Maharashtra tackling bird flu effectively: Krishna

Mangalore, Feb 22 (UNI) Maharashtra Governor S M Krishna today expressed satisfaction over the steps taken by the bird flu-hit state in controlling the spread of the virus by mass culling and vaccination of chickens.

Mr Krishna, who was on a two-day visit to the undivided Dakshina Kannada district, told newspersons at the Bajpe airport that the UPA government at the Centre had immediately responded to the alarming situation by providing necessary support to Maharashtra. ''It is the responsibility of both the Centre and the State to combat bird flu, which has created panic among poultry consumers.'' The Former Karnataka Chief Minister declined to comment on his willingness to return to active politics in the state and parried all questions relating to the state politics.

He would offer prayers at various temples, including Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala, before leaving for Mumbai tomorrow.

UNI MA GD-RG TS1641