More metro than ever before

More metro than ever before

DH News - G K Karanth

Tier II or III cities / towns are beginning to be two things at the same time. First, they are beginning to mark a complete destination, of ‘arriving’, for a whole generation of migrants and aspirants from around their hinterlands.

Thus, for a whole lot of people in Sindhuvallis, it is via Nanjangud to Mysore; or for those from Airody, it is via a Kundapur or an Udupi to Mangalore. Second, these tier II or III cities are increasingly becoming a mere stop-over for a whole lot of rural first generation migrants before their final ‘journey’ eventually to a metro such as Bangalore or Mumbai. The significant feature of agriculture to industry/service sector-related migration is that whether one lives today in a tier II or I city, the lifestyle orientations are already ‘more-metro than ever before.’

Not only are they deeply embedded in the tier I or II city-economy, they are equally, if not more powerfully, culturally integrated with the metros! Almost every rural child is brought up today with a glamorous-centre-page-glossy dream of abandoning the rural base at the earliest opportunity. To a whole lot of ‘late comers’, tier II cities are more than a transit lounge while their visa aspirations have been one of a Schengen visa! So too, the tier II cities such as Dharwad-Hubli, Mangalore, Mysore, etc, have now begun to extend their relations beyond having satellite docking stations in metros like Bangalore.

No longer are people from North-Karnataka (those from Bijapur, Bellary, Dharwad-Hubli) concentrated in the Rajajinagar area of Bangalore, just as the Mysoreans, Mangaloreans etc, with their concentration in Jayanagar or Basavanagudi. They are there now across Bangalore! The tier II cities too have tended to likewise become a mixed pot of people from different directions around it, just like different mohallas or koppalus had people from specific village belts, a decade ago.

Further, Mysore, Davangere, Hubli-Dharwad, or Mangalore too have now been well on their way to becoming miniature metros for they too can now boast of having their share of ‘multi-ethnic, regional, emerging middle classes’ living in them, thanks to MNCs gaining a foothold there, or local enterprises stretching out to become emerging enterprises; body shopping mindfully or unmindfully, so long as a sleeping town is suddenly woken up!

And of course, they too like to now engage in civic governance, infrastructure, proper services, balanced growth and above all planning for area development.

Town planning

The skills and foresight required for town and city planning is much more diversified than the metro-centred planning process as it has now become a mindset for us! Maharashtra with Mumbai, UP, Haryana and the surrounding states with Delhi, West Bengal with Kolkata have had the rough road.

Tamil Nadu has done well by focusing on Class II cities by letting Madurai, Salem, Erode, Dharmapuri, and now Hosur do well for themselves, alongside Chennai. It is time that Karnataka too paid sufficient attention for planned growth of the mini-cities, than merely playing a rhetoric of development of small towns and cities. This planning has to be ‘realistic’ planning rather than ‘real estate’ planning!

Karnataka's tier II cities miss out on boom

Karnataka's tier II cities miss out on boom
Bangalore, Oct 24, Deccan Herald News Service:

At a time when most of the progressive states in the country are nurturing ''boom cities'' with phenomenal economic and population growth rates, Karnataka has to be content only with its state capital Bangalore.

According to the latest paper on Census of India 2011(Urban agglomeration and cities - provisional population totals) released recently, Bangalore has been growing like never before, clocking one of the highest decadal growth rates among metros in the country. The total population in Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), as per the 2011 Census, stands at 84.25 lakh, up from 57.01 lakh 10 years ago.

However, the true story lies in tier II cities in several states which have achieved very high population growth rates and are emerging as investment regions outside their state capitals.

For instance, Surat in Gujarat. In 10 years, the population of the city has gone up by 20 lakh or 71 per cent. The latest census reveals that the city’s population is 45.85 lakh, almost 20 lakh higher than the 2001 findings.

Expansion of the city limit and economic development due to its booming diamond and textile industries have played a major role in achieving this growth.

Pune in Maharashtra is another case in point. The once centre of power of the Maratha Empire is emerging as a major economic hub and is slowly but steadily catching up with its big brother — Mumbai. The population is Pune as per the 2011 census is 50.49 lakh, up from 25.38 lakh just a decade ago. The city is emerging as a prominent location for information technology and manufacturing companies to expand.

Pune has the sixth largest metropolitan economy and the second highest per capita income in the country.

Karnataka, unfortunately, does not seem to have any such tier II boom cities. The state has now 26 cities with population of more than one lakh, but as per the census data not a single city has shown signs of emerging as a popular employment destination or economic hub.

Karnataka’s second largest city Hubli-Dharwad has added just 1.57 lakh to its population during the last decade. Bellary, with all its mining exports and related activities could witness a decadal growth rate of 22 per cent. The population of the city increased from 3.16 lakh in 2001 to 4.09 lakh in 2011.

Belgaum city, which was projected as the second capital of the State in the recent years, has witnessed a decline in its population by 18,000 in the last one decade.

Mangalore, which is considered as a commercial hub next only to Bangalore, has nothing to cheer when it comes to population growth. The port city’s population has come down from 5.38 lakh in 2001 to 4.84 lakh in 2011.

In sharp contrast, neighbouring Tamil Nadu has the city of Coimbatore. Riding on an infrastructural boom and growth in small scale industries, Coimbatore has emerged as one of the most industrialised towns of Tamil Nadu.

It has the highest GDP among the districts of Tamil Nadu, even ahead Chennai. The population in this city, also known as the ‘Manchester of South India’, increased from 14.46 lakh in 2001 to 21.51 lakh in 2011, registering a decadal growth of 32.77 per cent.

For the record, Bangalore is the only city in Karnataka with a population of more than 10 lakh (one million) and that of Hubli- Dharwad is 9.43 lakh.

Shopping malls are the new buzzword in Hubli

Shopping malls are the new buzzword in Hubli

Basavaraj F Kattimani, TNN Oct 22, 2011, 11.31AM IST

HUBLI: As a signal of growing urbanization, Hubli will have its first shopping mall with multiplex cinema halls and various food and retail outlets soon.

Construction of shopping malls is going in full swing on Gokul Road, Coin Road and Station Road and if everything goes well the city will have a mall in six months. People are already exited about the news. Anil Patil and his friends who work in various private companies here are of opinion that the shopping malls will change the people's lifestyle. "We do not have places to hangout with friends and shop during weekends here. Shopping malls will definitely solve the issue. Like in other cities, weekends will be more happening once the malls are opened," he said.

