Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Apr 24: BJP MP candidate Capt Brijesh Chowta said that the 'Navayuga Navapatha' manifesto, comprises nine key features aimed at bringing about significant change. Describing Dakshina Kannada (DK) as an ‘ocean of possibility’, Chowta emphasized the need to tap into its abundant resources and opportunities.

Addressing the media on the final day of campaigning on Wednesday, April 24, he said, “The manifesto primarily focuses on enhancing transportation infrastructure, providing basic necessities to rural communities, fostering industry growth, attracting capital investments, promoting start-ups, and creating employment opportunities. Recognizing the district's status as a tourist destination, the manifesto pledges to develop entrepreneurial avenues for youth, leveraging the district's scenic seashores and historic temples. Moreover, it emphasizes the protection and promotion of Tulunadu's rich culture and heritage. Additionally, the manifesto underscores the importance of supporting fishing and farming sectors in the coastal district, while also prioritizing coastal development and conservation efforts.”

The key highlights of the 'Navayuga Navapatha' manifesto are as follows:

1. Infrastructure and Connectivity: Prioritizing the completion of highway construction, addressing connectivity issues between Mangaluru and Bengaluru through a new high-speed railway line, and resolving Shiradi Ghat construction problems.
2. Industry and Investment: Attracting investment through good governance, promoting industries such as food processing, marine products, fisheries, and textiles, with special attention to empowering women and fisherfolk communities. Aiming to attract global companies to establish their R&D centers in the region.
3. Startup and Entrepreneurship: Establishing startup incubators, innovation hubs, and accelerators to support entrepreneurship, along with initiatives like 'Back to Ooru' and 'Be Your Own Boss'. Plans to initiate a film city in Dakshina Kannada.
4. Tourism: Developing infrastructure and basic facilities at all beaches, with a focus on Sasihithlu Beach to promote beach tourism and adventure sports.
5. Nari Shakti: Facilitating greater participation of women in the economy and ensuring their safety and security.
6. Culture and Heritage: Establishing a Tulunadu Heritage Experience Centre, advocating for the recognition of the Tulu language, and preserving and promoting traditional medicinal practices ('Deyi Baideti').
7. Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries: Providing financial and technical support for farmers and promoting natural farming, addressing issues related to key crops like areca, and upgrading fisheries colleges. Supporting fishermen in contributing to the global green revolution through technology and market integration.
8. Youth and Connectivity: Providing skill-based training and mentorship for young adults, increasing awareness about mental health, drug abuse, and overall well-being. Initiatives like 'Catch-up-with-Captain', establishment of a Sainik school, and strengthening the sports ecosystem.
9. Coastal Development and Security: Building resilient infrastructure, exploring waterways between key coastal towns, completing India's first Coastal Guard Academy, and establishing research centers to dismantle terror networks.

"We plan to develop temple tourism, establish a Tulu heritage experience center, create a film city, upgrade the fisheries college to a university, and position it as a major center for research. Additionally, we aim to develop the district as a sports center," Chowta announced.

"With strategic initiatives such as the Coast Guard Academy, we are poised to realize the district's full potential," he added.

Chowta also underscored the importance of completing ongoing projects promptly to expedite progress. "The Coast Guard Academy is a priority, and we are committed to ensuring its timely completion," he said.

In response to concerns about Dakshina Kannada being perceived as communal sensitive, Capt Brijesh Chowta emphasized that it's a matter of self-respect for the people of the district. He clarified that the perception does not reflect reality and pledged to set the right narrative to dispel any misconceptions.