For years, education budgets focused on infrastructure—more schools, classrooms, and furniture—while learning outcomes were overlooked. Karnataka’s 2025-26 budget breaks this cycle, prioritising real learning over optics. This politically bold move acknowledges that meaningful educational change takes time.

A key highlight is the three-year structured learning programme covering students from LKG to Second PUC, with targeted interventions at every stage. Kalika Chilume makes learning enjoyable for young children in Classes 1-5, fostering curiosity rather than burdening them. Ganita-Ganaka, a phone-based math learning initiative for Classes 3-5, ensures students develop confidence in numeracy, a crucial skill in today’s world. Odhu Karnataka sharpens literacy and numeracy skills for Classes 4-5, ensuring students understand what they learn rather than just passing exams. Marusinchana focuses on students in government schools with low learning levels in Classes 6-10, preventing dropouts and ensuring no child is left behind.

Another major step is the extension of eggs and bananas for 53 lakh students from two to six days a week, acknowledging malnutrition as a key barrier to cognitive development and learning. A well-fed child can focus better in class and absorb what is being taught.

Technology in education gets a meaningful boost with the Kalika Deepa AI programme for Kannada and English, Jnana Setu’s Khan Academy tie-up for math and science, and I-Code Labs’ coding initiative, ensuring digital tools enhance learning rather than replacing teachers.

Higher education and skill development also receive attention. The Skill at School initiative will train 7,500 students across 150 ITIs, ensuring vocational education is seen as mainstream rather than a last resort. The Vidya Vijeta programme will provide CET/NEET/JEE coaching for 25,000 PU students, finally giving government school students a fair shot at competitive exams.

An early Women’s Day gift: Real empowerment

A major empowerment initiative is the Chevening Karnataka Master’s Scholarship Programme, which will send girl students from government colleges to UK universities. Infrastructure in 26 women’s colleges will be upgraded with ₹26 crore to strengthen institutional support.

This budget doesn’t chase quick political wins but invests in what truly matters—the future of Karnataka’s students. At a time when many states are still stuck in outdated education spending models, Karnataka has taken a leap forward, setting an example for progressive governance. 

The author is AICC Secretary and an educationist