Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre Visits Dharmasthala, Praises Development and Conservation Efforts
Dharmasthala, Dec 23, 2024: Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre paid a visit to Dharmasthala on Monday, accompanied by his family members. During the visit, he engaged in discussions with Dharmadhikari Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade and lauded various developmental and conservation initiatives spearheaded by Dharmasthala institutions.
Minister Khandre commended the efforts of the Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) in rejuvenating 1,000 lakes across Karnataka. He highlighted the importance of such projects in addressing water scarcity and boosting rural livelihoods. The minister also appreciated Dr. Heggade’s support for dairy development in Bidar district through funds allocated under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development (MPLAD) scheme, which has significantly benefited the region’s farmers.
Further, Minister Khandre praised a unique initiative undertaken by Dr. Heggade to plant fruit-bearing trees in forest areas in collaboration with the Forest Department. This project aims to prevent wild animals from straying into farmlands and causing crop damage, thereby addressing a long-standing issue faced by farmers. The minister expressed his admiration for the project’s vision and its potential to promote coexistence between wildlife and humans.
The minister’s entourage included his wife Geetha Khandre, son and Bidar MP Sagar Khandre, former Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat president Mamatha Gatti, and senior officials from the Forest Department.
As part of his visit, Minister Khandre and his family offered prayers at the Dharmasthala temple and participated in special rituals. Following this, they were hosted for lunch by the Dharmadhikari.
After completing his visit to Dharmasthala, Minister Khandre proceeded to Subrahmanya for further engagements. His visit highlighted the state government’s focus on supporting sustainable development and fostering partnerships with spiritual and social institutions to address pressing environmental and agricultural challenges.
