New Delhi: Anuradha Thakur, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), said on Tuesday that there is no dearth of fund allocation from the government and the budgetary side.
Countering the questions on less fund allocation for the tourism sector in the current budget, she said, “I would just assure from the govt and budgetary side, there is no dearth of fund allocation.”
She was addressing a session here related to post-budget interactions.
Expressing optimism about the economy’s outlook, Thakur said, “We look forward to greater buoyancy,” indicating confidence in revenue mobilisation and overall economic momentum in the coming period.
On fiscal management, she underlined the government’s ability to maintain stability despite global uncertainties.
“We will be able to handle the debt-to-GDP ratio and fiscal deficit.”
In the budget, the debt-to-GDP ratio is estimated to be 55.6 pc of GDP in BE 2026-27 compared to 56.1 pc of GDP in RE 2025-26. A decline in the debt-to-GDP ratio will gradually free up resources for priority sector expenditure by reducing the outgo on interest payments, Thakur said, reiterating the Centre’s commitment to keeping public finances on a sustainable path while supporting growth.
Highlighting the importance of micro, small and medium enterprises, the DEA Secretary said the Budget has clearly defined the government’s approach towards the sector.
“For MSMEs, we have tried to outline the direction,” she said, adding that the focus is on comprehensive support. “From all sides — equity, finance,” Thakur said, pointing to a multi-pronged strategy to strengthen the sector.
She also stressed the need for continuous assessment of MSME performance. “We are keen to track how MSMEs grow,” Thakur said, noting that coordinated efforts will be crucial going forward.
Emphasising the need for collective action, she said, “Collaboration is key.”
Drawing attention to the services sector, Thakur said, “This Budget outlines the services sector in Kartavya 2,” reflecting the government’s intent to give it a prominent role in the growth strategy.
She highlighted the interdependence between sectors, stating, “There is a symbiotic relationship between manufacturing and services.”
According to Thakur, the balanced focus on manufacturing, services and MSMEs is aimed at inclusive growth and job creation. “It is about providing a large number of employment opportunities to the youth,” she said, underlining the Budget’s emphasis on employment generation alongside economic stability.
