Bengaluru, 26 July (H.S.) :Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has convened a meeting of all Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members from the State in New Delhi on Monday to build a united front for securing Central assistance on key development projects and pressing issues during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. The meeting will be held at Karnataka Bhavan at 6.30 p.m., with Members of Parliament across party lines invited to participate. Several State Ministers are also expected to attend.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru before leaving for the national capital on Sunday, the Chief Minister said the initiative was aimed at ensuring that Karnataka's interests are collectively represented in Parliament, irrespective of political affiliations. He expressed hope that all MPs would work together to secure Central support for projects and proposals that have remained pending.

Shivakumar said the State is facing a difficult situation due to drought conditions in several districts and stressed the need for timely assistance from the Union government. He noted that Karnataka requires substantial Central support to address the challenges posed by deficient rainfall, protect agriculture and strengthen relief measures.

The Chief Minister said the meeting would focus on a range of development proposals awaiting approval or financial support from the Centre. He added that a coordinated effort by MPs during the Monsoon Session could help expedite these proposals and ensure that Karnataka's concerns receive adequate attention at the national level.

The gathering is expected to provide a common platform for elected representatives from different political parties to deliberate on issues affecting the State and evolve a joint strategy for pursuing them with the Union government. The State government believes bipartisan cooperation will strengthen Karnataka's case for greater financial assistance and faster clearance of important infrastructure and welfare projects.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman