The Hindu Business Line : Budget expectations

Every section of the society expects some benefits or the other from the Budget. Justifiably, senior citizens, forming nearly 9 per cent of the population, expect living allowances and health security.

Second, the fixed -income group that remits income-tax without default, is the worst sufferer. Expenses on education for their children and family health are to be attended to, while there is no relief on the I-T front.

Those who are employed in rural areas deserve better emoluments, otherwise many jobs will remain vacant. A rural-oriented budget, if it is so, cannot hope for the desired results unless, apart from farmers, other groups such as rural artisans who sustain our heritage and the handloom workers are also taken care of. The crafts and handicrafts can be well planned and utilised to succeed in global markets and attract foreign tourists.

More industries should be encouraged to reach the rural areas where there is much scope for trade; interaction with the farmers will help identify products that can be exported as consumer-ready products thus offering more work opportunities. Above all, there should be an administration that is sincere, and dedicated to see that the benefits reach the people without pilferage on the way.

K. K. Lakshmanan

Coimbatore

Letters to the editor and contributions can be sent by e-mail to: bleditor@thehindu.co.in

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