New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during her budget speech, used the term 'Amrit Kaal' seven times. It was the prominent theme of the entire budget starting with saying, "I present the Budget for 2023-24. This is the first Budget in Amrit Kaal."
The term literally translates to 'the time of nectar' and it means an auspicious time for a new beginning. According to Vedic astrology, it is a critical time when the gates of greater pleasure open for the inhuman, angels, and human beings. The common belief is that starting a task at Amrit Kaal will lead to favourable results. It is similar to Achche Din.
"This is the first budget in Amrit Kaal, this budget hopes to build on the foundation laid in the previous budget and the blueprint laid for India@100, we envision a prosperous and inclusive India in which the fruits of development reach all," she said. This year's budget was all about the government's vision for an empowered and inclusive economy, a technology-driven and knowledge-based economy, strong public finances, and a robust financial sector.
Sitharam also highlighted four areas - economic empowerment of women, PM Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman (PM VIKAS), tourism, and green growth. She asserted that the budget adopts seven priorities that complement each other and they will act as the "Saptarishi" guiding the country through the Amrit Kaal.
The term was first used by PM Modi in 2021 during the 75th Independence Day celebrations. He was unveiling the roadmap for India's next 25 years. He said the purpose of Amrit Kaal was to make the lives of citizens of India better and lessen the divide in development between villages and cities. It also intends to reduce the government's interference in people's lives and welcome new technology.