Karnataka Budget 2024 Highlights
CM Siddaramaiah’s Speech:
- Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah began his 15th budget presentation with quotes from Dr. Rajkumar’s film Bangarada Manushya and a Vachana by Lingayat philosopher Aydakki Lakkamma.
- The budget announcement lasted over three hours, concluding with “Jai Hind, Jai Karnataka.”
Budget Allocations:
- The total budget outlay stands at ₹3.71 lakh crore.
- Significant allocations include ₹441 crore for upgrading seven sewage treatment plants, ₹5,550 crore for the Cauvery phase-5 project, and ₹15,611 crore for Namma Metro phase-3.
- Traffic management initiatives include installing a Traffic Signal Control System at 28 major junctions in Bengaluru and adding 1,334 new electric buses and 820 diesel buses to BMTC’s fleet.
- Infrastructure projects in Bengaluru include constructing all-weather roads, developing the Peripheral Ring Road, and building a 250-meter high Skydeck.
- Special attention is given to the development of Kalyana Karnataka region, with ₹5,000 crore allocated for infrastructure projects.
Social Welfare:
- ₹86,423 crore is allocated for women’s welfare and ₹54,617 crore for child welfare.
- Significant allocations are made for SC/ST communities, backward classes, minorities, and devadasis.
- Educational initiatives include the establishment of new schools, hostels, and training workshops for Anganwadi workers.
Other Highlights:
- Focus on attracting global talent in sectors like AI, semiconductors, robotics, and automobiles.
- Plans to increase class strength in government schools and provide 7th pay commission pay scale to government servants.
- Criticism of the Central Government’s handling of GST revenue and demand for compensation.
Expectations Met:
- Development projects in Varuna constituency, water resource development projects, and tourism development near Anjanadri Hills are highlighted.
- Establishment of 50 women-run cafes and the continuation of the Gruha Lakshmi scheme with a significant allocation of funds.
Conclusion:
- The Karnataka Budget 2024 emphasizes infrastructure development, social welfare, and economic growth, with a focus on Bengaluru’s traffic management and overall development. CM Siddaramaiah’s speech reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive development and addressing key issues facing the state.
