Thiruvananthapuram : Heavily hinged on covid mitigation measures, the 2nd Pinarayi government Budget is being presented by Finance Minister KN Balagopal in the Assembly. 'The government of Kerala is committed to transforming the state on par with the post-Covid countries around the world. The present allocations are continuation of the comprehensive Budget designed by former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac. This government is committed to fulfill all promises made in the election manifesto, said the minister introducing the Budget..
Key Highlights:
♦ Rs 20,000 Cr For 2nd Covid Package; Free Vaccinations Rs 1000 cr; Budget Presentation Begins
♦ Rs 20,000 cr for 2nd Covid package of which Rs 8000 crore will be reached to people directly.
♦ Rs 8900 in form of direct welfare remittances to those who might have lost their livelihood.
♦ Rs 2500 crore to meet health care crisis.
♦ Rs 1000 crore for inoculating ages above 18
♦ Although with costs to the government exchequer, free vaccines shall be made available to all shortly.
♦ No new taxes considering the prevailing covid conditions. One-time tax settlements to continue.
♦ Rs 10 crore payment to Centre for vaccines. Projects will begin for setting up of vaccine production and research units at Science Park.
♦ Primary Cooperative Units Rs 2000 crore in loans.
♦ Modern methods shall be adopted toward protecting coasts in place of traditional ways.
♦ Rs 1600 to preserve employment.
♦ Low interest agricultural loans from Kerala Bank. Up to 5 lakhs in loan at 4 percent interest.
♦ Rs 5300 for basic coastal infrastructure. Rs 1500 to be released in the first phase.
♦ Rs 10 crore toward transforming Krishi Bhavan smart.
♦ Rs 1000 crore in loans for Kudumbasree
