Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today announced a major push for India's manufacturing sector, including the launch of the National Manufacturing Mission and a strong focus on green manufacturing in the Union Budget for 2025-26. These initiatives aim to boost employment, innovation, and sustainability in the country's industrial landscape.

The government’s commitment to expanding India’s manufacturing capabilities was reinforced by the announcement of the National Manufacturing Mission. This ambitious initiative will cover small, medium, and large industries, providing crucial policy support and execution frameworks to further the “Make in India” vision.

"The National Manufacturing Mission will provide a comprehensive framework for central ministries and state governments to collaborate, ensuring the effective growth of India’s manufacturing sector," said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her budget speech.

The mission aims to create an ecosystem that promotes innovation, enhances industrial competitiveness, and generates millions of jobs across various sectors.

In line with India’s commitment to sustainability and climate-friendly growth, the government is placing a strong emphasis on clean tech manufacturing. The new initiatives aim to make India a global leader in green technologies, including solar PV cells, electric vehicle (EV) batteries, wind turbines, and more.

"This initiative will significantly reduce India’s dependence on imported green technologies, while fostering domestic innovation and creating sustainable jobs," Sitharaman added.

1. Solar PV cells and EV batteries

2. Wind turbines and electrolyzers

3. Grid-scale batteries and high-voltage transmission equipment

These steps are expected to contribute significantly to India’s renewable energy goals and support the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

The Union Budget also outlined measures aimed at creating employment opportunities in labour-intensive sectors such as footwear, leather, and toys. The government has announced the implementation of a Focus Product Scheme for the footwear and leather industries, which will focus on improving productivity and competitiveness.

"This scheme is expected to create employment for over 22 lakh people and generate a turnover of ₹4 lakh crore," the Finance Minister noted. The scheme is also projected to boost exports to over ₹1.1 lakh crore.

Similarly, the toy industry will receive support to develop manufacturing clusters and enhance skills, positioning India as a global hub for toys.

To promote food processing and boost farmer incomes, the government announced the establishment of a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar. This initiative will focus on adding value to farmers’ produce and creating employment opportunities in the Eastern region.

"This institute will play a critical role in enhancing the competitiveness of the food processing sector, benefiting farmers and youth in Eastern India," Sitharaman said.

"These initiatives will propel India into the future of manufacturing, combining sustainability, innovation, and job creation for a better tomorrow," concluded Sitharaman.