The Karnataka state budget for the year 2024, presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has generated waves across different sectors, bringing forth a slew of measures aimed at boosting the state’s economy, infrastructure, and social welfare. With an outlay of approximately ₹3.71 lakh crore, the budget seeks to cater to diverse groups, from farmers to entrepreneurs and from students to the general populace.
Boost for Social Sectors
At the heart of the budget are significant allocations aimed at enhancing the social fabric of Karnataka. Highlighting inclusivity, a whopping ₹200 crore has been earmarked for Christian communities, promising to uplift and support their welfare. On the religious front, the budget also brings attention to the development of temples and Wakf properties with allocations of ₹20 crore and ₹100 crore respectively, signaling a balanced approach towards cultural heritage.
One noteworthy tweet from the announcement reveals, “Christians get the highest allocation of ₹200 crore, ₹20 crore will be provided to provide basic facilities at temples, ₹100 crore allocation to develop Wakf properties Aur vote do congress ko.” source
Karnataka Budget 2024
Christians get highest allocation of ₹200 crore
₹20 crore will be provided to provide basic facilities at temples
₹100 crore allocation to develop Wakf properties
Aur vote do congress ko pic.twitter.com/zm5FL4V85m
— dhaval d ( Modi family) (@dhaval94) February 16, 2024
This budget also carves out a significant space for educational upliftment, with notable investments towards higher education for girl students and improvements in school infrastructure. The announcement of a new building for Maharani Women’s Science College in Mysuru, along with an ₹850 crore allocation for enhancing school infrastructures, marks a progressive step towards educational development.
Economic and Infrastructure Boost
The budget pays special attention to economic growth and infrastructure development. One of the key highlights includes an industrial policy set to roll out this year, backdropped by an impressive ₹88,150 crore investment attracted over the current fiscal. With an aim to expand jobs and infrastructure, the state government is signaling a robust plan for economic advancement.
Moreover, the budget outlines significant investments in Bengaluru’s infrastructure, from a flyover at the outskirts of Mysuru to the extension of the Namma Metro Rail project, thereby transforming the state’s transport landscape. This move not only aims to reduce traffic congestion and pollution but also envisions branding Bengaluru as a world-class city under the “Brand Bengaluru” initiative.
Developments in Public Welfare
In a notable push towards public welfare, the budget proposes enhancements in the fisheries sector with a ₹3,000 crore allocation, alongside plans to develop major ports in Uttara Kannada. Additionally, addressing the menace of fake news and ensuring social harmony among students through the ‘Navu Manujaru’ programme speaks volumes of the state’s commitment towards societal betterment and harmony.
The budget has not left the nightlife of Bengaluru untouched. With a proposition allowing shops and establishments in Bengaluru and 10 other cities to remain open till 1 am, the government aims to rejuvenate the city’s cultural and night economy.
Reactions to the Budget
While the budget has been heralded for its inclusive and development-oriented proposals, it has also drawn criticism and protests from opposition parties, with the BJP and its ally JD(S) calling it an “appeasement politics” and staging demonstrations against it.
In conclusion, the Karnataka Budget 2024 presents a mixed bag of promises and proposals aimed at the holistic development of the state. With ambitious projects and substantial allocations, it sets a hopeful narrative for the year ahead but also leaves room for scrutiny on the execution and impact of these announced measures.
Divya 
Mehek