All Income Groups Got Something From The Budget

Sitharaman mentioned the term 'middle-class' at least 10 times to stress its contribution

- Mayank Mohanka

The Union Budget 2025 aimed to put more money in the hands of every income group—whether salaried professionals, gig workers, rental income earners, or senior citizens—by tweaking tax slabs, deductions, and exemptions.

In her budget speech, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman repeatedly underscored the role of the middle class in nation-building, mentioning the term "middle-class" at least ten times, highlighting their energy and contribution to the economy.

The proposed amendments leave more money in the hands of the middle class, and boost consumption, savings, and investment.

The Bill proposes that persons opting for the new personal tax regime in 2025-26, and having income up to ₹12 lakh, will not be required to pay any income tax, after availing the increased rebate amount of up to ₹60,000, under section (u/s) 87A of the Income Tax Act.

The new regime has been sweetened by increasing the basic exemption limit from existing ₹3 lakh to ₹4 lakh and reducing the slab rates. This will accelerate the switch to the new regime further.

For income levels up to ₹12 lakh, the new regime is a definite choice without any doubt. Even for higher income levels, it seems to be a prudent choice both for salaried and non-salaried individuals.