Budget proposals benefit the coastal region: Captain Brijesh Chowta

Stating that the Union Budget 2026-27 marks a decisive moment in India’s development journey, Dakshina Kannada Member of Parliament Captain Brijesh Chowta said several proposals on coastal cargo, port-led development, city economic regions, hospitality and more, would directly benefit the region.

In a statement here on Sunday, Capt. Chowta said the Budget clearly reiterates the PM Narendra Modi-led NDA government’s resolve to support the poor, the underprivileged, and the disadvantaged, and translates it into action through a well-defined framework anchored in three Kartavyas.

“The Prime Minister has repeatedly emphasised that India’s next leap will be led by its youth. This Budget reflects that belief in both spirit and substance. The foundation has been laid over the last 11 years. The focus now is on installing and strengthening the pillars — our Yuva Shakti, Nari Shakti, the Orange Economy, MSMEs and next-generation entrepreneurs.“

Opportunities for DK

Capt. Chowta said the Budget opens multiple avenues for growth, provided regions proactively align themselves with the opportunities on offer from a Dakshina Kannada perspective. Focus on Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns, including professional skilling and financial capability-building, would directly benefit Mangaluru’s MSMEs, startups, and traditional businesses.

The Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme and port-led development initiatives would further strengthen Mangaluru’s role as a maritime and logistics hub, while MSME-focused measures, including improved credit access, faster payments, and enhanced financing options, would support local enterprises.

Mangaluru-Udupi corridor

The MP said the proposal to develop City Economic Regions provides a significant opportunity to position the Mangaluru–Udupi corridor as a growth centre anchored in ports, education, healthcare, tourism, and MSMEs. The proposal to support indigenised seaplane manufacturing and operations offers new possibilities for coastal connectivity and tourism.

Proposals for regional medical hubs with integrated healthcare complexes and AYUSH centres are especially relevant for DK. “We already have a strong healthcare ecosystem, trained manpower, and a culture of service. This Budget gives us the framework to build medical value tourism, integrated care services and a robust care economy.“

Orange Economy

The Budget’s emphasis on the Orange Economy, including animation, visual effects, gaming, and design, aligns well with DK’s emerging creative and STEM-linked talent base, he said. Mangaluru, with a strong hotel and tourism ecosystem, is well-positioned to host a National Institute of Hospitality. He also lauded the announcement of Turtle Trails along the Karnataka coast, calling it a step that combines conservation, livelihood creation, and sustainable tourism.

The Budget’s thrust on fisheries, marine value chains, and coastal livelihoods would benefit fishermen, exporters, and women-led enterprises. Proposals for dedicated support for coconut, cocoa, and cashew cultivation and processing in coastal areas are essential for increasing farmer incomes and rural employment.