PART-I

PREFACE

Sir,

1.             I began my budget speech last year by sharing the optimism that the coming year would be a year of survival and recovery for Kerala. Let me begin the budget speech for the financial year 2023-24 by conveying the cheerfulness regarding realization of that expectation.

Sir,

2.             Statistics indicate that Kerala is back to the path of growth and prosperity. We have been able to boldly face and survive the challenges faced one after the other like demonetization, unscientific implementation of GST, Ockhi disaster, floods, epidemic, economic crisis, war, inflation, etc… since 2016. In 2021-2022, Kerala’s GDP at constant prices grew by 12.01%. During Covid period in 2020-2021 the economy shrunk by 8.43%.
The growth was merely 0.9% in 2019-2020.
The uniqueness of economic growth in 2021-2022 compared to previous years is that we could achieve economic growth by including the manufacturing sector as well. For the first time in recent history, agri-allied sector and industry-allied sector have achieved growth rate of 6.7% and 17.3% respectively. Within the industrial sector, decisive growth rate (18.9%) has been achieved in the manufacturing sector. The policy of the Left Government is to augment production and thereby revenue by reviving the economy in this way. It was expected that GSDP in 2022-2023 would be ₹9.99 lakh crore. However as per the revised figures, the
GSDP has increased to ₹10.18 lakh crore. Along with the growth of GSDP, there has also been an increase in own revenue. The own revenue which was ₹54,955.99 crore in 2020-2021 increased to ₹68,803.03 crore in 2021-2022.  It is expected that this will increase upto ₹85,000 crore in the current fiscal. This is a great achievement.

3.             There is no dearth of good news regarding Kerala.
It is of utmost importance that this is well discussed, especially in the context of concerted efforts from some corners to belittle not only the achievements of Kerala Model of Development, but Kerala also.

4.             Sir, we never portray the achievements of Kerala Model of Development as the sole contribution of the left.
Every Keralite has a role in building the Kerala Model. But a group of critics try to portray Kerala as a hopeless land and thereby destroy the expectations of our young generation. Kerala cannot fail to disappoint these cynics. As per various parameters like per-capita income, per-capita consumption expenditure, human development index, sustainable development index etc…, the position of Kerala is on the frontline of States in India. The performance of Kerala in post pandemic recovery and the accolades won by the departments, institutions and the Local Self Government Institutions have been disappointing for ill-wishers.

5.             Sir, Kerala is not an isolated land. The economy of Kerala functions by syncing well with the outside world. Therefore, the development financial management of Kerala can be done only by closely monitoring the changes in the world outside. While presenting the Budget for the year 2022-2023, it could be foreseen that there would be high inflation across the world. Adequate fund was also set apart to check inflation. We were able to control inflation through comprehensive and integrated intervention. Kerala has been marked as the State with the lowest inflation rate in India. This is a great achievement for a State that depends on other States for almost all daily consumer goods. An amount of ₹2000 crore is earmarked for 2023-2024 to continue vigorous market interventions, considering that the threat of inflation has not completely abated.

6.             Sir, the threat of climate change, natural disasters and pandemics still persists globally. Economic crisis, inflation and increase in debt prevail in almost all nations. The world Bank and other agencies predict that 2023 and 2024 will be years of global recession.

Sir,

7.             There are also concerns that, the global recession will adversely affect India’s exports and economic growth.      The global recession may further regress the traditional industries and plantation crops of Kerala, which have been facing crisis for a long time. we have to protect farmers. The largest plantation sector in the country is in Kerala. Rubber farmers are facing crisis. Policy of the Union Government is the root cause
of the crisis. As part of supporting  rubber farmers, budget allocation for rubber subsidy is enhanced to ₹600 crore.

8.             Coming back to the subject, as far as Kerala is concerned, a more serious threat than the above is the change in fiscal federalism which goes against the spirit of the constitution. Centralization of power and disregard for states, especially Kerala have increased unprecedentedly.

9.             During the tenure of the Tenth Finance Commission, the share of Kerala was 3.875% of the divisible pool to be distributed among the states. By the time of the Fifteenth Finance Commission, it came down to 1.925%. Through this, the Union Government cut down the revenue of Kerala by tens of thousands of crores. There is a shortfall of around ₹6700 crore due to the reduction of the Revenue Deficit Grant by the Union Government.

10.           As a result of the cessation of GST compensation, there has been a shortfall of around ₹7000 crore during current fiscal. As a result of the policy of the Union Government treating Public Account as debt liability, there is a revenue loss of around ₹10,000 crore per annum.

11.          The policy of treating the liability of institutions like KIIFB, Social Security Pension Limited etc… which raises funds from outside the budget as the liability of the State Government is also limiting our borrowing capacity. There will also be a shortfall of ₹3100 crore on this account. Due to the restriction on the market borrowing limit, there has been a shortfall of around ₹4000 crore in the resource mobilization.

12.          Kerala is being sidelined in the allocation of Centrally Sponsored Scheme also. Can anyone with commitment to the people of Kerala justify this situation? On whose side do those who celebrate this disregard stand? It is especially noteworthy that even in this situation, no disruptions were made to the production, infrastructure and social security sectors and that the pay & allowance to Government employees had also been revised.
If ₹46,754 crore was the required amount to disburse salary and pension during 2020-21, ₹71,393 crore was the required amount for 2021-22. Through this alone the Government has assumed an additional commitment of ₹24000 crore. Besides, since the Government came to power, an amount of ₹3376.88 crore was provided to meet the expenses of KSRTC including pensionary benefits. An amount of ₹1325.77 crore has been provided in current financial year. Unprecedented huge depletion of resource on the one hand and the additional burden taken up on the other. These have to be considered together in comprehensively assessing the financial constraints.

13.          It is anticipated that, the fiscal constraints in 2023-2024 will be more than that of the current year. This is because of the anticipated shortage of ₹8400 crore in Revenue Deficit Grant compared to 2022-23, the loss of around ₹5700 crore due to the cessation of GST compensation, the resource loss of around ₹5000 crore due to the restriction on the borrowing limit as well as the reduction on account of the debt likely to be borne by KIIFB and the Social Security Pension Company during next year. As the State recovers from the economic crisis and is on the path of growth, this fiscal policy of the Union Government will adversely affect the growth.

14.          We should understand that, the State is countering a Hard Budget Constraint.  In the current scenario, the State cannot surpass the strict and rigid norms stipulated by the Centre.  The taxation powers of the State are limited.  The borrowing powers are also strictly restricted.  We have to understand the situation and move forward irrespective of party politics.

15.          Many are asking why Kerala should accept the conservative approach of the Centre towards loans. 
It is a reality that Kerala has economic and financial position to avail more loans.  Kerala is not in a debt trap; there is no change in our approach towards loans.  We are not of the opinion that loans should only be given to the bad debt corporates from the hard earned money of common folks, invested in various financial institutions. Our opinion is that the Central and the State Governments shall carryout more developmental, welfare activities by availing more loans.  But the Union Government is reluctant to relax the conservative stance.

16.          Government considers the conservative financial policy enforced by the Union Government as the biggest challenge to the alternative development model of Kerala.  But we are not ready to abandon our alternative model or its virtues in spite of the hurdles posed by the Union Government.  Kerala has not reached here without facing any crisis.  This land has the legacy of confronting the caste-feudal-land lord hegemony and colonialism.   A significant change towards the financial developmental planning approach is required to survive this new situation arisen due to the curtailing of the fiscal space.

17.          Government will adopt a three-tier policy in this regard.  One : Joint resistance will be organized against the policies that demolish the federal values of Indian Constitution and reduce the fiscal space of States.  Activities will be devised in co-ordination with other States to protect the federal values.

18.          Two: Steps will be taken to augment tax & non-tax revenue to the maximum extent.  Domestic production and the per-capita income of the State has been increasing.  However, it is not fully reflected in the State Revenue. This is because the taxation powers of the State is limited.  The power of yielding tax from the rich is vested with the Union Government. The limited authority entrusted with the State Government to collect the tax and non-tax revenue will be effectively and optimally utilized. In order to make tax administration more efficient, State GST department was reorganized comprehensively.  Kerala is the first state in the country to scientifically reorganize the Taxes department.  Efforts will be taken by the government for the maximum participation and vigil of the public in tax administration.  We will come to tax proposals later.

19.          Three: The third way to deal with the hard budget constraint is to ensure the most efficient utilization of resources.  Kerala has a well-equipped administrative system in terms of population. The position of the State is better in terms of the number of employees, office facilities, availability of vehicles and other background facilities. The challenge of carrying out further development - welfare activities will be taken up and the governance will be reconstituted to suit the knowledge society by increasing the efficiency and productivity of this extensive system. In Kerala there are many examples of increasing efficiency of administrative system by the use of Information Technology.  Reforms will be extended to make government services available online.   Synergy of knowledge making centers like Universities, Research Institutions will be ensured
for this.

20.          Even if the efficiency in the utilization of the outlay estimated as Government expenditure in the budget is increased by just 5%, the benefit will be manifold. We should strive to increase efficiency in such a context where resources are limited. 3 major announcements are being made for this:

                                I. Healthy competition among government agencies is required for increasing efficiency in administration.  An amount of ₹100 crore is earmarked for providing assistance to the projects, which effectively take up more welfare activities within the budget provision. Best proposals will be selected and assisted.

                              II. In order to compare the efficiency and productivity of government departments / organizations there will be a system in the new edition of Plan Space, which is being successfully used to evaluate plan expenditure. The objective is to ensure that the amount spent by the government gets proportionate benefit.  This will be the first initiative in India to compare the efficiency of government agencies. An amount of ₹1 crore is earmarked as additional expenditure of Plan Space.

                            III. The practice of preparing Annual Reports by government departments and institutions have almost come to a standstill.  This  will be restored. Preparation of annual report by adopting accurate methodology will be very helpful in increasing administrative efficiency. I.M.G will be entrusted to conduct training programs on deciding the model of annual report and methodology.  These 3 measures will help to ensure the transparency and accountability of government to the public.

21.          Austerity is not easy as most of the expenditure of the State Government is essential.  Salary, pension, interest and debt repayment are essential expenses. A major reduction in development - welfare activities is also not feasible. But reduction of expenditure is possible in some areas. It is quite natural that a government which is being consistently reformed will have new posts and items of expenditure. Along with this, certain posts and items of expenditure are also becoming obsolete. Special consideration will be given in the new allocations in the ensuing years for the institutions which take steps to voluntarily eliminate items of obsolete expenditure and redeploy posts.

22.          One of the most desirable ways to overcome resource constraints is to increase efficiency in utilization of the resources. This happens not only in Government, but in the economy as a whole. Increasing the knowledge base of economic activities is the solution. The policy of the Left Democratic Front Government to transform Kerala into a ‘Knowledge Based Society’ is based on the above concept. Aiming at a ‘Knowledge Based Society’, an innovative step is being taken in
2023-24 budget. Along with the current year budget, an R&D budget is also being presented.
Economic growth is achieved by incorporating traditional and modern knowledge into economic activities. R&D has an important role in ensuring application of knowledge in manufacturing sector. The R&D budget is prepared realizing this.

23.          Imbibing the characteristics of the era, the
LDF government has taken the responsibility to lead Kerala forward with more strength.  The budget has been prepared with the vision of the Left Front to further improve the standard of living of the people and create a sustainable and modern ‘Nava Kerala’ (New Kerala). This budget aims to introduce and implement such appropriate proposals and ideas.

PART II

24.          The Kerala Development experience is a model, closely observed by the world. The position of Kerala is at par with developed countries in terms of quality of life and human development indices. There has been a sustainable and comprehensive method of development in Kerala for decades. The per-capita income of Kerala is more than one and a half times the average per-capita income of the country.

25.          One of the most important problems faced by Kerala society is the ongoing change in the population structure. According to the figures of 2021, 16.50% of the population are above 60 years of age. It is estimated that this will exceed 20% by 2031. At the same time, the birth rate in the state has been decreasing. Even though, an average of 6.5 lakh and 5.3 lakh children were born in 1980s and 1990s respectively, it is only
4.6 lakh in 2021. Demographers estimate that the birth rate will drop to 3.6 lakh by 2031. That is, a structural change will happen in the ratio among new generation, senior citizens and the work force. Potential support ratio may decrease from 4.5 to 3.4 and then to 2.3. Kerala may become the State with the highest
dependency-population ratio. Steps will be taken to scientifically study this unique situation and enable policy formulation foreseeing the future.

26.          Kerala faces second generation developmental issues which include this change in demographic structure and rehabilitation of returning NRKs. The public resources of the country are still allocated among the states on the basis of first-generation development indices. Due to this, Kerala is being denied the due central share. There is a situation in which the human development we have achieved becomes our disqualification. Kerala has demanded the Union Government to give consideration in centrally sponsored schemes, realizing the unique issues faced by the State.

27.          There is a widespread trend of youth going abroad for employment and education and settling there. As a result, there is decrease in the number of youth capable for employment in the State.

28.          Government spends huge capital for each student at school-college -university levels. The schools in Kerala have the best student-teacher ratio. The Government spends around ₹50,000 per annum for each school student. The expenditure in Higher Education sector is multifold. An environment should be created so that the maximum number of youth, made capable through huge investments by Government will be retained in our State; and employment opportunities generated for them. Besides, those who are engaged in modern jobs can be attracted to the State from outside.

29.          Unlike many foreign countries with extreme winter and summer, Kerala has a balanced climate throughout the year. Malayalees will choose to remain here itself, if better job opportunities and facilities for living are provided. Measures need to be accelerated to retain the young generation in Kerala and to provide them suitable modern employment opportunities and to set up infrastructure facilities. ‘Navakerala’ (‘New Kerala’) targets these priorities.

30.          The previous budget included several projects to link knowledge with production and thereby augment the revenue of the State. We were able to initiate several vital projects incorporating the latest changes in the field of science and technology.

Sir,

31.          The activities of India Innovation Centre for Graphene set up to conduct research experiments on Graphene are progressing. The centre will become operational by September 2023. The institution functions under the joint auspices of Government of Kerala and Union Government with Kerala Digital University and SI-MET as the implementing agencies and Tata Steel Ltd as the industrial partner. Kerala Digital University has signed an MoU with institutions like Manchester University, Oxford University, Siegen University Germany etc… for research and development activities related to Graphene ecosystem. Administrative sanction has been accorded for the project with an estimated expenditure of ₹86.41 crore. An amount of ₹10 crore including the plan allocation of ₹6 crore is earmarked for the activities of the Centre for this year.

32.          It was declared in the previous budget that three Science Parks and one Digital Science Park would be established with an expenditure of ₹1000 crore. Kerala Digital University was designated as the implementing   agency of activities related to this. ₹13.65 acres of
land has been identified for Digital Science Park
at Technopark Phase-IV, Thiruvananthapuram.
10,000 sq.ft space has been identified at Technopark campus for the functioning of Digital Science Park till the completion of building construction. The Digital Science Park will be functional by May, 2023. Digital University has signed MoU with University of Edinburgh for establishing Digital Science Park.

33.          The procedures for launching projects like industrial parks, agri parks, work near home etc… are in progress. Industrial parks utilizing private capital will start functioning soon. More projects are underway in IT field. Activities are also underway to locate new parks. The construction of IT park at Kannur can be commenced this year itself.

