Out of the total allocation, ₹1,091.15 crore will go towards roads and bridges, while ₹91.28 crore has been set aside for national highway projects. The government aims to reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and support economic growth by strengthening transport infrastructure across urban and rural regions.

Presenting the Budget in the Assembly on Thursday, Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal highlighted the progress achieved in recent years. He said the government has upgraded 898 kilometres of State highways into four-lane roads. In addition, authorities have widened 3,193 kilometres of State highways into two-lane corridors. These upgrades aim to improve travel speed and reduce bottlenecks on key routes.

The Budget also underlined strong emphasis on district-level road development. According to Balagopal, the government has developed 52 kilometres of district roads into four-lane stretches. It has also upgraded 10,953 kilometres of district roads into two-lane roads, improving last-mile connectivity for villages and small towns.

Officials believe that better road infrastructure will support tourism, trade, and emergency services. Improved connectivity also helps farmers, small businesses, and daily commuters by lowering travel costs and time. The government sees sustained public investment in roads as a foundation for long-term development.

With this allocation, Kerala continues to prioritise infrastructure-led growth. The focus on highways, bridges, and district roads signals an effort to balance urban expansion with rural development, while creating a more efficient and safer transport network across the State.

The post Kerala Budget 2026: ₹1,182 Crore Boost for Roads and Highways appeared first on India Podcast.

Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan said the Budget relied heavily on rhetoric rather than substance. He accused the ruling LDF of presenting a document filled with exaggerated claims and unrealistic welfare promises. According to him, the government used the Budget as a political tool instead of addressing Kerala’s real fiscal challenges.

Kerala Budget 2026 Faces UDF Attack also because of what the Opposition called a misleading portrayal of economic health. Satheesan termed the Budget an exercise in “smoke and mirrors” that projects an illusion of a fiscally strong welfare State. He argued that the figures failed to reflect ground realities such as rising debt and limited revenue growth.

The UDF further alleged that the Budget resembled an election manifesto rather than a serious financial plan. Satheesan said the LDF attempted to appear pro-development and welfare-oriented to dupe the electorate. However, he claimed the proposals lacked clear funding strategies and credible timelines.

The sharp criticism sets the tone for an intense political battle in Kerala. With Assembly elections approaching, both fronts are expected to use economic policy and welfare delivery as key campaign themes.

The post Kerala Budget 2026 Faces UDF Attack Ahead of Assembly Polls appeared first on India Podcast.

This Budget marks the final financial statement of the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front government. Therefore, many expect targeted announcements aimed at voters. The government may focus on welfare schemes, infrastructure spending, and support for farmers, youth, and women.

Moreover, fiscal discipline will remain a key challenge. Kerala continues to face revenue constraints and borrowing limits. As a result, the Finance Minister must balance public spending with financial prudence. Analysts also expect clarity on debt management and Centre-State financial relations.

At the same time, the Budget could highlight job creation and investment promotion. The government may also announce steps to strengthen healthcare, education, and social security. In addition, measures to support local bodies and small businesses may find a place.

Politically, the Budget sets the tone for the LDF’s election narrative. Hence, it will reflect both governance priorities and campaign messaging. The Assembly and the public will closely watch every proposal.

Overall, today’s Budget will signal how the government plans to address economic pressures while preparing for a crucial electoral battle.

The post Kerala Budget ahead polls: Balagopal set to present final Budget appeared first on India Podcast.