Professor UR Rao laid solid foundation for Indias satellite programme
Today, Bengaluru boasts of ultra-clean and sophisticated facilities for building satellites and the more capable robotic spacecraft for exploring worlds beyond the earth. In fact, facilities where a satellite is skilfully assembled, tested and gets ready to travel to the launch centre exist under one roof in a sprawling building complex near the HAL Airport which forms part of ISROs UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC). Satellites and robotic spacecraft that took final form in URSC, including INSAT and IRS series of satellites as well as more resilient robotic spacecraft like Chandrayaan-1, 2 and 3, Mars Orbiter Mission (aka Mangalyaan) and Aditya-L1 have served (and continue to serve) the country well through their invaluable service and conspicuous achievements. Thus, it is not an exaggeration to say that satellites have now become an integral part of our economic infrastructure and are contributing to the comprehensive security of our country. Today, about 50 communications, weather watching, cartographic/resource survey and navigation satellites are serving the country. Firm foundation In this context, it is difficult to believe that the endeavour to build Indias first satellite began in 1972 in the Industrial sheds of Peenya, then a developing industrial estate outside Bengaluru. But that is how the genesis of the Indian satellite programme occurred under the mercurial leadership of Prof Udupi Ramachandra Rao, better known as UR Rao, a protg of Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the architect of the Indian space programme. Overawed by his persona, Prof UR Rao was and still is respectfully and fondly referred to simply as Prof Rao in the Indian space fraternity. Though originally from Udupi in coastal Karnataka with a very modest background, Prof Rao was largely educated and served outside the state. Nevertheless, he was able to sense the advantages offered by Bengaluru for high-tech work and endeavoured to build Indias first artificial earth satellite named as Aryabhata (after the famed 5th century Indian astronomer and mathematician) before its launch on April 19, 1975 by a Soviet rocket. Taskmaster personified A fervent taskmaster, Prof Rao had the ability to inspire and galvanise young engineers and other staff. Coupled with this, through his proactive adoption of innovative administrative and purchase procedures, he was able to fructify the task of building Indias very first satellite in less than three years. The Aryabhata Satellite The success of the launch of Aryabhata and the invaluable experience ISRO engineers gained in meeting the challenges during its development, and, more importantly during its orbital life, put a solid edifice to the subsequent highly successful Indian satellite programme. Things had to be learnt the hard way. Aryabhata was not an isolated achievement. Prof Rao was well prepared and had planned to sustain and expand it during the subsequent years in a systematic way. Thus, Aryabhata gave way to the two experimental earth observation satellites Bhaskara 1 and 2 and Indias first experimental communication satellite APPLE. The lessons learnt during these programmes made Indian satellite scientists to confidently go ahead with the development of Indias first indigenously built operational satellite IRS-1A. Into the operational era The success scored by IRS-1A further emboldened ISRO scientists to surge ahead to build the second generation of INSAT series of satellites with nearly twice the weight and service capability of the earlier INSAT-1 series procured from the US. In the 1990s, the fact that IRS-1C became the civilian satellite with highest spatial resolution (ability to discriminate features) spoke highly about Indias growing prowess in space. Foreign media spoke of the Indian space programmes success on a shoestring. In the same decade, India was confident enough to lease the communications transponders of its INSAT-2E satellite to the famed INTELSAT. The first decade of the new millennium further expanded the Indian satellite programme with the successful launch and recovery of Space Capsule Recovery experiment (SRE-1) and the launch of Chandrayaan-1, Indias maiden endeavour to explore the Moon. The conclusive discovery of water on the Moon by Chandrayaan-1 as it orbited that heavenly body was widely hailed as a pathbreaking discovery. In the subsequent decade, India successfully stepped into the satellite navigation domain with the launch and operationalisation of Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). The successful exploration of Mars using its Mangalyaan spacecraft that enabled India to become the first country that scored one hundred per cent success in its very maiden mission to explore Mars, itself was yet another conspicuous revelation. In this decade, the monumental success of Chandrayaan-3 in becoming the first spacecraft to land in the south polar region of the Moon signified Indias present space capabilities. So was the success of Aditya-L1 which is performing round the clock solar observation from its distant (1.5 million kilometre) orbital home. The future beckons Later in this decade, India is planning to take up extremely challenging missions including the one to bring back lunar rock and soil samples (Chandrayaan-4), jointly explore the lunar polar area with Japan (Chandrayaan-5) and send a spacecraft to the veiled next door planetary neighbour Venus (Shukrayaan). The bold decision to undertake these missions reminds us of the solid foundation laid by Aryabhata to the Indian satellite programme and the unique ability of the man who skilfully laid that foundation Prof U R Rao.
Protest against Waqf Act in Mangaluru
MANGALURU: A massive protest was organised under Karnataka Ulama Okkoota against the new Waqf Act at Kannur Adyar on the outskirts of Mangaluru. Thousands of people from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kodagu, and Chikkamagaluru districts in Karnataka and Kasargod district from Kerala participated. The protest was held under the guidance of Dakshina Kannada District Khazi Twaka Ahmed Musliyar and Udupi Samyukta Khazi Abdul Hameed Musliyar Mani. Dakshina Kannada Khazi Ahmed Musliyar said Waqf is the right of the Muslims and they will not allow fascist forces to take it away. Maulana Shafi Sa-adi, former president of State Waqf Board, said, We respect the law. Supreme Court has temporarily emptied the fuel of those who used bulldozers through its observations on Waqf bill. There are some fascist forces that are portraying our protest against the law as a protest against a particular religion or a party. It is instead a protest against those destroying Constitution.
