Media must support moderate voices: Mahesh Bhatt at 'Vartha Bharati' decennial celebration

[email protected] (CD Network, Photos by Ahmed Anwar )
September 14, 2012

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Mangalore, September 14: It is the media's job to support moderate voices in the society and not act as slaves of power centres, said Mahesh Bhatt, popular filmmaker and activist.

 

He was speaking after inaugurating the readers' convention of 'Vartha Bharathi' Kannada daily newspaper organised to mark its decennial year celebration in Mangalore on Friday.

 

“The media is a watchdog. It should not turn into a lapdog of power holders. Unfortunately today media goes with the idea that what is in the interest of the nation does not sell but what interests the nation sells. The media must not take sides of extremist forces but support the moderate voices in the society which in fact are very few in number”, Mr. Bhatt said.

 

Stating that secularism is still alive in India, Mr. Bhatt said that irrespective of whether unrests take place in Assam, Mangalore or Bangalore, it is the duty of every citizen to condemn such acts. In Assam, although there is some infiltration, it is wrong to paint all in the same brush and generate hatred, he said.

 

Prof. U R Ananthamurthy, Jnanpeeth Awardee, expressed his appreciation for the daily and said that there was an immediate need to eliminate all kind of stereotypes in the society.

 

Lamenting that there is widespread manufacturing of consent not just in media circles but also in day to day conversations in people spreading hatred against certain communities, Prof. Ananthamurthy said that it is high time people stopped generalizing things. Certain media, especially television news channels are wrongly subjecting every other topic to discussion. “Certain fundamental issues such as democracy and communalism are beyond discussions. They are out and out crimes and there is no need to discuss them”, he said.

 

Coming down hard on Narendra Modi, Gujarat Chief Minister, Prof. Ananthamurthy said that people must not allow the BJP heavyweight to become the country's Prime Minister. “Even the likes of Tatas stand by his side. Don't they see the criminal in him?” he asked. The media must also not speak extensively about Mr. Modi, he said. “The media talks about him so often that it makes him a big man. He must not be given attention. He should be treated like an untouchable”, he said.

 

B M Basheer, News Editor, Vartha Bharati, delivered the keynote address. Abdussalam Putthige, Editor-in-Chief, Vartha Bharati, delivered the Presidential address. Yaseen Malpe, Director, Madhyama Communications Ltd. Mangalore, welcomed. Aga Sultan, Former Member, AICTE, VTU and Bangalore University, H M Afroz Assadi, Director, Madhyama Communications Ltd, Mangalore, Syed Abdul Kader Bashu, Managing Trustee, Green Valley National School and PU College, Shiruru, were the guests of honour.

 

The Special Issue chronicling the journey of the daily over the last 10 years, was released on the occasion by Prof. Ananthamurthy. Selected readers also shared their views and suggestions on the occasion.

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News Network
November 19,2024

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In the wake of the tragic drowning of three students at a resort near Ullal on the outskirts of Mangaluru city, the tourism department in Dakshina Kannada is set to implement comprehensive safety guidelines for properties with swimming pools or beach access. This initiative aims to ensure guest safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.

New Safety Mandates for Resorts and Homestays

Rashmi S.R., deputy director (in-charge) of the tourism department, announced, “We will instruct all homestays and resorts to enforce precautionary measures, especially those with pools or direct beach access. Properties must ensure 24/7 supervision, particularly during guest hours. This tragedy highlights the importance of having trained personnel on-site.”

Key Safety Guidelines

The district, home to around 150 homestays and 130 resorts, will see the following measures enforced:

  • Clearly displaying pool depths.
  • Installing adequate safety equipment, such as life buoys.
  • Employing trained lifeguards at all times.
  • Establishing clear pool operating hours.
  • Reviewing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for pool and beach usage.

Booming Beach Tourism Calls for Vigilance

Manohar Shetty, president of the Association for Coastal Tourism (ACT), Udupi, highlighted the growing popularity of beachside resorts, particularly during peak seasons. Properties in Udupi, often fully booked with tourists from Bengaluru, Mysuru, Kodagu, and Shivamogga, face increasing pressure to maintain safety standards.

Udupi district boasts 22 beachside commercial properties catering to this rising demand.

Shetty emphasized, “Authorities must scrutinize safety measures and carefully evaluate guidelines before issuing new resort licenses. Panchayats should rely on the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act when handling such cases.”

Long-Term Solutions for Water Safety

Recognizing the need for a cultural shift in water safety, Shetty proposed integrating swimming lessons into school curricula. This move would not only equip students with essential skills but also encourage safe participation in water-based activities.

A Safer Tomorrow for Coastal Tourism

As the tourism sector thrives, Mangaluru’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to visitor safety. The tragic incident serves as a wake-up call, propelling the industry towards stricter regulations and better preparedness, ensuring that coastal vacations remain both enjoyable and safe.

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News Network
November 13,2024

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In the heart of Mangaluru, where rising air pollution is spurring public health worries, voices are calling for a greener, cleaner shift in the city’s public transport. Leading this call is APD Foundation, a Mangaluru-based environmental NGO, which has urged Forest, Ecology, and Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre to mandate electric vehicle (EV) adoption in public transport.

Abdullah A Rehman, CEO of APD Foundation, emphasized in a formal letter to the minister that Mangaluru’s public transportation system—efficient and organized with both government and private players—could transition smoothly to EVs in stages. He suggested that government-backed financial incentives, partnerships with EV manufacturers, and collaborations with environmental groups could streamline the switch.

Rehman stressed the potential of EVs to cut down emissions, enhance air quality, and reduce noise levels, noting the quieter operation of electric buses. He confirmed that a copy of his letter was submitted to the Deputy Commissioner as well.

However, Dilraj Alva from the Dakshina Kannada City Bus Association noted potential challenges, explaining that the shift might take up to two years due to infrastructure and budget hurdles. Most EV buses, he explained, are procured through aggregators, not directly by individual operators. The addition of charging stations and other essential infrastructure further complicates the transition.

Alva also raised the economic concern: while diesel buses are priced between ₹30-40 lakh, electric buses can cost up to ₹1 crore. Reflecting on recent meetings with companies, including one in Manipal, he questioned the assumption that EVs are an absolute solution to pollution. “EVs aren’t entirely eco-friendly, especially when considering battery disposal,” he cautioned.

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News Network
November 15,2024

Udupi: The Tourism Department is planning a major eco-friendly development initiative for Kamini Island, located near the Blue Flag-certified Padubidri End Point beach, aiming to attract more visitors while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Assistant Director Kumar CU emphasized that, given the island’s proximity to the Blue Flag beach, all development efforts will center around eco-friendly practices. “We are looking to enhance the Kamini River and the island’s surroundings by adding a hanging bridge, nature trails, and eco-friendly food courts offering traditional cuisine. Visitors will also be able to reach the island by pedal boats or kayaking,” he said.

The development project is estimated to cost between Rs 3 crore and Rs 4 crore. Meanwhile, the Blue Flag beach, Padubidri, continues to see a steady flow of visitors. Vijay Shetty, manager of the beach, shared that tenders for food courts and water sports have been awarded to private parties. Recently, three new coracles have been introduced, which are proving to be a hit with visitors. Additionally, three more shelters are expected to be ready by November 20.

Shetty mentioned that the beach can now accommodate between 2,500 and 3,000 visitors daily, although footfall remains lower than other district beaches due to user fees and activity restrictions. “Initially, most visitors were from Mangaluru, but now nearly 40% come from other districts, showing a shift in the visitor demographics,” Shetty noted.

To further boost tourism and promote a healthy lifestyle, a Beach Carnival is set to take place on November 23-24, featuring the National Sea Swimming Championship and a sea marathon in collaboration with the Padubidri JCI, which is celebrating its golden jubilee. Cultural events will be held at the main beach, with some sports events taking place at the Blue Flag beach. Emphasis will be placed on making all activities environmentally friendly.

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