34.          An announcement was made in the previous budget to setup a Centre of Excellence in the field of nutraceuticals in Kerala. ₹25 lakh was provided to prepare project report for this. The project report is ready. An amount of ₹5 crore is set apart for the first phase of the project to establish Core Centre of Excellence and Nutra-Enterprises Division at Bio 360 Life Sciences Park, Thiruvananthapuram with the support and participation of Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology.

35.          The project report of Centre of Excellence in Microbiome announced in the previous budget has been completed. The centre will be established at Life Sciences Park, Thonnackal, Thiruvananthapuram, under the aegis of Kerala State Council for Science Technology & Environment with the support and participation of Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology. An amount of ₹10 crore is provided for this.

36.          Government is taking creative steps for the betterment of industrial-agricultural sectors and GSDP. It is intended to move forward in this direction through new projects.

 

Make in Kerala

37.          A massive project, ‘Make in Kerala’ will be developed with all facilities to increase domestic production, employment/entrepreneur/ investment opportunities in Kerala. A detailed study regarding Make in Kerala was conducted by Centre for Development Studies. According to the report, Kerala imported products worth around ₹1,28,000 crore in 2021-2022. Out of this 92% was from other states. During this period, the state’s exports were around ₹74,000 crore. Out of this 70%
was to other states. From this, it has to be understood that the trade deficit of Kerala is very high. In this context, the aim of the study is to find out the imported products which can be produced locally.  Analyzing productivity, expenditure towards wages and profit, measures are being taken to identify products that are possible to be produced in Kerala and to support them. Participation of entrepreneur groups and science & technology research institutions is ensured in the formulation of the project. As part of this, Industries Department and other departments will formulate an extensive practical project.  Support will be provided through ‘Make in Kerala’ to Agritech startups in Kerala which produce agriculture value added products. Assistance will be provided, including interest subvention for identifying capital for enterprises.

Sir,

38.          There are many factors which give the State great confidence to move forward with ‘Make in Kerala’ project. Out of this, the most important is, the new awakening in the manufacturing sector. Those who are doubtful about the industrial environment in Kerala should read ‘Below the Radar’, a book recently published by Sri.C.Balagopal, former IAS officer and the founder of Terumo Penpol, a globally renowned company manufacturing blood bags. The purpose behind writing this book is to prove the argument that “Kerala is not a state suitable for industrial investment” is wrong. He narrates the experience of 50 companies started in Kerala in the last twenty years which achieved great success. The national and international recognition achieved by Startup Mission should be seen along with this testimony from the industrial community. Equally exciting is the success of ‘Year of Entrepreneurship’ organized under aegis of Department of Industries.

39.          Government gets confidence to take up such a massive initiative like ‘Make in Kerala’ from the enthusiastic response of the young-entrepreneur community towards the activities of Startup Mission and ‘Year of Entrepreneurship’ scheme undertaken by the Department of Industries. An amount of ₹1000 crore is additionally provided for ‘Make in Kerala’ during the plan period. An amount of ₹100 crore is earmarked for ‘Make in Kerala’ this year.

Mission 1000

40.          ‘The Year of Entrepreneurship’ scheme has been well executed in 2022-23. In the past one year more than one lakh new enterprises have been launched in the State. A scale-up package to achieve a turnover of ₹1 lakh crore in four years is announced for thousand enterprises selected from the existing enterprises in the State.

Vizhinjam International Port

41.          The Vizhinjam International Port is the most important chapter in the developmental horizon of Kerala. By utilizing the possibilities of Vizhinjam, the Government prepares for massive development projects modelled on major international ports. Vizhinjam can become one of the largest transhipment container ports in the world. Vizhinjam is located on a busy sea route where 70% of cargo transportation takes place. Vizhinjam port is the most important gateway for the transhipment of cargo for our country and neighbouring countries. The most important cities and industrial centres in the world have  developed adjacent to such ports. Examples of
port-cities including Dubai, Singapore and Shanghai are before us. It has been decided to construct a Ring Road consisting the 63 km long reach from Vizhinjam to Navayikkulam via Thekkada in NH 66 and 12 km from Thekkada to Mangalapuram, as a part of developing the surrounding areas of Vizhinjam  Harbour into an extensive centre of industry & commerce. This will become the most important industrial corridor of the State. A Township chain of Industrial Institutions, Commercial Centres and extensive accommodation facilities will emerge. An amount of ₹1000 crore is earmarked through KIIFB for the Land acquisition activities of this industrial corridor with an estimate of ₹ 5000 crore.

42.          The Government will take initiatives to develop industrial parks, logistics centres and residential areas with the involvement of the people living on either sides of the Industrial Corridor. Development plans comprising of Government, private entrepreneurs and property owners will be drawn up. It is expected to implement development plans worth ₹60,000 crore in the first phase by making use of land pooling system and PPP development methods.

West Coast Canal

43.          The length of the west coast canal (WCC) which extends from Bekal in the north to Kovalam in the south of the State is 616 km. A project will be formulated aiming to transform the West Coast Canal (WCC) into an economic-trade corridor of Kerala. Through this, development opportunities will be created in the sectors like industry, renewable energy, transport, tourism, trade and agriculture. Land for various developmental activities along the waterways will be made available to the investors on the basis of State’s PPP policy.  A total amount of ₹300 crore is earmarked for undertaking this project using the pooled fund under KIIFB.

New Energy Parks/New Energy Policy

44.          A new ‘Energy Park’ will be setup to utilize the possibilities of power generation from renewable sources like sunlight and wind. An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for an industrial park manufacturing EV battery and allied equipment.

Green Hydrogen Hub

45.          Kerala aims to become a 100% renewable energy dependent State by 2040 and a net carbon neutrality State by 2050. The State has a favorable atmosphere for the production of Green Hydrogen which is also called as “Clean Energy”. Green Hydrogen produced using renewable energy can play an important role in eco-friendly development. Using Hydrogen fuel in long haul vehicles and ships will reduce the carbon emission to a great extent. A scheme of ₹200 crore is announced for V.G.F/Grant/Equity support to set up Green Hydrogen hubs in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram over the next 2 years. An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked additionally for this.

 

Electric Vehicle Consortium (E.V Consortium)

46.          A consortium including TTPL, VSSC, C-DAC and TrEST has been formed in Kerala for the electric vehicle related activities. The EV drive train testing lab setup under the aegis of TrEST park will be operational by July 2023. An EV industrial park will be developed with the support of KIIFB. An amount of ₹ 25 crore is earmarked additionally for the EV consortium project.

International Research Scholarships

47.          Universities have played an important role in the development of many industrial sectors in the world including Silicon Valley. In this way, the universities in Kerala should have association with international universities having translational research and industrial linkages. Teacher-student exchange programmes between universities in Kerala and international universities should be encouraged for this. A short-term fellowship will be launched to support the travel and living expenses of 100 researchers who obtain short term research assignments in the world’s top 200 universities annually.  The selection criteria will be determined by the expert committee under the Kerala State Higher Education Council.  An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for this.

National Highway Development

48.          There has been a huge boom in the infrastructure development sector in Kerala. Construction activities for a length of 1931 km worth around ₹1,33,000 crore including National Highway 66 and other National Highways are progressing at various stages.  Financial Co-operation rendered by the Government in land acquisition is the basic reason for the smooth and expedite operation of these activities. So far, the Government has provided ₹5,580 crore towards the land acquisition for national highways. The current works are expected to be completed within the next 3 years. This sector has the largest capital investment in the State.

Trade fairs

49.          A trade fair of national and international standards will be organized in the state on the model of the international trade fair organized every year at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. This will become a platform for businessmen and entrepreneurs of Kerala to showcase their products internationally. A permanent venue will be set up for this at Thiruvananthapuram. Initially an amount of ₹15 crore is additionally earmarked for the scheme.

Work Near Home

50.           ‘Work near home’ is a system of employment that has been successfully implemented around the world in connection with Covid. This system continues to be a new work culture even after Covid. An amount of ₹50 crore was allocated in the last year’s budget for setting up ‘work near home systems’ at regional level. In this regard, an outline has been drawn up at regional level for infrastructure development. The government plans to provide 3 types of facilities for this.

                i.  Centres for industries willing to provide remote works to I.T related employees.

               ii.  Centres for those engaged in gig jobs or remote works

             iii. Common Facility Centres.

For the operations of such centres there will be a partnership model formed by the State government, private sector and Local Self Government Institutions.  KIIFB fund will be provided to LSGIs as interest-free loan.  Fund will be fully disbursed after ensuring employment.  The loan amount should be repaid by the LSGIs in ten years after the moratorium period of one year from the completion of construction.  A total expenditure to the tune of ₹1000 crore is expected for creating one lakh work seats through work near home facilities in the next three years.  An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked in the current year for this. 

51.          A project, similar to work from home can be implemented in tourism sector also. Many people seek facilities to perform their official duties online while visiting tourist destinations. The Work from Holiday Home scheme set up in tourist destinations will be an asset to the tourism sector. For this, an amount of ₹10 crore is set apart.

 

Nursing Education

52.          The medical nursing professionals from Kerala have made their mark in the health care sector all over the world.  The requirement of qualified nurses is increasing.  It is intended to start nursing colleges in association with Medical Colleges at Idukki and Wayanad, Taluk hospitals and General Hospitals in the State.   In the first phase, these institutions will be started under the aegis of co-operative institutions like CEPAS and SIEMAT. An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked for this.

Europe Visit of Hon’ble Chief Minister and its Follow-up Activities

53.          Visit of Hon’ble Chief Minister to countries like Finland, Norway, UK and Wales have increased the interest of international agencies and investors in the State.  Hon’ble Chief Minister had discussions with the experts in these countries from the sectors of Education, Industry, Social Welfare Schemes, Entrepreneurship, Disaster Management, Fisheries and Tourism.  During the discussions, it was decided to start academic exchanges, co-operative research & courses in association with various technical institutions of these countries and to adopt the best practices in those sectors suitable for our State.  An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked additionally for this purpose to constitute a corpus fund under Planning & Implementation Monitoring Department.

Sir,

54.          The government have conducted multiple discussions with travel agencies, expatriate associations, domestic and foreign airline operators to regulate the high air travel expenses which the Non-Residential Keralites, especially in the Gulf sector are forced to pay while travelling to and from Kerala.  Norka Roots has devised plans to implement a dedicated portal for demand aggregation of air passengers.  Low rate quotations (INR/Seat) for chartering flights will be obtained form airline operators through a transparent process. 
A corpus fund of ₹15 crore will be created initially to rationalize the cost of chartered flights and thereby keep ticket prices within the affordable range.  This corpus fund can also be used as an underwriting fund in case any particular airport decides to be a partner in this initiative.

Kerala Tourism 2.0

55.          Focus will be given to devote destinations like Kovalam, Alappuzha, Kuttanadu, Kumarakom, Kollam Ashtamudi, Beypore; Bekal and Munnar for experiential tourism and to develop these destinations to world class tourism centres. A special feature of this new tourism strategy is the identification of 7 tourism corridors. Coastal network corridor, coastal highway corridor, waterway, canal corridor, National Highway corridor, heli tourism corridor, hill highway corridor and railway corridor are the tourism corridors. These will be developed hand-in-hand with infrastructure development projects in the State. An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked for the development of tourism corridors.

No-frills Airstrip Chains

56.          In continuation of the last year budget declaration to establish Airstrip chain, the procedure to setup a chain of No-frills Airstrips aimed at promoting tourism,
inter-district air journey and assisting disaster response management is in the preliminary stage. In the first phase, activities have been commenced to prepare DPR and to conduct feasibility studies in Idukki, Wayanad and Kasaragod. A special purpose company will be set up in PPP mode to establish Airstrips throughout the State. An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked in the budget towards equity support of the State.

Extreme Poverty Alleviation

57.          While having extensive discussions on mega development projects and knowledge economy, the Government is hand-holding the needy and the poor with great priority. A major share of the State’s expenditure is being spent on welfare activities and various social welfare schemes.  Along with this, we are taking urgent steps to eliminate extreme poverty in the State.

58.          The State Government has initiated the extreme poverty identification process in order to eradicate extreme poverty in the State within five years. As the first step, 64006 extremely poor families have been identified on the basis of four factors namely food, health, income and shelter; and guidelines have been issued for the scheme. With the help of Kudumbashree mission and under the supervision of Local Self Government Institutions, household micro level plans are being prepared to emancipate the above families and individuals from extreme poverty within the next five years. An amount of 50 crore is set apart as gap fund for Local Self Government Institutions not having sufficient funds in relation to the number of beneficiaries. 

Nava Kerala Nagara Nayam

Sir,

59.          Kerala is a state with a very high rate of urbanization.  According to census 2011, the urban population was 48.50% and studies indicate that this will become 70% by 2021. In this context, the direction of urbanization needs to be determined considering the unique socio-economic conditions of Kerala. The Government decides to formulate a comprehensive urban policy for ‘NAVA KERALA’ based on the latest studies on urbanization.  For this purpose, a commission will be constituted including international experts and institutions.

60.          An international consultant will be selected to assist the preparation of Master Plan for the cities of Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikkode.
A scheme will be formulated to upgrade the standards of all six corporations in Kerala.   Conservation of heritage areas and surroundings, improvement of pedestrian infrastructure, equipping public places and recreational areas, improvement of hygiene, etc… are the components of this project. The estimated primary cost for the urban development related ‘Urban Rejuvenation and Beautification Scheme’ is ₹300 crore. For this, an amount of ₹100 crore is provided this year through KIIFB.

State Chamber at District Collectorates.

61.           Collectorates are the headquarters of the district administration. It is imperative to modernize and increase the facilities of collectorates based on the increased requirements of the administrative system. An additional area of 10,000 sq.ft will be created in each district collectorate for this. A State Chamber will be established at the Collectorates for conducting review meetings at minister- level and to interact with the public. The new place will be designed as Smart Office Spaces with modern audio, video and IT facilities. An amount of ₹70 crore is earmarked for this.

Nerkazhcha - A Comprehensive Plan for Eye Health

62.          A scheme named ‘Nerkazhcha’ is announced aiming  eye health for all, through which all families of the State will undergo eye examination. This is a massive popular campaign involving health workers, ASHA workers and Kudumbasree volunteers. Spectacles will be given free of cost to those diagnosed with vision disabilities, prioritized on the basis of economic backwardness. Targeted to be completed in four years, the ‘Nerkazhcha’ project will provide free medical advice and medicines to all visually impaired persons. An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked for the scheme.

Corporate Social Responsibility Fund (CSR Fund)

63.          Studies have revealed that Kerala is not in a better position in mobilizing Corporate Social Responsibility funds and utilizing it for developmental and welfare activities. Departments and institutions working in sectors where CSR funds can be made available need to make special efforts for the same. State Planning Board will take initiatives to study the possibilities and utilization of CSR fund; and to impart training to officials concerned.

Man – Wild Animal Conflict

Sir,

64.          Reports of wild animals crossing forest boundaries and even reaching urban areas located kilometers away are increasing in Kerala. The threat raised by wild animals including wild boar, elephant, porcupine, leopard and tiger is serious. Along with the protecting forest and wild life, human lives and livelihoods need to be protected. Reasons behind the straying of wild animals into inhabited areas must be discovered. For this, Government will immediately seek the scientific advises and solutions. An amount of ₹50.85 crore is earmarked for various activities in areas where human-wild animal conflicts exist.  This includes the project amount of ₹30.85 crore for increasing compensation for wild animal attacks and for the temporary formation and strengthening of Rapid Response Team.

