The Hindu : Karnataka News : Minister corrected

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Monday, Dec 01, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka

Minister corrected

Sir, — The statements made by Minister for Small Industries Venkatramanappa at the valedictory function of the recently held Krishi Mela, blaming scientists for farmer suicides, is in poor taste. Most plant diseases are not curable, but can be prevented. The guiding principle in this regard is “Prevention is cure.” There are a few curative fungicides and many more are in the process of being evolved. Chemicals for seeds, soil and plants should be applied during the early stages of plant growth in the recommended dosage. All these precautions are to be strictly observed by the farmer, who is guided by the staff of the Agriculture Department and not scientists. Farmers operating near the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, can also avail themselves of the services of the extension staff of the department. There are a few Krishi Vigyan Kendras which also offer such guidance.

A.N. Sudarshan Rao,

Bangalore

Legal awareness

Sir, — It is satisfying to note that the State Government has taken the initiative to create awareness among the poor on legal issues. People from rural areas find it difficult to attend court sessions owing to their being centralised. Of late, the legal awareness programmes conducted by the Karnataka State Legal Services Authority have had a positive impact on the people. It is also heartening to learn that steps have been taken to educate people on the need for legal literacy and awareness.

G.T. Rajan,

Bangalore

Property tax rules

Sir, — Recently the Government issued an ordinance and draft notification of rules regarding property tax in Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike limits and sought objections from people on these rules. Both these documents are not accessible to citizens or have been published in any daily which makes it difficult for people to read and file objections. The documents are not in Kannada and there is no mention of the percentage by which the tax will be increased. The Government has, in its notification, introduced a concept called Unit Area Value for each zone without specifying the details of these zones. There is no link between the previous values and the new ones. I request the Government to call a meeting of officials and citizens of the Department of Urban Development, elected representatives, Citizen Action Forum, FKCCI, and other organisations to have a debate to find a solution.

N. Mukund,

Bangalore

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