Kerala Budget 2025-26: Finance minister KN Balagopal presents 5th budget of 2nd Pinarayi Vijayan govt amid financial crunch

Finance Minister KN Balagopal is set to present his fifth and final full budget of the second Pinarayi Vijayan government, with a focus on managing public dissatisfaction amid financial constraints. Limited by the GST framework, the state has few options for generating additional revenue, pushing the government to reconsider previously opposed measures while avoiding major expenditure cuts. Social security pensions, currently at ₹1,600 for 62 lakh elderly beneficiaries, may see a minor hike ahead of upcoming elections. The introduction of a road user fee for KIIFB-funded roads is under discussion, backed by CPM leaders, though a final decision is pending. Some tax and fee hikes from the last budget might be rolled back due to a decline in land transactions, but revisions to government service fees are likely. Key development projects will focus on the Vizhinjam port expansion and a roadmap for Wayanad rehabilitation, with the central government expected to be blamed for the state’s financial challenges. Stay with TOI for live updates