Two shopping malls are coming up on Coin Road. Of them the one which is coming up near old Ajanta theatre will have a multiplex cinema hall with four single screens. Amar Chhatni, owner of the shopping mall coming up on Coin Road, said, "There is a huge demand for shopping malls, particularly multiplexes cinema halls in the city as many families are expecting better facilities to keep themselves entertained during the weekends.

"Most of them spend a major chunk of their earning for recreational activities and to fight the stress and tension. The term weekend is becoming a buzzword here as more people are looking to spend quality time with their family and friend on Saturdays and Sundays. And more and more businessmen are also coming forward to invest in the city. We expect the malls will be a hit in Hubli," he said.

Dharwad supermarket cries for HDMC attention

Dharwad supermarket cries for HDMC attention

TNN Oct 9, 2011, 07.13PM IST

DHARWAD: Did the officials of Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) misguide the elected representatives regarding the status of the proposal to develop the supermarket in Dharwad? This was the question which hogged the centrestage at the press conference called by Hubli-Dharwad (West) MLA Chandrakant Bellad and mayor Poorna Patil in Dharwad on Saturday.

JD(S) members launched an agitation three days ago demanding development of the supermarket. They have alleged that rift within the ruling BJP in HDMC and lack of political will has resulted in the market being neglected.Bellad and Poorna had convened the press conference to claim that the proposal for the development of supermarket is at the final stage of clearance at the government level and that the work will begin soon.Bellad said the matter will come up before the cabinet in its next meeting for the approval and tendering process will start once the cabinet's approval is obtained. However, when media persons brought to the notice of the MLA and mayor the fact that the proposal sent by the HDMC had been rejected by the government, the duo failed to give a convincing explanation.HDMC commissioner Trilokchandra had clearly stated at the general body meeting of the corporation held last week that the government had rejected the proposal sent by the HDMC asking it to send a fresh one based on public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The commissioner had also stated that another fresh proposal would be sent to the government on the desired model.When reporters asked the MLA whether the fresh proposal had been sent and whether it had been approved by the ministry of urban development he replied that it had been cleared and awaited cabinet approval.When the reporters wondered how all this could happen in just a week's time when there were hardly four working days in October, the MLA had not convincing reply. Mayor Poorna Patil was also unable to give information about the exact status of the proposal.

Hubli to be promoted as the next IT hub

Hubli to be promoted as the next IT hub

Hindu BusinessLine

HUBLI, OCT. 3:

The Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (Keonics) is once again making efforts to push north Karnataka as the next IT hub in the State.

With Bangalore's saturation and companies looking for alternate locations for expansion, the Keonics has woken up to promote Hubli as an IT destination. In order to tap investments, it has lowered the rentals at IT Park Hubli.

Keonics quoted the NASSCOM survey findings that Hubli-Dharwad has 38 per cent cost advantage among the tier II cities in the country. This will be Keonics' second attempt to push for the north Karnataka region as an IT destination.

According to Mr H. Devanand, Manager, IT Park-Hubli, the Keonics has come out with a special rental package to encourage IT industries to set up base in Hubli.

“In order to attract them, especially the software developers, we have further reduced rent rate and fixed at Rs 5 a square feet a month. Also we may relax conditions placed before,” he explained.

Currently Hubli-Dharwad houses companies like IonIdea Inc, Sankalp Semiconductor, Nabros, Neilsoft, Pro-Solutions, ClickHubli, Web Dreams and Able Design Engineering Services. Few new companies are being incubated inside the campus of BVB College of Engineering and Technology.

Keonics' move comes after two companies successfully set up their operations.

Mr Manohar Joshi, Director-Systems, IonIdea said, “The major benefits from business point of view, Hubli offers cost of living advantage of 25 per cent to 30 per cent of margins. We can afford to keep the bench and groom the freshers and make them industry-ready at relatively much lower cost.”

“We have also discovered that the communication level has improved well in recent past among fresh graduates and they can be groomed to face global clients effectively and efficiently. It looks to be a workable place to establish ITES and professional services from Hubli in a cost effective manner,” he added.

In the recent past, connectivity – both in terms of logistics and communication has improved in the town, said Mr. Ashok Shettar, a senior TiE-Hubli member and Principal, BVB College of Engineering & Technology.

However, what is most attractive in the town and surrounding areas today is the good work-life balance one gets. “Now people are increasingly complaining about quality of life in Bangalore,” said Mr Shettar.

Simple life and low cost of living coupled with good opportunities for development and growth make Hubli a suitable destination for the IT sector.

Hubli - Dharwad to get first cyber crime police station

Plans are there to open cyber crime police stations in Mangalore, Hubli-Dharwad and Mysore in the first phase

Hindu BusinessLine

MANGALORE, SEPT. 21:Karnataka will set up three cyber crime police stations in major cities in the State, according to Dr S.M. Jaamdar, Principal Secretary (Home Affairs), Karnataka.

Speaking at the inauguration of M.Sc. in Criminology and Forensic Science at Roshni Nilaya School of Social Work here on Wednesday, he said that the State Government recently received guidelines to set up cyber crime police stations.

Plans are there to open cyber crime police stations in Mangalore, Hubli-Dharwad and Mysore in the first phase. At present, Karnataka has one cyber crime police station in Bangalore. Dr Jaamdar said plans are there to increase the number of Coastal Security Police (CSP) stations in the State. At present, Karnataka has five and four more CSP stations will be set up, he added. 

The country's criminal justice system, which lays more emphasis on eye-witness, should take the benefit of forensic science to the maximum extent, he said.On the institutes offering post-graduate course in Criminology and Forensic Science, he said 12 institutes in the country offer this course. Of them, four are situated in Karnataka. Roshni Nilaya School of Social Work in Mangalore is the fourth institute to offer this course, he said.Dr Jaamdar asked the institute to focus on specialising in any particular field of forensic science. The Inspector General of Police (Western Range), Mr Alok Mohan, spoke on the occasion.

Aryabhata Tech Park to see a flurry of activity soon

Aryabhata Tech Park to see a flurry of activity soon

Basavaraj F Kattimani, TNN Sep 15, 2011, 10.37pm IST

HUBLI: Barely within two months of the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) slapping notices on seven IT companies to surrender their land parcels in Aryabhata Tech Park as their projects remained a non-starter, the park is showing every sign of becoming functional by this year end. Responding to the notice, the companies have come forward to set up their units in the park.

