Parliament Diary

Lok Sabha had a general discussion on the Interim Budget today.  During the discussion, several members raised questions regarding the data on unemployment, implementation of schemes to address agrarian crises, allocation of funds to several schemes, demonetisation, and budget allocation for defence.

The Finance Bill, 2019 was passed by Lok Sabha.

Rajya Sabha remained adjourned for most of the day. 

The Kerala Budget was presented by Dr. T.M Thomas Isaac, Finance Minister, on January 31.

Some key highlights:

• The Gross State Domestic Product of Kerala for 2019-20 (at current prices) is estimated to be Rs 8,75,514 crore. This is 13% higher than the revised estimate for 2018-19.
• Total expenditure for 2019-20 is estimated to be Rs 1,41,980 crore, a 13.9% increase over the revised estimate of 2018-19.
• Total receipts (excluding borrowings) for 2019-20 are estimated to be Rs 1,15,690 crore, an increase of 14.6% as compared to the revised estimate of 2018-19.
• Revenue deficit for the next financial year is targeted at Rs 8,770 crore, or 1% of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Fiscal deficit is targeted at Rs 26,291 crore (3% of GSDP).
• The sectors of Rural Development, Transport, and Welfare of SC/ST/OBC and Minorities saw the highest increase in allocations 

The budget analysis can be read here.