Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Apr 22: A district-level meeting on the Karnataka Regional Imbalance Elimination Committee (D M Nanjundappa Committee) report was held at the Dr V S Acharya Auditorium, Rajathadri, Zilla Panchayat, Manipal, on Tuesday, April 22.
Professor M Govind Rao, chairperson of the district-level meeting, stated, “The extent of regional imbalance largely depends on local people's participation and the economic development of an area. Udupi district has seen considerable development, especially through private participation. However, there is still a need for further growth.”
Professor Govind Rao highlighted that Udupi was the first district in the state to develop sectors such as medical education and banking, contributing significantly to educational and economic progress. He noted that government support has bolstered development, and further such initiatives are essential.
As per the D M Nanjundappa Committee report, taluks and districts have been classified into three categories based on a comprehensive development index: 39 most backward, 40 more backward, and 35 backward. Professor Govind Rao said further analysis will be carried out on inter-district human development trends, living standards, and disparities in human development indices.
The committee uses 35 indicators to evaluate development, including gross domestic product, per capita income, economic structure, life expectancy, infant mortality rate, literacy rate, natural resources, and access to basic services. Based on these indicators, recommendations will be made for comprehensive development in the district, he added.
MLA Kiran Kumar Kodgi expressed concern that certain government regulations are hindering tourism development in the district. He cited restrictions within the 200 to 500-metre Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and the 1 km Eco-Sensitive Zone under the Wildlife Act as major obstacles to commercial activity. He explained that apart from residential construction, land conversion for industrial or commercial use is prohibited, inconveniencing the public. He urged for the relaxation of these rules and noted that transferring the authority to approve land conversions away from local panchayats has resulted in delays and hardships.
Dinkar Herur, president of the Urban Development Authority, noted that residents of the coastal region face challenges in land conversion due to stringent regulations such as the need to leave space for road access when converting even small plots of just five cents. He called for relaxation of these norms. He also pointed out the underdevelopment of the Kudubi tribal community, stressing the need for targeted interventions. Furthermore, he criticized the current criteria for farm equipment distribution, which require a minimum landholding, thereby excluding small farmers.
Representatives of the district’s industrial associations called for the expansion of industrial zones and the establishment of new industries. They observed that large-scale industries would spur smaller enterprises. However, delays in the issuance of Form 9 and 11 documents by gram panchayats are hindering industrial land approvals. They sought exemptions for land parcels under two acres and highlighted reduced freight capacity from Udupi to Mumbai as a logistical concern.
Dr Vishal R, secretary of the Planning Department and member secretary of the Committee, elaborated on the Nanjundappa Committee’s recommendations and the ongoing work of the Govind Rao Committee. He emphasised the importance of hostel facilities, residential schools, and addressing teacher shortages to strengthen the district’s education system. He also recommended promoting religious tourism, developing skills, and conducting public awareness programmes on fire and emergency preparedness. He suggested integrating local funds to implement these initiatives effectively.
Deputy commissioner Dr K Vidyakumari underscored the need to prioritise social development. Despite educational progress among members of the Koraga and Malekudiya communities, she noted that they continue to struggle to secure government jobs due to the competitive nature of recruitment exams. She called for special reservations for these communities. She also mentioned the rising demand for government land for establishing industries and IT parks, and commended the contributions of Udupi natives abroad who are now reinvesting in the district.
The meeting was attended by Zilla Panchayat CEO Prateek Boyle, superintendent of police Dr Arun K, and officials from various departments.