Budget Delay Hampers Book Purchases for Karnataka Libraries

The delay in approving the budget for libraries in Karnataka for the fiscal year 2023-24 has halted book purchases, affecting the entire process of library development. Despite the submission of the budget proposal in September 2023, the State Government has yet to approve it, causing significant disruption to the procurement of books.

This delay not only impacts the current year’s acquisitions but also impedes the formulation of an action plan for the following fiscal year, exacerbating the challenges faced by publishers and the Karnataka Publishers’ Association. With book purchases at a standstill, publishers are experiencing financial strain, highlighting the urgent need for the government’s approval to restore normalcy in library operations and support the literary ecosystem in Karnataka.