Udupi (Karnataka), Feb 25 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Wednesday that the vacant positions across various government sectors will be filled gradually. During a press interaction in Karkala, he emphasized that the government is determined to enhance employment opportunities and mentioned that the recruitment process, which faced delays due to internal reservation matters, is set to commence.

When asked about the growing frequency of elephant attacks in the Chikkamagaluru area, Siddaramaiah explained that the increasing populations of elephants, leopards, and tigers have heightened the human-wildlife conflict. He noted that measures are being implemented to erect extensive barricades along forest boundaries to prevent wild animals from encroaching on human settlements.

In response to inquiries regarding the Shivamogga student murder case and the issue of ganja use among minors, the Chief Minister stated that the government is dedicated to eradicating the usage of ganja and other narcotic substances.

Addressing the incident involving students at Azim Premji University, he assured that strict measures will be enacted against any organization violating the law.

Regarding Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s commentary on guarantee schemes, Siddaramaiah remarked that while Rs 52,000 crore is being allocated yearly for these schemes, developmental projects are still progressing. He highlighted that Rs 1.20 lakh crore has been disbursed on guarantee schemes thus far.

On the approval for the Agumbe tunnel project, he mentioned that discussions with environmentalists will take place, and suitable actions will be undertaken concerning permissions.

Regarding the Parashurama Theme Park project in Karkala, he indicated that it will be completed shortly.

Discussing allegations of misconduct at the Brahmavar sugar factory, Siddaramaiah confirmed that an investigation into the scrap sale matter will be initiated.

When questioned about MLAs aspiring for ministerial roles, he stated that there is nothing inappropriate about such ambitions. However, he clarified that a decision has been made not to allocate ministerial roles to first-time MLAs.

While inaugurating the Kisan Sabha hall and celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Trust’s Mahatma Gandhi High School, Siddaramaiah remarked: “Education grounded in rational and scientific thinking is crucial at this juncture, and its primary goal should be to address societal challenges.”

Reflecting on his early years, he mentioned being the first graduate in his family and shared his experiences of hardship, likening his journey to that of former Union Minister Veerappa Moily, who has consistently advocated for the underprivileged and provided free legal assistance to the needy.

The Chief Minister extended well wishes to Moily, expressing hope for his continued service to society.

Siddaramaiah commended Moily for founding the Kisan Sabha in Karkala and for establishing a high school aimed at providing education to the underprivileged and academically disadvantaged youth. He acknowledged that the school has reached its 35th milestone and expressed optimism for its continued growth and its role in fostering rational and scientific thinking among students.

He reiterated that the aim of education should be to tackle societal issues. Noting that the state’s literacy rate has risen from 12-15 percent to 75 percent, he emphasized the ongoing need to reinforce scientific and rational thinking within educational frameworks.