Category Archives: Business & Economy

‘Many stakeholders are keen to build glass skywalk bridges in Kodagu’

Detailed project report is being prepared for developing key tourist facilities in the coffee land.

Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkataraja at the tourism committee meeting in Madikeri on Tuesday, January 30. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

A master plan is being prepared to provide facilities at Raja Seat in Madikeri, Chelavara Waterfalls, Dubare elephant camp in Dubare, and Nisargadhama in Kushalnagar which are among the prominent tourist sites in Kodagu.

The detailed project report of the sites was being prepared, said Anita Bhaskar, Assistant Director, Tourism Department, Madikeri.

At the tourism committee meeting in Madikeri which was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Ventakaraja, the Assistant Director sought the Deputy Commissioner’s permission to develop a website to provide information on the tariff of homestays that are registered with the Tourism Department besides information on the tourist facilities in the district.

The DC said tourists must get complete information on the homestays online as it will help them make advance bookings.

He suggested displaying taluk-wise information on the homestays in a website is being planned.

Hotel Owners’ Association president Nagendra Prasad suggested developing websites for promoting spiritual tourism and common tourist sites.

On the occasion, the assistant director told the meeting that many stakeholders have come forward to build a glass skywalk bridge in Kodagu, which has one such bridge near Madikeri that has become a tourist attraction.

In response, the DC said those wishing to construct glass bridges should have their land. Moreover, parking space was a must. The area should not come under eco-tourism zones and forest zones. All guidelines must be strictly followed.

Out of 4,000 homestays in Kodagu, only 1,900 are registered with the Tourism Department. The meeting was told that proposals are also being submitted for launching river rafting facilities.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India > Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / January 31st, 2024

Centre Approves Rs. 28 Crore For Road Works In Kodagu, Mysuru

MP Pratap Simmha meets Nitin Gadkari; seeks funds for road improvement to mitigate accidents

Mysore/Mysuru:

Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simmha recently held a meeting with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, urging approval for essential road projects in his Constituency, focused on accident zones, road safety and overall development. In a positive response, the Minister sanctioned projects worth Rs. 28 crore.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the people of Mysuru and Kodagu, the MP conveyed his gratitude to the Minister for his swift approval. The sanctioned works, totalling Rs. 28 crore, encompass critical road development initiatives in key areas.

Details of approved works are as follows: 

Kushalnagar town, Kodagu district: Road development of length: 1.30 km; location: National Highway 275 (km: 128.150 to km: 130.150); approved Amount: Rs. 7 crore. 

Hunsur taluk, Mysuru district: Comprehensive road development of length: 7.95 km; locations: km: 161.380 to km: 163.500 (Chilkunda), km: 169.00 to km: 171.825 (Yasodharapura), km: 190.400 to km: 193.400 (Bilikere, K.R. Nagar Junction); approved amount: Rs. 15 crore. 

Hunsur taluk, Mysuru district: Road junction development of length: 1 km (171.560 km of National Highway 275); approved amount: Rs. 5 crore, roadside RCC drain construction length of 2.9 km (National Highway 275, km: 190.600 to 193.500; approved amount: Rs. 1 crore.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore /Home> News> Top Stories / December 30th, 2023

Republic Day Flower Show At Raja’s Seat In Madikeri

Paadi Igguthappa Temple to bloom in 5 lakh flowers 

Madikeri:

A vibrant Fruit and Flower Show is scheduled to take place at the renowned tourist destination Raja’s Seat in Madikeri from Jan. 26 to 28 as part of the Republic Day celebrations. The Kodagu Horticulture Department is actively engaged in necessary preparations.

The Raja’s Seat garden will be adorned with a total of 20 varieties comprising 15,000 flowering plants, including chrysanthemum, salvia, orchids, daisies, marigold, zinnia, dianthus, vinca rosea, or Madagascar Periwinkle, Cockscomb, and dahlia, all meticulously grown in pots and trays.

The main attraction of this year’s show will be Kodagu’s ancient temple Sri Paadi Igguthappa Temple, located at Kakkabbe. The 15-feet-tall floral replica with length and width of 48 feet and 28 feet respectively will be designed using roses, chrysanthemums and orchids. Over five lakh flowers will be used to create the model.

