Coffee as career? Centre of Excellence proposed in Bengaluru

To promote capacity building in this niche field, the Coffee Board has sent a proposal to the govt to establish a ‘Centre of Excellence for Coffee’ in Bengaluru.

Image used for representational purposes only.
Image used for representational purposes only.

Bengaluru :

With coffee doing well on global price charts, there is an increasing demand for more skilled labour. To promote capacity building in this niche field, the Coffee Board of India has sent a proposal to the government to establish a ‘Centre of Excellence for Coffee’ in Bengaluru. Currently, the board has limited seats for its programmes and aims to introduce newer short-term courses for coffee enthusiasts.

Board Chief Executive Officer and Secretary Dr KG Jagadeesha said, “We run a one-year Post Graduate Diploma in Coffee Quality Management (PGDCQM), which is highly sought after. It is run in the Coffee Quality Division in Bengaluru and students also visit the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI) in Chikkamagaluru for three months. Students get industry experiences such as visiting cafes, understanding roasteries and understanding the packaging and promotion. However, we can take only 15 individuals and the applications that come in are more than 500.”

The applicants are thoroughly reviewed based on sensory evaluation, interview and academic records and should have a bachelor’s degree in botany, zoology, food sciences, bioscience or agricultural sciences. The proposal submitted to the government is part of the five-year budgetary renewal during which the board lists down its vision and plans for the next term.

“The Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) proposal entails an exclusive centre for coffee and various skilling and upskilling programmes,” Jagadeesha said.

‘Will train 5K grads to make espresso’

“Even these 15 people who pass PG Diploma are placed in multinational companies within days and some even go to the Middle East with promising career opportunities. We need more seats as the market is expanding,” Jagadeesha explained. The board is awaiting approval and has also requested for a new facility to hold classes for at least 100 select students.

It is also looking at several upskilling initiatives in the next five years and training around one lakh women from rural areas and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to make coffees the right way.

“We are also going to train 5,000 graduates on how to make espresso coffee and help them explore the opportunities in the coffee business,” the CEO said.

There is a severe shortage of baristas in the industry. Coffee Board has also introduced a programme of training 1,000 baristas in the next three years and has already trained 150 so far, he added.

The short-term course for coffee enthusiasts, called the ‘Kaapi Shashtra’, for the year is tentatively scheduled for March 18-22 (exclusive batches) and interested individuals can keep a watch on the website. The main objective of the programme is to impart skills related to latest technologies in coffee roasting.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Puran Choudhary / February 12th, 2024

Karnataka CM felicitates Australian Open doubles title winner Rohan Bopanna, announces cash prize of ₹50 lakh

Bopanna was accompanied by his family during the meeting with the CM on February 13.

Parents of tennis player Rohan Bopanna watch him being felicitated by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in Bengaluru on February 13, 2024. Bopanna became only the third Indian to win a men’s doubles Grand Slam title, taking the Australian Open crown with partner Matthew Ebden after a win over Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori in the final. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah felicitated tennis player Rohan Bopanna for winnig the men’s doubles Australian Open title and announced a prize of ₹50 lakh.

Bopanna was accompanied by his family during the meeting on February 13 with the CM who was accompanied by Information Technology Minister Priyank Kharge, Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj S. Thangadagi, and his political secretary Govindaraju.

On social media platform X, Mr Siddaramaiah posted: “Met and congratulated Rohan Bopanna, who won the men’s doubles title of Australian Open tennis tournament and announced a prize of ₹50 lakh.”

Bopanna became only the third Indian to win a men’s doubles Grand Slam title, taking the Australian Open crown with partner Matthew Ebden after a win over Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori in the final.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / The Hindu Bureau / February 13th, 2024

Over 500 Attend Annual Kodava Bay Area Convention In California

California’s Bay Area:

The Kodava community came together in the heart of California’s Bay Area for the annual convention, ‘Namme by the Bay’ from Sept. 1 to Sept. 3.

