Wipro’s Chief Financial Officer, Aparna Iyer, praised the government’s interim budget for fiscal year 2024-25, highlighting its commitment to fiscal discipline and increased investments in emerging technologies, notably artificial intelligence. In comments reported by The Economic Times in an article titled “Wipro CFO hails budget for meeting FY26 fiscal targets, focus on AI,” Iyer underscored the alignment of the budget with long-term economic goals and digital innovation.
The interim budget, presented in Parliament ahead of general elections later this year, maintains the government’s fiscal consolidation roadmap by targeting a fiscal deficit of 5.1% of GDP for FY25, with an aim to reduce this further to 4.5% by FY26. Iyer noted that the government’s adherence to these targets reflects a prudent approach to financial management, balancing growth imperatives with the need for macroeconomic stability.
Of particular interest to the tech industry is the government’s explicit focus on artificial intelligence. The budget outlines initiatives such as the creation of an AI mission aimed at fostering research, development, and skill-building in this rapidly advancing field. Iyer emphasized that such measures could enhance India’s position as a global technology hub, adding that increased public investment in AI infrastructure and talent development is a timely move in a globally competitive digital landscape.
The budget also contains significant allocations to modern infrastructure, green energy, and manufacturing, which Iyer sees as key drivers for long-term economic growth. In her statement, she highlighted the potential multiplier effects of these investments, especially in enhancing productivity and creating employment across sectors.
Echoing sentiments from across the corporate sector, Iyer acknowledged the government’s continued commitment to digital transformation and innovation. With India poised to emerge as a major player in the global technology arena, she expressed confidence that the policy direction offered by the interim budget would support sustainable growth while fostering an environment that encourages technological advancement.
As India prepares for a national vote, the budget refrains from introducing populist spending measures, opting instead for a measured strategy focused on fiscal prudence and structural development. For industry leaders like Wipro’s finance chief, this approach signals a stable and forward-looking economic agenda.
