Sale of LED lamps has picked up in the city

As the power tariff is being increasing day to day, to reduce energy and and conserve rapidly depleting fossil fuels, Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulb are today slowly making way into all places including streetlights, industrial lights, parking lights, garden lights apart from residential lights. 

In spite of this the sale of LED lamps has gradually picked up in the city and the reason may be the availability of cheap Chinese made lamps which are quite popular though they do not come with any guarantee or quality assurance. 

LED lights are slowly gaining acceptance in big shopping malls, apartment, office complexes, hotels, clubs and other places of mass energy consumption and there is a good demand for LED lamps. Officials of the Mysore Palace Board have also considered the option of using LED lamps to illuminate Mysore Palace. 

When contacted with couple of KT Street electronic shops, they to said there is a demand for LED bulbs and most of the people purchase China made LED lamps which costs are very less. 

In KT Street bulbs from Rs eight are available and most of the residents prefer it. According to the like of people the outdoor, indoor lights designs of various models are available in the shops. Apart this, the vendors who are selling rechargeable LED bulbs for Rs 100 to Rs 120, are also expecting good business in the summer, as city faces frequent power cut. 

Neela Ramaswamy, Director, REI Electronics, a privately company in Mysore manufacturing LED lamps said that from past two years they have more demand for LED bulbs and they to have come up with latest designs of models. 

'Compare to popular Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL), the LED bulbs are highly energy efficient and are quite expensive. But in the long run they turn out to be cheaper and the investors get its return on investment within a year through its vastly reduced electricity bills of about 80 per cent,' she added.

Craftsman on a mission to set record

Here is a group of twelve artisans who are on a mission to create a history through their indigenous art works. Hailing from Tikamgarh District, Madhya Pradesh the Craftsman have camped in Chamarajendra Academy of Visual Arts (CAVA) to create a traditional Ball Metal Bullock Cart which costs around Rs 3 lakh.

According to the artists the bullock-cart weighs about 350 kilo (300 kilo metal and 50 kilo clay) and will be 8.5 feet length, 4.5 width and about 5 feet in height. The expenses will be owned by South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur, Ministry of Culture, GoI.

The basic mould works will be created by melting wax and resin (rar). Later mixing this lost wax casting with groundnut oil they replicate beautiful objects and they bake it. Later the substance will be mixed with Ball Metal Alloy (Brass) to give attractive finishing.

Artists like Pannalal Soni, Prem Narayan Soni, Akalesh Soni, Gokul Viswakarma, Sukalesh Soni, Omprakash Soni, Akash Soni, Ramratan Soni, Sunderlal Soni, Rohit Soni, Ravi Shankar Soni and Kashiram Soni are working on this project. The artistes will be in city till July 3.

Programme in-Charge Gopal Betawar said that 'about 25 spare parts  (cow, leg, cart, wheels,) of bullock cart will be created in Mysore and will be assembled at Zone Cultural Center in Nagpur, where it will be displayed.'

Artist Ravi Shankarsani said that the process is very hard and after several steps of process the works will be completed. He says, this type of art works will costs around Rs 7 lakh in open markets.

Expressing happiness for creating the work in Mysore, the artists claimed that they are first to do such a huge bullock cart in country using Ball Metal. They said that about 500 families in Tikamgarh District are practicing this traditional ball metal works from -five centuries.

Power theft continues unabated in Mandya and Hassan

Stealing power is not only a criminal offense but a great loss to the national exchequer. It aggravates power shortage especially in a country where demand is always more than production.

Since 2008, around 3104 cases of power theft were registered from Mysore, Mandya, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar and Hassan districts imposing a penalty of Rs 39,149,728. Of these 3090 cases were convicted and Rs 36,926,664 of fine amount was collected. While the remaining amount is yet to be recovered from the 14 cases that are in various stages of prosecution.

Compared to Mysore and Chamarajanagar, it is observed that power thefts in Mandya and Hassan is more rampant. Out of 3104 cases booked, 2047 were from Mandya and Hassan, 556 from Mysore and Kodagu and the remaining 501 cases from Chamarajanagar.

Over the years the number of cases registered have seen a gradual decline, but only in the districts of Mysore-Kodagu and Chamarajanagar. In 2008-09 financial year, 232 cases were booked in Mysore and Kodagu the number of cases registered fell in the subsequent years to 152 (2009-10), 97 (2010-11) and 75 (2011-12).

While in the case of Chamarajanagar though 217 cases were registered in 2008 it came down to 108, 80 and 96 in the following years. Strict enforcement by the vigilance squad of the ESCOMs seems to have worked effectively.

