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Mysuru, July 28, 2023: A one-day state-level seminar on ‘Biodiversity Conservation: Strategies and Challenges (BCSC)’ was recently held at JSS College of Arts, Commerce, and Science, Ooty Road, Mysuru. The seminar, was organized as part of the G20 Jan Bhagidari, by the PG Department of Botany in collaboration with the Department of Studies in Botany, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, on July 26, 2023.

Distinguished speakers, renowned researchers, faculty, and students gathered at the event to address the pressing issues of biodiversity loss and its consequences on the delicate ecological balance. The inaugural address was delivered by Prof. T.C. Taranath, Vice Chancellor of Hassan University, who emphasized the equal rights of every organism for life and decried the destructive impact of human greed and luxurious lifestyles on the beauty of nature.

Quoting the Sanskrit term ‘Asathoma Sadgamaya,’ Prof. Taranath emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence among all living beings and urged the audience to recognize the urgency of conserving natural resources for the well-being of future generations.

The keynote address was presented by Prof. K.N. Amruthesh, Chairman of the Department of Studies in Botany at the University of Mysore. He drew attention to the alarming rate of species extinction caused by human activities and called for immediate action to conserve flora, fauna, and the entire biodiversity. Prof. Amruthesh showcased the significance of geographical regions like the Himalayas and Western Ghats, home to diverse plant families that play a vital role in ecological sustenance.

The seminar witnessed enlightening talks from experts in the field. Dr. M.U. Sharief, Scientist at the Botanical Survey of India, Coimbatore, shed light on the ‘Conservation of Biodiversity- A BSI Perspective’ during the first session. In the second session, Dr. R. Raghavendra Rao, Honorary Guest Faculty at JSS Academy of Science (Deemed Univ.), INSA Honorary Scientist, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on “Biological Diversity and Bio Prospection for Human Welfare – Concerns, Strategies, and Challenges for the 21st century.”

Prof. B.V. Sambashivaiah, Chief Executive of the college, presented detailed statistics on living species, land area, and the need for preserving biodiversity in India. He highlighted the significance of plants as sources of both traditional and modern medicines, emphasizing the threats posed by population explosion, global warming, and industrialization.

The seminar saw active participation from over 300 postgraduate Botany students, 65 faculty members, and 20 research scholars who benefitted from the knowledge and insights shared by the experts.

Principal Prof. M.P. Vijayendra Kumar warmly welcomed the esteemed guests, dignitaries, and participants to the event, while Organizing Secretary Prof. Biligiriranga extended a heartfelt vote of thanks. Dr. Sindhu G M skilfully mastered the program. Ms. Vasavi and team rendered an invocation.

The seminar successfully highlighted the urgent need for biodiversity conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility among attendees to protect and preserve the earth’s rich natural heritage for the benefit of future generations.

Suttur, July 24, 2023 – The ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, in collaboration with Srikshetra Dharmastala Rural Development Program, successfully conducted a comprehensive ‘Plant Protection Training Program’ at Haratale Village.

Prominent Experts Share Valuable Insights

The training program featured Dr. Vinay G.M., Horticultural Scientist, who delivered a detailed session on nutrient management specifically tailored for tomato and chilli crops. He also shed light on the applications of integrated light nutrients to enhance crop yield.

Additionally, Dr. Prasad Y.P., Crop Conserver, provided valuable insights into identifying and managing various diseases that commonly affect vegetable crops during the rainy season. Participants were educated on combating diseases such as first blight disease, last blight disease, seedling blight disease, bacterial leaf spot disease, chilli trips, and spot diseases.

Empowering Farmers with Knowledge

The event witnessed an address by the Agriculture Officer from Srikshetra Dharmastala Rural Development Program (Retd.) B.C. Trust, Nanjangud, who emphasized the significance of mechanization in agriculture and highlighted the array of facilities offered by the trust to support farmers.

Practical Benefits for Farmers

During the technology inspection session at the conclusion of the program, plant conservation tools were distributed to selected farmers, further enhancing their crop protection capabilities.

Eager Participation and Utilization of Knowledge

More than 30 farmers, including Raju and Lokesh, actively participated in the training program, eagerly leveraging the knowledge shared by the experts to enhance their agricultural practices.

The program served as a crucial initiative to equip farmers with the necessary skills and understanding to protect their vegetable crops effectively, ensuring increased yields and susta

inable agricultural practices in the region.

Smt. Sudha Mrutyunjayappa inaugurating the ‘Shaalegaledege Vachanagala Nadige’ program at the JSS Residential School, in Suttur. Assistant Coordinating Officer Sri Veerabhadraiah, JSS Educational Institutions, Headmaster Sri G.Shvamallu, Sri Ma. Gu. Basavanna, Sri Anilkumar Vajantri, Sri Umapathi and others are seen in the picture.

Suttur, July 20, 2023: Sri G. Shivamallu, the Headmaster of JSS High School in Suttur, emphasized the profound significance of Vachanas as guiding principles for life during a program titled ‘Shaalegalede Vachanagala Nadige’ (Walk of Vachanas towards schools). The event was organized in collaboration with the renowned doctor of Suttur, Late Dr. Mryutyunjaya Endowment, and the esteemed Sharanu Vishwavachana Foundation, Mysuru, held at the JSS Residential School, Suttur.

In his inspiring address, Sri G. Shivamallu described Vachanas as paths of life, guiding individuals towards wisdom and values. He stressed the importance of students learning a minimum of 10 Vachanas daily, reciting and comprehending their profound teachings to enrich their lives.

Presiding over the event, Smt. Sudha Mryutyunjayappa, Convener of the Sharanu Foundation, lauded Roopa Kumaraswamy for her efforts in disseminating the messages of Basavanna’s Vachanas through the ‘Vishwa Vachana Foundation.’ Smt. Sudha urged students to grasp the essence of Vachanas and incorporate their teachings into their daily lives, purifying their souls and leading them towards enlightenment.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of students who engaged in Vachana recital and quiz competitions. Smt. Roopa Kumaraswamy, founder of the Sharanu Vishwa Vachana Foundation, felicitated the winners and participants, encouraging them to embrace the ideals of the 12th-century Sharanas and strive to lead exemplary lives.

Sri Ma.Gu. Basavanna, the Headmaster of JSS High School, further encouraged the students to delve into the deeper meanings of Vachanas and integrate their teachings into their personal journeys.

Amidst the celebrations, Sri G. Shivamallu, the venerable Headmaster with a distinguished service of over five decades at JSS Educational Institutions, was felicitated for his outstanding contributions.

Among the dignitaries present on the dais were Sri Veerabhadraiah, Assistant Coordinating Officer, JSS Institutions, Sri Anilkumar Vajantri, Chairperson of Vishwa Vachana Foundation, as well as Sri Umapathi, and Sri Linganna.

The program commenced with a soulful invocation by the talented school students, setting the tone for the enlightening event. The proceedings were gracefully hosted by Teacher Sri H.M. Dayanandaswami.