Balagopal has presented a balanced, realistic and practical Budget that effectively integrates welfare measures while maintaining focus on development initiatives. This milestone Budget, which surpasses ₹2 trillion for the first time, seeks to address the State’s economic, demographic, and operational realities while maintaining fiscal prudence. Also read: Kerala Budget 2026 highlightsKerala is undergoing rapid urbanisation, with the urban population projected to reach 80% by 2051. The Budget also earmarks resources to address the other significant demographic transition currently unfolding in Kerala. Initiatives such as the proposed ‘Rare Earth Corridor,’ SEMICON Kerala, and the Emerging Technologies Mission are expected to significantly strengthen the State’s information technology ecosystem.