According to officials of the vigilance department of CHESCOM (Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation Limited) majority of theft cases booked were for illegally bypassing meter, meter tampering, using domestic tariffs for commercial purposes, using agriculture power for manufacturing mud and cement bricks, stealing power by putting a hook to the overhead electric wire and other such crimes. There were even instances where the energy meters were either smashed or burnt deliberately in order to avoid paying the bills.

'Power theft is a criminal offense and is punishable under law. In case of accidents where an unauthorized connection has been taken, two cases will be booked – one will be criminal case for stealing power and other for the death or undue loss where the victim will not get any compensation,' said the officer.

At present cases of unauthorised connection are not being booked as the officials are awaiting Government's order for regularization of such unauthorised connections.  

Jaganmohan Palace completes 150 years

The palace was constructed in 70 days by Engineer Raghavalu Naidu 

What was once Mysore's famous summer Palace and now houses an art gallery of international repute, the Jaganmohan Palace, a popular tourist attraction situated in heart of the city is now 150 year-old. 

The Palace was constructed in 1861 by Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, the 22nd ruler of Yadav Dynasty, who came to power after the fall of Tipu Sultan and shifted the Capital from Srirangapatna to Mysore in 1799. Interestingly the Palace were constructed only in 70 days by Engineer Raghavalu Naidu.

The royal family stayed at Jaganmohan Palace from 1898 to 1910 (till the time when the present new palace was constructed as the earlier wooden palace was burnt down due to an accidental fire).

The auditorium was constructed in 1900 on the occasion of the marriage of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. Later, in 1915 Krishnaraja Wodeyar – IV concerted the temporary Palace into museum by gifting many of the royal collections. The Palace accumulated more items every year thereafter until about 1938.

The architecture of the Palace is Hindu style with mural paintings adorning the walls inside. The gallery houses rare Ravi Varma paintings, artifacts, murals, and various other things used by the royal family.

The auditorium was exclusively meant for the members of the Royal Family to view art performances. It also had a 35mm cine projector to watch movies. There was even an inter-connecting bridge connecting the balconies on either sides of the auditorium, where queens used to sit and watch the cultural programmes. It was renovated in 1980 and was thrown open to public by providing permanent seating arrangements and removing the bridge.

Several renowned national and international artistes have staged Dance and Dramas in the auditorium along with holding Government events too. The place is famous even today for staging plays. The palace is maintained under Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery Trust, who's Chairman is present Maharaja Sri Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodeyar.

As the building was constructed using traditional method of Madras roofing (lime mortar added with sand, egg shells, Billwapathre and Antwala Kayi), at several places the roof has collapsed and fungus is growing due to seepage of rain water and cracks can be witnessed. Apart this waste materials is being dumped in the auditorium balconies.

Jaganmohan Palace Superintendent MG Narasimha said that 'keeping the heritage aspects intact, measures have been taken to change the roof style and control water seepage using modern methods.

Women relish their childhood moments again !

The role played by a woman throughout her life right from being a child, daughter, wife, daughter-in-law, mother, mother-in-law, friend is centered around her family. Thus, in their busy schedules they sacrifice many things in life most importantly her childhood days.

Hence, to relish women their childhood moments again, a unique programme titled, “Baa Gelathi Balyekke” (come friend back to childhood) was organised by Sneha Vrunda in Mysore on Tuesday.

About 43 women in the age group of 25 to 78 years took part in the event carrying with them lunch and water bottle to enjoy their childhood from nursery to college days. The programme which began with the reciting of nursery rhymes like 'Twinkle Twinkle little star' ended with college days that included teasing, ragging and all the fun and frolic they did as college girls in their teens.

They danced to the tunes of folk and western songs of yesteryears. They played musical chair, skipping, ring, throw ball, dramas not forgetting to play the traditional kuntebille, chowkabara and several others. In all it was 'Women's Day Out' by Sneha Vrunda troupe on the day.

Programme organiser Shakunthala said, 'Most of them are eager to get back their childhood days. By conducing this type of programme women will get a breakthrough in their lives and it is a great stress reliever. Moreover, there is no age bar to enjoy the pleasant of life. I want every women to lead a happy life with  good health.'

'For most of us, after marriage and children most, life comes to an end. The programme name itself brought smile on my face. The programme is very well designed and it brought back our childhood days,' said Amrutha Ramesh.

'Forgetting all our daily tensions we became children once again here. Instead of
indulging in gossips, I wish more women should participate in this type of programme', said Shamala.

Jayashree Bhat says, 'We had lot of fun and there was excitement at every step. We spent our time here by exactly the way we did things in childhood, forgetting the outer world, our families and worries.'

'After my marriage I was missing my childhood very much. Now I am happy that at last I got the chance to enjoy my childhood in my 70's. This day will be in my memory for the rest of my life,' says Yashodhamma

MCC, MUDA to be covered under first phase of solar city project

Mysore City Corporation building, five of its zonal offices, Cheluvamba Park, Kuppanna Park, MUDA office, Chamundi Hill and cattle dung based power plant in Pinjarapole Society will be covered in the first phase of solar city project which is expected to be began in August. 

The total cost of the project estimated for the above projects is around Rs 5.29 crore and 30 per cent of subsidy will be provided from Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRH).

The parks will be illuminated with solar energy efficient lights and the additional power generated will be transferred for the nearest pole through Electricity Grid connectivity which will some earn some income for these organisations. The other targeted places are illumination of Mysore Palace, Sri Chamundeswari Hill Road from Arch to Hill top Bus stand, Hill steps (pathway road), surrounding area of Chamundi Hills.

Apart from this, Solar street lighting will be installed at New Sayyajirao Raod (from Ayurveda Hospital Circle to Highway Circle); MG Road (from JSS Hospital to Race Course Circle); Vanivilasa Road (from district court to agrahara Circle); 100 feet road (from Basaveshwara circle to Ramaswamy Circle); JLB Road (from Dhasappa Circle to Ramaswamy Circle); KRS Road (from lord Venkateswara temple to Ring Road Jn); Mahadevpura main road (Asiz sait Road).

Corporation Junior Engineer Subramanya said that '29 projects have been identified to implement under Renewable Energy and the aim of the programme is to reduce at least 10 per cent of the projected total demand of conventional energy at the end of five years.

The total indicative budget of solar city is estimated as Rs 1525 crore which will be invested over a five year period. Out of the Rs 1525 crore, Rs 1067 crore will be for various renewable energy options and Rs 458 crore will be for various energy efficiency options.

The total budget will be shared by MCC (4.8%), MNRE (25.2%) and private share (70%). A budget of Rs 3 lakhs has been kept for promotional and awareness campaigns and monitoring and implementation. A substantial amount of investment Rs 35 crores per year can be generated through carbon financing mechanisms if suitable methodology is adopted for the same.

Women empowerment through entrepreneurship development

Innovative research in agriculture and food technology can definitely be a boon for rural development. Here is one such classic example of women empowerment through entrepreneurship development.  

Three year ago, around 250 women Self Help Groups, hailing from 10 villages of Malavalli taluk, Mandya set up their own venture dealing with maize, a value added product, by growing quality protein maize (QPM- hybrid) with the assistance of ICAR- NAIP (National Agriculture Innovation Project).

Now, the women SHG groups have registered a Society 'Cauvery Mahila Federation' and have moved forward to set up their enterprise in maize products, by signing an MoU with UAS, Bangalore. Through the society, the women are taking the  responsibility of not only managing the Common Facility Centre (CFC) at Malavalli, but are also planning to train more than 1000 women.

The project was started in 2009, and was initiated by an NGO AWAKE. Since then, about 500 farmers constituting 'Maize growing Farmers Society' are practicing dry land cultivation and so far, they have harvested close to 1500 tons of maize per year.

Women SHG's under the project source their maize for value addition from these farmers and process them into various food products at Common facility Centre established through the project.

The Department of Food science and Nutrition, University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) have provided the technology for conversion of maize into nutritious Vermicelli, Noodles, flour, papads and ready snacks. The products has been approved by National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad.

AWAKE Vice-President Dr Rajeshwari said that “the SHG women will be empowered with entrepreneurship and skill training, business concepts, enterprise management in maize value addition. Later, they will be helped to establish CFC's and promotion of maize products through market linkages.'

'Their economic independence and confidence has motivated several other women in the area. This project will surely establish Mallavalli’s MAIZY brand, provides job for locals and enhance the economic status of farmers and SHG women,' she said.

The food are high in protein, fiver and of good quality. They are also recommended as diet for diabetes patients and further trials are on for recommendation to obese patients, she added.

Bogadi Lakes to get facelift by August

Here comes good news for the residents of Bogadi. Two of the city's famous lake Mariyappana Kere and Rayanakere situated in Bogadi will get back its glory by August. 

The Corporation has taken up the rejuvenation and beautification works of the two Lakes at the cost of Rs 1 crore. The amount has been granted by State government.

Rayanakere is situated in a kilometer radius from Mariyappana Kere, famously known as Bogadi Kere. The lakes are been heavily polluted as the waste materials and debris are dumped here daily.

Being neglected for past several decades, the lake had become heaven for mosquitoes, snakes and various other insects. Shrubs and weeds had grown to very high-level and the loose soil had been deposited in the lake. Due to flow of sewage water into lake from Vijayanagar 2nd and 3rd Stage, the lakes have become sewage reservoir.

Corporation officials are cutting the weeds and are clearing debris in the Lake from past three days. In a span of week boundaries will be fixed and fencing  erected surrounding the lake will be removed.

