Thiruvananthapuram: Finance Minister K N Balagopal said steps would be initiated soon to increase the salaries and pensions of government employees. He said the pending dearness allowance would be cleared by April. An additional ₹23,000 crore has been earmarked in the coming financial year to meet employee-related benefits. The Minister was replying to the budget debate in the Kerala Assembly.

Balagopal also said the school students’ insurance scheme would be launched within this year.

Although the Finance Commission has recommended that no revenue deficit grant be provided, the Union government has not taken a final decision on the matter. While such grants have not been sanctioned so far, it is expected that the decision will be reviewed.

Despite a reduction in Central assistance, the Minister claimed that he did not make any changes to the budget allocations or estimates. He also announced additional projects worth ₹168 crore.

The Minister criticised the Opposition for completely boycotting the budget discussion.