Mumbai, June 1: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the Siri Maatrushri Industrial Park in Belthangady, located in Karnataka’s South Canara district, on Sunday. Speaking at the event, he emphasized that the dream of a prosperous rural India can only be realized through institutions like Siri, which have empowered thousands of women and rural families through livelihood creation and entrepreneurship.
The Vice President highlighted the values promoted by the Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala, stating that Indian civilization has always respected all religions. He stressed that devotion, beyond religion, contributes to social harmony and moral strength. He underscored the importance of preserving the spirit of secularism, advocating for equal respect and dignity for all religions while discouraging forced conversions.
He praised Dr. D. Veerendra Hegde, a Rajya Sabha MP and the head of Siri, describing his life as a message to society. For nearly six decades, Dr. Hegde has demonstrated how spirituality can be a powerful force for creative social change. The Vice President also acknowledged the contributions of Hemavati V. Hegde in women’s empowerment and social welfare, noting that the success of any social initiative is possible only with the support and commitment of one’s partner.
The Vice President stated that Siri currently supports the livelihoods of over 3,000 individuals directly and more than 10,000 indirectly, most of whom are women from marginalized backgrounds. He referred to this as “social change in its true sense.”
He asserted that true development should touch human lives and create dignity, opportunities, and self-confidence across all sections of society. He further stated that inclusive development for every citizen is the core principle of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a ‘Developed India 2047.’
Reflecting on Siri’s development journey, the Vice President noted that the institution has been built through perseverance, innovation, sacrifice, and dedication, maintaining a focus on quality. He particularly appreciated the human-centered approach of the newly inaugurated Siri Maatrushri Industrial Park, which includes hostel facilities for female employees, residential quarters, childcare support, clean kitchens, transportation facilities, and welfare amenities.
He commended the diversity of activities operated by Siri, stating that the institution has successfully integrated traditional skills with modern management practices. He expressed satisfaction with Siri’s scientific yet humane approach to administration, emphasizing that efficient and compassionate management is essential for any institution’s growth.
Mentioning the national vision of self-reliance, the Vice President said that the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ should guide India’s development journey. He described Siri as a model to be emulated nationally, showcasing that industries can be socially responsible, women-centered, environmentally conscious, and profoundly humane. He expressed hope that similar rural industrial ecosystems will develop across the country.
Earlier in the day, the Vice President visited the Shri Manjunatha Swamy Temple in Dharmasthala, where he prayed and received blessings. He also toured the Annapurna Prasad Nilya, engaging with devotees and appreciating the temple’s community service and tradition of free communal meals based on compassion, equality, and devotion.
Attendees at the event included Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot, Rajya Sabha MP Dr. D. Veerendra Hegde, Lok Sabha MP Brijesh Chouta, and Siri’s founder Hemavati V. Hegde.
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