Thursday, November 24, 2011

Yoga and Fitness

Will yoga see light of the day in our schools
Moral education being made part of the curriculum, appeal made in introduction of yoga as part of school curriculum

L.Raghunanda
4th Estate
Bangalore


While ministry of education primary and secondary education time and again emphasised in giving importance to moral education and Yoga as part of the school curriculum,

Moral education has been part of school curriculum, yoga has yet to see the light of the day, “ “Yoga forms part of physical and intellectual development of childrens and this need to seriously considered and be made part of curriculum in schools”

“Primary and Secondar education ministry under Vishweshwara Hegde Kageri, long standing wish and our demand was laid and now atleast the ministry must take a grand steps” said B.Seetharam Tholapadithaya Secretary Shantivan Trust, Dharmasthala which has been forefront in promoting the Yoga in schools at all levels.

Shantivan Trust which has been hosting the 36th National Yoga Championship in Dharmasthala from 29th November 2011 to 3rd December 2011, where this time exponent in Yoga and renowed name like B.K.S Iyengar, K.V Iyer, Krishnamacharya, Pattabhi Jois are taking part

And where for championship the participant are coming from 27states, where 450 males and 350 females in the age group of 8 till 40 years old are taking part.

Without hesitation Tholapadithya said “Shantivan trust has been waiting to make known on the occasion. with a request made through CM D.V Sadnanada Gowda , with govt to well consider and make necessary steps of introduction of yoga as part of the child development and seriously consider it.” With CM being present in the inaugural function.

Speaking to 4th Estate Tholapadithya made known that “Shantivan Trust objective of giving emphasis Yoga has been well thought one.

“Shantivan Trust infact since 1991, started an exercise where it began training teachers in schools both govt and private in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada district.

“And this programme of training the interested schools and teachers was extended to school in other district of the state so as Shimoga, Chickmagalore, Davanagere, Hassan, Madikeri, Belgaum,

“The cost of running the training programme was undertaken by Shantivan Trust, Dharmasthala and the incurring cost the trust had to bore each years for supporting the programme was Rs 30 lakhs” said Tholapadithya

The well known Shantivan Trust initiative of giving training was well received, by most of the schools aided and unaided schools, where according to present nearly 3,900 teachers have benefited by it.

International Competition

Stage is well set for ‘Mr Universe-2011 Body Building Championship’
24.11.2011
4th Estate


Three members from Karnataka of total seven member bodybuilders team contingent who are taking part in ‘Mr Universe-2011 Body Building Championship’ which is scheduled to be held at Hamburg in from 26th to 28th November 2011.

“We are upbeat and our exercise regime, diet are strictly followed and monitored by Indian Fitness and Body Builders Federation and we are sure we will win collectively and individually” said Roshan Ferrero captain of India team,

Mahesh S. Lohar from Maharashtra who will coach for the completion was confirmed by P.S.B Naidu Secretary General of Bangalore chapter of Indian Fitness and Body Builders Federation, Bangalore while speaking to 4th Estate

If Roshan Ferrao is well known body builder from Karnataka working in Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation is from Mangalore, while Shodan Rai and S. Shankar is native of Bangalore, both are working as trainers at Gold Gym.

The other team members are Y.Nalbir Singh and L.Boynao Singh from Manipur, Satish Krishna Malusore and Ashok Shankar Chauvan ,

More than anyone the news of three member from Karnataka taking part is taken well , the one body which will be proud very much for having guided in some way or the other even helped in producing that many body builders will be Karnataka Amateur Body Builders Association, which is past has reputation of producing body builders like Raymond D.Souza, A.V Ravi, G.Manjunath and Srinivas Swamy

Aspiring Body Builders your guide to one among them!

4th Estate which had interaction with captain of India team Roshan Ferrao secured few of the tips that will go well if one has to be body builder and be among them.

- To be body builder you need to above 17 years, that is where muscle tendons and skin began to grow much faster and take any inputs, and you need to spend minimum of two years in gym to be body builder and getting trained by the expert trainer.

- To be good body builders you need to follow strict exercise regime under a trained body building instructor in a reputed gym, which cities have.

- Diet regime that is followed need to have protein, carbohydrate, where non-vegetarian should be mainly part of regime, where you need to take 40 eggs, ¼ kg of fish and ½ kg of chicken every day

- One need to keep himself a separate amount of money for the upkeep of diet regime and fees he spends on body building itself, that is Rs 1,200 everyday should be allotted for food itself and few thousand rupees should be spent on gym trainer and for gym.






Printing Technology

Lexmark unveils its new ink range printers

L.Raghunanda
4th Estate blogspot.com
Bangalore

The leader in inkjet printers and the second largest seller of inkjet printers in the world, today launched the home and professional version of inkjet printers.

Four new devices that were brought out were: Prospect Pro209, Prevail Pro 708, Impact S308 and Interpret S409.

The printers which come with Lexmark’s patented Vizix print technology, which includes separate ink cartridges, fast print speeds and high quality results.

It is said the new All-In -One(AIO) devices printer which can print up to 33 pages per minute in black and up to 30 pages per minute in colour, producing crisp, precise images is the fastest printers of the generation.

