The government of Karnataka is set to launch Belagavi as the global hub for drones and electric vehicles (EV) with the upcoming DRoEV-2023 event on March 24. This exciting initiative is part of the Beyond Bengaluru concept and will be held under the aegis of the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), which aims to develop industries in different parts of the state.

The KDEM sources have revealed that the primary objective of the event is to promote the existing industry in Belagavi and foster more collaborations with national and international players. The ultimate goal is to establish Belagavi as a global hub for the drone and EV industry.

Belagavi already boasts of component manufacturers for both industries, and the industry has been developed from the ground up. There are many success stories that have emerged from this region, and the government is keen to build on this momentum.

The DRoEV-2023 event is a significant step towards achieving this goal, and it is expected to attract a wide range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, investors, and policymakers. The event will provide a platform for showcasing the latest technologies, innovations, and products in the drone and EV industry.

By further pushing both industries in Belagavi, the results will multiply in a short period. This exciting prospect will be celebrated through a daylong, power-packed programme with over 200 participants, including industry leaders, policymakers, the research and development community, and startups.

During the event, around 20 stakeholders and sector experts will share their stories, providing valuable insights into the potential of these industries. Belagavi has already proven to be a fertile ecosystem for many emerging start-ups across the EV and drone industry, and the capabilities of this region are truly impressive.

To capitalize on this potential, KDEM will create a new industry cluster and host the launch event – DroEV-2023. This initiative will bring together the best minds in the industry to explore new opportunities, share knowledge, and drive innovation. With the support of the local community and the dedication of industry leaders, we are confident that this event will be a resounding success, paving the way for a brighter future for Belagavi and beyond.

The primary goal of this upcoming event is to put Belagavi on the global map as a hub for drones and electric vehicles. The aim is to attract global investors to engage with local industries, partners, and the supply chain. This event is also an excellent opportunity to showcase the local talents, intellectual property, products, and innovations while creating a conducive manufacturing environment.

Esteemed dignitaries and key speakers such as CM Basavaraj Bommai, electronics, IT-BT, science and technology minister C N Ashwath Narayan, Randheer S, director of Electric Mobility, NITI Aayog, and EV Ramana Reddy, additional chief secretary, department of electronics, IT-BT, science, and technology, who will grace the occasion with their presence.

This event promises to be an exciting and informative experience for all attendees. Don’t miss out on this chance to be a part of something truly groundbreaking!

The government’s vision for Belagavi as a global hub for drones and EVs is an exciting development that promises to create new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. With the right support and investment, Belagavi could become a leading player in the global drone and EV industry, driving innovation and growth for years to come.

To register bit.ly/droev2023

Lt. Gen. (Retd). Shrikrishna Sardeshpande passes away at 89

This news is a heavy blow to all environmentalists and nature lovers in Karnataka, as he was a true champion of protecting the environment.

After retiring from the military, Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande dedicated his life to safeguarding the environment of North Karnataka. He tirelessly advocated for the government to recognize the dangers of diverting Mhadei to Malaprabha, warning that it would turn North Karnataka into a desert.

Born on September 4th, 1934, in Munoli, Taluka Saundatti, District Belagavi, Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande came from an agricultural family. He joined the Indian Army after completing his education and was commissioned in The Kumaon Regiment as a military officer.

Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande was a true warrior, having actively participated in the Bangladesh War in 1971, the Sri Lanka Peacekeeping Force in 1985-86, and against Naga insurgents in Nagaland. His dedication to serving his country and protecting the environment will be sorely missed.

Due to his distinguished military service, Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande was awarded several prestigious honors, including the Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and Uttam Uudh Seva Medal.

After retiring from the military, Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande became increasingly concerned about the rampant destruction of the Western Ghats rainforests. He observed that valuable resources such as vegetation and water were being destroyed due to mining, dams, shifting cultivation, and urbanization.

To gain a deeper understanding of the issue, he trekked through the river basins of Mhadei, Malaprabha, Tilari, and Kali. He also worked tirelessly to raise public awareness about the dangers of deforestation by reaching out to schools, colleges, and the mass media.

In order to achieve his goal of forest conservation, Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande wrote letters and personally contacted government departments. He also established “Paryavarni,” a voluntary organization in 1998, to connect the general public with the cause of forest conservation and turn it into a mass movement.

Thanks to his efforts, Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande has made a significant impact on the preservation of the Western Ghats rainforests. His dedication to this cause serves as an inspiration to us all.

With his unwavering dedication and passion for conservation, General Sardeshpande was instrumental in the establishment of several wildlife sanctuaries and ecological sensitive areas in India. His tireless efforts led to the creation of the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as the Netravati and Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuaries in the state of Goa. He even met with the Governor of Goa to advocate for these important conservation efforts.

