Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], May 10: Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that Karnataka’s transformation is fueled by robust infrastructure and a strong base of human resources. He was speaking after receiving the G.C. Surana Lifetime Achievement Award at the *GCS Conclave 2025, organized by Surana Group of Educational Institutions under the theme *”Unity for Change: Education and Industry – Driving Sustainable Development”, held at their Peenya campus.
“The greatest award I have received is the love of the people,” said the Deputy Chief Minister. “I am a farmer by birth, a politician by passion, and an educationist by choice. Education is my true calling. The Surana Group has been contributing to the state’s development through quality, not-for-profit education.”
He noted that Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru, has emerged as a global hub for human talent. “Three decades ago, Bengaluru was just an option on the global map. Today, it’s the first choice. Global leaders who once overlooked the city now recognize its importance. Bengaluru is India’s pride and a great strength to the nation,” he added.
Highlighting the state’s education sector, he pointed out that Karnataka is home to 70 medical colleges and is actively developing skilled manpower across sectors, including nursing. “The combination of quality education and strong moral values is what gives our state its strength,” he said.
Speaking on spiritual values, the Deputy CM said, “We seek peace and solace in temples. Our religious heritage is one of India’s greatest strengths and must be preserved.”
Dr. Nirmalanandanath Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthan Math praised the contributions of G.C. Surana, calling him a true achiever who dedicated his life to meaningful service and societal upliftment. “While education imparts knowledge, industry creates employment. Real progress is possible only when both sectors grow hand in hand,” he noted.
In the presence of Dr. Nirmalanandanath Swamiji, several distinguished personalities were conferred with the G.C. Surana Award for their contributions across diverse fields. The awardees included:
* Dr. Manjamma Jogati (Karnataka Janapada Academy)
* Dr. K. Gayathri Reddy (MGIRED)
* Kamal Sagar (Environmentalist)
* Jawahar Govindaraj (Pentagon Garments)
* Dr. Conrad Attard (University of Malta)
* Tarun Mehta (Ather Energy)
* Aditya Siroya (Repurpose Global)
The event was also graced by Rev. Fr. Jesudas Rajamanikkam, Director, St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, **Dr. Archana Surana, Managing Trustee of Surana Educational Institutions, and **Dilip Surana, Chairman & Managing Director of Micro Labs.
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