Balancing Festivity and Finance: Kerala’s Plan for a Grand Onam Celebration
Onam, a cherished festival for all Keralites, transcends religious beliefs and the credibility of legends, embodying a time of joy and togetherness. Despite financial hardships, the state government is committed to ensuring a grand celebration. With Onam just two months away, the state government plans to take a loan of Rs 1,500 crore to cover social security pension arrears, salaries, and pensions.
Onam brings additional financial burdens, including salary advances, social security pension arrears, Supplyco’s Onam markets, and Onam week celebrations. It is also a peak season for traders, often marked by price hikes. To ensure affordability for the common man, particularly for essentials like vegetables and spices, the Civil Supplies Department must intervene effectively. For this to happen, the government must clear the Rs 3,500 crore arrears owed to SupplyCo by both the Center and the State.
Recently, ‘Kerala Kaumudi’ highlighted these financial concerns, prompting the Opposition to raise the issue in the House. Finance Minister KN Balagopal has assured that special attention will be given to SupplyCo. Last year, the Food and Public Supplies Department struggled due to contractors’ unwillingness to supply goods for Onam markets, resulting in shortages in half the districts. This embarrassing situation should not be repeated. Immediate payment of at least part of the arrears is crucial, and by early September, crores must be distributed to cover government employees’ salaries and pensions.
Unnecessary and costly celebrations planned for July and August should be postponed. Measures should be taken to reduce waste in connection with the Onam celebrations. Just as families tighten their budgets and cut back on non-essential items, the finance department should adopt similar precautionary measures for Onam. With careful planning and prudent management, Onam can be celebrated without compromising financial stability. It’s time to start this mental calculation now to ensure the grandeur of Onam is preserved without breaking the bank. Otherwise, even if assets are sold, the desired outcome will not be achieved.
