Tag Archives: Virajpet

Tree Surveys On Private Lands In Kodagu Irk Coffee Growers

Agriculture, Green Initiatives / Environment, Nature, Records, All, , , , , ,

Madikeri:

Tree surveys on private lands and coffee plantations in Kodagu District, initiated by the Forest Department following the directives from higher authorities, have faced opposition from farmers and coffee growers in the region.

Recently, Forest Department officials visited certain coffee plantations in Valnoor and Tyagathur villages, informing villagers that they were there to conduct surveys of trees on private lands and plantations, citing regulations under Section 133 of the Karnataka Forest Rules, 1969.

Officials stated that they were acting upon orders from Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF) for Forest Conservation and were surveying estates and lands in Valnoor and Tyagathur. However, farmers and plantation owners objected to this action and raised their concerns.

The villagers strongly reprimanded the Forest Department’s field staff for accompanying officials to document trees on private and Jamma tenure lands. They accused the Congress government of pursuing a policy of appeasement by authorising one-sided tree survey operations without prior notification to land-owners.

Expressing their discontent, they informed the officers that villagers have been safeguarding trees for generations, demonstrating greater competence in this regard compared to the Forest Department. They alleged that after conducting tree recording activities on private lands, the trees would be subsequently felled and sold to fund the guarantees announced by the Congress Government.

The villagers asserted that they would not allow tree-recording activities in the village under any circumstances. In response, Bhaskar, the Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) of the Madikeri Division, stated that according to Section 133 of the Karnataka Forest Rules, 1969, a directive was issued on Jan. 24 from the Central Office of the Forest Department to record and list trees growing on private lands.

“We have instructed officials to adhere to the prescribed procedure, and tree recording has been conducted in certain areas accordingly. However, objections have been raised by farmers in certain regions. Reports detailing the situation will be submitted to higher authorities,” he added.

“This is a Statewide survey, and it is being conducted across all districts. As it is currently summer, officials have commenced fire prevention activities. Concurrently, tree recording activities are also underway,” stated Jagannath, the DCF of Virajpet Division. He further mentioned that tree recording is being conducted on lands within Virajpet division and in Ponnampet.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / May 07th, 2024

Battle Brews Over Coorg’s Coffee Estates: From Serenity to Sprawling Villas-locals fear environmental disaster

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HIGHLIGHTS

Plans to turn 2400 acres of BBTC Coffee Gardens into large villas and townships have sparked strong opposition and deep concern among locals and environmentalists alike, creating a tempest of controversy around the serene hills of Coorg.

Madikeri:

Plans to turn 2400 acres of BBTC Coffee Gardens into large villas and townships have sparked strong opposition and deep concern among locals and environmentalists alike, creating a tempest of controversy around the serene hills of Coorg.

The proposal, orchestrated by a resort tycoon, has ignited a fierce debate, with critics decrying the potential environmental devastation and cultural erosion that could accompany the transformation of these verdant landscapes. The Codava National Council spearheaded by NU Nachappa has opposed it on two major counts.

“The roots of this dispute delve deep into Coorg’s past, tracing back to the acquisition of the land by the Bombay Burma Trading Corporation (BBTC) during the colonial era. Once communal property of the indigenous Codava tribe, the estate passed through various hands before landing in the possession of a resort magnate, sparking memories of Coorg’s colonial subjugation and indigenous displacement” Nachappa told.

Economic Gain vs. Environmental Loss

At the heart of the controversy lies the stark dichotomy between economic gain and environmental preservation. The sale of the estate, purchased at a fraction of its current market value, has raised eyebrows and suspicions, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the transaction’s legality and ethical implications.

“The conversion of lush coffee estates into sprawling villas and townships not only threatens to disrupt the delicate ecological balance of the region but also poses a grave threat to vital water sources and biodiversity hotspots. The ramifications extend beyond environmental concerns, touching on the preservation of indigenous culture and heritage, which risks being overshadowed by the specter of unchecked development” Nachappa told in a complaint lodged with the President of India, Prime Minsiter and Chief Secretary of the union government for forests and environment.

