SJM Lauds Employment-Centric Union Budget, Calls for More Entrepreneurship Initiatives

Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM) praised the Union Budget as being focused on employment, pro-agriculture, and pro-MSMEs. The organization urged the government to implement more measures to foster entrepreneurship. SJM highlighted schemes that could benefit youth and MSMEs, and welcomed increases in capital expenditure and investments in infrastructure and renewable energy.

Swadeshi Jagaran Manch on Wednesday described the Union Budget as employment-centric, pro-agriculture, and MSME-friendly, urging the government to introduce additional measures to promote entrepreneurship.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the budget for fiscal 2024-25, emphasizing productivity, jobs, social justice, urban development, energy security, infrastructure, innovation, and reforms.

SJM co-convenor Ashwani Mahajan praised the budget for its focus on employment and assistance for MSMEs, but stressed the importance of further entrepreneurial support. The budget includes an internship scheme in 500 top companies aimed at enhancing employability among educated youth, potentially benefiting 1 crore young people over five years.

Additional job-creation schemes were also welcomed, including incentives for private sector job creation, EPFO contributions, and support for first-time employees’ salaries. Increased capital expenditure and encouragement of private investment were also commended.

The budget's support for natural farming, farmer crop diversification, and renewable energy received particular appreciation, along with the reforms aimed at strengthening debt recovery and speeding up insolvency resolution.