Fitch Ratings has assessed India’s Union Budget, and while it believes the projections are realistic and achievable, it also sees some challenges. The ratings agency stated that India’s budget will have a broadly neutral impact on growth, with fiscal metrics remaining weak compared to its peers.
Fitch Ratings commented on India’s gradual pace of debt reduction, which poses risks to its sovereign rating if there is a significant economic shock. Despite this, the agency remains confident that India can maintain its medium-term fiscal framework and keep debt on a downward path, which would positively impact the country’s rating over time. In August 2024, Fitch affirmed India’s sovereign rating at ‘BBB-‘ with a stable outlook.
The pace of debt reduction in the budget is gradual, which leaves room for downside risks, especially if the economy faces a large shock. Fitch also noted that there could be modest shortfalls in revenue collection, particularly given the moderation in economic growth.
However, Fitch remains optimistic about the long-term growth outlook. The policy focus on boosting investment through deregulation is seen as a positive for India’s medium-term economic growth. Overall, while the budget’s targets are realistic, the country must manage its fiscal and revenue challenges carefully to maintain stability and growth.
