Karnataka Budget 2013

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Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
Karnataka
Budget
2013-14
Highlights
Chief Minister Sri Jagadish Shettar greets new
Lokayukta Justice Y Bhaskara Rao after taking
oath in Rajbhavan.
C
Karnataka
O N T E N T S
Volume-50 Issue-3 Page-28 Mar. 2013
Editor- in -Chief
N R Vishukumar
Editorial Advisory Panel
N Bhrungeesh
K Gopala Gowda
Editor
T C Jagadamba
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MARCH OF KARNATAKA
March of
Page
No.
4
14
18
Cover Story
Karnataka Budget
Highlights
2013-14
Excerpt from the speech
of honourable governor
made to joint session of
Karnataka legislature
HONNEMARADU
“A dream destination
for adventure sports”
C V Raghavendrarao
22
Cultural Heritage
of Karnataka
B M Chandrasekharaiah
24
Karnataka
Wins Millions Hearts!
D P Muralidhar
26
Pick A Pearl
Basaveshwara Statue
in London
Budget size
Rs 1,17,005
crore.
Agricultural
Budget size
Rs. 22,310
crore.
State Plan size
Rs. 46,450
crore.
Karnataka Budget 2013-14
HIGHLIGHTS
Chief Minister Sri Jadadish Shettar presented Karnataka State’s
annual budget for 2013-14 on 8th Feb, 2013
State Economy
State’s economy is satisfactory and the Fiscal
position of the State has been sound during the last
5 years
• Likely growth of state’s economy at 5.9%.
Service sector growth by 8.9%. Growth in
agriculture and allied sectors is 1.8%. Estimated
growth rate of Industrial sector is 2.4%.
Composition of GSDP for 2012-13 is 15.32% from
Agriculture and allied activities sector, 25.91%
from Industry sector and 58.76 % from service
sector. • Revenue surplus maintained since 20082009. • Fiscal deficit within 3% of the GSDP or
the limits prescribed by the Central Government.
• Ratio of Interest payment to Revenue receipts
is maintained within 10% that is within the limit
of 15% and Ratio of Public Debt to the GSDP is
within 25% limit as prescribed by the 13th Finance
Commission. • More than two fold increase in
State plan size from Rs.17227 crore in 2007-08
to Rs.42030 crore during current year resulting
in higher per capita plan size with per capita plan
expenditure of Rs.6810. • Capital expenditure
at Rs.14455 crore in the current year, which is
an increase in 67% compared to 2007-08. Plan
Achievement-Financial Year 2012-13.
5 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
A view of visitors gallary
• State Plan size set at Rs. 42030 crore during
2012-13, the first year of the 12th Five Year Plan
along with additional plan funding of Rs.7437
crore in first two supplementary estimates. • 9.5%
Increase in expenditure than the previous year.
12th Five Year Plan
• 12th Five Year Plan outlay for Karnataka is
Rs. 2,55,250 crore as endorsed by the National
Development Council in December 2012, which
is 87% higher than the 11th Five Year Plan
expenditure at current price of Rs.1,36,052 crore.
• The per capita plan outlay of Karnataka at Rs.
6,231 in 2011-12 is the highest among major States
Agriculture
• 125 lakh tons of food grains production
estimated during 2012-13, it is higher than
production of 118.83 lakh tons last year (2011-12).
• The share of the agricultural sector became
15.3 % of the Gross State Domestic Product
during 2012-13; the rate of growth of agriculture
sector increased to 1.8% during 2012-13 from
(-) 2.2% in 2011-12 thus increasing by 4% on
year to year basis, inspite of drought. • Designed
for the first time in the country, Bhoochetana
Yojane implemented from the year 2009-10 in
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
6
collaboration with ICRISAT and received wide
appreciation. During 2012-13 sowing in 164 lakh
acres; yield increase varying from 21 percent to 43
percent in 16 crops achieved. • Rs. 586 crore spent
for distribution of 35 lakh quintals of seeds to 1.35
crore farmers during the last 4 years. Distribution of
seeds to 23 lakh farmers at an expenditure of Rs.113
crore. • Formation of one organic farmers group in
every taluk; grant of Rs.100 crore towards subsidy
to 1.10 lakh farmers for adoption of organic farming
in an area of 4.46 lakh acres.
Energy
Rs. 10831 is provided for the energy sector
• Capital investment by Government in KPCL and
ESCOMs at Rs.4175 crore after 2008-09. • Increase
in installed capacity from 8660 MW during 08-09 to
13,504MW. • Increase in daily peak energy supply
from 138 million units during 2008-09. per day to
190 million units. • Purchase of 26,236 million units
both from outside the State and private producers
during last 5 years. • Strengthening of transmission
and distribution systems by setting up of 300 substations and laying of 5196 kms of transmission
lines, thereby reducing transmission loss by 4% and
total technical and commercial losses from 23.17%
to 20.18%.
