Karnataka to Develop Blackbuck Reserve, Tree Park in Vijayapura's Indi

The Karnataka government will develop a blackbuck reserve and a tree park in Indi taluk, Vijayapura district, Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy announced on August 30.

The announcement came during the inauguration of the Gyanyogi Sri Siddeshwara Swami Arboretum in Savalsang village. The minister said the park honours the late seer, who championed afforestation and had personally planted saplings in the area.

"We continued the process and built this park," Reddy said, praising forest officials for completing the project at a cost of ₹2.5 crore. He urged citizens to protect forest wealth, crediting the seer for spreading awareness about environmental conservation.

MLA Yashwant Rayagouda Patil, who released ₹90 lakh for the arboretum, recalled the seer's influence on his life. He noted that families who gave up land for the Almatti reservoir have contributed to regional prosperity, and said efforts are underway to fill 19 tanks to boost groundwater and support farmers.

Patil also mentioned that he has sought swift drought relief for affected farmers and a permanent solution to drinking water shortages in Indi taluk. He credited officials and representatives for securing the GI tag for Indi lemons.

Chief Conservator of Forests Manjunath Chavan said the seer planted saplings on the site in 2022, with the Forest Department beginning work in 2024. He noted that over 46,000 people have already visited the park, which includes a zip line and a science park.

Several dignitaries, including Basavalinga Mahaswamy, Amrutananda Mahaswamy, and Karnataka State Lime Development Board Chairperson B.S. Kavalagi, attended the event.