Kerala’s revised budget for 2026-27 is likely to boost the higher education sector

Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan, who also holds the Finance portfolio | Photo credit: ANI

Kerala’s revised budget for 2026-27, presented by Chief Minister VD Satheesan, who also holds the finance portfolio, on 19 June 2026 is expected to boost the state’s higher education sector by promoting a student-centric approach and developing the ecosystem in line with emerging global employment trends.

The revised budget is expected to provide a blueprint for the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) ‘Indira Guarantee’ to provide a monthly stipend of ₹1,000 to girls studying in college in the state.

Higher Education Minister Roji M. John said on Tuesday that the government has already announced that it will be implemented in the coming academic year. The budget would include proposals that would help elevate the state to a hub of global education, he said.

He said the revised budget would reflect the promises made by the UDF in its manifesto. The aim is to come up with proposals that would help create an ecosystem equipped to meet the rapidly changing scenario of higher education, he said.

The budget is likely to announce the launch of several institutions to promote research and innovation. It can also focus on raising the higher education prospects of students from marginalized communities. Some of the poll’s promises that may find a place in the budget include the establishment of a permanent “Job Watch Tower” to monitor labor market demands and align study programs accordingly.

Focus on skills and retraining

The budget is expected to place greater emphasis on skills and retraining. The government may also include proposals to address the growing trend of young university applicants migrating abroad, as outlined in the UDF election manifesto.

Published – June 16, 2026 1:35 PM IST