"This is a long-term Budget"
Interview with Atul Kirloskar, former President, Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, Pune (India) on the Union Budget 2004-05
By Aditya Kuber
Overall, how would you rate the Budget?
The Budget is looking at sustenance. Through his speech, he kept announcing plans that ran well into 2007 and 2008. So I think he wants people to know that these are long-term plans and this is a long-term Budget.
Who do you think will be most affected by this Budget?
The rural folks’ demand by mandate has been reflected in this Budget. There is a great boost to agriculture and water. And this was necessary. Water is indeed the very basic necessity we all have. He has also looked well at the value chain, as was indeed being suggested by the MCCIA.
What other industries and sectors would the Budget boost?
Dairy, tractors, are just some of the other sectors that would be boosted by this budget. The accelerated irrigation projects, water harvesting, improvement of water structures, the entire gamut has been covered.
What boost will the manufacturing sector get?
The good thing is that now, he wants education to be the primary concern for the entire country. Education before population control is a must. The boost that is being given to ITI’s across the country is fantastic. There is an attempt of a public-private partnership and the good thing is that it’s through education.
What, if anything, did you find lacking?
There was absolutely no mention of labour reforms in the Budget. This is an important requirement for the industry today.
Is the amount being spent on agriculture and related industries and education right?
There is corporate social responsibility and by implementing the cess on all taxes, everyone owns up to their social responsibility. It is like planning ahead and it is always good.
As published in The Herald, Pune. (c) The Herald.
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