Wax Statue of Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar to attract tourists

The Wadiyar dynasty which ruled Mysore for centuries has contributed immensely for the growth of art and culture by encouraging artisans and artists in the Royal court and showering them with gifts and awards.

As a mark of tribute to the Wadiyar family, Wax Museum, located in Siddartha Layout, will be putting up a life size look-alike statue of late scion Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar at its premises.

The statue is being created by 50-year-old Shreeji Bhaskaran, who initiated the concept of Wax Museum. Using about 150 kgs of wax, he has created the statue from last three months. The wax statue of Wadiyar in sitting position is about 6 feet tall and the estimated cost is Rs 10 lakh.

With dasara round the corner, the statue will be cynosure of all eyes during the period. Pramoda Devi Wadiyar will unveil the statue on September 20 at 12 noon at Museum Premises.

Manager at the Wax Museum, Santosh, said that due to repeated requests from the residents of Mysore and tourists alike, it was decided to place the wax statue of last Wadiyar in the museum. The museum already houses the wax replica of another famous ruler of Mysore, late Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV, which was unveiled during the 2012 Dasara celebrations.


A tourist from Kerala Manoj said: “We have heard about Waidyar's and their contribution to society. The visitors to the Wax museum can have a look of the statue of Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar. The rulers will remain in our minds forever.”

It can be mentioned here that recently a sand sculpture was created by Artist Gowri. While plans are on card to place POP statues of famous Wadiyars of Mysore at Kuppanada Park, where this year's Flower Show is being held.


The Wax Museum in city is based on a theme related to different kinds of musical instruments played world over. It exhibits over 100 wax statues and over 350 musical instruments most of which were purchased from all across the world.

Save vultures campaign: Stop use of Diclofenac for treating cattle

Use of diclofinac drug in veterinary has depleted vulture population in the south. Thus, to sensitise the stakeholders not to use Diclofenac for treating the cattle and establish Diclofenac Free Safe Zone for Vultures, an save vulture motor cycle rally programme was held on July 12 and 13.  
 
Speaking on the occasion, Parmesh, Range forest officer, Goplaswamy Betta Range said that vultures are as important as tiger and elephant. There is need of  spreading of information that vulture is an endangered bird and need proper attention regarding its survival in the natural world.  

Barathidasan convener for Arulagam said that there is a tremendous decline in population of vulture and its need of the hour save them.

D Rajkumar honorary wildlife warden and National Tiger Conservation Authority representative said that the main reason for the decline is attributed to the indiscriminate usage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) Diclofenac.

“Diclofenac was widely used as a pain-killer for Cattle. Government of India banned the usage of Diclofenac for cattle in 2006. But unfortunately the drug is largely available and administered to cattle. Diclofenac version for human use is being illegally used on livestock. Protecting them from dying we need to commit that diclofinac use in veterinary through livestock need to stop. In this regard peoples participation is very important and this rally reached the stake holding people surrounding tiger reserves.”  

Enriching the information regarding vulture species in the nilgiri biosphere region, he said: “White rumped vulture, Red necked vulture, Long billed vulture and Egyptian vulture these four species thrive and breed in the nilgiri region. Nilagiri biosphere reserve is the last lung space for these vulture breeding, this remaining population has to be saved,” he pointed out.

The event jointly organised by Arulagam and Tirupur Information Technology Association (TITA), crossed three states, namely Tamilnadu, Kerala and Karnataka by covering four Tiger Reserves namely, Mudumalai, Bandipur, Biligiriranganatha temple tiger reserve (BRT) and Sathyamangalam apart from two Wildlife Sanctuaries namely, Wayanad and Muthanga.  

The rally started from Tirupur, and passed over 400 km covering Gudalur, Dultan Battery, Muthanga, Gundlupet, Chamarajanagar.
Carcass poisoning and Forest fire issue were also focused during this rally.

Rodents haunt KR Hospital patients

More than 1,000 rodents are poisoned every month

The menace of rodent is at larger extent at the city's famous KR Hospital. Whats alarming is about 1,000 rodents are killed by poisoning every month by a daily wage worker Siddaraju from various wards located inside the KR Hospital.

As the vegetable market, Booti Bazaar is adjacent to the hospital, rodents find it easier to enter through underground drainage pipes, roads. Another reason cited for the rampant menace is that visitors to hospital discard the leftover food openly, and for the smell rodent comes.

Speaking to Express, most of the staff and patients complained of rats entering the wards around 8 pm creating panic among the women and their relatives who sleep on the floor.
As rodents pose serious health risks, it has become cause of worrisome for both doctors and patients alike. Specially, the patients undergoing treatment at Cheluvamba hospital (Maternity hospital) will pass everyday out of fear in night.

Dean and Director of Cheluvamba Hospital, Dr Krishhna Murthy said that as the hospital is right adjacent to Market it has become a challenging task to tackle the rat menace.
“We are putting all efforts to bring the problem under control by catching rats. Though a large number of rats are being poisoned each day, their numbers have not dwindled. To extend the exercise further, we need to give contract for concerned agency for which Rs 25,000 per month is needed,” he added.
Siddaraju, who is working for KR Hospital for last seven years said: “I keep the poison at safe place, where other insects, birds cant reach. An average of about 25 to 50 rats are poisoned every day at MMC&RI, KR Hospital and Cheluvamba Hospital.”

Yogesh, a residents of Vidyaranayapuram said: “I had admitted my sister to Cheluvamba Hospital for delivery. I found big rats entering the wards daily night. We had taken utmost care for the new born baby during our stay.”
T Narasipur Taluk Senior Citizen Rekhavathi also admitted the menace of big rats and complained of lack of hygiene. “Have witnessed big rats scurrying inside the wards. Measures should be taken to trap them.”
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'Ethane is clean fuel and doesn’t cause any harm to nature'

IIT Assistant Professor Dr P Hariprasad delivering talk on major role in improving existing technology, said that United State, Brazil are using Bioethanol and plans are there to blend 5 per cent of Bioethanol in India by 2017.

“Bioethanol, a renewable fuel is very clean fuel and doesn’t cause any harm to nature. It is becoming increasingly important as a consequence of major convert for depleting oil reserves, rising crude oil prices and green house effect,” he said.

'USA, Brazil countries are producing ethane by using sugarcane, wheat, corn, maize, rice. They have modified vehicle engine and are using the produced ethane directly. This will be implemented in country in coming years,' he added.

'Even harvesting the plants grown in lakes ethane can be produced. This is sustainable technology and we can protect the lakes, environment by cleaning the lakes,' he said.
Green Algae
“Green Algae as high photosynthetic efficiency and are rich in oil content (more than 50 per cent). It is one of the fastest growing plants and cultivation is easy. We have to use this efficiently for produce of ethane,” he said.
“First generation biofuel; technologies are practiced from last 40 years world wide. Both the technologies criticised by environmentalists because of requirement of agriculture land to grow these plants and the consequent shortage of food and land for food production. Thus, poor and rich countries are looking towards second generation bio ethical process and research in this regard are ahead in foreign countries, compare to India,” he added.

Stating Methane is also responsible for global warming, he said through genetic engineering single celled plants can be grown in future and can be harvested in 24 hours to produce ethanol.

