The Tycoon's Odyssey

The entire living room turned silent, except for the rhythmic crunch of popcorn being devoured one after another.

Suri sat cross-legged on the couch, precariously balancing a large bowl of popcorn on her lap. Her cheeks were puffed out like a hamster's as she popped one kernel after another into her mouth with machine-like precision.n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Evan leaned back on the opposite end of the couch, his sharp eyes fixed on the TV screen.

The live broadcast from Samvidhan Bhavan about the national budget was just moments away. The weight of the impending announcements that were going to be made loomed heavy in the air, not only in Indra but all across the world, as everyone awaited Indra's response to the mounting economic crisis.

Suri noticed Evan glancing at her and arched her brow. "What? You want some popcorn?"

Evan sighed, his lips curling slightly in disbelief. "We're about to watch the budget presentation, not some blockbuster action movie. What's with… this whole setup?"

Suri smirked, a mischievous glint sparkling in her eyes. "Oh, this is way better than any other movie. Especially since you've had your hands all over it. I'm just here for the drama. Trust me, this budget is going to stir up quite a bit of trouble."

"We are gonna witness a surge of articles, conspiracy theories and maybe—just maybe—someone will even say something nice about you."

Before Evan could even respond, Suri shoved a handful of popcorn into his face.

Amused, he could only take the offering and chew it silently, the crunch filling the room as he turned his focus back to the screen.

_____

The live broadcast shifted to the packed chambers of Samvidhan Bhavan.

Ministers sprawled all over their seats, their faces a mix of anxiety and anticipation. In the midst of the global economic downturn, Indra had taken a big hit, leaving the country teetering on the edge of a financial crisis.

Many murmurs filled the hall, underscoring the noticeable tension between people. Outside, journalists covering the scene speculated about the bold moves the new finance minister might unveil in his first budget.

The Finance Minister stepped forward, his voice steady and authoritative. "Today, we stand at a crossroads. Despite the challenges we are facing, Indra is ready to take bold steps towards growth, innovation, and sustainability. This budget reflects our vision for a stronger, self-reliant nation."

With that, he began outlining the key initiatives of the year's budget.

1. GST Reduction

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) was reduced by 10%, offering relief to small businesses and the middle class. The move aimed to boost consumer spending and stimulate domestic demand.

Government Employee Benefits

For the first time, government employees would receive health cards and insurance, covering up to ₹1 million annually for their families. This initiative, costing the government ₹120 billion, sought to bring parity between public and private sector benefits.

Education Reforms:

Introduction of Education Cards: These cards would offer discounts of up to 50% on private school fees for eligible families.

Improvement of Government Schools: A budget of ₹500 billion was allocated to provide nutritious meals, clean drinking water, and upgraded facilities in public schools.

Infrastructure Development:

Renewable Energy Projects: Three new hydroelectric dams have been completed, generating an additional 5,000 MW of electricity. An ambitious wind turbine project, with a budget of ₹700 billion would see to it that wind turbines were installed and operational in every major city within two years.

Bullet Trains:

A groundbreaking investment of ₹1 trillion was allocated to launch bullet train services. The first line would connect the cities of Delli, Bomany and other important capital cities of the states and would be operational within a year.

Agriculture and Rural Development:

Smart Irrigation Systems: ₹300 billion was allocated to introduce AI-powered irrigation for farmers.

Rural Connectivity: ₹500 billion was set aside for building all-weather roads to improve rural access to markets.

Tech and Innovation:

Establishment of 10 new research and development hubs all across the country to encourage startups and technological advancements.

A fund of ₹200 billion was created to support AI and robotics-based industries.

Social Welfare:

Increased pensions for senior citizens by 30%.

₹250 billion was allocated to provide affordable housing projects for low-income families.

The finance minister paused, allowing his words to resonate before continuing. "My fellow citizens, this budget is more than a financial plan—it's a roadmap to a brighter future. Indra has faced challenges, but we are resilient. Together, we will rebuild."

The finance minister then added with conviction. "I am proud to announce the discovery of significant natural resources in our country. New reserves of petroleum, natural gas, and gold have been identified. These resources, once tapped, are projected to generate ₹2.5 lakh crore annually, bolstering our economy and reducing our dependence on imports.

The minister's voice grew firm. "We are also taking measures to reduce the burden on our citizens, which is to come into effect immediately. The Goods and Services Tax on vehicles, consumer electronics and eateries will be reduced by 10%. This will lower the prices and increase consumer spending, and both the household and the business will benefit alike."

The announcement sent a ripple of reaction through the chamber in Samvidhan Bhavan. Some nodded in approval: others murmured skeptically.

The finance minister then concluded with steady eyes. "This budget is not just about numbers—it's about people. It's about creating opportunities, ensuring equality, and securing a future where Indra leads the world. Together, we will make it happen.

_____

Back in Evan's living room, Suri leaned back, a contented smile on her face. "Well, that was one hell of a show. I almost feel bad for the opposition—they're going to have a hell of a time criticizing that."

Evan smiled for her, his eyes glowing with quiet satisfaction. "It's just the beginning."

Suri whistled low under her breath and shook her head. "They are pulling out all the stops. This is going to cost a fortune. Can the Indra treasury even hold this much?'

"Funds have already been allocated," Evan muttered, his voice calm. "The natural resource revenue will cover most of it. Renewable energy projects will balance the rest." Discover hidden content at empire

"Don't worry, I will fill the gaps in between."

Suri laughed, tossing another handful of popcorn into her mouth. "Let the chaos begin, then."