NH PWD commences pushing assembled bow-string bridge over Mangaluru-Mumbai railway line in Udupi
Pushing of the 58-metre-long bridge covering the 48-metre-wide railway route is likely to be completed by end of April
Over 27,000 write CET in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi districts
Udupi District Congress Protests ED Action in National Herald Case
Udupi District Congress Protests ED Action in National Herald Case Udupi: The Udupi District Congress Committee staged a protest on Wednesday in front of the Income Tax office in Adi Udupi, denouncing the Enforcement Directorates (ED) actions in the National Herald case, including the filing of a charge sheet against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and [] The post Udupi District Congress Protests ED Action in National Herald Case appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Over 30,000 students to write CET in DK, Udupi for two days from today
22,525 students have registered to write the test in 43 centres in Dakshina Kannada and over 8,000 have registered to appear at 23 centres in Udupi
Udupi: Newborn Infant Found Deceased in Toilet
Udupi: Newborn Infant Found Deceased in Toilet Udupi: A somber discovery was made near the Jamia Mosque in Malpe on March 14th, as the body of a newborn infant was found deceased within a toilet facility associated with the mosque. The incident has triggered a formal police investigation and generated significant concern within the local [] The post Udupi: Newborn Infant Found Deceased in Toilet appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
MLC Ivan DSouza announced that the Congress party will stage protests against the central NDA government over rising fuel and commodity prices, starting with Bengaluru on April 17 and followed by Mangaluru and Udupi on April 22.
Brace for rain, thunderstorm this week in Karnataka
BENGALURU: Mondays short spell of rain is a harbinger of things to come this week. The formation of troughs and cyclonic systems foretell rain across South and Central Karnataka over the next few days. The IMD said moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast in most parts of Karnataka, including Bengaluru, for the week ahead. Rain, thundershowers and gusty winds will prevail over Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Haveri, Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, Kolar, Vijayanagara, Davanagere, Shivamogga, Chitradurga, Tumakuru, Hassan, Mysuru, Mandya, Chamarajanagar, Ramanagara, Bengaluru Rural, Bengaluru Urban, Chikkaballapura, Raichur, Koppal, Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Dharwad and Belagavi. There is a trough formation from West Rajasthan to Gulf of Mannar across East Rajasthan, West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, and across interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu at 0.9km above mean sea level. Also, a trough from southeast Madhya Pradesh to central parts of Telangana across Vidarbha at 0.9km has merged with the above trough. There is upper upper air cyclonic circulation over central parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and neighbouring areas. Rain in Bengaluru In Bengaluru, till 7pm, the BBMP control room did not record any water logging in the city, but a treefall complaint came in from Sampangiram Nagar. Officials said there were no untoward incidents. Till 7.30pm, the IMD head office recorded 3.4mm rain in the city, while 0.2mm rain was recorded at HAL Airport observatory. Trace rainfall (0.1mm) was recorded at KIA weather observatory.
Caste census report: Saffron party on backfoot over OBC leadership
BENGALURU: There is much anticipation in Karnatakas political corridors, with the cabinet slated to take up the caste census report for discussion on April 17. Leaked contents of the report suggest increasing reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The caste census report, or Socio-Economic and Educational Survey, was submitted to the cabinet on Friday. The report appears to have put the BJP on the backfoot, as it has few OBC leaders left. Veteran leader KS Eshwarappa is no longer in the Assembly, which leaves Idiga leader Sunil Kumar and Kota Srinivas Poojary -- the latter has been elevated as Udupi-Chikmagalur MP and is unavailable to join the BJP in its war on Backward Castes. Kumar launched seven tweets attacking Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, with an accusation that the caste census was scripted by Siddaramaiah, for Siddaramaiah, and with Siddaramaiah holding the pen! In the face of price hikes, leadership turmoil and a honey trap scandal, he claimed the census was CMs go-to shield. Caste census report likely to trigger political polarisation If the leaked contents of the report are true, then Muslims have emerged as the largest community in Karnataka, a fact that could shake up the states socio-political balance. Kumar accused Siddaramaiah of splintering Hindu unity while nurturing Muslim vote banks, and of using the census as a smokescreen, to sidestep issues like reservation inequalities, dominance by select castes, and demand for increase in quotas. He also termed the formation of special cabinet groups and sub-committees as delaying tactics, and challenged Deputy CM DK Shivakumar to prove how the report will benefit backward communities. Kumar also demanded a scientific review of the reports methodology and accuracy. Political analysts say backward castes are the BJPs Achilles heel. The number of Assembly and Parliament tickets given by the party to backward class candidates, compared to Lingayats, Vokkaligas and Brahmins, will lay bare the partys preference. Also compare backward classes representatives in the BJP and Congress, and the real picture emerges, they add.
Suvarna Kavacha offered to Sarvajna Peetha in Udupi
Three houses damaged as tree falls due to rain, strong winds in Udupi
Social and Economic Survey Report Scientifically Sound, Requires Deliberation: K. Jayaprakash Hegde Defends Commissions Findings Udupi: K. Jayaprakash Hegde, former chairperson of the State Commission for Backward Classes, has vehemently defended the recently prepared Social and Economic Survey report, asserting its scientific integrity and emphasizing the need for thorough discussion and eventual implementation. Speaking to [] The post Social and Economic Survey Report Scientifically Sound, Requires Deliberation: K. Jayaprakash Hegde Defends Commissions Findings appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Couple injured in tree fall in Udupi
Man held with over 7 kg ganja in Karnataka's Udupi, arrested during Police raid
Udupi CEN police arrested Areeb Ahmad, a Bhatkal resident, near Tangode village for possessing over seven kg of ganja. Acting on credible information, police raided the location where Ahmad intended to sell ganja sourced from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The seized ganja is valued at Rs 5.75 lakh, along with mobile phones, a backpack, and cash were also recovered.