One of General Sardeshpande’s most significant contributions was the proposal of the Sahyadri Ecological Sensitive Area (SESA), which aimed to protect the forest biodiversity hotspots in a vast expanse of 12,000 square kilometers across Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra. His diligent work and expertise in this area were evident in the proposal he prepared himself.

In addition to his conservation work, General Sardeshpande was also a prolific writer, having authored numerous books in both English and Kannada. He was a man of boundless energy, and after relocating to Dharwad in 2007, he joined INTAC and actively worked to preserve ancient heritage temples, idols, and houses.

General Sardeshpande was deeply concerned about the impact of deforestation on the Malaprabha River, which was once a perennial river but has now become non-perennial due to massive deforestation in its basin. He warned that the proposed construction of a dam and rerouting of Mhadei waters would have a similar effect on the river, turning it into another Malaprabha.

The establishment of the “Paryawarni” organization, which won the prestigious Karnataka State Award, and the tireless efforts towards forest conservation, have left an indelible mark on the State of Karnataka, particularly in Belagavi. We owe a great debt of gratitude to the supremely courageous warrior, Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande, for his invaluable contributions in this regard. The Government of Karnataka also recognized his outstanding social service by presenting him with the Rajyotsava Puraskar.

Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and social welfare has been truly remarkable. His leadership and dedication have inspired countless individuals to take up the cause of protecting our natural resources and promoting sustainable development. The “Paryawarni” organization, under his guidance, has set a shining example for others to follow.

It is heartening to see the Government of Karnataka recognizing the contributions of such outstanding individuals. The Rajyotsava Puraskar is a fitting tribute to Lt. Gen. Sardeshpande’s selfless service to society. We hope that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations to work towards a better, more sustainable future for all.

The Karnataka State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University Gadag are set to bestow honors upon two outstanding individuals at its upcoming third convocation on March 10, the first honoree is Shivaji Kagnikar, a renowned water conservationist from Belagavi. Kagnikar has dedicated his life to improving the lives of rural people by starting night schools and raising awareness about education and water conservation. He has also built numerous lakes to help conserve water in his community.

The second honoree is A.P. Chandrasekhar, an organic farmer from Mysore who will be awarded an honorary doctorate. Chandrasekhar is a well-known figure in the organic farming community and has made significant contributions to sustainable agriculture in Karnataka.

Shivaji Kagnikar, who hails from Kattanbhavi, is the founder of Jana Jagrana, an organization that has been instrumental in starting night schools in remote areas and raising awareness about education and water conservation among rural communities. Kagnikar has received numerous awards for his work, including the Rajotsava 2019 award, the D. Devaraj Urs Award for 2018, and the AAB’s Belgaumite of the Year Lifetime Achievement award in 2013.

The Karnataka State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University Gadag are proud to honor these two exceptional individuals for their outstanding contributions to their communities and to the state of Karnataka. Their dedication to education, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture serves as an inspiration to us all.

In 2013 AAB had awarded Shri Kagnikar with the lifetime achievement award.

About Shivaji Kagnikar:

Meet Shivaji Kagnikar, a man who embodies the values of a shepherd, a Gandhian, a highly sensitive educator, and a justice seeker. His passion for spreading literacy and empowering the citizens of Kattanbhavi village in Belagavi to live sustainably has made him a true hero in his community.

During his school days, Kagnikar was inspired by Sane Guruji, a great thinker and promoter of literacy. He knew that he too would have to take this route at some point in his life. When he returned to his village, he saw that the well would go dry mid-summer, and people had to ration their water. With little agricultural activity and no employment, many were forced to rely on money lenders, and some even turned to alcohol.

Determined to make a difference, Shivaji took it upon himself to educate the villagers about the importance of sustainable living. He taught them how to conserve water, grow their own food, and live in harmony with nature. He also helped them set up small businesses, such as beekeeping and handicrafts, to generate income.

Despite his many accomplishments, Shivaji remains humble and dedicated to his cause. He can still be seen in his Khadi half pant and shirt, riding his bicycle through the village, spreading knowledge and hope wherever he goes.

From the very beginning of his life, he faced discrimination due to his lower caste. Despite this, he remained committed to the Gandhian principles of frugal living and simplicity. During his school days, he was inspired by Sane Guruji, a great thinker and promoter of literacy, and decided to follow in his footsteps.

For the past thirty years, he has shown unwavering commitment and tenacity in improving the lives of the villages around Kattanbhavi. Thanks to his efforts, these villages are now self-reliant in terms of water and other resources.

Before his intervention, the village well would go dry mid-summer, and people had to ration their water usage. They would even climb into the well using ladders and fill water by hand. With little agricultural activity and no employment opportunities, many were forced to rely on money lenders and became addicted to liquor. Some even worked as bonded laborers to clear their loans.

