NEW DELHI: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman while unveiling the Union budget made major announcements for

medical colleges

and hospitals. Sitharaman announced that next year 10,000 seats will be added in medical colleges and hospitals across the country, rising to 75,000 in the next five years.
During her speech she also added that

Viksit Bharat

encompasses "100 pc quality education and comprehensive healthcare."

"Next year 10,000 seats will be added in medical colleges and hospitals; 75,000 seats to be added in next 5 years," the Union finance minister said.

On Saturday, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the 2025 Budget ahead of its presentation in Parliament. Earlier, Union ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Pralhad Joshi arrived at Parliament.

Minister Shekhawat stated, "The Budget will be continuous, focusing on the welfare of the country and the poor, taking a strong step towards the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'." Union Minister Kiren Rijiju added, "Despite global challenges, India's economy continues to grow. I am confident that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s 8th Budget will create a positive atmosphere."
The Cabinet meeting took place after Sitharaman, carrying the traditional 'Bahi-Khata', met with President Droupadi Murmu. The President offered her the customary 'dahi-cheeni' (curd and sugar) for good luck before the presentation.
Speaking to reporters, Minister Joshi highlighted that under PM Modi's leadership, every budget has been pro-people, pro-poor, and pro-middle class, and this budget will follow that approach.
The Economic Survey presented on Friday projected India’s economy to grow between 6.3% and 6.8% in the next financial year, noting strong economic fundamentals and growth strategies in R&D, MSMEs, and capital goods.