#governance Regularization of Bagar Hukum(unauthorized cultivation)
The revenue department in Bengaluru has set a deadline for addressing 9.29 lakh petitions seeking legalization of unauthorized cultivation on government lands known as ‘Bagar Hukum.’ Revenue Department Principal Secretary Rajender Kumar Kataria is overseeing the process.
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Circular for Disposal of Applications:
- Circular issued to expedite the disposal of applications submitted under Form 50, Form 53, and Form 57 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act.
- The Bagar Hukum Committee will review the applications after the initial verification stage.
- Ineligible applications will be rejected by the District Collector within one month.
Land Acquisition from ‘Ineligible’ Petitioners:
- Lands held by ‘ineligible’ petitioners will be acquired by the government.
- The Land Revenue Act mandates government acquisition if the application for regularization is rejected.
Prohibited Cultivation Areas:
- Unauthorized cultivation regularization is not allowed in Gomala, Reserve Forest, Deva Forest, Gundu Topu, Kereyangala, Foot Kharabu, Cemetery, and lands earmarked for public purposes.
- District Collectors responsible for rejecting such applications and taking possession of the lands.
Digital Measures to Prevent Illegality:
- Emphasis on using digital technology to prevent illegality in Bagar Hukum application disposal.
- Digitized lists of applications (Forms 50, 53, and 57) are ‘locked’ to prevent additions.
- Aadhaar e-KYC and geo-fencing of cultivated land using the Bagar Hukum mobile app proposed for verification.
Satellite Imaging for Scrutiny:
- Scrutiny based on satellite images obtained from the Karnataka State Remote Sensing and Application Center.
- Ensures the applicant engaged in unauthorized cultivation during the eligibility period.
- Collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) for satellite image assistance.
Biometric Identity and Digital Signatures:
- Aadhaar e-KYC linked biometric identity provided to Bagar Hukum Samiti members.
- Digital signatures recorded for meeting proceedings, ensuring authentication.
Strict Implementation of Rules:
- Strict instructions given to officials for adherence to rules and regulations.
- Focus on effective implementation of the Land Revenue Act regarding rejected applications and government land acquisition.
In summary, the revenue department is taking comprehensive steps, including digital measures and collaboration with ISRO, to expedite the disposal of Bagar Hukum regularization applications and ensure strict adherence to rules.
#culture Hampi Utsav 2024
The Hampi Utsav 2024 showcased a captivating blend of heritage and athleticism. The event featured time-honored games evoking an era of valor and strength.
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- Inaugurated by MLA HR Gaviappa and Deputy Commissioner Divakara, the ceremonial pooja set the tone for the day.
- The wrestling arena near Malapanagudi village hosted intense battles, with Muslik Alam Rajasaheb winning the prestigious Hampi Kesari title.
- Women wrestlers participated in various categories, adding a progressive touch to the traditional event.
- Bullock cart wheel assembling, a traditional rural sport, featured Banadakere Kaniveppa as the winner.
- The stone lifting competition showcased Shekhappa’s impressive 155 kg lift, blending tradition with contemporary enthusiasm.
- The millet culinary competition at Matanga Parvata premises presented diverse dishes crafted from millets.
- A new addition to the Utsav was the Sheep Show, organized by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine.
- Sheep herders showcased adorned pets with names like Ram, Durgi, and Rajahuli, creating a visual spectacle. The Ram owned by Prem of Kaddirampura sheep claimed the first prize of Rs 10,000.
The Hampi Utsava is also a wonderful platform where the richness of the folk dances and folk music of Karnataka is showcased. A special segment of the festival is the Janapada Kalavahini which is an engaging medley of folk songs and folk dances. The Hampi Utsava is a carnival of sorts for connoisseurs of culture.
Who claimed the prestigious Hampi Kesari title in the wrestling matches at the Hampi Utsav 2024?
- Muslik Alam Rajasaheb of Belagavi
- Sadashiva of Mudhol
- Shekhappa of Vijayapura
- Gangadhara Mariyammanahalli of Hospet
#infrastructure New laptop manufacturing unit near Bengaluru
The Karnataka government and Wistron Corporation from Taiwan have signed an MoU for the establishment of a pioneering laptop manufacturing plant near Bengaluru, Karnataka.
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- Wistron’s investment of Rs 1500 crore in this project is expected to generate approximately 3000 job opportunities.
- The manufacturing plant will adhere to Industry 4.0 standards, featuring a fully automated facility capable of producing laptops for various brands.
- More than 50% of the laptops produced at this unit are slated for export, and the facility will also manufacture components for the Internet of Things (IoT) and parts related to Electric Vehicles (EVs).
- Construction on the plant is scheduled to commence in July 2024, with laptop manufacturing operations expected to begin by January 2026.
- Wistron Corporation is a technology service provider known for supplying innovative Information and Communications Technology (ICT) products, service solutions, and systems to top-branded companies worldwide.
- Industry 4.0, which encompasses IIoT and smart manufacturing, marries physical production and operations with smart digital technology, machine learning, and big data to create a more holistic and better connected ecosystem for companies that focus on manufacturing and supply chain management.
#science and tech
IISc : Open day for enthusiasts
On February 24, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is hosting a day-long open event, inviting students, science enthusiasts, and the general public to explore its campus and discover its various scientific and technological initiatives.
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- The Open Day promises a diverse range of immersive experiences, including lectures, demonstrations, poster presentations, quizzes, and competitions.
- Organized by different departments and centers within the institute, these activities aim to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of IISc’s ongoing work.
- To cater to younger attendees, a special children’s zone will feature engaging science and technology demonstrations, highlighting the event’s goal of bringing science and technology closer to the public and inspiring the next generation of thinkers and innovators.
More info of Indian institute of Science(IISc):
- IISc Director: Govindan Rangarajan.
- Historic foundation by Jamsetji N. Tata in 1909.
- Crucial scientific achievements, notably the discovery of the Raman effect by former director C.V. Raman.
- The announcement emphasized the strategic planning of the Open Day, coinciding with dates honoring the institute’s founder and National Science Day.
#polity 'My Tax My Right' campaign
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has voiced his endorsement for the ‘My Tax My Right’ campaign, utilizing social media platforms, including ‘X’ Facebook. He contends that Karnataka is facing unfair treatment in the distribution of resources by the central government.
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- Despite Karnataka ranking second among states contributing the highest taxes to the Center, the state is not receiving proportional funding. Even the amount recommended by the 15th Finance Commission has not been allocated to Karnataka.
- Sources further state that the Chief Minister will provide detailed information, including statistics, on various issues, highlighting the injustices in the current tax distribution system.
- Expressing views on ‘X’ account, the statement highlights that the hard-earned tax contributions of Kannadigas are unfairly distributed, benefiting northern states rather than our own.
- It’s crucial to dispel the misconception that northern states, with tax arrears, serve as a benchmark for Karnataka. Despite the current situation, Karnataka is emerging as a role model for national development through diligent efforts.
Emphasizing the need for change, it’s noted that Kannadigas feel they are providing for others while neglecting their own needs, requiring a shift. Solidarity is expressed with those advocating for justice.
Prelims Bytes
#sports
Vineesh Phogat wins Gold in wrestling at Asian Games
Asian Games gold medalist Vinesh Phogat secured the 55kg gold at the Senior National Wrestling Championships organized by the IOA-constituted ad-hoc committee on Sunday. Despite competing in a higher weight category, Vinesh demonstrated her expertise by defeating Jyoti from Madhya Pradesh with a score of 4-0.
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- Representing the Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB), the 29-year-old Vinesh, a gold medalist at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games in the 50kg category, showcased her versatility. Additionally, her victory at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games came in the 53kg category.
In another closely contested match, Anshu Malik from Haryana, a silver medalist at the 2021 World Championships, triumphed over Sarita Mor (Railways), the 2020 Asian Championship gold medalist, with a score of 8-3 in the 59kg category.
#environment
NBFGR identifies 2 new Congrid Eel species
Researchers from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) have identified and published the discovery of two new Congrid eel species, Ariosoma Kannani and Ariosoma Gracile, off the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
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- The discovery, featured in the Zoosystematics and Evolution journal, highlights two new eel species belonging to the Ariosoma genus.
- Specimens of the new species are registered at NBFGR’s National Fish Museum and Repository in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
- The names of the two new eels are officially registered in ZooBank, the online registration system for the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN).
NBFGR has explored a total of 12 eel species, including these two new ones. Six species were discovered off the coasts of both Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Ariosoma Kannani:
- Ariosoma Kannani is located in the landing center of Rameswaram (TN) and the Gulf of Mannar (TN).
- It is named in honor of the late Professor L. Kannan, former director of Marine Biology at Annamalai University and former Vice-Chancellor of Thiruvalluvar University.
Ariosoma Gracile:
- Ariosoma Gracile is found along the coast of Cochin (Kochi), Ernakulam, Kerala.
