Kodagu district’s Minister, N.S. Boseraju, inaugurates a new hockey stadium and pledges support for a sports hostel in Somwarpet, acknowledging the region’s rich sporting tradition.
The Minister in-charge of Kodagu district, N.S. Boseraju, recently inaugurated a new hockey stadium at Chowdlu village near Somwarpet. In a move that acknowledges the district’s rich sporting legacy, especially in hockey, the Minister pledged to pursue the sanctioning of a sports hostel for Somwarpet. He also expressed intentions to discuss with the Sports Minister about the allocation of additional funds for constructing a compound wall for the stadium, further strengthening the infrastructure.
Stadium Construction and Future Plans
The establishment of the new hockey stadium is a testament to the efforts of former MLA Appachu Ranjan and current Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda, who secured ₹40 lakh to finalize the stadium works. The Minister emphasized the stadium’s capacity to host national-level hockey matches, an achievement that amplifies the district’s reputation in the sports arena.
Fulfillment of a Local Dream
The inauguration of the hockey stadium marks the realization of a long-standing aspiration of the local population. MLA Mantar Gowda highlighted the importance of proper maintenance and safety measures to ensure that the stadium continues to be a source of pride for the community and a hotspot for nurturing talent.
Proposed Naming and Honoring Achievements
In a nod to the contributions of local families, there is a proposal to name the stadium after C.K. Kalappa, whose family generously donated the land for its construction. The event also honored the accomplishments of B.M. Suresh and renowned hockey player Subbaiah. Echoing Minister Boseraju’s sentiments, hockey coach Shashidar called for the establishment of a sports hostel in Somwarpet, further underlining the region’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence.
source: http://www.bnnbreaking.com / BNN/ Home> Sports> India / by Salman Khan / January 03rd, 2024
MLAs want encroached lands to be leased to large holders and sanction land to small holders
Bengaluru:
Encroachment of Government land by small coffee growers in the coffee-growing regions of Kodagu was discussed in the Legislative Assembly yesterday, where Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna appealed to the Government to permanently sanction the lands to their names as they are actively cultivating crops on those lands.
Participating in a discussion on the subject, Ponnanna said that small growers in Kodagu who are cultivating coffee and other crops in two to three acres of land are facing numerous problems.
“In certain areas, small coffee growers find themselves surrounded by large private plantations, with Government land in between that has been encroached upon. According to the law, land can be leased out for up to 25 acres. Large Government lands encroached upon by major growers should be leased out by the Government,” he said.
“However, small-scale growers, who only have two to three acres of land and have encroached upon small portions of Government land, require a permanent solution. The Government should sanction the encroached land in their names to provide them with a permanent relief about their holdings,” Ponnanna explained.
Earlier, Sakleshpur MLA ‘Cement’ Manju mentioned that during the tenure when R. Ashoka served as the Revenue Minister in the previous BJP Government, a decision was made to lease the encroached Government land to coffee growers for a duration of 30 years. Unfortunately, due to a change in Government, this decision was not put into action. Therefore, he urged the Government to resume the process of leasing the land for a period of 30 years.
Later, Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda raised questions regarding why the BJP Government did not implement the leasing of land to coffee growers for 30 years. He emphasised the importance of discussing pending applications, particularly the 53rd and 57th applications, which have been awaiting decisions for 20-25 years.
He expressed satisfaction with leasing the land to Race Courses and Clubs for 30 years and wanted similar leasing to coffee growers to get permanent ownership by approving the 53rd and 57th applications. He cautioned that leasing land for 30 years could lead to future problems for the growers and suggested considering leasing the land for 99 years instead.
Intervening in the discussion, Speaker U.T. Khader said approval of land up to 3 acres for the poor could offer a permanent solution to the issue at hand.
At this point, Dr. Mantar Gowda’s father, A. Manju, who is also the JD(S) MLA from Arkalgud, intervened, questioning why the Government was hesitating to lease land to farmers while providing it for Race Courses, Resorts and Clubs.
