Mysore/Mysuru: Krishnaraja MLA T.S. Srivatsa has urged the Government to allocate space for the exhibition and sale of indigenous Mysore brand products at the heritage Command Area Development Authority (CADA) building opposite the Mysore Palace.

Making this demand during the Assembly session at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Thursday, Srivatsa said, “All offices in the CADA Public Offices complex should be relocated to the District-Level Offices complex (new DC Office) at Siddartha Nagar. This move would allow for the organisation of exhibitions and sales of products such as Mysore Silk, Mysore Sandal Soap, and Oil, among others, at the CADA building,” he said.

Such a step would not only help in preventing cases of cheating involving foreign tourists but also ensure convenient access for them to purchase authentic local products near the Mysore Palace itself, he added.

Highlighting the significance of tourist attractions like Mysore Palace, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (Mysuru Zoo), and the Silk Factory, which were established under the initiatives of erstwhile Maharajas of Mysore and remain prominent to this day, Srivatsa lamented the lack of concerted efforts by subsequent governments to develop tourism activities in line with the grand vision of the Maharajas.

Srivatsa urged the Chief Minister and the District Minister to consider illuminating the Palace for at least 10 minutes daily, in addition to weekends, to attract more tourists and encourage overnight stays in the city. He underscored the need for the Government to explore innovative initiatives to boost tourism further.

Additionally, Srivatsa expressed gratitude to Speaker U.T. Khader on behalf of the people of Mysuru for distributing gold-coated Gandabherunda badges, the royal emblem of the erstwhile Mysore royal family, to all MLAs. He noted that this gesture enhanced the level of responsibility among legislators.