Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the Karnataka Budget 2026, unveiling a Rs 4.48 lakh crore fiscal plan while announcing a ban on social media use for children under 16. The budget emphasizes welfare schemes, infrastructure, and cooperative development, but also reflects grievances over reduced central funding allocations to the state.
Karnataka’s 2026 budget has drawn attention for its ambitious fiscal plan and bold social measures. Siddaramaiah highlighted the state’s commitment to welfare and infrastructure while criticizing the Centre for inadequate financial support.
Social Media Ban For Under-16s
A landmark announcement was the ban on social media for children under 16, aimed at protecting youth from digital addiction and online risks. The government plans awareness campaigns and monitoring mechanisms to enforce the rule.
Fiscal Plan And Welfare Focus
The Rs 4.48 lakh crore budget prioritizes education, healthcare, agriculture, and cooperative development, alongside infrastructure expansion. Siddaramaiah emphasized schemes for farmers, women, and marginalized communities, positioning the budget as people-centric despite fiscal constraints.
Key Highlights
• Rs 4.48 lakh crore fiscal plan unveiled
• Social media ban for under-16s announced
• Focus on welfare schemes, education, and healthcare
• Infrastructure and cooperative development prioritized
• CM raised concerns over reduced central funding support
Conclusion
The Karnataka Budget 2026 blends progressive welfare measures with digital-age safeguards, reflecting Siddaramaiah’s vision for inclusive growth. While the social media ban for under-16s is a pioneering move, the state’s grievances over central funding remain a pressing issue for fiscal sustainability.
Sources: The Hindu, Deccan Herald, Economic Times, Indian Express