Sri. Siddaramaiah, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka and Sri HC Mahadevappa, Minister of Social Welfare and District In-charge of Mysuru visited Sri Suttur Kshetra and took blessings from His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji on 10th June 2023.
Suttur, June 9, 2023: The ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, in collaboration with the Nanjundeshwara Farmers Producers Company and Isha Foundation, Handuvinahalli, successfully conducted a one-day training program on innovative cultivation methods for plantain crops.
Under the guidance of Dr. G.M. Vinay, Horticulture Scientist at JSS KVK, the participating farmers were equipped with comprehensive knowledge about the latest cultivation techniques in plantain farming. The training program focused on various crucial aspects, including soil testing, pre-cultivation field preparation, crop variety selection, pit digging methods, crop treatment, tissue plantain, integrated nutrient management, drip irrigation, the significance of the Rasaavari method, nutrient deficiency symptoms and their management, effective crop management practices, and pest and disease identification and control measures.
During the program, farmers actively engaged in discussions, highlighting their challenges in horticulture farming and seeking appropriate solutions. Directors, members, and approximately 30 farmers from Devanuru, Badanavalu, Basavapura, Hegadehalli, and nearby villages enthusiastically participated in the training program, benefiting from the valuable insights shared.
The collaboration between ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Nanjundeshwara Farmers Producers Company, and Isha Foundation proved to be instrumental in empowering farmers with advanced techniques in banana cultivation. The training program not only enhanced the farmers’ understanding of modern practices but also provided them with practical solutions to overcome challenges in their farming endeavors.
A National Conference on Integrated Care in Neurological Disorders was organized by the Dept. of Panchakarma of JSS Ayurveda Medical College in collaboration with Inter-disciplinary Research Unit and was inaugurated on 08.06.2023 by Dr Ishwar V Basavaraddi, Director, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, New Delhi in the divine presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivaratri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji at Sri Rajendra Centenary Auditorium, Mysuru. The event was presided by Dr CG Betsurmath, Executive Secretary, JSSMVP. Sri R Mahesh, Director Medical Education, JSS MVP and others were present.
Suttur, June 8, 2023: The ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, recently conducted a training program on advanced cultivation techniques for meter cow pea at Hulyalu Village in Hunsur Taluk, Mysuru District.
Dr. Vinay G.M., a Horticulture Scientist from JSS KVK, actively participated in the program and shared valuable insights on improved cultivation practices for meter cow pea. He emphasized the significance of proper sowing methods, soil fertility enhancement, nutrient management, water utilization, and the importance of micro-nutrients. Dr. Vinay also highlighted the special characteristics of ‘Arka Mangala,’ a newly released variety of meter cow pea developed by the Indian Horticulture Research Institute in Hesarghatta, Bengaluru.
According to Dr. Vinay, the introduction of ‘Arka Mangala’ is expected to significantly increase farmers’ income, offering a yield boost of about 25-30% per hectare compared to traditional varieties. Additionally, the crop matures at a faster rate, allowing for quicker harvesting. He also emphasized the market demand for this particular variety.
During the training program, Dr. Prasad Y.P., from the Plant Conservation Division of JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, provided farmers with valuable information on the management of diseases and pests that commonly affect vegetable crops.
As a concluding part of the program, ‘Arka Mangala’ cow pea seeds were distributed to 10 interested farmers, while vegetable seeds were distributed during the demonstration.
As an additional learning opportunity, the participants had the chance to visit the drumstick and coconut farm of JSS KVK. They were enlightened about integrated nutrition management in drumstick cultivation and were educated on the effective management of stem bleeding disease in coconut crops.
The training program proved to be an insightful and practical experience for the farmers, equipping them with knowledge and resources to enhance their agricultural practices and improve their yields.
Suttur, June 6, 2023: The ICAR JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, in collaboration with the Institute of Agriculture Engineers, Chapter-1, and Rotary Brundavana, Mysuru, organized a program titled “Solution to Plastic Pollution” to commemorate World Environment Day on June 5, 2023.
The program commenced with the ceremonial watering of a plant and the introduction of various alternative bags to replace plastic products. Dr. C.G. Betsurmath, Executive Secretary of JSS Mahavidyapeetha, emphasized the urgent need to reduce plastic usage to safeguard our planet. He showcased images and videos depicting the detrimental impact of plastic pollution and expressed his concern over its continued usage despite the ban on plastic in Mysuru since 2016. Dr. Betsurmath urged participants to adopt eco-friendly alternatives for plastic bags and stressed the importance of creating awareness about environmental protection. As part of the program, an oath of an environmentally conscious lifestyle was administered to attendees.
