Vinod M Jain
*Traders Have Played an Immense Role in Tumakuru’s Development: DyCM.
*My Aspiration Is to Make Tumakuru One of Karnataka’s Most Prestigious Districts:Dr.G.Parameshwara.
*New Dimension to Tumakuru’s Industrial Growth; Significant Progress Towards Metro Connectivity.
*Blessings of Siddaganga Sri Shivakumara Swamiji Have Inspired My Journey in Life.
Deputy Chief Minister,Dr.G.Parameshwara inaugurated the centenary celebrations of the Grain Merchants’ Association at RTC Convention Hall in Tumakuru.On the occasion,he also released the centenary commemorative publication,’Siridhanya Sampada’.
Addressing the gathering,he said that it is no ordinary achievement for an organisation to function continuously for a century and earn public trust through its commitment to social welfare.
Established in 1926,the Grain Merchants’Association has completed 100 years of meaningful service,which is a matter of great pride.
He expressed hope that the centenary celebrations would not only commemorate the association’s past achievements but also inspire it to undertake greater public welfare initiatives in the years ahead.
Association’s Humanitarian Contributions During Drought and Support for Education :
Tumakuru has been recognised as a prominent commercial centre for several decades.The trading community has played a significant role in shaping the city’s future.
Recalling his childhood,Dr.Parameshwara spoke about the bustling commercial activities in Mandipete and how decisions taken by the local trading community contributed to Tumakuru’s growth.
During the severe drought of 1965–66,the Grain Merchants’ Association came forward to assist the poor. It collected food grains,distributed them among needy families and organised food donations to feed the hungry.He appreciated the association’s humanitarian commitment to supporting society during difficult times.
He recalled the significant contribution made by the Grain Merchants’Association when the revered pontiffs of Siddaganga Mutt initiated the establishment of an engineering college.
By collecting four annas from trading transactions, the association mobilised approximately ₹2 lakh at that time to support the establishment of the institution.He observed that ₹2 lakh in those days represented an exceptionally substantial contribution.
The revered Swamiji established the institution with the vision that merely opening an engineering college was insufficient; students must also have access to quality technical education.The trading community’s contribution to this noble endeavour deserves to be remembered.
He also recalled the association’s assistance during the Kargil War and appreciated its continued public service, describing it as an example for other organisations across Karnataka.
Traders’ Contribution to Food Security Is Invaluable :
Until the 1960s,1970s and even the 1980s,a large section of India’s population struggled to secure two meals a day.
Between 1965 and 1985, India made significant progress towards self-sufficiency in food production.
Dr.Parameshwara emphasised that traders play an essential role in ensuring that food grains produced by farmers reach consumers.
Their contribution to national development,Karnataka’s progress and the economic growth of districts cannot be overlooked.
Role of APMCs in Protecting the Interests of Farmers and Traders:
Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) were established to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce while traders have opportunities to conduct business fairly.
The objective of this system is to safeguard farmers’ interests when they bring agricultural produce to markets while maintaining a fair balance with the interests of traders.
Several APMCs in Karnataka are functioning effectively. While some markets are profitable,others face operational challenges.Nevertheless,APMCs continue to play a crucial role in maintaining a balance between farmers and traders.
He observed that Tumakuru’s APMC is functioning in a healthy manner.The district has a distinctive commercial ecosystem where traditional trading activities in Mandipete continue alongside the APMC system,with both operating in a balanced manner.
Honesty and Integrity in Trade Strengthen Karnataka’s Progress:
Karnataka is among India’s leading progressive states and is witnessing rapid development across multiple sectors.
Dr. Parameshwara highlighted that Karnataka ranks second in the country in Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections,reflecting the scale of commercial and industrial activities in the state.
Karnataka continues to progress in manufacturing, industrial development and micro,small and medium enterprises.
He observed that Karnataka’s administrative system has attracted national attention over several decades.
Former Chief Ministers,including Veerendra Patil, Ramakrishna Hegde and S.M.Krishna,made significant contributions to the state’s development during their respective tenures.
Irrespective of political affiliations,Karnataka’s administrative legacy demonstrates its continued commitment to development and progress.
He emphasised that the growth of Micro,Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) creates a strong foundation for the expansion of large industries.
Accordingly, Karnataka’s industrial policy accords special priority to MSMEs,and efforts are underway to promote small and medium enterprises across districts, including Tumakuru.
Karnataka is also making rapid progress in electronics, computer technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI):
He stated that approximately 60% of India’s AI companies are located in Karnataka and that around 600 AI startups have been established in the state, reflecting its growing technological ecosystem.
