Mandya: District minister N Cheluvarayaswamy on Wednesday described former chief minister SM Krishna as a visionary statesman and a model politician whose simplicity and progressive outlook continue to inspire generations. He was speaking at the ‘Unforgettable SM Krishna' remembrance and award ceremony organised by the Karnataka Sangha in Mandya.
Highlighting Krishna's tenure as chief minister from 1999 to 2004, the minister credited him with laying the foundation for transforming Bengaluru into a global IT hub. He noted that Krishna's forward-thinking leadership and administrative reforms played a crucial role in positioning Karnataka on the international stage. He also remarked that stalwarts like KV Shankara Gowda and G Made Gowda, alongside Krishna, have left behind ideals that should guide today's political leadership.
On the occasion, the SM Krishna Political Award-2025, comprising a citation and a cash prize of Rs 50,000, was presented to former education minister Kimmane Ratnakar. Accepting the honour, Ratnakar expressed heartfelt gratitude and acknowledged Krishna's pivotal role in shaping his political journey. He recalled that it was Krishna's encouragement that led him into public life and eventually to serve as a minister in 2013.
Reflecting on contemporary challenges, Ratnakar voiced concern over increasing corruption and communal tendencies, particularly among the educated sections of society. He emphasised the role of literature as a powerful tool for social reform and urged the Karnataka Sangha to organise more programmes addressing social justice issues.
Congress MLC Dinesh Gooligowda unveiled a portrait of SM Krishna. Mandya MLA Ravikumar Ganiga was also present.