 

Livelihood for Tribal Settlements Scheme

65.           A scheme will be devised to help every Scheduled Tribe family in the State to implement a livelihood initiative. People’s committee comprising representatives of various agencies will help families in preparing livelihood projects. Amount will be disbursed in installments based on the progress of the project. In the first year, assistance will be given to selected families living in tribal settlements (Oorukoottams). An amount of ₹10 crore is additionally earmarked for this scheme.  

PART III

Agriculture

66.          The Government gives unique consideration to Agriculture Sector.  The total outlay earmarked for Agricultural Sector is ₹971.71 crore. Out of this, ₹156.30 crore is expected as central assistance.

 

 

Crop Husbandry Sector

67.          An amount of ₹732.46 crore is earmarked for the Crop Husbandry Sector in the year 2023-24.

Sir,

68.          The total outlay for rice development is enhanced from the current year’s provision of ₹ 76 crore to ₹ 95.10 crore.

69.          Safe to eat food production will be promoted through organic farming along with modern technology-based farming practices. An amount of ₹6 crore is earmarked for this.

70.          An amount of ₹ 93.45 crore is earmarked for comprehensive vegetable cultivation development programme.

71.          An amount of ₹68.95 crore is earmarked for Coconut Development Schemes.  An amount of ₹25 crore is set apart for procurement of coconut seed nut, production and distribution of coconut seedling through farms under Agriculture Department as part of coconut mission.

72.          The Support Price of Coconut is enhanced from ₹32 to ₹34.

73.          An amount of ₹4.60 crore is earmarked for activities related to development of spice cultivation.

74.          The allocation for VFPCK is enhanced from ₹ 25 crore to ₹ 30 crore.

75.          Fruit cultivation will be expanded emphasizing on increasing production and productivity of indigenous and exotic fruits. An amount of
₹18.92 crore is allocated for this.

76.          An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked under Agriculture Department for adopting measures to prevent wild animal encroachment to populated areas.

77.          An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for Smart Krishi Bhavans and ₹2.10 crore is allocated for ‘Krishi Darsan’ programmes.

78.          An amount of ₹6 crore is allocated for the scheme ‘Njangalum Krishiyilekku’ (We too into agriculture).

79.          An amount of ₹19.81 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Support to Farm Mechanisation’.

80.          An amount of ₹8 crore is allocated for improving the activities of Karshika Karma Senas. An amount of
₹30 crore is earmarked for State Crop Insurance Scheme.

81.          An amount of ₹17 crore is earmarked for the development of agriculture sector and ₹12 crore for the development of infrastructure and technical facilities in Kuttanadu region.

82.          An amount of ₹74.50 crore is earmarked for marketing, storage and warehousing of agricultural produces.

83.          An amount of ₹3.75 crore is provided for the procurement of machinery for small-medium processing enterprises through FPOs.

 

 

Soil & Water conservation

84.          An amount of ₹89.75 crore is earmarked for project activities in Soil & Water Conservation sector.

85.          An amount of ₹3 crore is set apart for micro water shed projects in 9 Local Self Government Institutions in Taliparamba Legislative Assembly Constituency. An amount of ₹2 crore each is earmarked for watershed development at Thrithala constituency in Palakkad District and Kuttiyadi constituency in Kozhikode District.

Animal husbandry and Dairy development

86.          The total outlay for Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development sub-sectors is ₹435.40 crore. An amount of ₹320.64 crore is set apart for Animal Husbandry Department and ₹114.76 crore for Dairy Development Department. An amount of ₹9.91 crore is expected as central assistance.

87.          An amount of ₹41 crore is set apart for strengthening veterinary services.

 

Sir,

88.          The assistance to Kerala Livestock Development Board is enhanced from ₹23.47 crore to ₹29.68 crore.

89.          A new dairy park is intended to be setup under Kerala Livestock Development Board at a cost of ₹20 crore. As the first step, an amount of ₹2 crore is allocated.

90.          The plan share of Kerala Feeds Limited is enhanced two fold and there by an amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked.

91.          An amount of ₹20 crore is set apart for the scheme providing door step veterinary services.

92.          An amount of ₹13.50 crore is set apart as assistance to Meat Products of India Limited.

93.          An amount of ₹ 4 crore is allocated for setting up pet-food factories in Kollam, Kasaragod districts.

 

Dairy Development

94.          Including RIDF loan, an amount of ₹114.76 crore is earmarked for the Dairy Development sector.

95.          An amount of ₹2.40 crore is set apart for extending the scheme ‘Ksheera Gramam’.  An amount of ₹42.33 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Commercial Dairy and Milk Shed Development Programme’.

96.          An amount of ₹8.50 crore is allocated for providing assistance for fodder, azolla and maize cultivation; irrigation and various activities of silage making units & fodder hubs.

97.          An amount of ₹11 crore is earmarked for the new scheme ‘Establishing State Fodder Farm and Model Dairy Unit’.

Fisheries

98.          The total outlay for Fisheries sector is ₹321.31 crore.

99.          An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for the activities under the scheme ‘Conservation and Management of Fish Resources (Inland)’.

100.      An amount of ₹61.10 crore is earmarked for  ‘Marine Fisheries’ schemes.

101.      An amount of ₹3.50 crore is allocated for various activities of ‘Samudra’ project, for developing infrastructure facilities in fisheries sector.

102.      An amount of ₹5 crore including the plan allocation of ₹50 lakh is provided for the ‘Suchitwa Sagaram’ scheme which aims to remove plastic waste from sea with the help of fishermen.

103.      A new scheme with an outlay of ₹10 crore is announced to modernize fishing fleets. It is intended to provide subsidy at the rate of 60% upto a maximum amount of ₹10 lakh.

104.      An amount of ₹8 crore is allocated for the first phase of the new project for converting fishing boat engines to petrol / diesel engines in a phased manner.

 

 

Mariculture Development

Sir,

105.      The Government intends to bring marine cage farming with the support of Artificial Intelligence based Technology from Norway. It is envisaged to set up model cages which are submerged in water for aqua farming with the active participation of fishermen in the suitable areas. Research & Development support from Cochin University of Science & Technology (CUSAT), University of Fisheries and other Central and State Government institutions in the fisheries sector will also be utilized for this purpose. Modern cages will be fitted with Lice Skirt protection and advanced sensor technology. For this an amount of ₹9 crore is earmarked, additionally.

Seafood Processing Park & Aqua Culture Value Addition

106.      Industrial standards and guidelines are to be followed in storage and processing of fish products.  For this modern facilities are required. Norway is a good model for technology assisted value addition of fish products. Effective cold chains, modern equipment and skilled man power can bring about major changes in market. Government will explore the possibility of revamping the food park under KSIDC for this. An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked in the budget for the project.

107.      An amount of ₹27 crore is allocated for ‘Saving-cum-Relief Scheme’ which aims to provide relief to fishermen during lean seasons.

108.      An amount of ₹82.11 crore is earmarked for Inland Fisheries sector.

109.      It is aimed to double the current aquaculture production to 50,000 tonnes. An amount of ₹67.50 crore is allocated for this.

110.      An amount of ₹5.88 crore is earmarked for promoting Vannamei Shrimp farming.

111.      An amount of ₹5 crore is set apart for innovative aquaculture activities and expansion of Shrimp farming in Kaipadu, Kole and Pokkali fields.

112.      An amount of ₹20 crore is allocated for the expansion of fish seed factories and hatcheries. This allocation is ₹5 crore more than that of the previous year.

Fisheries Innovation Council

113.      The Government have decided to constitute a Fisheries Innovation Council to implement the ideas formulated after the European visit of Hon’ble Chief Minister and his team. This council will function as a key facilitation centre consisting of Fisheries Department, Industries Department, K-Disc, Knowledge Mission, Kerala Startup Mission, R & D Institutes; scientists, experts and exporters in Fisheries sector. An amount of ₹1 crore is earmarked for the formation & other activities of the Council.

114.      An amount of ₹3 crore is earmarked to complete Fish Meal Plant at Arattupuzha and an amount of ₹5 crore to the Yarn Twisting and Net Factory at Neendakara, as one time assistance to Fisheries Department.

115.      The new campus of Fisheries University will soon start functioning at Payyannur.  An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked towards immediate requirements for the development of this campus.

116.      An amount of ₹50 lakh is earmarked for Muthalappozhi Master Plan. Including this, an amount of ₹12.90 crore is earmarked for 5 schemes related to Fishing Harbours and management.

117.      An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked with NABARD-RIDF loan assistance for various activities including expansion and renovation of Neendakara Fishing Harbour, modernization of Azheekal Fishing Harbour at Kannur District and Alappad-Azheekal (Kayamkulam) Fishing Harbour at Kollam.

Costal Area Development

118.      An amount of ₹115.02 crore is allocated towards various schemes for Costal Area Development.

119.      An amount of ₹71 crore is allocated for infrastructure facilities and human resources development for fishermen; ₹20 crore as NABARD-RIDF loan assistance for Integral Coastal Area Development Project; ₹9.52 crore for maintenance of fishing harbours & dredging and ₹10 crore for group insurance scheme for fishermen.

Sir,

120.      In addition to the budget provision in 2022-23, an amount of ₹67.75 crore was allocated for ‘Punargeham’ scheme. The allocation for ‘Punargeham’ scheme is enhanced from ₹16 crore to ₹20 crore in 2023-24.

121.      An amount of ₹15 crore is earmarked for the new project announced for coastal protection works.

Forestry and Wild Life Conservation

122.      An amount of ₹241.66 crore including NABARD share is earmarked for various schemes under Forestry and Wildlife sector. 

123.      The allocation of the projects for implementing scientific forest management ensuring availability of water in the forest and for sustainable forest conservation with people’s participation is enhanced from ₹35 crore to ₹50 crore.

124.      An amount of ₹26 crore is allocated for ‘Forest Protection Scheme’.

125.      An amount of ₹28 crore is earmarked for the scheme with the objective to prevent encroachments and to identify the forest boundary with the application of modern technology and state of the art equipment.

Conservation of Bio-diversity

126.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Conservation of Bio-diversity’.  Agro Diversity Centre at Pinarayi and Agro Biodiversity activities at Vellayani Agriculture College will be implemented next year.

127.      An amount of ₹7 crore is earmarked for Eco-Tourism projects.

128.      An amount of ₹1 crore is earmarked for the world class Elephant Rehabilitation Centre at Kottur in Thiruvananthapuram.

129.      An amount of ₹5.20 crore is earmarked as the state share for the scheme ‘Project Elephant’.

130.      An amount of ₹4.76 crore is allocated as the state share of the project ‘Management of 16 Wildlife Sanctuaries in the State’.

131.      An amount of ₹6.70 crore is earmarked as state share of the scheme ‘Project Tiger’ for the conservation and management of Tiger Reserves at Periyar and Parambikkulam.

132.      An amount of ₹4 crore is earmarked as state share of ‘National Afforestation Programme’.

133.      An amount of ₹51.57 crore is earmarked for the project with NABARD-RIDF loan assistance to improve the ecosystem services by taking up eco restoration works and converting areas to natural forests. 

134.      A zoological park with international standards will be made functional this year at Puthur in Thrissur district.  An amount of ₹6 crore is earmarked for this.

Rural Development

135.      The total provision for Rural Development Sector is ₹6294.30 crore. An amount of ₹4515.29 crore is expected as central assistance.

136.      In 2023-24, it is intended to create 10 crore labour days and provide ₹3110 crore as wages through Mahatma Gandhi Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. An amount of ₹230.10 crore is provided for the scheme as state share and ₹4066.69 crore is expected as central share.  

137.      An amount of ₹80 crore is earmarked as state share of the scheme ‘Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana’ (PMGSY). An amount of ₹120 crore is expected as central share.

138.      65 lakh labour days will be created under Ayyankali Employment Guarantee Scheme.  An amount of ₹150 crore is set apart for this.

139.      An amount of ₹111.86 crore is earmarked as state share of Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (General) and Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana–Gramin (General) implemented through Local Governments.

Local Administration

140.      The plan outlay (development fund) for local government institutions is enhanced to 27.19% of the state’s total plan outlay.  An amount of ₹8258 crore is earmarked as plan share.  ₹3647 crore in Maintenance Fund and ₹2244 crore in General Purpose Fund are also earmarked. This includes the allotment of ₹210 crore to the external aided projects of ‘Kerala Solid Waste Management Project’, which is being implemented in Municipalities and Corporations.

141.      An amount of ₹260 crore is earmarked to Kudumbasree for taking up and implementing various activities.

142.      An amount of ₹24.40 crore is earmarked as state share to Swatch Bharath Mission (Gramin).
An amount of ₹36.60 crore is expected as central share.

143.      An amount of ₹25 crore is earmarked for various activities of Suchitwa Mission.

144.      As part of Life Mission, 71,861 houses and 30 housing complexes will be constructed during
2023-24.  An amount of ₹1436.26 crore is earmarked for this.  A total of 3,22,922 houses have been completed through Life Mission till now. This includes an amount of ₹525 crore for implementing the scheme in rural areas.

145.      An amount of ₹97.50 crore is expected as central share of Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission.  An amount of ₹65 crore is set apart as state share.

Special Development Packages

146.      An amount of ₹75 crore is earmarked for Idukki Development Package.

147.      An amount of ₹75 crore is earmarked for Wayanad Development Package.

148.      An amount of ₹75 crore is earmarked for Kasaragod package.

149.      The activities of second Kuttanadu package are progressing well.  For effective implementation of the activities, Kuttanadu Development Co-ordination Council has been formed under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Chief Minister.

Sir,

150.      As part of Second Kuttanadu Package, the allocation for cleaning of streams and other waterways; strengthening and conserving of bunds in various parts of Kuttanadu, including the Vembanad Lake, is enhanced from ₹87 crore to ₹137 crore.

Sabarimala Master Plan

151.      An amount of ₹30 crore is earmarked for various components of Sabarimala Master Plan.

152.      An amount of ₹10 crore is set apart for the improvement of drinking water facility in Sabarimala; ₹2 crore for construction of rescue bridge from Pamba Ganapathy Temple to Hill Top; ₹2.50 crore for the development of Nilakkal core area and ₹2 crore for facilitating medicated drinking water distribution system from Pamba to Sannidhanam.  An amount of ₹10 crore is additionally allotted for the implementation of Erumely Master Plan.

Co-operation

153.      An amount of ₹140.50 crore is earmarked to
Co-operative Sector.

154.      For empowering the comprehensive intervention of co-operative societies in agricultural sector, the allocation to the scheme ‘Co-Operative Initiative in Technology Driven Agriculture (CITA)’ is enhanced from the provision of ₹23 crore to ₹34.50 crore.

155.      An amount of ₹15.75 crore is set apart for various project activities of Primary Agricultural Credit
Co-operative Societies.

156.      An amount of ₹4 crore is announced as assistance for Education-Research-Training programmes for strengthening of co-operative sectors.

157.      An amount of ₹5.50 crore is earmarked for the modernization of Co-operation Department.

158.      Allotment for various activities such as financial assistance to co-operative hospitals, assistance to apex federation of hospital societies, assistance to youth co-operatives, revitalization of literary co-operatives etc.
is enhanced from ₹8.50 crore to ₹18.40 crore.

