K'taka CM defends introduction of English in Kannada Medium schools

Bangalore, Nov 1 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today defended introduction of English in Kannada Medium Schools and appealed to those opposing the decision to join hands with the Government for its effective implementation.

Speaking at a function organised to celebrate 'Suvarna Karnataka' Golden Jubilee of the State formation day at the Chinnaswamy Stadium of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) here he said that the decision to introduce English in Kannada medium schools was taken with the larger interest of the children of the state.

Referring to criticism by some individuals and organisations, the Chief Minister assured that the status of Kannada language would be maintained. Introduction of English was taken to enhance confidence of children living in rural areas in competing with the children learning in urban regions, who enjoy upper hand in higher studies, he added.

Drawing attention of the Centre, he said that Karnataka should be accorded Classical Language status since Kannada has over 2000 years of history.

He said that the state government has decided to rechristian Bangalore as Bengalooru, Hospet as Hosapete, Shimoga as Shivamogga, Tumkur as Tumakuru, Gulbarga as Kalaburgi, Mangalore as Mangalooru, Hubli as Hubballi, Chickmagalur as Chikkamagaluru and Bengalum as Belagavi. The process for renaming of these towns has taken place and would be completed within few weeks and the decision would be sent to the Union Government for ratification, he added.

Earlier the Chief Minister honoured 40 people who have participated in the struggle for the unification of Karnataka 50 years ago. Among those who were honoured and conferred 'Unification Award' included Patil Puttappa, Bheemanna Khandre, G Narayana and others.

On the occasion 50 personalities were also honoured by conferring of Rajyothsava award who have rendered their services in various capacities. The awardees included artisans, educationists, social workers, administrators, cine actors and writers.

Over 40,000 people who have witnessed the colourful Rajyothsava celebration function which was attended by Karnataka Governor T N Chaturvedi, Opposition leaders in the Karnataka Assembly N Dharam Singh, H K Patil, Karnataka Deputy Chief minister B S Yediyurappa, Speaker of the Assembly Krishna, Chairman Karnataka legislative council Sachidananda Khot and other ministers and legislators.

Thousands of artists also enthralled the jam-packed stadium with their performances on the occasion.

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