Karnataka Needs Strong Support for Growth Says CM DK Shivakumar During PM Modi Mysuru Visit

Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend greater support for Karnataka, stating that the state’s progress is closely linked to the country’s overall development. Addressing a gathering during the inauguration of the Swami Vivekananda Memorial and Cultural Youth Centre in Mysuru, the Chief Minister said Karnataka occupies a unique place in India and is being closely watched by the world for its economic strength, innovation and cultural heritage.

The event, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several dignitaries, marked the inauguration of the newly developed Swami Vivekananda Cultural Youth Centre and Viveka Memorial at the Ramakrishna Ashram in Mysuru. The programme celebrated the legacy of Swami Vivekananda while also focusing on the importance of empowering young people to contribute to the nation’s future.

Speaking at the ceremony, DK Shivakumar described the occasion as historic and said the ideals of Swami Vivekananda continue to inspire generations of Indians. He noted that the Karnataka government is committed to promoting the values of service, education and youth development championed by the great spiritual leader.

The Chief Minister said Karnataka is not only an important state within India but also a place that attracts global attention because of its achievements in technology, education, culture and industry. According to him, supporting Karnataka’s growth would strengthen the country’s position on the international stage. He therefore requested the Prime Minister to work closely with the state government in ensuring balanced and sustained development.

DK Shivakumar said that both the Union and state governments should move forward together with a common vision. He stressed that development should rise above political differences and remain focused on improving opportunities for people across urban and rural Karnataka. He expressed confidence that cooperation between both governments would accelerate infrastructure projects, employment generation and overall economic progress.

Highlighting the importance of youth, the Chief Minister said the dreams of young people ultimately shape the future of the nation. He explained that the state government is working on initiatives aimed at channeling the energy and talent of young citizens into constructive activities. According to him, empowering youth at the village, town and city levels remains one of the administration’s key priorities.

He revealed that the government is considering programmes to create organised youth groups across gram panchayats and urban local bodies. Such initiatives, he said, would encourage leadership, social responsibility and community participation while helping young people contribute meaningfully to society.

The Chief Minister also praised the Ramakrishna Ashram for its contribution to education, spiritual values and public service. He remarked that the institution should not be viewed merely as an asset of Karnataka but as a national treasure that has benefited people across the country. He assured that the state government would continue extending its support to the Ashram and its activities.

Referring to Mysuru’s rich historical legacy, DK Shivakumar said the city occupies a special place in India’s cultural history. He recalled Swami Vivekananda’s visit to Mysuru in 1892 and described it as a defining moment that influenced the spiritual leader’s future journey. According to him, the encouragement and support extended by the Mysore royal family played a significant role in Vivekananda’s participation at the historic Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar had welcomed Swami Vivekananda warmly during his stay in Mysuru and provided both encouragement and financial assistance for his visit to the United States. That support eventually enabled Vivekananda to deliver his famous address beginning with the words Brothers and Sisters of America, a speech that introduced India’s spiritual heritage to the global audience and remains one of the most celebrated moments in the country’s history.

DK Shivakumar said the people of Karnataka continue to take pride in that chapter of history because Mysuru played a meaningful role in supporting one of India’s greatest spiritual ambassadors. He added that preserving such historical memories is essential for inspiring future generations.

The Chief Minister also described Mysuru as a city whose legacy extends beyond Karnataka. From its royal traditions and educational institutions to its contributions to art, culture and spirituality, the city has earned international recognition over the decades. He said projects like the Swami Vivekananda Memorial would further strengthen Mysuru’s reputation as a centre for learning and cultural values.

Throughout his address, DK Shivakumar repeatedly underlined the need for unity in achieving national development. He said Karnataka and India must progress together through cooperation rather than division. According to him, coordinated efforts between the Centre and the state would ensure that investments, employment opportunities and infrastructure continue expanding across Karnataka.

He also praised the ideals of Swami Vivekananda, saying they remain relevant even today. Values such as discipline, service to society, self confidence and national pride should continue guiding public policy and youth development programmes, he noted. The Chief Minister said the newly inaugurated memorial would serve as a lasting reminder of these principles and inspire generations to come.

The event concluded with leaders reiterating the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage while creating new opportunities for the country’s youth. The inauguration of the Swami Vivekananda Memorial and Cultural Youth Centre was presented not only as a tribute to a great spiritual icon but also as a symbol of Karnataka’s commitment to education, service and national progress.

Calling for greater collaboration between the Centre and the state, DK Shivakumar expressed hope that Karnataka would receive continued support in its journey toward inclusive growth. He maintained that a stronger Karnataka would ultimately contribute to a stronger India, benefiting citizens across the nation while reinforcing the country’s standing before the world.