Mangaluru, September 19 (Udaipur Kiran) : Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar conducted an unannounced visit to Mangaluru Port early Saturday morning. During his visit, he inspected the fishing yard, jetty, and fish market, taking the opportunity to engage with local fishermen and traders to hear about their challenges.
Accompanying him were District In-charge Minister U.T. Khader, Congress leaders Padmaraj and Inayat Ali, former president of the South Canara District Trawler Fishermen’s Association Chetan Bengre, Mohan Bengre, and other local leaders.
Speaking to the media, CM Shivakumar noted that it had been a while since his last visit to the port, where he had previously listened to the issues faced by fishermen and others in the industry. “I woke up at 5 AM and came here with Minister U.T. Khader. He has provided us with a list of their problems, and I am witnessing them firsthand. We need to find solutions,” he stated.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s plans to develop the maritime and fisheries sectors while promoting a blue economy. He announced that a university would be established in the region, with plans to increase student enrollment from 40 to 50 and eventually to 200.
“We are bringing a new master plan for education related to the sea and water,” he added. The government has also announced several initiatives related to maritime connectivity. Currently, there are no passenger or cargo transport facilities via sea in Karnataka, but plans are underway to introduce services, including a sea metro.
“There are many issues here. My district minister is present and will address them,” he assured. The Chief Minister mentioned that the government’s decisions would not be limited to coastal areas but would also encompass rural development across the state, implemented through gram panchayats and local bodies.
On the topic of decisions related to the Tulu language, Shivakumar acknowledged the long history of the language and the sentiments of those born and residing in the region. “We must respect these emotions and ensure that the language does not fade away. We should encourage its use,” he stated.
He noted that the demand for this initiative came from all parties, and while other parties failed to act, his government decided to move forward. “For the first time in history, a cabinet meeting was held, and we made history. Many more decisions are yet to come,” he concluded.
Deependra Singh Chundawat is a Senior Sub-Editor at Udaipur Kiran, specializing in a wide range of technology topics including mobile phones, applications, gaming, PCs, and wearables. Along with covering the latest tech news, he also creates engaging web stories. Passionate about emerging technologies, he stays up to date with the newest trends and enjoys reading and writing about the latest mobile launches and digital innovations.