Kerala Budget Benefits Workers, Youth and Farmers: CITU

Thiruvananthapuram: The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) stated that the state budget contains forward-looking perspectives and practical proposals that benefit workers, farmers, ordinary people, and particularly the younger generation, while strengthening Kerala’s development and welfare initiatives. Increasing allocations for traditional sectors, making undergraduate education free, and raising the plan outlay for the public sector are among the most significant decisions highlighted in the budget, the CITU State Committee said.

By increasing the honorariums of ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and school kitchen staff, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to scheme workers. An allocation of 59 crore rupees for handloom and weaving workers and 95 crore rupees for Kudumbashree has been made. The announcement that 5.25 lakh houses will be completed under the LIFE Mission, along with follow-up initiatives aimed at building an extreme-poverty-free society, will further strengthen Kerala’s social progress.

The introduction of health group insurance for auto-taxi workers, lottery workers, and Haritha Karma Sena workers, and the allocation of 20 crore rupees to establish rest centres for gig workers, provide major relief to the working class.

For women’s safety, 3,720 crore rupees has been allocated, while 30 crore rupees has been set aside for senior citizens’ care centres. The pension for media professionals has been increased by 1,500 rupees, raising it to 13,000 rupees. By announcing assured pension benefits for government employees and constituting the 12th Pay Revision Commission, the LDF government has succeeded in standing together with all sections of society, CITU noted.

Even at a time when the Central government is attempting to financially squeeze Kerala, this budget has ensured the state’s basic development and public welfare through effective financial management, CITU State President T. P. Ramakrishnan and General Secretary Elamaram Kareem said in a statement.