Lack of awareness
Speaking on the occasion, CSRTI Scientist Dr T Thippeswamy said Environment is one of the seven biggest problems in the country.

Stating discussion are held to maintain the temperature of the earth in two degree, he said compare to other countries, awareness on environment in our country is less.

Stating its because of the industrial revolution there is increase in global temperature, he said developed countries are more responsible for environment pollution. There is no serious concern to protect environment. Unless the government implements the law effectively, its difficult to to protect the environment, he added.

'Biotechnology plays a major role in replacing fossil fuel'

Dr P Hariprasad, Assistant Professor, Centre for Rural Development and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi said that Biotechnology plays a major role in improving existing technologies to replace fossil fuel.

“The consumption rate of fossil resources across world has increased 50 per cent in the period of 1980 to 2004," he said. He was delivering talk on role of Biotechnology in future fuels in city on Sunday, organised by Mysore Science Foundation.

"By 2050 fossil fuel might end. Even if its available the price will be out of reach for common man. Though Solar, Wind, Geothermal, hydropower and tidal energy are being harvested from long back, still we have achieved only 3.75 per cent of world requirement,” he regretted.

Stating rise in fossil fuel consumption rises risk of global climate change, he said fossil fuel can be replaced with Biomass by converting it into energy. Only 8 per cent we have replaced in Bio Mass, and four per cent Solar, wind, hydropower, he added.

Stating increase in population has led to increase in pollution, he opined India-China have to think about this seriously and have to chalk out measures to prevent the increase in global warming.

“Using edible and cultivated crops bio diesel, bio fuel, is produced in foreign countries. Wheres in countries like India, conversion of edible plant parts into biofuel is not a practicable idea, as this might lead to shortage of food for growing population.”

Municipal Sold waste has become big problems in major cities. 30 per cent of sewage waste is treated in the country and 70 per cent is released to rivers. But, using sewage water effectively, four per cent of energy can be produced.

"Sewage are rich in nutrition. There are plants which purify the microbes in sewage water in different levels and more than 50 per cent of water can be reused after purification. Sewage treatment and energy product technology has to be implemented to beautify city,” he suggested.

One of the possible solutions for the above discussed problem is use of non edible plant parts for bio energy production, that is second generation biofuels. Biohydrogen and Algal oil are also considered as future fuels. Already, USA European countries are running vehicles using bio hydrogen.

'Provide admission under RTE'

Sarvajananga Hitharakshana Vedike members have urged education department to cancel the recognition of Rainbow Public School, which has denied admission for RTE children, citing the reason of shifting school.

About six children had obtained seat under Right to Education at Rainbow Academy School, Bogadi in 2013-14.

With sudden shift over of school to new premises, the DDPI is providing education for six children selected under RTE separately. Opposing the move of DDPI, hundreds of activists, including the parents staged protest in front of Deputy Commissioner's office here on Monday.


'Conducting classes separately for six children will severely affect the growth of children. The children have to study accompanied with other children. Its high time the DDPI should transfer the six children to new premises of school or should cancel the recognition of the school,' said Rakshana Vedike President Venugopal.


“When the parents have approached DDPI HR Basappa, instead of enrolling the children to new school, he has decided to run school separately for this children. Before giving permission for closure of school the officials would have thought about the children enrolled under RTE,” he added.


Citing the reason of lack of facilities, the school has been shifted to new premises at Maratikyathanahalli Village, three km away from the Bogadi, and has been named as Rainbow Public School. When the parents have went for admission for the year 2014-15, have come to know the school has been shifted to new premises.


When the parents have asked the management of the school to provide admission in the new school under RTE, the school management has denied admission stating the school not comes under RTE for this year. And, there is no provision to transfer or Shift the children to other school under RTE, said the protestors.


“We are ready to send our wards to the new building. The school administration demand Rs 40,000 fee for admission to UKG. How is it possible for a poor parents to enroll children. With the earned little money, its hard to manage family. Then how can we bear the education expenses,” added parents.

The parents said that without any prior information the school has been closed, and they are encountering several challenges to enroll their wards back to school from last one month.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) designed by MIT students

The project of design and fabrication of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in the name Y4 Copter was carried out by the 8th semester Mechanical Engineering students Mohan Keerthi, ST Savanth, K Ashwini and PB Pramod of Maharaja Institute of Technology, Mysore.

An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), commonly known as a drone and referred to as a Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), is an aircraft without a human pilot aboard. Its flight is controlled either autonomously by on board computers or by the remote control of a pilot on the ground or in another vehicle.

“They are usually deployed for military and special operation applications, but also used in a small but growing number of civil applications, such as policing and firefighting, and nonmilitary security work, such as surveillance of pipelines. UAVs are often preferred for missions that are too "dull, dirty or dangerous” for manned aircraft. As a tool for search and rescue, UAVs can help find humans lost in the wilderness, trapped in collapsed buildings, or adrift at sea,” said the students.

The name Y4 Copter is named after the shape of the aircraft resembling the alphabet ‘Y’ and ‘4’ is due to number of propellers used are four. The complete design and all the stages of fabrication process and assembly were solely carried out by the students at the college premises.

Automation is implemented to maintain the desired roll, pitch and yaw. There are two propellers and motors at the front on two separate arms and two co-axial propellers and motors at the rear end. The relative motions of roll and pitch are achieved by tilting mechanism by servos. There are two servos, one for the roll movement and the other for the pitch movement. The total system is powered by the battery. The flight and movement of the Y4 Copter is controlled by the wireless system called radio controller. A custom remote is built to communicate with the Y4 Copter which offers long range and security, added the students, who have done the project under the guidance of Dr Mohamed Khaisar, Professor and HoD-Mechanical Engineering.

The management and staff of the college witnessed the testing and first flight of the Y4 Copter and appreciated it.

Her 15 years dream came true !

Sky was the limit for her joy, when her 15 years dream came true on Wednesday.
40-year-old Veena, the first women auto driver in city, was intending to own a autorickshaw for last several years. Finally, her dream was fulfilled by members of Lions Club of Mysore Heritage City.

After having a look at the brand new autorickshaw, Veena found overwhelmed, experiencing joy, emotional together. She became speechless for a while, and thanked the club member for gifting an three-wheeler.

Going down the memory lane, Veena, a resident of OLD RMC C Block shared her experience thus:

“I was deserted by my husband 15 years ago. With two children in hand, I was completely on dark side of my future. I came to my mother house seeking shelter accompanied with two children.”

“My mother Lakshmamma, a road side food vendor is my inspiration. She showed me the way to lead life. She encouraged me to learn auto and take it as profession. Today, I feel myself to be proud for having credit of first women auto driver of Mysore.”

“In initial days, I was very much scared, nervous to go ahead with the male dominated society. I was facing fear to drive. Whereas, today I have gain confidence and have learnt how to deal with society,” she added. Lakshmamma thanked the Club members for donating Rs 1.60 lakh autorickshaw.

The Club members had promised her of donating an autorickshaw, after felicitating her in Women's Day recently. In the event, she had expressed desire of owning a auto, as it was hard to manage family with the earned money by driving a rented auto.

Thousands of sparrows fly joyfully in this locality

Sighting a sparrow in urban area will make one surprise and seeing several of them in one place is sure to evoke surprise and awe. Kudos to the efforts made by L Shivaraj, who for the past 25 years has involved himself in providing a safe breeding place for the sparrows which counts thousands.

Residents of the area take pleasure to feed the birds daily with rice, mixtures, paddy. Housewife Vanaja say: “We feel happy to watch sparrows fly over our houses everyday joyfully. From morning 4 am the birds start chirping, and we have become habitual listeners. Visitors to the temple also enjoy the chirpy noise of the sparrows and their play.”

Going down the memory lane, Shivaraj, a resident of Nanjumalige said: "The previous owner of the house is Badami Nanjappa, an bird lover. He had constructed about six houses in the same locality, and had ensured to provide separate enclosures for birds in all the houses he had built.”

“The exterior portion of the walls of the buildings are constructed in a such a way, that two face (front and back) of the wall has a minimum of 30 to 40 small openings just large enough for the sparrows to sneak. The interesting feature is the holes are inter-connected, so a sparrow can come out of any hole. The birds will have a free unhindered movement within these walls,” he added.

“I am residing in this house for the past 25 years. The number of sparrows residing here have increased to thousands, which were hundreds in 2000. By incorporating a small change while constructing houses, more birds can be provided shelter,” suggested Shivaraj.

“Visitors to my shop congratulate me for leaving the opening in the walls remain as they are. They spend their time at my shop watching the playful activities of sparrows. I have never felt that the birds are extinct,” said Shivaraj proudly who runs a tea shop.

“When sparrows having already disappeared in the city, due to construction of concrete jungles and radiation from mobile towers, efforts of the duo, Badami and Shivaraj is indeed laudable. Shivaraj has never attempted to close the holes, though owners of other buildings have done it,” said 60-yar-old Rajamma, neighbour, who is residing in the locality for the past 20 years.
Another resident Subramanya said: “The menace of monkeys is more who try to chase away the sparrows. But quite surprisingly a couple of Myna birds which come here daily alert the sparrows, by making loud chirping sounds. Listening to the sound Rajamma get alert and chase the monkeys away.”

Plans to introduce a subject on 'Rabies' in school text books

APCRI President Dr Abdul Rahman said that discussions are being held with the concerned authorities in the education department of the Central Government, to introduce a subject on the effective prevention against dog bites infected with Rabies in school text books, across the country.

Dr Abdul Rahman who was in city on Friday, speaking to Express, said that in order to create awareness amongst school children about dog bites, introduce of the subject in the curriculum will go a long way.

“Most school children do not speak to elders when they are bitten by a dog due to ignorance. Thus, to educate children about the simple steps to be followed when bitten by a dog is the need of the hour. With incidents of stray dogs biting children are reported frequently, the new subject will explain the do's and dont's for children,” he added.

The curriculum includes asking children not to tease a dog, nor to chase it and be cautious while playing with dogs, steps to be followed if bitten accidentally. The first step is to wash the wound with running tap water immediately after a dog bite and then inform either the teachers or parents, and several other basic information will be published in the chapter under the headline 'Rabies'. Cartoons which depict child bit by dog, wash the wound, will be published to drew attention of children, he informed.

'We had discussed over the plan with former Primary and secondary education minister Kimmane Ratnakar. He response was Positive. Now will approach new government shortly and hold talk with present Minister.' Continuing he said they had sent a proposal to the government across country, of which Orissa government is positive.

Modern Organic Service Center to come up in city

 
Officials of the Department of Horticulture in Mysore are planning to transform the vegetable yard on Hunsur Road into a modern Organic Service Center. The officials have hold talks with MUDA for handing over the lands for this purpose.

Director of Horticulture Department, Dr K Ramakrishnappa said that: 'If they two acres of land is handed over Center can be opened, where all relevant information about seeds, organic cultivation, marketing and any other assistance required by farmers taking up organic cultivation will be provided freely at this Center.

Steps will be taken to collect and store seeds of extinct varieties, on the lines of 'seed bank' for future generations. Exhibitions will be organised every month at the center which is bound to attract farmers even from neighbouring States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, he added.

He was speaking at an interaction meeting held with farmers at the Seed Mela expo held in city on Sunday. Continuing further he informed that seeds that yield fruits for a long term will be made available for farmers in coming days and terrace gardening will be extended to hobli level.

Three outlets exclusively selling organic products will be opened in the city under Jaivika Krushika Society, a State Government undertaking, within the next few days. The Society is striving to provide a direct link between consumers and farmers. This is bound to attract middle and poor class people in large numbers who are presently not purchasing organic products, citing it as expensive , he added.
'By gathering all like minded farmers, a group will be constituted, where one farmer will certify another farmer in the locality whether he is growing crops organically or not. So far the Certification was done by private parties, but with the launch of new method farmers can mutually certify themselves. Dr K Ramakrishnappa said they hope to launch the programme very soon that will help a large number of farmers.

Future plans of the Department includes introduction of a Desi Seed Bank at Taluk level, promoting farmers to market directly even in places where tribals reside.

Herbal garden for tribals
Tribals will be tied up with a herbal marketing company which will be launched in HD Kote shortly. It helps tribals to generate income as they will be trained to cultivate and harvest herbs as required by the company. Apart from this seeds of pulses and rare millet’s will be provided for them for cultivation and steps will be taken to distribute saplings of spices and fruits.

Farmers from all across the State took part in the meet. They were seen discussing their problems with the officials. The farmers enquired about supportive prices offered by the government and marketing issues and requested them to provide training to tribals to harvest and cultivate herbal and medicinal plants, arrange field visits to farmers engaged in organic farming and also distribute seeds for village women folk which they make sapling and distribute to farmers, amongst various others.

Trapped by debt, she headed towards Iraq

Trapped by debt, she headed towards Iraq, lured by the assurance made by her agent, that she could make more money than what she could, back here at home. But things didn't work out as she had hoped. The unexpected war that broke out in Iraq made her desperate to save her life first, waiting for the first safe opportunity to head back to Mysore.

Shobha Prabhakaran, resident of Bogadi, is the woman who is now searching for a nurse job in Mysore, after returning from Iraq. Sharing her experiences in Iraq, Shobha said: “The first time when I had been to Iraq was for a brief period in 2012 when returned back the same year. The next time I went to Iraq was in July 2013 and returned on April 20, 2014.”

“Hailing from a poor family, we were reeling under debt and had even sold a house to meet the financial crisis. It was then I decided to fly to Iraq, thinking I could come out of the debt at the earliest. I was employed as a staff nurse and the job lasted only for a few months. But even today I couldn't clear the debt.”

“There is a good demand for staff nurses in Iraq. Most of the patients whom we attended were those with either bullet injuries or injured by explosives. It was on December 26 the situation turned worse, as dozens of missile kept exploding quite near the flats where we stayed. With repeated sounds of gun shots and blasts and disgusted with the mass killings, I decided to return home, she added. When it started appearing on the media, my family members became apprehensive and asked me to return,” she added.

Explaining the horrifying moments of her last visit she said : “Every day I passed in fear during my stay there. While right behind the hospital, the military had its base camp, the militants on the other hand, had took position in the front. The war was going on unabated. We were caught in the cross-fire. We were holed up inside the hospital. Outside sounds of explosions were heard regularly. We were directed to move along the side of wall to protect ourselves from explosions.”
'The Government of Kerala has announced a house, cash and a job for those nurses who have returned back from Iraq. I request our State Government to at least assist me in providing an employment. I have an aged mother to look after and am the only woman from State had been to Iraq,' she requested.

