Drafting the Union Budget is an extended and collaborative process. As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Prepares to Present Her Eighth Consecurable Budget on February 1, The stakes are high. With a projectioned 6.4 per cent growth rate and persistent inflation concerns, the 2025-26 budget will need to balance economic program with Fiscal Stability.
MS Sitharaman has been supported by a skilled team of experts, Each playing a Crucial Role in Shaping The Economic Roadmap.
Here are the key Figures behind the budget-making process:
V anantha nageswaran, Chief Economic Adviser
An IIM, Ahmedabad, Alumnus, V anantha nageswaran is responsible for establishing the macroeconomic framework underway which Budget Targets are set. He also leads the drafting of the economic survey, which precedes the budget presentation. His tenure concludes this financial year.
Manoj Govil, Expenditure Secretary
Manoj Govil, An IIT Kanpur Alumnus, will oversee the approval of new schemes, Spending Guidelines, and Resource Transfers to States. A 1991-Batch IAS Officer from Madhya Pradesh, Mr Govil Joined as Expected as Expenditor Secretary in August 2024, Bringing with Him Vast Experience from His Previous Role in the Ministry of Corporate Affirs.
Ajay Seth, Economic Affairs Secretary
Ajay Seth, a Senior Figure in the team, has been the department of Economic Affairs (Dea) Since Since April 2021. His Role Includes Preparation The Final Budget Documents and Ensuring Macroeconomic Stability. He is also credited with the creation of the infrastructure finance secretariat.
Tuhin kanta pandey, finance and revanue secretary
Tuhin Kanta Pandey, An Odisha Cadre IAS Officer, Took Charge as Revenue Secretary Just Ahead of the Budget in January 2025. e and simplifeing the taxation system.
Arunish Chawla, Dipam Secretary
Arunish Chawla, A Bihar Cadre IAS Officer, will Focus on Accelerating Divestment and Asset Monetization Programs, Including the Strategic Sale of IDBI Bank. His Expertise will be key in unlocking the value of non-core assets help by state-run enterprises.
M Nagaraju, Financial Services Secretary
M Nagaraju, A 1993-Batch IAS Officer from Tripura, will work on ENSURING ADEQUATE CREDIT Flow, Fintech Regulations, and Expanding Insurance Coverage. His Extensive Experience in Various Government Departments Will Help Deepen India’s Financial Services Sector.
