Bengaluru: Even as the Karnataka State Cabinet is scheduled to meet in Mangaluru on Sept. 18, the State Kambala Association has urged the Government to announce a special grant of Rs. 5 crore for organising Kambala events during the current  financial year.

In a letter addressed to CM D.K. Shivakumar ahead of the Cabinet meeting, the Association described Kambala as a spectacular buffalo race held in slush fields and a major source of entertainment for people in the coastal districts, attracting large crowds.

Pointing out that Kambala has gained recognition as a sport and that the Association has been recognised by the State Sports Authority, the Association said that organising each event costs between Rs. 40 lakh and Rs. 50 lakh. Winners are awarded gold medals and cash prizes.

“Kambala is not only a traditional sport but also a major attraction that draws tourists from other places, thereby giving a boost to tourism and sports. For organising Kambala in two coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES) and Tourism Department should announce a special grant of Rs. 2.5 crore each, totalling  Rs. 5 crore,”  the letter said.

The Association said that Kambala organisers were facing increasing challenges in conducting the events, with rising costs. It urged the Government to announce Rs. 5 crore special grant at the Cabinet meeting in Mangaluru, taking into consideration the sentiments of people in the region and the need to further promote traditional buffalo race.