Blind girl does Ph.D on visionary Kengal Hanumanthaiah

S Kavya Shree, in spite of being visually challenged, worked diligently for her Doctoral Thesis and was successful in getting awarded Ph.D by the University of Mysore for her research work on, 'Dynamics of Administration in Karnataka with special reference to Kengal Hanumanthaiah's regime'.
With a keen interest in Political Science, she was greatly influenced by the administrative skills of the former Chief Minister of Karnataka, late Sri Kengal Hanumanthaiah, who was instrumental in the construction of Vidan Soudha and decided to do a Doctoral research about his administration of the State.
Explaining her success she said: “Though I faced several problems in the beginning, I took it as a challenge and dedicated myself towards getting this Ph.D. I completed my schooling in Kannada medium. Only later I learnt English and developed command over the language. I wish to study further and do post-doctoral research,” she said detailing her future plans.
"My daily routine comprised of listening to music and reading books for about seven hours. I have received a lot of support from friends and teachers in my venture.” She thanked her parents B Siddaramu, a retired Commercial Tax Inspector and Meenakshi, a house-wife.
Claiming that she is first woman in the State to get PhD, who is born blind,she is now seeking a job as a Government teacher.
Speaking about her daughter, mother Meenakshi said: “Her blindness did not deter her dreams of pursuing Ph.D. She is equally good in house-hold work and knows how to use computers. Her dream was to become an IAS officer, but owing to financial and physical constraints it was not possible. She has passed all her exams, right from first standard to post-graduate MA degree in political science, at the very first attempt, always securing a First Class,” added her father Siddaramu.
"Kengal Hanumanthaiah is a torchbearer  for today's politicians. Being an able,honest and good administrator, he has laid a strong foundation for other politicians to follow," said Kavya speaking of her idol.
His capability in administering the affairs of the State are exemplary. Unification of Karnataka and construction of Vidhana Soudha are two great achievements of Kengal Hanumanthaiah, who also was a freedom fighter and was the second CM of Mysore State.  

Doll exhibitors chose different themes to educate populace

 
While the tradition of displaying dolls at home as part of the Navaratri celebrations is still being continued in several households, the only difference observed now is keeping in tune with the modern times in the selection of theme.


While in the past, various kinds of dolls were arranged decoratively based on events chosen from mythology or history such as Ramayana, Mahabharatha, Bhagavatha and various other sources all related to Gods and Godesses. But, from last few years a new trend is being observed now.

The issues chosen now are more relevant to the present day problems such as environmental pollution, conservation of natural resources like water, successful launch of Mangalayana by ISRO, effects of globalisation, green cover, Kashmir flood and several others.

Moved by the sudden demise of last scion of Mysore Royal family, Sri Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar, Shantha Lakshminarayana resident of Thyagaraja Road, an avid doll exhibitor in the city, has arranged dolls depicting the last Durbar of Wadiyar, alongside the Dasara procession.

JP Nagar Resident Geetha Rao's concept is Green India-Clean India. By placing appropriate dolls she wants to bring about awareness amongst the onlookers who visit her house about the importance of maintaining cleanliness in the country.

She has also highlighted issues related to environment and green cover. She has recreated Madekeri district, showcasing the cultural and habitat of the people, in the midst of hills, flowing rivers and green cover. She has named them, Vana Lakshmi and Jyothi Lakshmi.
Hemalatha Kumarswamy resident of Agrahara another doll enthusiast who is displaying dolls for the past three decades during dasara has chosen Common Wealth Games, Madikeri Dasara, ISRO Mangalayana and the recent disasters that occurred in Kashmir as her themes.

Shobha Satyanarayan, a resident of Kuvempunagar, spending more than Rs 40,000 has created replica of Manasasarovara and Sabarmathi Ashrama.

Sumana who is placing dolls from last four years said that giving prizes for the best doll exhibitors has motivated several women to place dolls more decoratively and attractively. Several women are concentrating on current events and educate visitors to the house about explaining their concepts.

Even quite a good number of working women have placed dolls taking leave for weeks together. The decorations, preparations begins one month prior to the festival. They have adoprned the hosue with colourful serial lights and floral decorations.

Greens turn red over shifting of canon firing practice venue, fear threat to animal, bird species

Greens have raised serious concerns about the canon firing that is taking place at the foot of Chamundi Hill to acclimatise the elephants to sound so that they do not panic when it happens during dasara procession. They opine that the loud sound caused during the canon firing practice besides endangering the elephants hearing will spell doom for birds and animal species in surrounding forest.

The authorities recently shifted the venue of canon firing to Police Firing Range at the foot of lush Chamundi Hill after a old temple near Palace came down due to the deafening sound of the canons.

The environmentalists say that the authorities would have though twice before shifting the venue and said that their decision appears to be insensitive. Gross sound pollution that the canon firing causes immense distress to the birds and elephants and it has to be stopped. Citing tradition affecting the lives of birds and animals is not good. Its not only a torture for the standing elephants by scaring them, and also to the nesting birds and other fauna.

According to a study, there are 210 species of birds can be spotted in hill, and all of them are very sensitive for sound. Locally nesting birds like Birds of Prey like Honey Buzzard, crested serpent eagle; Bee eater, lot of ground nesting bird like Red-wattled lapwing, Woodpecker, flycatchers, green bees, Shikra, and much more can be found. This apart, Rusty Spotted Cat, an smallest wild cat in the world; Civet, various species Mammals, mangaru, Jackal, including leopards are also spotted.

As per the scientific sources elephants can tolerate sounds upto   90 decible, while canons produce sound more than 225 decible, which is likely to cause deafness.

'Nobody has worked out the stress level suffered by the elephants and birds. There is need of understanding the psychology of elephants. With Karanaji Lake located quite near to the canon practice region, thousands of brooding and nesting birds in the lake and also Chamundi Hills are affected severely. Especially, in winter season, birds from North India migrate here to lay eggs. The birds might fly back scared,' said an senior naturalist, who didn’t wished to be named.

Daniel Sukumar Das, Managing Trustee of Can Trust, who has done

research on the behavior of elephants said that the booming sound made when a canon is fired will severely affect the elephants.

“Making to do some thing unnatural is cruelty. Humans and Elephants share almost similar psychological feelings Smaller birds suffer heart attack. Coming suddenly to human habitat, facing canon sound, andwalking on hard tar is a torture for the elephants.

The instance of sound will disturb them psychological and they suffer lot of stress. This being done close to Chamundi Hills is one more foolishness. It will affect the lives of the thousands of birds in the region, and the lesser fauna,” he added.

Further citing scientific evidence, he said: “Elephants have a very acute sense of hearing, which is at least ten times more sensitive than what human can hear. They can detect small vibrations coming from the ground and find out the location of other members of their species. There are already instances where they have banned honking of horns while driving and also firing crackers. When such is the case how can they allow firing of canons,” he questioned.

