Reactions to the State budget remained mixed, with some sections of society welcoming its emphasis on employment generation, welfare measures, technology-driven growth and maritime development. Others expressed concerns over implementation, financial sustainability and the possible impact of large-scale infrastructure projects.

Mohammad Yaseen, NSUI leader at the Central University of Kerala and a native of Kollam, thinks the Budget touches almost every sector. According to him, the focus on futuristic development, particularly through Mission Samudra and the development of Vizhinjam as a major maritime hub, could generate employment opportunities for youth. “The biggest problem in Kerala today is unemployment of youth. Mission Samudra and the development of Vizhinjam port can create new employment sectors and help retain talented youth within the State,” he said.

Vishnu Shankar, a postgraduate law student at Kariyavattom, said the Budget reflected an attempt to prepare students for emerging employment sectors. “The allocation for Gen-Z and new-generation technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Robotics is encouraging. The government appears to be looking beyond conventional employment opportunities,” he said. Mr. Vishnu also welcomed the proposed Sidharthan Anti-Ragging and Student Welfare Act, the Student Distress App and the Ombudsman system proposed for colleges.

But he felt the Budget should have devoted greater attention to strengthening existing public educational institutions. “Large projects are important, but many government colleges and universities still require urgent improvements in infrastructure, laboratories and libraries,” he added.

Clear commitment

Varsha S., an IT professional based in Thiruvananthapuram, said the Budget demonstrated a clear commitment to technology, innovation and future skills. “The Global Job Watch Tower, Kerala Knowledge Valley, research parks and the Malayalam AI initiative indicate that the government is trying to align education, research and employment with future industry requirements,” she said.

“The direction is correct, but the scale is still limited. Vision alone will not build careers or companies. The real test will be whether these announcements become funded and time-bound projects,” she added.

Agnas Poulose, an UPSC aspirant and job seeker from Pathanamthitta, viewed the Budget through the lens of employment generation. “Measures that encourage entrepreneurship, create new jobs and support skill development can provide hope to thousands of job seekers,” she said.

From a homemaker’s perspective, Mary K.V. from Pathanamthitta said welfare measures would directly affect the lives of ordinary families. “Rising healthcare expenses, educational costs and transportation charges are major concerns for families. Free bus travel for women and support for female students can reduce household expenditure and improve access to opportunities,” she said.

Offering a more cautious assessment, Sreekumar K.M., a retired government servant from Kozhikode, questioned whether the State’s finances would permit effective implementation of all the proposals announced. “If even 50 per cent of the promises are successfully executed, it can be considered a successful Budget,” he said.

Demands addressed

While the fisheries sector welcomed the Budget, there remained concerns about Blue Economy and port-led development proposals. Jackson Pollayil, State president of the Kerala Swatantra Matsya Thozhilali Federation (KSMTF), said several long-standing demands raised by fishermen appeared to have found a place in the Budget. “The most important issue for us is the kerosene subsidy. It is not enough to announce it every year; it must be distributed regularly,” he said.

Mr. Pollayil noted that fishermen have been experiencing a significant loss of working days due to climate-related weather warnings that prevent them from venturing into the sea. He welcomed indications that compensation for such losses may finally be provided.

However, he expressed serious concerns regarding proposals linked to maritime infrastructure and the Blue Economy. “We are not opposed to development. But if large corporate interests are allowed to dominate marine resource extraction without adequate safeguards, it could threaten the livelihoods of lakhs of fishermen and those dependent on allied sectors,” he said.

The writer, Malavika Devi J. R., is an intern with The Hindu, Thiruvananthapuram