Uplifting women at their door steps

This is the era, where women are raising voice for 50 per cent reservation in elections. Whereas, even today it can be seen one section of women fear to step out of women. Specially, for religious minorities residing in slums, its a herculean task to come out of their homes.

Realising their situations, 'Gnana Jyothi Samsthe', an NGO is visiting their place personally and providing them training at their door steps. It has brought cheers among thousands of women by making them economically self-reliant, so that they can lead an independent and dignified life, without being subjected to harassment and ill-treament in a society dominated by males.

Been relentlessly working for past 12 years for the upliftment of women residing in slum areas, the organisation has so far imparted training to more than 4,800 women in their chosen fields of interest, thereby helping them to earn some money. Awareness programme on health, education, legal issues are held to make them educated about various issues.

Even measures have been taken to make them access for various government schemes. Providing of free tailoring machines, informing them about various government schemes, how to take loan with the certificates, and much more. Recognising their services for the cause of downtrodden women the State Government conferred the 'Kittur Rani Chennamma Award'.

“Hailing from BPL (Below Poverty Line), we were not exposed to outer world and not even aware of works. But now we have started earning sitting at home. We are creating colourful embroidery designs on clothes and are selling them to Jum Jum Bazar, Meena Bazar,” said Sumiya firdoz and Salma jamal who have underwent training from last six months in embroidery, tailoring at Haleem Nagar Slum and are very eager to learn fashion designing in coming days.

Rani Training Head says: “bringing Muslim Women out of house was big task. Amidst lot of opposition, the programme anyways kick started.”

Organising Secretary Hemavathi said that in one batch about 80-90 undergo training and government should take measures to distribute  more number of machines. At present seven sewing machines are distributed at free of cost in every ward.

With 2000 members in strength at Organisation, a batch of five women have underwent a special training in Food Processing at CFTRI. They in turn trained other members in their Organisation.  The women are provided free training in professional courses such as Beautician, Food Processing and Preservation, Tailoring, 50 varieties of embroidery designs, Computer, Fashion Designing, Papad and Pickle making and several such other courses where there is a huge demand for skilled labour and services.

Organising President Sharadamma said that “we provide training to women living in slums and we continue our efforts to make them self reliant.” 

Lack of basic facilities at Nature Cure Hospitals

Due to severe space constraints and lack of basic facilities, officials at the Nature Cure Hospitals (Prakruthi Chikitsa Kendra) are unable to use the Spinal bed for the patients from last seven years.

Physio therapy equipments are lying idle as there is no separate room to house them and treadmill is not working from last three years. There are even instances where the equipments like massage table, and other equipments have been shifted to other Ayurveda hospitals.

The spinal bath tub is very much helpful for a patients ailing from back pain. Cold and Hot water will be sprayed directly on the spinal, from which the patient can get rid of pain.

The Hospital is functioning at KG Koppal since 1993, and is run by the State Government, Department of AYUSH. Following, some of major drawbacks the patients visiting the department are unable to get complete Naturopathy treatment.

An average of 28 to 30 patients every day visit the Center. Four female and three male cane be provided treatment at once, which takes around one hour. Due to lack of basic amenities like sanitation, space conjust, people are forced to wait for treatment for long time. Moreover, the same toilet is used by both men and women and the building housing the Center is also dilapidated.

Usually Nature Cure treatment is based on water treatment, separate units will be set up for every treatment. But in this hospital there are only two rooms, used for men and women separately.

Ayush District Officer Dr Nagesh said the department has sent a proposal to MUDA to handover the building on lease for the department, for which MUDA has approved the proposal tentatively. “If once the buildings comes under department, renovation and up gradation of hospital will be done,” he added.

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Only two Nature Cure hospitals work for five district

As the number of people switching over to traditional medicines is on the rise, alternative treating method that is gaining equally popularity for lifestyle illnesses like Hypertension, Diabetes, Asthma is Naturopathy.

There are only two Nature Cure Hospitals (Prakruthi Chikitsa Kendra) run by the State Government covering five districts by the Department of AYUSH. One is situated in Mysore and another in Srirangapatna. As a result while those residing at Hassan, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar come to Mysore Nature Cure Hospital, those residing in Mandya visit the hospital at Srirangapatna.

Patients visiting the Nature Cure Hospital in Mysore for treatment have to wait for a long time. In cases of emergency, with no other option they have to visit private Nature Cure clinics which are quite expensive compared to the Government hospital. This demand has led to the mushrooming of private clinics in the city in other side.

Rajamma, a resident of Nanjangud says: If more number of Naturopathy hospitals are opened in the Taluks, people residing in villages will be benefited immensely. If Government opens such hospitals at our Taluk headquarters, it helps us lot. Money, time both will be saved.”

Ayush District Officer Dr Nagesh said that plans have made to construct hospitals at taluk and district level, for which the department has asked to identify 2000 square feet of land at every district. The land identification and other process commence shortly, he added.

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How Nature Cure helps

Many ailing with chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes, skin ailments, Asthma and obesity are switching over to Naturopathic Cures. The course of their treatment usually runs for 10 to 12 days for which they have to visit the Center daily.

The treatment begins with cleansing the body. Liquid foods along with fruits and raw vegetables is the diet prescribed for body cleansing. It's observed that around 50 per cent of the ailments are relieved just after cleansing the body. This is followed by treatments such as mud pack, enema, steam bath, massage and yoga. Dr S Hariganesh of Mysroe Center observed that most patients respond well after these treatments and are cured. 

