Let North Karnataka’s Development Gain Momentum: MLA JT Patil

BAGALKOT:

MLA JT Patil has called for speeding up the development of North Karnataka, stressing that regional disparities must be addressed urgently. Speaking at a district-level consultative meeting of the High-Powered Committee for Redressing Regional Imbalances on the DM Nanjundappa Report, he noted that the report, which was supposed to be fully implemented by 2015, remains incomplete even in 2025.

He stressed the need for a focused push on irrigation, road connectivity, agricultural marketing, and educational quality. "Developing rural roads should be the first step to uplifting backward taluks. If people dependent on agriculture are to progress, we must provide them with proper infrastructure, market linkages, and access to knowledge," Patil said.

He also called for improved work culture in government departments and suggested that agricultural scientists regularly visit farmers’ fields to provide hands-on guidance.

MLA BB Chimmanakatti expressed concern over the misconception that horticulture is booming. “Many farmers are uprooting horticultural crops like pomegranates. Where is the growth? They don’t even know about cold storage facilities,” he said.

He emphasized that both human and natural resources must be better utilized. Chimmanakatti suggested introducing a reservation system for backward taluks, similar to the Kalyan Karnataka model. “Tourism can also be developed on the Kerala model, especially to support the almond sector,” he added. He urged the government to train rural youth in digital marketing and improve irrigation through check dams.

Committee Member Secretary M. Vishal held discussions with officials from various departments including Health, Education, Horticulture, and Fisheries. Deputy Commissioner Sangappa, District Forest Officer Ruthren, and committee members Sangeetha Kattimani and Prof. Siddappa Bagalkot were also present.

BOX:

The Irrigation Department did not attend the meeting nor inform relevant organizations. Committee Member Secretary M. Vishal said discussions with irrigation officials will now take place in Bengaluru.