Rubber support price hiked to ₹250; Light Metro for Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode cleared alongside key health and welfare schemes.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The presentation of the state budget has officially commenced, laying out a strategic roadmap for development initiatives spanning the next five years. The budget introduces extensive allocations aimed at bolstering infrastructure, reinforcing the agricultural sector, and expanding social security frameworks across the state.
In a significant relief move for farmers, the government has announced an increase in the support price for rubber from the current ₹200 to ₹250. Agriculture and its allied sectors have received a substantial push with a total allocation of ₹2,534 crore, alongside a dedicated funding of ₹258.88 crore set aside for the animal husbandry sector.
The state will allocate ₹1,422.60 crore as its regional share for the employment guarantee scheme (MGNREGS) to support rural livelihoods. Major urban infrastructure upgrades have also been prioritised, with the budget clearing the implementation of the long-awaited Light Metro systems in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. Furthermore, ₹200 crore has been earmarked specifically for airport development projects across the state.
In the health and welfare sectors, the government has introduced the Oommen Chandy Health Insurance Scheme, alongside the ‘Care Giver’ project under the elderly welfare department. A dedicated housing scheme will also be formed to support the fishing community. Additionally, ₹600 crore has been allocated for the Priyadarshini project, and a separate plan has been laid out to mitigate growing human-wildlife conflicts.
The cultural and sports sectors received notable considerations as well. A cultural memorial will be established for veteran actor Salim Kumar with an initial allocation of ₹1 crore, while a new Film City will be set up in the name of J.C. Daniel. Sports infrastructure will see a major boost with ₹50 crore earmarked for a new football stadium.
