Rewind 2024: Karnataka and the year that was
The Hindu
Karnataka's tumultuous year: extreme weather, infrastructure woes, high-profile crimes, linguistic debates, and mixed results for Kannada cinema.
In a year marked by extreme weather events, Karnataka was witness to a scorching summer, with the IT capital Bengaluru staring at a severe water crisis. This was followed by bountiful showers during the monsoon season, with the rainfall surpassing the annual average.
The unpredictable weather conditions not only had a bearing on the agricultural yield in the State — widespread crop losses, rise in the price of fruits and vegtables — but also laid bare the poor standard of infrastructure in Bengaluru, which yet again experienced urban flooding.
The year 2024 also saw the announcement of big-ticket projects in the domain of civic infrastructure and mobility. Crime dominated headlines with several high-profile cases, including the Renukaswamy murder involving actor Darshan, the Prajwal Revanna sexual abuse scandal, the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, as well as the many novel cases of cybercrime.
Even as debate around linguistic divide flared up many times during the year, including the fracas over 60% Kannada usage in signboards, language wars between Kannnada and Hindi speakers, the uproar over Hindi imposition, jobs reservation for Kannadigas among other issues, the Kannada film industry — a major cultural force in the promotion of the local language — delivered a mixed bag in terms of ideas and impact.
A look at the news headlines from Bengaluru in 2024 that caught national attention
Kamarkat Srini and his team give out-of-work coconut shells a fresh new start in kitchens, cafes and restaurants
Forest Department uses drones and other methods to deter elephant from damaging houses in Cherambadi, Pandalur.
Thoothukudi MP Kanimozhi inaugurates shelter for homeless women, emphasizing dignity and rights for mental health recovery.
Rozgar Mela in Visakhapatnam by Central government offers job opportunities in various sectors to over 630 candidates.
Renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal dies at 90 due to chronic kidney disease, leaving behind a legacy of iconic films.
Delhi High Court reserves judgment on CMRL plea challenging SFIO probe into Exalogic corruption allegations.
Lt. Governor emphasizes promoting nationalism and patriotism through celebrating festivals, fostering brotherhood and respecting all religions.
Congress party protests in Mysuru demanding Amit Shah's removal for disrespecting Dr. Ambedkar, submitting memorandum for inquiry and arrest.
Karnataka State Road Transportation Employees demand government clear ₹8,010 crore dues, launch State-wide protest on December 31.
An art and photography exhibition was inaugurated at the District Central Library on Monday as part of the programme to celebrate the silver jubilee of the unveiling of the 133-foot tall statue of Tamil saint-poet Tiruvalluvar in Kanniyakumari