BENGALURU: Karnataka, which has emerged as the international hub of education, science and technology, is an engine of Indian economy, President Ram Nath Kovind said here on Wednesday.
Addressing the joint session of Legislature to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Vidhana Soudha, Kovind was all praise for the history, tradition and the contribution of the people of Karnataka to make the state a pioneer in various domains.
“Karnataka’s dreams are not for Karnataka alone, they are dreams for all of India. Karnataka is an engine of the Indian economy. It is a mini-India that draws youth from from all over the country. They come here for knowledge and for jobs, and they give their labour and intellect. Everybody gains,” Kovind said.
Making a special mention about Bengaluru, the President said, “The Indian Institute of Science and the Indian Space Research Organisation are among so many of our crown jewel institutions that are based in Bengaluru. The dynamism of its entrepreneurs has made Bengaluru India’s IT capital. It is known the world over as the Silicon City.”
Exhorting the members of both the houses to uphold the spirit of democracy, Kovind said, “Both the houses of legislature jointly and collectively represent the will and aspirations of the people of Karnataka.”
The President was full praise for the rich traditions of the state and said that it is the land with ancient Jain and Budhist traditions. “Gulbarga is a centre of Sufi culture. The reformist Lingayat movement under the spiritual leaders such as Basavacharyas was also located in Karnataka,” he said.
He also lauded the contributions of engineer-statesman M Visvesvaraya, two army Chiefs Field Marshal K M Cariappa and General K S Thimayya, the proud sons of Karnataka.
Prez misses Gowda, makes amends
Recalling the leaders who played a role in shaping the destiny of modern Karnataka, the President took the names of former CMs K C Reddy, Kengal Hanumanthaiah, , S Nijalingappa, Kadidal Manjappa Devaraj Urs, B D Jatti, S R Bommai, Ramakrishna Hegde, Veerendra Patil and S M Krishna, while missing out former PM H D Deve Gowda. Realising the mistake, the President said, “and HD Deve Gowda also. I remember the former prime minister and a friend of mine.” Sources said he called up Deve Gowda later and enquired about his health.