We will live up to global Bangalore brand: CM

We will live up to global Bangalore brand: CM
The Times of India

Bangalore: “Bangalore today is a global brand of a modern city, but we all know that it is suffering from problems in infrastructure and political instability. I promise to put in my best effort to salvage the brand we have and make not only Bangalore, but Karnataka shine in its true glory.’’ Optimistic words from CM H D Kumaraswamy that met with a resounding applause at a seminar on ‘Vibrant Karnataka - Achieving Dr Kalam’s Vision by 2012’ organised by the Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) at a city hotel on Monday evening.

The seminar that presented the President’s vision of the state was presented by M C Shanthamurthy, economist and secretary, Institute of Parliamentary Affairs, Bangalore. Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa said that it was their responsibility to increase the per capita income from Rs 26,000 to Rs 75,000 and ensure 100 per cent literacy in the state.

Kumaraswamy said that he was looking forward to full support from the industry sector in the city and added, “Despite such rapid industrialisation, there are so many poor people in the city struggling to eke out a living. We plan to get a programme for them in place too.’’

Highly approving of Kalam’s vision for the state, both Kumaraswamy and Yediyurappa reiterated that they were grateful to the plan and that this was the best guidance they could ask for. “We need at least 15 months to bring about a significant change. In the next three months we will have a plan of action ready,’’ said Kumaraswamy. The focus of Kumaraswamy was Bangalore, owing to high contribution to the state’s GDP, but also took into account the tier-two cities of the state. “The improvement of the state is a responsibility that has been handed to Yediyurappa and me and the President has shown us the path. We will live up to it and make the Vibrant Karnataka dream come true.’’

‘I am not against IT, BT’

Bangalore: Chief minister H D Kumaraswamy on Monday sought to dispel the fear that he was against IT and BT sector. Speaking after inaugurating a school building, he said: “I am not against the sectors. My only concern was that the concessions that the government gives to these sectors should also be extended to the poor. ‘’

Reiterating his commitment to providing basic infrastructure to those living in urban slums, the CM said: “The growth of these sectors have led to urban rural divide. Those living on the outskirts of Bangalore do not have basic facilities. The government must evolve schemes for the benefit of urban poor also. This does not mean the IT sector will be ignored.’’
Rural weightage: The CM said from the next academic year ten seats in professional courses will be reserved for students from rural areas who secure 90 per cent marks. The government will pay the fees of these students.

Outlining the need to improve the standard of education in government and corporation schools, the CM said: “The district administration must work towards improving the image of government institutions.’’