As Budget Day approaches, we are seeking interest in pre-budget predictions concerning education policies, the prevailing challenges within the education system, advancements in courses and digital learning.Last Year, The Centre allocated Rs 1.21-lakh crore for the education sector in the Union Budget 2024-25, raising the projected expenditure on school and higher education by around 8.3 per cent compared to 2024-25,
During the budget presentation, the Finance Minister revealed key allocations for the education sector in Delhi. As for the 2025 budget, it’s expected to focus on Education 4.0, with stakeholders hoping for increased allocations for STEM research and subsidies for international students. The Union Budget 2025 is scheduled to be presented on February 1, 2025.
Quote by Mr. Nipun Goenka, Managing Director, GD Goenka Group
‘One of the most pressing expectations from the Union Budget 2025 is a substantial increase in the allocation for the education sector, enabling the government to address long-standing challenges. Reducing or eliminating GST on educational services and digital learning tools is another key demand.
The move would make education more affordable, ensuring quality education is accessible to students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The government is also expected to offer tax relief for corporate grants to educational institutions, thereby encouraging collaborations to improve infrastructure and research initiatives.
Additionally, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) are likely to be prioritized in the upcoming budget to address infrastructure gaps and resource constraints in disadvantaged areas, fostering holistic growth. To achieve the objectives out in the National Education Policy (NEP), the budget is expected to prioritize expanding access to education in underserved regions, enhancing digital infrastructure, and advancing research in educational technology and pedagogy.
Quote by CA Bikram Agarwal, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions
The education sector anticipates a major rise in budgetary allocation to reach the ideal of 6% of GDP. There is an expectation for the budget to support the expansion of digital learning platforms and hybrid learning models, to provide flexibility to students and make education more accessible. There is also a strong demand for investments in higher education institutions, particularly in research and development (R&D). Funding should be allowed through foreign investments and foreign currency loans and foreign donations to educational institutions with specific directions.
I would also like to see a reform in an important area. The services of educational institutions are exempt from GST, but whenever they procure something or avail services from a vendor, they are required to pay GST to the service provider, except for some services. The reverse charge mechanism is also applicable on educational institutions under the GST laws, which creates numerous legal requirements on institutions. The government should address this issue
and provide relief to educational institutions for compliance with GST laws.
Quote by Mr. Kunal Vasudeva, Co-founder & Managing Director of the Indian School of Hospitality
The upcoming Union Budget is expected to prioritize the modernization and inclusivity of India’s education sector, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and India’s aspirations to become a global knowledge hub.
One key focus area could be digital education. The digital divide has widened post-pandemic, especially in rural and underserved areas. The government will likely allocate substantial resources to bridge this gap by improving internet connectivity, providing devices, and investing in digital tools for schools and colleges. Expanding access to platforms like DIKSHA and strengthening the digital learning ecosystem will be critical.
Another area of emphasis could be skill development and vocational training. Programs designed to enhance employability for youth, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, may see increased funding. This aligns with India’s push toward industrial growth, especially in high-demand sectors like IT, hospitality, and green energy.
Additionally, higher education may be boosted through incentives for international collaborations, research funding, and promoting India as a global education destination. Scholarships for economically weaker students and support for private institutions driving excellence might also feature.
The budget will likely focus on accessibility, employability, and global competitiveness, reflecting a roadmap for bridging economic and educational disparities across India.
Quote by Tr. Chaitanya Dev Singh, National President, Roundtable India
With the Union Budget 2025 just around the corner, we anticipate a higher budget allocation towards school infrastructure development, especially at the grassroots level, and an emphasis on education via the Right to Education (RTI) Act.
In the Union Budget 2024, the allocation for Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was ₹37,500 crores, and the Department of School Education was allocated ₹73,008 crores. These investments have already begun to enhance the quality of education by offering students supportive learning environments, access to modern educational tools and an overall push to improve the basic infrastructure.
By further expanding the budget allocation in 2025, we can enhance school infrastructure and physical education, ensuring that all students have access to a quality learning environment. Additionally, we can expedite technology integration and digital education, bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all students, irrespective of their socio-economic background, have equal opportunities to thrive.
A higher budget allocation towards infrastructure and technology adoption will also facilitate the accomplishment of the objectives of NEP 2020 and position India as the Vishwa Guru of the world.
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