Tag Archives: Virajpet MLA A S Ponnanna

Assembly Debates Encroached Lands By Coffee Growers

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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

Sri Krishna Temple Takes Shape In Kutta On Kodagu-Kerala Border

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Mysore/Mysuru:

Sri Krishna, revered as one of the most beloved deities among Hindus in India and globally, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. In the town of Kutta, near the Kodagu-Kerala border, a unique Krishna Temple is taking shape after four decades of persistent dreams and efforts by the local community.

This temple is becoming a reality, thanks to the unwavering dedication of the residents of the region. The construction of this Krishna Temple, at an estimated cost of Rs. 3.5 crore, reflects the long-standing aspirations of the locals to establish a religious centre in this part of the region.

The generous donation of about one acre of land by a local benefactor four decades ago has been a crucial catalyst for the realisation of this dream. The temple’s construction is a collective endeavour, marked by consensus, taking everyone into confidence through several rounds of discussions.

“Our long-standing dream of constructing a temple here is now turning into reality. The temple’s construction relies on the collaboration of the local community, and we seek support from donors to accomplish our mission. It is our sincere appeal to Krishna devotees to actively participate in this collective effort,” urges Chekkera Ganapathy, President of the Sri Krishna Temple Committee.

Under the guidance of seniors, Committee members have wholeheartedly contributed substantial amounts crossing lakhs of rupees from their personal funds, actively engaging in this mission to advance the ongoing construction of the temple. The Committee is dedicated to working towards completing the construction within a predefined time-frame.

Committee Vice-President Theethira Naren Balakrishna expressed the Committee’s goal to complete the temple construction by March 2024. He emphasised the absence of a beautiful religious centre in the region, motivating the Committee to take the initiative in building the Sri Krishna Temple.

This endeavour aims to provide devotees in the area with the soon-to-be-realised opportunity for the darshan of Sri Krishna. The responsibility of constructing the temple has been entrusted to skilled sculptors from Karkala.

Committee Secretary Chodumada Shareen Subbaiah highlighted the democratic process in selecting the office-bearers by the people of Kutta. She appealed to locals and residents in the surrounding areas to join hands in this sacred  undertaking.

Grants have been generously provided by former Virajpet MLA K.G. Bopaiah, current Virajpet MLA  A.S. Ponnanna and Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simmha for the construction of the Sri Krishna Temple. All 17 members of the Committee are working collaboratively to ensure the successful realisation of this project.

Shareen Subbaiah emphasised the implementation of a thorough audit system to track and manage donations effectively. She urged devotees of Krishna to contribute towards the temple’s construction.

In addition to the key office-bearers, the other Committee members and Directors who are diligently supervising the progress of the Sri Krishna Temple’s construction are Treasurer D. Ravi, Directors Theethira Kushalappa, Machamada Subramani, Theethira Theertha Manjunath, Kattera Ramesh, Machamada Kashi Cariappa, Dhyan Darshan, Chandra Kuttan, Prashanth, Johnson, Ajjikuttira Bopanna and Mukkatira Naveen.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore /Home> News / January 06th, 2024

Airstrip Construction At Kushalnagar In Kodagu

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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

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah unveils logo of Kogadu Hockey festival

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Kodagu, often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, boasts a rich legacy with more than 50 Kodavas representing India in various international hockey tournaments.

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah unveils logo of Kogadu Hockey festival
 Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah unveiling the logo of the Kodagu Hockey festival.

Madikeri: 

In a momentous event on Thursday, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah unveiled the logo of the Kodagu Hockey Festival, reinforcing the deep-rooted connection between Kodavas and the sport of hockey

Kodagu, often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, boasts a rich legacy with more than 50 Kodavas representing India in various international hockey tournaments.

March, April, and May are the months when the spirit of hockey comes alive in Kodagu a tiny district of the state with unique culture. The Kodava Hockey Festival, colloquially known as the ‘Kodava Cup Hockey’ tournament, stands as a testament to the unique relationship between the Kodava community and the sport of hockey. The festival, a friendly tournament held among Kodava families, is an unparalleled celebration of unity and sportsmanship.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during the logo unveiling ceremony at the Home Office Krishna, expressed his support for the Kodava Hockey Festival. The event was attended by Virajpet MLA A S Ponnanna and representatives of the Kodava society, marking the significance of the festival in the region.

The Kodava Hockey Cup, initiated in 1997, was the brainchild of Pandanda Kuttappa and the Kashi brothers, retired employees of the State Bank of India and first-class hockey referees. The objective was to foster unity among Kodava families through a shared passion for hockey. The inaugural ‘Pandanda Cup’ tournament witnessed the participation of 60 families at the Karada village ground near Virajpet, with Kuttappa shouldering the financial expenses for the opening ceremony.

Over the years, the Kodava Hockey Festival has grown into the world’s largest hockey festival, making its mark in the Limca Book of Records, the Indian equivalent of the Guinness Book of Records. The tournament is a unique blend of competition, camaraderie, and cultural festivities, making it a cherished annual event for Kodava families.

The festival rotates among Kodava families each year, receiving widespread support and participation.