Mysore Amateur Naturalist former Member Guruprasad said that any unnatural sounds will definitely disturb the animals and birds. 'If the birds get disturbed, they fly for other place. Before hosting any event, everything has to be taken into consideration. This is an 'uncivilised culture' in the name of tradition. There is need of stopping some traditions, which affect the lives of birds and animals.'

Mysore to house state's first tribal museum soon

 

A tribal museum depicting tribal life, art and artifacts will come up on a 2.5 acres of land  at Kergalli, about seven kilometers from city. There are 50 tribal communities in State, and a detailed information
about their tradition, cultures, art, way of living and festival celebrations, food habit, musical instruments used, songs, dances, tribal languages, will be displayed at the museum.


Huts of the tribals of forest based tribes Soliga, Jeenukuruba, Siddi, Koraga, Yeerava, Kadu Kuruba, and other communities will be another major attraction of the museum. The museum also to house a rich
collection of wood sculptures, weapons, jewelry, tribal dresses, terracotta and anthropological objects, tribal craftsmanship, models depicting their kitchen attire and utensilles, farming materials, and
much more.


This apart, a documentary revealing their complete lifestyle will be screened at the museum. In all, the life to tribals to come alive at the tribal museum. The volunteers have already started collection of
tribal artifacts have started in Chamarajanagar, Mysuru, Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, Chitradurga, Bellari.

The museum will come at the cost of Rs 28 crore, consists of Indoor / Out door museum, training center and hostel, guest house, administrative block, digital library, and auditorium to host tribal events.


Karnataka State Tribal Research Institute Director Basavanagounda says for those who are curious to know about tribal life style, and day to day activity, the museum will be end point and researchers will be
benefitted in large.


'So far, there is no particular tribal institute in State, to depict the tribal culture, life style. The museum will be unique, and through the center tribes will be motivated, and awareness programmes, and
various government facilities will be made to reach them', he added.


'In future days plans are on card to inter connect 24 tribal museums in the country, using a software to be provided by Government of India. With this, a person visiting any tribal museum in the country,
can have a symaltaneously look of other tribal museums across country,' he added.


CM Siddaramaiah will lay the foundation by December end. Central Government will sanction Rs 18 crore and State government Rs 10 crore for the project. Blue print will be prepared by this week end for the project.

451 babies have died over a span of eleven months at Cheluvamba Hospital

It is not just the news of the maternal deaths in the Cheluvamba Hospital that has created fear but also the death of the new born ones. As many as 451 babies have died over a span of eleven months at Cheluvamba Hospital.

Out of the total 451 babies that died from January to November 26, 277 were delivered at Cheluvamba Hospital, while the remaining 174 babies were brought here in critical condition after they were delivered in other hospitals. In this month alone (November) 32 babies and 12 mothers have died, of which 12 babies and six pregnant women were referred in last minute to the hospital.

As many as 11,755 pregnant women were admitted to the hospital, of which, 8414 women have delivered babies normally, while 3341 have underwent Caesarian operation, giving birth to 10,563 babies in all. As per the records the highest number of pregnant women got admitted in the month of January touching 1154 and the lowest was in November with 843. 

Cheluvamba Hospital Superintendent Radhamani said that the major three reasons for the death of infant is Meconium aspiration syndrome (also known as neonatal aspiration) characterised by amniotic fluid in their lungs, 40 to 60 per cent death due to low birth weight and congenital heart diseases.

“Some of the babies that survive the delivery eventually die because of congenital heart diseases. Early detection can save the lives. The time delay in last minute admission from other hospitals is the other major reason, due to which it becomes difficult to save their lives,” she added.

District Health Officer Basavaraju said that 23 maternity death and 277 infant death ( from birth to 1 years) have been reported between April to October 2015 in the district. 'We are providing best possible health care for mother and child. The numbers of Mysuru district are less compared with State's mortality rate,' he added.

MMC&RI Director Dr B Krishnamurthy said that there are several reasons that lead to the death of the infants and parents have to take certain preventive steps.

A Pediatrician who is working in a private firm and did not wished to be named opined that the reason for death of babies has to be studied in depth while pregnant women have to be informed about do's and dont's, so that lives of babies can be saved.

What should be done

* Early marriages should be strictly enforced. Women should be allowed to marry only after completing 18 years of age.

* Premature birth can be stopped with regular check ups

* Proper doses of Iron and Calcium tablets have to be taken during the pregnancy period which most women neglect, because of which under-weight children are born and die some times.

* Proper care should be taken at all delivery centers

* Cases suspected of complicated pregnancy should be informed well in advance and additional care should be provided.

* Gap between two pregnancy should be minimum 3 years

* Nutritious food should be given to women , so the healthy babies are delivered.

Gerbera flower has changed lives of small farmers in Kollegal

Colourful Gerbera flowers has changed lives of small farmers in Kollegal Taluk, Chamarajanagar district. The farmers in the region are slowly switching over to growing Gerbera flowers, following drastic fall in prices of traditional crops such as sugarcane, mulberry, paddy and jower.

The farmers are growing red coloured gerbera flowers (stanza breed), white (blanace breed), yellow, Orange, dark and light pink in addition to maroon colour. This particular variety of colour is in much demand, sought by flower agents of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Few farmers are selling the harvested flowers directly at Kalasipalya Market in Bengaluru, which fetches them good money as there are no middlemen. 

Speaking to Express, a farmer Mahesh of Kollegal Taluk who is growing Gerbera for the past two years said: 'Earlier, I was struggling hard to grow jowar with meager returns. For the past two years my turnover per annum has crossed more than Rs 60 lakh, which was just around Rs 50,000 earlier'. 

'I own two acres of land. 'In an acre of land 24,000 plants can be planted, and an average of daily 3,000 to 4,000 flowers can be harvested daily. We normally maintain a calendar of forthcoming events to know the demand, while also study the market supply position and accordingly we harvest the flowers and sell. During festival, marriage season specially in Andhra Prades. We harvest more flowers. What brings happiness have provided employment for a couple of people in harvesting, packaging, and transportation section,' added Mahesh, who has completed his SSLC.

Another farmer Anand said: 'When we were growing vegetables we had a tough time to make ends meet. After switching over to growing gerbera there was a marked improvement in my lifestyle. Emulating my example, my neighbouring farmers are also coming forward to grow gerbera. Though initial investment is high, it requires less maintenance and once fully grown, we can harvest flowers for four to five years.'

'Mine is dry land and some suggested not to take up floriculture. I dug a borewell and luckily got water. By filling my land with 2 inch of Red Sand Soil and by adopting drip irrigation, I planted Gerbera which began to grow well and changed my fortunes. As I directly sell all the flowers in Kalasipalaya Market, I am able to earn more,' added farmer Shivu.

'We had never thought of an alternative crop until the havoc caused due to sudden change of weather, fall in price and related things. With switching over to this crops the farmers are taking diversion in the agriculture system followed by generations. The temperature in the green house can be controlled with change of weather. This is major advantage for us,' added Sunil.

Horticulture Department is also promoting the farmers to grow gerbera because of good demand in market. 50 per cent subsidy is given to general category, while 90 per cent for SC/ST.

H Shashidhar, Senior Assistant Director, Kollegal Taluk said that 50 per cent subsidy is being provided to general category, while 90 per cent for SC/ST. 'Red Soil, drip irrigation and green house is a must for growing gerbera. As the investment is high, not many farmers are keen. Still we are encouraging farmers in large numbers to take up the cultivation.'