The festivities commenced with an informal ‘meet the hosts’ gathering on the evening of Sept.  1 at the elegant Hotel Cabana Suites in Palo Alto, CA, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend filled with camaraderie and cultural immersion.

On Sept. 2, a pre-convention event unfolded against the picturesque backdrop of the Elliston Winery in Sunol, featuring a surprise flash mob performance. The night culminated in joyous dancing to the tunes of traditional ‘Kodava Valaga.’

While some guests embarked on an invigorating morning hike organised by local Kodava families on Sept. 2, others enjoyed a post-hike BBQ. For those eager to explore the beauty of San Francisco, an organised tour was on offer.

The main event, held on Sept. 3 at the Los Altos Community Centre, saw men donning the traditional Kodava attire ‘Kupya-chale,’ while women added a touch of Kodava elegance with colourful sarees.

The venue was transformed to capture the essence of Kodava culture, with enchanting decorations centered around the unique ‘Namme’ theme. The stage backdrop artfully depicted the essence of three prominent Kodava festivals — Kailpodh, Puthari and Cauvery Sankramana.

The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the ‘Baalo Paat.’ Dimpu Pasura, the event’s host, collaborated with local children to present a captivating cultural programme. Local Kodava children began with a devotional rendition of the ‘Kaveramme’ song, followed by an opening act by Chethan Bachamada and Pallavi Joyappa.

Priya Pattada extended a warm welcome, followed by a message about preserving the Kodava community from Col. (Retd.) Cheppudira P. Muthanna, who travelled from Kodagu to attend the convention.

The evening unfolded with a dance performance by local Kodava children, followed by a spirited ‘Bolakaat’ performance by the men. The highlight was a mesmerising dance by the ladies. A video message from prominent Kodavas representing the military, sports and show business played during the opening, offering their best wishes for the event’s success.

Overall, the event fostered hope and unity among the Kodava community worldwide. Looking ahead, the next convention in 2024 is eagerly anticipated in Chicago.

First-ever entrepreneur event

As part of the convention, the first ever entrepreneur event, led by Gana Pemmanda, Vikram Puttichanda and Sahana Bheemaiah Bachamada (Thamane Nambudumada), was held. 

Entrepreneurs Nischay, Prithvi Biddappa Kandanda, Nischal Ammatanda, Sahana Bheemaiah and Gana Pemmanda shared glimpses of their entrepreneurial journeys, successes and learnings. 

Guests had the opportunity to showcase their businesses and network within the Kodava community, with plans to maintain the momentum through a newly created North American Kodava entrepreneurs’ group, fostering collaboration.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / September 28th, 2023

Coffee drinking on the rise among younger generation, says Coffee Board CEO Dr KJ Jagadeesha

Jagadeesha added that there is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base.

The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience.
The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience.

Coffee opportunities in India are very high. Despite the high price, Indian coffee is most preferred globally. The increasing number of cafes and coffee joints show that coffee is no longer a beverage, but an experience. Cafes have transformed into work stations for startups and this is good for the Indian economy, said Dr KJ Jagadeesha, CEO and Secretary, Coffee Board, in a conversation with the editors and staff of The New Sunday Express. Excerpts of the interview:

Tell us about the coffee scenario and the pricing concerns ….

Coffee in India is doing well, especially over the last three years, but we are not the price setters. Reason being, India’s overall contribution is around 4%. Brazil and Vietnam contribute 60% of the global production, and they set the price. But in the last few years there is supply disruption in Brazil and there is a shortage in supply globally. So, we are happy as Indian coffee is getting a good price. India is the 7th largest in terms of production and 5th largest in exports.  

Can you please explain about exports?

Our exports are better than our production. We export, re-import and export all our coffee. Most of the instant coffee is made from coffee imported from cheaper destinations. Not a single Indian coffee bean is left unsold. There is very high demand for Indian coffee that even if we double production, traders say they will sell it. Indian coffees are expensive because they are grown under shade. Unlike in other countries like Brazil where it is open cultivation. When you grow under shade, coffee production is less by around 50%. But the quality is very good. This coffee takes longer to mature and has some unique characteristics that are not present in other coffee.

How is the coffee export business?

Around 80-90% of coffee is exported as green coffee. Green coffee can be kept for a year and usually, roasted coffee lasts only 15 days. Beyond that, the quality comes down. We export green coffee and then the seller blends it with different beans to get different notes. We export to 120 countries. Europe is our biggest market. We export about 60% of coffee grown here.

What about the rising number of private, instant and star-rated cafés and types of coffees served?

I am happy they are increasing. There is a lot of opportunity for coffee in India, because we have a very low coffee-drinking base. In other countries, people drink 8-9 kg of coffee per annum, per capita, but we are 50-100 grams. People who are getting into coffee now are the new generation who feel coffee is the most affectionate and fashionable drink. They love to drink coffee even if it’s high priced. They drink coffee for the experience. Ambience should be great and products should be innovative. They don’t like drinking the same coffee every day. Cafes now have become work spaces where people exchange ideas and conduct business. Many start-ups are running their businesses or whole companies from these cafes. This is how we expect and want the coffee industry to grow. Growers will get better prices, employment will be generated and GDP will get a boost.

How does coffee compete with tea?

Tea and coffee are complementary beverages, not competitors. Consumers typically don’t switch between them. Coffee consumption, especially among the younger generation, is on the rise. Tea remains affordable and easy to make, while making quality coffee requires skill. Many aren’t aware that if coffee is boiled above 90 degrees Celsius, it’s a waste. In future, skill-based courses will be introduced for over one lakh self-help women’s groups, and also 5,000 college graduates will be trained.

What is the situation in Karnataka?

Karnataka is a leader in Indian coffee production, accounting for around 70%, though we have 50% of the area. In the last 3-5 years, the crop has been reasonably good and prices too.

Hasn’t climate change affected coffee production?

It has, as coffee is a sensitive crop. Even if there is a 15-day delay in rainfall, during March and April, the crop gets affected to a large extent. Climate change is something that needs to be taken seriously and addressed. The Coffee Board has taken several measures to address it like bringing some climate-resilient varieties, training farmers and providing incentives.

Did drought affect coffee plantations?

Drought effect was relatively low. The reason is that even if there is a 50% reduction in rainfall, coffee will still grow. The yield might be less, but 800-900 mm of rainfall is enough for the plantation and the impact has been minimal.

Which is the best variety of coffee?

While there are many varieties, one of the best is Chandragiri. Farmers also say that it is superior compared to any other variety across the globe. The yield is good and it is resistant to most of the rust viruses. The cupping quality is very good.

What about collaborative research?

Research should not be restricted to scientists and labs. It should be a joint effort between growers and scientists. Work on this started 2-3 years ago and we have identified elite robusta plants. Growers and scientists together shortlisted around 60-70 of them and found 8-10 varieties promising. They will be released as tissue culture and MoUs are being signed.

How many varieties do we have?

Right now eight have been developed in collaboration with farmers. Otherwise coffee has many varieties. Some 28 varieties have been given to us by private firms. There are cases where a variety does well in other countries, but not in India.

Do we have more varieties when compared to other countries?

Brazil may have more varieties than us. Other than Brazil, we have more. It does not mean anything. Farmers prefer the leading variety. We have also kept some varieties for cupping. If somebody says that I want quality and I am not worried about production then we have Selection 5 and 9 varieties. These two are excellent in cupping and taste.  

What are the proposals before the Coffee Board in the coming days?

We have developed a new plan and it has been submitted to the government. It includes many things. To address labour shortage there is a plan for mechanisation. Second is quality improvement. Many say Indian coffee is excellent on the plant. But after harvesting, since it is poorly handled, quality dips. Importance is being given to harvesting and storing. Fermentation is important. It is done using different techniques to get different aromas. We are also looking at franchising India Coffee Houses to rural areas.

Are you also planning to add more coffee varieties to India Coffee Houses to compete with private players?

Coffee Board is a nodal agency to promote coffee as a sector. India Coffee Houses are not meant for competing. Given that there are a lot of nostalgic memories about them and people love to come there, we are working on expanding the menu. At the Queen’s Road Coffee House, the Board has collaborated with a social organisation that deals with specially-abled people. We complement each other.

How do people perceive the addition of chicory in coffee, considering its potential health implications?

The debate around chicory’s health impact exists. Chicory was brought in during the Second World War to meet the rising demand among soldiers when production was less. It continues to be blended even now. However, coffee has various health benefits. It’s beneficial for the heart and kidney, apart from being a refreshment. When chicory is mixed, the benefits of coffee get diluted.

How has urbanisation impacted coffee production?

Urbanisation is affecting everything, but its effect on coffee production is relatively limited due to the remote locations where coffee is typically grown.

How is the Board addressing man-elephant conflict?

It poses a significant challenge in coffee-growing regions, causing fear among residents and reluctance among labourers. The Board is actively engaging with the forest department and other authorities to address these issues.

Are there any courses being offered by the Board related to coffee for graduates?

We offer postgraduate diploma programmes and short courses focused on coffee, covering topics including cafe management and coffee trading.

What are the byproducts derived from coffee beans?

The use of coffee beans in the cosmetic industry is increasing. The leaf and pulp are used for skincare and makeup products. The leftover coffee after brewing is also used in making byproducts.

How many farmers are involved in the coffee industry, and is this number expected to increase?

There are about 4.7 lakh farmers working currently in India and it will increase in the coming years.

Are coffee plantations primarily done by small-scale farmers, or is there a monopoly in the industry?

It is a myth that coffee plantations are managed by affluent farmers. The reality is that 99% of the plantations are managed by small-scale farmers. Only around 1% of farmers are considered large growers but they occupy around 30% of the land.

What do you say about coffee tours gaining popularity?

Coffee tourism is gaining traction, providing coffee growers with an additional source of income. However, it’s crucial for both tourists and growers to responsibly manage activities to ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem as regions where coffee is grown are in Western and Eastern Ghats.

What other types of businesses can be done with coffee besides opening a coffee shop?

People can establish their own coffee brand with their estate, offer consultancy services, provide technology solutions such as market information, engage in trading and roasting and explore businesses centered around deriving coffee byproducts.

Coffee Board has also ventured online and started selling, how has that progressed?

Customers came to the Board and requested us to start e-commerce so that they could easily purchase online. Today we have entire operations in the basement which has a roastery, grinder and 24×7 packing staff. As soon as we get an order we pack it and dispatch it. The initiative is doing well.

Does the Board have enough staff or are there too many vacancies?

There are of course limitations to hiring more staff. Currently, we have a vacancy of 50 people with a total sanctioned strength of 587. We are looking to expand in the north eastern regions and we need a lot of people to convince farmers, educate them and handle estates. We are also looking at promotion both in domestic and international events to build the brand value of Indian coffee and its quality.

Can coffee be grown on terrace gardens?

Coffee plants can be grown anywhere, outdoors or inside homes, however, it will not yield commercially viable beans or fruits. Some might have berries too but when you roast it and make a cup of coffee it doesn’t taste like coffee. Coffee requires an elevation of more than 500 metres above sea level and secondly, the rainfall has to be good. It also requires optimum shade to grow.  

How successful was the coffee festival in terms of partnerships with other players?

We had more than 20-30 international brands who were present, around 200-300 Indian brands participated and around 400-500 buyer-sellers met formally. Strong relations were built that not just last for one year but go on for decades, once the buyer finds the perfect blend for himself there is no going back.

What do you want to say to youngsters who want to start a coffee business?

Coffee is a very passionate profession. I’ve seen people who make a profit not because they’re working for it but it’s about passion. They like growing coffee and living on the estate. I have seen Baristas who are passionate about making better coffee every day, they enjoy it.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / February 11th, 2024

Sportstar Aces Awards 2024 | After years of sacrifice, I’ve realised my dream, says Bopanna

It is very humbling for me to reach these heights from the beautiful land of Coorg, says tennis stalwart Bopanna, the recipient of the Ace of Aces honour.

Great feeling: Bopanna receives the award from Viren Rasquinha, right, and L.V. Navaneeth, CEO, The Hindu Group, as Leander Paes applauds. | Photo Credit: K.R. Deepak


 Australian Open men’s doubles champion Rohan Bopanna won the Ace of Aces award at the Sportstar Aces Awards 2024 held at the Taj Mahal Palace here on Thursday.

Bopanna received the award from fellow tennis player and Grand Slam champion, Leander Paes. “I always wished I could play doubles with Bopanna,” Paes said.

Bopanna recently became the oldest player, aged 43, to achieve the World No. 1 ranking in men’s doubles.

Wonderful athletes

“We are constantly travelling and playing tournaments, so it feels great to come here and meet all these wonderful athletes that India has produced. My goal was to win a men’s doubles Grand Slam and to reach the World No. 1 ranking. After years and years of sacrifice, I have finally realised my dream,” Bopanna said.

“It is very humbling for me to reach these heights from the beautiful land of Coorg. It was my parents who insisted that I train in an individual sport. That is when my tennis journey started, in Coorg. And now I have gone all the way across the world to win a Grand Slam in Melbourne,” Bopanna said.

He explained that his focus on adequate recovery changed the path of his career. “I started to focus on recovery at the end of 2019. My cartilages in the knee had fully worn out. I took around two or three painkillers a day. Doctor told me to try platelet-rich plasma injections. But just injections will not work; I had to do strengthening exercises. That’s when I discovered Iyengar Yoga.

“I was in extreme pain, so I gave it a try. Because of Iyengar Yoga, I can now play tennis without pain. I never thought this day will come,” Bopanna said.s

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Sports> Other Sports> SportStar Aces Award 2024 / by Ashwin Achal / February 09th, 2024

PM Modi meets Rohan Bopanna

Rohan Bopanna presents his Australian Open 2024 winning racket to PM Modi

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, met tennis player Rohan Bopanna Friday. He praised Bopanna for winning the Australian Open, saying that his accomplishment makes India proud.

The Prime Minister posted on X: 

“Glad to have met you Rohan Bopanna. Your accomplishment makes India proud and your dedication motivates several people. My best wishes for your endeavours ahead.”

Rohan Bopanna ended India’s six-year drought for the Grand Slam by clinching his maiden Australian Open 2024 title in the men’s doubles with Australia’s Matthew Ebden. Bopanna also topped the ATP rankings in doubles after reaching the final at Melbourne Park on January 24.

Meanwhile Tennis player Rohan Bopanna tweets, “I had the privilege to meet our honourable Prime Minister Modi today. This acknowledgement is very humbling & it was my honour to present the very racket that led me to become World No. 1 and the AO grand slam champion. Your grace has left me inspired & encouraged.”

The 43-year-old Bengaluru-born Bopanna became the only fourth Indian after legendary Sania Mirza, Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupati to clinch the Grand Slam title and top the ATP rankings in doubles. Bopanna also scripted history at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou by claiming a Gold medal in the mixed doubles with Rutuja Bhosale.

source: http://www.theindianawaaz.com / The Indian Awaaz / Home / February 03rd, 2024

Varsha Bollamma builds excitement on ‘Ooru Peru Bhairavakona’

Varsha Bollamma builds excitement on ‘Ooru Peru Bhairavakona’

HIGHLIGHTS

Prepare to be captivated by the upcoming fantasy thriller, ‘Ooru Peru Bhairavakona,’ promising an edge-of-the-seat experience

Prepare to be captivated by the upcoming fantasy thriller, ‘Ooru Peru Bhairavakona,’ promising an edge-of-the-seat experience. Renowned actress Varsha Bollamma, who is seen as female lead in the film alongside Sundeep Kishan, recently shared insights into the project, building excitement ahead of its worldwide release on February 16. Directed by VI Anand and produced by Rajesh Danda under the banner of Comedy Movies, ‘Ooru Peru Bhairavakona’ boasts a magical and adventurous narrative. The film stars Sandeep Kishan in a lead role, supported by the talented actresses Kavya Thapar and Varsha Bollamma as heroines. Co-produced by Balaji Gutta, the film is proudly presented by Anil Sunkara on AK Entertainments.