Udupi Ganja Seizure: Man Held with 5.75 Lakh Worth of Cannabis - Deccan Herald
Udupi Ganja Seizure: Man Held with 5.75 Lakh Worth of Cannabis Deccan Herald
One state, many missed chances
BENGALURU: As a tourist destination, Karnataka lives up to its tagline: One State, Many Worlds. But for snow, the state offers everything that a tourist needs to relax and rejuvenate. Yet, to become the top preferred destination for all travellers, the authorities need to learn a little more about tourism, and adopt some of the best practices from destinations drawing higher footfalls, to improve facilities in the state. Stakeholders, tour operators, industry experts and tourism officials point out that the Karnataka government needs to watch out for early trends and work fast to catch them, like the Ramayana Circuit, vegetarian and highway tourism. Karnataka ranks fourth in India in the domestic tourism category, and is at 12 in international tourism. Experts suggest there is a lot of scope for improvement, especially when it comes to basics like wayside facilities and services. A 150km trip outside Bengaluru, and the world changes. There are poorly maintained wayside amenities, hotels and restaurants. Simple facilities like washrooms become a concern. The focus of the government is Bengaluru. But this is not the case with states like Tamil Nadu or Kerala, said Shobhith B, a software professional and avid traveller. A tourism official likens the situation to too many cooks spoiling the broth, As per standards, there should be a restroom facility every 60km. Construction of toilets along roads is the task of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and Public Works Department (PWD), but the onus of maintaining them is on the property owner or district administration. Approval and funding rests with the finance department. Their construction and maintenance will benefit the tourism sector, which is not happening. Karnataka recorded 4.85 lakh international tourist arrivals in 2024, up from 4.01 lakh tourists in 2023. The number of domestic tourists stood at 30.46crore in 2024, compared to 28.35 crore in 2023. Snatching opportunities Stakeholders said the government and tourism department are not making the most of opportunities available to them in attracting tourists. A consultant working with the department, who did not want to be identified, said: There is overcrowding in Goa. Udhagamandalam (Ooty) is losing out on tourism because of the recent introduction of entry pass. This can become a golden opportunity for Karnataka to promote its destinations, but the trend was not studied in advance, to compete and improve facilities for this tourist season in places like Karwar, Gokarna, Mangaluru, Talacauvery, Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru or Sakleshpur. They continue to be looked at as short-haul weekend getaways. The consultant added that the government has been over-promoting Hampi, while Belur, Halebidu, Pattadakal and Aihole, which are also Unesco heritage sites and have a lot of potential, have not been given equal priority. Tourists visiting Gokarna and Goa stretch to Hampi and vice-versa. But in case of other sites, there is nothing beyond them to see and do. More so, there are no basic facilities, including tourist security and availability of well-trained guides. This has been well understood by Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and now even Uttar Pradesh. Other states score as all their heritage properties are being given equal importance, he added. Consultants have also suggested to officials that instead of travelling overseas, they should travel to other states, especially North India, to learn about opportunities like highway tourism, which is becoming popular across India. With many people buying high-end cars and SUVs, and the Central government improving the road network, people now prefer to drive long distances instead of depending on buses or trains. This is a big opportunity Karnataka should immediately tap, the consultant added. Affordability and packages In multiple meetings, stakeholders who study tourist trends pointed out that when domestic tourism is the pulse of Karnataka, it should be made more affordable. But at present, domestic tourism is costly compared to international travel. The tourism department, in coordination with hoteliers and experts, should work on designing affordable tourism packages for all categories of travellers. These packages should be dynamic and customised, depending on trends and types of travellers. Also, the government should only regulate tourism and ease the process of issuing sanctions, permissions and certifications. But due to red tape and multiple restrictions, hoteliers lose interest in offering additional facilities and services to tourists. This is where Karnataka loses out to other states, said a consultant working with the government. The government is also concentrating on developing and enhancing infrastructure in select sites like Hampi and Gokarna. Prolonged delays in clearing projects around other promising places like Aihole, Pattadakal, Belur, Halebidu and even Lakkundi, is affecting footfall, said a hotelier. Government agencies need to understand that no one travels alone. India, especially Karnataka, is not ready to accept and support solo women travellers. So if a couple or family is travelling, packages should be subsidised and customised to their needs to make tourists happy. They should understand that more than the governments marketing, it is word of mouth and feedback from tourists that increases footfall, added the hotelier, who did not want to be named as he works closely with the government. Improving domestic tourism Syama Raju, president, Karnataka Tourism Society, said domestic tourism is picking up in Karnataka, when compared to international travel. There is a lot of scope for improvement, especially in the creation of wayside amenities, first- and last-mile connectivity from airports in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, improved flight connectivity under the Udaan scheme, chain of good hotels and hygiene. Sundar Singaram, Director - Operations, South Indian Hotels and Restaurants Association, said domestic travel has also become costly because of airfare. Airlines tend to raise fares when they see a rise in bookings. They grasp the trends very fast. Charges further increase depending on availability and quality of facilities at tourist locations, he said. This is where international destinations like Nepal, Indonesia, Thailand and Sri Lanka are scoring. Hotels, tour operators and government agencies should collectively keep a close watch on changing lifestyles and market trends. For example, the thrust this year is on family and religious tourism. Many tourists are now looking for Vegetarian Only places. Stakeholders and government agencies should be flexible to adapt to market changes quickly and design unique packages to catch the crowd. Though the Maha Kumbh mela has ended, people are still going to Prayagraj and continuing to Ram Temple in Ayodhya and Sita Kund in Gaya, Bihar. The trend this season is the Ramayana Circuit, which Karnataka should have tapped, admitted a tourism department official, not wanting to be named. S Mahalingaiah, secretary, Karnataka Tourism Society, said Karnataka gets a large number of tourists from Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and South Chennai who prefer places like