THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal will present the complete budget before the 2026 assembly elections today. An increase of at least Rs. 200 is expected in welfare pension. People are worried about whether the controversial KIIFB road toll collection will be announced. However, with local body elections due later this year, this budget is likely to be people-friendly.

Announcements are also expected on Medisep reorganization, DA arrears for government employees, and the next Pay Commission. CPI among others has demanded the withdrawal of Contributory Pension Scheme. It was announced in the last budget that a Unified Pension Scheme would be introduced, but nothing of this effect has happened. Since the Centre has announced a new pension scheme, there is expected to be at least an indication in this budget in its decision to withdraw from Contributory Pension Scheme.

The state will announce its rehabilitation plan for Wayanad. An announcement regarding the Vizhinjam industrial corridor is also expected. There is little possibility of tax increase. However, there is a possibility of increase in the fair value of land. More consideration is expected in the issue of solving wildlife-human conflict. Projects that could be completed within a year can be expected.