For over fifteen years, Lingaraj Jagajampi has been a well-respected entrepreneur and environmentalist in Belagavi, known for his pioneering role with Shri Munishwar Motors, North Karnataka’s first Royal Enfield dealership. He is also credited with introducing mid-size motorcycling to the region, helping to start a riding culture focused on safety by promoting helmet and other safety gears. While his efforts to foster entrepreneurship and education within the Lingayat community are still in the early stages, he is determined to make a lasting impact. Now, as the newly elected Chairman of the Lingayat Business Forum (LBF)—an organization of which he has been a founder member—he is working to bring his vision to life.
In this interview, he shares his vision for the Forum, its inclusive goals, and how it plans to foster economic growth and environmental sustainability for future generations.
Q. What motivated the creation of an independent Lingayat Business Forum when Belagavi already has a Chamber of Commerce?
A. The Belagavi Chamber of Commerce is a respected institution serving a broad range of industries and businesses. However, the objectives of the Lingayat Business Forum are more focused. Traditionally, our community has been rooted in agriculture and trade, but over time, many have shifted to professional careers in engineering, medicine, and government services. Yet, entrepreneurship remains a foundational strength of our community. The LBF was formed to reignite this spirit—to educate, inspire, and support aspiring business-people, especially the youth. While government schemes exist, awareness about them is low. Our goal is to bridge that gap and nurture a culture of enterprise.
Q. Business owners across Belagavi face common challenges. Will the LBF assist entrepreneurs from other communities as well?
A: Absolutely. While the Forum was founded to empower Lingayats, we are inclusive in our approach. Every entrepreneur, regardless of caste or background, faces similar hurdles—lack of resources, poor access to guidance, or outdated business models.
We believe in finding solutions, not just discussing problems. That’s why the LBF is open to traders and entrepreneurs from all communities. We welcome anyone who shares our values and vision. While formal membership is reserved exclusively for Lingayats, the Forum actively encourages collaborations across communities to foster collective progress. In times of crisis especially, our support will extend to all, reflecting our commitment to unity and shared growth.
Q: What initiatives has the organization undertaken so far, and what recent milestones have been achieved?
A: To date, LBF has under the able leadership of its Board of Trustees successfully conducted 42 meetings focused on fostering entrepreneurial growth within the community. We have invited accomplished entrepreneurs to share their journeys and offer mentorship to aspiring business owners. In an effort to provide practical exposure, we organized an industrial visit, giving participants firsthand insight into the operations of both small and large-scale enterprises. Recognizing the importance of financial literacy, especially in relation to GST, we have also conducted awareness sessions on professional practices. When instances of misinformation and fraudulent activity involving certain officials and traders came to light, we promptly engaged a Chartered Accountant from LBF to provide accurate guidance and protect community interests.
Furthermore, we’ve introduced educational sessions on key considerations for starting and managing a business effectively. These collective efforts are already making a meaningful impact—empowering individuals in our community to launch and grow their ventures with greater confidence and clarity.
Q. As Chairman of LBF, what will be your key priorities? What initiatives do you plan to launch?
A: My first priority is expanding the Forum’s membership base. Many families in our community have run small businesses for generations, but these often remain confined within a traditional framework.
There is immense potential that needs unlocking. We plan to offer business education, mentorship, and guidance on leveraging government schemes. Innovation will be at the heart of our mission, and we will actively promote success stories and initiatives through digital and social media platforms to inspire the next generation.
Q: You’ve long been an environmental advocate. Will the LBF support the city’s efforts to combat plastic pollution?
A: Yes, very much so. Environmental sustainability has always been close to my heart. My journey in environmental conservation began in 1997, when I was still a student, and gained significant momentum in 2010 after I became a businessman.
Over the years, I’ve promoted a variety of sustainable alternatives such as bamboo-based bags, jute bags, recycled paper bags, starch-based bags, processed sugarcane husk and banana fibre products, and even high-quality carry bags made by up-scaling used clothes.
Since 2020, I’ve led several initiatives focused on reducing plastic waste and encouraging eco-friendly practices. Unfortunately, the municipal corporation’s anti-plastic campaigns often lack consistency and long-term planning. Plastic bags and bottles have become deeply ingrained in our daily lives. We need to build awareness and provide practical, affordable alternatives to shift this behaviour. That’s why I’m committed to supporting the development and promotion of durable, sustainable options. The LBF will actively support such efforts and collaborate with civic authorities to help build a cleaner, greener future for our city.
Translation Credit:
Originally published in Marathi in Pudhari newspaper. Interview by P. Y. Palkar.
English translation by Prof. Roopa Samant, currently associated with Jain Heritage School, Belagavi.Responsibility