March 1st-3rd Karnataka Mirror Current Affairs

Bengaluru International Airport's New Government Cargo Terminal

Inauguration:
- A new government cargo terminal was inaugurated at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru.
Capacity and Infrastructure:
- Area: 7 lakh square feet, the largest cargo terminal in the country.
- Truck Docks: 42 for seamless loading and unloading.
- Vehicle Parking: Space for 400 cargo vehicles.
Special Features:
- Advanced cargo handling systems and modern technology.
- Temperature-controlled facilities for perishables.
- Separate zones for express cargo, pharmaceuticals, and valuable items.
- Efficient security and surveillance systems.
Future Plans:

An additional government cargo terminal is planned for 2029 with a handling capacity of 5.85 lakh metric tonnes.

Event:
- The 16th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFF) is set to commence from Friday for 8 days.
Organizers:
- Organized by the Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy and the Department of Information and Public Relations.
Participation:
- Films from over 50 countries will be showcased.
- More than 200 films across various categories, including feature films, documentaries, and short films.
Special Features:
- Dedicated segments for Kannada cinema, Indian cinema, and World cinema.

Workshops and panel discussions for aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts.

Event:
- Karnataka Janapada Academy announced the Janapada (Folk) Academy Awards for 2024.
Top Honorees:
- Mylahalli Revanna and Dr. Venkatash received the highest honors for their contributions to folk literature and research.
Total Awards:
- 30 individuals were recognized for their contributions to folk art, literature, and culture.
- Includes awards for writers, singers, artists, and performers from various districts.
Prize Details:

Each award includes a cash prize of ₹50,000, a memento, and a certificate.

Region Affected:
- Severe heatwave in North Karnataka and 15 other states.
Temperature Spike:
- Hubballi recorded a temperature of 22.04°C, an increase of 1.34°C.
Reasons:
- Lack of pre-monsoon showers and dry winds.
- Absence of thunderstorms contributed to the rising temperature.
Impact:
- Affects agriculture, public health, and daily life.
- Increase in cases of heat strokes and dehydration.
Advisories Issued:
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak hours.

Ensure hydration and wear protective clothing.

Scheme: PM-KUSUM Yojana
- Objective: Boost solar energy for irrigation and reduce dependence on traditional power sources.
- Focus: Solar pumps and solar power plants on barren lands.
Solar Pump Installation:
- Target: Install 2,500 solar pumps of 500 MW capacity by 2025.
- Cost: ₹4.50 per unit with state and central subsidies.
- Implementation: Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Ltd. (KREDL) is overseeing the project.
Funding and Benefits:
- Total Investment: ₹1.98 lakh crore.
- Subsidy: 60% government subsidy (30% central + 30% state), 40% to be borne by farmers.
Progress and Achievements:
- Installed: Over 700+ pumps in districts like Tumakuru, Chitradurga, and others.
- Solar Power Generation: Aims to add 35 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy.

Expected Savings: ₹22,408 crore on power subsidies.

The festival, organized by the Vijayanagar district administration, concluded with a grand finale featuring a folk art procession.
Artists from across Karnataka showcased traditional dance forms like Veeragase, Dollu Kunitha, Yakshagana, and Somana Kunitha.
The evening also featured a dance drama, Sri Krishnadevaraya Vaibhava, performed by Bengaluru-based Arth Charitable Trust.
Kannada rock band Dark Road performed popular Hindi and Kannada songs.

Cultural Performances:

Traditional dance forms showcased:
- Veeragase, Dollu Kunitha, Yakshagana, Somana Kunitha.
Dance Drama: Sri Krishnadevaraya Vaibhava by Arth Charitable Trust, Bengaluru.
- Inspired by N. Krishna Rao’s novel.

Depicted the efforts of Sri Krishnadevaraya to abolish the Devadasi system.