Multipurpose sea port at Tadadi

The State government has decided to undertake development of a multipurpose, all-weather greenfield sea port at Tadadi under the public private participation model.

A special purpose vehicle - Tadadi Port Limited - has been formed for the implementation of the project. The Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited has been designated as the nodal agency for the project.

About 1,419 acres of land at Tadadi in Uttara Kannada district is available for development of the port. Selection of the developer of the port will be through global tenders.

The estimated cost for the project is Rs 3,800 crore. The State government has offered development of the port to the Union Ministry of Shipping.

The first meeting of the board of directors of Tadadi Port Limited was held on May 2 under the chairmanship of K Jairaj, Additional Chief Secretary, according to an official press note. http://www.deccanherald.com/content/247770/multipurpose-sea-port-tadadi.html

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2012/05/08/20120508a_002106004.jpg

Bangalore: Yettinahole Drinking Water Project Launch by June 20

Bangalore, May 9: The Yettinahole water project aimed at meeting the drinking water needs of Kolar, Chikballapur, Bangalore Rural, Tumkur and Ramangaram districts is expected to be launched by June 20.

Karnataka Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda, who chaired a meeting with experts and officials of the Water Resource Department, said the final shape to the project would be given soon.

The project is aimed to supply water from Yettinahole, a tributary of the Netravati, in Sakleshpur taluk in Hassan district, to drought prone districts.

Gowda told reporters after the meeting that a detail project report (DPR) on Yettinahole has been prepared and tenders have been called.

The project would be launched before June 20, he said pointing out that a sum of Rs. 200 crore was set aside in the 2012-13 budget.

If the project is implemented, it will ensure 25 tmcft of water to five districts.

The people of Sakleshpur and environmentalists have been opposing the project, citing possible damage to the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats.

Water Resources Minister Basavaraj Bommai said the Chief Minister would urge the Maharashtra Chief Minister to release water from Koyna dam forthwith.

June launch likely for Yettinahole water project

The proposed Yettinahole water project is expected to be launched next month-end to ensure drinking water to Kolar, Chickballapur, Bangalore Rural, Tumkur and Ramangaram districts.

Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda on Wednesday chaired a meeting with experts and officials of the Water Resource Department and said the final shape to the project would be taken up soon.

The project aims to supply water from Yettinahole, a tributary of the Netravati, in Sakleshpur taluk in Hassan district, to the drought-prone districts.

Mr. Gowda told presspersons that a detail project report (DPR) on Yettinahole has been prepared and tenders have been called. A sum of Rs. 200 crore had been set aside in the 2012-13 budget and Rs. 400 crore in 2011-12, for the project.

The project is expected to supply 25 tmcft of water to the five districts.

The people of Sakleshpur and environmentalists have been opposing the project, citing possible damage to the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats.

Minister for Water Resources Basavaraj Bommai said the Chief Minister would urge Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan to release water from the Koyna dam.http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3402677.ece

June launch likely for Yettinahole water project

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3402677.ece

Disaster for Mangalore and Coastal districts.
Next election opposition should make this as the issue against the ruling party in Coastal districts, especially the CM.

If there wasn't that timely rain Mangalore would have been on drought. When these buggers will learn lesson. Again to gain Vote from Congree ruled constituency of Kolar, Chikballapur:bash::bash:

CII offers help to develop N. Karnataka (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/economy/article3405158.ece?ref=wl_industry-and-economy)

BANGALORE, MAY 10:
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has offered to partner with the state government in the development of North Karnataka.

Addressing the second regional council meeting of the CII Southern Region, Mr G.V. Sanjay Reddy, Chairman, CII Southern Region, said “We would like to partner with the state government in the development of north Karnataka. In fact, it's a high priority for us to bridge North Karnataka with South Karnataka.”

“In CII, we believe that growth should not perpetuate inequality, imbalance to the people or regions. We need to develop a special development plan for the region and CII would be happy to partner the state government in all its efforts in this regard,” he added.

At present, there are some grey areas such as inadequate infrastructure, power shortages and availability of land which are concerns which do not help in facilitating capital investment in the state.

“We cannot let these factors affect the pace of our industrialisation anymore. Rapid industrialisation is a must in removing the supply side bottlenecks and for creating additional employment opportunities,” he said.

The CII has been closely working with successive governments in Karnataka on a host of issues pertaining to not only development of industry in the state.

Mr Reddy said “We have been working together in manufacturing competitiveness, agri-processing, economic affairs and taxation, aerospace, information technology, infrastructure development, energy, skill development, inclusion, governance.”

“Be it development of economic corridors, agro-investment or any economic agenda pertaining to Karnataka, we work in tandem not just the state government but also with the key decision makers at the centre. I am sure our partnership will only grow in the coming years,” he added.

AEROSPACE

Talking about aerospace, Mr Reddy said Karnataka is poised to grow into a global centre with access to a quality eco-system. The CII and state government have been working together in this area.

The Bangalore Aerospace Park has already come up at Devanahalli. The state government has formed a task force with the CII which drafted Karnataka Aerospace Policy and is expected to be announced in next couple of weeks.

The state is also keen on developing public-private sector partnerships (PPP) for the infrastructure development sector. The areas cover rail, roads, energy, airports, rapid mass transit and ports under public-private partnership model.

“We should not allow infrastructure issues to drive away our inherent advantages for Karnataka,” he said.

Karnataka will handover land to Infosys, Wipro by month-end

Bangalore, May 10, 2012, (PTI) :
Karnataka Industries Minister Murugesh Nirani today said the government by month-end would hand over land to Infosys and Wipro to set up their development centres in the city.

"By month-end, we will clear all hurdles in handing over the land to the concerned IT companies," he told reporters on the sidelines of Southern Regional Council Meeting of Confederation of Indian Industry here.

During the last Global Investors Meet (GIM), Infosys and Wipro had signed MoUs with the government to set up development centres in the state.

While Infosys signed a Rs 2,950-crore MoU to set up a software development centre on Sarjapur Road, Wipro signed a Rs 537-crore MoU to set up a software export hub at its existing Sarjapur facility.

Because of land issues with farmers and fake land documents among others, there has been a delay in handing over the land to the companies, Nirani said.

Even the work on developing infrastructure around the proposed development centres has hit a roadblock because of land issues, he added.

"We will clear all hurdles of handing over the land and start work on infrastructure next month onwards," he said.

When asked about reports of Arcelor Mittal deciding to put their India projects on hold for another few years, Nirani said he would not like to comment on it.

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/248511/karnataka-handover-land-infosys-wipro.html

Karnataka to consider alternative lands to Posco
(http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/article3405162.ece)
BANGALORE, MAY 10:
Decisions to allot alternative land to Posco to be taken at the sector wise review meet shortly.

The Karnataka Industries Minister, Mr Murgesh R. Nirani, speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the CII Southern Regional Council Meeting said “in the wake of farmers' agitation and keeping Gadag district's ecology in mind, we are proposing an alternative land to Posco.”

“A final decision on Posco's land issue and Arcelor Mittal plans in the state will be discussed with the company officials at the sector wise review meet,” he added.

The state government will shortly hold a sector wise review of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed during Global Investors Meet (GIM) 2010.

The state government's proposal to acquire 3,382 acres of land for Posco in Gadag district, to set up the steel plant, has met with stiff resistance from farmers and few religious mutts.

Mr Nirani said his department has already suggested alternative lands to the company in other neighbouring districts of Gadag.

“It is left to Posco to decide on where in state they want to set up their steel plant,” he added.

Earlier, addressing the members of the CII Southern Regional Council, Mr Nirani said the state government has taken a decision to hand over the industry licence within 24 hours of State High-Level Clearance Committee (SHLCC) clearance.

Mr Nirani said the state at GIM 2012, to be held in June, is looking for investments in healthcare, transport infrastructure, textile industry, investments in urban infrastructure such as water supply, public health, traffic and transportation, housing, poverty alleviation.

The mission of GIM 2012 is to attract Rs 6 lakh crore investments which creates at least 10 lakh jobs and double state GDP by 2020, he added.

CII Vision Document wants Karnataka to focus on developing tier II towns as IT hubs (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/article3405162.ece)

BANGALORE, MAY 10:
The CII Vision Document – Karnataka Model State @ 2025 has recommended the state government to address key issues of developing tier-II towns as IT hubs, incentivise domestic market, and encourage MSMEs to maintain growth.

“CII Vision Document, I believe that time is ripe to outline an approach to achieve this outcome. Now that Global Investors Meet (GIM) is at our door step, there is no better of kick-starting progress on some of these recommendations,” said Mr G.V. Sanjay Reddy, Chairman, CII-Southern Region.

Although Karnataka is a model state for the IT/ITeS industry in the country, deficiencies exist.

To a large extent, Karnataka's continued dominance over this sector depends on how these gaps are closed.

The key need is to develop tier-II towns as IT hubs.

The state reigns over other states in the aerospace sector.

Key drivers of future growth in the sector include extension of ‘Offset Policy', timely incentives and a Karnataka Aerospace Policy, developing MRO capability will give the much needed fillip to the sector. Bangalore is the hub for precision manufacturing industry, the state being the highest contributor to this industry today.

The further growth in the sector requires a cluster development approach, setting up of specialised training institutes in the clusters, industry -academia integration and incentivises investments from foreign players, high growth in manufacturing.

The automotive industry has the potential to drive economic growth and employment through its powerful backward and forward linkages.

Karnataka possess immense opportunity in the sector due to its raw materials, research ecosystem, and vendor ecosystem.

Challenges faced by the sector include skill availability; unevenly spread supporting institutions, inadequate infrastructure Karnataka

Food processing is another important emerging sector in the state where Karnataka has got immense potential.

Karnataka has many accomplishments in horticulture to its credit, availability of manpower, cold-chain/food-chain storage facilities, and backward integration.

However, Karnataka needs to improve its rural road density for efficient market access.

In electronics, the growth depends upon close linkages with IT, availability of manpower and R&D.

In order to realise the full potential of this industry, it is imperative the state develops strengths in the complete value chain.

A cluster development approach with co-location of players focused on different processes across the value chain starting from silicon feedstock to wafer manufacturing to research and development is recommended.

Finally, Karnataka is a tourist hotspot. With the picturesque Western Ghats spanning across the west coast, Karnataka is endowed with rich natural beauty.

In addition, the state also has a wealth of historical monuments owing to its long and fascinating history.

“We recommend undertaking infrastructure development projects based on Karnataka's tourism belts.

Investments in PPP format can give a tremendous boost to economic activity and employment in backward taluks such as Kolar, HD Kote, Chitradurga, Davangere, Bagepalli which have potential for tourism,” the document said.

State seeks Japanese help to build 20-km tunnel in Western Ghats (http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/state-seeks-japanese-help-to-build-20-km-tunnel-in-western-ghats/473982/)

The Karnataka government is planning a 20-kilometre long tunnel between Sakaleshpur and Gundya in the Western Ghats to provide a speedy connection from Bangalore to Mangalore. The project is estimated to cost Rs 3,000 crore and will be built with financial and technical assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), chief minister D V Sadananda Gowda said here on Thursday.

“We have planned to develop this tunnel to give a speedy connectivity between the two cities with the help of the Japanese government. This tunnel project is part of the 4-laning of the existing national highway that connects Mangalore with the state capital. The road will stretch up to the New Mangalore Port. The state government has already held first sitting with the officials of JICA and they have agreed to finance the project,” Gowda said.

Presently, the National Highway-48 passes through the thick of Western Ghats and the road constantly gets damaged due to heavy vehicular movement and heavy rains during monsoon season at Shiradi Ghat causing immense disruption to vehicles. The National Highway Development Authority repairs this road frequently, but no permanent solution has been found, industry sources said.
Addressing the annual southern regional council meeting of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), here, he said the infrastructure development department is working on strategic infrastructure plan to ensure best infrastructure for industry. A separate bill for infrastructure is on the anvil to boost infrastructure and enable private participation and to mobilise resources.

The state has established a Skill Commission to address the needs of industry. The state has also taken up upgrade of industrial training institutes with private participation to ensure quality manpower, he said.

“I am glad that a recent World Bank study has recognised Karnataka as the number one investment-friendly state in India and it has been our endeavour to make Karnataka one of the best investment destinations in India,” Gowda added.

Speaking on the occasion, Murugesh R Nirani, minister for large and medium industries, said the government was keen on developing a Peninsular Industrial Corridor from Chennai to Pune and Mumbai, which will pass through Bangalore and Belgaum in the state. This will provide vital connectivity to several industrial areas in the state enroute, he said.

“We have commissioned a feasibility study to include other important upcoming industrial clusters like Tumkur, Chitradurga, Dharwad and Bagalkot in this industrial corridor which will be developed on the lines of the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor,” Nirani said.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, G V Sanjay Reddy, chairman, CII southern region, said CII was keen to partner state government to promote Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor and Aerospace Park in Bangalore. He urged the government to announce an Aerospace Policy immediately to promote the industry in Bangalore.

State mulls new location for POSCO steel plant

‘It is left to POSCO to decide where it wants to set it up'

Following resistance from farmers to the POSCO steel plant proposed in Gadag's Mundargi taluk, the State is now contemplating shifting the plant to an alternative site.

The Government is scouting for land in neighbouring taluks in Gadag district for the project, Industries Minister Murugesh Nirani told presspersons on the sidelines of a meeting of the CII Southern Regional Council here on Thursday.

He added that representatives from POSCO will meet him about possible new sites.

“It is left to POSCO to decide where it wants to set up the steel plant,” Mr. Nirani said.

Last year the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) had issued preliminary notification to acquire 3,382 acres of land in Halligudi village in Mundargi taluk, sparking protests by farmers.

Addressing the CII Council, Mr. Nirani said that the mission of the State's second Global Investors Meet (GIM) scheduled this year is to attract Rs. 6 lakh crore of investment, create 10 lakh jobs and double the States GDP by 2020.

Aerospace policy

G.V. Sanjay Reddy, Chairman, CII (Southern Region), said that CII and the State Government have been working on developing the aerospace sector. He added that the Karnataka Aerospace Policy is expected to be announced in the next couple of weeks.

“At present, there are some grey areas such as inadequate infrastructure, power shortages and availability of land that are concerns which do not help in facilitating capital investment in the State. We cannot let these factors affect the pace of our industrialisation anymore,” he said.

SEZs

Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda said that the State has 58 special economic zones that provide a duty-free enclave for driving FDI and exports.

Karnataka has the distinction of having the largest number of research and development centres in India and it is the largest software exporter in the country, he said.

GIM 2010 garnered an investment of Rs. 3.92 lakh crore. Out of the 389 projects, 31 have been implemented, while 289 are under implementation.

KIADB planned to acquire land in Halligudi village

The decision, however, sparked protests by farmershttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3406594.ece

Strategic Karwar naval base set for major expansion (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Strategic-Karwar-naval-base-set-for-major-expansion/articleshow/13159502.cms)
Rajat Pandit, TNN | May 16, 2012, 05.46AM IST
NEW DELHI: With the mammoth aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya slated to reach Indian shores early next year, the government is scrambling to launch the long-delayed expansion of the strategic Karwar naval base in coastal Karnataka at a cost of around Rs 13,000 crore.

The Phase-IIA expansion of Karwar base, which gives the country both strategic depth and operational flexibility on the western seaboard, is now being sent to the Cabinet Committee on Security for the final nod after defence minister A K Antony approved it last week, top sources said.

Defence secretary Shashikant Sharma visited Karwar recently to get a firsthand look at the naval base, which can currently base 11 major warships and 10 smaller ships after Phase-I completion at a cost of Rs 2,629 crore.

Navy will be able to berth 32 major warships and submarines, and various other ships including 10 of the 80 fast-interceptor craft (FICs) to be acquired for coastal security force Sagar Prahari Bal, after Phase-IIA is completed by 2018-19.

INS Vikramaditya, or the 44,570-tonne Admiral Gorshkov being refitted by Russia for $2.33 billion, will be inducted much before that. With the congested Mumbai harbour not capable of handling INS Vikramaditya, some warships may have to be shifted out from Karwar to accommodate the carrier.

The six Scorpene submarines, being built at Mazagon Docks for Rs 23,562 crore and slated for induction in the 2015-2020 timeframe, will also be housed at Karwar. With its natural cover and depth of water, the base is ideal for stealthy submarine operations.

Karwar is India's third major naval base after Mumbai and Visakhapatnam on the west coast, while Pakistan already has five at Gwadar, Ormara, Karachi, Pasni and Jiwani.

Under Phase-II, Karwar will get an airbase, armament depot, dockyard complex and missile silos, apart from additional jetties, berthing and anchorage facilities. The eventual aim is to base 50 frontline warships at Karwar after Phase-IIB is completed.

This is critical for strategic needs since the Navy is steaming ahead on its modernization path with 44 warships, six Scorpene submarines, 95 FICs and 106 smaller ships like barges, tugs and vessels already on order.

In tune with the "maritime capability perspective plan'', another 45 warships are in the pipeline. These include six stealth submarines, seven stealth frigates, 16 coastal anti-submarine vessels, four massive landing platform docks and eight mine counter-measure vessels.

Overall, as first reported by TOI, Navy's ongoing conventional warship, submarine and maritime aircraft acquisition programme as well as proposed projects will together cost well over Rs 3,00,000 crore over the next 15 years.

On the strategic front, Navy plans to have three SSBNs (nuclear-powered submarines with long-range nuclear missiles) and six SSNs (nuclear-powered attack submarines) in the long term. The first SSBN INS Arihant will become operational in first half of the next year.

STRATEGIC MOVE

• The Phase-IIA expansion of Karwar base is now being sent to the Cabinet Committee on Security for the final nod after defence minister A K Antony approved it last week
• Navy will be able to berth 32 major warships and submarines, and various other ships including 10 of the 80 FICs
• INS Vikramaditya, or the 44,570-tonne Admiral Gorshkov being refitted by Russia for $2.33 billion, will be inducted before that

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2012/05/20/20120520a_002104003.jpg

13 more biofuel information centres soon

BANGALORE: “Biofuel Information Centres will be set up in all the districts in the next three months,” Chairman of the Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board (KSBDB) Y B Ramakrishna said on Saturday.
Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony of a Biofuel Research Centre in the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore, on the GKVK campus, Ramakrishna said, “In addition to the existing 17 information centres, 13 more centres will be opened in the coming months. Besides providing all sorts of information on biofuels, these centres will be designed to collect different types of non-edible oil seeds, extract oil with 500-600 kg of seed crushing capacity per day and produce 100 to 150 litres of bio-diesel per day,” he added.
The bio-diesel produced will be blended with petrol and diesel and used in several vehicles belonging to board and the university and the de-oiled cake will be used/sold as organic manure, he stated.
He also appreciated the government efforts to promote biofuel.
“At present, Karnataka has the capacity to produce 135 million litres of ethanol from molasses, which will be increased to 200 million litres by this year end. Karnataka is the first state in the country to formulate a biofuel policy, create a task force and constitute a board for the promotion of biofuel,” he explained.
On the occasion, Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda inaugurated a national workshop on Rural Agriculture Work Experience (RAWE) Programme and launched the biofuel park website.
The workshop was jointly organised by the UAS, Bangalore,� and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Biofuel Development Board. Informing about the RAWE programme, Vice-Chancellor of University of Agricultural Sciences� Dr K Narayana Gowda said, “Under the programme, the students are given rigorous orientation on various issues and problems they can expect in the farmer’s fields and provides real time opportunity for them to work on complete crop season through various extension methods.”
RAWE, which has been a part of the course offered in the 8th semester, henceforth will be offered in the 7th semester and coincide with the Kharif season and the students will be placed in the Raitha Samparka Kendras.
The duration has been extended from four weeks to 12 weeks from next batch, he explained.
The State government has come forward to extend stipend from this year to each student at `1,500 per month besides, extending other facilities for effective implementation of the programme, in addition to `750 given by the university and the ICAR.

Bangalore invests heavily into extra biofuel research hubs

21 May 2012


The chairman of the Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board in Bangalore helped lay the foundation for the first of a proposed 13 new biofuel research centres in the district.

Mr Y B Ramakrishna spoke during the foundation laying ceremony at the Bangalore University of Agricultural Sciences.

‘Thirteen new centres will be added to the 17 existing information outlets, but these new centres will be designed to collect different types of non-edible seeds and turn them into between 100 and 150 litres of bio-diesel per day,’ he says.

Ramakrishna believes the bio-diesel produced will be blended with both petrol and diesel to be used in many different vehicles, plus the de-oiled cake will be used as organic manure.

‘Currently Karnataka has the capacity to produce 135 million litres of ethanol from molasses, which should be increased to 200 million by the end of this year. I also appreciate the government’s efforts in promoting biofuels,’ he adds

The Power Company of Karnataka Ltd (PCKL), a wholly-owned company of government of Karnataka and the authorised representative of the five electricity supply companies (Escoms) in Karnataka, which has failed to secure coal linkage for its proposed 1,320 Mw super-critical thermal power project at Gulbarga, has invited fresh global bids for supply of power on long term basis under Case-2 Bidding Framework as per the competitive bidding guidelines.
The cost of the project is estimated at Rs 7,500 crore. The PCKL had floated bids for the Gulbarga Thermal Power Project on a build, own and operate (BOO) basis in July 2010. About 23 bidders were qualified including Ambani brothers at RFQ (request for qualification) stage

“As per the original plan, PCKL had the responsibility to secure coal linkage for this project. However, as the government of India has not provided coal linkage to many power projects including Gulbarga project in Karnataka, the company has amended the RFQ document and enabled the private players to secure coal linkage on their own. Since, this is a major change, the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) asked us to invite fresh bids,” a top PCKL official said.

Though the opportunity is given to new players to bid for the project, all the 23 qualified bidders will have to submit fresh proposal in the formats provided in the modified RFQ documents, the official said.
Tata Power, GMR Energy Limited Jindal Power Ltd, Shree Cement Limited, IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd, Sterlite Energy Ltd, Aditya Birla Essel Mining & Industries Ltd, GVK Industries Ltd, AES (India) Private Ltd, Adani Power Ltd, Dalmia Power Ltd and Videocon among others have been qualified already.
The PCKL has asked the bidders to submit their RFQ documents by June 25, 2012, and the bids will be opened the same date, a notification issued by PCKL on Monday said.
PCKL is in possession of 1,601 acres of land in Gulbarga taluk near Firozabad, Kirangi and Nadisinnur village limits and has secured allocation for 2.06 TMC of water from Googal Barrage across Krishna River.
As per the amended RFQ documents, the successful bidders are required to obtain coal linkages of imported or domestic or blend of both.
PCKL had first floated bids in 2007 for setting up 2x660 Mw (1,320 Mw) coal-based thermal power plant at Farhatabad near Gulbarga in north Karnataka. Subsequently, 11 companies were qualified out of 14 bidders. However, after the KERC raised certain objections, the PCKL had to float fresh bids in July 2010 and another 12 companies were qualified including Mukesh Ambani-led RIL.
The project will be constructed over a period of four years from the date of signing the agreement and the entire power generated would be supplied to the state grid, PCKL official added.
This is the first project taken up by PCKL under the competitive bid route. Apart from this project, the PCKL is also in the process of developing another 1,320 Mw thermal power project in Ghataprabha taluk of Belgaum district.
PCKL is responsible for capacity addition by way of setting up of new power projects through bidding process, under Case-II bidding guidelines issued by Ministry of Power, GOI and long term procurement of power under Case-I bidding guidelines of MoP, GoI.

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/8169/gims.jpg
Source @ Udayavani

deleted

Karnataka clears 44 projects worth Rs 1 lakh crore

Karnataka’s State High Level Committee chaired by the Chief Minister, Mr D.V. Sadananda Gowda, has cleared 44 projects amounting to Rs 1 lakh crore.

The meeting was attended by Mr Murugesh Nirani, Minister for Large and Medium Industries, Mr S.V. Ranganath, Chief Secretary, Mr M. Maheshwar Rao Commissioner Industrial Development and Director of Industries and Commerce, and Ms Latha Krishna Rau, Principal Secretary, Tourism. http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/government-and-policy/article3448852.ece?ref=wl_industry-and-economy

13 more biofuel information centres soon

“Biofuel Information Centres will be set up in all the districts in the next three months,” Chairman of the Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board (KSBDB) Y B Ramakrishna said on Saturday.

Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony of a Biofuel Research Centre in the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore, on the GKVK campus, Ramakrishna said, “In addition to the existing 17 information centres, 13 more centres will be opened in the coming months. Besides providing all sorts of information on biofuels, these centres will be designed to collect different types of non-edible oil seeds, extract oil with 500-600 kg of seed crushing capacity per day and produce 100 to 150 litres of bio-diesel per day,” he added.

The bio-diesel produced will be blended with petrol and diesel and used in several vehicles belonging to board and the university and the de-oiled cake will be used/sold as organic manure, he stated.

He also appreciated the government efforts to promote biofuel.

“At present, Karnataka has the capacity to produce 135 million litres of ethanol from molasses, which will be increased to 200 million litres by this year end. Karnataka is the first state in the country to formulate a biofuel policy, create a task force and constitute a board for the promotion of biofuel,” he explained.

On the occasion, Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda inaugurated a national workshop on Rural Agriculture Work Experience (RAWE) Programme and launched the biofuel park website.

The workshop was jointly organised by the UAS, Bangalore,� and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Biofuel Development Board. Informing about the RAWE programme, Vice-Chancellor of University of Agricultural Sciences� Dr K Narayana Gowda said, “Under the programme, the students are given rigorous orientation on various issues and problems they can expect in the farmer’s fields and provides real time opportunity for them to work on complete crop season through various extension methods.”

RAWE, which has been a part of the course offered in the 8th semester, henceforth will be offered in the 7th semester and coincide with the Kharif season and the students will be placed in the Raitha Samparka Kendras.

The duration has been extended from four weeks to 12 weeks from next batch, he explained.

The State government has come forward to extend stipend from this year to each student at `1,500 per month besides, extending other facilities for effective implementation of the programme, in addition to `750 given by the university and the ICAR.http://ibnlive.in.com/news/13-more-biofuel-information-centres-soon/259920-60-115.html

Green Signal for 31 Industrial Projects with Investment of Rs 1,46,656 cr

Green Signal for 31 Industrial Projects with Investment of Rs 1,46,656 cr

The D V Sadananda Gowda ministry has given the green signal for 31 industrial project proposals worth Rs. 1,46,656 crore generate capable of generating employment opportunity to over 3 lac persons ahead of next month’s Global Investors’ Meet (GIM-2012) in Bangalore.

The State High Level Committee (SHLC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda in Bangalore on Wednesday cleared investment proposals of various industries that would be implemented in different parts of the State.

http://www.daijiworld.com/images1/mel_230512_cm2.jpg

Karnataka’s Large and Medium Industries Minister Murugesh R Nirani, Chief Secretary S V Ranganath and Principal Industries and Commerce Department Secretary Jyothiramalingam were present at the meeting.


Cement factory

According to Industry Department officials, the SHLC has cleared a proposal of J K Cements (Western) Ltd. to establish a cement factory at Chittapur Taluk in Gulbarga District.

The company would invest Rs 2,326.65 crore and provide employment to 350 people.

Shivashankar Minerals Ltd’s proposal to establish a 3.5 million tonne per annum (MTPA) cement plant in Chincholi Taluk, Gulbarga District, with an investment of Rs 2,250 crore was also cleared.

BMM Ispat Ltd would establish 3 MTPA gas based integrated steel plant in Dhanapura village in Mariiyammanahalli Hobli, Hospet Taluk, Bellary district, with an investment of Rs 16, 229.68 crore.


Solar plant

Atria Power Corporation Ltd would establish a 5 MW solar power plant project in 75 taluks and 13 districts, with an investment of Rs 4,905 crore.

Kalyani Steel Ltd would establish a unit for manufacture of carbon alloy steel, stainless steels in Yadgir district with an investment of Rs.12,000 crore.

Sun Forest City Ventures Ltd has proposed set up a Project Vayu for development of infrastructure and complete eco system for aerospace industries in Bangalore Aerospace Park, near BIAL, with an investment of Rs 9,394 crore. It would provide direct employment to 2,42,000 persons. This project would be implemented in next 12 years in three phases, officials said.

The second edition of Global Investors Meet would be held on June 7 and 8 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), Tumkur Road.


Rs 5 lac Cr Target for GIM 2012

“In the GIM - 2012, the Government has set a target to attract investment of Rs 5 lac crore in sectors such as urban development, infrastructure, housing, power, agri business, tourism, automobile and aerospace engineering and IT/BT to provide employment opportunity to around 10 lakh persons” said a release.

For the successful conduct of GIM - 2012, the Government has set up a high power committee under the Chairmanship of the Chief Minister.

A Reception Committee under the chairmanship of Home and Transport Minister R Ashok, Marketing (Investment Promotion) Committee headed by Nirani and Co-ordination Committee headed by Chief Secretary S V Ranganath have also been constituted.

Another 12 sectoral committees have been constituted with focus on bringing investment in different sectors.

Ernst & Young, the leading audit firm, has been appointed as a Knowledge Partner, while M M Active has been appointed for the event management.http://www.daijiworld.com/news/news_disp.asp?n_id=138702

K`taka, Andhra Pradesh record highest fish production growth rate: Assocham

Clocking a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 11.48% during 2004-05 and 2010-11, Karnataka has emerged as the leading coastal state with highest growth of fish production according to an independent research and analysis of an apex industry body Assocham.

With about five lakh tons of annual fish production, Karnataka accounts for almost 6% of overall fish production in India which is currently estimated at about 91 lakh tons according to the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham). Besides, in value terms the fisheries sector in Karnataka is worth about Rs 40 billion.

With over 300 km of coastline and almost six lakh hectares of inland waters, Karnataka has huge scope for further growth and investments in fisheries sector. Besides, about eight lakh fishermen are involved in fishing business across Karnataka.

Amid leading coastal states in India, Andhra Pradesh ranks second in terms of growth in fish production with a CAGR of about 8% and with over 13.5 lakh tons of fish production annually, the state accounts for over 16% of country`s total fish production.

West Bengal (4.85%), Tamil Nadu (4.47%), Gujarat (3.37%) and Odisha (3.25%) are certain other leading fish producing states in India which recorded fish production growth rate between three and four% during 2004-05 and 2009-10.

Kerala recorded least growth rate of fish production between the aforesaid period as the fish production has come down from about 8.66 lakh tons in 2008-09 to the current level of about 6.82 lakh s, said Assocham.

Besides, growth of fish production in Maharashtra (0.86%) was also below one% as the fish production has fallen from about 5.96 lakh tons in 2006-07 to an estimated 5.82 lakh tons.

Goa has registered a negative growth rate of fish production of about -33% as the fish production has slipped from a whopping 9.9 lakh tons in 2004-05 to the current level of just about 94,000 tons mostly due to over-exploitation of fishery resources, highlights the Assocham analysis.

Fish production in India is rising at a CAGR of about 5% and is likely to cross 104 lakh tons by 2015, according to Assocham. In terms of value, exports of fish from India are likely to reach Rs 160 billion by 2015 from the current level of about Rs 135 billion.

Captured fish accounts for about 70% of India`s total fish production annually, while aquaculture accounts for about 30%.

India is the second largest fish producer in the world after China and accounts for nearly six% of global fish production of about 180 million tons, said Assocham.

Besides, India has over 8,100 kilometers of marine coastline, four million hectares of reservoirs, two million hectares of brackish water and nearly 51,000 square kilometers of continental shelf area and thus there is a huge scope for developing technology for value addition and infrastructure for fish production through public private partnership, asserts the chamber.

The units in the fish processing sector are largely small scale proprietary, partnership firms and fishermen co-operatives. There has been spectacular growth in the marine fisheries sector due to well developed harvest and post harvest infrastructure and increased demand for seafood both in the domestic and export markets, said Assocham.

Of the non-coastal states, Haryana has recorded a staggering 14.7% growth rate of fish production followed by Chattisgarh (11.29%) and Uttar Pradesh (7.05%), said Assocham.http://www.myiris.com/newsCentre/storyShow.php?fileR=20120522180058200&dir=2012/05/22

Opto Circuits' SEZ by mid-2013

Opto Circuits (India) Ltd (OCIL), the Bangalore-based maker of medical diagnostics and interventional products, has commenced work on its new single-product special economic zone (SEZ) at Hassan. The company is investing close to Rs 200 crore on setting up a greenfield manufacturing facility, a top company official said.

“We have acquired 250 acres at the industrial growth centre in Hassan from Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB). Three group companies of Opto Group will set up their manufacturing facility at this SEZ. The construction work has started and we wish to complete the work in the next 12-15 months,” Valiveti Bhaskar, Head - Finance, Opto Circuits Group, told Business Standard..

He said, apart from OCIL, two other subsidiaries like Opto Eurocor Healthcare Ltd and Opto Cardiac Care Ltd are setting up their manufacturing units at Hassan SEZ. Over a period of time, the company plans to consolidate its manufacturing activity in Hassan SEZ, Malaysia and in the US for Its different products.

Presently, the company operates out of 11-12 manufacturing units across India, Malaysia and the US. It has three plants each in the US and Malaysia, and six units in India. Its Indian units are in Bangalore, Vizag, Kolkata, Chennai and in Himachal Pradesh. Another subsidiary, Advanced Micronic Systems Ltd also has a manufacturing unit in Bangalore.

Opto circuits and its subsidiaries manufacture a wide range of invasive and non-invasive medical devices like vital signs monitors, anaesthetic gas benches, cardiac monitors, stents, implants, catheters, vascular diagnostics, AEDs and consumables among others.

Bhaskar said, apart from Opto group companies, some of its vendors may also set up their manufacturing units at the Hassan SEZ.

“The company has also acquired about 33 acres in Mysore for setting up another SEZ. But, we are not looking to develop SEZ there immediately,” he said.

Opto Circuits plans to manufacture the entire range of products at the SEZ and it recently received USFDA approval for the sale of its new product, MySense Heart, a wearable Holter cardiac monitor. The company intends to launch this product in the US markets towards the end of first quarter. “We are talking to several large hospital chains in the US for selling this product at their pharmacies and also through other pharma stores in the US,” Bhaskar added.

The market for this product in the US is estimated at $100 million annually and Opto Circuits would be one of the two companies to sell this product in the US market, he said.

The company has recently entered into a partnership with Germany-based Innovint Aircraft Interior GmbH, a global maker of aircraft interior and equipment and supplier of Airbus to distribute automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on aircraft worldwide.

For year-ended March 2012, Opto Circuits has reported a 49 per cent jump in its net sales at Rs 2,357 crore over the previous year. Its net profit for the year went up 56 per cent to Rs 572 crore.http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/opto-circuits-sez-by-mid-2013/475174/

Karnataka government working on modalities for solar park in Bijapur district

The Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited is working on the modalities to set up a solar park at Mannur village in Bijapur district as planned by the state government. A feasibility report will be submitted to the government in a fortnight, said C M Nimbannavar, chairman, Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL).

About 1,000 hectares barren land has been identified for the purpose, he said. About 500 MW is expected to be generated from the park, which is planned on Gujrat model.

North Karnataka provides for an ideal environment for utilizing solar energy. Plans are afoot to educate people of the region on the use and benefits of solar energy, he said. KREDL plans to implement Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) system in High court, City Civil Court and MS building of Bangalore, which will result in saving 25 to 30 per cent energy. In the coming days this will be implemented in all government building throughout the state, he added.

A two-day 'Energy-2012' programme will be organized on May 24 and 25 at Gokul garden in Hubli. Seminars and exhibitions will be held on the occasion to create awareness among people on energy conservation. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubli/Karnataka-government-working-on-modalities-for-solar-park-in-Bijapur-district/articleshow/13427072.cms

31 new industrial projects cleared in Karnataka

Karnataka's State High Level Committee has cleared 31 industrial projects which will require an investment of Rs 1.46 lakh crore.

The projects, including two cement plants to come up in Gulbarga district, were cleared by the Committee chaired by the Chief Minister DV Sadananda Gowda and attended by the Industries Minister Murugesh Nirani, an official statement said.

It approved the proposals to establish cement manufacturing units by JK Cements (Western) Limited in Chittapur Taluk at an investment of Rs 2,326.65 crore and that of Shivashankar Minerals Limited to set up 3.5 MTPA (Milliom Tonnes per Annum) Cement Plant in Chincholi Taluk with an investment of Rs 2,250 crore.

BMM Ispat Limited will set up a three MTPA gas-based integrated steel plant in Dhanapura village in Bellary District at a cost of Rs 16,229.68 crore, the statement said.

The other proposals which got the nod included M/s Atria Power Corporation Limited for establishing "5 Megawatt Solar Thermal Power Plant" project spread over 75 Taluks and 13 Districts, with an investment of Rs 4,905 crore and Kalyani Steel Limited for establishing a unit for manufacture of Carbon Alloy Steel, Stainless Steels, in Yadgir District with an investment of Rs 12,000 crore.

Sun Forest City Ventures Limited proposed to establish Project Vayu for development of Infrastructure and complete ecosystem for Aerospace industries in Bangalore Aerospace Park, with an investment of Rs 9,394 crore.

The project to be implemented in the next 12 years in phases was expected to provide direct employment to 2,42,000 people.

The government has an ambitious target of attracting Rs 5 lakh crore investment in Urban Development, Infrastructure, Housing, Power, Agri business, Tourism, Automobile & Aerospace Engineering and IT/BT sector.

It aims to provide employment opportunity to around 10 lakh persons at the two-day Second Global Investors Meet being held here from June 7, it said.http://www.ndtv.com/article/south/31-new-industrial-projects-cleared-in-karnataka-215403

Captive power unit at MRPL may go on stream by September

Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) has claimed that its overall project progress as on May 15 May, 2012 is 94.70 per cent.

For this subsidiary of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC), 2011-12 has been a significant year for the Phase III of its project. Despite sporadic adverse working conditions in and around the project site, the overall project progress had been ‘extremely good'. While the polypropylene (PPU) unit is expected to be completed by December, the first phase of the captive power plant, being built by BHEL, which was originally scheduled to be commissioned in April 2011, is now expected to go on stream by September 2012.

U. K. Basu, Managing Director, told The Hindu that the construction of the captive power plant had been delayed. A long-term turnkey job given to BHEL, “is progressing pretty poor”.

A captive power plant would enable the company to commission units instantly instead of in different instalments.

The company, he said, had been grappling with problems of water and sand as well. MRPL was forced to shut down its refinery a month ago due to water shortage.

Excess rainfall too affected civil works, delaying construction activity.

This year, mid-course corrections had been made in civil works.

“The company has taken corrective action by deploying additional resources and contractors to tide over the situation,” he said. .

http://www.thehindu.com/business/companies/article3452906.ece

Only 4 progressive states contribute 65% of total SLPE investments, says Govt survey


NEW DELHI: Only four Indian states, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, have contributed 65% of the total investments made in state level public enterprises (SLPEs) in India since Independence, clearly indicating that states investing heavily in SLPEs have emerged as progressive states, a recent survey undertaken by department of public enterprises revealed.

Out of Rs 2.9 lakh crore invested in SLPEs across 24 states till March 2008, for which the survey was conducted, Rs 1.9 lakh crore was invested only by those four states. Maharashtra with Rs 63,128 crore topped the list of investments, followed by Gujarat with Rs 52,137 crore.

"For the first time, such a detailed survey on investment, revenue, profit and loss etc. of SLPE s was undertaken. Now, we have the data with us. Many of India's progressive states are actually those which have invested heavily in its state level public enterprises. Just after Independence, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra were ranked equal in many parameters. But Maharashtra chose to invest much more through its state enterprises," OP Rawat, secretary in department of public enterprises, said. Rawat, a masters in physics and economics, is a Madhya Pradesh cadre IAS.

The secretary further said that the national survey became necessary as both 13th Finance Commission and Planning Commission of India expressed concerns at the performance of the SLPEs. There are 257 such entities across India. The data is being updated till March 2010.

"The survey is an indication of regional imbalances in investments by states in their public enterprises which need corrective steps. The DPE (department of public enterprises) has already decided to undertake capacity building programmes and impart special training to some SLPEs so that there is parity across states", secretary said.

In fact, the growth and even survival of SLPEs are important because some of those are big employers too. According to the survey, 55 SLPEs in Maharashtra alone employ 2.4 lakh people. Andhra Pradesh SLPEs engage 2.2 lakh people and those in Tamil Nadu employ 1.9 lakh.

ET (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/only-4-progressive-states-contribute-65-of-total-slpe-investments-says-govt-survey/articleshow/13485804.cms)

Karnataka figure?

‘Taiwanese City' to come up near Bangalore

The next iPad could be built out of Karnataka. Taiwanese companies are planning to set up their electronics hardware manufacturing plants in the state.

Taiwanese companies and investors have approached the Chief Minister, Mr D.V. Sadananda Gowda, for setting up electronics hardware manufacturing units at Narsapura, Kolar and in and around Devanahalli.

“We have shown 1,400 acres in Narsapur in Kolar and about 700 acres in Devanahalli which we already have in our possession,” Mr Gowda told Business Line. “So far, about 15 companies have shown keen interest in investing in hardware units,” he added.
Integrated township

Also, there are plans to create a ‘Taiwanese City' that would be a 70:30 integrated township, where 30 per cent is being reserved for residential and creating other amenities for hardware companies. The balance will be offered to different electronics industries.

The move to set up electronics hardware manufacturing units, hardware industry watchers feel, would enable head honchos to stay in the country and supervise operations on a daily basis.

This is a part of the Indian government's ongoing push to bring hardware manufacturers to India after failing to secure investments in mid-2000.
Start-up devices

“This, typically, would open up opportunities for start-up device manufacturers. “A start-up company cannot afford to order million of chipsets, with the costs associated with it and if there is a plant in India, it would work out better in terms of logistics and cost negotiations,” said Dr Praveen Vishakantaiah, President – Intel India.

Agreeing with this view, Mr Will Poole, co-chairman, NComputing, said, “India needs a manufacturing eco-system that would put in the global manufacturing map.”
Fab facility

Last year, the Union Government invited expressions of interest from technology providers and investors for setting up a semiconductor fabrication plant in the country to meet fast-growing demand in the electronics sector.

“India has seen a huge IT revolution due to setting up tech parks and it would give Indian manufacturers a big boost,” said Dr Adwaita Menon, Associate Director, of IDC.

A semiconductor fabrication plant is a factory where devices such as integrated circuits are manufactured. Demand for electronics hardware in India currently stands at about $45 billion and is expected to cross $400 billion by 2020.

Out of this, demand for semiconductors is expected to amount to nearly $50 billion, it said. In order to promote semiconductor manufacturing, the government has already allowed 100 per cent foreign direct investment under the automatic route. http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/info-tech/article3456455.ece?homepage=true&ref=wl_home

5000 Acres Denotified in Mangalore, Davangere, Belgaum and Other Districts

In a bid to provide land for rapid industrialistion, Karnataka has already denotified 5,000 acres of land for industrial projects in Mangalore, Davangere, Belgaum and other districts.

A proposal on underground terminal from Sakleshpur to Mangalore would also be prepared for fast movement of vehicles from Bangalore to Mangalore.

Karnataka’s Large and Medium Industries Minister Murugesh Nirani disclosed this information to reporters after reviewing the preparations for the forthcoming Global Investors Meet in Bangalore in June.

read more:- http://www.daijiworld.com/news/news_disp.asp?n_id=138586

Cabinet OKs another road to Kerala

Published: Sunday, May 27, 2012, 10:31 IST
By DNA Correspondent | Place: Bangalore | Agency: DNA

The state cabinet on Saturday approved an alternative route from Gundlupet in Chamarajnagar district to Sultan Bathery in Wayanad district in Kerala. The parallel route will be created by upgrading existing roads in Gonikoppal, Ponnampet, Kutta (all in Kodagu district) and Hunsur (Mysore).

Minister for secondary and primary education Vishweshwara Hegde Kageri said the development of the 46 km stretch will cost Rs49 crore. Kageri said the decision had been taken to end the woes of commuters. (The existing road, which passes through the Bandipur Reserve Forest, is closed at night).

Assembly hall to be renovated
Kageri said the assembly hall in Vidhana Soudha would be renovated at a cost of `15 crore. He said the building has not been repaired since the time it was built and there was a need for it today.

Bus terminal at Ramanagaram :cheers:

The cabinet also gave its consent for the construction of a bus terminal and commercial complex in Ramnagaram, represented by former CM HD Kumaraswamy.

Homes for judges

The cabinet also approved the extra expenditure needed in constructing 43 court halls and 193 quarters for judges across the state. The cost had risen to Rs250 crore (from Rs124 crore) after the building committee of courts gave its specifications for construction. “We have to follow the committee guidelines as it had the Supreme Court’s sanction,” the secondary and primary education minister said.

Aihole to be shifted

The state government has also allotted `50 crore to shift the entire historical village of Aihole in Bagalkot district. Kageri said 942 houses would be shifted to another place since the temple in the village was on the list of world heritage sites. “We took this decision since we cannot take up the development activity according to specifications,” he said.

Green shoots for a better future

The state government reserved Rs525 crore for the next three years to spend on improving the horticulture sector. The cabinet also agreed to adopt 1,000 villages across the state under the Suvarna Grama scheme at an estimated cost of Rs1,700 crore.

Taiwanese cos keen to set-up hardware units in Karnataka

It seems like the government's dream to make India an electronics hardware manufacturing base is taking shape. About 15 Taiwanese companies are interested in setting up their electronics hardware manufacturing units in Karnataka, according to The Hindu Business Line.
The companies have approached Chief Minister D. V. Sadananda Gowda for setting up hardware plants in the state.

"We have shown 1,400 acre in Narsapur in Kolar and about 700 acre in Devanahalli which we already have in our possession," Gowda told Business Line. "So far, about 15 companies have shown keen interest in investing in hardware units."

Moreover, a 'Taiwanese City' is also being planned in the state. It would be a 70:30 integrated township, where 30 per cent is being reserved for residential and creating other amenities for hardware companies. The balance will be offered to different electronics industries, reported Business Line.

"This, typically, would open up opportunities for start-up device manufacturers. "A start-up company cannot afford to order million of chipsets, with the costs associated with it and if there is a plant in India, it would work out better in terms of logistics and cost negotiations," said Praveen Vishakantaiah, president, Intel India, was quoted as saying.

This is a part of the Indian government's ongoing thrust to promote domestic hardware manufacturing in India.

Cotton pad plant for Karnataka (http://www.sustainablenonwovens.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11404%3Akam&catid=124%3Anews-free&Itemid=2&Itemid=2)

Precot Meridian, a leading Indian manufacturer of yarns and fabrics with annual revenues of over US$120 million, is setting up a new plant to manufacture hygiene care products.

The per capita consumption of all nonwovens in India is less than 100 grams, whereas in the US and Western Europe it’s around 3-3.5 kilograms. Total Indian nonwovens consumption in 2011 was 240,000 tons and nonwovens production was 170,000 tons.

There are few major players established as yet, and 78% of all consumption goes into industrial end-uses. All consumer disposables consumption is just 53,000 tons. Growth, however, is likely to be over 20% in the coming years.

All of this suggests a huge opportunity for ambitious companies like Prescot Meridian – especially since India’s production chains, practices and markets are not as well-ingrained as elsewhere.

Indian companies entering the nonwovens market can avoid the dilemmas now facing established manufacturing bases and there is the opportunity to have sustainable practices and processes from the outset.

Intending to become an important player on the cosmetic pad market, Precot has now partnered with VMI Holland BV which will supply several of it’s new ACE 300, fully automatic and compact pad production and packing machines to Precot Meridian, as well as an HCI high output machine.

The Dutch machinery supplier’s VMI Product Handling Systems division (former EBM) is a market leader in high capacity cotton pad machinery for converts cotton blankets into cotton pad stacks. The ACE 300, VMI's latest machine was designed especially for this nonwoven market. It incorporates the current state-of-the-art techniques including solid and rigid mechanics, low maintenance, easy operatiol and economic performance. Swift change-over to a large variety of pad shapes by switching product related parts ensures a highly flexible production level.

“The prototype of the ACE 300 was delivered to a German company last year and turned out to be a great success,” said VMI sales manager Peter Alink. “In the meantime VMI has already received orders for a number of machines, including the units recently sold for Precot.”

The new Precot Meridian plant is being built in the Southern state of Karnataka in India.

“This greenfield project will be an integrated plant, with processing, nonwoven lines and finishing machines, said Precot CEO Ashok Kulkarni. The major machinery has been ordered and we will start with trial production in January 2013. We look forward to a fruitful cooperation with VMI.”


Where in Karnataka? :nuts:

Karnataka beckons

The State invites investors as the biennial Global Investors Meet (GIM) meet is set to get under way in Bangalore on June 7 and 8.
K. BHAGYA PRAKASH

D.V. SADANANDA GOWDA, Chief Minister (right), and Murugesh Nirani, Minister for Large and Medium Industries, at the launch of GIM Expo-2012 in Bangalore on April 12.

KARNATAKA has an illustrious history of successfully introducing several industrial and technological initiatives. This is hardly surprising since for over a century the region, initially under the rule of the far-sighted maharajas of Mysore and later under a succession of democratically elected governments, has been a pioneer in industrialisation. As Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda says: “Karnataka is the gateway of innovative India. A destination that offers investors the right blend of strengths and opportunities.”

Today, Karnataka is driving domestic growth and creating wealth through a critical mix of resources-, skill-, technology- and knowledge-based products and services. A proactive government, investor-friendly policies, skilled manpower that is readily available, and a congenial atmosphere have made Karnataka an industrial powerhouse. The State's capital, Bangalore, has also become the aerospace and information technology (IT) capital of India. In what is a clear reflection of its investor friendliness, Karnataka has the third largest (after Maharashtra and Delhi) share (6 per cent) of foreign direct investment (Rs.42,131 crore) in India.

With an area of 191,791 square kilometres, Karnataka is one of India's fastest growing States. It accounts for 5 per cent (61.1 million according to the 2011 Census) of India's population but contributes 6 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP), 7 per cent of fixed capital and 13 per cent of exports. The State has a gross State domestic product (GSDP) at constant prices (2004-05) of $56.7 billion and a GSDP growth rate of 8.2 per cent (2010-11). Its major industries, besides IT, are automotive and aerospace, chemicals and petrochemicals, mines and minerals, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, energy, tourism, textiles and apparels, agro and food processing. The State has five airports (three domestic and two international), 11 ports (with a traffic of 44 tonnes in 2009-10), 4,396 km of national highways, 20,528 km of State highways and 3,250 km of rail connectivity.

Interestingly, the Karnataka State Industries and Commerce Department is completing 100 years of investor and industry facilitation. Karnataka, in fact, was one of the first States to come up with an Industries Facilitation Act. The State also has a dedicated nodal agency, the Karnataka Udyog Mitra, which provides all investors who are looking to set up business in the State single-window facilitation. The State's “New Industrial Policy, 2009-14” offers investors a number of attractive concessions/incentives such as exemption from entry tax, Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC) cess/fees; electricity and stamp duties; concessional registration charges/refund of conversion fee; investment promotion subsidy for MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises); interest-free loans on VAT for large and mega projects; anchor unit subsidy and special incentives for units coming up in low human development index districts.

Unarguably, what set the industrialisation ball rolling was the setting up of Asia's first hydroelectric power station in 1902 at Shivanasamudram, on the Cauvery. The power station boasted the then longest transmission line in the world – 147 km from Shivanasamudram to the mines at the Kolar Gold Fields. Even today, Karnataka ranks second in India in installed hydroelectric capacity (3,599.8 MW).

The 1950s and 1960s saw the establishment of a number of public sector enterprises such as Bharat Electronics Limited and Bharat Earth Movers Limited, and defence laboratories of the Defence Research and Development Organisation, all set up to augment India's defence preparedness. The State government also set up public enterprises, and laid the foundation stone for Electronic City, one of India's largest electronic industrial parks, in the late 1970s. Spread over 332 acres (one acre is 0.4 hectare), Electronic City, on the outskirts of Bangalore, is the pioneer in IT infrastructure development. It made Bangalore in the years to come the business outsourcing capital of the world. Incidentally, Bangalore, which has its fair share of traffic congestion, parking woes, water shortages and power fluctuations, has been rated as the second most vibrant among the top 50 cities in India.

THE ADVENT OF IT and ITeS was the best thing to happen to the State.
The advent of IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) was the next big thing to happen in Karnataka. The IT explosion came in the early 1990s with a host of national and international companies setting up base in the city and spearheading the Indian IT revolution. Be it software (enterprise solutions, IT applications, e-commerce and security, storage solutions, cloud solutions), hardware (semiconductors, electronic and printed circuit boards, embedded solutions, computers and peripherals), infocom (telecom, wireless and broadbrand, mobile operating systems and applications, networking products), animation and visual effects, gaming and comics, production studios, new media, digital art centres, IT training and education, research and development, IT and hardware parks, venture funds and Internet protocol (IP) consulting, Karnataka has it all.

Bangalore is the fourth largest technology cluster in the world, with over 2,025 IT companies, 330-plus BPOs/ITeS and 100 hardware units, and has become a global outsourcing hub for IT and ITeS. There are today over 800,000 IT professionals working in Bangalore. Karnataka is home to 700 multinational and 87 Fortune 500 companies and the highest number of CMM (Capability Maturity Model) level 5 companies in the world. Besides, an exclusive industrial area for electronic hardware and IT/ITeS is coming up at Devanahalli, near the Bangalore International Airport.

Karnataka expects its IT exports in 2011-12 to cross $20 billion (the highest from any State in India), but not wanting to rest on these laurels it hopes to position itself as a major electronic system design and manufacturing hub and animation and visual effects capital. Karnataka is also pushing to promote IT parks in Tier II cities, such as Hubli-Dharwad, Belgaum, Gulbarga, Shimoga, Davangere and Mangalore, and rural BPOs. Says Murugesh R. Nirani, Minister for Large and Medium Industries: “One new global company moves into the State every week and a new industrial unit is approved every day.”

Listed among the top four innovative hubs by the World Economic Forum, Karnataka aims to be the finest investment destination in India with economic growth across IT, biotechnology, aerospace, nanotechnology, machine tools and construction equipment, defence technology, knowledge and business process outsourcing and clinical research sectors.

In April, Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee laid the foundation stone for an exclusive financial city on the outskirts of Bangalore. To be developed over three years at the cost of Rs.1,000 crore, the financial city, which is the first of its kind in India, will, according to Mukherjee, enable financial institutions to establish and run a variety of operations, including support activities, and meet regional financial demands. The choice of Bangalore for establishing the city is a reflection of its status as a financial superpower in terms of the size of bank credit and deposit, and income tax collections, being next only to Mumbai and New Delhi.

Karnataka, which has established software technology and biotech parks, has also initiated plans to set up a dedicated nanotech park, a knowledge city and a manufacturing unit for defence. The State has also approved the setting up of 58 special economic zones (SEZs). Of these, 20 are already operational with a total investment of $3 billion. They have so far generated 97,313 jobs and exports worth $5.7billion.

In terms of education and research, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Bangalore top the list of quality institutions in the State providing a ready-made pool of highly skilled human resource across a variety of sectors. Besides, Karnataka also has over 100 R&D centres (the largest number anywhere in India), 22 universities imparting general education, 187 engineering colleges (third largest in India), 114 medical and dental colleges (again the highest in India), 181 polytechnics, 600 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and 13 international schools.

Eight of India's 75 top-ranking engineering institutions are in Karnataka. The State is also home to the prestigious National Law School of India University.

The Knowledge Hub of Asia, as it is called, Karnataka is the No.1 investment destination among India's 16 developing States, according to World Bank Report, 2009. It is a leading producer of horticulture products, accounting for 12 per cent of the fruits and 8 per cent of the vegetables grown in the country, and contributes 70 per cent of India's coffee output (the largest in India). The State accounts for 20 per cent of India's garment production.

http://www.frontline.in/images/20120615291111303.jpg

AT THE TOYOTA plant at Bidadi near Bangalore. Karnataka ranks fourth in automotive production.

Karnataka ranks fourth in automotive production, with an investment of $713 million and an annual revenue of $6,014 million. The districts of Ramanagara, Shimoga, Kolar and Dharwad have been designated as automobile zones. A dedicated auto cluster is coming up in Hubli-Dharwad, and an SEZ for auto components is being established in Shimoga. Karnataka produces more than 25 per cent of the indigenously manufactured aircraft and space equipment.

The mineral-rich State has around 3,447 million tonnes of iron ore deposits and 2,518 million tonnes of manganese ore. There are also abundant deposits of granite (pink, green, black, grey and yellow), soapstone, sandstone, graphite, limestone, quartzite and clay. Annually, Karnataka produces over 11 million tonnes of cement and (until the illegal iron ore mining controversy hit the industry) 7.29 million tonnes of steel. India's only gold-producing mine – the Hutti Gold Mine – is located in Raichur district. The State has the second largest number of bauxite mines. Yet, a shortage of quality power (since the 1980s) and clear-titled land and the lack of world-class infrastructure have impeded Karnataka's march to become India's most industrialised State.

In a bid to address the problems associated with land acquisition for industrial purposes, the State government has established a land bank under which 1.19 lakh acres of land has been identified for acquisition by the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board. According to Nirani, “50,000 acres of this identified land is ready for final acquisition”.

Commenting on the issues surrounding Posco India Private Ltd's (the Indian subsidiary of the South Korean conglomerate Posco) plans to put up a Rs.32,336-crore steel plant in Gadag district, Nirani explained that if local farmers were unwilling to part with their land the plant, which requires 3,382 acres of land, could come up in a “neighbouring district”.

The Minister also spoke optimistically about the power situation, emphasising that the State would soon have adequate power. He said: “A thermal power-generating plant is coming up in Bijapur. We are on the verge of signing a number MoUs [memorandums of understanding] with power-generating companies for 18,000 MW of power.”

With 38 per cent of Karnataka's population living in urban areas, investment in urban infrastructure is a key area for investors. Urban services to meet the demands of Bangalore's rising population would require investments totalling $5,796 million over the next five years. Bangalore needs an investment of $ 5,208 million to meet its transport and traffic requirements.
http://www.frontline.in/stories/20120615291111300.htm

Karnataka approves Rs 1,000-cr investments in logistics (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/article3477219.ece?homepage=true&ref=wl_home)

To build 4 Logistics Parks through public-private partnership route

BANGALORE, MAY 31:
Ahead of the Global Investors Meet (GIM), the Karnataka Government has cleared investments in logistics and warehouses to the tune of Rs 1,000 crore.

Also on its own, the government plans to build four Logistics Parks with a total investment of Rs 1,800 crore through private partnership route.

To facilitate development across the state, the Infrastructure Development Department has initiated moves to build Logistics Parks in Bangalore, Hassan and Hubli on public-private partnership (PPP) mode. According to a senior Infrastructure Development Department (IDD) official, the government is looking for an integrated approach by providing multi-modal/integrated logistics transport centre, warehouses, inland container depots, domestic rail head, and air cargo centres.

INVITES REGISTRATION OF INTERESTS

Logistics Parks are to come up at Harohalli Industrial Area in Bangalore with an investment of Rs 500 crore, Dabbaspet (Rs 600 crore), Hassan (Rs 350 crore) and Hubli (Rs 350 crore).

The department has invited registration of interests (RoI) from global, national companies and is open to joint ventures and consortia for development of logistics parks.

An industries department official said the projects cleared recently are Vikram Logistics and Maritime Services which is investing Rs 342.59 crore to set up logistics services at Maranaikanahally and Samanduru villages in Anekal.

The project is to come up on 120 acres of land owned by one of the directors of the company.

It is likely to give employment to 675 people. Property developer Gopalan Enterprises is to build a warehouse at Cheelur village Maralvadi hobli in Kanakapura with an investment of Rs 188 crore and offer employment to 5,000 people.

The promoters of the project have sought 104.06 acres of land.

The government has instructed project proponent to obtain consent to an extent of 70 per cent from the land owners for further assistance.

The Gurgaon-based Siddhivinayaka Farm Fresh is to set up a muti-commodity agri-cold chain network and logistic hub at Vishwanathapura near Devanahalli. The project is to come up on 11 acres on a private land at an investment of Rs 160.66 crore.

Magna Warehousing and Distribution Private Ltd with an investment of Rs 381 crore to develop spaces and infrastructure for IT offices, hotel rooms, meeting spaces and convention, shopping including food courts, restaurants, cinema, departmental stores to complement with the location at EPIP industrial areas at Hoodi Village next to Sri Sathya Sai Hospital at Whitefield.

190 infra projects to be under public-private tie-up mode


For Infrastructure Bill: Interactive meeting with the Minister for Large and Medium-scale Industry, Mr Murugesh Nirani (2nd left), Dr Vinod Nowal, President, Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce; Mr Lakshminarayan, Senior Vice-President; Mr H.V. Harish Kumar, Vice-President, at meeting in Bangalore on Thursday.
Karnataka to introduce Infrastructure Bill

BANGALORE MAY 31:
Karnataka is planning to throw open around 190 infrastructure-related projects under the public-private partnership (PPP) and plans to introduce the Infrastructure Bill, said Mr Murugesh Nirani, Minister for Large and Medium-scale Industry, said while interacting with the members of the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) here.

He said, “The Infrastructure Bill is expected to provide the much-needed boost to infrastructure projects with the highest government official being in charge of the entire process. The Bill also aims to provide the creation of a Karnataka Viability Gap Fund to the tune of Rs 500 crore to aid these infrastructure projects besides tapping some of the similar such funds of the Central government.”

GLOBAL INVESTORS' MEET

Referring to the Global Investors' Meet (GIM) scheduled for June 6-8, Mr Nirani said that over 10,000 business delegates comprising those from top management will have the opportunity to interact and network with business leaders and policy-makers.

He said: “B2B meetings, focused conferences and sectoral presentations by experts are also on the agenda. This will be a big boost to economic development in Karnataka.

“The strong focus of the GIM Expo will facilitate participation of MSMEs. Special programmes like workshops on vendor development and online partnering meetings will give MSMEs a platform to connect with PSUs, MNCs and large industries.”

Mr Nirani further said: “The state has initiated a unique ‘Land Bank' in which about 1.19 lakh acres suitable for industries have been identified. KIADB has already initiated acquisition of most of this land and is also ready to offer it to investors.”

LAND BANK

“Land banks have been created in places like Dharwad and industrial parks in cities like Mysore, Mangalore and Gulbarga are being established so that we can attract industry to these places along with certain financial incentives,” he added.

GIM 2010 GREAT SUCCESS

Mr Nirani, referring to the last edition of GIM 2010, said: “It was a great success and nearly 62 per cent of the MoUs signed during GIM 2010 are under implementation while 36 units have already started production. Another 36 are in progressive stages and 250 units are in the pipeline.”

Dr Vinod Nowal, President of BCIC, said “A few thorny issues are holding up fresh investments and expansion plans of the exiting units happening in the state. He requested Mr. Nirani that aspects like smooth transfer of land to the industry, single-window clearances on various licences that are required and overall improvement in the infrastructure facility will go a long way in getting more investments into the State.”

NMPT handles record cargo


Mangalore, June 2, 2012, DHNS:
A record quantity of 1710 TEUs was handled at New Mangalore Port in a single voyage in the container vessel- M V Tiger Mango which called at the Port on May 31.

This is the highest number of containers ever handled at the port from a single voyage surpassing the earlier record of 1512 TEUs handled on November 9, 2011 from the vessel M V Tampabay. Out of the total 1710 TEUs, 995 were imports and 715 exports. Major items of import are raw cashew and export consists of coffee, cashew kernels, fish and fish products, candles, etc.

M/s Bengal Tiger Lines are the Feeder Line Operators and M/s Delta Infralogistcs Pvt Ltd (HML) the agents of the vessel.

Chairman Dr P Tamilvanan has stated that the port is witnessing steady growth in container traffic, thanks to the pro-active marketing efforts made by the Port management coupled with the infrastructure addition created during the past few years like expansion of container yards, container handling equipments like reach stacker’s, increased number of reefer plug points, concretisation of roads, simplified documentation system etc.

This has yielded positive results in fostering the container movement to the port from the hinterland which is evident from the fact that from 9646 TEUs handled in 2005-06, it has grown to 45,009 TEUs in 2011-12.

During the current year 2011-12 till date, 7818 TEUs is handled as against 7281 TEUs handled during the corresponding period of previous year.

Karnataka Bank eyes Rs 1 lakh crore business

MANGALORE: Karnataka Bank is all set to double its business from the existing Rs 53,000 crore to Rs 1.06 lakh crore in next three years, said P Jayaram Bhat, managing director and CEO. Participating in the occasion of renaming of bank's first branch at Dongerkery as Founders' branch, he said bank which has strong presence all over India with customer base of over 6 million, has fine blend of traditional values and modern outlook.

As a value addition, bank is launching mobile banking and application supported by blocked amount facilities during 2012-13. Bank is having high standard of corporate governance and is now focussing on becoming big and strong, he said. Bhat honoured prominent customers Krishna Avatar Jalan, SR Nayak, Pundalika Nayak, Vasudeva Rao, Ravishankar, Ramakrishna Ballukaraya, and Srikanth Kamath on this occasion.

Ananthakrishna, non-executive chairman in his presidential address termed decision of the bank to name its first branch Mangalore-Dongerkery branch as founders' branch historic. It is a greatest tribute to bank's founders. He also lauded loyalty and cooperation extended by long standing customers of the Bank recalling that the Bank was formed in the backdrop of swadeshi movement on February 18, 1924, by commoners.


MS Mahabaleshwara Bhat, general manager said Bank that was started with initial capital of Rs 11,580 in February 1924, had mobilized deposits of Rs 68,449 and lent Rs 1,21,760 as loans and had earned Rs 3,591 as its maiden profit during the very first year of operation. Bank had even declared maiden dividend of 6.25% for year ended December 1924. The shares of KBL have always been a value buy, he noted.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Karnataka-Bank-eyes-Rs-1-lakh-crore-business/articleshow/13851715.cms

State pushes for PPP in infrastructure

Undeterred by past experiences, govt to promote 190 projects worth Rs 2.24 lakh cr

Although the State government has been chanting the Public Private Partnership (PPP) mantra for years, the response from the private sector has been lukewarm.

This has not deterred the government from exploring PPP as an effective option for infrastructure development. According to officials, infrastructure development through the PPP mode is a priority sector for the second edition of the Global Investors Meet (GIM), scheduled for June 7 and 8.

As many as 190 infrastructure projects worth about Rs 2.24 lakh crore across eight sectors – transport, urban infrastructure, tourism, markets, industrial infrastructure, health, energy and education – will be promoted during the event.

A cursory look at the PPP’s project database of the State Infrastructure Development Department - a nodal agency responsible for implementing projects - offers an insight into the project’s status within the State. Some 300 projects dot the database.

But of these, only about a dozen projects have suceeded in finding private investment in the last decade. They include the Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor project, the Bengaluru International Airport, four-laning of Bangalore-Mysore highway, minor airports at Shimoga, Gulbarga and Bijapur towns and the development of 10,000 kms of road.

Other ambitious proposals have simply failed to take off, whether it be a high-speed rail project to the Bengaluru International Airport or a monorail network in Bangalore or the Bidadi integrated township, there is a long list of unfulfilled projects which have been waiting years for private investment.

Interestingly, a majority of projects that the government has decided to promote at the GIM have been on the Infrastructure Development Department database for years, stalwarts without financial backing or interest. According to offical sources, the government will invite a Registration of Interest from investors in order attract support.

But the lack of a clear-cut policy and unnecessary political meddling have crippled state projects, according to offical sources. The proposed Bidadi integrated township is a case in point. The mega project was awarded to the Delhi-based company, DLF, in 2006 by the-then JD(S)-BJP government.
A successive BJP government scrapped it upon entering office. Then inexplicably decided to tender it again for investment. During the 2010 GIM, the project was the subject of a Registration of Interest, which produced no takers.

Similarly, the Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor, the first mega-infrastructure PPP project in Karnataka, is mired in land-related controversies. The project is incomplete even though it was signed into agreement 16 years ago. Several big-ticket projects like the Proposed Special Economic Zone at Nandagudi in Bangalore rural district, the Peripheral Ring Road around Bangalore have also suffered due to political interference, sources said.

The absence of guidelines and tender documents is also a handicap for the government regarding the implemention of PPP projects. But this may be changing. Sources said that the centre has recently come out with model guidelines.

Hurdles cleared

The government has now scrambled to take initiatives in order to attract private investment in public projects, including passing separate legislation concerning infrastructure.

“The Bill seeks to set up the Karnataka Infrastructure Authority to approve and oversee timely implementation of PPP projects.

The Authority, headed by the Chief Secretary, will have the final say and there will not be scope for making any adhoc changes in the project,” said Rajkumar Khatri, Principal Secretary, Infrastructure Development Department.
In addition, the government has decided to provide viability gap funding above what the central government offers.

According to Khatri, the Karnataka Viability Gap Fund with an initial corpus of Rs 500 crore will be set up for this purpose.

“Moreover, all the projects that the government is offering during the GIM have been identified as ‘feasible’ by professional agencies. Hence, we are expecting a good response from investors,” he said.

Expectations

BCIC looks at the GIM-2012 as a forum where the concerns of the industries are being addressed so that the government can take appropriate actions to make the State more investor-friendly.http://www.deccanherald.com/content/254870/state-pushes-ppp-infrastructure.html

ONGC in talks with Mitsui for LNG terminal at Mangalore
Economic times
6 JUN, 2012 (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/energy/oil-gas/ongc-in-talks-with-mitsui-for-lng-terminal-at-mangalore/articleshow/13868364.cms)

NEW DELHI: State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) is in talks with Mitsui Group of Japan for setting up a liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal at Mangalore as part of its diversification plans.

ONGC had in 2005 proposed to build a 5 million tonne a year LNG import and regassification terminal adjacent to its subsidiary Mangalore Refinery in Karnataka.

The plans were shelved after May 2006 exit of chairman Subir Raha. The idea of making ONGC a diversified firm with interest across the entire energy value chain was Raha's brainchild.

The company, after Sudhir Vasudeva took as the Chairman and Managing Director last year, has again revived the diversification plan and is now actively looking at setting up LNG terminal at Mangalore to meet the fast growing energy needs in the country, sources privy to the development said.

ONGC plans to sign an agreement with Mitsui to explore opportunities for setting up a LNG terminal in India, specifically at Mangalore, or at any other mutually identified locations, they said, adding the duo would also market the imported fuel.

Sources said ONGC wants to use Mitsui's 30 years of global experience to source LNG. A gas-based power plant may also be set up at a later stage.

Besides, the two would also explore opportunities of joint bidding for forthcoming exploration rounds, such as NELP (New Exploration License Policy) and Shale Gas Blocks.

Sources said ONGC feels domestic gas availability at 197 million standard cubic meters per day in 2015-16 will be way short of a demand of 290 mmscmd. The balance demand of 93 mmscmd would have to be met through imported LNG (24.8 million tonnes per annum).

Considering the huge potential demand of LNG, ONGC wants to join the race for setting up LNG terminal.

The country now has two operational LNG import facilities -- 10 million tonnes unit at Dahej in Gujarat operated by Petronet LNG Ltd and a 3.6 million tonnes terminal of Shell-Total at Hazira.

Another 5 million tonnes facility is almost complete at Dabhol in Maharashtra, while Petronet is building an equal size terminal at Kochi in Kerala by the year end.

State-owned gas utility GAIL India and Petronet plan to set up separate import facilities on the east coast. Shell has teamed up with Reliance Power for a floating LNG terminal off the Andhra coast while Indian Oil Corp ( IOC) is doing studies for a terminal at Ennore in Tamil Nadu.

Sources said ONGC too wants to be part of the LNG business and it see Mitsui as the vehicle for entry into the lucrative business.

KVG Bank targets Rs 13,000-cr biz



http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/multimedia/dynamic/01105/kvb_1105642f.jpg
HUBLI, JUNE 6:
Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVG Bank), a Dharwad-based regional rural bank, has set 20.33 per cent higher business target of Rs 13,000 crore for this financial year.

The bank achieved Rs 10,803-crore business in 2011-12 .

MORE ULTRA SMALL BRANCHES

“The bank is planning to achieve this higher business through opening more ultra small branches in non-bank branch towns and cities,” the chairman of the bank, Mr C. Sambasiva Reddy, told Business Line.

“This fiscal we are also planning to disburse Rs 3,600 crore in our operational area of nine districts in north Karnataka,” he added.

The bank, through effective non-performing assets (NPA) management, has reduced its NPA level by Rs 3.41 crore from Rs 92.58 crore to Rs 89.17 crore.

Mr Reddy said the percentage of gross NPAs to total outstanding advances as on March 31, 2012 has come down to 1.97 per cent from 2.54 per cent last year.

“The bank has fully provided for the entire NPAs and hence the net NPA level is nil. Hence all our 117 branches are ‘nil' NPA branches,” he added.

Talking about priority sector credit, Mr Reddy said the sector credit grew by 25 per cent to Rs 752 crore compared with last fiscal.

Of the total business of the bank, the share of agricultural credit is Rs 2,916 crore. Credit to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) grew by 20.64 per cent. Weaker section advances was down 24 per cent (Rs 1,527.37 crore to Rs 1,895.51 crore).

FARM CREDIT

The bank took full responsibility for implementing rapid action plan to provide credit to farmers in all the nine districts. Mr Reddy said through his plan, number of fresh Kisan credit cards issued by the bank stood at 30,942 and amount disbursed is Rs 256.48 crore.

The number of cards renewed is 61,598 and amount disbursed is Rs 442.58 crore.

Mr Reddy said, “The bank is targeting to achieve network of 550 branches and 50 additional ultra small branches and install 75 new ATMs by this fiscal.”

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/banking/article3497202.ece?homepage=true&ref=wl_home

Gold Mining in Gadag Dist

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/7659/goldws.jpg
Source : Udayavani

Learn Nudi Forget English Spellings !!!

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/3060/nudierr.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/15/nudierr.jpg/)

Nandita Vijay, Bengaluru
Wednesday, June 13, 2012, 08:00 Hrs [IST]

Karnataka government is giving the finishing touches to the much-awaited state pharma policy which will is expected to give the sector a path to drive future growth.

The policy is getting ready and would be unveiled in three weeks time, Dr Ramana Reddy, secretary, Karnataka’s department health and family welfare told Pharmabiz at the sidelines of the recently concluded Global Investors Meet.

“While Centre is yet to announce a Pharma Policy, we have worked ahead going by the importance given to this sector by the state. The details will be disclosed soon and all that can be said now is that it is after intensive interaction with industry stakeholders we are getting set to release the policy,” Dr Ramana said.

In terms of assisting the sector to provide the infrastructure, the state cleared the setting up of a dedicated Pharma Park ‘Jeevitham’ which is an Ozone Group Infrastructure Developers initiative. Now the state needs a policy to ensure that there is a clear-cut direction to drive growth and woo investors, said the secretary of the Karnataka health and family welfare.

Incidentally in 1997, Karnataka announced the Information Technology policy and in 2001 it was the Millennium Biotech Policy. Both these policies were formulated under Dr Ramanna Reddy who was the then secretary of the department of IT and BT.

Dr Reddy will now be credited to unveil a third policy for a core sector like pharmaceuticals. This is a strong pitch for investments for the state among other positive benefits to the sector, stated Dr BR Jagashetty, drugs controller, government of Karnataka.

Pharmabiz early this year had reported the highlights of the state pharma policy which would focus on infrastructure, training, R&D and funding. The key features are pharma infrastructure or a separate pharma park, centre of excellence in pharma education based on similar lines of the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), at Chandigarh, and incentives to encourage the small and medium enterprises to expand facility apart from a considerable focus on research.

In the last decade, the investments in the pharma space in Karnataka were not significant. Between 2009 and 2011, there were only a handful of companies that have made an entry into the state. To attract the required investments, the state will need to give a fillip to the infrastructure. The state has a strong presence in pharma as it is home to 251 companies of which a large portion are in the small and medium sectors. Karnataka pharma industry can take the credit for employing 20,000 personnel directly and another 30,000 indirectly as on March 2011. The total turnover of the sector is Rs.6,500 crore of which exports accounts for Rs.2,000 crore. The state is also home to the highest number of pharmacy colleges in the country with as many as 60. In addition, there are 98 D Pharm and 20 M Pharm colleges, stated officials from Karnataka Drugs and Pharmaceutical Association.

PHARMABIZ (http://pharmabiz.com/NewsDetails.aspx?aid=69524&sid=1)

Karnataka cabinet approves conversion of farm land for industrial purpose

More than 500 acres of farm land across Karnataka was approved for conversion for industrial purpose.The cabinet meeting on Thursday gave permission for five industries including that of industries minister Murugesh R Nirani's sugar company for conversion of agricultural land into industrial purpose.

Nirani's company has been approved 74.08 acres of agricultural land in Mudhol taluk, Bagalkot district; RBSSN Ferrous Pvt Ltd with 123.63 acres in Hagaribommanahalli, Bellary district; Xindia Steels Ltd with 18.22 acres in Hipparagi, Bijapur district; J K Cements Ltd with 34.14 acres in Mudapur, Bagalkot district and Radhakrishna Education Trust with 21.07 acres in Kanakapura, Ramanagara district - were the other companies that got the approval from the cabinet for conversion of agricultural land to industrial purpose.

Law and parliamentary affairs minister S Suresh Kumar told reporters that cabinet gave green signal for the proposals following clearance from high power committee headed by chief secretary. Section 109 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act-1961 permits conversion of agricultural land into industrial purpose. Nirani is said to have walked out of cabinet meeting when the subject pertaining to his company came up for the discussion.

The cabinet also approved to regularize unauthorized residential construction in non - BBMP, other city corporations and CMCs. Residential buildings constructed before January 1, 2012 will be regularized, if the construction is not on open drains, on roads, parks, play grounds and forest land. The Karnataka Land Revenue Act-1964 will be amended for this purpose.http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Karnataka-cabinet-approves-conversion-of-farm-land-for-industrial-purpose/articleshow/14131514.cms

Karnataka to have separate ministry for BC welfare

Apparently with an eye on elections slated less than a year away, the BJP Government in Karnataka today decided to establish a separate ministry for backward classes welfare and also regularise unauthorised construction of houses in government land.

It would be carved out of Social Welfare Department which was taking care of welfare and development programmes of backward classes and tasked with administrative control of certain corporations.

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda.

read more:- http://www.business-standard.com/generalnews/news/karnataka-to-have-separate-ministry-for-bc-welfare/20666/

Embassy announces Rs15000 cr projects in Karnataka

Property developer Embassy Group has signed an MoU and shared EoI (Expression of Interest) documents with the Government of Karnataka at the Global Investors Meet 2012, for the development of four mega projects in the state with a projected total investment of Rs15,000 crore. The projects will span the development of integrated IT parks for IT/ITES with commercial, residential and support facilities and a logistics park, which will mark Embassy Group’s strategic foray into the logistics and warehousing business.

Jitendra Virwani, chairman and managing director, Embassy Property Developments, said, “Having developed four business parks in Bangalore in the past decade offering workspace for over 2 lakh people, we are committed to the development of Karnataka and happy to make this announcement at GIM 2012. These projects envision the creation of workspace and infrastructure for close to 1 million people and can have a catalytic effect of creating another one million indirect jobs.http://www.constructionweekonline.in/article-7871-embassy_announces_rs15000_cr_projects_in_karnataka/

Karnataka cabinet approves conversion of farm land for industrial purpose (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Karnataka-cabinet-approves-conversion-of-farm-land-for-industrial-purpose/articleshow/14131514.cms)
Anil Kumar M, TNN | Jun 14, 2012, 08.42PM IST
BANGALORE: More than 500 acres of farm land across Karnataka was approved for conversion for industrial purpose.The cabinet meeting on Thursday gave permission for five industries including that of industries minister Murugesh R Nirani's sugar company for conversion of agricultural land into industrial purpose.

Nirani's company has been approved 74.08 acres of agricultural land in Mudhol taluk, Bagalkot district; RBSSN Ferrous Pvt Ltd with 123.63 acres in Hagaribommanahalli, Bellary district; Xindia Steels Ltd with 18.22 acres in Hipparagi, Bijapur district; J K Cements Ltd with 34.14 acres in Mudapur, Bagalkot district and Radhakrishna Education Trust with 21.07 acres in Kanakapura, Ramanagara district - were the other companies that got the approval from the cabinet for conversion of agricultural land to industrial purpose.

Law and parliamentary affairs minister S Suresh Kumar told reporters that cabinet gave green signal for the proposals following clearance from high power committee headed by chief secretary. Section 109 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act-1961 permits conversion of agricultural land into industrial purpose. Nirani is said to have walked out of cabinet meeting when the subject pertaining to his company came up for the discussion.

The cabinet also approved to regularize unauthorized residential construction in non - BBMP, other city corporations and CMCs. Residential buildings constructed before January 1, 2012 will be regularized, if the construction is not on open drains, on roads, parks, play grounds and forest land. The Karnataka Land Revenue Act-1964 will be amended for this purpose.

Good ethics by nirani. No approval for infy sarjapur campus i guess

Initiatives to relieve the tedium of prison life

The government is taking several initiatives to help prisoners relieve stress and overcome depression.

“We have adopted a three-pronged strategy to achieve this,” Additional Director-General of Police (Prisons) K.V. Gagandeep said here on Saturday. “We organise sports and cultural activities for the inmates that will keep them busy and help them relax. Secondly, we have intensified livelihood activities to help them earn money and support themselves and their families. Thirdly, we have begun providing professional help by appointing psychologists and psychotherapists,” he told presspersons who met him.

The department has started motivating inmates to participate in various sports activities by providing facilities for indoor and outdoor games. Although this is the first project of its kind, the department is sure this will help keep spirits high, Mr. Gagandeep said, adding that the department will also be organising inter-jail tournaments.

read more:- http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3538438.ece

Jails in Karnataka to get new communication system

The Department of Prisons will introduce a communication system in the State's jails, based on the one in Delhi's Tihar jail, to enable inmates keep in touch with their families.

“This will also check the use of mobile phones inside jails,” Additional Director-General of Police (Prisons) K.V. Gagandeep said here on Saturday.

The Tihar jail has two models: they have set up a public call office and a communication kiosk from which an inmate can call two numbers. The conversation is recorded in both cases. “We are trying to set up these systems depending on the infrastructure available in various prisons,” he said.

He admitted that mobile jammers in some jails had not proved effective as the technology used had not been updated. “We are now working with the Electronics Corporation of India to install 3G jammers that can be updated from time to time,” he said.

read more:- http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3538439.ece

Dear All,
Franchise India is organizing franchising exhibition in Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore. For those interested, I am posting the link.

http://campaign.franchiseindia.com/18-june-12/bos-visitor/

COMPREHENSIVE WATER SUPPLY SCHEME IN BIJAPUR, CHITRADURGA

The project will be undertaken through public-private partnership

Union Minister for Rural Development Jairam Ramesh on Saturday announced that a comprehensive water supply scheme will be taken up on a pilot basis in Bijapur and Chitradurga districts under public-private partnership.
:cheers:
Speaking to mediapersons after a meeting with Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda here, Mr. Ramesh said the Union and State governments will bear 30 per cent each of the project cost while the private player will pool in the remaining amount. The proposal for such a scheme came from Mr. Gowda in the wake of increasing fluoride content in drinking water and with the view that only surface water could be the solution.

Only solution

The project will cover rural and urban areas in the two districts.

Mr. Ramesh said more than 50 per cent of Karnataka’s rural areas do not have surface drinking water facility. In the wake of decreasing groundwater availability and fluoride content, surface water was the only available solution to the problem. The Ministry has also set a target of bringing in Nirmala Karnataka-zero open defecation, within five years. Mr. Ramesh said, “If all the gram panchayats in Dakshina Kannada district could become Nirmala panchayats, why not all the panchayats in the State.” At present, only 20 per cent of the panchayats in the State can be termed Nirmala panchayats, he said.

Relief

Mr. Ramesh said considering the drought situation in Karnataka, the centre has immediately allotted 30,000 tonnes each of wheat and rice in addition to the State’s allocation for the current financial year. Besides, 2.4 lakh tonnes of foodgrains under public distribution system have been allotted for BPL cardholders additionally, he said.

Subsidy
The foodgrain subsidy for Karnataka for 2012-13 was Rs. 4,224 crore and the additional allocation amounts to Rs. 426 crore, he added.

Regarding the State government’s reported failure to submit audited reports and utilisation certificates of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, Mr. Ramesh said the department is in the process of receiving the reports.

He, however, said the Union government has already released Rs. 720 crore for the scheme in the current financial year.

Victim of its success
:)
Karnataka has become the victim of its own success, quipped Mr. Ramesh, apparently referring to the State exceeding its target in constructing roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).

Mr. Ramesh, however, said that by July, the State would get funds to construct 2,500 km roads. The State did not receive funds in the last two years after it exceeded the target.

Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Jagadish Shettar said, earlier, the Centre used to fund the entire project cost (about Rs. 30 lakh per km). Now, the State has to bear 25 per cent of the cost, he said.

HAVERI: Efforts of the Karnataka government to boost industrial development in Haveri district seems have not paid many dividends. Moreover, even the presence of big business names like the Kirloskars in the past and the Birlas now, has not been able to pull Haveri out of its dilemma. The district now pins hope with the Tatas who have proposed to set up an integrated iron and steel plant here.

The plant will come up under Tata Metaliks Limited, a company owned by the Tata conglomerate that manufactures and supplies pig iron in India. While the government is pushing hard for investments, the trade and industry bodies are sceptical due to the government's lack of preparedness. NP Javali, president, Karnatak Chamber of Commerce and Industry explained, "Lack of effort on the part of the government in building basic infrastructure such as potable water and electricity supply has discouraged investments in the region."

He further added, "Unfortunately, a lot of hue and cry over land acquisition for the proposed steel plant of Tata Metaliks has further put industrial investments on hold. Of course, the project is coming up but had it reached a final shape then it would have received more investments in the recently concluded Global Investors Meet (GIM)", he said.

In the first edition of GIM held in 2010, apart from Tata Metaliks, the government had persuaded Bangalore-based Karnataka Steel Limited for investing about Rs 1,800 crore to set-up an integrated steel plant of one million tonnes per annum(TPA) capacity, as the district falls in the proposed 'Steel Zone' under Suvarna Karnataka Development Corridor. Later, the company developed cold feet due to multiple crises in the sector and the project was shelved. The positive aspect of the second edition of GIM was the promise by Tatas to increase investments and double their production capacity.

The project, though, is stuck due to hurdles in the acquisition of the 2,500-acre land for the project. Moreover, other planned other industries in the pipeline are GM Sugars and Energy that plans to invest Rs 205 crore to install white crystal sugar unit with a capacity of 2,500 tonnes sugarcane crushed per day (TCD) with 15 MW of cogeneration plant. Gujarat Ambuja Exports Ltd is coming up with a maize processing unit investing Rs 100 crore. And another Rs 267 crore investment will be done by Deccan Exploration Services for the production of gold. According a senior official from the Department of Industry and Commerce (DIC), "Tata Metaliks, with the support of its parent company Tata Steel, had initially proposed to set up a three metric TPA integrated steel plant in Haveri district with an investment of over Rs 15,000 crore.

However, later Tata Steel signed an Expression of Interest (EoI) to establish a six million tonnes per annum plant in the district with a total investment of over Rs 35,000 crore." Ravi Menasinkai, secretary, Haveri District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HDCCI) told ET, "The exuberance of Tatas enhancing their investment in the district should improve the investment scenario in the region. Big ticket investments would create demand for ancillary industries.

The government should make honest efforts to attract major industries in engineering and manufacturing sector." Haveri had industries in the district since many years. Harihar Polyfibers and Grasilene Division of Grasim Industries belonging to Aditya Birla Group houses manufacturing facility for both Viscose Staple Fibre(VSF) and Rayon grade pulp, the basic raw material for VSF at Kumarpattanam. Mahyco Seeds Limited also has a production unit at Kamadod village and a few more medium units are contributing to the growth of the region.

But unfortunately, no new industries have come up except a few in agribusiness and agro-processing sector in the region. Special zones HDCCI's Menasinkai said "Red chilly, Maize, Cotton and other spice products are major commercial crops of the district and the government should work on attracting investment and lure investors to set up their processing units. However, there is no infrastructure for storing and processing chilly and maize. Proposed Spice Park by Food Karnataka Limited is also in a limbo. Our district could have advanced more had the government taken adequate measures to address infrastructure demand."

According to DIC records, apart from nine large and medium scale industries, there are around 5,000 micro and small industries in the district which are investing hundreds of crore. Two projects promised in the GIM-2010, Venkateshwar Hatcheries and Fortune Cotton and Agro Industries — with investments worth Rs 42.25 crore and Rs 18.37 crore respectively — have already been implemented and have created jobs for over 700 people, said a DIC official, adding that the district has over 3,000 acres in its land bank to disburse if the industries evinced interest to invest.

ET (http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-06-22/news/32368799_1_tonnes-per-annum-plant-steel-plant-total-investment)

Mahesh Kulkarni / Chennai/ Bangalore Jun 18, 2012, 00:56 IST

Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB), a wholly owned infrastructure agency of Karnataka government has envisaged development of new industrial townships at several districts in the state to facilitate industrial development. The Board is presently in the process of acquiring close to 17,000 acre to develop new industrial areas, a top KIADB official said.

“KIADB acquires land for two purposes. We acquire land for large industrial projects as single unit complex (SUC) and also develop industrial estates wherein we allot land to small and medium enterprises. In the last two years since global investors meet in 2010, we have acquired 2,000 acre in Vasantha Narasapur in Tumkur district and 1,000 acre at Narasapur in Kolar district, 660 acre in the first phase at Vemagal in Kolar district,” MB Dyaberi, Chief Executive Officer, KIADB said.

KIADB has also acquired more than 1,000 acre in Hubli-Dharwad, 600 acre at Kittur in Belgaum district, 5,000 acre in Yadgir district and 500 acre in Bidar district for the development of new industrial townships. “In Yadgir we are developing an exclusive industrial estate for pharmaceutical companies,” Dyaberi told Business Standard on the sidelines of a seminar at Global Investors’ Meet 2012, held recently.

He said the Board is ready to allot land to industries in all these townships. In Vemagal, which falls between Bangalore and Chennai region, the KIADB is developing new industrial area in two phases. While it has acquired 660 acre so far in the first phase, another 1,250 acre have been identified for the second phase.

In Narasapura Industrial Area in Kolar district, which is located 53 km near Bangalore, the KIADB has proposed to develop the township in three phases. For the first phase, it has acquired 685 acre and notified 1,480 acre under Section 28(1) of KIADB Act for the second phase. For the third phase, it has identified 2,000 acre.

Similar, KIADB has also proposed to develop a new industrial area at Vasantha Narasapura in Tumkur district in three phases. For the first phase, it has acquired 782.22 acre, 1,242.19 acre for second phase and 1,492.16 acre for the third phase.

Dyaberi said in addition to all these, the KIADB has acquired about 6,000 acre for SUC projects that include Arcelor Mittal, BMM Ispat and NTPC among others. It has so far provided land to about 400 standalone (SUC) major industries in the state.

Till date, KIADB has formed 141 industrial areas spread all over the state covering 40,000 acres. This apart, KIADB has envisaged innovative projects like Agro-tech parks, apparel parks, food parks, hardware park, bio-tech park, EPIPs, sector specific SEZs, growth centers across the state. It provides basic infrastructure in the industrial areas.

The KIADB, henceforth facilitate the industries to secure environment, pollution and water clearances under one roof along with allotting land, Dyaberi added.

Karnataka requires 60,000 acre land for all projects approved during the global investors’ meet in 2010 and 2012. The government has issued preliminary notification for 86,000 acre, while final notification has been issued for 46,000 acres. The government would spend about Rs 2,000 crore in the next five years to provide infrastructure facilities to new industrial estates like water, lighting, roads and sewage among others, Murugesh R Nirani, minister for large and medium industries said.

BS (http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/kiadb-plans-to-develop-new-industrial-townships17000-acre/477624/)

Bangalore: Karnataka Records 15.3 Percent Growth in Investment Implementation


Bangalore, Jun 25: Karnataka has registered 15.3 percent growth in the project implementation during the last quarter of 2011-12.

With 27.8 percent rate of growth, Kerala has emerged as the single state in the country which has seen a surge in growth of investment projects in the stage of implementation during the last quarter of 2011-12 as compared to the previous three quarters.

This is the finding of an analysis by Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), which was released to the media on Monday.

Uttarakhand (28.3 percent), Bihar (22 percent), Rajasthan (20.2 percent), Jharkhand (15.5 percent), Chhattisgarh (13.7 percent), Gujarat (12.5 percent), Madhya Pradesh (11.7 percent), Andhra Pradesh (11 percent) and Orissa (9.8 percent) are states where the rate of growth of projects in the implementation stage has gradually declined during the last quarter of the fiscal year.

However, these states stayed above the all India growth rate of 8.1 percent as per investment and growth patterns across 20 major Indian states carried out by ASSOCHAM.

The rate of growth of implementation of investment proposals in Kerala was about 9 percent in the first quarter of the last fiscal which marginally dipped to about 6.6 percent in the second quarter and rose exponentially to about 21 percent in the third quarter, the ASSOCHAM analysis said.

Haryana (2.1 percent), Punjab (0.13 percent), Uttar Pradesh (0.79 percent), Tamil Nadu (-2.55 percent), West Bengal (-12.59 percent) and Maharashtra (7.41 percent) are certain major states where the implementation growth rate of investment projects has declined significantly in the last quarter of 2011-12 and remained below the all India growth rate, it said.

Maharashtra has accounted for over 13 percent of implementation of projects across India in Q4, followed by Andhra Pradesh (10.27 percent), Gujarat (10 percent), Orissa (9 percent) and Karnataka (8.4 percent), the ASSOCHAM said.

http://www.daijiworld.com/news/news_disp.asp?n_id=141351

Remove mining ban and see how Karnataka will surge ahead in investment implementation.

Flush with funds, but unable to spend




NMDC blames delayed clearances and logistical issues for the lag in fund utilisation

India’s GDP growth rate slowed to 6.5 per cent in 2011-12 against 8.4 per cent in the previous two financial years. The index of industrial production, too, slowed down sharply to 0.1 per cent in April against 5.3 per cent in the same month last year. All indicators seem to point towards a general stalling of business activities.

The European crisis is a prime suspect. So is the mining crisis that was precipitated by the Supreme Court ban on operations in Bellary, Karnataka. Yet, an analysis of two of India’s largest mining companies — NMDC (National Mineral Development Corp) and Coal India Ltd (CIL) — which meet the basic raw material requirement for most of the industrial activity in key sectors including power, cement and steel has shown an unprecedented inability to deploy funds given to them, says a Parliamentary panel in May this year. This, say experts, is having an adverse effect on industry.

Why has it been so difficult for these companies to spend money allotted to them under the 11th five year plan period?

WITH FEW OPTIONS

India's mining sector has plunged into an output and investment crisis
An analysis of NMDC and Coal India reveals major lapses in capital expenditure

The reasons for the dismal performance go beyond the recent clampdown on illegal mining activities

Delays in equipment procurement, Maoist activities, land acquisition hurdles, green clearances and law and order issues have played spoilsport
The dip in growth and investment is in sharp contrast to the accumulating cash pile of these two companies

First, let’s look at the figures. NMDC had an approved outlay of Rs 7,147 crore for the eleventh plan period ended March 2012, but the miner managed to spend just Rs 3,083 crore, a mere 43 per cent of the total. Even for the financial year 2011-12, the company reduced its spending target from the budgeted Rs 3,309 crore to Rs 2,020 crore, while the actual expenditure stood at only Rs 1,534 crore.

Similarly, Coal India, India’s state-owned and world’s largest coal producer, fell short of meeting its expenditure target last financial year. While CIL had planned to spend Rs 4,220 crore, only Rs 2,759 crore was spent by February this year, the panel has noted in a separate report. The company’s production remained flat.

In NMDC’s case, the inability to spend has meant a gridlock for a list of crucial projects, including the Rs 898 crore Kumaraswamy iron ore mining project in Karnataka. The company has been able to spend only Rs 72 crore in the seven million tonne per annum (mtpa) project against the allocated Rs 279 crore. Expenditure has also fallen short at the Rs 572-crore pellet plant at Donimalai in Karnataka.

Then, there is the three mtpa steel plant at Nagarnar in Chhatisgarh where NMDC had planned to invest Rs 2,615 crore in the project during the last fiscal. However, the expected expenditure had to be brought down to Rs 1,352 crore later while the actual expenditure in the project stood at a mere Rs 81 crore by December.

The reasons for this? “During the 11th Plan, NMDC has incurred an expenditure of Rs 3,083 crore — 43 per cent of the outlay — mainly due to the delay in grant of forest clearance for the steel plant and Deposit 13 (at Bailadila) and non-finalisation of the Rowghat railway line,” NMDC's acting Chairman C S Verma told Business Standard in an e-mailed reply.

The company also blames the iron-ore mining ban in Karnataka for the slowdown in investment in the Kumaraswamy project. “Orders for all major packages of around Rs 410 crore have already been placed. However, expenditure has been less than the envisaged target mainly due to the mining restrictions imposed,” says Verma, who is also the chairman of steel maker SAIL. This has had a less-than-salubrious effect on NMDC’s numbers. The company recorded a marginal one per cent dip in its overall earnings at Rs 11,261 crore in 2011-12, the second such decline after the financial crisis days of 2009-10.

Coal India points at other reasons for its lag in fund utilisation. One is the way the company does budgeting for its projects. “Even if there is a low possibility of a project getting materialised in a year, we provide for it in the expenditure plan to avoid delays in case the project is commissioned before time,” a senior official from the company told Business Standard.

Other reasons include delayed procurement of heavy earth moving machinery, unprecedented rains, deficient supply of explosives, delayed green clearances, law-and-order problems as well as the lowest-bidder tendering process, which the company says causes delays.

Another major reason for the poor fund utilisation by CIL is the dismal progress on the overseas coal assets acquisition front. The company has been earmarking Rs 6,000 crore annually for the past two financial years, but has failed to clinch a single deal in the global market. Both NMDC and CIL are among the government’s cash-rich public sector undertakings. While Coal India is sitting on a cash reserve of Rs 58,000 crore, NMDC possessed a cash surplus of Rs 20,200 crore as on March 2012.

Experts believe the reasons for the slowdown in the performance of the mining companies goes beyond statutory clearances. “One of the main reasons is the dip in demand from China and other ore importing nations, as they have pulled down steel capacity creation. Around 54 per cent of NMDC’s iron ore is exported,” Kishor P Ostwal, chairman and managing director of Mumbai-based CNI Research, said. The ban on mining in Karnataka has added to the woes.

Is there any respite for both the industry and these companies looking ahead? “The issues of forest clearances, land acquisitions and maoist activities will continue going forward,” says Amrit Pandurangi, a noted infrastructure expert and senior director at Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India. “The government’s entire focus should be on resolving these ground-level issues, else infrastructure projects will not move ahead,” he adds.

http://www.business-standard.com/taketwo/news/flushfundsunable-to-spend/478490/

^^

Delays in equipment procurement, Maoist activities, land acquisition hurdles, green clearances and law and order issues have played spoilsport


If NMDC is so much flush with funds then why don't they spend some money for improving green cover, for luring people away from maoists by participating in development activities in affected areas, paying more money for land acquisition and improving law and order situation.

Pvt firms to maintain industrial zones

The State government is considering to rope in private companies to develop and maintain industrial estates, Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after a review meeting to follow up investment bids received at Global Investors’ Meet (GIM) 2012, Gowda said that the proposal is one of several ideas being considered by the government to help make the State more investment-friendly.

According to the chief minister, allowing private companies to develop and maintain industrial estates would help industries develop zones to suit their requirement and infrastructure needs.

Proposals received will be reviewed every month by a high-level committee headed by the Industries Minister.

“I will also review the cases once every three months,” he said, adding that the State government had signed investment proposals worth Rs 7.6 lakh crore at GIM 2012.

Based on feedback received at GIM-2012, the government has also decided to take up measures to strengthen the single window system for clearing investment proposals.

The government is working on a comprehensive plan to make land acquisition for
industries faster and at the same time more transparent, he said.

Gowda said the the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), an independent bureau within The Economist Group, had rated Karnataka as 16th among the top 20 investment destinations across the world. http://www.deccanherald.com/content/260018/pvt-firms-maintain-industrial-zones.html

State to get 31 new fire stations

Director-General of Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services Omprakash on Tuesday said 31 new fire stations would be established in the State soon and a proposal had been sent to the government to recruit about 2,500 firefighters.

Mr. Omprakash, who inspected the infrastructure and facilities at the Fire Brigade in Saraswathipuram here, told The Hindu the department needed manpower and the 31 sanctioned fire stations need about 600 to 700 firefighters.

“While the land for setting up fire stations in some places had been acquired, we are in the process of indentifying land and other facilities required for establishing the remaining stations,” he said.

Asked whether the department would take the assistance of corporate houses for establishing modern fire stations such as the one set up at the Hebbal industrial area here by Infosys Technologies, he said: “The department will definitely consider availing itself of the support of corporate bodies in accordance to the rules.”

Mr. Omprakash, who saw the demonstration of advanced fire-fighting equipment procured by the Regional Fire Office (RFO) here, said there was a proposal to provide rescue vans for each district. At present, RFOs in the State had been provided the modern facility.

Special features

Regional Fire Officer Younus Ali Kauser explained the special features of the rescue van and other equipment, including the new-age fire extinguishers — Varuna (fitted in a four-wheeler) and Agni (fitted on a motorcycle for quick response). Firemen demonstrated the equipment.

The rescue van is equipped with four hydraulic-driven portable generators used to operate devices such as iron and concrete cutters and high-speed saws.

A lifeboat, thermal imaging cameras and a pair of aluminium suit, a protective gear for fire personnel, were shown to the dignitaries.

Police Commissioner K.L. Sudheer, Inspector-General of Police (Southern Range) A.S.N. Murthy, Superintendent of Police R. Dileep, Deputy Commissioner of Police Basavaraj Malagatti and officers from the Fire Services Department were present.

The 31 sanctioned fire stations need about 600 to 700 firefighters

There is a proposal to provide rescue vans for each districthttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3600825.ece

State eyes second position in country in ethanol output
(http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/karnataka/article3606754.ece)
Sets target of increasing production capacity from 150 to 200 million litres

Karnataka, which ranks third in the country in ethanol production, has set a target of elevating itself to the second position by the end of the year.

Y.B. Ramakrishna, Executive Chairman, Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board, told presspersons here that presently Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh are ahead of the State in total quantum of ethanol production. The State will step up ethanol production from 135 million litres a year to 200 million litres a year from molasses.

Presently, the local consumption of ethanol is about 35 million litres and the rest is being exported to Kerala and Maharashtra, as only 5 per cent of ethanol was allowed to be blended with petrol. Karnataka had been requesting the Centre to permit ethanol blending up to 10 per cent as it had huge production capacity.

Mr. Ramakrishna said the Bangalore International Airport Limited, which is presently operating about 15 of its ground transport vehicles on ethanol blending of 20 per cent, was expected to run all its ground transport vehicles on biofuel by this year-end. The BIAL had also agreed to the Board’s request to operate its fleet of 1,400 airport taxis on ethanol.

The State would soon have its first ethanol retail outlet with the BPCL getting ready to set up such an outlet at Madenur in Hassan, he said. The ethanol for the BPCL would be provided by the Biofuel park of the State government that has come up there. The park has the capacity to produce 300 litres of ethanol a day, he said.

Similarly, the Board wanted to increase the number of KSRTC buses being run on ethanol blending from the present 2,200 to 5,000 this year, he said.

BIOFUEL MELA

The Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board will organise a three-day biofuel mela from August 10 — World Biofuel Day — to create awareness about the importance of biofuel and also to showcase the State’s achievements in this sector as well as latest technologies available.

Mr. Ramakrishna said the mela, which would be held on the campus of the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat in Bangalore will have several stage events, demonstrations, exhibitions, film shows, cultural events based on biofuel theme.

Chief Ministers of Karnataka and Chhattisgarh and Rural Development Minister will participate at the inaugural session, he said.

The Education Department had issued a circular to all schools asking them to take up various competitions for children in the field of biofuel in July, he said. About 1,000 children would take part in various essay writing and painting competitions on the occasion, he said.

What is the status of Tadadi Port?

What is the status of Tadadi Port?

Go to 'Karwar Projects' thread.

International, domestic cargo terminals at Bajpe functional by August

The International tag for the Bajpe airport here may take a while, but the International and Domestic Cargo terminals are likely to be commissioned by August this year.

According to a communique from union corporate affairs minister M Veerappa Moily, union minister of civil aviation Ajit Singh has indicated that both the cargo terminals will be functional by August.

This was one of the major demands during the Exporters' Convention organized by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) on February 13 this year - with the theme 'Karnataka: Export Vision 2020.'

During the convention, M Rafeeque Ahmed, president of FIEO had urged the need for setting up an air cargo complex in Mangalore with cold storage facility to help boost the export of agro products from the State.

Moily said that he took up the matter with civil aviation minister, who in turn said that the Airports Authority of India was building a cargo terminal by modifying the old passenger terminal for handling both international and domestic cargo. Singh said the cold storage facilities will be provided with assistance of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The same unit will be used for storage and processing of perishable cargo.http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangalore/International-domestic-cargo-terminals-at-Bajpe-functional-by-August/articleshow/15020093.cms

ನೆಲದ ನಿಜ ಅರಿಯಲು ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿಗಳ ಕಸರತ್ತು

ಪ್ರಜಾವಾಣಿ ವಾರ್ತೆ/ಹಳ್ಳಿ ಸುರೇಶ್

http://prajavani.net/cms/gall_content/2012/07/17/2012-07-17~17_ns.jpg
ತಿಪಟೂರು ತಾಲ್ಲೂಕು ಸಾರ್ಥವಳ್ಳಿ ಕೆರೆ ಅಂಗಳದಲ್ಲಿ ನೀರು ಇಂಗು ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ತೊಡಗಿದ್ದ ಭೂವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿ ಡಾ.ಎಸ್.ಶ್ರೀನಿವಾಸ ವಿಠ್ಠಲ

ತಿಪಟೂರು: ಇದು ರಾಜ್ಯದಲ್ಲಿನ ಏಕೈಕ ಪ್ರಯೋಗ ಸ್ಥಳ. ದೇಶದ ಐದರಲ್ಲಿ ಒಂದು. ತಿಪಟೂರು, ಚಿಕ್ಕನಾಯಕನಹಳ್ಳಿ ತಾಲ್ಲೂಕಿನ ಒಂದಷ್ಟು ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯ ಅಂಕಸಂದ್ರ ಟ್ಯಾಂಕ್ ಜಲಾನಯನ ಪ್ರದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಮಹತ್ವಾಕಾಂಕ್ಷಿ ವೈಜ್ಞಾನಿಕ ಪ್ರಯೋಗ ಕೈಗೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗಿದೆ.

ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನಲ್ಲಿರುವ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಜಲ ಸಂಪನ್ಮೂಲ ಇಲಾಖೆಯ ಕೇಂದ್ರೀಯ ಅಂತರ್ಜಲ ಮಂಡಳಿಯು ಅಂತರ್ಜಲಕ್ಕೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಿಸಿ ಹೊಸ ಪ್ರಯೋಗದ ಪ್ರಯತ್ನದಲ್ಲಿದೆ. ಅಂಕಸಂದ್ರ ಜಲಾನಯನ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಅರಣ್ಯ ಪ್ರದೇಶ ಹೊರತುಪಡಿಸಿ ಹಲವು ಪ್ರಯೋಗ ಮೂರ*್ನಾಲ್ಕು ತಿಂಗಳಿಂದ ಚಾಲನೆಯಲ್ಲಿದೆ.

ರಾಜಸ್ತಾನ, ಬಿಹಾರ, ಮಹಾರಾಷ್ಟ್ರ, ತಮಿಳುನಾಡು ಮತ್ತು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಒಂದೊಂದು ಪ್ರದೇಶ ಈ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ಪ್ರಯೋಗಕ್ಕೆ ಸೇರಿವೆ. ಮರುಭೂಮಿ, ಕರಾವಳಿ ಸೇರಿದಂತೆ ವಿವಿಧ ಐದು ನೆಲ ಲಕ್ಷಣ ಆಧರಿಸಿ ಪ್ರಯೋಗ ಚಾಲ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿವೆ. ರಾಜ್ಯದ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಅತಿಗಟ್ಟಿ ಬಂಡೆಯನ್ನು (ಹಾರ್ಡ್ ರಾಕ್) ನೆಲದಲ್ಲಿ ಹರಡಿಕೊಂಡಿರುವ ಅಂಕಸಂದ್ರ ಜಲಾನಯನ ಪ್ರದೇಶವನ್ನು ಪ್ರಯೋಗಕ್ಕೆ ಆಯ್ಕೆ ಮಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಇದು 750 ಚದರ ಕಿ.ಮೀ.ನಷ್ಟಿದೆ.

ಹೆಲಿಕಾಪ್ಟರ್ ಬಳಸಿ `ಸ್ಕೈಟೆಮ್ ಟೆಕ್ನಿಕ್` ಮೂಲಕ ನೆಲದ ಜಲ ಕಣ್ಣು ಗುರುತಿಸುವ ಹೊಸ ವಿಧಾನದ ಫಲಿತಾಂಶ ಪರೀಕ್ಷಾ ಪೂರ್ವ ಪ್ರಾಯೋಗಿಕ ಕಾರ್ಯ ಇದಾಗಿದೆ. ಜೊತೆಗೆ ಅಂತರ್ಜಲ ಕುಸಿತ ಪ್ರಮಾಣವೂ ದಾಖಲಾಗುವುದರಿಂದ ಅನುಕೂಲವಿದೆ.

ಈ ಜಲಾನಯನ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯ ವಿವಿಧೆಡೆ ನೆಲ ಗುಣಲಕ್ಷಣ ಗುರುತಿಸುವುದೂ ಸಾಧ್ಯವಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ನೆಲದ ನೀರು ಇಂಗುವ ಗುಣವನ್ನು ಆಧರಿಸಿ ನಿರ್ದಿಷ್ಟ ಮಟ್ಟಕ್ಕೆ ಕೆರೆ ಹೂಳು ತೆಗೆಯಲು ಸಲಹೆ ನೀಡಬಹುದಾದ ಅಂಕಿ-ಅಂಶವೂ ದೊರೆಯುತ್ತದೆ ಎಂದು ಮೂಲಗಳು ತಿಳಿಸಿವೆ.ನಿಗದಿತ ಜಲಾನಯನ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಅಂತರ್ಜಲ ಮಂಡಳಿಯ ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿಗಳು ಪ್ರಯೋಗದಲ್ಲಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ಟೋಪೋಶೀಟ್ ಬಳಸಿ ವಿವಿಧ ಪ್ರಾಯೋಗಿಕ ಸ್ಥಳಗಳನ್ನು ಗುರುತಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಈಗಾಗಲೇ ಕೊರೆದು ಬಳಸುತ್ತಿರುವ ರೈತರ ಮತ್ತು ಸರ್ಕಾರಕ್ಕೆ ಸೇರಿದ ಸುಮಾರು 84 ಕೊಳವೆ ಬಾವಿಗಳನ್ನು ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆಗೆ ಬಳಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಪ್ರತಿ ತಿಂಗಳು ಆ ಬೋರ್*ವೆಲ್*ಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಆಗುವ ಜಲ ಏರುಪೇರು ದಾಖಲಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳುತ್ತಾರೆ. ಅಲ್ಲದೆ ಈ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯ 20 ಕಡೆ ನೆಲದ ನೀರು ಇಂಗುವ ಗುಣಲಕ್ಷಣಗಳನ್ನು ಪ್ರಯೋಗದ ಮೂಲಕ ದಾಖಲಿಸುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ಇಷ್ಟೇ ಅಲ್ಲದೆ ಭೂವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿಗಳೇ ಇರುವ ಈ ತಂಡ, 20 ಕಡೆ ಈಗಿರುವ ವೈಜ್ಞಾನಿಕ ಮಾದರಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸಮೃದ್ಧ ಜಲದ ಕಣ್ಣು ಗುರುತಿಸಿ ಸುಮಾರು 600 ಅಡಿ ಕೊಳವೆ ಬಾವಿ ಕೊರೆಸುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಕೊರೆಸುವಾಗ ಪದರವಾರು ಮಣ್ಣಿನ ಮಾದರಿ ದಾಖಲಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳುತ್ತಾರೆ. ನೀರಿನ ಪ್ರಮಾಣವೂ ದಾಖಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಇಷ್ಟೆಲ್ಲ ಪ್ರಯೋಗಗಳಿಂದ ಈ ಜಲಾನಯನ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿ ವಿವಿಧೆಡೆ ನೆಲದ ಗುಣ, ನೀರಿನ ಸೆಲೆ ಕುರಿತು ಅಂಕಿಅಂಶ ಲಭಿಸುತ್ತವೆ. ಅಂತರ್ಜಲ ಕುಸಿತ ಪ್ರಮಾಣದ ಬಗ್ಗೆಯೂ ಮಾಹಿತಿ ದೊರೆಯಲಿದೆ.

ಇಷ್ಟಾದ ಮೇಲೆ `ಸ್ಕೈಟೆಮ್ ಟೆಕ್ನಿಕ್` ಬಳಸಿ ಹೆಲಿಕಾಫ್ಟರ್ ಮೂಲಕ ಈ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಜಲ ಕಣ್ಣು ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆ ಮತ್ತು ನೆಲ ಲಕ್ಷಣದ ಪ್ರಾಯೋಗಿಕ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆ ನಡೆಯುತ್ತದೆ. ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿಗಳು ಪ್ರಯೋಗ ಮಾಡಿದ ಫಲಿತಾಂಶಗಳ ಜೊತೆ ಅದನ್ನು ತಾಳೆ ನೋಡಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ವಿಶೇಷವಾಗಿ ಜಲದ ಸೆಲೆ ಮತ್ತು ನಿರ್ದಿಷ್ಟ ಪಾಯಿಂಟ್ ಗುರುತಿಸಲು ಆ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನ ಯೋಗ್ಯವೇ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಪರೀಕ್ಷಿಸುವುದು ಈ ಪ್ರಾಯೋಗಿಕ ಯೋಜನೆ ಉದ್ದೇಶ ಎನ್ನುತ್ತಾರೆ ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿ ಡಾ.ಎಸ್.ಶ್ರೀನಿವಾಸ ವಿಠ್ಠಲ.

ಭೂವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿಗಳ ಜಲಕಣ್ಣು ಪತ್ತೆ ಮತ್ತು ಉಪಗ್ರಹ ನೆರವಿನ ಜಲಸೆಲೆ ಪತ್ತೆ ಮಾದರಿಗಿಂತ ಈ `ಟೆಕ್ನಿಕ್` ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಯಶಸ್ವಿಯೇ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಸ್ಪಷ್ಟ ಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಉತ್ತಮ ಫಲಿತಾಂಶ ಬಂದರೆ ಅದನ್ನು ತೀರಾ ಅವಶ್ಯಕ ಸಂದರ್ಭಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಬಳಸಲು ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಸರ್ಕಾರ ಚಿಂತಿಸಿದೆ ಎನ್ನುತ್ತಾರೆ ವಿಠ್ಠಲ. ಈ ಯೋಜನೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಹಿರಿಯ ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿ ಡಾ.ಜಿ.ಆರ್.ಸಿ.ರೆಡ್ಡಿ, ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿ ಶಕ್ತಿವೇಲು ಕೂಡ ಇದ್ದಾರೆ.

ಒಂದು ವರ್ಷ ನೆಲ-ಜಲ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆ ನಡೆದ ನಂತರ ಈ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ದೊಡ್ಡ ರಿಂಗ್ ನೇತಾಕಿಕೊಂಡು ಹೆಲಿಕಾಪ್ಟರ್ ಹಾರಾಡಿ ಕುತೂಹಲ ಹುಟ್ಟಿಸುವ ಸಾಧ್ಯತೆ ಇದೆ. ಈಗಾಗಲೇ ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿಗಳು ಅಲ್ಲಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರಯೋಗ ಕೈಗೊಂಡಿರುವುದರಿಂದ ಜನ ತರಹೇವಾರಿ ಮಾತಾಡುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಯಾವುದೋ ಖನಿಜ ಸಿಗುತ್ತದಂತೆ ಎಂಬ ಗುಮಾನಿ ಹಬ್ಬಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಆದರೆ ಇದು ವಿನೂತನ ಪ್ರಯೋಗದ ಪೂರ್ವ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆ ಎನ್ನುತ್ತಾರೆ ವಿಜ್ಞಾನಿಗಳು.

ಪ್ರಜಾವಾಣಿ (http://prajavani.net/include/story.php?news=87707&section=2&menuid=10)

Sports Ministry sanctions aid to five states (http://www.business-standard.com/generalnews/news/sports-ministry-sanctions-aid-to-five-states/34021/)

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has sanctioned Rs 17.85 crore as central assistance to five states for procuring sports consumables and honour community coaches.

The states which have got the assistance are Karnataka, Odisha, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh.

The assistance is also for "the development and maintenance of playfields and for conduct of sports competitions under Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA)."

Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan aims at development and maintenance of playfields in village and block panchayats across the country and organizing annual sports competitions from block to national levels is implemented through the State Government/UTs.
Under the PYKKA, which was introduced in 2008-09, playfields are developed and maintained in villages and block panchayats across the country in a phased manner and competitions are conducted annually at block, district, state and national level.

In total, 51,759 village panchayats and 1,538 block panchayats have been covered under the PYKKA Scheme, during the last four years (2008-09 to 2011-12) for development and maintenance of playfields.

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2012/07/21/20120721a_002104001.jpg

Shipping ministry keen on completing projects

Union shipping ministry has taken upon itself the task of completing 42 projects amounting to Rs 15,000 crore, Union minister G K Vasan said. Reviewing the progress of three major ports, including New Mangalore Port, at Mormugao Port Trust headquarters at Vasco on Friday, Vasan said: "We have decided to have proper framework for the review of all projects."

Joint secretary (ports) will review the projects once in a fortnight and secretary (shipping) will review it once in a month, Vasan said, adding that it will be done once in a quarter at his level. "Any issue which can impede the progress of the project can be sorted out at the appropriate time, thus ensuring that there is no delay in getting approvals and commencement of work. In this connection, the first review for three major ports has been held in Goa," he said.

MPT chairman Mara Pandiyan, explaining capacity addition at the port, said it has various projects in the pipeline, totalling to about Rs 1,800 crore. Some of these projects have already been awarded. Two major projects to be awarded this year are west of Breakwater project for iron ore exports at a cost of about Rs 1,100 crore and mechanisation of berth 11 at a cost of Rs 204 crore. Mechanisation of berth 11 includes providing covered storage facility for coal.

Paul Antony, chairman of Cochin Port Trust, said the port has taken up various projects to increase the capacity from 20 MTPA to 51 MTPA by 2017. P Tamilvanan, chairman of NMPT stated that cargo traffic as well as the number of ships have shown a positive growth.

NMPT has emerged as the largest LPG-handling port in India with 46% share as also the largest coffee exporting port with 47% of the total exports from India.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangalore/Shipping-ministry-keen-on-completing-projects/articleshow/15220864.cms

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Hope they pass it.

STATE TO GET INDUSTRIAL PORTAL SOON: PRINCIPAL SECY

To facilitate industrialists in State, an Advantage Karnataka Industrial portal would be started, announced M.N. Vidyashankar, Principal Secretary, Department of Industries and Commerce who is also the Chairman of Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB).

He was speaking after inaugurating an interaction organised by the Mysore Industries Association (MIA) here yesterday.

Briefing on the proposed portal, he said "It will provide information about the allotted place for industries, whether it is being utilised for the specified purpose and indirectly put an end to real estate mafia."

Continuing, Vidyashankar said "In Global Investors Meet (GIM)-1 and 2 the investment received has been respectively Rs. 3.89 lakh crore and 7.15 lakh crore from 389 and 750 investors. The portal provides the information about details of the investment and the industry. The notified industrial areas in Belgaum, Bangalore and Mysore will be handed over to the industrial entrepreneurs soon."

Vidyashankar assured that the Industries Association in every district would hold a meeting once in two months and address the grievances of entrepreneurs within a specified time frame.

During the interaction, Mysore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) President Sudha-kar Shetty sought to expedite railway track doubling work between Mysore-Bangalore and resumption of flights to Mysore.

An entrepreneur Ashwini Ranjan Singh alleged that the taxation system was unscientific and irrational.

Hebbal Industrial Estate Manufacturers Assn. President Jayanth sought approval of the power project proposed at Hebbal area and suggested MCCI to monitor all development activities.

Ramprasad of Nanjangud Industries Association sought a bypass for Nanjangud Road to facilitate movement of container trucks. http://www.starofmysore.com

BANGALORE: A grievance redressal platform would be set up the next six months by Central Administrative Tribunal's Regional office to help speedy redressal of problems faced by central government, PSU (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/topic/PSU) and bank staff (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/topic/bank-staff), a CAT Regional head (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/topic/CAT-Regional-head) K B Suresh said today.

CAT was also planning to start three circuit benches in Gulbarga, Dharwad and Mangalore in Karnataka, Suresh said. "We already have a circuit bench in Bangalore," he said.

CAT had already sent a proposal in this regard to the Central Government (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/topic/Central-Government) and hope it would materialise in next six months, Suresh said.

The tribunal also planned to start e-filing (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/topic/e-filing) facility for airing grievances, he said.

http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/6561/mzone.jpg

ಎಂಆರ್*ಪಿಎಲ್*-ಒಎನ್*ಜಿಸಿ 21 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ. ಕೊಡುಗೆ (http://www.udayavani.com/news/173722L15-%E0%B2%8E-%E0%B2%86%E0%B2%B0--%E0%B2%AA-%E0%B2%8E%E0%B2%B2---%E0%B2%92%E0%B2%8E%E0%B2%A8--%E0%B2%9C-%E0%B2%B8--21-%E0%B2%95-%E0%B2%9F--%E0%B2%B0---%E0%B2%95--%E0%B2%A1-%E0%B2%97-.html)

ಮಂಗಳೂರು: ಒಎನ್*ಜಿಸಿ-ಎಂಆರ್*ಪಿಎಲ್* ವತಿಯಿಂದ 21 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ. ವೆಚ್ಚದಲ್ಲಿ ಲೇಡಿಗೋಷನ್* ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆಗೆ ನೂತನ ಕಟ್ಟಡ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ ಮತ್ತು ವೆನ್ಲಾಕ್* ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆಗೆ ಆಧುನಿಕ ಸೌಲಭ್ಯದ ಬರ್ನ್ ಸೆಂಟರ್* ನಿರ್ಮಾಣವಾಗಲಿದೆ ಎಂದು ವಿಧಾನಸಭಾ ಉಪಾಧ್ಯಕ್ಷ ಎನ್*. ಯೋಗೀಶ್* ಭಟ್* ಅವರು ತಿಳಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

1848ರಲ್ಲಿ ಸ್ಥಾಪನೆಯಾದ ಲೇಡಿಗೋಷನ್* ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆಯ 90 ಸಾವಿರ ಚದರ ಅಡಿಯ ಕಟ್ಟಡದ ಶಿಥಿಲಾವಸ್ಥೆಯಲ್ಲಿರುವ 30 ಸಾವಿರ ಚದರ ಅಡಿ ಕಟ್ಟಡದ ಜಾಗವನ್ನು ಕೆಡವಿ, ಅಲ್ಲಿ 1.5 ಲಕ್ಷ ಚದರ ಅಡಿಯ ತಳ ಅಂತಸ್ತು, ನೆಲ ಅಂತಸ್ತು ಮತ್ತು ನಾಲ್ಕು ಅಂತಸ್ತುಗಳ ಕಟ್ಟಡ ನಿರ್ಮಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಈ ನೂತನ ಕಟ್ಟಡಕ್ಕೆ ಒಎನ್*ಜಿಸಿ-ಎಂಆರ್*ಪಿಎಲ್*-ಲೇಡಿಗೋಷನ್* ಬ್ಲಾಕ್* ಎಂಬ ಹೆಸರು ಇರಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ.

ಆಕಸ್ಮಿಕ, ಅಪಾಯಕಾರಿ ಅವಘಡ, ಅಪಘಾತಕ್ಕೆ ತುರ್ತು ಚಿಕಿತ್ಸೆಗೆ ಮತ್ತು ಸುಟ್ಟಗಾಯಗಳ ಚಿಕಿತ್ಸೆಗೆ ವೆನಾÉಕ್* ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಬರ್ನ್ ಸೆಂಟರ್* ನಿರ್ಮಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಈ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ತಜ್ಞರಿಂದ ಅಂದಾಜುಪಟ್ಟಿ ಸಲ್ಲಿಕೆಯಾಗಲಿದೆ. ಕಾರ್ಪೊರೇಟ್* ಸಾಮಾಜಿಕ ಹೊಣೆಗಾರಿಕೆಯ ಆಧಾರದಲ್ಲಿ ಈ ಕೊಡುಗೆ ನೀಡಲು ಶ್ರಮಿಸಿದ ಎಂಆರ್*ಪಿಎಲ್*-ಒಎನ್*ಜಿಸಿ ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷ ಸುಧೀರ್* ವಾಸುದೇವ, ಎಂಡಿ ಪಿ. ಪಿ. ಉಪಾಧ್ಯ ಹಾಗೂ ನಿರ್ದೇಶಕರನ್ನು ಯೋಗೀಶ್* ಭಟ್* ಅಭಿನಂದಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ಈ ಕಾಮಗಾರಿಯ ಕ್ಷಿಪ್ರ ಅನುಷ್ಠಾನದ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಇಂದಿಲ್ಲಿ ನಡೆದ ಸಭೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಎನ್*. ಯೋಗೀಶ್* ಭಟ್*, ಜಿಲ್ಲಾಧಿಕಾರಿ ಡಾ| ಚೆನ್ನಪ್ಪ ಗೌಡ, ಪಾಲಿಕೆ ಕಮಿಶನರ್* ಡಾ| ಹರೀಶ್*ಕುಮಾರ್*, ಪಿ. ಪಿ. ಉಪಾಧ್ಯ, ಲಕ್ಷಿ$¾àನಾರಾಯಣ್*, ಸುಶೀಲಚಂದ್ರ, ಪ್ರೇಮಾನಂದ ಶೆಣೈ, ಲೇಡಿಗೋಷನ್* ಸುಪರಿಂಟೆಂಡೆಂಟ್* ಡಾ| ಶಕುಂತಳ ಉಪಸ್ಥಿತರಿದ್ದರು.

MRPL-ONGC donates 21cr to develop Wenlock and Lady goshan Hospitals
*A new Building at Lady goshan and to Develop Burns section at Wenlock
*A new building with 1.5lakh sqft would be built at Lady Goshan and it will be named as MRPL-ONGC Lady goshan block

Punj Lloyd wins Rs 330 crore crude oil storage project in Karnataka

Infrastructure player Punj Lloyd today said it has bagged a Rs 330 crore order from Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas for process facilities & utilities at an upcoming crude oil storage cavern in Mangalore.

"This is the first cavern project for the Group and has been awarded by Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves (ISPR), a wholly owned subsidiary of Oil Industry Development Board, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas," Punj Lloyd said in a statement.

The project, located near Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited, is scheduled to be completed within a period of 29 months.

The scope of work for the project involves engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning of systems for crude oil receipt, pumping out, metering, recirculation, heating, waste water treatment, utilities production, flaring and operation buildings, it said.

The Mangalore crude oil storage will comprise two separate but identical underground caverns, each about 900 metres long, having a total capacity of 1.5 million tonnes of crude oil.

On winning the contract, Director, Punj Lloyd, P K Gupta, said: "We have constructed over 300 tanks globally, with over eight million m3 of storage capacity. We are proud to be a part of this strategic initiative of the Government of India to build reserves of crude oil at important locations, which will feed a cluster of refineries".

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas plans to store 5.33 million tonnes of imported crude oil in these crude reserves, based on a 15 day crude oil requirement of all the refineries in the country.

The crude oil reserve near Mangalore will cater to the requirements of refineries of Mangalore Refineries and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL).

With this contract, the order backlog for the Punj Lloyd Group on a consolidated basis has gone up to Rs 25,739 crore, the company said.http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/energy/oil-gas/punj-lloyd-wins-rs-330-crore-crude-oil-storage-project-in-karnataka/articleshow/15424031.cms

Hardware tech park to open by Sept-end

The hardware technology park planned by the State government near the Bangalore International Airport in Devanahalli is expected to start operations between September 24 and September 30 this year.

According to Industry & Commerce Principal Secretary M N Vidyashankar, the park is expected to host around 300 Taiwanese companies coming to Bangalore to set up shop as well as explore joint ventures with their counterparts in Karnataka.

The hardware technology park, styled Taiwan Hardware Technology Park, will come on a 300-acre plot and boast of an integrated township, industrial units and residential space among other amenities.

Investments to the tune of Rs 600-750 crore are envisaged for the project, which will be devoted exclusively to setting up manufacturing units for semiconductor chips, light emitting diodes (LED), computer hardware and telecommunication equipment, Vidyashankar said.

The state government will sign an agreement with Taitronic (Taiwan Electronics Manufacturers Association) and TCA (Taipei Computer Associates), who will lead a 75-member team to inspect the proposed site for the park, Vidyashankar said.

The proposed tech park is the outcome of several visits by Taiwanese delegations who were keen to get a number of small and medium Taiwanese enterprises to operate out of Karnataka, Vidyashankar said.

The State Electronics Hardware Policy, which seeks to facilitate, promote and develop the electronics hardware manufacturing sector, hopes to make Karnataka the world’s preferred destination for investments in high value-added electronics manufacturing.

Towards this end, the policy offers a slew of incentives for investors, along with a Electronics Innovation Fund set up at an initial corpus of Rs 25 crore. The Innovation Fund will provide funding to entrepreneurs to develop new products to be manufactured in the State. http://www.deccanherald.com/content/270455/hardware-tech-park-open-sept.html

Lady Goschen will get state-of-the-art facility (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangalore/Lady-Goschen-will-get-state-of-the-art-facility/articleshow/15443392.cms)

MANGALORE: The 164-year-old Government Lady Goschen Hospital in the city will get a state-of-the-art 1.5 lakh sqft building with all multi-speciality facilities soon.

Public sector oil company ONGC-MRPL has decided to fund Rs 21 crore under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative to construct the new building for the hospital.

The hospital, which was opened in 1848, had 90,000 sq ft space. The government demolished a portion of the building measuring 30,000 sq ft to construct the new facility in 2011. With ONGC-MRPL funds, now the government is all set to build a four-storied building with a basement and ground floor. Union minister for corporate affairs M Veerappa Moily took up the matter with Jaipal Reddy, his cabinet colleague to get the necessary clearance for ONGC-MRPL to donate a large chunk of their CSR outlay for the project.

Earlier, an Andhra Pradesh-based entrepreneur K Raghava Naidu had offered to donate Rs 18 crore for the construction of a multi-storied building for the hospital a year ago in memory of his daughter. Following this, the government had demolished a portion of the hospital building immediately to facilitate the construction of the new building. However, even after a year, not even the foundation work is taken up and poor patients are being put to hardships due to lack of space in the existing building.

Raghava had expressed his desire to develop Lady Goschen Hospital in memory of his daughter KR Keerthi and Mangalore City South MLA N Yogish Bhat facilitated the foundation laying ceremony. Former chief minister BS Yeddyurappa had laid the foundation stone in the presence of Raghava on April 17, 2011. Yeddyurappa also had felicitated Chittoor-based businessman Raghava and his wife KR Rukmani for promising Rs 18 crore for the building at the ceremony. However, all promises remained in paper after Yeddyurappa lost power.

Do we have any proposal to interlink the rivers in our state or to construct a number of check dams, lakes to increase the amount of fresh water?

Shimoga to get India's Largest Space Park.
http://i46.************/34xm2i8.png
http://i45.************/8y6oac.png
Source: ShimogaTimeshttp://shimogatimes.blogspot.in/ http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GR5Hz4XVkU4/UCY20o0QjOI/AAAAAAAAJYI/NipxJ41Mf14/s1600/1%2Bcopy.jpg
:banana:

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2012/08/12/20120812a_002103001.jpg
:cheers:

Karnataka to get 10 more medical colleges soon

The state will have 10 more new medical colleges, said Health Education Minister S.A.Ramadas on Thursday. The Centre has approved Rs 1274 crore proposal of the state government and released Rs 20 crore.

Talking to media on the sidelines of an event S A Ramadas said, “Establishment of the new medical colleges will help those deprived of proper medical attention in rural areas.” The minister also said, a pharmacy outlet had been opened at the K R Hospital on August 14 to sell drugs at 50 to 75 per cent less than the original price to patients. This had been possible after discussions with 14 multi-national global pharmaceutical companies. This is being implemented for the first time in Mysore.

“This would benefit a large number of poor patients who cannot afford to buy medicines at higher rates,” he said.

Similarly, it had been proposed to conduct a cancer detection camp in Mysore district in co-operation with the Kidwai Hospital, Ramadas said.

Expressing shock over 6,000 destitute children suffering from Aids in Karnataka, the Minister said steps were needed to improve health condition in rural areas where diseases were on the higher side.

Stating that compulsory rural service by doctors would help improve health condition in rural parts, he said ‘Argoya Dasoha’ (free health checkup and treatment) had been launched in Mysore district as a pilot programme.

Team of expert doctors would visit each house every month and check patients suffering from diabetes, blood pressure and heart ailments with a view to provide them further treatment.

The programme will be expanded across the state in a phased manner, he said after initially implementing in centres where medical colleges exist. ‘Asha’ workers and health staff had conducted a survey and identified patients requiring treatment by expert doctors in hospitals after visiting houses in the seven taluks of the district. Even surgery would be provided wherever necessary free of cost, Ramadas said.http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/karnataka-to-get-10-more-medical-colleges-soon/483445/

Vijesh Kamath, Bangalore, Aug 16, 2012, DHNS :

* Code seeks to make them eco-friendly

New buildings being planned in Karnataka may become more energy efficient and environmentally friendly than the ones currently standing.

The State’s version of the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), which specifies the energy performance requirements for buildings, is in the last stages of finalisation and will be initially implemented in all new government buildings.

ECBC was launched by the Ministry of Power in 2007 to promote energy efficiency in the building sector. ECBC-Karnataka is being framed to suit the regional and climatic conditions of the State.

The code has requirements for architects and engineers to apply energy-conservation principles and techniques in their designs for new buildings (green buildings) as well as for alterations to existing buildings.

Nodal agency

A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary S V Ranganath in Bangalore on August 7 obtained feedback on the draft code from various departments, including energy, public works, office of the chief electrical inspector, principal chief architect and other stakeholders, according to officials in the Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL). KREDL is the nodal agency for promoting energy conservation in the State. The final version of the ECBC will now be placed before the State Cabinet for clearance.

Initially, new government buildings will have to suit the specifications under the code which includes lighting, ventilation, building envelope, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, piping and duct work.

For instance, the schedule under lighting will specify the number and wattage of lamps for a particular building, automatic lighting shutoff requirements if any, lamp efficacy of exterior lamps, etc. The schedule under energy include maximum allowable distribution transformer losses, installation of energy-efficient motors among others, the officials said.

Analyses conducted through energy simulation indicate that ECBC-compliant buildings use 40 per cent to 60 per cent less energy when compared with normal buildings.

Energy Minister Shobha Karandlaje said ECBC is a step towards the State government’s endeavour to conserve energy.

Monetary benefits

“We have already taken measures to conserve energy by promoting the use of Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CLF), installation of energy-efficient pumpsets and developing solar villages.

It will not only help in saving power but will also have monetary benefits,” she said.

During the first stage of ECBC implementation, the State government plans to rope in the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to conduct training programmes for government engineers and architects on energy-conservation principles.

DHNS (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/272186/state-targets-buildings-brighter-future.html)

Alva's to open exclusive sports academy soon (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangalore/Alvas-to-open-exclusive-sports-academy-soon/articleshow/15541042.cms)

Moodbidri: The Alva's Education Foundation is planning to open an exclusive sports academy, which is touted be the first of the kind in the state.
Since its inception, the foundation has produced more than 5,000 sportspersons, some of who have represented the country in Olympics and international meets. AEF students have won many state and national level sports competitions and for the past six years AEF has been emerging champion in Mangalore University inter-collegiate athletic meet. International and national level athletes including MR Poovamma, KS Ashok, Akshata Poojary, who won gold medal in power lifting in Commonwealth Games, are among the famous athletes to have come off the AEF assembly line.
AEF has been providing free sports coaching and education for its sportspersons. Presently, there are 650 such students on its campus.
During the recent junior and senior state-level athletic meet held in Bangalore, two AEF undergraduate students set new state records. Abhishek N Shetty set a new record in decathlon by scoring 6,153 points and Samsheer SE, a BBM student, has set a new state record of 7.52 meters in long jump.
The foundation has 22 exclusive coaches for 22 different sports. AEF chairperson M Mohan Alva told TOI that apart from plans of opening exclusive sports academies, they also plan to lay synthetic tracks and set up a fully equipped modern gym.

Udupi: City To Strictly Ban Use Of Plastic Bags Starting September 1 (http://www.mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=broadcast&broadcastid=339308)

Udupi: The Consumer Forum organized a public interaction with Udupi City municipality president, at Sathya Moorthy Auditorium of CMC here on August 17. Interacting with the public, the president of Udupi City Municipality Kiran Kumar said that use of plastic carry bags will be completely banned in the city limits from September 1, 2012.

When asked about the Disposal of Waste which is not being done suitably, leading to unhealthy atmosphere, Kumar responded that all measures will be undertaken in disposing the waste. He also said that the Town municipality had taken the measures in disposing the waste but due to the rise in number of apartments, residents are still using plastic for garbage which is causing difficulties in disposing. He also said once we implement the ban on plastic starting September 1, and the violators penalized then the problems should be tackled.

Further briefing on the plans of handling the solid waste, the government has already earmarked Rs 75 lakh to Rs 80 lakh. Most of the time the waste is thrown on either side of the roads instead of handing over to the SHGs members who come for door-to-door collection. Each house will be given two waste buckets to segregate the dry and wet waste. There are also plans to collect waste free of cost from the houses and only commercial set-ups will be charged. However, at present, a nominal amount is charged by the waste collectors. Door-to-door collection of waste will be strictly introduced. “We collected as many as 315 kgs of plastic recently when we raided the shops and other outlets. The CMC has plans to set up waste energy plants to make use of solid and wet waste,” he said.

" Lack of rainfall and absence of mechanised desilting work in the Baje dam, areas here have been hit with water shortage. The House has approached court against government’s decision of not going for mechanised desilting of tanks and ponds.“We had already written to the Deputy Commissioner during October and March demanding for mechanised desilting of the Swarna River in catchment area ", Kumar added.

The CMC will take precautionary measures once the capacity of the inner flow of Swarna River reduces in the catchment area. “Although we may not be in a position to provide 24 hours water supply during May, we will see that there will be no shortage of water to the people in the city,” he added.

When asked about what measures would be taken against dearth of drinking water in the town since the town is faced with drinking water problem, he replied, "Baje Dam needs to be dredged, this has caused problem, we weren't aware of that earlier. In the last 5 days, water level has receded completely. We can overcome this only through dredging that area. But the law doesn't permit mechanized dredging process. Hence we have appealed to the court through the Ministers for availing permission from the court for introducing mechanized dredging".

Replying to another query over several manhole openings in the middle of the roads, Kiran Kumar said that measures will be taken to reduce the problems created due to those manhole openings in the middle of the roads. He also assured to take strict measures over the lack of maintenance of public toilets especially in government and also in service bus stops. He said the company in charge will be penalised if hygiene and cleanliness in the area is not maintained.

Bharathi Chandrashekar, Vice President of the Town Municipality, Standing Committee President Prabhakar Poojary, Consumer Forum President P Ravindra Nayak and Damodar Ithal, the convener were present during the meet.

Somany to invest up to Rs 200-cr in over two yrs on expansion (http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/somany-to-investto-rs-200-cr-in-over-two-yrsexpansion/183918/on)

In near future we can also pick up 26 or 51% stake in one or two tile manufacturing units in Gujarat, Trivedi said

Press Trust of India / Ahmedabad Aug 23, 2012, 18:55 IST

Tiles maker Somany Ceramics (SML), a flagship company of H L Somany Group, today said it would invest Rs 150-200 crore over the next two years on organic and inorganic growth in India.

The company having annual production of 19.5 million square metres proposes to set up an ultra-modern tiles manufacturing plant in Karnataka, and is looking to add 3-4 million sq metre capacity in Gujarat through the acquisition route.

"We shall invest Rs 150-200 crore on expansion in India over the next two years. It includes our plan to set up a modern plant at Tumkur in Karnataka having 36 mn sqm annual production capacity, besides few acquisitions in Gujarat," SML CEO G G Trivedi told PTI.

"We have already acquired close to 85,000 sq metres of land in Karnataka for the proposed new facility in future," he said.

In near future we can also pick up 26 or 51% stake in one or two tile manufacturing units in Gujarat, engaged in manufacturing of vitrified and floor tiles, Trivedi said.

"It would add up another 3-4 million sq metres to our production capacity in Gujarat," he said.

The company has combined production of 5.5 million sq metres through its two joint ventures at Morbi, which is seperate to 19.5 million sq metre annual production from its two plants, one each in Gujarat and Haryana.

The company's present JV partners at Morbi are Vintage and Commnader.

SML has set an ambitious target of achieving Rs 1,250 crore turnover in the current fiscal (2012-13). It closed with a turnover of Rs 921 crore in last fiscal (2011-12), and reported Rs 25 crore net profit.

Mangalore, Aug 25, 2012, DHNS

State will introduce Infrastructure Bill, says Shetter at Statecon meet
Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar said that the State government will make an effort to simplify the process related to obtaining permission to real estate developers, to take up construction work.

Speaking after inaugurating ‘Statecon 2012’ organised by Confederation of Real Estate and Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) here on Saturday, he said that he will hold talks with the representatives of CREDAI on the need for simplification of procedures within 15 days. The help of private partnership is essential for constructing houses for the poor.

“As there was lack of space, the State government is mulling to introduce a new housing concept of G + 2 in Mangalore, Hubli-Dharwad and Mysore. The cost of the dwelling units would be around Rs 2.50 lakh. There is a need to check the growth of slums by taking up infrastructure facilities,” he said.

“If the real estate developers come up with low cost housing projects, then the State government will surely join hands with them,” he added.

In the last four years, the State government had constructed 8.9 lakh houses and distributed 1.27 lakh sites.

‘Infrastructure Bill’

Stating that the government will introduce ‘Infrastructure Bill,’ Shettar said that the Bill would provide the much needed boost to infrastructure projects. It will reduce the administrative and procedural delays.

The State government will give thrust on PPP mode for the development of infrastructures.

The State government has earmarked Rs 19,065 crore for infrastructure development in the state.

Initiatives in PPP investments have been taken by the government, wherein 12 PPP projects are currently in operation and 21 others would be implemented soon.

Development of roads, creation and expansion of minor airports, doubling of railway lines etc are also being given importance, he said.

The CM said that the minor airports will be developed at Gulbarga, Shimoga, Bellary, Hassan and Bijapur. The work on airport at Shimoga will be completed by December 2012.

Real estate sector is the second largest employment generating sector in the country. The environment conservation must also be of paramount importance to real estate developers.

Single window clearance

Minister for Urban Development and Parliamentary Affairs Suresh Kumar that the government will consider the single window clearance system and relaxation of taxes. The State government aims at providing more houses to people at an affordable prices.

He said the government has initiated measures to construct 4.11 lakh houses in the year 2011-12. If the private developers join their hands with the State government, then the dream of house for all can be fulfilled.

CREDAI national executive member Balakrishna Hegde and Credai State President Sushil Mantri placed the demands of a single window clearance system to ease the process of getting approval from the departments concerned.

Hegde said that real estate developers have to pay VAT, service tax as well as stamp duty to the government. The real estate developers should be liable to pay only the stamp duty, he said.

Assembly Deputy Speaker Yogish Bhat, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, MLC Capt Ganesh Karnik, MLA Krishna Palemar, Mayor Gulzar Banu, CREDAI statecon Chairman K C Naik, CREDAI Mangalore chapter President P M A Razak and others were present.

DHNS (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/274201/govt-simplify-construction-work-process.html)

Infrastructure bill in the offing (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangalore/Infrastructure-bill-in-the-offing/articleshow/15731969.cms)

Mangalore, Aug 25 (Truth Dive): Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar said the Karnataka Government will convene a meeting of real estate developers problems related to high taxes and multiple approvals from various agencies and discuss the Gujarat model for houses for low income people.

Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar was speaking at the state conference of CREDAI in Mangalore after requests from CREDAI members in this regard.

CREDAI the apex body of builders in the state pointed out that nearly 42 per cent went as tax for house buyers in Karnataka.

Multiple taxes such as VAT, stamp duty and service tax were borne by the real estate developers said, A. Balakrishna Hegde, member of national executive committee of CREDAI. The need to build more homes can be done only if the tax structure be simplified, he said.

Nearly half of the 42 per cent tax is levied through taxes in Karnataka and the rest by Central said Sushil Mantri, President of CREDAI Karnataka. He said there is a need for the establishment of a single window clearance agency in the state and faster clearance to avoid rising costs.

In Karnataka a developer has to get nearly 170 approvals from around 40 departments. Hegde said the Govt has to streamline the system by a review so as to avoid delays. In a costly place like Bangalore where land prices are high a delay of two years results around 60-70 per cent escalation of the cost of the project

Karnataka CM Shettar asked CREDAI to focus on affordable housing for people and within two weeks he will convene a meeting to discuss their taxes and approval process related problems

Karnataka Urban Development Minister Suresh Kumar also spoke that there is a need for both government and private players to work together with the CREDAI to see that people in economically weaker sections get housing facility by 2020.

Chairman of Statecon 2012, K C Naik replying to a query on the strategy to make Karnataka housing surplus by 2020, said that such an initiative has been made in Gujarat. Gujarat State government acquires land and provides infrastructure in remote areas. For people in low-income group and from economically weaker sections the cost of land will be affordable. CREDAI wanted Karnataka Govt to implement the same model in the State.

truthdrive (http://truthdive.com/2012/08/25/karnataka-to-adopt-gujarat-housing-model.html)

State to get 600 MW more from UPCL in a week (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-others/tp-states/article3817889.ece)

Power Minister visits project site
The second unit of thermal power station with a capacity of 500 MW will be operational in Bellary in another 15 days.
Mangalore, Aug. 24:
The 600 MW second unit of UPCL will be operational in a week, according to Karnataka Power Minister Shobha Karandlaje.

After inspecting the project site of UPCL (Udupi Power Corporation Ltd) at Padubidri in Udupi district on Friday, she said Karnataka State Pollution Control Board had given certain directions on pollution control measures to the company. She visited UPCL site on Friday to see the implementation of those measures.

Supply line ready

“The second unit of UPCL will be operational in a week,” she said. The State government has completed the laying of 400 KV power supply line till Shantigrama in Hassan district for the evacuation of power from UPCL.

The company has completed the work on the second unit of 600 MW. (UPCL has a capacity to produce 1200 MW of power from two units of 600 MW each).

Karandlaje said that power from UPCL will be supplied to the electricity supply companies in the State.

Bellary unit

On the other power related issues in the State, the Minister said the second unit of thermal power station with a capacity of 500 MW will be operational in Bellary in another 15 days. Both UPCL and Bellary units should help provide around 1,500 MW of power to the State, she said.

The Minister said that wind power production has come down drastically from 1500 MW to 80 MW in the last two days.

Hydel project
On the hydro-electric power generation facility in the State, she said the Linganamakki dam has around 60 per cent of water.

“We need more than 75 per cent of water in that dam to tackle power shortage in summer. That is why we are using minimum hydro electric power now,” she said. Last year also the State used hydel power from January-May. Same method will be followed this year also, she added.

Later speaking to presspersons, P. Panduranga Rao, chief executive officer (Southern projects), LANCO, said that second unit of 600 MW has been commissioned. The company is now waiting for its formal inauguration, he said. (UPCL is a LANCO group company).

Built at a cost of Rs 5,900 crore, the UPCL has set up a dedicated jetty at New Mangalore Port for handling imported coal.

The requirement of coal for this plant is around 3.6 million tonnes a year. The plant is designed for generating power from imported coal, he added.

From Udupi, some good news on the power front (http://www.dnaindia.com/bangalore/report_from-udupi-some-good-news-on-the-power-front_1732532)

The Udupi Power Corporation Limited promoted by Lanco is set to launch the second unit which will commence production officially in less than three days, wheeling out 600 MW into the southern grid.

“We’ve already started producing power to the full installed capacity of the new unit and the results have been highly satisfactory. The synchronisation of power was done successfully into the wheeling facility. We’ve also maintained the standards prescribed by the Karnataka Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) by containing the sulfur using imported coal,” said Panduranga Rao, chief operating officer of Lanco.

“The state-of-the-art flue-gas de-sulfurisation plant has successfully isolated the sulfur in the process of burning coal. As a result, the fly ash is nearly clean of all effluents. A portion of the fly ash is used as additive for road construction material and for manufacturing cement,” Rao said.

Brushing aside the chances of marine pollution due to the discharge of water into the sea after the cooling process, Rao said no river water or ground water will be used during any stage of production.

The huge volumes of sea water used for cooling process will be let into the sea with the same level of salinity, but the water will be warm up to 5 degree centigrade which is negligible, he said.
However, environmental activists are caught off guard by the announcement on the second unit.

Vijay Hegde and Vidya Dinakar, who had campaigned against the plant, said they did not have any information about the commencement of the production.

The additional burning of coal will prove disastrous for human habitation in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts, they said.
They are planning to revive the struggle against the plant.
The plant is set up close to the Western Ghats and the sea. Farmers and fishermen had objected to the setting up of such a large thermal power project there.

Things moved in favour of the plant only after agreed with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board to strictly maintain global environmental standards.
According to the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), the state will have to share 20% of the thermal power produced within its territory with Punjab in accordance with the power purchase agreement (PPA).
According to the agreement, the company will have to sell each unit of electricity at `4.25 per unit

:banana::banana::banana:
http://epapervijayavani.in/epaperimages/792012/792012-md-hr-13/32149141.JPG

^^

As many as 23 major projects, with a total investment of over Rs. 16,077 crore, including an ambitious Rs. 10,000-crore agricultural infrastructure project in five industrial zones of the State, were approved by a high-powered clearance committee here on Thursday.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, Minister for Large and Medium Industries Murugesh Nirani said that the Agro-Industrial Clusters and Agri Infrastructure Project of Wadhwan Mega Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. Will, in the first phase, set up an agro park in Bagalkot district and later in four other zones.

The Minister said that the project, the first of its kind in the State, will encompass research and development, godown facilities and value addition of agricultural produce. There will be a special thrust on horticultural crops because Bagalkot has a horticultural university.

Solar parks

Mr. Nirani said that there was an increased interest among investors in the power sector, with five projects cleared on Friday, four for solar energy generation, with a total investment of Rs. 1,553 crore. One of them is a turnkey and solar photovoltaic project at Aliyabad in Bijapur with an investment of Rs. 980 crore The State proposed to set up solar parks in wasteland, which was increasingly seen as a viable source of power with improved technology, he said.

Other projects

The other major projects approved include cement grinding unit by Reliance Cement Company at Gowribidanur taluk (Rs. 690 crore), software development centre at Devanahalli (Rs. 242 crore), a unit of shock absorbers for automobiles by Showa India Pvt. Ltd. (Rs. 342 crore), a unit of high-quality textile fabric for car seats at Kadakola Industrial Area in Mysore district (Rs. 100 crore) and an engine and textile manufacturing unit by Kirloskar Toyoda Textile Machinery Pvt. Ltd. at Kittur in Belgaum (Rs. 3,847 crore).

Education projects

There are two big projects related to education among those cleared. A medical college with hospital will be set up at Attibele in Bangalore Urban with an investment of Rs. 342 crore. JSS Mahavidyalaya Peetha of Mysore will establish three educational institutions at Kadakola Industrial Area of Mysore with an investment of Rs. 647 crore.

TH (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/article3868787.ece)

US$60m for Karnataka Watershed Development Project II, India
Kimberly Watson, Editor in Chief
September 07, 2012 /
The World Bank approved a US$ 60 million credit to the Karnataka Watershed Development Project II (KWDP II) to further improve watershed planning and management in project areas.
This Project builds on the successful experience of earlier Bank-supported Karnataka Watershed Development Project I, also known as Sujala, which helped improve the lives of 230,000 farmers by increasing crop yields by about 25 percent, and raising household incomes of small and marginal farmers by 40 percent.


Even today Karnataka’s dry regions are among the states’ poorest, have low agricultural productivity, and are susceptible to drought and deepening environmental stress and degradation. The project area has 39,400 landless families. Annual normal rainfall varies from 600 to 800 mm with 43 rainy days in a year.
Rain fed agriculture in 278,000 ha of project area, experiences at least two water deficit years in a five year cycle due to prolonged dry spells during crop season and/or delayed onset of monsoon rains.
There is thus a need to better integrate watershed development and agricultural programs by strengthening the Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP), which forms the cornerstone of the Government of India’s (GOI) support to watershed development. There is also a need for more effective convergence between IWMP and the employment-based Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act scheme (NREGS)-financed soil and water conservation programs.
KWDP II approved today will focus on improving the performance and results of IWMP by introducing new tools and approaches for integrated watershed planning, incorporating more information about water resources into the planning process, facilitating better convergence of IWMP with other government programs such as NREGS, and helping farmers increase agricultural productivity. The Project will cover about 465,000 ha and 160,000 farmer households in 7 districts.
“This Project will build on the earlier Bank-supported Karnataka Watershed Development Project I (KWDP I) and initiate innovative pilots which will help increase agricultural production in rain fed areas, lead to better use of scarce water resources and raise household incomes of farmers,” said Onno Rϋhl, World Bank Country Director for India.
“This Project, we also hope, will lead to better convergence between government’s Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP) and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act scheme (NREGS) programs, and thereby, demonstrate efficient use of public funds,” he added.
Consequently, a primary focus of the Project is on supporting the implementation of IWMP in the 7-selected districts of Karnataka through better planning, capacity building, monitoring and evaluation, and post-harvest value addition.
Focus will also be on understanding local needs, like location‐specific soil‐crop‐water interactions; expanding the scope of rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge, by partly converging the NREGS with the IWMP; and developing agro‐climatic zone specific technology to enable rural communities to better adapt to the effects of climate change.
“Through this Project we hope to strengthen the bottom-up engagement of small farmers and increase their opportunities for adapting to new technologies. The Project will also strengthen the financial and technical convergence between IWMP and NREGS through more integrated watershed planning and monitoring, and developing innovative tools and processes in sub and micro-watersheds,” said Grant Milne, Senior Natural Resources Management Specialist, World Bank and the Project’s Task Team Leader.
“Better program convergence is expected to result in more science-based watershed management and higher quality of soil and water conservation interventions,” he added.
Among the other components of the Project, horticulture is expected to play a major role in raising income of farmers even in dry tracks. The Project will support activities for promoting dry land production for annual and perennial crops; crop diversification; help farmers in carrying out soil, water and leaf analysis to identify nutrient deficiencies; create facilities for testing, training and demonstrations; facilitate farmers in availing quality seed and planting material; and support farmers to improve post-harvest handling and marketing of the produce among others.
The Project will be financed by a credit from the International Development Association (IDA) – the World Bank’s concessionary lending arm – which provides interest-free loans with 25 years to maturity and a grace period of five years.
Karnataka Watershed Development Project I or Sujala 2001-2009
Project benefits:
Crop yields in rain fed areas up by 25%.
Soil erosion reduced up to 21 cubic meters per ha.
Irrigated area up between 6% and 14%.
Average milk yields rose by around 20%.
Ground water was available for longer periods.
Household incomes up by about 40 % for small and marginal farmers (less than 2 ha), more than 50% for landless, and close to 80% for larger farmers (more than 2ha), compared to control groups.
Overall, the project improved the lives of 230,000 direct beneficiaries, contributing to a reduction of out-migration by about 70 percent.

http://inaudit.com/economy/us60m-for-karnataka-watershed-development-project-ii-india-24762/

Bangalore: The country's first medical college established by Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) was declared open here on Saturday, marking the organisation's foray into the education sector, apart from health care.


ESIC plans to set up in all eight medical colleges across the country and is ready to start at least four of these colleges next year if Medical Council of India (MCI) accords all approvals, Minister for Labour and Emloyment M Mallikarjun Kharge said.

Kharge urged all state governments to ensure establishment of a "single window agency" to grant all approvals such as fire force clearance, electricity board approval and others under one-roof to projects which are of national importance and for people welfare. "Everybody is afraid of RTI. In the name of transparency, many development works are held up. Many officials are scared to take decisions. We should set a time frame to give clearances. Getting land allotment itself a major worry", Kharge said.

The labour ministry has spent Rs 3,000 crore on various projects being implemented by ESIC, he said adding another medical college would soon come up in Gulbarga, his home district. Earlier, inaugurating the Medical College, Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said government has decided to open three to four medical colleges in different parts of the country in the coming years.

The minister urged entrepreneurs from the South to come forward to establish more medical colleges in the North and North-East to produce more number of doctors. Azad said the Centre has accorded Deemed university status to National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bangalore, a measure that would give the organisation more autonomy.

Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar promised all support to the ESIC projects and said his government has earmarked Rs 554 crore in its budget for workers' welfare. Opposition Congress leader Siddaramaiah, former union minister Oscar Fernandes, former Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman K Rehman Khan, MLAs-- R Roshan Baig, N L Narendra Babu and Priya Krishna were present.

Shettar to inaugurate lift irrigation project today

Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar will inaugurate the Karanja Lift Irrigation Project and the barrage-cum-bridge in Chandapur village, Bhalki taluk, on Sunday.

However, farmers’ associations said that the State government was yet to pay arrears for land acquisition compensation to farmers who lost their land for the construction of these projects.

Suryakant Patil Dakulagi, president of Karanja Santrastara Horata Samiti, said the government was yet to release compensation to some landowners. Land was acquired nearly two decades ago, but compensation was yet to reach farmers. This had hit the families hard, he said. “Farmers who grew abundant foodgrain are now reduced to getting their monthly ration from the village fair price shop,” he said.

According to him, the Karanja reservoir was planned in 1968.

Land acquisition started in 1970s. But the government was yet to release complete compensation to all farmers who lost their lands.

Janata Dal (Secular) leader and advocate Ramachandra Gandage said the government had also delayed the second round of compensation to families who lost their land to the Chandapur barrage project. The first round of compensation was paid sometime ago. But farmers were unhappy with it and approached the court. The court upheld their plea and ordered an increase in compensation. The State government was yet to release this amount, he said.

The samiti members plan to submit a memorandum to Mr. Shettar on Sunday.


‘Farmers yet to receive arrears of land acquisition compensation’

Samiti to submit a memorandum to Chief Minister

ಕಾರಾಗೃಹ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಗೆ 84 ಕೋ.ರೂ. ಬಿಡುಗಡೆ

Udayavani | Sep 08, 2012

ಕಾರವಾರ: ರಾಜ್ಯದ ಕಾರಾಗೃಹಗಳ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಗಾಗಿ ಈ ವರ್ಷ ಸರಕಾರದಿಂದ 84 ಕೋ.ರೂ. ಬಿಡುಗಡೆಯಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ರಾಜ್ಯ ಕಾರಗೃಹ ವಿಭಾಗದ ಎಡಿಜಿಪಿ ಕೆ.ವಿ. ಗಗನದೀಪ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಜಿಲ್ಲಾ ಕಾರಾಗೃಹಕ್ಕೆ ಭೇಟಿ ನೀಡಿದ ಸಂದರ್ಭದಲ್ಲಿ ಸುದ್ದಿಗಾರರೊಂದಿಗೆ ಮಾತನಾಡಿದ ಅವರು, ಕಾರಾಗೃಹದ ದುರಸ್ತಿಗೆ 3 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ.ಗಳು ಮಂಜೂರಾಗಿವೆ. ಕಾರಾಗೃಹದಲ್ಲಿ ಮೂಲಭೂತ ಸೌಕರ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಗಮನ ಕೊಡಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದ್ದು, ಕಾರಾಗೃಹಗಳ ದುರಸ್ತಿ ಮತ್ತು ಶೌಚಾಲಯ ದುರಸ್ತಿಗಳು ಸಾಕಷ್ಟು ಕಡೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಆಗಬೇಕಿದ್ದು, ಅದನ್ನು ಕೈಗೆತ್ತಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗುವುದು ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ರಾಜ್ಯದ ವಿವಿಧ ಕಾರಾಗೃಹಗಳಲ್ಲಿರುವ ಸುಮಾರು ಹನ್ನೆರಡುವರೆ ಸಾವಿರ ಕೈದಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಸ್ವ ಉದ್ಯೋಗ ತರಬೇತಿ ನೀಡುವ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಯೋಜನೆ ರೂಪಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಈ ನಿಟ್ಟಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಹಂತ ಹಂತವಾಗಿ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮ ಆಯೋಜಿಸಲಾಗುವುದು. ಜಿಲ್ಲಾ ಕಾರಾಗೃಹದ ದುರಸ್ತಿ, ನೀರಾವರಿ ಸೌಲಭ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ಶೌಚಾಲಯ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥೆ ದುರಸ್ತಿಗಾಗಿ ಸುಮಾರು ಇಪ್ಪತ್ತು ಲಕ್ಷ ರೂ. ವೆಚ್ಚದಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರಸ್ಥಾವನೆ ಸಲ್ಲಿಸಲಾಗಿದ್ದು, ಕೂಡಲೆ ಹಣ ಬಿಡುಗಡೆ ಕ್ರಮಕೈಗೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗುವುದು ಎಂದರು.

ಧಾರವಾಡ ಕಾರಾಗೃಹದಿಂದ ಖೈದಿಗಳು ಪರಾರಿಯಾದ ಕುರಿತಾಗಿ ಕೇಳಲಾದ ಪ್ರಶ್ನೆಗೆ ಅದಕ್ಕೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಿಸಿ ಕರ್ತವ್ಯ ನಿರ್ಲಕ್ಷದ ಇಬ್ಬರು ಅಧಿಕಾರಿಗಳನ್ನು ಅಮಾನತ್* ಮಾಡಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಗಗನದೀಪ್* ಹೇಳಿದರು.

Udayavani (http://www.udayavani.com/news/186561L15-%E0%B2%95-%E0%B2%B0-%E0%B2%97-%E0%B2%B9-%E0%B2%85%E0%B2%AD-%E0%B2%B5-%E0%B2%A6-%E0%B2%A7-%E0%B2%97--84-%E0%B2%95--%E0%B2%B0---%E0%B2%AC-%E0%B2%A1-%E0%B2%97%E0%B2%A1-.html)

ಶೆಟ್ಟರ್ ರಿಂದ ತುಂಗಭದ್ರಾ ಸೇತುವೆ ಲೋಕಾರ್ಪಣೆ
(http://kannada.oneindia.in/news/2012/09/10/districts-cm-shettar-inaugurates-tungabhadra-bridge-raichur-067989.html)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/392098_466993343322173_660314923_n.jpg
ರಾಯಚೂರು, ಸೆ.10: ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ಮತ್ತು ಆಂಧ್ರಪ್ರದೇಶಕ್ಕೆ ಸಂಪರ್ಕ ಒದಗಿಸುವ ತುಂಗಭದ್ರಾ ಸೇತುವೆಯನ್ನು ಮುಖ್ಯಮಂತ್ರಿ ಜಗದೀಶ್ ಶೆಟ್ಟರ್ ಅವರು ಸೋಮವಾರ(ಸೆ.10) ಲೋಕಾರ್ಪಣೆ ಮಾಡಿದರು. 2009ರ ಅಕ್ಟೋಬರ್ ನ ಜಲಪ್ರಳಯಕ್ಕೆ ಈ ಸೇತುವೆ ಬಲಿಯಾಗಿತ್ತು.

ಸುಮಾರು 40 ಕೋಟಿ ರು ವೆಚ್ಚದಲ್ಲಿ ನಿರ್ಮಿಸಲಾಗಿರುವ ಈ ಸೇತುವೆ ಎರಡು ರಾಜ್ಯಗಳ ಜನ ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯರ ದೈನಂದಿನ ಬದುಕಿನ ಆಧಾರವಾಗಿದೆ. ಪ್ರಸಿದ್ಧ ಯಾತ್ರಾಸ್ಥಳ ಮಂತ್ರಾಲಯಕ್ಕೆ ಸಂಪರ್ಕ ಒದಗಿಸುವ ಈ ಸೇತುವೆ ಪೂರ್ಣಗೊಳಿಸಲು ಬೇಕಾಗಿದ್ದ ಖರ್ಚು ವೆಚ್ಚವನ್ನು ಎರಡು ರಾಜ್ಯಗಳು ಭರಿಸಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಜಿಲ್ಲಾಧಿಕಾರಿ ಎಂ.ವಿ ಸಾವಿತ್ರಿ ಹೇಳಿದ್ದಾರೆ.
ಜರ್ಮನ್ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನ ಬಳಸಿ Karnataka Road Development Corporation Limited ನಿರ್ಮಿಸಿರುವ ಈ ಸೇತುವೆ 600 ಮೀ ಉದ್ದ, 12 ಮೀ ಅಗಲವಿದೆ. ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ, ಆಂಧ್ರಪ್ರದೇಶ ಹಾಗೂ ತಮಿಳುನಾಡಿಗೆ ಈ ಸೇತುವೆ ಆಧಾರವಾಗಿದೆ.

ಮಂತ್ರಾಲಯಕ್ಕೆ ಸಿಎಂ ಭೇಟಿ: ತುಂಗ ಭದ್ರಾ ಸೇತುವೆ, ರಾಯಚೂರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಪತ್ರಿಕಾ ಭವನ ಉದ್ಘಾಟನೆ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮ ಪೂರೈಸಿದ ನಂತರ ಮುಖ್ಯಮಂತ್ರಿ ಜಗದೀಶ್ ಶೆಟ್ಟರ್ ಅವರು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ಚೌಲ್ಟ್ರಿಗೆ ಶಂಕುಸ್ಥಾಪನೆ ನೆರವೇರಿಸಿದರು.
ನಂತರ ಮಂತ್ರಾಲಯ ರಾಘವೇಂದ್ರ ಸ್ವಾಮೀಜಿಗಳ ಮಠಕ್ಕೆ ತೆರಳಿದ ಮುಖ್ಯಮಂತ್ರಿಗಳು ಸ್ವಾಮೀಜಿಗಳ ಆಶೀರ್ವಾದ ಪಡೆದರು. ಸಿಎಂ ಅವರ ಜೊತೆಗೆ ಬಸವರಾಜ ಬೊಮ್ಮಾಯಿ, ಸಿಎಂ ಉದಾಸಿ ಮತ್ತಿತ್ತರು ಉಪಸ್ಥಿತರಿದ್ದರು.

English summary
CM Jagadish Shettar today(Sept.10) inaugurated the bridge across the Tungabhadra river, connecting the Karnataka with Andhra Pradesh, that was washed away during the October 2009 floods. The Bridge has been reconstructed at a cost of Rs 40 crore.

:cheers:

Somany to focus on south Indian market

Now, they have acquired 68,000 sq mt of land in Karnataka, where they plan to set up a greenfield plant in days to come. Chairman and Managing Director of SCL Shreekant Somany said "In the coming years our focus will be on the south India."

The company having annual production of 19.5 million sq mt besides proposing an ultra-modern tiles manufacturing plant in Karnataka, is also looking to add 3-4 million sq mt capacity in Gujarat through the acquisition route.

BS (http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/somany-to-focussouth-indian-market/186324/on)

RBI expecst investments to slow down further

Gayatri Nayak, ET Bureau Sep 12, 2012, 08.02PM IST

Investments in projects will slowdown further in FY'13, a study by the Reserve Bank of India noted. Demand conditions continue to be a major factor driving investment intentions and the central banks has projected the economy to grow by 6.5%/.

A high inflation which is expected to be around 9% for the sector may inhibit significant reduction in interest costs faced by the corporates. "Thus, the investment outlook for 2012-13 remains subdued.", said the study.


Envisaged capital expenditure in 2012-13, the sum total of investment intentions of the projects, which were taken up prior to 2012-13 and the new capital spending proposals that are expected to come up in the year and is estimated at Rs 2.07 lakh crore. Of this a minimum capital expenditure of Rs 1.4 lakh crore should be from new investment intentions in 2012-13.

Going by the assessment on date, capital expenditure of the above order does not appear to be feasible. "Thus, the envisaged investment by the private corporate sector in 2012-13 is expected to be significantly lower than that in the previous year." RBI said.

A state-wise analysis of investments indicates that Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar were preferred destinations for investments in FY'12, according to the study.

On the other hand, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh (which attracted the highest investment last year), and Odisha witnessed reduction in their share in the total project cost in 2011-12.

Maharashtra attracted Rs 39000 crores worth investments from 91 projects followed by Karnataka which attracted investments worth Rs 24000crore from 43 projects. Though Gujarat was the third largest to attract investments during the year, it lost a significant share in total investments attracted.

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-09-12/news/33789530_1_investment-outlook-capital-expenditure-projects

RBI expecst investments to slow down further

Gayatri Nayak, ET Bureau Sep 12, 2012, 08.02PM IST



http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-09-12/news/33789530_1_investment-outlook-capital-expenditure-projects

Lets be realistic :) we have 10 different versions on this!!! :)
Though stock market boom is not economy, but it shows where is the economy going ahead!

Saddled with huge milk powder stock, KMF moves government (http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/karnataka/article3904689.ece)

Moily assures better sops for Dairy sector in Kolar (http://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/India/20120916/2064994.html) - demand for setting up powder plant in Kolar dairy would be taken with Mr Pawar.

The governments should find out a way for distributing milk powder stock first and then can think of coming up with new milk powder plants. Why don't they distribute milk powder to needy school children? If there is surplus after serving the local needs then they can think of plants to manufacture value added items for export which need not be milk powder.

Special Correspondent Share · print (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3909383.ece?css=print) · T+ (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/article3909383.ece#)

Centre agrees to provide Rs. 3,000 crore for the purpose

Minister for Water Resources Basavaraj Bommai has said that the Union government has accepted the proposal of the State government to include the Narayanpur Left Bank Canal and its distributaries in the Upper Krishna Project under the Expansion-Renovation-Modernisation’ (ERM) plan this year. The Centre has agreed to provide Rs. 3,000 crore to take up comprehensive modernisation and improvement in the NLBC, Indi Branch Canal, Mudbol Branch Canal and Jewargi Branch Canals in the UKP this year.
Talking to The Hindu here on Monday, Mr. Bommai said the State government would be submitting a detailed project proposal for the comprehensive modernisation and improvement in the canal system to improve the flow of water and tackle water seepage and retrieve the lands lost due to water seepage problem.
Modernisation would lead to improvement of water flow to farmers in the tail-end of the command area and improving the carrying capacity in all the canals and distributaries.
Survey
To a question, Mr. Bommai said the government had given its consent to take up socio-economic survey of 22 villages which would be submerged under the UKP stage III projects after increasing the height of storage of water in Alamatti Reservoir.
The government has also started preparing the estimates to set up 22 rehabilitation centres to house the displaced people from 22 villages.
Rehabilitation policy
Mr. Bommai said that the government was also bringing in qualitative changes in the Rehabilitation and Relief (R&R) policy of the State government in tune with the changes effected by the Union government in the rehabilitation policy and changes brought in the Land Acquisition Act. “We will come out with a new R&R policy which will be pro-people and in favour of the displaced families”.
He said that the government had already sanctioned Rs. 550 crore for the infrastructure development works under the UKP II stage for Bagalkot town and another Rs. 90 crore for improvement of infrastructure facilities in more than 60 rehabilitation centres coming under the Stage I and II of the UKP.
Irrigation programme
Mr. Bommai said the State has submitted a proposal to the Central Water Commission (CWC) to include the Upper Tunga and Singatalur irrigation projects under the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP). This would go a long way in enabling easy flow of funds for the works in these two major projects. “This year, the Union government has given its approval to works over Rs. 1,500 crore in different irrigation projects under the AIBP.”
Nod received for survey of 22 villages that will be submerged under UKP stage III projects
‘We will come out with a new Rehabilitation and Relief policy in favour of the displaced families’

Bangalore, Sept 15, 2012 dhns:

Ports Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary on Friday said he was planning on taking a delegation to New Delhi to build pressure on the Centre to approve the proposed port projects in Karnataka.

Poojary also said works on construction of the first phase of a permanent sea wall that had been taken up to prevent sea erosion, would be taken up in Ullal, Dakshina Kannada district. The Rs 911-crore project involving the development of the 200-km State coastline comprises 84.5 per cent funding from Asian Development Bank and 15.5 per cent from the State government. Works in Ullal would be taken up at a cost of Rs 223.32 crore, for which Rs 28 crore has already been released, he said.

DHNS (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/278770/state-team-press-port-projects.html)

http://img.moneycontrol.co.in/news_image_files/Vijay_Mallya_190_Dec2.jpg

United Breweries Ltd's will invest heavily in capex, said chairman Vijay Mallya on the sidelines of the annual general meeting of the company. Mallya said that he is looking at starting greenfield projects in Karnataka and Bihar.

http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/ub-to-invest-heavilycapex-vijay-mallya_761979.html

Shobha predicts a shortfall of 2,000 MW of power (http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/shobha-predicts-a-shortfall-of-2000-mw-of-power/article3941729.ece)

‘We are likely to get 250 MW from Gujarat in January’
It will be a challenge to meet the demand for power with steep fall in hydel and wind power generation, said Minister for Energy Shobha Karandlaje.

Speaking to reporters in Mangalore on Wednesday, Ms. Karandlaje said with decrease in the water levels in the Linganamakki, Supa and Mani dams, there will be shortfall of about 2,000 MW compared to power generated last year. The level of water in the Linganamakki dam has come down to 80 per cent, while the water level at the Supa and Mani dams was around 56 and 60 per cent respectively.

The wind energy production has drastically come down from 1,500 MW to about 200 MW per day in last few days. “Wind is usually good between September and December. We have an installed capacity of 2,200 MW. But with decease in the wind speed, the production has come down.”

Last year, the Minister said, the availability of wind power helped the State in conserving water in the three dams till December and then make use of hydel energy. There are also problems for thermal power plants because of lack of quality coal supply from Talcher in Odisha. The State Government, she said, had no other alternative but to purchase power. “We had submitted tender for purchase of 750 MW. But there is no corridor to supply. We are likely to get 250 MW from Gujarat in January.”

She said this year additional power of 600 MW was available from the second unit of the Udupi Thermal Plant. About 500 MW power will be from the second unit of Bellary Thermal Power Station, which will be dedicated to the nation shortly. “There will be about 1,500 MW extra power that will be available this year,” she said.

The Minister said by next month there will be a review of availability of hydel power, the wind power and from other sources. “We will take appropriate measures to meet the shortfall,” she said and added that there will not be any load shedding.

KPR Mill to diversify

Coimbatore-based textile company KPR Mill will commission a sugar unit in Karnataka next month.

KPR Mill has textile spinning mills and fabric processing and garment units in Tamil Nadu. It exported almost 45 per cent of the yarn and 100 per cent of the garments it produced. The focus of the sugar unit, however, would be on the domestic market.

Rs.300 cr investment

C.R. Anandakrishnan, its Executive Director, told The Hindu on Thursday that the sugar mill would be a fully-owned subsidiary of KPR Mill. The company had invested Rs. 300 crore, excluding the land cost, in the sugar mill that would have 5,000 tonnes of cane crushing capacity a day.

Co-generation facility

The unit would also have a 30-MW co-generation facility. Nearly eight MW would be for captive use of the sugar plant, which would be commissioned on October 3 in Bijapur district.

KPR Mill had 3.5 lakh spindles, in-house garment manufacturing capacity for one lakh pieces a day, and fabric processing capacity of 23 tonnes a day.

The company already had 62 MW installed wind energy capacity.

The Hindu (http://www.thehindu.com/business/companies/kpr-mill-to-diversify/article3942351.ece)

Taiwanese companies to set up electronics units in Karnataka (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/article3951942.ece)

BANGALORE, SEPT. 30:
Taiwanese companies are in advanced stages of talks with the Karnataka Government to set up electronics manufacturing in the State.

About 25 Taiwanese companies are about to finalise a cluster of units in the State, say government officials. A Taiwanese delegation is in talks with the state government to finalise a plan that would also involve setting up a township that would cover the whole gamut of offerings — from manufacturing to training.

DIVERSIFICATION

“Taiwanese companies are keen to set up manufacturing facilities in India since we see growth in the domestic technology consumption,” Shih Chao Cho, Vice Minister of Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taiwan government, told Business Line at the electronics manufacturing expo in Bangalore.

This is also a move to diversify business away from mainland China, he added.

Last month, the Indian government said that it will provide financial support of up to Rs 50 crore for setting up a cluster that will take care of all needs for development of specific kind of electronics manufacturing, akin to government support provided for manufacturing companies in Taiwan and China. As per this scheme, the government will provide aid to special purpose vehicles for setting up such clusters.

BILATERAL TRADE

Taiwan, which boasts of companies like Acer, HTC and other small and medium-sized companies, is trying to increase its bilateral trade with India.

At present it stands at a measly $7.4 billion as compared to the $75 billion of trade between India and China.

Currently, the size of the electronics industry is estimated at $45 billion. With software exports coming under increasing pressure due to a slowdown in developed economies, the government is in the process of kick starting a manufacturing boom that can create more jobs.

According to industry estimates, in the period 2007-2012, Indian electronics sector created a mere 2 million jobs. In the next five years, the government plans to create 20 million manufacturing jobs.

The government is planning to develop two ‘smart’ cities with a host of modern features like intelligent transport and carbon neutral status in each of the states in the second phase of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

“We have an urban renewal mission which means that the central government funds the cities and one of our programmes is that we propose to have two smart cities in every state,” Urban Development Minister Kamal Nath told reporters in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The minister said medium-sized cities with half a million to one million population will be developed as smart cities and the government has sought the expertise of Austrian Institute of Technology for the purpose. Mr. Nath was speaking after meeting a delegation led by Austrian Minister of Transport, Innovation and Technology Doris Bures in Delhi.

“Now how do we define these smart cities, what will it cover....right from broadband, intelligent transport to carbon neutral (features), these are so many components...that is what we propose to collaborate with the Austrian Institute of Technology,” he said. “We want to seek assistance from the Institute on what kind of model smart cities we should look at,” he added.

Mr. Nath also said that medium-sized cities like Ujjain or Jabalpur would be considered for the proposal to create smart cities. “We cannot take on very large cities for smart cities at this stage, we must recognise that. We have to take our medium-sized ones, so we want to look at cities with half a million population to one million population instead of trying to take on cities with ten million population,” he said.

“We have discussed the possibility of collaboration between the Austrian Institute of Technology and the National Institute of Urban Affairs which comes under the ministry of Urban Development,” Mr. Nath said.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/govt-to-develop-two-smart-cities-in-every-state/article3958133.ece



Any guess, which 2 cities from Karnataka they may pick???

The government is planning to develop two ‘smart’ cities with a host of modern features like intelligent transport and carbon neutral status in each of the states in the second phase of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

“We have an urban renewal mission which means that the central government funds the cities and one of our programmes is that we propose to have two smart cities in every state,” Urban Development Minister Kamal Nath told reporters in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The minister said medium-sized cities with half a million to one million population will be developed as smart cities and the government has sought the expertise of Austrian Institute of Technology for the purpose. Mr. Nath was speaking after meeting a delegation led by Austrian Minister of Transport, Innovation and Technology Doris Bures in Delhi.

“Now how do we define these smart cities, what will it cover....right from broadband, intelligent transport to carbon neutral (features), these are so many components...that is what we propose to collaborate with the Austrian Institute of Technology,” he said. “We want to seek assistance from the Institute on what kind of model smart cities we should look at,” he added.

Mr. Nath also said that medium-sized cities like Ujjain or Jabalpur would be considered for the proposal to create smart cities. “We cannot take on very large cities for smart cities at this stage, we must recognise that. We have to take our medium-sized ones, so we want to look at cities with half a million population to one million population instead of trying to take on cities with ten million population,” he said.

“We have discussed the possibility of collaboration between the Austrian Institute of Technology and the National Institute of Urban Affairs which comes under the ministry of Urban Development,” Mr. Nath said.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/govt-to-develop-two-smart-cities-in-every-state/article3958133.ece



Any guess, which 2 cities from Karnataka they may pick???

5L to 10L Population Gulburga/Mysore/Hubli Belgaum match the criteria

5L to 10L Population Gulburga/Mysore/Hubli Belgaum match the criteria

What abt mangalore

What abt mangalore

Oops missed MLR.

My picks are Hubli-Dharwad as the population is very close to Million and Mangalore as the population is just above half Million..

I think Mysuru & Hubballi-Dharawada as Mysuru has ITS already and Hubballi-Dharawada's BRTS is waiting for final approval. Along with BRTS Hubballi-Dharawada will get ITS. Both cities have MysoreOne and HubliOne. Waste Mangement will also be computerized. A few more e-services are needed. Read Smart City (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_city) section 'Wireless sensor networks for smart cities'. City will have 'smart buildings' (more than green buildings, i.e., more building automation stuffs) . And alongiwith buses other vehicles may also become a part of ITS system along with mono or metro. I expect even the government may club 'solar city' project with 'smart city' project.

I think Mysuru & Hubballi-Dharawada as Mysuru has ITS already and Hubballi-Dharawada's BRTS is waiting for final approval. Along with BRTS Hubballi-Dharawada will get ITS. Both cities have MysoreOne and HubliOne. Waste Mangement will also be computerized. A few more e-services are needed. Read Smart City (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_city) section 'Wireless sensor networks for smart cities'. City will have 'smart buildings' (more than green buildings, i.e., more building automation stuffs) . And alongiwith buses other vehicles may also become a part of ITS system along with mono or metro. I expect even the government may club 'solar city' project with 'smart city' project.

Both Mysore and Hubli-Dharwad are selected for solar city project.I think you are right these two cities might very well be selcted for smart city program as well.All I want is a city from north karnataka and a city from south karnataka And please A BIG NO to Bangalore

As Bengaluru and Mysuru were selected in the first part of JNNRUM, so I thought now the chance should be given to 2 different cities to develop..

I think both the cities must be from north karnataka as south and coastal karnataka are far better than north karnataka cities.

Hubli and (gulbarga/belgaum) must be selected.

They should provide exact meaning of smart cities.

As Bengaluru and Mysuru were selected in the first part of JNNRUM, so I thought now the chance should be given to 2 different cities to develop..

+1, Mangalore or Hubli-Dharwad

I think both the cities must be from north karnataka as south and coastal karnataka are far better than north karnataka cities.

Hubli and (gulbarga/belgaum) must be selected.

They should provide exact meaning of smart cities.


Gulbarga needs to still work on its basic infra,before such experiments are carried out.Coz we need bare minimum ecosystem for such experiments to be carried out

BASF to launch fine chemical catalysts production line in Mangalore, India

Mangalore, India - October 8, 2012 - BASF will launch a production line for precious metal-based fine chemical catalysts at the company's manufacturing site in Mangalore, India. These catalysts are important for the efficient production of active pharmaceutical ingredients.

Start-up of the new production line is slated for the second quarter of 2013 and will mark BASF's first manufacturing operation for chemical catalysts in Asia Pacific.

"India is a significant growth market for the pharmaceutical industry. As population expands, the need for new and cost-effective life-saving drugs is also on a rise," said Mr. Prasad Chandran, Chairman, BASF Companies in India & Head South Asia. "BASF has a wide range of products and solutions which find application in the pharmaceutical industry. By introducing a new production line for precious metal-based fine chemical catalysts in India, we will expand our offerings to meet the needs of local pharmaceutical producers."

"BASF is an industry leader in developing cutting-edge catalysts and technologies for pharmaceutical and fine chemical applications," said Dr. Hans-Peter Neumann, Senior Vice President, Process Catalysts and Technologies at BASF's Catalysts division. "This expansion will allow us to cost effectively increase our manufacturing footprint and production capacity, leveraging an existing BASF facility to enhance our proximity to customers in the Asia Pacific region."

The Mangalore site is BASF's largest manufacturing site in India and in South Asia. Operational since 1996, it is currently engaged in the production of performance chemicals, dispersions and paper chemicals, automotive coatings, coil coatings and construction chemicals. BASF currently produces precious metal-based fine chemical catalysts at its operating sites in Rome, Italy, and Seneca, South Carolina.

Catalysts play a key role in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients, agrochemicals, flavors and fragrances and nutrition components. Optimum catalyst selection and operation ensures the highest process yields and efficiencies.


http://www.4-traders.com/BASF-INDIA-LIMITED-9743324/news/BASF-India-Limited-BASF-to-launch-fine-chemical-catalysts-production-line-in-Mangalore-India-15287037/

:cheers:

+1, Mangalore or Hubli-Dharwad




Gulbarga needs to still work on its basic infra,before such experiments are carried out.Coz we need bare minimum ecosystem for such experiments to be carried out

I dont agree on that, As per JNNURM eligibility guidelines below is the requirement

1) Cities/UAs with 4 million plus population as per 2001 census
2) Cities/UAs with 1 million plus but less than 4 million population as
per 2001 Census
3) Selected Cities/UAs (State Capitals and other cities/UAs of
religious/historic and touristic importance)

So, Gulbarga has population nearing 6 laks ( without including Shahbad, FYI, there are discussions happening to merge Shahbad and Gulbarga plus additional 10 villages inbetween and if it happens the population of Shahbad-Gulbarga will be nearing 9 laks(including villages like, Nandur, marthur, kesaratagi, sannur, Bankur, naganahalli srinivas sardagi, kalnoor, Hirapur, Uploan, etc, )
And Gulbarga is city of Historic, tourist, and religious importance...

Twice proposal has been sent to JNNURM for including Gulbarga...
So I believe Hubli-Dharwad, Gulbarga-Shahbad will definately qualify for JNNURM.

FYI, after article 371, next agitation would be for JNNURM

Anyone is there from Davanagere? What is its expected population after merging suburbs?

Govt grants bonanza for North-Karnataka region

GULBARGA, OCT 18:
In a bid to woo people of North Karnatak region ahead of the next year’s assembly polls, BJP government today offered a slew of development projects involving Rs 5,400 crore outlay, besides deciding to set up seven new medical colleges across the state.

A cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar here accorded approval to development projects worth Rs 7,875 crore in the state and granted a lion share of Rs 5,400 crore to Gulbarga division.

The meeting approved extension, renovation and modernisation of Narayanpura left bank canal under Upper Krishna Project area with Rs 4,085 crore expenditure, Shettar told reporters.

He said Rs 408 crore would be spent on development of eight industrial townships in Gulbarga revenue division and Rs 197.71 crore on providing uninterrupted drinking water supply in 13 towns coming under North Karnataka Investment programme.

Sharanbasaveswara Vidya Vardhaka Sangha in Gulbarga has been permitted to set up a private university, he said.

The cabinet approved the proposal to withdraw 20 cases filed against farmers and others who had participated in several agitations in North Karnataka region.

The Hindu (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/govt-grants-bonanza-for-northkarnataka-region/article4009607.ece)

x-post
Karnataka to set up police canteens'

Karnataka Government plans to set up police canteens on the lines of military canteens to provide groceries and other household items at subsidised rates to police personnel, Deputy Chief Miniter R Ashok said.

The minister, who also holds the home portfolio, speaking to reporters on the sidelines of Police Day Celebrations, said such police canteens would be opened in district headquarters.

“It is my dream to provide food and other day to day articles at subsidised rates to the police personnel”, he said.

Ashok said he has already started a dialogue with the finance department and it would be implemented soon.

He said efforts are also being made to reduce working hours of the police personnel since they have to work day and night to maintain law and order.

Ashok said efforts are also on to strengthen coastal security.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/karnataka-to-set-up-police-canteens/article4019376.ece?ref=wl_industry-and-economy

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/5571/daaaaaass.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/840/daaaaaass.jpg/)

^^ I think such type of news can go to 'Harate Katte'. I rather prefer the kind of news below here.

Bank of Baroda plans to expand branch network in Karnataka
Bank of Baroda, which has 80 branches in Karnataka, will open another 20 by March-end, according to an executive. M. D. Mallya, Chairman and Managing Director of the bank, said with the opening of the new branches, the total number will cross 100 in Karnataka.

Added to this, the bank has 33 onsite ATMs and 19 offsite ATMs in the State.

read more:- http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/...ue&ref=wl_home

Mangalore bans plastic bags (http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/mangalore-bans-plastic-bags/article4050259.ece)

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/01253/31MNPLASTICWASTE_1253584f.jpg
Segregated plastic waste at the compost plant of Mangalore City Corporation at
Pachchanady. Photo: H.S. Manjunath

City generates 12 tonnes of plastic waste daily
As the earthmover lifts heaps of solid waste and puts them into a compost-making machine at Pachchanady dumping yard, more of plastic bags roll on the sieve of the machine than organic waste.

The earthmover lifts the waste from a row of heaps left for seven days for decomposing on the premises of the compost plant. But all is not dried up as people tie the plastic bags filled with solid waste before throwing them into bins. This waste tied in plastic bags will not decompose and affects the quality of compost produced at the corporation’s compost plant at Pachchanady, says Manjunath R Shetty, Environment Engineer, Mangalore City Corporation.

“Plastic is a Frankenstein’s monster,” he says. “If you burn it, it produces harmful gas. If you bury it, it reduces soil fertility and prevents percolation of rainwater, affecting recharging of groundwater table,” he says. Marine creatures eat plastic pieces considering them jelly fish and die, he says.

“Of the 200 tonnes of solid waste generated in the jurisdiction of the Mangalore City Corporation daily, 12 tonnes constitute plastic material,” Mr. Shetty says.

Deputy Commissioner N.S. Channappa Gowda says plastic bags, plastic sheets and plastic cups affect segregation of waste at the compost plant.

Plastic waste reduces the life of Pachchanady’s landfill site designed to last till 2030. If the menace of plastic is not controlled, it will occupy more space at Pachchanady, forcing the corporation and the district administration to scout for more dumping sites. The district administration will prohibit use of all types of plastic carry bags, cups and sheets used on dining tables for serving meals at marriages and other functions in Mangalore taluk from November 1.

“We are prohibiting the use of plastic material which create nuisance,” he says. Mr. Gowda says the use of plastic will be prohibited under Plastic Manufacture, Sale and Usage Rules, 2011. According to the rules, it is the responsibility of plastic manufacturers to dispose of the material produced by them. The district administration held a meeting with plastic manufacturers here last year and asked them to collect the used plastic items and dispose them of. But they have not responded positively. According to rules, urban local bodies can restrict their use. Manufacturing of plastic bags and cups by industries at Baikampady Industrial Area may continue. “They can sell them in other places,” Mr. Gowda says.

The president of Nagarika Hitarakshana Samiti, Mangalore, G. Hanumantha Kamath, says the samiti supports the move. But the district administration and the corporation should pursue the issue seriously. The move should not just be an eye-wash.

KIADB Invites tender for

> CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR PREPARATION OF DETAILED PROJECT REPORT (DPR) FOR FORMATION OF LAYOUTS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STONE CRUSHER IN KAJJARI VILLAGE OF RANEBENNUR TALUK, BINGAPUR VILLAGE OF HANAGAL TALUK & MALAGI VILLAGE OF HIREKERUR TALUK, HAVERI DISTRICT.

> CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR PREPARATION OF DETAILED PROJECT REPORT (DPR) FOR FORMATION OF LAYOUTS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STONE CRUSHER IN SUHALLI VILLAGE, NANJANGUD TALUK, MYSORE DISTRICT.

> CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR PREPARATION OF DETAILED PROJECT REPORT (DPR) FOR FORMATION OF LAYOUTS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STONE CRUSHER IN RAJPUR VILLAGE, RON TALUK, GADAG DISTRICT.

Akzo Nobel India Ltd : AkzoNobel inaugurates the India Analytical Centre

AkzoNobel, the world's largest Paints and Coatings Company and a leading producer of Specialty Chemicals, has launched a new initiative at its International Research Centre at Bangalore. The India Analytical Centre (IAC) as this new initiative is now known was inaugurated last week by Dr Graeme Armstrong, AkzoNobel's Executive Committee Member responsible for Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) and Director on the Board of Akzo Nobel India Limited.

According to Dr Graeme Armstrong, "India is recognized globally for frugal innovation and as a fast emerging R&D hub. Over the years, AkzoNobel's International Research Lab in Bangalore has been very successful in product and colour research for automotive customers, world-over. The efficacy of our Bangalore lab has also been due to its exceptional collaboration model with multiple other AkzoNobel labs around the globe."

"Now, the India Analytical Centre (IAC) at our Bangalore lab will leverage AkzoNobel's global and local resources to provide high quality analytical services to fulfill the needs of all coatings businesses in India; be it decorative, Industrial, protective or automotive coatings. The IAC will also have the process capability to evaluate and certify raw materials, intermediates and products in India, thereby enhancing the operational excellence of Akzo Nobel India's manufacturing units by both, reducing time taken to manufacture and enhancing the quality of the manufactured product."

Sudhakar Dantiki, Director RD&I, Akzo Nobel India, adds, "The IAC will use the existing common pool of scientists, measurement methodologies and analytical equipment present in Akzo Nobel India's R&D locations at both Bangalore and Thane. It will not only asses AkzoNobel's products to meet the local./Indian product certifying specifications but will aim to provide faster and better solutions to technical challenges faced by our coatings customers in the transport, construction and industrial segments."

The IAC is equipped with instrument technologies like Spectroscopy which is critical in maintaining the highest quality in the raw materials such as resins; Rheology - that is used to study the flow and viscosity profiles of products in product development and application,; as well those for thermal Analysis and corrosion studies which allow technicians to evaluate product durability under different conditions and over different substrates.

In addition, the IAC will also be home to the colour group - a team of diversified and talented professionals. These technicians use sophisticated tools, processes and softwares and are engaged in researching and developing next generation colour tools, algorithms, formula development and training thereby providing innovative colour solutions to the customers.

Akzo Nobel India's strength of about 150 research, development and innovation (RD&I) professionals comprise scientists, physicists, engineers and IT professionals from different disciplines who work together to enhance value to AkzoNobel's customers in India.

Source (http://www.4-traders.com/AKZO-NOBEL-INDIA-LTD-9059195/news/Akzo-Nobel-India-Ltd-AkzoNobel-inaugurates-the-India-Analytical-Centre-15447270/)


Hope they start work on their long pending manufacturing plant to be setup in Mysore.

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2012/11/01/20121101a_006100009.jpg

ಹುಬ್ಬಳ್ಳಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಶೀಘ್ರ ಕೆಎಲ್ಇ ಮೆಡಿಕಲ್ ಕಾಲೇಜ್



ಬೆಳಗಾವಿ : ಕೆಎಲ್*ಇ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆ ಹುಬ್ಬಳ್ಳಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಹೊಸ ವ್ಯೆದ್ಯಕೀಯ ಮಹಾವಿದ್ಯಾಲಯ ಶೀಘ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ಆರಂಭಿಸಲಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಯ ಕಾರ್ಯಾಧ್ಯಕ್ಷ ಡಾ. ಪ್ರಭಾಕರ ಕೋರೆ ಹೇಳಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ನಗರದಲ್ಲಿ ಮಂಗಳವಾರ ಸುದ್ದಿಗಾರರೊಂದಿಗೆ ಮಾತನಾಡಿದ ಅವರು, ಇದಕ್ಕಾಗಿ ಮೂರುಸಾವಿರ ಮಠ ಹುಬ್ಬಳ್ಳಿಯ ಹೃದಯಭಾಗದಲ್ಲಿ 25 ಎಕರೆ ಜಮೀನನ್ನು ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗೆ ದಾನವಾಗಿ ನೀಡಿದೆ. ಮಹಾವಿದ್ಯಾಲಯ ಮಠದ ಹಿರಿಯ ಶ್ರೀ ಮೂಜಗಂ ಹೆಸರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರಾರಂಭವಾಗುತ್ತದೆ ಎಂದು ತಿಳಿಸಿದರು.

ಜಮೀನನ್ನು 'ಎನ್*ಎ' ಮಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವುದು, ಕಟ್ಟಡದ ನೀಲನಕ್ಷೆ ತಯಾರಿಕೆ, ಸರಕಾರದಿಂದ ಅನುಮತಿ ಪಡೆಯುವುದು ಒಳಗೊಂಡು ಇತರೆ ಎಲ್ಲ ಪ್ರಕ್ರಿಯೆಗಳು ನಡೆದಿವೆ. ಮೂರ*್ನಾಲ್ಕು ತಿಂಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ ಕೆಲಸವನ್ನೂ ಆರಂಭಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಇದು ಕೈಗೂಡಿದರೆ ಉತ್ತರ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ವೈದ್ಯಕೀಯ ಶಿಕ್ಷಣ ಮತ್ತು ಆರೋಗ್ಯ ಕ್ಷೇತ್ರ ಮತ್ತಷ್ಟು ಬಲಿಷ್ಠಗೊಳ್ಳಲಿದೆ ಎಂಬ ವಿಶ್ವಾಸ ವ್ಯಕ್ತಪಡಿಸಿದರು.

ಈ ಮಹಾವಿದ್ಯಾಲಯದ ಮೊದಲ ಹಂತದ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ ಕೆಎಲ್*ಇ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆ 300 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ.ಗಳನ್ನು ವೆಚ್ಚ ಮಾಡಲಿದೆ. ಅತ್ಯಾಧುನಿಕ ಸೌಕರ್ಯಗಳನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿದ 500 ಹಾಸಿಗೆಗಳ ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆಯೂ ಇರುತ್ತದೆ. ಪ್ರತಿ ಹಂತದಲ್ಲೂ ಇದರ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ ವಿಶಿಷ್ಟವಾಗಿರುವಂತೆ ನೋಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ದೇಶದ ಇತರೆ ವೈದ್ಯಕೀಯ ಮಹಾವಿದ್ಯಾಲಯಗಳಿಗೆ ಇದು ಮಾದರಿಯಾಗಲಿದೆ ಎಂದರು.

ಕೆಎಲ್*ಇ ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆ ಈಗಾಗಲೇ ಜಾಗತಿಕವಾಗಿ ಹೆಸರು ಮಾಡಿದೆ. ಜೆಎನ್*ಎಂಸಿಯೂ ಇದಕ್ಕೆ ಹೊರತಲ್ಲ. ಬೆಳಗಾವಿ ಯಳ್ಳೂರ ಬಳಿ 40 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ.ಗಳ ವೆಚ್ಚದಲ್ಲಿ ಅತ್ಯಾಧುನಿಕ ಅನುಕೂಲತೆ ಹೊಂದಿದ 500 ಹಾಸಿಗೆಗಳ ಹೊಸ ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆಯ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ ನಡೆದಿದ್ದು, ಮುಕ್ತಾಯದ ಹಂತದಲ್ಲಿದೆ. ಇದರ ಜತೆಗೆ ಆರೋಗ್ಯ ಸಂಬಂಧಿ ಹೊಸ ಯೋಜನೆಗಳನ್ನು ರೂಪಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ರಾಜಕೀಯ: ಬಿಜೆಪಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಅಭಿಪ್ರಾಯ, ವ್ಯಕ್ತಿ ಸ್ವಾತಂತ್ರ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಅವಕಾಶ ಇರುವುದರಿಂದ ಕೆಲ ಗೊಂದಲಗಳಿವೆ. ಅದೆಲ್ಲ ಸರಿಹೋಗುವ ಭಾವನೆ ತಮ್ಮದು. ಬಿಎಸ್ ಯಡಿಯೂರಪ್ಪನವರು ತಮ್ಮೊಂದಿಗೆ ಬರಲು ಇದುವರೆಗೆ ಕರೆದಿಲ್ಲ. ಅವರು ಆಹ್ವಾನ ನೀಡಲಿ ಮುಂದೆ ಆ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಪ್ರತಿಕ್ರಿಯಿಸುತ್ತೇನೆ ಎಂದರು.

ಕಾಂಗ್ರೆಸ್*ನಲ್ಲಿ ಸರ್ವಾಧಿಕಾರಿ ಧೋರಣೆ ಇದೆ ಎಂದು ಬಿಜೆಪಿಯ ತತ್ವ ಸಿದ್ಧಾಂತಗಳನ್ನು ಮೆಚ್ಚಿಕೊಂಡು ಬಂದಿದ್ದೆ. ಆದರೆ ನಡೆದಿರುವ, ನಡೆಯುತ್ತಿರುವ ಬೆಳವಣಿಗೆಗಳು ಅಸ್ತಿತ್ವಕ್ಕೆ ಹೊಡೆತ ನೀಡುತ್ತಿವೆ. ಇದನ್ನೆಲ್ಲ ಸರಿಪಡಿಸಿರಿ ಎಂದು ಕೋರಲು ಆಪ್ತ ಸಂಸದರ ನಿಯೋಗವೊಂದನ್ನು ಕರೆದುಕೊಂಡು ವರಿಷ್ಠರನ್ನು ಕಾಣಲು ದಿಲ್ಲಿಗೆ ಹೋಗುತ್ತೇವೆ. ಸ್ಪಂದನೆ ಸಿಗದಿದ್ದರೆ ನಾವೆಲ್ಲ ಆತ್ಮಾವಲೋಕನ ಮಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವುದು ಅನಿವಾರ್ಯವಾಗುತ್ತದೆ ಎಂದು ಸೂಚ್ಯವಾಗಿ ಎಚ್ಚರಿಸಿದರು. ಜತೆಗೆ ಎಸ್.ಎಂ. ಕೃಷ್ಣ ರಾಜ್ಯ ಆಗಮನದ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಪ್ರತಿಕ್ರಿಯಿಸಲು ನಿರಾಕರಿಸಿದರು.
http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/17021908.cms

Very Good News for Hubli-Dharwad People.

According to Mr Prabhakar Kore who addressed Press in Belgaum yesterday as follows..

* KLE is going to open Medical College and Hospital of 500 beds in Hubli.

* Moorusavira Math has given 25 acres of land to KLE free of cost in the heart of Hubli.

* KLE is naming the College as fomer Swamiji of Moorusavira Math - Sri Moojagam. ( I heard Mooruswamira Math trust has given land to KLE free of cost based on the condition, KLE has to name Medical College and Hospital as Sri Moojagam)

* KLE Hopital will be super speicality hospital having all facilities.

* Medical College will be role model for other medical colleges.

* KLE is spending Rs 300 crores in the first phase.

* At present, different works like NA of site, Building plans and getting permision from State government are under process.

* Construction may start in 3-4 months of time.

M V Beypore Sultan to be launched tomorrow (http://www.business-standard.com/generalnews/news/m-v-beypore-sultan-to-be-launched-tomorrow/74725/)

Lots Shipping Ltd, one of India's premier Inland Water Transport companies, is entering into Coastal Shipping and would be launching M V Beypore Sultan, the first River Sea Container vessel, tomorrow, which would be transporting cargo from Kochi-Mangalore and various smaller ports in Kerala from mid-December this year.

Coffee, cashew, tiles, sanitaryware are among the cargoes which will be handled by the ship.

Beypore Sultan, the first indigenous 'IRS Class, Type IV River Vessel', is capable of carrying 81 TEUs (Twenty foot equivalient Units) and will be launched by Ports and Fisheries minister, K Babu, Renjit T Nelluvelil, CEO and Captain Philip Mathew, Managing Director of LOT Shipping told reporters here.

The vessel will be a boon to exporters and importers from the hinterland of minor ports such as Beypore, Azhikkal, Thangaserry, Vizhinjam, Mangalore and Tuticorin besides relieving the increasingly intense pressure on the state's roads, Renjit said.
The connectivty to the Vallarpadam International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT) to and from these ports will help the business community by reducing cost and increasing their competitiveness. This will also reduce pollution and lowering carbon emission.

In one month, about 25,000-30,000 trucks can be offloaded from the roads once various containers are transported by water, Captain Philip Mathews said.

The Rs 12 crore vessel has been constructed by Master Shipyard Private Ltd, at nearby Eda Kochi, an associate company of LOTS Shipping Ltd.

To meet the demand for the boom in coastal shipping, LOTS Shipping will be building 10 coastal river sea vessels over the next three years. These ships can operate only in Indian waters and about 12 miles from the coast.

There were also plans to start service from Tuticorin to Mangalore after another vessel was constructed.

Source (http://www.plasticsnews.com/headlines2.html?id=26924)

GEEL, BELGIUM (Nov. 1, 9:25 a.m. ET) -- Indian polyester producer JBF Industries is to launch Europe’s biggest PET plant to date, a facility with 432,000 metric ton per year nominal output which it will build in Geel, Belgium with completion set for 2014.

JFB group is planning, through a subsidiary, to launch a 90,000 metric ton per year polyester films plant in Bahrain in June next year and has decided to set up a 1.25 million metric ton per year PTA operation in Mangalore, India.

Small Town, Big Business (http://business.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?282623)
Rapid expansion in overseas markets is expected to drive manipal global’s growth in the years to come

“We would rather take the private equity route than go public if we need more funds" — Ranjan Pai, MD & CEO, Manipal Education and Medical Group

At A Glance
Started: 1933
Initial investment: Na
No. of campuses: 7
No. of students: 30,000+
Revenue: Rs 1,800crore* (1,000+ MaGE, 800+ MU)
Profit: Na
*As of FY12

***

Money Pals

MaGE’s robust growth has been underscored by PE investors

IDFC PE & Capital Rs 700 crore
PremjiInvest Rs 200 crore
Catamaran Rs 200 crore
Source: Company

***

It’s past 10 in the night and Manipal is buzzing. The university town, an hour and a half from Mangalore, is alive with parota joints full of students. There are no tables to be found at KFC, Pizza Hut or Domino’s, which serve fast-food staples favoured by students. The queue at Baskin Robbins seems a mile long. Students, many of them foreign, chat and laugh after spending their day at one of Manipal University’s (MU) many courses ranging from medicine, engineering and management to architecture, communications and jewellery design. Part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), MU has grown from one medical college in 1953 to offer more than 24 streams of studies. MU has developed a reputation for difficult cut-offs, transparency and quality in education despite being privately held. “I paid nothing more than the fee printed on the brochure,” says a young first-year student of the medical college. That’s almost Rs 6.5 lakh per year and Rs 3.2 lakh in the fifth year, adding up to over Rs 29 lakh for an MBBS degree. The Rs 2,600-crore group does not make any money from running its university, at least not directly, even though, when last counted, approximately 26,000 students were studying at its 600-acre campus, in this once-sleepy corner of Dakshin Kannada.

Today, the bulk of the group’s revenues, about Rs 1,100 crore, comes from its for-profit activities, which were centralised under the Manipal Global Education Services (MaGE) banner in 2006, when IDFC Private Equity and Capital Group invested Rs 300 crore. Manipal University and Sikkim Manipal University (SMU), the distance learning university arm of the group, are now part of the not-for-profit entity, which accounts for Rs 800 crore of group revenue. The healthcare portfolio, comprising Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru plus five tertiary care, nine secondary care and three primary care clinics across five states, and the clinical research firm, Ercon Acunova, fetches another Rs 700 crore.

In the case of MaGE, over 50% of its revenues come from foreign campuses in Nepal, Dubai, Antigua and Malaysia and the balance from India. In India, the for-profit entity makes revenues by offering programmes like executive MBA; and by charging fee for services like IT management, content digitisation, network management as well as marketing for SMU and other universities too. MaGE also acquired over 40% stake in MeriTrac in 2007, which claims to be India’s largest testing and assessment enterprise for education institutions, corporates and PSUs, for Rs 30 crore. Steering the ship at MaGE is the group’s 41-year-old MD and CEO, Ranjan Pai.

Old wine, new bottle

The group’s tryst with destiny began when its founder, TMA Pai, purchased 107 acres of land in barren Manipal in 1933. A philanthropist at heart, he started tile-making and weaving ventures to provide sustainable employment to locals in the area, besides establishing elementary and high schools and the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial College of Arts in Udupi. In 1953, he established MU’s flagship Kasturba Gandhi Memorial Medical College, the first self-financing medical college in India. A college of engineering came four years later. After his death, his son Ramdas and nephew Ramesh took over. MU was granted the deemed university status in 1993. But shortly after, a family dispute followed and the assets were split — Ramesh got Kurlon Mattresses and Canara Steel, while Ranjan’s father took over the education business.

Many long-standing Manipal Group employees credit Ranjan with the massive expansion in the group’s activities in the last few years. “Ranjan’s style of working is very aggressive,” says HS Ballal, pro chancellor, Manipal University. Ranjan’s management style, too, has won him praise. “Unlike other family-run enterprises, he believes in empowering his managers, which has worked well for the business,” points out Raja Parthasarathy, managing director, IDFC PE.
The group’s for-profit activities began with the campus in Nepal, where it started a college in collaboration with the Nepal government in 1994. The invitation from the Malaysian government came in 1997, after Indian laws capped the number of foreign students allowed at its medical colleges at 15%. Now, a fifth of all Malaysian doctors are Manipal alumni.

By 2004, PEs seemed interested in the business. “MaGE has a fine blend of businesses that are generating sufficient cash flows and new initiatives that are still in the investment stage,” says Parthasarathy of IDFC, which, along with Capital Group, has invested Rs 700 crore in the group till date.

Going global

Now, MaGE wants to expand its footprint across the world at breakneck speed. In 2008, it took over the American University of Antigua (AUA) to cater to the demand for medical seats in the US (which has around 17,000 seats). AUA’s alumni can practise medicine in Canada, the US and Antigua. Besides, medical education is expensive in the US — $28,685 in public colleges and $46,899 at private colleges. In comparison, AUA’s two-semester medical programme costs approximately $30,000.

Fanning Ranjan’s hunger for growth has been a steady stream of investors. MaGE’s Dubai campus came up in 2010 following a Rs 200 crore investment each by PremjiInvest (Azim Premji’s personal funds) and Catamaran (NR Narayana Murthy’s personal investment vehicle). Now, Ranjan plans on making the Dubai campus bigger. “It is expected to serve as the hub for UAE,” he says. The campus is spread over 750,000 sq ft of built-up area and can accommodate over 4,000 students. The group has already spent Rs 150 crore in Dubai till now and plans to spend another Rs 100 crore over the next two to three years. Similarly, MaGE wants to expand its facilities at Malaysia, where it already has a medical school. “We are looking at establishing the Malaysian campus as a leader in online education in the South East Asia, Africa and the Middle East,” adds Ranjan.

Primed for growth

At last count, Manipal’s valuation stood at $900 million with the promoters holding over 75% stake and strategic investors holding the rest. Though the company had plans to go public, it is now contemplating sticking to the PE route. “We would rather take the private equity route if we need more funds,” says Ranjan. Though the group has already notched up Rs 1,000 crore in debt, investors aren’t too worried. “It has a strong cash flow to service the debt,” says Parthasarathy. While international markets will remain a focus area, MaGE is also strengthening its India business. “We will comfortably grow at 20%,” says Ranjan, whose aim is to rank Manipal among the global 500 universities of the world. “If you are an investor in the education sector with a long-term view, there is no better platform than the Manipal Group to stay invested,” quips Parthasarathy.

ರಾಜ್ಯದಿಂದ ಮೆರಿಟೈಮ್ ಬೋರ್ಡ್ ಪ್ರಸ್ತಾಪ ಬಂದಿಲ್ಲ: ಕ್ಯಾ. ಪಿವಿಕೆ ಮೋಹನ್

ವಿಕ ಸುದ್ದಿಲೋಕ | Nov 4, 2012, 05.00AM IST

ಮಂಗಳೂರು: ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಕಿರು ಬಂದರುಗಳ ಸಮಗ್ರ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಗೆ ಪೂರಕವಾಗಬೇಕಿದ್ದ ಬಂದರು ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಮಂಡಳಿ(ಮೆರಿಟೈಮ್ ಬೋರ್ಡ್) ಸ್ಥಾಪನೆ ಕುರಿತು ರಾಜ್ಯ ಸರಕಾರದಿಂದ ಯಾವುದೇ ಪ್ರಸ್ತಾಪ ಬಂದಿಲ್ಲ ಎಂದು ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ಬಂದರು ಮಂಡಳಿ ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷ ಕ್ಯಾ.ಪಿ.ವಿ.ಕೆ.ಮೋಹನ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಪ್ರಮುಖ ವಾಣಿಜ್ಯ ಬಂದರುಗಳನ್ನು ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಸರಕಾರದ ಬಂದರು ಸಚಿವಾಲಯ ನಿಯಂತ್ರಿಸುತ್ತಿದ್ದರೆ, ಕಿರು ಬಂದರುಗಳ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ, ನಿರ್ವಹಣೆ, ಮೂಲಸೌಲಭ್ಯ, ಸಂಪರ್ಕ ಇತ್ಯಾದಿಗಳನ್ನು ಕೇಂದ್ರ ನೆರವಿನೊಂದಿಗೆ ರಾಜ್ಯ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಮಾಡಬೇಕು. ಇದರಲ್ಲಿ ಮೆರಿಟೈಮ್ ಬೋರ್ಡ್ ಪಾತ್ರ ಮಹತ್ವದ್ದು ಎಂದು ಶನಿವಾರ ಎನ್*ಎಸ್*ಬಿಯ 120ನೇ ಆಡಳಿತ ಮಂಡಳಿ ಸಭೆ ಬಳಿಕ ಸುದ್ದಿಗಾರರಿಗೆ ಅವರು ತಿಳಿಸಿದರು.

ರಾಜ್ಯದ ಪ್ರಸ್ತಾವನೆ ಬಂದಿದ್ದರೆ, ನೌಕಾ ಮತ್ತು ಬಂದರು ಸಚಿವಾಲಯಕ್ಕೆ ಕಳುಹಿಸಬಹುದಿತ್ತು. ಗುಜರಾತ್*ನಲ್ಲಿ 25 ವರ್ಷದ ಹಿಂದೆ ಮೆರಿಟೈಮ್ ಬೋರ್ಡ್ ರಚಿಸಿದ್ದು, ದೇಶಕ್ಕೆ ಮಾದರಿಯಾಗಿ ಕಾರ್ಯನಿರ್ವಹಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಮಹಾರಾಷ್ಟ್ರ ಹಾಗೂ ಕೊಚ್ಚಿಯಲ್ಲೂ ಕಾರ್ಯಾಚರಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಮೀನುಗಾರಿಕೆ, ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ದೃಷ್ಟಿಯಿಂದ ರಾಜ್ಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಬೋರ್ಡ್ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣ ಅಗತ್ಯ ಎಂದು ಅವರು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

2009-10ನೇ ಸಾಲಿನ ರಾಜ್ಯ ಬಜೆಟ್*ನಲ್ಲಿ ಮೆರಿಟೈಮ್ ಬೋರ್ಡ್ ರಚನೆಗೆ 100 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ. ಮೀಸಲಿಡಲಾಗಿತ್ತು. ಬಳಿಕ ವಿಧಾನ ಮಂಡಲದಲ್ಲಿ ಮೆರಿಟೈಮ್ ಕಾಯಿದೆಗೆ ಮಂಜೂರಾತಿ ನೀಡಿದ್ದು, ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಸರಕಾರಕ್ಕೆ ಪ್ರಸ್ತಾವನೆ ಸಲ್ಲಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಹಿಂದಿನ ರಾಜ್ಯ ಬಂದರು ಸಚಿವರು ಹಲವು ಬಾರಿ ಘೋಷಿಸಿದ್ದನ್ನು ಸ್ಮರಿಸಬಹುದು.

ದೇಶದ ಮಧ್ಯಮ ವರ್ಗದ ಬಂದರುಗಳಿಗೆ ಮಿನಿರತ್ನ ಸ್ಥಾನಮಾನ ನೀಡಬೇಕು ಎಂಬ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಸಭೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಚರ್ಚಿಸಲಾಯಿತು. ಇದರಿಂದ ಬಂದರು ಮಂಡಳಿ ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷರ ಅಧಿಕಾರ ಹೆಚ್ಚಲಿದೆ. ಬಂದರಿಗೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಸೌಲಭ್ಯಗಳು ಸಿಗಲಿವೆ. ದೇಶದ ಮುಂಬಯಿ ಬಂದರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಮಾತ್ರ ಹಡಗು ಎಳೆಯುವ ತುರ್ತು ಹಡಗು(ಎಮರ್ಜೆನ್ಸಿ ಟೋಯಿಂಗ್ ಶಿಪ್) ಕಾರ್ಯಾಚರಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಮುಂಬಯಿಗೆ ಇನ್ನೊಂದು ಹಾಗೂ ಪಶ್ಚಿಮ- ಪೂರ್ವ ಕರಾವಳಿಯ ಚೆನ್ನೈಗೆ ಒಂದು ಶಿಪ್ ಒದಗಿಸಲು ಮನವಿ ಮಾಡಲಾಯಿತು ಎಂದರು.

ಕಡಲ್ಗಳ್ಳತನ ತಡೆಯಲು ಸಮುದ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ಸುರಕ್ಷಾ ಕ್ರಮಗಳನ್ನು ಕೈಗೊಂಡಿದ್ದು, ಪ್ರತಿದಿನಕ್ಕೆ ಒಂದು ಹಡಗಿಗೆ ಮಾಲೀಕರು ಮೂರು ಸಾವಿರ ಡಾಲರ್ ಹೆಚ್ಚುವರಿ ಖರ್ಚು ಮಾಡುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ 2008ರಿಂದ ನೌಕಾದಳ ಗಸ್ತು ನಡೆಸುತ್ತಿದೆ. 2011ರಿಂದ ಭಾರತದ ಹಡಗು ಮಾಲೀಕರು ಸಶಸ್ತ್ರ ಪಡೆಯೊಂದಿಗೆ ಸಂಚರಿಸುವ ಅನುಮತಿ ಪಡೆದುಕೊಂಡಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

25 ವರ್ಷ ಹಳೆಯ ಹಡಗುಗಳ ಕಾರ್ಯಾಚರಣೆ ಬಳಕೆಯನ್ನು ಭಾರತ ನಿಷೇಧಿಸಿದೆ. ಸಮುದ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ಮುಳುಗಿದ ಹಡಗಿನ ಅವಶೇಷಗಳನ್ನು ಕಂಪನಿಯೇ ತೆಗೆಯಬೇಕು ಎಂಬ ನಿಯಮ ಇದೆ. ಐದು ವರ್ಷದ ಹಿಂದೆ ನೈರೋಬಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ನಡೆದಿದ್ದ ಸಮಾವೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಹಲವು ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರಗಳು ಇದಕ್ಕೆ ಸಹಿ ಹಾಕಿವೆ. ಆದರೆ, ಇನ್ನೂ ಅನುಷ್ಠಾನಕ್ಕೆ ಬಂದಿಲ್ಲ ಎಂದರು.

ನವಮಂಗಳೂರು ಬಂದರು ಮಂಡಳಿ ಕಾರ್ಯವೈಖರಿ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಪ್ರಶಂಸೆ ವ್ಯಕ್ತವಾಯಿತು. ಇಲ್ಲಿ ಕಲ್ಲಿದ್ದಲು ಮತ್ತು ಸಿಮೆಂಟ್ ಧೂಳು ಮುಕ್ತವಾಗಿ ನಿರ್ವಹಣೆ ಮಾಡಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಹಸಿರು ಪ್ರದೇಶ, ಸುರಕ್ಷೆ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಆದ್ಯತೆ ನೀಡಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಬಂದರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ವಾರ್ಷಿಕ ನಿರ್ವಹಣೆ, ಪ್ರವಾಸಿಗಳ ಆಗಮನ ಹೆಚ್ಚುತ್ತಿದೆ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಗುರುತಿಸಲಾಯಿತು ಎಂದು ಅವರು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ಬಂದರು ಮಂಡಳಿ ಸದಸ್ಯ ಕಾರ್ಯದರ್ಶಿ ಕ್ಯಾಪ್ಟನ್ ಹರೀಶ್ ಕತ್ರಿ, ಸದಸ್ಯ ಗೌತಮ್ ಚಟರ್ಜಿ, ಸಲಹೆಗಾರ ಕ್ಯಾಪ್ಟನ್ ಎಂ.ಎಂ.ಸಜ್ಜಿ, ನವಮಂಗಳೂರು ಬಂದರು ಮಂಡಳಿ ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷ ಡಾ.ಪಿ.ತಮಿಳ್*ವಾನ್ ಸುದ್ದಿಗೋಷ್ಠಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಉಪಸ್ಥಿತರಿದ್ದರು.

ನವಮಂಗಳೂರು ಬಂದರು ಮಂಡಳಿ ಸಮೀಪದ ಮೀನುಗಾರಿಕೆಗೆ ಕಿರು ಬಂದರು ನಿರ್ಮಿಸುವ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಸಭೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಚರ್ಚೆ ನಡೆಯಿತು. ಈ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಮುಂದೆ ಸ್ಪಷ್ಟ ತೀರ್ಮಾನ ಕೈಗೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗುವುದು ಎಂದು ಕ್ಯಾಪ್ಟನ್ ಮೋಹನ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ವಿಕ (http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/17079606.cms)

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2012/11/06/20121106a_003103002.jpg

25,000 acres of dryland in Haveri district to be irrigated

Water lifted from the Varada flowing into a sump constructed under the scheme near Bankapur in Haveri district. The sprinkler irrigation system is functioning in the background.

Lift irrigation scheme with sprinkler system to be inaugurated tomorrow

Nearly 25,000 acres of dryland in Shiggaon, Savanur and Hanagal taluks of Haveri district are all set to be irrigated by sprinkler irrigation system with the commissioning of the Shiggaon Lift Irrigation Scheme on Friday.

The government will be responsible for the maintenance of the sprinkler systems installed on farmland for two years.

Under the Shiggaon Lift Irrigation Scheme with Sprinkler Irrigation System, 1.5 tmcft of water will be diverted from a diversion weir constructed across the Varada, near Halasur village, in Savanur taluk (where the Varada joins the Dharma) and lifted to irrigate 9,900 ha (24,463 acres) of land at higher altitudes.

Under the project, 1.36 tmcft of water will be utilised for irrigation and 0.14 tmcft for pumping water to five minor irrigation tanks. The total cost of the project is Rs. 238 crore and the administrative approval for the project was given in January 2009.

30 VILLAGES

When the project is fully commissioned, it is expected to irrigate 4,945 ha of land in Shiggaon taluk, 2,575 ha in Savanur taluk and 2,380 ha in Hanagal taluk, covering 30 villages in all. Also, five minor irrigation tanks in the surrounding areas will be filled.

Nearly 90 per cent of the work has been completed so far. The remaining work pertains to installing overhead sprinklers on over 2,000 acres of land in Hanagal taluk. The work has been delayed as sugarcane crop on these farmlands is yet to be harvested.

The project will be formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar and the former Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa on Friday at Bankapur.

‘A FIRST’

Water Resources Minister Basavaraj Bommai told The Hindu over phone from Bankapur, “While individual farmers have had sprinkler irrigation system since several decades, such controlled sprinkler irrigation on a large scale, aided by a lift irrigation scheme, is being done for the first time. About 2.6 tmcft of water is required to irrigate 25,000 acres under a conventional scheme. By sprinkler irrigation system, only 0.9 tmcft of water will be required to irrigate 25,000 acres.”

As it was controlled irrigation, a specific crop pattern could also be maintained and that would give scope for development of agro industries in the neighbourhood, he said, and added that this scheme was modelled on an Israeli sprinkler irrigation system.

Assistant Executive Engineer of Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Ltd. Bhimappa B. Battur said the nigam, through the contractor, would maintain the system for the next two years. Farmers in the region had been briefed about the crop pattern that they need to follow, he said.

“Soon after the commissioning, farmers in 23 villages will be able to use the facility. The remaining seven villages will be covered soon. After two years, maintenance of the system will be handed over to the users’ committee.”

Mr. Battur said that as part of the project, a barrage would be constructed across the Varada at a cost of Rs. 31 crore. The work would begin soon.

HOW IT WORKS

The total area to be irrigated (9,900 hectares) has been divided into 119 blocks of about 80 to 85 ha. Each block has been provided with a portable overhead sprinkler irrigation system connected to a sump. Water from the 119 sumps will supplied to 10,912 sprinklers (through 10- hp pumps) to irrigate 154.69 ha in one hour. The sprinkler irrigation system will be operated for 16 hours a day so as to cover an area of 2,475 ha. And in four days, 9,900 ha will be irrigated. The cycle will start again on the fifth day.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/karnataka/25000-acres-of-dryland-in-haveri-district-to-be-irrigated/article4074949.ece

ಸೋಲಾರ್ ಪಾರ್ಕ್*ಗೆ ಹಸಿರು ನಿಶಾನೆ



ಗುಲ್ಬರ್ಗ: ಗುಲ್ಬರ್ಗ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ ಚಿಂಚೋಳಿ ಮತ್ತು ಹುಬ್ಬಳ್ಳಿ-ಧಾರವಾಡದ ಸೋಲಾರ್ ಪಾರ್ಕ್ ಯೋಜನೆಗೆ ರಾಜ್ಯ ಸಚಿವ ಸಂಪುಟ ಅನುಮೋದನೆ ನೀಡಿದೆ ಎಂದು ರಾಜ್ಯ ಮೂಲಸೌಲಭ್ಯ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಖಾತೆ ಸಚಿವ ಸುನೀಲ್ ವಲ್ಯ್*ಪುರೆ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ/ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದಲ್ಲಿ ಕೈಗೆತ್ತಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗುವ ಈ ಯೋಜನೆ ಮೂಲಕ 100 ಮೆ.ವ್ಯಾ ವಿದ್ಯುತ್ ಉತ್ಪಾದಿಸುವ ಗುರಿ ಹೊಂದಿದೆ. ಆದರೆ ಪ್ರಾಯೋಗಿಕವಾಗಿ 50 ಮೆ.ವ್ಯಾ ಮಾತ್ರ ಗುರಿ ಹೊಂದಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಪ್ರತಿ ಮೆ.ವ್ಯಾಗೆ 5.5 ರಿಂದ 6.5 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ. ಯೋಜನಾ ವೆಚ್ಚ ಅಂದಾಜಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ವಿವರಿಸಿದರು.

ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ ಗುಲ್ಬರ್ಗಕ್ಕೆ ಆಗಮಿಸಿದ್ದ ಅವರು ತಮ್ಮನ್ನು ಭೇಟಿ ಮಾಡಿದ ಸುದ್ದಿಗಾರರಿಗೆ ಹೇಳಿದ್ದಿಷ್ಟು.

ಈ ಯೋಜನೆ ಕುರಿತಂತೆ ಇಂಧನ ಮತ್ತು ಮೂಲಸೌಲಭ್ಯ ಇಲಾಖೆ ಅಧಿಕಾರಿಗಳು ಚರ್ಚೆ ನಡೆಸುತ್ತಿದ್ದು, ಕನ್ಸಲ್*ಟಂಟ್ ನಿಗದಿ ಮಾಡುವುದು ಬಾಕಿ ಇದೆ. ಡಿಪಿಆರ್ ಮಂಜೂರಾತಿ ಪಡೆದು ಅಂತಿಮವಾಗಿ ಸಚಿವ ಸಂಪುಟಕ್ಕೆ ಬಂದು ಸಮಗ್ರ ಚರ್ಚೆ ನಡೆಯಲಿದೆ.

ರಾಜ್ಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ, ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದಲ್ಲಿ ಅನೇಕ ಯೋಜನೆಗಳು ಬಾಕಿ ಇವೆ. ತಡದಿ ಪೋರ್ಟ್*ಗೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಿಸಿದಂತೆ 26ರಂದು ಅಧಿಕಾರಿಗಳ ಸಭೆ ನಿಗದಿಯಾಗಿದೆ. ಇದಕ್ಕಾಗಿ 500 ಎಕರೆ ಜಮೀನು ಲಭ್ಯವಿದೆ.

ಗುಲ್ಬರ್ಗ ವಿಮಾನ ನಿಲ್ದಾಣ ಕಾಮಗಾರಿ ಮಂದಗತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ನಡೆದಿದ್ದು, ಇನ್ನೂ ಮೂರು ತಿಂಗಳು ಹೆಚ್ಚುವರಿ ಅವಧಿ ಕೇಳಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಮಾರ್ಚ್ ಒಳಗೆ ಪೂರ್ಣಗೊಳಿಸುವುದಾಗಿ ಸೂಚಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಖಾಸಗಿ ಏರ್*ಲೈನ್ಸ್*ನವರು ಮುಂದೆಬರಲು ಹಿಂದೇಟು ಹಾಕುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ರಾಜ್ಯ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸಂಚರಿಸುವ ವಿಮಾನ ಇಂಧನಕ್ಕೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಿಸಿದಂತೆ ಸಬ್ಸಿಡಿ ನೀಡಲು ಸರಕಾರ ಹೇಳಿದೆ. ಇದೀಗ ಅಮೆರಿಕನ್ ಕಂಪನಿಯೊಂದು ಮುಂದೆ ಬಂದಿದೆ.

ಬೀದರ್ ಏರ್*ಪೋರ್ಟ್*ಗೂ ಸಮಸ್ಯೆ ಎದುರಾಗಿದ್ದು, 150 ಕಿ.ಮೀ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಬೇರೆ ವಿಮಾನ ನಿಲ್ದಾಣದಲ್ಲಿ ನಾಗರಿಕ ವಿಮಾನ ಇಳಿಯಲು ಹೈದರಾಬಾದ್ ಏರ್*ಪೋರ್ಟ್ ಅವಕಾಶ ನೀಡುತ್ತಿಲ್ಲ. ಹೀಗಾಗಿ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ವಿಮಾನಯಾನ ಸಚಿವರೊಂದಿಗೆ ಮುಖ್ಯಮಂತ್ರಿ ಮತ್ತು ತಾವು ಚರ್ಚಿಸಿದ್ದು, ಈ ಕುರಿತು ಪರಿಶೀಲಿಸಿ ಸೂಕ್ತ ಕ್ರಮ ಕೈಗೊಳ್ಳುವ ಭರವಸೆ ನೀಡಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ವಿಜಾಪುರ ಏರ್*ಪೋರ್ಟ್ ಸಮೀಕ್ಷಾ ಕಾರ್ಯ ನಡೆಯುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಅಫಜಲಪುರ, ಜೇವರ್ಗಿ ರಸ್ತೆ ಓವರ್*ಬ್ರಿಡ್ಜ್ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ 8.50 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ. ಬಿಡುಗಡೆ ಮಾಡಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಗುಲ್ಬರ್ಗ-ಬೀದರ್ ರೇಲ್ವೆ ಮಾರ್ಗಕ್ಕೆ 18 ಕೋಟಿ ರೂ. ಬಿಡುಗಡೆ ಮಾಡಲಾಗಿದೆ. ರಾಜ್ಯ ಸರಕಾರ ತನ್ನ ಪಾಲಿನ ಹಣ ನೀಡಿಯಾಗಿದೆ. ರೇಲ್ವೆ ಇಲಾಖೆಯಿಂದ ವಿಳಂಬವಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.


http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/17171155.cms

Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Valyapure said Cabinet has approved the Solar park project for Chinchole in Gulbarga district and Hubli-Dharwad.

This will be PPP aiming to produce 100 MW electiccity, but experimentally aiming to produce only 50 MW.

For generation of each MW, it will cost Rs 5.5 to 6.5 crores.

Axis Aerospace's Devanahalli Aerospace Cluster Project in planning stage



GoK's Bijapur Airport Project faces additional land issues problem



Kabini drinking water project to supply water to 18 wards from 1 December 2012 in Mysore



Integrated Food Park's Tumkur Mega Food Park Project in progress





SLS Textiles Park's Bagalur integrated textile park project to be ready by March 2017

Royal Dutch Shell lays foundation stone for innovation hub in Bangalore



India Cement yet to execute Chincholi cement project

‘Hubli to have State’s biggest truck terminal’

It will come up near Anchatageri
While Dharwad got its first truck terminal, which was inaugurated on Tuesday, Hubli will soon have the biggest terminal in the State.

Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar told presspersons here on Tuesday that the proposed truck terminal would come up at Anchatageri village near Hubli on the Karwar road (NH 63) on 50 acres of land.

He said the terminal was being built by D. Devaraj Urs Truck Terminals Ltd. and the State government had released Rs. 74.85 lakh towards land acquisition.

“Architects and service advisers were nominated in November and the final project report will be ready by December. By December 15, the bhoomi puja will be performed,” he said.

The terminal will have all basic amenities such as toilets, dormitory and canteen. All facilities will be available at a fee of Rs. 20.

He said the truck terminal at Yeshwantpur in Bangalore was spread over 39 acres of land and the one in Mysore was built on 16.50 acres. “The proposed terminal in Hubli will be the biggest in the State,” he said.

To a query, Mr. Shettar said the proposed monorail project was still being discussed and would be finalised after considering the viability report.

The Chief Minister said a park like Brindavan Gardens at Krishnaraja Sagar near Mysore was being planned around the Neerasagar reservoir at Dummawad in Kalghatagi taluk, which is a source of water for the twin cities. The authorities had been directed to take up a study on the same, he said.

On the development of the Kelageri tank in Dharwad, Mr. Shettar said additional funds would be released soon. He said Rs. 1 crore would be released immediately for the renovation of Dr. Mallikarjun Mansur Kalabhavan in Dharwad.

On the proposed Bus Rapid Transport System (BRTS) between Hubli and Dharwad and the slow pace of work on the four-lane road, Mr. Shettar said work on the four-lane road had been delayed as it had been incorporated into the BRTS project. He said the contractor would be asked to expedite the work.

Regarding a letter written by the Centre on irregularities in the use of funds under the MNREGA, the Chief Minister said a reply had been sent.

He said the issue of establishing sand depots in the State would be decided soon.

Mr. Shettar declined to answer queries regarding the party being floated by the former Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa.


Final project report will be ready by December: Shettar

Park to be built around Neerasagar reservoir

The Hindu (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/hubli-to-have-states-biggest-truck-terminal/article4094306.ece)

x-post.
Karnataka launches integrated micro irrigation in Haveri

Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd (JISL) has completed Rs 168 crore Integrated Micro Irrigation Project near Shiggaon in Haveri district of Karnataka. This project is expected to benefit around 8,200 farmers from nearly 30 villages where in farmers will be able to make the most efficient use of water.

Karnataka chief minister Jagadish Shettar inaugurated the project. The project will rejuvenate and irrigate around 9,900 hectares of land and help the farmers who do not have wells for irrigation. The water will be lifted at discharge rate of 6.135 cumec from Varada River with the help of 10,616 HP pump sets and 2,000 mm/1,200 mm diameters and then delivered to six delivery chambers.

This water will be provided to the farmers on equal basis and would be farmed with the help of sprinkler irrigation. The irrigation interval would be of five days to apply 14 mm of water to each farm and the crops would include sunflower, maize, groundnut, chilly, pulses and jowar.

“This is the first of its kind project for collective farming through efficient use of water. This project is a perfect solution for Karnataka where more than 50% of the villages are drought prone. It can be a model for other Indian states too,” Shettar said.

Ajit Jain, managing director, JISL said:, “Traditional way of using the water is a matter of worry as it results in wastage of water. The government aimed to increase water use capacity from traditional 35% to that of 55%. Whereas with our most advanced technology we have made it possible to increase it to 75%. Drip irrigation was the first agriculture revolution in India where as this could be considered as the second revolution in the field.”

JISL has provided all the services to the farmers, right from initial survey, planning, designing, construction, supply.

http://business-standard.com/india/news/karnataka-launches-integrated-micro-irrigation-in-haveri/195477/on

‘Hubli to have State’s biggest truck terminal’



The Hindu (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/hubli-to-have-states-biggest-truck-terminal/article4094306.ece)

Great news, thanks to Mr Shettar..:cheers:

Minister in hurry to inaugurate projects



Karnataka water resources minister Basavaraj Bommai is keen on inaugurating several lift irrigation schemes this month

With elections to the assembly fast approaching and the ruling BJP facing the threat of a split, water resources minister Basavaraj Bommai is keen on inaugurate several lift irrigation schemes. He has chalked out a series of programmes in November to inaugurate the schemes.

It started with chief minister Jagadish Shettar inaugurating the Hipparagi and four other lift irrigation projects in Bagalkot district on Sunday at a function at Athani in Belgaum district. This will be followed by the inauguration of the lift irrigation scheme at Shiggaon in Haveri district on Friday. Incidentally, Shiggaon is Bommai’s constituency.

On November 23, the Honnali lift irrigation scheme in Tumkur will be inaugurated. The third week of the month will see inauguration of Marol scheme and Timmapur lift irrigation schemes in Bagalkot district. It will be followed by dedication of the first phase of Chimmalagi lift irrigation scheme in Bijapur, Chandapur scheme in Bidar and Bheema scheme in Gulbarga district.
Who will take the credit for completing the lift irrigation schemes in the state is the question being asked in the region. Whether water resources minister Basavaraj Bommai, an ardent supporter of former chief minister B S Yeddyurappa will claim the credit or the BJP government, which funded the projects claims this as its achievement is to be seen.

Speaking to Business Standard, Bommai claimed that Karnataka has been in the forefront in implementing irrigation schemes and efficient water management and the Centre had acknowledged it. He said the Centre had selected Narayanpur Left Bank Canal area for the implementation of the pilot project for remodeling and modernisation of canal with technical assistance from China.

He said one thousand hectares of land in the NLBC command area will benefit with the Karnataka government taking up the work under the project.

Bommai said, the Government of India had selected NLBC for the pilot project under the Water Mission. The GoI will sign a MoU with China in this connection. Apart from remodeling and modernisation, the project envisages introduction of volumetric measurement system and water use efficiency measures.

Bommai said the state cabinet had approved the proposal by the Union government at its recent meeting held at Gulbarga. The work will be completed in three years.

On the Kalasa Banduri, Bommai said the delay in implementation of the Kalasa Banduri nala project was due to legal and technical reasons. On the legal front, the tribunal’s work has been very slow as the GoI has not provided basic facilities to the tribunal.

On the technical side, the minister said the work of digging the trench is hampered as the loose soil in the region had been collapsing. The department has taken up digging work to a distance of 5.5 km in non-forest area and has completed work for 4 km. “We are adopting the cut and cover procedure to combat the problem of loose soil collapsing” Bommai said.

Mangalore City Corporation to start door-to-door waste collection from Dec 1 (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangalore/Mangalore-City-Corporation-to-start-door-to-door-waste-collection-from-Dec-1/articleshow/17273985.cms)

MANGALORE: Taking a cue from the garbage mess that Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is facing, Mangalore City Corporation (MCC) will launch a door-to-door collection of solid waste from December 1.

The city corporation authorities expect that eight packages for handling solid waste in the city covering 60 wards will stabilize within a month. MCC has selected contractors for four packages and will do so for the rest by the end of this month.

A four pronged strategy such as segregation of waste at source in two wards, door-to-door collection in remaining 58 wards, their transportation to the landfill site from secondary collection points and collection of bulk canteen/hotel waste - vegetarian and non-vegetarian separately- form part of this strategy. MCC has invited separate tenders for handling bulk canteen waste and will employ six and three vehicles respectively for two types of waste.

Segregation of bio-degradable and non-degradable waste will be undertaken at Mannagudda and Court wards, K Harish Kumar, commissioner told TOI. The initial focus will be to ensure due segregation at source in these wards and then extend it to remaining wards. An attempt to roll out segregation in all wards at once might result in its failure. Organic waste of these two wards after segregation will be sent to the bio-gas plant in Urwa.

Until such time that people in the remaining wards got used to segregation, the waste collected in door-to-door drive and taken to secondary transportation point, will be segregated broadly into two categories in the lorries used to transport them to land fill site at Pachchanady. The lorries will have two compartments, where one will be filled with inert and the other with organic waste, said Manjunath R Shetty, environment engineer of the civic body.

With emphasis on primary collection of waste at source and their transportation to the secondary transportation point, the number of waste bins at secondary point too will come down, he said adding that such bins will be made inaccessible for people. "Otherwise, the whole effort will go waste," he said.

"They will be so placed that it is economical for lorries deployed by the contractors to collect them easily and transport them to the landfill site," he added.

Wise waste management

Each house in two wards will be given two bins of 10-litre capacity. Green bin is for storing biodegradable waste and red bin for non-degradable waste. Each apartment in the two wards will be given two bins of 150-litre capacity for the purpose. They will also be given two pushcarts and a vehicle for collecting solid waste. MCC will spend Rs 6 lakh on each of the two wards for making segregation of solid waste and door-to-door waste collection a success.

NABARD sanctions Rs 236.18 cr to Karnataka (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/292916/nabard-sanctions-rs-23618-cr.html)

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has sanctioned Rs 236.18 crore as loan assistance to the government of Karnataka for building 82 minor irrigation structures, 189 rural roads and 42 rural bridges in different districts.

These projects have been sanctioned under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF XVIII) by the Project Sanctioning Committee in its meeting earlier this month, S N A Jinnah, Chief General Manager, NABARD, Karnataka Regional Office, said.

With these sanctions, the cumulative sanction to the state under RIDF XVIII has reached Rs 264.68 crore, NABARD said.

"Implementation of 189 road projects with a total length of 728.59 km and 42 rural bridge projects with a length of 910.57 metres is expected to benefit 23.17 lakh rural population in 30 districts," according to a NABARD statement.

They will connect 1,049 villages with 379 marketing centres and generate non-recurring employment to the tune of 54.93 lakh mandays, it said.

The construction of 82 minor irrigation structures is expected to enhance irrigation potential to the extent of 5,852 hectare, the statement added.

ಕೊಲ್ಲೂರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಸರಕಾರಿ ಹೆಣ್ಣು ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಅನಾಥಾಶ್ರಮ: ಸಚಿವ ಶ್ರೀನಿವಾಸ (http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/17270870.cms)

ವಿಕ ಸುದ್ದಿಲೋಕ | Nov 18, 2012, 10.13PM IST

ಕೋಟ: ಸರಕಾರದ ವತಿಯಿಂದ ಕೊಲ್ಲೂರು ಮೂಕಾಂಬಿಕಾ ದೇವಸ್ಥಾನದಲ್ಲಿ ಹೆಣ್ಣುಮಕ್ಕಳ ಅನಾಥಾಶ್ರಮ ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಮುಜರಾಯಿ ಸಚಿವ ಕೋಟ ಶ್ರೀನಿವಾಸ ಪೂಜಾರಿ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಅವರು ಭಾನುವಾರ ಕೋಟದಲ್ಲಿ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯ ಸಹಕಾರಿ ಮಹಾ ಮಂಡಲ, ಉಡುಪಿ ಜಿಲ್ಲಾ ಸಹಕಾರಿ ಯೂನಿಯನ್, ಕೋಟ ವ್ಯವಸಾಯ ಸೇವಾ ಸಹಕಾರಿ ಸಂಘದ ಆಶ್ರಯದಲ್ಲಿ 59ನೇ ಅಖಿಲ ಭಾರತ ಸಹಕಾರಿ ಸಪ್ತಾಹದ ಅಂಗವಾಗಿ ಸಹಕಾರಿ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗಳ ವತ್ತಿಪರತೆ ದಿನವನ್ನು ಉದ್ಘಾಟಿಸಿ ಮಾತನಾಡಿ, ಸುಬ್ರಹ್ಮಣ್ಯ ದೇವಾಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಗಂಡು ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಅನಾಥಾಶ್ರಮ, ಬೆಳಗಾವಿ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ ಸವದತ್ತಿ ರೇಣುಕಾಯಲ್ಲಮ್ಮ ದೇವಾಲಯ, ಕೊಳ್ಳೆಗಾಲದ ಮಲೆಮಹದೇಶ್ವರ ಬೆಟ್ಟದ ದೇವಾಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ವದ್ಧಾಶ್ರಮ, ಗುಲ್ಬರ್ಗ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ ಗಾಣಿಗಾಪುರದ ದತ್ತಾತ್ರೇಯ ದೇವಸ್ಥಾನದಲ್ಲಿ ಅಂಧ ಮಕ್ಕಳ ಅನಾಥಾಶ್ರಮ ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಇದರ ಜತೆಗೆ ರಾಜ್ಯದ 25 ವಿವಿಧ ಎ ದರ್ಜೆಯ ದೇವಸ್ಥಾನಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಗೋಶಾಲೆ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ ಹಣ ಬಿಡುಗಡೆಗೊಳಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದರು.

ವಿಕ (http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/17270870.cms)

Good news if muzrai money goes to orphanages.

NMPT targets Shimoga to boost traffic growth (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/nmpt-targets-shimoga-to-boost-traffic-growth/article4111676.ece)

MANGALORE, NOV 19:
New Mangalore Port is targeting Shimoga region to boost its container traffic.

P. Tamilvanan, Chairman of New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT), told Business Line that cargoes such as machinery parts used in automobile industry are now being routed through other ports in the east coast.

He said that Pearlite Lines, a major manufacturer of machinery parts in Shimoga, has diverted 16 containers stuffed with machinery parts through New Mangalore Port for export to Italy, Germany and England.

He said that he visited the factory and held discussion with the management. The management has given assurance for using NMPT for their future exports, he said.

Mahendrappa, president of Shimoga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that there is good potential for NMPT to explore from Shimoga region. The port officials have already held consultations with exporters from the region in this regard. He urged the importers and exporters of Shimoga to utilise the facilities available at New Mangalore Port.

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http://www.sanjevani.com/today/n28.gif

Drip irrigation planned for 26,000 hectares in Bagalkot

Shettar to launch Rs. 800-cr. pilot project today

The project will be taken up by Krishna Bhagya Jala Nigam Ltd. under Stage II of the Ramanath Lift Irrigation Project.— file photo
Nearly 26,000 hectares of land in the command area of the Krishna in Bagalkot district will be irrigated by a drip irrigation project to be taken up Krishna Bhagya Jala Nigam Ltd. (KBJNL).

Sources in KBJNL claimed that a drip irrigation project was being taken up on such a large scale for the first time in the world.

The Rs. 800-crore pilot project would be implemented under Stage II of the Ramanath Lift Irrigation Project in the district. Based on its success, the project would be replicated in various irrigation projects taken up under the Upper Krishna Project Stage III.

KJBNL has completed Stage I of the Ramanath Lift Irrigation Project and nearly 13,500 hectares of land is being irrigated by conventional method.

Sources said that that conventional method of irrigation required more water as it entailed supplying through canals.

With drip irrigation, however, large tracts of land could be irrigated with limited supply of water.

“Drip irrigation method will help us irrigate at least 40 per cent more land compared to conventional methods of irrigation,” KJBNL officials said.

Advantages

One of the other advantages of using drip irrigation system was that yield would increase by nearly 50 per cent as water would be supplied at a steady rate, the officials said.

Supply in tail-end

The other advantage is that water could be supplied even to tail-end farmers, they said.

Officials, however, said the success of the project would depend on proper upkeep of the water supply lines.

Chief Minster Jagadish Shettar is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the drip irrigation project on Sunday.


Large tracts of land can be irrigated with limited water

Yield will increase by nearly 50 per cent: officials

HUBLI: To give a boost to big ticket public private partnership (PPP) power projects in north Karnataka and other parts of the state, the energy department has set up an exclusive PPP cell.

PPP projects identified include 400kv lines in Gadag, 400kv circuit lines between Puttur and Raichur RTPS, solar park in Bijapur and some projects in Hescom and Gescom worth several thousand crore rupees.

Headquartered in Bangalore, the PPP cell will monitor and supervise the projects under development, facilitate projects in accessing various government support, it will deliberate on the policy framework for ensuring investments in the state through PPP model.

DN Narasimharaju, principal secretary to energy department, said these power sector projects are increasingly large and complex in nature and require large investments and technology. So, PPPs are expected to provide optional and new solutions for development of major projects in the state.

Large & complex projects Explaining the need for PPP mode for these projects in north Karnataka, the department maintained that the power sector projects are increasingly large and complex in nature and require large investments and technology. A senior official in the department said the state government will be hard pressed to invest in such projects. As an owner of the public sector undertakings, it may extend external support for borrowings by the utilities due to several constraints.

"In the changed global project development scenario, which requires acceleration of infrastructure development, PPPs are expected to provide optional and new solutions for development of major projects in north Karnataka and other parts of the state," he said.

Reports of these four projects have been submitted to Hescom, Gescom and KPTCL. After comments from the departments, private players will enter the bidding process and thereafter negotiations will be done for the project cost and for other requirements, Narasimharaju said.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hubli/PPP-to-power-mega-projects-in-North-Karnataka/articleshow/17356651.cms

Karnataka to pass infrastructure bill, more opportunities for private sector

Infrawindow News Bureau|Bangalore|Nov. 26, 2012, 03:50 PM
An infrastructure bill would soon be passed in the Karnataka state legislature for better coordination between various departments to attract private sector investment. This was announced by Raj Kumar Khatri, principal secretary, infrastructure development department at the 10th summit on sustainable public private partnership (PPP) in infrastructure, organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

Khatri added that the bill would ensure that the 12 departments including urban development, Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike, health, education, transport, power work directly with the chief secretary to make it easy for private firms to move in with investments. The bill will ensure more transparency and also pave way to establish an infrastructure authority wherein the approvals for projects will happen faster.

He explained that Karnataka now had 12 PPP cells as opposed to only one earlier. “Through these we are planning a seamless connectivity between ports, roads, airports and railways,” he said. The step is seen with much hope by the private sector. Although South India accounts for a major portion of the public private partnership in infrastructure projects, the amount of investment from private sector in the total infrastructure projects is very low as compared to other countries.

Science Gallery plans international branch in India

Science Gallery International have signed a partnership agreement with the Karnataka State Government that may lead to the establishment of a Science Gallery in Bangalore, based on the Science Gallery model pioneered by Ireland’s leading university Trinity College Dublin.
Science Gallery International is an initiative pioneered by Trinity College Dublin and Karnataka State Government to collaborate in cutting-edge science projects. Building on the success of Science Gallery Dublin, it is hoped that Bangalore may host a similar initiative.
Mr. I. S. N. Prasad, Principal Secretary, Department of IT, BT and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, announced that his Government will commission a feasibility study into the potential for Science Gallery Bangalore, and will establish a Steering Committee to oversee its preparation. This will ensure the active participation of key stakeholders in the academic, research and cultural communities, including the Indian Institute of Science, the National Centre for Biological Sciences, and Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology.
Science Gallery Dublin uses broad themes to create multidisciplinary exhibition programmes, targeting 15-25 year olds. It aims “to ignite creativity where science and art collide” and has received more than one million visitors in just five years. With its innovative approach, engaging young adults with cutting-edge culture, it has built up a significant international profile. It is now being developed internationally and last year Science Gallery International received a gift of €1million from Google.org as seed-funding towards the formation of a Global Science Gallery Network.
“With a highly-educated, creative and technologically aware population, Bangalore is the ideal location for a Science Gallery in India,” commented the founding director of Science Gallery Michael John Gorman who was in Bangalore to sign the partnership. He also delivered a public lecture entitled ‘Bridging Art, Science and Technology’ at Bangalore’s National Gallery of Modern Art to mark the event.
“We look forward to studying the potential for developing Science Gallery Bangalore, which we hope will be equally successful, not only in showcasing cutting edge science, but also in reaching out to the widest possible public in an innovative and compelling manner. ” said Mr. Prasad.
“Science Gallery Dublin has been enormously successful in communicating world leading research at Trinity College Dublin to the citizens of Dublin, Ireland’s capital city and to the Irish public in general. A similar initiative in Bangalore would further reinforce its reputation as an innovative and creative hub,” concluded the Provost of Trinity College Dublin, Dr Patrick Prendergast on the occasion of the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding.
Advanced talks are also underway with the UK’s prestigious university, King’s College London with a view to establishing a Science Gallery there. Besides these locations, discussions are underway with potential partners to extend the Global Science Gallery Network to a number of cities including Singapore and New York, with a view to creating a network of eight galleries by 2020.

Link (http://www.universitytimes.ie/2012/11/26/science-gallery-to-open-branch-in-india/)

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2012/11/27/20121127a_002103001.jpg

Cross Post


Tata Marcopolo to set up bus design centre at Dharwad

Tata Marcopolo Motors Ltd plans to set up ‘Global Bus Design Centre’ at Dharwad.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the wire harness division of Patil Electric Works at Gokul Industrial Area in Hubli, Vinay K Pathak, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Marcopolo Motors, said the plan to set up design centre is to manufacture buses of global standards.

GLOBAL STANDARD

Currently, around 80 people are working on the design section of the unit at Belur Industrial Area. “We plan to increase the number to 250 and develop it into a global bus design centre in the coming days,” Pathak said.

At the centre, engineers would be working on improving the designs from Brazil, and the whole process is to benefit both Tatas and Marcopolo resulting in production of global standard buses.

The company so far has invested close to Rs 300 crore for its bus unit at Dharwad. Plans are there to invest another Rs 160 crore for the unit expansion to increase the production capacity.

“Of it, Rs 50 crore is being earmarked for the global bus design centre,” Pathak said.

HIGHER PRODUCTION

To a query, Pathak said the company had plans to increase production from 75 buses per day to 125 buses by June.

“This year, we have set a target of achieving Rs 700 crore turnover,” he said. He added that at present 97 per cent of the workforce at its Dharwad unit was from Karnataka and the company had 1,500 permanent employees.

source (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/tata-marcopolo-to-set-up-bus-design-centre-at-dharwad/article4137470.ece?homepage=true&ref=wl_home)

ಟಾಟಾ ಬಸ್ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸ ಘಟಕ, ಸ್ಥಳೀಯರಿಗೆ ಉದ್ಯೋಗ




http://kannada.oneindia.in/img/2012/11/27-tata-bus300.jpg

http://web.ventunotech.com/beacon/vtpixpc.gif?pid=1001&pixelfrom=cp





ಹುಬ್ಬಳ್ಳಿ, ನ.27: ಟಾಟಾ ಮಾರ್ಕೋ ಪೋಲೊ ಮೋಟರ್ಸ್ ಲಿ. ಸಂಸ್ಥೆ ಧಾರವಾಡದಲ್ಲಿ ಹೊಸ ಗ್ಲೋಬಲ್ ಬಸ್ ಡಿಸೈನ್ ಘಟಕ ಆರಂಭಿಸಲು ಚಿಂತನೆ ನಡೆಸಿದೆ. ಸ್ಥಳೀಯರಿಗೆ ಉದ್ಯೋಗ, ಜಾಗತಿಕ ಗುಣಮಟ್ಟ ಕಾಯ್ದುಕೊಳ್ಳುವುದು ನಮ್ಮ ಗುರಿ ಎಂದು ಟಾಟಾ ಮಾರ್ಕೋ ಪೋಲೊ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆ ಸಿಇಒ ವಿನಯ್ ಕೆ ಪಾಠಕ್ ಹೇಳಿದ್ದಾರೆ.
ಇಲ್ಲಿನ ಗೋಕುಲ ಕೈಗಾರಿಕಾ ವಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಟಾಟಾ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಯ ಹಾರ್ನೆಸ್ ವಿಭಾಗವನ್ನು ಉದ್ಘಾಟಿಸಿ ಅವರು ಮಾತನಾಡುತ್ತಿದ್ದರು. ಈ ಹಿಂದೆ ಬೇಲೂರು ಘಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಸ್ಥಳೀಯರಿಗೆ ಉದ್ಯೋಗ ನೀಡಿಲ್ಲ. ರೈತರ ಭೂಮಿ ಕಬಳಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಸ್ಥಳೀಯರು ಆಕ್ರೋಶ ವ್ಯಕ್ತಪಡಿಸಿದ್ದನ್ನು ಇಲ್ಲಿ ಸ್ಮರಿಸಬಹುದು.
ಸದ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಬೇಲೂರು ಕೈಗಾರಿಕಾ ಪ್ರದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ತಾತ್ಕಾಲಿಕವಾಗಿ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸ ಘಟಕ ಆರಂಭಿಸಲಾಗಿದ್ದು, ಸುಮಾರು 80 ಜನ ಕಾರ್ಯ ನಿರ್ವಹಿಸುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಸದ್ಯದಲ್ಲೇ ಉದ್ಯೋಗಿಗಳ ಸಂಖ್ಯೆಯನ್ನು 250ಕ್ಕೆ ಏರಿಸಲಾಗುವುದು. ಸುಸಜ್ಜಿತ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸ ಘಟಕ ಸ್ಥಾಪನೆ ಸಕಲ ಸಿದ್ಧತೆ ಪೂರ್ಣಗೊಂಡಿದೆ ಎಂದು ವಿನಯ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು.
ಸ್ಥಳೀಯ ಇಂಜಿನಿಯರ್ (http://kannada.oneindia.in/topic/engineer)ಗಳ ಜೊತೆಗೆ ಬ್ರೆಜಿಲ್ ನಿಂದ ಬರುವ ನುರಿತ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸಗಾರರು ಈ ಬಸ್ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸ ಘಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಕಾರ್ಯ ನಿರ್ವಹಿಸಲಿದಾರೆ. ಜಾಗತಿಕ ಮಟ್ಟದಲ್ಲಿ ಹೊಸ ಬಗೆಯ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸವುಳ್ಳ ಬಸ್ ಗಳನ್ನು ಪರಿಚಯಿಸಲು ಟಾಟಾ ಹಾಗೂ ಮಾರ್ಕೊಪೋಲೊ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆ ಶ್ರಮಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ ಎಂದರು.
ಸುಮಾರು 300 ಕೋಟಿ ಬಂಡವಾಳ ಹೂಡಿಕೆ ಮಾಡಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಇನ್ನೂ ಸುಮಾರು 160 ಕೋಟಿ ರು ಹೂಡಿಕೆ ಮಾಡಿ ಧಾರವಾಡದ ಘಟಕವನ್ನು ವಿಸ್ತರಿಸುವ ಯೋಜನೆಯಿದೆ. ಇದರಲ್ಲಿ 50 ಕೋಟಿ ರು ವಿಶೇಷವಾಗಿ ಗ್ಲೋಬಲ್ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸ ಘಟಕಕ್ಕೆ ಮೀಸಲಿಡಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದರು.
ಸದ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಪ್ರತಿ ದಿನಕ್ಕೆ 75 ಬಸ್ ಗಳನ್ನು ತಯಾರಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಈ ಸಂಖ್ಯೆಯನ್ನು ಮುಂಬರುವ ಜೂನ್ ವೇಳೆಗೆ 125 ಬಸ್/ದಿನಕ್ಕೆ ಏರಿಸಲಾಗುವುದು ಎಂದರು.
ಪ್ರಸಕ್ತ ವರ್ಷ 700 ಕೋಟಿ ರು ಟರ್ನ್ ಓವರ್ ಗುರಿ ಹೊಂದಿದ್ದೆ. ಸದ್ಯ ವಿನ್ಯಾಸ ಘಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಶೇ 97 ರಷ್ಟು ನೌಕರರು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದವರೇ ಆಗಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಕಂಪನಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸುಮಾರು 1,500 ಉದ್ಯೋಗ (http://kannada.oneindia.in/topic/jobs)ಿಗಳಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಹೊಸ ಘಟಕಕ್ಕೆ ಇನ್ನಷ್ಟು ಸ್ಥಳೀಯರನ್ನು ಆಯ್ಕೆ ಮಾಡಲಾಗುವುದು ಎಂದು ವಿನಯ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

http://kannada.oneindia.in/news/2012/11/27/business-global-bus-design-centre-dharwad-tata-marcopolo-jobs-069847.html

Same news as above one, in Kannada version..

Cross Post
“This year, we have set a target of achieving Rs 700 crore turnover,” he said. He added that at present 97 per cent of the workforce at its Dharwad unit was from Karnataka and the company had 1,500 permanent employees.



Good thing is 97% of Kannadigas (majority are from hubli-Dharwad) are emplyed in the Tata Marcopolo hope all industries in the Karnataka follow Tata marcopolo..

Good thing is 97% of Kannadigas (majority are from hubli-Dharwad) are emplyed in the Tata Marcopolo hope all industries in the Karnataka follow Tata marcopolo..

This is a good sign. Where as in MRPL most of the employees are from outside Karnataka

This is a good sign. Where as in MRPL most of the employees are from outside Karnataka

In MRPL, most of the labors are from Engineers and there is no direct recruitment, We have to write Central exams for that. Where as there is one more set of employees in these central industries called Contractors, there you will find large number non professional workers like, Welders, Riggers, Grinders, Masonry painting etc which mainly are locals..

If you take example of MCF you will have maximum locals and workers speaks Tulu itself..

Chikkaballapur, Nov 29, 2012, DHNS:

The State government has constituted a technical committee to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) on supplying drinking water to 44 taluks in seven districts as proposed by the G S Paramasivaiah Committee.

The government has issued an order in this regard on November 23 and instructed the committee to focus on measures for rejuvenation of 9,000 tanks in the 44 taluks of Bangalore Rural, Ramanagara, Tumkur, Chikkaballapur, Kolar, Hassan and Chikmagalur districts. Irrigation expert Paramasivaiah, who has been appointed chairman of the new technical committee, told Deccan Herald that retired engineers V T Muddihal, Ramprasad, A S Sadashivaiah and Y Lingaraju and Guruprasad, a senior official from the department of Water Resources, will be members of the panel.

Preparation of DPR

The report submitted by the earlier committee, which was also headed by Paramasivaiah, would serve as the basis for the preparation of the DPR.

Paramasivaiah said the basic idea was to draw 24 TMC feet of water in the initial phase from various rivers. Subsequently, 50 TMC feet of water would be drawn from the River Nethravathi and another river that flows in Kodagu district; and 15 TMC feet from the River Hemavathi.

Water will be drawn only to meet the drinking water needs of these districts.
Even several areas under the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike would get adequate water.

Permanent facilities

In the long run, permanent irrigation facilities would be created in these districts, he said.
“The drinking water scheme will be implemented in five to six years. The scheme will be cost-effective and it will not affect the forests as is being feared. I am confident that there will be no hurdles in implementing the scheme,” he said.

DHNS (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/295328/panel-draft-dpr-drinking-water.html)

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http://www.kannadaprabha.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=KPD20121130013935&Title=District+News&lTitle=%C1%DBd%C0+%C8%DB%7D%E6%25&Topic=0&ndate=11/30/2012&dName=%A8%DB%C1%DA%C8%DBs%DA&Dist=9



Permanent Industrial Exhibition Centre is coming up in Hubli at the cost of Rs 7.5 crores in the area spread across 9 acres of land.

Mangalore: A Seminar/Press Meet was held at Hotel Gold Finch on December 4, 2012 at 11am on discussions of the building and infrastructure of Mangalore City/Corniche Project, where the new DK Deputy Commissioner M Prakash, Karnataka State Speaker Yogish Bhat, Mayor of Mangalore Gulzar Banu, Deputy Mayor, Chairman of MUDA S Ramesh, CEPT University Professor PV Rameshwar, City corporators, Engineers and media personal took part. The concept and proposals for a better, modern and developed Mangalore City was delivered to the august gathering through visual demonstration by a dozen of Masters of Architect, belonging to the CEPT University, Ahmedabad.

Centre of Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) University is an academic institution located in Ahmedabad, offering under-Graduate and Post-Graduate programmes in areas of natural and developed environment of human society and related disciplines. The university is recognized as Scientific and Industrial Research Organization by the Department of scientific and Industrial Research.
http://mangalorean.com/images/newstemp33/20121204h27-17.JPG

http://mangalorean.com/images/newstemp33/20121204h27-19.JPG

Mangalore which is now the fastest growing II tier city in Karnataka state has all the requisite credentials to develop further into a mega city. The indicators like proposed infrastructure development allocations by the state, city development plan etc., point towards this possibility. Preparing a Master plan, keeping all further progresses and population expansion in mind, is the foremost task in the agenda undertaken by the Mangalore Urban Development Authority. Urban Development Authority is a state government body dealing with citizen requirements in all sectors, enabling and providing the needed services and other facilities to the citizens, business firms, industries, commercial establishments etc. City beautification including reserving areas for housing, commercial, horticultural and agricultural enterprises is shouldered in a scientific manner by the Urban Development Authority to avoid imbalances of any kind. S Ramesh is the Chairman of MUDA.

The main four areas where the Masters of Architecture of CEPT University have been working on and have finalized the proposals as to how they can transform the existing areas into modern and most sophisticated landmarks are : Sultan Battery Area, Car Street, Old Bunder Port, and Tile Factory area near Morgan's Gate. Everyone liked the presentation which was well designed and planned. Once their proposals are accepted by the concerned authorities,the whole project may cost around 3500-4000 thousand crores, but can bring back about more revenue than you spent.

So, we will have to wait and see whether the unique plans and proposals which have been put forth by these architects will be a reality. Let's hope for a better and modern Mangalore City within the next few years - how about 2020 ?

http://www.mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=broadcast&broadcastid=362690

FKCCI expects Rs. 1,000 cr. investments at Coorg Investors Meet

‘It will be a boon to develop the industrially backward Kodagu district’
The proposed Coorg Investors Meet (CIM), a business development summit, scheduled to be held in Madikeri on December 18, is expected to attract Rs. 750 crore to Rs. 1,000 crore investments in various non-polluting industries from over 60 entrepreneurs, president of the Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FKCCI) K. Shivashanmugam said here on Tuesday.

It would be a boon to develop the industrially backward Kodagu district, Mr. Shivashanmugam told presspersons here. The FKCCI was facilitating a platform for the State government and private sector in fields such as IT, BT, tourism, garment, food processing, and education sector to interact with the participants. Establishing coffee technology park, promoting tourism, developing horticulture, popularising beekeeping, and setting up cold storage facilities for vegetables and flowers had good scope in Kodagu.

All the industries proposed to be set up would not have any adverse impact on the environment of the district, he said.

These industries would generate employment for local people in a big way and help farmers make over their lands for developing industries, Mr. Shivashanmugam said. Educational institutions, especially residential, would prevent youth from leaving Kodagu in pursuit of studies.

The FKCCI intended to remove the regional imbalances with regard to industrial development and account for the prosperity of the district, he said. Senior vice-president of the FKCCI R. Shivakumar endorsed his statements.

The participants from the State government and its agencies, investors, the representatives of the FKCCI, Mysore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, KIADB, KSSIDC, MSME, bankers, and New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT) would participate in the CIM and offer suggestions to the people who would want to set up industries in the district,

Many farmers in Kodagu had come forward to offer lands to set up industrial units, Mr. Shivashanmugam claimed.

Rail links

The Mysore-Kushalnagar survey for rail links had been completed. Railway line would be a boon to the people of Kodagu, he said. The meet would culminate after a session on business opportunities in which the NMPT officials would make a presentation on export facilities. Mr. Shivashanmugam agreed to a point that the road infrastructure was poor in Kodagu apart from shortage of electricity and water, the vital ingredients for industrial development. The State government had agreed to address the issue after the FKCCI had spoken to the Chief Minister, Jagadish Shettar and Industries Minister, Murugesh Nirani, he said. A session proposed to be held in the CIM would focus on the road connectivity from Kodagu to Kerala. That the State Government intended to come up with a mini airport in Kodagu for which lands had been identified in Somwarpet taluk was a god augury, he stated.

The president of the MCCI, Sudhakar Shetty, said that Yadgir and Bellary districts, supposed to be industrially backward, would be considered next for holding investors’ meet.


‘The FKCCI wants to remove the regional imbalances with regard to industrial development’

The December 18 meet is expected to generate 10,000 jobs for local people: Sudhakar Shetty

The Hindu (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/fkcci-expects-rs-1000-cr-investments-at-coorg-investors-meet/article4165948.ece)

FKCCI expects Rs. 1,000 cr. investments at Coorg Investors Meet (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/fkcci-expects-rs-1000-cr-investments-at-coorg-investors-meet/article4165948.ece)

‘It will be a boon to develop the industrially backward Kodagu district’
‘The FKCCI wants to remove the regional imbalances with regard to industrial development’
The December 18 meet is expected to generate 10,000 jobs for local people: Sudhakar Shetty
The proposed Coorg Investors Meet (CIM), a business development summit, scheduled to be held in Madikeri on December 18, is expected to attract Rs. 750 crore to Rs. 1,000 crore investments in various non-polluting industries from over 60 entrepreneurs, president of the Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FKCCI) K. Shivashanmugam said here on Tuesday.

It would be a boon to develop the industrially backward Kodagu district, Mr. Shivashanmugam told presspersons here. The FKCCI was facilitating a platform for the State government and private sector in fields such as IT, BT, tourism, garment, food processing, and education sector to interact with the participants. Establishing coffee technology park, promoting tourism, developing horticulture, popularising beekeeping, and setting up cold storage facilities for vegetables and flowers had good scope in Kodagu.

All the industries proposed to be set up would not have any adverse impact on the environment of the district, he said.

These industries would generate employment for local people in a big way and help farmers make over their lands for developing industries, Mr. Shivashanmugam said. Educational institutions, especially residential, would prevent youth from leaving Kodagu in pursuit of studies.

The FKCCI intended to remove the regional imbalances with regard to industrial development and account for the prosperity of the district, he said. Senior vice-president of the FKCCI R. Shivakumar endorsed his statements.

The participants from the State government and its agencies, investors, the representatives of the FKCCI, Mysore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, KIADB, KSSIDC, MSME, bankers, and New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT) would participate in the CIM and offer suggestions to the people who would want to set up industries in the district,

Many farmers in Kodagu had come forward to offer lands to set up industrial units, Mr. Shivashanmugam claimed.

Rail links

The Mysore-Kushalnagar survey for rail links had been completed. Railway line would be a boon to the people of Kodagu, he said. The meet would culminate after a session on business opportunities in which the NMPT officials would make a presentation on export facilities. Mr. Shivashanmugam agreed to a point that the road infrastructure was poor in Kodagu apart from shortage of electricity and water, the vital ingredients for industrial development. The State government had agreed to address the issue after the FKCCI had spoken to the Chief Minister, Jagadish Shettar and Industries Minister, Murugesh Nirani, he said. A session proposed to be held in the CIM would focus on the road connectivity from Kodagu to Kerala. That the State Government intended to come up with a mini airport in Kodagu for which lands had been identified in Somwarpet taluk was a god augury, he stated.

The president of the MCCI, Sudhakar Shetty, said that Yadgir and Bellary districts, supposed to be industrially backward, would be considered next for holding investors’ meet.

Rs 30,000-cr fund for eco reconstruction in mining-hit districts

BANGALORE, DEC. 13:
The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) has given priority to restoration of water bodies while preparing a Comprehensive Environment Management Plan (CEMP) in the mining-affected districts in Karnataka.

The affected districts are Bellary, Chitradurga and Tumkur.

V.K. Bahuguna, Director-General, ICFRE, who toured the affected areas on December 12 and 13, addressed reporters and said he had extensive discussions with deputy commissioners of the district, state government officials and public representatives to finalise the CEMP.

According to Bahuguna, CEMP prepared by ICFRE, according to the directions of Supreme Court, has fixed Rs 30,000-crore fund allocation, collected through fines and e-auctions, to set right ecological and socio-economic damages in the three districts. ICFRE has also suggested substantial allocation for administration, regulation, data collection, monitoring reporting and research and projects in other sectors and areas.

Of the amount, about 62 per cent would be utilised in Bellary, 24.5 per cent in Chitradurga and the balance (10.2 per cent) in Tumkur along with 3.4 per cent for other areas and for administrative purpose.

In each district about 50 per cent is planned for taking up activities related to macro-level (district or region level), 30 per cent for meso-level (sub district level) and 20 per cent for micro level (villages, grampanchyats).

There are 11 sectors for which ICFRE has prioritised for distribution in each of the three districts.

PRIORITY AREAS

Public health Rs 832.77 crore, education Rs 589.57 crore, water Rs 8,573.90 crore, ambient air quality Rs 49.80 crore, transport and communication Rs 8,371.40 crore, agriculture and allied activities Rs 1,668.28 crore, drainage and sanitation Rs 1,078 crore, vulnerable section Rs 2,669.15 crore, awareness and social culture Rs 134.83 crore, ecology and environment Rs 580.43 crore, administration, regulation, data collection, monitoring reporting and research and projects in other sectors and areas Rs 5,738 crore.

Bahuguna said the Karnataka Government has proposed to utilise this fund through a special purpose vehicle headed by the Chief Secretary to ensure timely decision-making, effective implementation and proper monitoring and evaluation.

Multiplex chain Cinepolis plans 100 more screens

MANGALORE, DEC 12:
The Mexico-based multiplex chain Cinepolis, which has 49 screens in India, is planning expansion at various centres. The company plans to add 100 screens in the next six months.

Addressing presspersons here, Devang D. Sampat, Head (Strategic Initiatives), Cinepolis India Pvt Ltd, said around 100 screens of Cinepolis are under various stages of implementation.

Most of these screens would be ready for commissioning in six months. Some of these locations include Mumbai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Pune and Hubli, he said.

Stating that Cinepolis is aggressive and bullish about Karnataka, he said more than five projects have been signed in the State. However, he did not divulge the names of the locations for these projects. :banana:

Cinepolis currently operates in Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Patna, Surat, Ludhiana, and Bhopal.

In Karnataka, Cinepolis is present in Bangalore and Mangalore. The five-screen Mangalore multiplex, which is located in City Centre Mall of Mohtisham Complexes Pvt Ltd, was opened last week.

Sampat said the first VIP screen from Cinepolis in India has been commissioned in Mangalore. He claimed that Cinepolis was the first cinema exhibitor in the world to pioneer the concept of premium and luxury movie theatres through its Cinepolis VIP brand.

Dharmaraj, Chief Executive Officer of Mohtisham Complexes Pvt Ltd, said that Cinepolis is the first FDI (foreign direct investment) in entertainment sector in Mangalore.

Giving details about City Centre Mall, he said the mall began operations in 2010 and has been attracting around 25,000 people a day.

To a query on the increasing competition in mall segment in Mangalore, S.M. Arshad, Managing Director of Mohtisham, said City Centre is located in a strategic location in the heart of the city, and it offers five-floor retail space.

He said he is not worried about the subsequent competitions in mall segment in the city, as City Centre has first-mover advantage.

The Hindu (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/multiplex-chain-cinepolis-plans-100-more-screens/article4191493.ece?homepage=true&ref=wl_home)

5 more projects in Karnataka :banana:

Shettar asks Centre to aid State’s resource mobilisation efforts

BANGALORE, DEC. 27:
The State’s efforts at additional resource mobilisation should be appropriately supplemented by the Centre, said Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar.

“The Centre’s participation will help us achieve the objectives of the 12th Plan,” Shettar told a meeting of the National Development Council (NDC) in New Delhi today.

A copy of the Chief Minister’s speech released here said Karnataka is one of the few major States to have consistently raised higher resources than were projected in the Five Year Plans. “Additional resources during 11th Plan were largely generated from our own tax receipts rather than from borrowings,” he said.

“The per capita plan outlay of Karnataka at Rs 6,231 in 2011-12 is one of the highest among major States. We hope to continue this trend in the 12th Five Year Plan as well.”

The 12th Plan outlay for Karnataka is pegged by the Planning Commission at Rs 2,55,250 crore, at current prices, which is 87 per cent higher than the 11th Plan expenditure at current price of Rs 1,36,052 crore.

“We have taken note of the inter-sector allocations indicated for Karnataka in the Plan document. While the criteria used by Planning Commission for indicating these allocations is entirely unclear to us, we would like to place on record that the indicated allocations are not in accordance with our priorities. We would decide the inter-sector priorities and would suggest revised allocations in due course,” Shettar said.

Talking on budgetary support, he said, “For support, the Central Plan is sought to be increased by 132 per cent in nominal terms. However, the increase envisaged for Rural Development is mere 46.73 per cent. Such skewed approach will hardly be a facilitator for inclusive growth.”

Even for Urban Development, the allocated resources are very meagre at Rs 54,311 crore which are unlikely to make any impact on development of urban infrastructure that is needed urgently for orderly shift of population to economic centres having growth opportunities.

The Hindu (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/shettar-asks-centre-to-aid-states-resource-mobilisation-efforts/article4245327.ece)

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2013/01/03/20130103a_002103004.jpg

x-post.
'Karnataka has potential to become world's largest tech cluster'

BANGALORE: Karnataka ICT Group Chairman T V Mohandas Pai today said the state has the potential to become world's largest technology cluster in next five years provided the government implemented infrastructure projects here and other emerging cities.

"Karnataka could be world's largest technology cluster in next five years provided the government especially implements infrastructure projects in Bangalore and other emerging cities like Mangalore, Mysore and Hubli-Dharwad," Pai said after presenting the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Group Report to Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar.

Shettar said necessary budgetary provisions would be made in phases over a period of four to five years. Short-term initiatives would be implemented immediately and continue in 2013-14 financial year, he said.

Pai said the government should address the issue of infrastructure development here as it contributes 35 per cent of India's ICT revenues.

He recommended the government to develop 'Satellite Smart Cities' at Hoskote, Devanahalli, Bidadi and Electronics City in PPP model and extend 'Bengaluru Capital Region'.

Similar smart cities should be devloped around emerging cities like Mangalore, Mysore and Hubli-Dharwad, Pai said.

The government should infuse Rs 1,000 crore towards each of the emerging cities development and rest through individual connectivity funds mobilisation, Pai said.

He said the government should clear all pending IT projects within next 90 days.

For improving the quality of school education, Pai said the government should create a fully wired state by providing free wi-fi in Bangalore and setting up Karnataka school and college networks.

The government should provide a tablet with wireless and 3G connection to students in 7th standard and above in government schools, preloaded with teaching material for each class and access to a portal where they can download the latest teaching material, Pai said.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/hardware/karnataka-has-potential-to-become-worlds-largest-tech-cluster/articleshow/17940790.cms

Mysore registering property demand & appreciations (http://content.magicbricks.com/mysore-registering-property-demand-appreciations/)

Bangalore

With Mumbai suburbs in West and Delhi NCRs in North seeing escalated property prices and demand, the tier – II cities in South India such as Mysore, Kochi, Mangalore, Coimbatore and Visakhapatnam are also seeing the same trend. These cities have witnessed appreciation in property values and enhanced demand during the year 2012. The opening-up of the job market has resulted in enhanced job opportunities lifting the residential and commercial segment.

“Mysore was no exception registering a 7-12 per cent hike in residential values; whereas a 5-8 per cent increase was recorded for commercial rental values during the past 6-8 months,” says Pravow Prasad from Prasad Realtors. NRIs and expats from Karnataka are increasingly showing interest in the real estate market of Mysore for residential as well as for business purposes. Favourable investment policies and reduction in NRI home loans interest rate has been the major contributor behind the investments in the city, he added.

The north and north-west belt of the city is the key residential hub. Areas such as Jayalaxmi Puram, Vijaya Nagar, Bunnymantap and Yadavgiri have seen the maximum growth of 12 per cent in past 6 months. In southern parts of the city, development of villas is being proposed in Koodanahalli and Nanjangud, added Prasad.

Seeing the demand and foreign investors developers from Bangalore such as Prestige Group, Brigade Group and Sobha Developers have already launched their residential and commercial projects in Mysore. New developments are taking place also in full swing and according to market sources the newly launched projects are evincing a large number of enquiries as well as investments.

According to Vikas Krushna from MBR Builders, “Launch of new commercial IT and SEZ projects along with small and medium scale enterprises has fuelled the rise in commercial sector and in turn pushed residential demand. Rental values of office and retail space fetched more appreciation than sale-purchase”.

The current capital values of apartments vary from Rs 3,000-5,000 per sq ft while the average price for villas is about Rs 3,000-4,000 per sq ft. The USP for Mysore is its proximity to Bangalore and day by day improving connectivity through the construction of ongoing infrastructure corridors which is further propelling the realty sector in the city.

Nidhi Vashisth, MagicBricks.com Bureau

http://www.udayavani.com/udayavani_cms/gall_content/2013/1/2013_1$largeimg211_Jan_2013_215656043.jpg
ಚಿಕ್ಕಬಳ್ಳಾಪುರದಲ್ಲಿ ನೂತನವಾಗಿ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಗೊಂಡು ಉದ್ಘಾಟನೆಗೆ ಸಿದ್ಧವಾಗಿರುವ ಮಿನಿ ವಿಧಾನಸೌಧ. (http://www.udayavani.com/news/234630L15-%E0%B2%89%E0%B2%A6-%E0%B2%98-%E0%B2%9F%E0%B2%A8-%E0%B2%97--%E0%B2%B8-%E0%B2%A6-%E0%B2%A7%E0%B2%B5-%E0%B2%A6-%E0%B2%AE-%E0%B2%A8--%E0%B2%B5-%E0%B2%A7-%E0%B2%A8%E0%B2%B8-%E0%B2%A7.html)

From the Facebook Post - Pralhad Joshi, MP, Dharwad

Pralhad (http://www.facebook.com/pralhadvjoshi) Joshi

Today I had meeting with DC Dharwad and other members of Airport Advisory Committee and discussed the hurdles that are causing delay in early completion of Hubli Airport up gradation works. Thanks to the continued persuasion and efforts put in by me the Govt of India has approved the integrated development of Hubli Airport at the cost of Rs 169 crores in 3 phases. The chairman AAI Shri Agarwal and secretary civil Aviation whom I had met last month in Delhi are coming to Hubli on 23rd following my request and sign MOU with Govt of Karnataka through its secretary IDD This will be a major Development towards early completion of Airport which certainly paves the way for all round development of this region. — Airport (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.389816457778083.93492.100002491957266&type=1) Advisory Committee Meeting (4 photos)

‘ರಾಜ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದ 108 ಯೋಜನೆಗಳು’ (http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/18226818.cms)

ವಿಕ ಸುದ್ದಿಲೋಕ | Jan 28, 2013, 09.45PM IST

ಮಂಗಳೂರು: ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದಲ್ಲಿ ಗುಜರಾತ್*ನಲ್ಲಿ ಉತ್ತಮ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಸಾಧಿಸಲಾಗಿದ್ದು, ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಒಟ್ಟು 108 ಯೋಜನೆಗಳು ಮುಂದಿನ ದಿನದಲ್ಲಿ ಬರಲಿವೆ ಎಂದು ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಆರ್ಥಿಕ ಇಲಾಖೆ ಹಿರಿಯ ಸಲಹೆಗಾರ ಡಾ.ಎಚ್.ಎ.ಸಿ. ಪ್ರಸಾದ್ ಹೇಳಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ನಗರದ ಎಸ್*ಡಿಎಂ ಬಿಸಿನೆಸ್ ಮ್ಯಾನೇಜ್*ಮೆಂಟ್ ಕಾಲೇಜು ವತಿಯಿಂದ ಕಾಲೇಜಿನ ಸಭಾಂಗಣದಲ್ಲಿ ಸೋಮವಾರ ನಡೆದ ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದಲ್ಲಿ ಮೂಲಸೌಕರ್ಯ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ, ಕೈಗಾರಿಕೀಕರಣ ಮತ್ತು ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮ ಕುರಿತ ಸಮಾವೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಅವರು ದಿಕ್ಸೂಚಿ ಭಾಷಣ ಮಾಡಿದರು.

ಅತಿಯಾದ ಆರ್ಥಿಕ ವೆಚ್ಚದಿಂದಾಗಿ ಭಾರತ ಮಾತ್ರವಲ್ಲದೆ ಅಮೇರಿಕಾ ಕೂಡಾ ಆರ್ಥಿಕ ಸಂಕಷ್ಟ ಎದುರಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದ ಅವರು, ಇಂತಹ ಸಂದರ್ಭದಲ್ಲಿ ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಪೂರಕ ಎಂದರು.

ಭಾರತದಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದಲ್ಲಿ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಪಡಿಸಬಹುದಾಂತಹ ಸಾಕಷ್ಟು ಸ್ಥಳಗಳಿದ್ದು, ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮಕ್ಕೆ ವಿಪುಲ ಅವಕಾಶವಿದೆ. ನಗರಗಳನ್ನು ಜೋಡಿಸುವ ರೈಲು ಮಾರ್ಗ ದಕ್ಷಿಣ ಕನ್ನಡ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾಕಾರಗೊಂಡರೆ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಕಾರ್ಯಗಳು ಇನ್ನಷ್ಟು ವೇಗವನ್ನು ಪಡೆಯಬಹುದು ಎಂದು ಅವರು ತಿಳಿಸಿದರು.

ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮ ಉದ್ಘಾಟಿಸಿದ ವಿಧಾನ ಸಭೆ ಉಪಸ್ಪೀಕರ್ ಎನ್.ಯೋಗೀಶ್ ಭಟ್ ಮಾತನಾಡಿ, ತಣ್ಣೀರುಬಾವಿ ಬಳಿಯ 125 ಎಕರೆ ಪ್ರದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಗಾಲ್ಫ್ ಕೋರ್ಸ್ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಗೆ ಸಿಂಗಾಪುರದ ಕಂಪನಿಯ ಜತೆ ಮಾತುಕತೆ ನಡೆಯುತ್ತಿದೆ ಎಂದರು.

ಹಳೆ ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿ ಸಂಪತ್ ಕುಮಾರ್, ಲಕ್ಷದ್ವೀಪ ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಯೋಜನೆ ನಿರ್ದೇಶಕ ರಶೀದ್ ಬೋಳಾರ್, ಎಸ್*ಡಿಎಂ ಸ್ನಾತಕೋತ್ತರ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ನಿರ್ದೇಶಕ ಡಾ.ದೇವರಾಜ್, ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮ ಸಂಯೋಜನೆ ಸಮಿತಿ ಕಾರ್ಯದರ್ಶಿ ಸುಮತಿ, ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿ ಸಂಯೋಜಕರಾದ ಜೀತನ್ ಪಿಂಟೋ, ಪ್ರಜ್ಞಾ ಕಾಮತ್ ಉಪಸ್ಥಿತರಿದ್ದರು.

217 ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯಗಳಲ್ಲಿ 9ಕ್ಕೆ ಮಾತ್ರ ಸ್ವಂತ ಕಟ್ಟಡ (http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/18227234.cms)

Jan 29, 2013, 05.08AM IST

ಕೋಡಿಬೆಟ್ಟು ರಾಜಲಕ್ಷ್ಮಿ ಮಂಗಳೂರು
ರಾಜ್ಯದ ನಾನಾ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಗಣಕೀಕರಣಗೊಂಡಿದ್ದರೂ ಮುಂದುವರಿದ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆ ಎಂದು ಕರೆಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವ ದಕ್ಷಿಣ ಕನ್ನಡ ಮಾತ್ರ ಹಿಂದೆ ಬಿದ್ದಿದೆ!

ಜಿಲ್ಲಾ ಕೇಂದ್ರವಾದ ಮಂಗಳೂರು ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಹೊರತುಪಡಿಸಿ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ ಯಾವುದೇ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಗಣಕೀಕರಣಗೊಂಡಿಲ್ಲ. ಒಂದುವೇಳೆ ಕಂಪ್ಯೂಟರ್ ಖರೀದಿಸಿದರೂ ಅವುಗಳ ನಿರ್ವಹಣೆಗೆ ಜನ ಇಲ್ಲದೇ ಇರುವುದರಿಂದ ಪ್ರಸ್ತಾವನೆಯೇ ಸಿದ್ಧವಾಗಿಲ್ಲ.

ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯಲ್ಲಿರುವ 217 ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳಲ್ಲಿ 7 ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಮಂಜೂರಾದ ಒಟ್ಟು 34 ಹುದ್ದೆಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಬರೋಬ್ಬರಿ 20 ಹುದ್ದೆಗಳು ಖಾಲಿ ಇವೆ. ಮುಲ್ಕಿ ಮತ್ತು ಸುಳ್ಯದ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಒಬ್ಬ ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿಯೂ ಇಲ್ಲದೇ ಇರುವುದರಿಂದ ತಾತ್ಕಾಲಿಕವಾಗಿ ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿ ಕೆಲಸ ನಿರ್ವಹಿಸುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿಗೆ ರಜೆ ಬೇಕಾದಾಗ ಅನಿವಾರ್ಯ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿ ಮುಚ್ಚಬೇಕಾಗಿದೆ. ಉಳಿದ 204 ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಹುದ್ದೆ ಮಂಜೂರಾಗದೇ ಇರುವುದರಿಂದ ಗೌರವ ಸಂಭಾವನೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿ ಕೆಲಸ ನಿರ್ವಹಿಸುತ್ತಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

ಕೆಪಿಎಸ್*ಸಿ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಕರಾವಳಿ ಪ್ರದೇಶದವರು ಆಯ್ಕೆಯಾಗಿ ಬರುವುದು ಕಡಿಮೆಯಾದ್ದರಿಂದ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿ ಹುದ್ದೆಗಳಿಗೆ ಅನಿವಾರ್ಯವಾಗಿ ಉತ್ತರಕರ್ನಾಟಕದವರನ್ನೇ ನೇಮಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಆದರೆ ಅವರು ತಮ್ಮೂರಿನ ಕಡೆ ವರ್ಗ ಮಾಡಿಸಿಕೊಂಡು ಹೋಗುತ್ತಾರೆ. ಮತ್ತೆ ಇಲ್ಲಿನ ಹುದ್ದೆಗಳು ಖಾಲಿ ಉಳಿಯುತ್ತವೆ.

ಆದರೆ ಆಧುನಿಕ ಯುಗದಲ್ಲಿಯೂ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಬರುವ ಓದುಗರ ಸಂಖ್ಯೆ ಕಡಿಮೆ ಆಗಿಲ್ಲ. ಗ್ರಾಮೀಣ ಪ್ರದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಕಂಪ್ಯೂಟರ್ ಬಳಕೆ ಸೀಮಿತವಾಗಿರುವುದರಿಂದ ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ನಾಗರಿಕರು ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳನ್ನು ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಆಶ್ರಯಿಸುತ್ತಾರೆ. ಇಂಟರ್*ನೆಟ್*ನ ಅವಕಾಶ ಸಾಕಷ್ಟಿರುವ ನಗರ ಪ್ರದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಕೂಡ ಜಿಲ್ಲಾ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಮತ್ತು ನಗರ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯಕ್ಕೆ ಭೇಟಿ ನೀಡುವವರ ಸಂಖ್ಯೆ ಸಾಕಷ್ಟಿದೆ. ಮಂಗಳೂರು ನಗರ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಕನ್ನಡ ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ ಕ್ಷೇತ್ರದ ಪುಸ್ತಕಗಳಿಗೆ ಅದರಲ್ಲಿಯೂ ಆತ್ಮಕತೆಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ಜೀವನ ಚರಿತ್ರೆ ವಿಭಾಗದಲ್ಲಿ ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಪುಸ್ತಕಗಳಿವೆ. ಆದ್ದರಿಂದ ಓದುಗರ, ಅಧ್ಯಯನಶೀಲರ ದಂಡು ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗೆ ಆಗಮಿಸುತ್ತದೆ.

ಕಳೆದ ನಾಲ್ಕು ವರ್ಷಗಳಿಂದ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯಗಳಿಗೆ ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿ ನೇಮಕ ಮಾಡುವಂತೆ ಸರಕಾರಕ್ಕೆ ಪ್ರತಿ ವರ್ಷ ಪತ್ರ ಬರೆಯಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಆದರೆ ನೇಮಕಾತಿ ನಡೆದಿಲ್ಲ. ಪ್ರತಿ ವರ್ಷವೂ ನಾವು ಆಶಾವಾದಿಯಾಗಿ ಕಾಯುತ್ತಿರುತ್ತೇವೆ. ಆದರೆ ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿ ಕೊರತೆಯಿಂದಾಗಿ ಮಂಗಳೂರಿನ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳು ಮುಚ್ಚಿಲ್ಲ. ರಜಾದಿನಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಮಾತ್ರ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿ ಮುಚ್ಚಿರುತ್ತಾರೆ ಎನ್ನುತ್ತಾರೆ ಜಿಲ್ಲಾ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಮುಖ್ಯಸ್ಥ ವೆಂಕಟೇಶ್. ತಾತ್ಕಾಲಿಕವಾಗಿ ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿ ನೇಮಕ ಮಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲಾಗಿದ್ದು ತಿಂಗಳಿಗೆ 2250 ಸಂಬಳ ನೀಡಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಆದರೆ ಈ ಮೊತ್ತ ಕಡಿಮೆ ಎಂಬ ಕಾರಣಕ್ಕೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನವರು ಈ ಕೆಲಸದಲ್ಲಿ ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಸಮಯ ಮುಂದುವರೆಯುವುದಿಲ್ಲ ಎನ್ನುತ್ತಾರೆ ಅವರು.

ಏಕೈಕ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗೆ ಗಣಕ ಯೋಗ:
ಮಂಗಳೂರು ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಕಟ್ಟಡ 18.75 ಲಕ್ಷ ರೂ.ಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ನವೀಕರಣಗೊಳ್ಳುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ನಿಧಿಯ ಹಣ ಬಳಸಿ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣವಾಗುತ್ತಿರುವ ಕಟ್ಟಡದ ಕೆಳಭಾಗದಲ್ಲಿ ಸೈಬರ್ ಕಫೆ ಮತ್ತು ವೃತ್ತಪತ್ರಿಕೆಗಳ ವಿಭಾಗ ಹಾಗೂ ಮೊದಲ ಅಂತಸ್ತಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಪುಸ್ತಕಗಳ ವಿಭಾಗ ತೆರೆಯುವ ಉದ್ದೇಶವಿದೆ ಎನ್ನುತ್ತಾರೆ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಪಾಲಕರಾದ ರಾಘವೇಂದ್ರ ಕೆ.ವಿ. ಹಾಗೆಯೇ ಪುಸ್ತಕಗಳ ಪಟ್ಟಿಯನ್ನು ಗಣಕೀಕರಣಗೊಳಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಈ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಸಾಫ್ಟ್*ವೇರ್ ಬೇಕಾದ ಪುಸ್ತಕದ ವಿವರಗಳನ್ನು ಕಂಪ್ಯೂಟರ್ ಪರದೆ ಮೇಲೆ ತೋರಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಗಣಕೀಕರಣದಿಂದಾಗಿ ಸಿಬ್ಬಂದಿಯ ಕೆಲಸದ ಹೊರೆ ಕೊಂಚ ಮಟ್ಟಿಗೆ ಕಡಿಮೆಯಾಗಲಿದೆ. ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯಕ್ಕೆ ಒಟ್ಟು 23,090 ಸದಸ್ಯರಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಸರಕಾರಿ ರಜಾ ದಿನ ಮತ್ತು ಸೋಮವಾರ ಹೊರತುಪಡಿಸಿ ಪ್ರತಿದಿನ ಬೆಳಗ್ಗೆ 8ರಿಂದ ಸಂಜೆ 8ರವರೆಗೆ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿ ತೆರೆದಿರುತ್ತದೆ.

217ರಲ್ಲಿ 9ಕ್ಕೆ ಸ್ವಂತ ಕಟ್ಟಡ:
ದ.ಕ. ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ 217 ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯಗಳ ಪೈಕಿ ಕೇವಲ 9 ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗೆ ಸ್ವಂತ ಕಟ್ಟಡವಿದೆ. ಉಳಿದ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಸ್ವಂತ ಕಟ್ಟಡದ ಅವಶ್ಯಕತೆ ಇದೆ. 204 ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳು ಗ್ರಾಮ ಪಂಚಾಯಿತಿ ಕಟ್ಟಡದಲ್ಲಿವೆ. ಕೊಡಿಯಾಲ್*ಗುತ್ತು, ಪಾಂಡೇಶ್ವರ, ಕುದುಕುರಿ ಗುಡ್ಡ, ಜ್ಯೋತಿ ನಗರದಲ್ಲಿ ಕೊಳಚೆ ಪ್ರದೇಶದ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿ ಹಾಗೂ ಮುಡಿಪು ಮತ್ತು ಕೋಣಾಜೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಅಲೆಮಾರಿ ಪ್ರದೇಶದ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗಳು ಯಶಸ್ವಿಯಾಗಿ ಕೆಲಸ ನಿರ್ವಹಿಸುತ್ತಿವೆ. ಮನೆ ಮನೆಗೆ ಪುಸ್ತಕ ತಲುಪಿಸುವ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥೆ ಹೊಂದಿದ್ದ, ನಗರ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯದ ಸಂಚಾರಿ ಗ್ರಂಥಾಲಯ ಸಂಚಾರ ಸ್ಥಗಿತಗೊಳಿಸಿ ವರ್ಷಗಳೇ ಸಂದಿವೆ.

* ನಾನು ಹಲವು ವರ್ಷಗಳಿಂದ ಬಾವುಟ ಗುಡ್ಡೆಯ ಈ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಗೆ ಬರುತ್ತಿದ್ದೇನೆ. ಬೆಳಗ್ಗಿನ ವಾಕಿಂಗ್ ಮುಗಿಸಿ ಇಲ್ಲಿಯೇ ಪೇಪರ್ ಓದುವುದು ನನ್ನ ಹವ್ಯಾಸ. ಕಳೆದ ವರ್ಷ ಈ ಲೈಬ್ರರಿಯ ತಾರಸಿ ಸೋರುತ್ತಿತ್ತು. ಈ ಬಾರಿ ನವೀಕರಣ ಕೆಲಸ ಶುರು ಮಾಡಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಇನ್ನು ಮುಂದೆ ಕೆಳಗೆ ಸೈಬರ್ ಕೆಫೆಯೂ ಬರಲಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಕೇಳಿ ಖುಷಿಯಾಯಿತು.
- ಮಂಜುನಾಥ್ ಭಟ್, ನಿವೃತ್ತ ಶಿಕ್ಷಕ

ADB funded 8 new megatownships costing Rs 2100 cr around Bangalore

Thursday, January 31, 2013 9:12:46 PM (IST)

From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore

Bangalore, Jan 31: Undaunted by the political uncertainty dogging the Jagadish Shettar-led BJP Government in Karnataka, as many as eight new mega residential and industrial townishop clusters will come up around Bangalore at a cost of Rs 2,100 crore with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Of the total cost of Rs 2100 crore required for the eight township projects, the ADB is expected to provide Rs 1400 crore funding.

The new residential and industrial township clusters are planned primarily to decongest the city. The proposed townships will be linked by rail and road and are expected to be completed in a few years although the preliminary discussions with the ADB are just underway.

The eight clusters are panned in the following areas: Ramanagaram-Channapatna, Kanakapura-Nelamangala, Dobbspet-Peenya, Doddaballapur, Anekal-Jigani-Attibele, Devanahalli-Vijayapura, Magadi and Hoskote-Krishnarajapuram.

Briefing reporters after the State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar , which took up over 50 subjects Law and Parliamentary Affairs S Suresh Kumar said the clusters will include the industrial areas presently in their vicinity.

The Karnataka Urban Infrastructure and Finance Corporation and the Bangalore Metropolitan Region Development Authority have conducted a study on the clusters based on the population (as per 2011 census) in the outlying areas of Bangalore.

While the present population of the city is 1.01 crore, it is expected touch around 1.80 crore in 2030 and consequently will increase demand for housing.

The cabinet also approved upgradation of the existing highway between Hubli and Dharwad to a six-lane expressway at a cost of Rs 82 crore and the project is scheduled to be completed by January 2015.

It will be taken up public-private-partnership (PPP) model as part of the Bus Rapid Transit
System between the two cities, he said.

The minister said the cabinet approved a higher minimum support price (MSP) for Paddy and Tur Dal (Red Gram) and the payment of the additional incentive will be effective for another two months, after which the subject will be reviewed.

The Centre has fixed a MSP of Rs 1250 and Rs 1280 a quintal for two varieties of rice and the State Government will pay an incentive of Rs 250 per quintal.

For tur dal, the Centre has fixed a MSP of Rs 3850 per quintal and the State Government will provide an additional Rs 650 per quintal thus totalling up to Rs 4500.

The cabinet also approved changes in the written examination for the Gazetted Probationers (leading to KAS) conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC).

The KPSC examinations will be on the same lines as that conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), wherein in the preliminary examinations wrong answers will attract minus marks.

The KAS examination comprises preliminary and final written examinations followed by an interview and there will be no change in the pattern and evaluation of the final examination.

Suresh Kumar a 200 mw solar power plant will come up at Challakere in Chitradurga district and Messrs Sagater Ventures Limited of Taiwan will implement this major project.

The State Government will provide nearly 1000 acres of barren land for the company for a lease of around Rs 7000 per acre per year, the minister said

A Taiwanese delegation had recently visited Bangalore and presented the proposal to the State Government.

http://www.daijiworld.com/news/news_disp.asp?n_id=162534

Eight cluster cities to decongest Bangalore planned

Bangalore, Jan 31

The Karnataka government plans to build eight cluster cities around Bangalore to decongest the bustling metropolis and regulate migration from within the state and across the tech hub.

"Eight cluster cities will be built around Bangalore at a cost of Rs.2,100 crore to decongest the city, which is bursting with about 10 million people and infrastructure constraints," state Law Minister Suresh Kumar told reporters here after a cabinet meeting here.

Of the proposed investment, the state government and local bodies will contribute Rs.700 crore, while the balance Rs.1,400 crore will be raised from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as a long-term loan.

"The satellite cities will be developed at Anekal, Devanahalli, Doddaballapur, Hoskote, Kanakapura, Magadi, Nelamangala and Ramanagara, which are located around the state capital in north, south, east and west and are well connected," Kumar said.

The clusters will be developed in accordance with the blueprint drawn by the state-run Bangalore Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) by the state-run Karnataka Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (KIDCL) through public-private partnership.

"The population of the metropolis is projected to grow exponentially over the next 18 years to touch 18 million by 2030 from 10 million in 2012.

"There is an urgent need to expand the city area all directions with basic amenities so as to meet the civic needs of the people, including migrants from other places for various reasons," Kumar said.

The investment will be utilised in building infrastructure such as roads, bus corridors, railway stations, commercial and residential areas, market complexes, drainage, solid waste management, power stations and water supply system.

The cabinet also cleared the housing project of the Belgaum Urban Development Authority to be developed in 148 acres in the city, about 500km northwest of Bangalore, with 40 percent in the form of the land to be developed by builders and the remaining 60 percent as residential sites to the public.


http://www.prokerala.com/news/articles/a357026.html

Koppert Biological Systems sets up a base in ‘Incredible India’

Koppert Biological Systems has taken an important new step within Asia with the establishment of Koppert India.

Koppert had previously already opened branches in China and South Korea. The company has tapped into a new market full of opportunities in ‘Incredible India’. India is playing an increasingly prominent role in the export and biological markets in particular. In addition, professional covered greenhouse horticulture is developing strongly in the country of more than 1.2 billion inhabitants.


Photo: managing director Henri Oosthoek congratulates manager Udayanarayana Bhat with the establishment of Koppert India in front of the India Gate, the national monument of India.

Managing director Henri Oosthoek refers to India as one of the BRIC countries, a very important and promising market for Koppert. 'There is a huge demand for natural and biological solutions in a market in which the majority of the population is vegetarian.'

By taking this step, Koppert is also supporting the efforts of the Indian population to improve food security and safety, public health, and biodiversity within agriculture and horticulture.

Koppert India's operating base is Bangalore, the capital of the state of Karnataka. Here, the climate conditions are favourable for horticulture, and the number of greenhouse projects is increasing rapidly. The sales focus will be primarily on natural enemies and microbiological products for greenhouse cultivation of vegetables and flowers. A number of states around Karnataka - such as Kerala and Maharashtra - are also in the picture.

The expectation is that biological crop protection below ground and above ground will become available for the whole of India over the coming years.

http://www.freshplaza.com/news_detail.asp?id=105765

Budget General 2013-14 English - BJP Karnataka (http://bjpkarnataka.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Budget-General-2013-14-English.pdf)

Karnataka budget: Joint-development of property made cheaper (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Karnataka-budget-Joint-development-of-property-made-cheaper/articleshow/18404587.cms)

Anil Kumar M, TNN | Feb 8, 2013, 09.27 PM IST

BANGALORE: Keeping in mind the critical role of real estate and realtors in Bangalore-- a significant political territory with 28 assembly seats --the budget has offered this sector a sop which is beneficial to property owners and developers. And, if used in the right context, to the end-users. Also, while not announcing new taxes, the government has sharply upped the revenue targets for three key departments:commercial taxes, excise and motor vehicles. The three together have been mandated to mobilise an additional Rs 6850 crore. Combined with an additional Rs 900 crore expected to come from Stamps & Registration department, the total fresh revenues to be mobilised will touch a sizable Rs 7750 crore.

In an effort to keep builders happy, the government has removed the 1% fee clause imposed on joint development agreement and related power of attorney between land owner and a developer. Instead, a fixed fee of Rs 1.5 lakh has been proposed in the budget.

Earlier, the developers used to pass on the burden of 1% registration fee to the consumers (buyers). If the agreement fee cost Rs 1 crore, the same amount would have been put on the buyers at different rates. Hopefully with the reduced fee, the benefit also will be passed onto the end-buyers.

This apart, due to high costs, land owners and developers never used to enter into a written agreement resulting in losses to the exchequer. Now, at least, a nominal amount will flow into the state kitty Revenue targets hiked: Despite the cap on registration fee, the stamps and registration department which has a target of Rs 5,200 crore by March 31, has been asked to collect Rs 6,100 crore next financial year.

The government has asked the commercial taxes department to meet a revenue target of Rs 37,000 crore during 2013-14 without bringing in any additional resources mobilization measures. The target is up by Rs 5,000 crore from 2012-13.

Similarly, the excise department has been given target of Rs 12,400 crore, up by Rs 1,200 crore compared to current year's target. Another revenue mopping sector, motor vehicles taxes has been given target of Rs 4,008 crore next year, Rs 900-crore more than this year. "Life time tax on construction equipment vehicles will be collected only once, instead of two installments, as presently done. Similarly, double license fee will be collected during transfer of licenses of wine stores and bar and restaurants from one person to other," chief minister Jagadish Shettar said in the budget.

http://www.vijaykarnatakaepaper.com/epaperimages/1022013/1022013-md-hr-12/13959593.JPG
www.vijaykarnatakaepaper.com

Global investors sign EoI worth Rs 401 crore with Karnataka Udhyog Mitra (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Global-investors-sign-EoI-worth-Rs-401-crore-with-Karnataka-Udhyog-Mitra/articleshow/18432086.cms)

Mini Joseph Tejaswi, TNN | Feb 10, 2013, 06.59PM IST

BANGALORE: Global business investors have signed expression of interest worth Rs 401 crore with Karnataka's single window clearance agency, KarnatakaUdhyogMitra at a Corporate Culture and Spirituality Conference concluded here on Sunday.

Most of these investment proposals are in the areas of not fully explored areas of tourism, apparel, food, jewelry, ayurveda, yoga & spirituality and information technology.

Speaking at the conference jointly organized by FKCCI and Art of Living Mohandas Pai, chairman Manipal Global Education said, "Human resource is the most vital requirement to start any business. Karnataka is a quality hub of talent today. Some 8,00,000 people are working in the software sector alone in Bangalore and by 2020 the city will have more tech professionals than the entire US.'

The conference had a special session titled ''Advantage Karnataka'' which highlighted the state as a major investment destination. J. V. Patil, Joint Director General of Foreign Trade; Government of Karnataka said, "There is an immense, untapped potential in Karnataka for exporting various commodities."

Corporate Culture & Spirituality (CCS) Conference is an annual event where leaders of business, governance, academia, civil society and faith based organizations come together to share their expertise on an ethics based approach and its impact on the bottom-line through the integration of spiritual values in business.

Organized and hosted jointly by Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry and The Art of Living in association with World Forum for Ethics in Business, this global event witnessed a congregation of 750 business heads to discuss role of ethics and spirituality in the business arena.

Govt, WB sign $60 mn loan pact for K'taka project

New Delhi, Feb 11 (PTI) The government today signed a USD 60 million loan agreement with the World Bank to improve watershed operations in seven districts of Karnataka.

"Government and the World Bank today signed a USD 60 million credit agreement for the Karnataka Watershed Development Project II (KWDP II) to further improve watershed planning and management in project areas," an official release said today.

PTI (http://www.ptinews.com/news/3374915_Govt--WB-sign--60-mn-loan-pact-for-K-taka-project-)

http://lite.epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/TOIBG/2013/02/18/7/Img/Ad0070715.png

Britain PM David Cameron pushes Mumbai-Bangalore development corridor

MUMBAI: British Prime Minister David Cameron said on Monday he wanted his country's companies to help India develop new cities and districts along a 1,000 km (600 mile) corridor between Mumbai and Bangalore, generating investment projects worth up to $25 billion.

Kicking off a three-day visit to India with the largest trade delegation taken abroad by a British prime minister, Cameron said he wanted British firms to work with the Indian and British governments to develop nine districts to link Mumbai, India's financial capital with Bangalore, its tech hub.
"With me I've got architects, planners and finance experts who can work out the complete solution," he told an audience of business people and workers at Hindustan Unilever Limited.

"It would unleash India's potential along the 1,000 km from Mumbai to Bangalore, transforming lives and putting British businesses in prime position to secure valuable commercial deals."
India should open up its markets to allow foreign direct investment in hitherto closed sectors, he added.
His office said forecasts showed 5.8 percent of India's population growth would be in the corridor, contributing 11.8 percent of the country's gross domestic product growth by 2020.
The first phase of the project would involve investment in physical infrastructure, such as transport networks, telecommunications and power generation. Later construction would concentrate on social infrastructure such as welfare and education.

India has pushed the building of giant development "corridors" to accelerate the growth of its manufacturing base, which has lagged behind its IT and services industry.

The government has also planned to build 24 new industrial cities along a 1,483 km (920 mile) railway line between New Delhi and Mumbai with Japanese funding, but the project has progressed slowly.

Cameron's office said British and Indian officials had been working with business representatives from the two countries on the Mumbai-Bangalore project since last year and had produced an initial assessment of its scale and potential.

The British government would be willing to co-fund a feasibility study, on a match funding basis, with the Indian government costing up to 1 million pounds ($1.55 million).

By 2030, if realised, the project could generate close to half a million jobs, while indirect jobs could bring the total in the region to two million, Cameron's office said.

"Our initial scoping work suggests that accommodating the 3-4 million people attracted to each of the new cities would require close to 1 million new homes, up to 120 schools, 10 colleges and hospitals," the office said.
Cameron also said Britain planned to change the visa system to allow Indian business people to get a visa in one day.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Britain-PM-David-Cameron-pushes-Mumbai-Bangalore-development-corridor/articleshow/18555550.cms

A big advantage for Karnataka NH4 districts

Investment and manufacturing zone near Tumkur

The Department of Industrial Promotion and Policy under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has approved a proposal to set up National Investment and Manufacturing Zone in 12,500 acres of land near Tumkur.

Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (KSIIDC) Managing Director P B Ramamurthy said, “We had proposed to set up the investment and manufacturing zone and the Union government has approved the project in principle. We are planning to set up a special purpose vehicle to oversee the implementation of the project as this is the biggest project being implemented in the state.”

He said the State government would have to invite tenders to allot works for preparing plans and identifying the industries which should be given priority, finding water source for the project and electricity in accordance with the provisions of the 2011 National Manufacturing Policy. These plans would again be submitted to the Union government for approval, he added.

“Though we have proposed to set up the National Investment and Manufacturing Zone in and around Vasanth Narasapura near Tumkur, we have not identified the boundaries. We will notify the entire extent to be acquired for the project. However, the land would be acquired in phases as and when the project would be implemented,” he said.

The state government is also planning to set up a Special Investment Region on 5,000 hectares of land near Dharwad and would very soon place the proposal before the Union government for its approval, he said.

Both projects are planned in the area identified as Peninsula Regional Industrial Development Corridor as the Union government has proposed to develop infrastructure to provide road and rail connectivity and other facilities to promote industrial development in the corridor.

http://newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/article1468455.ece

Investment and manufacturing zone near Tumkur

http://newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/article1468455.ece

Great news...

Britain PM David Cameron pushes Mumbai-Bangalore development corridor

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Britain-PM-David-Cameron-pushes-Mumbai-Bangalore-development-corridor/articleshow/18555550.cms

A big advantage for Karnataka NH4 districts

Ttue, hoping to see this realise soon...

^^
http://epapervijayavani.in/epaperimages/1922013/1922013-md-hr-1/22153656.JPG
epapervijayavani.in

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epapervijayavani.in

PRIDe to generate $25 billion investments

By N R Madhusudhan - BANGALORE
19th February 2013 09:45 AM

The Department of Industrial Promotion and Policy (DIPP) has been silently working on making the Peninsular Region Industrial Development Corridor (PRIDe Corridor) project a reality.

UK Prime Minister David Cameron, who is in India on an official visit, referred to the PRIDe Corridor as the Mumbai-Bangalore Corridor. Addressing a gathering in Mumbai, Cameron said that the corridor would generate investments up to $25 billion.

The DIPP is in the process of preparing an ambitious road map for strong industrial and transport connectivity from the Mumbai coast to Chennai coast through the PRIDe Corridor. It is being planned on the lines of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor. According to the proposed plan, the corridor will pass through Chitradurga, Dharwad and Begaum. The Union government has proposed to develop a parallel road and rail connectivity from one end of the corridor to another to provide seamless travel.

“The corridor is expected to expedite the development of 150 km on either side. Industrialists who want to set up their firms in the region need not struggle for power as the Dabhol-Bangalore Gas Pipeline passes through the corridor. It will facilitate the setting up of gas-based power plants,” P B Ramamurthy, MD of Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited told Express. The government has already initiated the process to set up special investment region in over 25,000 acres of land near Dharwad and national investment and manufacturing zone near Tumkur as part of the proposed corridor.

According to Ramamurthy, Japan International Cooperation Agency is preparing a road map for industrial growth in the area by preparing a draft report.

Industries Minister Murugesh Nirani said: “The corridor would be on the full length of the NH4 from Mumbai to Chennai via Bangalore. Each state will have to make investments in their region. Our stretch is nearly 500 km long. Land will be given only on demand and will be dry/waste land. Though we have identified one lakh acres, we do not want to curb the farmers rights until we have guaranteed investments. We require 70 per cent consent from the local farmers for land acquisition. There is no specific time frame and it could extend to 25-30 years.”

http://newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/article1470204.ece

PRIDe to generate $25 billion investments

By N R Madhusudhan - BANGALORE
19th February 2013 09:45 AM



http://newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/article1470204.ece



Great news Yaqoob...:cheers:

Bommai dedicates Bhima project to the nation

It will irrigate 24,292 ha. in Afzalpur taluk

Minister for Water Resources Basavaraj Bommai dedicated the Bhima Lift Irrigation Project to the nation on Tuesday. The project, funded by the Centre, will irrigate 24,292 hectares in the drought-prone Afzalpur taluk of Gulbarga district, when it is complete.

With two lift points, one each at Bellundigi and Allagi B villages, it is expected to benefit 32 and 11 villages respectively around the two lift points. The technical and administrative sanction for the project was given in 1992. However, it ran into trouble owing to the delay in getting clearance from the Central Water Commission.

While it was initially estimated to cost Rs. 94.17 crore, this figure was revised thrice; the current estimation of the final cost is Rs. 588 crore.

It has been funded by the Union government under the accelerated irrigation benefit programme, among other schemes.

Mr. Bommai praised Afzalpur MLA and the former Minister Malikayya Guttedar for pressing the State government to ensure funds and early completion of the project.

Work in progress

Initially, water will be provided to the command area of the Ballundigi lift point. After May, it will be released to the area under Allagi B.

While work of laying 63.78 km of main canal and constructing 38 distributaries is almost complete, the Krishna Neeravari Nigam Ltd., which is implementing the project, has already released water on a trial basis up to 39 km. It has set itself a target of providing irrigation to 5,000 ha of land by March. (The irrigation potential of Ballundigi lift point is 16,721 ha.)

Work of laying the field irrigation channels, laying the 35.78 km main canal and constructing 20 distributaries is nearing completion. The trial run will be done in May.

Power too

The Bhima Lift Irrigation Project is a multi-utility one, with provision to produce 10.5 MW of power in three units of 3.5 MW.

The production of the power was inaugurated in 2010-11. The power plant has been installed in cooperation with Jasper Energy Pvt. Ltd.


Initially, water will be provided to the command area of the Ballundigi lift point

After May, water will be released to the area under Allagi B lift point

The Hindu (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/bommai-dedicates-bhima-project-to-the-nation/article4433772.ece)

:cheers:

Rs. 3,800 crore for nine projects under Scheme B (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/rs-3800-crore-for-nine-projects-under-scheme-b/article4433590.ece)

Minister for Water Resources Basavaraj Bommai has said that Rs. 3,800 crore will be allocated to nine irrigation projects taken up for utilisation of additional water allocated under Scheme B of the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal.

He was speaking to presspersons after offering ‘bagina’ at the Bhima near Sonna village in Afzalpur taluk on Tuesday.

Apart from the Rs. 3,800 crore, his department proposed to raise funds through external borrowing for taking up rehabilitation and resettlement works in these projects, Mr. Bommai said.

The State government was successful in getting assistance of Rs. 600 crore from Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd. for the works, while National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development had sanctioned Rs. 180 crore towards new infrastructure, he said.

Of the nine projects, water had been released on trial basis in two projects — Gutti Basavanna Lift Irrigation scheme and Chimmalgi Lift Irrigation scheme, which have been completed. Work on other projects, including Aerkal Lift Irrigation in Bagalkot, Bhima Flank Irrigation benefitting Bijapur and Gulbarga, and Narayanpur Right Bank Canal Extension project, would be taken up.

Mr. Bommai said that the State government would provide the required approval for these projects by March-end.

The government had also given its nod for taking up a micro-irrigation project in the Narayanpur Left Bank Canal, providing irrigation network to 1.3 lakh hectares. All necessary approvals would be given by February-end, the Minister added.


HUDCO has given an additional Rs. 600 cr. for rehabilitation and resettlement work

Good Government is now focusing on micro irrigation the HK region is very rich in natural resources like huge deposit of minerals, water ( Krishna, Tungabhadra, Bhima, Kagina, Mullamari, Amarja, Bennethora, etc many rivers flow in this area. ). Without these irrigation projects itself Gulbarga is number 1 in India in Dal alongwith jowar, sugarcane, Raichur in Rice... Bidar in fruits, sugarcane, Koppal rice etc...


_____________________________________________________________

The State government wants to bring 50 per cent of arable area under the irrigation network, by introducing new water management practices and micro-irrigation, Minister for Water Resources Basavaraj Bommai has said.


He was speaking after dedicating the Bhima Lift Irrigation Project to the nation at Sonna village in Afzalpur taluk of Gulbarga district on Tuesday.

Pioneer
Mr. Bommai said that Karnataka was a pioneer in taking micro-irrigation to the project level, introducing sprinkler and drip irrigation systems over large areas.

Demands
Effective implementation of the technique would be further beneficial, he said, especially as the State has limited resources to meet farmers’ demands for more irrigation facilities. “We can save 50 per cent water by changing over to the micro-irrigation and use the same for increasing the irrigation network,” he said.
The government had already cleared projects to bring 7 lakh ha acres under micro irrigation in Koppal, Raichur and Gulbarga districts.

Projects completed
According to the Minister, more than 25 irrigation projects had been completed in the past five years, bringing more than 7.5 lakh hectares under the irrigation network.
At present, more than 28 per cent of the area in the State was irrigated.
He said his department would take up a survey on construction of three barrages across the Bhima, as requested by Malikayya Guttedar, Afzalpur MLA.
The former Chief Minister N. Dharam Singh spoke.
‘We want to bring 50 per cent of arable area under the irrigation network’
‘Micro-irrigation projects cleared for Koppal, Raichur and Gulbarga’

Skill development centre with German help for Mangalore
(http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-02-18/mangalore/37159312_1_skill-development-train-students-yogish-bhat)


TNN Feb 18, 2013, 01.32AM IST

MANGALORE: The coastal city will shortly have an international multiple skill development centre that is aimed at catering to the needs of the growing industrial sector in the region. The centre, which will be set up in collaboration with German-based GIZ-IN Institute, will have modern infrastructure to train candidates in various skills.

It will be set up at an estimated cost of Rs 37.27 crore jointly by the state and central governments.

N Yogish Bhat, Mangalore City South MLA and deputy speaker, told TOI that there were 158 government ITIs, 195 ITCs and 1,091 private institutions in Karnataka that provide training to more than 1.67 lakh students in 40 diverse skills. "Even when the number of institutions is increasing, a need arises to train students to make them experts in their trades. To cater this need, the state government has decided to open international multiple skill development centres in Mangalore, Belgaum and Hubli," Yogish Bhat said.

In Mangalore, 10 acres of land has been identified near Government ITI at Yeyyadi, Yogish Bhat said. "A state-of-the-art building for the centre will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 8.5 crore. A sum of Rs 19 crore has been sanctioned for purchasing machines and training equipment. Meanwhile, Rs 4.12 crore will be reserved for GIZ-IN Institute as implementation cost," he said adding that the government will release Rs 78 crore to set up three institutes.

Various advanced courses in construction technology, advanced welding technology, information technology, tool room and precision manufacturing, industrial automation and industrial technology will be taught in the three centres. The Union government has been requested to sanction funds under 50:50 cost sharing basis for the project, he said adding that the main objective of setting up the centres is to ensure skill development based on modular employable skills.

"Most of the existing skill development programmes are long term in nature. The poor and less educated persons cannot afford long term training programmes. So short term training courses based on modular employable skills are developed in consultation with industries," Bhat said.

Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board invites tender for the work of

CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR PREPARATION OF DETAILED PROJECT REPORT (DPR) “FORMATION OF MUDUGERE INDUSTRIAL AREA, UTTARA-KANNADA DISTRICT, AN EXTENT OF 70.00 ACRES”.


Contact Information
Contact Person Name : J SUMA JDTP
Office Telephone Number : 91-80-22215383
Mobile Number :
Tender Amount Details
Amount of Earnest Money Deposit (INR) 50000
Tender Processing Fee 550
Tender Schedule / Dates
NIT Published Date 23/02/2013 17:01:37
Last Date & Time for Tender Queries/Clarifications 25/02/2013 16:00:00
Last Date & Time for receipt of tenders 08/03/2013 16:00:00
Date & Time for Opening of Technical Bid 13/03/2013 16:30:00

^^

Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board invites tender for the work of



CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR PREPARATION OF DETAILED PROJECT REPORT (DPR) FOR THE “CONSTRUCTION OFFICE BUILDING, C.A. 109 OF NAVANAGARA AGROTECH PARK INDUSTRIAL AREA, BAGALKOT, IN AN EXTENT OF 5000.00 SQ. M.”

Contact Information
Contact Person Name : J SUMA JDTP
Office Telephone Number : 91-80-22215383
Mobile Number :
Tender Amount Details
Amount of Earnest Money Deposit (INR) 100000
Tender Processing Fee 550
Tender Schedule / Dates
NIT Published Date 23/02/2013 17:01:26
Last Date & Time for Tender Queries/Clarifications 25/02/2013 16:00:00
Last Date & Time for receipt of tenders 08/03/2013 16:00:00
Date & Time for Opening of Technical Bid 13/03/2013 16:30:00

^^
Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board invites tender for the work of

CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR PREPARATION OF DETAILED PROJECT REPORT (DPR) FOR “FORMATION OF LAYOUTS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STONE CRUSHER AT RAJOORA VILLAGE, RONA TALUK, & VADAVI VILLAGE, SHIRAHATTI TALUK, GADAG DISTRICT, AN EXTENT OF 150.00 ACRES”.


Contact Information
Contact Person Name : Suma J, JDTP
Office Telephone Number : 91-80-22215383
Mobile Number :
Tender Amount Details
Amount of Earnest Money Deposit (INR) 200000
Tender Processing Fee 550
Tender Schedule / Dates
NIT Published Date 23/02/2013 17:01:11
Last Date & Time for Tender Queries/Clarifications 25/02/2013 16:00:00
Last Date & Time for receipt of tenders 08/03/2013 16:00:00
Date & Time for Opening of Technical Bid 13/03/2013 16:30:00

ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು-ಚೆನ್ನೈ, ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು-ಮುಂಬಯಿ ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್

ಹೊಸದಿಲ್ಲಿ: ದಿಲ್ಲಿ-ಮುಂಬಯಿ ಕೈಗಾರಿಕಾ ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್ ಯೋಜನೆಯ ಪ್ರಗತಿಯಿಂದ ಉತ್ತೇಜನಗೊಂಡಿರುವ ಸರಕಾರವು, ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು-ಚೆನ್ನೈ ಹಾಗೂ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು-ಮುಂಬಯಿ ನಡುವಣ ಕೈಗಾರಿಕಾ ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್ ಯೋಜನೆಯೂ ಕಾರ್ಯಾರಂಭಗೊಂಡಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಘೋಷಿಸಿತು.
ಸಂಸತ್ತಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಗುರುವಾರ 2013-14 ಸಾಲಿನ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಆಯವ್ಯಯ ಪತ್ರ ಮಂಡಿಸಿದ ವಿತ್ತ ಸಚಿವ ಪಿ.ಚಿದಂಬರಂ ಅವರು, ಕೈಗಾರಿಕಾ ನೀತಿ ಹಾಗೂ ಉತ್ತೇಜನ ಇಲಾಖೆ (ಡಿಐಪಿಪಿ) ಹಾಗೂ ಜಪಾನ್ ಇಂಟರ್ನ್ಯಾಷನಲ್ ಕೋಆಪರೇಶನ್ ಏಜೆನ್ಸಿ (ಜಿಐಸಿಎ) ಸೇರಿಕೊಂಡು ಚೆನ್ನೈ-ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಕೈಗಾರಿಕಾ ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್*ನ ಸಮಗ್ರ ಯೋಜನೆಯನ್ನು ರೂಪಿಸುತ್ತಿವೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.
ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ, ತಮಿಳುನಾಡು ಹಾಗೂ ಆಂಧ್ರಪ್ರದೇಶ ಸರಕಾರಗಳ ಸಹಯೋಗದಲ್ಲಿ ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಪಡಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದ ಅವರು, ಮುಂದಿನ ಮುಂಬಯಿ-ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್ ಯೋಜನೆಯ ಪೂರ್ವಸಿದ್ಧತಾ ಕಾರ್ಯಗಳೂ ಆರಂಭಗೊಂಡಿವೆ ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದರು.
ದಿಲ್ಲಿ-ಮುಂಬಯಿ ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್ ಯೋಜನೆಯು ತ್ವರಿತವಾಗಿ ಅನುಷ್ಠಾನಗೊಳ್ಳುತ್ತಿದ್ದು, ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್*ನಲ್ಲಿ 7 ಹೊಸ ಪಟ್ಟಣಗಳ ಸೇರ್ಪಡೆಯ ಯೋಜನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಅಂತಿಮಗೊಳಿಸಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದವರು ಹೇಳಿದರು.


