Popular ride-aggregator Ola on Friday opined that the Union Budget 2018-19 would strengthen India's global position, while improving its livability index and business environment.
"The budget is progressive, balanced and forward looking with a well-defined focus. Allocation of Rs 3073 crore towards Digital India is a significant leg-up. The thrust provided to tourism with the commitment of creating iconic tourist spots, investment earmarked for transport infrastructure, progress made on Smart Cities and creation of more than five lakh Wi-Fi hotspots in India is truly welcome," said Bhavish Aggarwal, co-founder and CEO, Ola.
Echoing the sentiments of its competitor, global cab aggregator Uber noted that the enhanced focus of investing in telecom infrastructure and broadband access would be largely beneficial to the economy.
"The emphasis laid by the finance minister on continued investment in telecom infrastructure and broadband access is very good. That will be instrumental for continued improvements in education, health and financial inclusion. The continued budgetary support for the Smart Cities programme and additional investment in infrastructure is another step in the right direction. We look forward to a robust implementation of these announcements and remain confident that the government will enable a policy environment that will further enhance mobility for all Indians," said Amit Jain, president, Uber India and South Asia.
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday announced double allocation for Digital India programme to Rs. 3073 crore in 2018-19. He also announced the launch of a national program along with the NITI Aayog to direct efforts in artificial intelligence.
To improve broadband access in villages, Jaitley, in his budget speech, said the Government aims to set up five lakh Wi-Fi hotspots to provide net connectivity to five crore rural citizens.
Meanwhile, Akash Gupta, the Founder and CEO of Mobycy, a bicycle sharing platform, lauded the government's efforts to curb air pollution, and said these initiatives would largely improve India's environmental scenario.
"The Union Budget 2018-19 has called out some significant positive initiatives towards curbing air pollution and supporting schemes. These pro-environment steps will take the country towards a better future. We feel that this is a step in the right direction, and more such pro-environment steps will promise a better future for our country," he said.
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