159.      An amount of ₹8 crore is earmarked to SC/ST
co-operative societies to commence Government approved courses and also as financial assistance to SC/ST co-operative societies undertaking production units.

160.      An amount of ₹3.60 crore is earmarked for ‘Punarjani Project’, a scheme for revitalization of SC/ST Co-operative Societies.

161.      An amount of ₹2.50 crore is set apart for providing assistance to Vanitha Fed and Vanitha Co-operative Societies.

162.      An amount of ₹4.20 crore is allocated as Government financial assistance to ‘Co-operative Member Relief Fund’.

163.      An amount of ₹15 crore is earmarked as
NABARD-RIDF assistance for various infrastructure developmental activities such as marketing,
agro- processing and health co-operatives.

Sir,

164.      Co-operative audit system in Kerala needs to be restructured and revamped. A special plan will be formulated for this. An additional allotment of
₹5 crore is announced for the purpose.

165.      ‘Kerala Sahakarana Samrakshana Nidhi’ will come into force in 2023-24 for the comprehensive development of Kerala co-operative sector.  This fund is intended to be formed by pooling a certain percentage of reserves of co-operative societies and contribution from the state government. 

166.      An amount of ₹28.10 crore is earmarked for the scheme to provide financial assistance to primary credit societies, primary co-operative societies and wholesale trading stores/federations.  An additional allotment of ₹10 crore is set apart for formulating 100 FPOs through Kerala Bank.

Irrigation and Flood Control

167.      An amount of ₹525.45 crore is allocated for irrigation and flood control activities.  Out of this, ₹184 crore is for major-medium irrigation projects; ₹169.18 crore for minor irrigation projects and ₹159.67 crore for flood control and Coastal Zone Management.

168.      An amount of ₹10 crore is set apart for ‘Idamalayar Irrigation Project’.

169.      A comprehensive river basin development project by including medium and mini irrigation projects will be implemented for the utilization of water resource in Cauvery river basin.

170.      All major incomplete irrigation projects in the State will be commissioned before 2026 itself. Karappuzha, Banasura Sagar irrigation projects in Wayanad will be commissioned in 2025.  The allotment for Karappuzha Project is enhanced from ₹17 crore to ₹20 crore.  The allotment for Banasura Sagar project is enhanced from ₹12 crore to ₹18 crore.

171.      An amount of ₹2.60 crore is earmarked for minor irrigation projects at Cauvery River basin.

172.      An amount of ₹1.80 crore is set apart for constructing minor irrigation projects at Bhavani river basin and check dams at Attappady.

Pattissery Project

173.      An amount of ₹14 crore is allocated for the final phase of Pattissery dam in Idukki.

174.      An amount of ₹8 crore is earmarked for the renovation works of field channels, drains and  CADA canals of Mangalam, Malampuzha, Pothundi, Chitturpuzha, and Cheramangalam projects.

175.      An amount of ₹58 crore is earmarked for the phase-II of ‘Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project’ (DRIP).

176.      An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for the renovation works of canal networks of Kuttiady Irrigation Project.

177.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for renovation of main canal, branch canal and distribution network of Pazhassi Irrigation Project.

178.      An amount of ₹22 crore is allocated for canal renovation works of Chittur Puzha & Kanjirapuzha Projects in Palakkad district.

179.      An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for Thottappally Project, implemented for flood mitigation in Kuttanadu region and Thottappally Spillway.

 

Sir,

180.      As a solution for acute shortage of water in Meenachil river basin during summer, a mini dam with regulator cum bridge will be constructed across the river at Arunapuram. An amount of ₹3 crore is earmarked for the initial activities of ‘Meenachil project’.

181.      An amount of ₹169.18 crore is set apart for the development of minor irrigation projects across the State.

182.      An amount of ₹15 crore is allocated for conducting inspections, studies and providing basic facilities aimed at increasing the availability of ground water.

183.      An amount of ₹5.58 crore is earmarked for ground water-based drinking water scheme.

184.      A total amount of ₹24 crore is earmarked for lift irrigation scheme.  Out of this, ₹19 crore is set apart for new lift irrigation schemes.

185.      An amount of ₹7.50 crore is earmarked for implementing activities such as renovation of ponds, linking of ponds with irrigation projects etc. in association with Haritha Kerala Mission.

186.      An amount of ₹12 crore is earmarked for setting up modern micro irrigation facilities in all districts, through ‘Community Micro Irrigation Project’.  

187.      An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked for the project to make rivers pollution free.

188.      An amount of ₹100 crore is earmarked for a project to construct the outer bunds of paddy land (Padasekharam) in most environmentally fragile areas of Kuttanadu.

189.      An amount of ₹37 crore is set apart for flood relief in paddy land (Padasekharam) in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts.

190.      An amount of ₹16.54 crore is earmarked to Irrigation Department for coastal area protection activities.       

Energy

191.      The outlay for Energy sector is ₹1158.09 crore.

192.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for various
Hydro-electric projects like Idukki Golden Jubilee Power House Project, Muzhiyar Phase-II, Letchmi, Pooyamkutty, Peringalkuthu, which are either in DPR stage or to be taken up on priority basis.

193.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for various Solar Power Projects.

194.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for ‘Soura’ project under Urja Kerala Mission.

195.      An amount of ₹300 crore is earmarked for various works in transmission sector, capacity enhancement of existing sub-stations and construction of new sub-stations, lines etc.

196.      An amount of ₹12 crore is earmarked for renovation and modernization of Sholayar, Kuttiyadi, Idukki Stage-I hydroelectric projects.

197.      An amount of ₹150 crore is set apart for various works for the betterment of power distribution system.

198.      An amount of ₹7 crore is earmarked to KSEB for flood resilient construction works.

199.      An amount of ₹376 crore is earmarked for various works under ‘Dyuthi’ Project.

200.      An amount of ₹7.98 crore is earmarked for setting up charging stations for electric vehicles in all districts.

Sir,

201.      An amount of ₹30 crore is set apart for the compensation package in connection with
Edamon – Kochi Project.

202.      An amount of ₹34.36 crore is earmarked as state share for Viability Gap Fund and Innovation Fund for renewable energy projects.

203.      An amount of ₹49 crore is earmarked for various activities of ANERT.

204.      An amount of ₹9.14 crore is set apart for various activities of Energy Management Centre.

 

Industry and Minerals

205.      The total outlay for Industries sector in 2023-24 is ₹1259.66 crore.  Out of this, the outlay for Village and Small-Scale Industries is ₹483.40 crore. An amount of ₹12 crore is expected as central assistance.

206.      An amount of ₹212.70 crore is earmarked for Small- Scale Industries; ₹117 crore for Coir Industry; ₹58 crore for Cashew Industry; ₹16.10 crore for Khadi and Village Industry; ₹56.40 crore for Handloom and Power loom Industry; ₹4.20 crore for Handicraft Sector and ₹7 crore for Commerce.

207.      An amount of ₹18 crore is set apart for revamping and modernisation of existing development plots / areas.

208.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for the construction of multi-storeyed industrial estates.  An amount of ₹4 crore is set apart for the development of around 25 estates / parks in the State.

209.      An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked for the construction of trade promotion centres in Handicraft Sector.

210.      An amount of ₹9 crore is earmarked for the implementation of Capacity Building Programme for 50,000 persons through District Industries Centres and various institutions.

211.      An amount of ₹60 crore is earmarked for Self-Employment Entrepreneur Support Scheme.

212.      An amount of ₹2.50 crore is earmarked for the rejuvenation of MSMEs defunct/disrupted due to the crisis caused by flood and Covid.

213.      An amount of ₹18 crore is set apart as Margin Money Grant to nano units.

214.      An amount of ₹8 crore is earmarked as state share for ‘PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme’ (PMFME).

Sir,

215.      An amount of ₹21.50 crore is set apart as special package for providing assistance to functional MSMEs and upgrading existing enterprises from micro to small and small to medium.

216.      An amount of ₹10 crore is provided for promoting Private Industrial Parks.

217.      An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked for various activities enabling development in plantation sector. This amount will be utilised for establishing modern warehouses in PPP mode for the safe storage of plantation produce, supporting branding, precision farming and for enhancing the productivity of agriculture.

218.      An amount of ₹39 crore is earmarked for various schemes including establishing MSME clinics in districts, linking APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University with industries and enterprises and formation of Appraisal Desk for Grievance Redressal Committees.

219.      An amount of ₹1.20 crore is earmarked for the development of Bamboo related industries.

Sir,

220.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for establishing ‘Integrated Handloom Village’ at Chendamangalam, Ernakulam.

221.      An amount of ₹5.50 crore is earmarked for modernisation of handloom societies and promotion of value-added products.

222.      An amount of ₹8 crore is earmarked for establishing eco-friendly dyeing and printing unit at KINFRA Textile Centre, Nadukani, Kannur District.

223.      An amount of ₹40 crore is set apart for mechanisation/ regulated mechanisation/infrastructure development in coir industry.

224.      An amount of ₹8 crore is earmarked as financial assistance to centres conducting research and development of technology in Coir sector.

225.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked as state share of market development assistance scheme for the sale of coir, coir products etc., by including one crore more than that of the year 2022-23.

226.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for ‘Production and Marketing Incentive’ (PMI) project, for coir and coir products. This outlay is ₹6 crore more than that of the year 2022-23.

227.      An amount of ₹38 crore is earmarked for Price Fluctuation Fund of coir fibre and coir products.

228.      An amount of ₹2.25 crore is provided for modernization and mechanisation of cashew factories of Kerala State Cashew Development Corporation.  An amount of ₹3.50 crore is set apart for modernisation of factories under CAPEX.

229.      An amount of ₹7.20 crore is earmarked to ‘Kerala State Agency for the Expansion of Cashew Cultivation’ for establishing raw nut bank and organic cashew cultivation.

230.      An amount of ₹43.55 crore is provided as revolving fund for Kerala Cashew Board.

Sir,

231.      In order to resolve the crisis faced by the Cashew Sector, an amount of ₹30 crore is earmarked for a rejuvenation package.

232.      An amount of ₹770.21 crore is set apart for projects for the betterment of investment friendly atmosphere in the state.

233.      An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked as state share
for various activities of Life Sciences Park, Thiruvananthapuram.

234.      An amount of ₹31.75 crore is set apart for the infrastructure development of various industrial parks in the state.

235.      A total amount of ₹122.50 crore is earmarked for Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation Limited.

236.      A total amount of ₹11.25 crore is earmarked for ‘Industrial Growth Centres’ through KSIDC.

237.      An amount of ₹31.75 crore is set apart for various industrial parks under KSIDC including Coconut Industrial Park at Kuttiyadi, Kozhikode. 

238.      An amount of ₹335.56 crore is earmarked for ‘KINFRA’.

239.      An amount of ₹44 crore is earmarked for setting up infrastructure development for establishing Petro Chemical Industry.

240.      Government have accorded sanction to establish
Rice Technology Parks in Palakkad, Thrissur and Alappuzha Districts. An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for the project.

241.      An amount of ₹4.50 crore is earmarked for Spice Park at Muttom, Thodupuzha under the aegis of KINFRA.

242.      Kerala Rubber Ltd. Company which is going to be set up with an investment of ₹1050 crore is an important intervention of the Government in rubber sector.  An amount of ₹20 crore (including plan allocation of ₹10 crore) is earmarked for the activities of the CIAL model rubber company with an expected investment of ₹200 crore in the first phase.  

Sir,

243.      National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust has approved the State’s
project – ‘Kochi – Palakkad Hi-tech Industrial Corridor’ as part of Chennai – Bengaluru Industrial Corridor Project. The completion of Kochi – Bengaluru Corridor Project will result in achieving optimum growth in economic-labour sectors. It is expected that first phase of the project in Palakkad District would attract total investment of ₹10,000 crore and thereby create employment directly to 22,000 and indirectly to 80,000 in 5 years.

244.      For the implementation of this project, having an investment of ₹3000 crore, a Special Purpose Vehicle will be formed with the involvement of KSIDC & KINFRA.   KINFRA has identified around 2000 acres of land for this project. Out of which 1000 acres of land needs to be acquired using Plan Fund and the remaining 1000 acres through KIIFB fund.  An amount of ₹200 crore is earmarked for the project in the year 2023-24.

245.      An exhibition centre with modern facilities will be set up by KINFRA at Kakkanad, Kochi, as a permanent facility for MSMEs, ensuring international standards to showcase their products. An amount of ₹5 crore is set apart for this.

246.      An amount of ₹266.90 crore is earmarked for the supplementary works of existing projects and new projects of Public Sector Undertakings under Industries Department including Textile sector.

247.      ‘Outsourced Semi-Conductors Assembly and Testing Facility’ (OSAT) business is the most important element of the semi-conductor value chain. Such testing facilities will be established in the state.  By implementing this project, employment opportunities directly to 1000 and indirectly to 5000 can be offered. An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for this project.

248.      An amount of ₹14 crore is earmarked for the new project for promoting the manufacture of Printed Circuit Board (PCB) that offers interconnection for electronic components and integrated circuits.

Meds Park

Sir,

249.      It was announced to form a Medical Tech Innovation Park at Thiruvananthapuram and Kerala Medical Technology Consortium (KMTC) with an intention to create a Medical Venture Ecosystem in Kerala. Meds Park, a dedicated industrial park for medtech startups and manufactures was arranged in the campus of Bio 360 Life Science Park, Thiruvananthapuram. Meds Park will be fully operational by latter half of 2023-24 fiscal. KMTC will initiate steps to attract Medtech Investments in the park. An amount of ₹10 crore will be allocated in the budget to develop Digital Medtech Market Place, for the further encouragement of Medtech-Medical Equipment Sector in Kerala and to support KMTC.

 

250.      An amount of ₹6.05 crore is earmarked for various developmental projects in Mineral Sector.

Information Technology

251.      An amount of ₹559 crore is earmarked for Information Technology sector.

252.      An amount of ₹127.37 crore is provided for Kerala State Information Technology Mission.

253.      An amount of ₹53 crore is earmarked for State Data Centre.

254.      An amount of ₹46.60 crore is earmarked for Digital University including the activities of IIITM-K.

255.      An amount of ₹26.60 crore is earmarked for the activities of Technopark in Thiruvananthapuram; ₹35.75 crore for the development of Infopark, Kochi and ₹12.83 crore for Cyber Park, Kozhikode.

256.      An amount of ₹201.09 crore is earmarked for Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Limited, a public sector undertaking.

257.      An amount of ₹100 crore is earmarked for Kerala Fibre Optic Network (K-FON) project.  An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked for providing free household internet connection under K-FON project to 70,000 eligible BPL families.  For this, 500 families will be identified in each Legislative Constituency.

Sir,

258.      An amount of ₹71.84 crore is earmarked for Kerala Space Park (K-Space).

259.      An amount of ₹90.52 crore is earmarked for Kerala Startup Mission. This includes ₹20 crore for Kochi Technology Innovation Zone, ₹70.52 crore for Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programmes.  A total allocation of ₹120.52 crore is earmarked, which includes an additional allocation of ₹30 crore as Fund of Funds share.

Transport and Communication

260.      The allocation of various projects in Transport Sector is enhanced from ₹1788.67 crore in 2022-23 to ₹2080.74 crore in 2023-24.

