CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: “The Union Budget 2024 has placed special emphasis on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), job creation, and employment schemes for the youth, which is a welcome step towards strengthening India’s future workforce. A significant allocation of ₹1.48 lakh crore has been made for skill education and job creation, and the introduction of special skill programs for women reflects the government’s commitment to building a skilled and inclusive workforce.

The new job schemes aimed at benefiting 41 million youth in India, along with a central allocation of ₹2 lakh crore, indicate a serious approach to addressing unemployment issues. The plan for loans up to ₹19 lakh for higher education and support for a month’s salary for first-time employees are strategic steps to enhance access to education and promote job creation.

We are pleased to see the central government taking significant steps to equip youth with future skills by promoting apprenticeship programs and bridging the gap between education and employment. Focusing on marginalized communities through government schemes is a commendable move towards inclusive development. However, we had hoped for a reduction in GST on edtech products and services to make educational services more affordable and accessible to all.

Overall, the Union Budget 2024 sets a positive direction for skill development, job creation, and economic growth.”