Govt taking steps to utilise human, natural resources of coastal, Malnad regions: CM

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said on Thursday that the government is taking steps to effectively utilise the human and natural resources of the coastal and Malnad regions to give these areas a new impetus for development.

Speaking to mediapersons at the Mangaluru International Airport on his arrival to attend the Cabinet meeting scheduled at Praja Soudha in Padil on Friday, he said: “The coastal region has a coastline spanning 340 km. We must utilise this effectively to steer the region’s development in a new direction. Opportunities must be created to curb migration (seeking employment) from the coastal and Malnad regions.”

Mr. Shivakumar noted that the coastal and Malnad regions of Karnataka possess a highly educated, conscious, and talented workforce. There is a need to empower this human resource by providing opportunities locally, he said, adding that the region is second to none.

People in the coastal region have been raising various demands for the past 30 to 40 years. Elected representatives, party members, and even BJP MLAs and MPs have conveyed their views and demands regarding this. “They have expressed that if we do not step in to help, who else will? I have taken note of their various demands,” he said.

He added that all these matters would be discussed at a special Cabinet meeting scheduled for Friday, and the government’s decisions would be announced subsequently.

Addressing the potential issues farmers and residents of the Malnad and coastal regions might face if the recommendations of the Kasturirangan report are implemented, he noted that while the government has already adopted a stance to reject the report, there remains various pressures and differing opinions on the matter.

Against this backdrop, all legislators will be given an opportunity to express their views during the special legislature session from September 21, the Chief Minister said. He mentioned that, prior to the session, he is personally visiting various districts to understand the ground reality.

“Before discussing the issue in the Assembly or arriving at any final conclusion, it is essential to understand the facts. I am meeting with ordinary farmers, local residents, elected representatives, and activists to understand their concerns,” he said.

The special session will discuss not only the pros and cons of implementing Kasturirangan report but also farmers’ issues and the drought situation. The session has been convened to understand and discuss issues that directly impact the lives of farmers.

Responding to a question from the media regarding B. K. Hariprasad’s statement on the Umar Khalid issue, he said, “I have no information regarding this matter. I will speak to Mr. Hariprasad.”