Budget, Economic Survey Align on Urbanisation, Manufacturing, Infrastructure: CEA Nageswaran

• Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran highlighted the synergy between the Union Budget and Economic Survey, focusing on urbanisation, manufacturing, and infrastructure for economic stability.
• Nageswaran noted that the Budget adopted concerns from the Economic Survey, particularly making Indian cities more liveable, a point also stressed by the 16th Finance Commission.
• He emphasized that a strong manufacturing base is crucial for a stable and resilient currency, with manufacturing and exports lowering capital costs and strengthening India's economic position.
• Customs duty exemptions were cited as vital for reducing manufacturing costs and improving competitiveness.
• The CEA stated that India is experiencing one of its longest phases of non-inflationary growth in 75 years, indicating macroeconomic stability alongside expansion.