261.      An amount of ₹80.13 crore is set apart for Port, Light House and Shipping sectors.

262.      An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for Marina port at Alappuzha.

263.      An amount of ₹3 crore is set apart for the activities of Kerala Maritime Institute.

264.      A total amount of ₹40.50 crore is earmarked towards infrastructure development projects for shipping activities in Azhikkal, Beypore (Kozhikode), Kollam, Vizhinjam and Ponnani ports.

Sir,

265.      Government intends to develop a greenfield international port (Outer Harbour) at Azhikkal for fulfilling the port related requirements in the northern part of Kerala. The total development project cost of Malabar International Port & SEZ limited-Greenfield International Port & SEZ, envisaged in 3 phases will be ₹3698 crore. An amount of ₹9.74 crore is earmarked for this project.

266.      An amount of ₹1144.22 crore is earmarked for Roads & Bridges including National Highways. 

Public Works Department – Roads & Bridges

267.      An amount of ₹75 crore is earmarked for the development and improvement of State Highways.

268.      An amount of ₹288.27 crore is earmarked for the development and improvement of major district roads. Out of this, ₹225 crore will be a one time assistance exclusively for overlaying works to reduce the recurring maintenance cost of major district B.M. and B.C. roads in the state for which defect liability period has expired.

269.      The upgradation works of 82 km long Punalur – Ponkunnam road with a total construction cost of ₹765.44 crore will be converted to EPC mode.

270.      An amount of ₹12.10 crore is earmarked for railway safety works.

271.      An amount of ₹10.51 crore is earmarked for various projects related to road safety works.

272.      An amount of ₹61.85 crore is earmarked for Central Road Fund works.

Road Transport

273.      A total amount of ₹184.07 crore is earmarked for Road Transport sector. Out of this, an amount of ₹131 crore is provided to KSRTC and ₹44.07 crore to Motor Vehicle Department.

Sir,

274.      The allocation for various activities related to modernisation and quality improvement of the fleet of KSRTC is enhanced from ₹50 crore in 2022-23 to ₹75 crore.

275.      An amount of ₹30 crore is earmarked for infrastructure development, renovation of workshop depots and other activities of Kerala State Road Transport Corporation. An amount of ₹20 crore is earmarked for implementing computerization and e-governance in KSRTC.

276.      The use of Pre-fab technology has resulted in huge reduction of construction cost of KSRTC bus station at Kottayam. KSRTC will construct cost effective bus station complexes at Vizhinjam, Attingal, Kottarakkara, Kayamkulam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod. An amount of ₹20 crore is additionally provided for the same.

277.      An amount of ₹15.55 crore is set apart for E-mobility promotion activities.

278.      A total amount of ₹141.66 crore is earmarked for projects related to Inland Water Transport in the state.  An amount of ₹24 crore is earmarked for purchasing new passenger boats for Water Transport Department.

279.      An amount of ₹2.50 crore is earmarked for the project intended to complete the construction of barges for transportation of bulk cargo through inland water ways.

280.      An amount of ₹4 crore is earmarked for the construction of a new cruise vessel.

281.      An amount of ₹4.51 crore is earmarked for the project to set up airstrips in Idukki, Wayanad and Kasaragod districts.

282.      An amount of ₹2.01 crore is earmarked for Green Field Airport, Sabarimala.

Tourism

283.      An amount of ₹362.15 crore is provided for Tourism sector.

284.      A total amount of ₹19.30 crore is earmarked for Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies, State Institute of Hospitality Management and Food Craft Institute.

285.      An amount of ₹81 crore is earmarked for promotion of tourism at international level.

286.      An amount of ₹8 crore is provided for heritage festivals including ‘Thrissur Pooram’ and regional cultural programmes. An amount of ₹7 crore is provided for conducting Kerala Travel Mart – 2024. An amount of ₹2 crore is provided for Kochi – Muziris Biennale.

287.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked as electricity subsidy in tourism sector; ₹3.70 crore as subsidy for Caravan tourism initiatives and ₹3 crore for continuing revolving fund scheme.

288.      An amount of ₹135.65 crore is set apart for providing infrastructure development and other amenities in major tourism destinations.

Kappad Historical Museum

Sir,

289.      Kappad Port, where Vasco Da Gama sailed in 1498, is one of the most historically significant areas in Kerala.
A museum will be established to reflect the historical significance of Kappad.  ₹10 crore is earmarked for this museum which can become a prominent centre in the field of cultural tourism in Kerala.

Oceanarium and Museum

290.       Kollam is an ancient trading centre. The Chinese, the Arab, the Portugese, the Dutch, and the British traders had established trade relations with Kollam. A museum depicting the history of trade & commerce of Kollam and an Oceanarium will be established at Thankassery in Kollam. The Oceanarium will be established in PPP mode. An amount of ₹ 10 crore is earmarked for this scheme which would benefit the tourism sector.

291.      An amount of ₹22 crore is earmarked for modernisation and renovation of Guest-Houses, Yatri Nivas and Kerala Houses.

292.      An amount of ₹9.50 crore is earmarked for Responsible Tourism Project.

293.      An amount of ₹17 crore is earmarked for Muziris, Alappuzha, Thalassery heritage projects by including them in Heritage and Spice Route Project.

294.      An amount of ₹12 crore is earmarked for Champions Boat League.

Scientific Services and Research

295.      An amount of ₹2 crore is set apart for the project ‘Innovation and Entrepreneurship’ in Science and Technology sector.

296.      A total amount of ₹90.77 crore is earmarked for Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment.

K-DISC

297.      K-DISC has been formed with the aim of promoting innovation to resolve the second generation developmental problems of the State. The operation of K-DISC has resulted in the creation of an innovation-friendly ecosystem in the State. K-DISC has taken up many innovative projects in various fields. The aim of K-DISC is to transform Kerala as the global capital for innovation. An amount of ₹100 crore is earmarked for K-DISC in the year 2023-2024

Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV)

298.      In order to expand the laboratory facility in Institute of Advanced Virology, which functions in a 27,000 sq. ft building, it is intended to add another 80,000 sq. ft. as well. An advanced molecular diagnostic facility is already functional. Most modern Bio safety level-III Laboratory, instrumentation facilities and facilities for experiment will be set up. An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked for the Institute.

299.      An amount of ₹81 crore is earmarked for Regional Cancer Centre, Thiruvananthapuram. 

300.      An estimated expenditure of ₹120 crore is expected to upgrade RCC as State Cancer Centre. For this, sanction has been accorded and first instalment has been provided by the Union Government.  An amount of ₹13.80 crore is earmarked as state share of the project.

301.      An amount of ₹28 crore is provided under the Medical Education sector for various developmental activities of Malabar Cancer Centre.

302.      The second phase construction of Cochin Cancer Centre is in progress. An amount of ₹14.50 crore is provided to Cochin Cancer Centre under Medical Education sector.

303.      A total amount of ₹26.38 crore is earmarked for various projects in Ecology & Environment sector.  

 

Education

304.      An amount of ₹1773.09 crore is set apart as state plan outlay for Education sector.

305.      The total allocation for infrastructure development in schools is enhanced from ₹85 crore to ₹95 crore.

306.      An amount of ₹140 crore is earmarked for free supply of uniform to School students.

307.      An amount of ₹40 lakh is earmarked for various activities of Autism Park.

308.      An amount of ₹65 crore is set apart for infrastructure development in Government Higher Secondary Schools.

309.      An amount of ₹60 crore is earmarked as state share for various components of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan.

310.      An amount of ₹344.64 crore is set apart as state share for Mid-Day Meal scheme.

 

Higher Education

Sir,

311.      A special action plan will be formulated in 2023-24 to help universities and higher education institutions for achieving greater excellence. For this, an amount of ₹816.79 crore is allocated to Higher Education and Technical Education.

Risk Fund for Translational Research

312.      Government intends to constitute  a ‘Risk Fund’ inorder to reduce the risk in developing knowledge inputs in association with academic institutions and to promote industries to translate the research outputs into commercialised production process. This fund will be utilised for the capital investment in the special purpose vehicles jointly formed by universities and industry, for translating technology. Funds will be recouped from the income generated by successful SPVs. An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked as initial assistance for this research fund.  

313.      An amount of ₹14 crore is earmarked for establishing Centres of Excellence in various knowledge sectors in Kerala as proposed by Higher Education Commissions.

314.      An amount of ₹19 crore is set apart for Higher Education Council.

315.      Financial assistance will be provided to establish Centre for Atmospheric Sciences and Coastal Ecosystem studies, Centre for Quantum Computing and Centre for Proteomics and Genomics Research in Kannur University.

Sir,

316.      An academic complex with modern facilities will be constructed at Brennen College, Thalassery.  An amount of ₹30 crore is expected towards its expenditure.  An amount of ₹10 crore is provided this year. 

317.      Government is giving top priority to generate employment opportunities. As part of this, an amount of ₹35 crore is earmarked to Additional Skill Acquisition Programme (ASAP) for ensuring skill development.

318.      An Inter University academic festival will be launched this year to showcase the academic excellence of universities.

319.      An amount of ₹98.35 crore will be provided as financial assistance to Government Colleges for increasing physical facilities of Higher Education Sector.

320.      As an urgent measure for the quality improvement of higher education, the remuneration of guest lecturers in the level of Universities/Colleges will be enhanced.

321.      An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked as state share for implementation of various components under Rashtriya Uchchathar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA).

Technical Education Sector

322.      An amount of ₹252.40 crore is earmarked for Technical Education Sector for the year 2023-24.

323.      An amount of ₹23 crore is provided for the various developmental activities of Kerala State Science and Technology Museum (KSSTM) Thiruvananthapuram Campus, Regional Science Centres at Chalakkudy, Parappanangadi and Science City - Kottayam.

324.      An amount of ₹40.50 crore is earmarked for the various developmental activities of Government Engineering Colleges.

325.      An amount of ₹43.20 crore is earmarked for implementing various schemes of Government Polytechnic Colleges.

326.      Material Testing and Certification Centres will be started in all Government Polytechnic Colleges having Civil Engineering branch. 

Sir,

327.      A Polytechnic will be started in the Education Hub which is going to be established at Pinarayi in Kannur District.

Art & Culture

328.      An amount of ₹183.14 crore is earmarked for the development of Art & Culture sector.

329.      As part of increasing assistance to artistes, the number of fellowships provided under the auspices of Kerala Lalitha Kala Academy will be enhanced.

330.      An amount of ₹13 crore is earmarked for ‘Diamond Jubilee Fellowship Scheme for Young Artistes’.

331.      An amount of ₹20.90 crore is earmarked for Department of Archaeology; ₹28.75 crore for Directorate of Museum & Zoo and ₹113.29 crore for the activities of Department of Culture.

332.      The construction of Planetariums at Kottayam and Chalakkudi under Science & Technology Museum will be completed.

333.      An amount of ₹5.50 crore is earmarked for establishing District Heritage Museums.

334.      An amount of ₹8.15 crore is set apart for various activities including virtual pet adoption scheme, for bringing new animals and for the renovation of Zoos at Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur.

 

AKG Museum

Sir,

335.      Ayillyath Kuttiari Gopalan, aka “AKG”, a great revolutionary, freedom fighter and the first opposition leader of the country, is popularly known as ‘the Crusader of the Downtrodden’. The life of AKG  is also a true history of the progressive struggles in Kerala. An amount of ₹6 crore is set apart for AKG Museum at Peralassery, Kannur which marks the life and struggles of AKG.

Kallumala Protest Square

336.      The Kallumala protest is a brilliant chapter in the history of Kerala Renaissance. It was in the large meeting convened at Peeranki Maidanam, Kollam in December 1915 under the chair of Changanassery Parameswaran Pillai, Mahatma Ayyankali urged the women to  boycott  ‘Kallayum Malayum’. Boycotting of Kallumala  was a crucial event among the struggle of women in Kerala for their right to cover breasts. Peeranki Maidanam, Kollam will be protected as Kallumala protest square, a memorial of the self-esteem struggle and renaissance movement of Kerala women. Kallumala square will be constructed at Peeranki Maidanam, Kollam. An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for this.

Vaikom Satyagraha Centenary

337.      Vaikom Satyagraha is an important event in the renaissance history of our country. 2024 is the centenary of Vaikom Satyagraha. This will be duly celebrated by the Government.

338.      An amount of ₹17 crore is earmarked for modernization of theatres under KSFDC, creation of OTT platform and film production.

339.      An amount of ₹1 crore will be provided as special financial assistance for International Theatre Festival of Kerala (ITFOK) under the aegis of Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy. An amount of ₹1 crore will be provided to Kerala Sahitya Academy for organising ‘Malayalam Literary Conclave’.

340.      An amount of ₹15 lakh is earmarked for Mahakavi Moyinkutty Vaidyar Mappila Kala Academy at Kondotty.

341.      An amount of ₹35 lakh is earmarked for Sree Narayana International Study Centre at Chempazhanthy, Thiruvananthapuram.

Sports and Youth Affairs

342.      An amount of ₹135.75 crore is earmarked for various schemes of Sports & Youth Affairs Department.

343.      An amount of ₹20 crore is provided for upgradation and capacity development of G.V.Raja Sports School, Thiruvananthapuram and Sports Division, Kannur.

344.      An amount of ₹3.60 crore is earmarked for setting up infrastructure facilities like hostel & mess in the Sports Division established at Kunnamkulam Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Thrissur.

345.      An outlay of ₹35.90 crore is provided for various activities of Kerala State Sports Council.

346.      An amount of ₹18.95 crore is provided for the activities of Kerala State Youth Welfare Board.

 

Public Health Sector

347.      A total outlay of ₹2828.33 crore is set apart for Medical & Public Health Sector in 2023-24 fiscal.  This allocation is ₹196.50 crore more than that of the year 2022-23. 

Sir,

348.      An amount of ₹5 crore is set apart for management of post-Covid health issues.

349.      It is proposed to establish Cancer Care Centres in all District Hospitals of the State. An amount of ₹2.50 crore is earmarked for this purpose.

350.       An amount of ₹11 crore is set apart for the activities for controlling communicable diseases.

351.      ‘SHAILI’, implemented by the Health Department using the IT application developed by the State Digital Health Mission, is the only such Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) scheme. Survey and diagnosis of more than 70 lakh people regarding common non-communicable diseases such as hyper tension, diabetes, and cancer was made possible through this scheme.  An amount of ₹10 crore earmarked for the next year for large scale development of the portal for this and further extension of the scheme.

352.      An outlay of ₹10 crore is provided for relocating General Hospital, Thalassery. 

353.      An amount of ₹15 crore is earmarked for improving the facilities of hospitals and health care institutions in tribal, coastal and remote areas. 

Sir,

354.      An amount of ₹75 crore is set apart for the operational expenses of 315 advanced life support ambulances under ‘Kanivu’ scheme. 

355.      Steps will be taken to enhance the health care and infrastructural facilities of TATA hospital Kasaragod.

Global Possibilities in Health care Sector

356.      Kerala has a large labour force with skill and expertise in health care sector. Malayalees constitute a considerable percentage of health workers around the world. Cost for health care is very high in developed countries. Kerala should be able to utilize this as an opportunity. We have the human resources that can transform Kerala into global health care capital; and a health network that can be developed further. Foreigners can be attracted to the state to provide treatment and health care at low cost. Activities will be extended to transform the state into a health hub by providing better services in areas such as health care and health tourism. Existing facilities can be expanded and modernized. An amount of ₹30 crore is earmarked for the initial activities to formulate, implement and facilitate Care Policy in accordance with this prospect.

