Drought hit cattle find their way to pinjarapole, slaughter houses

Even as the government has been maintaining that there is no shortage of drinking water and fodder for cattle, the distress sale of cattle and its handover to Pinjarapole has increased in chief minister's home district even in the beginning of the summer.

The Mysore Pinjarapole Society which provides shelter to stray and discarded cattle has received a huge number cattle from last two months, a majority of them from different parts of Mysuru district. Even incidents of cattle being rescued on its way to slaughter houses is on the rise, which clearly indicates the distress sale.

Farmers are finding difficult to take care of the cattle as grazing lands are going barren and water holes are getting dried up forcing farmes to give up their injured, sick and unproductive cattle. Pinjarapole sources said middlemen are making a killing as they get cattle for less price and which they sell it to slaughter houses.

According to Papanna, a farmer from Subanahalli near Mysuru: 'An average of 30-40 liters of water is required every day for cattle. With summer, and water woes at high extent farmers are selling cattle at Boresanthe near Berya, Nanjangud, Darga, Hunsur, Chunchankatte. It has become very hard to look after the cattles, which force farmers to sell the cattle for less price. The statements of officers has remained only on papers. We are even struggling hard to get water for drinking.'

'Following drought, there is no cultivation and there is acute shortage of fodder, which is forcing farmers to sell cattle. Earlier farmers used to care the cattle till they die. But now sick, unproductive, aged of all aged cattle are being brought to the society with unabale to provide adequate fodder and water,' said Somashekar farmer of Nanjangud.

Prasad Murthy, deputy director of department of animal husbandary said that there is no fodder scarcity in district and can be managed for three more months. Large number of cows housed at Pinjarapole are seized at highways which might be from other districts.

The Mysore Pinjarapole Society receives on an average 4-5 cattles every day. In Januaray as many as 189 cattle were rescued and housed at Pinjarapole Society, while it was 143 in February, 71 in March and it is 158 till April 10. The society has received 109 cows last month from farmers and few from mutts, which was 35 in February and 58 in January. Most of the cattle are received from Mysore, Mandya, Chamarajanagar, Hassan and Coorg.

Short of fodder

The drought this year has not only hit farmers hard, even the Mysore Pinjarapole Society is running short of fodder and water to feed the housed cattles under its care. The society has sheltered 3540 destitute cattle. Presently fodder is being supplied from T Narasipur, Nanjangud, KR Naga and Mandya. The society has deputed 25 volunteers to collect fodders from wherever possible while the contractor has also been instructed to ensure adequate supply and are running the show.

The rates of the fodder which was hitherto Rs 4 per kg has gone up to Rs 7 per kg since December. The society collecting more donation from donors and philanthropists is feeding the animals. The condition at Pinjarapole Center at Udbur in HD Kote which houses about 400 cattles is also not better.

Society President Devichand said: 'There is shortage of fodder, whereas we are managing engaging more people to collect fodder from other villages. To lessen the dependence on borewells we are holding talks with the officials of Mysore City Corporation seeking water

supply for the society.'

Around Rs 2 lakh is needed for maintenance every day. On an average around 6 loads (approximately 24,000 kg) of fodder is needed every day to feed the cattles and four tankers of water. The society has also housed rescued goats (30), horse (7) and pigeons.

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Highlights

* An average of 30-40 liters of water is required every day for cattle

* Farmers selling cattle in fairs without fodder and sufficient water

* Incidents of cattle being rescued on its way to slaughter houses is on the rise, which clearly indicates the distress sale.

* The statements of officers has remained only on papers.

* Seized cattles sheltered at Pinjarapole since November is 791; while received from farmers is 483, and 40 from mutts and others.

Tourist to obtain facilities under one roof by Dasara

 

Tourists who will be visiting Mysuru have a good news to cheer. By dasara single ticket system will be introduced for tourists places like Palace, Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Karnanji Lake, and other places.

KEA and Tourism Department have invited tenders for construction of Tourist Plaza which not only provides information to tourists regarding the places in and around Mysuru, whereas one can obtain single ticket (common ticket) and visit Palace, Zoo, Karnaji Lake, Chamundi Hill.

