Sitharaman's Interim Budget 2024: No change in tax rates, focus stays on capex

"As for tax proposals, in keeping with the convention, I do not propose to make any changes relating to taxation and propose to retain the same tax rates for direct taxes and indirect taxes, including import duties," the Finance Minister announced.

With general elections barely months away, salaried taxpayers were expecting some respite, but the status quo on tax slabs and rates are likely to leave them disappointed.

The government has continued its focus on capital expenditure (capex) to support growth and generate more jobs.

Accordingly, the outlay for financial year 2024–25 was increased by 11.1% to Rs 11.11 lakh crore. This accounts for 3.4% of the gross domestic product (GDP).

Among the major projects, Sitharaman announced plans to implement three major economic railway corridor programmes. The proposed corridors are energy, mineral, and cement corridors, port connectivity corridors, and high traffic density corridors.

"The projects have been identified under PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. They will improve logistics efficiency and reduce cost," Sitharaman said.

The minister highlighted the achievements of the government and exuded confidence about winning the upcoming polls.

"We expect that our government, based on its stupendous work, will be blessed again by the people with a resounding mandate," Sitharaman said.