Explain the initiatives of Government of Karnataka to implement the recommendations of Nanjundappa Committee. (12 MARKS) (GS1 – KAS MAINS 2015)
The Government of Karnataka took significant initiatives to implement the recommendations of the Nanjundappa Committee, focusing on addressing regional disparities and promoting balanced development across the state. These initiatives can be outlined as follows:
Establishment of Educational Institutions:
The government initiated the establishment of top educational institutions in North Karnataka, as recommended by the Nanjundappa Committee. This included institutions like Women's University at Vijayapura, Central University at Kalaburagi, University of Horticulture Sciences at Bagalkot, Karnataka Veterinary and Fisheries Sciences University at Bidar, and Dairy Science College at Kalaburagi.
Infrastructure Development:
Special emphasis was placed on infrastructure development in backward taluks. Projects such as the construction and up-gradation of roads, rural housing schemes like Ashraya-SDP, and provision of electricity to villages were undertaken to bridge the infrastructure gap.
Healthcare Facilities Enhancement:
Improving healthcare facilities was a priority. Initiatives included the establishment and upgradation of primary health centers, dialysis wards in district and taluk hospitals, and the establishment of Suvarna Aarogya Suraksha Trust to enhance health services.
Agricultural Development:
Agricultural development received attention through schemes like Agricultural Inputs and Quality Control programs, establishment of Farm Machinery Centers, and allocations under Comprehensive Horticulture Development Scheme & National Horticulture Mission Scheme.
Promotion of Employment and Industries:
To promote employment and industry, the government focused on establishing IT parks in Gulbarga, Hubli, and Bagalkot. Additionally, plans were made for Food Park and Textile park in Gulbarga to boost industrial growth.
Infrastructure in Tourism Sector:
Innovative works were proposed and implemented in the tourism sector, which emerged as a high-growth area. Tourist infrastructure development in backward taluks was a part of this initiative.
Decentralized Planning and Community Involvement:
The government emphasized decentralized planning involving local bodies, NGOs, and Self Help Groups (SHGs) to ensure community participation in the development process. This approach aimed at sustainable and inclusive growth.
Resource Allocation and Budgetary Support:
Significant budgetary allocations were made to implement the recommendations effectively. Funds were earmarked for various sectors like education, healthcare, infrastructure, and agriculture under the Special Development Plan.
These initiatives collectively aimed at transforming the backward taluks of Karnataka by addressing sectoral imbalances, enhancing basic amenities, promoting economic activities, and fostering overall development as envisioned by the Nanjundappa Committee.