The thing that attract about the printer is that of all four printers launched are equipped with advanced wireless-n technology for long range reach and a more reliable signal for fast rates, ensuring freedom and flexibility for the user.

Speaking on the occasion of launch of the Lexmark new ink range models Mr Shailendra Aragula country manager said ‘The research has shown that printing costs are important to small business and enterprises looking of Lexmark India.

“Prospect Pro209, Prevail Pro708, Impact S308 and Interpret S409 have been designed with the small business in mind, helping them so called customers keep costs down without compromising on quality”

“While Pro708 if known for heavy duty handling capacity, Pro 209 is known for energy saver or energy efficient printer.

“Whereas S409 is known for excellent and fast printing with highest printing quality beautiful photos, crisp text all possible with Vizix print technology, while there is not much difference between the models,

Commenting further Argula mentioned of that in fast paced technology era “Lexmark want its printers to be known as technology compatible saving time, so this printers work with wi-fi “

Lexmark which will sell its printing solutions and products through vendors like HCL, CMS and Matrix to various companies who order them, “has strong presence in India and most of its customers in India are within government sectors” said Aragula.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Current News

What should be the role of Panchayath Raj institution

One day interactive session discussed on various aspect of the Panchayath be it Gramasabha, Gramapanchayath, Taluk Panchayat Zilla Panchayat, division of powers, allocation of funds etc.,

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore
17.11.2011


A meeting and interactive session called under Gram Panchayat Hakotya Andolana (GPHA)-the voluntary organisation to which belong Gramasabha, Gramapanchayath, Taluk Panchayat Zilla Panchayat, president, secretary.

To discuss about the powers, decentralisation and funding according to and in conformity to Constitution of India and in lieu of powers rested in 73rd and 74th Amendment will be discussed in one day interactive session.

While beginning the proceedings of the interactive meeting and session Jagadish Shettar, opened with comments “To begin with first it is necessary to commend the work of GPHA, for they having organised and having called this meeting and interactive session, where those active members of GPHA are present in the meeting.

“ Since constituting the GPHA, in 1999 it has brought to the notice to the ministry of Panchayat Raj and Rural development ministry that, GPHA as organisation want to know the role of the either be it Gramsabha, Grampanchayat, Taluk Panchayat, Zilla Panchayat.

“While the constitution has clearly defined under 73rd and 74th amendment what role the Gramasabha, Grampanchayat, Taluk Panchayat Zilla Panchayat, still though policy is framed, powers are not decentralised, central funding are not clearly demarked.

“At times one single funds allotted by central govt is used to many by the programmes under the welfare programme framed under Gramasabha, Gramapanchayat, Taluk Panchayat Zilla Panchayat, it is not right practice, so this need to fruitfully discussed.

“This GPHA meeting it is believed will have fruitful discussion where it is believed, the key raised issues across party lines legislators will take the issue put forward by GPHA members in Vidhana Sabha and Vidhana Parishad.

On the objective of the meeting Ganapthi connected to GPHA said “The discussion of the meeting and consensus will have lot of bearing the legislators themselves will know of the many issues so far they themselves don’t know from the respect the Gramasabha, Gramapanchayat, Taluk Panchayat Zilla Panchayat, has to play.

“When the larger conference under GPHA is organised in Udupi on 9 to 11th Decemeber 2011 where high profile CM DV Sadananda Gowda and Mani Shankar Aiyar former Panchayat Raj Minister will be present.

“The concrete proposal of the this meeting and way forward to make Panchayat as more effective vibrant in Karnataka will be discussed, so in this light this meeting is very useful.

The proceeding of the interactive meeting and session was inaugurated by Jagadish Shettar minster for Panchayat Raj, and Rural Development had 25 prominent legislators, and Grama Panchayat Hakoota Andolana (GPHA) members constituting the Zilla Panchayath, Gramasabha, Taluk Panchayath president and secretaries.

Most of the members of the GPHA who had came to the interactive session and meeting were Gram Panchayath, Gramsabha, Taluk Panchayath presidents from North Karnataka region, while the invitation was extended for all the members

Some prominent legislature who were present in the meeting and who are infact were part of the deliberations were Mr Mahima Patel, MLA, D.R Patel MLA of Gadag, PGR Scindia, Prathap, MLC, C.Narayanaswamy.


Protest News

Sand business affected strike of lorry owners to continue unabated

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore
17.11.2011

Federation of Lorry Drivers and Agents Association (FLDA) today protested in Freedom park demanding the lorry owners permit need to given back , sand quarrying so far banned need to be revived.

Some one thousand members of FLDA, many of them labourers some or the other way connected to FLDA, and quarrying who had come from all parts of Karnataka protested that CM Sadananda Gowda has to address the issue.

Which otherwise the protest will continue, where procession from Freedom park to CM residence will be taken up.

Speaking on the occasion B.V Narayanappa General Secretary of Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association said “When there is no law itself as to define what is illegal sand quarrying, quarrying itself how is this law made and why it was banned?

“ For past 20 days the lorry have remained stagnant, sand has not been arriving for building construction, in Bangalore more than 60 lorries all over the state have remained stagnant.

