7 crore people benefited from Guarantee Schemes – Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar
Udupi: Last year, 7 crore people benefited from the Guarantee Scheme. 1.2 crore people have risen above the poverty line. This time, 15% of the budget allocation has been given to the poor, a significant achievement. There is no doubt that this will improve the lives of the poor,” said Women and Child Development Minister and Udupi district in-charge minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar.
Speaking at the 78th Independence Day celebration held at the Mahatma Gandhi District Stadium in Ajjarakadu, Udupi on Thursday, Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar said, “Last year, 7 crore people benefited from the Guarantee Schemes. 1.2 crore people have risen above the poverty line. This time, 15% of the budget allocation has been given to the poor. There is no doubt that this will improve the lives of the poor.”
“Our country has achieved third place in the world in fish production. The contribution of fishermen in the district is immense. The initial stage of upgrading the Malpe all-weather fishing port has begun with the survey work,” the minister said.
“Udupi district’s law and order situation is under control, and various measures have been taken to control crime. The government is committed to creating a conducive environment for tourism, a key sector that generates employment in the coastal region. Through the Tourism Policy 2024-29, incentives and subsidies are provided to encourage investment in the tourism sector. Necessary infrastructure facilities are being created for tourists. Basic amenities like clean drinking water, roads, and electricity are being provided to the people of the district. Waste management units, water conservation, and cleanliness are being given priority”.
“Under the Jal Jeevan Mission scheme, 525 works have been taken up for Rs 734.02 crore to provide clean drinking water to 3,402 villages in the district, out of which 437 works have been completed”, said Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar.
A cultural program presented by school students showcased various dance performances that evoked patriotism and drew attention. On this occasion, the district administration honoured the family members who donated organs. Along with the awards, the Minority Welfare Department presented the ‘Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad Pratibha Puraskar’ to minority students, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens distributed the benefits.
Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, Kapu MLA Suresh Gurme, District Commissioner Dr K. Vidya Kumari, District Police Chief Dr. K. Arun, CEO of Zilla Panchayat Prateek Bayal, Coastal Security Force Police Chief Mithun H.N., Additional District Commissioner Mamata Devi, Assistant Director of Sports Department Roshan Shetty, leaders Uday Kumar Shetty, and Udupi District Congress President Ashok Kumar Kodavoor were present on the occasion.