Saturday, March 18 2006 20:14 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

(Malpe) Karnataka: The JDS-BJP coalition government is actively considering fishermen's demand for reducing interest on loans availed by them to four per cent, Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said today (Mar 18 2006).

Speaking after inaugurating the Rs 62 lakh new ice plant and commercial complex constructed at the fisheries harbour here, he said the government was contemplating framing a comprehensive economic and educational policy for the benefit of fishermen.

He also assured that the government would find a permanent solution to the recurring sea erosion problem in coastal areas.

Earlier, Kumaraswamy visited Sri Krishna temple at Udupi. Reviewing the Udupi District Development works at a meeting,the Chief Minister directed forest department officials not to evict 260 families of Chara village in Karkala till the government made alternative arrangements.

He made this statement after Karkala MLA, Sunil Kumar brought the matter to his notice.

Kumaraswamy also asked police to maintain vigil on naxalite activities in the district.