The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) is taking a significant step towards inclusive governance by directly seeking public input for its upcoming financial plan. The civic body has announced a public consultation meeting, marking the first round of a two-stage process for preparing the city's budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
Meeting Details and Key Participants
The crucial meeting is scheduled for Monday at 2.30 pm and will be held at the Mangala Auditorium within the city corporation premises. Presiding over the session will be Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV, who currently serves as the administrator of the MCC. The initiative is being spearheaded by MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Naik, who has issued a broad invitation for participation.
Who Can Contribute and How?
The corporation is casting a wide net to gather diverse perspectives. Commissioner Naik has explicitly encouraged registered residential welfare associations (RWAs), registered non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and commercial and industrial associations to take part. Furthermore, the meeting is open to all public representatives and the general citizens of Mangaluru, urging them to participate in large numbers.
The primary objective is to collect actionable suggestions and opinions from these stakeholders. These inputs will be meticulously considered and integrated into the formal budgeting process, ensuring the final document reflects the community's needs and priorities.
The Importance of Public Consultation in Budgeting
This two-round consultation process underscores a shift towards more transparent and participatory municipal governance. By involving residents and key local organizations, the MCC aims to create a budget that is not only fiscally responsible but also aligned with the ground realities and aspirations of Mangaluru's citizens. Such engagements help in prioritizing infrastructure projects, sanitation, water supply, roads, and other essential civic amenities based on direct feedback.
The upcoming meeting on Monday presents a vital opportunity for Mangaluru's populace to directly influence how their city's resources will be allocated for the future. Active citizen involvement is crucial for shaping a budget that effectively addresses local challenges and fosters sustainable urban development.