The tourists plaza will be constructed at the cost of 1.69 crores and works will commence from May. The plaza to be built in 665 square meter will include food court, ticket counters, luggage room, help desk, media conference room, rest room, commercial shops which sale the geographical indications products like Mysore Sandal Sopas, Mysore Silk, Mysuru Rasabale, and much more.

This apart, state of the art parking lot will be constructed at 10 acres of land at the cost of 1,97 crores, to address the major parking problem in heart of the city. Foundation was laid for construction of Parking Plaza at Karnataka Exhibition Authority premises here on Friday.

Officials say the works will be completed by October, where 800 two wheelers, 500 cars, and 30 buses can be halted. The plaza will have basic facilities with a security.

KEA Chief Executive Officer NM Shashikumar said that out of 80 acres of KEA land, about 12 acres will be used for the construction of Parking Plaza and Tourism Plaza. The works will be completed in another six month.

'Parking plaza to be constructed by Nirmathi Kendra, will address the parking problems to higher extent and help desk to provide information to tourists about the places to be visited in and around city. This apart, a proposal has been sent to construct entrance plaza for parking plaza at the cost of Rs 1.13 crore. If the government gives approval soon the works will be commenced,' he added.

Hi-tech toilets

Confederation of India Industries to construct a high tech toilet at the cost of Rs 70 lakh at the exhibition premises. Drinking water facility, Baby care, feeding center will be constructed. The toilets will be physically challenged friendly and about 32 people can use the toilets.

Water tankers work overtime as summer raises heat in Mysuru

This year's unprecedented drought has not only affected agriculture and lives of farmers, but has even touched those residing in urban areas.

Several localities in the city are not getting regular water. With borewells already going dry, residents are finding hard to get water to meet their daily requirements. Most of the residents are forced to depend on water tankers.

Though officials claim that the services of the regular water supply has not been affected, Mysore City Corporation receives daily around 20 complaints related to disruption in water supply from areas like Saraswathipura, Siddarthalayout, Kesare, Udayagiri, TK Layout, Naidu Nagar Sharadadevi Nagar, Datagalli, Nazarbad, NR Mohalla, Naidu Nagar, Kalyangiri and several other localities.

In the meanwhile, water suppliers are busy making several trips to help residents get water in time. There are 22 water tankers in the city which makes on an average 6-7 trips per day. The water to these tankers is filled from Vijayanagar, VVWS, Devanur, Yeraganahalli, Kuvempunagar which are then supplied to residents. An average 150 to 160 trips of water load is distributed every day.

According to tankers water supply in-charge Basavaraj the number of trips this year has considerably increased compared to previous years.

“Last year we did on an average 4-5 trips per day, whereas this year we are making 6-7 trips. Most of the residents in NR Mohalla get their daily water supply only through tankers, and parts of Kuvempunagar, Datagalli, Vijayanagar, Kesare, Naidu Nagar are supplied as per the demand. We make sure water is supplied to all localities, who register complaint.”

Sources in the VVWS said that the problem in water supply is due to frequent power cuts. 'If power fails it takes hours together, to get water pumping. Whereas, the decrease in KRS water level is alaraming and we have to gear up to face the coming days.'

Menu have been changed in old age homes

Increase in mercury level has disrupted the normal life in urban areas. The City has not even witnessed a rain keeping the city always on the boil. Elderly people and babies are the most vulnerable. Unable to bear the heat, most of the old age homes in the city are being provided with cotton sarees and menu has been changed.

Liquid based food and fruits like water melons, bananas, cucumber, organge, lime juice are offered in good quantity at old age homes. This apart, they are given less spicy items and easily digestable food. While, some of the old age homes are asking the people willing to offer food, to replace with fruits.

Bapuji Old age home manager Nanda said that fruits and less spicy items are provided for old people. Shalini Home for the Aged and Care Giving Center Secretary Raju said that as per the suggestions by nutritionist diet is planned as most of them are diabetic.

What residents say.....

Vanitha, a resident of Nazarbad said: “We are not getting water from tankers daily. Last week we received water from tankers only twice. As all the borewells have gone completely dry they have been closed.'

Parveen, a resident of Mandi Mohalla said: 'Last week we received water from tankers thrice. Along with power cut and inadequate supply of water we are facing lot of problems. Added to this, it has become hard to beat this summer heat.'

State Women Commission to conduct special awareness programme in Mandya

Frequent incidents of crime against women like honour killing, dowry

deaths and others in Mandya district has shocked the people in Mandya. This apart, highest number of female foeticides has been reported from the district, has become a cause of concern. 

Its not only housewives but educated women have also become victims of dowry death. The recent dowry deaths of Shruthi a lecturer, Supraja an M.Tech Graduate, and Priyanka a house-wife has made the people to think twice before entering into marriages.

 

State Women Commission Chairperson Manjula Manasa said: Female foeticide, honour killing, dowry death are in rise and a special awareness programme has been planned in Mandya to educate people.

'Its easy in villages to obtain details about women who are subjected to harassment and face domestic violence. Strict instructions have been given to officials of women and child welfare department, Santhwana kendra, and police personnel to be aware and immediately initiate action as soon as a incident is reported,' she added.  

According to KR Pet Farmer Srinivas: 'A sort of fear has gripped in the parents who have daughters. Most farmers host lavish marriages borrowing lakhs of rupees ending up in debt. There are several instances in Mandya, where even after marriage giving good dowry, their children are continued to be harassed.'

“Every time when the girl goes to mother home, its expected that she has to bring some thing valuable. If she brings less, then she will be abused. Most of the parents think its their right to collect dowry from bride,” added housewife Thanuja.

Women activist Sandhya said: 'Dowry is most dominating social evil and most people amicably settle among themselves, without registering complaints in the police station. The incidents of honour killing are highly condemnable. There is an need to sensitize people.

 

As many as 24 cases of dowry deaths have been reported in Mandya since 2014 and 329 cases have been booked for cruelty by husbands and relatives against wives. Even the number of cases registered under molestation in Mandya is on the rise with 826. So far 61 cases have been registered under Dowry Prohibition Act.

This apart, out of 418 suicide cases registered in 2015-16 majority of them were farmers. The main reason for most of death is due to failure to return the borrowed money for their daughter's marriage, added to it crop failure.-

'Honour less killing'

Sociologist Prof Indira said: 'Its hard to believe that parents go to that extent of violence killing the children for honour. Medias should report it has 'honour less killing' and not 'honour killing'.

“Caste is always used to protect one's family status, which is being carried down by generations. This social hierarchy and caste hierarchy has to be removed. Punishment should be very stringent for those commit crime and public condemnation of such people is needed to bring about the change and this should become movement.”

Stating feudal system and patriarchy as the reasons behind such cruelty, she added: 'One who has land will get the power and this power comes from caste. To retain control over this property, such family hierarchy in caste is being practiced. The upper caste are not ready to lose power and hence take to commit crime. We can see similar type of incidents in Bihar, UP.'

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What psychiatrists say...

Dr Rajagopal, Assistant Professor and HoD, Department of Psychiatry, MMC&RI said that 30 per cent of people who attempt suicide will have psychological problems.

'Irrespective of education people are committing suicide. Cultural and societal factors, elders or relatives and personal problems, abuse to higher extent and several other factory make patients to take extreme step. If family members find any symptoms of suicide or unusual behaviour in a person should immediately get for counseling.'

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Line Up

* Year wise dowry deaths: 2014- 11; 2015- 9; 2016 – 4 till April 20.

* Cases booked for cruelty against husband and relatives : 2014 – 151; 2015 – 148; 30 till March end.

* Cases of molestation: 2014 – 219; 2015 – 432; while 103 in the last three months.

* Booked under Dowry Prohibition Act: 2014 – 26; 2015 – 31; 2016 – 4.

* Suicides – 2014 – 262; 2015 – 357; 2016 – 61 (February 28). 

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A round Table conference was held by women organisations to condemn right wing organisations opposing Mandya's inter-religious marriage here on Sunday.

Progressive thinkers who came out with resolutions, demanded government to set up a separate cell on the lines of Tamil Nadu government to give protection for couple who enter inter-religious or inter-caste marriages.

They also urged to provide a common platform to constitutional rights of citizens and right to choice. This apart, they asked government to display a notice in all department which informs about what citizens should when their constitutional rights are violated.

The thinkers discussed about the dangerous developments and how to ensure constitutional rights for every citizens, strengthen human values in the society from the clutches of vested political interest.

Prof KS Bhagwan said that government job should be given for only those have inter-caste marriage. If this is done in next two decades the practice of casteism can be eradicated from the society, he added.

