Udupi Celebrates 77th Republic Day with Patriotic Fervour
Udupi: Emphasising that extending a helping hand to the weak, supporting farmers and entrepreneurs, and fostering social harmony form the true foundation of development, Minister for Women and Child Development and Udupi District In-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar highlighted the government’s commitment to welfare and inclusive growth.
She was speaking after hoisting the National Flag at the 77th Republic Day celebrations in Udupi on Monday.
Describing January 26 as a historic and auspicious day when India’s Constitution came into force, she said it is an occasion for every citizen to reflect on their rights and duties. She paid tribute to freedom fighters and urged citizens to uphold the values of truth, non-violence, justice, equality, and social responsibility.
Calling upon citizens to rise above caste, language, and community divisions, she stressed the need to preserve unity, integrity, heritage, and moral values. She also extended greetings to members of the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and internal security personnel.
Welfare Measures and Development Initiatives
Highlighting key state initiatives, the Minister said:
- “Akkapade” units have been established across districts and commissionerates to assist and protect women and children.
- 4,056 LKG and UKG classes are being started for children from economically weaker sections.
- The Gruha Lakshmi multipurpose cooperative society is being formed to enhance women’s economic independence.
- Under the mid-day meal and Ksheerabhagya schemes, boiled eggs are now provided six days a week and extended to Classes 9 and 10.
- Karnataka has emerged as a leading destination for foreign investment with faster implementation of industrial proposals.
- A modern Integrated Command and Control Centre has been set up to prevent human-wildlife conflict.
She noted that over 100 bills have been passed in the last two and a half years to address public issues. The Hate Speech and Hate Crimes Prevention Bill has been enacted to safeguard peace and harmony.
The government’s five guarantee schemes have significantly improved women’s confidence, family stability, and household purchasing power, with over ₹1 lakh crore spent so far.
- Gruha Lakshmi: Benefited 1.24 crore women; ₹57,000 crore disbursed statewide.
- Shakti Scheme: Improved women’s mobility and workforce participation.
- Gruha Jyothi: Reduced electricity expenses for families.
- Annabhagya: Strengthened food security for the poor.
- Yuvanidhi: Provided financial support to unemployed youth.
- “Deepika” Scholarship: ₹30,000 annual support for girl students in higher education in collaboration with Azim Premji Foundation.
She further noted that 10,467 km of roads have been constructed at a cost of ₹16,357 crore, and the innovative “Neeriddare Naale” water conservation scheme has been launched.
Tourism, Farmers, Fishermen and Healthcare
The Minister said coastal tourism will receive a major boost under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29, with sites such as Kapu Beach, Padubidri Blue Flag Beach, Kapu Lighthouse, Marigudi Temple, Uchil Mahalakshmi Temple, Kunjarugiri Temple, and Mattu Rock Island identified for development.
Over ₹95,000 crore has been allocated for farmer welfare in the last two years, leading to 4% agricultural growth. The “Skills on Wheels” initiative brings skill training to rural youth.
For fishermen, schemes including housing under Matsyashraya, insurance, education funds, and loan assistance have been implemented.
To improve healthcare access, 81 mobile health units have been launched under the “Arogya Sethu” initiative, with four units serving remote villages in the district, benefiting Koraga community members. Farmers have also benefited from crop insurance schemes for areca nut and black pepper.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to justice, equality, and peace, she urged citizens to work collectively towards strengthening the nation.
Several dignitaries, officials, school children, and members of the public were present.
