Exclusive: FM Nirmala Sitharaman On The Intricacies Of The Employment Packages In Budget

At the #BudgetRoundTable2024 conference, Rahul Kanwal, Executive Director of Business Today, engaged in an exclusive conversation with Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs, about the internship scheme announced in Budget 2024-25 and its impact on job creation. Sitharaman elaborated on the government's prioritised approach in the fields of employment and skilling, emphasizing that the internship scheme for one crore youth in the top 500 companies will significantly contribute to job creation. She highlighted that the measures announced in the budget, including youth apprenticeship and job-related schemes, are designed to create new employment opportunities. Companies will be required to hire new employees under these schemes, which will have a substantial impact on the job market. Sitharaman confidently described these initiatives as significant steps towards enhancing employment, expressing optimism about their success in boosting job prospects for the youth.Addressing opposition allegations that the budget measures are insufficient and politically motivated, Sitharaman responded firmly. She stated that the government's actions are based on comprehensive analysis and recommendations from various committees, aiming for long-term economic stability and growth. Additionally, she tackled accusations from the Congress party that the scheme was copied from their proposals. Sitharaman dismissed these claims.