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Hegde said the manifesto focuses on uplifting both hilly terrains and coastal plains and encompasses a wide array of initiatives aimed at agricultural advancement, industrial expansion, healthcare enhancement, and educational empowerment.
JP Hegde further said that the manifesto reflects a comprehensive approach towards holistic development of the region, keeping in mind the needs of various sectors crucial for the progress of Udupi and Chikkamagaluru. With a focus on grassroots empowerment and sustainable growth, the manifesto aims to propel the constituency towards a brighter future, he added.
Key highlights of the manifesto include:
- Agricultural Advancements:
- Activation of the dormant ‘Arecanut Research Centre’ to bolster arecanut cultivation.
- Implementation of recommendations from the Gorakh Singh report to safeguard the interests of areca nut growers.
- Combatting perennial leaf spot disease affecting areca nut crops through dedicated research efforts.
- Promotion of Dairy Farming and Agricultural Exports:
- Establishment of a KMF milk unit in Chikkamagaluru district to boost dairy farming.
- Endeavours to obtain Global Brand (GI Tag) status for Malenadu’s agricultural products.
- Encouragement of exports by identifying and promoting 10 different agricultural and industrial products.
- Malenadu (hilly area) Development:
- Initiatives to increase compensation for crop damage caused by wild animals.
- Recognition and preservation of heritage settlements in the hilly region.
- Celebration of ‘Mountain Day’ on April 15th annually to raise awareness about the life and culture of hilly regions.
- Industrial and Infrastructural Growth:
- Development of industrial colonies and corridors to support micro and small-scale industries.
- Establishment of fisheries industrial sectors and seafood processing zones to facilitate exports.
- Expansion of infrastructure including mini-bus connectivity, airstrips, and port connectivity roads.
- Healthcare and Education Enhancement:
- Upgradation of government hospitals and establishment of a well-equipped ESI Hospital for industrial workers.
- Proposals for government medical and engineering colleges to bolster educational opportunities.
- Construction of a well-equipped ‘sports complex’ to promote sports activities in the Udupi-Chikkamagaluru.
- Fisheries Development:
- Emphasis on dredging projects and facilities.
- Provision of subsidies and pension facilities for retired fishermen.
- Enforcement of strict measures for timely insurance claims related to fisheries.
- Land and Fisheries Reforms:
- Simplification of legal restrictions to facilitate land allotment for agricultural use.
- Efforts to amend the Fisheries Act, 1984, to align with current requirements.
- Establishment of weather forecasting stations along the Karnataka coast to aid fisheries.