“Why there is a delay in approving the land lease when it comes to farmers? The law prohibits leasing out land for more than 30 years. Can you take back encroached land from cultivators? It is not possible. I suggest leasing out the land to encroachers. This way, the Government would earn revenue and the lessees would benefit as well. They would also help conserve forests and contribute to the environment, he added.
Later, MLA A.S. Ponnanna spoke, urging to sanction the encroached land for small-scale coffee growers as well as to provide land for lease to large coffee growers.
What are 50th, 53rd and 57th applications?
The Bagar Hukum system, established by the State Revenue Department, requires applicants to submit Form 57 for the legalisation of agricultural land.
The Bagar Hukum scheme traces its origins back to 1980 when the Government allocated two acres of land to landless farmers for agricultural activities. However, the beneficiaries of this scheme did not receive the title deed for the land they cultivated.
Subsequently, applications were invited in the forms of Form 50 (1991), Form 53 (1999) and Form 57 (2018) under the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964. The application window extended until April 2023, exclusively for those who have been engaged in cultivation for the past 15 years.
According to Madikeri MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda, who raised the issue in the Assembly, all the applications received in Form 50, Form 53 and Form 57 are pending since the last 25 years. If these applications are approved, growers can gain permanent ownership over the land.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / February 23rd, 2024
Coorg district, Karnataka, famed for its greenery, faces severe water scarcity. Kushalanagar taluk, hit hardest, endanger both humans and wildlife. Shrinking water sources force wild animals into villages, disrupting livelihoods. Forest officer Ratan Kumar highlights the need for contingency plans amid the crisis.
Coorg district in Karnataka, renowned for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife, is currently grappling with a severe water crisis. As the region experiences a prolonged dry spell, both human inhabitants and wild animals are facing acute shortages of drinking water.
Kushalanagar taluk, In particular, nestled amidst semi-mountainous terrain, has been hit hard by the relentless absence of rainfall. The dire situation has led to concerns not only for the local populace but also for the myriad species of wildlife inhabiting the area.
Covering a vast expanse of 24,278.88 hectares, the forests of Kushalanagar Zone, including reserves like Dubare and Anekadu, are home to a rich assortment of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and sambar. Traditionally reliant on water sources such as the Kaveri River, Chiklihole Reservoir, and Harangi Reservoir, these creatures now find themselves confronting parched landscapes. The Kaveri River has dwindled to a mere trickle, while the Chiklihole Reservoir stands desiccated, leaving behind barren canals.
Within the forested areas, a handful of lakes remain, albeit with diminishing water levels. The scorching sun, with temperatures averaging between 29 to 30 degrees Celsius, poses a grave threat as it hastens the evaporation of these remaining water bodies.
The repercussions of this water scarcity extend beyond the confines of the forests. With wild animals compelled to seek sustenance elsewhere, instances of encroachment into nearby villages and coffee plantations have surged. Farmers, reliant on these plantations for their livelihoods, now face disruptions in their daily activities, compounded by labour shortages as workers are deterred by the unpredictable presence of wild animals.
Responding to inquiries, Ratan Kumar, the Forest Officer for Kushalanagar Zone, maintains that there is no immediate shortage of water within his jurisdiction. However, he acknowledges the pressing need for contingency plans should the situation worsen.
source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet Newsable / Home> English News> Karnataka / by Vinay Kumar Patil / February 20th, 2024
Jagadeesha added that there is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base.
The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience.
Coffee opportunities in India are very high. Despite the high price, Indian coffee is most preferred globally. The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience. Cafes have transformed into work stations for startups and this is good for the Indian economy, said Dr KJ Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board, in a conversation with the editors and staff of The New Sunday Express. Excerpts of the interview:
Tell us about the coffee scenario and the pricing concerns ….
