Though Kerala claimed a record increase in its revenue, it is overshadowed by concerns over clearing arrears owed to pensioners and beneficiaries of various schemes.
Kerala Finance Minister KN Balagopal. (KNBalagopalCPIM/Facebook)
There are persistent concerns over the state’s struggles to clear huge arrears it owes to pensioners and social security scheme beneficiaries. While the LDF government blames the BJP-led Union Government for squeezing state finances, the flip side is internal shortcomings adding to the strain. The state blames crisis caused by the Centre’s reduction in tax allocations and debt limits.