Corporation Assistant Commissioner K Govindappa said that 'the discharge of untreated sewage into lake will be stopped shortly. After conducing a survey, improvement of lake will be done and will be protected from the catchments of encroachment.'

'Walking path will be created in the lake and measures will be taken to recharge the ground water system by installing necessary equipments. Plans have been made to complete the work withing two months,' he added.

Resident Vanitha Raman said that 'We are happy as the lakes is being cleaned. For past several years we were fed up with the lack of maintenance of lakes. A public park with lush green should be developed in the banks of the lake.”

The new rule of AICTE has put students into hardship

The new rule which has been amended by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), has put students into hardship, who want to pursue their career in Engineering and had opted for Computer science / Electronics while joining PUC or equivalent earlier. 

As per the recent regulations of AICTE, announced in their 2012 -13 hand book and KEA Rules, the eligibility criteria for admission to Engineering / Technology Courses will be based only on the student's performance in Chemistry/Biology/Biotechnology along with Physics and Mathematics in the PU II year/12th qualifying examination and scoring 45 per cent and above.

The students who have studied Electronics and Computer Science in the qualifying examinations will not be considered along with Physics and Mathematics for eligibility while admission to engineering courses from this year.

Former Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) Dean and present Sri Jayachamarajendra College of Engineering (SJCE) Dean Dr Syed Shakeeb Ur Rahman said that 'the new rule and lack of publicity has put students into hardship. There is no idea on what logic AICTE has implemented this rule.'

Though the rule was amended in March 2011 it was again withdrawn in July 2011. (Due to this many students had to withdraw some subject and rewrite the exam to attain eligible percentage to join engineering or had to join some other degree courses and lost Money when the rule was withdrawn and granted additional ranking for engineering admission during the academic year 2011-12).

But now, again this academic year, the eligibility criteria for admission to Engineering / Technology course is based only on Physics, Mathematics & Chemistry/BioTechnology/Biology and not Physics, Mathematics & Chemistry/BioTechnology/Biology/ Computer Science/Electronics.

“Until we receive further notification from KEA / VTU / AICTE we can't consider Electronics / Computer Science for the said eligibility criteria, unless they have secured about 135 marks in other subject (Physics, Maths and Chemistry only in case the student has opted computer science or electronics as 4th optional subject), said a member from the management of ATME College of Engineering.

When Express Spoke with couple of students and parents, they were shocked and disappointed by the new rule which was amended all of a sudden without giving wide publicity.

Student Pavan (name changed) said that “I studied PCM with combination of Electronics and scored 52% in PME. But when I sought admission in one of the Engineering Colleges in the city, they said I don’t have eligibility as per the new AICTE rules because my score in PCM is less than 45%. So, I have to withdraw Mathematics and once again write exams to obtain eligibility. Now, if I score above 45% in PCM, I can seek admission for Engineering."

Another parent Murali said that “even though only few students take Physics, Chemistry, Maths and Electronics/Computer Science combination, when there is no eligibility for engineering / architecture courses, authorities of the concerned PU College should have brought into the notice of students and or parents at the time of admission to PU/equivalent. Now, students are unnecessarily put into confusion."

“While students opting for Medicine have the advantage of Biology being considered for ranking (along with Physics and Chemistry) why are the students opting for Engineering deprived of not considering Computer Science or Electronics,” is the question asked by most worried students and their parents.

Show cause notice for more than 310 technical colleges


Even though last year the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the governing body which regulates all Engineering and Technical colleges across the country, had issued show cause notice many had not adhered to it as the AICTE has once again issued a fresh notice for more than 310 technical and engineering colleges this year too without granting any further appeals.

The notices has been issued to 72 colleges in Tamil Nadu; 70 in Maharashtra; 64 in Andhra Pradesh, 30 in Uttar Pradesh; 14 colleges from Karnataka and Kerala respectively, 21 at Haryana; 10 in Rajasthan; 5 in Delhi, 3 in Punjab, 2 at Himachal Pradesh and 10 various other colleges situated in Orissa, West Bengal and Jharkhand.

In all, colleges situated in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh are increase in number of obtaining notices for deficinecies. The notices has been issued citing lack of infrastructure, due in salary payment to faculty, or it might the college functioning on temporary location and does not own proper land documents and various other issues.

Acting tough AICTE has asked these institutes why they should not be de-recognized for the lapses. After receiving replies from the concerned institution, the AICTE will decide on the course of action. The Council even recommended criminal action against certain Engineering colleges.

City will soon have a renewable energy park

In a bid to generate interest among the public about the use of various forms of renewable energy sources, officials are planning to setup a energy park in the city at the cost of Rs 1 crore in a sprawling area of 10,000 square feet.