Coffee in India is doing well, especially over the last three years, but we are not the price setters. Reason being, India’s overall contribution is around 4%. Brazil and Vietnam contribute 60% of the global production, and they set the price. But in the last few years there is supply disruption in Brazil and there is a shortage in supply globally. So, we are happy as Indian coffee is getting a good price. India is the 7th largest in terms of production and 5th largest in exports.
Can you please explain about exports?
Our exports are better than our production. We export, re-import and export all our coffee. Most of the instant coffee is made from coffee imported from cheaper destinations. Not a single Indian coffee bean is left unsold. There is very high demand for Indian coffee that even if we double production, traders say they will sell it. Indian coffees are expensive because they are grown under shade. Unlike in other countries like Brazil where it is open cultivation. When you grow under shade, coffee production is less by around 50%. But the quality is very good. This coffee takes longer to mature and has some unique characteristics that are not present in other coffee.
How is the coffee export business?
Around 80-90% of coffee is exported as green coffee. Green coffee can be kept for a year and usually, roasted coffee lasts only 15 days. Beyond that, the quality comes down. We export green coffee and then the seller blends it with different beans to get different notes. We export to 120 countries. Europe is our biggest market. We export about 60% of coffee grown here.
What about the rising number of private, instant and star-rated cafés and types of coffees served?
I am happy they are increasing. There is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base. In other countries, people drink 8-9 kg of coffee per annum, per capita, but we are 50-100 grams. People who are getting into coffee now are the new generation who feel coffee is the most affectionate and fashionable drink. They love to drink coffee even if it’s high priced. They drink coffee for the experience. Ambience should be great and products should be innovative. They don’t like drinking the same coffee every day. Cafes now have become work spaces where people exchange ideas and conduct business. Many start-ups are running their businesses or whole companies from these cafes. This is how we expect and want the coffee industry to grow. Growers will get better prices, employment will be generated and GDP will get a boost.
How does coffee compete with tea?
Tea and coffee are complementary beverages, not competitors. Consumers typically don’t switch between them. Coffee consumption, especially among the younger generation, is on the rise. Tea remains affordable and easy to make, while making quality coffee requires skill. Many aren’t aware that if coffee is boiled above 90 degrees Celsius, it’s a waste. In future, skill-based courses will be introduced for over one lakh self-help women’s groups, and also 5,000 college graduates will be trained.
What is the situation in Karnataka?
Karnataka is a leader in Indian coffee production, accounting for around 70%, though we have 50% of the area. In the last 3-5 years, the crop has been reasonably good and prices too.
Hasn’t climate change affected coffee production?
It has, as coffee is a sensitive crop. Even if there is a 15-day delay in rainfall, during March and April, the crop gets affected to a large extent. Climate change is something that needs to be taken seriously and addressed. The Coffee Board has taken several measures to address it like bringing some climate-resilient varieties, training farmers and providing incentives.
Did drought affect coffee plantations?
Drought effect was relatively low. The reason is that even if there is a 50% reduction in rainfall, coffee will still grow. The yield might be less, but 800-900 mm of rainfall is enough for the plantation and the impact has been minimal.
Which is the best variety of coffee?
While there are many varieties, one of the best is Chandragiri. Farmers also say that it is superior compared to any other variety across the globe. The yield is good and it is resistant to most of the rust viruses. The cupping quality is very good.
What about collaborative research?
Research should not be restricted to scientists and labs. It should be a joint effort between growers and scientists. Work on this started 2-3 years ago and we have identified elite robusta plants. Growers and scientists together shortlisted around 60-70 of them and found 8-10 varieties promising. They will be released as tissue culture and MoUs are being signed.
How many varieties do we have?
Right now eight have been developed in collaboration with farmers. Otherwise coffee has many varieties. Some 28 varieties have been given to us by private firms. There are cases where a variety does well in other countries, but not in India.
Do we have more varieties when compared to other countries?
