Mumbai: The Union Budget 2025 has drawn mixed reactions from the marketing, advertising, and startup sectors. While leaders across industries have praised the government’s push for entrepreneurship, AI, and MSMEs, some feel that the media and creative sectors were overlooked. Here’s what industry experts had to say:
A Strong Boost for Startups & MSMEs
Gautam Madhavan, Founder & CEO of Mad Group, hailed the ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds for Startups and the extended tax benefits until 2030 as transformative moves that ensure financial stability. Vaibhav Gupta, Co-Founder & CPO of KlugKlug, echoed this sentiment, calling the ₹10 lakh crore capital expenditure allocation a “game-changer” for infrastructure and startup funding.
Abhinay Kumar Singh, Founder & MD of Adgcraft Communications, highlighted the tax exemption increase to ₹12 lakh, which benefits the middle class while fostering entrepreneurship. Rajat Grover, Founder & CEO of Elite Marque, believes the ₹95,000 crore allocation for startups and AIFs will create a multiplier effect, boosting job creation and innovation.
Sumon K Chakrabarti, Co-Founder & CEO of Buffalo Soldiers, praised the budget for empowering small businesses and risk-takers, while Rakesh Hinduja, Managing Partner & Co-Founder of Wondrlab Network, expects it to accelerate India’s creator economy and martech sector.
AI & Digital Transformation: A Step in the Right Direction
Many industry leaders welcomed the government’s commitment to AI and deep-tech innovation. Anand Jain, Co-Founder of CleverTap, emphasized how increased funding and policy clarity will fuel India’s rise as a startup powerhouse. Siddharth Devnani, Co-Founder & Director of SoCheers, pointed out that investments in Atal Tinkering Labs and broadband connectivity in schools will create a digitally empowered workforce.
Prashant Puri, Co-Founder & CEO of AdLift, sees the budget’s investment in AI and IIT infrastructure as key to India’s digital future. Similarly, Ambika Sharma, Founder & Chief Strategist at Pulp Strategy, noted that AI-led innovation will transform digital marketing and business strategies.
Concerns Over Media & Advertising Industry Being Overlooked
Despite the optimism, some leaders feel that the advertising and media sectors were not prioritized. Pratik Singla, CEO of Goldmine Advertising, criticized the budget for sidelining creativity, media, and entertainment while other global economies prioritize AI and digital content. Shaunak Mukherjee, Co-Founder of Evolute Global, acknowledged the benefits for small businesses but stressed the need for more support in digital advertising.
Junaid Shaikh, MD of RoshanSpace Brandcom, sees potential in smart city investments and urban infrastructure, which will benefit OOH and DOOH advertising. Meanwhile, Chetan Asher, Founder & CEO of Tonic Worldwide, welcomed the focus on AI in education but highlighted the lack of direct incentives for the advertising sector.
Final Thoughts: Optimism with Some Reservations
Rajan Navani, Chairman of CII India @100 Council and Founder of Jetsynthesys, sees this budget as a roadmap for India’s global leadership in tech and innovation. However, Yasin Hamidani, Director of Media Care Brand Solutions, warned that while the budget supports MSMEs and startups, it lacks direct relief for the media and advertising sectors.
Overall, the Union Budget 2025 has been largely well-received for its pro-entrepreneurship stance, digital transformation push, and tax benefits. However, industry leaders urge the government to recognize the economic potential of India’s media, marketing, and advertising ecosystem.
