Modi govt's development drive: Top welfare schemes that received the biggest boost

The allocation of the Union Budget under key schemes has seen robust growth in recent years, reflecting the government’s focus on targeted welfare and development initiatives. For FY25, the total budgeted expenditure is estimated at ₹48,20,512 crore, a 7.3% increase from the revised estimates of FY24. Out of this, ₹20,22,153.8 crore — around 42% — is allocated to various schemes, marking a 6% increase over FY24 revised estimates.

Among the big-ticket allocations, the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana takes the lion’s share, followed by the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme. Whether the FY26 Budget retains the balanced approach, prioritising welfare, amid growth challenges, remains to be seen.