'About 20 odd farmers are growing Gerbera in 16 acres of land at Gangara, Boodabalu and Kunnagali. Most of them, who have switched in the last two years were growing cane, mulberry from decades. With high investment, the farmers are lagging behind to take up the cultivation. Thus, we are promoting farmers with the help of farmers who are already growing Gerbera. Income, benefit, advantages and subsidy of growing Gerbera are informed to farmers. Another few farmers have come forward to take up cultivation in five acres of land.  The flowers are sold from Rs 8 to Rs 15, depending on the market,' added the officer.

This senior citizens converts thrash into artistic treasures

This senior citizen has found a novel way of reusing waste materials by turning them into beautiful art works. Making use of the discarded caps of bottled soft drinks and water bottles, empty chocolate boxes, rice grains, seeds of fruits, old calendars, coconut shells and such other items usually thrown away in the dustbin, he has created several art works.

58-year-old Surendra, a native of Bannur, settled in Aravinda Nagar, Mysuru is the creative artiste. He has created about 16 art works over the past 15 years, making use of the discarded materials. These artworks carry a special attraction of their own which is quite different from the conventional ones which we get to see very often.

Though Surendar not an artiste by profession nor had any formal training in this field, it was his sheer passion towards art that made him to create things which others couldn't dream of. Being a photographer, he happened to visit an art expo, where he saw Rama, Sita and Lakshmana carved on a single grain of rice. Fascinated by this, he decided to try out on his own art works that he could create using the thrown away trash.

Recently he created Lord Shivalinga using 5000 discarded caps pf soft drink bottles. He has exhibited his work at Dasara Exhibition, and receiving good response. Using Orange and Silver coloured caps he has created snakes and garlands which looks stunningly real. He has took two years to complete the work and hascollected the discarded caps from a bakery.

He has also created another Shivalinga using just the black seeds of Sapota fruit, while Actor Ambarish has come alive using Beans seed and Rice. He has designed Mantapa using 101 coconut shells and also Gods and Godesses such as Annapoorneshwari; Raghavendra. While, Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar using Rice; Kamadhenu using Milk Covers; PM Narendra Modi sharing dias with American President Barack Obama with used calendars, and several others.

At present he is working on the picture of late Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and has already made use of 30,300 rice grains which he hopes to complete by next year. He is using 30,300 rice to represent the number of days Kalam lived. He has wom more than 40 prizes.

Speaking to Express, he said: 'I was not sure that I to could create things out of waste. Over the past decade lot of things changed in my life. I thank my wife Bhagya who helps me in completing my works. Am curious and eager to create many more art works using several other waste materials.'

Backward Chamarajanagar villages get one-stop facility like Bengaluru

 

Come January, people in 20 villages in backward Chamarajanagar district need not come all the way to district or taluk headquarters to book their railway tickets or pay utility bills. They can avail all facilities under one roof in their villages.

Thanks for the GPOne (Gram Panchyat One), being introduced for the first time ever in the State that will make it easy for the villagers to pay their utility bills right at their door steps. GPOne will function on the lines of Bengaluru One and Mysuru One.

About a month ago, the Hangala Gram Panchyat was chosen for GPOne. Of the 4,000 people residing in the village on an average daily 15 to 20 people are utilising the services of GPOne.

Overwhelmed by the response officials have identified 20 more gram panchyats to extend the facility. Beginning this January, nearly 50,000 people of this 20 GPs will avail 17 services all provided under one roof.

Some of the other Gram Panchayats being selected are: Tarakanambi, Sagada, Beggur in Gundlupet; while MM Hills, Ramapura, Mangala in Kollegal Taluk, Arave, Yaraganahalli, Hebbasuru in Chamarajanagar Taluk and other few GPs in Yelandur.

But the only hindrance is providing uninterputed power supply in these select villages which are chosen to provide GPone. Already eight GPs are producing 2 kW of power from the solar energy, which they use to run fan and computers. While few other GPs will get uninterrupted power supply under Nrinathara Jyothi Scheme. For remaining GPs officials have been asked to fix solar panels in days to come.

Villager Mangalamma says: 'We are immensely benefited with the facility and the time it saves. Earlier, I waited for my husband to pay the bills or get mobile recharged. Whereas, now I do itself myself with the facility available in locality. The GPOne intiative not only saves money, whereas presioucs time and the pain to wander from post to pillars to get work done.'

Another villager Shamanna of Hanagal said: Hangal GP being located at Tamil Nadu and Kerala Border we were facing severe power problem. When the officials set up solar panals for GPOne to produce power, it motivated others in the village, thereby educating villagers about the importance of solar energy.

Dr KH Narasimha Murthy, Chief Executive Officer, Zilla Panchayat, Chamarajanagar district said that in days to come the facility will be  extended to all the 130 gram panchayats in the district in a phased manner.

Claiming Chamrajnagar is the first district in the country to come up with this concept, he said in future additional services will be added, and the GPOne concept will become a model for the country.

 Services villagers can access : Payment of water bills, house tax, electricity  bills, booking of bus and railway tickets and even air tickets; money transfer, recharge of mobile, DTH and other services, Aadhar cards, Ration Cards online application, and much more.

Backward Chamarajanagar villages get one-stop facility like Bengaluru

 

Come January, people in 20 villages in backward Chamarajanagar district need not come all the way to district or taluk headquarters to book their railway tickets or pay utility bills. They can avail all facilities under one roof in their villages.

Thanks for the GPOne (Gram Panchyat One), being introduced for the first time ever in the State that will make it easy for the villagers to pay their utility bills right at their door steps. GPOne will function on the lines of Bengaluru One and Mysuru One.

About a month ago, the Hangala Gram Panchyat was chosen for GPOne. Of the 4,000 people residing in the village on an average daily 15 to 20 people are utilising the services of GPOne.

Overwhelmed by the response officials have identified 20 more gram panchyats to extend the facility. Beginning this January, nearly 50,000 people of this 20 GPs will avail 17 services all provided under one roof.

Some of the other Gram Panchayats being selected are: Tarakanambi, Sagada, Beggur in Gundlupet; while MM Hills, Ramapura, Mangala in Kollegal Taluk, Arave, Yaraganahalli, Hebbasuru in Chamarajanagar Taluk and other few GPs in Yelandur.

But the only hindrance is providing uninterputed power supply in these select villages which are chosen to provide GPone. Already eight GPs are producing 2 kW of power from the solar energy, which they use to run fan and computers. While few other GPs will get uninterrupted power supply under Nrinathara Jyothi Scheme. For remaining GPs officials have been asked to fix solar panels in days to come.

Villager Mangalamma says: 'We are immensely benefited with the facility and the time it saves. Earlier, I waited for my husband to pay the bills or get mobile recharged. Whereas, now I do itself myself with the facility available in locality. The GPOne intiative not only saves money, whereas presioucs time and the pain to wander from post to pillars to get work done.'

Another villager Shamanna of Hanagal said: Hangal GP being located at Tamil Nadu and Kerala Border we were facing severe power problem. When the officials set up solar panals for GPOne to produce power, it motivated others in the village, thereby educating villagers about the importance of solar energy.

