Retail in Focus: Simplify and Scale
Shivendra Nigam, CFO of Cantabil, called for a unified Retail Policy to streamline regulations and improve ease of doing business.
“Retail contributes nearly 10% to India’s GDP and serves 1.5 billion people. A unified framework can help both established and emerging brands operate efficiently and unlock the sector’s true potential,” he said.
Echoing this, Ayush Jhawar, CEO of Genefied, highlighted the role of technology in retail, including AI-powered loyalty programs, real-time supply chain tracking, and anti-counterfeiting solutions. “Tax incentives, easier R&D funding, and QR-based product authentication can help brands scale every interaction, turning data into loyalty and revenue,” he noted.
Green Energy and E-Mobility: Investing in the Future
India’s clean energy transition is picking up pace. Faruk G. Patel, founder of KP Group, said, “In 2025 alone, India added nearly 50 GW of renewable capacity, taking total non-fossil fuel capacity to 262–263 GW, inching closer to the 500 GW target by 2030. Budget 2026 should accelerate hybrid energy, storage solutions, and green hydrogen while strengthening incentives for domestic manufacturing.”
Anurag Choudhary, CMD of Himadri Specialty Chemical, highlighted e-mobility: “Enhanced R&D funding for advanced materials, high-performance batteries, and next-gen energy storage is critical. Existing initiatives like FAME and the PLI scheme have set a strong foundation; now, targeted fund disbursement can take the sector to the next level.”
AI and Tech: Driving Inclusive Innovation
As India aims to become a global AI hub, Sanjay Sehgal, Founder and CEO of Aziro, stressed responsible deployment: “AI should be a driver of inclusive growth, backed by investment in R&D, digital infrastructure, and workforce skilling. Supporting MSMEs, building ethical AI frameworks, and encouraging collaboration between industry and academia will ensure innovation benefits everyone, not just a few large players.”
Capital Markets: Deepening the Investment Ecosystem
Manan Lahoty, Partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, called for reforms to attract foreign issuers through Indian Depository Receipts (IDRs). “Refreshing the IDR framework can introduce new products and position India as a credible international financial centre,” he said.
Housing and Urban Development: Faster Approvals, Lower Costs
For the real estate sector, Samarth Setia, Founder of Rezio.ai, urged measures to reduce hidden costs and approval delays. “Time-bound single-window clearances, stamp duty rationalisation, and digital RERA compliance can cut the ‘time tax’ that adds to home prices. Incentives for first-time and mid-income buyers will ease EMI pressure and make more locations livable and investable,” he explained.
Education and Research: Building a Knowledge Economy
Gitesh Gupta, CEO of Aimlay, emphasised higher education reforms and research support. “Budget 2026 should invest in research infrastructure, scholarships, and industry-academia collaborations. Aligning with NEP 2020, this can transform India into a global knowledge hub and accelerate inclusive growth,” he said.
Healthcare and Clinical Research: Evidence-Based Growth
Seema Pai, President of the Indian Society for Clinical Research, called for AI-enabled clinical trials, digital health tools, and stronger public-private partnerships. “Streamlined regulations and support for research-led innovation will position India as a trusted global hub for ethical clinical research, improving patient outcomes,” she said.
Climate Resilience: From Relief to Proactive Action
Ankur Indrakush, MD of Plutas AI, highlighted the urgent need for parametric climate insurance. “Immediate livelihood protection is missing in existing schemes. Budget 2026 support for pilots, fiscal incentives, and Centre-State coordination can make India a global benchmark in climate resilience,” he noted.
Digital Assets: Regulate to Grow
Abhay Agarwal, Founder of Getbit, pointed to India’s booming crypto ecosystem. “With over 100 million users, India is the fastest-growing market globally. A dedicated Crypto Bill, alignment with SEBI guidelines, and tax rationalisation can foster innovation while keeping capital in India. These steps could make India a global leader in compliant digital finance,” he said.
The Road Ahead
From retail to renewables, AI, education, and digital assets, industry leaders are urging policy clarity, targeted incentives, and regulatory simplification. With these measures, India could unlock sectoral potential, accelerate its green and digital transition, and strengthen its position in the global economy over the next decade.
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