Afzalpur
In a notable example of community initiative, farmers in a village of Afzalpur taluk have come together to construct a road by contributing their own funds, highlighting both grassroots unity and gaps in the implementation of government schemes.
The foundation stone for the construction of a nearly 2.5-kilometre mud (murram) road—from Shankreppa Hadalagi farm to the Mashal–Diksangi connecting route—was laid under the leadership of KPCC Backward Classes State Vice-President J. M. Korabu at Mashal village.
Speaking on the occasion, former minister Malikayya Guttedar lauded the efforts of the farmers. He noted that although the government has introduced several schemes to improve connectivity to agricultural lands, many of them are not reaching beneficiaries effectively. “In such a situation, farmers coming forward to build a road with their own contributions is truly commendable,” he said.
Reflecting on his political journey, Guttedar stated that he has been active in politics for over 50 years, having contested nine elections and won six times. He emphasised that he has maintained a clean political record throughout his career. He further assured farmers that efforts would be made to upgrade the road to a cement concrete (CC) road in the future, based on their demands.
He also mentioned that there is no shortage of funds for development works under the Kalyana Karnataka Region Development Board, and such resources could be utilised effectively.
Addressing the gathering, J.M. Korabu said that his focus has always been on serving the poor rather than politics. He added that despite efforts over the past six months to organise the programme, local MLA M.Y. Patil did not attend the event and should clarify his absence. The event was graced by the blessings of seer Vishwaradhya Malendra Shivacharya of Shri Malendra Math. Several local leaders and villagers, including Siddaiyya Swami Hiremath, Gurubala Jakapur, Nanasahib Patil, Shankaralinga Metri, Gundappa Poojari, Mallugouda Patil, and others, were present on the occasion.