The park will be situated amidst beautiful garden with abundant greenery, flowers, attractive musical fountain and an unique water fall. The visitors to the park will be guided to switch over from the conventional energy sources to renewable energy sources in their daily lives, to prevent further environmental deterioration.

The main exhibits in the park comprises of solar energy, bio energy, wind power, hydel power and even ocean energy along with a few others. The entire park and the garden will be illuminated with power generated using the Solar Photo Voltaic (SPV) cells.

Further a bio gas plant capable of generating 10 metre cube capacity of biogas will be installed in the park and the raw feed required for operating the plant will be provided by the vegetation grown in the garden itself, thereby making the idea of renewable energy more clear.

Working models of miniature wind mill generators and micro hydel plants will be installed in the park to educate people on how energy can be generated even from ocean waves. Other proposed attractions are a solar powered boat, solar car and a solar hut.

Corporation Junior Engineer Subramanya said that “plans have been made to set up the park in any engineering college, if they take initiative. The cost of the project is estimated to be one crore rupees of which 50 per cent of amount will be funded by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRH) and the remaining 50 per by Institutes implementing the project,” he added.

“Private manufacturers will be inviting to display their renewable energy products and manpower to monitor the arrangement of things. With the companies directly exhibiting their products in the park, they can better understand the needs of the consumers and interact accordingly thereby eliminating the need of middlemen,” he added. Corporation Commissioner KS Raikar said the project comes under Mysore Model Solar city.

Relish varieties of delicious mango under one roof

If you want to relish varieties of delicious Kings of Fruits 'Mango', then don't miss a chance to visit Curzon Park where Mango Mela is being held. Farmers from HD Kote, T Narasipur, Mysore, Nanjangud, KR Nagar, Hunsur and surrounding villages have exhibited about 23 varieties of organic farming mangoes.

Fruits like Mallika, Dhasheri, Malgoa, Thothapuri, Ratna, Shakkargatti, Rajpuri, Arka Arun, Raspuri, Alphonso, Rajpuri, Ratnagiri Alphonso, Arka Puneeth, Langra, Himayath, Sindura, Badami, Bagenpalli Malgova, Dil Pasand, Rathnagiri Alphonso, Raj Puri are delighting people with their hybird shapes and quality.

For first of its kind, the Mango Mela has been organised by Horticulture Department at Curzon Park, to provide a platform for farmers to sell their products directly to the consumer and keep away the middlemen. The mela will be held between 10 am and 8 pm and concludes on June 3.

As soon as the clock chugged at 10 am, people in large number throng to purchase juicy fruit. Earlier before inauguration, in a span of one hour about 480 kgs of fruits were sold.


Apart this, farmers were seen providing tips about how to grow organic farming mangoes and the ill-effects on soil, human health by consuming Mangoes which are ripened using chemicals.

Dooda Maragowdana Halli (DMH) Farmer Sahjeev Kumar who has displayed about eight varieties of Mangoes, said that 'In a span of two hours, I have sold about 300 kgs of Mangoes. Without the intervene of middlemen we are happy we are obtaining handful of money for our strenuous efforts.

Another Farmer Basavaraju from Thoncirayana Hundi said that if fully grown Mangoes are ripened they will be very tasty.

'For first time I am coming across so many varieties of mouth watering Mangoes. As the mangoes are naturally-ripened the fruits are very tasty and the prices are also quite reasonable. The mela should be held every year,' said visitor Uttham, who was enjoying the juicy fruit.

Deputy Director of Horticulture Nagaraj said that 'some more farmers will be joining the mela by Saturday and many more varieties of mangoes will be added glory to the expo.'
Apart this, seminar will be held during the mela and experts will educate farmers about the importance of organic farming.

Everywhere 'Olympia' in this house

Sports is a passion with both teenagers and old people alike, just as 60-year-

old M Sukumar who not only plays sports, but is also an avid collector of trivia and tidbits related everything to World records and Olympic records of all games alongside achievements of sportsperson of par excellence.

He has in his record achievements of every sports persons who ever took part in every World and Olympic Championships held so far including that of National Championships. Since 1985 he has collected innumerable clippings from newspapers and sport magazines, all pasted neatly on a cardboard in a chronological order according to the year of the achievements.

He has maintained separate profiles of shooter Abhinava Bindra, Davis cup players Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi, weight lifter Malleshwari, wrestler Sushil Kumar, athletes PT Usha, Anju Boby George, upcoming athletes who will be representing Olympics like Ashwini Poonappa, Jwala, Vikas Gowda and several others.

Everywhere 'Olympia'

Naming his house 'Olympia', he has displayed a football atop his water

tank and has also named his vehicle 'Olympus' (after the Greek Goddess). A poster of some sports person adorns every door, alamariah and wall in his house. For his marriage invitation card he had art work of handball printed on them. He has even named his children MS Kishore as Nabuthaka Taguchi of Japan and MS Preetham as Abibikila of Ethiopia.

