JAIPUR: Ruling BJP today welcomed the Union Budget saying it will pave way for economic development and growth while the Opposition Congress termed it disappointing.
Industry bodies also called the budget growth oriented, reformist and pragmatic budget.
BJP state president Ashok Parnami said the budget was focused and dedicated to common people and nation's growth.
"It is a development oriented budget and reflects the expectations of 'New India'. The budget provisions and schemes will strengthen social security in the country," Parnami said.
Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said the provision for development of Kumbhalgarh and other hill forts under world heritage site category, visa on arrival for 150 countries, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Education and Research in Rajasthan are welcome announcements.
"The budget is growth oriented and will boost economy. Provisions for poverty alleviation and job creations have also been made," Raje said.
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) said that focus on manufacturing, ease of doing business, prohibition of black money and continued reforms will create an enabling environment.
CII said that many of its recommendations as part of the Union pre-budget memorandum such as monetisation of gold, phased reduction in Corporate Tax, early roll out of GST, focus on ease of doing business, etc, have been majorly accepted by the Finance Minister in the budget or at least he has given a roadmap on these.
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry also termed the budget as "balanced".
PCC President Sachin Pilot dubbed the budget as inflationary.
"Increase in the service tax will increase inflation. Income tax exemption limit was not increased which shows that the government is not sensitive towards people's needs. It is unfortunate the there is no mention of strategy of job creation for safer future of youths," Pilot said.
Former state chief minister Ashok Gehlot also said the budget was disappointing, noting that the budget will widen the gap between the rich and the poor.