• Investment of Rs.14,751 crore in power
sector for capital works. Implementation of
Niranthara Jyothi Scheme for supply of power
to irrigation pump sets in rural areas. • Energy
conservation measures undertaken are distribution
of 37 lakh CFL bulbs in Bangalore and Kolar
Districts, installation of 283 higher efficiency
irrigation pump sets at Doddaballapura Taluk
as pilot project, commissioning of renewable
energy projects of 1913 MWs since 200809 and allotment of 200 MW solar power to
private entrepreneurs for effective utilisation. •
Electrification of 8,897 drinking water supply
schemes and 15000 Ganga Kalyana Irrigation
Pump sets during 2012-13. Regularisation of 1.2
lakh of unauthorised irrigation pump sets during
the last two years. • Continuation of scheme of
regularising unauthorised pump sets of farmers in
2013-14 and distribution of CFL bulbs.
New Initiatives
• Implementation of High Voltage Distribution
System in one division of each ESCOM for
reduction of distribution losses. • Irrigation canal
roof top solar energy system. • Establishment
of centralised research lab for adoption of new
technology and testing of energy meters. •
Encouraging Energy conservation by setting up of
green buildings.
Roads & Buildings
Outlay of Rs.5321 crores is provided for
Public Works, Ports, and Inland Water Transport
Department.
• Improvement of 8048 km of State Highways,
11,513 km of Major District Roads & 8601 km
Rural Roads and 659 bridges during the last 5
years. • Upgradation of 662 kms State Highways
of MDR and 769 km National Highways during
the last 5 years. • KSHIP-II: Development of 616
kms of State Highways at an estimated cost of Rs.
1330 crore with assistance of Asian Development
Bank– (i) Pavagada to Andhra Pradesh border
and (ii) National Highway-13 Jagaluru to State
Highway-19.
Infrastructure Railways
• Karnataka is the first State to bolster speedy
implementation of Railway projects by contributing
50% of the cost. So far Rs. 1021 crores has been
released as State share and Rs. 440 crores has been
provided in 2013-14 budget as investment by the
State. • Completion of Bangalore-Ramanagar
railway lane doubling. • Completion of the works of
Ramanagar-Channapatna and Mysore-Naganahalli
railway lane doubling. • Release of Rs. 193 crore
for new railway lane between Bidar and Gulbarga.
7 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
• Other Infrastructure: (a) Completion of
Dhabhol Bangalore Gas Line during the current
year. (b) Commencement of Construction of
Bangalore International Convention Centre near
Bangalore International Airport. • Pre-feasibility
study of Chennai-Bangalore-Mysore High Speed
Rail Project and preparation of comprehensive.
• project report of Kasaragod-Mangalore-Udupi
High Speed Rail and Bangalore–Hubli–Belgaum
High Speed Rail Project proposed. • 600 acres and
370 acres of land handed over to undertake the
expansion work of Hubli & Belgaum Airports. •
Completion of Airports at Gulbarga and Shimoga
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
8
on P.P.P. mode by May & August 2013 respectively.
Urban Development:
An amount of Rs. 9654 Crore provided for
Urban Development.
New Initiatives for Bangalore City
• Establishment of One Dialysis and Diabetic
centre in each of the assembly constituency coming
under the jurisdiction of BBMP. • Establishment of
Public Toilets (especially for ladies) at a cost of Rs.
25.00 crore in all the wards of BBMP.
• Rs.300 crore under Rajiv Gandhi Awas Yojana
to provide housing to the poor families residing in the
jurisdiction of BBMP. • Rs. 200 crore for infrastructure
facilities to the newly identified land fill sites for Solid
Waste Management and to the neighbouring villages.
• Rs. 300 crores for Comprehensive development
of 100 Kms of prominent Arterial and Sub-arterial
Roads in BBMP jurisdiction. • Rs. 500 crores for
construction of Grade separators at prominent
junctions where chronic traffic congestion prevails in
BBMP jurisdiction. • Rs. 863 crore for construction of
over bridges at Chalukya Circle, Shivananda Circle,
Siddalingaiah Circle and Airport approach road.
• Exploration of the feasibility of construction
of 28 km Link road between Tumkur-Bellary road
for improving connectivity between Electronic
City and Bangalore International Airport under
PPP. • Construction of Five fly-overs on the outer
ring road of Bangalore at Hebbal, Ibbalur, K.R.
Puram, Doddanekkundi and Central Silk Board. •
Rs. 2500 crore to lay peripheral ring road with PPP
in Bangalore North and East area. • Construction of
25 K.M long elevated golden quadrangle road at (a)
Hebbal-BRV ground (b) Hennur-BRV Ground (c)
Central Silk Board–Lalbagh chickpet upto Mysore
Road Fly-over (Sirsi Circle) (d) BRV ground to
upto Mysore Road Fly-over (Sirsi Circle). • Rs.
350 Crore for Elevated corridor, corridor linking
to Airport, RMV road works and construction of
underbridges in first phase of outer ring road. •
Rs. 80 crore for construction of 8 lane grade
seperator from Okalipuram to Khode Circle. • Rs.
2408 crore to develop 15,000 sites of Nadaprabhu
Kempegowda Layout. • Rs. 1443 crore for the
construction of 8000 dwelling units. • Rs.2100
Crores with assistance from Asian Development
Bank for setting up of a City Cluster Development
Project to develop infrastructure basic facilities in
two to three areas near Bangalore.
Bangalore Metro Rail Project
• Estimated expenditure of the project is Rs.
8151 crore, for which Karnataka Government
has released Rs. 4153 crore. So far the physical
progress is 66%. Completion of Entire phase-I
by December 2014. • Rs. 26405 crore towards
Phase-II of the project approved by the State
Government consisting of 72.09 kms. The
Government of Karnataka share is expected to be
Rs. 8969 crore.
9
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj
• A total outlay of Rs. 7354 crore provided for
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj.
Various measures taken for empowerment of
Panchayat Raj System
• Reservation of elected women representatives
increased from 33 percent to 50 percent in
Panchayat Raj Institutions.
Primary and Secondary Education
Outlay for Primary and Secondary education is
Rs. 15,599 crore.
Achievements during the last five years:
• 100% enrolment achieved as announced in
the Budget Speech of 2012-13. • Rs. 228.30 crore
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
10
for Akshara Dasoha, Rs.320 crore for text
books, Rs.367.50 crore for uniforms spent
every year for 66 lakh students. • Rs. 740
crore spent for distribution of Bicycles
to 5.50 lakh students, studying in the 8th
standard. • Rs. 551 crore expenditure of for
school buildings, five facilities etc. • 1147
new Primary and High Schools established.
• 26873 class rooms constructed. • No
shortage of class rooms in primary
schools. • Rs. 20 crore for maintenance of
school toilets and drinking water facilities.
• Establishment of 74 model schools on the
model of Kendriya Vidyalayas, 71 schools
under Sarva Shikshana Abhiyana and 39
Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas under
State grants respectively and 20 Hostels in
backward blocks.
• Reimbursement of Rs. 58 crore towards fee of
50,000 school children, under Right to Education
Act in the current year. • Eligibility date for
getting grant-in-aid extended from 01-06-1987 to
the academic year 1994-95; additional102 Budget
Highlights 2013-14 expenditure of Rs. 215 crore
towards grant-in-aid to 11.176 teachers working
in 416 primary schools, 787 High Schools and
246 Pre-university colleges. • Rs. 213 crore spent
on providing computer education to 71 lakh
students studying in primary, high schools and
preuniversity colleges.
New initiatives:
• Cash incentive of Rs. 93.94 Crore for 1.47
lakh SC/ST students who have secured more than
60% marks. Supply of Akash tablets in future in
lieu of cash incentive.
• Strengthening of School Development
programme, encouraging active participation
colleges. • Science Course will be started in
Government PreUniversity colleges at Taluka level
where such course is not available. • Rs. 2 Crore
will be provided for construction of All India Model
Education Centre started under the guidance of Sri M.
Rajashekara Murthy.
Higher Education
Total outlay of Rs.3067 Crore has been provided
for Higher Education.
Achievements during the last 5 years
• Rs. 243 crores expenditure incurred during last
five years for 191 new colleges added. Construction
of 110 college buildings is in progress.
• Rs.15 crore spread over 3 years for starting
of Angla, Vikasana and Sahayoga programme. • 9
new universities were established during the last
5 years, including Janapada University, Sanskrit
University, Music University, Horticulture University
and 2 Agriculture Universities.
• Enhancement of 12,710 seats
in 43 polytechnic colleges and
10 Engineering colleges newly
started in 2008. • Expenditure of
Rs.197 crore has been made for
engineering college buildings
and Rs.138 crore for polytechnic
college buildings.
New Initiatives
• Hosa Hejje programme
will be extended to Government
Colleges and Polytechnics. • It
is proposed to start 10 first grade
colleges, as per the requirement. •
Proposed bifurcation of Bangalore
University to bring effective
administration and to enhance
quality of education.
by public, improving school infrastructure and
teaching quality and encouraging community
contribution. • Providing Internet facilities to
all government high school and pre-university
• Rs. 10 crore for development
of Rani Chennamma University.
• Establishment of Sir M.
Vishweswaraiah Study Chair in
Mysore University. • Opening
of science sections in 377 PU
colleges & commerce sections in
210 colleges. • Akash Tablets for Meritorious students
obtaining 60% and above in first year Engineering
and Science courses in Government Colleges.
11 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
• Provision of KSWAN connectivity
along with LAN and accessories for broad
band Internet connectivity to all government
colleges and polytechnics at a cost of Rs. 22
crore over a period of 3 years.
Health and Family Welfare
A sum of Rs. 4027 Crores has been provided
for Health and Family Welfare Department.
Women and Child Development
An amount of Rs. 3349 crore is provided
during 2013-14 for Women and Child
Development.
• Rs. 2580.60 Crore was provided during
last 5 years for the Bhagya Lakshmi scheme
that benefited 16.54 lakh beneficiaries. • Rs.
50,000 for child below one year and Rs. 35,000
for children in the age group of 1 to 5 years
was given for medical expenses arising due
to severe malnutrition. • Anganavadi helpers
are covered under the Contributory Pension
Scheme (NPS). A lump sum amount of Rs.
50,000 to anganavadi workers and Rs. 30,000
to anganavadi helpers will be granted who
have completed 60 years of age. • Increase
in Honorarium of Anganwadi workers and
assistants by Rs. 500 and Rs. 250 respectively
from 1-4-2013. • Loan and subsidy facilities
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
12
to 15,000 women under Udyogini Scheme
through Karnataka State Women Development
Corporation.
Information
Technology
Technology
and
Bio
• Rs. 100 crore for New Semi conductor
Policy and Information and Communication
Technology Policy (ESDM first of its kind
in the Country). • Information Technology
Sector has provided direct employment to
about 8 lakh persons and indirect employment
to 20 lakh in the State. • Starting of 35 Units
under rural BPO Scheme in IT Sector in rural
areas with an employment potential of 3500
people. • Computer training to 60,000-70,000
un-employed rural youth. • Indian Information
Technology Institute will be set up at Dharwad
at a cost of Rs. 128 crore. Information
Technology park will be set up in Belgaum. • Rs.
20 Crore proposed to be distributed for Science
related programmes of Vision Group. K-FIST
Programme will be continued with financial
assistance of Rs.10 Crore. • Rs.5 Crore will be
provided for establishment of Planetarium/solar
system model centre between HubliDharwad
under the auspices of Karnataka Balavikasa
Academy, Karwar. • Rs.194 Crore is provided
for Information Technology, Bio Technology
and Science and Technology Department.
• An International Standard Science Gallery
will be set up in Bangalore in collaboration with
Science Gallery International of Ireland, Indian
Institute of Science, National Bio-technology
Centre, NIMHANS and Srusti Kala Vinyasa and
Technology School at the cost of Rs.10 Crore.
Tourism
An outlay of Rs. 290 crore is provided for
Tourism Department.
• Rs. 910 crore spent for providing
infrastructure facilities in popular tourist spots. •
Rs. 129.00 crore to develop 437 km connectivity
road network. • The Best Luxury Train 2012
award for Golden Chariot tour. • Ihole village
will be completely shifted and rehabilitated.
Transport:
Total outlay of Rs. 1288 crores is provided to
Transport Department.
Revenue
An outlay of Rs. 3440 crores has been
provided to Revenue Department.
e-governance
• Procurement worth Rs. 1,61,249 Crore have
been made through e-procurement platform. •
KSWAN has been created at a cost exceeding
Rs.250 Crore connecting 2800 offices of 95
Departments providing video service between
all district and taluk head quarters. • The State is
successfully implementing the Aadhar Scheme,
issuing of a unique identity cards to its citizens.
On the basis of this information action will
be taken to directly deposit the money of the
beneficiaries under schemes like social security
pension, MG-NAREGA in Mysore, Tumkur
& Dharwad districts. • Bangalore One Centres
have been increased to 87 in Bangalore city.
54 services are available to the citizens from
these centres. • 38 Karnataka One Centres have
been established in 7 metropolis including
Shimoga. • Established cyber cafes at a cost
of Rs.50 crores in all the 5627 panchayath
headquarters of the State. • Rs.131 crore is
provided for e-Governance initiatives during
2013-14.
Administrative Reforms
• Sakaala initiative is delivering 265 services
of 30 departments to citizens across the State
in a time-bound manner. Since its inception till
January 2013, 1.63 Crore applications have been
received, out of which 98% applications have
been decided within the stipulated time limit. MoK
13 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
Excerpt from the speech of honourable
governor made to joint session of
Karnataka
legislature
H
onourable Chairman, Honourable Speaker
andHonourable Members of the Legislature,
It gives me great pleasure to welcome all of you
to this joint session of Karnataka Legislature.
Over the last five years, my Government has been
pursuing the development agenda and I congratulate
the Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues for
ensuring all round development of the State. I also
compliment both the ruling and opposition parties for
their active participation and productive discussions
in the Legislature. Construction of Suvarna Soudha at
Belgaum has indeed been a milestone, in addressing
the aspirations of North Karnataka.
The law and order situation has been very good
and the State has not witnessed any communal
incidence. Our police force has done an excellent job
in maintaining peace, controlling the naxal menace
and effectively handling the situation at the time of
agitation related to North East. Similarly, we are
tackling the crimes against women, with an iron
hand.
Comfortable Financial Status
I am happy to state that the financial status of my
Government has been very sound. Fiscal deficit and
public debt have been within the targets prescribed
by the Central Government and the 13th Finance
Commission. Over the last five years, the tax revenues
of the State have more than doubled. Tax revenue is
10% of GSDP, which is among the highest in the
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
14
Country. The Plan size has increased by
two and a half times over the last 5 years.
Per-capita plan expenditure of Rs.6810,
is among the highest in the Country.