“And there are thousand infact lakhs people who had dependent on sand business are without work, many infact are migrating to other works and other parts of the state, district.

“Government infact should now never remain silent infact should act fast otherwise we will surround CM house and our protest will be intense, we can see so many struggling for life and with sand business connected to them.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Current News/Foreign Affairs

India to engage with countries of Indian ocean rim and ready to work at various level

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

11th Council of Ministers Meeting of Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Co-operation (IOR-ARC) in third day and last day of meeting opened where delegates representing the respective countries , foreign minister, secretaries, put forward their views, later it was said at end of the third day Bangalore communique will be issued

India which took over the chairmanship of IOR-ARC, from Yemen this year, will hold chairmanship till next year where Australia will take over the chairmanship and also it will be in Perth Australia where next IOR-ARC councils of ministers meeting will be held in 2012

In the opening speech of S.M Krishna External Affairs Minister who took over chairmanship with India holding the chairmanship made remark about the IOR-ARC challenges and opportunities and threats the IOR-ARC countries are to deal with

“There is need to co-operation at regional, sub-regional co-operation between Indian ocean surrounding countries at multi-lateral level ”

On India perspective of the Indian role, that India will play in IOR-ARC as one of its member and presently holding chairmanship “ India need to have interaction, co-operation with countries in the Indian ocean member countries in area of energy , where rising cost of conventional resources has become detrimental.

He also made known the urgent concern the Indian ocean rim countries need to ponder over and for which “strategic co-operation” “understanding” and “exchange of officials and diplomats quite frequently” at times when discussion take place as in discussion with “climate change” “trade and commerce” “fisheries” “piracy” “tourism” has to be the topic of discussion.

S.M Krishna emphasised the measures India has been on as to “ setting up disaster management agencies as to early warning system already in place as to Tsunami warning system” done with co-operation of IOR-ARC

Also the area where academic -government interaction happening in the area of “Hydrology, Marine Biology” and in this front he called on the delegates of those who were there on need to explore on “collaborative approach with Indian at academia-governmental level”

With many countries having raised the issues bothering the Indian Ocean rim countries, with international maritime having been affected also affecting the economy, trade and commodity transport also human trafficking going on “ the Indian govt is very much working with other countries surrounding the Indian Ocean rim.

“And this meeting will assume significance in the light of piracy which is bothering the same for everyone, and consensus where stern policy is framed to tackle the piracy and this will be taken with other International organisation who are working on similar lines”

“Officials are discussing ways of simplifying procedures for utilization of special fund, effective instrument for financing the projects and studies of common interest, with this objective India has decided to provide additional funding of US $ 1 million to the fund” said S,M Krishna on the constituting fund and how the member countries of IOR-ARC can use the fund for the collective development


The 17 member countries and the delegation at Bangalroe 11th IOR-ARC council of minister meeting ,include Mr Kevin Rudd, Foreign Minister Australia, Ms Dipu Moni Foreign Minister of Republic Bangladesh Ms Yuli Mumpuni Widarso Senior Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Legal and Security, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of republic of Indonesia.

Mohammed Mehdi Akhondzadeh Deputy Foreign Minister of Iran, Prof Fertus KAberia High Commissioner of Kenya to India, Ms Rakotoson Rakotorimah Razafinjararosa Charge de Affairs Madagascar.

Y.B Datuk Richard Riot, Deputy Foreign Minister of Malaysia, Dr Arvin Boolell Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mauritius, Anundpriyay Neewoor Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mauritius,
Mr Eduardo Koloma Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs and Co-operation of the Republic of Mozambique.

Mr Talib Miran Zaman Al Raisi Chief of Economic Affairs Sector Oman, Masagos Zulkifli Minister of Foreign Affairs of Singapore, Ebrahim Ismail Deputy Minister of International Relations and Co-operation of the Republic of South Africa.

Samuel J.Sitta Head of Delegation Tanzania, Navin Boonseat Secretary of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, Khaled Ghanim Al-Ghaith Assistant Minister of Economic Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, Dr Abdul Bakr Al –Qirbi Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Yemen, Dr Sarath Amunugama Foreign Minister of Srilanka

Agriculture News

Germany in the forefront of organic farming

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

Germany is far ahead of the world in showing the potential of organic farming, probably world woke up, it is right time to switch over Organic farming three decades ago, german government had fully supported any move to go for full organic.

“ Probably in technological that is available to deliver processed organic food products, German are constantly innovating, as of now you make get fresh organic, fruits, vegetables, but then processed by product.

“And technological expertise is hard to be developed, Germany is trying to develop it,” said Andreas N. Meyer of Vivani of Germany who has been into manufacture of organic chocolate products .

Germany which has been organising the world’s biggest organic trade fair under Bio-Fach, has grabbed attention world over, for the fair in order to promote its own organic farming industry,

Also for the eventuality availability of organic raw material for its own raw material dependent industry, Germany is partnering between various stakeholders those connected with organic industries, farming community, suppliers etc., in countries like India, Australia, China, Japan means.

Wherein own it will help in sustenance of its organic industry which in beginning had backing of govt, But henceforth, the sustenance of Organic industry will rest on how so many private players in organic industry in Germany will initiate the move, so that Germany remains leader in Organic sector in the world.

On the necessity prevailing to adopt of Organic farming “Introspection if made in the light of climate change ,ecological imbalance, soil infertility, if sustainable agricultural is the new mantra to be followed then there is very much need to adopt organic farming”.

“Such introspection was made by not just Germany but under the agricultural policy framed for whole of Europe, under European Union Common Agricultural Policy 2001” said Meyer

“ Germany though took lead in Organic farming, three decades ago, the total area under Organic farming is only 5 percent of total agricultural area, consumers of organic food is 25 percent of population, the largest consumer of organic food are in Berlin”

“The largest of the area under Organic farming is in Brandenberg, and Bavaria region of Federal Republic of Germany” said Meyer mentioning of the region and area under organic farming.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Childrerns day News

Childrens day celebration at Bal Bhavan Society

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

14 November 2011

Childrens day being today was celebrated by Bal Bhavan Society, in association with Women and Child Welfare department Karnataka in a unique way presenting Prathibha Puraskar awards to children who have excelled in academics, culture and sports for year 2011, constituted by Women and Child welfare dept Karnataka Govt.

Calling on the students, also making known of the vision Jawaharlal Nehru had for childrens Governor H.R Bharadwaj asked children and students to “ follow the footsteps of Nehru, the ideals he led the life”

“Nehru loved children too much and there was instance as I came to know myself that even at times allotted 8 to 10 hours to known from concerned department who working for the welfare to know what they were doing”

Meanwhile governor was all in praise for child welfare department, Bal Bahvan for promoting the children cause “ officials in the Bal Bahvan, Children and Women and Social welfare department have been doing good work for this children in supporting them in academics, in sports and cultural activities”

He commended the lead taken by girls children especially after seeing so many having taken Prathibha Puraskar prizes this morning in the very function “ It is good many girl students have come forward, excelled in culture, sports, and for which parents are toiling harder.

“There is need to bridge the imbalance existing in our education system, in our social fabric where girls are neglected, but in Karnataka those beliefs are dismissed.

Many students numbering 24 in all who have come form various district of the state got Pratibha Puraskar Award, for the year 2011, also individuals so as Gopinath from Koppal and Vasanth Kumar Shetty from Bangalore the two individuals.

Who was working on behalf of labour class, street children, and helping dropouts in schools to help them rejoin again the schools were given award for their recognition.

Two of the organisation Kuvempu Trust of Chitradurga, and Association for Promotion of Social Action (APSA) of Bangalore received award and commendation for their work in helping dropout children, street children and mentally challenged children join the school also helping them to bring in mainstream of life, they also got the cash prize of Rs 2 lakhs each

Also present on the occasion were-B.C Patil, Child Women Welfare Minister, Karnataka govt, Ms Symala Iqbal Director Child Women Welfare Department Karnataka govt, Ms Sudha Raghunandan Director Karnataka Council of Child Welfare, Roshan Baig Congress party MLA Shivajinagar, Ms Sulochana President of Bal Bahvan Society

Energy News/ City News

Energy park the first of its kind in Karnataka was inaugurated in Bangalore today by Shobha Karandlaje

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

Renewable energy and environmental friendly energy has to become way of life said Shobha Karandlaje Energy Minister , Karnataka Govt, while inaugurating the Energy Park located adjacent to Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain.

“It is good to see that various equipments are powered by solar energy as renewable energy, and are seen in the energy park, it is befitting example so to say.

“At a times when we are facing deficit of energy, in a small way people must try to make use of solar energy in their own way, by which pressure and dependence on Hydro electricity, thermal and nuclear energy can be reduced.

Karandlaje called and asked citizens to adopt solar energy to meet the domestic energy needs “today our people build house costing lakhs, this is very much seen in big cities as well as town and villages even, but by spending just a few lakhs, they should see that energy need are meet by having solar installation in their house.

The park which has the in display the various Solar energy implements, for the people to get to see, also make solar energy as part of life, buy some of the implements “ ministry has been promoting solar energy, and policy was framed in this direction.

“We have decided that in future this park will not only have various implements that run on solar energy, or for that any other renewable energy, but there will also be stalls where various solar implements will be for sale, where people can buy.

Energy Park, the first of its kind in Bangalore, replete with a solar hut with a photovoltaic rooftop system, a children's pool with a solar water heater test facility, battery-operated vehicles that will take you around the park and a windmill that pumps bore well water among others .

A park has a demonstration of street lighting and garden lights with a small solar panel has been highlighted. Aero generators (miniature version of windmills) have been put up at various places in the park to create energy through wind.


There are also Biogas plant, biomass gasifiers, biofuel energy plantation, box type solar cooker, digital weighing machine powered solar power.

The 1.5 crore project has been undertaken by Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL), in association with the Horticultural Department. The venture has also been financially supported by the Ministries of Non-conventional Energy Sources (MNES).













Saturday, November 12, 2011

Issues

Treat AYUSH doctors on par with other doctors working outside the AYUSH

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore


They are not the lesser doctors compared to other doctors , but officials in Ayurveda Unani Siddha Homeopathy (AYUSH) has no answers why regular doctors are getting good pay scale of Rs 27,000, but not AYUSH doctors.

AYUSH doctors, have become lesser mortals ! numbering around 700 doctors are getting only Rs 11,000 despite having served under AYUSH govt of Karnataka as doctors in various places in state for past three years.

Bangalore which contacted with the some of the doctors who in turn called to answer about the sorry state of affairs they are into, “something such partiality, not seen among the doctors serving in neighbouring state of Maharashtra and Gujarath where AYUSH has treated doctors there well

“But why here in Karnataka why are we not looked after well by AYUSH and govt” said Dr Mallikarjuna AYUSH doctors serving under AYUSH, working in Bangalore rural one among the 700 doctors listed under AYUSH Govt of Karnataka.

But then the similar grievance was expressed by the other two doctors Dr Manjunath and Dr Sanjiv Kumar both doctors from Bagalkot district who contacted Bangalore Beat but it is now very sure that govt and officials have left this AYUSH doctors down and they need to be treated well.

AYUSH doctors have become of late one of the far reaching performers in providing best medical care and serving the people, especially if you look about their service in North Karnataka especially in villages.

As said in Nanjundappa Committee report that “those who have served under and being back bone of health care service need to treated on par in terms of the scale of the salary paid , benefits they are entitled to get”.

But now what seen in case of AYUSH doctors it is exactly the opposite , “Any medical need given under the direction of AYUSH, or using either of Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy.

“Especially Ayurveda has far reaching significance in patients suffering or treated for the disease like Arthritis, Asthma. Medicine administered to patients works quickly either helping in recovering or decimating the disease without incurring much cost for patients.”

“And when AYUSH doctors are doing well, despite some lapse in govt in helping us get medicine, still doing work honestly, is it right on part of govt asking us and making us survive in salary of Rs 11,000 ?

“With today cost of living being increasing day by day, when our doctors friends working outside AYUSH having good pay scale drawing salary of Rs 27,000, they govt must seriously consider implementing our salary, increasing bring on par with general doctors scale as notified in Najundappa report.

“If not we all AYUSH doctors majority will assemble in Benappa Park on November 14th 2011 and protest in demanding our demands to be met, we want health minister and concerned officials in AYUSH Director, Karnataka Mr Srikanthiah to take urgent steps in meeting our demand” said Dr Sanjiv Kumar.

Volunterism

CSB initiative a some kind of charity

CSB News for 4th Estate

Community Service of Bangalore (CSB) a non-profit charitable organization founded in 1998 by Mae Barr which has been doing some charity works by raising revenues by selling goods starting from November till December end of the year, and this year it was kicked off today 12th November 2011 at Palace Ground ,Eden Garden venue.

The practice followed since 1998, the CSB supports anyone interest in the activity of donating buying the goods ranging from cloths, toys, food items, cosmetics on their own, sell the goods and see the revenue generated thereby will be forwarded to CSB concerned chairities.

There are stalls put up for each one, while it is open for anyone from age of 18 years, so far 50 stalls are in place.

The proceedings of the revenue generated by various stalls will be donated to CSB, and CSB in turn will donate the money to various charities connected with CSB like- Shivasan Foundation, Association for the Mentally Challenged, Ashwini Charitable Trust.

Jeevodaya Child Care India, Divine Light Trust Care India, Divine Shanthi Christian Association and Trust, Agape Children Centre, Association for People with Physical Disability, Mahila Dakshata Samaj, Navachethana, Prerana Resource Centre
.

Community News

Governor words of appreciation for Kodavas on the 100 years birth centenary celebration of the Kodava Samaj

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

Kodava community is well recognised for their valour, discipline said H.R Bharadwaj Governor of Karnataka while inaugurating the Kodava Samaja Bangalore 100th birth anniversary today 12th November 2011 at Palace Ground.

While delivering the inaugural speech, he made reminiscence of the his connection with army person from Kodava community during his schools and college days “familiar with the Kodava and came to know much from Brigadier General Thimappa at Shimla.

“When I had visited Madikeri as soon I was posted as Governor of Karnataka , I made visit to General Thimappa house to meet the ancestors, while no one was there.

To say of the Kodava, there are many from Kodava who have excelled in front of “sports, technology, academics, while there are many from kodagu, who have been in army and have served our country well , which is incomparable.

Governor Bharadwaj assured the community that “will do the best to see what can be done to the Kodava, so that they are front of every niche field in society, and thereby accommodated where their aspirations are met, will also put the word with govt in the best interest of the community”.

Bharadwaj had much appreciation for the Kodava community for their “discipline in the life, and the way of life, with community which have been in the Kodagu land of beautiful hill and scenaries have excelled ”

Bharadwaj also mentioned of the threat the tribals nestled in the western ghats whose interest he called on those in helm of powers to consider them “When last time secretly made visit to tribal area in Madikeri, saw, the tribals who have been living in very pitiable condition.

“Govt, forest officers, commissioners connected should do something, where they are accommodated without threatening the human ecological system in which they are living.”

