Bengaluru, June 20: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday said a delegation of Non-Resident Kannadigas (NRKs) representing 30 countries met him at Vidhana Soudha to discuss ways to strengthen engagement between Karnataka and the global Kannada community.

According to Shivakumar, the delegation was led by Karnataka Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister K.H. Muniyappa and comprised representatives of Kannadiga associations and communities from across the world.

Focus on Global Kannada Network

In a statement posted on social media, Shivakumar highlighted the contributions made by Kannadigas living abroad, saying they have carried Karnataka’s language, culture and values to different parts of the world while achieving success in diverse fields.

He described the global Kannada diaspora as a source of pride and inspiration for the state and acknowledged its role in promoting Karnataka’s identity internationally.

Discussion on Karnataka’s Future

The Chief Minister said he interacted with members of the delegation and listened to their perspectives, suggestions and aspirations for Karnataka’s future.

While no specific policy announcements emerged from the meeting, the interaction underscored the government’s intent to maintain closer ties with overseas Kannadigas and explore avenues for collaboration.

Government’s Outreach to NRKs

Shivakumar reiterated that the Karnataka government is committed to deepening its engagement with the global Kannada community. He said the state aims to leverage the knowledge, professional expertise, investment potential and goodwill of Non-Resident Kannadigas to help build a stronger, more prosperous and globally connected Karnataka.

The meeting reflects the government’s broader effort to institutionalise engagement with the Kannada diaspora, which has a significant presence across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Africa.

The interaction also highlighted the government’s efforts to maintain engagement with overseas Kannadigas and encourage their participation in Karnataka’s development initiatives.