The union budget has been formally announced and here’s what the government has planned for the technology sector in India. The Narendra Modi regime has kept things simple, keeping the election year in mind.
Big Push for Startup India
The Startup India initiative has been given a financial boost with funds up to Rs 500 crore being allocated. In addition to that, startups will be get 100 percent tax exemption for 3 years except MAT which will apply from April 2016-2019 to help create jobs.
Future of India Is Digital
The government plans to launch digital literacy mission scheme for rural India. It aims to cover around 6 crore additional households in next 3 years. Other than that, they have promised a digital depository to be put in place.
The depository will maintain school leaving certificates. It will also house education related certificates of schools and colleges.
Arun Jaitley has also announced the plans to roll out ATMs and micro-ATMs in post offices across the country. And finally, over 3 lakh existing fair price shops, to be provided with automation facility.
Hike in Laptop and Mobile Phone Prices
This year’s budget has brought some bad news for people looking to buy a laptop, PC or tablet. Mobile phones and tablet prices are set to rise by about 5 percent.
Mobile phone bills may also see an increase of up to 1.5 percent owing to the hike in service tax rate to 14 percent from 12.36 percent.
WiFi Router, Set-Top-Box Now Cheaper
If you’re hoping to set up a home internet connection, this is the right time, as routers and modems are set to become cheaper. The e-reading movement will be further strengthened by the news that India-manufactured e-readers will cost less from now on.