rural areas.
Domestic Electronics Promotion
A national framework will be developed to promote Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in emerging Tier 2 cities, guiding states in promoting the domestic electronic equipment industry, and creating opportunities for youth.
Nuclear Energy Mission
With an outlay of INR 20,0000 crore, FM Nirmala Sitharaman has announced a Nuclear Energy Mission for R&D of small modular reactors. The mission encourages private sector participation and implements key power sector reforms.
Focus on IITs
The focus on IITs in Union Budget 2025 is aimed at expanding the capacity of students. The announcement has been made to develop additional infrastructure in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students.
Deep Tech Fund of Funds
The Union Budget 2025 explores a Deep Tech Fund of Funds to catalyze the next-generation startups as a part of this initiative. The launch of a deep tech fund will fuel cutting-edge innovation and fast-track technology frontiers.
PM Research Fellowship
Under the PM Research Fellowship scheme, the government aims to provide 10,000 fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc with enhanced financial support, in the next five years.
National Geospatial Mission
The government plans to start a National Geospatial Mission to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data. Using PM Gati Shakti, this Mission will facilitate the modernization of land records, urban planning, and design of infrastructure projects.
Clean Tech Manufacturing
In line with India’s commitment to climate-friendly development, the National Manufacturing Mission will promote Clean Tech manufacturing. This initiative aims to enhance domestic value addition and strengthen the country’s ecosystem for producing solar PV cells, EV batteries, motors and controllers, electrolyzers, wind turbines, high-voltage transmission equipment, and grid-scale batteries.
Atal Tinkering Labs
Over the next five years, 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs will be established in government schools to nurture curiosity, encourage innovation, and instill a scientific mindset among young minds.
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National Centres of Excellence for Skilling
As part of the initiative introduced in the July 2024 Budget, five National Centres of Excellence for skill development will be established in collaboration with global experts and partners. These centres aim to equip young talent with the necessary skills to support the “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing vision.
The partnerships will focus on developing curricula, training instructors, implementing a skills certification framework, and conducting regular assessments.
Union Budget 2025-26 At a Glance
For the fiscal year 2025-26, the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that total receipts, excluding borrowings, are projected to be INR 34.96 lakh crore, while total expenditure is estimated at INR 50.65 lakh crore. Additionally, net tax receipts are expected to amount to INR 28.37 lakh crore.
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Best article which explains government investment in modern technology to make India more greater!