Industry Leaders Outline Key Pre-Budget Expectations for AI, Startups, Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing, and More

Dr. Saarthak Bakshi, Healthcare Entrepreneur and CEO of RISAA IVF Says,

The upcoming budget is a good opportunity to enhance healthcare in India. We need to spend more so that everyone gets good care, especially in villages where hospitals and clinics are hard to find.

Healthcare now accounts for only 2.1% of India’s GDP, but an increase to at least 2.5–3% is imperative, with the present need to address existing issues and future health crises.

New technologies such as telemedicine and AI are meant to make a big difference. It has made doctors’ work processes easier, and it will make healthcare more accessible to the masses. On the other hand, we need more hospitals, important medicines available, and more doctors and nurses being trained.

It is also worthwhile to make complex treatments, which include life-saving surgeries, reach everyone. Give tax benefits regarding medical expenses. Increase funds for programs in public health. A health system that functions well means better families and an even stronger nation. Let us make it a priority.

Sushanto Mitra, CEO, Lead Angels Says,

“Startups are the driving force of modern economies, contributing significantly to employment and innovation. To further accelerate this growth, the government should consider allowing investors to write off startup investments over five years, as practiced in developed countries. This could also extend to employees exercising stock options and investments in SEBI-approved venture funds.

Additionally, easing compliance requirements for DIPP-registered startups during their initial years would enable founders to focus on building their businesses rather than navigating complex regulations. Incorporating entrepreneurship into school and undergraduate curriculums can nurture an entrepreneurial spirit in young minds, fostering a culture of innovation from an early age.

In sectors like defence and healthcare, where innovation is critical, targeted tax deferments can help startups build capabilities essential for national security and addressing societal challenges like an ageing population. These measures will create a robust startup ecosystem and position India as a global leader in entrepreneurship”.

Abhi Sinha, Co-Founder, HealSpan Says,

We urge the Finance Minister to prioritize comprehensive healthcare funding through the Ayushman Bharat scheme to foster a more inclusive approach to healthcare. Additionally, investing in pharmaceutical innovation is critical, especially as a tropical country, where research efforts should focus on combating tropical diseases. In light of recent global health challenges, it is imperative to strengthen our healthcare infrastructure to better withstand future crises and enhance accessibility for all citizens. Furthermore, GST rates must be rationalized, adopting a data-driven approach to reduce the bureaucratic hurdles that have crept into recent decision-making processes.

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Mr. Janak Vakharia, CEO – Xpedeon Says,

“As we approach the Union Budget, the construction industry is hopeful for a significant boost in government spending on infrastructure projects and affordable housing, which are critical drivers of economic growth and job creation. Construction ERP providers and industry leaders are advocating for tax incentives and subsidies to encourage the adoption of ERP systems and other digital tools. Such measures can significantly enhance productivity, transparency, and cost efficiency in project management, enabling businesses across the sector to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. We further urge the government to focus on policy frameworks that support sustainable construction practices, including incentives for green building initiatives and innovations in energy-efficient technologies. These steps will not only strengthen the sector but also align with India’s broader goals of sustainability and digital transformation.”