Virajpet (Kodagu), Dec.14- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will inaugurate the Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa Cultural Centre and General K.S. Thimayya Multipurpose Sports Complex at Balugodu near Virajpet on December 28.
Addressing a news conference, Federation of Kodava Samajas President M.N. Belliappa said the Cultural Centre constructed by the Federation at a cost of Rs. 2 crore can accommodate 1,500 people. It will be let out for cultural programmes, weddings, etc., he added.
Continuing, he said the Sports Complex, constructed at a cost of Rs. 2.50 crore, comprises an indoor stadium, a dining hall, rooms etc. The building will also house a Mahila Samaja, for which a separate Administrative Council comprising women members has been constituted. The construction work on the Memorial for Martyrs is also going on at the site, which is expected to be complete in 3 months, he said.
Stating that ‘Bendu Kombare’ will be constructed amidst a beautiful environment for the benefit of Kodavas living outside, Belliappa said, the Federation will develop a horticultural farm at a 15-acre area in order to offset the destruction of green cover caused by the constructions. Giving a brief on the history of the Federation, Belliappa highlighted the role of former Minister M.C. Nanaiah in the Federation’s activities.
Noting that it was Cheppudira Vinu Ponnappa, who had prepared the blue print for the project four years ago when it was estimated to cost Rs. 11 crore, Belliappa said, the delay in the execution of the works had resulted in cost escalation, with the cost now touching Rs.14 crore.
Announcing that the previous government had granted Rs. 2 crore and the present government Rs. 1 crore for the project, he said that Rs. 63 lakh has been collected from donors and the Federation itself had availed interest free loans of over Rs. 1 crore. He added that Rs.7 crore more is needed for the complete execution of works.
Federation Secretary Prof. M.D. Nanjunda was present at the press meet. SOM report and picture.