Mysore/Mysuru: Karnataka Exhibition Authority (KEA) Chairman Hemanth Kumar Gowda has assured to transform the Authority in a year. He was speaking after being honoured at the felicitation organised by  Zilla Vokkaligara Yuva Vedike at the Institution of Engineers on JLB road here on Saturday.

Pointing out that the KEA has evolved plans for making the Dasara Exhibition Grounds functional throughout the year, Hemanth Kumar Gowda said that preparations are being made for organising International Exhibitions at the venue. 

Noting that an action plan is being worked out at the Government level to keep the Dasara Exhibition grounds active on all days of the year, he maintained that he has launched many developmental activities in the Authority after he took charge as Chairman last year. 

Highlighting the efforts being made to draw visitors and tourists all through the year, he said that several experts have given suggestions on holding international expos and events at Dasara Exhibition grounds. He further said that the plan has got delayed due to the adoption of Indo-Saracenic style of Architecture in the design, keeping in mind the rich Indian heritage, culture and traditions.

Referring to Cauvery Art Gallery in Dasara Exhibition premises, he said that the Gallery, which provides complete information regarding the birth of river Cauvery and all other aspects, is coming up at a cost of Rs. 3.5 crore. 

Stating that the Gallery is at the completion stage, he asserted that he would take all measures to open the Gallery, which has been funded by the Union Government, as soon as possible. The Chief Minister will be invited for the inauguration of the Gallery, he said and added that the shut down  Archaeological and Heritage Museum too will be part of the Gallery.

Earlier, veteran writer Dr. C.P. Krishnakumar (CPK) recalled the political growth of Hemanth Kumar right from his student days when he was very much associated with ABVP (Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad). He complimented the KEA Chairman for conducting various social service programmes such as blood donation camps.

Former Corporator Prashanth Kumar Gowda delivered the key-note address.

Adichunchanagiri Shakha Mutt Seer Sri Someshwaranatha  Swamiji graced the occasion.

Mysuru District Journalists Association (MDJA) President S.T. Ravikumar, Corporator Prema Shankaregowda, Zilla Vokkaligara Yuva Vedike President Rajkumar, office-bearers A. Ravi, Srinivas, Hinkal Nagendra,Vasu, Vedaraj, Sneha, Manju, Satish, Mahesh and others were present.