Shivaji Kagnikar, along with Ram Apte and Sadashivrao Bhosle, took the initiative to hold meetings and explain to the villagers how water shed management could help them overcome these challenges. They emphasized the importance of water management and how it could help the villagers achieve their dreams.

Through his dedication and hard work, Shivaji Kagnikar has transformed the lives of many in the villages around Kattanbhavi.

Jana Jagran, an NGO that supported Anna Hazare, took a group of villagers to Ralegan Siddhi in Ahmad Nagar. The village was facing similar challenges to Kattanbhavi, and the idea was that if a model worked in Ralegan Siddhi, it could work in Kattanbhavi too. The NGO provided financial support for a massive plantation on government land, and trenches were dug alongside the village using indigenous methods known as Continuous Contour Trenches. Over 100,000 trees were planted in the trenches, and a committee was formed to ensure their survival.

As the trees grew, the village’s only well began to recover water, and the groundwater level increased dramatically. A pond near the well now provides water for livestock year-round. The growth of trees also attracted many species of birds, wild boars, and peacocks, making it their home. With good grazing grounds and agricultural activity due to the availability of water, the village was able to break free from the grip of money lenders. Cooperative societies working in the milk sector have also started operations there, with each family owning cattle and their own Gobar gas plant. Milk collection has increased from 30 liters a day to over 1400 liters a day.

Kattanbhavi, which was once plagued by illiteracy, now has an Anganwadi and primary school up to 7th standard, as well as a night school. Inspired by this success, Shivaji Kagnikar began working on similar lines to upgrade the village of Ningenhatti. Three lakes were dug, and over 100,000 saplings were planted. Nigenhatti, which was once barren, is now full of trees bearing various fruits, and agricultural activity has grown tremendously.

Shivaji Kagnikar’s simple yet effective practices have changed the fate of these villages. He continues to spread his message to the younger generation, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation

Shivaji Kagnikar is a true inspiration, a shining example of what one person can achieve when they have the courage and determination to make a difference in the world.

Shwet Priya Naik, a talented cinematographer hailing from Belagavi and currently based in Bengaluru, has recently been awarded the prestigious Women Disruptors-2023 award. This recognition is a testament to her outstanding contributions to the film industry, both in Bollywood and South Indian films, as well as the advertising industry.

The award ceremony was held at the luxurious Sahara Star in Mumbai, and was organized by Adgully network and presented by Viacom 18. Women Disruptors is an esteemed platform that celebrates women leaders who are making a positive and definitive impact not only in their organizations but also in the industry and society as a whole.

This year’s awards ceremony aimed to highlight the exceptional leadership of women who are steering India Inc through challenging times, while also inspiring the next generation of female leaders.

Shwet Priya is a visionary storyteller who brings her concepts to life through her unique and experimental approach. With a keen eye for detail, she expertly uses lighting, colors, textures, angles, and moods to create stunning visual narratives. While she is not one to strictly follow rules, she is highly disciplined in her work.

Shwet Priya holds a post-graduate degree in Professional Photography from Light & Life Academy in Ooty, where she specialized in Food & Beverage, Architecture & Interior under the guidance of Mr. Iqbal Mohammed. She is also passionate about documenting travel stories and has a particular interest in automobiles, having honed her skills in this area as a bike enthusiast.

Shwet Priya’s talent has been recognized through numerous awards for her short films. She has extensive experience in creating corporate and industrial promotional videos, and is equally skilled as a cinematographer and photographer. Her passion for storytelling and her ability to bring concepts to life through her visual artistry make her a valuable asset to any project.

Shwet Priya Naik’s achievement is a true reflection of her dedication, hard work, and innovative spirit, and we congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) will operate a total of 12 non-stop buses – new routes on the Belagavi-Kolhapur route from the Belagavi and Chikkodi sections for the convenience of the passengers.

For the convenience of passengers traveling directly from Belagavi to Kolhapur, a total of 24 non-stop buses will operate on this route from 07:00 AM to 18:30 PM at a thirty minutes interval.

Timings of NWKRTC Non Stop bus service Belagavi-Kolhapur

700, 730, 800, 830, 900, 930, 1000, 1030, 1100. 1130, 1200, 1230, 1300, 1330, 1400, 1430, 1500, 1530. 1600, 1630, 1700, 1730, 1800, 1830.

Timings of NWKRTC Non Stop bus service Kolhapur- Belagavi

700, 730, 800, 830, 900, 930, 1000, 1030. 1100. 1130, 1200, 1230, 1300, 1330, 1400, 1430, 1500, 1530. 1600. 1630. 1700. 1730, 1800, 1830.

During a meeting held on February 22, the Belagavi Cantonment Board made a decision to charge a license fee of Rs.53.85 lakhs per year. However, this decision has sparked a new dispute between the Belagavi city corporation and the Cantonment Board.