Varsha Bollamma expressed her enthusiasm for joining the project, recalling how the director, VI Anand, narrated a story that felt refreshingly new and unique. She was intrigued by the unconventional storyline and the unexplored character dynamics, leading her to eagerly accept the role of Bhumi, a tribal girl with self-education, courage, and strength.In describing her character, Varsha shared that Bhumi, the tribal girl, exudes innocence while displaying remarkable courage and resilience. Having grown up in a hill station herself, Varsha found a personal connection to the character’s affinity with nature, making the role all the more relatable.

Working alongside Sandeep Kishan, Varsha commended her co-star’s warmth and respect for everyone on set. She praised him as a kind and considerate co-star, contributing to a positive working environment. Varsha’s decision to take on the role was influenced by her admiration for VI Anand’s previous work, particularly the movie ‘Where are you going, little one?’. Excited about the project, she was thrilled to learn that her name was specifically chosen for the role of Bhumi, solidifying her commitment to the film.

‘Ooru Peru Bhairavakona’ promises to be an exhilarating entertainer, offering a thrilling experience with supernatural elements. Varsha assured the audience of an enjoyable ride filled with suspense and a powerful message. As she praised the producers at AK Entertainments for their passion for comedy movies and their commitment to delivering a grand production, Varsha concluded the conference by reaffirming her dedication to prioritizing impactful roles, irrespective of their length. With the film’s release just around the corner, anticipation continues to build for this magical adventure.

source: http://www.thehansindia.com / Hans India / Home> Entertainment> Tollywood / by Hans News Service / February 07th, 2024

Tied in knots: Tree, sapling married off in Kodagu

Unique rural wedding: Peepal tree and gooseberry sapling united in matrimony for village welfare.

A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling being married off at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk on Monday.
A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling being married off at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk on Monday

Madikeri :

Hundreds participated in a unique wedding ceremony hosted in the rural part of Kodagu. A tree and a sapling were wedlocked in a spiritual matrimony as the residents prayed for the welfare of their village.

A peepal tree and a gooseberry sapling were married off in a ritualistic ceremony at Kadagadalu village of Madikeri taluk. The rituals were hosted for the welfare of the village under the guidance of a priest from Kasaragod district. The wedding ceremony was organized by the Botlappa Youth Association of the village.

The association was established in the village in 1993. As it completed 10 years in 2003, the members planted a peepal tree in the village premises as it was bestowed a spiritual status, the association members shared. In 2012, as per the advise of an astrologer, they carried out a thread ceremony for the peepal tree when it turned nine years old. The astrologer had also suggested that the tree be married when it turns 21 years.

It is believed that deities Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma reside within the Peepal tree, which is associated to great sacrosanct values in rural areas. While Peepal tree was personified as a groom, a saree was draped around the gooseberry sapling and ‘kanya dhana’ and other rituals were observed in par with the Hindu wedding.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / Express News Service / February 06th, 2024

Revenue Minister asks for Jamma Bane land survey in Kodagu

Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda chairing a meeting of his department in Madikeri on Monday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Minister for Revenue Krishna Byre Gowda on Monday asked the district administration in Kodagu to conduct a survey of Jamma Bane land in the district. The survey was pending for many decades and the Jamma Bane landholders needed a pahani (RTC). In this connection, the authorities have to take steps for conducting the survey, he added.

The Minister was speaking during a meeting in Madikeri in connection with various issues concerning the Revenue Department. The Revenue Department related works were also reviewed by the Minister.

Since the Jamma Bane land holders do not have RTCs, they were not getting loans from banks and also facilities from the government. The people engaged in farming need to be given the RTCs. Therefore, the survey work has to be taken up, the Minister told the officers in categorical terms.

