Karnataka Cabinet approves revival of student union elections

The Karnataka State Cabinet has approved the revival of student union elections in colleges and universities, ending a 37-year ban. Scheduled to begin in the 2026-27 academic year, the elections aim to foster leadership and democratic values. However, political parties and organizations are prohibited from campaigning on campuses, and the government will not implement caste-based reservations for these polls to prevent them from becoming caste-based contests. The elections will be optional, determined by student choice rather than institutional management.

In addition to educational reforms, the Cabinet approved the distribution of 1.5 million residential sites to economically weaker sections across the state, with 50,000 sites allocated per district. The distribution will occur in three phases.

The state is also addressing a severe drought, with 101 talukas already declared drought-affected and 50 more expected to follow. The government intends to seek financial support from the Centre, including potential waivers for farmers' loans.