The project to lay a new water pipe line from the water treatment plant at Laxmi tek to Ghumtamal is currently underway. This pipe line is being laid under the 24-hour water scheme and passes through the cantonment limits. To complete the project, four kilometers must be excavated within the cantonment limits, requiring permission from the Cantonment Board.

The board has sent a proposal for permission to the Ministry of Defence, but has imposed a condition of paying a deposit for the same and an annual license fee of 53 lakh 85 thousand rupees. This means that approximately 70 lakh rupees will have to be paid to the board as a deposit amount.

The contract for the work of the 24-hour water scheme is with L&T Company, which has raised the question of who should pay the deposit amount and license fee. Due to the Cantonment Board’s decision, the work of laying the aqueduct has stopped, causing a water shortage in the southern part of the city.

In its resolution the Cantonment board mentions –

The Board noted with serious concern that since L&T authorities took over Operations & Maintenance (O&M) of water supply and collection of water charges of Belagavi City from Karnataka Urban Water Supply & Drainage Board (KUWS&D) in Jun 2021, the residents within Belagavi Cantonment area are facing severe acute water crisis in multiple occasions due to the poor service delivery and lackadaisical approach of L&T authorities in providing timely & adequate bulk drinking water supply to Cantonment Board, Belagavi.

Further, the Board noted that the L&T authorities are habitual disruptors of treated drinking water supply to Belagavi Cantonment area and had completely stopped the supply of treated drinking water to the residents of Belagavi Cantonment area for a continuous period of 19 days in Oct/Nov 2022, despite availability of the same in abundance, and thereby forcing the general poor public of Belagavi Cantonment area to drink untreated water from borewells and open wells, which is not only against public health, public interest, national interest & national security; and violative of established UN Conventions, judgements of Hon’ble Supreme Court/Hon’ble High Courts of India; but also reflects the apathy of L&T towards the general public.

The Board further noted that the residents within Belagavi Cantonment area are not at all benefitted through the ibid project, since Cantonment Board is NOT a beneficiary of 24×7 water supply scheme of Belagavi city, despite the main pipeline is passing through the Belagavi Cantonment area. Further, the Belagavi Cantonment Board was never consulted in the past, either at the DPR stage or at any stage of the ibid project.

However, in supportive view towards the decision of Karnataka State Government to implement the 24×7 water supply scheme of Belagavi city through L&T, after detailed deliberation & careful consideration and keeping in view the precarious state of financial health of the Cantonment Board, Belagavi, the Board resolved to finalize the alignment of the water supply pipeline passing through ‘C’ land, with the unanimous strong recommendation that Rs. 1000/m2 shall be charged towards annual license fee every year for the area of 5385 m² covered under Class ‘C’ land, under management of Cantonment Board, Belagavi, thereby amounting to an annual license fee of Rs. 53,85,000/-every year. Further, any super structures above ground on the defence land within cantonment area requires separate working permission of MoD, Gol, on payment of annual lease rent amount.

The Board further noted that in the ibid revised proposal to MoD, Gol, seeking working permission for L&T to lay water supply pipeline through defence land in Belagavi Cantonment for 24×7 water supply to Belagavi City (excluding Cantonment), there is NO clarity as to which government agency shall deposit the annual license fee to the Cantonment Board, Belagavi, before grant of working permission of MoD, Gol as per MoD, Gol Policy No. 11015/2/2012 D(Lands) dated 02.Feb.2016, (wherein if only permission to do something on the defence land without grant of any easement or interest therein is required (such as construction of flyovers, rail Over-bridges, laying electric cables, laying underground water or sewer pipe lines, domestic gas pipelines etc.), a license may be granted on payment of an annual licence fee which shall be determined on following general principles: For projects aimed at providing service or utility to public at large, proposed to be executed by the Central Government or a State Government or by organisation/bodies owned or fully controlled by them and by local bodies where the bulk of capital expenditure is to be borne by the Central, State or Local Government, a nominal annual licence fee varying from Rs. 1 to Rs. 1000/- per sq. meter or running meter, depending on the nature of public use and utility for the Military Station/Defence establishment/Cantonment will be charged and the specific range of licence fee chargeable under different categories will be subsequently worked out by DGDE and circulated.)

The Board also noted that in the revised proposal to MoD, Gol, since NO ibid documents were submitted by either L&T or State Government authorities, there is NO clarity on the scope of the work that’ll be carried out by L&T in the defence land within cantonment area.

It is imperative that the Cantonment Board and the municipality come to a resolution quickly to ensure that the project can continue and the water shortage can be resolved. The decision to charge a license fee and deposit amount should be reconsidered to avoid further delays and complications.

