New Delhi, Feb 1 (Reporter) Experts from various industries, on Saturday applauded the government's emphasis on structural reforms as mentioned in the Union Budget 2025-26, which aim to facilitate increased private participation and foreign direct investment (FDI) to address long-standing economic barriers. Amit Kapur, Joint Managing Partner at JSA Advocates & Solicitors, lauded the government's reforms, stating, "This is a much-needed step forward to address the barriers to unlock the potential of private participation, including FDI." He highlighted that these reforms could resolve issues related to contract renegotiation and capital reinvestment, creating a conducive environment for growth. Among the most anticipated reforms are the initiatives surrounding Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), which have been highlighted as essential to unlocking investment in critical infrastructure projects and fostering long-term economic stability. The creation of a three-year infrastructure project pipeline, backed by Rs 1.5 lakh crore in interest-free loans to states, could prove transformative in modernizing infrastructure and stimulating the economy. In addition to infrastructure, the government’s commitment to energy transition, particularly in green technologies, is receiving praise. Poonam Verma Sengupta, Partner at JSA, noted, "The Rs 19,744 crore for the National Green Hydrogen Mission will make India a leading exporter of green hydrogen." This focus on sustainable energy is complemented by an emphasis on nuclear energy, with Rs 20,000 crore earmarked for the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). M Arun Kumar, Partner at JSA, called the commitment to nuclear energy a "bold step towards clean energy," underscoring the strategic importance of this investment for India’s future energy needs. Similarly, the continued support for electric vehicles (EVs), with exemptions on battery components, strengthens India’s transition to clean energy and positions the nation as an emerging hub for global EV manufacturers. As Sidharrth Shankar, Partner at JSA, put it, "This initiative is key to promoting clean energy and boosting local production of EVs." On the healthcare front, the budget's focus on expanding medical tourism and rural healthcare infrastructure aligns with the government’s broader 'Heal in India' initiative. Sidharrth Shankar observed, "The ‘Heal in India’ initiative is set to expand the healthcare sector, attracting investment and creating jobs." This initiative promises to attract investment, create jobs, and enhance medical education, which could have profound implications for the nation’s healthcare system. Meanwhile, the move to raise FDI limits in the insurance sector from 74% to 100% is expected to bring in foreign capital and increase competition. Venkatesh Raman Prasad, Partner at JSA, remarked, "This policy shift will likely lead to restructuring in insurance joint ventures and an increase in foreign ownership," which could lead to better services and reduced costs in the sector. The budget also addresses key concerns related to personal taxation and support for the middle class. The decision to increase the income tax exemption threshold to Rs 12 lakh is seen as a significant step in stimulating consumption and economic growth. Kumarmanglam Vijay, Partner at JSA, highlighted, "This step provides relief to the middle class, stimulating consumption and boosting the economy." Alongside this, the government is simplifying tax compliance, particularly for senior citizens and rural populations, which could enhance financial inclusion and ensure a broader economic participation. Furthermore, the budget underscores a commitment to India’s manufacturing potential. Ashish Suman, Partner at JSA, welcomed the new National Manufacturing Mission focused on clean tech, which "will enhance India’s capabilities in solar PV cells, EV batteries, and other green technologies," supporting India’s net-zero ambitions. The government’s strategic initiative to position India as a global manufacturing hub for toys also garnered praise. Raj Ramachandran, Partner at JSA, described this move as "a strategic move that capitalises on India’s talent and resources, positioning it as a key player in the global toy manufacturing market." In sum, the 2025-26 Union Budget lays out a comprehensive framework for sustainable economic growth. By fostering private sector involvement, supporting green technologies, bolstering infrastructure, and simplifying taxation, the government is setting the stage for a more dynamic and globally competitive India. As experts across sectors agree, the successful implementation of these reforms could mark a significant turning point for the nation’s development. If these reforms are successfully executed, India could see substantial progress in its development agenda, particularly in achieving its net-zero goals and becoming a leader in technology and manufacturing...////...