June-July 2017 | Vol 3 | Issue 3

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We make it convenient and seamless to Do: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah

A Fine Balancing Act Dr. G. Parameshwara

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2 3 EDITORIAL Save Lakes, Solve Water Crisis

Pollution and water scarcity are the twin woes making life hell for residents of Bengaluru. When the highly-polluted Bellandur Lake caught fire in February this year, people in other parts of the country and even abroad took notice of the serious environmental crisis facing the Information Technology capital of the country. That the lake had caught fire several times earlier and the February incident was only the latest in a series despite the intervention of not only environmentalists and residents but also the courts increases the gravity of the situation.

Later, in March, when the Varthur Lake turned into a cauldron of froth and foam, the issue became one that raised concerns even over the future of Bengaluru. With the air quality of the city already one of the worst in the country, some scientists have said unless the authorities took corrective A magazine showcasing action, Bengaluru could turn an uninhabitable city by 2025. the latest news updates and events of Karnataka Meanwhile, Karnataka is facing a severe water crisis for the fourth consecutive year with rainfall recording a deficiency of 40-70 per cent during the August-December period last year. The Government declared 160 of the 176 taluks in the State drought-hit in early March, when the summer months were still far away. An Indian Institute of Science study last year had revealed that Bengaluru has lost 79 per cent of its water bodies Editorial Adisory Board owing to urbanisation and 98 per cent of its lakes have been encroached upon. The result is, the city is dependent on water from Cauvery while Dr. C.G. Krishnadas Nair Former Chairman, HAL potential water sources exist in abundance in its limits.

Dr. D. S. Ashwath IAS (Retd) Though efforts have been taken in the past like the formation of Lake Shri. Ivan Nigli Ex. MLA Development Authority to save and rejuvenate the waters bodies, they have met with limited success. The Government, in such circumstances, Sunny Jerome should treat the pollution of the lakes and the water scarcity through the Managing Editor same lens and solve one to make the other more manageable. Preethi M Associate Editor Trivandrum S. Radhakrishnan

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4 5 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Karnataka: One of India’s Top Investment Destinations With proactive industrial policies and high rank in ease of doing business, Karnataka is the hottest destination for investors. Stay tuned to the coming issues in this Content series that unravels easy steps to the journey of investing in Karnataka. If you are looking to invest newly, if you have 7 Karnataka: Top Investment Destination already invested, you’ll definitely find useful information here. We welcome 9 Lakes of Fire & Foam you to send your questions, doubts and suggestions to us. Your experiences shall 10 STARTUP - Making the Right ‘Clicks’ prove helpful to others in the bandwagon. Together, let’s make the journey more 11 A Fillip to Infrastructure easy and fruitful.

12 Industries Aiming for 12 % Growth nvesting in Karnataka – An Introduction Investments are subsequent returns. To begin with, the focus on providing the basic bursts of ‘’energy’’ required to actively sustain a robust necessities such as Infrastructure, Land availability, Power and 14 Universal Development with a Human Face Ieconomic activity for a longer time which in turn creates Water supply has increased even as the government machinery economic prosperity. This results, in higher earning capacity is working hard on ensuring these necessities are made available An Excellent Track Record leading to greater spends that in turn again provide an impetus for potential investors and companies. At the supply front, the 17 for a continued economic growth. Karnataka, the 8th largest state is focussing on establishing institutions across academic A Fine Balancing Act state in India with close to 66.1 million population and a steadily streams to promote quality education as means to create enough 19 growing younger demographic is fast becoming one of the most supply for the skilled job space and on vocational training for the Unity is Strength, Says Congress In-charge attractive investment destinations in the country. It is also seen semi-skilled job space. At the Execution level, the government 21 as a proactive state having pioneered machinery has been working to stand the IT revolution and setting up of IT tall in The Ease of Doing Business by 23 A Winning Combination Knowledge Parks in India leading to a working on methods to provide quicker change in the economic contours of the ‘’At $156.23Bn access to the relevant departments of 24 Ease of Doing Business state and establishment of a thriving Karnataka stood 5th the machinery, faster land acquisition business ecosystem over the last three and clearing of the files and even aiding Spreading out from capital city decades. overall with 7.54% in the implementation of the projects. 36 Though Karnataka is predominantly Good news is that the momentum contribution towards known for the IT ecosystem, it is one 38 Winning the War against Hunger that began towards the end of the National GDP’’ of the most industrialized states in the Bangalore Metro 90s has been sustained as more and country with a clear focus on other 40 more initiatives have been taken up industries too. One can see the intent by successive governments to ensure of the state as it strongly continues to 42 Bangalore Sports (Cricket Leads the Peak) a sustained economic growth. The GDP of Karnataka stands at promote the other sectors such as Bio-technology, Health Care, $156.23Bn (‘15) and has been steadily growing at 7%, almost Manufacturing, Agri and Food processing, Energy and Tourism. 43 Mysuru Dasara, the cound down begins on par with the nation’s growth rate and the future does look This is good enough news for investors who are looking to focus promising for this southern state. on sectors other than IT. An example of faith imposed in the 44 Lights, Camera, Action,... state of Karnataka by the investors is the $10.4Bn investment Advantage Karnataka: intentions received in the first half of last year (2016) even as the 45 Street Food in Karnataka The state headed by its capital city of Bengaluru has a state moved to the number one position in the category. The geographical advantage in terms of its location and connect investment intentions worth $10.4Bn reasserted Karnataka’s position as one of the top investment destinations in India. As an 48 Karnataka Tourism not only with other parts of India but with other parts of the world. Another great advantage is establishment and reach of investor one would certainly weigh in the Pros and Cons and look for future potential before taking a step, and here are a few strong 50 Recognition for Nurses several academic institutions that create a large knowledge pool of resources which cater to several industries. The fact that facts that reassert Karnataka’s position as a winning partner as far Bengaluru hosts not only the largest IT hub but also the largest as investments are concerned: R&D and Bio-tech hubs goes to show the kind of potential the q It has the 4th largest skilled work force in the country as it state holds for a robust and complimentary economic activity in employs 6.6% of the country’s industry employment. the years to come. q It is a pioneer in introducing industry policies; the first to introduce policies for Aerospace, Bio-Technology, IT, Semi- The state government has over the years realized the potential conductors and Start-Ups. and has actively pushed forward several norms and policies q Perhaps, it has the best labour relations in the country; labour to create a very conducive environment for investments and is very industry friendly. 6 7 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA q It has 90,000 acres of land allotted for economic development q Also, the most expat-friendly place with an outstanding Social 40,000 of which has been notified for industrial purposes. infrastructure and Cosmopolitan culture. q It has the largest bio-diversity in the country with 10 agro climate zones to cultivate various crops. Emergence of Tier II cities: q Most globalized state with highest degree of openness to If Bengaluru leads the way for the economic prosperity of the LAKES export trade at 47.7% vis-à-vis national average of 24%. state, the tier II towns of Mysuru, Hubli - which is fast becoming q It attracts the 4th highest FDI in India with a cumulative of another start-up center, Mangaluru and Belgaum are fast 12.2Bn since 2009 becoming centres of business activities. As a result, the business of Fire & Foam The above stats go ecosystem is slowly spreading farther and wider across the state to show the extent resulting in a safer business model where several areas of the ‘’The state hosts of the achievements state contribute to its growth rather than just one or two. about 60% of of the state on the economic front and The government is also BIOTECHNOLOGY the kind of conducive focussed on promoting environment the start-up culture in ‘’Investment COMPANIES it creates for these tier II cities and in the country’’ aburgeoning is providing impetus intentions worth economic activity, for enterprising not to forget the kind individuals moving $10.4Bn is the highest of returns it provides into sectors other than ever received for any for all stakeholders, especially, the investors. IT such as – Agriculture, Bio-tech, Education, state in India’’ Bangalore Leading the Race: Health etc. This outlook Arguably the innovation hub of India Bangalore attracts and promises a much more presents the most innovative of ideas and resources from all economic activity over the country. As a result, this open and vibrant ecosystem spread even as Karnataka is fast becoming a state that fosters has nourished and given rise to the most intensive and investor- varied industry sectors in the prospect of catering to a wider driven Start-up ecosystem in the country even as the ideas find range of business communities and investors. fruition in the form of emerging startups. The future looks bright as Karnataka has become one of the fastest dvantage Karnataka examines some major Development Authority, lakes in the city, including the Bellandur Bengaluru is known for being: growing states moving into the top 5 slot of states contributing environmental issues faced by Bengaluru in the light of Lake, have met a sad end or are in a critical condition. This, despite q The largest Tech hub in India and the 4th largest in the world towards the national GDP. With a renewed focus, a stronger the fires that appeared in Bellandur Lake and the foam the intervention of not only environmentalists and concerned q The Start-Up capital of India and is the most VC-friendly place political will and an abundance of human resource, Karnataka emitted by Varthur Lake citizens, but also the courts. In fact, the courts had intervened in having received the highest VC funding so far definitely promises a more vibrant and friendlier business A the issue based on several public interest litigations filed before ecosystem and is a safe and worthy investment destination for The recent incidents of fires in the Bellandur Lake and the them, but most of their orders have led to little or no action from Stay tuned, as we take you into the next investors from across industries and geographies. n toxic froth and foam emitted by the Varthur Lake in Bengaluru the authorities concerned, leaving the lakes to die. Bengaluru, in phase – The Process of Investing in the have attracted global attention to the plight of the lakeshere as effect, has become a city of disappearing lakes. state of Karnataka. well as the environmental issues plaguing the city. The fire that appeared in Bellandur Lake on February 16 this Many environmentalists have said the fire and foam in the lakes year has left residents evidently angry, as such incidents are were only a warning. Bengaluru, in fact, faces an environmental reported very rarely in the world. “Shocking apathy and serious catastrophe, according to them. neglect,” said industrialist, Biotechnology pioneer and city resident KiranMazumdar Shaw. Shaw, in fact, heads a citizens’ It is ironical that Bengaluru was earlier known for its clean lakes group that takes up the rising pollution levels in the State capital. abundant with flora and fauna that more than met the water needs of the city’s population. History says Bengaluru once had However, according to a fire officer, “The fire was because of dry 280-285 lakes. However, over time, the number has fallen to 17 grass, not pollutants.” now as a result of rapid urbanisation, development, conversion and encroachment. But it remains a fact that the lake is being used as waste dump not only by residents but also the toxic industries who release Most of the lakes were constructed by the founders of their harmful effluents into the water body. Bengaluru, the KempeGowdas, around 400 years ago and subsequently developed by the Wodeyars of Mysuru and the “The problem has become complex over the years. The civic British. They were meant to meet the needs for drinking water, bodies have promised that they will stop sewage being dumped irrigation as well as fishing. The lakes, built by channelling the into the lake,” said the chairman of the State Pollution Control numerous streams originating from the valleysaround the city, Board. helped replenish the ground water sources nearby and also influenced the micro-climate of the area. The notable freshwater “The hyacinth over the sludge was dry and caught fire. Its ring- lakes and tanks in Bengaluru now include MadiwalaLake, Hebbal like formation indicates a chemical reaction,” he said. Lake, UlsoorLake and Sankey Tank. A biometric survey of the lake bed has shown the silt and sludge there have a high concentration of heavy metals like lead, Though the governments over the years have taken steps chromium, copper and cadmium. aimed at their restoration, including the constitution of a Lake n

8 9 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA A FILLIP TO

Making the Right ‘Clicks’ INFRASTRUCTURE Karnataka came out with a path-breaking Startup Policy in 2015, aiming to create 20,000 startups by 2020. Advantage Karnataka takes a look at the policy and the strategies to achieve the targets