Women achieves in farming activity

Lakshmidevamma, a women farmer has created a niche in the field of farming by adopting complete agriculture tradition. Recognising her achievements she has been appointed as Director of Banuli Krishikara Producer Company, Akashvani, Mysore.

Born to a agriculture family, she tied the nuptial knot to Ramakrishna, a postmaster and settled in Pandavapura. After her marriage she started garment business and faced ups and downs. It was then, her parents Kaveri Gowda and Channamma of Hosakote, suggested her to venture in agriculture, which changed the focus of her life.

She purchased 6.5 acres of land at Kanchahalli and tried mixed farming cultivation. She cultivated paddy, banana, sugarcane in the place. Making use of the place between Coconut trees, teak plantation, she has grown fodder for cattles and maize. She has even opened a small fish house at KR Pet.

The training she underwent has helped her lot for her success. Making use of the advanced technology, she has taken measures to enrich and retain the fertility of the soil. She uses about 90 per cent of organic and compost manure. To produce manure in the form of liquid she has adopted bio-digester method. In result, she has harvested about 600 tonnes of sugarcane last year (per acre more than 80 tonnes), drawing scientists, officers attentions towards her field.

Though her husband was transferred to different places, she remained in Pandavapura and continued agriculture activity. After, retirement her husband to has joined Lakshmidevamma. The couple are role model for many farmers.

   

Bootlegging: Belgaum, Bijapur districts tops in State

The State has witnessed a rise in bootlegging cases after prohibition of arrack in 2007. While, 1090 bootlegging cases were registered in 2008, whereas 4412 cases have been registered in 2012.

Excise enforcement and lottery prohibition wing started functioning in State from November 2007. The statistics of the department reveal that Belgaum, Bijapur district tops in state at sale of bootlegging, followed by Hassan and Tumkur Districts.

At Karavigudda in Belgaum it has become a challenging task for the department to put break for distillation and sale of illicit liquor. Its learnt that no ground water is available for people in the region for other occupation and people are not coming out of the business. In fear of raids they frequently change the places.

The officials have launched a special drive in these places and have outsourced police for Belgaum, Hassan, Tumkur and Bijapur, to bring down the number cases in the region. Day and night strict vigilance is done and through monitoring is done.

PRO of the wing PSI Ashok Hullur says, “though at Sakleshpur belt the illicit liquor is prepared, it is used for own consumption. Whereas, at Belgaum, Bijapur, Bagalkot, Sakaleshpur, Pavagada and other places majority of them are professional sellers.”

Awareness Programme

The Excise department has launched an awareness drive 'Jana Samparka Sabhe' at village and taluk levels to educate people about ill-effects of consumption of Illicit Distillation and other drug related issues. So far, more than 12,500 campaign programmes are held across State, involving local leaders, schools children, Religious leaders and other govt officials.

Ashok says: the awareness programme has helped very much and many have quit manufacturing of illicit liquor business. Through street plays, health programmes they are being educated and are informed about the rigorous punishment imposed by courts.

The wing personnel are successful in provided alternative jobs under NAREGA and various other government schemes for 2100 persons, who are allegedly involved in illicit liquor business. They are helped to get Bank Loan and are monitored regularly to insure that they again not switch over to old path.

In all 13,414 cases have been registered and 13966 have been arrested from November 2007 to December 2012.

Year Wise Statistics of cases

2007 – 15 (November and December)

2008 – 1090

2009 – 1361

2010 – 2853

2011 – 3683

2012 – 4412

History

Prohibition of illicit liquor came to enforce in Karnataka on July 1, 2007. The wing started functioning in State from November 2007. Approximately 900 staffs are working at 41 Special Police stations function in State, where Belgaum, Bagalkote, Karwar, Tumkur, Bellary, Bangalore Dist have two stations. Every staff in the police stations has been made in-charge of special area of the Jurisdiction of the police station. In case if any complaints received from the region, he is answerable. 

An exclusive library for visually impaired in city

An exclusive library for visually impaired is coming-up in Mysore District which houses text books, magazines, epics, books on general knowledge, litterateur and much more.

In a bid to provide library atmosphere for visually impaired, The National Federation of Blind (NFB) Mysore Unit, situated in Moksha Marga, Siddartha Layout is starting the library, which will be inaugurated next month. The NFB has succeeded in getting many books translated from Kannada, English to Braille with its Network.

The library houses Bible provided by Mission to the Blind, Ramayana, Mahabharatha, Karnataka Legal Service Book, KAS/IAS Training books, famous English litterateurs and much more. It has also housed text books of PUC, post graduation, under graduation to ease problems of visually impaired. Even good number of contraction braille books are available.

As many of the girls shy to share adolescent problems. NFB has taken the initiative to translate Gruhashobe, an monthly women magazine into Braille. By reading the magazine, visually impaired girls can know about various women related issues and enhance their knowledge.

NFB Mysore Unit President N Siddaraju says: “Getting braille books is an herculean task, specially for those doing post graduate and under graduate. There are many instances they get Academic books from Bangalore. The library will ease such problems.”

“Earlier, with the helps of the volunteers we get the syllabus recorded in ipod or cassettes. After hearing repeatedly, understanding the subject we used to make the notes in Braille. But, now I don't have such tension. I visit the library and go through the text books which are available in Braille,” says Syed Unis, II PU student, Lakshmipuram Government College.

“I enjoy reading apart from hearing. Moreover, we can learn spellings while reading. The books on legal awareness has helped me to know about reservation, our rights, and other general issues,” says student Ramesh Kumar.

