Bengaluru, Oct 30 (Reporter) Acclaimed sculptor Arun Yogiraj, celebrated for his creation of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya, has been named among 69 eminent individuals selected for the prestigious Karnataka Rajyotsava Award. This annual honour, bestowed by the Karnataka government, recognises exceptional contributions across diverse fields. Among the awardees are former Karnataka Chief Minister M Veerappa Moily and activist BT Lalitha Naik, both honoured for their contributions to literature. In the environmental sector, the award was conferred on distinguished environmentalist Almitra Patil, noted for her pioneering role in streamlining solid waste management in Bengaluru. Additionally, the award recognised three individuals from outside Karnataka, including Kannaiah Naidu, who played a critical role in repairing the crest gate of the Pampa Sagar dam at the Hospet-Koppal confluence on the Tungabhadra River. Each Rajyotsava Award carries a prize of Rs 5 lakh, a 25-gram gold medal, and a commemorative memento. The honours will be formally presented on November 1, celebrating Karnataka’s foundation day. In parallel, 100 individuals – 50 men and 50 women – will receive the Suvarna Mahotsava Prashasti, marking Karnataka’s renaming anniversary. Recipients of this special award will receive Rs 50,000 each...////...