Uttar Pradesh Budget Focuses on Tech, Infrastructure; South Africa Postpones Budget Amid VAT Debate

Uttar Pradesh's Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna presented a Rs 8,08,736 Crore budget for 2025-26, emphasizing research, technology, and infrastructure. Key proposals include an "Artificial Intelligence City" and a cybersecurity-focused Technology Research and Translation Park. The budget allocates significant funds for education, healthcare, and agriculture, aiming to boost economic growth and technological innovation. Welfare measures include labor hubs and the 'Zero Poverty Abhiyan.' The state's GSDP is projected to reach Rs 27.51 Lakh crore for 2024-25, with per capita income rising to Rs 93,514 in 2023-24.

In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa defended Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana after the budget speech was postponed due to disagreement over a proposed VAT increase from 15% to 17%. Ramaphosa stated that the postponement was not a crisis threatening the government. The budget, initially scheduled for presentation on Wednesday, will now be tabled on March 12, following revisions.