Raja Venugopal Naik sworn in as new Surpur MLA
Bengaluru: Raja Venugopal Naik has been sworn in as the new Surpur MLA following his victory in the by-elections for the Surpur assembly constituency. The oath-taking ceremony took place in room number 106 on the first floor of the Vidhan Sabha.
UT Khader Farid, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, administered the oath to the newly elected MLA, Raja Venugopal Naik, and extended his congratulations.
Among those present at the ceremony were Minister Sharanbasappa Darshanapura along with MLAs B.B. Chimmanakatte, Allama Prabhu Patil, Jagadeva Guttedar, MP Kumar Naik, Legislative Assembly Secretary M.K. Vishalakshi, and other dignitaries.
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Karnataka gram panchayats achieve 89% of tax collection target
Bengaluru: Gram panchayats across Karnataka have recorded a strong improvement in revenue mobilisation, realising 89% of the tax collection target for the financial year 2025-26, one of the highest levels in recent years, The Hindu reported.
According to the Department of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, 5,943 gram panchayats reported higher collections compared to the previous year. The total tax collection stood at Rs 1,382.57 crore, marking an increase of Rs 110.04 crore from Rs 1,272.54 crore collected in 2024-25.
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge said state had previously secured the top position at the national level in tax collection and revenue mobilisation with respect to village panchayats, and the continued upward trend highlights the impact of “efficient administration, strict enforcement of regulations, and strengthened tax collection mechanisms.”
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In 2024-25, gram panchayats had realised 80% of the demand, collecting Rs 1,272.54 crore for the first time in the department’s history. Building on this, the state has now reached a record 89% realisation.
Highlighting district-wise performance, the minister noted that Raichur recorded 129% tax collection, while 11 districts crossed 100% realisation.
He said the improvement was driven by awareness campaigns, focused collection drives, and sustained efforts of officials at all levels, from bill collectors to senior administrators.
“Our focus over the past few years has been on improving systems, ensuring accountability, and empowering local bodies to enhance their own revenue capabilities. It is encouraging to see that every rupee collected is being reinvested into village infrastructure, public services, and local development. This is laying a strong foundation for inclusive and sustainable rural growth,” he said.
