The University of Mysore, a historic academic institution in Karnataka, has unveiled a deficit budget of ₹107.72 crore for the fiscal year 2025-26. This marks the third consecutive year the university has faced a financial shortfall, raising concerns about the sustainability of its revenue model. During the Academic Council meeting held in Mysuru on April 4, 2025, Vice-Chancellor N.K. Lokanath presided over the budget session, where Finance Officer K.S. Rekha presented the figures. The university’s estimated revenue for 2025-26 stands at ₹295.59 crore, significantly short of the projected expenditure of ₹403.31 crore.
A major contributor to the deficit is the ballooning pensionary liability. With approximately 1,822 existing pensioners—and the number projected to rise to 1,881 due to upcoming retirements—the financial pressure on the university is mounting. Pension-related expenses alone amount to ₹157.54 crore, second only to salary payouts, which stand at ₹169.19 crore.
Despite allocating funds for pension obligations, the university received only ₹50 crore from the government, leaving a significant shortfall. Had the full pension grant of ₹157.54 crore been sanctioned, the actual budget deficit would have been a negligible ₹18 lakh. This shortfall is crippling the university’s ability to sustain its financial commitments, particularly pensions.
The situation has sparked concern among council members, many of whom have urged the Karnataka government to take responsibility for pension disbursements. Others suggested boosting internal revenue through innovative academic programs, research grants, and industry collaborations. Vice-Chancellor Lokanath emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “It will be very difficult for the university to pay pensions in the coming months due to a shortfall of revenue.”
As the University of Mysore continues to grapple with this fiscal crisis, a strategic intervention from the state government and revenue-generating reforms appear to be the only viable solutions to ensure the financial health of this 100-year-old institution.
