Budget 2018 impact: Rural, consumer, infrastructure sectors big gainers

The focus of the Union Budget was largely on rural, infrastructure and social sectors. Allocation to these sectors has been increased by up to 35 per cent. The biggest thrust is on the rural segment, which is expected to boost farm incomes, improve rural infrastructure and therefore consumption. Companies in the affordable housing, automobiles, healthcare and FMCG space are seen as key beneficiaries. The National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS) will benefit healthcare, diagnostics and insurance players. The third area of higher spending is infrastructure, where allocation is up by 14 per cent. Beneficiaries of the infrastructure and housing thrust would