Madikeri: There is a proposal to establish a "honey park" in Kodagu district, apart from the earlier proposed information technology park in Madikeri, K.G. Bopaiah, Madikeri MLA, said here on Friday.

Speaking at the inauguration of a three-day "IT Consumer Fair— 2006," organised by the Coorg Centre for Information Technology (CCIT) for the fifth successive year, he said the State Government is considering establishment of a honey park to promote the industry in the State.

On setting up the Information Technology Park, Mr. Bopaiah said he and other elected representatives from Kodagu were invited by the previous Industries Minister in Bangalore six months ago to chalk out plans as to what kind of industry could be set up in Kodagu. The natural environment also needed to be protected from polluting industries. The issue of IT Park figured prominently in the meeting, he said.

Mr. Bopaiah said that a spot close to the Abbi Falls, near here, has been identified for setting up the honey park. He alleged that certain groups are opposed to the project saying it will harm the environment.

He regretted the opposition from some quarters, the Forest Department in particular, to projects in the district.

The Forest Department contended that all projects are being carried out in the forests in Kodagu, he added.

Mr. Bopaiah said the Government has earmarked Rs. 1 crore to set up a Sainik School in Kodagu, but the district administration is yet to identify land for its construction.

There is a move to shift the District Jail to the outskirts of the city, but the Forest Department is objecting to the project on the ground that the proposed lands belongs to it. The same excuse is being given by the department for setting up an Excise Office in the city.

The State Government should take serious note of these problems, Mr. Bopaiah said.

Artistes from the "Subramanya Keri" in the city performed Kodava cultural dances such as Bolakkat, Ummathat and Kolatt on the occasion.

Editor of the Star of Mysore Kalyatanda B.Ganapathi, who inaugurated the fair, recalled how the IT sector initially was opposed by many on the ground that it will cut down jobs. Today, they same people are realising the power of the IT industry, he said.

The former Minister M.M. Nanaiah, Belliappa of the Department of Information Technology and Biotechnology, and Superintendent of Police Devajyoti Ray were present.

Director of the CCIT C.C. Thimmaiah welcomed the guests. A number of IT companies have put up stalls at the fair.

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