Mandya: The historic Satyagraha Soudha in Shivapura in Maddur taluk came alive on Mar. 12 when ‘Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav’ (Platinum Jubilee of Independence) was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat.

The District Administration had organised various programmes at Satyagraha Soudha.

While District AYUSH Department had organised yoga by 75 persons, a cleanliness drive was held in all Wards of Maddur town. Department of Public Instructions had organised all religion prayer. Competitions were conducted for Self Help Groups (SHGs) and general public. 

As many as 75 cyclists took out jatha on behalf of the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, and a half marathon was held at Maddur Taluk Ground. 

A march-past by NCC, Scouts and Guides was held. Other events held on this occasion included book exhibition and philatelic exhibition. Cultural programmes were held throughout the day.

Speaking on the occasion, K.C. Narayanagowda, Minister for Youth Empowerment and Sports, called upon the people to remember the martyrs of freedom struggle. 

For people of Mandya district, Shivapura village has a lot of importance. To encourage traditional ‘alemane’ (Jaggery making units), a subsidy of Rs. 25 lakh will be given to each owner. Besides, steps have been taken to promote agri-tourism, he added.

Deputy Commissioner S. Aswathi, MLAs M. Srinivas and D.C. Thammanna, ZP President Nagaratnaswamy, MLC K.T. Srikantegowda, ZP CEO Zulfiqar Ulla, Assistant Commissioner Shivananda Murthy and others were present.