As India strides toward becoming a knowledge-driven economy, the education sector continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation's future. The upcoming Union Budget 2025 brings fresh hopes and opportunities for reforms, funding, and innovative solutions to address critical challenges in this domain. From digital education and skill development to strengthening infrastructure and bridging accessibility gaps, stakeholders are keenly anticipating policies that will transform India's education landscape.
In this article, we bring you exclusive pre-budget insights from renowned leaders and visionaries in the education industry. Their perspectives highlight the expectations and aspirations of this sector, shedding light on how the government can drive impactful growth and ensure holistic development in education for all. Stay tuned as we explore their valuable thoughts on the reforms that could shape a brighter tomorrow.
Nealesh Dalal, Founder, JD School of Design powered by JD Institute of Fashion Technology
"As we approach the 2025 budget, it is indispensable to consider higher education as an educational pursuit and a catalyst for holistic societal growth. Especially in design education, the demand for interdisciplinary learning, technological integration, and sustainability-oriented curricula is unprecedented. Investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure, research grants, and industry-academic collaborations can empower learners to think critically and solve real-world problems. Education is an investment in the future, and we hope 2025 marks a pivotal transformation in this space."
Mr. Manish Mohta, Managing Director, Learning Spiral
"As we approach the upcoming fiscal year, the budget will play a pivotal role in shaping policy decisions for businesses, investors, and policymakers. At Learning Spiral, we are at the forefront of driving innovation in education and training, and we eagerly anticipate how the budget will impact workforce development and the education sector. We believe that the government's focus on economic reforms and investments in digital learning solutions will open new opportunities for growth in the education and technology sectors, supporting our mission to upskill the workforce and prepare businesses for the future."
Vinkesh Gulati, Vice President, ASDC
"The Union Budget 2025 presents a critical opportunity to align education and skilling with industry needs, particularly in the automotive sector. Investments in advanced skilling for EVs, AI, and IoT can position India as a global innovation hub. Strengthening ITIs and vocational centers in Tier II and III cities and incentivizing MSMEs to adopt structured training are vital steps. Integrating National Skill Development initiatives with apprenticeship programs will bridge the education-employability gap. This Budget must empower India’s youth with future-ready skills, driving economic growth and global competitiveness."
Dr. Ashok Kumar, Head, Center for AI in Medicine, Imaging & Forensics, Sharda University
"As the next Union Budget approaches, we hope to see a focus on enabling financial aid to students, including the extension of the interest-subvention program for school loans. Additionally, we look forward to increased investments in digital infrastructure to improve education delivery and foster innovation. Skill development programs and industry-aligned curricula are essential to bridge the gap between education and employability, empowering India’s youth for the future."
Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, Founder and Director, Manasthali Wellness
"We need increased funding for mental health services, including outpatient care and telehealth infrastructure to reach underserved areas. The recent rise of diseases like HMPV highlights the need for a holistic approach to both physical and mental health. We urge the government to focus on prevention and early intervention programs, especially in schools and communities, to ensure a healthier, more resilient population."
Sriram Srirangam, Chief Mentor, SRIRAM’s IAS
"We hope the 2025 Budget will prioritize consumption through employment creation and welfare schemes such as Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs). The PM Internship scheme for youth is a critical initiative that must be urgently rolled out. Additionally, strengthening natural farming initiatives and investments in AI and frontier technologies should be key priorities."
Rati Misra, Executive Director, Milaan Foundation
"With 253 million adolescents in India, it’s crucial that the government invests in their future. We need targeted investments in health, education, and skill development to unlock the potential of this demographic. Only 2.28% of last year’s budget was allocated to children, and we need immediate action to ensure that our youth receive the attention and resources they deserve."
Mr. Rohit Gajbhiye, Founder and Managing Director, LEO1
"The upcoming Budget 2025 presents an opportunity for the government to strengthen India’s education ecosystem with a focused push on higher education. As the nation aspires to become a global knowledge hub, investments in infrastructure, research, and technology integration within higher education institutions are essential. Enhanced funding for skilling initiatives, collaboration with industry stakeholders, and the promotion of innovation through public-private partnerships can play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic learning and employability. The education sector eagerly anticipates reforms that ensure affordability and accessibility, enabling India’s youth to compete on a global scale while contributing to the nation's growth. Such initiatives can significantly accelerate India’s journey toward becoming a knowledge-driven economy."
Dr. Vipul Lunawat, Founder Director, Institute of Sports Science & Technology
"Sports is an industry with significant economic, social, and cultural impacts. With India poised to host the Summer Olympic Games in 2036, substantial development and investment are required. The government demonstrated its commitment in the 2024 Union Budget by allocating Rs 3442 crores to sports, a notable increase from the previous year.
To grow India's international medal tally and host the Olympics, we need sustained investment in sports infrastructure and a robust ecosystem that supports athletes, coaches, and officials. Civic development, including roads, public transport, and hospitals, is also essential. Rewarding medal winners and supporting retiring athletes will further bolster the sector. A realistic increase to Rs 3600-3800 crores in the sports budget will ensure sustainable development and make India a global sporting powerhouse."