Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Presents Record 17th Budget with Welfare and Infrastructure Focus

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented his record 17th state budget for 2026-27, with an outlay of approximately Rs 4.48 lakh crore. The budget projects a revenue deficit of around Rs 23,000 crore and a fiscal deficit within the state's fiscal responsibility limits. Key focuses include funding five flagship welfare guarantee schemes, infrastructure development in Bengaluru and backward regions, and initiatives like a social media ban for under-16s and AI centers. The government highlighted challenges from GST rationalisation impacting revenue, increased expenditure commitments including filling over 56,000 vacant posts, and urged greater sensitivity from the Centre regarding fund devolution. Opposition leaders criticised rising debt and tax burdens, while the government emphasized balancing welfare with fiscal discipline and long-term growth.