Udupi:  Udupi District Minister Kota Srinivas Poojari has said that  the state government has elaborate plans to promote tourism in the district and that already a sum of Rs 17.25 crore has been released for the purpose.

He was speaking after hoisting the national flag at the 64th Republic Day  celebrations held at Ajjarkad Grounds on January 26, Saturday. He also received  guard of honour by a contingent of police force, police band, national cadet corps, Scouts, Guides and Home Guards.

The minister said the several welfare schemes launched  by the state government were being effectively implemented in the district. He also stated that there is good progress under Sakala scheme and that 2,73,151 out of the 2,80,036 applications received under the scheme, have been disposed.

The minister also spoke on the recent decision of the government to hand over the rights of Kumki land to farmers and added nearly 1,97,401 farmers in DK and Udupi districts would benefit from the government decision.

Government employees who received Sarvottama Award for their outstanding services were honoured.

 Among others present were Udupi  MLA Raghupathi Bhat, ZP President Upendra Nayak, Udupi CMC President Kiran Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Dr MT Reju and SP Dr Boralingaiah.