Belagavi: Kannada organizations seek speedy resolution of border dispute

Hampi Kannada University. | Photo credit: File photo

Kannada organizations have urged the new government to resolve the border issue with Maharashtra as soon as possible. They also plan to submit a list of demands to the government.

Among their demands are the strengthening of institutions such as Hampi Kannada University and all universities in border districts, as well as strict implementation of the policy of using Kannada in ministries in all districts. They also demanded special incentives for students from border villages who want to study in higher education.

They also demanded that all ongoing irrigation projects be completed on time, that an accelerated irrigation development plan be introduced in North Karnataka, and that special emphasis be given to small and medium irrigation projects. This should include lift irrigation schemes, tank filling schemes, tank desilting, nala cleaning, disturbance removal and widening and deepening of water bodies. The implementation of these works can be done through the irrigation department or the rural development department and Panchayat Raj, said Ashok Chandaragi, convener of the central committee of Kannada organizations.

Compared to southern Karnataka, the northern part of the state has fewer government higher education institutions. More government medical, engineering, agriculture and law colleges can be set up in districts that do not have them. The Ministry of Public Works should be entrusted with the repair, maintenance and construction of government schools and colleges, they added.

Activists also sought the establishment of a Geographical Indications (GI) Information and Training Center for Karnataka. This can help identify all crops, crafts, handlooms and food items that can seek GI marks, they explained, adding that the center can work with Karnataka State Law University or local law schools to train farmers to grow specific crops that can get GI marks. Crops like Maldandi Jowar in Vijayapur and Khapli wheat from Belagavi can be added to the list, enabling farmers to earn higher income.

“There needs to be more focus on developing heritage tourism in the state, especially in North Karnataka. There are hundreds of temples, monuments, dargahs, forts and other historical sites. A large number of them are not identified by the Archaeological Survey of India or the Ministry of Archeology Museums and Heritage. They can be protected and beautified to ensure more visitors and not increase income for the local people. Mr Chandargi.

Published – 02 Jun 2026 18:39 IST