Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar Stresses Social Harmony and Development at Udupi Republic Day Celebration
Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar, who also serves as the district minister, delivered a significant address during the 77th Republic Day ceremony held in Udupi on Monday. She underscored the government's commitment to fostering social harmony as the cornerstone of development, while outlining key initiatives aimed at empowering various segments of society.
Foundational Belief in Social Harmony and Support Systems
Hebbalkar articulated that the government has implemented numerous projects based on the conviction that social harmony is essential for progress. She highlighted efforts to extend a helping hand to the weak, provide essential facilities for farmers, and offer robust support for entrepreneurs. The minister emphasized that these initiatives are designed to create a more inclusive and equitable society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Call for Unity and Preservation of Heritage
In her speech, Hebbalkar urged citizens to reflect on preserving and nurturing India's rich heritage and culture. She advocated moving beyond narrow-mindedness related to caste, language, and sect, and instead fostering an environment of friendship and harmony. The minister called for a collective pledge to build a strong nation by maintaining unity and integrity, ensuring that activities in social, economic, administrative, and political spheres are guided by moral values and social justice.
Addressing Hate Speech and Enhancing Women's Empowerment
Hebbalkar addressed the disruptive impact of hate speeches on peace and harmony in society, noting they cause harm to innocent lives and damage public property. To combat this, she mentioned that a Bill against Hate Speech and Hate Crimes has been approved by both Houses of the legislature. Additionally, she highlighted the government's five guarantee schemes, which have significantly enhanced women's self-confidence, economic independence, and family stability, contributing to broader social well-being.
Educational and Tourism Development Initiatives
The minister detailed the state government's development efforts, including an ambitious plan to provide pre-primary education to underprivileged children. Starting this year, 4,056 LKG and UKG classes will be initiated across the state to ensure early childhood education access. On the tourism front, Hebbalkar expressed the government's keen interest in developing the coastal districts, noting that Udupi's 90km coastline has not been adequately utilized for tourism so far. She mentioned a recent coastal tourism convention organized in Mangaluru to explore opportunities.
Key Tourist Destinations Under Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29
Under the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29, several sites in the region have been identified for development as tourist destinations. These include:
- Kaup Beach and Lighthouse
- Padubidri End Point
- Blue Flag Beach
- Kaup Marigudi Temple
- Uchila Shri Mahalakshmi Temple
- Kunjargiri Shri Durgadevi Temple
- Mattu Rock Island
Hebbalkar assured that the government will provide all necessary support to investors in tourism, leveraging the ample opportunities available in coastal areas.
Dignitaries Present at the Ceremony
The Republic Day event was attended by several notable figures, including MLC Channaraj Hattiholi, Karnataka Coastal Development Board chairman MA Gafor, deputy commissioner Swaroopa TK, zilla panchayat CEO Prateek Bayal, and SP Hariram Shankar. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort towards regional development and governance.
