Mysore/Mysuru: Maintaining that Kannadigas should get preference in appointment to industries and other enterprises, Prof. N.M. Talwar, Project Director, Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Kannada, CIIL, said that the Government must take action in this regard.

He was speaking after inaugurating Kannada Rajyotsava and Karnataka Namakarana Suva-rna Sambhrama programme organised at Kuvempu Institute of Kannada Studies (KIKS) in Manasagangothri here recently.

Bemoaning that those who studied in Kannada medium are getting few opportunities in employment, Prof. Talwar said that English and Hindi are getting more prominence than Kannada in Karnataka, which is most disappointing. Urging the State Government, which is elected by Kannadigas,  to intervene and take measures for ensuring job opportunities for Kannadigas, he said that establishments in the State should communicate in Kannada.

Stating that just like we had movements for gaining independence, there were many movements for the formation of Karnataka State and Unification, which were realised after many struggles. As such every Kannadiga should remember all those who took part in these movements, he said adding that the University of Mysore (UoM)should pay more attention for development of KIKS.

UoM Vice-Chancellor Prof. N.K. Lokanath, in his address, said that the University itself would conduct Rajyotsava celebration from next year. Stating that those in power should think of Kannada implementation, he said that Kannada is the language which provides us food and livelihood and as such Kannadigas should get opportunities  everywhere in the State.  

Asserting that the State is rich in culture, he observed that Vachanakaras, Poets and Saints have ensured that Kannada finds a permanent and an important place in promotion of heritage and culture.

KIKS Director Prof. Vijaya-kumari S. Karikal, Prof. N.K. Lolakshi, Prof. Nanjaiah Honganur, Prof. B.K. Ravindr-anath, Prof. S.D. Shasikala  and others were present.