MLA Belagavi Dakhin Abhay Patil’s dream project has finally got a Muhurta for the inauguration. Union Minister for Women and Child Development and the Minister of Minority affairs Mrs. Smriti Irani to visit Belagavi on 16^th March for the inauguration of Shiv Charitra at Shahapur Belagavi at 5.30 pm.

The BUDA also took up this challenging work of building a replica and a garden to depict the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the Shivaji Garden in Shahpur.

Around 10-11, crores have been spent on the same.

10 years taken for completion

Work started in November 2012 by the BUDA

Work should have been completed by April 2013

On 28th April 2017, the same was inaugurated by Mayor Sanjyot Bandekar even when the work wasn’t completed.

Even before the inauguration, it was repaired on many occasions.

The dream project of Abhay Patil which he started 10 years ago, has been standing strong as it is for the past 10 years.

The Shiv Shrushti (Shiva Charitra) will have lights, music shows, life-size models, and murals.

So you’ve been a star in your career, raised a loving family, and now look forward to carefree golden innings post-retirement. The world has come to embrace the second innings as a way to live life to the fullest. Why should age be a barrier to that? If you’ve lived an independent life all along, post retirement years are no different. It’s a matter of pride for many adults to think ahead and plan for their retirement years, well in advance. It gives them a sense of control over how and where they want to live post retirement and maintain the same quality of life that they’re used to, without being dependent on their children, who have a life of their own. Of late, major cities as well as idyllic hill stations have seen a spurt of retirement homes catering to senior citizens. However, there has been no such comprehensive facility between Pune to Bangalore as yet though this area has the best climate, culture and connectivity

Specially designed retirement homes

Retirement living homes have come a long way in recent years, offering a variety of benefits for seniors looking to enjoy their golden years. These are very much different from old age homes and must be seen as a personal choice to maintain your earlier standard and quality of life with dignity, grace and loads of fun. With the advancements in technology, social interaction, and care services, retirement living has become a popular and attractive option for seniors who are looking for a comfortable, secure, and active lifestyle, something they have enjoyed for a long time.

One of the biggest benefits of retirement living homes is that they offer a secure and comfortable environment. With 24-hour monitoring and support, seniors can feel safe and secure knowing that help is always available. Additionally, retirement living homes typically offer a variety of on-site amenities such as a pantry, libraries, exercise facilities, and wellness options, providing a convenient and comfortable lifestyle.

Live a full life, even in your golden years

They also provide access to social activities and opportunities for seniors to connect with others. With a variety of clubs, groups, and activities available, seniors can enjoy new experiences and make new friends. This is particularly important for those who may have lost touch with family and friends, or who live in areas with limited opportunities for social interaction.

Retirement living homes also offer a range of care services, from basic support like meal preparation and housekeeping to more specialized care for those with disabilities or medical conditions. With a range of options available, seniors can find the level of care that best fits their needs, and can receive care in the comfort of their own homes. This means that seniors can receive the care they need without having to move into a nursing home or leave their familiar surroundings.

Additionally, retirement living homes are designed with the needs of seniors in mind, with features like grab bars, wheelchair accessibility, ample lighting and easy-to-use technology. This makes it easier for seniors to maintain their independence and mobility, and to stay connected with family and friends.

Above all, retirement living homes offer peace of mind for families and loved ones. With access to quality care, safety, and support, seniors can live their lives to the fullest, without having to worry about the challenges that often come with aging. Additionally, by choosing a retirement living home, families can be confident that their loved ones are well taken care of, and that they are receiving the best possible care. With a focus on quality care and support, retirement living homes are a great option for seniors who are looking to enjoy their golden years to the fullest. With its pleasant climate, excellent healthcare network, great avenues for cultural experiences and connectivity by rail, road and air, Belagavi would be an ideal city for such a facility, where people from all over the country can make a home in their second innings.

We conducted an online opinion Poll for the Belagavi Assembly Constituencies and here are the results –

And here are the opinions that were submitted by various readers – 57% wished to have a new face as their MLA. 62% of people said they would vote after seeing the Candidate’s profile.

Some important Disclaimers:

Sample size –

Most surveys in India end up interviewing less than 0.05% of voters. Our sample size was 1251 in total which is more than the sample size of 401(approx).

Opinions were gathered from 12-02-2023 to 10-03-2023

Only those whose opinions were registered were voters. There were % of the people who took this opinion poll but did not opine as they were not registered, Voters

Internet savvy people bias –

As this was an Internet-based poll, only those persons who were Internet savvy voted hence this is a big limitation.

The margin of Error – As the responses were not gathered in person like other opinion polls, there can be a margin of error.

But one has to understand that we aren’t really predicting seats, we are just trying to get the sense of the voters.