Achievements

Sukumar, a retired Canara Bank officer has represented Karnataka consecutively for 27 years in the National Swimming and Handball competitions and various other athletic events. He has won several gold, silver and bronze medals especially in diving from a spring board.

He was selected as one of the international commentator during Commonwealth and Asian Games. Incidentally he was the first Handball coach for Nation Institute of Sports, Punjab and the first Mysorean to win diving championships in Swimming.

He says, “there are several good commentators (announcers) in Mysore, but it is sad that announcers are brought in from Bangalore during Dasara. Also the deterioration of of peoples involvement in sports and games is hurting me a lot. Though the next Olympics is fast approaching, no decision has been made to select and train good players from city.”

In 2002, he has started Vijayanagar Sports and Games Club and since then has trained hundreds of budding players. By next month he is planning to open a exclusive football club for girls.

Rifle Association will be revived soon

Here comes good news for the Civilians who are interested to learn handling rifles. The Civilian Rifle Training Association which had remained defunct for past nine years will be revived soon.

Few years ago, the Rifle Association faced a major setback and since then City Armed Reserve Police was providing rifle training for civilians. But now again plans have been made to revive the Association.

Disclosing this to Express, Police Commissioner KL Sudheer said that after holding a meeting with concerned officials, the decision will be taken.

In 2011, eight batch of training programmes were conducted and about 271 Civilians have obtained training. This year from January to till date, about three batch of training has been provided.

In a bid to imbibe self confidence, courage, self protection and to promote good relations between Police department and public, a training course in rifle shooting was introduced. The Mysore city police together with the Rifle Association started the Civilian Rifle Training Course (CRTC) and started providing training since 1989. But since 2003-04, the Association remained defunct.

Association Secretary Rameshchandra said that 'there was a huge demand for Civilian Rifle training. We used to held training in two batches some time and the strength would exceed about 40 members.'

'We took active interest to enroll members by distributing pamplets, give advertisements in newspapers and provide wide publicity about the training, as a result there was overwhelming response,' he added.

The Association which has a strength of ten members is planning to bring back its glory in rifle training, if revived. According to sources, it is learnt that there is a decline in the number of candidates enrolling for the training from past five-six years.

As per CAR DCP Prabha Shankar said that 'earlier there were not many localities and extensions, which resulted in more number of admission to rifle training to protect their property and selves. Whereas at present the situation is different.'  

People's Park Row: MGP to file PIL again

In one side, Corporation is planning to construct library at People's Park, in other side a strong protest is being staged by MGP Members, Environmentalist and mementos of various organizations.

In the same, opposing the construction of Library in People's Park, Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) wants to continue its campaign and to file PIL again for the second time to save People's Park situated in heart of the city.

College and school students are invited to give suggestion about the park on June 24 between 10 am and 12 pm and each school can symbolically plant a tree.

The assembled students can discuss the topics like how MCC has violated Karnataka parks act in the case of Peopleʼs Park, need for saving lung space, the importance of good governance, the role of common man in a democracy etc.

MGP Convenor Bhamy V Shenoy said that this type of modified Gandhian approach of putting indirect pressure on the authority may result to elected representatives drop the idea of the library as they did few years back.

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Know how the save Peopleʼs Park campaign began

In the mid of 90s, Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) read a report in a paper stating Forest Officer has refused to give permission to cut trees at People's Park in order to construct library.

One fine day, MGP Convenor Bhamy V Shenoy got the call from the officer stating Divisional Commissioner might give permission to construct library and politicians are also involved in it.

In the same MGO invited people Court and took up the project of saving People's Park and filed PIL in 2000 and stopped the construction.

Later, there was plans to convert the same park into a private bus stand, but widespread public protests it was stopped.

But, now again foundation stone has been laid to construct a library in the People's Park. MGP members have contacted Mysore City Corporation (MCC) Commissioner KS Raikar and have confirmed that the Department of Library is planning to construct a Library.

Bhamy V Shenoy said that 'when I questioned about how they could go against Karnataka Parks, Play Fields and Open Spaces Act of 1985, Raikar argued stating that the Act allows to make use of 5% of the land. I told him that such a provision is there in the Act only for the use of the park to store its equipments and not for any other purpose. '

'Then he suggested that I should contact the Department of Library as though MCC has no interest or jurisdiction. I was surprised and saddened by his indifference.'

Later, MGP staged protest accompanied with environmentalist and Mysore Youth Forum on May 27. By the time MGP members reach the place a sing board was erected stating 300x400 acres of land will be used for construction of library and a compound was constructed and there was a tough-of-war between MGP and Corporation officials on the day.

