Budget: Job Creation and Economic Growth: Industrial Node to Develop Near Dharwad

Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the budget for the financial year 2024-25, outlining a few developments for the twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad.

1. Upgrading WALMI at Dharwad: The Water and Land Management Institute (WALMI) at Dharwad is set to undergo a transformation into a Centre of Excellence in Water Management. This initiative aims to enhance expertise and research capabilities in water management, crucial for sustainable development in the region.

2. Modern Critical Care Blocks: Addressing the healthcare needs of the state, the government plans to establish modern critical care blocks in every district. With construction already underway in 15 districts, a critical care block construction will begin in Udupi, Davanagere, Vijayapura, Mysuru, Mandya, Dharwad, and Koppal, these facilities aim to provide high-quality treatment for severe illnesses, emphasizing a commitment to saving lives. And in the coming days remaining nine districts would get the similar facilities.

3. Flood Protection Scheme in Dharwad: A scheme under the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDMF) will be implemented to construct flood protection walls around flood-prone villages under the Bennehalla river in Dharwad District, enhancing the region’s resilience to natural disasters.

4. Integrated Townships and Industrial Node Development: The budget allocates resources for the development of integrated townships near key cities, including Hubballi-Dharwad. Furthermore, an industrial node near Dharwad, covering 6,000 acres of land under the Bengaluru-Mumbai economic corridor program, aims to boost economic development and address unemployment issues in North Karnataka.

5. Advancements in Science and Technology: To promote activity-based learning and raise awareness about scientific advancements, the government will operationalize Science Centres/Planetariums in various cities, including Dharwad. A budget of Rs. 170 crores has been earmarked for this purpose, facilitating the completion of ongoing projects and initiating new ones in Shimoga, Raichur, Chikmagalur, Yadgiri, and Mysuru.

6. Bio-CNG Plants for Sustainable Markets: Under a public-private partnership model, the government plans to establish Bio-CNG Plants in markets, including Bengaluru’s Dasanapur, Mysuru, Hubli, Ballari, Kolar, Chikkaballapur, and Belagavi. These markets will undergo transformation into ‘Zero Waste Vegetables Markets,’ promoting environmental sustainability.

This comprehensive budget reflects the government’s commitment to holistic development, addressing critical needs in healthcare, disaster resilience, education, and sustainable practices in the twin cities and beyond.