A Call to Arms

Following the CNC taking up the issue on a global scale, voices from all over the places where Codava people have migrated and relocated “decisive action to halt the encroachment on Coorg’s natural splendour and cultural heritage. Calls for stringent legal measures echo through the hills, demanding accountability from all parties involved, from buyers and sellers to local authorities and regulatory bodies. “The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as Coorg stands at a crossroads, torn between preserving its pristine landscapes and succumbing to the allure of unchecked development. The fate of this idyllic paradise hangs in the balance, with stakeholders grappling with the weighty consequences of their decisions” Nachappa relayed some sentiments of his countrymen.

In the face of mounting opposition, the battle for Coorg’s soul rages on, with the outcome poised to shape the region’s destiny for generations to come. As the debate rages on, one thing remains clear: the future of Coorg hinges on the choices made today.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / The Hans India / Home> News> State> Karnataka> Bengaluru / by Hans News Service / May 01st, 2024

A pioneer who heralded growth of hockey in Karnataka

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Legendary Ammanda Vasu Uthaiah was considered by many as a pioneer in promoting hockey across Coorg and subsequently Karnataka.

A pioneer who heralded growth of hockey in Karnataka
AS Uthaiah / Credit: Special arrangement

Bengaluru:

Legendary Ammanda Vasu Uthaiah, who passed away at 83 after following a brief illness on Thursday, was considered by many as a pioneer in promoting hockey across Coorg and subsequently Karnataka.

Hailing from Virajpet, a town in Kodagu, Uthaiah carved a niche for himself in the competition-heavy Indian national hockey team from the late 1960s to 1970s. It was no mean feat by Uthaiah, a stylish player who excelled in the left half back position, amid intense competition for places.

Uthaiah, a recipient of Dusshera Puraskara Koda and the Silver Jubilee award of Karnataka, was a part of the 1970 Asian Games squad that won silver, but missed out on making the cut for the 1968 Mexico Olympics.

Uthaiah also played for Madras Engineer Group and Centre hockey team for close to one and a half decades, playing almost all the First Grade hockey tournaments in the country.

He later turned up for the BEML Bangalore hockey team, winning a couple of KSHA Super Division titles.

Karnataka Hockey president AB Subbaiah spoke about the impact Uthaiah’s contributions had in kick-starting a hockey revolution in Coorg and Karnataka.

“He (Uthaiah) can be considered as Coorg’s first established hockey player to have played a major tournament and inspired the next generation of players,” Subbaiah said.

“From what I have understood after speaking to Uthaiah’s contemporaries, he was a very skilled player with a never-say-die attitude. A good tackler, and someone with a calm head,” Subbaiah added.

“As a person, he used to guide and support us and share his pearls of wisdom, and was very passionate about hockey and players coming up from Coorg and Karnataka.

“Even after his retirement, he would actively organise tournaments and headed the Kodava Samaj Sports Committee,” Subbaiah revealed.

Uthaiah is survived by a son and a daughter.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Sports> Hockey / by Sathvik Bharadwaj / February 02nd, 2024

Two Female Officers From Kodagu To Lead R-Day Contingents

Amazing Feats, Defence Services (Air,Land,Sea),Police (wef. Dec 09th, 2021), Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Records, All, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kushalnagar:

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

Karnataka: Siddaramaiah unveils logo of Kogadu Hockey festival

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Leaders, Records, All, Sports, World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , ,

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

Ravishing Divya Madaiah’s Fat to Fitness Journey!

Inspiration / Positive News and Features, Sports, Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , ,

“You are never too old to reinvent yourself”, says Divya Madaiah who has been working as a patisserie for 15 years now. I met Divya at an Instagram live interview on long distance running. The interview was for a sports enthusiast from Maharashtra and Divya messaged me about how she started running at the age of 42!

I was not even half her age but I was inspired by her story. Talking to Divya who is a part of the Jayanagar Jaguars Squad in Bangalore, I knew that she could inspire all the women, housewives or working, especially in Kodagu.

She narrated her story to me, “I took fitness very seriously when my weighing scale showed a whooping 96 kilos in 2019! I had just got my left ovary removed due to dermoid cyst. I was thereby advised not to engage in any physical activity for 6 months. That really hit me hard as I am an over enthusiastic person in life. Resting for 6 months was a great challenge for me. Then I thought of making a few changes in my diet through a certified nutritionist where I learnt the art of quantified nutrition. I watched and weighed what went onto my plate. Gradually, I managed to reduce 10 kilos.”

