Karnataka Budget 2024: The Karnataka Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, spells a narrative of progressive policy-making, inclusive growth, and digital transformation. As Siddaramaiah unveils his record 15th Budget, the contours of Karnataka’s financial blueprint hold substantial discourse on welfare, infrastructure development, social harmony, and environmental sustainability. This comprehensive overview sheds light on the allocations, initiatives, and policy shifts earmarked to shape the future of India’s IT capital and its broader landscape.
Emphasis on Social Welfare
First and foremost, the Budget has been lauded for its focused allocations toward various communities, demonstrating the government’s commitment to inclusive development. A significant announcement made was the allocation of ₹200 crore towards Christian community welfare, marking the highest financial support among religious groups this budget season. Simultaneously, ₹20 crore has been earmarked for providing basic facilities at temples, and ₹100 crore for the development of Wakf properties. This trio of allocations underscores an earnest attempt to foster communal harmony and equitable growth.
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Beyond the realm of religious and cultural welfare, the Budget meticulously caters to the infrastructural and educational upliftment across the state. Highlighting this commitment, an impressive sum of ₹850 crores has been dedicated towards improving school infrastructure, thereby laying the groundwork for a brighter future for Karnataka’s youth.
Boosting Infrastructure, Embracing Digitalization
In an ambitious move to bolster Karnataka’s infrastructure, the Budget outlines a grandiose investment in roads, with a notable ₹200 crore allocation for constructing roads with a canal buffer zone. This initiative not only aims to ameliorate the state’s transport network but also addresses longstanding monsoon-related woes faced by residents.
Furthermore, in an era where digitalization is the linchpin of governance, the state government announced plans to digitize property tax records of all 20 lakh properties in Bengaluru. The issuance of digital e-Khatas from the 2024-25 fiscal year heralds a significant stride towards streamlining bureaucratic processes and fostering transparency.
Urban Nightlife & Business Facilitation
Aligning with global metropolitan norms, the Budget exceptionally permits shops and establishments across Bengaluru and 10 other cities to remain open till 1 am. This progressive policy aims to invigorate the state’s economy, enhance its nightlife culture, and offer residents the flexibility of accessing services at their convenience.
Catalysing Start-ups and Environmental Initiatives
Recognising the pivotal role of innovation in driving economic growth, the Karnataka Budget introduces three new schemes dedicated to nurturing start-ups, agri-start-ups, and fostering innovation. This move is expected to galvanize entrepreneurial spirits, laying a robust foundation for future technological advancements and job creation within the state.
Additionally, the government’s green agenda is evident from its plans to set up Bio-CNG Plants across significant markets in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubli, Ballari, Kolar, and more, presenting a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources and reinforcing Karnataka’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Liquor Duty Hike and Its Ripple Effects
On the economic front, the Budget proposes a duty hike on breweries, with an anticipated consequential impact mainly on beer manufacturers and distributors. This adjustment in duty rates aims to safeguard state revenues and deter trade diversion to neighboring states, thereby ensuring a competitive edge for Karnataka’s liquor industry in the regional market.
Reflecting on the Mixed Reactions
While the Budget has been met with enthusiasm for its progressive outlook and developmental initiatives, there exists a spectrum of responses from various sectors. The Karnataka State Sugarcane Farmers Association voiced disappointment over the absence of a loan waiver, reflecting the perennial challenges faced in the agricultural sector. Conversely, the introduction of schemes such as ‘Navu Manujaru’ to inculcate social harmony among students highlights the government’s foresight in weaving the social fabric of Karnataka with threads of unity and empathy.
In conclusion, the Karnataka Budget 2024 unfolds as a multifaceted document bridging traditional welfare with modern-day governance and development paradigms. As the state embarks on this ambitious journey, the upcoming fiscal year will be a litmus test for the efficiency, effectiveness, and equity of the policies and allocations set forth by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s administration.
Divya 
Mehek