The country is currently passing through a phase of macroeconomic uncertainty, with inflation moderating but still high, consolidated fiscal deficit going back to high single digits after the consolidation seen in early 2000s and substantial growth slowdown. The government does not seem to have many levers left in terms of extending tax breaks, as FY 2013 is likely to be a period of some fiscal consolidation before the elections in 2014. Hence the investors will watch for the quality and transparency of numbers, and meaningful signs of fiscal discipline. In this context, any move for better targeting of subsidies, eg. Using UIDAI, will be welcome.

1. Increase in export duty of Iron Ore/ Iron Ore Fines -- to give boost to local industries and to promote export of value added items.

2. Increase in government spending on Infrastructure development

3. Steps to be taken to increase foreign investment to flow in India.

4. FDI in retail (with some restriction) be allowed. --- This will increase permanent investment by foreign companies in creating malls & market and this will push demand of steel, cement and others.

5. Operation of Allotted Coal & Iron Ore Mines to Indian companies needs to be allowed and environment norms need to be softened.  --- This will increase availability of coal and iron ore and hence inflation could be controlled.

6. Interest Rate be reduced by minimum of 1%

7. Last but not the least --- Govt to keep its promises to Industries and Public at large.---- Example -- Coal Mines allotted to us but not allowed to start operation because its in no go area. Iron Ore Mines allotted but no support for operation as it's

With a slowing economy, high interest rates and need to speed up decision making towards infra projects, I expect a positive attempt in this budget to push private investment and accelerate infrastructure spending. Certain proactive measures in this regard can be:

• Exempting infrastructure companies and SEZ units from MAT provisions
• Relaxation of norms on long term funds (insurance and pension) to invest in the infrastructure sector
• Permitting banks to issue long term tax-free infrastructure bonds , thereby enhancing the participation of banks, financial institutions and large NBFCs

Marine Infrastructure:

The privatization of ports in the country has begun in the right earnest and it is now imperative that the Government works out a supportive mechanism particularly for:

• Dredging (which is highly capital intensive)
• Connectivity by road & rail

Even though private ports are creating additional capacities, it is critical for the above 2 issues to get adequate representation in the budget.