Karnataka, engine of Indian economy: Kovind

President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday described Karnataka as the engine of the Indian economy and said the country is looking at the state to provide enlightenment, technology and unity of purpose to take the country forward.

In his address to the special joint session of the state legislature to mark the diamond jubilee of Vidhana Soudha, Kovind said, “There was a time when Hampi, here in Karnataka, was one of the richest and greatest cities in the world. Today, as our country strives to regain its importance in the global economy and international system, we once again look at Karnataka to take us forward.”

In his brief speech that lasted 20 minutes, Kovind mentioned that it was his first visit to Karnataka after accepting the responsibility of President. Showering more praise on the state, Kovind said Karnataka has been known through history for spiritualism, science, for its farmers and technologists.

He said Karnataka is a mini-India that draws — without losing its cultural and linguistic distinctiveness — youth from all over the country. “They come here for knowledge and for jobs, and they give their labour and intellect. Everybody gains,” the President said.

Kovind described Vidhana Soudha as a monument to the history of public service in Karnataka. Acknowledging the iconic building hosting the two houses of the legislature, the President said, “We are aware of the three Ds of the legislature, that it is a place to debate, dissent and finally decide. And if we add the fourth D, decency, only then does the fifth D, namely democracy, become a reality.”

He said the legislature is an embodiment of the will, aspirations and hopes of the people of Karnataka, irrespective of political belief, caste and religion, gender or language.