New Delhi: In a rare and engaging interaction, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spent an afternoon with Delhi University students, diving deep into the contours of the upcoming Union Budget. The session, held at the university’s North Campus, brought together bright young minds and a key policymaker to discuss India’s economic roadmap ahead.
The minister kicked off the discussion by outlining the government’s fiscal priorities for the next fiscal year. She emphasized sustainable growth, job creation for the youth, and bridging the urban-rural divide through targeted investments. Students, many of whom are pursuing economics and commerce degrees, fired questions on everything from tax reforms to startup funding and green energy initiatives.
One standout moment came when a final-year student quizzed the minister on easing education loans. Sitharaman responded with detailed insights into proposed subsidy enhancements and digital platforms to make higher education more accessible. ‘Our youth are our biggest asset,’ she declared, promising measures to reduce financial burdens on aspiring professionals.
The dialogue also touched on inflation control, with the minister reassuring attendees that supply chain optimizations and agricultural reforms would keep prices in check. Digital India got a special mention, with plans for expanded broadband in rural areas to empower students everywhere.
As the session wrapped up, students applauded the transparency. This initiative signals a government keen on youth involvement in nation-building. With Budget 2025 on the horizon, such interactions could shape policies that resonate with the aspirations of India’s Gen Z. The event underscores a shift towards participatory governance, where student voices influence fiscal strategies.