In celebration of Republic Day, the event will feature impressive models depicting soldiers, cannons, and various exhibits showcasing the prowess of the country’s Armed Forces. Additionally, butterfly wings, balloons, and mushroom models will captivate visitors. For children, there will be special attractions featuring popular cartoon characters like Chhota Bheem, Barbie Doll, Spider-Man, and Bat-Man crafted from an assortment of vibrant flowers.

A total of 13 diverse exhibits have been meticulously planned, utilising over 8 lakh flowers to bring these models to life. Within the garden premises, an array of decorative flower pots will be artistically arranged, forming a breathtaking display of fruits and flowers.

This year, Republic Day coincides with the fourth Saturday and Sunday public holidays, leading to an anticipated significant influx of both tourists and locals. The event promises to be a delightful experience for all who attend, with the vibrant floral displays and creative exhibits adding a touch of magic to the celebration.

In addition to the flower-adorned artefacts and creatively arranged photo frames, a designated selfie zone is under construction to enhance the visitor experience. Furthermore, the event will pay tribute to distinguished personalities from diverse fields through unique artworks crafted from fruits and vegetables, adding a distinctive touch to the exhibition.

Enthusiasts can also anticipate the inclusion of ornamental plants, including bonsai and ikebana flower arrangements, contributing to the overall visual appeal of the exhibition. With these diverse elements, the event promises to provide a captivating and visually enriching experience for all attendees.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News /January 25th, 2024

Foundation Stone for State-of-the-Art Sub-Regional Science Center and Planetarium in Madikeri to be Laid Tomorrow

HIGHLIGHTS

Madikeri, often referred to as the Scotland of India, is set to witness the establishment of a cutting-edge sub-regional science center and planetarium at a projected cost of approximately 12.26 crores, courtesy of the Department of Science and Technology

Foundation Stone for State-of-the-Art Sub-Regional Science Center and Planetarium in Madikeri to be Laid Tomorrow

Bengaluru:

Madikeri, often referred to as the Scotland of India, is set to witness the establishment of a cutting-edge sub-regional science center and planetarium at a projected cost of approximately 12.26 crores, courtesy of the Department of Science and Technology. The foundation stone for this landmark project will be ceremoniously laid tomorrow by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Nestled across 3 acres of pristine land in Karnangeri village, Madikeri, the facility will feature an 8-meter dome for the construction of the planetarium. Minister of Minor Irrigation, Science and Technology, NS Boseraju, highlighted Madikeri’s unique advantage of minimal light disturbance at night, making it an ideal location for observing stars and planets.

In an official statement, Minister NS Boseraju emphasized the department’s commitment to promoting science and technology, fostering scientific education, cultivating rational thinking, and raising awareness about astronomy. The initiative aims to establish science centers and planetariums across district centers in the state.

Kodagu district, with its unpolluted skies and minimal light interference, provides an exceptional environment for stargazing. Minister Boseraju likened Kodagu to other picturesque locations such as Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Pangong Tso Lake in Ladakh, Run of Kutch in Gujarat, Nile Island in Andaman and Nicobar, and Matheran in Maharashtra. The sub-regional science center and planetarium project is envisioned to ignite interest in space exploration and provide students in the district with valuable educational opportunities.

The foundation stone laying ceremony, scheduled for tomorrow, February 25, will be graced by the presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Minister NS Boseraju expressed optimism about the transformative impact of this initiative on the scientific landscape of the district.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home / by Bharath Anjappa / The Hans News Service / January 24th, 2024

40 from J&K on study tour to Ponnampet panchayat in Karnataka

The Ponnampet GP had recently presented a national-level seminar on good governance.

Elected representatives of Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat interacting with children in Ponnampet panchayat.
Elected representatives of Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat interacting with children in Ponnampet panchayat.(Photo | Express)

Madikeri :

Elected representatives of Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Raj have visited the Ponnampet Grama Panchayat to study the administrative process. Over 40 representatives from J&K learnt about various schemes and project works implemented at Ponnampet.

The Ponnampet GP had recently presented a national-level seminar on good governance. The Ponnampet panchayat is noted for its good administrative approaches even as several innovative plans are in place to involve the residents and carry out development works. The panchayat’s success story has reached the national level and a total of 42 elected representatives from various panchayats of J&K visited Ponnampet.

The elected representatives were warmly welcomed to Ponnampet with the traditional Kodava valaga procession. The various initiatives of the panchayat including the ‘Makkala Grama Sabhe’ (children’s panchayat), scientific waste segregation, digital library, presence in social media, conversion of landfill into a public park and other innovative works were explained to the representatives through a PPT presentation.

The representatives also visited the digital library and open library even as they interacted with the Karnataka Public School students to learn about the panchayat’s child-friendly approach.

The local cuisines, art, folktales and other cultures were also explained to the representatives. They also learnt about honey extraction, coffee plantation and other subjects that are unique to Kodagu. PDO Puttaraju, President Girija V and others were present.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / January 23rd, 2024

Siddaramaiah to visit Kodagu to launch developmental programmes

District secretary has told officials to prepare proposals for essential works and submit them during the CM’s visit; measures to be taken for securing ‘GI’ tag for Coorg honey.

Siddaramaiah | Photo Credit: File Photo

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will be visiting Kodagu on January 25 to participate in the launch of various development works.

In view of the visit, district officials have been asked to prepare proposals for works that are essential for the district, and submit the reports. In this connection, secretary in-charge of Kodagu district N.V. Prasad held a meeting with officials in Madikeri on Saturday. He also reviewed the progress of various development works.

Mr. Prasad asked the officials to prepare a proposal for establishing a law college in Kodagu as the district currently lacks one.

Under a programme, law graduates belonging to SC/STs will get a financial assistance of ₹10,000 a month for a period of two years. However, no graduates from Kodagu are available for availing the benefit, said Social Welfare Department Deputy Director Shekar. The official brought this to the notice of the Secretary.

When District Surgeon Nanjundaiah said there is no college for physiotherapy courses in Kodagu, the secretary asked him to submit a proposal.

During his visit, Mr. Siddaramaiah will inaugurate a KSRTC depot in Kushalnagar and also launch various development works. The heads of various departments shared details on the programmes scheduled in their respective departments that are going to be launched. Indira canteens will also be launched.

An official from ITDP said Kodagu has 11 ashram schools, nine hostels, one Morarji Desai School and one Eklavya Model School. In total, 1,500 students are studying in these schools. After SSLC, a hostel for the students under ITDP was necessary, he added.

Honne Gowda’s suggestion was considered by the secretary who asked him to submit a proposal in this regard.

He also sought land for landless tribals in every GP.

The deputy director of the Department of Horticulture was asked to explore the possibilities of securing a GI tag for honey that is marketed under the name ‘Coorg Honey’. It’s an initiative of the farmers’ consortium and the matter will be discussed with the group, the DD told the meeting.

The district secretary also collected details on the progress of the guarantee schemes, including Shakti, and others.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India / by The Hindu Bureau / January 21st, 2024

Elevate your love story: Weddings amidst majestic hills at Coorg Marriott

Marriott, weddings in India, Scotland,

Discover Coorg Mariott Resort & Spa, where natural beauty, cultural charm, and luxury combine for unforgettable weddings in India “Scotland.”

Coorg, often dubbed the “Scotland of India,” is an enchanting setting for weddings, combining natural splendor, cultural heritage, and a delightful climate. The Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa enhances this allure, providing exceptional experiences in a magnificent environment. Opting for a wedding in Coorg, especially at the Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa, guarantees a distinctive and unforgettable occasion, treasured by you and your guests forever.

Embraced by Nature:

Set in the heart of the Western Ghats, Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa boasts stunning mountain vistas and offers a retreat from urban chaos. Imagine saying your vows with misty hills as your backdrop, creating an enchanting forest ambiance. This 5-star luxury resort in Madikeri, Coorg, offers unique cultural activities for guests, such as visiting coffee estates, traditional dance shows, outdoor dining, and nature trails.

Perfect Climate:

Coorg’s year-round agreeable weather makes it an ideal wedding location for global travelers. From cozy winter nuptials to lively monsoon festivities or peaceful summer ceremonies, Coorg caters to all seasonal preferences. The Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa, surrounded by misty mountains, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls, invites guests to immerse in the region’s natural beauty.

