Wed Jan 22 22:26:57 IST 2025: ## Karnataka to Invest ₹2 Crore in Navagraha Tirtha Tourism
**Hubballi, Karnataka –** Karnataka’s Tourism Minister H.K. Patil announced a ₹2 crore state government investment for developing tourism infrastructure at Navagraha Tirtha in Varur, near Hubballi. The funds, ₹1 crore per year for two years, will bolster the pilgrimage site’s growing popularity. The announcement came during the inauguration of a Panchaloha Kalasorahana program, part of a 12-day Mahamastakabhisheka festival.
Minister Patil also highlighted the dilapidated state of approximately 4,000 Jain basadis (temples) across Karnataka, urging Jain monks and philanthropists to join restoration efforts already underway by the Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari. He drew parallels between Mahatma Gandhi’s activism and Jain principles, emphasizing the importance of Jain values. The Minister further lauded a local initiative providing free education to underprivileged children.
Speaking at the event, RSS functionary Mangesh Bhendre stressed national unity, advocating for the adoption of non-violence and Swadeshi principles. Punjab Governor Gulabchan Katariya emphasized the importance of moral education for children. Several donors were also felicitated at the event.
First Piper 