Distinguished guest Dr. A.P. Chandrashekar, a natural farmer from Kalalawadi, was felicitated during the event. In his address, Dr. Chandrashekar encouraged individuals to reflect on their environmental responsibilities and displayed the importance of courageously abstaining from plastic usage. He highlighted the prolonged decomposition time of plastic and its adverse effects on the environment, urging the audience to prioritize tree plantation.
Dr. G.H. Yogesh, Deputy Agriculture Director at the District Agricultural Training Institute, Naganahalli, delivered an introductory speech, advocating for environmental conservation and explaining measures to reduce plastic usage in agriculture.
Highlighting the importance of youth involvement, students from Sri Gurumahanteshwara High School in Hosakote Village performed an enlightening skit on environmental awareness. Attendees received a variety of mango kernels, fruit seeds, used clothes, and plants, along with cloth bags. Women farmers participated in a competition focusing on alternative plastic products used in daily life, with prizes awarded to the winners.
Over 100 plastic alternative products were exhibited, while delegates from JSS KVK, students, and farmers actively participated in tree-planting activities. More than 400 plants were distributed among farmers and school students.
Sri L.C. Dharmananda, President of Rotary Brundavana Institute, and Dr. Vishakanta, Additional Agriculture Director (Retd.), graced the occasion with their presence. The program saw the enthusiastic participation of JSS KVK staff, over 100 farmers, and school students.
Presiding over the event, Sri N.M. Shivashankarappa, Director of Horticulture Division at JSS Mahavidyapeetha, emphasized the significance of such initiatives.
Smt. H.V. Divya, Head (Incharge) of JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, extended a warm welcome to the attendees, while Srigangappa delivered a vote of thanks. The program was skillfully conducted under the supervision of Dr. U.M. Rakshith Raj.
Prof. A.H.M. Vijayalakshmi, Regional Joint Director, Collegiate Education Department, Mysuru, join His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji in planting a sapling at Sri Suttur Kshetra, commemorating World Environment Day. Also present in the picture are Prof. A.M. Nagabhushan from M.S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology and other esteemed individuals.
Author: Kum. Shilpa, Technical Assistant and Smt. H.V. Divya, Senior Scientist and Head (Incharge)
June 5th, marks the annual observance of World Environment Day—a vital campaign initiated by the United Nations to raise awareness and inspire action towards safeguarding the environment. Since its inception in 1974, this global platform has focused on addressing critical environmental issues such as marine pollution, overpopulation, global warming, sustainable development, and wildlife crime. With participation from over 143 countries each year, World Environment Day serves as a catalyst for public outreach and encourages collaboration among businesses, non-governmental organizations, communities, governments, and celebrities to champion environmental causes.
Rooted in History: World Environment Day was established in 1972 during the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment, a gathering that sought to integrate human interactions and environmental preservation. The following year, in 1973, the first World Environment Day took place under the theme “Only One Earth.” Since then, the campaign has expanded its activities through the selection of various host nations.
India’s Commitment: India, being the 5th largest plastic producer globally, has taken significant steps to combat plastic pollution. In his 2019 Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the nation to discontinue the use of single-use plastics. Subsequently, on July 1, 2022, the Government of India banned the production and usage of less essential and disposable plastic items. This measure aims to mitigate the harmful effects of plastic on the environment, as single-use plastics pose a grave threat to ecological balance.
Launch of the Plastic-free India Campaign: On the auspicious day of Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, October 2, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Plastic-free India Campaign. The campaign’s objectives encompass the prohibition of plastic, increased tree and sapling planting, water conservation, plastic recycling, and the preservation of wildlife, flora, and fauna. It emphasizes the importance of individual commitment to environmental protection and encourages activities such as tree planting, public area cleanups, and community programs to inspire collective action.
The Urgent Need for Change: Research reveals that approximately 9 billion tons of plastic are produced each year, with only 9% being recycled. The majority of plastic waste ends up in landfills or the environment, persisting for centuries. If this trend continues, it is estimated that by 2050, there will be a staggering 12 billion tons of plastic waste in landfills and the environment. Plastic, which takes hundreds of years to decompose, disintegrates into microplastics that pose significant hazards to ecosystems. Common plastic products, including bottles, bags, food packaging, and straws, contribute to environmental degradation, block waterways, endanger aquatic life, and release toxic pollutants when burned.
Our Collective Responsibility: The power to address these challenges lies in our hands. The first step towards sustainable change is the prohibition of single-use plastics. Implementing an effective waste management system, including the proper segregation of wet and dry waste, is equally crucial. Solid waste management units have been established in all districts, efficiently segregating plastic waste for recycling and material recovery.
The Perils of Plastic Bags: Plastic bags pose severe threats, including:
Embracing Alternatives: To reduce the impact of plastic, the use of reusable and biodegradable paper bags has gained traction. These eco-friendly alternatives offer a safer option for wildlife and mitigate environmental harm during shopping trips.
