Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre announced that the state government will cover the hospitality expenses incurred during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mysuru in April last year. The bill, totaling up to ₹80 lakh, was for the prime minister’s stay during the commemoration of 50 years of Project Tiger.
Minister Khandre clarified that despite the state government’s tradition of hosting dignitaries like the Prime Minister and President, they were not involved in planning the Project Tiger event due to the Model Code of Conduct enforced during the Karnataka Assembly elections at the time.
During a press briefing, Minister Khandre explained that the Central government had initially budgeted around ₹3 crore for the event but ended up spending ₹6.33 crore. As per the National Tiger Conservation Authority’s direction, the state government’s forest department was informed to reimburse the ₹80 lakh hotel bill.
Responding to media reports about the hotel threatening legal action to recover dues, Minister Khandre assured that the issue would be resolved amicably. He emphasized that the state government’s decision to cover the expenses ensures a smooth conclusion to the matter.
Sources By Agencies