Mangaluru: The quarterly Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) review meeting held at the Nethravathi Hall of the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat on April 19 brought several pressing regional issues into focus, including delays in rural employment schemes, land-related grievances and preparedness for water scarcity and monsoon challenges.
The meeting was presided over by District in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, who highlighted administrative bottlenecks affecting the rollout of new projects under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), recently renamed as Vikas Bharat–GRJ.
Delay in new MGNREGS projects
The minister informed that new works under the scheme are currently stalled due to the absence of an official notification from the Central Government. This is despite the programme having already received parliamentary and presidential approval.
However, to ensure continuity of employment for rural workers, the minister assured that previously sanctioned projects would continue for the next six months. This measure is expected to provide temporary relief to labourers dependent on the scheme.
Officials at the meeting stated that a target of 1.30 crore man-days has been set for April, reflecting the district’s commitment to sustaining rural employment levels. At the same time, annual action plans are being processed through the Yuktadhara portal while awaiting further directives.
Land grievances and pending applications
Land-related issues also featured prominently in the discussions. MLA Harish Poonja raised concerns over 419 pending applications under Section 94C in Beltangady taluk.
Responding to the concern, Deputy Commissioner Darshan H V clarified that a majority of previously pending cases have already been resolved. Of the 2,041 cases pending towards the end of 2025, most have been addressed through administrative efforts.
The remaining cases, he said, are largely delayed due to the need for clearances from the forest department and certain legal complications. Officials assured that efforts are ongoing to expedite the process and provide relief to applicants.
Focus on water security ahead of summer
With summer intensifying, water management emerged as a key priority. The minister directed local bodies to identify water-scarce areas and ensure timely intervention to prevent shortages.
Officials confirmed that current water levels at the Thumbe Dam are adequate to meet the city’s requirements until mid-June. To strengthen preparedness, backup arrangements have also been put in place at the AMR Dam and Harekala Dam.
In areas already experiencing shortages, such as Ullal, water tankers have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted supply.
Measures for monsoon and disaster preparedness
The meeting also addressed disaster preparedness in anticipation of the upcoming monsoon season. A sum of Rs 25 crore has been allocated for landslide prevention measures in vulnerable rural areas.
Urban local bodies have been instructed to complete desilting of drainage systems at the earliest to prevent flooding during heavy rains. Officials stressed the importance of proactive planning to minimise damage and disruption.
Environmental concerns were also discussed, with authorities emphasising the need for strict monitoring and action against violations that could exacerbate natural risks.
Conclusion
The KDP review meeting underscored the district administration’s focus on balancing immediate challenges with long-term development goals. While delays in rural employment schemes remain a concern, steps to ensure job continuity, address land issues and strengthen water and disaster management systems reflect a coordinated approach to governance. Continued monitoring and timely intervention will be crucial in ensuring that development initiatives translate into tangible benefits for the region.