Luxurious Accommodations:

As the first Marriott International resort in Coorg, the Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa brings Marriott Bonvoy benefits to the area. The resort features 108 elegantly appointed villas and cottages, with stunning views of green landscapes and plantations. Each room includes a private balcony for guests and global travelers to relax and enjoy before the big day. Brides and their friends can indulge in poolside fun or a soothing spa treatment at Quan Spa. Some cottages also boast a private pool for a secluded swim.

Versatile Venues:

The resort offers over 16,000 square feet of event space, including five exquisite venues and a large pre-function area, ideal for destination weddings or intimate family events. The hotel’s adaptable banquet spaces, like the Silver Oak Banquet Hall, are customizable and feature custom floral arrangements. The Kote Betta Terrace, an outdoor venue with an Amphitheatre, showcases Coorg’s breathtaking natural scenery.

Culinary Delights:

The resort’s dining experiences are a culinary exploration. A skilled team of chefs can craft a bespoke menu to delight your guests. From lavish traditional meals to international gastronomic experiences overlooking the valley, your wedding banquet will be a memorable feast.

Madiker Kitchen offers international and traditional Kodava cuisine in a contemporary all-day dining setting. Grills By The Valley allows dining under the stars with forest views, offering reimagined delicacies and expertly crafted drinks. Mercara Outpost is a vibrant space for work, socializing, and relaxation, serving light snacks, innovative cocktails, and a creative cocktail menu. Coco Lab is a modern coffee lounge with an immersive ambiance and skilled baristas, featuring high bar stools for coffee art viewing. The Deck, a swim-up pool bar, is ideal for enjoying sundowners with light bites and relaxed conversations.

Spa and Wellness:

The Quan Spa, with six therapy rooms, blends ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and modern wellness practices, providing a serene environment for relaxation and pre-wedding pampering.

Guest Amenities:

Spread over 37 acres of lush terrain, Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa offers 108 rooms, villas, and cottages, including one- and two-bedroom villas and a Presidential Mansion, catering to your wedding party’s needs.

Local Culture and Activities:

For those wanting to incorporate local Kodava culture and traditions into their wedding, the resort can seamlessly integrate these elements, offering a culturally rich experience for you and your guests and global travelers. Before the wedding, enjoy activities like Coffee & Spice plantation tours, trekking, bird watching, Wildlife Documentary Shows, Arcade Games, and more.

Coorg Marriott Resort and Spa is the perfect choice for a grand destination wedding or an intimate celebration, blending natural beauty, cultural richness, and tailored experiences.

source: http://www.travelandtourworld.com / Travel and Tour World / Home> Asia / January 16th, 2024

Tourists to Kodagu up by 30% in 2023

After the natural calamities and the pandemic situation, the tourism sector recorded a downfall and was on a gradual recovery mode.

The Iruppu Falls in Brahmagiri Range of  Kodagu district attracts many tourists
The Iruppu Falls in Brahmagiri Range of Kodagu district attracts many tourists (File Photo)

Madikeri :

The statistics released by the Kodagu Tourism Department shows a 38% rise in tourist inflow to Kodagu in 2023. The percentage is in comparison with the tourist influx recorded in 2022. As per the data, 43,69,507 tourists visited the district in 2023 while the count was at 27,29,711 in 2022.

After the natural calamities and the pandemic situation, the tourism sector recorded a downfall and was on a gradual recovery mode.

However, the inflow was the highest last year since 2018 and a total of 5,82,906 tourists visited the tourist spots of the district in December 2023.

These numbers include the count of the tourists visiting only popular spots in the district.

During the New Year up till January 12, the inflow stands at 6,20,808. As per a survey by the department, Kodagu ranked third in the list of most searched tourist spots online.

Sources confirmed that the inflow was the highest during July and August months last year as Kodagu recorded scanty rainfall.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Shruthi Shruthi / Express News Service / January 15th, 2024

Glimpses Of Karnapex-2024 State-Level Philatelic Expo

Postal covers on seashell artist Radha Mallappa from Mysuru and ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma from Kodagu released

Mysore/Mysuru:

As part of its ongoing effort to redefine ‘connecting people’ in the online era, the Karnataka Postal Circle organised its annual State-level Philatelic Exhibition — 13th State-level Philatelic Exhibition, Karnapex 2024: Festival of Stamps between Jan. 5 and 8 — at Kanteerava Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru. The Festival was last held in 2019 in Mangaluru. 

