This article highlights industry experts’ reactions to the Union Budget 2025-26, showcasing diverse perspectives. Their insights reflect the budget’s impact across key sectors.

Anish Srikrishna, CEO, TimesPro

“The Education Budget 2025 represents a pivotal moment in our nation’s journey towards fostering a future-ready workforce through strategic investments in education, skill development and technological research. The establishment of AI Centres of Excellence and the expansion of IITs mark a significant step toward positioning India as a global leader in technology and innovation. These initiatives, coupled with 10,000 fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc, will not only strengthen India’s academic and research ecosystem but also equip students with cutting-edge skills required for emerging industries. Additionally, the expansion of medical education with 75,000 new seats will play a crucial role in addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals and strengthening the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

The launch of five National Centres for Excellence in Skilling, in collaboration with global partners, will ensure India’s youth are equipped with industry-relevant expertise. The rollout of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs and initiatives like the Bharatiya Bhasha Pushtak scheme further exemplify a forward-looking strategy that aligns seamlessly with the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat.’ At TimesPro, we view these strategic interventions as more than policy measures; they are the foundation of a dynamic learning ecosystem that will redefine education and skill development in India. By nurturing innovation and ensuring adaptability in the face of rapid technological advancements, we are paving the way for a knowledge-driven future and strengthening the nation’s global competitiveness.”

Sri Charan Lakkaraju, Founder & CEO, Student Tribe

“The budget announcements by the government are a huge step forward in building a more skilled and inclusive workforce, ready to compete on the global stage. The focus on expanding skilling opportunities and forming global partnerships is exactly what students need to stay ahead in an ever-changing world. With plans to enhance infrastructure at top institutions like IITs, introduce AI-driven learning, and expand Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools, we are equipping students not just for today’s jobs but for leadership roles of tomorrow.

Creation of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling, across the globe would ensure that learners gain industry-aligned expertise, mostly in high growth sectors. Better technical and vocational training and implementation of the scheme for promoting ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak’ means that learning became more inclusive, more accessible for everybody.

Recognition of gig workers with identity cards, healthcare under PM Jan Arogya Yojana, and financial inclusion through the revamped PM SVANidhi scheme are also important steps to secure their well-being and livelihoods. It not only acknowledges the contribution of the gig economy but also empowers students who take up freelancing and part-time opportunities.

We believe such initiatives at Student Tribe will usher in new horizons of opportunities, allowing the students to positively contribute to industries at the national and global level.”

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Quote by Dr. B. Priestly Shan, Vice-Chancellor, Alliance University:

The Budget 2025 reflects a progressive vision for strengthening India’s education, skilling, and research ecosystem. As a private university committed to fostering innovation and industry-relevant learning, we welcome key announcements such as the Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Education, which will cost ₹500 crore, the establishment of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling with global expertise and partnerships, and the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme, which will promote Indian language books in digital form for school and higher education. 

Removing TCS on education loan remittances is a much-needed relief for students aspiring for global education. Furthermore, the government’s focus on expanding medical education with 10,000 additional seats this year and a target of 75,000 new seats in the next five years is a commendable step toward strengthening India’s healthcare sector.

Investments in broadband connectivity for government schools, enhanced fellowships for technological research, and a strong push for skill development will significantly contribute to creating a future-ready workforce. We look forward to collaborative opportunities between public and private institutions to drive innovation, research, and skill-based learning that align with India’s long-term development goals.

Quote by Mr. Pravesh Dudani, Founder and Chancellor, Medhavi Skills University:

“Budget 2025-26 is a crucial step towards advancing skill development and employability of Indian youth as it reiterated that Viksit Bharat encompasses 100% skilled labor with meaningful employment. The proposal of establishing 5 National Centers of Excellence for Skilling with global expertise and partnerships is a transformative move to equip the youth with industry-relevant skills. The setting up of AI Centre of Excellence for education with Rs 500 Cr outlay and the ₹20,000 crore investment in innovation, coupled with the proposed DeepTech Fund of Funds, underscores the center’s commitment to staying at the forefront of the AI revolution and empowering entrepreneurs. We are particularly excited about the industry-academia collaboration opportunities the CoE initiatives will invite, paving the way for groundbreaking innovation and skill development.

Aligning with the vision of making quality education financially inclusive, the proposal to remove Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on education loans up to ₹10 lakhs will make higher education more accessible and affordable. Moreover, establishing 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs will empower young innovators in government schools to engage in hands-on learning, fostering their creativity and helping them grasp the importance of practical knowledge in science and, technology, aligning with the vision of NEP 2020.”

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Dr. Kapil Garg, Managing Director, Asian Energy Services Limited.

“We applaud the Government and Hon’ble Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman on presenting a favourable budget 2025 for the manufacturing and infrastructure segment. The announcement to invest in urea production capacity in Namrup, Assam is an excellent move since Assam’s abundant natural gas resources will not only benefit Oilmax in the long term but also open up significant natural gas demand in the region. This strategic initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision to drive industrial growth in eastern India while bolstering self-reliance in fertilizer production.

The budget’s robust focus on expanding waterway and canal infrastructure is set to transform industrial logistics, particularly for sectors like oil, gas, and petrochemicals. The creation of a substantial Maritime Development Fund and the expansion of regional connectivity through enhanced schemes will further streamline transport and trade, integrating remote areas into the national economy.

Key duty exemptions on critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium-ion battery scrap, lead, and zinc are poised to strengthen domestic manufacturing. The allocation for research, development, and innovation will accelerate advancements in energy efficiency aims to secure long-term energy stability.

The policies should attract private sector participation and foreign direct investment in energy projects, will enhance India’s energy security and reduce import dependency.

Furthermore, the reduction in income taxes and the rationalization of TCS and tax exemptions are expected to boost household spending power, fueling broader economic demand. Power sector reforms that incentivize improved electricity distribution and intrastate transmission capacity will further ensure a stable and efficient energy supply. The substantial provision of interest-free loans to states for capital expenditure underscores a strong commitment to long-term infrastructure development.

For MSMEs, increased investment and turnover limits will empower small and medium enterprises to scale up, innovate, and expand their global competitiveness, especially as they contribute significantly to India’s exports. Mining sector reforms, along with policies for recovering critical minerals from tailings, will further reinforce resource independence.

By promoting energy storage, grid modernization, and expanding strategic oil reserves, the government is laying the groundwork for a resilient, diversified energy mix. Export incentives and policy measures to integrate India into global energy markets will further enhance the country’s positioning as a key player in the sector.

Overall, this budget 2025 lays a strong foundation for sustained economic expansion, energy security, and industrial development. It creates a growth-oriented policy framework that will generate long-term value for industries such as oil, gas, and energy, while driving India’s journey toward a more self-reliant and sustainable future.”

Sumeet Mehta, CEO and Co – Founder , LEAD Group 

said “It’s heartening to see that 61% of the total education budget has been allocated to school education — a rare and commendable step towards strengthening foundational learning. The budget takes important strides in bridging the digital divide by prioritising broadband in rural areas, ensuring access to digital education for all. With a focus on digital initiatives like e-books and multilingual resources, it aims to create a more inclusive, future-ready education system. Furthermore, it recognises the need for upskilling teachers to integrate digital tools effectively. However, while government schools will see significant benefits, private schools may experience limited direct impact.”

Abhijit Zaveri, Founder and Director, Career Mosaic

The Union Budget 2025 takes significant strides toward making international education more accessible and strengthening India’s position as a global knowledge hub. The removal of Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on education-related remittances through loans is a crucial step in easing financial constraints for students and families. This measure will not only encourage more aspirants to pursue world-class education abroad but also reinforce India’s role as one of the largest contributors to global student mobility.

International universities are increasingly recognizing India as a pivotal market, both for student recruitment and institutional collaborations. As more universities seek to establish a stronger presence in India, policy measures that facilitate seamless student mobility and cross-border academic partnerships will be critical in shaping the future of higher education.

The establishment of five National Centers of Excellence for Skilling, in collaboration with global experts, is a forward-thinking initiative that aligns education with the evolving demands of the global job market. The growing interplay between education, technology, and employability underscores the need for a more integrated approach to global learning pathways. Continued collaboration between governments, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders will be essential in ensuring Indian students are not only future-ready but also positioned to lead in a rapidly changing world.

Mr. Dilip Gangaramani, Founder Director & CEO of Target Learning Ventures, expressed his strong support for the education initiatives announced today in the budget 2025.  
“The government’s commitment to establishing Atal Tinkering Labs in 50,000 government schools over the next five years is a truly welcome move,” said Mr. Gangaramani. “This initiative will provide students with invaluable opportunities to develop their creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for STEM fields. Coupled with the expansion of broadband connectivity to all government secondary and primary schools, these labs will empower every student with the digital literacy and technological skills necessary to thrive in the 21st century.”
Mr. Gangaramani also lauded the establishment of Centers of Excellence announced in this budget on AI for education with an outlay of Rs 500 crore. “This is a timely and significant decision. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent in all aspects of our lives, it is crucial to equip our educators and students with the knowledge and skills to harness its potential. These centers will play a vital role in fostering innovation and preparing the next generation for an AI-driven world. However, we also feel that students should be encouraged to develop critical thinking skills so that they can evaluate information and identify potential biases in AI systems.”
He further emphasized the importance of these initiatives in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to quality education for all. “By investing in infrastructure, technology, and AI education, the government is laying a strong foundation for a future-ready India,”