Very keen to see how Bangalore-Mumbai corrider shapes up...

^^

http://cache.epapr.in/93348/9da5e180-3946-4f44-9b2d-9824642e7ed0/full.png

http://epaper.samyukthakarnataka.com

^^

http://epapervijayavani.in/epaperimages/132013/132013-md-hr-5/24137891.JPG

epapervijayavani.in

Chennai-Bangalore corridor gets Karnataka push

CHENNAI: The Chennai Bangalore industrial corridor has got a shot in the arm with the Karnataka government starting the process of DPR (detailed project report) for the peripheral ring road project between Tumkur to Hosur. This road will be in the proposed Chennai-Bangalore corridor. "The process of DPRs is expected to be completed by the year end and we are hoping to start road expansion from next year," Dr Raj Kumar Khatri, principal secretary, infrastructure development department, government of Karnataka said. He was speaking at the sidelines of an infrastructure seminar organized by the Confederation of Indian industry (CII) in the city on Thursday.

In December 2012, the Karnataka state cabinet cleared the first phase of the PRR (peripheral ring road) project between Tumkur and Hosur. The cost of the first phase of Tumkur Hosur road spanning 65 kms is estimated to be Rs 1,750 crore. The Chennai-Bangalore corridor is being modeled along the $100 billion Delhi-Mumbai ( DMIC) industrial corridor. The initial estimate of the Chennai-Bangalore corridor is pegged at seven billion dollars but officials state that the final cost would be much higher as it is a long term infrastructure project.

In his budget address last week, Union finance minister P Chidambaram had said the project with assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) will be developed in collaboration with the governments of three southern states. Jica and the Indian government's department of industrial policy and promotion are preparing a master plan for the industrial corridor. "The corridor will be developed in collaboration with the governments of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka," Chidambaram said. While the existing road connecting the two cities is 350km, there is a proposal to cut the distance by 100km with new roads.


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Chennai-Bangalore-corridor-gets-Karnataka-push/articleshow/18855865.cms

http://vbepaper.com/epaperimages/1332013/1332013-md-hr-12/123847484.JPG

BANGALORE: The cabinet on Tuesday approved the recommendation of the high-power committee headed by chief secretary to exempt six companies/institutions from Section 109(1A) of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act.

While the act debars non-agriculturists from purchasing farm land, Section 109 says certain land can be exempted from the provisions of the act for the purposes of industry and horticulture, and for educational institutions, places of worship and housing projects.

Any company wanting to buy farm land has to go through the high-power committee before approaching the cabinet.

The cabinet's nod will allow Saipriya Sugars Ltd to buy 27 acres in Bagalkot district; Ultratech Cement Ltd 398 acres in Gulbarga district; Prakash Sponge Iron 114 acres in Chitradurga district; When-It-Strikes Crisis Management Ltd 15 acres in Kanakapura; Sharif Shivayogi Trust 2 acres in Haveri district; and Veda Vignana Maha Vidya Peeta 15 acres in Kengeri.

The cabinet also approved lease and grant of nearly 35 acres of government land to various institutions.

INCENTIVES TO DALMIA CEMENT

The cabinet has approved to exempt stamps duty and entry tax for Dalmia Cement, which proposes to invest Rs 3,300 crore in Gulbarga and Belgaum districts. Other incentives to the company include exception from electricity duty on the energy consumed from the captive power plant and an interest-free loan up to 75% of the VAT paid. This incentive will be available during the first 12 years of production in the first plant.


TOI (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Its-official-Companies-can-buy-farm-land/articleshow/18943377.cms)

http://www.deccanheraldepaper.com/pdf/2013/03/14/20130314a_003105004.jpg

^^
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ಎಲ್ಲ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ವಿಧಿವಿಜ್ಞಾನ ಪ್ರಯೋಗಾಲಯ ಸ್ಥಾಪನೆ (http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com/articleshow/18975471.cms)

ವಿಕ ಸುದ್ದಿಲೋಕ | Mar 14, 2013, 09.45PM IST

ಮಂಗಳೂರು: ವಶಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಂಡ ಮಾದಕ ದ್ರವ್ಯಗಳನ್ನು ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆ ಮಾಡಲು ಈಗಿನ ವ್ಯವಸ್ಥೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾಧ್ಯವಾಗುತ್ತಿಲ್ಲ. ಇದರಿಂದಾಗಿ ಶೇ. 90ರಷ್ಟು ಪ್ರಕರಣದಲ್ಲಿ ಮಾದಕ ದ್ರವ್ಯಗಳನ್ನು ಸಾಬೀತುಪಡಿಸಲು ಸಾಧ್ಯವಾಗುತ್ತಿಲ್ಲ. ಈ ಪರಿಸ್ಥಿತಿ ನಿವಾರಿಸಲು ಎಲ್ಲ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ವಿಧಿವಿಜ್ಞಾನ ಪ್ರಯೋಗಾಲಯ ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸಲಾಗುವುದು ಎಂದು ಅಪರಾಧ ಮತ್ತು ತಾಂತ್ರಿಕ ಸೇವೆಗಳ ವಿಭಾಗದ ಹೆಚ್ಚುವರಿ ಪೊಲೀಸ್ ಮಹಾನಿರ್ದೇಶಕ ಎ.ಎಂ. ಪ್ರಸಾದ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ರೋಶನಿ ನಿಲಯದ ಸ್ಕೂಲ್ ಆಫ್ ಸೋಶಿಯಲ್ ವರ್ಕ್*ನ ಅಪರಾಧ ಶಾಸ್ತ್ರ ಮತ್ತು ವಿಧಿವಿಜ್ಞಾನ ವಿಭಾಗ ಆಶ್ರಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಗುರುವಾರ ನಡೆದ 'ಮಾದವ ದ್ರವ್ಯ ಪತ್ತೆ ಹಚ್ಚುವಲ್ಲಿ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನ' ಎಂಬ ಕಾರ್ಯಾಗಾರ ಉದ್ಘಾಟಿಸಿ ಅವರು ಮಾತನಾಡಿದರು.

ಗಾಂಜಾ, ಹೆರಾಯಿನ್, ಅಫೀಮು, ಕೋಕೇನ್ ಸಹಿತ ಅಮಲು ಪದಾರ್ಥಗಳನ್ನು ವಶಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಂಡ ನಂತರ ಅದನ್ನು ನ್ಯಾಯಾಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಸಾಬೀತುಪಡಿಸುವಲ್ಲಿ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನ ಮಹತ್ವದ ಪಾತ್ರ ವಹಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಈಗ ಔಷಧ, ಮಾತ್ರೆಗಳು, ಸಿರಪ್, ವೈಟ್ನರ್, ಅಯೋಡೆಕ್ಸ್, ಫಿನಾಯಿಲ್ ಮೊದಲಾದ ವಿಭಿನ್ನ ವಸ್ತುಗಳನ್ನು ಕಿಕ್ ನೀಡುವ ಮಾದಕ ದ್ರವ್ಯಗಳನ್ನಾಗಿ ಬಳಸಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಇವು ಸುಲಭವಾಗಿ ಸಿಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಇದರ ನಿರ್ಬಂಧ ಕಷ್ಟವಾದರೂ, ಅದರಲ್ಲಿರುವ ಕಿಕ್ ನೀಡುವ ಅಂಶದ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆಗೆ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನದ ಅಗತ್ಯವಿದೆ ಎಂದವರು ನುಡಿದರು.

ವರದಿಯೊಂದರ ಪ್ರಕಾರ ದೇಶಕ್ಕೆ 35 ಟನ್ ಕೋಕೇನ್ ಹರಿದು ಬರುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಅದರಲ್ಲಿ ಶೆ. 1 ಮಾತ್ರ ಪತ್ತೆಯಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಗಡಿ ಭಾಗಗಳು, ವಿಮಾನ ನಿಲ್ದಾಣ, ಬಂದರುಗಳಿಂದ ಮಾದಕ ದ್ರವ್ಯ ಸಾಗಾಟ ನಡೆಯುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಇದನ್ನು ನಿಯಂತ್ರಿಸಲು ಪೊಲೀಸ್, ಕಸ್ಟಮ್ಸ್ ವಿಭಾಗಕ್ಕೆ ಅತ್ಯಾಧುನಿಕ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನ ಒದಗಿಸಬೇಕಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದರು.

ಸೈಬರ್ ಅಪರಾಧ ಕಾರ್ಯಾಗಾರದ ಪ್ರಮಾಣಪತ್ರಗಳನ್ನು ಎಸ್ಪಿ ಅಭಿಷೇಕ್ ಗೋಯಲ್ ವಿತರಿಸಿ, 18 ವರ್ಷಕ್ಕಿಂತ ಸಣ್ಣ ಪ್ರಾಯದವರು ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಮಾದಕ ದ್ರವ್ಯ ವ್ಯಸನಕ್ಕೆ ಬಲಿಯಾಗುತ್ತಿದ್ದು, ಆರಂಭದಲ್ಲೇ ಅದನ್ನು ಪತ್ತೆಹಚ್ಚುವಲ್ಲಿ ಹೆತ್ತವರು, ಪೋಷಕರು ಮತ್ತು ಶಾಲಾಡಳಿತ ಮಂಡಳಿಗಳ ಪಾತ್ರ ಮಹತ್ವದ್ದು. ಪೊಲೀಸ್ ಇಲಾಖೆಯು ತನ್ನ ಕರ್ತವ್ಯ ನಿರ್ವಹಿಸುತ್ತಿದೆ ಎಂದರು.

ರೋಶನಿ ನಿಲಯದ ನಿಕಟಪೂರ್ವ ಪ್ರಿನ್ಸಿಪಾಲ್ ಡಾ.ಜಸಿಂತಾ ಡಿಸೋಜ ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷತೆ ವಹಿಸಿದ್ದರು. ರೋಶನಿ ನಿಲಯದ ಅಧ್ಯಕ್ಷೆ ನಿಯೋಮಿಯಾ ಡಿಸೋಜ ಉಪಸ್ಥಿತರಿದ್ದರು. ಅಪರಾಧಶಾಸ್ತ್ರ ಮತ್ತು ವಿವಿಜ್ಞಾನ ವಿಭಾಗದ ಪ್ರಾಧ್ಯಾಪಕಿ ದೀಪ್ತಿ ಎಂ. ಸ್ವಾಗತಿಸಿದರು. ವಿಭಾಗ ಮುಖ್ಯಸ್ಥ ಡಾ.ಬಿ.ಅಶೋಕ ಪ್ರಾಸ್ತಾವಿಕ ಮಾತನಾಡಿದರು. ವೀಣಾಶ್ರೀ ವಂದಿಸಿದರು.ಘಿ

ಶ್ವಾನಗಳಿಗೆ ಗ್ವಾಲಿಯರ್ ತರಬೇತಿ: ರಾಜ್ಯದ ಐದು ಪೊಲೀಸ್ ವಲಯಗಳಿಂದ ತಲಾ ಒಂದರಂತೆ ಐದು ಶ್ವಾನಗಳಿಗೆ ಸೋಟಕ ಹಾಗೂ ಮಾದಕ ದ್ರವ್ಯ ಪತ್ತೆಹಚ್ಚುವ ಕುರಿತು ಗ್ವಾಲಿಯರ್ ಬಿಎಸ್*ಫ್ ಅಕಾಡೆಮಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ತರಬೇತಿ ನೀಡಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಎಡಿಜಿಪಿ ಎ.ಎಂ. ಪ್ರಸಾದ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು. ಪ್ರಥಮ ಹಂತದಲ್ಲಿ ಜನವರಿಯಿಂದ ಆರು ತಿಂಗಳ ತರಬೇತಿ ನೀಡಲಾಗುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಎರಡನೇ ಹಂತದಲ್ಲಿ ಮತ್ತೆ ಐದು ಶ್ವಾನಗಳನ್ನು ಕಳುಹಿಸಲಾಗುವುದು. ವಿದೇಶಕ್ಕಿಂತ ಭಾರತೀಯ ಶ್ವಾನಗಳಿಗೆ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಕ್ಷಮತೆ ಇದೆ. ಅವುಗಳಿಗೆ ಉತ್ತಮ ಕೌಶಲ್ಯದ ತರಬೇತಿ ಕಲಿಸುವ ಅಗತ್ಯವಿದೆ. ಕಳೆದ 25 ವರ್ಷಗಳಿಂದ ಇಂಥ ಕೆಲಸ ಆಗಿರಲಿಲ್ಲ ಎಂದು ಅವರು ಹೇಳಿದರು.

ಕೌಟುಂಬಿಕ ಕಲಹಕ್ಕೆ ಸಲಹೆ: ಪತಿ-ಪತ್ನಿ ನಡುವಿನ ಕೌಟುಂಬಿಕ ಕಲಹ ಪ್ರಕರಣದಲ್ಲಿ ಕೇಸು ದಾಖಲು ಮಾಡಿ ಬಂಧಿಸುವುದು ಹಳೆಯ ಪದ್ಧತಿ. ಇದರಿಂದ ಸಮಸ್ಯೆ ಮತ್ತಷ್ಟು ಬಿಗಡಾಯಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಅದರ ಬದಲಿಗೆ ಆಪ್ತ ಸಮಾಲೋಚನೆ ಮೂಲಕ ಸಲಹೆ ನೀಡಿ ಕುಟುಂಬವನ್ನು ಮತ್ತೆ ಸೇರಿಸಲು ಪ್ರಯತ್ನಿಸುವಂತೆ ಪೊಲೀಸ್ ಅಧೀಕ್ಷಕರುಗಳಿಗೆ ಸೂಚನೆ ನೀಡಲಾಗಿದೆ ಎಂದು ಎ.ಎಂ. ಪ್ರಸಾದ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು.

Centre gives in-principle nod for study on Mumbai-Bangalore corridor

The government has agreed in-principle for a feasibility study of the proposed Mumbai-Bangalore industrial corridor, Union Commerce Minister Anand Sharma said on Saturday.

Sharma said government was working on terms of reference of the proposed corridor.

Speaking to reporters here after discussions with Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar on infrastructure projects, he said the Centre had accepted the state's request to extend the proposed Chennai-Bangalore industrial corridor to Chitradurga.

Buoyed by rapid progress of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram had announced in the 2013-14 budget two more industrial corridors between Bangalore and Chennai and Bangalore and Mumbai.

He had also said the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) were preparing a comprehensive plan for the Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor.

To a query, Sharma said the fears of Karnataka farmers over FDI in retail were unfounded because the government has allowed organised retail in India for last thirteen years.

"I do not know where the fears have come from because organised retail is already in India. You have all the corporate majors engaging in organised retail whether it is the Reliance, the Tatas, the Birlas and Biyanis. Is this a fact or not?"

Sharma said 10 states have been notified and for both single and multi brands the Centre is putting a condition that 30 per cent of the sourcing should be from MSMEs.

Asked how many applications the government has received for FDI in multi-brand retail, he said these were business decisions because they have to look for local partners, which the government could not decide. http://zeenews.india.com/business/realestate/latest-news/centre-gives-in-principle-nod-for-study-on-mumbai-bangalore-corridor_72316.html

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Mangalore : ONGC, BPCL and Mitsui Consortium Sign MoU with NMPT for Mega LNG Project (http://www.mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=broadcast&broadcastid=384530)

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Mangalore: March 18, 2013, today's hot news - Mangalore will soon create history and will be on the world LNG Map ! You know Why ? Because Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), Mitsui and Company Limited of Japan and New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT) have together joined hands to create a history in Mangalore, on a mega LNG Regasification Terminal project which will be set up in the nearest future at New Mangalore Port, Panambur, Mangalore. The consortium will carry out a Feasibility Study for a terminal of 2-3 MMTPA capacity, expandable to 5 MMTPA.

To formalize the intent, the ONGC-led consortium signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with New Mangalore Trust (NMPT) on Monday, March 18, 2013 at Hotel Taj Gateway, Mangalore. The MoU documents, the Port's No-Objection to carry out the feasibility studies and intention to extend all cooperation to the consortium in this regard, was executed in the presence of Hon'ble Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dr M Veerappa Moily. Karnataka CM Jagadish Shettar, Union Minister Oscar Fernandes along with his wife Blossom, and many other ministers, MLA's, and top officials from the oil Industry witnessed the signing ceremony.

K S Jamestin ( director, HR of ONGC) welcomed the gathering, and introduced the guests and also gave a brief outline of the LNG project. He said that this historic pact being signed between ONGC, BPCL, Mitsui and NMPT for LNG Regasification Terminal project will place Mangalore on the world LNG Map. Dr P Tamilvanan ( Chairman-NMPT) said, "This project is a great milestone in the history of Mangalore. NMPT is plus 13% over last year, and we are growing. NMPT has the blessings, support and motivation from Ministers like Veerappa Moily and Oscar Fernandes, and that's why NMPT has succeeded in our various projects".

Chairman of Mitsui and Company, Japan Mr Suzuki said that he was happy to be associated with ONGC, BPCL and NMPT, as friend partners in India. Suzuki was fully confident that the project will be successful one and will benefit the community a lot. R K Singh, Chairman of BPCL said that Mangalore is the most strategic location for this project, and it can cater to the needs of North, South and everywhere in the Country. He said that he was glad to be associated with Mitsui, the biggest trading force in the world.

Sudhir Vasudeva, Chairman of ONGC said, " Mangalore will create a history, and will be the petroleum hub of India soon through this venture. Production will be double soon through this venture, thereby to satisfy the needs of the consumers. Minister Moily has been a strong guidance and force behind this project, and we know that this project will be another feather in the cap"

Union Minister Dr Veerappa Moily speaking said, " Although this project didn't get materialized when I was CM of Karnataka, but I am overwhelmed to see that this project will be set up during my tenureship as Union Minister of Oil and Petroleum. It should be completed by the year 2017-2018. Since gas is the energy of consumers, the state and Mangalore will be benefited from this project. Pipelines have been laid throughout the state and other parts of the country for this project. This venture will be a gateway for prosperity. But to make this project more fruitful, the support from the state government, people of Karnataka and citizens of Mangalore is very much needed."

Laxmi Kumaran of ONGC compered the whole ceremony very professionally and to the cheerful satisfaction of the audience.

From the demand side, Mangalore is a fast-growing industrial hub with presence of Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), Petrochemical Complex ONGC Mangalore, Petrochemicals Ltd (OMPL) and special Economic Zone, Mangalore SEZ (MSEZ). Additionally, Mangalore hosts an iron ore industry, Fertilizer Industry and their ancillary Industrial units. Currently, these industries are using heavy liquid sources like fuel oil and Naphtha for their energy and feedstock needs. Considering the growing demand of energy of energy coupled with increasing focus on environment, there is a strong case for environment-friendly LNG replacing these polluting fields.

As such, the Mangalore region rides on a virgin LNG demand of 2.25 MMTPA. The demand for Gas and LNG is sustainable, expected to grow significantly with expansion plans of industries there. Once the gas pipeline infrastructure is in place, Mangalore region will get connected to all neighbouring states. The coastal location of Mangalore also has a strategic of readily available all-season operating port with favourable marine conditions and proximity to existing and upcoming global supply sources of LNG.

JSW halts Karnataka expansion

JSW Steel has put on hold the expansion of its 10-million- tonne Vijayanagar plant in Karnataka because of continued iron ore shortages.

The company, headed by Sajjan Jindal, had planned to expand its Vijayanagar capacity by 2mt. The Rs 2,695-crore expansion was proposed to be completed in 2013-14.

“We have put it on hold as far as the expansion of 10mt to 12mt is concerned (at Vijayanagar). We want the iron ore situation to improve before we do the expansion,” JSW joint managing director and CFO Seshagiri Rao said.

To fund the expansion, the company had plans to take Rs 1,750-crore debt and meet the rest of the investments, about Rs 945 crore, from its cash reserves. However, all of this has been put on hold, Rao said.

“We have not really spent big money on it and have not placed the orders. So, it is on hold,” he said.

On whether the paucity of iron ore — the key steel making raw material — is the only reason for not going ahead with the expansion, Rao said, “Yes”.

JSW Steel has been struggling to run the Vijayanagar plant at its optimum capacity for more than one-and-a-half years because of the shortage of iron ore. http://www.telegraphindia.com/1130318/jsp/business/story_16685636.jsp#.UUdegTdSv2k

Alstom to strengthen Bangalore R&D centre

Alstom Transport is transforming its engineering facility in Bangalore into a global research and development centre.

The company is part of the Euro 20 billion, Parisbased Alstom, a global leader in transport infrastructure, power generation and electrical grids.

Alstom Transport develops and markets a range of systems, equipment and services for the Indian railway sector, some of which include providing signalling systems for the Delhi and Bangalore metro rail totalling 100 kilometers, building metro rail coaches for the Chennai metro, and designing Linke Holfmann Busch coaches for the Shatabdi and Rajdhani.

Alstom Transport's Bangalore engineering team of 300 people is engaged in application and product engineering for the company's signalling projects in Europe and in Asia. This cen tre will be expanded to include a new team focused on research, engineering, and development of coaches, beginning next fiscal.

Henri Poupart-Lafarge, president, Alstom Transport, who was in Bangalore, said that the company planned to increase the headcount at its Bangalore centre to 550 by the end of fiscal 2014.

"We will add another 150 engineers for the signalling part and would grow the coaches division by 100 people a year," said Lafarge.

The Bangalore centre will initially focus on developing various systems and sub systems for coaches, both for the Indian and glob al markets. Over the next four to five years the company expects the centre to reach a level of competence to design and develop a complete coach.

Lafarge added that the company would also increase the headcount at its manufacturing facility in Sri City in Andhra Pradesh to 200 from 120 at present.

The manufacturing unit, established with an investment of Euro 30 million, will manufacture metro rail coaches for the Chennai metro.

Over the next one-year, bids for a host of rail projects that include expansion of the Delhi and Bangalore metros, and initiation of the Ahmedabad and Cochin metros are expected.

"There is huge potential in the rail transportation business in India. The country has a large number of cities growing because of urbanization, which today are not equipped with metro connectivity," said Lafarge. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Alstom-to-strengthen-Bangalore-RD-centre/articleshow/19044198.cms

FireEye launches R&D center in Bangalore

A former McAfee veteran has been appointed to manage FireEye's freshly minted US$50 million R&D (research and development) center located in Bangalore, India.

In a statement released March 14, the IT security vendor said the center will employ 50 researchers by year-end. FireEye is hoping the facility's head, Sridhar Jayanthi, can recreate his achievements at McAfee India where he established the company's largest R&D team. Jayanthi is the company's regional sales director and managing director for India.

The new facility has commenced operations, and serves as a hub for the development and testing new FireEye products.

"The Bangalore office is an important milestone for FireEye's global expansion," Ashar Aziz, founder and CTO of FireEye, said in the statement. "We expect the new Bangalore office to play a key role in maintaining cutting‐edge technology and innovation in the FireEye line of security products."

In a separate report released on the same day, Zinnov Consulting said Indian MNC (multinational corporation) centers, also referred to as global in-house centers, must innovate to stay relevant having reached "a level of optimal maturity" in delivering on R&D, IT, and business process services. It pointed to infrastructure management services (IMS) as a green-field area, offering scope for innovation and these centers an opportunity to evolve into a multi-function center.

The consulting firm's whitepaper urged MNC centers to raise their profile and drive transformation within the parent company, which expect the centers to take green-field initiatives to inception within two years. This puts pressure on these MNC centers to innovate and deliver results.

"Innovation is no more considered a value-add. It is now a service delivery imperative," Sundararaman Vishwanathan, manager of consulting at Zinnov, said in the report. "Today, MNC center cannot be a provider of point solutions anymore. They should be able to deliver integrated services across the complex spectrum of physical, virtual, mobile and cloud-enabled IT infrastructure to the parent organization."http://www.zdnet.com/in/fireeye-launches-r-and-d-center-in-bangalore-7000012669/

Sankeshwar will get Jaggery park

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http://epaper.samyukthakarnataka.com

:cheers:


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Anthem infuses Rs.100 cr to get into bio-pharma products from its dedicated 2nd unit

Anthem Group has planned an investment of Rs.100 crore to open its second production facility at the Harohalli Industrial Area in Bengaluru. The facility is coming up on a 15 acre area of the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB). The project was cleared by the Karnataka Udyog Mitra (KUM).

The company has raised the funds largely through debt and internal accruals. The environment clearance from the State Pollution Control Board is pending, said Ajay Bharadwaj, chief executive officer, Anthem Biosciences told Pharmabiz.

read more:- http://www.pharmabiz.com/NewsDetails.aspx?aid=74358&sid=1

Karnataka clears 37 projects worth Rs 34,702 crore
Anil Urs Bangalore, March 19:

The State high-level clearance committee (SHLCC) chaired by Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar has cleared 37 projects with an investment of over Rs 34,702.09 crore.

The SHLCC cleared projects are expected to create 1.58 lakh jobs spread across 18 districts. The clearance committee meet was attended by Industries Minister Murgesh Nirani, Principal Secretary (Industries and Commerce) M.N. Vidyashankar and officials from other allied departments.

Sector-wise projects
Following are the sector-wise projects approved: agri-based three projects - investment Rs 704.79 crore - employment offered for 5,325 people; Cement two projects - investment Rs 1,848.14 crore - employment offered for 377 people; Chemicals two projects - investment Rs 2,798 crore - employment offered for 1,345 people; Power three projects - investment Rs 5,052.25 crore - employment offered for 2,875 people; Engineering five projects - investment Rs 6,912 crore - employment offered for 7,696 people; Infrastructure five projects - investment Rs 4,096.6 crore - employment offered for 1.03 lakh people; Iron and steel five projects - investment Rs 8,658.02 crore - employment offered for 4,917 people; IT Park four projects - investment Rs 3,008.83 crore - employment offered for 24,000 people; Others three project - investment Rs 321.72 crore - employment offered for 1,000 people; SEZ one projects - investment Rs 472 crore - employment offered for 1,000 people; Sugar three projects - investment Rs 580 crore - employment offered for 974 people; Textiles one projects - investment Rs 249.74 crore - employment offered for 835 people.

District-wise
Bagalkot – one project - investments Rs 495.24 crore - employment for 145 people; Bangalore (rural) – four projects - investments Rs 1,593.22 crore - employment for 5,936 people; Bangalore (city) – four projects - investments Rs 4,063.83 crore - employment for 20,195 people; Belgaum – two projects - investments Rs 4,182 crore - employment 2,331 people; Bellary - two project - investment Rs 7,273 crore - employment for 3,291 people; Bijapur – five projects - investments Rs 3,695.78 crore - employment for 2,790 people; Chikkaballapur - two projects - investments Rs 2,654.5 crore - employment for one lakh people; Chitradurga – one project - investments Rs 247.6 crore - employment for 800 people; Dharwad – two projects - investments Rs 712 crore - employment for 2,580 people; Gulbarga – two projects - investments Rs 1,562.9 crore - employment for 569 people; Kolar – one project - investments Rs 63 crore, employment for 70 people; Koppal – two projects - investments Rs 892 crore, employment for 1,276 people; Mandya – one project - investments Rs 493.02 crore - employment for 350 people; Mysore – one project - investments Rs 2,650 crore employment for 1,000 people; Ramnagar – two projects - investments Rs 1,382 crore employment for 5,875 people; Tumkur – three projects - investments Rs 642 crore employment for 9,345 people; Yadgir - one project - investments Rs 210 crore - employment for 337 people; Others – one project - investments Rs 1,890 crore - employment for 1500 people.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/karnataka-clears-37-projects-worth-rs-34702-crore/article4525420.ece

CEMENT & STEEL (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/info-tech/highlevel-panel-clears-tcs-plan-to-set-up-itites-sez-in-bangalore/article3311699.ece)

SHLCC has cleared three cement and one iron and steel projects. Investment in cement sector is Rs 6,475.13 crore with employment potential of 1,525 people.

Projects cleared are Reliance Cementation, which is to set up a 5-mtpa cement plant in Sedam taluk, Gulbarga district, with an investment of Rs 2,500 crore.

Shaasta Cement Corporation proposal to set up 3.5-mtpa cement plant in Chincholi taluk in Gulbarga district, with an investment of Rs 2,320 crore has also been cleared.

In iron and steel sector, investment is from JSW Steel which is planning to set up a ‘cold-rolled annealed and skin passed coils' unit in Sandur taluk, Bellary district, with an investment of Rs 4,190.40 crore and the employment potential is 1,264 people.

Mr Nirani said “Apart from these investments, SHLCC has also approved six sugar projects with an investment of Rs 999 crore in the districts of Belgaum, Bijapur, Bidar and Raichur, which will offer employment to 1,713 people and is expected to add value to the development of northern parts of the state.” anil.u@thehindu.co.in

Karnataka clears 37 projects worth Rs 34,702 crore



The State high-level clearance committee (SHLCC) chaired by Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar has cleared 37 projects with an investment of over Rs 34,702.09 crore.

District-wise

Bagalkot – one project - investments Rs 495.24 crore - employment for 145 people;
Bangalore (rural) – four projects - investments Rs 1,593.22 crore - employment for 5,936 people;
Bangalore (city) – four projects - investments Rs 4,063.83 crore - employment for 20,195 people;
Belgaum – two projects - investments Rs 4,182 crore - employment 2,331 people;
Bellary - two project - investment Rs 7,273 crore - employment for 3,291 people;
Bijapur – five projects - investments Rs 3,695.78 crore - employment for 2,790 people;
Chikkaballapur - two projects - investments Rs 2,654.5 crore - employment for one lakh people;
Chitradurga – one project - investments Rs 247.6 crore - employment for 800 people;
Dharwad – two projects - investments Rs 712 crore - employment for 2,580 people;
Gulbarga – two projects - investments Rs 1,562.9 crore - employment for 569 people;
Kolar – one project - investments Rs 63 crore, employment for 70 people;
Koppal – two projects - investments Rs 892 crore, employment for 1,276 people;
Mandya – one project - investments Rs 493.02 crore - employment for 350 people;
Mysore – one project - investments Rs 2,650 crore employment for 1,000 people;
Ramnagar – two projects - investments Rs 1,382 crore employment for 5,875 people;
Tumkur – three projects - investments Rs 642 crore employment for 9,345 people;
Yadgir - one project - investments Rs 210 crore - employment for 337 people;
Others – one project - investments Rs 1,890 crore - employment for 1500 people.

read more:- http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/karnataka-clears-37-projects-worth-rs-34702-crore/article4525420.ece

^^
what happened to mangalore udupi

Karnataka clears 37 projects worth Rs 34,702 crore


http://www.vijaykarnatakaepaper.com/epaperimages/2032013/2032013-md-hr-5/12543312.JPG



www.vijaykarnatakaepaper.com

^^
I have mentioned this about in Mnagalore forum..

Audit Report on Performance of JNNURM

The Government has considered the Performance Audit Report No.15 of 2012-13 on the JNNURM covering the period 2005-06 to 2010-11 and has issued advisory to the States for compliance/rectification with the observations/deficiencies concerning to them as pointed out in the report .

The performance audit has been conducted through test check of records which indicates no Urban Infrastructure projects completed in the Seven Mission cities of Uttar Pradesh and 33 out of 71 projects in Gujarat, 16 out of 46 projects in Karnataka and 17 out of 50 projects in Andhra Pradesh have been completed.

The progress of the Projects is periodically reviewed by the Government of India. However, the execution and monitoring of projects is done by the States/ Union Territories (UTs) in accordance with rules and procedures. The States have been advised to expedite implementation of the projects to be completed within the extended period of JnNURM. Presently, 4 out of 33 projects in Uttar Pradesh, 47 out of 71 projects in Gujarat, 23 out of 47 projects in Karnataka and 20 out of 52 projects in Andhra Pradesh have been completed.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Urban Development Smt. Deepa Dasmunshi in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today. http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=94030

Inclusion of Cities in JNNURM

Requests for inclusion under Urban Infrastructure and Governance (UIG) of Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JnNURM) have been received from States during the Mission period in respect of Amravati, Aurangabad, Ayodhaya, Belgaum, Bellary, Biharshariff, Calicut, Darjeeling, Deoghar, Dhule, Faizabad, Gandhinagar, Gaya, Gorakhpur, Gulbarga, Guntur, Gurgaon, Gwalior, Haldia, Hubli-Dharward, Jhansi, Jodhpur, Kaithal, Kalimpong & Kurseong, Karamsad, Kolhapur, Kurnool, Kurukshetra-Pehowa, Malegaon, Nalanda, Panipat, Pawapuri, Port Blair, Rajgir, Sambalpur, Siliguri, Solapur, Sultanpur-Lodhi, Vrindavan, Warangal etc.

As per guidelines of UIG, the number of cities under the Mission shall remain around 60. At present there are 65 cities covered under UIG of JnNURM and no more cities have been added. However, cities that are not covered under UIG are eligible for assistance under Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small & Medium Towns (UIDSSMT) subject to conformity with the guidelines and availability of funds.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Urban Development Smt. Deepa Dasmunshi in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today. MG/sk

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=94030

Urban Sanitation in Various States

The national rating for cities has been launched by the Government of India to achieve the goals of the National Urban Sanitation Policy (NUSP) which aims at making Indian cities and towns totally sanitized, healthy, and livable. The first such exercise undertaken during 2009-2010 with publication of results in May 2010rated 423 cities (with population greater than 100,000) for their performance across various aspects of sanitation.

The Ministry of Urban Development acts as a facilitator in framing broad policies, programmes and guidelines on Urban Sanitation. The Central Government supplements the efforts of State Governments/Union Territories in providing sanitation facilities through various schemes as follows:

i. In order to supplement the effort of State Governments, the Ministry of Urban Development launched Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) in 2005 with a view to provide financial assistance for creating infrastructure facilities in all the urban areas of the country including sanitation with a reform oriented agenda. The cities are supported through Urban Infrastructure & Governance (UIG) Sub-Mission of JNNURM and Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns (UIDSSMT).Projects in the sectors of Sewerage, Drainage and Solid Waste Management are supported through grant of Additional Central Assistance (ACA).

ii. Ministry of Urban Development has also formulated a Scheme for Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme in Satellite Towns/Magnets of Million plus Cities (UIDSST). The objectives of this scheme amongst others are to develop urban infrastructure facilities such as water supply, sewerage, drainage and solid waste management etc. at Satellite towns/ Counter Magnets around seven mega-cities.

iii. The Ministry has also launched North Eastern Region Urban Development Programme (NERUDP). The capital cities of the five states are covered in the first phase viz., Agartala (Tripura), Aizawl (Mizoram), Gangtok (Sikkim), Kohima (Nagaland) and Shillong (Meghalaya). Solid Waste Management Projects are also supported under this scheme.

This information was given by the Minister of Urban Development Shri Kamal Nath in a reply to a question in Lok Sabha today. http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=94030

Inclusion of Cities in JNNURM



http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=94030

:bash::bash::bash:
No Mangalore

even i thought the same but etc.. is there so dont worry

Centre, Karnataka govts to chip in Rs.250 cr for NIMHANS' 2nd campus in Bengaluru

The Centre and the government of Karnataka will be allocating Rs.250 crore to the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) for its second campus in Bengaluru at Kyasenahalli in the KR Puram.

read more:- http://www.pharmabiz.com/NewsDetails.aspx?aid=74432&sid=1

JSW Steel Plans to Import Iron Ore

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324789504578383760248221782.html

VMware invests $120 m in Bangalore facility

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/info-tech/vmware-invests-120-m-in-bangalore-facility/article4547998.ece?homepage=true&ref=wl_home

http://3.imimg.com/data3/SU/NK/HTT-246/246_2013-03-17-12-36-30_1363503990.png

Karnataka to get 106 more model schools

Karnataka is all set to get 106 new model schools (Adarsha Vidyalayas) through public-private partnership (PPP) as the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) has identified as many non-backward education blocks for establishing these schools.

Anekal, Bangalore East, North, South, Devanahalli, Doddballapur, Magadi and Hoskote are some of the blocks where model schools can be set up. The schools, with Classes VI to XII, will be affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) with English as the medium of instruction.

read more:- http://newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/article1518910.ece

NTPC to invest Rs 15k crore in Kudgi thermal plant

http://newindianexpress.com/business/news/article1518741.ece

Infra sector: Opportunities abound, problems aplenty

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/features/infra-sector-opportunities-abound-problems-aplenty/article4551588.ece

FireEye opens R&D center in Bangalore

http://www.informationweek.in/security/13-03-28/fireeye_opens_r_d_center_in_bangalore.aspx

Kochi-Mangalore gas pipeline turning into mirage

http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/kochi-mangalore-gas-pipeline-turning-into-mirage-113032800515_1.html

X posting

Mangalore-Hassan- Bangalore- Mysore LPG pipeline project: Bid invited

http://www.steelguru.com/indian_news/SteelGuru_Projects_MangaloreHassan_Bangalore_Mysore_LPG_pipeline_project_Bid_invited/307139.html

http://tenders.hpcl.co.in/tenders/tender_prog/tenderfiles/3935/Tender/Tender%20No-10000151-HD-12001-Survey%20of%20MHB%20LPG%20Pipeline.pdf

This bring down the Bullet tanker traffic on Shiradi..
And this will be the third pipeline from Mangalore to Bangalore

Kochi-Mangalore gas pipeline turning into mirage

http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/kochi-mangalore-gas-pipeline-turning-into-mirage-113032800515_1.html

Any project in Godsowncountry is a mirage..:nuts:

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/03/29/article-2301347-18FF2C4C000005DC-988_634x824.jpg

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/03/29/article-2301347-18FF2BD8000005DC-514_233x771.jpg

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-2301347/Security-projects-violate-environmental-laws-start-work-ecologically-sensitive-zone-Karnataka.html#ixzz2P6jN0iky
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook

Bangalore Stock Exchange to set up own trading platform

http://newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/article1524012.ece

Ramky Infrastructure bags Rs 387 crore orders in Karnataka, West Bengal, Odisha and AP
(http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/infrastructure/ramky-infrastructure-bags-rs-387-crore-orders-in-karnataka-west-bengal-odisha-and-ap/articleshow/19344656.cms)

NEW DELHI: Ramky Infrastructure today said it has won orders worth Rs 387 crore for various projects in Karnataka, West Bengal, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

" Ramky InfrastructureBSE 17.20 %, the flagship company of Ramky Group has bagged projects worth Rs 386.90 crore across the nation...covering Water, Waste Water and Building Verticals," the company said in a statement.

Some of the notable projects include a Rs 138.26 crore project from Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board for a water treatment plant at Kondandapur in Hyderabad, it said.

In Karnataka, the company was awarded three projects for construction of sewerage systems at a cost of Rs 151 crore from Bangalore Water Supply & Sewerage Board.

Besides, the company said it has been awarded a Rs 26.71 crore project from IRCON International in West Bengal for finishing work for an indoor stadium.

The company said that currently it is executing projects in various verticals with an order book value of Rs 13,137 crore in India and West Africa.

Nabard sanctions Rs 27.77 cr to Karnataka undertaking

read more:- http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/nabard-sanctions-rs-27-77-cr-to-karnataka-undertaking-113040200553_1.html

Mumbai-Bangalore-Chennai corridor: 8 things that will change urban India

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/slideshows/infrastructure/mumbai-bangalore-chennai-corridor-8-things-that-will-change-urban-india/slideshow/19356730.cms

Cerebra gets nod from Karnataka Pollution Control board for recycling plant

BANGALORE, APR 4:
Cerebra Integrated Technologies Limited has received clearance from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board to establish its integrated 96,000 MT capacity E-waste recycling plant here, the company said.

read more: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/cerebra-gets-nod-from-karnataka-pollution-control-board-for-recycling-plant/article4581054.ece

Persistent to set up new office in Bangalore; hire 150 people

IT firm Persistent Systems today said it will set up a new facility in Bangalore and hire more than 150 people as part of its expansion plans.

"We are excited about opening our new office in Bangalore, as the city is India's IT capital and it is time for Persistent to be there," Persistent Systems Chairman and Managing Director Anand Deshpande said in a statement.

read more:- http://profit.ndtv.com/news/corporates/article-persistent-to-set-up-new-office-in-bangalore-hire-150-people-320483

Cerebra gets nod from Karnataka Pollution Control board for recycling plant

Bangalore : Cerebra Integrated Technologies Limited has received clearance from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board to establish its integrated 96,000 MT capacity E-waste recycling plant here, the company said.

read more:- http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/cerebra-gets-nod-from-karnataka-pollution-control-board-for-recycling-plant/article4581054.ece

Karnataka tops in management of rural drinking water schemes


State gets incentive of Rs. 241.1 crore from the Union government

Karnataka has emerged top performer in the country in management of rural drinking water schemes and devolution of powers to panchayat raj institutions (PRIs) in 2012-13 and received an incentive of Rs. 241.1 crore from the Union government.

read more:- http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/karnataka-tops-in-management-of-rural-drinking-water-schemes/article4585514.ece

Kirloskar group to set up hospital in Bangalore

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/states/kirloskar-group-to-set-up-hospital-in-bangalore/article4584896.ece

Karnataka government seeks Rs. 149 crore from Centre to boost pharma education

Government of India has announced a grant of Rs 1200 crore for the development of a drug administration in the country under the 12th five year plan. Karnataka is the first state to send a proposal seeking Rs. 149 crore, of which, 25% will be shared by the state government.

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=101993684

@mysore SBM head Office
http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/2641/dscf5836b.jpg

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/9590/dscf5846c.jpg

Namma Bengaluru
http://imageshack.us/a/img189/9544/dscf5803j.jpg

http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/6610/dscf5818y.jpg

In 3 years, IIHR made Rs 1.5 crore by licensing technology
http://newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/In-3-years-IIHR-made-Rs-1.5-crore-by-licensing-technology/2013/04/22/article1555946.ece

In-principle approval given for 12 NIMZs

“So far eight NIMZs have been announced along the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

“Four other NIMZs outside the DMIC have also been granted ’in-principle’ approval — two in Andhra Pradesh and one each in Karnataka and Maharashtra,” Minister of State for Commerce and Industry D Purandeswari said in a written reply to Lok Sabha.

read more: http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/inprinciple-approval-given-for-12-nimzs/article4666638.ece

Karnataka, Israel ink agreement

Karnataka has recently signed an agreement with Israel for co-operation in the field of industrial and technological research and development.

read more: http://www.deccanherald.com/content/330569/karnataka-israel-ink-agreement.html

http://lite.epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/TOIBG/2013/05/08/12/Img/Ad0120911.png

Karnataka may get more projects before LS poll
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/333458/karnataka-may-get-more-projects.html

Ajith Athrady, NEW DELHI, May 19, 2013, DHNS:

Eyeing the coming Lok Sabha elections, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government is set to push through developmental projects aggressively in Karnataka, even as the Siddaramaiah-led State government's functioning is likely to be subjected to intense scrutiny by the Congress high command.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday to seek additional rice for Karnataka. Singh immediately contacted Union Food Minister K V Thomas and asked him to help the state on the issue. “The prime minister had called me and asked to help Karnataka on its demand for allocation of more rice. We are studying the proposal and will take steps accordingly,” Thomas told Deccan Herald.

With the State seeking an additional 1.82 lakh tonne of rice per month from the Centre to enable the new dispensation to distribute food grain to poor to fulfil a poll promise, the final decision lies with the prime minister. The Food Ministry is already working to put up a proposal before the prime minister to meet the state's demand.

The UPA government is also expected to clear the long-pending Phase II project of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation, for Rs 14,774 crore, soon. The project had been waiting for the Centre’s clearance for several months. Another major project—the Mumbai-Bangalore-Chennai Industrial Corridor—announced in this year's railways budget is likely to take shape as the Ministries of Railway and Commerce are to start preparatory works on it soon.

Union Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh has already shot off half a dozen letters to Siddaramaiah about the welfare schemes being implemented by his ministry in the State, and sought his co-operation for their early completion. Ramesh has also brought to the chief minister's notice the shortcomings in implementations of the UPA government flagship programme, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, in Karnataka. Ramesh has asked the chief minister to address the issues raised by the Comptroller and Auditor General at the earliest.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi is learnt to have advised the chief minister to provide corruption-free administration. When he met her on Friday, she also listed dos and don’ts for the administration, said sources in the party.

Hinting that the State administration would be under intense scrutiny from the party, Sonia reportedly reminded the chief minister about how the previous BJP government had crumbled after many of its ministers were found embroiled in controversies and scams.

While advising the chief minister to accommodate all communities, the Congress high command has also reportedly asked him not to give the impression that the government is working against the upper castes.

As the dominant Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities have 46 MLAs in the ruling party this time, the chief minister should strike a balance while taking any decisions to ensure that the powerful communities are not offended at any time, said a senior leader in the party.

The Congress, under siege from the Opposition parties at the national level over the issue of corruption, is looking to garner more seats in Karnataka in the coming Lok Sabha election, as opposed to just the six last time, and it is depending on the new State government to help out by providing able administration and a corruption-free cabinet.

Things to do

- The Food Ministry is already working to put up a proposal before the prime minister to meet the state's demand for 1.82 lakh tonne of rice per month.

- The Centre is expected to clear Phase II project of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation, for Rs 14,774 crore.

-Jairam Ramesh has asked Siddaramaiah for proper implementation of MGNREGS
in Karnataka.

Karnataka government plans world-class university

http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/karnataka-government-plans-world-class-university_850212.html

:cheers:

Karnataka to construct Rs 90 cr Aarogya Soudha (http://www.deccanherald.com/content/334160/karnataka-construct-rs-90-cr.html)