Kodava Samaj which was started in 1911 then by interest General Field Marshal M.C Kariappa who wanted to foster the community interest which he represent made request with Jayachamaraj Wodeyar, who gave assent, but the samaja got the land during Gundu Rao erstwhile Chief Minister of Karnataka

Now Samaja which has its own office and vast spacious building at Vasanthnagar in Bangalore where throughout the year cultural programme and various activities take place connected with Kodvas.

Also present on the Centenary celebration occasion were-Ms Ichettira Prema Cariappa, Vice Chairperson Central Social Welfare Board, Mr Avaremadanda K.Monapppa Managing Director Hutti Gold Mines, Muruvanda K.Aiyappa Deputy Commissioner , Bangalore Urban District, Brigadier Kodandera Arjun Muthanna of Karnataka State Counter Terror Response Team.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Teta-a-Tete/Interview

With global demand, production of coffee need to be increased

Coffee Board and govt did its best in freezing and bailing out defaulters , while issue of shortage of labour can be addressed by mechanization said Jawaid Akhtar Chairman Coffee Board talking to L.Raghunanda of 4th Estate


By telling that except for some parts of the Coffee growing region in the state where it is affected by rain the prospect for output of Coffee is good this season said Jawaid Akhtar Chairman, Coffee Board, India

“The post-monsoon estimation of crop capturing the impact of monsoon rains is under progress and once it is completed by Coffee Board.

“Will have a scenario of what is the damage control measures can be taken by Coffee Board, board however can’t make a flimsy assumption” said Akhtar when 4th Estate contacted him.

Outlining about the global market scenario, when asked what will the demand for market with last year most of the Indian Coffee growers having got good price for coffee.

Because of Coffee production in South America –like Brazil, Columbia, Costa Rica crop having failed in 2010, affected by snow and rain, during which Indian coffee got good market price, only in the face of demand.

Akhtar remarked “Global market can’t be predicted, market sometimes in fact is not moving, however there will be deficit of Coffee compared to global demand in the market.

“Coming to demand with regard to consumption pattern in comparsion with supply, when global coffee production is growing at 1 percent, consumption is growing at 2 percent per annum.

“But if we have to maintain the share of exports and sustain the domestic market requirements, we need to take steps to increase production at about 5 percent annum which is a big challenge

Now what producers worldwide have started taking better care of their crops thereby increasing the chances of increasing overall production by 2012-13, added to this 2012-12 is going to be the on-year for Brazil crop with estimations of all time record crop of about 60 million bags, being their share.

“Vietnam is also expected to deliver a bumper crop of about 20 million bags Columbia which is also reeling under crop setbacks for the past 3 years may also recover by next cropping year.

In India we are expected to get 30 million bags (all 60 kg bag) and produce a high crop, this may bring the surplus

‘As to market my feelings is that which is shared by other experts is that one should be cautious in gauging the market, to much spending by growers, the board just being compelled by some market forces propelled by any means and market getting adverse is worst scenario even to come to terms with.

“This year it is looking rosy, the demand for Coffee is more, the production target need to be enhanced or met while export so far from India according the statistics available till September is is 6,009,017 Metric Tons,

While export from Brazil it is 34,289,152, Metric Tons (MT) Vietnam 16,850,000, MT Columbia 8,064,439, MT Indonesia 5,487,357, MT Honduras 3,866,002, MT Guatemala 3,653, 933, MT Peru 3,556,338, MT Uganda 3,150,090, MT Ethiopia 3,022,385 MT

Approach in freezing of loan and bailing out defaulters

When asked what the progress Board taken in fulfilling the demand of the Coffee growers be it from Small scale and medium scale Coffee growers in freezing of the their loans while they many of them being defaulters, the episode seen from 2004 very seriously.

Akhtar was quick to comment that “ The board has made lot of progress, many small growers and large growers benefited by the freezing of the loans, since 2004

“For freezing of loans when therepresentatives from board, planters association like United Planters Association of South India (UPASI) and Karnataka Planters Association (KPA) also from banks approached government.

“Govt was ready to freeze loans also share of bailing out the Coffee planters the so called the defaulters to banks, where in freezing the loans, the central government has pumped money of Rs 450 crore as measure of bailing out

“But then bank also to help the planters has given loan in tune of Rs 150 crore by which account 1,20,000 coffee planters have benefited by debt relief package and resurgence measure of the board and govt taken jointly

Mechanization way forward to address shortage of labour

What the board move as to address the shortage of labour issues which is very serious issues among all kind of Coffee growers be it in small, medium or large estate “Coffee plantation work in estate can’t go without labour, this is known fact, take the example of Brazil, Costa Rica, Columbia etc., which has the largest area under Coffee.

“There also in those countries though mechanization and research as to come out with new machines and tools to supplement labour shortage is being seriously taken up, board in India has also been saying the same.

“There are machineries where you can get lot of work like in case of spraying in coffee estate, cutting the weed, now event there are technology and machine for drying the coffee seed soon after the coffee is plucked, pulped and then put for dryer.

