Union Minister Pralhad Joshi rejected reports of Centre-Karnataka conflict, saying both the governments will cooperate for the development of the state and the welfare of the people. He said that development cannot happen by fighting over small political issues.
New Delhi [भारत]July 28 (ANI): Dismissing reports of a rift, Union Education Minister and BJP MP from Dharwad Pralhad Joshi on Monday said there is no conflict between the Center and the Karnataka government. He stressed that both sides have agreed to work together for the development of the state and welfare of the people.
Speaking to ANI, Joshi stressed that development cannot be achieved by fighting over ‘small political issues’. He called for a united approach to create a ‘developed India’. Joshi said, ‘There is no difference of opinion between us. We have said that we will move forward on the path of cooperation. They (the state government) have also said that if we follow the path of cooperation, they will extend their full support for the welfare of Karnataka’s soil, water, culture, language and people.
Centre’s defense on fund allocation
Joshi defended the funds given by the Center to the state, saying that Karnataka’s tax share has increased by 0.67 percent after the Finance Commission discussions. He said earlier the infrastructure allocation for roads, railways and irrigation was between Rs 500 crore and Rs 700 crore, while the Center has given about Rs 8,000 crore to Karnataka in the last decade.
Mahadayi and other river projects
On the Mahadayi issue, the Union Minister said that the Central Government has challenged the order of the Goa Government in the Supreme Court for a solution. He said that the present government has already obtained approval for environment clearance, gazette notification and detailed project report (DPR). Joshi confirmed that the Center is coordinating with Union Minister CR Patil regarding additional water of Mahanadi and linking of Cauvery, Krishna and Godavari rivers.
Task force will be formed to remove silt from dams
Following the Prime Minister’s instructions, a special task force will be formed to desilt the dams using advanced technology. This initiative has been welcomed by the Chief Minister of Karnataka. (ANI)
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