Visionary Budget 2025-26: A Leap Forward for Education in India
Dr Dhruv Galgotia
ON BEHALF OF THE EDUCATION COMMUNITY AND THE YOUTH OF INDIA, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for the progressive and forward-looking Budget 2025-26. This budget is a testament to your unwavering commitment to transforming India into a global knowledge superpower and a vision to Vishwaguru. The significant allocations and strategic initiatives for the education sector reflect a deep understanding of the critical role education plays in nation-building and economic growth. 
The Ministry of Education has been allocated ₹128,650 crore, marking a substantial increase from the revised estimates of 2024-25. This allocation underscores the government’s resolve to strengthen school education and higher education, ensuring accessibility, equity, and quality for all.
Key Highlights and Their Impact -
1. School Education & Literacy (₹78,572 crore)
The 16% increase in the budget for school education is a commendable step toward achieving universal quality education. Initiatives like the expansion of Samagra Shiksha (₹41,250 crore), PM POSHAN (₹12,500 crore), and PM Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) (₹7,500 crore) will not only improve infrastructure but also enhance learning outcomes. The establishment of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years will foster innovation and scientific temper among students, preparing them for the challenges of the 21st century.
2. Higher Education (₹50,078 crore)
The 7.74% increase in higher education funding is a significant boost for institutions like IITs, IISc, and central universities. The addition of 10,000 medical seats and infrastructure expansion in five IITs will address the growing demand for quality higher education. The PM Research Fellowship Scheme, with 10,000 fellowships for technological research, will nurture India’s research ecosystem and drive innovation.
3. Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation
The allocation of ₹500 crore for the Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Education is a visionary step. Galgotias University has also invested 200 crore on a new AI and machine learning building which is one of a kind in the country. This initiative will revolutionize teaching and learning methodologies, making education more interactive and personalized. Additionally, the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital Indian language books will bridge the language barrier and make education more inclusive.
4. Skilling and Employability
The establishment of five National Centres of Excellence for skilling with global partnerships is a game-changer. By aligning skilling programs with the “Make for India, Make for the World” vision, this initiative will equip our youth with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive global economy.
5. Ease of Access to Education
The increase in the threshold limit for Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on remittances under the Liberal Remittance Scheme (LRS) from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh, along with the removal of TCS on education loans, will ease the financial burden on students pursuing education abroad. This move reflects the government’s sensitivity to the aspirations of Indian students.
A Vision for the Future
The Budget 2025-26 aligns seamlessly with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing holistic development, innovation, and inclusivity. The focus on creating world-class institutions, promoting research, and fostering a culture of curiosity and creativity will empower India’s youth to become global leaders.
The government’s commitment to providing broadband connectivity to all government secondary schools and primary health centers under the BharatNet project will bridge the digital divide, ensuring that students in rural areas have access to the same opportunities as their urban counterparts.
Conclusion
The Budget 2025-26 is not just a financial document; it is a blueprint for India’s future. It reflects the government’s vision of an educated, skilled, and empowered India, ready to lead the world in the knowledge economy. As an educationist, I am deeply inspired by the transformative potential of this budget and its focus on nurturing the talents and aspirations of our youth.
I commend the Honourable Prime Minister and the Finance Minister for their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the education sector. This budget is a giant leap toward realizing the dream of an Atmanirbhar Bharat and a Vishwaguru.
(Dr Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University)
February 01, 2025