Karnataka CM Yediyurappa to present state Budget; Focus on new taxes, relief on fuel prices

Bengaluru, Mar 08: Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa would present the state budget for the fiscal year 2021-22, one of his toughest, in the post-pandemic era. This will be Yediyurappa's eighth budget and third during his present term as chief minister since July 2019.

The Chief Minister, who holds the finance portfolio, had already hinted that the effect of COVID-19 would be visible on the budget. He also said the government will not impose any new taxes in the budget and burden the people who are already facing hardship due to increase in fuel prices.

"Amid the COVID-19 situation, we have to ensure development in all the districts across Karnataka. This time emphasis would be on women empowerment, tourism, agriculture and irrigation," the CM had said.

According to a government official, hopes are pinned on the ongoing vaccination drive against COVID-19, people''s willingness and the reduction of cases in the coming months. Just before the outbreak of pandemic in India, Yediyurappa in the budget on March 5, 2020 had presented an outlay of Rs 2,37,893 crore.