credits- hindustan timesPresenting the 2025 Karnataka Budget, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah strongly defended the government’s flagship guarantee schemes, emphasizing their impact on economic empowerment and social welfare. Addressing concerns about fiscal strain, he assured that these initiatives were designed to boost economic activity and improve the standard of living for Karnataka’s citizens.
Key Highlights from CM Siddaramaiah’s Speech
- Guarantee Schemes Are Sustainable: The CM stated that welfare programs like Gruha Lakshmi (women’s financial assistance), Anna Bhagya (free food grains), and Yuva Nidhi (unemployment aid) are essential for uplifting marginalized communities.
- Fiscal Deficit Concerns: While critics argue that these schemes put pressure on state finances, Siddaramaiah assured that the government is maintaining fiscal discipline while prioritizing public welfare.
- Economic Growth & Revenue Generation: The CM highlighted Karnataka’s 7.8% GDP growth, stating that investments in infrastructure, industries, and IT sectors will balance expenditure on welfare programs.
- Taxation & Budget Allocations: The budget proposes higher revenue mobilization through better tax compliance and increased investments in healthcare, education, and rural development.
