The Kerala government is preparing to increase the salaries and allowances of state legislators and ministers, with a bill likely to be introduced in the Assembly before the current session concludes on Thursday.

The state Cabinet is expected to approve the proposals at its meeting on Wednesday. The proposed revision could raise the basic allowances of MLAs from the current ₹70,000 to around ₹1 lakh. Ministers’ monthly earnings, including dearness allowance, could rise to approximately ₹1.3 lakh.

The recommendations also include increases in other benefits available to legislators and ministers.

How much do Kerala MLAs and ministers currently receive?

MLAs in Kerala do not receive a salary as such but are paid allowances. A commission has recommended increasing these benefits by up to 35%.

The current basic allowance package for an MLA totals ₹70,000, including a minimum travel allowance of ₹20,000 and a constituency allowance.

In addition, legislators receive ₹10 for every kilometre travelled, railway coupons worth ₹4 lakh annually, and daily allowances of ₹1,000 for travel within Kerala and ₹1,200 for travel outside the state.

Other benefits include interest-free loans for purchasing vehicles and houses, a book allowance of ₹15,000 and reimbursement of medical expenses.

Ministers’ pay and pension benefits

Ministers receive an additional basic salary of ₹2,000, apart from their allowances. They are also entitled to dearness allowance, which has been applicable since 1951, according to the report.

The pension payable to former MLAs ranges from ₹8,000 to ₹20,000, depending on the length of their tenure as legislators.

The proposed revision would increase the overall financial benefits available to MLAs and ministers. The final amounts will depend on the Cabinet’s decision and the legislative process.