Pics: Dayanand/Madhava

Daijiworld Media Network:- Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Nov 24: The much-anticipated Coastal Carnival Padubidri 2024 officially kicked off on November 23, marking a significant milestone in the 50th anniversary celebrations of JCI Padubidri.

The three-day festival, held at the picturesque Blue Flag Beach and Padubidri Beach, aims to promote tourism, sports, and cultural harmony, while boosting the regional economy and supporting local businesses. The event is organised in collaboration with Udupi Tourism and the district administration.

On the opening day, Kaup MLA Suresh Shetty Gurme expressed his pride in JCI's contributions, saying, "I am proud to say that JCI helps youth to develop overall character. This organisation doesn't just speak, it plans and executes. JCI does not discriminate on the basis of caste, religion, or gender. It upholds the values of humanity."

He also emphasised the potential of the coastal region to attract tourists, adding, "The hard work of all JCI members has made this event a reality, and I wish it great success."

Former MLA Lalaji Mendon highlighted the global presence of JCI and its positive impact on young people. "JCI is an international organisation, and in India, it holds many impactful programs for individuals between 18 to 40 years of age," he said. "The Karavali region is a God-gifted place, creating such a beautiful place would cost crores of rupees, but we have this paradise for tourism. This program is bound to attract more tourists," he added.

Manohar Shetty, president of the Association of Coastal Tourism, reflected on JCI's growth over the past five decades, stating, "It’s hard to believe how quickly 50 years have passed, and the organization has grown exponentially. JCI spreads love and contributes to society in many ways. I thought about what I could give back, and I decided that tourism development was my focus. This beach is now an international destination, but we need to improve the road infrastructure for better accessibility and parking. The future plans for road development will ensure a smoother experience for all."

The grand ceremony was presided over by Sanjeet Yermal, president of JCI Padubidri. Dignitaries in attendance included Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty, former MLA Lalaji R Mendon,  Manohar S Shetty, president of the Association of Coastal Tourism; Shashikala Poojary, president of Padubidri Grama Panchayat; Reshma Mendon, president of Hejamadi Grama Panchayat; Neeta Gururaj, former president of Udupi Taluk Panchayat; Shashikant Padubidri, former member of Udupi Zilla Panchayat; and Prakash Shetty Padebettu, district vice-president of BJP Udupi, among others. Local tourists also attended the event.

The ceremony was welcomed by Harish Hejmady and Murulnath Shetty, with Manu Shetty, secretary of JCI Padubidri, delivering the vote of thanks.