Kerala Legislators Set for Salary Increase and iPad Purchases Amid Budget Concerns

The Kerala government is considering a significant salary increase of 43% for its legislators while also planning to purchase 480 Apple iPads for ministers and their staff. This decision has sparked debates about government spending, especially as it coincides with calls for budget cuts. The procurement process for the iPads has already begun, with an estimated cost of ₹6.71 crores. As discussions unfold, the final details regarding the salary increase and the implications of these purchases on public finances remain to be seen. The situation raises important questions about the necessity of such expenditures in the current economic climate.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 27, 2026, 15:43 IST

Significant Salary Increase for Kerala Legislators

A major update has emerged regarding the salaries and benefits of legislators in Kerala. Reports indicate that there is a plan to increase their salaries and allowances by approximately 43%. Additionally, the state government has initiated the procurement process for 480 Apple iPads for ministers and their personal staff, with an estimated expenditure of around ₹6.71 crores. This move raises questions as it comes at a time when there is a call for reducing government expenditures.

Discussions on Salary Hike

According to media reports, Sunny Joseph, the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs in Kerala, has confirmed discussions regarding the salary and allowances increase for legislators. He mentioned that this topic was addressed in a meeting of the advisory committee, and it is expected to move forward following the Chief Minister's directives.

Tender Issued for iPad Purchase

Amid discussions of salary increases, the Kerala government has also issued a tender for the purchase of 480 Apple iPads for ministers and their staff. The tender was released by Keltron, a public sector company, on October 16, with an estimated total cost of ₹6.71 crores.

Cost Breakdown of iPads

The tender includes three types of iPads: the 13-inch iPad Pro, the 11-inch iPad Pro, and the 11-inch iPad A16. Each category will see the purchase of 160 devices.

13-inch iPad Pro, 256GB: Estimated cost for 160 devices is around ₹3.19 crores, with each device priced at approximately ₹1.99 lakhs.

11-inch iPad Pro, 256GB: Approximately ₹2.23 crores allocated for 160 devices, with each priced around ₹1.39 lakhs.

11-inch iPad A16, 256GB: Estimated cost for 160 devices is around ₹1.27 crores.

In total, the budget for acquiring all 480 iPads is approximately ₹6.71 crores, although the final costs may vary after the tender process.

Increased Spending Limit for Government Devices

Reports indicate that the Kerala government has raised the maximum spending limit for purchasing laptops, iPads, and tablets for official use by ministers, private secretaries, and department heads from ₹1.5 lakhs to ₹2 lakhs.

Concerns Over Government Spending

The decision to purchase iPads has sparked discussions, especially since the finance department has been advising government departments to control their expenditures. This multi-crore purchase has ignited debates about government spending and financial priorities.

While some argue that digital devices can enhance the efficiency of ministers and officials, questions arise about the necessity of purchasing such expensive models and whether official needs could be met with more economical options.

Awaiting Final Decisions

The potential salary increase for legislators and the procurement of 480 iPads have intensified discussions regarding government benefits and the use of public funds. The final terms of the salary increase and the completion of the procurement process will clarify the situation.

Currently, the tender for the iPads has been issued, while confirmation of the salary increase and its implementation remains pending. It will be crucial to observe how the government proceeds with these decisions and addresses the concerns surrounding public expenditure.