Arsikere (Hassan): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday asserted that the state's flagship guarantee schemes have played a pivotal role in making Karnataka number one in the country in terms of per capita income.
Speaking after laying foundation stones and inaugurating several developmental projects in Arsikere taluk of Hassan district, the Chief Minister countered opposition allegations that the government's welfare schemes have strained state finances and hampered development.
"Opposition leaders allege that development has taken a backseat due to our guarantee schemes. But the truth is, Karnataka today has the highest per capita income in the country, and this is because of those very schemes. The BJP does not understand economic policies," Siddaramaiah stated.
Referring to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks at a national convention of backward community leaders in Delhi, Siddaramaiah emphasized his government’s focus on inclusive development.
"Our government has formulated welfare programmes to uplift backward communities, women, Dalits, and the poor from all castes. The Congress is the only party in the country truly committed to delivering social justice, promoting the welfare of the underprivileged, and upholding constitutional values," he said.
The Chief Minister praised Arsikere MLA K.M. Shivalingegowda, stating that he possesses all the qualities necessary to become a minister. "He has the strong backing of the people and has won the constituency four times. I am confident he will win again in the next election," Siddaramaiah said.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar described the day as historic for Arsikere and noted that the taluk had witnessed more development than even Kanakapura and Varuna constituencies.
"The Congress is certain to win all seven constituencies in Hassan district in the upcoming assembly elections. Even in Sakleshpur, where we lost last time by a narrow margin, we are poised for victory," he added.
MLA Shivalingegowda, in his speech, reflected on the transformation of Arsikere taluk, once considered a “cursed taluk,” into a model of development. "We have prioritized education by establishing engineering and polytechnic colleges. Water from the Yettinahole project has reached Arsikere, and efforts are underway to fill lakes by channeling water from Haranahalli to Doomanahalli," he said.
He added that additional irrigation projects would be implemented to support the drought-prone region. Hassan District In-Charge Minister K.N. Rajanna also spoke during the event.
The event was attended by Minister Zameer Ahmad Khan, MP Shreyas Patel, Mysuru Regional Commissioner Ramesh, Deputy Commissioner Latha Kumari, SP Mohammad Sujitha, ZP CEO Poornima, ADC Shanthala, Arsikere Municipal Council President Sameevulla, Urban Development Committee Chairperson Arun Kumar, Guarantee Committee Chairman Dharmashekar, Education Department Officer Prasanna, and several other officials and leaders.