Budget presentation begins; State awaiting vital announcements

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The last full budget of the second Pinarayi government has been started. Finance Minister K N Balagopal said the state has overcome the economic crisis. The printed budget was handed over to the minister by officials at his home a while ago.

The minister had earlier told media that employment and employment conditions should improve and that there will be announcements that will bring progress to the state. He added that a major crisis has passed. This is KN Balagopal's fifth budget.

The budget is likely to be popular with local elections due later this year. An increase of at least Rs 200 in welfare pension is expected. The welfare pension is presently Rs 1600. For this, Rs 900 crore is required for a month. In 2021, the welfare pension was increased by Rs 100.

The peeople are concerned about the controversial KIIFB road toll collection announcement. The state's plan for the rehabilitation of Wayanad will be announced. The announcement of the Vizhinjam industrial corridor can also be expected. Since the government is in a severe economic crisis, there may be proposals to increase revenue. Fees and fines may be increased for this.

There is little possibility of a tax increase. However, there is a possibility of an increase in the fair value of land. More consideration may be given to solving wildlife problems. Projects that can be completed within a year can be expected.