The RBI is expected to cut the repo rate by 25bps in February, easing borrowing costs for the middle class. Analysts predict a total reduction of 100bps in the current cycle, fostering economic growth amid favorable inflation projections.

The budget does not offer a realistic road map to resolve the critical problems of unemployment, poor pay packages and underskilling.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced no income tax payable up to Rs 12 lakh under the new regime, offering significant relief to the middle class. The new tax slabs include 5% on Rs 4-8 lakh,