Karnataka Unveils Rs 4,48,004 Crore 2026-27 Budget

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the state's 2026-27 budget in Bengaluru on Friday, unveiling a Rs 4,48,004 crore expenditure plan that emphasizes infrastructure development, social welfare and groundbreaking restrictions on social media for minors. The budget, his 17th in a political career spanning decades, positions the state as a leader in national development while addressing concerns over federal funding shortfalls.

Siddaramaiah highlighted Karnataka's role as one of India's top tax contributors, yet accused the central government of undermining the federal system and causing injustice to the state. He outlined a balanced approach combining welfare initiatives with long-term economic investments. Key infrastructure allocations include Rs 1,593 crore for upgrading seven domestic airports, with Rs 200 crore allocated for the current year. A feasibility study will explore a second airport in Bengaluru to ease congestion at Kempegowda International Airport, India's third-busiest. In Shivamogga, aircraft manufacturing and assembly will proceed under a public-private partnership model. Bengaluru's Outer Ring Road stretch from Silk Board Junction to KR Puram Metro...