Harsh Goenka Praises Budget 2024 as ‘Detailed and Well-Researched’

Harsh Goenka, chairman of RPG Enterprises, has lauded the Union Budget 2024 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He described the budget as “meticulous, detailed, and well-researched,” praising it for addressing the needs of the common man.

Goenka’s Comments on Social Media

On social media platform X, Goenka drew a parallel between the budget and a recent cricket World Cup victory, stating: “After a world cup win by the men in blue, a match-winning budget by FM Sitharaman for Team India – focusing on common man’s interests. Meticulous, detailed and well-researched, ingraining the pulse of the country, under an experienced Captain’s leadership.”

In a follow-up post, he commented: “In the midst of rain all around, FM holds up an umbrella for all, though the market ends up getting some splashes!”

Public Reactions to Goenka’s Posts

Goenka’s posts sparked a variety of reactions from social media users:

• One user questioned, “But once again, at the cost of the salaried and middle class?”
• Another asked if Goenka’s praise was sarcastic.
• A third user criticized the budget, calling it “boring, lifeless, and meaningless,” echoing BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover’s sentiments.
• Another commented on the high taxes and additional charges, expressing frustration about the overall tax burden.

Highlights from Budget 2024

In her seventh consecutive Union Budget presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced several key measures:

• Reduction of basic customs duty (BCD) on mobile phones, mobile chargers, gold, silver, and other items.
• Exemption of BCD for three cancer treatment medicines.
• Allocation of ₹2 lakh crore for job creation over five years and launch of three new employment-linked incentive schemes.
• Revision of tax slabs under the new regime, with the standard deduction for salaried employees increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000.
• The nine priorities of the Budget include productivity, jobs, social justice, urban development, energy security, infrastructure, and reforms.

Overall Impact

While Goenka’s praise highlights positive aspects of the Budget 2024, the varied public responses reflect ongoing debate about its effectiveness and impact on different segments of society.