Palakkad gets limited allocations in revised Kerala Budget

The revised Kerala Budget 2026 announced a number of major projects and special packages across Kerala, but Palakkad provided only a few allocations and no major district-specific projects. The budget proposes the construction and development of Mannarkkad prison on a priority basis. Apart from this, Palakkad’s allocations include ₹ 2 crore for a new building for the community health center (CHC) in Chalissery, ₹ 1 crore for the first phase of the Ottapalam court complex and ₹ 50 lakh for the KR Narayanan Civil Service Academy in Thrithala.

The lack of large funds triggered criticism that the district was once again overlooked in sectors such as industry, infrastructure, tourism, irrigation and transportation. Stakeholders state that many long-pending demands have not been met.

The absence of a dedicated agriculture package is a major concern. Farmer organizations have long sought a Kuttanad-style package to combat delays in paddy procurement, uncertainty in payments and rising costs of cultivation. The fact that the budget did not announce such a package led to criticism from the farming community.

However, farmers welcomed the government’s assurance that paddy procurement would be facilitated and payments would be made on time. The proposal to open additional government-run coconut purchasing centers was also welcomed.

women farmers program

The budget proposes a women farmer development program and support for women-led agricultural businesses and farmer collectives. It also aims to promote the use of AI-powered drones, IoT technologies and modern agricultural equipment to increase productivity and strengthen climate resilience.

Measures to ensure fair prices for agricultural products and attract more young people into farming were also outlined. Rubber farmers have received some relief with the increase in the support price under the Rubber Production Promotion Scheme from ₹200 to ₹250 per kg. The hikes are expected to benefit growers in hilly parts of the region.

Despite these measures, critics say the Budget does not adequately meet Palakkad’s long-standing demands in the areas of agriculture, Kanjikode industrial area, irrigation and infrastructure development.