DKS pledges to back Vrishabhavathi rejuvenation, Basavanagudi’s heritage corridor plan

D K Shivakumar said, 'We must all work towards taking Kadalekayi Parishe to a global level. This year, we have cancelled tax collection to support farmers and traders. From now on, Kadalekayi Parishe will be a tax-free event.'

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar pledged to give a positive response to demands for the rejuvenation of the Vrishabhavathi river and the development of Basavanagudi as a heritage corridor under the 'Brand Bengaluru' initiative.

Speaking after inaugurating the Kadalekayi Parishe (peanut fair) in Basavanagudi on Monday, he said, “We must all work towards taking Kadalekayi Parishe to a global level. This year, we have cancelled tax collection to support farmers and traders. From now on, Kadalekayi Parishe will be a tax-free event.”

Shivakumar, reflecting on the long-standing tradition of peanut cultivation, added, “We have been growing peanuts for a long time. I, too, have grown peanuts on our land. Peanuts are the poor person’s almond, used in various dishes across Karnataka. Farmers around Bengaluru are doing an excellent job of preserving the tradition of agriculture and fairs. We are all committed to preserving our culture, right here at the birthplace of the Vrishabhavathi.”

Addressing criticism from Opposition leaders regarding the Brand Bengaluru initiative, Shivakumar asserted, “They have criticised the Brand Bengaluru initiative, but I will give them an answer before 2028. We will reveal the projects we plan to implement under the Brand Bengaluru initiative.”

BPL cards 

In response to questions about the cancellation of some BPL cards, Shivakumar reassured reporters, “We are a pro-poor government. There is no need to worry about BPL cards. We will ensure that no one is inconvenienced.”