Karnataka Cabinet Approves Tulu as Second Additional Official Language and ₹32,611 Crore Coastal Projects

Share

Share

Share

Share

Email

Share

Mangaluru : In a historic decision, the Karnataka State Cabinet led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar approved declaring Tulu as the second additional official language for Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts during a special cabinet meeting held in Mangaluru. The cabinet passed various development initiatives worth ₹32,611 crore, which include ₹16,000 crore dedicated to rural development and the remainder allocated to transformative coastal and Malnad region infrastructure projects, such as a 150-acre fisheries park and the new Coastal Malnad Tourism Policy 2026.

Speaking at a press conference following the meeting, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that the government has honored long-standing public sentiments regarding the official recognition of Tulu. He noted that former minister Ramanath Rai, Speaker U.T. Khader, MLA Ashok Kumar Rai, and several local representatives played a key role in raising this demand. He stated that the government focuses on livelihoods and social-economic empowerment rather than emotional politics, reaffirming their commitment to building an inclusive and prosperous Karnataka.

Addressing district identity, the Chief Minister announced that public opinion will be gathered over a one-month draft notification period regarding renaming Dakshina Kannada district as Mangaluru, leveraging the city’s international recognition. Furthermore, the new Coastal Malnad Tourism Policy 2026 will classify tourism projects as infrastructure, offering financial incentives and extended loan repayment periods to boost investments across the region.

The cabinet also approved major health and educational infrastructure, including a ₹549 crore medical college in Puttur, alongside establishing a dedicated Fisheries and Blue Economy University while boosting seats at the existing fisheries college from 60 to 200. The Chief Minister highlighted Dakshina Kannada’s rich history as a national hub for banking, education, and healthcare, adding that 10 to 12 similar cabinet meetings will be held across various districts over the next 15 months. He also noted upcoming consultations regarding the Kasturirangan report in Hebri, Shivamogga, and Chikkamagaluru to ensure local community feedback is reflected.