Chennai, Feb 1 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu is eagerly anticipating the Union Budget scheduled for Sunday, with keen hopes for new announcements that can boost infrastructure development, enhance the manufacturing sector, and advance urban growth.

The State stands as one of India's prominent industrial and export centers, prompting both policymakers and industry leaders to seek budgetary support for industrial corridors, port connectivity, logistics, and significant urban infrastructure projects.

Historical trends shape expectations in Tamil Nadu.

In the 2021 Union Budget, unveiled prior to Assembly elections in the State, Tamil Nadu garnered Rs 1.03 lakh crore for road and highway projects, featuring crucial initiatives like the Madurai–Kollam and Chittoor–Thoothukudi corridors.

With Assembly elections approaching in five States this year, political analysts suggest the Centre may once more unveil development-centric schemes that resonate deeply at the regional and electoral levels, putting Tamil Nadu at the forefront.

Adding to the excitement in Tamil Nadu is the speculation that parts of the Budget speech might be delivered in Tamil, a symbolic gesture that could have significant political and cultural implications.

With local industries advocating for incentives related to manufacturing, exports, and tech-driven advancements, the Budget is anticipated to introduce measures that solidify Tamil Nadu’s standing as a manufacturing, logistics, and innovation hub.

Even though February 1 falls on a Sunday this year, the Union Budget will be presented in Parliament as planned.

In recognition of the occasion's significance, the Mumbai Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange, usually closed on Sundays, will remain operational for trading today.

Following approval from the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will unveil the Budget in the Lok Sabha at 11 a.m., with the address expected to last nearly two hours.

The Budget is being crafted in alignment with the Centre's long-term vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', aimed at transitioning India into a developed nation by the 100th anniversary of Independence.

Key sectors anticipated to receive focus include railways, infrastructure, urban development, manufacturing, defense, electronics, MSMEs, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, health, tourism, agriculture, and logistics.

Traditionally segmented into Part A, which emphasizes policy initiatives, and Part B, which addresses taxation, this year's Budget is expected to provide equal significance to both segments.

Notably, Finance Minister Sitharaman will make history by presenting the Union Budget for a ninth consecutive time, a remarkable achievement in India’s parliamentary history.