He observed that honesty,integrity and credibility in business are equally important to sustaining this progress.
Farmers must receive fair treatment when bringing their produce to markets.The Grain Merchants’ Association of Tumakuru has earned respect and credibility by upholding these values over the decades.
Political Journey and the Blessings of Siddaganga Swamiji:
Reflecting on his political journey,Deputy Chief Minister Dr.G.Parameshwara said that entering politics was never part of his original plans.
Before joining politics approximately 38–39 years ago, he was involved in agriculture and had also worked abroad.
Upon returning to his hometown,his father advised him to assume family responsibilities and continue managing the institutions established by the family.
Following the advice and guidance of elders,he decided to remain in his hometown.
Subsequently,circumstances led him into politics, and he was elected as an MLA from Madhugiri in 1989.
Since then,he has served as a minister on several occasions,handling various portfolios,and is currently serving as Deputy Chief Minister for the second time.
Recalling his childhood, he said that his father had taken him to Siddaganga Mutt to seek the blessings of His Holiness Sri Shivakumara Swamiji.
“The blessings I received from the revered Swamiji have been a source of inspiration throughout my life.It is because of those blessings that I have been able to stand before the people today as the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka,”he said.
He emphasised that political power is not permanent and that those holding public office must utilise their tenure to serve the people and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
“My aspiration is to develop Tumakuru into one of the most prestigious districts in Karnataka,”he said.
Priority to the Development of Educational Institutions:
Dr.Parameshwara recalled his efforts to contribute to the expansion of educational opportunities in Tumakuru.
During his tenure as Higher Education Minister,he facilitated the establishment of Sridevi Engineering College.
At the time,concerns were raised that establishing another engineering college in Tumakuru,which already had engineering institutions,could create additional competition.
However,he believed that establishing another institution would create opportunities for approximately 500 additional students to pursue higher education.
His approach was guided by the conviction that expanding educational institutions would provide greater access and opportunities for students.
He recalled the efforts undertaken with the cooperation of J.S.Basavaraju and stated that the college was subsequently inaugurated by the then Chief Minister S.M.Krishna.
Ambitious Plan to Develop an Industrial Hub Across 20,000 Acres :
Dr.Parameshwara outlined an ambitious plan to develop an industrial hub spanning approximately 20,000 acres, with the objective of transforming Tumakuru into a major industrial centre.
He said the proposed hub has the potential to emerge as one of Asia’s prominent industrial centres.
While the establishment of major industries will take time, developing the necessary infrastructure and connectivity remains a priority.
Several industrialists have already expressed interest in investing in Tumakuru,with some seeking land parcels ranging from 500 to 1,000 acres.
He disclosed that an industrialist recently proposed an investment of approximately Rs.80,000 crore to establish a green hydrogen facility and a data centre,seeking around 2,000 acres of land for the proposed projects.
Representatives of Toyota have also visited Tumakuru to assess investment opportunities and indicated a requirement of approximately 300 acres of land.
Additionally,500 acres of land have already been provided for the establishment of a Japanese Township.
He expressed confidence that these proposed industrial initiatives would materialise in the coming years.
The establishment of these industries would generate substantial employment opportunities and provide a major boost to Tumakuru’s economic development.
He reiterated his determination to contribute as much as possible to Tumakuru’s progress during his tenure in public office.
Efforts Underway to Extend Metro Rail Connectivity to Tumakuru:
Dr.Parameshwara stated that extending Metro Rail connectivity to Tumakuru remains one of his major aspirations.
Efforts towards this objective have been underway for the past five to six years.
He informed the gathering that the Detailed Feasibility Study has been completed and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared.
Preparations are now underway to invite Expressions of Interest (EOI) from interested organisations.
He expressed confidence that Metro Rail connectivity between Bengaluru and Tumakuru would open a new chapter in the development of both cities.
The project would bring the two cities closer, strengthen connectivity and create significant new opportunities for Tumakuru’s economic and urban development.
He assured that efforts to realise the project would continue during his tenure and sought the continued cooperation and guidance of the trading community in advancing Tumakuru’s development.
Assurance of Government Support to the Association:
Dr.Parameshwara expressed happiness at participating in the centenary celebrations following an invitation from the president and distinguished members of the Grain Merchants’ Association.
He wished the association continued growth and greater achievements in the years ahead.
He assured the gathering that he would extend every possible assistance within his capacity wherever government support or cooperation was required for the association or the trading community.
He reiterated that the uninterrupted functioning of an organisation for 100 years is an extraordinary achievement.
On this historic occasion,he congratulated the association’s president,office-bearers and all members whose contributions have made this remarkable centenary milestone possible.