“Dryer machine has come solace and a boon to many a planters especially in season when there is rain and coffee can’t be dried in drying yard, drying machine available starting at cost of Rs 4 lakhs where every growers has to make benefit.

Akthar mentioned of the Board of giving subsidy to planters those seeking machinery and board is doing it with those plantation machinery manufacturers whereby coffee planters with less than 20 acres will get subsidy of 50 percent while they go for purchasing the machines.





Business News

Raise above excellence said Dr Jija Madhav Hari Singh calling on practising Company Secretaries of Southern Region, Bangalore chapter

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore


Calling on the Company secretaries to raise above the excellence Dr Jija Madhav Hari Singh former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Fire and Emergency Service, Karnataka called on practising company secretaries working under Southern regional chapter inaugurating the 6th Practising the 6th Southern Regional Conference of Practising Company here today

“That between competence, mergers and acquisition , financial disclosure auditing, cut throat competition and cost cutting measure excellence can’t be undermined” said Ms Harisingh

Dr Jija Madhav Hari Singh gave few tips of guidance to Company secretaries in their march towards excellence “Company secretaries must access the scenario thoroughly, see all stakeholders are with you, see that you are well informed”

Suresh Kumar Urban Affairs Minister, Karnataka while lauding the Company secretaries role said there is no other go but see that Company secretaries and corporate governance is the “mantra” but called on the Company Secretaries

“That they must see transparency accountability is maintained in the corporate governance and thereby see trust is maintained not within company but public at large”

The two day 6th Practising Company Secretaries of southern region which will have technical session where various issues will be discussed relevant to company secretaries so as to Foreign Exchange Management Act, about SME Stock Exchange, where expected company secretaries of Southern region took part.

People present on the occasion were-Suresh Kumar Urban Development Minister Karnataka Govt, , also present were working members of the Bangalore chapter of The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI)

Those of them from southern regional chapter of ICSI like company secretaries like Nagendra D Rao, B. Ravi, Dwarkanath were also present on occasion

Education News

Thinking of making compulsory education till age of 16 for children : Kageri

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

With intention about the taking primary education and secondary education in the state towards path of progress Visvesvaraya Hegde Kageri Primary and Secondary education minister mentioning about the path his ministry is taking in education in the state.

“Education should be aimed at not just sake of providing education or knowledge, but it should aim at providing quality education, where self efficiency, where self belief is strengthened and students are employed the education must aim at that”

He mentioned of that his ministry is thinking of making education till 10th standard compulsory, also in this direction he said “proposal is sent to central human resource ministry,”

“While as of now education till 8th standard was norm, which means till age of 14 years one child should get educated, but now what we are thinking in education ministry and department in Karanatka.

In fact proposal sent to central govt to increase the age of the child to get educated increased to age of 16 years which means child would have completed 10th standard by this time”

He made reminiscence of the Sarva Shiksha Abhyan started under Ataj Behari Vajpayee former Prime Minister of India where “Right to Education and ease of child labour is diminished means every child is literate, educated”

In the era when Information Communication is rapidly progressing ahead, Computer education has and is became relevant and so in this light “department will provide those schools where students studying in 10th standard having scored highest marks will receive two sets of computer”

And department is also thinking of having one subject “ Computer Science as part of the school curriculum from primary school, but that is where we are planning ”Said Vishvesvaraya Hegde Kageri Primary and Secondary Education minister said speaking on the occasion of inaugurating the “National Education Day -Right to Education” organised by Karnataka dept of education ,on the sidelines of the Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad birth day today ,

Also present on the occasion were Dinesh Gundu Rao MLA Chamrajpet, Kumar Nayak Education Commissioner Karnataka govt,

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Agriculture News

Hope of robust coffee production in India this year: Akhtar

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

There would be good coffee production this year, with favourable rain, “the post blossom production coffee this year according our estimate would be placed around 3,22,250 metric tonnes” said Jawaid Akthar Chairman of Coffee Board, Bangalore

“With good rain the target we had set in last year that we will reach the 3.22 lakh Metric Tonnes (MT) that will be reached”

Mentioning about the record export last year “exported quality of coffee during last year was 2,90,394 MT, while the coffee growers were happy for this reason, that was because of the prevailing market, so far the two years market was favourable to Indian coffee growers”

“And reason for securing good prices this year ,would be good opening stocks and this was optimistic outlook for Indian coffee even”

In his 30 minutes speech he mentioned of the of the global scenario of the coffee by mentioning “of year cycle in Brazil and production set backs in Columbia, Indonesia” whereby it might “result in the reduction of coffee by 3 percent”

On the consumption pattern it has increased “with consumption increasing in coffee growing region itself” with increase see in “Brazil, Vietnam, Indonesia and India as well as in the new markets like China, South Korea etc.,

While he expressed displeasure which many planters have expressed where timely work in coffee estate could not be completed on time like “shortage of workers” said Akhtar while addressing the gathering after inaugurating the conference organised by United Planters Association of South India (UPASI) jointly with Karnataka Planters Association (KPA) at Atria Hotel Bangalore.

