Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi (DV/JD/MS)

Mangaluru, Jun 11: The Congress government's free bus for women under the Shakthi scheme was inaugurated in the twin districts and Udupi by respective district in-charge ministers Dinesh Gundu Rao and Laxmi Hebbalkar at Mangaluru and Udupi KSRTC bus stands respectively on Sunday, June 11.

During the formal launch for Dakshina Kannada, Dinesh Gundu Rao stated, "The historic moment of launching the Shakthi program in Dakshina Kannada on my first visit is significant. The Congress party has fulfilled all the promises made to the public, irrespective of caste, religion, and language. The decision to implement all the promised programs was taken in the first cabinet meeting of the Congress government. This comprehensive program is aimed at the welfare and empowerment of women."

Without directly mentioning BJP leaders, Gundu Rao added, "When the Congress announced these guarantees, some criticized us and claimed it was not possible. However, the Congress has proven its commitment by implementing these assurances. Assuring guarantees and implementing them in a timely manner is not a small decision. It is truly a historic decision made by our government in the state's history."

Gundu Rao further stated that all the guarantees would be implemented by August 15.

Taking a dig at MLA Vedhavyas Kamath for his absence from the programs, Rao said, "For any development, we should involve the people and representatives of the region. However, those who commit mistakes will be punished under the ambit of the law."

Dinesh Gundu Rao was felicitated by the district administration during the event. Rajesh Shetty, the senior divisional controller, delivered the keynote address, while H R Kamal Kumar extended a warm welcome to the gathering.

The event was attended by deputy commissioner M R Ravikumar, zilla panchayat CEO Dr. Kumar, Congress leaders Suresh Ballal, Shashidar Hegde, J R Lobo, Ivan D'Souza, Kavitha Sanil, Shalet Pinto, Prathibha Kulai, Mamatha Gatti Kodijal Ibrahim, and others.

Shakti Scheme empowers women to be self-reliant and Proud - Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar

Laxmi Hebbalkar, the minister for women and children development, empowerment of differently abled and senior citizens, and in-charge of Udupi district, expressed that the Shakti scheme introduced by the state Congress government, which allows women to travel freely across the state, will enable them to become self-reliant and proud of their lives.

Hebbalkar made these remarks while inaugurating the Shakti scheme at the government bus stand in the city.

In the state, there are more than 20,000 government buses, out of which 18,609 buses will fall under the scheme. Every day, 41.8 lakh women will benefit from this scheme. The annual cost of implementing this scheme for the state exchequer is estimated to be Rs 4,051 crore. Women, girl students, and gender minority individuals will also be eligible for this scheme.

Hebbalkar advocates for increased number of government buses in district

Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar expressed her concerns about the limited number of government buses in Udupi. She stated, "There are only 95 operational buses in the district, while there are numerous private buses. I will raise this issue with the transport minister and request an increase in the number of government buses for the benefit of the people, especially women students."

She further emphasized her commitment to ensuring that the women of Udupi district reap the benefits of the Shakti Yojana, considering the larger female population in the area. Hebbalkar mentioned, "In Udupi, the population of women exceeds that of men. As the woman district in-charge, I will ensure that the women of Udupi district avail themselves of the advantages provided by the Shakti Yojana."

Regarding the sticker issue for Shakti Yojana buses, she clarified, "There are over 20,000 buses in the state, with 15,609 operating under the Shakti Yojana. The decision on stickers lies with the transport minister, who will discuss and inform the public."

'Will seek cooperation of all 5 BJP MLAs in district'

In reference to the five BJP MLAs in Udupi district, Hebbalkar emphasized the importance of political astuteness and sought the cooperation of opposition legislators. She expressed her dedication to the progress of Udupi and the reputation of the Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar-led government. Hebbalkar added, "My focus is on development, and I am also responsible for organizing the District Congress here. I will work towards fostering unity and efficiency within the organization."

Acknowledging the fulfillment of one of the five guarantees promised by the state, Hebbalkar expressed her joy in inaugurating the program as the district in-charge minister. She praised the gentle and cultured nature of the people in Udupi and promised to work inclusively for progress. Hebbalkar shared her plan to visit the district twice a month, conduct taluk-level visits at least once, and extend visits to the panchayat level in the future.

'Implementation of Gruhakshmi Yojana on Aug 15'

Hebbalkar also shared details about the upcoming Gruhakshmi Yojana, stating, "The design for Gruhakshmi Yojana is being developed, and discussions are underway within our department. We will release the specific format to the public by tomorrow evening, followed by a gazette notification. The implementation of Gruhakshmi Yojana is scheduled for August 15, expected to come into effect on August 17 or 18 at the latest."

 "The state government will gradually implement four additional guarantees that were promised to the people. All below-poverty-line (BPL) and above-poverty-line (APL) women can benefit from this scheme. The application form for this scheme will be released within two days. Women can apply online, through CODP, as well as through Anganwadi teachers and Grama One personnel," stated Hebbalkar.

"As the in-charge of Udupi district, I have held discussions with the deputy commissioner and other concerned officials. With the cooperation of all political parties and the general public, I will work in accordance with the message of Basavanna that 'work is worship' and with compassion as the guiding principle of religion," she added.

Minister Hebbalkar also assured complete cooperation to the district administration in addressing the issues faced by the public round the clock.

MLA Yashpal Suvarna presided over the function, while Jayaprakash Hegde, the President of the State BCM Commission, MLC Manjunath Bhandary, CEO of the Zilla Panchayat Prasanna H, SP Akshay M Hakay, additional DC Veena B N, undertraining IAS officer Yathish, and Kundapur AC Rashmi were also present.

The district administration felicitated the minister. Hebbalkar flagged off the Shakti scheme, distributed free bus ride tickets and roses to women passengers, and traveled along with them.

DC Kurma Rao welcomed the gathering, and Jayakumar, the technical engineer of KSRTC Mangaluru division, delivered the introductory speech. Prashant Havanje compered the event.