Brazil may have more varieties than us. Other than Brazil, we have more. It does not mean anything. Farmers prefer the leading variety. We have also kept some varieties for cupping. If somebody says that I want quality and I am not worried about production then we have Selection 5 and 9 varieties. These two are excellent in cupping and taste.
What are the proposals before the Coffee Board in the coming days?
We have developed a new plan and it has been submitted to the government. It includes many things. To address labour shortage there is a plan for mechanisation. Second is quality improvement. Many say Indian coffee is excellent on the plant. But after harvesting, since it is poorly handled, quality dips. Importance is being given to harvesting and storing. Fermentation is important. It is done using different techniques to get different aromas. We are also looking at franchising India Coffee Houses to rural areas.
Are you also planning to add more coffee varieties to India Coffee Houses to compete with private players?
Coffee Board is a nodal agency to promote coffee as a sector. India Coffee Houses are not meant for competing. Given that there are a lot of nostalgic memories about them and people love to come there, we are working on expanding the menu. At the Queen’s Road Coffee House, the Board has collaborated with a social organisation that deals with specially-abled people. We complement each other.
How do people perceive the addition of chicory in coffee, considering its potential health implications?
The debate around chicory’s health impact exists. Chicory was brought in during the Second World War to meet the rising demand among soldiers when production was less. It continues to be blended even now. However, coffee has various health benefits. It’s beneficial for the heart and kidney, apart from being a refreshment. When chicory is mixed, the benefits of coffee get diluted.
How has urbanisation impacted coffee production?
Urbanisation is affecting everything, but its effect on coffee production is relatively limited due to the remote locations where coffee is typically grown.
How is the Board addressing man-elephant conflict?
It poses a significant challenge in coffee-growing regions, causing fear among residents and reluctance among labourers. The Board is actively engaging with the forest department and other authorities to address these issues.
Are there any courses being offered by the Board related to coffee for graduates?
We offer postgraduate diploma programmes and short courses focused on coffee, covering topics including cafe management and coffee trading.
What are the byproducts derived from coffee beans?
The use of coffee beans in the cosmetic industry is increasing. The leaf and pulp are used for skincare and makeup products. The leftover coffee after brewing is also used in making byproducts.
How many farmers are involved in the coffee industry, and is this number expected to increase?
There are about 4.7 lakh farmers working currently in India and it will increase in the coming years.
Are coffee plantations primarily done by small-scale farmers, or is there a monopoly in the industry?
It is a myth that coffee plantations are managed by affluent farmers. The reality is that 99% of the plantations are managed by small-scale farmers. Only around 1% of farmers are considered large growers but they occupy around 30% of the land.
What do you say about coffee tours gaining popularity?
Coffee tourism is gaining traction, providing coffee growers with an additional source of income. However, it’s crucial for both tourists and growers to responsibly manage activities to ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem as regions where coffee is grown are in Western and Eastern Ghats.
What other types of businesses can be done with coffee besides opening a coffee shop?
People can establish their own coffee brand with their estate, offer consultancy services, provide technology solutions such as market information, engage in trading and roasting and explore businesses centered around deriving coffee byproducts.
Coffee Board has also ventured online and started selling, how has that progressed?
Customers came to the Board and requested us to start e-commerce so that they could easily purchase online. Today we have entire operations in the basement which has a roastery, grinder and 24×7 packing staff. As soon as we get an order we pack it and dispatch it. The initiative is doing well.
Does the Board have enough staff or are there too many vacancies?
There are of course limitations to hiring more staff. Currently, we have a vacancy of 50 people with a total sanctioned strength of 587. We are looking to expand in the north eastern regions and we need a lot of people to convince farmers, educate them and handle estates. We are also looking at promotion both in domestic and international events to build the brand value of Indian coffee and its quality.
Can coffee be grown on terrace gardens?
Coffee plants can be grown anywhere, outdoors or inside homes, however, it will not yield commercially viable beans or fruits. Some might have berries too but when you roast it and make a cup of coffee it doesn’t taste like coffee. Coffee requires an elevation of more than 500 metres above sea level and secondly, the rainfall has to be good. It also requires optimum shade to grow.