Progressive thinker P Mallesh talked about how to fight against communal forces and uplift human relationship irrespective of any caste and religion.  

Widows of farmers struggling hard to re-construct their life

The agony and plight of the wives and aged parents of farmers who committed suicide is still scrambles. Loosing lone and sole bread winner of the families the women are encountering several challenges to bring up the children, and earn for livelihood.

 

Added to this, severe drought has worsened the situation further. With the agricultural lands going dry, some are even planning to sell them off, whereas they have not find buyers as the agricultural sector has turned risky due to drought and various other reasons.

Speaking to Express, some of the deceased farmers wives said that they don't want their children to get involve in agriculture; as it is not more a lucrative profession. 

'We want our children to be educated like another and get into government service instead of toiling in fields to meet their ends . Few widows disclosed that they have planned to migrate to cities in search of a job to provide good education for their children.'

Even after couple of months after death of their husband, they are yet to come back to normalcy. The woman are in dark side without any clear picture. They are struggling hard to frame their lives, and earn for children. Some even have plans to get settled in urban areas and find job.

Most of the wives are in young age, with two to four children to look after. Some being illiterate they have no other sources of income. Though they have obtained compensation of Rs 5 lakh from the government, without any other source for income how long the money can be used is the question.

Lakshmi of Nanjangud, who has two small children is planning to migrate to city. She doesn't want her children to enter agriculture and end up as her husband who had to commit suicide.

"It has indeed become very difficult to live or earn our livelihood. How to spend rest of my life all alone with no one to support makes me nervous. Am planning to sell my land, but not getting buyers,” adds Gowramma of KR Nagar Taluk.

“My husband died without clearing the debts. In case of emergency no one comes forward to give money. I cleared the debt of my close relative in the compensation money. Now struggling to bring up children,” added another women Savitha from Mysuru.

“After death of my husband, am facing lot of changes. I have no idea in any issues, and if I get a job of Rs 6,000 to Rs 8,000 is enough to raise children. Will find for NGOs, and undergo skill development training,” adds another woman Mahadevamma. 

Renuka who turned emotional said: 'I do want to sell my land, and want to leave with memories of husband. Will stuck on to agriculture and try to make profit.'

More than 1350 farmers have committed suicide last year. About 40 widows of farmers were in city on Sunday, to receive a cheque of Rs 20000 given by KASSIA on humanitarian grounds at the agro-tech expo.

Stock yards to store farmers produce to come up in 266 places in Mysuru district

Here comes a big relief to farmers who all these years were forced to sell off their agricultural produce for lower price for want of stock yard facility nearby.

The government has started constructing storage units (godowns) in all the 266 gram panchayats in phased manner. In first phase, 95 gram panchayats have been selected. Each units will be constructed on a plot measuring 1200 square meter at the cost of Rs 11.07 lakh with storage capacity upto 8 tonnes.

This move will immensely benefit farmers, as they can store the produce for a couple of months till they get good price. The works will be taken up by Zilla Panchayat under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

The three main reasons for taking up construction of warehouses is to maintain a buffer stock; and another is as per government order fair price shops will be opened in every GP, so these storage units can be utilized for the storage of food grains for public distribution and the transit area will be used to fix minimum Fair Price.

“As of now there is no storage unit facility in gram panchayats level. This initiative is expected to benefit farmers immensely. They can store both agriculture and horticulture produces upto 8 tonnes. This provides a major relief for farmers in villages and if the produces exceeds the limit they can shift it to big warehouses located in taluk or district headquarters,” says Rameshwarappa, Deputy Director, food and Civil Supplies Department.

ZP Chief Planning Officer Prabhuswamy said: 'Already works of three storage units has been started. Each units costs around 13.45 lakhs including labour charges. The economic status of farmers improves with storage units in base levels. Transportation charges gets cut down, and farmers can sell produce when there is good demand. This apart, with jobs provided under NREGA for villagers migration can be prevented.'

Farmer leader Kuruburu Shanthakumar said its a long pending demands of farmers seeking storage units at gram panchayat levels. Along with constructing storage units, measures should be taken to construct cold storage units in taluk levels, to store locally grown vegetables.

