Date:02/03/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/03/02/stories/2006030202740300.htm

Back `This should be the trend for future'

Our Bureau

MR R. GOPALAKRISHNAN

Mumbai, March 1

For me, there is a welcome feeling of `normalcy and vigorous business-as-usual' returning to the budget process. In the past, traditionally, there has been a huge amount of hoopla surrounding the budget, including a perception about its ability to make or break industries and companies. But mercifully, over the last several years, the Budget is getting predictable and within a range of trends. It is consistent with other policy indications given over the year. This is as every Budget should be, not dislocating and mysterious: a positive development," said Mr R. Gopalakrishnan, Executive Director, Tata Sons.

"I see this Budget as a good one. It has no hoopla (a great speech though!), continuity and no new taxes - at least none that are visible to me. I hope nothing turns up in the fine print. This should be the trend for the future, i.e. Government focusing on agriculture, infrastructure and social spending while partnering with private and public sector when it comes to enterprise," he said. "The going is good, let the growth guys get on with it, my revenue will automatically increase — seems to be the FM's mantra."