Are you a Registered Voter

Yes: 97.6%
No: 2.4%

Gender
Male: 92.4%
Female: 7.4%
Transgender: .2%

Age
18-22 Years – 2%
23-25 Years – 7.1%
26-30 years – 17.7%
31-40 years – 35.4%
41-50 years – 27%
51- 60 years – 7.6%
61- 70 years – 2.9%
Above 70 years – 0.3%

Select your Constituency

Belagavi North – 46.4%

Belagavi South – 46.9%

Belagavi Rural – 6.6%

How likely are you to vote in the coming elections?

Certain to vote – 71%
Most likely to vote – 23.8%
Probably won’t vote – 3.2%
Don’t know – 2

After being elected as the MLA, did he/she ever visit your village/locality/colony?

Yes – 48.4%
No – 40.3%
Not sure – 8.8%
Don’t know – 2.5%

Are you satisfied with his/her work in your locality for the past five years – satisfied or dissatisfied?

Fully satisfied – 20.9%
Somewhat satisfied – 28%
Somewhat dissatisfied – 19.2%
Fully dissatisfied – 26.8%
Can’t say – 5.2%

Do you think that your MLA should be given another chance?

Yes – 38.1%
No – 49.9%
Can’t Say – 12%

In the past 5 years, Do you think the following have improved, deteriorated, or remained the same?

Major Issues of the Constituency
Lack of Employment – 39.3%
Step Motherly Treatment – 41.3%
Infra improvements – 50.01%
Unsafe & Rude Riskshaw Behavior – 50.01%
Lack of jobs – 49.1%
Unplanned new layouts – 44.1%
Street Lights – 40.5%
Drinking Water – 76.5%
Proper Garbage Cleaning – 76.2%
New industrial Areas – 35.1%

% here is calculated based on the number of submissions as this was a multi-select option

On what basis do you assess a political candidate?

News on TV/Social Media – 32.7%
Articles in the newspapers – 29.2%
Attend events where the candidates speak – 24.1%
I research all the channels – 51.1%
The family of the candidate – 6.1%
Research – 2%

% here is calculated based on the number of submissions as this was a multi-select option

You will Vote for a Candidate because of

Political Party he/she Belongs to – 32.9%
Family he/she belongs to – 0.7 %
Candidates Profile – 62.2%
Others – 4.2%

Would you prefer to Vote for a FRESH new FACE as your MLA?

Yes – 57%

No – 22.4%

May be – 20.6%

Are you happy with the current performance of the BJP Govt at the State

Yes – 42.3 %

No – 44.7 %

May be – 13 %

“Comprehensive Roster of Belagavi City Corporation’s Elected Council Members, Including Contact Information for Citizen Outreach”

We have compiled a comprehensive list of our council members from Belagavi, complete with their contact details, so that our constituents can easily reach out to them with any concerns or queries.

We understand that effective communication between our elected officials and the public is crucial for the smooth functioning of our city. By providing this information, we hope to foster a culture of transparency and accessibility, where citizens can voice their opinions and receive prompt and satisfactory responses.

Whether you have a question about a local issue, a suggestion for improvement, or simply want to express your views, our council members are here to listen. We encourage you to take advantage of this resource and engage with your representatives, as we work together towards a better Belagavi.

The Election Commission has put a ban on the distribution of gifts, including money, household utensils, sarees, and free coupons during the upcoming Assembly elections. Belagavi Deputy Commissioner Nitesh Patil has issued a stern warning that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found distributing such gifts or hosting parties to influence voters.

In a meeting held on March 13^th at Belagavi, Patil presided over representatives from all recognized political parties and election officials from the assembly constituencies. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the upcoming Assembly elections in 2023 and the importance of maintaining a fair and transparent election process.

It is crucial that all political parties and their representatives adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission. The distribution of gifts and free coupons can be seen as an attempt to bribe voters and influence their decision-making process. This is a serious offense and will not be tolerated.

It is imperative that all political parties adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India in the aftermath of the assembly elections. The Election Commissioner has issued strict measures to prevent the bribery of voters during elections, and monitoring efforts have been implemented throughout the district.

It is important to note that no gifts, including money, household items, or clothing, can be distributed during the election period. Deputy Commissioner Patil has emphasized that any such items found will be confiscated, and a case will be registered against the offending party.

Additionally, parties, feasts, and plays cannot be arranged, and any form of coupon or free ticket distribution is strictly prohibited. These actions are considered to be attempts to lure voters, and as per the directives of the Election Commission, they will not be allowed.

It is crucial that all political parties understand and comply with these regulations to ensure a fair and just election process. The Election Commission of India is committed to upholding the integrity of the democratic process and will take necessary action against any party found in violation of these guidelines.

As responsible citizens, it is our duty to ensure that the election process is fair and transparent. Let us work together to uphold the integrity of our democracy and make sure that every vote counts.

