Kalaburagi to be Transformed into a Smart City, Says Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
In a bid to boost development in the Kalyana Karnataka region, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced plans to transform Kalaburagi into a smart city. The project, estimated to require an investment of Rs 16.85 billion, aims to enhance the infrastructure and overall development of the city.
Significant Investments in Infrastructure Development
Under the Mahatma Gandhi Nagar Vikas Yojana 2.0, the government has allocated Rs 2 billion each for basic infrastructure development in both Kalaburagi and Ballari municipal corporations. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in these regions.
Celebrating Kalyana Karnataka’s Progress and Contributions
The chief minister made these announcements during the ‘Kalyana Karnataka Amrut Mahotsav’ and the 10th anniversary of granting special status to Kalyana Karnataka under Article 371J of the Constitution. Highlighting the historical significance of the region, Siddaramaiah mentioned that Bidar, Kalaburagi, and Raichur districts gained independence a year after India due to their association with the Nizam of Hyderabad. The chief minister acknowledged the contributions of freedom fighters, Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s strength to bring these districts under the Indian Union.
Promoting Rural Development and Connectivity
To improve road connectivity and boost rural development, the state government has launched the “Kalyana Patha” scheme. As part of this initiative, the government will construct 1,150 km of roads in rural assembly constituencies at an estimated cost of Rs 10 billion. This move is expected to enhance accessibility and accelerate overall development in the region.
Focusing on Healthcare and Employment
Siddaramaiah expressed the government’s commitment to establishing an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raichur. Urging the central government to initiate the necessary steps, he highlighted the significance of providing quality healthcare services to the region.
In addition, the government is striving to generate employment opportunities through various initiatives. By 2024-25, the government aims to create 4.85 crore person-days of work under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in the seven districts of Kalyana Karnataka. So far, 343 million person-days have been generated, benefiting around 13.69 lakh individuals.
Promoting Tourism and Industrial Development
Recognizing the potential of tourism, the government has earmarked Rs 1 billion for the development of tourism in the famous Anjanadri Hill and its surrounding areas in Koppal district. This investment aims to attract tourists and showcase the cultural and natural beauty of the region.
In addition, the administration plans to organize existing unorganized jeans industries in Ballari and establish a Jeans Apparel Park and Common Facility Centre to uplift them to international standards. This move will not only contribute to the industrial growth of the region but also ensure job creation and promote economic prosperity.
With a substantial allocation of Rs 50 billion in the 2024-25 budget to the Kalyana Karnataka Development Board, the government aims to accelerate development projects in the region. These investments are expected to usher in a new era of progress and enhance the overall well-being of the people in Kalyana Karnataka.
