New Delhi: In a major boost to medical education in India, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that 10,000 new medical college seats will be added next year, with a total of 75,000 seats planned over the next five years. The announcement was made during her Budget 2025 speech on Saturday.
Key Highlights of the Budget on Education & Skill Development
1. Medical Education Expansion
10,000 new medical seats will be introduced in 2025.
A total of 75,000 medical seats will be created over five years, strengthening India’s healthcare workforce.
2. IIT Expansion & Infrastructure Development
Student enrollment across India’s 23 IITs has doubled in the past decade.
Additional infrastructure will be built for five IITs established post-2014, accommodating 6,500 more students.
3. National Centres of Excellence for Skill Development
Five National Centres of Excellence will be established with global partnerships.
These will equip youth with industry-specific skills to support the ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.
4. Artificial Intelligence in Education
A Centre of Excellence in AI for Education will be set up.
The government has allocated ₹500 crore to enhance AI-driven learning and research.
Budget Session: A Mix of Announcements & Protests
FM Sitharaman’s eighth consecutive budget presentation—a record—began at 11 AM. However, protests erupted in Parliament, with Samajwadi Party MPs demanding a discussion on the Maha Kumbh stampede. The MPs staged a symbolic walkout before rejoining the session.
Despite the disruption, Sitharaman emphasized India’s economic growth, highlighting key areas of focus:
Agricultural and rural development
MSME support
Employment-led growth
Energy security & exports
“Our economy is the fastest-growing among major global economies. Over the next five years, we have a unique opportunity to achieve ‘Sabka Vikas’ and balanced regional development,” she said.
Stay tuned to The Pragathi News for more updates on Budget 2025!