Dandeli, Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, K Gudi, Bandipur, or temples in Shravanabelagola, Kukke Subramanya, Dharmasthala, Udupi, Murudeshwar, Jain Basadis and Kollur. The biggest competition for Karnataka is from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu and now even Hyderabad. Thus a lot of effort is needed to explore the states maximum potential. Fill the gaps Commenting on gaps in what is planned on paper and what is seen on the ground, a tourism ministry official said, The problem is not just in Karnataka, but states across India. It is the lack of aggressive marketing and promotion of destinations on international and domestic platforms. All that it is promoted on international platforms is the Taj Mahal, Hampi, Goa, Ranthambore and Gir. On domestic platforms, it is Hampi, Karwar, Murudeshwar, Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru and Mysuru. But there are many more places and private destinations that should be included in the list. The government needs to learn from Italy, Japan or even West Asia, where every year something new is promoted along with older destinations. How a destination is packaged is also important. All international websites have a window where tourist destinations and native language is promoted. This is lacking here. S Shanmugham, member, Tourism Committee, Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), said the government should pay special attention to improve last-mile connectivity from bus stands, railway stations and airports in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to tourist destinations, hotels and resorts. Dependence on private transport and exploitation is a concern. Shanmugham added that most of the tourist spots are in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where infrastructure, affordable hotels and hygiene need to be maintained. These are the basics tourists look for and take back. This will not just help attract more tourists, but also improve the economy and boost employment. Official speak Karnataka Tourism Director KV Rajendra said the tourism sector in the state is thriving largely on domestic tourism, which makes up 70-90% of footfalls, depending on the season and occasion. Addressing concern over the delay in providing facilities in certain locations, he said it is a Catch-22 situation. As tourists point to the need, stakeholders and financiers see no quick returns. Thus the government has taken up the task of constructing three-star hotels which will be operated by Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) in select locations, including Belur, Pattadakal, Aihole and in coastal areas. We are also preparing a demand and supply report of each location to undertake development-based infrastructure works, he said, adding that to close the last-mile connectivity gap, talks are being held with bus operators and hoteliers in most tourist locations. Rajendra said work is on to improve infrastructure and food and beverage setups along the coast and in North Karnataka. Talks with NHAI and PWD are being held to improve wayside amenities. A regulatory mechanism is also being worked on for constant checks and feedback. MANY WORLDS Preferred destinations: Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, Sakleshpur, Hampi, Bandipur and Nagarahole reserves Potential destination: Belur, Halebidu, Pattadakal, coastal areas spread across 320km Lesser-known spots: As per state archaeology and tourism departments, there are over 80,000 heritage sites which are barely explored. Apart from Lakkundi and Yana caves, there are 22 lesser-known beach locations, including Pannambur, Kasargod, Kapu and Sasihithlu TOUGH COMPETITION A team of consultants and stakeholders has prepared a list of locations which face tough competition with other states, and which need special attention. Coorg and Mysuru compete with Wayanad and Ooty Coastal Karnataka competes with Kasargod, Goa and Puducherry Wildlife tourism destinations compete with Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat Temple towns compete with those in Tamil Nadu
Deemed varsities, autonomous colleges start admission to degree courses in DK, Udupi
KSDMA lists 82 landslide-prone areas in state, but district admin yet to act
BENGALURU: The pre-monsoons are already here, and monsoons are barely two months away. This is the season when landslides occur, but the measures to prevent such disasters are conspicuous by their absence, even as the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has increased the number of landslide-prone sites in the state to 82 from the previous 75. The KSDMAs new list of landslide-prone sites includes Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga and Hassan, to which have been added such sites in Mangaluru, Belagavi, Londa and areas bordering Goa. These sites are witnessing intense infrastructure works. The KSDMA has alerted district administrations to take up landslide prevention measures, but to no avail. KSDMA Commissioner, S Honamma, confirmed that circulars pertaining to anti-landslides precautions that need to be taken during the pre-monsoon and monsoon period have been issued to the deputy commissioners. On July 16 last year, a catastrophic landslide occurred near Shirur on National Highway 66, which runs almost northsouth along the west coast of India, parallel to the Western Ghats. Among the eight who died was a truck driver whose body was found in the adjacent Gangavathi river. After the tragedy, the KSDMA had red-flagged erroneous methods with which hills were cut at dangerous angles to lay or expand ghat roads, besides other construction activities for infrastructure development. Sand bags kept in flood-prone spots But we see the same continuing. The use of large JCBs for clearing boulders to lay roads in the hills continues, a senior KSDMA official informed TNIE , requesting not to be named. Despite that the state government and the agencies concerned have remained apathetic towards it. The prolonged dry spell from November-March should have been utilised to keep sand bags in flood-prone locations, putting nets on landslide-prone slopes and pruning branches in angles on those slopes, he said. Another KSDMA official said, We have had multiple meetings with district administrations, and nodal officers have been identified. While precautionary measures have been listed, nothing has been done on the ground to mitigate the problems. Meanwhile, explaining delays in implementing landslide-prevention measures, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Regional Officer, Karnataka, Vilas Brahmankar, said, We need land around the roads for works. Execution of works takes time as survey and land acquisition takes time. He said in the case of Shirur and Udupi, surveys took 3-4 months to complete, and implementation of works took around 9-10 months. Tenders for improving the road works have been called for Sakleshpur and Hassan. Explaining the list of protection works needed along highways, Brahmankar said slope protection, angling of the hills, flatting the slopes, creating drain works, putting pipes and tightening the soil are some of them. The NHAI is taking the help of the National Institute of Rock Mechanism for protecting vulnerable locations. Along NH-66, the NHAI with the Geological Survey of India has identified 12 sites. But stressing the need to implement landslide-prevention works, KSDMA appealed to people already making vacation plans to hill stations, to follow safety measures.