Training

NFB is providing training for visually impaired, specially those residing in rural areas and don't have access to education. So far, about 13 members have been thought to read and write and are sent back to their respective villages. The Unit is providing free hostel facility for 27 visually impaired who are perusing their PG, Degree. Shortly computer training will also be provided.  

Dr URA bats for Tippu Varsity

“Tippu Sultan being a great freedom fighter, a warrior and a very good politician, we should be proud of that University being named after Tippu Sultan,” said Jnanapeeta Awardee Dr UR Ananthamurthy.

Tippu was the first person to draw a plan for the construction of the KRS dam, later it was taken up by Sri M Vishweshwariah. Tippu contribution for our land is tremendous. No other kings equal Tippu in their contribution,” he said.

In a interaction with media persons at Rangayana on Thursday, journalist questioned opposition led by Litterateur Bhyrappa and Researcher M Chidananda Murthy to name a University in Srirangapatna after Tippu Sultan.

Replying, Dr URA said he has great respect towards Bhyrappa and M Chidananda Murthy, but what they are saying is not right. He added that even there is political agenda behind this.

“Without Muslims its not possible to construct India. Muslims have played a major role in the formation of our country and their contribution is tremendous. It is why, Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, refused transfer of Muslim after independence,” he added.

'Make Rangayana Autonomous Institution'

Janapeeta Awardee Dr UR Ananthamurthy opined that Rangayana, an government sponsored repertory should be made autonomous institution. Stating don’t weaken Rangayana, he said it should be modernised as an independent body and complete powers should be given for directors to take any sorts of decision.

“Advisory committee should be formed, which should function solely on the grounds of mutual co-operation and favouritism should not be allowed. Even internal squabbles should be solved internally, just in the case of University. If found guilty, further steps to be taken,” he said.

Stating who become director of Rangayana is equally important that of the who becomes University Vice-Chancellor, he said that complete power should be given for directors to take any decisions.

'Ranga Samaja' has been set-up by government at Rangayana, he asked to set-up similar 'Ranga Samaja' in other two theater repertory and maintain day-to-day accounts.

'Say no for transfer'

As plans have been made to transfer artiste for other theater repertory, Dr URA said that transfer of artistes should be canceled and they should be fixed with good salary and pension should be provided.

“The directors should stand firm and not bow down to the pressure of government or others and indulge in transfer of artistes. Retired artistes should be invited to Rangayana and their services should be utilised similarly on the lines of University, where former Vice-Chancellors, prof and others serve as visiting faculty,” he added.

Introduce Cinema appreciation course in schools

Janapeeta Awardee Dr UR Ananthamurthy suggested to introduce folklore, art, drama, music and various other cultural activities in schools, as part of regular curriculum, instead of treating them as extra curriculum.

He said, he has written a letter to NCERT (National Council Of Educational Research And Training) in this regard and has even asked to introduce Cinema appreciation course in schools.

'The concept of intelligent has to be changed, as it is not restricted to Academy studies only, but to encompass other talents also. Even there is a miss conception among public that only youngsters become artists. Theater needs people from all walks of life and across all ages,' he added. 

Little acts of kindness by a tender coconut seller

A good example of how one can show kindness to others in whatever small way can be seen by the acts of this tender coconut seller, who feeds kernel for dozens of 'squirrels' every day from dawn to dusk.

For this tender coconut seller Basavaraju feeding this small creatures squirrels has become a part of his daily routine. He observed that some of his customers don't eat the white kernel inside the tender coconut after sipping the water, and throw it away. He collects all such empty shells, removes the white rind and places them on a branch of a tree.

Dozens of squirrels residing on the tree climb down one after the other and slowly collect the white rind kept on the shell. Holding the kernel in the mouth they again move on the tree and enjoy eating the rind. The customers who come to drink tender coconut, enjoy the play, action, fight of squirrels for collecting rind.

Basavaraju observes, "Instead of wasting it, I thought of feeding it to the squirrels. Day by day city is turning into concrete jungle and they to find it difficult to get food."

Apart this, Basavaraju has planted about 18 trees, where 15 of them are at Subbarayanakere Park. He has specially planted Singapore Cherry / Jamaican Cherry (Gasagase Mara), which fruits are most eaten by squirrels. Basavaraju, is a resident of Kumbargeri, is selling thunder coconut from last four decades near Raghavendra Swamy Mutt on Ramavilas Road. Those who visit park can sit beneath the tree for some time and relax.

A regular customer named Umesh says: "Majority of the tender coconut sellers throw the kernel. Though uneducated Basavaraju is very humble and kind hearted person."

Another interesting thing is, he has maintained cleanliness in his surroundings. He will not dump the empty shells into a heap after the customer returns them. Instead, he separates the straws, keeps the empty shells on a four-wheeler cart for drying and later in the day he carry it back to the home. He says by carting them away and disposing plastic straws he is maintaining the surroundings clean.

  

Now, avail garden service at your door step

For those enthusiast in gardening here comes the good news. For first of its kind, mobile van garden service center will be introduced in Mysore by District Horticultural Society and Horticulture Department by this month end.

The workers of Horticultural department assist and help in developing gardening at your houses, private organisations, based on the seasons (winter, spring, summer and autumn).

There are nine exclusive ornamental nursery in Mysore City, and the plants grown there will be implanted in Curzon Park premises, for which the place is all set. Poly home has already been constructed at Department premises, where exotic flowering plants like orchids, anthurium, Gerbera, carnesia are grown.

Apart this, in an 10 guntas of land shed net will be erected and exclusive ornamental plants like Petunia, Salvia, Euphorbia, Crinum-Augustum, Rosa-sinsiea, impatiens, medicinal plants, and much more will be grown.

A place has been dedicated in the Curzon Park to provide training and sale garden kit. Flowering seeds, pot, garden tools, medicinal plants, organic manure, fertilisers, nutrient, pot mixture, growth hormones and much more will be sold by the department at nominal charges.

Free Training will be provided by experts for farmers and all those are interested in Home Gardening, Kitchen Gardening, Bonsai Cultivation, Ornamental Garden, Flower garden, Foliage plants, Ikebana, flower arrangements, dry flowers and much more.

Farmers will be educated about cultivation of the exotic plants in their lands, as there is huge demand for flowers and farmers can earn handsome of money. As gardening is also a profitable business, this will not only help the unemployed whereas those who are interested to start career as domestic maintenance gardener.

MS Raju, Senior Assistant Director of Horticulture Mysore said that at a very low cost gardens will be maintained by Garden service Center.

“Many of the have bigger gardens but will be having no idea how to maintain and make it good looking. Lawn, Ornamental, Foundation will be developed based on the place required,” he added.

Service center number, logo and benefits will be published on the mobile van. Shortly the permanent number will be announced, whereas 0821-2438572 is the present garden service number.

  

Children's Film Festival postponed suddenly

Those who went with high expectations to watch movies were in for a rude shock when they were told there was no such screening scheduled

Those who went with high expectations to watch movies to be screened at the city's Olympia theatre as part of the International Children's Film Festival were in for a rude shock when they were told there was no such screening scheduled.

Due to lack of proper communication and misunderstanding between Children's India, the organizer of the International Children's Film Festival, and theater owners, the screening of movies scheduled to be held in five districts on Wednesday has been postponed indefinitely on late night of Tuesday.

Following the announcements made in the media, some disheartened children and the confused parents accompanying them along with the general public were seen asking theater employees where exactly were the movies being screened.

When Express, contacted Children's India President NR Nanjundegowda, he said that due to certain technical problems screening of movies has been postponed in all other places except Bangalore, where movies will be screened from Thursday. He added that steps are being taken to provide better screening facilities in future and presently the screening has been postponed in all Centers.

Owner of Olympia Theater, Sanath Kumar expressed surprise that the Children's India without seeking any prior approval either from him or from the theater manager for screening the children's movies in his theater, went ahead and announced his theater’s name.

Most theaters have been modernised in tune with the changing times, replacing old projectors screening film rolls with the latest state-of the art UFO projectors that screens signals received directly from satellite. Thereby some theaters express unable to screen the print versions.

Though Organizer's offer to provide DVD projectors to screen print movies by hooking upto the existing sound system in the cinema halls, its learnt that several theater owners refuse meddling with their existing setup in fear of unaccepted problems in system.

Nanjundegowda said in eight theaters of Bangalore, conversion equipments are being used to screen the movies without tampering the existing setup, while there are some problems to use such convertors in other centers.

According to sources, several theater owners refuse to let out their theaters to screen movies, as they will not be getting anything in return for the utilising their services.

Children's India had announced screening of children's movies in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli and Dharward from January 9 to 13. Now, the movies will be screened only in Bangalore from January 10. 

Plans to eradicate malnutrition by growing a Nutrition Park

To tackle the problem of malnutrition among children in the District, Mysore Zilla Panchayat has come out with a novel idea by planning to setup 'Nutrition Parks' at several places in the district.

With this not only the problem of malnutrition will be addressed partially it will also provide jobs to hundreds of unemployed youths under 'Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)'

The project will be implemented by the Department of Horticulture, where the department has identified and grown around 1,20,000 plants, which are naturally rich in various kinds of proteins and vitamins.

The Department has raised saplings of different plants at its farm and nurseries situated at Yelachanehalli, Yelwal Hobli, Mysore Taluk, at Rangasamudra near Bannur, T Narasipur and at Kabini, HD Kote Taluk.

Papaya, Drumstick, Chakramani, Duranth and various other vegetable as well as fruit plants have be grown in these parks which will be set at different places in the district.

These saplings in turn will be distributed for planting in seven Taluks of the District. 60 beneficiaries have been identified from each Taluk who will be employed as daily labourers under MGNREGA.

The beneficiaries will be taking care of nurturing and watering the plants, apart from planting the saplings at places like Anganwadi, backyard of schools and hospitals, vacant Government lands and at several public utility places where the plants can grow. The fruits and vegetables harvested from these plants will be given to children coming to Anganwadi.

MS Raju, Senior Assistant Director of Horticulture Mysore said that Rs 5.6 lakh has been sanctioned by ZP for this project. “The plants raised in this 'Nutrition Garden' will help combat malnutrition, where leaves of some plants can be consumed raw by children. For example, a plant by name Chakramani has several types of nutrition elements in it and can be consumer raw,” he added.

The Department will start distributing the saplings by next week and by the end of this month planting the saplings at designated places will be completed. 

Uplifting women at their door steps

This is the era, where women are raising voice for 50 per cent reservation in elections. Whereas, even today it can be seen one section of women fear to step out of women. Specially, for religious minorities residing in slums, its a herculean task to come out of their homes.

Realising their situations, 'Gnana Jyothi Samsthe', an NGO is visiting their place personally and providing them training at their door steps. It has brought cheers among thousands of women by making them economically self-reliant, so that they can lead an independent and dignified life, without being subjected to harassment and ill-treament in a society dominated by males.

Been relentlessly working for past 12 years for the upliftment of women residing in slum areas, the organisation has so far imparted training to more than 4,800 women in their chosen fields of interest, thereby helping them to earn some money. Awareness programme on health, education, legal issues are held to make them educated about various issues.

