From Sportsman to Statesman: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Ajay Dharam Singh

Jewargi: Dr. Ajay Dharam Singh, Chairman of the Kalyana Karnataka Region Development Board (KKRDB), has emerged as a guiding force for the comprehensive development of the Kalyana Karnataka region. 

His journey from a sports enthusiast and medical doctor, to a visionary leader in politics reflects his unwavering commitment to public service and societal transformation.

A Visionary Leader for Kalyana Karnataka

Dr. Ajay Singh’s dedication to the development of Kalyana Karnataka has inspired a new generation of leaders. His tenure as MLA from Jewargi and Chairman of KKRDB is marked by numerous initiatives aimed at transforming the region. 

Under Dr. Ajay’s leadership, the 11th anniversary of KKRDB will soon be celebrated, marking over a decade of dedicated service and progress in the region. This milestone reflects the Board’s unwavering commitment to uplifting Kalyana Karnataka, with Dr. Ajay at the helm, driving initiatives that have significantly impacted the lives of countless citizens.

His strategic implementation of programmes such as Shikshana Avishkara, Aarogya Avishkara, and Udyoga Avishkara highlights his holistic approach to addressing the region’s educational, healthcare, and employment needs.

For the fiscal year 2023-24, the KKRDB saw an estimated allocation of ₹5,113.81 crores, with ₹2,009.53 crore already spent. Under Dr. Ajay’s stewardship, an additional ₹1,689.33 crores was utilised from October 2023 to March 2024, reflecting his effective leadership in driving developmental projects. 

The estimated allocation for 2024-25 is ₹3,117.07 crore, with ₹785.48 crore already spent as of August 2024.

‘Akshara Avishkara’ stands out in Dr. Ajay’s education-focused initiatives, with the academic year 2023-24 declared the ‘Educational Year.’ A significant 25% of the budget, amounting to ₹652.50 crore, has been allocated to education. Major focus of the initiative includes the recruitment of 2,618 guest teachers, known as ‘Akshara Mitras’, and the improvement of basic facilities in over 9,000 schools. Special efforts are being made to enhance SSLC results in the region.

‘Aarogya Avishkara’ is another cornerstone of Dr. Ajay’s vision, focusing on enhancing healthcare facilities across the region. Key initiatives include the approval of 33 new Primary Health Centres (PHCs), the inauguration of a 371-bed Jayadeva Hospital building, an ₹11.40 crore investment in 50 new ambulances, and the upcoming ‘Nanna Maithri’ programme for menstrual cup distribution.

Under ‘Udyoga Avishkara’, Dr. Ajay has targeted job creation and skill development for the region’s youth. With ₹10 crore spent on skill development and placements in 2023-24, this initiative is pivotal in unlocking the potential of Kalyana Karnataka’s young population.

Dr. Ajay has also prioritised infrastructure development, including the establishment of ‘Taluka Adalitha Bhavanas’ (Mini Vidhana Soudhas) in all newly formed taluks, further strengthening the region’s administrative framework.

A Sports Star Turned Politician

Before his foray into politics, Dr. Ajay Dharam Singh was a celebrated sportsman. He represented India in tenpin bowling at prestigious international competitions, including the Asian Championship in Bangkok (2003), the World Championship in Malaysia (2004), and the Doha Asian Games (2006). As captain of the national team, he led India in the 2007 Macau Championship, marking his place in the annals of Indian sports history.

A Doctor with a Heart for Service

Dr. Ajay’s pursuit of a medical career saw him complete his MBBS in 2000. His passion for public service led him to establish Accident Relief Care in Bengaluru, a humanitarian initiative that has aided over 50,000 accident victims nationwide. His annual health camps in Jewargi have benefited over 30,000 people, showcasing his enduring commitment to healthcare.

Dharam Singh Foundation: A Legacy of Service

In 2007, Dr. Ajay founded the Dharam Singh Foundation, a tribute to his father’s legacy. The foundation operates eight ambulances, providing round-the-clock service to those in need. This initiative has cemented Dr. Ajay’s reputation as a dedicated public servant, earning him widespread recognition and respect.

A Political Career Marked by Victory

Dr. Ajay’s entry into politics was not without challenges. However, his perseverance paid off when he won the Jewargi seat in 2013 with a significant margin, a victory he replicated in 2018. In the 2023 elections, Dr. Ajay further solidified his political standing by defeating Dodappagouda Shivalingappa Gowda of the Janata Dal (Secular) with a margin of 10,278 votes.

As Dr. Ajay Dharam Singh continues to drive change in Kalyana Karnataka, his legacy as a visionary leader, social worker, and sportsman will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in all facets of life.