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Mr. Ajay Singh, Principal, The Scindia School, Gwalior

The Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, brings exciting opportunities for the education sector in India, focusing on making education more accessible and improving its quality. The government is committed to better infrastructure, expanding digital learning, and promoting skill development, as seen with initiatives like PM SHRI. With the goal of achieving 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2030, the education sector is set for major growth. However, challenges such as teacher training and ensuring equal access to quality education, especially in underserved areas, need to be addressed. The focus on strengthening school education and improving digital connectivity is a step in the right direction towards a more inclusive and future-ready education system. Notably, the 2025 Union Budget’s transformative approach to education includes the Bharatiya Bhasha Pushtak Scheme, providing digital Indian language books to preserve linguistic heritage and enhance accessibility. This initiative aligns with the vision of nurturing globally informed, heritage-rooted students, recognizing language as a bridge to culture and identity.

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Mr Udit Yadav, Founder & Director of Satan Digital

“Empowering AI in Education with Technology and Skills

We appreciate the government’s progressive approach in the 2025-26 Union Budget, especially the ₹500 crore allocation for the Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Education. This significant investment builds upon previous efforts to integrate AI into key sectors and will play a pivotal role in enhancing educational methodologies and outcomes through advanced AI applications.

By prioritizing AI skill development and establishing five National Centres for Skilling, the government is ensuring that India’s youth are equipped with future-ready expertise to thrive in the evolving digital landscape. As an EdTech leader, Satan Digital is committed to supporting this vision by making AI and digital marketing education more accessible, practical, and industry-aligned. With the right blend of policy support and technological advancements, India is well on its way to becoming a global hub for AI-driven learning and innovation, and we are excited to be part of this journey.”

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Attributed to Mr. Sachin Jain, Country Head, ETS India & South Asia-

“The Union Budget 2025-26 marks a decisive step toward strengthening India’s education and skilling ecosystem, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become a global knowledge hub. The establishment of three Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence, backed by a ₹500 crore allocation, signals a strategic alignment with global trends, ensuring India’s workforce is prepared for an AI-driven future. Additionally, the expansion of IITs and medical colleges, with the addition of 10,000 new medical seats, demonstrates a long-term vision for creating a high-caliber talent pipeline in critical sectors.

Another highlight of the budget is the proposal to establish 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs, designed to cultivate early engagement with STEM, problem-solving, and innovation. This initiative holds immense potential in shaping a generation of forward-thinking innovators and entrepreneurs equipped to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape. However, to maximize its impact, it is essential to integrate global best practices in assessment and skill benchmarking, ensuring that students develop competencies that align with international standards and workforce demands.

To truly harness India’s demographic dividend, we must create an ecosystem where education, employability, and global competitiveness are seamlessly linked. We welcome the government’s forward-looking approach to strengthening the skilling landscape and expanding access to high-quality education. With sustained efforts and strategic investments, we are confident that these initiatives will empower Indian students and professionals to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.”

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By Sripal Jain, CA, CPA, Co-Founder and Global Instructor at Simandhar Education- 

“The Union Budget 2025-26 is a forward-thinking roadmap that strengthens India’s education and workforce ecosystem while empowering professionals with greater financial flexibility. The government’s decision to raise the tax-free income slab to ₹12 lakh is a transformative move, ensuring working professionals to invest in upskilling and global certifications. 

Additionally, the government’s sustained emphasis on technology integration in learning and significant investments in digital infrastructure are key steps toward equipping students with future-ready skills. These initiatives align well with global trends in education and workforce development, ensuring India’s workforce remains competitive in an evolving job market.

As India’s prominence in finance and accounting continues to grow, there is a clear opportunity to build a globally competitive workforce. The increasing recognition of international professional qualifications highlights the importance of aligning education with industry needs, especially for those seeking alternative pathways to global careers. The government’s focus on strengthening skill-based learning and expanding career opportunities will be crucial in ensuring India remains a major contributor to the global financial and accounting sectors.