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=5057426554330351&id=100001891694163&scmts=scwspsdd

“I also began weight training and then in February, 2020, I decided to join the Jayanagar Jaguars running academy. I was 42 years old with a mindset to change my lifestyle. Started off in March, weighing 87 kilos, where I struggled to even complete the walk sessions. Then came the lockdown, where everyone in my team felt demotivated, but I never gave up. I followed few workouts regularly, and thanks to the online fitness session called “Fit from Home” from the JJs, I was able to become stronger by day.”

The most important thing was Divya never failed to miss a day’s practice. Waking up in the wee hours and scheduling herself to fitness time at 4:30 am, Divya was prioritising her health along with running two brands, ‘Warriors Wok’ and ‘Batter n’ Beyond’.

“In June, I did my first 10k run and from then on, it’s no stopping for me.
Here I am 18 kilos lighter after I started running. Not only did I change my lifestyle, but also maintained an enriching positive attitude.” She has been running even 15 km and recently completed her first half marathon in Airtel Delhi Half Marathon event.

For many, 2020 has been a trying year, full of demotivation and negativity. Here’s what Divya has to say about the year 2020 as she finishes TCS 10 K run strongly with a timing of 58m 34 secs!

“2020 has changed my character to a stronger, more powerful and a healthier version of myself. Times change, things change but only you change it by hard work. I know that there’s a lot more to achieve and a lot more to come.


Losing weight is not an easy battle. There is a lot of negativity circling around and you are surrounded by some people who bring your spirits down. Weight loss is something you do to improve your health.”

It would be surprising to know that Divya battled life’s deadliest health conditions like Hypothyroidism, PCOD, Asthma, Premature Menopause, Dermoid Cyst in the ovary, Cholesterol and Obesity! Her story is not about looking good by reducing weight but to battle all these health conditions and stay fit at 40, stronger at 50!

She remarks with a positive message for this new year, “Lastly don’t give up. We don’t give up on the people we love. So, how can you give up on yourself???” Divya hails from Coorg Arameri, Virajpet and keeps shuttling to Koramangala for work.

source: http://www.medium.com / Medium / Home / by Shrividya Somanna / January 13th, 2021

Jayalakshmi Kodava Association Felicitates MLA A.S. Ponnanna

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Leaders, Records, All, Samajas, Associations, Clubs (wef. Sept. 03rd, 2022)), Women/Girls (wef. Sept 03rd, 2022), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Annual get-together event honours two accomplished authors, student achievers from the community

Mysore/Mysuru:

The 18th annual get-together of the Jayalakshmi Kodava Association was held recently at the Kodagu Sahakara Sangha, Jayalakshmipuram, Mysuru. Virajpet MLA Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna was the chief guest.

MLA Ponnanna was honoured with a custom-made marquetry art piece depicting Talacauvery, the birthplace of River Cauvery. Accepting the felicitation, Ponnanna spoke at length about the challenges in Kodagu and his plans for resolving them through active intervention and cooperation from all Kodavas and the people of his Constituency.

The event began with an invocation by Pandiyanda Anil Cariappa. President Ballyanda Uthappa extended a warm welcome to all attendees and presided over the event. During the ceremony, the Association paid their respects to two departed members. They also introduced new members who joined the Association between Aug. 14, 2022 and Aug. 27, 2023.

In a significant decision, the previous year’s committee will continue to function for the years 2023-2024, with Ballyanda P. Uthappa as President, Pandiyanda Girish as Vice-President, Jammada Ganesh Ayanna as Secretary and Mukkatira A. Somaiah as Treasurer.

Two accomplished authors within the community were honoured. Dr. Latha Muthanna received recognition for her third book, ‘The Jail and Other Tales,’ while Dr. Geetha Cariappa Chonira was applauded for her second English storybook ‘Girl with the Diary’ (A Tale from Kodagu).

The achievements of young members were also celebrated. Mukkatira Dia Ponnappa, daughter of Dr. Avinash Ponnappa and Nisha, an 8th-grade student, was acknowledged for her selection to participate in a week-long international debate workshop at Cornell University, New York. The workshop aims to refine oratory skills.

