Mangaluru: MLC Ivan D’Souza has announced plans to urge the state government to hold a cabinet meeting in Mangaluru, focusing specifically on the development needs of the coastal districts. This proposal follows similar sessions already conducted in Chamarajanagar, Nandi Hills, and Kalaburagi, with another scheduled in Vijayapura.
Addressing the media, D’Souza emphasized that a cabinet session in the coastal region—particularly Uttara Kannada and Dakshina Kannada—would help spotlight the local challenges and developmental priorities. He said he intends to bring up the matter during the next Legislative session and also plans to meet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to formally present the demand.
Despite talks at the state level about boosting coastal tourism, no major initiatives have been launched in Dakshina Kannada so far. D’Souza stressed the importance of simultaneously promoting tourism and the fisheries sector.
A cabinet meeting in Mangaluru, he noted, would also allow a dedicated discussion on the public’s growing call to rename Dakshina Kannada as Mangaluru district. He said there is widespread consensus across political and community leaders, and that creating a unified Brand Mangaluru would enhance the district’s global identity.
He also pushed for a special development package for Mangalore University, stating it has not kept pace despite its importance in higher education. D’Souza further criticized the slow progress at Mangalore International Airport, which lacks development befitting its status.
Addressing the scarcity of sand and red stone, he mentioned that a high-level meeting is underway in Bengaluru, and urged officials to simplify legal hurdles.