Even measures have been taken to make them access for various government schemes. Providing of free tailoring machines, informing them about various government schemes, how to take loan with the certificates, and much more. Recognising their services for the cause of downtrodden women the State Government conferred the 'Kittur Rani Chennamma Award'.

“Hailing from BPL (Below Poverty Line), we were not exposed to outer world and not even aware of works. But now we have started earning sitting at home. We are creating colourful embroidery designs on clothes and are selling them to Jum Jum Bazar, Meena Bazar,” said Sumiya firdoz and Salma jamal who have underwent training from last six months in embroidery, tailoring at Haleem Nagar Slum and are very eager to learn fashion designing in coming days.

Rani Training Head says: “bringing Muslim Women out of house was big task. Amidst lot of opposition, the programme anyways kick started.”

Organising Secretary Hemavathi said that in one batch about 80-90 undergo training and government should take measures to distribute  more number of machines. At present seven sewing machines are distributed at free of cost in every ward.

With 2000 members in strength at Organisation, a batch of five women have underwent a special training in Food Processing at CFTRI. They in turn trained other members in their Organisation.  The women are provided free training in professional courses such as Beautician, Food Processing and Preservation, Tailoring, 50 varieties of embroidery designs, Computer, Fashion Designing, Papad and Pickle making and several such other courses where there is a huge demand for skilled labour and services.

Organising President Sharadamma said that “we provide training to women living in slums and we continue our efforts to make them self reliant.”

No more power problem at Nemmadi Kendras

Henceforth, people visiting Atalji Janasnehi Kendras (restructured of Nemmadi Kendras) will heave a sign of relief, for they will not be sent back siting power cut problem like on the past.

Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL) is setting up 2KWP capacity each off-grid solar power generating systems (Power Plant) at 166 Nemmadi Kendra of Mysore Regional Commissioners Jurisdiction.

Three systems, one printer, and a light can be used continuously in the generated power. The Power Plant has already been installed at ten kendras namely Varuna, Jaipur, Ilwala (Mysore), Bhagamandala (Kodagu), Chinnakurali (Mandya), Shanthigrama (Hassan), Beruru, Mudabidri, Brahmavara and Bannur.

According to Mysore Branch Office KREDL Project Engineer DK Dinesh Kumar per day seven to eight units of power can be generated and its sufficient for Nemmadi Kendras.

An automatic change over switch has also been provided so that, in case of cloudy weather the system can be manually switched over to regular power supply.

To set-up power plant at each Kendra, its cost around Rs 3.5 lakh (50% - Revenue Department; 30% - Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, GOI and 20% - KREDL). Through e-procurement the tender and maintenance for five years has been given for Bangalore-based 'Power One' company.

Project Engineer DK Dinesh Kumar said that “Power interruption of hours together is common at villages. People were sent back and works were upheld. Due to set-up of solar panel the works will go on smoothly.”

“There are even instance where diesel generators are used in time of emergency. To generate per unit of power it would cost about Rs 7 to Rs 8 per unit. But now, the power and other additional expenditure are cut down.”

“We have declared Mysore city as solar city. If commercial buildings like malls, shopping complex implement the programme, power problem can be solved for large extent. There is 30 per cent subsidy by Government and one should avail the opportunity, he added.

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List of 166 Kendras

Chamarajanagar – 12

Chikkamangalore – 27

Dakshina Kannada – 11

Hassan – 30

Kodagu – 13

Mysore – 27

Mandya – 39

Udupi – 7   

Hopcoms outlets in city

Hopcoms outlets to be set-up in various extension soon

Residents can purchase fresh veggie at reasonable price soon

To cater the needs of developing city, Horticultural Producers' Cooperative Marketing and Processing Society (HOPCOMS) has planned to set up 17 more new fruits and vegetable outlets in the newly-established layouts, including one in Kadakola.

The outlets will have spot billing facility and storage facilities. The construction of outlets will commence from January and will be left open for business in March-April.

Mysore City Corporation has provided land on lease for the construction of 11 outlets (11.5x11.5 feet) and one will be constructed at Kadakola near Gram Panchayat Office.

Twelve outlets will be constructed under Rastriya Krushi Vikas Yojana at the cost of Rs 2.75 lakh each and another five outlets will be constructed under S-20 Scheme of Karnataka Horticulture Federation at the total estimated cost of Rs 20 lakh.

In a bid to attract more number of people, employees are being trained how to behave in discipline with customers. Measures have been taken to open outlets in the business areas from 8.30 am to 8.30 pm and also to sale fresh fruits and vegetables at competitive price in the outlets and to control the middlemen menace.

Mysore Hopcoms Managing Director BM Shivalingappa said that already 42 fruits and vegetables outlets are existing in Mysore, including one at Chamundi Hill and T Narasipur and good response is evoked from the public.

Among 42 outlets, 22 outlets are functioning in own building, whereas remaining building are rented. Last months 10 building have been renovated and in a phase manner remaining builds will be renovated.

Spot billing machine

A new weighing machine 'Spot billing machine' has been introduced at 20 Hopcoms outlets in Mysore last month. It will be regularsied to other shops subsequently.

Fruits and Vegetables prices will be uploaded in computer through PC Application Software from Headquarters, where the scale and stock management will be monitored by another software.

Through this machine, a consumer can read the weight and price of the vegetables or fruits purchased from them. This hi-tech method has been adopted by Hopcoms to be transparent.  

Students grow organic vegetables at school back yard in district

At least 60 percent of government schools in Mysore district are making efforts towards becoming self sufficient in terms of their vegetables requirement. Thanks to the government's 'Shala Kaitota programme' which seeks to make use of the backyard in government schools to grow chemical free greens.