Farmer Basavaraju said: 'Local storage facilities is the need of the hour. Without proper storage units farmers in gram panchayats were facing severe hardships. They were selling the grown crop to middleman. Now, by storing it for a couple of months, the farmers can study the market and sell the produce when they get good market.

Where and how many godowns

Mysore Taluk - 9

T Narasipur - 13

Periyapatns - 6

Hunsur - 19

Nanjangud - 14

HD Kote - 20

KR Nagar – 14

Mysuru's story telling show finds its way into Limca Book of Records

 'Kalasuruchi' which has kept alive the tradition of story telling to kids by organising sessions every week in city has found its way into Limca Book of Records.

'Kathe Kelona Banni' (Come, lets hear a story) sees distinguished people narrate inspiring stories for school children at a house in posh Kuvempunagar area. The show has been running successfully for the last nine years.

'Englightenment through entertainment' is the motto of the Kalasuruchi. Suruchi Rangamane, which has been hosting this programme on every Saturday between 4.30pm and 5.30 pm without a break, has till date, conducted 482 story telling sessions.

Since the launching of the event in February 2007, thousands of children have been benefitted. Stories based on current issues, folklore, epics, history, culture and great personalities are narrated for chidlren by people from all walks of life.

Members of Kalasuruchi are planning to continue it and ensure more children listen to the stories. Plans are on card to release DVDs of the recorded stories rendered by the eminent narrators and distribute them to schools and interested parents. The same will also be uploaded on a website, if they get suitable financial assistance.

Epics Ramayana and Mahabharatha were narrated to children for 25 weeks by two Kannada teachers, Balakrishnaiah and Vimalashree. Recordings of these will also be launched soon. After story telling programme, children will be taught Kannada, pronouncation, grammer, which helps them to learn new words. Children will be asked to share their opinion in writing, so that they develop writing skill.

Prof KV Sridhar Murthy, a member of Kalasuruchi, expressing his happiness over entering Limca Book of Records said that with the entry, their responsibility has increased and will take initiatives to make stories reach more number of small children.

'Earlier stories were narrated by grand parents in their homes. This practice stopped due to changing lifestyles and increasing nuclear families. With this programme, children learn basics of human values, ethics and discipline. The stories instill confidence in the young minds and also educating them on various aspects,' adds convenor Dr HK Ramanath.

“Our children used to spend time watching television, and playing games in computer. From last two years they make sure they wont miss to listen to the stories. Indeed listening to stories it inspires them to take decisions, and helps their future,” say couple Sunil and Arathi.

About Kala Suruchi

Renowned theater personality late Ananthamurthy started Kala Suruchi, a mini theatre for small children at Kuvempunagar in 1985. After his demise, wife Vijaya Sindhuvalli is fulfilling his dreams by hosting series of programmes for chidlren. Family members Sumana and Shashidhar Dongre are helping Sindhuvalli in her endavour.

Programmes like Kathe Kelona Banni, Nataka Vachana, Ranga Geethe, Sahithya Chavadi, dramas, seminars, theater workshops, music programmes, folk arts, harikathe, and various other programmes are being planned to be held.

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With increasing mercury level the demand for saplings has shoot up

 

With increasing mercury level and awareness among populace the demand for saplings has shoot up. Volunteers of various organisations, environmentalists willing to increase green cover in the city, are approaching forest department seeking saplings of seasonal fruits and flowers.

The forest department has raised 6.30 lakh saplings to distribute for several NGOs, general public from June first week. Two years ago about five lakh saplings were distributed, and last year 5.70 lakh.

Even the demand for saplings has also gone up in nurseries. People are thronging to buy colourful and seasonal plants to plant in gardens, and their backyard. The forest department officials are also planting saplings in hospitals, hostel backyards, anganwadis, and government lands.

B Huchaiah, Deputy Conservator of Forest said that with increasing awareness quite a good number of individuals, NGOs, and various organisations are coming forward to purchase the saplings. The demand for Honge, Neem, Jack Fruit, Nerala is high. While, farmers are purchasing Hebbavu, Silver Oak, and seedling are sold from Rs 1 to Rs 3.'

'In the last two months several education institutions, organisations have approached seeking saplings, and we have asked them to collect saplings in June, as its rainy season and grows well. If the saplings are planted in summer it goes dry, and will be a black mark for the department,' he added.