Dr KH Narasimha Murthy, Chief Executive Officer, Zilla Panchayat, Chamarajanagar district said that in days to come the facility will be  extended to all the 130 gram panchayats in the district in a phased manner.

Claiming Chamrajnagar is the first district in the country to come up with this concept, he said in future additional services will be added, and the GPOne concept will become a model for the country.

 Services villagers can access : Payment of water bills, house tax, electricity  bills, booking of bus and railway tickets and even air tickets; money transfer, recharge of mobile, DTH and other services, Aadhar cards, Ration Cards online application, and much more.

'e-water harmoniser to restore ecological balance of Kukkarhalli lake'

Here is some good news for the daily walkers of Kukkarahalli Lake. If everything goes as per the cleansing plan in the next couple of months the foul smell being eliminated by the lake due to discharge of the effluents from the UGD, will come down.

A pilot project for revitalising and restoring ecological balance of Kukkarhalli lake using e-water harmoniser is being implemented by the University of Mysore, in association with Kalpavruksha Amruth Solutions.

The technology which has been successfully adopted and implemented in the developed countries has been adopted. E-water harmoniser (EWH)' is said to reduce not only the bad odour being emitted from the lake but also clean the water in the area to higher extent.

The recycling unit is immersed in the lake body which purifies the surrounding areas extensively and thereby the odour emitted by lake will come down.

The lake water will be recirculated round the clock through these customised EWH units placed at 5 different locations. This will reduce the smell and algae formation by upto 60 per cent. The purification process of the area takes around 21 days.

The cost of each EWH is approximately Rs.1.2 lac, and initially, Kalavruksha will provide one unit of EWH on a trial basis which will be setup at the lake near the Paduvarahlli Junction. The unit will become operational from Monday.

A team of three technical experts will monitor and guide during the test implementation of this project to ensure smooth induction of EWH, and also study its effectiveness by analyzing the pre and post data collected from the lake.

Kukkarahalli Lake Protection Committee convenor KM Jayaramaiah was hopeful that EWH will help solve the problems faced in the maintenance of Kukkarahalli Lake. He said, based on the results obtained from the pilot project more units will be placed in lake to cleanse the entire lake.

Speaking to Express, Ajit Kumar, Founder Director of Kalpavruksha solutions who has taken up the initiative, said that lake is dying rapidly and an in-depth study has been done by a team.

'We have conducted several tests in different water conditions spread over several years and have observed that the water treated with EWH contains more dissolved oxygen with reduced BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand) and COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) and other positive changes, especially when treating the Contaminated / Toxic / STP / ETP Water.'

How it EWH works

E-water Harmoniser is a well proven global technology wherein the treated water is enriched with beneficial minerals. At the same time, excess suspended solids, including contaminants and sediments are dynamically isolated and removed. Structuring gives water a lower surface tension and better hydrating properties.

As water passes through the e-water Harmoniser comprising of spheres it also facilitates throwing off or cleansing of bad affluents present in the water. ANother feature is the dissolved chlorine loses it toxic nature while retaining just its sanitizing attributes. 

Youngsters explore into innovations at science exhibition

 

The Science and Technology expo was an ideal platform for the youngsters and those who want to pursue career in science and allied fields to know about the latest innovations and happenings in the field.

A large number of public thronged the venue behind Rani Bahaddur Auditorium to watch the 103rd Indian Science Congress exhibition. Many were seen discussing with experts about the advancements in technology, career opportunities and other issues.

Universities, Research Centers across the country had displayed their achievements in the respective field. For students who are inspired to take carried in defence, science, food and technology, were given guidance and courses in higher education, job scope and other things related to carrier.

Indian Council of Medical Research has developed new technologies useful for people and have come out with new kits, where following simple techniques the people can undergo several tests at their home. Various health hazards and how to get rid of serious ailments were displayed at the venue.

Under the title Hall of Pride, the journey of Missile Man Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and his contribution to science and technology was highlighted.

Hall of Pride depicts life and times of such personalities, who are role models and inspire young generation to pursue careers in Science and Industry and dedicate services to nation. Hall of Pride was first depicted in the 90th Indian Science Congress hosted by Indian Space Research Organisation at Bangalore.

Indian Council of Agriculture Research had displayed new variety of high breed tomattos, bananas and varieties of vegetables, latest technologies to be adopted in farming, less water consistency crops, flowers, and measures to be taken to get value for the produce and much more were displayed in detail. With increasing farmers suicide in State, the expo provides glimpse to the farmers about agricultural practices.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation members were informing public about the wold class weapon systems and developing defence technologies covering various disciplines, like aeronautics, armaments, electronics, combat vehicles, engineering systems, instrumentation, missiles, naval systems and much more. The 36 laboratories of DRDO had participated at the expo.

Student Ruthwik expressing happiness after having close look of the achievements of DRDO and its cutting edge technologies, said that he came to know about the technologies and advancement in defence sector, and lauded the efforts of officials who are dedicated in ensuring security and peace for country.


'We are no longer dependent on the west for new technologies'

Union Minister for Science & Technology Dr Harsh Vardhan said that we are no longer dependent on the West for new technologies as now all the cutting edge technologies are available in India.

“Our scientists have the best possible intellectual acumen and capacity to use science to solve the millions of people’s issues and alleviate the sufferings of the common man more importantly that of the downtrodden. This programme is a very good initiator for the ambitious campaigns PM Narendra Modi like ‘Make in India’ ‘Digital India’ Swach Bharath’ Smart Cities to name a few.”

He was speaking after the inauguration of Pride of India Science Expo, organised as part of 103rd Indian Science Congress here on Sunday. Further talking about Vigyan Jyot, he said that event symbolizes not only the great ancient scientific wisdom of our country but also the far brighter future of science in India.

He further paid homage to former President and Scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam at the Hall of Pride. Recalling the vision of Dr Kalam, he said that by making the benefits of science and technology to reach every Indian, sincere efforts will be made to fulfill the dream of Dr Kalam to make India a powerful, prosperous nation by 2020.

Soon using self test kits check your fertility status at home

With recent reported incidents of increase in infertility, self test kits have been introduced for both men and women by National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai (NIRRH).

Using these simple kits couples can check on their individual fertility status. A man can check his fertility status, while women can use Urine based diagnostic kits for fertility assessment.

This apart, Chlamydia Trachomatis diagnosis kit is helpful for the detection of infection in preventing gynecological complications such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory diseases and repeated pregnancy loss. The test requires only one time training, takes two hours for the results and is cost effective.

NIRRH Scientist Dr Vikranth said: 'There are many individuals who hesitant to seek treatment from physicians, particularly men. Whereas using this indigenous kits the couple will benefit immensely. The kits are user friendly and results will be available within few hour. All the three kits will be launched in coming months with a price tag that is within the reach of the ordinary man.'