Based on the availability of space in school backyard, water, school teachers have begun teaching farming activity to students, under the programme 'Shala Kaithota' sponsored by the Government, familiarising them on how to grow vegetables and greens which are chemical-free and also nutritious. Through this children are gaining knowledge about organic cultivation of crops which is also the need of the hour.

Vegetables like brinjal, beans, Bottle Guard (sorekayi), Pumpkin, drumstick, and varieties of green leaves like menthe, pudina, sapsige, dantu, chakotha, coriander leaves and others have grown by the students. Interestingly in some schools, for about 20-25 days the greens grown in the backyard are used for the mid-day meals served in their schools.

The excess grown vegetables, greens are sold by children after their school hours. The obtained money is used to purchase seeds. Moreover, children are made aware of market strategy by this.

Student Kavya of Government Higher Primary School, Chikkegowdana Kopalu, Ilwala, says: “We are very happy that vegetables and greens grown by us are used for preparing food. Moreover, we are harvesting organic plants, with the help of teachers and have learnt how to grow crops in the little space available in our backyards.”

Head Master MN Rangaswamy said that “after removing the ornamental plants we began growing greens and vegetables in the schools, without disturbing the children's play ground.”

Mysore Taluk BEO R Ramaradhya said that the students are responding positively for the programme as it is providing a good exercise for the children both physically and mentally. “As some schools have no compound walls stray animals enter and destroy the crops some time.”

DDPI BK Basavaraju said that about 60-70 per cent schools in district have began growing veggies and greens, and very good response is evoked from students and parents.

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The programme 'Shala Kaithota' (School Hand Garden) was implemented by the State Government under Sarva Sikshan Abhiyan a decade ago. Rs 3000 has been released by government for schools, which have adequate space and water facility to develop the garden. The programme was not implemented effectively all these years, due to lack several problems. But, now the programme is evoking good response.  

Evolution of fodder grass at Mymul

If one is curious to learn about the evolution of fodder grass, which began from the early elephant grass in the African planes to the local Bajra and the present day hybrid varieties of Co-3, and Co-4 Samporna, one should visit Mymul Training center located in Alanahalli.

Mysore Milk Union Limited (Mymul) has grown 20 popular varieties of fodder grass on one acre plot, being used as cattle feed for over three decades. The plot is a educative center for thousands of farmers, especially for those who are planning to take up dairy farming. The fodders are exclusively used as feed for the livestock and forms a major role in agricultural sector.

Interestingly among the various varieties of fodders grown here, the fodder origin from Elephant Grass and Kumbu (Bajira) can also be seen. After extensive scientific experiment, a hybrid grass variety was developed namely, Hybrid Napier (NB-21), a cross between the Elephant grass and the Bajira.

Further research done at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in Coimbatore resulted in the development of Cumbu Napier CO1 followed by CO 3 and CO 4, variety known as 'Samporna'. All these three hybrid varieties can be seen here. Using CO 4 as fodder for cows resulted in increased milk output and also the yield of CO 4 per hectare is more.

With the Mysore-Chamarajanagar Milk Union attaining third place in the State, on an average 6 lakh liters milk is produced by the dairy everyday, and there is a good demand for the fodder.

Mymul has already provided more than one crore stem cuttings of this hybrid grass fodder to farmers on subsidised rates and is able to meet more than one 80 per cent of the demand. Free home delivery is also provided.

MS Lakshmi Prasad Yadav of Mymul said farmers in Mysore and Chamarajnagar were giving more prominence to grow fodder. Thousands of farmers have already undergone training on growing the hybrid grass varieties.

According to a survey, more farmers favour cultivating agriculture crops than growing animal fodder. Only 4 per cent of agriculture land is used for growing fodder crop across the country, while in States like Punjab, Haryana and Gujarat it is six percent.

“To cut down costs of milk production and increase the yield, growing green fodder is necessary. The proteins in the fodder helps livestock to produce good quantity of milk,” says farmer Thimmanayaka of Periyapatna.   

Farmer grows 567 varieties of rice

Farmer Ghani Khan has literally brought back to life the once traditional rice diversity that was growing naturally by growing 567 different strains of rice. Rice harvested from each variety has come out with its unique colour, size, and shape retaining its original flavour.

Hailing from Kirugavulu in Malavalli taluk of Mandya district, 36 year old Ghani Khan completed his BA in Archeology and Musicology and is striving hard to revive and maintain the rice diversity.

Since the time of his great-grandfather Syed Ghani Khan, all his family members were into agriculture, not growing rice but instead growing 250 varieties of mango at 'Bada Bagh' orchard, gifted by the erstwhile ruler of Mysore Tipu Sultan.

Now four generations later, Ghani Khan has completely changed the outlook of his ancestral farm by growing 567 different strains of rice, along with the mangoes, in addition to 60 varieties of medicinal plants, sugarcane, guava, aromatic plants and Teak Silver Oak (agro-forestry) along the boundaries of his 20 acres of land.

Rice planted in the one acre of his land is meant only for seed production,

drawing farmers from far and near places. The rice varieties grown here were collected from five different States and also from other countries.

“Things changed after the KRS dam was constructed. While hitherto distinct varieties of rice like Coimbatore Sanna, Raja Bhog, Bangaru Sanna, Bangaru Kaddi, Kaddi Batha, and Doddibatha that were being grown traditionally here came to end. With the availability of ample supply of water round the year high yielding rice varieties were taken up for cultivation. Slowly the diverse rice crops vanished from the fields,” said Ghani.