How successful was the coffee festival in terms of partnerships with other players?
We had more than 20-30 international brands who were present, around 200-300 Indian brands participated and around 400-500 buyer-sellers met formally. Strong relations were built that not just last for one year but go on for decades, once the buyer finds the perfect blend for himself there is no going back.
What do you want to say to youngsters who want to start a coffee business?
Coffee is a very passionate profession. I’ve seen people who make a profit not because they’re working for it but it’s about passion. They like growing coffee and living on the estate. I have seen Baristas who are passionate about making better coffee every day, they enjoy it.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / February 11th, 2024
Unique rural wedding: Peepal tree and gooseberry sapling united in matrimony for village welfare.
A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling being married off at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk on Monday
Madikeri :
Hundreds participated in a unique wedding ceremony hosted in the rural part of Kodagu. A tree and a sapling were wedlocked in a spiritual matrimony as the residents prayed for the welfare of their village.
A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling were married off in a ritualistic ceremony at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk. The rituals were hosted for the welfare of the village under the guidance of a priest from Kasaragod district. The wedding ceremony was organized by the Botlappa Youth Association of the village.
The association was established in the village in 1993. As it completed 10 years in 2003, the members planted a peepal tree in the village premises as it was bestowed a spiritual status, the association members shared. In 2012, as per the advise of an astrologer, they carried out a thread ceremony for the peepal tree when it turned nine years old. The astrologer had also suggested that the tree be married when it turns 21 years.
It is believed that deities Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma reside within the Peepal tree, which is associated to great sacrosanct values in rural areas. While Peepal tree was personified as a groom, a saree was draped around the gooseberry sapling and ‘kanya dhana’ and other rituals were observed in par with the Hindu wedding.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / Express News Service / February 06th, 2024
Floral offerings were made to the statue of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa in Mysuru on Sunday, to mark his 125th birth anniversary. | Photo Credit: M.A. Sriram
The 125th birth anniversary of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa was also celebrated in Mysuru and Kodagu, on Sunday.
In Mysuru, it was organised under the joint auspices of Kodava Samaja and other organisations and people from different walks of life and organisations paid tributes to Field Marshal Cariappa and made floral offerings to his statue off the JLB Road.
Chamaraja MLA K. Harish Gowda paid tributes to Field Marshal Cariappa and described Kodagu as the land of generals and soldiers who have served the country.
MLA T.S. Srivatsa said that the Cariappa used to visit army camps and institutions to inspire the youngsters and the soldiers even after retirement. Former Mayor Ravikumar urged the government to celebrate Field Marshal Cariappa’s birth anniversary at the State-level. Members of the Kodava Samaj and other organisations including Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa Fans Club, Kodava Samaj Sports and Cultural Club, and others were present.
In Madikeri, Air Marshal Nanda Cariappa (retd.), son of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa led in paying tributes.
Nanda Cariappa rued that the new generation of youth was not swayed or inspired by the armed forces or their sacrifices to the nation but was influenced by film stars, cricketers and corrupt politicians.
The sacrifices and the contribution of the soldiers in safeguarding the nation, and their exploits should be made known to the youngsters in the present times, he added.
Col. B.G.V. Kumar (retd.), head of D. Chennamma Educational Institution, recalled the valour and contribution of Field Marshal Cariappa towards the cause of the nation. He recalled that Field Marshal Cariappa also contributed to the education of the economically weaker section of the society.
Ex-servicemen, NCC, police, students and staff of Kodagu Vidyalaya and others took part in the commemoration event and rendered patriotic songs to mark the occasion.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu/ Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / January 28th, 2024
Rohan Bopanna wins maiden men’s doubles Grand Slam title just days after being assured of becoming No. 1 in ATP men’s doubles ranking.
