Karnataka Minister for Scheduled Tribes Welfare T. Raghumurthy on Saturday, 10 October 2026, directed officials to organise a special public service campaign targeting tribal communities in Yelandur taluk and the hamlets near Biligiri Rangana Betta in Chamarajanagar district. The directive came after the minister personally visited several tribal settlements in the area, heard residents' grievances, and issued on-the-spot instructions to department officials.

Minister's Visit and Key Directives

During field visits to Banglepodu, Hasapodu, and Erakalagadde Podu Colony, Raghumurthy was briefed on houses that are 40 to 50 years old and in a dilapidated state. He confirmed that a survey is underway and that eligible families will receive new homes under the CM Adivasi Gruha Bhagya scheme within a stipulated timeframe.

On infrastructure, the minister directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to construct a bridge connecting the hamlets of Manjugudi Podu and Kalyani Podu to the main road. He also contacted officials of the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation on site and instructed them to arrange power connections for hamlets that had flagged the absence of electricity.

Food, Water and Essential Documents

Responding to complaints about irregular food-kit distribution, Raghumurthy said technical issues behind the disruption would be resolved within four to five days and that pending supplies would be provided. On drinking water shortages, he directed officials to arrange supplies under the Jal Jeevan Mission, with tankers deployed as a stopgap until a permanent solution is in place — subject to coordination with forest officials.

The minister also instructed taluk officials to ensure tribal residents receive essential documentation, including Aadhaar cards, ration cards, title deeds, and income certificates. He additionally ordered the clearance of pending wages under the VB-G.-Ram G scheme.

What Raghumurthy Said

'I have visited several places where tribal communities live, and they have submitted their grievances. After reviewing their concerns, I discussed the issues with officials. The government should reach people's doorsteps and provide services to them. A special public service campaign will be organised for people in this region,' Raghumurthy said.

Education and Livelihood Push

The minister also inspected the Adivi forest-products centre and later met ashram school teachers in Kollegal, stressing the need for quality education for tribal children. At Konanakere Ashram School, he urged parents to prioritise their children's schooling as a pathway to economic self-reliance and responsible citizenship.

With multiple departments now under instruction, the effectiveness of this outreach will depend on timely follow-through — particularly on housing surveys, electricity connections, and document delivery.