K'taka to spend Rs 550 cr for Kalam mission

Karnataka government on Wednesday pledged to spend Rs 550 crore over the next five years to implement development programmes under 11 missions, outlined by President A P J Abdul Kalam, for the state.

Kalam had spelt out the missions in his address to the joint session of the state legislature in January, marking the celebration of golden jubilee of Karnataka's formation.

Replying to the debate on the state budget for 2006-07, in the assembly, deputy chief minister B S Yediyurappa, who holds the finance portfolio, announced the setting up of a high-level committee to monitor the implementation of D M Nanjundappa Committee report on correcting regional imbalances.

He also announced an increase of Rs 10 crore in the allocation for setting up circuit benches in north Karnataka, taking the total funds earmarked to Rs 30 crore.

Between Rs 9 crore and Rs 10 crore was allocated for development of the dry lands (bayaluseeme).

Yediyurappa dismissed the opposition's allegation of reduced budgetary support for various sectors, including agriculture and irrigation, asserting that more funds have been set apart.

Gram panchayats, which make timely clearance of power bills will get 25 per cent subsidy, he said.

He said that Rs 15 crore has been provided in the budget to take up welfare programmes in naxal-affected areas and ruled out further extension of time for farmers to avail the 'interest-waiver scheme'.

The government had extended time till April 30, a deadline that expired in September 30 last.