Kannada must get priority in Karnataka, says Mysuru MP

Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, MP for Mysuru, on Sunday, said that Kannada should always get priority in the State and underscored the need to protect and promote the language. At the same time, he emphasised the importance of learning other languages to remain competitive and achieve success in life.

Speaking after inaugurating the Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations at the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) here, the MP said that knowledge of multiple languages gives individuals an advantage, as language skills can be effectively used for personal and professional accomplishments. “While learning other languages is also necessary, Kannada must always remain the priority in our State,” he said.

He noted that the Mysuru-based CIIL has the potential to emerge as a model institution in promoting all Indian languages while safeguarding linguistic diversity.

Referring to development and infrastructure, Mr. Wadiyar said the time had come to realise the aspirations of Kannadigas by effectively utilising the infrastructure being created. How best this infrastructure is leveraged for economic growth should remain the focus, he said, adding that one must introspect on whether facilities created by the governments are being meaningfully used.

He emphasised the need to safeguard Karnataka’s culture and heritage. “If the goal of Viksit Bharat is to be achieved, Viksit Karnataka is equally important,” he said.

Expressing concern, the MP said Karnataka was gradually losing its prominence as other States had taken the lead in technological advancements. He cited examples such as Hyderabad, Warangal, and other cities where new-age projects like Quantum City and Aero City are being developed. While Karnataka had led the IT revolution and achieved significant progress, he said, recent setbacks must be addressed by establishing a strong and robust system to regain lost ground.

In his speech, Mr. Wadiyar highlighted the need to adequately recognise the contributions of historian and writer Aluru Venkata Rao to the Karnataka Ekikarana (unification) movement. He said Rao’s role must be represented on par with other leaders, adding that the credit for Ekikarana must be rightfully attributed to him.

CIIL Director Shailendra Mohan, Vice-Chancellor N.K. Lokanath, Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Kannada Project Director Talwar, and others were present.