The HDMC was entrusted with the task of attracting big and small IT companies to start their units in the IT park. Accordingly, land was given to seven companies at reasonable prices to construct buildings in the park. However, even after two years of land allotment, none of the companies started the work. This compelled the HDMC to serve them notices to return the land.

Honouring the notice, two companies have started functioning while five other companies have given assurance to the HDMC that they will start functioning at allotted land by the end of this year.

Airport will have advanced landing facility soon

Airport will have advanced landing facility soon

Basavaraj F Kattimani, TNN Sep 10, 2011, 11.29pm IST

HUBLI: If everything goes as plan, Hubli airport will soon have a technically advanced landing and take-off facilities.

Hubli Airport, waiting to be transformed on international standards, is now gearing up to have advanced facilities like instrumental landing system, DVOR (doppler very high frequency omni range) and DME ( distance measurement equipment).

Presently, in the absence of these facilities, landing and taking off during bad weather conditions is not a smooth affair. These advanced equipment will greatly help the pilots get correct information on the weather condition prevailing in the airport. The system will help them learn whether the weather is conducive to land the aircraft, the direction, exact availability of runway, frequency, speed and other vital information during bad weather.

Celebrating the ‘gurukul’ tradition

Celebrating the ‘gurukul’ tradition

Deccan Herald - 11th June 2011

HUBLI: The Gurukul Model Education Centre of Indian Classical Music has come up on a sprawling five-acre plot at Unkal in Hubli. The music school was dedicated to the nation to commemorate the birth anniversary of Gangubai Hanagal on March 5, reports Jagadish Burlabaddi

“There will always be someone to rock the cradle of music. Classical music is eternal, and it will continue to touch one’s soul till the Universe exists...”

This was the constant refrain of late Hindustani vocalist Gangubai Hanagal when she made an appearance in public functions.

Gangubai, who was fondly called Gangajji, played a major role in putting Hubli’s name on the national and international music map.

Dignitaries visiting Hubli never miss an opportunity to visit her house even today. This shows the lasting impression she made on the minds of music and art lovers.

Gangubai passed away two years ago at the age of 98. The world lost not only a great musician in her death, but also an important proponent of the guru-ghishya (teacher-student) tradition of music.

But fortunately, the gurukul tradition is once again gaining momentum, thanks to the State government and music lovers of the region. It is the enthusiasm and interest that people here have shown, that has resulted in the setting up of a gurukul for teaching classical music in Hubli.

The Gurukul Model Education Centre of Indian Classical Music has come up on a sprawling five-acre land in the picturesque background of Nrupathunga Betta at Unkal in Hubli. The Gurukul is managed by Gangubai Hanagal Gurukul Trust, set up by the State government.

The construction of the Gurukul was started in 2007 when Gangajji was still alive. Unique architecture and design elements have been used to give a traditional look to the building. All this has come at a cost of Rs 5.8 crore.

The Gurukul has six houses, each house with two bedrooms and a riyaz (practice) room for teachers (gurus). There are also six houses for students, each house consisting of six rooms. An administrative block, two guest houses, staff quarters, and a canteen are also part of the Gurukul.

Green concept

The entire architecture of the Gurukul is based on the green concept. The building has come up in natural surroundings. If seen from a distance, the houses look like slides. A well-developed lawn, abundant trees, and rain-water harvesting system installed in every house has made this Gurukul a perfect place for anyone who wants to learn classical music.

It is also an ideal place for budding artistes. An open-air theatre has been constructed in the campus. The government had plans to get the building inaugurated by Gangajji herself. But, she passed away when it was under construction. She was cremated on the campus. Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa dedicated the Gurukul to the nation on the birth anniversary of Gangubai Hanagal (on March 5) this year.

Following in Gangubai’s footsteps

Gangubai learnt music under the guru-shishya tradition. She used to walk 20 km every day from Hubli to Kundagol to train in the Kirana gharana of Hindustani music from Ramabhavu Kundagolkar, popularly known as Sawai Gandharva.

She also advocated continuation of the guru-shishya tradition to pass on the legacy of classical music to future generations. The aim of the Gurukul is to prepare students to turn performing professional artistes under the various gharanas of Hindustani vocal and instrumental music. However, students who study in this gurukul do not get any conventional degree certificates (like BA etc).

A committee, headed by veteran poet Chennaveera Kanavi, has been formed to select teachers (gurus). The committee has already accomplished its task. Noted musicians Mani Prasad (Kirana gharana), Prabha Atre (Kirana gharana), S S Haldanarkar (Agra gharana), Vidyadhar Vyas (Gwalior), Vijaya Jadhav (Atrauli gharana) and violinist N Raju have given their consent to work as gurus here.

The teachers will be given Rs 50,000 as honorarium (dakshina) every month, plus Rs 5,000 as food allowance and free accommodation. Students will be given free accommodation and Rs 2,000 as stipend per month, according to Dharwad Deputy Commissioner Darpan Jain, who is also the co-chairman of the Gangubai Hanagal Music Trust.

A committee headed by senior journalist Patil Puttappa will prepare the curriculum for the Gurukul. An expert committee, consisting of gurus, will select students above 18 years with a basic knowledge of Hindustani music, to be trained in the Gurukul. The gurukul is the first of its kind in India and is expected to start functioning from July.

Points out veteran poet Channaveera Kanavi, “Gangubai might have got a number of awards and honours for her work, but the Gurukul is the highest tribute paid to Ganugubai by anybody.”

Glass House all set amuse visitors

Glass House all set amuse visitors

Srinivas Reddy, TNN Jun 5, 2011, 10.24pm IST

HUBLI: The Glass House, one of the oldest parks in the city is all set to entertain people with more facilities like toy train and musical fountain.

HDMC authorities and the district administration have come out with comprehensive plans to give a facelift to Glass House. The main attraction of the newly developed the Glass House is a toy train, manufactured by Mysore Railway workshop. The toy train, consisting of four bogies and an engine, has already arrived at the park. Work on laying a track for the train is expected to be completed in a few days.

Apart from this, the park will also charm visitors with a musical fountain. The ultra modern fountain is in a unique rectangular shape. An added attraction will be the beautiful rural settings in the park. Also there will be an aquarium housing about 46 varieties of colourful fish.

The Glass House is expected to be thrown open to public in the next two weeks. Speaking to Times of India, deputy commissioner Darpan Jain said that development work on the park would cost about Rs 6 crore. "We have also constructed a 2-km walking path and constructed a wall around the park toprevent the entry of trespassers. An open air theatre with 500-seating capacity and well-equipped cafeteria will also come up in the garden," he added.

There are also plans to set up a museum to throw light on the city's history. A skating rink will also be developed for the use of skating enthusiasts, he said.

One more Hubli-DharwadOne centre planned in Dharwad

One more Hubli-DharwadOne centre planned in Dharwad

TNN Jun 4, 2011, 10.10pm IST

DHARWAD: Hubli-DharwadOne centre will be functional in a fortnight. The new centre has come up at a new building located opposite Udaya Hostel here.

DC Darpan Jain, who visited the centre on Friday, told reporters that it has been set up at a cost of Rs 35 lakh. "This is the second-of-its-kind in Dharwad and eighth in the twin cities. The transactions in all seven other centres will be controlled and supervised from this centre," he said.

The services being offered to the citizens include payment of water tax, municipal tax, Hescom services, BSNL, life and vehicle insurance, income tax and bus pass, etc.

Jain said the centres have evoked good response from the public. In 2008-09, two lakh transactions have been made with a financial turnover of Rs 10.11 crore, while in 2009-10, 4.87 lakh transactions were made with a turnover of Rs 26.92 crore. The number increased by two folds last fiscal with transactions reaching 9.80 lakh with a turnover of Rs 58.76 crore.

In the last two months, nearly 2.4 lakh transactions have been made. The administration aims at reaching a target of 14 lakh transactions this fiscal with a turnover of Rs 80 crore. Next to Bangalore, Dharwad district has the highest number of H-DOne centres. The district is also second to Bangalore in turnover.

Measures are on to set up two more centres in Hubli and Dharwad in the next six months. Efforts are on to facilitate the citizens with services of Nemmadi Kendras at the centres. The scheme has already been taken up in Bangalore as a pilot project. The centre will work from 8am to 8pm on week days.

Tolanakere to be transformed into tourist spot

Tolanakere to be transformed into tourist spot

GURURAJ JAMKHANDI May 24, 2011, 09.54pm IST

DHARWAD: Tolanakere Lake in Ramalingeshwar Nagar, Hubli, is one of the big lakes in the twin cities. The lake, spread over 23 acres, is next only to Kelgere and Unakal lakes. But with a dump yard surrounding it, the lake is full of sewage and dirty water.

Due to encroachment by brick kilns, the lake had become a place for illegal activities. As part of the Lake Rejuvenation Scheme, the district administration is transforming the lake into a tourist spot at a cost of Rs 1.8 crore. When developed fully, Tolanakere will be the third lake in the twin cities to attract people with recreational facilities.

The Land Army, which has been assigned the job, has demarcated the boundary, complete with fence, and encroachments have been cleared through negotiation. The work on strengthening the tank bund is on.

During the second phase, steps will be taken to divert sewage entering the tank and provision will be made to allow inflow of fresh water. A viewing point will be built with landscaping around it.

DC Darpan Jain, who is regularly monitoring the development works, said there are plans to start boating once the development work is completed. To ensure proper maintenance, revenue will be generated by charging the visitors for entry and amusement in the lake park.

"We are planning an amusement park and other facilities. A system is being worked out to ensure sufficient funds for their maintenance," he added.

Meanwhile, the amusement park at Sadhanakere in Dharwad has been attracting large number of visitors, especially during weekends.

During April this year, about Rs 3 lakh was collected by way of entry fee and charges for amusement facilities like boating. "After paying the contractor providing boating and for other amusement facilities, we are being left with Rs 2 lakh, which is just enough to meet the maintenance expenditure," he said.

There are plans to link Kelgeri to Sadhanakeri to ensure that there is no scarcity of water in the latter. A proposal in this regard is pending with the tourism department.

Waddanakeri Lake to get a facelift

Waddanakeri Lake to get a facelift

GURURAJ JAMKHANDI May 23, 2011, 09.25pm IST

DHARWAD: Even as old timers express concern over the fast depleting serenity and greenery of Dharwad, there is ray of hope. The old lakes, which once inspired the musicians and poets, are being rejuvenated.

After Kelgeri and Sadhanakeri, it is now the turn of Waddanakeri in Jayanagar to draw the attention of the authorities. Encroachment and dumping of waste had made this lake a reservoir of sewage and dirty water, leading to health hazards. The lake, in spite of being located in a residential area, had been neglected for a long period.

There are absolutely no signs of any improvement in the last six decades. Its pathetic condition has resulted in pollution, health hazard, silting, overflow of sewage water. Worse, it has also become a place for anti-social activities.

The residents are also worried about the prospect of overflowing water gushing into their houses during monsoon. The district administration has taken up the work on Waddanakeri for developing it at a cost of Rs 1 crore under the Rs 100-crore special grants sanctioned to the twin cities.

As a first step, the boundary of the lake (spread on 10 acres) has been identified and the sewage water is being diverted. Provision is also being made for the inflow of fresh water. Land Army, which has been assigned the work, has desilted the lake to enable recharging of underground water. Encroachment has also been cleared.

DC Darpan Jain said after doing the basic tank work, steps will be taken to develop the lake into a recreation centre. "Plans are afoot to build walking path, garden and other facilities similar to the ones provided at Sadhanakeri," he added.

Jain said more funds will be sought for landscaping, building amusement park, and the planting of flowering and fruit trees to attract winged visitors.

Jain said 118 tanks across the district will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 35 crore under the tank-rejuvenation scheme. The work is in progress at Rustumsaab tank in Kalghatgi, Neelammannakeri in Navalgund, Kuddikeri in Annigeri and Chavati tank in Alnavar.

What about maintenance?

Dharwad: Senior citizens who had seen the ecological and cultural glory of Dharwad during their younger days, and its depletion later, are happy to see the lakes being developed. But they are equally concerned about their maintenance in future.

The government, after spending huge money, has developed these lakes and built amusement parks. But it is also important to maintain them. People tend to spoil the atmosphere by littering the area. "There is need for strict watch and ward. The government should allocate separate funds for maintenance and entry fees should be charged to ensure proper usage of the facilities," said retired professor R S Salimath. Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation, which has the responsibility of maintaining these lakes, should make budgetary provision for the same, he addd.

HDMC will use FB to solve civic problems

HDMC will use FB to solve civic problems

Basavaraj F Kattimani May 20, 2011, 11.24pm IST

HUBLI: To reach out to more people and to provide them a platform to express opinions and register complaints, Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has started using Facebook, a popular social networking site.

Those having civic problems in their wards or suggestions for the corporation can now reach the civic authorities at the click of a mouse.

HDMC is said to be the first corporation in the state to utilize the social networking for the benefit of people. "Our intention of putting the HDMC on Facebook is to enable people of the twin cities to freely interact with the HDMC authorities to get their problems solved," K V Trilokchandra, HDMC commissioner, said, and added: "Besides airing their grievances, people can also suggest the authorities ways to improve civic services". The officials monitoring the web postings would attend to them immediately.

The commissioner said they want to target the younger generation through the networking site. "We got an overwhelming response - 580 postings to be precise - within 2-3 days of going online. The respondents were happy to see HDMC on Facebook," he added.

Sadhanakeri beckons, yet again

Sadhanakeri beckons, yet again

Raju S Vijapur

Sadhankeri, a lake which was once the source of inspiration for poet laureate Da Ra Bendre, situated opposite the late poet’s residence at Sadhankeri Layout (South Dharwad), has an important place in the world of Kannada literature and culture.

This lake is ubiquitous, as a subject or a metaphor, in many of the poems written by Bendre. Sadhankeri’s quiet, but beautiful surroundings, the poet’s inseparable bond with the lake, and the intense pain of losing dear ones are all interwoven in Bendre’s poetry. Over the years, this culturally important lake began to lose its charm. It was partially encroached upon and a portion of this lake became the dumping yard for domestic waste. As the lake’s degradation reached its peak, people started saying ‘Barabyado Sadhankerige’ (‘Don’t come to Sadhankeri’), twisting Bendre’s famous quote ‘Baro Sadhankerige’ (Sadhankeri beckons), highlighting how polluted the lake had become. But now, the lake is all spruced up, thanks to the efforts of the Central and the State governments, which have developed the poet’s favourite haunt at a cost of Rs 3.5 crore under the ‘Baro Sadhankerige Project.’ Today, boating, beautiful fountains and the latest amusement equipment all make for an entertaining experience for the visitor at Sadhanakeri. What’s more, this a plastic-free zone too. The ‘Baro Sadhankerige Project’ was mooted in 2006 to revive the lake and it was completed this year. The idea of reviving the lake was mooted by the then Tourism minister B Shriramulu, on his visit to the poet’s house at Sadhankeri in 2006. Work began in 2007. The project had many teething problems. Though there was no dearth of funds, work came to a stop soon after it was launched. Later, a group of writers and artists led by local political leaders impressed upon the government to resume work. This is the first natural tourist spot in the country developed in the name of a Jnanpeeth Award winning poet. Poet Bendre, who effectively used colloquial Kannada to explore new possibilities in literature during the ‘Navodaya’ period, an important phase in Kannada literature that followed ‘Hosagannada’ in 1950s, made an important contribution to Kannada literature for five decades by penning the most touching poems. No wonder then, that the revival of Sadhankeri has brought much joy to lovers of Kannada literature. Take Shivanand Kelaginmani, a Kannada professor from Kuvempu University, who visited the lake recently, for instance. He is thrilled by the possibility of unwinding at this culturally significant lake, even while reciting Bendre’s verse. Project details As part of the rejuvenation project, a pathway and a strong bund have been constructed around the lake. The 2.5-metre- wide pathway has been made for morning walkers. There’s also a picturesque garden on the North side of the lake. A thick grove has also come up around the lake, which has now become a must-visit cultural and tourist spot for anyone who visits Dharwad. The only lacuna, some feel, in the newly developed lake is the absence of Bendre’s statue. Officials point out that they are consulting with the government to install Bendre’s statue in the lake premises.

Fountains, parks to beautify twin cities

Fountains, parks to beautify twin cities

Vincent D'Souza, TNN | Mar 9, 2011, 10.48pm IST

HUBLI: If everything goes as per the plans of Hubli Dharwad Municipal Corporation, the twin cities will only look more beautiful in the coming days.

HDMC commissioner Dr K V Trilokchandra told TOI that it has been planned to build fountains in seven circles and two gardens of twin cities. Kittur Chennamma Circle, Court Circle and Ambedkar Circle in Hubli and KCD Circle and German Hospital Circle in Dharwad have been chosen to put up fountains. The gardens selected for the purpose are Basavana Vana in Hubli and Vivekananda Park in Dharwad.

He said the HDMC is considering carrying out the beautification work on Built Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis as some people who are presently maintaining medians have evinced interest in carrying out the task. "If not, we will go ahead with the project and call tenders within a month," said Trilokchandra.

He said each fountain will cost Rs 4 to 6 lakh and they are working on the design aspect. "We are contacting designers for the purpose. Different shapes and designs will be chosen for the fountains. The one that will come upat Court Circle will be triangle in shape. K C Circle will be the first where the fountain will come up," he said. At present there are no fountains in twin cities.

Dharwad's Kelgeri lake turns 100 today

Dharwad's Kelgeri lake turns 100 today

DHARWAD, March 4, 2011 Dinesh Nayak - The Hindu

 

The district administration has taken up a Rs. 5-crore scheme to renovate it

 

 

MANMADE TANK: A view of the Kelgeri lake in Dharwad. At right is a stone inscription that gives the date of the inauguration of the lake.

 

Kelgeri lake, known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, and is the legacy of Sir M. Visvesaraya, will turn 100 years on Friday. Nestled amidst idyllic surroundings, this 230-acre water body has played a key role in the development of Dharwad and has become an integral part of its culture and has been a source of inspiration for poets and writers of the land.

 

The lake was the brainchild of M. Visvesaraya, who built it to meet the drinking and irrigation water needs of Dharwad.

 

It was formally inaugurated on March 4, 1911 by the then collector of Dharwad district M.C. Gibbs.

 

Later, the lake has fulfilled the water needs of the citizens and farmers for several years till the city grew and Malaprabha Drinking Water Project began supplying the surface water to quench the thirst of the city people.

 

The lake was handed over to the University of Agricultural Sciences in 1983 and the university began using it to water its fields. The lake dried up in 2003 but later again filled up as there were good rains in 2004. The rich greenery in the surroundings of the lake attracts a good number of rare species of birds.

 

Although the lake is no longer used for watery needs, it is getting a facelift on the occasion of its centenary. It will soon get new look with new charm as a scheme to develop it into a tourist spot is under way.

 

Deputy Commissioner Darpan Jain said a Rs. 5-crore scheme to develop the loch into a lake park and a centre for water sports was executed and expected to complete shortly. It has become a popular weekend spot as people began coming here to enjoy some cool time.

