Bangalore: Karnataka Celebrates 53rd State Formation Day
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore
Bangalore, Nov 1: Jubilation marked the 53rd state formation day celebrations across Karnataka on Saturday, a day after the Centre accorded Kannada the much awaited classical language status.
Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa, inaugurating the celebration function here at the Srekanteerava Stadium, said the state would set apart Rs 25 crore for promotion of Kannada language activities related to it.
Thanking Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for taking steps to accord classical language status to Kannada, he said the state government would sanction a Rs one crore grant to any University, either in India or abroad, if it sets up a chair for research activities in Kannada language.
The Chief Minister said that the government, in a bid to encourage use of Kannada, would award Rs 50,000 each to the students who qualify in Union civil cervices exams by writing in the language.
Yedyurappa also said that use of signboards in Kannada is compulsory across the state.
The CM said he would lead a delegation of leaders, including from North Karnataka, to meet the Prime Minister to seek special economic status to North Karnataka region under Article 371 of the Constitution.
"We want the Centre to amend Article 371 to include North Karnataka for special grants and also an IIT. I will take leaders of North Karnataka region in the delegation", he said.
Children from several schools presented cultural shows on the occasion.
Rajyotsava Ota was held in 5 cities simultaneously viz. Bellary, Bengaluru, Chitradurga, Hubli-Dharwad and Shivamoga.
Sapna Bookhouse released “Suvarna Sirimale” a series of 52 books, fitting for the occasion.
The department of Kannada & Culture will present several cultural shows and award presentations at Kanteerava Indoor Stadium later in the evening.