Thiruvananthapuram: Finance Minister KN Balagopal announced in his Budget speech that new prisons need to be established to address overcrowding in jails across the state. An allocation of ₹47 crore has been set aside in the Budget for prison modernisation works.

The minister said the government is envisaging schemes that give priority to the welfare and safety of prisoners. As part of strengthening security in existing prisons, modern infrastructure, including advanced surveillance systems based on cutting-edge technology, will be put in place.

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He also announced that the existing free education up to Plus Two level will now be extended to the degree level. An allocation of ₹3,820 crore has been made for women’s security pension. A total of ₹14,500 crore has been earmarked for welfare pensions, while ₹400 crore has been allocated for the Connect scholarship scheme. The honorarium of ASHA workers has been increased by ₹1,000.

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In a major relief for state government employees, Balagopal announced the setting up of the 12th Pay Revision Commission. The Commission is expected to submit its report within three months, paving the way for the next pay revision for employees.