A total of 700 frames, with each containing multiple stamps and postal covers, were displayed and 17 stalls were put up. Postal covers on Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar, Sir M. Visvesvaraya setting up FKCCI, 100 years of Lalitha Mahal Palace, Mysuru and Mysore Sandal Soap were also released.

Notably, postal covers on ‘Kalashree’ a museum of artworks made of seashells and conches by Radha Mallappa, a resident of Hanumanthanagar in Mysuru and Karnataka’s first woman coffee entrepreneur Sakamma from Kodagu, known as ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma were also released, as part of women empowerment.   

Addressing reporters at Pathrakartara Bhavan on Tuesday, Mysuru Division Postal Deputy Superintendent Sunil Halepete said that Mysuru has already made a mark in the postal covers released by the Dept. in the past as postal covers of Lalitha Mahal Palace, Rashtrakavi K.V. Puttappa (Kuvempu), Mysuru Vilyadele and Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa.

This year, the Karnapex 2024 featured Radha Mallappa who has done sculptures made of seashells and conches. She has accomplished the magnificent recreation of Taj Mahal and she has been working on products of the sea since more than two decades and designed different items. 

‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma

Beginning from the smallest flower to the giant-sized Taj Mahal, Shiva temple, church, each piece is unique and eye-catching. The 11ft x 18ft tall Ganesha idol bagged the Guinness World Records. Each artefact is better than the other one and there are over 300 models on display, he added.  

Likewise, a postal cover on D. Sakamma, popular as ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma, was also released. Sakamma’s name remains somewhat obscured in the records of Indian entrepreneurs. However, her venture, ‘Sakamma’s Coffee Works’ in Bangalore gained widespread recognition in the 1920s, playing a pivotal role in the early 20th century by introducing authentic cured and powdered coffee from Kodagu to the residents of the Princely State of Mysore. Widowed at the age of 18, Sakamma chose to channel her education into managing the coffee estate left by her husband, Savkar Doddamane Chikkabasappa Setty, a prosperous coffee planter from Somwarapet in Kodagu. Relocating to Bangalore, she established a coffee curing and powdering unit near Bull Temple Road in 1920. Swiftly, her distinctive coffee blend gained immense popularity across the city, making Sakamma Coffee Works an integral part of the lives of Bangaloreans.

The attractive postal covers feature Radha Mallappa and ‘Coffee Pudi’ Sakamma with imagery of their respective fields of achievements. A short description has been printed at the back of the postal cover.

Marimallappa’s PU College Educational Officer Mangala Muddumadappa, Radha Mallappa, Postal Department Sales Division Manager Sureshkumar were present at the press meet.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / January 11th, 2024

Airstrip Construction At Kushalnagar In Kodagu

Revenue Minister assures speedy land transfer

Bengaluru:

In a significant development, Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda has committed to expeditiously transferring the necessary land for the construction of an airstrip in Kodagu District to the District Administration.

This assurance followed a meeting held yesterday at Vikasa Soudha in Bengaluru, presided over by Krishna Byre Gowda and attended by Kodagu District In-charge Minister N.S. Boseraju.

The Kodagu District Administration conducted a comprehensive land survey for the proposed airstrip near Kushalnagar. Initially, a 49.5-acre plot near Sainik School, Kushalnagar (Koodige) at Doddathoor village, bordering Basavanathoor village, was identified in the first survey.

However, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) deemed it insufficient, prompting a re-survey. The second survey identified over 130 acres of land at Dodda Aluvara village near Koodige, within the jurisdiction of the Revenue Department, addressing the need for additional space.

Minister Boseraju, addressing reporters post-meeting, noted that issues related to the Revenue Department were brought to his attention during the Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) meeting in Kodagu a few days ago. He stated, “The meeting with the Revenue Minister aimed to find solutions to these problems.”

Expressing satisfaction, Minister Boseraju affirmed, “The Revenue Minister’s positive response to the land transfer for the airstrip instils confidence in the timely resolution of the highlighted issues.”

The meeting also delved into acquiring necessary grants and permissions for constructing a mini Vidhana Soudha and an administration building in newly established taluks.

Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna and Madikeri MLA Dr. Manthar Gowda, along with various officers, attended the meeting.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / January 05th, 2023