Karnataka government must take nuanced approach to address regional imbalance, corruption
Earlier this week, Chief Ministers Economic Advisor and senior Congress lawmaker Basavaraj Rayareddi stirred up a political storm albeit a short-lived one with his sharp comments on corruption in the system. As expected, his remarks did not go down well with those in the ruling party, while the opposition used them to target the state government. But, looking beyond the party politics, the comments on corruption in the system and poor quality of works, especially in the Kalyana Karnataka region from a lawmaker who is part of the high echelons of the state administration, yet again highlight the rot in the system. The Siddaramaiah government, which is going after the alleged wrongdoings of the previous BJP government by forming commissions and Special Investigation Teams (SITs), should show the same vigour to come clean on allegations made against the current administration. The government must make earnest efforts to address the issues raised by one of its senior lawmakers during the meeting called by the regional imbalance redressal committee. The committee, headed by a noted economist, Prof Govind Rao, is constituted to look into the reasons for regional imbalance and suggest measures to address them. The issue about poor quality in the development works in the Kalyana Karnataka region compared to that of South Karnataka, raised by the Congress legislator, is unlikely to be part of the findings of the committee. The committee would mainly look at the reasons for backwardness which can be due to several factors, including historical reasons, infrastructure deficit, lack of investments, and issues of governance. It would also cover important aspects, including education and healthcare. Improving education and healthcare infrastructure is of critical importance for the overall development of the region. At the same time, addressing issues like corruption, maladministration, and other governance issues is equally important. At the end of the day, without effective implementation, any scheme or programme formulated with good intentions will not yield the desired outcomes. Perhaps, that could be the reason for the continued backwardness of the region, despite successive governments announcing programmes and releasing funds. As per the Karnataka Economic Survey 2024-25, the states Human Development Index improved from 0.432 in 1999 to 0.644 in 2022, consistently ranking 10th and 11th among the states. Kalyana Karnataka districts Yadgir, Kalaburgi, and Raichur are the lowest HDI districts, while Bengaluru Urban, Dakshina Kannada, Chikkamagaluru, and Udupi top the list. 76 taluks fall below the state average (0.573), requiring urgent developmental focus, the report says. Even in terms of Gross District Domestic Product in 2023-24, the districts that are better in the industries and services sector fared well with overall growth in District Domestic Product (DDP). Kodagu was at the bottom, preceded by Yadgir. Interestingly, Belagavi, which is in the third place in the overall DDP rank, showed a right mix of agriculture (first place), industry (4th place) and services sector (4th place). Bangalore Urban and Dakshina Kannada were in the first and second places. In terms of district-wise per capita income, Kalaburagi (Rs 1,43,610), Yadgir (Rs 1,46,364), and Koppal (Rs 1,61,491) were at the bottom of the table, while Bangalore Urban (Rs 7,38,910) and Dakshina Kannada (Rs 5,56,059) stood first and second. Kalaburagi revenue region comprising Ballari, Bidar, Kalaburagi, Koppal, Raichur, Vijayanagar, and Yadgir districts stood lowest in per capita income. The report emphasises the dire need for the development of industries and services in the region through encouraging private investments. Kalyana Karnataka districts were at the bottom of the table even in the recently announced second PU results. Despite having an abundance of talent and scope for development, unfortunately, the region lags in most of the indicators. Prof Govind Rao says it is important to focus on basic education and healthcare along with urban development as urban agglomerations are engines of growth. The committee report, expected to be presented to the government by the end of this year, will shed light on reasons for the backwardness and measures needed to address them. Hopefully, the government will act on those suggestions promptly. Its time our politicians overcome the tendency to look at everything through the prism of party politics. Serious issues like regional imbalance need a nuanced approach, while the government must sternly deal with the allegations of corruption in the system and poor quality in development works. Politicising everything by making it an Us Vs Them battle is not in the best interest of the state.