With the intention of reviving and restoring the lost strains he single-handedly began collecting traditional rice seeds in 1998 and ended collecting a record 567 varieties of paddy strains. He thanked the organic farming association like Sahaja Samrudha for helping him in his endeavor to collect seeds from different regions.

Krishna Prasad of Sahaja Samrudha said, “Ghani’s concern for conservation of biodiversity has influenced many farmers to conserve traditional rice varieties and his experiment has made even scientists and officials to take note of his efforts, and have applauded his venture.”

Prize Collections

Some of the diverse strains revived in his field are Rajabhog, which is a weed

suppresser, Anandi a variety from Dharwad with a high yielding capacity, Jeeriga Samba a popular variety among farmers known for its aroma, Parimalasanna.

Two varieties of Burma black rice, some of the varieties from Orissa like

kalakali, baingan mangi, Govindbhog (a sacred variety used as offering to God Krishna); Maharashtra varieties like sagvad, an upland variety used for pooha, maladi a medicinal rice used in treatment of fractured bones, HMT variety, Kasubai another aroma variety, Raj Gudiyapa a dry land medicinal rice variety used for treating weakness and Dharisal, Tulasiya, Sheerabathi, Thamadisala, rathbath amongst several others can be found here.

Chinnaponni, Kempudoddi, Halublu, Rajakayame, Rasakadam,Gamgadale, Burmablack, Kagisali, Ambimohar, Gamsale, Kottayane, Bilinellu, Gandhasale, NMS2, Rajmudi, Ratnachudi, Gowrisanna, Jeerigesanna, Bilidoddi, , Gambatha, Jeerigesale and several others are grown here.

   

They sell mats since fourth generation

Circle is not just a prominent landmark in the heart of the city, but also a place where nutgrass weed mat sellers having been eking out a living since centuries. A countable number of people, majority of them are women, can be seen even today selling mats (chaape) a vocation practiced, since the time of their ancestors dating back to more than 150 years.

In this era of modernisation, with the arrival of fancy carpets made of plastic, wollen and various other materials the demand for nutsedge weed mats has dried up. But still the family members do not want to give up their traditional livelihood and are striving hard for their survival.

According to Malligamma who is in this business for past 50 years, she used to accompany with her grand mother from her childhood to sell the carpets in KR Circle.

"As there were no bus facilities, my grandmother and mother used to walk all the way from Kadakola till KR Circle. In the past there was good demand, but for the past 5 to 6 years, we see good business only during festival seasons and certain special occasions,” she added.

Hucchanayaka another traditional mat seller says: “There are only three persons who make mats in Kadakola, which are very expensive but lasts for ten years. But the demand for such mats are very less in market. So, we purchase the mats from a distributor which are brought from Tamil Nadu where the prices are very competitive. The prices of mats sold here ranges from Rs 100 to Rs 1500 depending on the length,

width and the size.” This traders come here by 7.30 am in the morning and sell the mats till 9.30 pm.

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'Korai' is the tamil name and 'chennikaddi' called in Kannada for Nutsedge Weed, which is used for weaving. Its grown by farmers in Tamil Nadu who are involved in grass farming. According to Malligamma, mat weaving is a painstaking job and long process has to be followed.

  

Mymul to cut down transportation and distribution cost

Packing and transporting milk without any delay after processing is a daunting task. It has to reach all destinations ahead of the expiry time mentioned on the pack, else it will be rejected.

The Primary Milk Producers Co-operative Society chill the milk before dispatching it to the main Milk Dairy in Mysore for further processing and the processed milk is again sent back to the villages for consumption. This roundabout process incurs avoidable costs, wastage of fuel and manpower besides being inefficient.

In order to cut down the extra transportation and distribution costs, Mysore Milk Union has decided to upgrade its existing chilling centers at Hunsur and Chamarajanagar by adding milk processing and packaging facilities at these units.

As a result, unprocessed milk collected from Periyapatna, KR

Nagar, HD Kote, Hunsur and other neighbouring villages will be processed, packed and transported directly from these centers, instead of sending them to Mysore every day as is being done now.

The two centers will be upgraded by deploying the latest technology and the estimated proposal for the same is Rs 8 crore, which will be provided by National Co-operative Development Corporation.

There are 1294 Primary Milk producers co-operative societies under Mysore-Chamarajanagar Milk Union of which 871 are in Mysore. While 1 lakh liters of milk is collected from Hunsur every day, the procurement from Chamarajanagar touches 80,000 liters per day.

By upgradation of these two centers, Mymul can save 8 to 10 paise per liter for transportation and distribution respectively.

Mymul MD Dr Suresh Babu said that though the State has 13 milk unions, Mysore is the first Union to have a packing and processing facilities at the taluk level.

Because of the upgradation of centers, consumers can get fresh milk quickly and also help cut down on transportation and distribution costs. Officials from NCDC, New Delhi, will be visiting Mysore on December 13 and 14 to visit the centers, he added.

Bulk Milk coolers

Plans have been drawn to set up 62 bulk milk coolers in Mysore and Chamajanagar. Under the first phase 14 bulk milk collers (8 in Periyapatna, 3 in Nanjangud and 1 each in KR Nagar and HD Kote) will start functioning from January. Presently the Mysore Milk Union has 49 coolers. With this Mysore Milk Union will be the first in the State to get this project sanctioned. Rs 667.02 lakh has been sanctioned as the grant in aid by National Diary Plan.

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Quick view

- Mysore Milk Union produces 5,72,000 kg of milk per day.

- 2,35,000 kg milk is sold every day.

