Bhatkal: Karnataka Minister for Municipal Administration Rahim Khan inaugurated the INF Trade Expo 2025 on Saturday, organized by the Indian Nawayath Forum (INF) near Venkatapur along the National Highway. Speaking at the event, he emphasized that INF has become a trusted organization in Coastal Karnataka, consistently contributing to society. "Through the Trade Expo, INF has provided a platform for local entrepreneurs and small businesses to market their products effectively," the minister stated.
Highlighting the educational achievements in Bhatkal, Minister Khan said, "The educational institutions run by the minority community here are exemplary, providing quality education to thousands of students."
Principal Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, Mohammad Mohsin (IAS), highlighted the region's untapped potential in tourism and employment. "The coastal region offers significant opportunities for business, and even the beaches here could generate employment for 200 to 300 people. Developing tourism will not only create jobs locally but also prevent migration and discourage unemployment-related issues," he explained.
INF President S.M. Arshad presided over the program, while Qazis of Bhatkal, Maulana Abdur Rab Nadvi and Maulana Khwaja Moinuddin Akrami Madani, along with Tanzeem President Inayatullah Shabandri, also addressed the gathering.
INF’s Expo convenor, Maaz Jukaku, delivered the keynote address, while General Secretary of INF, Mohammed Nauman Patel, welcomed the guests and coordinated the program. Abdul Mueed Kadli offered a vote of thanks.
Anjuman President Yunus Kazia, INF executives Abdul Majeed Jukaku, Imtiyaz Damda, Aftab Hussain Kola, Tanveer Motia, Qamar Motia, Ghufran Lanka, and many others were present. Uttara Kannada district incharge Minister Mankal Vaidya visited the expo and extended his best wishes.
Building Permits and Tax Collection Issues Addressed
Following the inauguration, Minister Rahim Khan addressed reporters about the challenges posed by unauthorized constructions in urban areas. "More than 50% of buildings in municipal areas across the state have been constructed without proper layouts or permits. To address this, the government is considering introducing A and B Khata certificates to enable tax collection," he revealed.
The minister explained that due to the lack of proper permits and documentation, such as Form 3, municipalities are unable to collect taxes. This has led to a shortage of funds for local infrastructure development. "As per the Chief Minister's directives, the government has approved a gazette notification to regularize these constructions and initiate tax collection," he said, adding that public objections are currently being considered.
When questioned about the slow progress of urban development projects in Bhatkal and the unscientific execution of the ₹200 crore underground drainage project, the minister assured that a meeting under the District Commissioner’s leadership would be held to take action against those responsible.
He also pledged to prioritize the provision of necessary staff and funds for Bhatkal Municipality and Jali Town Panchayat to ensure smooth functioning.
Tanzeem President Inayatullah Shabandri, Anjuman President Yunus Khaziya, and municipal member Imshad were also present during the discussions.