Karnataka to implement centralised ambulance management system for effective service
Bengaluru (PTI): The Karnataka government is set to implement a centralised ambulance management system under the unified emergency helpline number '112', Medical Education & Skill Development Minister Sharanprakash Patil announced in the Legislative Council on Monday.
The minister said the new system is expected to be fully operational within three months, with technical integration currently in progress.
He said the government would directly take over the centralised management of all state ambulances under the '112' platform to ensure faster and more effective emergency healthcare delivery.
Patil said this in response to a question raised by MLC T N Javarayi Gowda during the question hour.
Further stating that recruitment of supporting staff for ambulance services would also be undertaken shortly, he assured the House that Karnataka's ambulance fleet meets the standards prescribed by the Central Government and that there is no shortage of ambulances in the state.
Noting that 1,715 ambulances are currently operational across the state, including 715 operated under the Arogya Kavacha programme and 1,000 managed directly by the state government, the minister said 262 additional ambulances will be procured to further strengthen emergency response capacity.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
