Parliament Budget Session Day 11 LIVE updates: Shrikant Shinde counters Rahul Gandhi’s criticism of US-India deal

JD(S) MP HD Devegowda expresses his support for the budget and offers some suggestions. He argues that growth alone is not enough, but employment must be central to our policy thinking. He says manufacturing and MSMEs create jobs only when supported by skills, local ecosystem, affordable credit and predictable regulations. Do we measure success by investment announcements alone or by the dignified jobs created for our youth, especially in India’s small towns and rural areas, he asks? While tax simplification is welcome, taxpayers’ trust is equally important, he said, noting that changes affecting cash flow or resolved issues must be accompanied by measures. He says the honest taxpayer should feel protected, not worried.

Saying that India’s future will be shaped not only in national corridors but also in its cities and districts, he points out that urban management, water security, resilience to climate change and regional balance deserve more attention.

He for a jackfruit, tamarind and jamun board to aid farmers, saying that the plants are healthy and grown with less water requirements, and that there is a demand for the same.

Sabka Saath, sabka vikaas is not just a slogan, it is a responsibility, it means listening to criticism without being defensive, correcting course when necessary and remembering that growth must be inclusive, sustainable and equitable, he says. He says India has the talent, initiative and ambition to lead the world, and this budget is remembered not just for numbers but also for the wisdom of building an economy that is strong today and secures tomorrow.