Udupi: Healthcare, education, fisheries & tourism in focus in JP Hegde’s constituency development agenda

Team Udayavani, Apr 23, 2024, 11:07 AM IST

Kota: Congress candidate Jayaprakash Hegde, addressing a press conference in Brahmavara on April 22, unveiled a separate manifesto tailored to address the developmental needs of the Udupi-Chikkamagaluru constituency.

Hegde asserted that notwithstanding the typical purview of state government responsibilities, an assertive Member of Parliament (MP) could effectively undertake tasks typically associated with the state government if armed with determination and connections.

Key highlights of the manifesto include initiatives aimed at bolstering the fisheries sector and enhancing tourism opportunities within the constituency. In the fisheries domain, emphasis is placed on river and port dredging, along with prioritizing the cleanliness of fishing ports.

Hegde’s proposals also include the establishment of a Government Medical College in Udupi District and Government Engineering Colleges in Udupi and Chikkamagaluru districts.

The manifesto also advocates for extending government facilities to unorganized workers, particularly fishermen, through measures such as interest-free loans for traditional women fishermen and pension facilities for retired fishermen. Additionally, the manifesto proposes an increase in the kerosene subsidy for fishing boats, along with efforts to maximize the utilization of the Prime Minister’s Fisheries Scheme.

Furthermore, Hegde outlined plans to streamline legal restrictions in the tourism sector to facilitate job creation, particularly in homestays and coastal tourism. Proposed measures include simplification of legal procedures and expanding minibus connectivity to enhance accessibility to tourist destinations.

Hegde’s ambitious plans for the Udupi Chikkamagaluru constituency included proposals for a Government Medical College, Government Engineering Colleges, a sports complex, an industrial estate, upgraded hospitals, and water treatment plants. Hegde aims to foster comprehensive development if elected.

Hegde affirmed his commitment to advocating for the realization of these proposals if elected, emphasizing the potential of an MP to effect change beyond traditional parliamentary responsibilities. These initiatives, he believes, hold promise in driving comprehensive development within the Udupi Chikkamagaluru constituency.