Which sector received a major allocation of ₹2.66 lakh crore in the 2024 Budget for development purposes?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is: (a) Rural development

Explanation:
• In the 2024–25 Union Budget, a provision of ₹2.66 lakh crore was allocated for rural development, including rural infrastructure.
• This allocation covers schemes aimed at improving connectivity, housing, sanitation, and other infrastructure in rural India.

Information Booster:
• The rural development allocation supports programmes like the next phase of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY IV) to connect 25,000 rural habitations.
• It also backs the plan named Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) to provide housing in rural areas.
• The allocation complements the ₹1.52 lakh crore for agriculture and allied sectors mentioned in the same budget.
• Investment in rural postal banking, food-processing, and natural farming also forms part of the broader rural development push.

Additional Knowledge:
• Defense (b): The defence budget is much higher than ₹2.66 lakh crore; in the 2024 budget it stood at over ₹6 lakh crore. W
• Urban infrastructure (c): Urban housing and infrastructure received large investment (e.g., ₹10 lakh crore mentioned under PM Awas Urban 2.0) but the specific figure ₹2.66 lakh crore is tied to rural development.
• MSME sector (d): While MSMEs received attention in the budget (guarantee fund, loan enhancements), the ₹2.66 lakh crore allocation was not for this sector.