New Legislations
During the tenure of my Government,
various bills like Guarantee of Services
to the Citizens, Prohibiting Land
Grabbing, Regulating Stone Crushers,
Establishing Maritime Board etc., have
been enacted. Legislations supporting
setting up of new Universitie related to
Law, Higher Education, Horticulture,
Agriculture, Natural Resources, Music
& Culture, etc., have been passed.
In pursuance of the unanimous resolutions
of both the Houses of Legislature, long pending
demand of Hyderabad-Karnataka region has been
fulfilled with the amendment to the Constitution
of India by introdu tion of Article 371(J). The
benefits of the amendment would be shortly
extended to the people.
Good Governance and Accolades
Karnataka has been appreciated by one and
all for making Citizens’ Right to services through
Karnataka Sakala Service Act, a dream come true.
In a short span of 9 months more than 1.65 crore
citizens have availed 265 services in a time bound
manner. This is, by far, the highest achievement
in the Country.
A Centre of Good Governance is being constituted
and a compendium of Citizen Centric Innovations
has been brought out to replicate success stories.
Various initiatives of the State have been recognised
at National and International levels, in sectors such
as E-Governance, transport, health, rural and urban
development, water supply, etc. For the first time,
a scheme of “Sarvothama Seva Prashasthi” for
rewarding the outstanding Government officers has
been implemented.
Strides in E-Governance
Action is being taken to implement Aadhaar based
delivery of Government services, eg: Social Security
Pensions and MGNREGA. Implementation of
Direct Benefit Transfer based on Aadhaar data in
three districts of Tumkur, Mysore and Dharwad has
st started from 1 January.
Several Citizen Service Centres have been
added under Bangalore-One and Karnataka-One, to
provide electronic one-stop service to the citizens.
Augmenting Water Resources
The Government has declared the year 20112021 as NEERAVARI DASHAKA to give thrust to
irrigation sector. As a first step, 25 irrigation projects
are completed during last four and half years.
15
13 Karnataka
March
March of
of
MARCH 2013
NOVEMBER
2012
Phase-III of Upper Krishna Project
amounting to Rs.17,000 crores has been
approved and 7 out of 9 sub components are
under progress. Modernisation ofTungabhadra,
Malaprabha and Ghataprabha, Left and Right
Bank Canal and their distributaries is taken up
for efficient water management.
Besides, my Government has effectively
handled a difficult situation arising out of scanty
rainfall in the Cauvery basin. Yettinahole Project
which is a part of Sri G.S.Paramashivaiah Report
is being implemented as a short term strategy
to fulfil the urgent needs of safe drinking water
facility to eastern parts of Karnataka. Micro
Irrigation system has been adopted for the first
time in the country for efficient use of water.
Human Resource Development
My Government has given high priority
to human resource development, particularly,
the Girl child in the form of ‘Bhagyalakshmi’
scheme, benefiting 16 lakh girls. Right to
Education Act is being implemented in the
State, in letter and spirit. There has been a
substantial improvement in the pass percentage
and enrolment ratio, in primary and secondary
education sector.
Higher Education
The Government has placed the highest
priority for enhancing the access, quality, equity
and nclusivity in higher education. It has more
than doubled the access to higher education
during last five years by increasing the number
of universities, Government colleges and
Government polytechnics.
Health
My Government has placed special emphasis
on improvement of the health of our citizens,
with a focus on mother and child. Recruitment
of 38000 Asha workers has made community
health, a reality. As a result, infant mortality
rate has been reduced to 35 per 1000 live births.
‘Arogya Bandhu’ scheme under publicprivate partnership has been launched in51
primary health
centres and the ‘Arogya
Kavacha-108’ scheme has successfully saved
16.10 lakh precious lives.
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
16
In order to provide better health facilities
to the people of Karnataka, Prasoothi Araike,
Madilu, Thayi Bhagya, Arogya Kavacha,
Vajpayee Arogyasri, Suvarna Arogya Chaitanya,
Mobile Medical Unit, Arogya Bandhu schemes
etc., have been implemented.
Under Yashaswini Scheme, on an
average75,000 Co-operative farmers’ families
are being assisted every year for availing 805
different surgeries.
Karnataka has been awarded as the best
State in implementation of Rashtriya Swasthya
Bima Yojane, extending benefits to 17.5 lakh
BPL families.
Housing
In the last 5 years, 9 lakh houses have been
constructed under different housing programmes
for BPL families and in the perennially flood
affected areas of northern Karnataka, 52,000
houses were constructed under ‘Asare’ scheme
to shift the affected villages to safer places . We
proposed to provide housing to nearly 12 lakh
houseless families in the next 5 years to cover
all houseless families.
Higher Industrial Investments
During the tenure of my Government,
we have successfully organised two Global
Investors’ Meet (2010 & 2012), in which MoUs
worth more than Rs.10 lakh crores have been
signed. In the post Global Investors Meet period
till now, 59% of the MoUs signed, have been
implemented.
My Government also prornoted higher
investments in the Small Scale Sector.
IT exports have touched 1,35,000 crores,
giving direct employment to 8 lakh persons and
indirect employment to 2.5 lakh people.