Families eagerly anticipate this sporting extravaganza, with many in the army making special arrangements to attend the tournament. The Kodava Hockey Festival, with its rich history and traditions, is poised to create yet another unforgettable chapter as it strives to secure a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

As the logo of the Kodagu Hockey Festival is unveiled, anticipation builds for the upcoming tournament, promising to showcase the enduring bond between Kodava and hockey in a spectacular display of hockey prowess and community spirit.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> India / by Diganth Kengeri / December 21st, 2023

Gruha Jyothi launched in Kodagu; all guarantees to be implemented by December

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As many as 1.30 lakh people have enrolled under the scheme and have already availed the benefit worth ₹2.90 crore, says Minister in charge of district .

Minister in charge of Kodagu district N.S. Boseraju speaking after launching the Gruha Jyothi scheme in Madikeri on Tuesday, August 15. | Photo Credit: Special arrangement

The Gruha Jyothi scheme was formally launched in Kodagu on Tuesday, August 15. Inaugurating the scheme, which is one of the guarantees of the Congress government, in Madikeri, Minister in charge of Kodagu district N.S. Boseraju said 1.30 lakh people have enrolled under the scheme, availing benefits to the tune of ₹2.90 crore.

The Minister said the government would be spending a sum of ₹60,000 crore on the guarantees and all guarantees announced by the government will be implemented by December.

Amidst the spiraling prices of essential commodities, the guarantees would be able to bring some succor to the poor people, he opined.

Virajpet MLA and Legal Advisor to Chief Minister A.S. Ponnanna said the guarantees would help to empower the people and added that the Shakti scheme – the guarantee of free bus rides for women – has strengthened the transport corporations. “The empty buses are now running full,” he added.

He said the Congress government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has kept its promises even though the Centre refused to give rice for distribution under Anna Bhagya scheme. However, the government decided to pay money equivalent to five kg of rice. The guarantees will help to economically empower the people, he added.

Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda said 1.30 lakh out of 1.68 lakh eligible beneficiaries have enrolled under the Gruha Jyothi scheme. He told the officials to ensure that other eligible beneficiaries enroll under the scheme at the earliest so that they could also avail the benefits.

Describing the Congress government “pro-poor”, he expressed confidence that there won’t be any mismanagement under the free power scheme and added that the bill will be generated if the consumption crossed 200 units.

The MLA urged the Minister to put on hold the request from 30 staff of the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) for transfer from Kodagu.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau, Mysuru / August 15tj, 2023

War Memorial Unveiled At T. Shettigeri In Kodagu

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Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna promises to raise the problems of Ex-Servicemen with State Government

Mysore/Mysuru:

A new War Memorial was recently inaugurated at T. Shettigeri village in South Kodagu by Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna, who also serves as the Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister. The purpose of this memorial is to honour the martyrs and pay tribute to the soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

One remarkable aspect of this memorial is that it was funded entirely by the T. Shettigeri Ex-Servicemen Association, which comprises 450 retired soldiers. Erecting a War Memorial had long been a cherished dream of this Association. The Association has also made significant contributions to society, including providing financial assistance to those in need and offering aid during natural disasters.

The marble War Memorial was constructed at a cost of Rs. 5 lakh, with a substantial portion of the construction expenses being generously donated by Kaibulira Parvathi Bopaiah. She contributed Rs. 3 lakh for the memorial in memory of her late husband, a former havildar who settled in T. Shettigeri after his service  in the Army.

The day of the War Memorial’s inauguration in T. Shettigeri was marked by a festive atmosphere. The event commenced with performances by the Police Band and Kodava Valaga, followed by full honours rendered by the Police and Ex-Servicemen — in their full attire with medals — to the memorial. Many retired officers and personnel participated in the event, offering their salutes to this significant tribute on the Armed Forces’ land.’

Following the unveiling of the memorial, the guests were welcomed in the traditional Kodava manner by colourfully dressed Kodava women at the T. Shettigeri Kodava Samaja. The stage event was presided over by the Association President  Kattera Vishwanath.

During his address, MLA Ponnanna emphasised the crucial role of soldiers in safeguarding the nation. He praised their selfless dedication to the country’s well-being and the preservation of peace and harmony. He underscored the importance of the newly established War Memorial as a significant milestone in commemorating the sacrifices and struggles of these brave soldiers.

In response to the Association’s demand that many retired Ex-Servicemen are often denied benefits by successive governments, including land sanction, MLA Ponnanna pledged to advocate for their rights and raise the issue with the Government.

Appachangada P. Motaiah, the Association’s Joint Secretary, shed light on the challenges faced by most Ex-Servicemen, who often lack support from various quarters. He appealed to MLA Ponnanna to stand in solidarity with retired Defence personnel.

As a gesture of appreciation, several retired Defence personnel, donors and individuals who have made notable contributions to society were felicitated on behalf of the Association.

Among those honoured were Kaibulira Parvathi Bopaiah, Chattangada Punyavathi Chinnappa, Veteran Sergeant, advocate and Honorary Advisor to the T. Shettigeri Ex-Servicemen Association Mandetira N. Subramani, Machchamada Madappa, Uluvangada Ganapathy and Changulanda Ashwini Satish.

Special invitees included Kodagu District Sainik Association President Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Bachamanda Cariappa, former Kodagu District Sainik Association Secretary Maj. (Retd.) Odiyanda Chingappa and Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Kuppanda Nanjappa, a Veer Chakra holder, who shared their experiences and daring operations during their service in the Armed Forces.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 10th, 2023