Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal
Bantwal, Mar 8: Chief minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday inaugurated the 15th edition of the 'Muduru–Paduru Jodukare Bayalu Kambalakoota' at Koodibailu grounds in Navuru village. Calling the traditional buffalo race a "caste and religion-neutral sport" that unites communities, he assured that the state government will continue providing encouragement, support, and financial assistance for the event.
Speaking at the inaugural function, the chief minister said, "Freedom is meaningful only when political, social, and economic democracy reaches all sections of society. Our government has rolled out programmes to integrate weaker sections into the mainstream. I am confident the people of Karnataka will support us, and our government will be in power in 2028 as well."
Highlighting development works in the constituency of former minister B Ramanath Rai, Siddaramaiah said, "During the past term, nearly Rs 5,000 crore in grants were allocated for development in Bantwal. In 2028, he will contest again as the Congress candidate from this constituency." He also announced the construction of a sports stadium in Benjanapadav in the upcoming financial year.
CM felicitated
The Kambala committee presented the chief minister with a ceremonial buffalo’s tail and a memento in appreciation of his support for the sport. Dr Santosh Guruji was present at the ceremony.
The committee’s honorary president and former minister B Ramanath Rai recalled the development works carried out in Bantwal during Siddaramaiah’s 2013–18 term, including Rs 300 crore in grants under the western channel project for three coastal districts. He urged renewed focus on the Benjanapadav sports stadium project.
The programme saw participation from key dignitaries, including Karnataka legislative assembly speaker U T Khader, transport minister Ramalinga Reddy, MLCs Saleem Ahmed and Ivan D’Souza, MLAs Ashok Kumar Rai and T D Raje Gowda, and former minister Vinay Kumar Sorake. Heads of various corporations including Lavanya Ballal, T M Shaheed Tekkil, Mamata D S Gatti, and Shalet Pinto were also present.
The Kambala committee president, Pius L Rodrigues, welcomed the gathering, while Balakrishna Alva Kodaje and Rajeev Kakkepadu compered the event. Extensive police arrangements ensured security for the chief minister’s visit.