Mandya, May 25 -- A proposed visit by former US President Barack Obama to a village in Mandya district has triggered a major infrastructure upgrade, with the Karnataka government sanctioning Rs.11.4 crore for the development of a key road leading to the event venue.

The road project has been approved in anticipation of a high-profile international gathering at Halligere village near Mandya, where an international yoga and meditation centre worth Rs.80 crore is set to be launched. Former First Lady Michelle Obama and Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama are also expected to participate in the programme.

During a recent Cabinet meeting, the state government cleared the proposal to modernise the 7.5-kilometre stretch connecting SI Kodihalli...