As many as 25,000 people in Kodagu are engaged in agriculture in Jamma Bane land. The land was in the name of one person in the land holder’s family. Others in the family also needed RTCs. So, survey of the land holds the key, the Minister argued.

If there was any dispute in connection with the land, the survey can be taken up directly of the respective land. The matter can be placed in the gram sabha and a solution can be found with the help of the local villagers, Mr. Gowda suggested.

The Minister said the Jamma Bane land survey has to be taken up on a war-footing, and added that the tahsildar and the assistant director of land records have to expedite the work, roping in additional surveyors for the tasks.

The Minister said the latest gadgets will be provided for the survey work. The licenced surveyors can be used for the task. The work has to be completed at the earliest, the Minister told the district administration.

A report can be prepared (after the survey) for addressing any issue over the land. Thereafter, an order from the government will be issued for issuing the RTCs, Mr. Gowda said.

A permanent solution has to be found to the issue as the government was committed to providing additional surveyors and the gadgets for completing the survey work.

He advised the officers to overcome the opinion that the Revenue Department and the Land Records Department were different. This is a joint survey which needs to be done by both the departments, Mr. Gowda asked.

The tahsildars, deputy tahsildars, village accountants, revenue officers, assistant commissioners and all in the department have to work as a team and get the survey done. The government hoped to extend facilities to Kodagu farmers and sanction relief. In this regard, the problems need to be addressed at the earliest.

The first instalment of crop loss relief has to be given to farmers in the district. If any names are missing, they will be incorporated and relief will be extended to them too.

The Minister told the authorities not to mismanage the drought funds and drinking water needs to be provided to all the households during summer.

MLAs Mantar Gowda and A.S. Ponnana were present.

Deputy Directors of Land Records Srinivas said Kodagu has 24 licensed surveyors besides 15 government surveyors.

Tahsildar Praveen Kumar said there have been disputes with regard to the Jamma Bane land. While the cases are being settled in some places, the parties are not coming forward in some places for settling the disputes.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / February 05th, 2024

A pioneer who heralded growth of hockey in Karnataka

Legendary Ammanda Vasu Uthaiah was considered by many as a pioneer in promoting hockey across Coorg and subsequently Karnataka.

A pioneer who heralded growth of hockey in Karnataka
AS Uthaiah / Credit: Special arrangement

Bengaluru:

Legendary Ammanda Vasu Uthaiah, who passed away at 83 after following a brief illness on Thursday, was considered by many as a pioneer in promoting hockey across Coorg and subsequently Karnataka.

Hailing from Virajpet, a town in Kodagu, Uthaiah carved a niche for himself in the competition-heavy Indian national hockey team from the late 1960s to 1970s. It was no mean feat by Uthaiah, a stylish player who excelled in the left half back position, amid intense competition for places.

Uthaiah, a recipient of Dusshera Puraskara Koda and the Silver Jubilee award of Karnataka, was a part of the 1970 Asian Games squad that won silver, but missed out on making the cut for the 1968 Mexico Olympics.

Uthaiah also played for Madras Engineer Group and Centre hockey team for close to one and a half decades, playing almost all the First Grade hockey tournaments in the country.

He later turned up for the BEML Bangalore hockey team, winning a couple of KSHA Super Division titles.

Karnataka Hockey president AB Subbaiah spoke about the impact Uthaiah’s contributions had in kick-starting a hockey revolution in Coorg and Karnataka.

“He (Uthaiah) can be considered as Coorg’s first established hockey player to have played a major tournament and inspired the next generation of players,” Subbaiah said.

“From what I have understood after speaking to Uthaiah’s contemporaries, he was a very skilled player with a never-say-die attitude. A good tackler, and someone with a calm head,” Subbaiah added.

“As a person, he used to guide and support us and share his pearls of wisdom, and was very passionate about hockey and players coming up from Coorg and Karnataka.

“Even after his retirement, he would actively organise tournaments and headed the Kodava Samaj Sports Committee,” Subbaiah revealed.

Uthaiah is survived by a son and a daughter.

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Sports> Hockey / by Sathvik Bharadwaj / February 02nd, 2024