 

The scheme has plans to introduce the boating and develop it into a centre for water sports.

 

It is one of the few lakes which has potential to be developed into a centre for water sports and it would be possible to conduct the State-level water sports event here once the scheme was completed, Mr. Jain said.

 

 

 

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•  The tank, built by Sir M. Visvesvaraya, was inaugurated on March 4, 1911
• The water body dried up once in 2003 during drought, but came alive next year  

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Gangubai Hangal gurukul dedicated to the nation

Gangubai Hangal gurukul dedicated to the nation
HUBLI, March 6, 2011 - The Hindu
Host of musicians who attended inaugural felicitated

First of its kind: Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa taking a tour of Dr. Gangubai Hangal Gurukul, which he inaugurated at Unakal in Hubli on Saturday.

Dr. Gangubai Hangal Gurukul, which will help music students learn music under the ‘guru-shishya' tradition, was inaugurated and dedicated to the nation by Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa here on Saturday.

The event coincided with the 99th birth anniversary of the late Gangubai Hangal, the legendary vocalist of the Kirana Gharana, who put Hubli on the musical map of the country. The gurukul, located in the backdrop of Nrupatunga Betta in Unakal, will have six noted musicians who will train 36 students in various gharanas of Hindustani classical music under the ‘guru-shishya parampara'.

Participants

A host of musicians of national and international repute, including Kishori Amonkar, Pandit Mani Prasad, Vijaya Jadhav, Vidyadhar Vyas, Panchakshari Swamy Mattigatti, Someshwar Gurav and Narasimhalu Vadavati, were witness to the memorable event and were also felicitated on the occasion.

A Kannada book on Gangubai Hangal, Jagake Jogula Haadida Tayi, written by journalist Mallikarjun Siddannavar was released on the occasion while the Chief Minister also launched the website of the Gangubai Hangal Foundation, Gangubaihangal foundation.in.

After receiving a traditional welcome with the ‘jaggalige mela' (percussion instrument) by folk artistes, the Chief Minister, accompanied by Ministers C.M. Udasi, Govind Karjol, Basavaraj Bommai and Jagadish Shettar, among others, took a tour of the gurukul before proceeding with the inaugural ceremony. Mr. Yeddyurappa remembered the contribution of the Gangubai Hangal and also of Dharwad district to music.

“It is indeed heartening for me because, today, I am inaugurating the gurukul for which I laid the foundation stone. It has brought me great relief and happiness,” he said, addressing a gathering of musicians, music lovers and residents of Unakal village.

Welcoming the gathering, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Jagadish Shettar said the gurukul was the only one of its kind in the country.

Veteran poet Chennaveera Kanavi said the inauguration of the gurukul had become meaningful and gained significance as it was being done during the birth centenary year of another legendary vocalist, Mallikarjun Mansur.

Residents protest

Meanwhile, the residents of Unakal village staged a demonstration demanding a mention of the name of their village in the gurukul's address claiming they had willingly given land for its establishment.

Hubli, Dharwad next on my list'

Hubli, Dharwad next on my list'

HUBLI, March 6, 2011 -The Hindu

Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, on Saturday, said after Bangalore, the development of Hubli and Dharwad was next on his priority list.

He was addressing a gathering after performing the ‘bhoomi puja' for the Rs. 177.73-crore project of building a four-lane road between Hubli and Dharwad on Saturday.

Responding to the request made by district in-charge Minister Jagadish Shettar for additional funds for the development of the twin cities, the Chief Minister said, “As the budget session is on, I am not in a position to make any announcements. But I assure you that I want Hubli-Dharwad to grow just like Bangalore and I will take necessary steps.”

Mr. Shettar requested the Chief Minister to sanction double the grants given to the Hubli Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC).

The Chief Minister was not the only one to perform the ‘bhoomi puja' for the four-lane road, on Saturday. Upset by the way the function was being conducted, Congress members, led by C.S. Shivalli, former MLA, staged a protest at the APMC yard and performed a ‘bhoomi puja' on their own while the Chief Minister was inaugurating the Dr. Gangubai Hangal Gurukul.

They said although the Union Government had released Rs. 100 crore for the project, the BJP leaders were trying to project it as a State Government initiative. They alleged that none of the Union Government Ministers were invited for the function.

Chief Minister's function: park your vehicles here

Chief Minister's function: park your vehicles here

HUBLI, March 5, 2011 - The Hindu

In the wake of Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa visiting Hubli on Saturday to participate in the inauguration of Dr. Gangubai Hangal Gurukul and ‘bhoomi puja' for the four-lane road between Hubli and Dharwad, the police have earmarked parking spaces in the surrounding areas.

The Chief Minister will arrive in a special flight to Hubli on Saturday at 10.30 a.m. He will launch 40 new buses of the NWKRTC and then proceed to inaugurate the gurukul at Unakal. He will perform the ‘bhoomi puja' for the four-lane road project at noon and leave for Bidar at 2 p.m.

Those participating in the gurukul inauguration programme have to park their vehicles on the land belonging to Iranna Harakuni and Chennu Patil and the land next to J.K. School, according to the police.

Those participating in the ‘bhoomi puja' have to park their vehicles at the APMC yard, the police have said.

Work on four-lane road to be launched on Saturday

Work on four-lane road to be launched on Saturday
HUBLI, March 3, 2011 Staff Correspondent - The Hindu

The Rs. 177.73-crore project to link Hubli and Dharwad

 

Preparatory talks: Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Jagadish Shettar speaking in Hubli on Wednesday. The four-lane road between Hubli and Dharwad, a longstanding demand of the residents of the twin cities, is another step closer to being realised with the bhoomi puja for the project to be performed on Saturday.

 

Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and in charge of Dharwad district Jagadish Shettar told presspersons here on Wednesday that Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa would perform the bhoomi puja for the Rs. 177.73-crore project.

 

While the Centre has sanctioned Rs. 100 crore towards the project, the State Government's share is Rs. 77.73 crore. The tender had been finalised and the work order issued to the contractor.

 

Rapid transit system

 

As there was a proposal to have a World Bank-funded Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) between the twin cities, the contractor would work in coordination with the officials of the Directorate of Urban Transport; the four-lane road would be laid keeping in mind the requirements of the BRTS, Mr. Shettar said.

 

Two dedicated lanes would be required for the BRTS, which is a Rs. 500-crore project, making it a six-lane road. “However since the proposal is still in an initial stage, we will be implementing the four-lane project,” he said.

