from special correspondent

Mangalore: Well-known Karnataka Administrative Service official John Richard Lobo, known as 'Richie' to close friends and acquaintances, and as J R Lobo to all, has just taken up voluntary retirement from the service of the state government.

An amiable person who has been popular with people from different political affiliations and different strata of society, Lobo has served in various positions in and around Mangalore. He has served as tahsildar, assistant commissioner, headquarters assistant to the deputy commissioner, Mangalore city corporation commissioner, KUDCEMP project director and executive director of the PIlikula Nisarga Dhama.

Speaking exclusively to this correspondent at his residence on Sunday, July 22, he said that he was being pressured into taking up a political career, since the public feels that there was a need for educated and experienced persons to be in politics. He says that if Providence destines so and if he could serve the society in an equally fruitful way, he might consider it soon.

He also said that there was pressure at the time of last assembly election, but he had not given it a serious thought. He is confident of receiving public support, cutting across caste, creed and political lines.

He revealed his vision for Mangalore, like the plans he had in mind for the 3-D planetarium to be set up in Pilikula, which if materializes, would be the first-ever in the country. He feels that as the people's elected representative, he would have better accessibility at the government level.

He feels that the district has a great potential in terms of tourism. He spoke at length about many other subjects which are dear to his heart.

A full-length interview will follow soon.