<h1>Kerala Budget Criticized by Opposition for Lack of Announcements; Ruling Party Cites Strategic Focus Amid Constraints</h1> The Congress-led opposition UDF in Kerala criticized the state budget presented by Finance Minister K N Balagopal for lacking significant announcements, while the ruling Left Front defended it as a strategic response to financial constraints imposed by the Centre. Deputy Speaker Chittayam Gopakumar accused the Centre of neglecting federal principles and underfunding Kerala's requests, particularly for Wayanad landslide rehabilitation. Opposition members highlighted concerns over education funding, social welfare pensions, and land tax hikes. Meanwhile, ruling party members emphasized the budget's focus on tourism, agriculture, and health, asserting progress in infrastructure projects and future confidence. The budget debate will conclude with the Finance Minister's response.