In an interview to Mint and HT, FM Nirmala Sitharaman explained the philosophy behind the new Income Tax bill, what the government is doing to ensure regulators don’t operate in silos, how the government is trying to diversify export markets and the plan to reach 8% GDP growth.

The budget does not offer a realistic road map to resolve the critical problems of unemployment, poor pay packages and underskilling.

Sitharaman holds the record for the longest budget speech when her presentation lasted 2 hours and 40 minutes in 2020.

We have heard the voice of middle class who had been complaining about their aspirations not being met despite being honest taxpayers', Sitharaman said

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made history on Saturday by presenting her eighth consecutive budget with a 74-minute-long speech. This achievement brings her closer to the record held by former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, who presented 10 budgets during his tenure, six between 1959 and 1964 and four from 1967 to 1969.

Nirmala Sitharaman's budget session saree reflects not just a personal fashion statement but also a deep appreciation for India's rich heritage of handwoven textiles and crafts.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that the the tax proposal will allow people to have more money in their hands.

In a massive relief to the middle class, union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday announced an increased income tax exemption for those with income up to ₹12 lakh per annum. This means that people who earn under ₹12 lakh per annum will not have to pay any taxes.