“The budget brings back the Government of India’s focus on the common man, the farmer and the MSMEs which are important sections of the society. This combined with the increased trust on infrastructure (highest ever spend) and the government’s atma nirbhartha focus gives a signal that India will continue to be the fastest growing economy in the world and the government will continue to spend and put its monies where it matters. No doubt, this is a progressive and balanced budget.

From an industry point of view, what is heartening to note is the continued focus on infrastructure (roads, ports, railways), Manufacturing along with increasing focus on renewable energy and the green hydrogen economy. This along with more money in the hands of the farmer and common man, will lead to the continued growth of the India consumption story.

From a leadership hiring point of view, India Inc will continue its focus on growth and capex, and this will mean renewed demand for CXO and CXO minus 1 talent. The sectors that will continue to see demand for leadership talent will be Consumer, Manufacturing, Energy, Pharmaceuticals and BFSI. “