Another young talent, M.J. Devanshi, daughter of Mallangada N. Jayprakash and Swetha, a 7th-grade student, was recognised for her accomplishments in air rifle shooting competitions.

President Ballyanda Uthappa discussed various issues for the betterment of the Association and encouraged members to actively participate, both during good and challenging times. Treasurer Mukkatira Somaiah presented the accounts for the year 2022-2023, which were approved by the general body.

Jammada Ganesh Ayanna introduced the MLA. The event was conducted by Mukkatira Somaiah, with assistance from Codanda Chitra Medappa. A vote of thanks was proposed by Pandiyanda U. Girish. The programme ended with a sumptuous Kodava traditional dinner, fostering wonderful fellowship among all attendees.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 03rd, 2023

A.S. Ponnanna Appointed As Legal Advisor To CM

Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Leaders, Records, All, , , , , , ,

Bengaluru:

Virajpet Congress MLA and senior advocate A.S. Ponnanna has been appointed as the Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddharamaiah.

Ponnanna, who is also the KPCC Legal Wing President, was an aspirant for a Ministerial berth in the Siddharamaiah Cabinet, after having won from Virajpet Assembly segment defeating BJP stalwart K.G. Bopaiah. But he missed the bus and now he has been appointed as the CM’s Legal Advisor of the rank of a Cabinet Minister. He is the son of firebrand political leader from Kodagu late A.K. Subbaiah.

Ponnanna had also served as Additional Solicitor General when Siddharamaiah was the CM earlier (2013-18).

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / June 02nd, 2023

For the first time since 2004, Congress wins in Kodagu district

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Congress candidates AS Ponnanna and Mantar Gowda won from Virajpet and Madikeri constituencies, defeating the sitting BJP MLAs with a considerable margin.

AS Ponnanna
Facebook / AS Ponnanna

For the first time in nearly two decades, Congress managed to win an Assembly election in Kodagu district of Karnataka, breaking the BJP’s run of wins in the hilly district. Congress candidate AS Ponnanna, a former Additional Advocate General in the Karnataka High Court, defeated KG Bopaiah of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Virajpet constituency of Kodagu district. In the same district, another Congress candidate Mantar Gowda, son of former Karnataka minister A Manju, defeated BJP’s Appachu Ranjan in the Madikeri constituency.

In 2004, BA Jeevijaya of the Congress had won from the erstwhile Somwarpet constituency in Kodagu district. However, in the last three elections held in 2008, 2013 and 2018, KG Bopaiah and Appachhu Ranjan had won from the two constituencies in the district — Virajpet and Madikeri. This time, the two Congress leaders defeated the sitting MLAs by a margin of over 4000 votes each.

The incumbent Virajpet MLA KG Bopaiah had triggered a controversy in the run up to the election, when he claimed that a win for the Congress would lead to celebrations of Tipu Jayanti returning in the state. AS Ponnanna maintained a studied silence on the issue and urged the BJP leader to speak about development.

The Congress party has emerged victorious in the recently concluded elections to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly, having won 132 seats and leading in four more constituencies as of 7.30 pm on Saturday, May 13, according to the Election Commission of India (ECI).

source: http://www.thenewsminute.com / The News Minute / Home> News / by TNM Staff / May 4th, 2023

Karnataka assembly elections: Ajjikuttira S Ponnanna is Congress candidate

Famous Personalities of Kodagu / Coorg, Leaders, Records, All, , , ,
Karnataka assembly elections: Ajjikuttira S Ponnanna is Congress candidate
Ajjikuttira S Ponnanna

Madikeri : 

Ajjikuttira S Ponnanna said he seeks a change in Virajpet constituency in Kodagu this time. He spoke to STOI after his name was finalized by Congress as its candidate to contest from Virajpet constituency.


Though the BJP candidate’s name has not been announced, it is presumed that sitting MLA and former speaker KG Bopaiah will again be given ticket to contest in Virajpet.


Ponnanna is an high court advocate and has served as the principal government advocate. He said: “I have formed a trust in the name of my late father and mother that is supporting needy students and poor financially”.


He said that he had contacted most of the voters in the constituency and had support of local Congress leaders.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> City News> Mysuru News / by G Gajendra / TNN / March 26th, 2023