Rural Development
Strengthening of Panchayat Raj institutions
through adequate devolution of funds has been
the hallmark of my Government. We have
succeeded in providing safe drinking water,
despite consecutive drought conditions.
Rural roads have been improved under
‘Namma Grama Namma Rasthe’ Scheme.
Revenue
Governance has been simplified and
brought closer to the people through 900
‘Atalji Janasnehi Kendras’, providing not only
Caste and Income Certificates, but also other
services. Maintenance of land records is being
modernised through scanning and digitisation,
in order to ensure that the individual’s property
title is protected.
Thirtyfive 1akh pensioners including
elderly, disabled, widows etc., are being
assisted under various schemes.
Bangalore City Development
The first phase of 14 Kms of Bangalore
Metro Project has already been commissioned,
another 10.5 Kms between Peenya and
Malleswaram will be operational in June 2013.
Approval of 72 Kms long Phase 2 of Bangalore
Metro Project costing Rs. 26,405 crores is on
the cards.
Cauvery 4th stage 2nd Phase project
has been completed by BWSSB, to provide
additional 500 MLD of water to the city.
Rainwater harvesting has been implemented in
40,000 buildings.
Infrastructure Development
Government has entrusted construction
of airports at Gulbarga and Shimoga on PPP
mode. The State Government has partnered
with Airports Authority of India to undertake
expansion of Airports at Hubli and Belgaum.
Logistic Parks will be established under
PPP mode at four locations. Action has been
taken to expedite various Rail Projects. Tadadi
Port will soon be developed on PPP mode.
We are all aware that Assembly elections
are due shortly. I would appeal to the people
of Karnataka to actively participate in the
electoral process and exercise their democratic
rights.
I would like to end by urging the Legislators
to play their roles constructively and effectively
for formulation of people friendly policies.
I seek the Co-operation of all the Honourable
Members in making Karnataka an even more
prosperous, peaceful and progressive State. MoK
17 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
HONNEMARADU
“A dream destination for adventure sports”
C V Raghavendra Rao
K
arnataka has number of unique spots for
outdoor enthusiasts, campers and adventure
sports. One such abode is a stretch of land
encompassed with sea of cool and eye catchy
water in serene and eco-friendly ambience is
“Honnemaradu”.
Situated 20 kilometers from Sagar on the way
to famous Jog falls this small village overlooking
back waters of Linganmakki dam has earned an
admirable name as one of the memorable site for
adventure and water sports in the state.
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
18
Linganmakki reservoir across the life line river
Sharavathi was constructed during 1964 submerged
large track of land in Sagar and Hosanagr taluks.
But the back water created some of the splendid
islands and attractive spots in the back drop of
gracious green cover of Western Ghats.
Information department took a lead in organizing
one such camp titling “Nature and Media” for media
persons recently at Honnemaradu. Participants
appreciated the dedication of volunteers in up
holding eco-friendly approach aimed to preserve
the importance of the area.
Honnemaradu provides a splendid experience
to Nature lovers and public to spend their week
ends or vacation peacefully forgetting their daily
mechanical stress and worries and it has earned a
coveted name as a paradise for Water sports and
especially for Kayaking. There is Small Island in
the middle of huge lake that attracts campers.
Experts appealed media the urgent need of
creating awareness among public and visitors
towards the protection of environment from the
adverse effects of pollution in all nature spots. MoK
Visitors to Honnemardu can also watch some of
the rare birds but one should not miss the beauty
and tranquility of spectacular view of Sun set and
Sun raise. It is a best place to hold nature camps
to educate participants towards conservation and
protection of our fragile nature.
19 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
NEWS
Chief Minister Sri Jagadish Shettar inaugurated 79th Akila Bharatha
Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Bijapur.
Chief Minister Sri Jagadish Shettar launched Coir Board 60th year Logo in Bangalore.
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
20
NEWS
Chief Minister Sri Jagadish Shettar and Mr Jack A. Markell, H.E, The Governor of Delaware exchanging
the Agreement of Dailogue signed between the Government of Karnataka and Government of Delaware.
Chief Minister Sri Jagadish Shettar distributing Bhagyalaxmi bond to a benificiary at Ayanur, Shimoga Dist.
21 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
Cultural Heritage of
Karnataka
B M Chandrasekharaiah
T
his is the story of the people of Karnataka!
Dynasties, kings, emperors, warriors, fighters
have lived and fought and ruled and died. But, their
deeds are part of the story of the people. It is their
culture, which means life and activity the thoughts
and actions, the experiences and experiments, the joys
and sorrows of the people that have flowed on like
a mighty stream through the ages that matter most.
It is the dreams and aspirations, the active efforts of
men and women, the concrete shape they give to their
own lives by means of religion and philosophy, by
ethics and codes of conduct, by literature and art, by
architecture and sculpture- it is these that attract and
absorb our attention.
It is clear that the people of Karnataka have played
their historic role creditably and inspite of weakness
and adversities, have added to the greatness of India
whenever opportunities offered themselves!