Alternative for plastic usage in our daily lives
| Plastic Product | Alternative | Plastic Product | Alternative |
| Plastic bottles | Steel/ Metal bottles | Plastic bags | Paper/ Clothe bags |
| Plastic chairs | Wooden/ Metal chairs | Plastic Pen | Pens made using wood |
| Plastic tyres | Wooden vehicle tyres | Plastic Dining Table | Wooden table |
| Plastic Mixie | Grinding stone | Plastic TV covers | Covers made of cloth |
| Plastic bucket | Steel bucket | Plastic Zip | Hooks |
| Plastic tumbler | Steel/ Earthen pot | Plastic Geometry | Cloth pouch |
| Plastic bags | Bags made using wood/ Bamboo | Plastic pads | Cotton cloth |
| Plastic soop | Wooden soop | Plastic thread for cloth drying | Metal wire |
| Plastic container | Steel box | Plastic rope | Rope made of coir |
| Plastic pipe | Metal pipe | Plastic mat | Coir mats |
| Plastic mat | Bamboo mat | Plastic Torana | Cloth Torana/ Torana made of paddy husk |
| Plastic broom | Bamboo straw broom | Plastic tray | Wooden tray |
| Plastic toys | Wooden/ clay toys | Plastic slipper stand | Wooden slipper stand |
| Plastic spoons | Steel/ brass spoon | Plastic swing | Swings made of cloth |
| Plastic pots | Steel/ Metal pot | Plastic tissue paper | Bamboo tissue paper |
| Plastic mobile cover | Cloth cover | Plastic flower garlands | Paper flower garlands |
| Plastic cooker rubber | Earthen lid | Plastic bangle | Glass bangle |
| Plastic toothbrush | Neem stick/ Wooden toothbrush | Plastic stove | Metal stove |
| Plastic comb | Wooden comb | Plastic vanity bag | Cloth bag |
| Plastic water drum | Concrete/ cement container | Plastic ribbon | Cloth ribbon |
| Plastic plates | Steel/ Metal/ Plantain leaf plates | Plastic examination pad | Wooden pad |
| Plastic Tea glasses | Paper/ earthen glass | Plastic banner | Cloth banner |
| Plastic clock | Steel clock | Plastic necklaces | Metal necklaces |
Reducing plastic usage is crucial for environmental sustainability. Here are some effective methods to achieve this goal:
By implementing these measures in our daily lives and promoting conscious consumerism, we can contribute to reducing plastic usage and protecting the environment for future generations.
“Honesty, Hard Work and Consistency of the teachers will bring quality change in education”
– Prof. N.K. Lokanath
The IQAC of JSS College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Ooty road, Mysuru-25 organized Two Day Faculty Training Programme on Outcome Based Education (OBE) in the Golden Jubilee Hall on 02 and 03 June 2023. The programme was inaugurated by Prof. N.K. Lokanath, Vice Chancellor, University of Mysore. In the inaugural speech, Prof. Lokanath felt that a change is required at this juncture in the education field. There is a huge transformation in the students expectations these days and hence outcome based knowledge is essential to make students get employed. Jobs created this year are changed next year and hence continuous monitoring and implementing new initiatives are required to bring a quality change in higher education institutions (HEIs). He also highlighted the salient features of NEP-2020 which is mainly concentrating on the vertical depth of one subject. Further, he added that skills related programmes should be part of the curriculum. The present day teachers should have clarity and flexibility in order to prepare the students to face real world challenges.
In his conceptual note, Prof. B.V. Sambashivaiah, Chief Executive of the College brought to the notice of the teachers about the objectives and significance of OBE. He stated that there is diversity in education institutions and a common platform has to be brought in. To bring uniformity in HEIs, CBCS, NEP, etc. have come into being. Continuing, he said that the gap between institutes and industries have to bridged in order to make the students employable. Dr. Mendus Jacob, CEO, IPSR Solutions Ltd., Kerala who gave Keynote address expressed that the quality of both teachers as well as students have to be improved and ICT & AI tools are very much required for implementing OBE effectively.
Prof. R. Mugeshappa, Director, College Education Division, JSS Mahavidyapeetha, in his Presidential Speech opined that various parameters of OBE will lead to improvement of skills and quality in teaching-learning. He emphasized how traditional education has been transformed to modern day teaching through “technology included teaching”. The two-day Training Programme will be highly beneficial to teachers of the General Education Colleges coming under JSS MVP. The two-day event will feature different Technical Talks by resource persons from IPSR Solutions Ltd. Kerala.
Prof. M.P. Vijayendra Kumar, Principal welcomed the guests and others. Ms. Tejaswini and team rendered invocation. Dr N. Rajendraprasad, IQAC Coordinator compeered and proposed vote of thanks.
