Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Dr. Venkat Raja, inaugurating the 110th birth anniversary programme of the pioneer of social revolution and former Chief Minister D. Devaraja Urs at Gandhi Bhavan, Madikeri, said that during his tenure, Devaraja Urs implemented landmark projects such as granting ownership of arable land, abolition of bonded labour, establishment of student hostels, ensuring justice for backward classes, and the launch of Electronic City. He noted that Urs continues to be remembered as a visionary leader.
The DC emphasized that Devaraja Urs worked tirelessly to provide social justice across communities in Karnataka and stressed the importance of studying his ideals and philosophy. He added that Urs used his tenure to amend laws for social justice and rose to prominence at both state and national levels.
Speaking on the occasion, K.C. Dayanand, Professor at Virajpet Government First Grade College, described Urs as a pioneer of social reform and a leader of the backward classes. Entering the Legislative Assembly in 1952, Urs served as a minister and later as Chief Minister, leaving a legacy of progressive governance.
Through the Land Reforms Board, Urs introduced the principle that the tiller is the owner of the land, benefiting lakhs of tenants and freeing them from bonded labour. He implemented transformative programmes such as establishing the Backward Classes Development Corporation, the Tree Preservation Act, banning manual scavenging, launching the Debt Relief Act, supporting artisans, implementing the Bhagya Jyoti scheme, renaming Mysore state as Karnataka, and acting on the N.G. Havanur Commission’s recommendations.
Dr. Dayanand described Urs as a socialist who brought light to many sectors and played a crucial role in building a just society in Karnataka. Keshava Kamath, President of Kannada Sahitya Parishat, Kodagu District Unit, called Urs a public servant who provided excellent governance and a ray of hope for the backward classes. He compared Urs’ impact in Karnataka to Indira Gandhi’s nationwide 20-point programme.
Students from the Backward Classes Welfare Department hostels who scored high marks in SSLC and PUC examinations were felicitated. On the occasion of Sadbhavana Day, Kavita, a manager from the department, administered the oath-taking ceremony. Students also presented patriotic songs. Deputy Director of the Social Welfare Department Shekhar, Tahsildar Sridhar, Backward Classes Welfare Officer Deepak, Office Manager Shivashankar, Taluk Officer Mohan Kumar, and others were present. K.R. Bharathi narrated the programme, and Srikanth proposed the vote of thanks.