 

The Minister said a stretch of 19 km between Hosur Circle in Hubli and Jubilee Circle in Dharwad would be developed as part of the project. Of this, 13.75 km of concrete road would be laid between Naveen Hotel near Unakal Tank in Hubli and JSS College at Vidyagiri in Dharwad, he said.

 

Underpasses would also be constructed at Unakal, Navanagar and Bhairidevarakoppa, and an overbridge at Navalur.

 

Besides, junction improvement work would be taken up at the Jubilee Circle, Court Circle and NTTF Junction in Dharwad, and Hosur Circle in Hubli, Mr. Shettar said.

 

Afforestation

 

The Minister said the Forest Department had completed the survey on the number of trees to be felled to facilitate the road widening. A sum of Rs. 27.27 lakh had been paid to the department for afforestation.

 

Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad Darpan Jain said the administration was also contemplating shifting the trees where possible.

 

The Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board had also been paid Rs. 2.84 crore to shift existing water supply lines along the route, Mr. Shettar added.

 

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• Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa to perform the bhoomi puja
• A 19-km stretch to be developed as part of the project

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HDMC presents surplus budget

HDMC presents surplus budget

Hubli, March 1, 2011 Staff Correspondent - The Hindu

The Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation has passed a Rs. 1.12 crore surplus budget for 2011-12 fiscal at its general body meeting held here on Monday.

Chairman of the Standing Committee on Tax, Finance and Appeals Vijayananada Shetty presented the budget. He said HDMC was expecting a revenue of Rs. 162.85 crore from various sources. And, its expenditure is estimated at Rs. 151.37 crore.

The major portion of 65.28 p.c. of the estimated revenue receipts is expected from revenue grants, contributions and subsidies that stand at Rs. 106.31 crore. Revenue from other sources include Rs. 67 lakh from assigned revenues and compensations (0.41 p.c.), Rs. 27 crore from tax revenue (16.58 p.c.), Rs. 23.87 crore from fee user charges and other charges (14.66 p.c.), Rs. 3.26 crore from rental income from the municipal properties (2 p.c.), Rs. 11.7 crore from other receipts (0.72 p.c.), Rs. 42 lakh from sales and hire charges (0.26 p.c.) and Rs. 15 lakh from interest/dividend earned (0.09 p.c.).

The budget has proposed to spend Rs. 60.06 crore on human resources development that forms 39.68 p.c. of the total estimated expenditure. Other expenditure includes Rs. 58.60 crore on operation and maintenance (38.71 p.c.), Rs. 6.38 crore on general expenditure (4.22 p.c.), Rs. 13.75 crore on social welfare, SC/ST, OBC welfare (9.08 p.c.), Rs. 12.31 corporation activities (8.13 p.c.) and Rs. 27 lakh as finance and interest charges (0.18 p.c.).

Mr. Shetty said the HDMC was expecting Rs. 60 crore salary grants and Rs. 22.58 crore from the State Finance Commission. While Rs. 2 crore had been released for the development of Aryabhata IT Park in Hubli, another additional grant of Rs. 2 crore was expected. And, Rs. 2 crore was expected from handing over the HDMC property to Karnataka State Law University and Rs. 4 crore grants was expected from the Union Government to develop the slaughter house, he said.

Maintenance

He said Rs. 3.10 crore has been set aside for the repair of major roads, Rs. 1.5 crore for repair of drains, Rs. 45.91 crore for new constructions and capital expenditure including Rs. 16 crore for road development, Rs. 1.15 crore for building construction and Rs. 1 crore for construction of footpaths. New underground drain will be constructed at a cost of Rs. 3.75 crore.

For maintenance of streetlights, Rs. 3.50 crore has been set aside while Rs. 2.50 crore has been set aside for installation of high-mass lights and streetlights.

For maintenance of drains, Rs. 1.51 crore has been set aside while Rs. 1.20 crore has been set aside for maintenance of underground drains.

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• HDMC's expenditure estimated at Rs. 151.37 crore
• Allocation of Rs. 60.06 crore has been made for human resources development 

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‘Efforts on to promote IT industry in region'

STAFF CORRESPONDENT - the hindu

+

Sankalp Semiconductor Private Ltd. moved to the Aryabhata Technology Park on Wednesday.

Sankalp Semiconductor, with an employee base of 140, caters to the top 10 semiconductor companies in the world. It is the second company to begin its operations from the tech park set up at Navanagar between Hubli and Dharwad with the objective of promoting IT companies in the region. ITES company N.S. Infotech was the first to begin its operations from the tech park last year.

Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister and Dharwad district in charge Jagadish Shettar inaugurated the new premises of the company on Wednesday.

The company, which shifted its base from Bangalore to Hubli a few years ago, was hitherto operating from the campus of BVB College of Engineering and Technology.

Lauding the company for involving itself with various initiatives aimed at helping students from the region, Mr. Shettar promised all help for IT companies willing to operate from Hubli. Mr. Shettar said the State Government was making focussed efforts for promoting the IT industry in the Hubli-Dharwad region. The Minister warned that if companies failed to make use of the land for which it was allotted to them at the tech park, it would be taken back by the administration.

Trustee of the Deshpande Foundation Gururaj Deshpande spoke.

Commissioner of the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation K.V. Trilokchandra listed out the steps taken for the development of the twin cities and also for attracting IT companies. Chief executive officer of Sankalp Semiconductor Vivek Pawar was among those present.

Prizes

On the occasion, prizes were given away to the winners of the ‘Aavishkar' science project competition conducted by the company.

Minister lays foundation stone for expo centre

STAFF CORRESPONDENT - THE HINDU

First step: Minister Jagadish Shettar laying the foundation stone for the permanent multipurpose exhibition centre in Dharwad on Sunday. Pralhad Joshi, MP, Chandrakant Bellad, MLA, and Deputy Commissioner Darpan Jain are seen.

Minister in charge of Dharwad district Jagadish Shettar has laid the foundation stone for the permanent multipurpose exhibition centre here.

Speaking on the occasion here on Sunday, Mr. Shettar said the Government had released an initial grant of Rs. 50 lakh for the project, which would be utilised to construct roads and a drainage system.

Grants for the Rs. 15-crore project would be released in three phases, the Minister said. As much as Rs. 5 crore was expected to be earmarked in the coming budget towards this, he said.

Truck terminal

In addition, a Rs. 50-core proposal would be submitted to the State Government for a truck terminal at Hubli. Nearly 50 acres of land had been identified at Hanchitgeri on Kalghatagi road for the purpose, Mr. Shettar said.

