Karnataka economist urges development for backward taluks

An economist has called for more development schemes in backward taluks to improve the income of residents and address regional imbalances in the state. M. Govinda Rao, who leads the Regional Imbalance Redressal Committee, spoke during a meeting in Mysuru. He emphasized that providing better facilities is essential for the welfare of people living in these areas. The committee started its work in November 2024. It aims to study regional disparities based on various development indicators. Rao mentioned that despite spending ₹31,000 crore, some backward areas have not seen significant progress. To ensure effective development, the committee plans to research the impact of existing measures. Rao pointed out that improving per capita income is critical. He noted a noticeable income gap between northern and southern Karnataka, with the north lagging behind. Industrialization is one way to address this issue, as more industries can create jobs in backward areas. Local MLA Anil Kumar C. emphasized the challenges in H.D. Kote and Sargur taluks, which are considered backward. He highlighted the lack of transportation, with only 70 buses servicing 300 villages, and many teacher positions remaining unfilled. Many villages also lack proper roads, affecting primarily tribal communities. Suryanarayana, another committee member, added that educational infrastructure is crucial for development. He pointed to deficiencies in schools, such as the lack of science labs in Brahmavar taluk. Committee director Chandrashekaraiah mentioned that the region's development has not been consistent since Karnataka's unification in 1956. The D.M. Nanjundappa Committee, formed in 2020, labeled 113 of 175 taluks as backward. It recommended that 60% of development funds should go to north Karnataka to address these imbalances. Senior officials from the committee and district attended the meeting.