Kerala’s indigenous vaccine against Rabies

Sir,

357.      An initiative will be launched to develop an indigenous oral rabies vaccine in our State.  The vaccine will be developed through the joint venture of the Institute of Advanced Virology, Thiruvananthapuram and the various institutions under Kerala Veterinary & Animal Sciences University.  An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for this scheme.

358.      An amount of ₹1.50 crore is provided for continuing activities of the programme ‘New Born Screening’.

359.      An amount of ₹500 crore is earmarked as the state share to National Health Mission, which includes ₹134.80 crore for infrastructure maintenance and family welfare programmes.  An amount of ₹750 crore is anticipated as central share.

360.      An amount of ₹30 crore is set apart for e-Health Programme.

361.      An outlay of ₹574.50 crore is earmarked for the ‘Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi’ (KASP).  This provision is ₹74.50 crore more than that of the year 2022-23.

362.      State Health Agency will implement ‘Thalolam’, ‘Cancer Suraksha for Child Patients’ and Cochlear Implantation for Children (Sruthi Tharangam) as a part of Karunya Arogya Suraksha Padhathi (KASP) from 2023-24 fiscal onwards.

363.      An amount of ₹7.50 crore is set apart for strengthening Analytical laboratories in Food Safety sector. 

Safe Food

Sir,

364.      An additional amount of ₹7 crore is provided for the interventions and inspections in order to ensure safe food, to prevent food poisoning and for food quality upgradation.

365.      An amount of ₹463.75 crore is earmarked for various developmental activities of Medical Education Sector.

366.       An amount of ₹232.27 crore is provided for the developmental activities of various Government Medical Colleges, Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Thiruvananthapuram and College of Pharmaceutical Science, Thiruvananthapuram.

367.       An amount of ₹13 crore is provided for waste management in all Medical Colleges and other hospitals under Directorate of Medical Education.  

368.      An amount of ₹15 crore is earmarked for the purchase of PET CT Scanner for the Oncology Wing in Thiruvananthapuram Medical College.

369.      An amount of ₹32 crore is earmarked for the Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract and allied activities of the costly and sophisticated equipments in Medical Colleges for ensuring their uninterrupted functioning.

370.      An amount of ₹3.60 crore is earmarked for IMHANS, Kozhikkode.  This is ₹2.65 crore more than that of the year 2022-23.

371.      An amount of ₹3 crore is provided as assistance to start new nursing colleges in Centre for Professional and Advanced Studies (CPAS) functioning in association with M.G. University.

372.      During 2023-24, an amount of ₹49.05 crore is provided to the Indian Systems of Medicine Department which consists of different branches like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Yoga and Naturopathy.  This is ₹5 crore more than that of the year 2022-23.

373.      An amount of ₹24 crore is provided to take up various activities for the strengthening and modernization of institutions under Indian Systems of Medicine Department.

374.      An amount of ₹20.15 crore is earmarked for
Ayurveda Medical Colleges in Thiruvananthapuram, Thrippunithura and Kannur.

Sir,

375.      It is intended to establish “International Research Institute of Ayurveda” (IRIA) for the scientific development of Ayurveda.  An amount of ₹2 crore is provided for its initial construction activities and research.

376.      An amount of ₹25.15 crore is earmarked for the strengthening of Homeopathy Department.

377.      An amount of ₹5 crore is provided as state share for the activities of National Mission on Ayush – Homoeo.

378.       An amount of ₹8.90 crore is earmarked for
Homoeo Medical Education.

Water Supply and Sewerage

379.      During the year 2023-24 an amount of ₹909.51 crore is earmarked for water supply and sewerage. 

380.      Basic infrastructure development in sewerage sector can be implemented by utilizing NABARD-RIDF loan. An amount of ₹80 crore is provided for completing five similar schemes.

381.      An amount of ₹45 crore is provided for the rejuvenation and improvement works of Urban Water Supply Schemes.

382.      Jal Jeevan Mission envisages to provide 9.54 lakh functional tap connections in 2023-24.  An amount of ₹500 crore is provided as state share to Kerala Water Authority and Jal Jeevan Mission for implementing the programme. 

383.      An amount of ₹50 crore is provided to replace the old and obsolete pipelines.

384.      An amount of ₹5 crore is provided for Kerala Water Supply Project having JICA assistance.

385.      An amount of ₹100 crore is set apart for the scheme ‘Urban Water Supply Improvement Projects’ implemented in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi Corporations.

Sir,

386.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for scaling up of rain water harvesting and ground water recharging activities of Jalanidhi.

387.      An amount of ₹30.90 crore is provided to rejuvenate jalanidhi schemes with the assistance of Local Self Government Institutions.

388.      Under ‘Grihasree’ scheme, being implemented by Kerala State Housing Board, subsidy will be provided to 415 houses. An amount of ₹12.45 crore is provided for this scheme.  This provision is 24% higher than that of the year 2022-23.  The subsidy amount under Grihasree Scheme is enhanced from ₹2 lakh to ₹3 lakh. 

389.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked in 2023-24 for EWS/LIG Housing Scheme of Housing Board.

390.      An amount of ₹4 crore is earmarked for ‘ASWAS Rental Housing Scheme’ to construct buildings in the premises of Medical Colleges facilitating to accommodate patients/bystanders.

391.      An amount of ₹9.50 crore is provided to Kerala State Housing Board for constructing residential flat/quarters/housing complex for Government employees on rental basis.

392.      An amount of ₹1 crore is earmarked for construction of Women P.G.Hostel near Kozhikode Medical College.

Urban Development

393.      An outlay of ₹1055.31 crore is earmarked for Urban Development Programmes in the State. 

394.      An amount of ₹22 crore is provided for Suchithwa Keralam Scheme, aims at implementing Solid Waste Management projects in urban local governments. 
The project comes under ‘Haritha Keralam Mission’.

395.      An amount of ₹131.88 crore is provided for components like Institutional Developments, Capacity Building, Project Management and establishing regional solid waste management facilities as part of the externally aided ‘Kerala Solid Waste Management Project’ being implemented in urban sector.

Information and Publicity

396.      A total amount of ₹40.43 crore is earmarked for the Information & Publicity sector. 

397.      An amount of ₹50 lakh is provided for ‘Media Literacy’ programme organized by Media Academy.

398.      An amount of ₹2.50 crore is set apart for modernization of Tagore Theatre.

Labour & Labour Welfare

399.      An amount of ₹504.76 crore is earmarked for Labour & Labour Welfare Sector.  This is ₹22.60 crore more than that of the current fiscal.

400.      An amount of ₹1.10 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Estate Workers Distress Relief Fund’.   An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for improving the accommodation facilities (Layams) of estate workers.

401.       An amount of ₹8 crore is set apart for unorganized daily waged employees’ distress relief fund, tree climbers disability pension scheme and for maternity allowance to workers in the sector.

402.      An amount of ₹90 crore is earmarked to the schemes providing financial support @ ₹1250 to the workers engaged in the traditional sectors like Beedi, Khadi, Mula, Eetta, Pandanus, Fisheries and Fish processing, Cashew, Coir, Handloom and Textiles.  This amount is 4 crore more than that of the previous year.

403.      An amount of ₹37 crore is provided for various activities of Kerala Academy for Skill and Excellence (KASE).

404.      An amount of ₹30.50 crore is earmarked for modernizing the Industrial Training Institutes to the latest standards.

405.      An amount of ₹108.46 crore is set apart for various schemes of Industrial Training Department.

406.      New Career Development Centres will be started in Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Malappuram, Idukki and Pathanamthitta Districts in 2023-24.

407.      An amount of ₹5.30 crore is earmarked for Factories and Boilers Department.

408.      An amount of ₹1 crore is earmarked for the preliminary activities of ‘The Post Graduate and Research Centre in Fire & Safety Science, Kannur’.

 Scheduled Caste Development

409.      An amount of ₹2979.40 crore is earmarked for Scheduled Caste Sub Plan.  This includes ₹1638.10 crore for Scheduled Caste Development Department and ₹1341.30 crore for Local Self Government institutions.

410.      An amount of ₹429.61 crore is earmarked for the educational assistance to scheduled caste students. This includes ₹70 crore for the construction activities of Palakkad Medical College.  The total provision is ₹104 crore more than that of the year
2022-23.

411.      An amount of ₹65 crore is set apart as the state share for the Post-Matric Scholarship of Scheduled Caste students.

Sir,

412.      An amount of ₹7.20 crore is set apart as state share for the new scheme, ‘Pre-Matric Scholarship for Scheduled Caste students studying in 9th and 10th standard’.  An amount of ₹10.80 crore is anticipated as central share.

413.      Several skill development programmes are being implemented to enhance employability among scheduled caste youth.  An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked for this programme, which will be carried out through K-Disc, KASE and ASAP.

414.      An amount of ₹13 crore is set apart for the management of Model Residential Schools including Ayyankali Memorial Model Residential Sports School at Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram.

415.      An amount of ₹180 crore is provided for purchase of land for construction of houses for the poor and landless scheduled caste families.  Around 5000 landless families are intended to be benefited.

416.      An amount of ₹205 crore is provided for completion of partially constructed houses, renovation of dilapidated houses and construction of study rooms.  It is targeted to complete 5000 new study rooms.  An amount of ₹2 lakh will be provided to each family for constructing study rooms.

417.      An amount of ₹50 crore is provided for the developmental programmes for vulnerable communities among scheduled caste. 

418.      An amount of ₹84.39 crore is provided as financial assistance for marriage of scheduled caste girls.

Sir,

419.      An amount of ₹60 crore is earmarked for Dr.Ambedkar Village Development Scheme.  A maximum of ₹1 crore will be provided as assistance to each colony.

420.      An amount of ₹53 crore is provided to the Health Care schemes for giving medical care to the deserving patients and oldsters.

421.      An amount of ₹ 45 crore is provided as Corpus Fund for Critical Gap Filling schemes, implementing with special emphasis on human resource development, basic needs and economic development under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan.

Scheduled Tribe Development

422.      An outlay of ₹859.50 crore is earmarked in the financial year 2023-24 for the development of Scheduled Tribe population of the state.  Out of this, ₹657.95 crore will be for Scheduled Tribe Development Department and ₹201.55 crore for Local Self Government Institutions.

423.      An amount of ₹8.75 crore is earmarked to the scheme ‘Incentives & Assistance to ST Students’. 

424.      An amount of ₹30 crore is provided to various schemes including the new scheme, ‘Running of Model Pre- Schools’, ‘Tutorial Scheme for Students’ and ‘promotion of sports activities among tribals’. 

425.      An amount of ₹10 crore is provided for the scheme ‘Assistance for Self-Employment and Skill Development Training to ST Youths’.

426.      An amount of ₹8.50 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Agriculture Income Initiative for Scheduled Tribes’.

427.      In order to provide more manpower days to ST families, additional 100 days of wage employment (total 200) will be provided to ST families under ‘Kerala Tribal Plus programme’. This will be in addition to the existing 100 days being provided under MGNREGS. An amoumt of ₹35 crore is set apart for this scheme.  90% of the beneficiaries are expected to be women.

428.      An amount of ₹72.32 crore is earmarked for the institutions managed by Scheduled Tribe Development Department.  Out of this, ₹55 crore is provided for the running cost of Model Residential Schools, ₹3 crore for managing post metric hostels, ₹7.02 crore for improving the facilities in pre & Post Metric Hostels and an amount of ₹4 crore for the construction of various hostels and schools including Ekalavya MRSs and Pre/Post Metric Hostels.

429.      An amount of ₹6 crore is set apart for the scheme ‘Assistance for the Marriage of ST Girls’.

430.      An amount of ₹2.5 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Assistance for Sickle Cell Anemia patients’.

431.      An amount of ₹17 crore is provided for the scheme ‘Janani Janma Raksha’.

432.      An amount of ₹40 lakh is set apart for the scheme – ‘Assistance to Traditional Tribal Healers’.

433.      An amount of ₹25 crore is provided for ‘Food Support / Food Security Programme’, in tribal areas.

434.      An amount of ₹30 crore is earmarked for the scheme – ‘Comprehensive Tribal Health Care’.  This outlay is ₹4 crore higher than that of the year 2022-23.

435.      An amount of ₹57.20 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘House Construction/Completion of Incomplete Houses’.

436.      An amount of ₹45 crore is set apart towards Corpus Fund for filling the Critical Gap that may occur in the provision allocated for various ST Sub Plan Schemes.

437.      An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked for the ‘Ambedkar Settlement Development Scheme’ in tribal settlements of the State. 

438.      An amount of ₹45 crore is provided for the scheme ‘Resettlement of Landless Tribal People’ (TRDM).

439.      More human resources are necessary for the smooth implementation of projects by Scheduled Tribe Development Department.  “HR support for implementation of schemes in Tribal Areas’ is a scheme intended to involve more such people in the projects of ST Department.  An amount of ₹32.35 crore is earmarked for the purpose.

440.      An amount of ₹19.13 crore is earmarked for providing honorarium to Tribal Promoters, ₹2.50 crore for organization of Oorukoottams, ₹1.30 crore for ‘Management Trainees and Health Management Trainees’, ₹1.50 crore to counsellors engaged in the Hostels and MRSs, ₹1.92 crore for engaging the service of social workers for ST welfare and an amount of
₹6 crore for the scheme ‘Gothrabandhu’.

Other Backward Classes

441.      An amount of ₹16 crore is earmarked for various activities of Kerala State Backward Classes Development Corporation in 2023-24.

442.      An amount of ₹6 crore is provided for various activities of Kerala State Development Corporation for Christian Converts from SCs and Recommended Communities.

443.      An amount of ₹45 crore is set apart for the educational schemes to the most backward communities among Other Eligible Communities (OEC). Out of this ₹5 crore will be for Pre - Matric Assistance and ₹40 crore for Post Matric Assistance.

444.      In the scenario that Government of India has dispensed with the scheme of providing pre-matric scholarship for OBC students from 1st to 8th standard, a new state scheme is announced. An amount of ₹25 crore is earmarked for this scheme.

445.      An amount of ₹8 crore each is earmarked as state share for providing Pre & Post Matric Scholarships for OBC students.

446.       An amount of ₹70 lakh is provided as share capital to Kerala State Pottery Manufacturing Marketing and Welfare Development Corporation Limited.

Minority Welfare

447.      An amount of ₹6.52 crore is earmarked to award Prof.Joseph Mundasseri Scholarship to the meritorious students from SSLC to PG level and civil service aspirants belonging to minority communities.

448.      An amount of ₹13 crore is provided as share capital to the Kerala State Minority Development Finance Corporation.

Forward Community Welfare

449.      An amount of ₹38.05 crore is earmarked to Kerala State Welfare Corporation for Forward Communities.

 Social Security & Welfare

450.      An amount of ₹787.71 crore is earmarked for social security & welfare sector including nutrition.  This is ₹12.74 crore more than that of the year 2022-23.

451.      An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for the comprehensive projects, aiming at skill development, vocational rehabilitation and employment & financial security of differently abled persons.

452.      An amount of ₹50 lakh is earmarked for the health insurance scheme ‘Niramaya’.

453.      An amount of ₹9 crore is set apart for Barrier Free Kerala, the scheme that transforming Government offices into disabled friendly ones. 

