Annual Report Of The Country (Part2)

In the grand hall of the imperial palace, the council members gathered around the ornate oak table, their faces etched with concern as they discussed the annual budget. The weight of their decisions was heavy, for the future of Vijayanagara rested on their shoulders.

Krishna Deva Raya, the crown prince, sat at the head of the table, his gaze sharp and commanding. The discussion turned quickly to the two largest blocks of fiscal expenditure: education and healthcare.

"Let us not underestimate the significance of what we've built," Krishna began, his voice steady. "While our per capita GDP hovers at 5222 US dollars, the investments we make in education and healthcare elevate us above many nations. We are not a developing nation, but one that has chosen to prioritize the well-being of its people."

The council murmured in agreement as Krishna outlined the details of the system. "Free education, from kindergarten through to middle school, is a cornerstone of our society. Thirteen years of schooling without charge—this is not a small feat. And for those who strive for excellence, the opportunity to pursue higher education in scientific research universities or technical colleges is open."

The council members nodded, acknowledging the vision of a society where education is within reach for all. A vision inspired by the great Prussian model, which emphasized the importance of both academic and vocational paths.

"As for healthcare," Krishna continued, "it's not entirely free, but it is close. For those over twelve years of age, a mere ten varaha covers all routine medical needs in our public hospitals. For those under twelve, and those over sixty, healthcare is fully covered at no cost."

One of the older council members, Venkatesh, furrowed his brow. "But what of the serious illnesses? The surgeries, the chemotherapy?"

Krishna smiled gently. "For those in need of more intensive care, we offer a choice. National medical insurance, where for a small yearly fee of 600 varaha, 60% of hospitalization costs are covered. And for those employed, we offer a 75% reimbursement on medical expenses. Whether in public or private hospitals, this is a system that works for all."

The room fell silent, impressed by the complexity and fairness of the system. It wasn't perfect, but it was something to be proud of.

"The reason we can afford this," Krishna added, "is simple. The royal family leads by example. We pay our corporate taxes just like everyone else. In fact, the royal family's enterprises pay at the lower rate of 10%, compared to the 25% others must pay. It's not perfect, but it's a fair system."

A soft murmur of approval ran through the council. However, the true challenge lay ahead. The fiscal burden of providing free education and medical care, year after year, had begun to weigh heavily on the treasury.

Krishna glanced around the room. "We must stabilize our rule, and that starts with addressing the needs of the people. Housing costs are manageable, but education and healthcare are where the real strain lies."

"And that is why we must increase military spending," said Krishna suddenly, shifting the focus of the discussion.

A hushed silence fell over the room. All eyes turned to him.

"The oil reserves in our territories are no secret. Western countries, and increasingly China, are eyeing our fields. If war breaks out, we must be prepared. Our military modernization must be a priority. The 20.5 billion varaha we currently spend on defense will not be enough. I propose an increase to 25 billion varaha."

A few of the council members shifted nervously, exchanging glances. They had anticipated an increase, but this suggestion was bold. Before anyone could voice their concerns, Sriranga Deva Raya, the king and father of Krishna, spoke.

"Krishna speaks the truth," Sriranga said, his voice calm but resolute. "The military must be stronger. But I will not settle for a mere 25 billion varaha. We need 40 billion. The royal family will contribute an additional 15 billion to ensure our readiness."

The council fell silent, shocked at the scale of the increase. They knew the royal family had always been generous, but this was a significant step.

Sriranga Deva Raya continued, his voice steady. "In times of conflict, the royal family's wealth is tied to the strength of the empire. If we are to protect our sovereignty, we must be prepared to invest heavily."

The tension in the room slowly eased. The royal family had done this before—funding military campaigns to protect the empire. It was understood that a strong military ensured the survival of the Deva Raya dynasty.

Krishna leaned forward, his expression thoughtful. "And our navy is the weakest branch of the military. I propose that we procure warships from Russia. They offer quality vessels at a fraction of the cost compared to Europe or the United States. With the current exchange rate, the 40 billion varaha would be sufficient to modernize our armed forces."

"Indeed," said Sriranga, nodding approvingly. "The navy needs attention. Let us proceed with this plan."

After the meeting, Krishna Deva Raya turned to his father with determination. "Father, I want to take charge of the procurement of military weapons."

Sriranga raised an eyebrow. "You feel confident in handling such matters?"

"I do," Krishna replied, his voice filled with assurance. "I have studied military strategy extensively, especially the weaponry available from Russia. I understand what we need, and I am prepared to act on it."

Sriranga took a moment, considering his son's words. Finally, he nodded. "Very well. If you are willing to take on this responsibility, I will appoint you as the Director of the Military Equipment Bureau in the Ministry of National Defense. You will oversee all matters related to our military procurement."

The announcement was made official just days later. Krishna Deva Raya was appointed as the Director, and with it, he was granted the rank of Major General.

While the news didn't spark much surprise—after all, he was the crown prince, the future emperor—the people respected him deeply. His early initiatives, such as the 10 billion varaha donation to the poor, had earned him a special place in the hearts of the common folk.

It was said that a ruler's true legacy lies in how they treat their people. And for Krishna Deva Raya, the road to the throne would be marked by both military might and a deep commitment to his people's well-being.

To be continued…