- 30,000 kg is used for curds

- 5000 to 7000kg is used to make other products like Kova, Paneer, Masala Mosaru, Nandini Bite and others.

- 1.5 lakh kg of milk is sold between diaries.

- 45000kg milk is sent to kerala; DK – 15,000kg and 20,000 kg to a Diary in Bangalore and also to Chanrayanapatna for hybrid Milk.

- Remaining 1.5 lakh kg of milk will be converted into powder.

  

Palace Artist M Ramanarasaiah no more

City's senior and retired Palace artist 91-year-old M Ramanarasiah is no more. Being resident of Vijayanagar, he breadth his last in a private hospital around 1.30 am on Sunday. He leaves behind his wife Jayamma, and eight children, including two sons. Last rites were held at foot of Chamundi Hills on Sunday.

Being a scholar in Mysore Traditional Paintings, he was a mentor for thousands of budding artists. He was the one, who introduced squirrel hair brushes for creating painting.

Born in 1992, he was the son of Venkatanarasiah, a Shirastedar in the erstwhile princely State of Mysore. After obtaining graduation in fine arts, he created a painting of Jayachamarajendra Waidyar for which he was provided a royal patronage unit.

His works were gifted to royal families by then Wadiyars and his paining on Maharaja's last Durbar is being displayed at Jaganmohan Palace. His paintings have been exhibited across country and has many honours to his credit, including the rewards given from King Jayachamaraja Wadiyar. He was also the recipient of MTV Acharya Award.

Condoled

City's senior and budding artists have condoled his death. In a release,

Sri Kalanikethan School of Arts KC Mahadevashetty said that he was master in Art and had maintained his unique style in paintings.

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eom/mys/rathna

RAMANARASIAH, RENOWNED EXPONENT OF THE MYSORE SCHOOL OF PAINTING

Amentor to Mysore's many budding artists, this exponent of the Mysore School of Painting, M. Ramanarasiah, is much more than a good teacher. He has donated a number of his paintings to individuals, temples and institutions creating a deep awareness and interest in the aesthetics of art. Young at 88, this simple, soft-spoken and gentle artist resides in Vijayanagar.

Born in 1922, Ramanarasiah is the son of Venkatanarasiah, a Shirastedar in the erstwhile princely State of Mysore.


Ramanarasiah completed his SSLC in the then English Medium High School in Mysore, run by the Methodist Mission. His favourite subject was Chemistry and Science. His father wanted Ramanarasiah to become a doctor or a scientist. But drawn by the intangible call of art which he saw as an integral part of one’s life, he chose to follow his muse in the field of painting.

With a burning desire to become an accomplished artist and hopefully reach the level of Ravivarma, Ramanarasiah appeared for the entrance exam in Chamarajendra Technical Institute. At the time, its Superinten-dent was reputed artist Pawanje.

Pawanje, impressed by Ramanarasiah's skill and his control over lines and the fluidity in executing them, directly admitted him to second year course. Ramanarasiah graduated in Fine Arts in 1947 and in 1950, he married Jayalaxmi.

After marriage, Ramanarasiah settled down to become a full-fledged painter and created a 12-inch masterpiece of Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar in oils. Other accomplishments followed and he was given royal patronage until 1960.

During the days of royal patronage he completed numerous oil paintings. The then Maharaja presented these works to different royal families and notable persons. Many of his paintings of kings and renowned persons are in the possession of some of the older quasi-royal families of Mysore as well as Mutts. Among his finest creations is the 7ft x 12ft likeness in oil of the Maharaja’s last Durbar, displayed even now at Jaganmohan Palace.

Ramanarasiah retired in 1960. He was given the sinecure as the Superintendent of Jayachamarajendra School of Painting till 1978. Artists do not put away the palette or camel hair brushes even after they attain 60 years of age. They go on and so did Ramanarasiah.

Impressed by Ramanarasiah’s depth of knowledge and his artistic creativity, the scion of the royal family Srikanta Datta Narasimharaja Wadiyar installed him as the ‘Guru’ of the newly founded Sri Jayachamarajendra Traditional Mysore School of Painting (1981). He was also the curator of Jaganmohan Palace.

Ramanarasiah is adept in both oils and water colours but he went ahead to master the unique Tanjore and the Mysore Schools of paintings. He also learnt painting on glass sheets and ‘Chikani’ style on ivory surface.

Through the years of experimentation with colours, his knowledge of chemistry came in handy. He is even credited with discovering that fine squirrel-hair brushes were ideal for water co-lours. His well-known illustrations are depictions of incidents from Ramayana, Mahabharata, the 18 Puranas, the Upapuranas and the scenes from epics like Rama's coronation, Girija Kalyana, Dashavatara, Gajendra Moksha, Raja Rajeshwari etc. He has also written a monograph on 'Ayurveda Medicines.'

Ramanarasiah's works have been displayed at many exhibitions in several cities in India and abroad. He has been honoured many times — during the 1981 and 1993 Dasara celebrations and by the Lalitha kala Academy in 1993 and 1985. Jayachamaraja Wadiyar has also presented many rewards for his works.

Ramanarasiah says, "Perfection is very important for an artist. Even today I create the colours and brushes that I need and use. I don’t prefer ready-made materials."

Ramanarasiah has eight children. His son S.N. Simha, an engineer, eldest daughter Sudha Venkatesh who lives in Bangalore and Chandrika are also adept in Mysore traditional painting.


Portrait of B.S. Pandit, founder-Secretary of Geetha Shishu Shikshana Sangha, painted by S.N. Simha and Ramana-rasiah. It will be unveiled in GSSS Women's Engineering College, Mysore.