On March 6, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the State Budget for 2026-27, highlighting a multitude of developmental initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s growth trajectory. During his speech, the Chief Minister announced the introduction of the Rohith Vemula Act, aimed at preventing caste-based discrimination against students in government, private, and deemed universities. This act is named in honor of Rohith Vemula, an activist whose experiences brought attention to social inequities.

Healthcare Initiatives and Infrastructure Development

In the healthcare sector, Siddaramaiah revealed plans for a new 450-bed multi-specialty hospital to be built in Karwar at a cost of Rs 198 crore. Additionally, a trauma care centre will be established in Raichur with an allocation of Rs 10 crore. The budget also mentioned the establishment of Peripheral Cancer Centres in Mysuru and Tumakuru, for which Rs 92 crore has been set aside.

Facilities for Hajj Pilgrims

As part of his budget announcements, the Chief Minister discussed constructing Hajj Bhavans in both Hubballi and Kalaburagi to support Hajj pilgrims. Furthermore, Waqf properties in commercially valuable areas will be developed using the Public-Private Partnership model, aiming to better utilize these assets.

Renaming of Gram Panchayats and Airport Development

In an effort to further commemorate significant national figures, all Gram Panchayats across Karnataka will be renamed to “Mahatma Gandhi Gram Panchayats.” To address congestion at Kempegowda International Airport, a feasibility study will be conducted for a second airport in Bengaluru, following consultations with the Airports Authority of India.

Funding for Domestic Airports and Flight Training

The state has announced the release of Rs 1,593 crore for the development of seven domestic airports within Karnataka. An additional Rs 200 crore has been allocated for the current fiscal year. Plans also include setting up a flight training school at Vijayapura Airport and initiating aircraft manufacturing and assembly operations at Shivamogga Airport through a PPP model.

Upgrades to Rail Infrastructure and Road Development

Amid a broader infrastructure development agenda, nine railway routes will be pursued, with costs shared equally with the Ministry of Railways. To date, Rs 2,950 crore has been spent on land acquisition, while Rs 2,682 crore has been used for construction. For the fiscal year 2026-27, the budget earmarked Rs 600 crore for these projects.

Major Investments in Bengaluru’s Infrastructure

For Bengaluru, a significant infrastructure investment was unveiled. The outer ring road from Silk Board Junction to KR Puram Metro Station will undergo development into a global-standard corridor, with an estimated cost of Rs 450 crore. Moreover, road improvement projects in five city corporations will cost Rs 1,255 crore. The government has also initiated white-topping work covering 158 km of roads, with total investment of Rs 1,700 crore aimed at enhancing road durability and traffic efficiency.

Employment Generation and Educational Initiatives

Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, approximately 182 crore person-days of employment have been generated, amounting to wage payments of Rs 61,000 crore, benefiting nearly 77 lakh households in rural areas. Additionally, the Chief Minister announced that Student Union Elections will be held in colleges and universities across the state, promoting democratic engagement among students.

Funding for Namma Metro Project

Regarding the Namma Metro initiative, Siddaramaiah indicated that total expenditures have reached Rs 67,460 crore. Of this total, the state government has contributed Rs 59,376 crore, representing 88 percent of the funding, while the central government’s contribution is Rs 8,084 crore, accounting for 12 percent.

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