Geriatric Care

454.      An amount of ₹6.8 crore is earmarked to ‘Sayam Prabha’, a scheme for the welfare of old age people.  An amount of ₹27.50 crore is set apart for various activities under ‘Vayomithram’ scheme.

455.      An amount of ₹5.02 crore is earmarked for ‘Mazhavillu’, a scheme for the transgenders.

456.      An amount of ₹12 crore is provided for National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

 

Kerala Social Security Mission

Sir,

457.      An amount of ₹17 crore is earmarked for the comprehensive package for endosulphan victims, implementing through Kerala Social Security Mission.

458.      An amount of ₹21.50 crore is set apart for the scheme ‘ANUYATRA’ for the disabled persons.

459.      An amount of ₹54 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Aswasa Kiranam’.

460.      An amount of ₹17 crore is earmarked for the scheme ‘Snehapoorvam’.

461.      An amount of ₹3.80 crore is set apart for the scheme ‘Mittayi’, for juvenile diabetic treatment.

462.      A new scheme Dementia/Alzheimer’s Memory Screening Clinic through Kerala Social Security Mission is announced. An amount of ₹1 crore is set apart for the scheme.

463.      An amount of ₹13 crore is earmarked for various programmes including ‘Subhayathra’, ‘Ashwasam’ and ‘Hasthadanam’ implemented by Kerala State Physically Handicapped Person’s Welfare Corporation.

464.      An amount of ₹18.93 crore is earmarked for National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH).

Jails

465.      An amount of ₹13 crore is provided for carrying out various activities under the programme, intended to modernize the Administration & Management and to provide infrastructure facilities in prisons.

466.      An amount of ₹8 crore is provided for the activities of the schemes aiming for the rehabilitation of prisoners.

Police

467.      An amount of ₹152.90 crore is set apart for the modernization of Police Department.  Out of this, an amount of ₹15 crore is provided for Student Police Cadet Scheme, ₹1.80 crore for improved Traffic Management System, ₹4.40 crore for Community Policing and ₹4 crore for Cyber Security. An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked to strengthen the facilities of Forensic Wing.

468.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for implementing various activities planned under ‘NIRBHAYA’ schemes.

Women & Child Development

469.      An amount of ₹14 crore is allocated to various activities for the strengthening and reviewing of implementation of various legislations and constitutional provisions enforced in connection with woman protection.

470.      Psycho social services scheme is operational in 1012 schools in the State.  This scheme will be extended to more schools during 2023-24.  For this ₹51 crore is earmarked.

Menstrual Cup

471.      Government intends to promote the use of eco-friendly and cost-effective menstrual cups instead of Sanitory Napkins. Awareness programmes and campaigns will be conducted at Government level in schools, colleges and work places. An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for this.

472.      An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for the activities of Gender Park.

473.      An amount of ₹63.50 crore is earmarked for ensuring nutritious food to Anganwadi children by providing Egg and Milk two days a week.

Creche and Day Care Centres

Sir,

474.      In the new scenario of employment culture in the State it is essential to start more creche.  During the discussion with IT Professionals, suggestions to constitute Day Care Centres for old age people were also emerged. Steps will be taken to start Day Care centres / creche in collaboration with LSG institution and people’s committee. An amount of ₹10 crore is set apart for the same.

475.      An amount of ₹19.30 crore is set apart for various schemes of Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation.

476.      An amount of ₹8.50 crore is provided as state share for the scheme aiming for the continuous functioning of existing 28 POCSO Fast Track Special Courts and for setting up of another 28 new courts.

477.      An amount of ₹13 crore is earmarked as state share for the activities of Integrated Child Protection Scheme.  An amount of ₹19.50 crore is anticipated as central share.

478.      An amount of ₹194.32 crore is set apart as state share for the scheme ‘Integrated Child Development Service’.  An amount of ₹291.48 crore is anticipated as Central Share.

Civil Supplies Department

479.      During the tenure of this government 85 new, renovated and upgraded Supplyco outlets have been opened. 
The policy of the Government is to provide quality goods at low price by effectively intervening in the market. 
For this purpose, the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system will be launched this year, as part of streamlining the operations of Supplyco outlets in the State with the help of information technology.  

480.      An amount of ₹1.40 crore is earmarked as state share for the scheme ‘Smart PDS’ in order to address the deficiencies in technology based service delivery of public distribution system and make it sustainable.

 

Registration

481.      An amount of ₹12.50 crore is set apart for the conservation and digitalization of the registered records.

NORKA

482.      It is intended to provide one lakh man power days to expatriate labourers with a maximum of 100 days each, through the scheme NORKA Assisted & Mobilised Employment (NAME), for providing jobs to expatriate labourers.  An amount of ₹5 crore is earmarked for this scheme.

 

483.      Government is giving significant attention for rehabilitating the returned Non-Resident Keralites and devising New Skill Development Programmes for their survival.  For this, an amount of ₹84.60 crore is earmarked through various schemes.

 

484.      An amount of ₹25 crore is provided to various activities for the rehabilitation of returnee migrants through the scheme “Norka Department Project for Returned Emigrants - (NDPREM)”.

 

485.      An amount of ₹50 crore is earmarked for welfare of returned Non-Resident Keralites.  The schemes, PEARL – Pravasi Bhadratha interest free loans up to ₹2 lakh for low profile category of NRK returnees through Kudumbasree Mission, Pravasi Bhadratha – MICRO loans through Co-operative Banks/Nationalized Banks/Scheduled Banks upto ₹5 lakh with 25% capital subsidy (maximum ₹1 lakh) and 3% interest subvention and Pravasi Bhadratha – MEGA loans, from ₹25 lakh to  ₹2 crore for MSME enterprises through KSIDC at an interest rate of 5% are envisaged.

 

486.      An amount of ₹33 crore is set apart to ‘SANTHWANA’ scheme for providing time bound financial support to the returned pravasis and assistance to the dependents of deceased pravasis.

 

487.      An amount of ₹15 crore is earmarked for the welfare schemes of ‘Kerala Non Resident Keralites Welfare Fund Board’.

 

488.      An amount of ₹60 lakh is earmarked for the NORKA Emergency Ambulance Service at Airports.

 

489.      An amount of ₹2.50 crore is provided for implementing viable recommendations of 2nd and 3rd Loka Kerala Sabha, for conducting regional meetings and for the office expenses of Loka Kerala Sabha Secretariat.

 

490.      An amount of ₹ 1 crore is earmarked for establishing ‘Loka Kerala Kendram’ in the 5 acres of land owned by NORKA at Mavelikkara. 

 

491.      An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked for the new scheme ‘NORKA Subhayatra’ which provides for preparing IELTS, OET examinations at low interest rates as financial assistance by simplifying the procedures.

 

Kerala Public Service Commission

492.      An amount of ₹3.38 crore is earmarked for setting up of new online examination centres and for computerization of Kerala Public service Commission and an amount of ₹6 crore is provided for constructing buildings for district offices.

Vigilance

493.      An amount of ₹8 crore is set apart for the second phase of the construction of vigilance office complex at Muttathara, Thiruvananthapuram.

Courts

494.      An amount of ₹3.50 crore is earmarked for e-governance, the scheme intended for making High Court a paperless office.  Action will be taken to implement e-governance scheme in lower courts.

Excise

Sir,

495.      Kerala is adopting an uncompromising ‘Zero tolerance’ policy towards Drug abuse.  An amount of ₹15 crore is earmarked for the coordinated anti-narcotic activities. 

496.      An amount of ₹9.43 crore is provided for the functioning of Vimukthi De-addiction Centres, the antidrug campaign launched by Government of Kerala.

Revenue & Land Records

497.      An amount of ₹48 crore is earmarked for converting the revenue offices into Smart Offices.  Also an amount of ₹26.50 crore is provided for modernization and computerization of the department.

498.      Storage of digital records and sharing of data to public through web media are to be enabled by integrating Revenue, Survey and Registration Departments.  With an aim of devising an accurate digital map, ₹7.50 crore is earmarked for integration of land records service delivery.

Major Infrastructure Development Projects (MIDP)

499.      In order to avoid bottlenecks in the timely utilization of fund for major infrastructure development projects due to the practice of allocating funds separately under different budget heads, the practice of allocating fund for these projects in a single head of account is being followed.  A total amount of ₹360 crore is provided in lumpsum for these major infrastructure development projects.

Navakeralam Karma Padhathi

500.      An outlay of ₹10 crore is provided for various activities of ‘Navakeralam Karmapadhathi-2’, launched by bringing together Rebuild Kerala Initiative and four missions viz Haritha Keralam, Ardram, LIFE & Vidya Kiranam.

501.      An amount of ₹904.83 crore is earmarked to facilitate the smooth and timely implementation of the projects under Rebuild Kerala Initiative. 

Finance Department

State GST Department

502.      As announced in the previous budget, State GST Department was comprehensively reorganized and has started functioning in a new manner.  An amount of ₹10 crore is earmarked for software and technology development essential for the new administration formed as part of reorganization.

503.      For the efficient functioning of the State GST Department expert training is necessary for all offices.  An amount of ₹3 crore is earmarked for this purpose. 

Kerala State Insurance Department

Sir,

504.      The coverage of ₹10 lakh due to accidental
deaths under existing GPAIS Accidental Insurance Scheme for the employees of Government/
Quasi Government/PSUs/Co-operative Institutions/ Universities/other Autonomous Institutions, by State Insurance Department will be enhanced to an assured amount of ₹15 lakhs, and an additional coverage of ₹5 lakh will be ensured as a consolation for the claims in connection with deaths other than due to accidents. For this existing annual premium will be enhanced from ₹500 to ₹1000. In line with the above, a new scheme ‘Jeevan Raksha’ is announced by revamping ‘GPAIS’ scheme.

505.      A new scheme ‘Anganam’ is announced for the Anganavadi staff including Life Insurance & Accident Insurance.  With an annual premium of ₹360, insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh to accident deaths and ₹1 lakh to deaths other than suicides is ensured through this scheme.      

Kerala State Audit Department

506.      An amount of ₹2.30 crore is earmarked for the renovation of AIMS software, developed by Kerala State Audit Department.

 

Treasury Department

507.      An amount of ₹12.05 crore is set apart for the infrastructure development of treasury buildings and for IFMS software servers.

508.      An Online Audit Module will be introduced to cater the online audit of treasury transactions for agencies like A.G., Finance Inspection Wing, Treasury Internal Audit Wing etc… without visiting treasuries.

509.      More than six lakh pension records maintained by treasury will be digitized within the next financial year.

510.      An amount of ₹2 crore is earmarked to Finance Department for the implementation of Spark version 2.0 which includes the new software Personnel and Administrative Resources Management System (PARMS).

MEDISEP

511.      MEDISEP is the health insurance scheme implemented for about 11 lakh employees and pensioners in the State.  480 hospitals within and outside the State have joined hands with MEDISEP.  The insurance premium for members is ₹500 per month.  Oriental Insurance Company Ltd. is the insurance service provider.  Claims worth ₹405 crore have already been approved through MEDISEP in six months.  A corpus fund of ₹30 crore has also been setup as part of MEDISEP for the treatment of critical illness and organ transplants. 

 

KIIFB

Sir,

512.      KIIFB is an institution which has given tremendous speed to the Infrastructure development of State. Through KIIFB Kerala has achieved the development, that could have been possible after decades. KIIFB has given approval for 993 Mega Projects worth
₹74009.55 crore. Out of this, 986 projects worth
₹54000 crore is at different stages of execution. Of the above, construction of the projects worth ₹6201 crore has been completed. Tender proceedings for 543 projects worth ₹24931 crore has been completed and tenders has been invited for 55 projects worth ₹3064 crore. An amount of ₹442.67 crore, ₹1069 crore, ₹3502.50 crore, ₹5484.81 crore, ₹8459.47 crore and ₹3842.89 crore has been expended for KIIFB projects from the year 2017-2018 to 2022-2023 respectively. KIIFB has already disbursed more than ₹22801 crore for various project till date.

 

513.      KIIFB has given approval for the projects worth ₹2870 crore for General education sector of Kerala alone. As part of ‘Pothu Vidyabhyasa Samrakshana Yajnam’, Construction of 860 shool buildings have been taken up through KIIFB and 288 were completed. A total of 44705 hightech classrooms and 11257 hightech laboratories were arranged at public schools through KIIFB.

       

514.      KIIFB has approved 7 large-scale Land Acquisition Projects worth ₹20,000 crore. KIIFB is implementing a project worth ₹6769.01 crore for land acquisition of National Highway Development. KIIFB has already given ₹5580.74 crore to National Highway Authority of India towards land cost.

 

515.      Projects with an estimate cost of ₹13,988.63 crore for three industrial parks and land acquisition for Hindustan News Print Ltd worth ₹200.60 crore are being implemented through KIIFB. Kochi-Bangaluru Industrial Corridor project, GIFT city project etc… are also being executed with the assistance of KIIFB.

 

516.      But the Union Government is adopting a disruptive approach against the functioning of KIIFB. The erroneous attitude of considering the borrowings of KIIFB,  contingent liability, as public debt of State should be corrected. Kerala’s protest and strong stand on this issue has been conveyed to the Union Government.

Social Security Pension

Sir,

517.      Kerala Social Security Pension Ltd (KSSPL) is the company established by the Government of Kerala to distribute social welfare pension. The Union Government considers the temporary borrowing by the company for smooth disbursement of welfare pension as public debt of the State Government. This reduces the permissible borrowing limit of the Government. Union Government is attempting to sabotage the social welfare pension, through this decision. LDF Government will take this great scheme, helping ordinary people of Kerala, forward with the support of general public. The social welfare scheme needs to be expanded and misuse should be avoided by eliminating undeserved.

 

518.      Social Security Pension @ ₹1600/month is being disbursed to 50.66 lakh people in the State. Government is also giving welfare board pension to 6.73 lakh members of welfare boards having no resources. A total of 4.28 lakh pensioners are receiving welfare pension through financially sound Welfare Fund Boards. Around 62 lakh people are receiving pension @ ₹1600/month in the State.

Financial Institutions

Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation (GIFT)

519.      An amount of ₹1 crore is earmarked for research and other activities of Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation. An amount of ₹5 lakh is provided for international conference on ‘Innovation Driven Knowledge Economy and Transformation In The Global South’.

Kerala Financial Corporation

520.      The Kerala Financial Corporation will enter into a consortium arrangement with nationalized/scheduled banks, other government agencies and financial institutions for providing financial assistance to the basic infrastructure development projects of the State government through KFC. An amount of ₹2000 crore, at the rate of 250 crore per project will be earmarked through KFC.

521.      Assistance through fishermen societies will be provided to traditional fishermen for purchasing deep-sea fishing boats. A new scheme will be launched through KFC for this. Ten mechanized deep-sea fishing boats will be procured and distributed on a pilot basis in the first phase by providing upto ₹70 lakh per boat at an annual interest rate of 5%. The scheme will be extended through more societies depending upon the successful implementation of the project.

522.      A new loan scheme will be launched through KFC for ex-servicemen in the State to start new MSME units. Upto 90% of the project amount will be provided as loan assistance. Loans upto the amount of ₹2 crore will be provided by including in the scheme ‘Chief Minister’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme’ (CMEDP) with 3% State government subsidy coverage at an interest rate of 5%. An amount of ₹50 crore will be earmarked from KFC for this scheme.

