Dr Arun Singh, Senior Economist, Dun & Bradstreet India, says that the Economic Survey seems overtly optimistic on the growth prospects of the economy over the next year, with the GDP growth predicted to breach 9 per cent mark in FY12. While we share the optimism on the growth prospects, we expect the GDP growth to be slightly below at 8.8 per cent, given an anticipated moderation in industrial growth during FY12 against FY11.

While the survey has the mention of certain initiatives like stepping up public and private investment in agriculture sector, more direct farm-to-fork supply chains, reduction in infrastructure deficit, the focus on reform agenda seems to be underplayed. Moreover, it remains to be seen how many of these suggestions find articulation in the Budget.