How it works

* An individual in the privacy of his home can at least perliminarly assess the quality of his sperm. This home text indicates the quality of sperm to seek medical attention. A visual change in the color from blue -purple – pink depending on the quality of the sperm in the semen sample they can know the quality of sperm. Six colour ranging from dark purple to dark blue indicate a negative reaction and the other eight colours ranging from pink to red violet are considered positive.
* Chlamydia Trachomatis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection which causes infertility, ectopic pregnancy if not diagnosed or treated.
This infection is mostly asymptomatic, hence its detection is important. The technology further can be applied to detect the causes of conjunctivitis and pneumonia in infected infants, born to infected mother.
* Urine based diagnostic kits for fertility assessment is very easy. Women using the urine samples can easily assess the fertility level. The kits also can be used for monitoring corrective intervention in infertility and retrieval of pre-ovaluatory oocytes in IVF programmes.
Soon for detection of pathogens, a PCR based diagnostic kit will also be launched.

Wear this jacket to control body temperature

Here comes the good news for the those work in high temperature environments and people living in different regions face frequent heat waves in summer. National Institute of Occupational Health (ICMR) has designed a 'Personal Cooling Garment for Use in Hot Environment' to protect the workers from heat related injuries.

According to scientists the workers who work in high temperature are more prone to fatigue and heat strain, resulting in the development of heat related injures and illness as they work in high temperature.

The jacket specially designed with ice filled pockets will protect the person from extreme heats and maintain his body temperature at normal levels. Workers routinely exposure to extreme hot temperature conditions can make use of the jacket.

The PCG is easy to use and maintain, lightweight and provides 13 degree Celsius cooler than the ambient temperature and comfort. It over all weighs less than 3 kg and the silicone tubing system can be fitted to any garment (half shirt, hacket vest).

The PCG has been exhibited at the 103rdScience Exhibition. The product may be regularly used by workers of iron and stell fondries, construction, agricultrue, military personnel, mining sites, chemcial plants, brick firing, ceramic plants, textile industry, power plants, glass product industry, boiler rooms, bakeris and steam tunnels, etc.

Dr SP Ashtekar of ICMR said that the assistive micro-climate cooling system provides and maintains comfortable microclimate, skin and body core temperatures. Ice-Chilled coolant is circulated through interwoven silicon tubing of cotton fabric vest with the help of lithium-ion rechargeable battery through small motor pump. This apart, the advancement technologies to eradicate various health issues were displayed under the roof of Indian Council of Medical Research.

MCC asks commercial establishments to set up waste compost plant

MCC's plans to make waste management units mandatory for massive generators like apartments, hotels, choultries etc is most likely to meet with stiff opposition from the stake holders.

Businessman feel that the corporation which is riding high on clean city tag is imposing some solutions which is 'too expensive' for them to bear. Most of the mid size commercial establishments are thinking twice to set up the unite which costs around Rs 6 lakh. They say thought the initiative is good, its quite expensive to set up the Units.

Hotel owners association President Narayan Gowda said that the unit is quite expensive and is not affordable by everyone. Instead we have requested Corporation to give us two acres of land, where we treat the
waste generated by hotels, bar and restaurants at a common place. We tie up with private partners and look after the waste generated by us. It will be a burden if every individual have to set up the unit.

On an average daily 402 tonnes of garbage is generated in the city, of which 320 tonnes is wet waste, of which around 120 tonnes of wet waste is generated by the commercial establishments, such as hotels, bars and restaurants, apartments, parks, including the roads sweeping.
In order to reduce the wet waste processing in solid waste management units, officials have begun urging big hotels, apartments, and other commercial establishments to set up a small waste compost plant inside their premises. Already officials have approached hotel associations, CREDAI, Builders Association of India, Choultry owners to set up small solid waste management units.

Corporation Commissioner Dr CG Betsurmath said that for big hotels, apartments it will not be a burden, and by treating wet waste at source
the beautiful city Mysore will achieve 100 per cent efficiency in waste treatment.

He added: 'The plant needs just enough space as needed to park a car.
By deploying technologies waste will be converted into compost in just 24 hours without leaving any residue. Upcoming multi-storey complexes units will not be given permission if no space is provided for car parking and sewage Treatment Plant along with Rainwater Harvesting and also harnessing of power from solar energy.'

MCC Health Officer Dr Ramachandra said that individual households will also be encouraged to treat the waste at source, alongside educating people about how to segregate waste at source, and treat the wet waste while the manure generated can be used for gardening.

There are 181 apartments in city. Each apartment houses around 30 to 100 residential flats, and they are treated as bulk generators of waste. As per calculations, it is learnt that every house hold generates around 350 grams of wet waste every day, he added.

Line up

There are nearly 20,000 Commercial Establishments in city.
* From 181 apartments the estimated wet waste generated is about 8 tonne.
* Hotels, Bars and Restaurants – 176 (8 tonne waste).
* Choultries and function hall - 124 (6 tonnes)
* Parks – 385 (waste generated is 19 tonne)
* Markets (Agrahar, D Devaraj Urs, RMC) – 12 tonne
* Road sweeping activity – 17 tonne waste generated.

---- 

Festival of harvest bring cheers on farmers face

Festival of harvesting Makara Sankranthi has brought cheers on farmers face with prices of sugarcane and banana has gone up.

Banana growers who had destroyed their standing crop and were worried over the steep fall in its price were found selling the Yelakki banana for Rs 30 to Rs 60, depending on the size. Just a month ago, the banana price had crash to Rs 5 kg, and a week ago it was around Rs 15 to Rs 20.

Farmer Channappa from Nanjangud says: 'We had no business from last two month. The festival has brought smile back on our face. Am selling the fruits for Rs 40, which was sold for Rs 15 two days ago. With fall in price we were worried lot.'

Sugarcane Grower Thamaiah from Srirangapatna, who is selling Black Cane fully matured for Rs 50-60 and has earned nearly Rs 5,000 since noon said: 'Atleast in the name of festival we are able to see some money. With fall in price of sugarcane even today farmers are committing suicide and government has turned blind eye.'
Festival rush at market, Rly Station, bus stand

As the festival has fallen in weekend most of them are heading towards Mysuru, while some are leaving city to reach their natives, to celebrate the festival with family and friends.

On Wednesday, a good number of passengers were seen waiting for the buses in city bus stand to reach their destinations. KSRTC (Urban) officer Maqsood Ahmed said that in peak time there will be rush, whereas they will manage with the existing bus services.

KSRTC Rural staff say that the passengers heading from Bengaluru to Mysuru has increased and special buses have been introduced to avoid the rush.

Auto driver Tiranth said: 'Usually there will be good demand for autos during festival season. There is increase in passengers coming to Mysuru and we have already done several trips from City Railway Station, Suburban Bus Stand to various localities. This apart, most of the housewife after shopping opt for autos, than buses and this will benefit us to higher extent.'
Even huge rush was witnessed in market as people throng to purchase essential items to celebrate Makara Sankranti. Sugarcane, sugar candy, mixture of yellu-bella, raw ground nuts, hyacinth beans, flowers were sold like hot cake.

Worshiping cows, bonfire, preparing pongals, offering puja on harvesting, distribution of mixture of yellu-bella are tradition followed on the day. Housewife Shaila says: The festival time will be get together for the family members to share the joy. A mixture of sesame seeds, jaggery, groundnuts, dry coconut will be distributed.
'On the day of Makara Sankrathi (Uttarayana) the sun starts moving and the day is very auspicious according to the Hindu Calendar. Cattles will be decorated beautifully and will be made to run on bonfire,' says Sommaiah, senior citizen.