- Distinguished by a longer tail, dorsal fin, and intermaxillary teeth patch compared to other eels.
#sports Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2023
In the 6th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2023, hosted by Tamil Nadu from January 19 to 31, 2024, Maharashtra secured the top position in the medal tally with an impressive count of 158 medals (57 gold, 48 silver, 53 bronze), earning them the overall championship trophy.
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- Tamil Nadu claimed the 2nd position with a total of 98 medals (38 gold, 21 silver, 39 bronze), while Haryana secured the 3rd spot with 103 medals (35 gold, 22 silver, 46 bronze).
- The opening ceremony of KIYG 2023 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 19, 2024, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
- The event witnessed the establishment of 30 overall KIYG records and national youth records.
- The mascot for the KIYG 2023 was
#environment and ecology Tamil Nadu adds 18th Wildlife Sanctuary
Tamil Nadu has added its 18th Wildlife Sanctuary with the declaration of the Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Governor Ravindra Narayana Ravi made the declaration for the Reserve forest areas of Anthiyur taluk in Erode district, effective from January 30, 2024.
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The declaration was carried out under the powers granted by clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 26-A of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (Central Act 53 of 1972).
Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:
- The sanctuary spans approximately 80,114.80 hectares and is situated between the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) of Tamil Nadu, the Male Mahadeshwara WLS, and the Cauvery WLS of Karnataka.
- It links the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary to the Nilgiri Biosphere through the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve and Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve in Karnataka.
- The region also connects Nilgiris with Kollegal forests in Karnataka.
- It is part of the Nilgiris-Eastern Ghats Elephant Reserve (Nilgiri Elephant Reserve) and is one of the approved tiger corridors by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
- The sanctuary is also home to six tribal habitations.
The Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary comprises six reserved forests:
- North Bargur reserved forest
- South Bargur reserved forest
- Thamaraikarai reserved forest
- South Bargur reserved forest (Part 844)
- Ennamangalam reserved forest
Nagalur reserved forest
#sports Ranji Trophy: Karnataka beats Railways.
In the Ranji match held in Surat, the Karnataka team secured a thrilling 1-wicket victory with the guidance of experienced player Manish Pandey. The team successfully chased a target of 226 runs, facing a challenging situation at 6 wickets for 99 runs on the third day of the match.
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- In a crucial partnership, Manish Pandey played responsibly and remained unbeaten with a score of 67 runs, including 12 boundaries and 1 six. His contribution led Karnataka to reach a total of 229 runs for 9 wickets in 82.4 overs, securing a hard-fought victory. This win earned Karnataka a total of 21 points in Group C.
- The match, held at Lalbhai Stadium.
#health February 4: World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day, observed on February 4, is a global initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to unite efforts in the fight against cancer. As the second-leading cause of death worldwide, with 70% of cancer-related deaths occurring in low-to-middle-income countries, the day serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness and foster global collaboration.
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World Cancer Day 2024-2024 Theme- Together, we challenge those in power
- Recognizing the urgency of a unified global commitment, the United Nations, the World Health Organization (WHO), and other UN agencies have joined forces to address the escalating cancer crisis.
- WHO has developed a guide focusing on cancer’s early diagnosis, emphasizing its pivotal role in reducing mortality rates.
- According to WHO, implementing resource-appropriate strategies for prevention, early detection, and treatment can save millions of lives each year. The need for concerted efforts is underscored by the alarming projection that, if the current cancer incidence trend persists, global cancer-related deaths will surpass 16.3 million by 2040.
- Furthermore, WHO reports that 40% of cancer-related deaths are preventable. This statistic underscores the importance of proactive measures in the form of awareness, education, and accessible healthcare.
- Established in 1993, the UICC, headquartered in Geneva, plays a vital role as a membership-based organization dedicated to addressing cancer worldwide and contributing to medical research. Together, these initiatives and organizations strive to make significant strides in the battle against cancer, fostering hope for a future with improved prevention, early detection, and treatment outcomes.
#environment and ecology First ever Snow Leopard report
Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav released India’s first-ever Snow Leopard Population Assessment report. The four-year-long scientific exercise, coordinated by the Wildlife Institute of India, estimates approximately 718 snow leopards in the wild. Ladakh leads with 477, followed by Uttarakhand (124), Himachal Pradesh (51), Arunachal Pradesh (36), Sikkim (21), and Jammu and Kashmir (nine). India holds 10-15% of the global snow leopard population.
