Karnataka Government Honors Treasure-Surrendering Boy with Special Gifts
In a heartwarming gesture, the Karnataka state government has announced special gifts for the family of Prajwal Ritti, a class-8 student from Lakkundi in Gadag district. The young boy made headlines after surrendering a valuable treasure discovered during foundation digging at his family's property on January 10.
Substantial Rewards for Exemplary Citizenship
Gadag district minister HK Patil made the official announcement during a felicitation ceremony in Gadag, where Prajwal, his mother Kasturevva (also known as Gangavva), and grandmother Girijavva were honored alongside other local achievers. The government's recognition package includes three significant components designed to support the family's future.
- A 30x40 alternative site for the family
- A cash purse of Rs 5 lakh
- An assured government-outsourced job for Prajwal's mother
The treasure in question consisted of gold jewellery weighing 466 grams, which the family discovered during construction work on their site. Demonstrating remarkable integrity, they immediately submitted the valuable find to government authorities, setting an example of civic responsibility that has now been formally recognized by the state administration.
Lakkundi's Heritage Receives Major Boost
During the same event, Minister Patil revealed ambitious plans to elevate Lakkundi's historical significance on the global stage. A proposal is currently being prepared to nominate Lakkundi for inclusion in UNESCO's World Heritage tentative list.
"With the government's approval, it will be submitted to the International Council on Monuments and Sites through the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)," Patil explained, outlining the formal process ahead.
Lakkundi boasts a rich historical legacy as the former capital of the Chalukya empire and the home of Danachintamani Attimabbe, the celebrated patron of Kannada literature. To preserve this heritage, the Lakkundi Heritage Area Development Authority has been established, implementing various conservation programs.
Substantial Investment in Monument Preservation
The current year sees the state government undertaking significant preservation work for six important monuments at a cost of Rs 10.1 crore. This comprehensive conservation effort includes:
- Protection of the Virupaksha Temple
- Preservation of the Mallikarjuna Temple
- Conservation of the Chandramouleshwara Temple
- Restoration of the Halagundi Basavanna Temple
- Maintenance of the Kannara Bhavi (well)
- Repair of the compound wall of Kalmatha Bhavi
These initiatives aim to protect the temples, wells, and inscriptions that make Lakkundi a unique traditional village with exceptional historical value.
Political Tensions Surface During Ceremony
The felicitation event was not without political controversy. When Minister HK Patil commented that certain legislative measures were neglecting rural interests while protecting capitalist interests, BJP MLC SV Sankanur objected strongly and attempted to interrupt the minister's speech.
As Patil continued with his address, Sankanur left the stage in protest. Speaking to media persons afterward, the BJP representative accused Patil of misleading the public about legislation that has already passed through both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
"He also made false statements like the state is not getting due funds from the Union government. Though he is a law minister, he misused the occasion to make false statements against the Union government," Sankanur added, highlighting the political tensions that surfaced during what was primarily a celebratory event honoring civic responsibility and heritage preservation.