IMD predicts thunderstorm for the next few days in coastal Karnataka
DK witnesses 12 mm average rainfal while Udupi receives 5 mm between Wednesday and Thursday
Udupi Mutt asks people not to do pre wedding shoots on Car Street
All Set for Karnataka CET 2025: Over 8,000 Students to Appear in Udupi District - newskarnataka.com
All Set for Karnataka CET 2025: Over 8,000 Students to Appear in Udupi District newskarnataka.com
Annamalai Accuses Karnataka Government of Betraying Public Trust, Highlights Waqf Bill Amendments
Annamalai Accuses Karnataka Government of Betraying Public Trust, Highlights Waqf Bill Amendments Udupi: BJP leader K. Annamalai, addressing the media in Udupi on Wednesday, launched a scathing critique of the Karnataka state government, accusing it of acting against the interests of the people and losing their faith. His remarks were punctuated by a defense of [] The post Annamalai Accuses Karnataka Government of Betraying Public Trust, Highlights Waqf Bill Amendments appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Udupi: Tamil Nadu is a long-term game, Ill work as a party worker K Annamalai - Daijiworld
Udupi: Tamil Nadu is a long-term game, Ill work as a party worker K Annamalai Daijiworld
Dakshina Kannada loses top spot to Udupi in PU II results after five years
MANGALURU: Dakshina Kannada, which had topped the state in the second year pre-university examination results for the past five consecutive years, has slipped to second position with a pass percentage of 93.57% this year and was ranked second in the state. Udupi, which held the second position for the past three years, topped the chart with 93.90% pass percentage. Dakshina Kannada, from 2020 to 2024, had topped the state with a pass percentage of 90.71%, 100%, 88.02%, 95.33% and 97.37%, respectively. A total of 36,043 students had appeared for the second PU exams in the district, of which 32,903 have passed, thus registering a 93.57% percentage. Out of 36,043 students, 17,852 are boys and 18,191 are girls. Meanwhile, two students from a private college have topped the state in Science and Commerce. Amoolya Kamath, hailing from Bantwal and a student of Expert PU College, secured 599 marks and topped the state. She has secured 100 marks in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Sanskrit and 99 marks in English. I want to be an engineer and I dedicate my success to parents and lecturers of Expert PU College, Amoolya said. Deepashree S has also secured 599 marks in Commerce stream. A student of Canara PU College, Deepashree aims to become a chartered accountant. I studied in a government school from Class 7 to 10. I have not attended any coaching. Support from my lecturers and parents has helped me secure good marks, she said. Shivamogga girl tops too Deeksha R, a student of Vagdevi PU College in Melinakuruvalli village of Thirthahalli taluk, has topped the state in the science stream by securing 599 out of 600 marks in the PU II exams. Speaking to TNIE, Deeksha shared that she aspires to become a computer engineer. My dream is to get into a top engineering institute and build a career in technology, she said. Deepashree S, who also secured 599 out of 600, but in the Commerce stream, in Dakshina Kannada district on Tuesday
II PUC: Girls trump boys again, Udupi emerges as top performer, Yadgir last
8,000 students expected to write CET in Udupi dist
Top three scorers in arts, commerce and science streams from DK, Udupi
KPCC Spokesperson Veronica Cornelio Condemns BJPs Janakrosh Yatra as Mockery of Public Concern
KPCC Spokesperson Condemns BJPs Janakrosh Yatra as Mockery of Public Concern Udupi: KPCC spokesperson Veronica Cornelio has sharply criticized the ongoing Janakrosh Yatra organized by state BJP leaders to protest against rising prices of petrol, diesel, and cooking gas, labeling it a mockery of public concern. Speaking to the press, Cornelio questioned the hypocrisy of [] The post KPCC Spokesperson Veronica Cornelio Condemns BJPs Janakrosh Yatra as Mockery of Public Concern appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Udupi topples DK to emerge topper in II PU results
Both districts did not fare well when compared to last years results
DHFWS Udupi Specialist Doctors Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for 02 Posts April 30
District Health and Family Welfare Society (DHFWS Udupi) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 02 Specialist Doctors posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply Offline through the official DHFWS Udupi website. The last date to submit the application form is 30-04-2025.
Second PUC results out: Pass percentage drops to 73.45%, girls top all streams
BENGALURU: The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) announced the results of the II PUC Exam-1, with the overall pass percentage at 73.45%, a drop of 7.7% compared to last years 81.15%. Of the 6,37,805 students who appeared for the exams, 4,68,439 passed, and over one lakh students secured distinction. Once again, girls have outperformed boys in all three streams, School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, announced on Tuesday. Students can check their results at karresults.nic.in or kseab.karnataka.gov.in from 1.30 pm onwards. In a continued trend, girls outperformed boys across all three streams. The top scorers this year are all female students - LR Sanjana Bai from Ballari topped the Arts stream with 597 marks, Deepashree S from Dakshina Kannada led the Commerce stream with 599 marks, and Amoolya Kamath, also from Dakshina Kannada, scored 599 marks in the Science stream. Udupi district recorded the highest pass percentage at 93.90%, followed by Dakshina Kannada at 93.57%. Yadgiri stood last with 48.45%. In Kannada medium, 2,08,794 students appeared and 1,17,703 passed a pass percentage of 56.37%. In English medium, 4,29,011 students appeared and 3,50,736 passed, resulting in 81.75% pass rate. The results of the II PU Exam-1 will be made available to respective colleges through the KSEAB PU Exam portal. Students can apply for scanned copies of their answer scripts from April 8 to April 13. These copies can be downloaded between April 12 and April 16, 2025. The application window for revaluation and retotalling will be open from April 12 to April 17, but only for those students who had earlier applied for scanned copies. The fee for obtaining a scanned copy is Rs 530 per subject. Revaluation will cost Rs 1,670 per subject, while retotalling will be done free of charge. Students do not need to wait for revaluation results to apply for Exam-2. Revaluation marks will be considered final for Exam-1, and the revaluation committees decision will be binding, with no provision for appeals. Revaluation and retotalling results will be declared on the KSEAB website: https://kseab.karnataka.gov.in . Registration for II PU Exam-2 begins Colleges can start uploading the details of repeater, not completed, and improvement students for Exam-2 from April 8 to April 15, 2025, without a fine. The last date for fee remittance and submission of application forms to the DDPU office without a fine is April 16. With a late fee, the registration window is open from April 16 to April 17, with the final submission date on April 19. Students can register for Exam-2 in their respective colleges between April 8 and April 17. Those who failed in the 2023 exams or later can register based on their result sheet, while those who failed in 2022 or earlier will need the MCA provided by KSEAB for registration.
