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Dismissing reports of discord, Union Education Minister and BJP MP from Dharwad Pralhad Joshi on Monday stated that there is no friction between the Centre and the Karnataka government, emphasising that both sides have agreed to collaborate for the state's development and the welfare of its people.
Speaking to ANI, Joshi underlined that development cannot be achieved by fighting over "petty political issues," and called for a unified approach to build a 'Viksit Bharat'. "There is no friction between us. Moving forward, we said we will walk on the path of cooperation. They also said that if we walk on the path of cooperation, we--for the soil, water, culture, language, and the welfare of the people of Karnataka--will offer our full support," Joshi said. Joshi defended the Centre's financial allocations to the state, noting that Karnataka's tax devolution has increased by 0.67 per cent following Finance Commission discussions. He added that while previous infrastructure allocations for roads, railways, and irrigation ranged from Rs 500 crore to Rs 700 crore, the Centre has provided nearly Rs 8,000 crore to Karnataka over the last decade. Addressing the Mahadayi issue, the Union Minister stated that the central government has challenged the Goa government's order in the Supreme Court to seek a resolution. He highlighted that the current administration has already secured environmental clearance, gazette notification, and approval for the Detailed Project Report (DPR). Joshi confirmed the Centre is coordinating with Union Minister CR Patil regarding excess water from the Mahanadi and the linking of the Cauvery, Krishna, and Godavari rivers. Following the Prime Minister's instructions, a special task force will be formed for desilting dams using advanced technology, an initiative welcomed by the Karnataka Chief Minister. (ANI)
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