Dr. Bharti Uppal (63) – Dean, Academics, Maharishi Markandeshwar University
Dr. Uppal expressed her satisfaction with the tax reductions and the raised income tax thresholds. However, she highlighted concerns about the increasing cost of essential food items, proposing that expanding pulse cultivation could help reduce household expenses. She also warned that boosting medical college intake without adequate infrastructure might lead to subpar medical training. Additionally, she applauded the 70% target for women‘s participation in the workforce, though she criticized the high airfare for pilgrimage flights despite the UDAN initiative.
Parveen Kumari (64) – Retired Teacher
Parveen welcomed the new tax exemption for earnings up to Rs 12 lakh, offering significant relief. She also valued the reduction in TDS on rental income and lower taxes on essential medications for senior women. However, she urged the government to offer special benefits for religious travelers, especially seniors embarking on pilgrimages like Char Dham, through discounted airfare and helicopter services.
Lakhminder Dicky Chabbra (54) – Director, Lucky Exports
Chabbra recognized the Budget’s efforts to assist women entrepreneurs, especially with access to loans. Still, she noted the lack of specific investments in women’s health and education. She stressed the need for tailored financial support, including loans for women entrepreneurs. Chabbra also raised concerns over inflation and questioned the potential impact of skill development schemes.
Samita Kaur (50) – Environmental Activist
Kaur criticized the Budget’s industry-focused approach, fearing it neglects environmental impacts. She pointed out the dangers of unchecked industrial growth in ecologically sensitive regions like Andaman and Nicobar, warning it could lead to severe consequences for the environment and public health.
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