Karnataka Minister Calls for Review of Guarantee Schemes

Karnataka Minister Satish Jarkiholi has called for a review of the state's guarantee schemes to ensure that only the economically weaker sections benefit. He suggests that excluding the rich could save at least Rs 10,000 crore annually. The debate comes as opposition and some Congress MLAs express concerns over the financial strain these schemes impose.

Karnataka Minister Satish Jarkiholi has sparked a debate by advocating a review of the state's guarantee schemes, suggesting they should benefit only the economically weaker sections and not the wealthy. The minister claims this could save the state exchequer at least Rs 10,000 crore annually.

The state government has allocated Rs 52,000 crore for five ambitious guarantee schemes, including free electricity and financial support for unemployed graduates. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced these schemes as a major component of the state budget for 2024-25.

Home Minister G Parameshwara and other officials have stated that any decision on revising these schemes would be made at the Cabinet level. Meanwhile, opposition leaders, including BJP state chief B Y Vijayendra, have criticized the schemes, claiming they are financially unsustainable.

(With inputs from agencies.)