Parameshwara Calls for Rs 1,000 Crore Central Grant to Boost Badami Development, Despite Budget Constraints

Bagalkot: In a candid admission during a public address in Karnataka’s Bagalkot district, Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara acknowledged the financial limitations currently faced by the Congress-led state government. Speaking at a local development meet, he said that the state, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who also handles the Finance portfolio, has already exhausted a significant portion of its budget through large-scale welfare schemes.

“We don’t have money, even Siddaramaiah doesn’t have funds now. We’ve already given everything to the people in the form of rice, dal, and oil — yes, even oil,” he remarked humorously, referring to the Congress government’s flagship ‘guarantee schemes’ that include free food, electricity subsidies, and bus travel for women.

Despite this, Parameshwara struck an optimistic tone and turned his focus toward development. He urged local leaders to dream big and propose a ₹1,000 crore plan to the Central Government for the revitalization and heritage protection of the Badami region, a site rich in archaeological and cultural significance.

“You should take up a big project, something worth ₹1,000 crore. Don’t be afraid of the amount. Plan a project that can develop the entire Badami region. You should send the proposal to the Central Government,” he said, adding that such a proposal could help in beautifying the town, boosting tourism, and preserving heritage.

This approach suggests a shift in strategy — relying on federal cooperation and central funding for capital-intensive projects while the state continues to prioritize social welfare.

While financial stress has been a concern — particularly after the state’s December proposal to raise ₹19,000 crore by mortgaging assets under the Bengaluru Twin Tunnel Project — the government’s emphasis remains on long-term infrastructure development.