Itanagar, Feb 3: Arunachal Pradesh BJP president Kaling Moyong on Monday lauded the Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, calling it a "people-friendly" and "pro-middle-class" budget.
Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, Moyong appreciated the Narendra Modi-led NDA government for its focus on inclusive development, stating that the budget embodies the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.
Highlighting the budget's impact, Moyong said the revised income tax slab, which proposes zero tax on income up to ?12 lakh, has been a major relief for the middle class.
"Earlier, during the Congress rule, income tax was levied from ?2.5 lakh onwards. The BJP government has increased the threshold nearly five times, benefiting crores of taxpayers," he added.
Moyong also welcomed the facelift given to the UDAN scheme, which aims to enhance regional air connectivity.
"Under the revised scheme, 120 new destinations will be covered, including key locations in Arunachal such as Hollongi, Pasighat, and Tezu," he said.
The BJP leader further highlighted the government's commitment to the agricultural sector, announcing the launch of the 'Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana' in collaboration with states.
"The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan limit will be increased from ?3 lakh to ?5 lakh, ensuring greater financial support for farmers," he said.
On entrepreneurship and startups, Moyong stated that the government would introduce 'Customized Credit Cards' with a ?5 lakh limit for micro enterprises registered on the Udyam portal.
"In the first year, 10 lakh such cards will be issued. Additionally, a new ?10,000 crore Fund of Funds will be set up for startups," he said.
He also highlighted a new scheme for first-time entrepreneurs, particularly women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, providing term loans up to ?2 crore over the next five years.
For micro and small enterprises, the credit limit would be enhanced from ?5 crore to ?10 crore, while well-performing MSMEs would receive term loans up to ?20 crore under a moderated guaranteed fee structure.
Emphasizing employment-led growth, Moyong said the budget provides for MUDRA loans to homestays and performance-linked incentives for states to improve tourism infrastructure, amenities, and cleanliness.
"Fifty top tourist destinations across the country will be developed in partnership with states through a challenge mode," he stated.
On cultural preservation, the BJP leader spoke of the launch of the Gyan Bharatam Mission, which aims to document and conserve over one crore manuscripts in collaboration with academic institutions, museums, and libraries.
"This will significantly help in protecting Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural and indigenous heritage," he added.
Moyong further expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting a budget that focuses on self-reliance and development.
"This is a budget for Atmanirbhar Bharat and a developed Arunachal Pradesh," he said.