Kerala Budget Boosts Pay for Health Workers

Kerala Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal presented the State Budget for the financial year 2026–27 on Thursday. The budget gives importance to social welfare, healthcare workers, transport development, and disaster rehabilitation.

The government announced higher honorariums for grassroots health and childcare workers. These workers play an important role in providing basic health services and caring for women and children, especially in rural and poor areas.

ASHA workers, who help families with healthcare needs and support pregnant women and children, will get an increase of Rs 1,000 in their monthly pay. Anganwadi workers will also receive an additional Rs 1,000 every month. Anganwadi helpers will get a salary hike of Rs 500.

The government said these increases are meant to recognise the hard work and dedication of these workers and to improve their living conditions.

Apart from this, the budget also focuses on strengthening social security schemes. More funds have been set aside for pensions, welfare programmes, and support for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, women, and low-income families.

The State also plans to invest in transport infrastructure to improve roads and public transport services. The budget includes projects aimed at better connectivity and smoother travel for people.

Special attention has been given to disaster rehabilitation as well. Kerala often faces floods and other natural disasters, so the government has allocated money for rebuilding damaged areas and improving disaster preparedness.

This is seen as the last full budget of the current Pinarayi Vijayan government before the next Assembly elections. The budget reflects the government’s focus on welfare, development, and support for common people.