hen the Government of Karnataka launched a Startup implementing Departments and take necessary decisions for Policy in November 2015, a first in the country, it was improving the implementation. The council meets at least once a Wfulfulling a long-felt need. Bengaluru, in fact, has been year. the startup capital of India for long, leaving the other cities and The Startup Council has the Chief Minister of Karnataka as towns far behind. Chairman. The members are: Minister for Large and Medium Estimates have said Bengaluru hosts around 1,700 startups. Industries; Minister for IT,BT and S&T; Minister for Agriculture; The Karnataka Startup Policy 2015-20 aims to raise this number Minister for Health and Family Welfare; Minister for Food and to 20,000 technology-based startups, including 6,000 product Civil Supplies; Minister for Higher Education, The Chief Secretary startups, by 2020. The Government hopes to create six lakh direct to Government of Karnataka, The Additional Chief Secretary to and 12 lakh indirect jobs in the sector under the policy. It has Government of Karnataka, The Additional Chief Secretary to set a goal of mobilising funding amounting to Rs 2,000 crore for Government & Development Commissioner. The Additional Chief startups. The focus will also be on generation of 25 innovative Secretary to Government, Commerce andIndustries Department, technology solutions with social relevance. The Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Higher Education The Government has prepared the strategies to achieve the targets it has set. They are: 1) Foster strong partnerships between R&D institutions and industry; 2) Provide early stage Idea 2 POC (proof of concept) Funding; ith rapid development taking place in the State, For Smooth Air Travel 3) Encourage entrepreneurship in education; especially in and around the capital Bengaluru, the The State Government has provided 588 acres of land for 4) Create incubation infrastructure through PPP; WKarnataka Government has initiated several steps to set upgradation works of Hubballi Airport and 370 acres for Belagavi 5) Channellise innovation for social impact; up the infrastructure required to aid growth. Airport. Kempegowda International Airport has become the 6) Provide startup funding through Fund of Funds; third largest Airport in the country in terms of passenger traffic. 7) Promote capacity-building through exposure visits and Railway Development The development of second runway is in progress to reduce the workshops and Among them is the release of a Rs 1,637-crore grant for Rail traffic congestion. Construction of Terminal-2 will be taken up 8) Provide state support in the form of incentives and Over / Under Bridge works from 2013-14 to 2016-17. Meanwhile, soon, said the Chief Minister. Development of air strip at Karawar, concessions. Department, The Principal Secretary to Government, IT & BT and S & T Department, The Principal Secretary to Government, the construction of Hassan-Bengaluru railway line is already Madikeri and Chikkamagaluru will be started this year, he said. “We take immense pride in the fact that Bengaluru fosters Medical Education Department, The Commissioner of completed. The 27 km Munirabad-Mehaboob Nagar railway For the expansion of Mangaluru International Airport, proposal the youngest entrepreneurs in the world and is also the world’s Industries, Commerce & Industries Department, The Director, line from Ginigera to Chikkabenakal will be opened during the for land acquisition of 286 acres has been submitted to Airports fastest growing startup ecosystem. Perhaps, we are the only Software Technology Parks of India (SPTI), The Director, Central year. On Kudachi-Bagalakote new railway line, 30 km track from Authority of India. Necessary support for the expansion of the State Government who are nurturing the ecosystem with strong Manufacturing Technology Institute, The Chairperson, Innovation Bagalakote to Khajjidoni will be opened soon. project will be provided by the Government. policies like the i4 Policy, BT Millennium Policy, ESDM Policy and Council of Karnataka. The Council also has several Industry and Necessary land acquisition process for 156-km the KAVGC Policy, giving the ecosystem a strong foundation to Academic members. The Government has also constituted a Other Projects help entrepreneurs and the established industries to flourish,” Monitoring and Review Committee; Startup Policy Monitoring Gadaga-Vadi new railway line is in progress. For this project, City Gas Distribution Project is in the final stage in Bengaluru. says Shri Priyank Kharge, Minister for IT, BT and Tourism. We and Review Committee; a Vision Group on Information the Government will give free land and 50 per cent of total project Industries, city transport and domestic consumers will get the are also the first in the country to launch a dedicated Startup Technology; and a Vision Group on Biotechnology. cost of Rs 1,922 crore will be borne by the Government, said Chief benefit of the distribution of gas through pipes. Tadadi seaport Policy for budding entrepreneurs and a dedicated Startup Cell Minister Siddaramiah. project will be taken up under Public-Private Partnership. n “Karnataka and Bengaluru have grown to be one of the that will provide extensive services like legal and accounting 20 best startup ecosystems in the world. The Government of advice, mentoring, incubator options, subsidized tariffs and also Karnataka has been taking many proactive steps to encourage seed funding. The Government of Karnataka is committed to new entrepreneurs. The State was the forerunner in introducing provide the most conducive environment for investments and funding through KITVEN-I to small enterprises, much before acceleration across all verticals to ensure we remain the leaders funding support for startups has become the focus of the day,” in technology and innovation,” says the Minister. says Ms V Manjula, Principal Secretary, Department of IT, BT, Karnataka has also become the first state to have a dedicated Science & Technology, Karnataka. Startup Council under the Chairmanship of the Chief Minister. “In order to strengthen the existing ecosystem in Bengaluru as The Council works on the Karnataka Startup Policy to provide well as to create a similar stimulating environment in tier-2 cities, easy clearances, besides having a dedicated set of officials to Government of Karnataka came up with a multi-sector Startup deal with the needs of emerging businesses. The Council reviews Policy. This policy consolidates a number of initiatives which the the status report on the implementation of the policy, which Government has already been implementing in IT and BT sectors, would include an appraisal of usefulness, ease of implementation and expects to promote similar growth in other manufacturing and outcomes of the policy, commissioned every year by the sectors, especially in high technology areas,” she says. 10 11 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA small industrial units have been registered with investment of Rs IOT, Big Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence and Machine 22,175 crore and employment was created for 10.3 lakh persons. Learning, Stem Cell Research, Bespoke DNA Medicine and other INDUSTRIES During the last four years the Siddaramiah Government has been areas which will define the next 20 years. Making Bengaluru the in power, 2,807 living-cum-worksheds have been constructed Electric Vehicle Capital of India is also on the cards. under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan and Tribal Sub Plan. Also, initial capital investment to 230 entrepreneurs and 60 per cent Job-creation investment subsidy to 627 very small industrial units were given. Aiming for 12 % Growth “The focus of the Government’s industrial policy is employment Skill development training has been provided to 15,350 youth under different schemes. Under New Textiles Policy 2013-18, Rs creation. This year we intend to focus on employment intensive The Siddaramiah Government has 1,918 crore has been invested creating employment opportunity sectors like toy manufacturing for exports, manufacturing of for 96,568 persons. mobile phones, tablets, electronic components and assemblies, been on a pro-active mode in etc.,” says Siddharamiah. The Government will allot Rs 25 crore for the development of roads within the limits of sugar factories encouraging industries and The Government, in order to approve mining lease in a transparent and judicious manner, has adopted e-tender system. in 2017-18. Rs 4 crore will be provided to set up Citizen service providing an environment Through tendering, seven iron ore blocks have been cleared. To Centres with a view to encourage Khadi and Gramodyog protect the ecosystem along the river bed, the State Government Industries. Another plan is to establish Khadi Plaza in Bengaluru conducive is encouraging M-sand production, which was at 1.5 million tons and Belagavi at an estimated cost of Rs 10 crore each, with the to their growth. Advantage in 2013-14 and has increased to 20 million tons by 2016-17. At assistance of Government of India. present, 164 M-sand units are functioning. Under Karnataka Karnataka takes a look at the Minor Mineral Concession (Amendment-2016) Rules-1994, Promoting SC/ST Entrepreneurs reservation is provided for allotment of contract works to Government’s programmes so far The Karnataka Government has drawn up several schemes to Schedule Caste, Schedule Tribe/Economically Backward/ encourage entrepreneurs from Scheduled and its plans for the future Differently Abled people who are depending solely on quarrying Castes and Schedule Tribes. They include: for livelihood. Plots/sheds are being allotted/distributed to the For the new MSMEs to be established by the Schedule Caste and Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe communities by KIADB/ hile the successive governments that have come to level Clearance Committee and the State-level and District-level Schedule Tribe entrepreneurs, power subsidy of Rs 2 per unit KSSIDC at 50% discount rate. Under Chennai-Bengaluru- power in Karnataka over the years have generally Single Window Clearance Committee with an investment of Rs will be given in the first five years. For the first time, processing Chitradurga Industrial Corridor Project, one-time grant of Rs.400 adopted policies beneficial to industries and commerce, 17,293 crore, creating employment for 1.6 lakh persons, while fee, legal fee, one- time loan disbursement fee and other fee W crore will be provided for Tumakuru Industrial Node for land the present Congress Government led by Siddaramiah has taken 1,492 projects with an investment of Rs 2.8 lakh crore are under levied by financial institutions will be borne by Government for acquisition by the KIADB. In consultation with Indian Machine several steps ahead by introducing a number of landmark implementation. ‘Invest Karnataka-2016’, the global investors MSMEs. 100 C-type and 100 D-type sheds will be constructed at Tool Manufacturer Association and with the assistance of programmes in the two sectors. Meet, was successfully conducted in February, 2016. During the subsidized cost by KSSIDC. Loan amount of Rs 46 crore availed Ministry of Heavy Industry, Government of India, the Karnataka event, MoUs were signed for 112 projects with investment of under seed capital investment from 2010-11 to 31/03/2017 will “The Department of Industries and Commerce acts as a Government will be developing a ‘Machine Tool Industry Park’ Rs 1.27 lakh crore. Of these, four projects with an investment of be waived. catalyst for the overall development of the industrial sector Rs164 crore have already been implemented and 41 projects with on 542 acres of land at Vasanthanarasapura in Tumakuru district. through effective discharge of facilitation roles,’’ says the website Another plan isto set up a Precision Metrology Lab in association an investment of Rs 32,480 crore have been approved. Boost for Small, Traditional Ventures of the Department. Chief Minister Siddaramiah has been ably with Central Machine Tool Industry on their premises, on 50 supported by his Industries Minister R.V. Deshpande in the Best Industrial Destination per cent cost sharing basis with Government of India, to give a Instead of the existing 99-year lease basis, industrial land/ planning and implementation of the programmes. fillip to the engineering manufacturing industries in the State. As per the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, site will be distributed up to two acres to small and very small A ‘Vision Group’ headed by sectoral experts for Pharma and Government of India, Karnataka stands first in the country as an entrepreneurs by the Karnataka Industrial Area Development New Industrial Policy Medical equipment will be formed to formulate the necessary investment destination by attracting investment of Rs 1,54,173 Board and Karnataka State Small Industries Development programmes to encourage Pharma and Medical Devices units The New Industrial Policy 2014-19 announced by the crore in 2016. Another honour achieved by the Government is Corporation on 10-year lease/sale basis. A special grant of Rs.5 in the state. To encourage the best performing manufacturing Siddaramiah Government aims to achieve a growth rate of the successful conduct of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas-2017. The crore will be given to KASSIA to establish Centre of Excellence unit in Karnataka, the Government will be instituting an award. 12 per cent by attracting investment of Rs 5 lakh crore and event, intended to motivate investors to invest in Karnataka, saw at Dabaspet. Plots/sheds to be allotted/distributed to the Another major national event planned by the Government is generate employment for 15 lakh persons during the policy the participation of 7,200 delegates, including 2,000 from abroad. persons belonging to Backward Class Category-1, Category-2A regarding Vendor Development to bring together MSMEs and period. Since the announcement of the policy, 124 projects ‘The Make in India’ conference was also successfully organised in and Category-2B by KIADB/KSSIDC will be given at 25 per cent Large Manufacturers/Public Sector Undertakings for giving have been implemented following approval by the State High- February 2017. From 2013-14 onwards, 1.16 lakh small and very discount. Discount will be limited to 1 acre in Bengaluru Urban marketing support to MSMEs. and Rural Districts and to 2 acres in other districts. To encourage women entrepreneurs, the limit of loan being disbursed by Frontier Tech Karnataka State Finance Corporation at 4 per cent interest will be enhanced from existing Rs 50 lakh to Rs 2 crore. The Government Karnataka also intends to formulate a policy for hi-tech and will also set up a Business Incubator exclusively for women frontier industries like 3D printing, Robotics, Nano Technology, entrepreneurs. n

12 13 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Women and Children “Darkness will not cast on the future of the land where women and children are UNIVERSAL the focus of development. This is a simple truth which I have found out by experience. Today, even reputed private institutions are appreciating the steps taken by the State DEVELOPMENT with regard to empowerment of women and in shaping the future of the children. I wish to bring to the notice of this House that recently an international organisation has accorded with a Human Face ‘Most Encouraging State Government – arnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who is celebrating 2017’ award for the steps taken by Karnataka four years in office, has always stressed that an all-inclusive, to encourage women entrepreneurs and Kuniversal development model with a human face should be remove gender inequality. I am proud to pursued by his administration. state that this is the face of our development. Commitment of women in carefully building This was evident during his presentation of the State’s the society as daughters, mothers, and sisters Budget for the year 2017-18 too, when he elaborated on the is unquestionable. Therefore, gender sensitive achievements of his Government during the past four years. features are deeply rooted in our fiscal policy, Chief Minister Shri Siddaramaiah inaugurating various development projects In fact, the Chief Minister had earlier laid before the State an which will provide equal opportunities and but the Union Government is yet to disclose what outcome has extensive economic framework for social justice, one of the choices by removing gender inequality,’’ he says. “The last four been achieved by it, says Siddaramiah. The entire cooperative objectives of India’s Constitution. Siddaramiah says he has made years were not a bed of roses. We are facing an adverse situation sector, that is so critical in servicing the farmers and the rural folk, an honest effort to further extend and enhance the framework. because of slump in economic activities, including continuous virtually came to a standstill. The manner of implementation Ramarajya, Social Justice and Development drought over the two years and recent demonetisation, which betrayed a lack of preparedness, with the banking system just is being countered through fiscal discipline, commitment to “Ramarajya is a concept representing hunger-free, exploitation- not geared up for this responsibility given to them. The goal free, overall development with deep-rooted harmony. Be it resource mobilisation and efficient administration. posts were changed midway and the rules were repeatedly inspiration behind the Constitution drafted by Ambedkar, life of modified. “While the need for demonetisation itself is debatable, Gandhiji saying ‘my life is my message’ or Anna Basavanna’s ideals, State’s Economy I think that the Union Government and the Reserve Bank of India all say the same. Therefore, it is my belief that Ramarajya cannot The Gross State Domestic Product in the year 2016-17 grew at the could have at least foreseen the exigencies and could have put be built by those who oppose the concept of social justice,’’ says rate of 6.9 per cent as against the rate of 7.3 per cent during 2015- in practical and robust systems in place to insulate the common Siddaramiah . 16. Agriculture sector is estimated to grow by 1.5 per cent. The man from these hardships,’’ says Siddharamiah. “Somehow, juvenile and narrow-minded impressions have cause for decline in overall growth rate is attributable to fall in Plan and Non-Plan Distinction Removed crept in the economic sector that pro-people Government growth rate of industry and service sectors. The industry sector is

means anti-development Government! But, our Government expected to grow at 2.2 per cent compared to 4.9 per cent during The distinction between Plan and Non-Plan expenditure in has succeeded in dispelling that myth. I wish to say with humility previous year while the service sector is expected to register a the budgetary system was brought in when the plan model that the Government that has been identified by the common growth of 8.5 per cent during the current year as compared to of economic growth was adopted in the country. Over the man as a pro-people Government, the same Government’s 10.4 per cent the previous year. period, the Plan and Non-Plan bifurcation of expenditure has administration and policy-programmes have succeeded in raising contributed to fragmented view of resource allocations to Bengaluru to the stature of the most dynamic city in the world,’’ Effect of Demonetisation various programmes and schemes. C Rangarajan Committee he says. The same Government, which has been acknowledged and the Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) 14th Report as pro-social justice, has propelled the State to the first position in Demonetisation caused huge amount of distress to the public recommended that distinction of Plan the country in terms of being investment-friendly, says the Chief and Non-Plan to be done away with. Minister. Some people believe that providing infrastructure itself In line with the above, Government is development. This is only a partial truth. Whatever it is, those of India has done away with Plan, who believe so should also not have much reservations about Non-Plan classification from 2017- the performance of our Government, he says. “During the tenure 18 budget. In line with the National of our Government, schemes for development of infrastructure initiative, the State Government has in the State and Bengaluru are not merely on paper but are decided to remove the distinction before the people. Be it Bengaluru Metro, State Road Transport between Plan and Non-Plan from FY Corporation, which is getting award after award, upgraded State 17-18. Highways across the State, industrial parks which have come up all over, nobody can easily deny that these are the face of Amendment to SC/ST Sub-Plan Act Shri. Siddaramaiah development,’’ says Siddaramiah. Chief Minister, Govt. of Karnataka Till now, 24.10 per cent of Plan was considered for earmarking under “It is my desire that the impact of development should reflect in the lives of people. I believe that Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan /Tribal this is the true measure of achievement of our Government. We always have an open mind to public Sub-Plan and Non-Plan expenditure was not considered in the base. This opinion. ‘Jana Mana’ programme with beneficiaries of the schemes is a testimony for this. By re- will change as Plan and Non-Plan specting the public opinion expressed there, we have made our schemes more useful for the people distinction will no longer be there from by modifying them’’ says the Chief Minister. FY17-18. From this base, the exempted expenditure that includes salary, 14 15 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA salary GIA, pension, administrative expenditure, principal repayment and interest payment on account of the AN EXCELLENT State Government’s borrowing and off-budget borrowings by the State Government Undertakings and any TRACK RECORD such expenditure of administrative nature so notified by the Government to help small scale industries and regions outside the ambit will be excluded. Allocable budget, On the fourth anniversary of his Government, Chief Minister of big industrial growth? which is the total consolidated Siddaramaiah has started an aggessive promotion of the I firmly believe that the MSME segment is what creates and fund expenditure less exempted schemes he has launched so far which mainly aim at making sustains industrial growth. No large company can survive in expenditure, will be used as a base to the life of the rural population better. today’s competitive world without a strong supplier base and an calculate the SCSP/TSP allocation. 24.1 With barely a year to go for the Assembly elections, efficient supply chain. Taking a leaf out of the success of thriving per cent of this base will be earmarked Siddaramaiah has made it clear that he would be highlighting MSME clusters and estates in the state, my government has for SCSP/TSP, says Siddharamiah. the implemention of numerous welfare schemes over the last been keen to promote creation of more such estates. You cannot four like the eight Bhagya schemes - Anna, Ksheera, Krishi, attract a Honda or Volvo or a Toyota or an Airbus without an An Excellent Track Record of Four Vasati, Rajiv Arogya, Soura, Nirmala and Pashu. MSME ecosystem in the vicinity. Therefore, by design, all our new Years The Chief Minister says the achievements of his Government industrial areas have earmarked space for MSMEs. The Chief Minister has elaborated include Bengaluru emerging as Startup Capital of India; law Being at the helm of one of the fastest growing states in India, on the achievements of each sector preventing diversion of SC/ST welfare funds; law to regularise what do you propose to offer to the investors, businessmen during the last four years and the plans = Power capacity enhanced by 5,848 MW land in favour of farm labourers; setting up of Skill Development envisaged over the next one year, after which Karnataka would = Work begins on ‘Solar Energy Park’ at Pavaguda, the Department; pension to widows of farmers who committed be witnessing the Assembly elections. biggest in the world suicide; and launch of Vidya Siri (students), Mansvini (women) = Development works of 9,644 km of State Highways and Ksheeradhare (farmers) schemes. Some among the numerous achievements are: completed However, critics have accused Siddaramiah of giving priority = Mobile one Project for e-Governance introduced to Ahinda (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes = Drought-proofing and risk mitigation work benefiting = State has started benefiting from New Tourism Policy 2015 and Dalits) in his programmes. They point out that a majority agriculture in Karnataka = ‘Jana Mana’ programme held in all districts of the schemes announced in all the five budgets he has = Significant increase in disbursement of = Efficient computerisation of Regional Transport Offices presented has dealt with issues relating to this section of the agricultural loans through cooperatives = 11 lakh houses built to make Karnataka a hut-free state = Creating irrigation capacity for 6.2 lakh acres of land = Skill development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood people. Still, the Congress high command has placed its full = Field drains built for 4.4 lakh acres of land Department established faith in him. The party will fight the next Assembly elections = Infant mortality reduced from 31 to 28 = Synthetic athletics tracks of International standards set up under Siddaramaiah’s leadership. Observers say he will be = Maternal mortality down from 178 to 133 per one lakh live at various district stadiums playing the role Amarinder Singh enacted with stupendous births = Annabhagya Scheme introduced n success in the Punjab elections recently. The clear victories the = Six new Medical Colleges commenced Congress registered in Nanjangud and Gundlupet Assembly byelections have made things easier for Siddaramiah. The Chief Minister, who also holds the post of Finance Minister, says of the 165 election promises his party made, 155 have been implemented. It is a fact that Siddaramaiah has given a new direction and energy to the development of Karnataka and its economy. He shares his vision and thoughts in an interview with Advantage Karnataka.

As you lead the state with a host of progressive, pro- investment policies, what is your assessment of the scope for more growth and development in the agriculture sector?

The agri sector is wide and vast requiring concerted efforts from all stakeholders for the next wave of development. Due to the drought situation in the state over last few years, our farming sector has been adversely affected. Also the sector historically suffers from low productivity and large-scale migration of the agri workforce to towns and cities. It is important that governments step in to help find innovative solutions to the challenges faced by the sector. I think that the next generation of farmers will have to be technically and technologically equipped in order to increase productivity, efficiency and yield. With this in mind, we are keen to nurture and promote this segment of the industry by creating an ecosystem where innovative concepts can bloom.

Facilitating the take-off of infrastructure projects and growth centres across the state, you have succeeded in boosting the industrial growth. What new initiatives do you have in mind

16 17 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA and industrial stalwarts looking up to Karnataka? job-aspiring youth in certain core areas of expertise and try and There are two key features which have made Karnataka push industry to those semi urban and rural locations in such a highly attractive to investors – firstly our inherent strengths, way that jobs are localized and skill sets are aligned. This is a huge A FINE BALANCING ACT and secondly the strengths we have acquired over the years. task but we are constantly making efforts in this direction. However, no state can afford to relax on past laurels. Towards this r G Parameshwara has been holding the two crucial posts Being the IT hub of India, Karnataka is home to over 400 end, my Government is leaving no stone unturned to build on of Home Minister of Karnataka as well as Pradesh Congress international R&D centres, and has around 400 of the our strengths. Our aspiration is to make Karnataka unbeatable Committee president with gusto. A large part of the Fortune Global 500 companies outsourcing their IT services D through strong policy frameworks and a machinery which is credit for the victory registered by Congress in the byelection from Bengaluru. What is the next threshold of growth here? functional till the last mile. Therefore, be it further up-skilling our to two Assembly constituencies held earlier this year goes to workforce to world class levels through Government-Industry- We continue to see interest from investors in the areas of high- Parameshwara. As Home Minister, he has taken several measures Academia partnerships, or encouraging use of technology end and futuristic technologies intending to set up R&D centres to ensure law and order in the State as well as increase the through our startup initiatives, or providing industrial & support in our state due to the abundance of our technically advanced strength of the police force, apart from boosting the morale of infrastructure by making massive investments, all steps are workforce. A large number of the R&D centres have been the personnel. With Karnataka all set to face Assembly elections aimed in this direction. You will see that in the last four years, we established just in the last four years. While this is an encouraging in a year, Parameshwara lists his achievements and plans for the have focused on making it convenient and seamless to conduct trend, we are also aware that new age startups will shape the coming months in an interview to Advantage Karnataka business in the state. We want to create the best ecosystem future of the world we will live in. We see this as our next area for for investments to thrive. Most importantly, my Government is job creation and economic growth. Karnataka is a leading state On the occasion of the Government celebrating its fourth perhaps the most democratic and approachable Government as far as the startup ecosystem is concerned. More than 37 per anniversary, can you mention some major achievements as in India. All my cabinet colleagues and government officials are cent of all Indian startups are located here. In 2015, we released far as the Home Department is concerned? highly accessible and approachable. We are here to listen, take the country’s first startup policy with a startup booster kit to The biggest achievement is that this Government has been able your feedback and if there are areas which require intervention encourage startups in the state. This kit has several incentives to maintain communal peace and harmony in the State. Barring in order to speed up investments, we are available 24X7. and policy measures including a fund of funds to provide capital a few minor isolated incidents, general law & order has been by Opportunities in Karnataka are limitless and government is here to startups. Besides, we have four incubation centres which are and large peaceful in Karnataka. Another achievement is that the to discuss with you, with open minds and hearts. working closely with the Government to nurture and promote recruitment of PSIs and PCs in the Police Department, which was startup ecosystem. These initiatives have been very well received What initiatives would Karnataka be showcasing among the not done for many years, was taken up on a priority basis. During by all stakeholders. world leading technology clusters for Aerospace and Defence the last three years, a total 23,761 officers and men have been industries that the state has developed under the aegis of its You have been in the forefront promoting young recruited. pioneering Aerospace Policy? entrepreneurs with innovative ideas for revolutionary start- up ventures, covering the entire gamut of market economy The Government has been taking several steps to increase It is important to note that the Aerospace & Defence industry and social outreach. What more fillip or stimulus do you the strength of women police personnel. Can you elaborate? is unlike other industries. It takes several years, in fact, decades propose? to develop. Karnataka’s A&D legacy began in 1940 with the Emphasis has been given to recruitment of women in the Police establishment of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Lot of work is happening in the startup space in Karnataka. Some Department. For the first time, two women companies were Dr G Parameshwara subsequently, with the establishment of DRDO and its various of the initiatives we have announced have to be followed up and inducted in KSRP. One batch has already been trained and is part Home Minister, Govt. of Karnataka research labs. But for most part of the previous century, our implemented well because implementation will be key to the of the operational force. Besides, it has been decided to enhance country was stifled by licence raj, making it difficult for private success of the policy announced. Our next agenda is to promote the women component in overall Civil Police Force to a minimum developed. Under the Safe Highway Project, the Government sector to participate especially in this regulated sector, even after startups in rural areas with a view to localizing job creation, as I of 20 per cent by taking up special recruitment. has provided Rs 45 crore for 300 highway vehicles fitted with all liberalization in 1991. The real growth of the A&D sector began in have already mentioned earlier. Can you explain the measures initiated by the Government the modern equipment to ensure safe journey on the highways. the 2000s when this sector began to get special attention with Last year, 100 Innova vehicles were introduced and grants have What’s the larger picture for promoting tourism destinations to improve the working as well as the living conditions of the a view to becoming self-reliant. In other words, ‘Make in India’. released for second batch of 100 vehicles. As the KSRP battalions in the state? police personnel? Keeping the nature of this industry in mind, our Aerospace & in the State are overburdened with the extensive development Defence policy is a 10-year policy with firm milestones to be Tourism spots have to be promoted based on the kind of target The Government constituted a committee to look into the within the city one more battalion is being set up at Koratagere, achieved at regular intervals. These include further promoting audience whom you wish to tap. Fortunately, we are a blessed anomalies in the pay and allowance of policemen and based Tumakuru. To reduce the burden on city-based battalions, for the Bengaluru including the Aerospace & Defence park, the new state as far as tourism is concerned, with the choice of destinations on the findings of the committee an additional allowance of Rs first time in Karnataka, at one go 102 fully-equipped buses have helicopter hub under the aegis of HAL which is coming up in that we can offer. Our Tourism Department has recently come 2,000 per month has been sanctioned. Karnataka is the only state been purchased for the use of KSRP constables for L&O duties. Tumkur, our Aerospace technology centre which will come up out with a new strategy and marketing plan to reach out to the in the country which has taken up a massive and novel scheme You have been holding the post of KPCC president as well in Bommasandra besides showcasing some of our great success target audience and I think you will see a lot of interest in all the for housing of policemen under the Gruha-2020 programme as that of the Home Minister. How has been the experience stories such as Dynamatic and Aequs. destinations we have to offer. From a state perspective we are whereby 11,000 houses have been sanctioned for an amount of Rs 1,818 crore. Another measure in this regard has been balancing the two crucial responsibilities? With policy incentives, infrastructure and natural resources constantly improving the quality of service which is available at regarding promotions. As PCs had to wait for their first promotion favouring investments in the IT, ITeS, biotechnology, the tourist sites. n It has been a challenging task and is exciting also. I was for almost 20 years, the Government restructured the police engineering, electronics, automotive, textiles, agri and food president at the party before becoming a Minister and Party High force up to ASI in proportion to 1:3:6 whereby around 12,000 processing sectors, how do you envisage a more inclusive, Command allowed me to continue holding the responsibilities of policemen were given one-time promotion at one go. This has equitable strategy for development and growth across the the party even after becoming a Minister. It has been my nature substantially brought down the waiting period for promotion. urban-rural divide in the state? to carry all sections of the people with me and take decisions The Government is committed to provide health facility to the based on consensus. I know the pulse of our party colleagues Equitable growth has been the cornerstone of our Industrial retired police officers also on the lines of the Arogya Bhagya and they have extended cooperation at all levels to me. As such, Policy 2014-19 which has given special emphasis to industrial Yojane. I do not find any difficulty in shouldering the responsibilities of and socio economic development of the Hyderabad-Karnataka What steps have the police recently launched to increase the the party together with the administrative responsibilities of the region and the backward-most regions of the state. However, safety and security of citizens? Home Department. My Department has efficient officers who are urbanization is inevitable, and across the world we are witnessing vigilant all the time. I do not give room to any confrontationalist movement of people from rural to urban areas in search of To ensure effective and prompt response from the police, attitudes. However much the BJP and communal organisations employment. Karnataka is no different. Today, you will find advanced Dial 100 facility is being set up in Bengaluru city, which are attempting to bring a sense of insecurity among the graduates from all over the state moving to cities like Bengaluru will be operational shortly. For the safety of women and children, vulnerable sections of the society, I have successfully stemmed and taking up employment in sectors which are not their core Pink Hoysala Patrol vehicles have been launched in Bengaluru city, them. Both the responsibilities are being discharged effectively area of education. My government’s endeavor is to upskill our Similarly, Apps for their safety and police assistance have been and am very humble to say is satisfying. 18 19 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA The victory in the recent byelections to two Assembly seats be different. What plans has the Congress made to counter would certainly boost the confidence of the Congress. As the BJP’s threat as well as retain power in the state? PCC chief, you played a major role in ensuring the win. How do you feel? The BJP has always been hyperbolic. The boastful nature of Unity is Strength the BJP has been understood by the electorate of Karnataka The victory in the Assembly byelection has added more after three years of Central rule. The gap between the promises responsibilities to me. The rank and file of the party worked very made and results delivered is very wide. The Karnataka voter hard in these elections and we were able to reach the voters is intelligent to understand what BJP is. He also understands with our sincere implementation of the promises made in the how Indian people are fooled by a sense of hypnotic nature of Says Congress In-charge election manifesto and the target groups who are beneficiaries campaign undertaken by Mr. Narendra Modi. reposed faith in our party. As party president I am thankful to the electorate and hope to continue the spirit till the next election It is true that the absence of JD(S) candidates in the too. byelections helped our party in winning comfortably. But, 2018 elections will be a different scenario. Our party workers are The Assembly elections are barely a year away. What lessons confident of accepting the challenges to return to power. The have you learnt from the bypoll which would help the hollow promises of the BJP at the Centre are giving a nightmare Congress plan its strategy for the crucial elections? to the people of Karnataka. As such we are confident that BJP shall not cut much ice in 2018. The presence of JD(S) in a few The lessons of the two Assembly by polls are very educating. constituencies of Karnataka will not block the Congress party They have been an inspiration too. As I said earlier, the party from coming to power. workers were enthused to work hard in the byelections. In the coming Assembly elections too, we will sustain the same tempo The achievements of the Congress government are and reach the voters with more vigour. unparalleled and our government’s concern to all sections The Congress party is an advantageous position because of our of the society is appreciated by the people of Karnataka. The programmes are reaching the citizens of Karnataka. The party is transparent administration of the Congress party is welcomed by in a good health at the grassroots level and is capable of taking the people and there have been no lapses by our government on the challenges of other parties. in implementing the social security benefits to the groups we addressed. The BJP has been belligerent as far Karnataka is concerned. In the byelections, JD (S) did not field its candidates, which We are confident of reaching out to the voters in Karnataka helped Congress. But in the 2018 elections, the scenario may and are convinced they will repose their faith in our party. n

ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA SUBSCRIPTION FORM Shri K C Venugopal, AICC General Secretary in-charge of Karnataka and AICC Secretaries Shri MadhuYakshiGoud, Shri P C Vishnunath, Shri Manickam Tagore, Dr Sake Sailjanath with Chief Minister Shri Siddaramaiah, KPCC President Dr.G.Parameshwara and NAME KPCC Working President Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao

ADDRESS he visit of a team led by K C Venugopal, all-India general young children have helped people belonging to all sections, secretary of the Congress who is the new party in-charge particularly the marginalized,” said Venugopal. of Karnataka, has brought in enthusiasm among the party T “The Government is going forward with major measures for leaders as well as workers in the State. STATE COUNTRY PINCODE the infrastructural development and to increase the quality of the life of the people in the state. The people of Karnataka want “I am very happy to know that there is an unprecedented continuity of this development and welfare measures,” he said. CONTACT NUMBER unity in Congress party in Karnataka. This unity will enable the party to go forward with confidence and strength. Although “I express my full confidence and satisfaction in the works EMAIL ID there are some misunderstandings and issues, those are not done by the Government over the last four years. This is also the major problems. We will solve all these misunderstandings and opinion of the party workers and people,” he said. 1 YEAR (12 ISSUES) RS.700/- CHEQUE divergent opinions through discussions and deliberations,” said Dubbing the Karnataka Government under Chief Minister Venugopal, who visited Bengaluru over three days from May Siddaramaiah as “pro-poor and people-friendly”, Venugopal 2 YEARS (24 ISSUES) RS. 1,350/- DD 9. Continuing, he said: “There are no rivalries or major issues said, “The Government’s track record is excellent. But the between the Government and the party. Both are entirely on communication gap in disseminating the government’s schemes 3 YEARS (36 ISSUES) RS. 2,000/- RTGS good terms and are going forward with one voice.’’ and policies to the public has to be plugged.” The failure of ‘Govt Functioning Excellent’ the Government in promoting its programmes was one of the CONTACT problems that the team highlighted during its visit. PAYMENT DETAILS “We have 100 per cent satisfaction in the functioning of the ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Siddaramiah Government and the measures taken by it in Aeromag Asia , Aeronautical Society of India Building, ‘Need to Strengthen Party, Publicity’ Cheque / DD in favour of the last four years. The Government has implemented and is Suranjandas Road, Off Old Madras Road, Bengaluru 560075, still going ahead with popular and welfare measures. Welfare AEROSUN MEDIA PVT LTD Karnataka, INDIA. “The functioning of the party is also on a good track. However, schemes like Anna Bhagya, to make the State hunger-free; Krishi Payable at BANGALORE. Tel +91 94805 51925, + 91 80 -25604055 it is highly necessary to strengthen the functioning of the party to Bhagya, to ensure irrigation for crops during critical stages to Email: [email protected] / www.advantagekarnataka.in face the coming election. We have initiated the activities aimed combat drought effectively; and Ksheera Bhagya, to provide for this purpose,” said Venugopal. nutritious milk to help fight back the nutritional deficiencies in 20 21 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA “We are committed to take measures from booth to state “Our objective is to not allow the BJP to come to power in level. For this, the responsibility of four regions has been Karnataka at any cost. We will win the next Assembly elections assigned to four secretaries. Shri Madhu Yakshi Goud will and form our government again,” said Venugopal. Congress had A WINNING COMBINATION be in-charge of Bengaluru division, Shri P C Vishnunath of returned to power in the southern state on its own in the May president Dr G Parameshwara, who is also byelection victories. Dinesh, son of former Mysuru division, Shri Manickam Tagore of Belgaum and Dr Sake 2013 Assembly elections, a decade after losing the polls in 2004. the Home Minister, can achieve. Karnataka Chief Minister Gundu Rao, had Sailjanath of Gulbarga division. In these regions, instructions taken over the party post after resigning have been given to complete DCC meetings before May 22. The The visit of the AICC team led by Venugopal has galvanised Parameshwara, an MSc (Agriculture) as Minister for Food , Civil Supplies and secretaries will attend the meetings in their respective regions. the rank and file of the party, who, according to one leader, were holder who has a PhD from University Consumer Affairs in the Siddaramiah The organisational setup for these meetings will be reviewed growing restless owing to the lack of activity in the election year. of Adelaide, has been balancing the Government on June 21 last year. and discussed. The functioning of each DCC will be thoroughly The Chief Minister hosted a breakfast for Venugopal, his team, coordination between the Government evaluated. All the reports will be sent to the High Command and Parameshwara and KPCC working president Dinesh Gundu Rao and the party well ever since he took over Parameshwara enjoys a wide a detailed assessment and evaluation will be done there,” he said. on May 11 before the coordination panel meeting. as the PCC chief in October 2010. He has support base in his native Tumakaru also been enjoying a good chemistry with district, with leaders as well as workers “Where necessary, we will revamp the unit,” said Venugopal, Replacement for Digvijaya Singh the Chief Minister, who considers Dalits a openly coming out for him before the who also appreciated the work done by KPCC president and crucial support base. In fact, Parameshwara Assembly byelections when there were Home Minister G Paramashwara. “Confusion around the change Congress president Sonia Gandhi had on April 29 appointed is one among the only two Dalit PCC chiefs rumours that he would removed from of KPCC president will be cleared this month,” Venugopal said on 54-year-old Venugopal, a Lok Sabha member from Kerala’s in the country. the PCC chief’s post after the results were May 11 after the three-day meeting with leaders, functionaries Alappuzha, as in-charge of the party’s affairs in the state replacing announced. They had urged the party and cadre of the party’s Karnataka unit. “We have taken the Digvijaya Singh. Siddaramiah, who is well-known for his high command to retain him in the post ensuing Assembly elections as a challenge. We should strive socialist, secular and anti-caste outlook, till the 2018 elections. That the Congress Dinesh Gundurao hard to retain power in the state by strengthening the party Post Goa fiasco, Congress workers in Karnataka had registered a resounding victory in both KPCC Working President and Parameshwara, a non-controversial from grassroots,” Venugopal told the media at the party office in demanded the ouster of Digvijaya Singh accusing him of failing leader who has not faced any allegation, Nanjangud and Gundlupet against the Bengaluru. Exhorting state leaders and cadre to forget differences to understand ground realities. Following Digvijaya Singh’s will certainly make a winning combination big challenge posed by the BJP makes and work together to win the next Assembly elections, he said as handling of the Congress in Goa after the Assembly elections he results of the byelections to for the Congress in the 2018 Assembly it evident that the CM-PCC chief bond is the Siddaramaiah Government was doing a good job, its welfare there, party cadres had said Digvijaya Singh should be removed Nanjangud and Gundlupet Assembly election, believe their supporters. strong enough to help the party repeat its schemes should be popularised across the State. as Karnataka and Goa in-charge. seats have shown what the teamwork Congress party workers also highlight bypoll performance in the elections to the T Assembly in 2018. between Chief Minister Siddaramiah and the role played by KPCC working president “The party’s leaders and cadres should take the welfare Faced with the growing dissent against Digvijaya Singh in the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee Dinesh Gundu Rao in ensuring the n schemes to the people’s doorsteps and not repeat the same Karnataka unit, the senior leadership of the Congress brought in mistake we made in Kerala and due to which we lost in the May Venugopal. Venugopal was a Minister of State for Civil Aviation in 2016 Assembly elections there,” he said. the UPA Government. STICK TO RULES ON THE ROAD! Threat Posed by BJP The new appointment came as a relief to members of the The new Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill 2016 Congress is Karnataka who had been vehemently opposing “Opposition parties like the BJP have a single agenda. That Digvijaya Singh. Voices of dissent against Singh were loud and which imposes hefty fines on traffic violators is to divide the people in the name of religion, caste and colour. clear even as recently as April when he had visited Bengaluru. will be implemented in Bengaluru city soon, They want to polarise the people of this country and gain electoral An ecstatic Congress leader in Karnataka said this was the first says Police Commissioner Praveen Sood victories based on vicious propaganda. They have implemented step towards preparing the party for the Assembly polls in 2018. and successfully executed this plan in many states. The people of “Politicians from Kerala are different and their working style is Mr. Praveen Sood Karnataka will reject this divisive ideology based on hatred and the need of the hour for us. They are disciplined and understand Police Commissioner, Bengaluru City, addressing a BCIC delegation communalism,” he said. the ground reality. As we know, Venugopal is a man who can get at the Traffic Management entre work done,” he said. n he Bengaluru Police are all set to implement the new Motor TVehicles (Amendment) Bill 2016 and Commerce (BCIC) delegation of the Bengaluru Police Department is which basically imposes hefty fines top industry captains at the Traffic now gearing up to install around 1,000 on traffic violators. The Bill, which was Management Centre in Bengaluru on May cameras across the city. “Since the fines passed by the Lok Sabha on April 10, 22, said: “This is the only way we can bring will be large, we need to ensure that the 2017, is pending before the Rajya Sabha in some sense of traffic discipline among traffic violators are convinced that they for its final approval. The Bengaluru vehicle users. Since the fine is substantial, have violated traffic rules, as we will be Police Department said that it is ready vehicle users will think twice when it handing them the challan along with to adopt and begin implementation of comes to violating traffic rules.” photos and other micro details of the violation,” said the Commissioner. the new law which proposes to impose He further said: “We are not here to hefty fines as high as Rs 10,000 for traffic create awareness on traffic rules among Mr. Thyagu Valliappa, president, BCIC, offenders in the city so as to bring in users as they are pretty well known to who led the 30-member delegation, some sense of traffic discipline among everyone, rather we are trying to get suggested to the Commissioner that, vehicle users. The current fine is Rs 100 vehicle users to get into the self-regulation “in the case of repeat traffic violators, for most traffic violations. Mr. Praveen mode, thereby reducing accidents and their licences should be cancelled for Sood, Commissioner of Police, Bengaluru easing traffic movements in the city.” five years as it is done in a few countries.” City, said: “Anytime in the next two Meanwhile, the Chamber promised the In a lighter vein he said: “If Bengaluru months, this legislation is likely to be Police Commissioner that it will promote citizens follow self-regulation, the city implemented.” the safe driving message among its 700- does not need the Bengaluru police.” The Commissioner, addressing odd companies so that Bengaluru turns a Before the new legislation is implemented, a Bangalore Chamber of Industry city of fewer accidents. n 22 23 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA 9,644 km Roads @ The Best Investment Ease of Doing Rs 9,616 Crore Destination New Industrial Policy 2014-19 has been announced to achieve growth rate of 12 per cent per annum by attracting investment of Rs 5 lakh crore and generate employment for 15 lakh persons.124 projects approved by the State High Level Clearance Committee/ BUSINESS State Level and District Level Single Window Clearance Committee, with an investment of Rs 17,293 crore and creating KARNATAKA SHOWS THE WAY employment for 1.6 lakh persons, were implemented and 1,492 projects with an investment of Rs 2.8 lakh crore are under Raghunath Viswanath Deshpande, third-time implementation. ‘Invest Karnataka-2016’, the global investors Industries Minister of Karnataka has been a trailblazer meet, was successfully conducted in February, 2016. During the and visionary par excellence. His ten years as Industries event, MoUs were been signed for 112 projects with investment of Rs 1.27 lakh crore. Out of these, four projects with an investment minister from 1994-2004 saw Karnataka emerging as the of Rs164 crore have already been implemented and 41 projects IT-BT Powerhouse of India. Almost a decade after the with an investment of Rs 32,480 crore have been approved. As per landmark IT Policy (1997) and the IT Venture Capital the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Government of India, Karnataka stands first in the country as an investment Fund (1999), now he has spearheaded the Karnataka destination by attracting investment of Rs 1,54,173 crore during Startup Council and Startup Venture Capital Fund. Dr. H C Mahadevappa January to December, 2016. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas-2017 and Shri Deshpande discusses his vision and way forward Minister for Public Works ‘Make in India’ conference were successfully organised. From for industrial de-velopment in the state, in an interview 2013-14 onwards, 1.16 lakh small and very small industrial units State Highway Development works have been completed have been registered with investment of Rs 22,175 crore and with Advantage Karnataka. Excerpts: over 9,644 km at a cost of Rs 9,616 crore through Public Works employment was created for 10.3 lakh persons. In four years, Department, State Highway Development Project, KSHIP and 2,807 living-cum-work sheds have been constructed under KRDCL. State Highway of 1,854 km has been declared as National Scheduled Caste Sub Plan and Tribal Sub Plan. Shri R.V. Deshpande Highway and Central Government has approved, in-principle, to Minister for Large and Medium upgrade 6,262 km of State Highway into National Highway. Under New Textiles Policy 2013-18, Rs 1,918 crore has been Industries Govt of Karnataka invested creating employment opportunity for 96,568 persons. Development works of 20,733 km District Main Roads have To approve mining lease in a transparent and judicious manner, been completed at a cost of Rs 8,190 crore. 136 bridges on ndustries Minister of Karnataka Raghunath Viswanath Aerospace, Biotechnology, Crafts, ESDM, IT, Agro and Textile e-tender system has been adopted. Through tendering, seven District Main Roads and 163 bridges on State Highways have Deshpande, who is holding the post for the third time, says Ease industries in such an environment. “If you examine the way iron ore blocks have been cleared. To protect the ecosystem been constructed/re-constructed at a cost of Rs 372 crore. Under of Doing business (EoDB) is an ongoing process. Due to the in which clusters develop, you will notice striking similarities along the river bed, the State Government is encouraging M-sand Scheduled Caste Sub Plan and Tribal Sub Plan, concrete roads nature of evolving businesses and related policy regulations in every sector. Generally an anchor sets up its base, which in production. M-sand production, which was at 1.5 million tons in Iwhich also constantly change, no country or state can sit back on turn helps mushroom its ancillaries. This creates a small cluster of 2,663 km and 1,190 km have been constructed in Scheduled 2013-14, has increased to 20 million ton in 2016-17. At present, Caste and Schedule Tribe colonies, respectively at a cost of Rs its past achievements and laurels with respect to EoDB, he says. which spreads to other parts of the region over time creating 164 M-sand units are functioning. bigger clusters and ecosystems. The common denominator is the 2,900 crore. Under NABARD aided RIDF scheme, development of 2,420 km rural roads and construction of 307 bridges have been Fifteen years ago, Government of Karnataka took the lead on availability of skilled and talented workforce, an entrepreneurial New Schemes in 2017-18 completed at a cost of Rs 1,210 crore. Coastal Protection Scheme EoDB by introducing the Single Window Facilitation Act. Many mindset and presence of strong institutions. Karnataka is blessed Under Chennai-Bengaluru-Chitradurga Industrial Corridor is being implemented with the assistance of ADB at a cost of Rs rules have changed in business hence. Two years ago, Karnataka on all three parameters which is why we are India’s leading Project, the Government plans to provide one-time grant of Rs 911 crore. examined and upgraded several archaic rules and regulations technology hub. As Government our endeavour has been to add 400 crore for Tumakuru Industrial Node for land acquisition by the to keep abreast of such developments. “We are confident they the fourth dimension which is to provide fast, transparent and New Schemes for 2017-18 KIADB. In consultation with Indian Machine Tool Manufacturer are being well received by industry. Our doors are wide open for effective governance,” says Deshpande. Under KSHIP-III (ADB 2nd loan) work on 418.5 km roads will be Association and with the assistance of Ministry of Heavy Industry, anyone who wants to share ideas on how to improve ourselves taken up at a cost of Rs 5,310 crore to develop the core road Government of India, it is proposed to develop ‘Machine Tool further,” Deshpande tells Advantage Karnataka. The Government has been pursuing an inclusive, holistic network of Karnataka. It is proposed to develop 22 km road Industry Park’ on 542 acres of land at Vasanthanarasapura in vision for development. Deshpande says it is keen on promoting around Mysore city at an estimated cost of Rs 117 crore. In order Tumakuru district. Instead of the existing 99-year lease basis, The Minister, in fact, has been a trailblazer and visionary par investments in tier-2 and 3 towns. “The fact that we are keen to to promote import/export activities in Karwar Port, a Detailed industrial land/site will be distributed up to two acres to small excellence. His ten years as Industries Minister during 1994- disperse industrial growth to all parts of the state is not just in Project Report will be prepared to construct an additional dock and very small entrepreneurs by the Karnataka Industrial Area 2004 saw Karnataka emerging as the IT-BT Powerhouse of India. intent,” says Deshpande. measuring 1,508 metres for stationing five ships of 14 metres Development Board and Karnataka State Small Industries Almost a decade after the landmark IT Policy (1997) and the IT depth. Development Corporation on 10-year lease/sale basis. Venture Capital Fund (1999), he spearheaded the Karnataka “We have ensured this reflects in policy as well as in our Startup Council and Startup Venture Capital Fund. actions. Our industrial policy 2014-19 gives special emphasis to investments in the HK region and tier 2 and 3 towns. Since Karnataka’s ecosystem for startups is one of the best in the the policy was announced, we have encouraged investors world, says Deshpande. “The Government’s focus has been to make fresh investments in these areas. We have also to provide effective and efficient governance. We do not consciously pushed investments out of Bengaluru. Tumakuru differentiate whether you are in IT, BT, Pharma, Aerospace, or node, which is part of the Chennai- Bengaluru Industrial you are a startup or an SME or a large company. Our startup Corridor, is also coming up in a big way,” he says. policy and all the initiatives being taken by the Department are creating tremendous buzz in the sector. About 30 per cent of The Government has been organising national and the startups are non-IT in nature. We are proud of the startups international events like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Aero India 2017 which have made it big from Karnataka,’’ says the Minister. and Make in India Conference to showcase India and Karnataka Karnataka is home to the fourth largest technology cluster in as ideal investment destinations. n the world. Deshpande has clear views on the development of 24 25 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Turning Capital A Better Life BASE, IIT Soon First in Tiger, into a Role Model for Rural Folk Elephant Population

Basavaraj Rayareddi Minister for Higher Education K. J. George B. Ramanatha Rai Minister for Blr Development & H. K. Patil Approval has been granted for setting up of ‘Bengaluru Dr. Minister for Forest Town Planing Minister for Rural Development B.R.Ambedkar School of Economics’ (BASE) in Bengaluru for In 2017-18, construction and allotment of 3,000 flats will The Department has received the Annual National Award from Higher Education and Research in Economics, on the lines of With 407 tigers and 6,072 elephants, Karnataka stands at first be completed. 5,000 sites will be distributed in Nada Prabu the Central Government for its achievements in decentralisation, London School of Economics, where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar studied. position in the country in this regard. There is an increase of 289 Kempegowda Layout which is under implementation. It is sanitation, eGovernance and transparency. Abdul Nazir Saab State Government has sanctioned 470 acres of land to the Indian sq km in forest cover in Karnataka as per India Forest Survey proposed to develop Modern Model Township in an area of 166 Rural Development Institute has received appreciation from Institute of Technology (IIT) allotted to Karnataka state. In last 4 Report-2015. 10 crore saplings have been distributed for planting acres in Konadasanapura village. A 10.7-km major arterial road the World Bank for its capacity building programme.The years, action has been taken to establish 52 First Grade Colleges in private and farmers’ lands. For the saplings that have survived connecting Mysore road and Magadi road through Kempegowda revolutionary ‘Grama Swaraj and Karnataka Panchayath Raj including 4 Government Engineering Colleges, 3 Government out of those distributed among 63,939 beneficiaries, incentive Layout at a cost of Rs. 350 crore is planned. It is also proposed Act, 2015’ has been implemented. 4,023 ‘Bapuji Seva Kendras’ Polytechnics and 26 Women’s Colleges. of Rs 29 crore has been given under Agriculture Forest Incentive to develop Commercial Hubs in five places on the said road have been set up in Grama Panchayat offices itself. 9,300 pure Scheme. under public private partnership. Integrated development of 12 drinking water units were installed. Pure drinking water has been Skill Development Centre has been established in Dandeli New schemes for 2017-18 lakes has been completed at a cost of Rs. 75 crore. In 2017-18, supplied to 1.6 crore rural people. 190 Multi Village Water Supply with a grant of Rs.50 crore and work is under progress. Tution and Thrust will be given to following programmes to grow more trees. development 10 lakes will be completed at an estimated cost of Schemes have been implemented spending Rs1,554 crore. Water laboratory fee has been exempted for 1.19 lakh girl students of Rs. 42 crore. Bellanduru and Varthuru tanks will be developed. is being supplied to 40 lakh people. Permanent potable water to aided higher education institutions. Higher Education Academy 1) It is proposed to develop ‘Salumarada Thimmakka Vruksha Construction of Underbridge and widening of Overbridge at 2,539 villages arranged. A novel programme ‘Shouchalayakkagi has been established in Dharwad. Udyanavana’ in every Assembly Constituency. In the first Hebbal junction of outer ring road will be taken up at an estimated Samara’ was launched for constructing 28 lakh personal toilets. phase, 50 Tree Parks will be developed in forest land. cost of Rs. 88 crore. Overbridge presently under construction at a Under Mahatma Gandhi NREGA Scheme, 24.8 crore man days New schemes for 2017-18 2) 6 lakh sandalwood saplings will be raised and 700 hectares of cost of Rs. 44 crore at Doddanekundi Junction of Outer Ring Road employment created with an expenditure of Rs. 7,056 crore. With the objective of encouraging higher education in Hyderabad- sandalwood plantations will be developed as an alternative will be made open to public by June 2017. Under Chief Minister 21 Point Programme, 11.89 lakh assets Karnataka region, Raichur University will be established. All the to eucalyptus in the districts of Kolar and Chikkaballapur. colleges of Raichur and Yadgir districts will be brought under created. 3) 6 crore tall and good quality saplings will be raised for During last year, Rs 7,300 crore has been made available for the jurisdiction of this University. To bring transparency in Vanamahotsava. development of infrastructure of Bengaluru city and welfare New Schemes in 2017-18 administration of Universities and to enforce common provisions of Bengaluru’s citizens. The entire amount will be spent by Rs 20 crore will be provided for Namma Grama Namma Yojane. of the Karnataka State Universities Act, 2000 amendments will be 4) Incentive amount will be enhanced from Rs 45 to Rs 100 for the March 2018. Select 43 major roads of about 80 km length will Taluk and District action plans will be prepared by consolidating brought to the said Act. 25 new Government Polytechnics will be each surviving seedling plant under Krishi Aranya Prothsaha be white topped and the pedestrian facilities will be upgraded the plans prepared by Grama Panchayats. Out of 22.5 lakh started across the rural areas of the State at a cost of Rs.4 crore Yojane. at a cost of Rs.690 crore.25 interconnected roads of 25 km activities earmarked for the next 5 years, 3.9 lakh activities will each. 5) Roadside plantations will be raised along 4,720 km roads under length in ‘Bengaluru’s Central Business District’ (CBD) will be be taken up during the current year action plan. Rs. 2,200 crore Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee comprehensively upgraded under third stage of Tender Sure will be provided for Rural Water Supply Scheme. For ensuring To increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of girl students, Scheme and by using 1 per cent of the grant earmarked for model at the cost of Rs 250 crore. Under Bengaluru Metro Rail rural sanitation and with a view to create open defecation- 23 girls’ hostels will be constructed in Government Polytechnics this purpose under different schemes. Project Phase-2A, work for an additional new line (17 kms length) free State, Rs. 1,585 crore will be provided. Under Namma Hola in phased manner at a cost of Rs.2 crore each. from Silk Board to K.R.Puram junction is being funded through Namma Daari, 25 km of long mud roads to reach the farms in 6) To prevent the migration of wild animals from forest areas to innovative financing and the project will be commenced at a cost each Legislative Constituency will be constructed under NREGA human habitations due to shortage of water, it is proposed to of Rs 4,200 crore. in collaboration with farmers. By commencing Namma Grama fill 100 water bodies/tanks in deep forest with the help of self- Namma Rasthe Scheme Phase-IV during the year, 4,386 km roads operating solar pumps at an estimated cost of Rs.10 crore. will be developed. New Schemes for 2017-18 Min. Wages Revised Government plans to initiate steps for ensuring 100 per cent New Regional Development Board Formed M. R. Seetharam provided in last three years. Santosh S. Lad preference in the employment of Group C & D jobs to Kannadigas Minister for Planning, Statistics, New Schemes in 2017-18 Minister for Labour and 5 per cent for differently abled in the private sector. ‘Rajya Balakarmika Haagu Kishora Karmika Paddhathi Nirmulana Science & Technology During the year, programmes amounting to Rs. 1,500 crore will The Government revised minimum Parishkrutha Kriya Yojane’ will be formulated during 2017-18. Online registration system of births Through this action plan, steps will be taken to declare Karnataka be implemented through the Hyderabad – Karnataka Regional wages for 47 scheduled employments and deaths has been implemented Development Board for the development of basic infrastructure thereby benefiting 2.4 crore employees. as ‘Child labour and adolescent labour free’ State in next five in rural areas throughout the state. years. ‘Ashadeepa Yojane’ will be implemented with a noble and to reduce regional disparities. Rs. 60 crore, Rs. 50 crore and Rs. As many as 7.3 lakh building and To prevent regional imbalance and 20 crore will be provided to Malanad Area Development Board, other construction workers have been objective to provide employment to the workers belonging for the purpose of development to schedule caste and schedule tribes in private enterprises. Bayaluseeme Development Board and Karavali Development registered. Out of which, 1.43 lakh of Hyderabad – Karnataka region, Board respectively. Rs. 600 crore will be provided under Karnataka registered construction workers have Hamals, street vendors, domestic workers and rag pickers will Hyderabad – Karnataka Regional Legislative Area Development programme. For this purpose Rs. been provided financial assistance of be brought under ‘Accident Relief Scheme’ and ‘Provident Fund Development Board was established 3,000 crore will be provided. This grant will be utilised in all 114 Rs.139 crore. Online services have been Pension’. ‘Comprehensive provident fund cum pension scheme under the article 371-J of Constitution linked with housing scheme’ will be implemented for registered backward talukas to improve the Human Development Index in introduced under various Acts. of India. For this purpose an amount of Rs 2,503 crore has been building construction workers. those talukas. 26 27 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA New Achcut Area of 1.14 Improving Quality Freedom from Hunger Irrigation for 6.2 Lakh Lakh Hectares Created Acres Created

Tanveer Sait Minister for Primary & T. B. Jayachandra Secondary Education U. T. Khader Minister for Law & Parliamentry Minister for Food & Civil Supplies M. B. Patil Affairs & River Irrigation Minister for Major & The policy goal of the government, ‘Every child in school and The ambitious Annabhagya scheme of the State Government to learning well’, guides its efforts to focus on improving education Medium Irrigation free the State from hunger has been successfully implemented. Grant of Rs 5,236 crore was provided between 2013-14 and 2016- quality, inclusiveness and affordability. For achieving these During the Budget Speech of 2013-14, it was announced that a 17. New achcut area of 1.14 lakh hectares has been created using objectives, programmes for education quality improvement and 1.08 crore families below poverty line have benefited. Distribution grant of Rs 50,000 crore will be provided for irrigation sector in this. Irrigation facility has been restored in 46,398 hectare atchcut assurance, technology assisted learning, incentives to students of 1 kg of pulses per ration card for the families below the the coming 5 years. Grant of Rs.48,096 crore has been provided area. During 2014-15, to improve the ground water, check dam/ and students motivation are being implemented in government poverty line has been started from the current year as a part of to irrigation sector during the last 4 years. Irrigation capacity barrage works have been implemented in 10 districts at a cost of schools. The government has also facilitated admission of 4 the Annabhagya scheme to ensure availability of proteins in this for 6.2 lakh acres has been created and field drains for 4.4 lakh nutritious intake. acres have been built. Five head works and around 437 km main/ Rs.200 crore. lakh children belonging to weaker sections and disadvantaged groups in private schools with quality education and has been branch canal construction works among all sub projects coming reimbursing fee for them. To provide a wider selection of schools New Schemes in 2017-18 under Upper Krishna Project Phase-3 have been completed. Irrigation facility has been provided to 14,436 beneficiaries for such students, the criteria of neighborhood has been relaxed. On demand from people, foodgrain being distributed under Expenditure of Rs 5,076 crore has been incurred so far. Around from Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribes by digging bore wells 24,000 hectares has been covered under Ramathala Phase-2 The government has been providing free textbooks to 63 lakh Annabhagya scheme will be increased from 5 kg to 7 kg per Project, which is an important project that uses drip irrigation. and installing solar pump set under ‘Suryajyothi Raithara Baalina students, uniform to 47 lakh students, bicycles to 5 lakh students person. Twenty lakh poor families have already been brought every year besides mid-day meals every day and milk in three TModernisation of 23 dam has been taken up at a cost of Rs1,588 Paranjyoth’ scheme. Lift Irrigation Project has been taken up at an under Annabhagya scheme through Public Distribution System. estimated cost of Rs 883.5 crore to fill up 65 minor irrigation tanks days in a week to 60 lakh students. crore, out of which 13 works have been completed. By simplifying the eligibility criteria, new ration cards will be in Chickballapur, Bengaluru urban and Bengaluru rural districts. New schemes for the year 2017-18 delivered at the doorstep of applicants within 15 days through New Schemes Proposed for 2017-18 As reform measures, Karnataka School Education Policy and speed post by bringing distribution of ration cards under Sakala Following are some of the works to be taken up at an estimated New Schemes for 2017-18 objective, transparent and unobtrusive regulations covering Scheme. Free foodgrain will be distributed to welfare institutes amount of Rs 3,000 crore during 2017-18: Nagarabetta ‘Kere Sanjeevini’ scheme for desilting of tanks has been infrastructure norms, fee, teaching resources and safety and like nariniketans, old age homes, schools for blinds, hostels Lift Irrigation scheme in Muddebihal Taluk of Vijayapura successfully implemented under Rural Development and security of students in all schools to achieve the policy goal for poor students, Beggars Rehabilitation Centres, etc. on District. Scheme to provide water to Yalligutti village of Bilagi Panchayath Raj Department. This scheme will be scaled will be formulated. The following initiatives will be taken up to Annabhagya model. Additional Consumer Dispute Benches will taluka in Bagalkot district. Installation of modern gates and up to tackle recurring drought conditions in the State and strengthen the quality of education in government schools: be set up at the State and District levels to enable the disposal rejuvenation works of Yadgiri and Yadagira of Kalaburagi district, Objective learning assessments in classes 1 to 8; Vishwasa Kirana Choladahedagi-Gudura, Ghattaraga and Kalluru-B barrages. ‘Kere Sanjeevini’ scheme will be implemented through Lake of all the pending disputes within the statutory period of three – supplementary teaching during summer and other vacation Project to fill 35 tanks of Yadgir taluka through Sannathi Scheme. Development Authority by bringing tanks presently under Rural months. periods; IT @ School for additional 1,000 high schools and PU It is proposed to take up canal developmental works of 374 km Development and Panchayat Raj Department to Minor Irrigation colleges. eed-based restructured medium to long term training length in Cauvery basin at an estimated cost of Rs.509.55 crore. Department. Rs100 crore will be provided for the works to be of 50,000 teachers and lecturers will be taken up for specific core taken up by the Authority. subjects and languages including English. Four Fruitful Years - Agriculture Krishna Byregowda of Kolara and Chikkaballapura districts to be used for irrigation Urban Development Minister for Agriculture at an estimated cost of Rs.1,280 crore. To enhance farmers’ income, thrust has been given to Animal Husbandry through (excluding Bengaluru) KUIDF, KUWSDB Government has given thrust to Pashu Bhagya and Ksheera Dhare schemes. This has increased micro irrigation by providing 90 the income of marginal farmers and also the milk collection in R. Roshan Baig be completed in 2017-18. Under Karnataka urban water supply per cent subsidy and tripling the the state. 305 Krishi Yanthra Dhare centres have been set up to Minister for Urban Development modernisation programme (KUWSMP) operator contract for 12 allocation for the same during the years has been given for supply of water to Hubli-Dharwad at a provide farm machinery on rental basis. 4.3 lakh farmers have last four years. Community micro availed the services. For providing market information, crop Under Karnataka integrated urban cost of Rs.252 crore. Contracts in Belagavi and Kalaburgi will be irrigation projects like Ramthal advisories and weather forecasts to farmers through electronic water management investment finalised in 2017-18. Rs.800 crore will be provided to 6 cities of have been taken up on a large media, Information Communication Technology (ICT) has been programme (KIUWMIP), water Belagavi, Davanagere, Hubballi-Dharwada, Shivamogga, scale. Under this programme, drip Adopted. supply and underground drainage Mangaluru and Tumkuru selected under Smart City Abhiyana. and sprinkler irrigation units have development has been taken Works will be started in the current year. been distributed to 3.9 lakh farmers Schemes for 2017-18 up in eight towns at a cost of covering an area of 4 lakh hectares. To ensure protective irrigation ‘Krishi Bhagya’ scheme has played a pivotal role in providing Rs 2187.72 crore. Underground Water Supply schemes at a cost of Rs.290 crore and in rainfed areas, Krishi Bhagya Yojane has been implemented protective irrigation to crops during critical stages to combat drainage projects in four towns will three underground drainage schemes at a cost of Rs.45 crore and has been largely acclaimed by farmers throughout the drought effectively and to obtain higher income. The scheme will be completed in this year. Under have been completed in 2016-17. It is targeted to take up a total State. Under this programme, 1.2 lakh farm ponds and 2,546 be extended to Coastal and Malnad areas covering all the taluks North Karnataka Urban Investment of 27 schemes at a cost of Rs.865.41 crore (14 water supply and 13 polyhouses / shade-nets have been constructed. For the first in 2017-18. In order to emphasise judicious and efficient use of Plan (NKUSIP), works for round-the-clock water supply in 12 drainage schemes) and complete the same during 2017-18. time in the country, a project has been formulated and being water, drip and sprinkler irrigation units will be distributed at 90 towns and underground drainage works in seven towns will implemented to treat 8 TMC of waste water of Bengaluru per cent subsidy for up to 2 hectares and 50 per cent subsidy for flowing from Kormangala-Challagatta valley to fill up 126 tanks up to 5 hectares covering an area of 1.8 lakh hectares. 28 29 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Karnataka to be Marked Improvement Hut-free Soon in Health Indices

M. Krishnappa K. R. Ramesh Kumar Minister for Housing Minister for Health & Family Welfare In order to make Karnataka a hut-free State, it was targeted to Health and Family Welfare Department is engaged in the construct 15 lakh houses during five years. Construction of 11 mission of providing quality health services. Infant mortality lakh houses has been completed. By the end of March 2018, work rate has reduced from 31 to 28. The maternal mortality rate has on 15.5 lakh houses will be over. Under House Sites Scheme, been brought down from 178 to 133 per 1 lakh live births. The 44,500 house sites have been distributed. mortality rate of infants below 5 years is 31 per 100 live births. Karnataka is one among 6 States to have achieved the millennium New Schemes for 2017-18 target of 35. Under the vaccination programme, the rate of fully Seven lakh houses will be sanctioned under different schemes. vaccinated children has been increased from 80 to 91.4. Under Out of which, six lakh houses in rural areas and one lakh houses in ‘Vajpayee Arogyashree’ scheme, 1.5 lakh beneficiaries have been Bengaluru will be constructed. Chief Minister’s 1 Lakh Bengaluru treated for chronic diseases. Under ‘Shuchi’ scheme, 13 packets Housing Scheme will be implemented in Bengaluru. As per this containing 10 sanitary pads have been provided per annum free scheme, amount realised from the sale of plots/houses developed of cost to 72.7 lakh adolescent girls to maintain hygiene during in an area of up to 25 per cent of the available land will be utilized menstruation. to subsidise affordable housing for urban poor in Bengaluru. Similar model will be extended to provide affordable housing New Schemes for 2017-18 facility in other cities/towns. House sites will be developed in It is proposed to pay honorarium of Rs 1,000 to ASHA workers partnership with private land owners in 60:40 ratio under ‘Indira in addition to the existing payment of incentive to reduce the Rural House Sites Scheme’. Construction of 50,000 houses will be rate of infant and maternal mortality. It is proposed to bring taken up through Karnataka Slum Development Board. coordination among various health insurance schemes of the Government and to include all the families under Universal Health Coverage. Yashaswini Arogya Suraksha Scheme will be continued as per the existing rules. But, this scheme will be brought under the control of Health and Family Welfare Department. Five Super Speciality Hospitals will be established in Davanagere, Ramanagara, Tumakuru, Vijayapura and Kolar at a cost of Rs 25 crore to treat patients suffering from cancer, heart diseases and other lifestyle diseases.

In Top Gear Ramalinga Reddy won National Level Urban Mobility Award 2016 for its efficient city Minister for Transport operations and North East Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NEKRTC) has won India Bus Award for innovative city transport. Under computerisation and Smart New Schemes for 2017-18 Card Scheme, 226 lakh Smart Cards, Under ‘Raitha Sarathi’ scheme, training will be imparted to Driving Licences and Registration farmers and learner’s licence & driving licence will be issued Certificates have been issued in all Regional Transport Offices. A total to facilitate the drivers of agricultural tractors and trailers. To of 6,957 buses have been added. reduce road accidents & to improve road safety, Karnataka State 21 new depots and 21 new bus Road Safety Authority will be constituted. The number of buses stations established. 1,793 city bus in BMTC will be increased to reduce traffic congestion and to services were inducted in all the provide reliable transport services in Bengaluru city. 3,000 new district centres. Karnataka State buses will be inducted during the current year. 3,250 new buses Road Transport Corporation is the only State Road Transport will be purchased by transport corporations. 150 Electric Buses in Corporation in the country which has earned 164 national and Bengaluru City and 50 Electric Buses in Mysuru City with Central international awards for the unique initiatives and good practices. assistance. To provide greater safety to women passengers, a new BMTC has earned 100 national and international awards so far. feature of SOS button and tracking will be provided in the BMTC North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) has Mobile application. 30 31 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Women & Child Historical SC/ST Law Firm Steps on Powerful Steps Developmment; Enacted Encroachments Towards Self-reliance Kagodu Thimmappa D. K. Shivakumar Kannada & Culture Minister of Revenue Department Minister of Energy Department The Government has inserted The Government, under various Sections 94C and 94CC in the projects, has added a total of 5,848 Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964 MW capacity from all sources to to regularise the unauthorisedly supply adequate electricity to attain constructed residential houses self-reliance in energy sector in the on the Government lands in rural State. Now, more thrust is given to areas, towns and cities. Meanwhile, renewable energy sources and solar H. Anjaneya to prevent organised attempts to energy. Following which, Solar Policy encroach Government land and 2014-21 was launched. Accordingly, Minister for Social Welfare & lands of Government- owned a ‘Solar Energy Park’ of 2,000 MW Umashree Backward Class Minister for Women & Child agencies, the Karnataka Prohibition is being constructed in Pavagada, For the all-round development of Scheduled Caste and Development; Kannada & Culture of Land Encroachment Act has been enacted and a special which is the biggest such facility in the world. To strengthen Scheduled Tribe communities, a historical law, The Karnataka court set up. Encroachments on 2.02 lakh acres of government the transmission network, 107 new electricity sub stations have Revolving Fund being given to empower ‘Stree Shakti Groups’ Scheduled Caste Sub-plan and Tribal Sub-plan Act, 2013 has land have been evicted in the State. Also, encroachments on been established and 2,485 circuit km transmission lines have 5,325 acres of government land valued at Rs 1 lakh crore have been incorporated to the electricity network. Another major (SHGs) has been increased from Rs.5,000 to 25,000. 1.31 lakh been implemented. During 2008-09 to 2012-13, Rs. 26,840 crore been evicted in Bengaluru Urban district alone. A scheme for achievement is providing 58,145 bore wells and 37,251 drinking groups have been given revolving fund. For all Anganwadi was provided and Rs. 22,261 crore was spent under Scheduled providing a pension of Rs 2,000 for widows of the farmers who water plants with electricity connection. Steps taken to reduce children, along with supplementary nutrient food, full cream Caste Sub-plan and Tribal Sub-plan. During the period from 2013- 14 to 2016-17, Rs 60,350 crore has been provided and Rs. 47,186 committed suicide has been implemented. The Government transmission and distribution loss have been effective. The milk is distributed under “Ksheera Bhagya” scheme for three has taken up various development works of 17 temples at a cost figures have fallen from 3.81 per cent to 3.22 per cent and 16.10 days in a week. This has benefited 38.21 lakh children. ‘Karnataka crore has been spent under this plan. Rs. 1,160 crore has been spent for construction of 108 residential school complexes and of Rs 201 crore under ‘Bruhat Devalayagala Poornabhivruddhi per cent to 14.09 per cent respectively. Makkala Nidhi’ has been set up to meet medical expense and to Scheme’ to develop large temples coming under the department in 85 residential schools repair works have been taken up. 36,661 provide immediate compensation to children below 18 years of endowments. New Schemes for 2017-18 of age, subjected to sexual assault. Reservation for Women in bore wells were drilled and 34,851 bore wells were provided The Government proposes to add 3,975 MW capacity, including Karnataka Civil Services direct recruitment has been increased with electricity connection. Under Land Purchase scheme, 3,380 New Schemes for 2017-18 1,600 MW from Yaramaras project, 1,000 MW from Solar Energy from 30 per cent to 33 per cent. Monthly pension being paid to landless agriculture labourer families were given 4,502 acres of ‘Less Paper Office’ scheme implemented in 15 Deputy Park of Pavagada and 1,375 MW from renewable energy sources. Commissioner offices, 15 Assistant Commissioner offices It has been decided to clear the electricity bill arrears of Gram ex-Devadasis has been increased from Rs 400 to Rs 1,500. Head land by and 15 taluk offices. This scheme will be extended to all the Panchayats which have been pending for a long time creating office and district offices of Kannada and Culture Department purchasing at a cost of Rs186 crore. Rs.1,190 crore has been sanctioned for the construction of 7,600 Dr. B.R. Ambedkar offices of Revenue Department in the next two years. Several financial crises for ESCOMs and Karnataka Power Corporation. have been brought under a user-friendly and environmental- programmes will be implemented under the Digital Land The Government has decided to pay arrears of Rs 3,766 crore friendly, transparent e-administration. About 21,644 Vachanas of Bhavans, Dr. Babu Jagajeevan Ram Bhavans and Valmiki Bhavans for the benefit of the SC/ST Communities. Rs 230.5 crore has been Records Management Project (DLRMP) with the assistance of pending as on 31/3/2015 to provide financial leverage to the 259 Vachanakaras of 12th century Vachana literature genre that Government of India. ‘Aakaarbundh’, an important document, companies to invest in infrastructure facilities and upgradation. given to 1,741 organisations for the construction of Community are available have been uploaded to a user-friendly medium. Out will be digitized. A grant of Rs 175 crore will be provided for the Another plan is to convert five villages in each MLA constituency Halls and student hostel buildings under various community of this, music has been composed for 1,000 vachanas and the Bhagawan Babhubali Maha Masthakabhishekha celebrated once into Model Electricity Villages by launching steps for efficient audio is available on the website. development schemes. Construction of own buildings for 230 in 12 years in Shravanabelagola. usage of electricity. backward class hostels has been taken up at a cost of Rs 271.3 New Schemes in 2017-18 crore. Rs 238 crore has been given for the financial, educational To meet the nutrition needs, it is proposed to extend ‘Matru and infrastructure facilities to 1.63 lakh beneficiaries of nomadic/ RENEWABLE ENERGY Poorna’ scheme to all 30 districts of the State where hot cooked semi-nomadic communities. Irrigation facility has been provided meal is provided to pregnant and lactating mothers from coming to 50,267 acres of land of 20,107 small and marginal farmers Bengaluru Airport, Bosch Join Hands July. For this purpose Rs 302 crore will be provided. under Ganga Kalyana Irrigation Scheme at a cost of Rs 284 crore. engaluru Airport has partnered with Bosch India to generate the largest development centre renewable energy for its operations. “Airports are a focus outside Germany for end-to-end Karnataka’s School of Economics Bvertical for Bosch. Beyond solar projects, we have security engineering and technology technology and energy efficiency solutions for this sector,” said solutions. to open this year Mr. Soumitra Bhattacharya, president, Bosch Group India, on the The Bosch Group operates in tie-up. India through nine companies, he Dr. B R Ambedkar School of Economics, an international during admission. The proposed reservation is much higher than “It is crucial for India to have in place a sustainable energy viz, Bosch Limited, Bosch Chassis standard business school, modeled on the lines of the the constitutional mandate to implement reservation to attain infrastructure. Committed to that vision, Bosch India offers Systems India Limited, Bosch Tfamed London School of Economics, will commence classes social equality. customised solutions for commercial and industrial clients Rexroth India Limited, Bosch Engineering and Business Solutions for the academic year (2017-18) at the Jnana Bharathi campus of across sections such as airports, automotive industry, dairy and Private Limited, Bosch Automotive Electronics India Private Bangalore University. It may be recalled that launching the 125th birth anniversary seaports, among others,” he said. “Energy solutions from Bosch Limited, Bosch Electrical Drives India Private Limited, BSH Home of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah announced India will help our industrial and commercial customers reduce Appliances Private Limited, ETAS Automotive India Private Ltd. The higher education minister Basavaraj Rayareddi said “The that the Karnataka government is seriously considering setting their energy expenditure,” said Mr. Bhattacharya. and Robert Bosch Automotive Steering India Pvt. Ltd. cabinet has sanctioned Rs. 150 crore for the School of Economics up Dr. Ambedkar School of Economics in the city. “We are excited about our progress and soon our installed In India, Bosch set up its manufacturing operation in 1951, building which will be built on 43 acres of land belonging to the capacity will touch 100 MW,” said Mr. Venugopalan C M, head, which has grown over the years to include 15 manufacturing Later, the Chief Minister’s office informed that the chief Bangalore University. The land has been leased to the School for Bosch India Energy business. In India, Bosch is a leading sites, and seven development and application centres. Bosch minister has made an announcement in this regard at an event supplier of technology and Group in India employs over 30,000 associates and generated 99 years. The school will operate from temporary buildings of after consulting the faculty member of the National Law School services in the areas of Mobility consolidated revenue of Rs. 17,022 crore in 2015 of which Rs. Bangalore University till the building is ready. of India University Dr. S. Japhet and PWD minister, Dr. H.C. Solutions, Industrial Technology, 12,100 crore was from third party. The Group has around 14,000 Mahadevappa. It may be recalled that Dr. Ambedkar received Consumer Goods and Energy research and development associates in the country. Going a step forward to implement the spirit of reservation one of his four doctorate degrees — in economics —from LSE in and Building Technology. In India, Bosch Limited is the flagship company of the Bosch the cabinet has decided to reserve 30% seats for SC/ST students 1923. Additionally, Bosch has in India Group. It earned a revenue of over Rs. 10,415 crore in 2015-16. 32 33 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Seeking Excellence Karnataka industry in IoT bodies urge Govt. to ease the 100% job quota for locals Industrialists and other industry bodies of Karnataka have welcomed the government move to promote local employment but urged the government not to enforce the 100% job quota for locals via legislation. They said instead of withdrawing concessions from private sector companies for employing workers of other states, Karnataka should adopt a policy of providing incentives Priyank M Kharge to companies that engage the local workforce in blue-collar jobs. IT, BT and S&T; Tourism The state government is planning to introduce 100% reservation for Kannadigas in blue-collar jobs in all private sector industries A Centre of Excellence in Internet of Things (IoT) has been set getting concessions due to the state’s industrial policies. The up in collaboration with Government of India and NASSCOM. Information Technology sector and Biotechnology sector have An AVGC Venture Fund of Rs 20 crore is being set up to provide been exempted from the amendments as they do not fall under venture capital to companies in AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, the Industrial Employment Rules. The government has released Gaming and Comics) sector. K-GIS Portal Version-I was launched a draft amendment to the Karnataka Industrial Employment which will enable geo tagging, mapping of assets, beneficiary (Standing orders) Rules, 1961, providing for 100% “horizontal tracking, collection of soil samples etc. Under New Tourism reservation” for Kannadigas. The draft is open for objections or Policy-2015, 20 tourism destinations have been identified to suggestions. Also, the draft amendments call for providing not encourage private investment. 38th PATA International event was less than 5% of employment to persons with disabilities. held during 2015 for the first time in Bengaluru. 57 countries and 19 states participated in the event. Jungle Lodges and Resorts Limited has developed Jungle Camps for middle income tourists at an affordable cost in Bhagavathi of Chickmagaluru district, Sakrebailu of Shivamogga district, Anejari and Seetha Nadi of Udupi district. New Schemes for 2017-18 ‘Centre of Excellence in Data Sciences and Artificial Intelligence’ and ‘Cyber Security Centre’ planned keeping in mind the emerging technologies and to create necessary technical resources and for skill development in collaboration with entrepreneurs to give thrust to capacity building. A new programme ‘Yuva Yuga’ will be implemented to train 1,10,000 people in IT, Electronics, Animation and other sectors by pooling funds from grants of Government of India, SCP/TSP and entrepreneurs to give thrust to skill development. A state-of-the-art planetarium at Pilikula Regional Science Centre in Mangalore will be operationalised before December 2017 at an estimated cost of Rs 35.69 crore. To popularise wildlife tourism and eco-trails across the State, 2017 has been declared as the ‘Year of the Wild’ for the tourists to explore the forests and wildlife in Karnataka. Rs 385 crore will be provided for the development of tourism infrastructure.

CM’s Rathna Award While industrialists lauded the government move to promote local employment they pointed out that mandatory reservation for Motivation could create problems in growth due to a dearth of skilled In order to appreciate, recognise and motivate, the labor. They said usually state governments provide incentives to industries, and this rule could make Karnataka a less attractive four best performing enterprises will be given the state for industrial investment. Karnataka workers may also face Chief Minister’s Rathna Award every year, consisting problems in other states if implemented. of a Rs 3.75-lakh cash award and a commendation certificate. Department of Public Enterprises will They pointed out that the government should also work conduct a strategic evaluation of the working of Public towards skill development of people and prepare for the Sector Enterprises in Karnataka to prepare a roadmap industries that are coming in. The government should push local for the optimisation of their operational efficiency and colleges and local institutions to focus on developing these skill effectiveness. In 2017-18, a total amount of Rs 250 crore sets. Given the industrial culture of the state if the government is allocated to Public Sector Enterprises Department. has some incentive plan for companies employing locals more companies will keep coming to the state to get more incentives. 34 35 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA ones. The Kempegowda International Airpor (KIA)t is set to get the Construction sectors which will finally see some investments its second runway soon. While the controversial steel flyover over flowing in. Spreading out from capital the Hebbal route had to take a back seat, a proposal to widen the flyover and construct underpass at a cost of 88 crores should Energy Sector: bring a lot of relief for the commuters moving to and from the The energy sector is getting a big boost as INR 10,272 crores city for Comprehensive city via the KIA. There is a great need for accommodating the increasing urbanization in Bengaluru and though there is a huge gap in the infrastructure requirements, the above initiatives should be a good start. The Mysuru-Magadi road is to benefit state-wide development in a big way with the development of 5 commercial hubs he recently presented Karnataka budget for the year Water Resources: along the almost 11 km stretch. There is also the focus on rural 2017-2018 was awaited with as much enthusiasm as development in the form of developing the rural water supply curiosity. With the need to bolster few sectors and a plan The state faces severe water resources issues and with the growing and improving the rural sanitation. T population and urbanization needs, it is only justified to provide to spread development to towns other than Bangalore, the Social Welfare: government machinery had some work on hand in churning out more attention towards this segment. A budget of 14,433 crores, a comprehensive budget that was needed to push for an overall an increase of 36% over the 2016-2017 was allocated towards this Social welfare gets a big boost as its budget has increased by development. cause. Out of this share, about 3,000 crores are estimated to be 24% (over 2016) to 11,481 crores with focus on improving the livelihood of the below the poverty line masses through a much The good news is that the southern state of Karnataka has needed push on the animal husbandry practice and allocation been climbing up the ranks on both the GDP and per capita charts of LPG connections. Understanding the plight of the common over the last 3-4 years even as investments kept flowing in at an man against rising inflation and sensing the immediate need for increasing rate. In the recent report by the central government, proper meals, the government has decided to open up ‘’Namma Karnataka has pipped West Bengal to move up a place to No. 5 Canteens’’ in the 198 wards of Bengaluru where breakfast is set to have been allocated to add 3,975 MW of capacity to the state’ in terms of contribution to the country’s GDP; for long the state be provided at INR 5 while Lunch and Dinner at INR 10. A budget consumption requirements. had been at No. 6 in the rankings. As per the report, the state of 100 crores has been set aside for this initiative. On similar lines now contributes about 7% to the overall GDP, and thanks to the Health Care and Family Welfare: such canteens are set to be opened in the 30 districts of the state. current budget; it looks to retain the spot and perhaps, may even This segment gets boost in the form of 5 super speciality hospitals move upward. Real Estate: proposed to be established across the state, dialysis centres in While the budget hit on several nodal points that aim towards 114 taluks and 200 medical stores set up to offer medicines at development, there was also focus on infrastructure be it in the lower prices. A total of INR 6,728 crores have been allotted for the form of additional developments of roads and real estate in health and family welfare. Bengaluru and on benefits to the common man, be it in the form While the government, predictably, allocated a higher of providing affordable food or the thrust on skill development portion of the budget towards major areas such as education, for better jobs. The budget also focussed on health care and spent on 21 different water related projects and additional focus urban and rural infrastructure and water, it did not compromise industrial development while giving attention to educational on the development of a canal at the Cauvery basin. much on sectors such as social welfare and healthcare as both and training requirements of students at both the secondary and these sectors received a higher budget in comparison with the college levels. Infrastructure Development: last year. The real estate, housing and energy sectors too received Here is a basic snapshot of the budget proposal and its impact on The need of the hour is to develop infrastructure in the capital a major boost, even as the real estate and housing focussed on industries and subsequent investments: city of Bengaluru which is facing huge influx of population from development of the urban and rural poor. Overall, the budget has nearby towns and villages. The Karnataka Road Development touched upon most areas that needed special and immediate Education Sector: Corporation Limited (KRDCL) is set to develop 150 km of road attention and is set boost the above mentioned industries in The Real Estate sector has got an ample boost in the form of As has been the practice over the last few years, the budget in and around Bangalore at a cost of 1455 crores, to provide the coming 18-24 months in a significant way. The budget also the several initiatives and investments from the Government. allocation for Education was the highest with INR 20,008 crores better commute facilities and ease the flow of traffic in a city showed the government’s intention to move into other towns Bengaluru’s high profile stature as the state’s economic flag allocated towards the same. Some of the major initiatives as part in the state in the form of proposed airports in the towns of bearer got the attention of the government as a good number of of Education development in the state include the establishment Madikeri, Karwara and Chikkamangaluru and a proposed film Real Estate and Infrastructure initiatives have been proposed for city in the district of Mysuru. the city and are set to see the implementation stage in the next few months. There is much anticipation as the people in the state wait to see these massive proposals move into the execution stage to The housing sector is set to gain massively as the government benefit from the desired development. The state, for long, has aims to help the urban poor with a proposal to build 1 lakh largely been driven by the economic development of its capital houses in Bengaluru and another 6 lakh houses in the rest of the city and the information tech centre of India – Bengaluru and now state. On another note, the Bangalore Development Authority with these initiatives it hopes to undergo a more comprehensive (BDA) is set to develop 3,000 flats and allocate 5,000 sites in the and overall development. n Nadhaprabhu Kempegowda Layout and is also set to construct a 166 acre innovative township in the Kondaspura layout. All of these initiatives are a shot-in--the-arm to the Real Estate and

that is notoriously known for its traffic congestion. Bengaluru of a Karnataka School Education policy, the establishment of infrastructure gets a big boost in the form of a 17 km metro rail Raichur University which will have all the colleges of the Raichur link at the cost of 4,200 crores on the highly traffic laden route and Yadgir districts under its purview and the proposal for 25 Silk Board-K R Puram route. This is happy news for many residents new polytechnic institutes in rural areas. and commuters as this route is one among the major congested 36 37 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA

priced at Rs 25 per litre, a kg of salt costs Rs 2, and kerosene per During the launch, the State required 284,000 metric tonnes litre Rs 18. If any eligible beneficiary is not given foodgrain, the of rice every month, while it was getting only 177,000 tonnes. The beneficiary can claim compensation. shortfall was met by procurement from Chhattisgarh and Food WINNING THE WAR The KarnatakaGovernment had launched the much-awaited Corporation of India at market prices.e every year on the scheme. ambitious programme on July 10, 2013 to fulfill an election promise. Assembly elections had taken place in the State on May Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs 5, 2013 bringing the Congress Government led by Siddaramiah Minister Dinesh Gundurao had said the Centre would give an to power. additional 20,000 tonnes per month, while the State has signed a deal with Chhattisgarh government to procure 25,000 tonnes. Initially, it was envisaged to supply 30 kg of rice at Re one “Karnataka will buy the commodity from the country’s rice per kg to nearly one crore BPL families across the State. It was bowl at Rs 23.30 but after including transportation and other AGAINST estimated that the scheme would cost Rs 4,400 crore to the costs the figure is expected to go up to around Rs 27 a kg,’’ the state exchequer annually. Minister had said. During launch, Anna Bhagya scheme covered 87 lakh BPL cardholders and 11 lakh ‘Anthyodaya Anna Yojana’ Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched the scheme by beneficiaries. The State Government had also tied up with NCDEX distributing 30 kg rice to three families at a grand function for facilitatining buying of rice through the bidding process organised in Bengaluru. The district-in-charge ministers unveiled the scheme at the respective district headquarters. In view of the huge cost involved, the scheme had come under criticism from some quarters, including opposition BJP, Though the scheme was originally planned to be implemented which dubbed the programme a “hasty decision” without doing HUNGER from June 1, 2013 the inauguration had to be postponed twice home work. due to problems relating to sourcing of rice at lower rates. Siddaramaiah in his address at the launch function said urgency Related Schemes was required while implementing any pro-poor programme as the poor were hungry every day. “Can the government delay pro- Along with Anna Bhagya, steps to make the State hunger-free people schemes,” he asked. under ‘Anila Bhagya’ scheme are, providing free LPG connection to poor families without LPG connection and to make Karnataka He had also refuted the Opposition’s claims that the scheme kerosene-free; distribution of two-burner gas stoves to all was being implemented in haste in view of the Lok Sabha Ujwala beneficiaries at Rs 1,000 each; Rs 1,600 subsidy for LPG elections scheduled for 2014. “We haven’t taken this decision in connection to 5 lakh eligible poor families not selected under view of Lok Sabhapolls but in view of Congress’ commitment of Ujwala scheme; and ration card holders having kerosene facility helping the needy,” he said. to have the option of choosing either kerosene or rechargeable LED sets. On criticism that the beneficiaries would become lazy, he had said: “If that is so, have people of Tamil Nadu, Odisha and hen Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramiah recently schools for blind, hostels for poor students, beggar rehabilitation The Government has also decided to implement reforms in Andhra Pradesh become lazy. Their states also have introduced launched the revised version of the ambitious Anna centres, etc. on the Anna Bhagya model. the food and civil su11pplies sector like strengthening fair price similar schemes. These are baseless and politically-motivated Bhagya scheme of the State Government, calling it The Chief Minister said the scheme launched by the Government shop-level vigilance committees and conducting social audit. statements.” ‘Anna Bhagya Plus’, it was yet another proof of his to free the State from hunger has been successfully implemented. It has also decided to convert fair price shops into Seva Sindhu Wadministration’s success in implementing programmes beneficial He said 1.08 crore families below poverty line have benefited. Centres, in collaboration with e-Governance Department. The scheme was aimed to benefit 98 lakh BPL cardholders in to the poor. Another major step in this connection to ensure availability of Additional Consumer Dispute Benches will be set up at the proteins for a nutritious intake is distribution of 1 kg of pulses Karnataka. A family with only one person was to get 10 kg, a two- State and district levels to enable the disposal of all the pending member family 20 kg and those with three members and above a The Chief Minister said the quantity of foodgrain being per ration card for families below the poverty line. The measure disputes within the statutory period of three months. maximum of 30 kg per month. distributed under Anna Bhagya would be increased from five kg has been started from the current year also as a part of the Anna n to seven kg per person as it was brought to his notice that five kg Bhagya scheme. was not sufficient for big families. Siddaramiah said Karnataka has more number of BPL families ABOUT ANNA BHAGYA compared to neighbouring states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Karnataka Government is implementing the Anna Bhagya Scheme in association with Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer The scheme is meant to ensure that no one slept on an empty Affairs Department. Under the Scheme, the Government stomach in the State, he said.“During m y childhood, rice was a distributes foodgrain to the below poverty line (BPL) families in luxury. I have gone to the houses of well-off neighbours hoping the State free of cost. to get rice. People then struggled to buy the commodity. This prompted me to announced the Anna Bhagya scheme on the The main aim of the scheme is to provide subsidized rice to day I assumed office,” said the Chief Minister. the targeted beneficiaries. The price of food is increasing day Twenty lakh poor families have already been brought under by day and under such circumstance, the condition of the poor the scheme through Public Distribution System. By simplifying families has become even worse since they do not have enough the eligibility criteria, new ration cards will be delivered at the money to purchase foodgrain at market rates. Apart from rice, doorstep of applicants within 15 days through speed post by the Government also distributes wheat, sugar, salt, kerosene and bringing distribution of the cards under Sakala Scheme, said oil at subsidised rates. Siddaramiah. To be eligible for the scheme, the applicant should be a resident of Karnataka state and belong to BPL category. Besides rice and The Karnataka Government has also decided to distribute free wheat, beneficiaries are given 1 kg of palm oil, 1 kg of iodised foodgrain to welfare institutes like Nariniketans, old age homes, salt and 3 litres of kerosene at a subsidised rate. While palm oil is 38 39 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA

Presently during peak hours, there is rush, mostly between 8 AM to 10 PM when most of the office goers flock to the station and in the evening from 6 PM to 9 PM when the offices end for the day. The hitch system enables the operators to control the crowd. During weekends the crowd reduces and it is a breather. There is no denying the fact that Namma Metro has taken BANGALORE some steam away from the roads of Bangalore. If the frequency increases then it will definitely make a huge difference to the life of Bangaloreans and the traffic condition in the city.

Will it become a common man’s transport?

If you take a taxi and travel from Baiyappanahalli to Mysore Road then there is a chance that it will break your bank. However, if METRO you cover the same distance via metro then you will have to pay a fraction of the amount and spend less than a fraction of the time doing so. However, when compared to the ticket rates in other cities like Delhi and Kolkata, the rates here are high. That being said, Bangaloreans are happy to spend the money because now they do not have to sit in traffic for hours which will not only burn the engine of their vehicles but their pockets as well. While the route between K R Puram and Silk Board is being proposed the need for feeder buses is also seen. This will make it easy for people living in Vijaynagar, CV Raman Nagar and Pai Layout to walk less. Inclusion of foot over bridges may also help IT hubs of Prestige, Eco Space, and

So, with the introduction of Namma Metro in 2011, Bangalore definitely made the right move in reducing the traffic situation. However, a lot is expected from The Bangalore Metropolitan Rail Corp. Ltd (BMRCL) when it comes to connecting it to the heart of The improved Connectivity will address the IT city. There are more expansion plans; but execution might a part of the city's traffic woes take a little more time. n

amma Metro - With the title of being India’s second when Namma Metro came into the picture in 2011. BANGALORE METRO MAP largest metro system, Bangalore metro is popularly (Source - http://www.bmrc.co.in/pdf/news/NMM.pdf) known as “Namma Metro”. It was introduced at a time Metro not touching the city pulse when the population of the city skyrocketed due to the The metro does not connect many of the population-dense areas NIT boom. In addition to adding beauty to the landscape of this like Koramangala, HSR Layout, BTM Layout, Yelahanka, Kengeri, beautiful city, Namma Metro is one of the reasons for reducing Whitefield, and Electronic City. Many of the IT hubs are also left the city’s traffic congestion. It is a sign of evolvement of the out. There is no connectivity to the the Outer Ring Road that is Karnataka’s capital that is becoming more cosmopolitan. the city’s lifeline. Despite all these shortcomings, the metro is definitely a blessing for Bangaloreans. It does touch some of the The project has two corridors- the East-West corridor areas that are prone to traffic like MG Road, Cubbon Park and spanning from Baiyappanahalli in the East and ending at Mysore Vidhan Soudha. People are happy that half of their problems are Road terminal in the West and the second one is the North- solved, thanks to the parking facility at the stations. Commuters South corridor from Nagasandra in the North to Puttenahalli in get to park their vehicles at the nearest metro stations and take the South. East-West corridors have been functional for a while this amazing mode of commute and reach their destination on now and according to various reports the North-South corridor is expected to commence operations by April 2017.The elevated time. Presently stations on Reach 2 are allowing free parking, but corridor between K R Puram and Silk Road is also getting Reach 1 stations charge for the same, but the amount is nominal. constructive responses from the would-be users. The biggest This compensates the fact that Namma Metro has not touched need is the generation of toilets and transplanting the trees that places where traffic can be terrifying for commuters. are being felled for making the metro. The trains commence daily at 6 AM and the last metro leaves the station at 10 PM. This is usually the timing when commuters The stagnant traffic in the city of gardens need a faster mode of transportation that will not get stuck in Bangalore is still known for its glorious past and is expected traffic. Presently the frequency is between 08 minutes in rush to have a bright future in terms of development. However, it is hours and 15 minutes during dull hours. The number of daily also renowned for its stagnant traffic during peak hours. Tales travelers is expected to grow up to a staggering 1,80,000. The of commuters getting stuck in the traffic for more than an hour authorities expect that after the completion of Phase-2, the traffic is common every evening. There have been times when people will build up to five lakh travelers a day. However, reconciling had to take the charge of traffic to get the vehicles moving. With extreme optimism with a sense of realism, you can’t expect a population of 10 million, people need a mode of transportation Phase-2 to be fully functional before 2019. that connected the city faster and lesser traffic congestion. That’s 40 41 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA KARNATAKA CRICKET Mysuru Dasara: SPORTS LEADS THE PACK Countdown Begins Advantage Karnataka celebrates the State’s glorious track record in sports and games hen the Karnataka Government recently announced that The sports-related infrastructure is mainly concentrated in Wassistance amounting to Rs 1 lakh each would be given to Bengaluru which also played host to the 4th National Games 1,000 talented sportspersons and the ‘Karnataka Kreeda Poshaka 1997. The city has a Regional Centre of the Sports Authority of Prashasthi’awards of Rs 5 lakh each will be instituted from this India (SAI), the premier sports institute in India. year to identify and honour 10 sports promoters annually, it was sticking to a long tradition. Karnataka has always witnessed Karnataka has produced numerous hockey players who players of all games as well as athletes enjoying significant went on to represent the country at the international level. They support from the people and encouragement and backup from include former Indian hockey captain Sommayya, goalkeeper he Karnataka Government will start the preparations for Dasara. A few traders are demanding a street festival in Mysuru. the Government. Ashish Ballal, Arjun Halappa, M P Ganesh and several others who Mysuru Dasara within 45 days to make the event a grand “We will indeed organise the event,” said the Minister. A street have represented India at the Olympics. Hockey finds a special Tsuccess. A meeting in this regard was held on May 6 at the festival held in Bengaluru had become extremely popular. Still, among all the sporting disciplines, it is cricket that place in the Kodava culture too. Deputy Commissioner’s office in Mysuru. enjoys the biggest popularity. Chinnaswamy Stadium located Officials are making plans to organise amateur golf in Bengaluru stages International cricket matches. This stadium Prakash Padukone is the most famous badminton player to Minister for Information Technology, Biotechnology and tournaments at places such as Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, also hosts the National Cricket Academy which trains youngsters. emerge from Karnataka with his win in the All England Badminton Tourism Priyank Kharge chaired the meeting, which also Bengaluru and Mysuru to promote homestays. “Golf clubs will discussed the development of the tourism sector. “The promotion be developed in these places. The procedures to promote ‘Aero Championships in 1980 being his most famous victory. His and publicity activities of Dasara will commence soon. The list of Sports’ in Mysuru are underway. Several projects will be taken up Coach of Indian cricket team and former Indian captain Anil other notable achievement is the bronze medal at the World the demands and calendar of events should be submitted by once the master plan is ready on Krishna Raja Sagar,” said Kharge. Kumble and former Indian captain Rahul Dravid are two among Championships held at Copenhagen in 1983. He has also won those involved within three weeks,” he said. “During this year’s n the world-class players who emerged from Karnataka in recent the Danish Open, Swedish Open and the Commonwealth Games Dasara, private parties will also be involved to celebrate Yoga and years. Syed Kirmani and Roger Binny from Karnataka were Gold Medal. He also been ranked World No. 1 in badminton. He Tourism Day. Such events will see more people reaching the city members of the Indian team that won the historic World Cup final has started a Badminton Academy at Bengaluru. during the festival days,” said the Minister. against West Indies at Lords in England in 1983. Pankaj Advani from Bengaluoru has won several world titles He said several other programmes will also be arranged to Other notable cricketers from Karnataka who have in cue sports, including the IBSF World Snooker Championship boost the tourism potential of Mysuru. Among them is the plan represented India include Gundappa Viswanath, Erapalli and the IBSF World Billiards Championship. to introduce Mysuru City App on the lines of Bengaluru City App Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar, Javagal Srinath, Sunil Joshi, Mahesh Bhupathi, the winner of several Grand Slam doubles for the benefit of tourists. The app would have almost all details Venkatesh Prasad, Robin Uthappa, Vinay Kumar, Brijesh Patel and and mixed doubles titles, is a resident of Bengaluru. He has of the heritage city, including its history, places of attraction, facilities for tourists and accommodation, including high-end to Dodda Ganesh. set up a Tennis Academy here. Another tennis player hailing budget hotels. Karnataka have won the Ranji Trophy eight times. In a few from Karnataka who is earning laurels for the country is Rohan International cricket matches held in the1990s more than half Bopanna. It is also planned to create a 3D projection on the Mysuru of the Indian team comprised players from Karnataka. Deepak Palace. This is following the overwhelming response received Chougule from Karnataka holds the junior world record for In athletics, Karnataka has produced several champions, by a similar initiative on the Town Hall building during last year’s maximum runs scored in a single day when he scored 400 runs in including Ashwini Nachappa and Reeth Abraham. The state has his debut U-13 match against Goa back in 1997. won a number of medals at various swimming meets too. n

42 43 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Lights,Camera Kannada cinema ranks among the top five in the country in terms in size and popularity. Action! Advantage Karnataka takes peep into the journey down the years

hen Google remembered legendary Kannada actor the released, followed late Rajkumar with a Doodle on his 88th birthday on by Bhakta Dhruva WApril 24, it was not only paying a tribute to the thespian (aka Dhruva Kumar). but also honoring the Kannada film industry, known popularly as In 1949, Honnappa ‘Sandalwood’ or ‘Chandanavana’. Bhagavathar, who had earlier acted in The Google Doodle shows a young Rajkumar on a screen in Gubbi Veeranna’s a theatre with a silhouette of several people watching his movie. films, produced Bhakta “Today’s Doodle honours Rajkumar, widely considered one of Kumbara and starred in the lead role along with Pandaribai. In India’s finest and most prolific actors. Beginning in 1953, the 1955, Bhagavathar again produced a Kannada film, Mahakavi method actor’s career spanned 200 films and a wide swath of Kalidasa, in which he introduced actress B. Saroja Devi. movie genres and roles, establishing Rajkumar as a dynamic and enduring presence in Kannada cinema,” said the accompanying Rajkumar became a singer during this period working solely text. in Kannada film industry. His wife Parvathamma Rajkumar founded the film production and distribution company This, in short, offers a glimpse into the journey taken by the Vajreshwari combines. Rajkumar’s first movie as a lead actor Kannada film industry too. Rajkumar, along with Vishnuvardhan, Bedara Kannappa (1954) was the first Kannada movie which is considered one of the pillars of Sandalwood. Vishnuvardhan, completed 365 days at the theatres. The first colour movie in who was active in the film industry from 1972 till his death in Kannada, Amarashilpi Jakkanachari, was made in 1964 by B.S 2009, acted in around 220 films. Ranga. Kannada cinema has received praise for adopting literary Rajkumar, Narasimharaju and G. V. Iyer formed a partnership works from the language for films. Some of the works which and produced movies which included Ranadhira Kanteerava. received global acclaim include B. V. Karanth’s Chomana Dudi Puttana Kanagal made female centric movies which did not have (1975), Girish Karnad’s Kaadu (1973), Pattabhirama Reddy’s the usual fight scenes and dance. He introduced many actors Samskara (1970) (based on a novel by U. R. Ananthamurthy), including Kalpana, Aarathi, Vishnuvardhan, Ambarish, Srinath, which won Bronze Leopard at Locarno International Film Festival Ramakrishna and Ashok. Leelavathi, Jayanthi, B. Saroja Devi, and Girish Kasaravalli’s Ghatashraddha (1977) which won the Bharathi and Kalpana were some of the prominent actress during Ducats Award at the Manneham Film Festival, Germany. this era. The parallel film movement in Kannada attracted national Ku Ra Seetharama Sastry introduced several artists to and international attention with several notable films being Kannada film industry, including Shivaram and Shakthi Prasad produced, many of which received wide popular acclaim also. (father of Arjun Sarja). The year 1970 saw the dawn of the parallel film movement, when the noted film Samskara was made. The film, directed by Tiger Prabhakar, Ananth Nag, Lokesh, Dwarakish, Ashok, Pattabhirama Reddy, went on to win 13 national and international Srinath, M. P. Shankar, and Sundar Krishna Urs are the prominent awards and also cleared the path for the making of several other actors who followed, with Aarathi, Lakshmi, Padma Vaasanthi, films which turned milestones in the history of Kannada cinema. Geetha, Madhavi, Saritha, Manjula and Jayamala being some of the actresses. One of the most prominent figures in the parallel film movement is Girish Kasaravalli, whose four movies won the The late 1980s saw the emergence of V. Ravichandran, national award for best feature film. The films are, Ghatashraddha Shivarajkumar and Ramesh Aravind. Bhavya, Mahalaxmi, Sudha (1977), Tabarana Kathe (1986), Thaayi Saheba (1997) and Dweepa Rani, Tara, Malashri, Anjali Sudhakar, Vanitha Vasu, Anjana and (2002). Girish Karnad and B.V. Karanth are two other film makers Shruthi are the notable female actors who graced the screen with who took Kannada cinema to greater heights. them. Puneeth Rajkumar, Upendra, Kiccha Sudeep, Darshan, Diganth, Duniya Vijay and Yash and the female actors Ramya, The Kannada film industry is based in Bengaluru and produces Rakshita, Radhika Kumaraswamy, Aindrita Ray, Sharmila Mandre, more than 100 films every year. Kannada films are released in a Bhavana, Pooja Gandhi and Ragini Dwivedi are some of the stars total of 950 single screen theaters in Karnataka, multiplexes and who followed. Another landmark in Kannada cinema was child also abroad. actor Kishan Shrikanth becoming the youngest director at the Films such as Vamshavruksha (1971), Bhootayyana Maga age of nine years, by directing C/o Footpath. The film won him Ayyu (1974), Hamsageethe (1975), Ghatashraddha (1977), the Best Children’s Film National Award in 2007, two Karnataka Kaadu Kudure (1979), Bara (1979), Ranganayaki (1981), Maanasa State Awards and 11 International Awards. Sarovara (1982), Accident (1985), Pushpaka Vimana (1987), Tabarana Kathe (1987), Kraurya (1996), Thaayi Saheba (1997), Kannada actress Umashree won the Best Actress National A (1998), Mane (2000),Dweepa (2002), Mungaru Male (2006), Award for the movie Gulabi Talkies in 2009. She is now a minister Aptharakshaka (2010), Dandupalya (2012), Rangi Taranga (2015), in Karnataka under Chief Minister Siddaramiah. Gulabi Talkies and Killing Veerappan (2016) have been landmarks. was also screened at Osian’s Cinefan Festival of Asian and Arab Cinema and won three awards. n In 1934, the first Kannada talkie, Sati Sulochana, was

44 45 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA The menu includes chicken, mutton, tikkas and kebabs fillers. If is frugal like other street food stalls but it is quite well lit. You can you are health conscious you may still have the rolls with roomali try Rajasthani paratha, and deserts like gulab jamun. It is easy on roti base. Where are these tasty bites available? Chakum Chakum the pocket starting at Rs. 300 for a quick meal. and Khan Saheb (Indiranagar) and Sha-e-darbar (Yeshwanthpur). Khan Saheb also takes party orders. If you are still craving for north Indian food walk in to the tiny

AN ODE TO Interested in some more non-veg? If you have ever crossed Shivajinagar and Johnson Market, the STREET FOOD IN aroma of the skewers being on roast is unmistakable. This is a BANGALORE

place called Taste Buds. But they serve only veg stuff like dahi kachori, dahi samosa, adrak chai - a decent meal priced between Rs. 200-300. It is located in HSR Layout. It has got good ratings by virtual paradise for the carnivorous. Added to the wide array of food apps like Zomato. Which is the best place to hang your tongue out Idli Paddu, Kolbade, Rasgulla chat, Akki Roti, Lemon bath dosa kebabs you also get Harira, Suleimani Chai, and coconut and fruit naans. Wash them down with flavored sodas and your belly has in Bangalore? If you are a foodie with passion, (which can accelerate the huger pangs quicker). These are all For the sweet tooth available at VV Puram. If two friends are on the gastronomic room for some more to eat. Stop by to have kheema samosas, sheikh kebabas, and chicken and mutton biryanis. Feel like you will scrounge the nooks and corners of journey here; the cost will be around Rs. 200. Come back again to Mangalore buns are well having a stray idiyappam…go on try it. What do you shell out? the city with a foodhound nose in areas like try the Gobi Manchurian roll, Congress bun, and masala vada and known. Made of bananas it can dal Holige (in ghee) at V B Bakery, close by. About Rs. 200-300 for two diners. Sirur Park, Serpentine Road, Malleshwaram, be enjoyed at Chetty’s corner situated on Serpentine road. The cute little food stall Basavanagudi, Jayanagar, Indiranagar and Sometimes the weather is ideal to try bhaji with filter kappi. Walk into New Krishna Bhavan called Eggstacy at New BEL When the monsoon magic strikes, other than the home made in Sirur Park for their version of Yeshwanthpur. No matter how much you have Road is hard to miss. Egg lovers snack of this combination head for Shivraj Bhaji cart in Vijaynagar. this sweet puri. They serve with relish the Spanish omelets pao. grown in stature in your career, the aroma of Or try Basavaraj bhaji Bandi in J P Nagar. If you live close to patato bhaji or with kurma - hot It serves chinese fare as well. the humble stall owner near the school and Koramangala, hop into Pramod’s jalebi & bhaji joint to enjoy the or cold. But feel good on the Try other varieties like egg monsoon and a plate full of this awesome snack. Once the mood wallet. college which always beckon you and compel is right you may even wish to try mirchi bhaji, or the raw banana chilly, egg paratha along with Shawarma rolls or chicken stuff. you to leave the fork and spoons, and fine bhaji, uddin vada to the plate. The accompaniments with these When you are in Malleshwaram, try the holige mane or dal This could be your best bet snacks are onion salad & grated carrots, chutney made of dhania obbattu. It is common to eat it during the festive season. Off the dining ambience to savor the local taste. for north Indian taste in south and pudina. streets it is available all year round. India. What’s good is they keep adding new stuff to the menu. ere is an ode to the street food of a city whose cultural roots Rolls and wraps Regular south Indian fare like idli, dosas and vada have a bite of delicious homegrown snacks at affordable Have you tried Tiwari’s ghee parathas and chaats? rates. So quit counting those calories and spend an H When in a hurry, Bangalore has some of the best street joints serving these evening street-hopping with pals. Let’s begin with thindi beedi Why are we going north? Well, this is one place families drop by often, we grab typical breakfast items. We go back to thindi beedi at VV Puram, or as it is called (eat street). It may be a mere 300 meters but don’t for street food! What’s more it does have some sense of hygiene to rolls with heavy Basavanagudi or Malleshwaram to try them. Central Tiffin room count the food stalls either. boot. So maybe your kids will also enjoy. The sitting arrangement fillings before a and Brahmin coffee bar are the places to enjoy them. n Spoiler alerts: meeting, after a 1. Carry cash, friends and be prepared to dunk your fingers hard day’s work or 2. Keep the belly fire burning — even when really, from street to street till late evening really hungry. Reasonably priced If you are a grilled kebabs are Bangalorean and popular with the not travelled to young crowds VV Puram, then whose shallow shame on you! pockets can afford Do you want to the hunger-killing know what you variety of wraps are missing in this too available on idyllic food street? the side. Crispy parathas are the base for veg and non-veg fillers. 46 47 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA Vijaya Vittala Temple at the East-end side of the street along with an open platform, Built in the 15th century AD the Vijaya Vittala Temple is a rich which serves as a main stage for the annual Hampi festival. architectural temple consisting of several other Hampi temples, pavilions, and halls. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vittala one of Underground Temple the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The marvelously created pillared The sanctum, as well as the main parts of the underground halls reflecting wonders of architecture along with a gigantic temple of Lord Shiva, remains under water for most of the time KARNATAKA stone chariot is one of the main attractions of the temple. The round the year. Vittalapura Township, which once existed outside the temple TOURIST DESTINATIONS campus can still be traced. Old Palace (Gagan Mahal) Gagan Mahal or the old palace is a place of great importance Monkey Temple (Hanuman Temple) entrenched in legends and history. The yellow colored palace The Monkey Temple, located in a serene spot on Anjanadri Hill in consists of beautifully decorated windows and four spectacular Anegundi, 4 km from Hampi, is believed to be the birth place of towers. Lord Hanuman. The Temple is basically a small concrete structure Hemakuta Hill Temples HAMPI consisting of granite carved statue of Lord Hanuman along with The Hemakuta Hill, which consists of a large number of temples, The Charm of Bygone Era and Rusty Colours a small shrine of Lord Rama and his wife Devi Sita. archways, and pavilions, is guarded by the tall wide stoned walls. Royal Enclosure Sasivekalu Ganesha The present day fortified area was once the seat of power of the This Lord Ganesha’s statue bears similarity to the mustard seed, Vijayanagara rulers. Some of the important structures of the Royal which is referred to as Sasivekalu in the local dialect, thereby Enclosure are the King’s Audience Hall or the 100-Pillared Hall, leading to its name. an underground chamber, stepped tank, and the Mahanavami Debbie to the commonly called Dossier Platform. Krishna Temple This temple was built in 1513 AD in order to commemorate Riverside Ruins the downfall of the Eastern kingdom of Udayagiri (present day The riverside gorge displays clusters of remarkable ruins with Odisha State) by king Krishnadevaraya. n some of the finely carved Shiva Lingas on the flat rock surface along with a reclined structure of carved Anandashayana Vishnu on the rock cleft. This place also consists of an array of pavilions the sequence of motifs carved on the rock surface, partially submerged small shrines, etc.

Queen’s Bath The Queen’s Bath is the first of the ruins that you see if you enter the Hampi complex from the South-West corner.

Hampi Bazaar Also well known as ampi located in the Northern part of Karnataka forms Some of the best places to visit in Hampi are: the Virupaksha Bazaar an integral part of the ruins of Vijayanagara, the ancient The Archaeological Museum of Hampi - Established by the the Hampi Bazaar is a capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Recognized by UNESCO H Archaeological Survey of India, the Museum is one of the main kilometer long street as a World Heritage Site, it is considered to be the largest open attractions of the place. It has collections of sculptures and at the foothill of the monument and lost city of Asia. Hampi reflects the power and assorted antiques. Matanga Hill located in prosperity of the Vijayanagara Empire with palaces, temples, front of the Virupaksha forts, civil buildings, tanks, irrigation channels, etc. spread over The museum consists of four galleries Temple. A range of old an area of 25 sq km. Gallery 1 : Holds sculptures of Virabhadra, Mahishasuramardini, pavillions is there on both sides of the street Home to several monuments of the old city, Hampi today is Shakti, Durga Ganesha, Bhairava, Bhikshatanamurti, and which were once part known for its religious significance and monuments. Apart from Kartikeya with his consorts. of the thriving market its historical and cultural importance, Hampi is closely associated Gallery 2 : Central Hall – The hall looks like Hampi temple and also the residence of with the incidents of Ramayana. According to the mythological consisting of Shivalinga, Nandi, and Dwaramantapa. the nobles. You can find epic, Lord Rama and his brother came to this region in search of Gallery 3 : Has antiquities such as copper plate grants, religious a huge Nandi located Bali and Sugriv (two monkey brothers) who ruled in this region. metal objects, armory, brass plates and gold and copper coins of the Vijayanagara dynasty. The Virupaksha Temple (a temple dedicated to Lord Gallery 4 : Antiquities of the prehistoric and protohistoric period, Virupaksha, who is considered to be the deity of the Vijayanagara medieval hero stones and sati stones are there. It also displays rulers) is the center of attraction of this place. Because of this, other excavated items such as iron objects, shards of porcelain, Hampi is also referred to as Vijayanagara and Virupakshapura. and Stucco figurines. Hampi is also known for rich deposits of iron ore and manganese. Virupaksha Temple Mining has been going on for many years now. Dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, the principal deity of the In current times, Hampi has emerged as one of the favorite Vijayanagara rulers, this beautiful and architecturally rich temple tourist spots of India. Thousands visit Hampi for sightseeing, also serves as the main center of pilgrimage in this region. Started study or research. somewhere around the seventh century as a small shrine under the reign of the Vijayanagara rulers, additions were done during the late Chalukya and Hoysala periods. Thus it developed into a marvelous temple. 48 49 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA RECOGNITION FOR NURSES Karnataka Shows the Way By Maya E. Chandy ursing is an art; and if it is to be set up the Award in Karnataka State, are eminent personalities from different made an art, it requires as exclusive making it the first ever state in India to walks of life. There are a total of 12 awards Na devotion, as hard a preparation, as award Nurses. that are presented to meritorious nursing any painter’s or sculptor’s work. personnel in five different categories - - Florence Nightingale Nursing professionals in India were First rank holder for BSc Nursing, GNM hitherto never recognized for their strong, First Rank Holder, six Staff Nurses, two The 17th Annual Florence Nightingale caring and compassionate service to Principals/Lecturers and two Nursing Awards 2017 ceremony was held at a gala the sick, which is a very critical aspect of Superintendents. There are nine criteria event at the Vidhana Soudha on May 12, patient care. Nurses are the unsung heroes to be met by a nominee for the award. which is also the International Nurses Day. in the healthcare system, in spite of their Registration as a Nurse of the Karnataka Several dignitaries graced the occasion important role in this sector and hence Nursing Council, Central GNM, Midwifery, and around 1,500 nurses from all over this Award has gained in importance and Psychiatric (N) BSc Nursing and MSc Karnataka attended the event. popularity over the last decade and a Nursing with Council Registration are half. So much so, that the Government of among the important criteria to stand a The now popular Awards recognise India instituted a national- level Florence chance to be an awardee. the contribution, dedication and selfless Nightingale Award, which is presented hardwork by the Nursing community in annually by the President of India on Nursing – a Rewarding and Noble Karnataka state. The Awards have been International Nurses Day – May 12. Profession aptly named after Florence Nightingale, According to the Ministry of Health, India the celebrated English reformer, The national award is primarily for has a shortfall of a whopping five lakh statistician and founder of modern nurses working in the government nurses. The nurse-to-patient ratio does nursing. sector, but also accepts nominations from not pwresent a rosy picture either. In other hospitals and healthcare centres. India, there are only about 13 nurses for The Awards Function Karnataka has the distinction of having 10,000 patients. One of the reasons for the The Awards function was first organised the most number of nursing personnel in shortfall is the departure of Indian nurses by the Anglo Indian Unity Centre and India with 70% of the nursing colleges and to western countries and the Gulf states from 2014 onwards has been hosted hospitals. where salaries, personal respect and in association with the Health & Family quality of life is far better. Welfare Department, Government of Selection Process for the Award Karnataka. Since then, the event has The Florence Nightingale Awards in Nurses can specialise in a specific Karnataka recognise area of nursing as they play a significant nurses from both the role in the medical system as the link private and public between doctors and patients and who sectors. Nominations handle a wide range of responsibilities are invited from – administering medication, assisting hospitals, hospices and doctors in surgeries, bedside care of nursing homes from patients, conducting specialised tests, across the state. The maintaining patient records etc. professional screening process involves Nursing as a career is suitable both the evaluation of for males and females in India and they Governor of Karnataka, Shri H.R. Bhardwaj presenting the nominations through an are always in demand with the increasing Florence Nightingale Award in 2013. Former Union Minister egalitarian approach by need for well-trained nurses in the Indian Shri Mallikarjuna Kharge , Award Committee Chairman a distinguished panel of healthcare ecosystem. Above all, the Shri Ivan Nigli Ex.MLA also seen. judges who then select nursing profession is one of the most been held at the Vidhana Soudha with the awardees for the year. The judges noble services to humanity. n the participation of 1,500 to 2,000 nurses and family members in attendance. In 2013, the awards function was held at the Raj Bhavan on the invitation of the then Governor of Karnataka, His Excellency Shri H.R. Bhardwaj. The first Florence Nightingale Awards were presented at the Town Hall, Bengaluru in the year 2000 – the first ever in India.

About the Award The Florence Nightingale Award was initially instituted by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1912 but was never adopted in India till the year Chief Minister Shri Siddaramaiah presenting the Florence Nightingale Award. 2000 when the Anglo Indian Unity Centre Minister Shri U T Khader, Award Committee Chairman Shri Ivan Nigli Ex.MLA also seen. 50 51 ADVANTAGE KARNATAKA RNI REG. NO:KARENG/2014/57767

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