Budget paves way for inequality elimination and livelihood creation: Veerendra Heggade

Rajya Sabha Member and Pattadhikari of Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Temple D. Veerendra Heggade said the Union Budget 2026-27 paves the way for eliminating inequalities and creating livelihoods by strengthening education and infrastructure in rural and entrepreneurial centres.

In a statement here on Sunday, Mr. Heggade said the budget ensures that when guidance and motivation are provided through skills imparted on health, education, and values, it will contribute to self-reliance, internal growth, and national progress.

He further said the budget suggests a creative shift towards strengthening human capital as the foundation of the country’s progress. The special emphasis on health, education, Ayurveda, and training is a welcome move. The need for preventive care and people-centric development for a progressive society has been analysed.

The focus on holistic health care has given a new dimension to health tourism. As a result, it will transform India into a global destination for holistic treatment. It will also help reduce disparities and create livelihoods, especially in rural areas and emerging centres, Mr. Heggade said.

AI tools for farming

Terming the Budget visionary, Mangaluru City South MLA D. Vedavyasa Kamath welcomed the proposal for artificial intelligence (AI) tools to provide useful advice and cooperate with farmers and cultivators. This will bring a big change in agricultural activities. Besides giving special emphasis to coconut, cocoa, cashew, and arecanut, promoting sandalwood cultivation will be a boon to farmers, he said.

Strong foundation

Former Dakshina Kannada Member of Parliament Nalin Kumar Kateel said the Budget has laid a strong foundation for realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s developed India.

He said the Budget prioritises development of all sectors, including rural development and tourism, and supports the all-round progress of the country. The announcement of duty exemption and an increase in exports of marine products to strengthen the fishing sector is welcome. The plan to develop turtle trails in coastal Karnataka will give a big boost to tourism, Mr. Kateel added.