BJP MLA Rajesh Naik seeks funds for Paschima Vahini project in coastal Karnataka

Bantwal MLA U. Rajesh Naik (right)
| Photo Credit: File photo

Rajesh Naik (BJP), representing Bantwal constituency, urged the government of Karnataka to provide funds for the Paschima Vahini scheme for construction of vented dams in the coastal region. No funds have been allocated in the budget for the scheme, though the government had promised implementation of the Yettinahole project.

Speaking on the State Budget for 2025-26 in the Legislative Assembly on March 19, he said a sum of ₹3,986 crore was allocated for a five-year project when B. S. Yediyurappa was the chief minister. Later, ₹300 crore was allotted when Basavaraj Bommai was the chief minister. But the present Congress government had not allocated any funds. He demanded ₹500 crore for the Paschima Vahini project.

School adoption

He also demanded renewal of the school adoption scheme for Sri Durga Charitable Trust for management of the government school at Daddalakadu in Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district.

The school, which was in a dilapidated condition, was upgraded with a new building by alumni and with the support of locals at a cost of ₹4 crore. But the government has not renewed the adoption scheme for the Trust, Mr. Naik said.

Cancer patients

Janata Dal (S) member Sharanagouda Kandakur (Gurmitkal constituency) said that Yadgir and Raichur districts in north Karnataka have a large number of cancer patients. He demanded filling of vacancies, including doctors, at all levels in hospitals in the Kalyana Karnataka region.

He said more than 3,000 patients in Yadgir and 4,000 patients in Raichur are suffering from cancer.

Vacancies in KK region

Speaking on the State budget for 2025-26, Mr Kandakur demanded that the government present a separate budget for the Kalyan Karnataka region for addressing drinking water, irrigation, school buildings, roads and housing issues. Instead of providing jobs to the youth, the government has been doling out freebies. The government’s programmes should not be aimed at winning the next election, but to empower the youth and benefit the coming generations, he said.

Noting shortage of drinking water during the summer, the JD(S) member highlighted the neglect of irrigation projects in the region. He demanded free education and insurance cover for patients.