A Contempt of Case was filled against Bhamy Shenoy and Retd Maj Gen Karumabaiah during this period. The proposed cost of the building in Peoples Park is expected to cost nearly Rs. 2.5 crores.

How the encroachment of park began

MGP Member Chandra Prakash who is a regular walker in the People Park since 1950's say that the park was Parallel to Government House and was filled with Greens.

According to him the first encroachment of the People' Park was by government college and School. Later, as days passed away temple was erected, and there is Darga towards City bus stand side and the place was provided for tennis court. The garbage are being dumped in the park at present.

'The government itself violating the rules by breaking the law. Library is important but not to be placed at the park. Slowly the park will be completely encroached,' he added.

Mysore's lung space is disappearing at rapid rate. Unless we the residents take active interest, Mysore will be ruined the way Bangalore is.

- Bhamy V Shenoy, MGP Convenor

Libraries are required to be located at serene places and not in noisy Central Business Districts. This construction money can be spent to improve the existing ill-kempt libraries and to set up more libraries in extensions where they do not exist.

- Vasanthkumar Mysoremath, Social Activist & Environmentalist.

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Construction of library in the lines of Cubbon Park, Works to be completed by 2014

Library Department Deputy Director Manjunath said that construction of library will began in 15 days and fencing works will be completed within a period of week and the soil testing is over. The estimate cost of library is 4.08 crores.

The library will be inaugurated in 2014, to mark the centenary celebrations of City Central Library situated on Sayyaji Rao Road, he added.

'Park and library will be developed in the lines of Bangalore Cubbon Park. The Department has not collected Rs 8 crore of cess amount which has been collected by Corporation. The same amount will be used to develop the park.'

'As per the government order, decision has been taken to construct the library in the vacant place and not a single tree will be cut to construct the library. The library building will be constructed in the lines of heritage building in the 340x400 areas,' he said.

Karantaka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited (KRIDL) will execute the construction works. Plans have been made to construct walking path, garden and provide good environment for citizens, he added.

Plans of Library

In 1980's during the time of Vishwa Kannada Sahitya Sammelana the decision was taken to construct the library and even PWD called the tender. Later, due to shortage in funds in 1990 plans were made to construct the library along with public private partnership, where library in 50 per cent and other 50 per cent for construction of complex. Some Nilgiri tress were cut and a strong protest was staged and the proposal was dropped.

Now, after a period of decade, plans have been made to construct only library dropping the plan of construction of commercial complexes.

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No meaning in protest

DD Manjunath said that there is no meaning in opposing the construction works and the Writ Petition filed by MGP members was dismissed by court after two years.

'If library constructed amidst parks, it provides lovely atmosphere for readers and there will be no disturbance. Earlier plans were made to construct commercial complex and I welcome the oppose. But why now, when only library is being constructed,' he questioned.

Well-known vocalist Shankar Shanbhogue music concert in Mysore

 Shankar Shanbhogue an well-known vocalist and a crusader, who is on a mission to spread the essence of poetry with the help of music and wants to raise humanism in human being through the energy of music through his unique concept of Kavya Sangeeta, will be staging 'Antharanga', a unique programme in city.

The programme Antharanga – 4, will be held in Mysore for first time on May 27 at 10.30 am at Premier House, No 314, Dewans Road (next to Marimallappa College). The event has been jointly organised by Saatvika Cultural Foundation, Bangalore and Samarpana, Mysore.

He will be singing about ten songs on the occasion accompanied with Veerabhadraiah on Harmonium and Raghu on Tabla. The theme of the songs will be explained by Dr HS Venkatesh Murthy.

Hailing from Chikkamangalore District Shankar Shanbhogue has rendered thousands of music programmes across country and on a path to educate people. For him music is a sword that brings social reformation, social transformation, a revival of moralistic society. It is also a medium to ease emotional turmoil’s of life and to raise human spirit into higher level of pure consciousness.

Though he holds diploma in Mechanical Engineering, the love of music has held him steadfast as a performer. Under the title of 'Antharanga' he holds free music concert across country and sing kannada poetry which includes Dasa Sahitya, Vachana Sahitya, Bhavageethe, Janapada Sahitya and so on. Another unique thing of his concerts is, before singing the songs the summary and meaning of the song will be briefed by a renowned poet.

Shanbhogue says, when the theme of the song is explained, it touches the heart of the people and they might change their mind-set. He got inspired keen interest from his mother Anasuya, who was singing Dasa Sahitya.

He has rendered programme in Canada, UK, USA, Middle East and has formed Saatvika Cultural Foundation in Bangalore just to fulfill his finest ambition of educating the lay man. As a play back singer he has sung for both motion pictures and non film musical recordings. He has composed songs for ballets and musical productions in the field of Dance, as a composer for National Games and Aero India Shows in association with eminent maestros and music directors.

