Karnataka is first state to implement Universal Basic Income through guarantee schemes, says CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru: Taking a dig at the opposition’s claims, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that Karnataka is the first state to implement the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) through its set of five guarantee schemes. Hailing it as the “Karnataka Development Model,” he said, the state aims to revolutionize social welfare and promote inclusive growth.

Replying to the debate on the budget for 2023-24 in the Legislative Assembly today, CM Siddaramaiah said, “Karnataka is the first state in the country to provide a large amount through guarantee programs. The opposition party had said that we cannot implement guarantee schemes. But 3 projects have already been implemented. Registration for Griha Lakshmi Yojana has started. The Yuvanidhi scheme is expected to start from the month of December.”

The chief minister emphasized that the state government have fulfilled 158 out of 165 promises adding that the government is “pro-poor”. He said that these schemes have been implemented with the aim of improving the lives of people who are reeling from problems like fuel price hike, unemployment etc. “Our Government is pro-poor. We have worked to fill the pockets of people who are suffering due to price rise and unemployment”, he said.

He further said that this year have earmarked more than 30,000 crores for five guarantees. “Funds have been allocated in the budget for all these projects. Fund mobilization is also detailed in the budget. A total of Rs 52,068 crore is required for these programs annually. 1.30 crore families will be benefitted from these guarantee schemes. Each family will get approximately 4 to 5 thousand rupees per month… Karnataka is the first state in the history of the country to distribute such a large amount to people regardless of caste and religion. This year we have earmarked 35,410 crores for 5 guarantees”, he added.

CM Siddaramaiah further said, “After coming to power in the year 2023-24, our party presented the government’s budget for this financial year, it is our duty to present a budget that includes the government’s policy positions and manifesto promises to respond to the aspirations of the people.”

The CM said that he welcomed both criticism and appreciation and thanked the opposition parties for participating in the discussion and expressing their views.

(With ANI inputs)