Deputy Commissioner Nitesh Patil emphasized the importance of obtaining permission from the Municipal Corporation, Urban Local Bodies, and concerned Gram Panchayats before installing any promotional materials, including banners. Violating this rule will result in disciplinary action.

Furthermore, any government employee found campaigning in favor of a party or election will face disciplinary action. To ensure that all voters can participate in the election, those who have completed 80 years in the district will be identified and given postal ballots.

In addition to physical monitoring, separate teams will be formed to monitor social media to prevent the sharing of hateful content. The model code of conduct will be implemented soon, and all officials have been appointed and trained for the election.

If any bribery or gift-giving is found in connection with the election, the information can be reported directly to the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, and Commissioner of Police.

The top priority is to conduct fair, fearless, and free elections. Belagavi City Police Commissioner Dr. MB Boralingaiah emphasized the importance of cooperation from all election parties to achieve this goal. The police department will take strict action against anyone who causes any disturbance in the election process.

All political parties should carry out their campaigns peacefully through mutual cooperation. Police Commissioner Dr. Boralingaiah advised that appropriate information should be given to the office bearers of the respective parties in this regard.

It is crucial to follow the directions given in the recent Chief Election Commissioners meeting in Bangalore. District Superintendent of Police Dr. Sanjiv Patil stressed that the rules must be strictly followed.

The L & T construction company which is entrusted with the water supply for Belagavi has now launched a new Toll free number for complaints.

Water Supply Belagavi. Toll Free Number 18004255656 (8am to 8pm)

Toll Free Number for all Complaints 18004255656 Reach for all kinds of Queries and Grievance. Available from 08:00 am to 08:00 pm.

Email: belagaviwater@lntecc.com

Water Bills can be paid from this website online in Belagavi

https://belagaviwatersupply.org/website/index.aspx

PM2.5 levels almost double from 2021 in Belagavi to 45

According to a report by Swiss firm IQAir released on Tuesday, Belagavi with an annual average PM2.5 of 45.0 µg/m³ is ranked 159 (out of 7,323 cities). The cause of worry is the drastic increase in the PM2.5 levels which were 28.1 in 2021 has now reached 45.0 µg/m³ which exceeds 7-10 times the allowed number.

Delhi is placed as the world’s fourth-most polluted city on the planet with PM2.5 levels of 89.1.

In 2021 Belagavi was placed at 4th place and in 2022 we topped the list.

In 2021 The PM2.5 for Belagavi (Annual Average) stood at 28.1 which is 6 times above the World Health Organization (WHO) prescribed limit.

The new guideline was released in September 2021 and cut the existing annual PM2.5 guideline value from 10 µg/m3 to 5 µg/m3.

Fine particle pollution, known as PM2.5, is commonly accepted to be the most harmful, widely-monitored air pollutant and has been found to be a major contributing factor to health effects such as asthma, stroke, and heart and lung diseases. PM2.5 leads to millions of premature deaths every year.

In Karnataka, Belagavi ranks 1 in the most polluted city with an annual PM2.5 of 45.

2 Kalaburagi 37.7

3 Nelamangala 33.7

4 Anagalpura 33.4

5 Dharwad 32.7

6 Hubli 32.1

8 Bengaluru 31.5

23 Mysore 20.2

The World Air Quality Report, 2022, classifies over 7,300 cities across 131 countries and ranked them on the basis of the average recorded annual PM2.5 concentration in micrograms per cubic metre (μg/m3).

Over 2022, India recorded an annual PM2.5 of 53.3 μg/m3 – recording a marginal improvement from the average of 58.1 μg/m3 logged in 2021. This meant India improved by three ranks in the unenviable list – from the world’s fifth-most polluted country to eighth.

WHO’s annual safe limit for PM2.5 is just 5 μg/m3, while the national standards for the country are 40 μg/m3.

The Construction of Part 2 of the Third gate RoB Belagavi is likely to commence soon as materials, cranes have arrived at the spot.

The foundation stone for the Construction of Road Over Bridge THIRD Gate was done on 6th Jan by Suresh Angadi MP. This is known as Level crossing No.381 (Third Gate).

One side of the RoB was made open to the public in October 2022.

Now the work on the other side same 2 LANE road would commence any day now as the materials have been dumped at the site already.

Details about the Project:

Cost of the RoB:27.28 Crores (both parts included)

Span of RoB: 1 x 2 x 54 Bowstring Girder

Approaches: Panaji Side: (5+6) x 18 m PSC (250 m)
Belagavi Side: (7+6) x 18 m PSC (331 m)
Contractor: M/s KRISHI INFRATECH

The RoB is sanctioned at a cost of Rs.27.28 Crore on a 50:50 cost-sharing basis between the ministry of Railways and Govt of Karnataka.