Udupi tops again as Karnataka 2nd PUC exam results declared, Yadgir ranks lowest - Udayavani
Udupi tops again as Karnataka 2nd PUC exam results declared, Yadgir ranks lowest Udayavani
Over 30,000 students to write CET in DK, Udupi
UDUPI: While we live in an age where digital screens and devices dominate even childhood, a quiet revolution is unfolding in Manipal, at a place where books, imagination and hands-on learning are fostering positive change. Established in 2018, Purple Space has emerged as a vibrant community hub, dedicated to nurturing creativity, curiosity and lifelong learning in children. More than just a library or activity centre, Purple Space is where young minds break free from the distractions of technology and rediscover the joys of reading, exploring, and creating. At the heart of its mission is the belief that childhood should be filled with wonder, where stories spark imagination and learning fuels a deep love for knowledge. Here, children are encouraged to engage with books beyond the pages, experiment with science beyond textbooks, and discover art beyond the confines of a classroom. The space encourages an environment where questions are celebrated, mistakes are stepping stones, and learning is a joyful journey rather than a race. With families and educators seeking meaningful alternatives to screen time, Purple Space stands as a beacon of hope, reminding that the magic of childhood thrives best in a world of stories and curiosity. Our library boasts of a thoughtfully curated collection of 7,000 books for children of all ages from timeless classics and engaging picture books to contemporary tales and educational resources. Our selection caters not only to young readers, but also to parents seeking stories that inspire creativity, empathy, and knowledge. At Purple Space, we believe books are doorways to imagination, adventure, agility, and self-discovery, says Purple Space Founder Pallavi Behera. Purple Space offers storytelling sessions, activity-based workshops, art and craft experiences, and opportunities for unstructured play that encourage creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. Its focus on sustainability and mental wellbeing is woven into everything it does, helping children and families grow in a nurturing, holistic environment. Pallavi is also an upcycle artist, who imparts sustainable practices to children at Purple Space. We are on a mission to help parents and educators shift their mindset, encouraging them to prioritise reading for fun and hands-on learning, over the rigid demands of academics. Through a combination of engaging events, book-centred activities and collaborative community programmes, we give children the tools to explore, imagine and thrive, she says. Purple Space is a safe, inspiring space where children can unplug, connect with books, and build a lifelong love for reading, Pallavi further tells TNSE. Going zero-waste and sustainable To begin with, Pallavi organised a host of activities to attract people towards the initiative, and soon, many began walking into the space and picking up books, and the children followed. Events such as Insect Week, where different types of the tiny critters were studied using a magnifying glass, and Dinosaur Week, where models of the prehistoric creatures were made with paper, fascinated children. With books the children were reading, their vocabulary also improved. Children should be given the space, without any pressure. Even in the library, they are allowed to jump around, as they are not expected to sit in one place for long. Their mind is not in that process, she says. Purple Space has a zero-waste policy. Upcycled items are used as room decor and to make utility structures. I procured a lot of items from different places. For instance, our book shelves are made from old vegetable crates, sourced from local vegetable shops, Pallavi adds. Parents are also elated by the work done by Purple Space. Prasenjit Sarkar, a parent, says the place has a homely vibe. Thats why I send my child here, he reiterates. Besides, children get to learn to grow their own plants in the garden here, and they also watch butterflies fluttering around. Pallavi is treading a road less-travelled. Her children, including her 16-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son, are homeschooled. She concludes by saying that in future, community living will be the answer to all problems, and engaging experiences in learning will be the stepping stone.
Udupi DC bans bull trawling and light fishing
Udupi Abduction Case: Jin Meril and Muhammad Akram Appear Before High Court in Response to Habeas Corpus Petition Bengaluru: Jin Meril, a 19-year-old woman from Uddinahitlu village in Udupi, and her boyfriend, Muhammad Akram, appeared before the High Court today in connection with a habeas corpus petition filed by Jins parents, Godwin Devadas and his [] The post Udupi Abduction Case: Jin Meril and Muhammad Akram Appear Before High Court in Response to Habeas Corpus Petition appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Thursday showers cool Bengaluru, bring down trees, hit traffic
BENGALURU: The clouds opened up on Thursday noon over Bengaluru city, bringing much-needed respite from the summer heat. The heavy downpour brought down 12 trees and at least 41 branches, and resulted in waterlogging which slowed down traffic in several parts of the city. As per Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), an uprooted tree in Rajajinagar 2nd Block came crashing down on an SUV. Similarly, a huge tree was uprooted near Gokul Road in Mathikere. BBMPs forest department officials claimed that no untoward incidents were reported, and cleared six uprooted trees and 27 branches slowing down traffic movement. Rain started battering most parts of the city, including Koramangala, KR Puram, BTM Layout, Marathahalli, HAL Airport Road, Kadugodi, Banashankari and other areas, from 12.15pm onwards, as rain intensity increased. As per Met Dept data, overall the city received 4.5mm rain, but IMDs rain gauge at HAL Airport reported 38.8mm rainfall, while KIA reported 22.4mm rain on Thursday afternoon. The downpour caused slow-moving traffic at Hebbals Bhadrappa Layout, Hebbal flyover, Tin Factory, Panathur Bridge in KR Puram, Kasturi Nagar and other parts of the city. Many areas were waterlogged, and roads, including Sarjapur Road, were flooded. An SUV was damaged when a tree fell on it at Basaveshwara Nagar.| Allen Egenuse J, Express Slow-moving traffic was reported due to a slushy road near Udupi Garden, BTM Layout, and waterlogging at Domlur water tank, toward Domlur Bridge. In Mahadevapura traffic police station limits, water leakage and rain on Belathur Cross Road towards Hoskote slowed down traffic. Madivala, Silk Board, MMT Junction near Ramamurthy Nagar, Kaikondanahalli and other parts reported traffic snarls. BESCOM ON WHATSAPP The Bangalore Electricity Supply Corporation Ltd (BESCOM) on Thursday released 11 WhatsApp numbers for people to contact in case of emergencies and to submit complaints (with photographs and videos) regarding power disruption during the monsoon Bengaluru Urban South: 82778 84011 West: 82778 84012 East: 82778 84013 North: 82778 84014 Bengaluru Rural: 82778 84017 Ramanagara: 82778 84018 Kolar: 82778 84015 Chikkaballapura: 82778 84016 Tumakuru: 82778 84019 Chitradurga: 82778 84020 Davangere: 82778 84021
Udupi resident looses over 7 lakh to a job fraud
Aadhar-RTC seeding achieves 85 % progress in Udupi district, says DC
Udupi MLA cautions government against using police machinery to harass innocent people in the district
Man booked for kidnapping after 'love jihad' complaint
A case has been registered against a youth in Udupi on charges of 'kidnapping' a 20-year-old engineering student, based on a complaint filed by her father, police said on Saturday.