Also present at the inaugural function Mr Sahadev Balakrishna, Chairman Karnataka Planters Association (KPA), D. Hegde President of UPASI,

The one day conference had experts like Ms Sunalini Menon CEO, Coffee Labs Pvt Ltd, Bangalroe, C.L.N Rao Head of Agronomy Department, Netafim, India, Ms Christine F.Jamal Vice President Tata Coffee Ltd,.

Who would be speaking on the various aspect of coffee starting with Coffee estate branding and micro lots of Coffee, drip nutrigation in Coffee plantation the Brazilian experience, the plantation trails experience.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Education News

Two day Indo-Global Education Summit 2011
For those aspiring and wish to pursue education overseas, universities collaboration

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

When students are rushing to US, Europe, Australia New Zealand, in search for studying, “ there is whole lot of seminar are taking place, consultants are guiding the students”,

“On the prospect of higher education, opportunities collaboration are also taking place between Indian Universities” said Maheshappa Vice Chancellor Vishvesvaraya Technological University

Maheshappa further added said “The two day summit will see Indian Universities signing Memorandum of Understanding, where universities want to share faculty, curriculum, but in future there will be time where this university curriculum will not only be taught here, but there will be faculty exchange program, and even campus, but that will take quite time”.

Two day Indo-Global Education Summit on 08.11.2011 at NIMHANS was inaugurated by N.Prabhudev Vice Chancellor Bangalore University, Bangalore Prof H.Maheshappa Visvesvaraya Technolgical University, Belgaum.

Also present on the occasion Jacques J. M.Shore Member,Board Of Governors, Carleton University, Canada, Justice M.Venkatachaliah Former Chief Justice of India, Prof Laode Mashihu Kamaluddin, President Sultan Agug Islamic University, Indonesia, Columbia

Two day summit will not only have university representatives from US, who would be involved in discussion, giving guidance to faculty, but student explaining of the education course, graduation, post graduation, but let you know of the procedure.

There will be one on one meetings between representatives of foreign universities of those of Indian institutions for academic collaborations, there will also be one on one meetings between Indian sponsors.

Some of the Universities and the representatives who are in the summit are –University of Virginia US, University of Tilburg Netherlands, University of North Texas USA, University of Texas US, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio De Janeiro Brazil, Sultan Agung Islamic University Indonesia, University College Cork, Ireland. National Open and Distance University UNAD, Colombia

Protest News

CITU today protested for increase in price rise, disinvestment

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore

Central Indian Trade Union (CITU) workers today protested in front of SBM Circle, Bangalore demanding to bring down price rise of essential goods in the market, also govt approach to privatise public sector in both central and state.

The move to protest by CITU was taken at convention in Delhi on 7th September 2011, where the CITU decided to undertake to observe Satyagraha and Jail Bharo on 8th November 2011, where unless the demands are not met the protest will go on.

Along with CITU, other organisation which have given support for the protest were-Bharat Mazadoor Sang, All India Trade Union, Hindustan Mazdoor Sangh,

Speaking on the occasion H.V Ananth Subbarao said “ This UPA govt is not pro welfare govt but, Pro-capitalist govt, despite the call by people organisation , trade union , opposition . Still govt went ahead in rise of fuel hike, then rise in essential goods.

“Govt then went ahead with disinvestment, privatisation this year alone by privatisation it has raised Rs 40000 crore, while on the other hand there is no proper implementation of labour laws, no social security measures, no permanency of jobs.

“Though law is made to give gratuity, pension, provident fund, to workers in unorganised, but so far it has not been given.

“Our demand with govt is that UPA and here BJP govt in Karnataka should not contractualise of permanent jobs, and extending all benefits available to permanent workers to contract workers also.

“Amendment should be made to fix under minimum wages act where Rs 10000 per month for universalising the same.

“Removal of ceiling for payment of PF and bonus and increase in the amount of Gratuity, pension, compulsory registration of all trade unions within 45 days and ratification of decision of 87th and 98th conventions of International Labour Organsiation (ILO)

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Technology News

Pionner audio major and car audio accessories manufacture today announced the launch of new Audio-Video Receivers, a Blu-ray and a DVD player in India.

L.Raghunanda
Bangalore


Pioneer India Electronics Pvt Ltd, announced the launch of four new Audio-video receivers and a Blu –ray player to bring alive the cinematic experience to living rooms.

The new range of Pioneer receivers which include models VSX 521 K, VSX 821 K, VSX-921-K and VSK 1021-K,

A Blu –ray player BDP-440 and a DVD player DV-3022KV offer unparallel performance and advanced technologies. It encompasses exciting new features like Pioneer applications Airjam/i control AV2 for i Pod touch, i Phone, and i Pad, DLNA 1.5 certified and internet radio.

Speaking on the occasion of launch of Audio-Video Receivers, a Blu-ray and a DVD player in India Shingo Ikeuchi General Manager, Pioneer India Electronics Pvt Ltd. said “ The new range of receivers from Pioneer has the most advanced home audio technology, coupled with beautiful aesthetics.

“They are equipped with various features and a simple user interface. We are launching our first AV receivers and Blu-ray player in Bangalore as it is an important market for us and offers tremendous growth potential. The customer here are quite tech-savvy and look for quality and enha
nced features”