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Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the state budget for 2025-26 on Friday, March 7, announcing several development projects across the state. However, Kodagu, a district grappling with multiple issues, has received only a modest allocation, with a primary focus on healthcare and infrastructure.
Among the key announcements for Kodagu is the establishment of a 400-bedded hospital in Virajpet, aimed at improving healthcare accessibility in the region. Additionally, a new Community Health Centre (CHC) will be set up in Ponnampet, and the Taluka Hospital in Kushalnagar is set to be renovated as part of a statewide initiative covering multiple taluka hospitals at a total cost of Rs 650 crore.
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In the education sector, the budget includes provisions for expanding tribal education. From the 2025-26 academic year, 7th standard classes will be introduced in 78 Tribal Residential Schools, benefiting tribal students. Additionally, five residential schools in Chamarajanagar, Mysuru, and Kodagu districts will be upgraded to include classes up to the 12th standard.
Addressing the region's infrastructure needs, the government has allocated ₹ 20 crore for the reconstruction of roads and bridges damaged by heavy rainfall in Virajpet-Ponnampet and Madikeri taluks. Furthermore, ₹ 200 crore has been earmarked for landslide prevention measures in the coastal and Malenadu districts, including Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada, Shivamogga, Hassan, and Chikkamagaluru.
Despite these allocations, Kodagu residents feel that the district has been largely overlooked in the budget. The region continues to face persistent challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, road connectivity issues, and environmental concerns. While the focus on healthcare and education is welcomed, many believe that more needs to be done to address the pressing issues in the district.
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