Udupi: Renowned Banker K M Udupa Felicitated at Glittering Ceremony

Pics: Hemanath Padubidri
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SM)

Udupi, Nov 3: Renowned banker Karkada Manjunatha Udupa, who has made significant contribution to promoting and formulating the counrty's agriculture credit policy and introducing innovations in efficient farm management techniques, was felicitated at a grand ceremony which was held at the end of a day-long programme in his honour here on Saturday November 3.

Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr D Veerendra Heggade did the honours. Udupa and his wife were felicitated with shawls, mementoes and a gold pendent specially presented by Dr Heggade. The programme was organized by the K M Udupa felicitation committee on the occasion of Udupa's 75th birthday.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Heggade said that Udupa was a complete banker, whose contribution to rural development was unlimited. "He is an ex-employee of Syndicate Bank, but he still considers himself a member of the Syndicate family," he said.

"In the 1980s when everyone had begun seeking education there was problem of employment. Udupa introduced short courses and workshops for people through which they could make themselves employable," he added.

"Most people spend their time only thinking but never act. One must try to implement one's ideas, and be like a light that illuminates a house. That is what Udupa is," he said.

Minister of muzrai Kota Srinivas Poojary drew a comparison between Udupa and Kannada writer Dr Shivaram Karanth and said that Udupa on his 75th birthday was as energetic and dynamic as Dr Karanth was on his 19th birthday.

"Solar power system is so close to Udupa's heart that he never ends a speech without referring to its benefits. It has been Udupa's dream to see solar power systems being used to the maximum. Following his example, the district administration has introduced the same in every gram panchayat and street," he said, wishing Udupa a long and happy life.

Udupi-Chikmagalur MP Jayaprakash Hegde said that Udupa was a simple person with great thoughts. "Udupa is a person who implements his ideas in real and brings in reforms. He has always planned for the poor and given priority to schooling, banking and agriculture," he said.

"When Udupa came to Syndicate Bank most of the people were not aware of solar power system. He organized several awareness programmes and arranged financial aid to implement the systems," he said, adding that more than politicians, it is people like Udupa who contribute positively to the society.

Together with Udupa, he also lauded the contributions of Dr TMA Pai and Dr Veerendra Heggade and said that all three have done tremendous work for the development of the region.

Acknowledging the honour, Udupa said, "There comes a time in every person's life when he gets an opportinity to improve himself. Most people think opportunity is about making money or building a house, but in reality, relationship is the only opportunity, and the only asset that will help one in life. My relationship with Dr Veerendra Heggade is the best opportunity of my life. Syndicate Bank's relationship with Dharmasthala is priceless, and because we have worked together we have been able to do so much and be recognized for our work."

Emphasizing on humanity, he said, "We should not forget that we are Indians and we have a special bond with our families. Giving priority to earning money is fine up to a certain extent, but ultimately, we should respect and be there for our families and loved ones."

After thanking the audience, he quipped 'solar power is the future of mankind', referring to Kota Poojary's quote that he never ends a speech without mention solar power. The audience broke into peals of laughter at this.

'Ettarada Udupa' a book on the life and achievements of K M Udupa was released on the occasion by Kota Poojary.

Manipal University chancellor Ramdas Pai also spoke on the occasion.

K M Udupa felicitation committee president L Manjunath, vice-president Seetaram Shetty, secretary Dayanand Rao, members Satish Pai, Ashok Pai and others were present.

Earlier in the day, chairman of third finance commission task force A G Kodgi inaugurated the day-long programme in the presence of Syndicate Bank director Dr Thingalaya. A workshop was also conducted during the day.