Udupi man accused of kidnapping college girl
Each of the 204 SDMCs selected from the State have been given a reward of 1 lakh, as part of Pusti scheme of the governments Samagra Shikhsana Karnataka Programme.
Lokayukta police arrest Assistant Public Prosecutor in Udupi
Citing lack of evidence, Udupi court acquits man of siblings murder charge
On March 31, 2024, Manjunath was found dead in the verandah of their house. Vishwanath told his mother and brother that he had hit Manjunath on the head.
Over 40,000 students write SSLC-1 exam in DK, Udupi
Earlier on March 19, police had arrested three persons Laxmi Bai, Sundar and Shilpa in connection with the assault in coastal Karnataka
Yashpal Suvarna demands an IT-BT Park in Udupi
Woman tied to tree, assualted for stealing fish in Udupi
The woman, a resident of Vijayanagara district, allegedly stole expensive fish from a boat unloading fish at the port.
The MP urges Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw not to cancel the Madgaon service because of low patronage
Udupi CMC adopts 5.17 crore surplus budget for 2025-26
Udupi police fire at crime accused trying to escape from custody near Hiriyadkka
Fear of facing II PU exams made Digant run away from home: Dakshina Kannada SP
The runaway teen travelled to Mangaluru, Shivamogga, Mysuru and Bengaluru before landing in Udupi
Missing 17-year-old Digant traced in Udupi
Shiroor Mutt in Udupi performs Akki Muhurtha for 2026 paryaya
II PU exam: Over 90% students write political science, statistics papers in DK, Udupi
As the one sanctioned for Udupi could not take off due to non-availability of land, MLA Ashok Kumar Rai got the project shifted to Puttur
Vijayendra targets CM Siddaramaiah over Karnatakas financial situation
Udupi: Karnataka BJP President B Y Vijayendra on Sunday said his party will raise several key issues concerning the state during the legislature session starting March 3, as he targeted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over the states financial situation. The 15-day session will begin with Governor Thaawarchand Gehlots address to the joint sitting of the state Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Im loyal Cong worker, anyone questioning my dedication is in illusion: Shivakumar
Udupi (Karnataka), Mar 2: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday said he was a loyal Congress worker and anyone questioning his dedication to the party and the Gandhi family is in illusion. He also asserted that the party will come back to power in the 2028 Assembly polls. Shivakumar was reacting to speculation about his recent meeting with party central leaders in Delhi, and talks about in political circles, especially in the ruling party, about the chief [] The post Im loyal Cong worker, anyone questioning my dedication is in illusion: Shivakumar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Protest in Udupi on March 4 seeking restoration of democracy to gram panchayats
More than 16,000 students to write II PU exam in Udupi district
Dr. K. Prakash Shetty, a self-made entrepreneur from Udupi, built a successful business empire in hospitality and real estate through determination and hard work.
Udupi CMC decides to halve sewage suction tank charges in areas not covered by UGD
Councillors at the ordinary meeting demanded the reduction as 2,000 was burdening the common man
Problem with coach water tank cover delays Prayagraj-Udupi Special
Cross found destroyed near Shirva in Udupi
She said that Daria Bahadur and Malti islands attract tourists. Hence, necessary facilities for tourists should be created
Over 5,000 properties in Udupi district may get B-Khata, says DC
Foot bridges in Udupi disrict will be completed in three years, says PWD Minister
Railways to operate Mahakumbh special between Udupi and Prayagraj
MLA Yashpal Suvarna said the city administration would take a suitable decision that benefits the general public, the drivers and the owners
Cleanliness drive conducted at Udupi Railway Station
Udupi DC directs insurance company to complete solatium payment to accident victims
MP seeks special train for Kumbh Mela from Udupi
Platform shelter inaugurated at Udupi Railway Station
Three persons arrested in Udupi in an old murder case
New premises of Udupi Bar Association
Kota Srinivas Poojary, Member of Parliament, Udupi-Chikkamagaluru, had questioned the shortage of CNG in Udupi district forcing autorickshaw drivers to wait in long queues in front of CNG pump stations and the steps taken by the government to resolve the issue
NTT DATA completes acquisition of Udupi based Niveus Solutions
Niveus Solutions adds over 1,000 GCP engineering professionals to NTT DATAs cloud services team
Private bus services on Kundapur-Udupi-Mangaluru sector likely to be hit on February 5
Bus operators have threatened of staging protests at Hejmady and Sasthana toll gates against NHAI collecting additional users fee
Yadgir person arrested in Udupis digital arrest case
Maoist Tombattu Lakshmi surrenders in Udupi
Lakshmi, Last Naxalite In Karnataka, Surrenders In Udupi
Police said Lakshmi originally belonged to Thombattu of Machchattu village in Kundapura taluk.
Maoist Thombattu Lakshmi to surrender in Udupi today
