The Karnataka budget for 2024-25 was presented on February 16, 2024, by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Here’s a summary of some key points:
Overall size: ₹3.71 lakh crore, making it the largest budget in the state’s history.
Key focus areas:
- Infrastructure: Allocation of ₹850 crore for development of government schools and pre-university colleges, and ₹50 crore for science labs and internet facilities in high schools.
- Agriculture: ₹33,000 crore allocated for the sector, including schemes for irrigation, crop diversification, and farmer income support.
- Social welfare: Increased allocation for schemes like Indira Canteen (subsidized meals), Amrut Gram Yojana (rural development), and Arogya Karnataka (healthcare scheme).
- Education: Introduction of free laptops for final year degree students in government colleges.
- Urban development: Increased allocation for Bengaluru infrastructure projects like metro expansion and sewage treatment plants.
Other highlights:
- Gross borrowings expected to exceed ₹1 lakh crore for the first time.
- Increased focus on sustainable development and renewable energy.
- Gender budget introduced, allocating 8% of total budget expenditure to women-centric schemes.
Reactions:
- The budget has received mixed reactions. While some have praised the focus on social welfare and infrastructure development, others have criticized the high level of borrowing and the lack of concrete measures to address unemployment.
Resources for further information:
- Karnataka Finance Department website: https://finance.karnataka.gov.in/info-2/2024-25/Budget+Volumes+2024-25/en