India’s Rohan Bopanna and Australia’s Matthew Ebden celebrate with the trophy after winning the men’s doubles final against Italy’s Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori(REUTERS)
Rohan Bopanna on Saturday became the oldest-ever player to win a Grand Slam after he and Matthew Ebden beat the Italian pair of Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori 7-6(0), 7-5 in the 2024 Australian Open men’s doubles final. The 43-year old Bopanna beat the record of Jean-Julien Rojer, who lifted the French Open men’s doubles trophy in 2022 with Marcelo Arevola at the age of 40.
For Bopanna and Ebden, it was their maiden title together. They lost in the US Open final last year. This was Bopanna’s first Grand Slam doubles triumph after 60 attempts — another record. The India great’s only previous Grand Slam win was at the 2017 French Open in mixed doubles, with Canada’s Gabriela Dabrowski.
For Ebden, this is his second men’s Grand Salm doubles title. He won his first at Wimbledon in 2022 with fellow Australian Max Purcell.
In 16 previous appearances at the Australian Open, Bopanna’s best was third round appeaances, which he managed six times, the last in 2018. He had since been knocked out in opening rounds, including with Ebden in 2023.
En route to winning the doubles title, Bopanna was assured of the No. 1 ranking in men’s doubles on Monday after winning his quarter-final match, making him the oldest player ever to hold the top spot for the first time.
The final, despite the straight-set win, was a hard-fought battle. There was only one break of serve, when Bopanna and Ebden broke Vavassori at love in the 11th game of the second set.
Bopanna and Ebden looked for an early breakthrough in the contest against an unseeded pair and created break point opportunities in back-to-back games, but were denied on both occasions as the opening set headed to a tie-break. The Indo-Aussie pair didn’t lose a tie-braker all fortnight, which included two super tie-breaks, and the record remained intact as they won all seven points on offer to take a one-set lead.
source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Times / Home> News> Sports> Tennis News / by HT Sports Desk / January 27th, 2024
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
At this year’s Republic Day parade in New Delhi, the focus will shift towards celebrating ‘Nari Shakti’ (women power) and achievers at ‘Kartavya Path.’ The opening spectacle will feature a hundred talented women artists playing traditional Indian instruments. This marks departure from previous displays, which heavily emphasised military prowess, aligns with the themes of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Bharat Loktantra Matrika” (India, mother of democracy). Notably, the emphasis on women empowerment and achievements takes precedence without diminishing the showcasing of military might.
Adding to the significance, two outstanding female officers from Kodagu will shine in the 2024 Republic Day Parade. Captain Sharanya Rao will lead the Army Wing of the Tri-Service Contingent of Women, marching proudly along the ‘Kartavya Path,’ while Punya Ponnamma will command the All-India NCC Women’s Contingent.
Sharanya Rao hails from Kukkloor village near Virajpet and is the daughter of Harish Rao, Manager of Bittangala Golf Club and Mythili Rao, a lecturer at SMS College. After completing her schooling at St. Anne’s School, she did her PUC in Cauvery College. She completed her Mechanical Engineering at Coorg Institute of Technology (CIT), Ponnampet and did her MSW in Alva’s College, Moodbidri. At present, she is serving as Captain in Kargil Sector, Jammu and Kashmir.
Capt. Sharanya Rao, an all-rounder who excelled in both academic and sports, was awarded Best Outgoing Student of CIT Award in 2018. She marked her academic excellence by being one amongst the University topper and her sports excellence by representing the University in handball and women’s hockey event.
“I am the Supernumerary Officer and will be leading the Army component of the Tri-Services contingent. It is a proud moment because, for the first time in history, a Tri-Services contingent would be marching,” she said.
Punya Ponnamma is from Madikeri and is the daughter of Circle Police Inspector Anoop Madappa and Vinita Dechamma, a lecturer at Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College. As an NCC cadet, she has participated in several camps and displayed excellent performance. She is currently pursuing third year law studies at Christ University, Bengaluru.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / January 24th, 2024
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
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
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