Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda addressed the gathering after hoisting the national flag during the Republic Day program in Hassan on January 26. Photo credit: Special arrangement
Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda urged the central government to appreciate and encourage the states that are making progress to strengthen the federal structure of the country.
Speaking to presspersons after hoisting the national flag during the Republic Day celebrations in Hassan on January 26, Mr Byre Gowda said the southern states – especially Karnataka – were being penalized by the Centre. “The state gets only 13 paisa for every rupee paid as tax. But other states get ₹ 2 or 3 and in some cases up to ₹ 7 for every rupee tax paid. We are not against other states getting more funds. We support the development of other states. But we need a significant share in the development of our state,” the minister said. It will also help the federal structure.
Mr. Byre Gowda said that Karnataka is expecting a substantially larger central tax allocation from the 16th Finance Commission. “Last time we suffered a reduction in the state’s share. This time we are aiming for a distribution of more than 4.7%. If we get anything less, we will believe that the central government has once again continued its injustice towards the state,” he said.
He also noted that in recent years, many institutions like Income Tax, Election Commission, CBI and Finance Commission have been acting on the directions of the central government.
He further said that the central government has not revised its contribution to the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana for the last 12 years. “The cost of construction material has increased manifold in the last 12 years. However, the Center has not increased its share. Nor has it increased its share of fees for Anganwadi workers and mid-day meal workers. We have appealed for increased financial assistance for these schemes,” he said.
Reacting to the JD(S) leaders’ remarks, the minister said he was not ready for any arguments regarding the development of Hassan district. However, he said he hoped JD(S) leaders would make efforts to ensure funding for development works. “Let them bring some funds from the Hassan Airport Centre. We will give our land to the Airports Authority of India. Let them spend the money on the project,” he said.
Shreyas M. Patel, Hassan MP, KS Latha Kumari, Deputy Commissioner, Shubhanwita, Hassan Superintendent of Police and other officers were present.
Published – 26 Jan 2026 18:40 IST
