Belagavi, 26 Oct (H.S.): Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar announced a ₹40-crore Chennamma Independence Park in Kittur and the renaming of the North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) after Rani Chennamma, outlining measures to promote tourism and preserve the region’s historical heritage.

Addressing the closing ceremony of the three-day Kittur Utsav, Shivakumar said the transport undertaking would be renamed Kittur Rani Chennamma Road Transport Corporation in recognition of the queen’s courage and resistance to British rule.

The proposed park would depict Chennamma’s historic victory over the British and help establish Kittur as a prominent tourist destination. Responding to a request from Kittur MLA Babasaheb Patil, he assured government support for initiatives linking heritage conservation with regional development.

Shivakumar also pledged financial assistance for the ₹520-crore Chennavrishabhendra irrigation project, saying the benefits of development must reach residents of the region celebrated for its historic resistance.

Making his first visit to Kittur Utsav, the Chief Minister described Chennamma’s courage, sacrifice and determination as an enduring inspiration. The festival’s cultural programmes, he said, reflected Karnataka’s rich traditions.

He urged elected representatives to honour public trust through honest service and prioritise people’s needs over hatred or political vendetta. Taking administration closer to citizens and resolving grievances locally remained essential, he added.

Patil welcomed government assistance for a protective wall around Kittur Fort and flooring work at the museum. He said the proposed park should authentically portray Chennamma’s struggle while attracting more visitors.

Writer Sabita Bannadi, addressing the gathering, said Chennamma’s patriotism and concern for her subjects had secured her a lasting place in public memory. She recalled the queen’s refusal to accept grants and pensions in exchange for surrender.

Citing other courageous women rulers, Bannadi appealed to parents to nurture leadership, confidence and resilience among girls, enabling them to confront challenges and contribute meaningfully to society with determination.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman