What is the 'Arogya Avishkara' scheme aiming to achieve in Kalyana Karnataka?

Yadgir (Karnataka), June 14 (NationPress) The Congress-led government in Karnataka has introduced the 'Arogya Avishkara' scheme to enhance healthcare services within the Kalyana Karnataka region. An investment of Rs 440.63 crore has been earmarked for various projects in this area.

The 'Arogya Avishkara' initiative specifically targets the improvement of healthcare in the Kalyana Karnataka region, which includes some of the state's most underserved districts. This scheme was officially launched in Yadgir by AICC President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, along with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.

Implemented through the Kalyana Karnataka Regional Development Board (KKRDB), CM Siddaramaiah also inaugurated the Banjara Bhavan during the event.

In his address, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed that the government has set aside Rs 13,000 crore over three years for the improvement of the seven districts in Kalyana Karnataka.

“We had pledged during the elections to allocate Rs 5,000 crore annually to the KKRDB. In line with that commitment, we have already provided Rs 13,000 crore. Of this, Rs 5,300 crore has already been utilized, benefitting the local population,” he noted.

In addition to the funding for the KKRDB, the state government is also providing financial resources for other developmental initiatives.

“This administration is working towards realizing the objectives outlined in the Nanjundappa Committee report. Our focus is on progress in health, education, and employment for the Kalyana Karnataka region, and we have allocated funds to improve basic infrastructure. Today, we are launching the Rs 440.63 crore 'Arogya Avishkara' (health innovation) programme,” he explained.

“We have also allocated land at no cost for a memorial to Kollur Mallappa, revered as the Gandhi of Kalyana Karnataka and a freedom fighter. I have instructed that his memorial be constructed promptly,” he added.

Furthermore, Siddaramaiah announced plans to upgrade 42 hospitals in the region and establish new ones, with an estimated expenditure of Rs 847 crore to bolster healthcare infrastructure.

Criticizing the BJP, Siddaramaiah stated, “The BJP and its affiliates falsely assert that there are no funds available for development in the state. However, the citizens have countered these claims effectively. The developmental funds have reached the people.”

He also attributed the rise in prices to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government at the Centre, stating, “Before Modi’s administration, consider the prices of essentials like gold, petrol, diesel, and medicines. Since his governance began, there has been a significant price rise. Modi is responsible for this inflation,” he remarked.

“Lies seem to be the BJP's guiding principle,” he added.

“When the BJP was in power, they made no strides in advancing Kalyana Karnataka. In fact, they opposed Article 371(J). It was only during former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's term, honoring the efforts of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and the late Chief Minister Dharam Singh, that the constitutional amendment for 371(J) was enacted,” Siddaramaiah explained.

“We are committed to our promises, in alignment with the principles of Basavanna. Of the 200 pledges made during the elections, including five key guarantees, we have already met many. In the next three years, we will fulfill all remaining promises, ensuring comprehensive development for Karnataka,” he assured.

The Chief Minister underscored that Karnataka ranks second in the nation in GST collection, indicating the state’s ongoing economic advancement. He also noted that efforts are being made to fill vacant government positions in the Kalyana Karnataka region.

Reiterating his earlier statement, he acknowledged that it was former PM Manmohan Singh who amended the Constitution to implement Article 371(J) for Kalyana Karnataka's growth, commending Mallikarjun Kharge and the late Dharam Singh for their unwavering dedication and struggle in this achievement.