Budget 2021: SME President Amar Deerpalsing Calls It ‘Only Confetti!’

The President of SME Federation reveals that he is confused. “I have witnessed so many budgets where announcements made were never fulfilled, this budget at least contains no promises, no hope, at least there won’t be any disillusion for me” says Amar Deerpalsing. According to him, none of the propositions made to the government have been taken into consideration. “We need quick measures and actions to survive. None of these propositions can act as a relief or balm to the SME members, be it loans or grants. Applications may be numerous, but will they gain what they applied for, or will they be eligible enough are the questions that are aroused. We will need to read between the lines to find out if the coming financial period will motivate SMEs as not to close or demotivate any new start-up. For the federation, this budget is only confetti! We do not consider it advantageous at all for the cause of the SMEs. In addition, the imposition of a 10% increase in excise duties on alcoholic beverages and cigarettes and the increase of Rs2.00 on the price of gasoline and diesel to support free vaccination give way to so much confusion” he concludes.