Mysuru: Maj. Gen. Codanda K. Karumbaya (retd.) has regretted that the State Government has given preference to performing puja for rains rather than taking up green initiatives and eco-friendly measures.

He was speaking after delivering the inaugural address of ‘Spoorthi-2019,’ a four-day motivational camp-cum-workshop organised by Kodava Deenabandhu Charitable Trust for its beneficiaries at Kodava Samaja premises in Vijayanagar here yesterday.

Pointing out that the workshop focuses on motivation, effective communication, general health, career awareness etc., Karumbaya called upon the participants to expose themselves to the challenges of outside world.

Noting that Kodavas did not come out of their homeland when Kodagu was ruled by kings, he said that Kodavas gradually came out under British rule and gallantly served in the Army, Police and other Defence Battalions, thus carving a niche for themselves.

Maintaining that the nation has undergone transformation over the years, he said the country gave opportunities to everyone irrespective of gender and status.

Stating that women have forayed into almost all sectors which is a good development, he said that competition is becoming intense with the growth of population.

Stressing on the need for learning Kannada, Maj. Gen. Karumbaya said that at the same time, learning English too is important, as English has become an accepted language for global communication.

Highlighting that it is important to learn Hindi as it is the most spoken language in the country and widely used in the Armed Forces, he exhorted the students to get well-versed in all three languages, as it is vital for their career growth.

Emphasising on the need for maintaining discipline in life, he opined that studying is key for acquiring knowledge.

Noting that hard work, dedication, determination and honesty is key for personality growth, he called upon the participants to make best use of the camp.

Lauds Modi’s leadership

Maj. Gen. Karumbaya, in his address, lauded Prime Minister Modi’s leadership qualities.

Maintaining that Modi has given a strong leadership for the country, he opined that under Modi’s leadership, there is no doubt that India will soon become one among the most powerful countries in the world.

Trust President K.A. Kariappa, Secretary P.A. Jayakumar, Trustees C.G. Madappa, Dechu Karumbaya, Reena Jayakumar, Shanthi Ganapathy, Anila Madappa, Chimmi Nanjappa and others were present.

Over 40 students from different Colleges are attending the workshop in which speakers from Defence, Police, Banks, Medical, Education and other fields are interacting with the students.

The four-day workshop will conclude on June 10.