Providing details about the permanent exhibition centre, Deputy Commissioner Darpan Jain said the centre would come up on nine acres of land. It would contain a 3,000-sq. ft indoor exhibition facility, with a capacity of 300 stalls.

It would also contain the administrative building, seminar and convention halls, and a dormitory.

Once the project was complete, the practice of using stadiums to hold exhibitions would be discontinued, he said.

Regional ANSSIRD centre opens today

STAFF CORRESPONDENT - THE HINDU

It will provide training to officers and elected representatives of the panchayats

The regional centre of the Abdul Nazeer Sab State Institute of Rural Development (ANSSIRD) will start functioning from Monday.

Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Jagadish Shettar will inaugurate the new centre at the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development of Karnataka (CEDOK) in Belur near here.

The new centre will provide training to elected members of the panchayati raj institutions of north Karnataka. Its jurisdiction will extend to the 12 districts of Belgaum and Gulbarga divisions.

The ANSSIRD centre, until now, has been only located at Mysore. Panchayat members from across the State have to travel to Mysore for training. Hence, there have been demands to have a branch in north Karnataka.

The regional centre will conduct training for elected representatives, officers and staff of the panchayats, hold workshops, seminars and conferences and encourage research. It will also allow other institutions to use its infrastructure for research.

Besides, it is expected to provide policy suggestions for the planning and implementation of government welfare programmes, as well as initiate steps to enable government departments, institutions and non-governmental organisations use the institute's facilities for their programmes.

Mr. Shettar said his ministry had entered into a pact with the Department of Industries to run the centre at CEDOK.

The centre would have an independent building soon, and the district administration has been asked to identify ten acres of land for the purpose, he said.

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It will function at CEDOK in Belur, Dharwad

New centre to provide policy suggestions for planning of government welfare programmes

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Siblings show their pedigree

Children hog the imelight

Staff Correspondent - The Hindu

AMAZING FEAT:Roshni Pawar's Bharatanatyam on rollerskates had the audience in a trance on the final day of Dharwad Utsava in Hubli on Tuesday.

HUBLI: It was children's day of sorts on the final day of the Dharwad Utsav at Sawai Gandharva Hall here on Tuesday.

It may be recalled that the final day programmes of the Dharwad Zilla Utsava that were to be held at the hall on Monday were put off to Tuesday following the demise of vocalist Pt. Bhimsen Joshi.

While students of Kaizen Roller Academy mesmerised the audience with their performances which was a mix of roller-skating and dance, students of NLE Society's Slow Learners' School presented a dance programme.

Roshani Pawar, a class 7 student, presented her skills in roller skating. Draped in the Bharatanatyam attire she presented yoga and Bharatanatyam on skates which won thunderous applause from the audience. Later, she paired with Rohan Kokani to present the “Bannada Tagadina Tuttoori”, a composition by poet G.P. Rajaratnam.

Four-day Dharwad Utsav ends on a vibrant note

Jan 26, 2011, 10.20am IST

DHARWAD: Even as the winter is slowly on its way out in North Karnataka and the weather is getting warmer by the day, the connoisseurs in the twin cities of Dharwad and Hubli were in for a thrill for four days in a row with a variety of cultural extravaganzas at Dharwad Utsav 2010-2011 to keep them amused. Tuesday saw the curtains coming down on the festivities that succeeded in strengthening the impression that Dharwad is still the cultural hub and holds out a promise of being so for several more years.

But for the sad demise of son of the soil Pandit Bhimsen Joshi which made the art lovers dedicate the programmes scheduled for Monday to the departed doyen of Hindustani music, the Utsav became a people's festival with a large number of eminent singers, writers, poets, painters, actors, students and social activists enthusiastically participating in the programmes and organizing them.

Presence of nonagenarian Patil Puttappa, poet Channaveera Kanavi, Gidaddi Govindraj, M M Kalburgi and others made the event more memorable. The Karnataka bandh call given by BJP on Saturday did not deter the people of Dharwad from turning up at the main venue, Karnatak College, in large numbers.

Poetry sessions, drawing and painting exhibition, dance, music, folk arts, symposium, drama and film festival among others provided the art lovers a rich cultural feast.

The sprawling Karnatak College ground with the monumental main building in the backdrop stood testimony to another historic event.

Illuminated beautifully, the entire campus was bustling with cultural activities. The Utsav provided a platform for several young artistes and college students to exhibit their talents.

That the events were spread over 14 venues in Dharwad and Hubli besides Kundgol and Annigeri proved to be a boon for the people, allowing them to attend the programmes of their choice.

Dharwad to have new IIIT

Dharwad to have new IIIT

Shamsheer Yousaf, Bangalore, Jan 24, DHNS:

The IT dream in north Karnataka has just gotten more distant. In a surprising volte-face, the state government has proposed shifting the new Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) from Gulbarga to Dharwad.

Earlier this month, the state government had announced that a new IIIT would be housed at Gulbarga as part of the 20 such institutes being set up by the Centre across the country. But the state government has now written to the Centre to locate the new IIIT in Dharwad instead of at Gulbarga. Confirming the move, state Higher Education Minister V S Acharya said the IIIT was being shifted as Gulbarga already had two universities—a central university and a state university. “Moreover, the Employment State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is establishing a medical college and hospital in Gulbarga. Since there is a constraint on land, we decided to shift the IIIT to Dharwad,” he said. Acharya said Dharwad was chosen as Hubli-Dharwad was the second largest city in Karnataka. “Dharwad has a very supportive academic environment, and we felt that it would be better suited to have the IIIT in Dharwad,” he said. Since Karnatak University in Dharwad was nearly 50 years old, it would provide a supporting environment for the IIIT. The state government will now have to identify around 50 acres to hand over to the Central government. Interestingly, Hubli-Dharwad already has a functional IIIT. With the present proposal, the twin city will have two IIITs. The Bangalore unit of IIIT has opened a centre in Hubli that offers a finishing school programme in collaboration with the IT industry. Currently, it offers certification programme in Information Technology Management, and Embedded and Real Time systems. The institute has also been holding special recruitment drives for students from the region. The IIIT will be established on a private-public partnership model, with Centre bearing 50 per cent of the cost of establishing the institute. The state government will bear 35 per cent, and industry will bear 15 per cent of the total cost. The capital expenditure will be around Rs 128 crore, while the Centre will provide partial support towards recurring expenditure of upto Rs 10 crore to the IIIT depending on requirements.