Former Minister SA Ramdas said that in association with various organisation nearly 3 lakhs saplings will be planted in next two months in city surroundings, outer ring road, and Chamundi Hill. 'We are getting saplings from forest department, as well as nurseries. Talks will be held with officials to know the suitable place to plant trees on outer ring road.'

Parisara Jagruthi Vedike has already planted 800 saplings on the ring road, and 6,000 more will be planted in next month. Vedike President T Mahadevaswamy said: 'We are 50 volunteers and are creating awareness among young minds by visiting education institutions. We are educating people by distributing brochures, conducting debate for students. By June will tour all schools in rural villages, and educate children about importance of planting tress.'

Environmentalist Latha says: 'Planting trees is a permanent solution for all the existing problems we are facing, such as shortage of rain, energy crisis, depletion of ground water and several other environmental related issues.

'There is a need to intensify educate people about conservation of lakes, flora and fauna, rain water harvesting, reduce of private vehicles, planting trees, nurturing birds, thereby motivating people to join hands for contribution of environment', she adds.

Highlights

* With increasing mercury level the demand for saplings has shoot up.

* Forest department to distribute saplings from June

* Various organisations to plant 3 lakh saplings

Raitha Sangha will spread its wings to migrated labourers in Bangaluru

 

Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha will spread its wings to migrated labourers in Bangaluru by taking up their issues concerned to various aspects in the alien land.

With alarming increase in the number of farmers migrating to big cities in search of odd jobs following severe drought, and other agricultural issues, Raitha Sangha has decided to unite farmers in big cities, and provide protection, security, strength to such farmers.

Nearly one lakh farmers who have arrived in Bengaluru in search of a

livelihood will be united and brought to the main stream of society. Raitha Sangha will soon set up two associations, 'Halli Makkala Sanghatane' and 'Migrated Farmers Family Association' to unite families of migrated farmers. Both the associations will be launched in August. In the first phase farmers residing in Bengaluru will be united, as majority of them have migrated to Bengaluru, which later will be extended to Mysuru, Hubli and other cities.

As per a survey conducted by Raitha Sangha only those small farmers with small holdings such as less than 3 acres of land, have migrated largely. They are working in garment factories, malls, granite quarries and some even as house maids. Even security guards, room boys, hotel suppliers, construction sector, watchman are some of the professions sought out by these farmers. While, some are eking out a livelihood by owning push carts and renting autos.

Farmer leader Badagalpura Nagendra said that most of the farmers are working

in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Sadashivanagar, Dollars Colony, Chandralayout, Nagarabovi and other areas. Recently 500 farmers working in Rajarajeshwari

Nagar have been brought together and a committee has been formed.

'For those settled and willing to continue living in cities, will be educated

about various government schemes including Mudra Scheme and SHGs

will be formed for the women folk for their welfare. This apart, protection, security will be ensured. Sincere attempts will be made to bring back farmers, who are ever willing to continue farming,' he added.

Farmer leader Chukki Nanjundaswamy said that 'We were working only in villages, and now we are focusing on big cities to unite working class farmers. The forum will give moral support, as well as protection for migrated working class farmers.

Even the younger generation of farmers is not so enthusiastic to take up agriculture due to various factors. They will be educated to tackle the issues, and will be motivated to take up farming activities, as there is a need to save villages and improve economic status of villagers, she added.

“For migrated farmers its an question of survival and to provide a good future of children. Still most of them are suffering hard to earn for livelihood. We hope the farmers associations will protect us,' says Narasaiah working in a factory in Bengaluru.

'Not only drought, but several other issues are affecting agriculture which combined together has made farmers to decide not to continue with farming but seek other jobs instead by migrating to urban areas. As a result the villages are turning into old age homes. There is a need to save villages,' say farmer leaders.

Computerised property tax has only remained on paper in Mysore

 

Even more than a year after Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palika (BBMP) introducing computerisation and online payment of property tax, Mysuru which is the second biggest city of the state seems to least bothered about it despite popular demand. Though efforts were made in this regard a couple of times, nothing happened. MCC officials say they are awaiting for software to be developed by Municipal Reforms Cell.

There are more than 2 lakh property tax payers in city, and the tax payer have to stand in long queues to pay the taxes. This apart, majority of the property owners who dont know to fill applications, have to get the forms filled by the persons who will be sitting outside the respective zonal offices by paying an amount of Rs 30 /- or so.

