New Delhi, Feb. 1 -- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Budget today, achieving a milestone as she became the longest-serving Finance Minister. Sitharaman's ninth Budget - which was inspired by 'Kartavyas' or responsibilities - did not bring any new changes to income tax rates, but the Narendra Modi-led dispensation gave a massive push to manufacturing, tourism, health, sports, and defence, among other sectors.

The Budget, aligned with the vision of 'Sabkha Sath Sabka Vikas,' evoked a myriad of responses from political leaders as well as the common man. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Budget as a strong foundation for the flight towards the vision of Vikisit Bharat 2047, while the Opposition terme...