Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to Present Record-Breaking 17th Budget

Defying all political speculations regarding his leadership, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is set to create an unprecedented record on Friday by presenting the state budget for the 17th time. Holding the Finance portfolio, Siddaramaiah has already secured his place in history as the individual who has presented the highest number of budgets in the state. Furthermore, he also holds the record for being the longest-serving Chief Minister of Karnataka, cementing his influence over the state's fiscal roadmap. 

The state is eagerly awaiting the budget for the 2026-27 financial year. While last year's budget outlay was ₹4.09 lakh crore, experts and political analysts predict a significant increase of at least ₹40,000 crore this year. Cabinet ministers and various departments are hopeful for increased grants to fund development projects and welfare schemes. The Chief Minister is expected to strike a balance between his government's "five guarantees" and the broader infrastructure needs of the state. 

Live Screening at 230 Bus Stands In a first-of-its-kind initiative to make the budget speech accessible to every corner of the state, the government has introduced a new digital outreach program. The budget presentation will be telecast live on digital screens installed at 230 KSRTC/RDC bus stands across Karnataka. This move ensures that the common man and rural populations are directly informed about the fiscal policies and allocations that will shape their future over the next year.