Indian Women Pin Hopes on Budget 2025-26: Key Expectations for Growth and Inclusion

As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gears up to present the Union Budget 2025-26, Indian women across the nation have high expectations for policies that address their unique challenges and aspirations. From tax reliefs to entrepreneurship opportunities, women are looking to the government for a gender-inclusive budget that fosters growth, equality, and empowerment.

A significant expectation is the revision of income tax slabs, especially for women. Many are advocating for higher exemptions and additional tax benefits for working women, particularly those balancing careers and caregiving responsibilities.

Experts suggest that women-specific tax incentives could encourage more women to join the workforce, thereby improving the labor force participation rate, which currently hovers around 25.1% according to World Bank data. Indian women entrepreneurs hope for increased funding and incentives under schemes like the Stand Up India initiative. Accessible loans, reduced interest rates, and simplified application processes could encourage more women to start businesses, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Policies that support women-led startups in technology, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors are high on the wish list.

With rising inflation impacting household budgets, women expect enhanced social security measures, particularly for single mothers, widows, and elderly women. Schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Pension Scheme could benefit from broader coverage and higher payouts. Women are urging for increased allocation to health programs, particularly those addressing maternal health, menstrual hygiene, and cancer screenings. Affordable healthcare services and subsidized treatments for critical illnesses are seen as crucial. Additionally, women hope for an emphasis on education schemes that provide scholarships, skill training, and vocational courses tailored to their needs.

Rural women are looking for policies that boost self-help groups (SHGs) and promote sustainable livelihoods. More funds for Mahila E-Haat and similar e-commerce platforms can help rural women market their products to a wider audience. Moreover, the demand for better infrastructure in villages, including clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, and transportation, remains strong.

Working women are keen to see policies promoting gender equality in workplaces. They expect the budget to incentivize companies that provide creche facilities, paid maternity leave, and flexible working arrangements. Enhanced safety measures for women in urban and rural areas, including better lighting, CCTV coverage, and transport facilities, are equally important.

The soaring cost of essential commodities, from groceries to fuel, has been a significant burden on households. Women are hoping for subsidies and price control mechanisms to ease this financial strain.

The upcoming Budget 2025-26 offers an opportunity for the government to demonstrate its commitment to gender equality and inclusivity. With tailored policies addressing the diverse needs of Indian women, the budget has the potential to not only empower women but also unlock economic growth for the nation. Women across India are watching closely, hoping this budget will bring them closer to achieving their aspirations.