Karwar: Reflecting the ideals of equality enshrined in our Constitution, it is imperative that every individual in society, including those at the grassroots, is provided with the necessary resources to live a peaceful life. The state government is working towards ensuring that all citizens are provided with the required amenities and opportunities to lead a peaceful life, as stated by Minister for Fisheries, Ports, and Inland Water Transport and North Kannada District In-Charge Minister, Mankal S. Vaidya.
The Minister made these remarks while addressing the gathering at the district-level Republic Day celebrations held on Sunday at the Police Parade Ground in Karwar. He also hoisted the national flag during the event.
Minister Vaidya emphasized that the Constitution was designed to benefit every citizen of the country, promoting equality and ensuring that all people have access to the resources necessary for a peaceful and secure life. He assured that the state government remains committed to creating an environment conducive to peace and safety for all citizens.
The Minister highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve basic infrastructure in the district. Despite challenges with funding, the district has been prioritized for educational improvements, including the provision of dedicated buildings for all Anganwadis. Additionally, Rs. 2000 crore has been allocated for drinking water projects. Approval has also been granted for a Rs. 8000 crore hydroelectric project at the Gerasopp Dam. Furthermore, plans for the construction of a multi-specialty hospital in Karwar are underway, and a cancer hospital will be operational soon.
Minister Vaidya also discussed the success of various government guarantee schemes in the district, which have been effectively delivered to the people. These include free travel for women under the Shakti Scheme (worth Rs. 400 crore), financial support of Rs. 1000 crore under the Grihalakshmi Scheme, free electricity worth Rs. 300 crore under the Grihjyoti Scheme, and food aid amounting to Rs. 250 crore under the Anna Bhagya Scheme. The district has so far received over Rs. 2000 crore in support from these welfare initiatives.
The event featured a vibrant parade with impressive participation from the Police, Forest Department, Home Guard, NCC, Scouts and Guides, and NSS teams.
Honorees included staff from the Revenue Department, District Panchayat, Police Department, and Urban Development Fund for their exemplary service, as well as students who excelled in educational and sports achievements. The Social Welfare Department distributed special food kits to beneficiaries, and school students performed cultural programs that evoked patriotism.
Dignitaries present at the event included Satish K. Syle, Chairman of Karnataka State Marketing Communication and Advertising Agency Limited, Legislative Council Member Ganapati Ulvekar, Mayor Ravi Raj Chandrahase Akolekar, District Commissioner K. Lakshmi Priya, Chief Executive Officer of the District Panchayat, Ishwar Kandu, District Superintendent of Police M. Narayan, Additional District Commissioner Sajid Mulla, Sub-Divisional Officer Kanishka, and Satish Naik, President of the District Guarantee Scheme Implementation Authority.