Media Release

Udupi, Jun 27: Deputy commissioner (DC) Dr Vidyakumari has directed land acquisition officials to expedite the process of acquiring land in the identified areas of Shivapura Kerebettu and Nitte for the establishment of a new industrial zone in the district.

During a meeting held at the Rajathadri DC office in Manipal with the industrial response committee, cluster committee, district level single vigilance committee, district level export promotion committee, and the district level implementation committee of the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Scheme, Dr Vidyakumari emphasized the urgent need to accelerate land acquisition.

The goal is to create new industrial areas, thereby generating employment opportunities for local residents. Dr Vidyakumari highlighted the need for swift action to acquire 113.59 acres in Shivapura and Kerebettu villages in Hebri taluk, 50.42 acres in Nittoor, Karkala taluk, and 101.19 acres in Uppoor, Brahmavar taluk. These lands are to be transferred to the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) promptly.

Dr Vidyakumari stated, “According to Dr Sarojini Mahishi's report, local employment should be prioritized, particularly in small industries and alcohol industries within the district. No significant progress has been observed in more than 21 industries since last March. Currently, only D group posts are being filled. It is crucial to allow the recruitment of local candidates for all positions and to maintain proper documentation related to recruitment. New industries must be identified and established on the allotted land promptly. If industrial operations do not commence immediately, an additional fee of two percent will be charged as per the KIADB Act. Changes in industrial activities require prior permission; otherwise, notices should be issued to obtain the necessary approvals.”

Officials at the meeting were instructed to provide essential amenities such as roads, drainage systems, and water supply in industrial areas. The need to enhance electrical capacity to ensure uninterrupted power supply was also stressed. An announcement was made regarding the allocation of vacant spaces and investment in the KSSIDC industrial estate, urging swift allocation procedures.

Dr Vidyakumari advised the panchayat development department to promote and increase the export of locally produced goods through international channels, noting a significant increase in fish production. The export committee should provide recommendations to facilitate the export of goods and organize awareness programs on the subject.

“Permission must be obtained from local panchayats to construct industries within gram panchayat jurisdictions, and property taxes should be settled accordingly,” she added.

Attendees of the meeting included Nagaraj V Nayak, director of the industries department; Rayappa, commissioner; Harish, manager of lead bank; Srinivas Moorthy from KIADB; and other officials from various departments.