Geologically, parts of Karnataka are the earliest to
have peeped out of the seas. Geographically, it has
a sea-coast of about 360 kms and it has mountains
shooting up to more than 6000 feet. There are vaster
plains as per as the eye can reach! There is hardly any
other state with such potentialities for the erection
of hydel projects. The variety of crops grown also
is a feature of by itself. Mineral wealth, especially
Mysore is very rich and abundant and its gold mines
are unique!
But, again it is not these things that go to make
Karnataka’s history. It is the men and women had
the vision of the future and daring to translate their
dreams into realities who have contributed most of the
history of this land and to India’s story!
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
22
Karnataka occupies a strategic position in the
geography of the Indian peninsula. It can be said
to be the limit between the north and the south
and the door way to Dakshina patha or Deccan.
As such, it has served as the meeting place of both
the north and the south; and it avoided rigidity or
dogmatism and showed commendable tolerance
to the many faithful deeds with met on its soil.
Great dynasties like those of the Kadambas
the Gangas, the Chalukyas, the Rastrakutas,
the Hoysalas and then the Vijayanagara kings
maintained for centuries their independence
with honour and dignity. In fact the Vijayanagara
kingdom (1336-1565 A.D.) served as a brulwark
against the muslime invasion of the south and
served as an inspiration to the rising Maratha
power. In administration, Civic life, irrigation
and town-planning, in commerce and industry,
Vijayanagara, the capital, was the eyesore of
foreign travelers and traders for about two
centuries was something magnificent and of the
highest All-India importance. It was at that time
the commentary on the vedas, called ‘Sayana
Bhashya’ was written. It was that which serves
even now as a key to Vedic interpretation!
Karnataka’s contribution in the field of
religion, philosophy and the spread of the Bhakti
art was more important, because it was a binding
and universal. Buddhism penetrated as for as
Chitradurga in the south, Jainism, however
settled in Karnataka with a number of shrines
and devotees. But Buddhism could not survive
in Karnataka as there was a revival of Vedic
religion.
Later Islam and Christianity have also found a
congenial atmosphere in part of the country. Karnataka
has played a great role in sheltering and fostering the
most important schools of Vedic thought namely
Advaita, Visishtadvaita and Dvaita. Basaveshvara,
who stood for Sakhi Visishtadvaita and in addition
was a great mystic, a man of the masses and a social
reformer of daring, was born and had his inspiration
from the earliest saiva saints and sages. His influence
has been abiding on life and society of Karnataka!
The cult of Bhakti and yoga preached and
propagated during five centuries from the 11th
century by both saiva and Vaishnava saints and
singers. Vaishnava saints were called Dasas (Servants
god) and the veerasaiva saints saranas (those who
have surrendered). Bhakti and yoga expressed in
aphoristic style, with also Jnana and Karma thrown in
is characteristic of this movement. There are not less
than 30 women Vachanakar as among the Veerasaiva
saranas. It can be said that this powerful mystic
literature is unique of its kind in India!
Regarding the Kannada literature, what can be
pointed out here is that the earliest stone inscription
is that Halmidi (450AD.) The very first book
Kavirajamarga, is a book on poetics (850 AD) and
quotes from thirty poets whose works are now not
available. With varied fortunes, Kannada literature
today can be compared favorably with that in any
other Indian language in quality more than in quantity.
So far as architecture sculpture, Song, Drama, Dance
and music are concerned, Karnataka has a brilliant
history. Karnataka has lent its name to a style of music
which is more popular as the ‘Karnataka music’.
One can notice that country’s history. If Akkadevi,
Attimabbe, Santala belong to an earlier period,
Keladi Channamma, Kitturu Chennamma, belong
to a later period, Among the saintly Vachanakaras
the name of great Akkamahadevi is a cherished
legend!
There was no death of heroes and heroines who
sacrificed their lives either as martyrs or fighters
in open battle with invaders or enemies. This is
evidenced by numerous hero stones or veeragals,
lying scattered over the land, set up by the grateful
contemporaries!
Thus, there is no department of human
activity useful or practical cultural or aesthetic,
has Karnataka lagged behind during its long and
cheqwered career of about 2,000 years of recorded
history. It is true that a comprehensive history
based on study, research and documentation has
yet to be written by scholars as some ambiguities
are still persist.
This humblest efforts of narration, is only to
help each and every Kannadiga to know himself
and his enviable past, great has been the past of
this land and these peoples; greater can be its
future if only we draw strength from on roots and
light from our inner vision! MoK
Sri Basavaraj, principal secretary of Information and Sri N R Vishukumar Director DOI with artists
Karnataka Wins
Millions Hearts!
D P Muralidhar
Photos: M M Joshi
D
emon Mahishasura is standing here. But, it is not Chamundi
Hills! Lord Ugra Narasimha is sitting here. But, it is not Hampi!
Nandi is resting here. But, it is not Halebid! Here is Ainmane.
But, it is not Kodagu!
Then, what is this?
Yes! This is a Karnataka outside Karnataka!
This was the opinion of visitors to the Surajkund International
Crafts Fair, held from February 1 and 15, in Haryana.
Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
24
Star Attraction!
Karnataka happened to be
the Theme State at this 27th
fair, which was elevated to
the International-level from
this year, was an attempt to
further improve the image of
Karnataka and promote the
products of the State.
Surajkund, just 26 kms from
New Delhi, is in Faridabad
District of Haryana. Surajkund
Crafts Fair is organized to
promote the rural artisans and
their craftsmanship vis-a-vis
to provide a market for their
products. Karnataka has become the Theme
State for the second time, after 18 years.
There were 800 stalls this year, including
stalls from all the States in India, besides
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal,
Pakistan and Srilanka– all SAARC Countries,
Addis Ababa, Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Namibia,
Rwanda, South Africa, Tunisia, and ZambiaCountries in the African Continent, Kyrgykistan,
Tajkitan and Turkmenisitan– all Euro-Asian
Countries, Thailand and Peru had showcased
their products of their rural artisans. But,
Karnataka’s 75 stalls attracted visitors the most!
Stalls selling Mysore’s Jasmine, Bangalore’s
Sugandha Raja, Haveri’s Cardamom Garland,
Ramanagar’s Silk Garland, Mysore’s Beetle
Leaf, Malnad’s Arecanut, Nanjanagud’s
Rasabale (Banana), Tiptur’s Tender Coconut,
Kodagu’s Coffee and Honey, Sakaleshpur’s
Cardamom and Pepper, Chennapatna and
Kinnal’s Toys, Cotton and Silk Fabrics in the 20
stalls of the Khadi and Village Industries Board
made a roaring business.
One of the Star
attractions of the fair was
the stall of the Department
of Information. The Photo
Exhibition, put up by
the department attracted
crowds.
also to the World.
The exhibition depicted
the Sons of the Soil, who
carved a niche with their
significant
contribution
not merely to the culture,
language and society but
Sweet State!
People who tasted Mysore Pak, Bangalore Kayi
Holige, Belgaum Kunda, Dhawrad Pedha, Gokak
Karadantu, Melukote’s Sweet Pongal at the Fair
termed Karnataka as a Sweet State!
Bangalore’s Special Bisi Bele Bath, Mysore’s
Special Vangi Bath, Davanagere Benne Dosa,
Bangalore Benne Masala Dosa, Bidadi’s Thatte Idly,
Maddur Vada, Coastal Special Neer Dosa, Mangalore
Bajji and Buns, Malnad’s Paddu turned the Fair a Food
Festival for many visitors. Some women personally
visited the kitchen and had an interview with the
Chefs of the Karnataka State Tourism Development
Corporation on How to prepare Rasam? What are the
ingredients to be used to prepare Sambar?
The Designs of the Mysore Palace Gates, Statue
of Sri Chamundeshwari, Attractive Dasara Dolls,
Miniature of Jain Basadis and Gol Gumbaz were
prepared by noted Art Director Shashidhar Adappa.
When the Folklore Artists beat drums– Dollu,
Nagaari and Tamate– people danced to their rhythms.
Loud Speakers at the Fair also beamed foot
tapping music, sung by popular artistes
of the State. The folk forms Veeragaase,
Kamsaale,
Krishna
Paarijaatha,
Bombeyaata,
Bhootharadhane,
Yakshagaana also attracted crowds.
According to an official estimate more
than 1.5 million people visited the Fair.
Another significant feature of the fair
is that the Theme State Karnataka won
million hearts! MoK
25 Karnataka
March of
MARCH 2013
Pick A Pearl
Basaveshwara Statue in London
K
arnataka’s 12th century social reformer lord Basaveshwara’s
statue will be installed on the banks of the river Thames in London.
Labour councillor, Kannadiga, Dr Neeraj Patil, who served as
Mayor of Lambeth from 2010-11 is championing the project for
the installation of a statue of Basaveshwara in Albert Embankment
Gardens.
The proposed site for the statue is the lawn between Albert
Embankment and the River Thames.
Basaveshwara fought against the caste system and prejudice. He
was a great humanitarian. He fought for a world in which there
was equal opportunity to all regardless of gender, caste, and social
status. A true visionary with ideas ahead of his time, he envisioned
a society that flourished enriching one and all. He spread social
awareness through his Vachanas to eradicate untouchability in the
society.
It will be a proud moment for the people of Karnataka for getting
such a honour from the world’s oldest democratic country.
The man behind all these Dr Neeraj Patil who is now settled in
United Kingdom is from Kamalapura town of Gulberga District.
The Vice President of India Honourable Hameed Ansari, released 10
translated volumes of Vachanas of Basaveshwara on the occasion of birth
centenary celebration of late Dr B D Jatti in Bangalore.
March of Karnataka MARCH 2013. RNI No. KAR KAN/2010/4081
Regd No. KARN 34 CPMG/KA/BGGPO/2525/2012-2014 under WPP No. 55 Licenced to post at GPO Bangalore (pages 28) On 29th & 30th Every Month
The Artists from Karnataka
performing at 27th Surajkund
International Crafts Mela