THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala has requested a financial package of Rs 24,000 crore and an additional Rs 2,000 crore in special assistance for Wayanad rehabilitation as part of its proposals for the Union Budget. Kerala Finance Minister KN Balagopal presented the state's demands during a pre-budget meeting convened by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

The state emphasized the need for a special package to address its ongoing financial challenges over the next two years. Minister Balagopal also urged the extension of the GST compensation mechanism until the GST system becomes fully stabilized. The Rs 2,000 crore assistance for Wayanad is aimed at constructing a township that includes housing, schools, and healthcare facilities for disaster-affected residents.

Need 5000 crore for Vizhinjam

• ₹5,000 crore for the further development of the Vizhinjam International Port.
• ₹1,000 crore for implementing a human-wildlife conflict resolution program.
• ₹1,000 crore as support price for rubber.
• ₹2,000 crore to clear Supplyco liabilities related to paddy procurement.
• Increase the state's borrowing limit from 3% to 3.5%