Digitisation can generate several useful reports which can help MCC to improve tax collection more efficiently. It will be a big relief for lakhs of citizens. MCC can keep track of all the 2 lakh property forms that are submitted and retrieve quickly for verification, without any room for corruption.

Most citizens feel by computerising the entire property tax collection by MCC it can double the amount of tax collection. According to an estimate, if MCC had computerised property tax system two decades ago, by now it would have been richer by at least Rs 1000 crores to make Mysore a model city in India.

MGP member Bhamy V Shenoy said: “The present hand written system is a disgrace. There will be human errors while computing tax structure in the present calculator and hand writing system. Filling up four forms mentioning the amount of tax and entering two page self assessment forms is not only time consuming but irrelevant in this age and time of computers and internet. One is not sure whether the form has been correctly filled since the required data is not easily available,” he adds.

“With the presence of several software companies including a world giant Infosys, Mysore should have become a digital city by this time. If our city cannot adapt digitisation even for a simple application like property tax, how can we hope to become a digital city to achieve the goal of PM Narendra Modi,” he questioned.

Digital system can enable to compare data using GIS (Geographic Information System) based Urban Property Ownership Records (UPOR). Of course such an efficient system also reduces the opportunities to collect bribes from those owners who do not like to pay their dues, he added.

'There are thousands of professionals in the city who are aware of the importance and usefulness of digitization. The youngsters should put pressure on MCC to digitilaise the property tax system and making Mysore a digital city,' adds Sharath, Businessman.

Mayor Bhyrappa said with most of the prominent posts being vacant, it has not been possible to come out with the software. “The post of DC Revenue and council secretary is vacant from last one year, and five Assistant Commissioner's posts are vacant from last several months. With absence of concerned head in the department, additional in-charge officers are not able to take decisions. Moreover MCC cant take a call on development of software and we have written a letter to Municipal Reforms Cell to provide software at the earliest. Once the software is ready it will be boon for nearly 2 lakh property tax owners,” he added.

Young entrepreneur finding Mysuru most for their startups

After Bengaluru, Mysuru is the second fastest growing city in the State providing ample opportunities for entrepreneurs to start new ventures. Over the past two years the city has witnessed quite a good number of youngsters who are coming out with innovative startups ideas.

Young enterprenuers from different parts of the State, are finding Mysuru most attractive for their startups. In the last few years, many who had planned to launch their startups in metro cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, had eventually shifted to Mysuru.

Good road connectivity, completion of double line railway track between the city and Bengaluru, high scope for innovation with Bengaluru already saturated, good infrastructure and marketing facility, affordable rental charges, tourist destination, environmental factors, quality of life,starting up cost is less, low traffic density, and several other reasons has made many newcomers to choose Mysuru for their new ventures.

24-year-old Sumanth Prabhu and Nikhil Shetty, a native of Shivamogga they did not had any links with Mysuru, but still decided to establish their business in Mysuru as there was not much competition. The duo are founders of VESTO, an education technology company that develops activity based learning products, fun and experiential for the students and enable them to innovate while in Schools.

They say starting up cost is less than Rs 10,000 per month in Mysuru, which considerably reduced their monthly expenses while bootstrapping. “Bengaluru was saturated with too many competitors and high operational costs. Though our product was very unique we didn’t want to get into Bengaluru at the initial stages due to high investment costs in startup. As market potential was not that huge in Shivamogga, we finalised Mysuru. Now we are happy there is good demand for our product.”

25-year-old Prathiba Nayak, a Managing partner of Nakhsha builders and a native of Mengaluru says: 'Being in Mysuru, I realised the city has tremendous opportunities and there is a great scope. Bengaluru is saturated and the scope for innovations is less. The heritage city also has the advantage of being a well planned city like that of Chandigarh. We intend to keep Mysuru as our head office as we keep expanding business.'

'Earlier had plans to startup in Bengaluru. While, starting in Mysuru was a strategic decision. Mysuru is a value based city where businesses are still done the traditional way, which gives us an immense opportunity to test our business. Bengaluru is very much crowded with startsup, and having genuine business is quite challenging. There is a great boost of morale for startups to go to next level in Mysuru. Low cost living and marketing is a major advantage,' adds 31-year-old Vaibhav of Ipopi, an ads India's first restroom branding company.

