Reports & Papers
Kerala Budget Analysis FY 2026-27 offers a concise assessment of the state budget presented by K. N. Balagopal on January 29, 2026, detailing projections for GSDP growth, fiscal and revenue deficits, and debt trajectories. The analysis, prepared by Sreelakshmi Harilal, Research Associate, breaks down revenue and expenditure estimates, committed spending, and sectoral allocations—highlighting major commitments such as the Chief Minister’s Women’s Safety Scheme, expanded free higher education, and investments in technology and the gig economy. The analysis compares own-tax mobilisation, central transfers, and borrowings, and assesses implications for fiscal flexibility, capital outlay, and FRBM targets for 2026–27. It concludes with policy observations on the sustainability of recurring obligations and the trade-offs between committed and developmental spending, and suggests areas for fiscal reform to strengthen investment and social outcomes.
Sreelakshmi Harilal is an Associate – Research & Projects (Chairman’s Office) at Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR)
Views expressed by the authors are personal and need not reflect or represent the views of the Centre for Public Policy Research.
Sreelakshmi holds an MSc in International Development from the University of Birmingham and BA Honors Economics from Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi. She has worked as Academic Coordinator at a Cambridge International School.