He feels, music should create higher sensibility in the listener and should not become mere exercise to show off one’s control over technical nuances of music and its rendition should transcend entertainment. 'Good music goes beyond mere stress release; it stirs the fathoms of the listener’s soul.'

Century-old Jayalakshmi Vilas mansion losing its shine !

The century-old Jayalakshmi Vilas mansion with its rich architectural splendor situated inside University of Mysore campus in a sprawling area of five acres is gradually losing its shine.

At several places the roof has collapsed and fungus is growing due to seepage of rain water. Because of this the wooden slabs used for roofing has started to decay and also broken at several places. As the mansion is built in the traditional method of Madras roofing (lime mortar added with sand, egg

shells, Billwapathre and Antwala Kayi), whenever it rains, water seeps into iron rods and woods, falling on the floor in a brownish colour. As the floors are not scrubbed and cleaned regularly at several places the floor appears like it has been burnt giving it an ugly appearance.

The growth of algae on the underneath of ceilings and walls is quite rampant in the first floor while in other rooms the bulbs are not working and needs to be replaced. Even though the building was

renovated in 2002 at a cost of Rs 1.17 crores, the paint on the walls of the mansion is peeling off with the paint sticking to the hand on touching it. The entire expenditure of renovation was borne by Sundha Murthy, wife of Infosys mentor, Narayan Murthy.

In the paintings gallery photos have been arranged on the floor. Field Assistant Dr Betappa informed that as most of the paintings were not very old, no steps have been taken to safeguard them.

Being one of the five royal mansions built by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar III for his daughter Jayalakshammanni, the foundation stone for this mansion was laid on November 21, 1901 and the building was completed in December 1905 with roof standing at a height of 40 feet. The cost of construction in those days came to Rs 7 lakh. Specially imported glass from Belgium were used in the building which provides natural light even after sun set.

This three-wing building now being used as a research center of the students, houses rare

collection of folklore, geological and archaeological artefacts collected from different parts of India.

The mansion comprises of 119 rooms, four open corridors, 399 windows and 88 ventilation and 290 wooden doors, 96 wooden pillar (15 to 18 feet). Rich carving, beautiful filigree work, teak wood dome, pillars and tall interior designs draw the attention of visitors.

University of Mysore acquired the mansion to establish a postgraduate center in 1959. An Archeological and Folklore Museum was established by Litterateur Dejagow in 1980's, by contributing his wife's jewels.

Watch out your speedometer, else you get notice at home

While driving keep an eye on the speedometer. If you violate the rule and exceed the permissible speed you get notice to home by the Traffic Police who are equipped with Interceptors. Since December 1, 2011 to May 20, 2012, around 2,213 cases (only four-wheelers) have been booked out of which 1389 cases have already been dispensed with. An average of 62.72 per cent cases have been disposed off so far, collecting Rs 4,16,700 fine.

Notices will be sent directly to the violators house seeking to pay fine. For other State persons those who violate rules fine is collected on the spot. If a traffic violator fails to reply to the notice within a stipulated time of 15 days, court summons will be issued.

Measures have been taken to collect the fine from remaining 38 % for traffic rules violators. Though in the past too fines were collected on the spot from traffic violators, there was heated arguments between the violators and the Traffic police. But now there is no choice to argue but to owe up their mistake and pay the penalty. As complete documentary evidence of the traffic violators is now available it becomes easier for the cops too prosecute.

The vehicle provides the speed of the moving vehicles providing instant information along with details like date, time and place. This technological innovation has led to better dispensation of justice.

Each Interceptor vehicle has two persons of which one is the driver and other the operator. There are six such vehicles already in operation in Mysore city. According to sources, plans have been made to install a software when traffic offenders from across the country can be issued notice.

Not only over speeding but also drunken driving can be detected and captured on video. The system comprises of customised vehicle platform, enforcement equipment, hardware, software, complimented with data analysis centre. On account of increasing number of vehicles and shortage of staff, the Interceptor has come as a boon for the Traffic police personnel.

ACP (Traffic) Shanakaregowda said that it is learnt for accidents of two-wheelers contribution of four-wheelers is more and at present cases are book against only four-wheelers drivers, who violate the rules.

How it works

Interceptors are mounted inside vehicles which has facilities to capture real time video of vehicles moving at a distance and also simultaneously monitor their speed. Any traffic violation by a motorist like crossing white line, overtaking from wrong side, jumping traffic light in addition to over-speeding cab be recorded in real time as evidence of the offense. The Interceptors are equipped with flip type LCD monitor which can take pictures of speeding vehicles from as far as 1.5 km along with a clear picture of the Registration number plate.