While the budget’s focus on digital skilling and AI-driven education provides a solid foundation for building an adaptive and innovative workforce, the next step should involve a deeper integration of application-based learning. This will enable students to harness these technologies effectively in real-world scenarios. As India moves towards becoming a global leader in education and professional skill development, we look forward to continued policy support that enhances global mobility, facilitates access to internationally recognized qualifications, and empowers students to compete on the world stage. The government’s commitment to skill-driven education will be pivotal in shaping a knowledge-driven economy, and we are optimistic about the positive impact these initiatives will have in the years ahead.”

Attributed to Mr. Aritra Ghosal, Founder & Director, OneStep Global:

“The Union Budget 2025 brings much-needed relief for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. The removal of Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on remittances for education when funded through loans from specified financial institutions is a commendable step that will ease financial constraints for students and their families. This move not only enhances accessibility to global education but also aligns with India’s vision of fostering international mobility and cross-border academic collaborations.

Additionally, the establishment of five National Centers of Excellence for Skilling, in collaboration with global experts, is a forward-thinking initiative that will equip Indian youth with industry-relevant skills, making them more competitive in an evolving global job market.

We welcome these progressive measures and encourage continued efforts to make international education more affordable and seamless, further strengthening India’s position as a key player in the global education landscape.”

Attributed to Mr. Ganesh Kohli, Founder, IC3 Movement:

“The Union Budget 2025-26 reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s education landscape and equipping students with future-ready skills. Initiatives such as the establishment of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs, broadband connectivity for all government secondary schools, and expansion of infrastructure in IITs to accommodate more students are commendable steps toward ensuring greater access to quality education and fostering innovation-driven learning.

While these initiatives provide a strong foundation for student success, career guidance remains a crucial yet under-addressed area in secondary education. Structured career counseling is vital in supporting students’ academic performance, mental well-being, and long-term employability. As India moves toward Viksit Bharat 2047, we must prioritize equipping educators with the necessary training and resources to guide students in making informed career choices. Teacher training and leadership development are key to ensuring that educators are prepared to handle the evolving challenges students face, including the increasing pressure of academic expectations and mental health concerns.

Furthermore, while the government’s steps to increase accessibility to higher education, such as financial assistance and interest subsidies, are welcome, there is still a need to make degrees more affordable. We urge the government to focus on rationalizing student loan interest rates, including offering interest-free loans for economically weaker students, so that financial barriers do not discourage the pursuit of higher education.

We remain hopeful that career counseling and teacher training will be further integrated into mainstream education policy, ensuring that students across all socio-economic backgrounds receive the guidance, support, and mentorship they need to navigate their academic and professional journeys with confidence and resilience.”

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Attributed to Mr. Amit Baveja, Managing Director, Burlington English India & Southeast Asia:

“The Union Budget 2025 presents a timely and commendable focus on enhancing digital infrastructure, educational facilities, and learning support. The budgetary allocation for the Department of Higher Education has been set at ₹50,077.95 crores, marking an increase of ₹2,458.95 crores compared to FY 2024, reflecting the government’s commitment to harnessing skilling as a key driver of development. The announcement of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling, developed in collaboration with global experts, reiterates the same commitment. In partnership with educational organisations and skill-development entities, these centres will provide the youth with industry-relevant skills, creating more upskilling opportunities through specialised programs, certifications, and improved employment prospects.

Additionally, the launch of the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak scheme, which aims to provide digital versions of Indian language books for schools and higher education, is a step forward in promoting regional language learning. However, complementing this with targeted support for English proficiency will further enhance formal employment opportunities for students.

The government’s commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure in education is also reflected in initiatives like broadband connectivity for all government secondary schools and a significant investment in the Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for education. These forward-thinking measures will modernise learning environments and expand access to education across the country.

We are excited to witness the positive impact of these initiatives as they unfold, contributing to a future-ready workforce in India.”

PK Agarwal – Dean, UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Professional Education

“The Union Budget 2025-26 takes important steps toward strengthening India’s position in global education and workforce readiness. The proposed removal of Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on remittances for educational purposes is a welcome relief for students aspiring to study abroad, making international education more financially accessible.

Additionally, strategic investments in higher education and research, including expanded IIT infrastructure and 10,000 PM Research Fellowships, reflect the government’s commitment to fostering world-class academic institutions. However, as industries evolve rapidly, the focus must go beyond traditional skilling to upskilling and preparing students for a globally competitive workforce. Strengthening industry-academia partnerships and international collaborations will be key in ensuring that students gain global exposure, intercultural competencies, and specialized expertise in high-demand sectors.

Looking ahead, it is crucial to create structured pathways for international education, facilitate academic exchanges with leading global institutions, and expand transnational education opportunities. By aligning policies with the evolving needs of a globally interconnected workforce, India can further enhance its role in international talent mobility and solidify its position as a leader in global education.”

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