The Union Budget 2025 introduces targeted reforms to bolster economic opportunities for women and Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) entrepreneurs. Announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the scheme offers term loans of up to ₹2 crore to first-time entrepreneurs from these categories, aiming to benefit 500,000 individuals over five years. This measure underscores the government’s commitment to financial inclusion and sustainable economic growth.
Closing Financial Gaps for Marginalized Groups
Access to credit remains a significant hurdle for women entrepreneurs, with systemic barriers limiting their business growth. Through the new initiative, the government aims to bridge this gap and promote gender parity in entrepreneurship. Alongside financial support, the initiative includes business mentorship and access to market networks.
SC and ST entrepreneurs will also benefit from reduced financing constraints under this program, encouraging business expansion and job creation, especially in rural areas.
Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan
Complementing these financial initiatives, the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan will launch with the objective of improving socio-economic conditions in tribal-majority regions. The program targets 63,000 villages and aims to benefit 5 crore tribal individuals through various development projects.
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Supporting Women-Centric Programs
The budget has allocated ₹3 lakh crore toward women-centric initiatives in healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship. These efforts are designed to enhance women’s participation in the workforce and drive long-term economic growth through skill development and employment generation.
Strengthening Infrastructure for Rural and Marginalized Communities
In addition to financial reforms, Budget 2025 focuses on empowering rural communities through improved infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The initiatives outlined reflect a strategic push toward inclusive development, with an emphasis on self-reliance and social mobility for traditionally marginalized groups.
By facilitating access to both financial and non-financial resources, these budget measures aim to reduce inequalities and promote sustainable economic development across all sectors of society.