523.      KSFE is a popular institution that the vast majority of people in Kerala directly or indirectly approach for financial transactions.  An interest relief of ₹102 crore was provided to the public as part of one time settlement of dues which was announced by KSFE, in the wake of financial difficulties caused by flood and Covid pandemic.  A gold loan scheme, ‘Ajayya’ was introduced with an interest rate of 6% for women.  Till date, ₹374 crore could be disbursed to 7907 expatriate entrepreneurs as loan through the P.B.M.S. scheme implemented in association with NORKA for starting enterprises, so as to give an impetus to entrepreneurial development and job opportunities.

 

 

PART IV

Resource Mobilisation

Mining and Geology:

524.      Kerala is back on the growth trajectory and infrastructure works have picked up. To sustain the growth, it is important that the supply chain in the infrastructure sector is fine tuned. A key input in the infrastructure sector is the minor minerals.  It is important to note that the royalty in minor minerals has not been revised since 2015 though it can be revised every 3 years. Royalty revision, penalty and scientific quantity measurement will enhance collection.  It is proposed to revise them scientifically as per the market trends.

 

525.      The following seven changes will be brought about in the Mining sector: One, royalty revision across all segments of Minor minerals; Two, Price differential system for granite (building stone) and dimension stones (granite) based on the type and size of Rocks; Three, combine the seigniorage and royalty to a single rate and link it to the value of the minerals; Fourth, revising the penal rates as part of making stringent steps to curb the clandestine mining and related activities; Fifth, Royalty payment to be based on actual usage and not based on the tonnage or carrying capacity of the vehicle; Sixth, the lease rent of the Government land to be based as a function of the fair value of the land; Seven, Compounding system will be discontinued,  and royalty will be based on quantity.

 

526.      The above suggested measures are expected to bring additional amount of Rs. 600 Crore under non-tax category. 

LSGD

527.      Property  Tax   revision  is pending in LSGIs for a long time.  Government intends the revision of Property Tax, Application fee, Scrutiny fee and Permit fee  for the construction of Residential and Non-residential buildings. A proper method of taxation of multiple ownership of houses by a single individual and newly constructed houses which are not put to any use will also be taken up. A comprehensive revision of these will be taken up by the LSG Department.

 

528.      If these measures are implemented, at least 1,000 Cr is  expected as additional Own Fund of Local Bodies which can be productively used by them.

Irrigation

529.      The desilting of dams must be carried out in an innovative way by maximizing the revenue flow to Government. More than Rs. 10 Cr has been received from Thottappilly Spillway Project as  Government share for removal of sand by de-silting. By  extending this model to other areas including dams, considerable  revenue is expected. The Irrigation department will bring a comprehensive proposal for desilting with revenue sharing model.

Electricity Duty

530.      Presently electricity duty is collected and retained by KSEBL, this process will cease by 31st October 2023.  The amount there after shall be payable to Government account. This is expected to increase the revenue inflows to Government. The electricity duty applicable for commercial and industrial units shall be increased and levied at the rate of 5%. This will provide additional revenue to the tune of Rs. 200 Cr to Government.

Judicial Court Fee:

531.      The Court Fee stamp charges have not been revised for the past few decades. The Kerala Court Fees and Suits Valuation Act, 1959 and the rules thereunder will be amended to enhance the Court Fee stamp charges.

 

532.      The Court Fee charges will be limited to 1 % of the claim amount to Suit for compensation for defamation and Suit for compensation for negligent and tortious act.

 

533.      The Kerala Court Fees and Suit Valuation Act, 1959 will be amended extending the collection of 1 % additional court fee to more areas.  The Court Fee will be introduced within the ambit of e-stamping to facilitate ease of use of citizens.

 

534.      This is expected to bring additional revenue of about Rs. 50 Crores.

Motor Vehicle Department

535.      The one-time tax on newly purchased motorcycles having purchase value up to 2 lakh is enhanced by 2 %. An additional income of Rs. 92 crore is expected through this.

 

536.      One time tax on newly purchased Motor cars and Private Service Vehicle for personal use are increased as follows:

                        i.         Having purchase value up to rupees 5 Lakh – 1% hike.

                       ii.         Having purchase value above rupees 5 lakh and upto 15 lakh – 2% hike.

                     iii.        Having purchase value above rupees 15 lakh and upto rupees 20 lakh – 1% hike.

                     iv.        Having purchase value above rupees 20 lakh and upto rupees 30 lakh – 1 % hike.

                      v.        Having purchase value above rupees 30 lakh – 1 % hike.

 

537.      These changes are expected to bring additional revenue of 340 crores.

538.      Electric motor cabs and electric tourist motor cabs currently incur a one-time tax ranging from 6% to 20% of the purchase value. This one-time tax on such vehicles is reduced to 5% of the purchase value on par with the one-time tax of electric private vehicles to minimize air pollution and to promote public transport. Since one-time tax on all types of electric vehicles is fixed as 5% of the purchase value for a period of 15 years, the existing 50% tax exemption for such vehicles for the first 5 years is dispensed with.

 

539.      To give respite to contract carriage/stage carriage vehicle operators who are facing difficulties due to
Covid–19 pandemics, and also to strengthen the public transport system, it is decided to give a tax reduction up to 10% for such vehicles. This is expected to result in revenue loss of about Rs. 28 crore to Government.

 

540.      The one-time cess levied under Section 10 of Kerala Road Safety Act, 2007 on newly registered motor vehicles is be increased as follows. For the Two Wheelers it is increased from the current Rs. 50 to Rs. 100, Light Motor Vehicles from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200, Medium Motor Vehicle from Rs. 150 to Rs. 300 and Heavy Motor Vehicles from Rs. 250 to Rs. 500. This is expected to bring additional income of Rs. 7 Crores.

 

541.      Measures will also be taken to introduce more fancy number sets, enhance permit fee and appeal fees.

 

542.      The one-time settlement scheme which was introduced in previous years to settle tax arrears in motor vehicles will be continued this year also.

 

543.      Taxes of Educational Institution Buses registered in the name of Special Schools operating in unaided sector, where students with mentally retarded, cerebral palsy, blind are studying is reduced at par with tax rate of Educational Institution Buses registered in the name of Government Educational Institutions.

 

544.      The tax rate of Private Service Vehicles (PSV) registered in the name of Charitable organisations, exclusively used for conveyance of mentally retarded / differently abled/ deaf and dumb children, inmates of orphanages, old age homes, leprosy, tuberculosis treatment and Rehabilitation centres shall be levied at par with Educational Institution Buses owned by Government Institution.

Excise

545.      In Kerala, the Excise Department has issued license for production of liquor within the state, but Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA), the raw material needed to produce liquor is being imported from other states.  Every year, an average of 5 crores liters of Extra neutral alcohol is imported from other states.  The production of Extra Neutral Alcohol within the state will create new employment opportunities. Measures will be taken by the Government to encourage the production of Extra Neutral Alcohol within the state.

 

546.      An amount of ₹286 crores to be collected towards Abkari Old Arrears. Most of these arrears belongs to the period from 1949-50 to 2001-02. Many of the defaulters have already expired. There are many court cases in connection with these old arrears. Arrears can’t be realised in time due to the pendency of these cases and stay offered by Hon’ble Courts.   A new Amnesty scheme will be introduced which will assist to realize the arrears.

547.      Government sanctioned production of Horti-Wine from the agriculture products available in the state except cereals. The existing tax structure of Indian made wine will be made applicable to the Horti- Wine also to help the farmers of the state.

State GST

548.      The State GST Department has been reorganised with effect from 10.01.2023 to align with the provisions of the GST Act. Necessary concomitant changes in accordance with the restructured designations will be made in the Acts and Rules administered by the GST Department.

Ease of Filing Appeals under Legacy Acts

549.      There is a need to re-examine the settlement of disputes under the legacy acts. The disputed amounts often require legal adjudication for which there is a demand for easing the process of preferring statutory appeals. To ease the procedures, the following measures will be implemented.

a.   The 1% additional court fee currently applicable for filing appeals under the Goods and Services Tax Act has a ceiling of Rs. 20,000. This ceiling of Rs. 20,000 will be made applicable for filing appeals under the KVAT, KGST, and Luxuries Tax Acts administered by the GST Department. The Kerala Court Fees and Suits Valuation Act will be amended for this purpose.

b.   Presently, under the Kerala Value Added Tax Act, 2003, if an assessee pays 20% of the disputed amount while filing the appeal, the recovery of the demand will be automatically stayed till the disposal of the appeal. To grant relief to tax litigants, the Kerala General Sales Tax Act, 1963, the Kerala Tax on Luxuries Act, 1976, and the Kerala Value Added Tax Act, 2003, will be amended to reduce the pre-deposit for first appeal and consequent stay at 10% of the disputed amount of tax, subject to a maximum amount of Rs 5 crores. Similar facility will be made applicable for the second appeal also, with the condition that the pre-deposit amount for second appeal need not be paid if equivalent amount is already paid for first appeal. Other than the 10% pre-deposit mentioned previously, no other amount will be required to be paid by persons opting under this scheme for filing an appeal. This facility shall not enable any person to avail refunds of pre-deposits already paid or reverse any arrears recovery proceeding that has already resulted in the recovery of any amount to the exchequer, including by way of attachment of property. In case of disputes under Kerala General Sales Tax Act, 1963, this facility is limited to those cases where the assessment is for a period up to March 31, 2005.  In cases where the time limit for filing an appeal has expired and all those cases where the appeal has not been admitted due to any reason shall be eligible for filing appeals till September 30th, 2023 as a one-time concession. Enabling provisions will be made in the Acts.

 

550.      The amendments to the Kerala State Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, will be made corresponding to the amendments incorporated in the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, as per the Union Finance Bill, 2023, which have been made on the recommendation of the GST Council.

Registration

551.      Fair value of land came into force in the State in 2010. There after this has been revised five times. To bridge the gap between the market value and the fair value, the existing fair value will be increased by 20 percent.

 

552.      Finance Act, 2020 has incorporated provisions to increase the fair value of land up to 30% in areas where the market value has increased due to various reasons; a detailed study will be conducted to determine the guidelines to identify the areas that need to be notified.

 

553.      As the existing compounding scheme for settlement of pending undervaluation cases does not meet the intended objective, the existing scheme will be discontinued from the financial year 2023-24 and alternative methods will be adopted for settlement of pending cases.

 

554.      In view of the impact of global economic recession in the real estate sector in 2010, stamp duty was reduced to 5% for flats/apartments transferred within 6 months from the date of allotment of building number by the local bodies. Now taking into consideration of present stamp duty rates, it is proposed to revise it from 5% to 7%.

 

555.      The additional stamp duty rates imposed for resale of land purchased within a period of  3 months and 6 months will be waived off.

 

556.      A service charge of Rs.100 will be imposed  for filing and release of Gehans.

 

557.      The  various fees related with Partnership Firm  Registration and other services under the Indian Partneship Act,1932 and Travancore Cochin, Scientific and Charitable Socieities Registration Act,1955  were last revised on 2013 and 2015 respetively. The same will be revised from the finanical year 2023-24. Existing  compounding scheme for societies will be continued for a period of one year under  new slab rates.

 

558.      Maximum upper cap on stamp duty limiting to Rupees One Lakh will be fixed on Specific Power of Attorney for joint development agreements.

 

559.      Registration fee for surrender of Lease will be reduced to Rs.1000.

Revenue

560.      The annual Basic Land Tax levied on the Patta land shall be considered for revision based on usage for commercial and industrial occupation.

Social Security Seed Fund

561.      Government continues its highest commitment to provide social security to the vulnerable sections of the society. Approximately 57 lakh persons are benefited with the present policy of social security pension of the Government. Out of which 6.7 lakh persons from various welfare boards are being provided pension from full Government support. The financial commitment to meet the expenditure is on the rise and reaching
Rs.11,000 Cr per annum. The commitment to continue protecting the decent lives to this vulnerable section require supplementing the financial resources.

 

562.      It is proposed to levy a Social Security Cess at the rate of Rs. 20 for each bottle of IMFL having MRP between Rs. 500 to Rs. 999 and at the rate of Rs. 40 per bottle of IMFL having MRP above Rs. 1000. An additional revenue of Rs. 400 Cr is expected through this.

 

563.      Another impetus measure towards the Social Security Seed Fund is proposed to be brought by bringing the Social Security Cess on sale of Petrol and Diesel at the rate of Rs. 2 per litre. This is expected to bring in additional revenue of Rs. 750 Cr to the Social Security Seed Fund.

CONCLUSION

Sir,

564.      The LDF Government envisages developmental activities foreseeing ‘Nava Kerala’ (New Kerala). The objective of the Government is to lead Kerala towards infrastructure development and amenities equivalent to any developed country. In both the previous and the current budget, Government have announced projects that will be an asset for Kerala in future.

565.      While moving forward with a clear objective, we have to realise that the world is not in a comfortable fiscal position. Financial Institutions and leading economists are of the opinion that the world is passing through the worst economic crisis in a century. We are not going further into the causes behind this. The perspectives of the new Governments across the world, which are profit oriented and not people-centric, create severe crisis.  There is even concern that the atmosphere of racism, aggression, war similar to that of 1930s may be emerged.

566.      Even a developed country like Britain witnessed three Prime Ministers assuming office in a short span of two months. Economic crisis and unemployment are the fundamental reasons behind political instability. Our neighboring countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan have fallen into severe economic crisis. Pakistan is facing such a crisis that they are even unable to buy diesel fuel for power generation. This peculiar situation can be survived only by taking every single step forward carefully. As a matter of pride that Kerala is able to move forward with alternative welfare policies despite this global scenario.

567.      It is time for us to set aside all our differences beyond party politics and stand united for Kerala. We have the responsibility to protect the peculiarities and characteristics of Kerala. The policy of LDF Government is to hold everyone in Kerala together. This Government is committed to bring development and welfare to everyone.

568.      Budget is not just figures; but an approach document to lead the State forward with greater vigour. I hope that this budget will become an action plan to lead our State towards further progress and development.

569.      Let me now present a summary of the Revised Estimates for 2022-2023 and the Budget Estimates for 2023-2024.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revised Budget Estimate for 2022-23

(Rs. In crore)                                                                                                                                                   

Revenue Receipts

129268.15

Revenue Expenditure

149183.68

Revenue Deficit

(-)19915.53

Capital Expenditure (Net)

(-)14833.34

Loans & Advances (Net)

(-)2015.08

Public Debt (Net)

25716.05

Public Account (Net)

11027

Overall Deficit

(-)20.90

Opening balance at the beginning of the year

(-)293.86

Closing balance at the end of the year

(-)314.76

 

 

 

 

 

Budget Estimate for 2023-24                                                                

                                                                (Rs. In crore)

Revenue Receipts

135418.67

Revenue Expenditure

159360.91

Revenue Deficit

(-)23942.24

Capital Expenditure (Net)

(-)14539.23

Loans & Advances (Net)

(-)1180.76

Public Debt (Net)

28552.79

Public Account (Net)

11073.94

Overall Deficit

(-)35.49

Opening balance at the beginning of the year

(-)314.76

Closing balance at the end of the year

(-)350.25

Additional Expenditure announced

(-)2640

Tax Relaxation

(-)50

Additional resource mobilization

2955

Cumulative Deficit at the end of the year

(-)85.25

570.      I present this budget 2023-2024 for the approval of the esteemed house.