Karnataka Minister Santosh Lad praised the state’s remarkable progress, emphasizing its leadership in economic growth with a 10% GDP growth rate, surpassing the national average of 8.2%.
Speaking at a voter appreciation event in Sandur, Lad attributed this accomplishment to welfare initiatives under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s leadership.
Reflecting on Karnataka’s development between 2013 and 2018, he highlighted its dominance in tax collection and economic advancement during this period. “These programs have greatly contributed to our success, helping Karnataka achieve around 51 per cent GDP growth during this period,” Lad said, referring to the “Five Guarantees” and other welfare schemes that have driven the state’s growth.
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The minister elaborated that the government has invested Rs 60,000 crore in the Five Guarantees, fostering economic inclusion and supporting underprivileged communities. He pointed to initiatives like mid-day meals, Anganwadi services, widow pensions, and old-age pensions as transformative measures.
Further detailing the state’s achievements, Lad shared that farmers have benefited from interest-free loans of up to Rs 3 lakh, with Rs 9.5 crore allocated for this initiative. Additionally, farm loans worth Rs 8,165 crore have been waived. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes communities have received loan waivers and grants amounting to Rs 80,000 crore, while gram panchayats have been allocated Rs 3,700 crore. Under the Ashraya housing scheme, Rs 2,633 crore has been set aside, and over Rs 18,000 crore was spent from 2013 to 2018 to support the poor.
Lad also pointed to his party’s contributions at the national level, highlighting measures like a Rs 72,000 crore farm loan waiver and employment generation in over 26,000 villages across India.
“These welfare initiatives have not only driven Karnataka’s growth but also set a strong example for inclusive development across India,” Lad concluded.
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