India can pave the way for a resilient, equitable, and green future: Abhishek Maiti of 1Lattice
Budget 2025: To reduce reliance on imports, investment in local manufacturing of photovoltaic cells and battery storage systems can be encouraged.

Charting a Path for Sustainability in Union Budget 2025–26
As the Union Budget 2025–26 approaches, expectations are high for decisive actions to drive India’s sustainability agenda. With growing challenges from climate change, resource depletion, and socio-economic inequities, the budget has the potential to catalyse a green transformation through policy reforms and financial commitments.
Renewable Energy Expansion
India’s ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030 requires substantial fiscal support. The budget can allocate higher subsidies for solar, wind, and hybrid projects while incentivising distributed energy systems like rooftop solar for residential and commercial users. To reduce reliance on imports, investment in local manufacturing of photovoltaic cells and battery storage systems can be encouraged.
Green Financing Mechanisms
Access to affordable green financing is pivotal for sustainability. To attract domestic and foreign capital, the government can introduce or expand tax incentives for green bonds and establish a sustainability-focused investment fund. Providing interest rate subsidies for climate-friendly projects and fostering partnerships with international organisations could further amplify the impact.
Circular Economy Initiatives
Encouraging a shift from a linear to a circular economy can significantly reduce waste and resource consumption. The budget can consider the promotion of policies incentivising recycling, reuse, and eco-design practices across industries. A special emphasis on addressing e-waste and plastic waste management through grants and public-private partnerships can help drive innovation and compliance.
Sustainable Agriculture
Agriculture is both a major contributor to and victim of climate change. Prioritization of investments in climate-resilient farming techniques, organic inputs, and water-efficient irrigation systems can be considered. Expanding credit and insurance schemes tailored for smallholder farmers adopting sustainable practices could ensure equitable growth.
Urban Sustainability and Green Infrastructure
With rapid urbanisation, cities need to adopt sustainable development models. The budget can provide grants for green building certifications, energy-efficient urban transport systems, and smart waste management solutions. Expanding metro networks and promoting electric vehicles through subsidies and charging infrastructure development are also critical.
Social Equity in Climate Action
Sustainability cannot be achieved without addressing social inequalities. Allocating funds for skill development in green jobs, particularly for marginalized communities, will ensure inclusive growth. Strengthening healthcare and education systems in climate-vulnerable regions can further enhance community resilience.
The Union Budget 2025–26 presents an opportunity to align fiscal policies with global sustainability goals and national priorities. By focusing on these key areas, India can pave the way for a resilient, equitable, and green future. Industry leaders, policymakers, and civil society must collaborate to ensure that sustainability remains at the heart of India’s development agenda.