Karwar: Generation of employment is a big challenge before the Central and state governments. Following automation and robotics, the number of employment in various industries have been reduced drastically, said Industries and Infrastructure Developnent Minister R V Deshpande.

After unfurling the tricolour at Police Parade Ground in Karwar city, Deshpande said: “It’s not possible to stop using automation and robotics in industries, but we can generate employment in other sectors. So, we should think in that way.” Setting up of skill development centres and educating the youth accordingly to the industry requirements are the need of the hour and the Union Government should think in this direction, the Minister said.

The banks are flooded with funds and everyone should make use of the same to start their own firms, he added.

Students of various schools took part in culture programmes. Celebrations were also held in Karwar, Kumta, Bhatkal, Sirsi, Haliyal and other taluks of the district.