Did Union Minister Manohar Lal Lead the Urban Development Ministers' Meeting in Bengaluru?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal meeting convened in Bengaluru, Union Minister Manohar Lal engaged Urban Development Ministers from southern states to discuss pressing urban challenges and infrastructure upgrades, aiming to align with Prime Minister Modi's vision for a global Bengaluru. Discover the key highlights of this transformative gathering!
Key Takeaways
- Focus on Urban Infrastructure: Emphasis on enhancing urban governance and infrastructure.
- State Participation: Collaboration among five southern states to address regional issues.
- Progressive Initiatives: Karnataka's urban reforms recognized as a model for others.
- Funding Challenges: Need for assurance on financial support from the Centre.
- Future Vision: Aligning with Prime Minister Modi's vision for a global Bengaluru.
Bengaluru, Oct 30 (NationPress) On Thursday, Union Minister for Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal presided over a regional assembly of Urban Development Ministers from southern Indian states and Union Territories in Bengaluru. The conference centered on enhancing urban infrastructure, governance, and necessary reforms.
In attendance were Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Ministers Byrathi Suresh and Rahim Khan, Kerala's Urban Development Minister M.B. Rajesh, Puducherry Minister Thirumurugan, along with Karnataka's Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, Additional Chief Secretary Tushar Girinath, BBMP Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao, Bengaluru Central Municipal Commissioner Rajendra Cholan, and senior officials from both the Centre and southern states.
After the meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar remarked, “At the request of the Karnataka government, this meeting took place in our state. Officials and ministers from five regions—Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry—were involved. The Union Minister also engaged in individual discussions with representatives from each state.”
He stated that Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar praised Karnataka's Tunnel Road and flyover initiatives, as well as the state's efforts to transform ‘B-Khata’ properties into ‘A-Khata’, calling them significant urban reforms. “We presented our requests to the Union Minister, but no commitments regarding funding have been made yet,” Shivakumar noted.
Emphasizing the meeting's importance, he highlighted that the Union Minister reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of positioning Bengaluru as a global city. “We highlighted the halting of several central schemes for urban areas. The Centre has not met its obligations under the 15th Finance Commission, and we have requested assistance under the 16th Finance Commission,” he added.
Shivakumar further explained that Karnataka provided a detailed overview of its urbanization reforms, local governance, and the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) proposal. “Our discussions extended beyond Bengaluru, addressing development challenges in towns, municipalities, and smaller urban centers across the state,” he stated.
He pointed out that Ministers Byrathi Suresh and Rahim Khan elaborated on the state’s priorities regarding infrastructure upgrades and services in urban and semi-urban settings. “In comparison to other states, Karnataka’s urbanization process is more structured. We shared our successful models and strategies with others,” the Deputy CM asserted.
The meeting also served as a platform for participating states and Union Territories to exchange experiences, best practices, and recommendations aimed at enhancing urban governance, financial planning, and development strategies.
Point of View
The recent conclave of Urban Development Ministers in Bengaluru underscores the pressing need for cohesive urban planning and funding mechanisms. The dialogue initiated by Union Minister Manohar Lal reflects a commitment to addressing urban challenges, thereby enhancing the quality of life for citizens across southern India.
NationPress
31/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of the Urban Development Ministers' meeting?
The meeting primarily focused on urban infrastructure, governance, and necessary reforms across southern Indian states.
Which states participated in the conference?
The conference included representatives from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.
What did Union Minister Manohar Lal praise about Karnataka?
He praised Karnataka’s Tunnel Road and flyover projects, as well as the initiative to convert 'B-Khata' properties into 'A-Khata'.
What were the concerns raised by Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister?
Shivakumar highlighted the discontinuation of several central schemes and the unmet obligations under the 15th Finance Commission.
What key proposal was presented by Karnataka during the meeting?
Karnataka presented a comprehensive overview of its urbanization reforms and the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) proposal.