The frequency of accidental fire cases in Belagavi is on the rise, and the city’s single fire station is struggling to keep up. In some instances, the personnel is unable to extinguish the fire quickly, leading to devastating consequences. It is imperative to establish another fire station in another area to address this issue.

The existing fire station near Shri Basaveshwar circle was established in 1987. However, with the population and demand increasing over the past 36 years, it is no longer sufficient to cater to the needs of the city’s industrial and residential areas.

The current situation is dire, leading to delays due to traffic and the distance of villages, which are 20-25 km away. The staff is expressing helplessness, and it is crucial to address this issue immediately.

From January 1, 2018, to February 28, 2023, the Belagavi Fire Station received 1,026 calls related to fire disasters, resulting in property damage worth around 25.15 crores. However, the fire station personnel managed to save property worth 213.20 crores during their operations.

Belagavi needs another fire station, and efforts have been underway for many years to establish one. However, finding a suitable space has been a challenge. It is essential to prioritize this issue and work towards finding a solution to ensure the safety of the city’s residents and businesses.

Currently, the fire station is located in the Belagavi South Constituency, but there is a need for a police station in the northern region to operate quickly and efficiently.

Apart from firefighting, the fire station personnel are also involved in rescue operations and have successfully rescued 146 people in the last five years.

To address the need for a fire station in the northern region, the Fire Brigade department has submitted a proposal to the government. Hindalco in Belagavi has come forward to construct the fire station where the department will appoint staff from the government and manage the station. They are eagerly awaiting the government’s permission to proceed with this project.

If you have lost your smartphone or mobile phone, there is now an official government portal to help you block the use of the device, and get some peace of mind. The Central Equipment Identity Register or CEIR portal.

In Belagavi using the CEIR facility, stolen/missing mobile mobiles in Belagavi city are being detected through the CEIR facility, so far 18 mobiles have been detected and handed over to the public.

The public should register a case on the portal through the nearest KSP (e-lost) application as soon as the mobile is stolen/missing/mobile snatching. The public is requested to make good use of CEIR. Facility.

How to Block your lost or stolen mobile phone using CEIR portal

With the use of the CEIR portal, you can now block your lost/stolen mobile phone in 3️ simple steps. This will further facilitate us to track and retrieve the device.

If you are in Karnataka here are the steps to follow to report the lost or stolen mobile –

Go to – https://kspapp.in/ksp/api/elost-reports

Get the Digital acknowledgment of the FIR

Get a duplicate SIM from your service provider

Go to CEIR portal

https://www.ceir.gov.in/Request/CeirUserBlockRequestDirect.jsp

The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Basavaraj Bommai, recently announced in Belagavi the construction of a magnificent 108-feet tall statue of the renowned social reformer, Basaveshwara. The statue will be erected on the picturesque banks of the river Ghataprabha in the Belagavi district and is expected to attract tourists from all over the world.

The announcement was made by the Chief Minister during the foundation stone laying ceremony at Shri Basveshwar circle, where he also unveiled plans for several other development projects in Belagavi.

The construction of the statue of Basavanna is a significant step towards promoting the region as a major international tourism destination.

The statue of Basaveshwara will be a magnificent tribute to the great social reformer, who dedicated his life to the upliftment of the oppressed and marginalized sections of society. It will serve as a symbol of his enduring legacy and inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps.

On Wednesday night, a significant amount of cash, totaling ₹3.50 lakh, was seized at a check post established by district election officials near Yaddalagudda village in the Ankalagi police station of Gokaka taluk.

The inspection team discovered the cash during a routine check of a vehicle belonging to Lakshman Hanamant Gadad of Mannikeri village in Gokak taluk.

Tehsildar Sridhara M, who is also the taluk election officer, released a statement confirming that the officers who seized the cash have taken further action.

This incident highlights the importance of monitoring and enforcing election regulations to ensure a fair and transparent democratic process. Such actions help to maintain the integrity of the electoral system and promote public trust in the democratic process.

Amit Shah held a crucial meeting with Ramesh Jarkhiholi in Delhi, who has been tirelessly campaigning for BJP candidates for the upcoming assembly elections.

During their three-hour meeting, Shah sought feedback on the political developments in the Belagavi district and shared a master plan to win the maximum number of BJP candidates in the area. Jarkhiholi has been given significant responsibility and a green signal to execute a master stroke in favor of the BJP in the upcoming elections.

Jarkhiholi informed Shah about the political happenings in the Belagavi district, the party activities of BJP leaders, and the strategies he has devised to hoist the BJP flag again in the region. Shah, who had witnessed Jarkhiholi’s role in forming the government, had immense confidence in him and entrusted him with the responsibility of eighteen assembly constituencies in the Belagavi district.

Jarkhiholi expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to work for the victory of the BJP by following the instructions given by Shah.

The meeting between Shah and Jarkhiholi has sparked curiosity and anticipation among political enthusiasts.