Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network – Puttur

Puttur, Nov 2: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar emphasized the need for creating job opportunities in the coastal and inland regions of Dakshina Kannada to promote peace and address regional concerns. Speaking at the ‘Ashoka Jana-Mana’ clothing distribution event organized by MLA Ashok Rai at Kombettu, Shivakumar said the government is considering a separate tourism policy for the area.

Shivakumar expressed concern over local issues, including communal unrest and declining student admissions from outside districts due to regional conflicts. "Dakshina Kannada, despite its vast potential, faces challenges, leading youth to seek jobs in cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and abroad," he remarked. He highlighted the region's abundant temples and coastal attractions, making it ideal for a unique tourism strategy aimed at generating local employment.

The event also saw Shivakumar addressing the region’s economic concerns, noting the closure of local banks and the lack of major hotels in Mangaluru, despite its status as a port city. He assured that various proposals for Puttur's development, as put forth by MLA Ashok Rai, would be fulfilled in phases.

Reflecting on the broader political context, Shivakumar noted the government's commitment to development across all constituencies, irrespective of party lines. He praised Ashok Rai for his community-focused initiatives and social service efforts, highlighting the ongoing work of the Rai Estates Educational and Charitable Trust, which distributed clothing to 75,000 people this year.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including MLC Manjunath Bhandary, former minister Vinay Kumar Sorake, KPCC leaders, and local community members.