BC Nanjappa, an Agri graduate and Chaitra Narayan who have jointly founded Codagu Agritech said: 'We chose Mysuru and Kushalnagar to start our industry as we primarily deal on plantation and horticulture related products. We plan to expand our market to other crops. Also, we would like to set an example by encouraging rural science graduates to take up jobs locally and promote a scientific temperament among rural youth. All our employees are graduated from remote villages in Coorg.'

Pragnya, Chair of Yi Emerge, a youth wing of CII says: 'Mysuru can become number one startupcapital in tier 2 cities soon. Funding, government support, mentorship are some of the challenges. We collect inputs from the startups on what challenges they were facing, and what support they needed to emerge. By conducting workshops, seminars, we are motivating youngsters to take up businesses.'

What industrialist say:

Confederation of Indian Industry Chairman N Muthukumar, over the past year and a half, most startups in the MSME sector have shown keen interest towards Mysuru as apart good infrastructure the city also offers good net connectivity.

Small Scale Industries Association President Jayanth said; 'Several government schemes has promoted youngsters to take up the business. Presently State Government is offering a low rate of interest to encourage entrepreneurs and increasing number of youngsters, including women entrepreneurs are coming forward to set up businesses. If the amount is increased to Rs 2 crore, we can see rapid growth in industrial sector.'

Industrialist Sudhakar Shetty said that government should reduce the lease value of the land for 90 years, or introduce 'lease cum sale' option, then the industry can grow much more rapidly in Mysuru.

 

Environmentalists to file PIL opposing unfriendly construction planned atop hill

 

Environmentalists have turned red over the developmental works being planned atop Chamundi Hills, and are planing to file a Public Interest Litigation.

Speaking to Express, several environmentalists said that there is no need to develop Chamundi Hills on the lines of Tirupati, and they strongly oppose the proposal to build multiple lanes or take up construction of dormitories and multi-parking facilities etc atop hills.

“The proposed construction works destroys the already fragile ecosystem of the Hills which in recent times has been affected by drought and forest fires. Putting up multi-lane road along the slope requires removing forest cover destroys the forest and is against conservation of green cover. The flora and fauna in the regions will be further threatened with the increasing environment pollution,” was the concern expressed by the environmentalists.

Naturalist Manu said that more than 130 species birds are nesting in Chamundi Hill. With added pollution due to increased carbon dioxide emission by vehicles, it will severely affect not only the flora and fauna but also certain exotic species of plants in the Hill. With decrease in green cover, wild cats like leopards are forced to move out of their habitat resulting in human-animal conflict.

MGP President Chandra Prakash says, 'This will surely going to be a Road to Ruins as for as Chamundi Hill is concerned. There is no need for another four-lane, since there are more than four roads leading to Hill and certain roads can be declared one way for reducing the traffic. The proposed multi-parking can be shifted to the foot of Chamundi Hill. Being hardly 13 kms away from city, there is no need to construct a dormitories atop the Hills. MGP is planning to file a PIL.'

A regular hill climber Shankari said the recent constructions going on in the name of development works has destroyed every know heritage symbol of Mysuru which is a dangerous and this is not a way to retain the heritage and beauty. Tourist flock Hill, to enjoy the scenic beauty, this initiatives will not promote tourism.'

MGP member Bhamy Shenoy says: 'Its shocking that CM Siddaramaiah being Mysorean has approved the construction of a four lane highway for Chamundi Hills. With impact of climate change, awareness on conservation of environment has increased. Instead of preserving the natural beauty of a place like Chamundi Hill, the government is destructing the beauty. I request CM to stop the development works.

Highlights

* CM Siddaramaiah had laid foundation for various development works at the the Chamundi Hill at the cost of Rs 79.90 crores

* Environmentalists say the environmentally unfriendly construction planned atop hill will mar the beauty of heritage city.

* Concerned citizens suggest prohibiting any private vehicle going up the hills and providing only bus service for the pilgrims, as done during Aashada.

* MGP finding out legal remedy available to this malady. It has invited environmental activists and lovers of Mysuru to join with its efforts to save Mysore and send suggestions to mygrapa@gmail.com

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.