My money

In a budget that presents an array of pacifiers to savers, the finance minister has created room for higher household savings. His pronouncements on small savings will generate opportunities for efficient use of capital. The FM has also sought to revitalise two instruments espoused by a rather large community of ordinary citizens, particularly those who relied on small savings schemes managed by the post office. While Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) will stage a comeback of sorts, there will also be a National Savings Certificate (NSC) with an insurance cover. For PPF adherents, the annual ceiling stands increased to Rs 1.5 lakh. At another level, the budget encourages greater involvement in yet another asset class — real estate, which is constrained by pretty high financing costs.