Mangalore's oldest ed. institution celebrates 175 years of existence

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

September 7, 2013

Mangalore, Sep 7: Basel missionaries believed that education can bring changes in caste system. History is witness that the missionaries' sacrifices resulted in the emergence of a new society, said president of the governing council of BEM Educational Institution Walter J Maben.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 175th year celebrations of BEM Educational Institution held at Centenary Hall of the institution, Car Street here on Saturday, he said that the Basel Mission came into being as a result of a pledge taken by few dedicated men at Basel, Switzerland in the face of a military threat.

Having set up many stations in Europe, the financial position of the Basel Mission Society decided to establish institutions in India. The original commission with which the missionaries were sent to India was to establish schools and institutions for training future missionaries, as the mission of educating was considered important. Later, they built buildings for orphanages, schools, sick houses, church buildings, seminaries, hospitals and others,” he said.

He went on to speak on the missionaries' journey from Basel to Mangalore and their contribution to the port city of Mangalore.

Mangalore South MLA J R Lobo unveiled the institution's 175th year celebrations logo. Speaking on the occasion, he said that it was an honour to participate in the 175th year celebrations of one of the oldest education institution in the district. “The Basel missionaries were instrumental in removing superstitious beliefs in the society, established several industrial schools and provided education to many. They gave up their lives for the welfare and development of this port city. We have to remember and honour the sacrifice of these missionaries. They were not merely visionaries, as they had a clear purpose and determination of carrying out their mission,” he said.

“Today, we do not need institutions which commercialise education, but ones which render education without requiring investments,” he added.

Principal of Karnataka Theological College, Mangalore Dr Hannibal R Cabral launched the institution's new website and spoke on the occasion.

Principal and Joint Director of College of Teacher Education Philomena Lobo also spoke on the occasion.

Vice-president of the governing council Alwyn Colaco, treasurer Alwyn Ananda, corporators Rajendra Kumar and Rameeza Nazeer, committee members of the management and staff of the institution were present on the occasion, among others.

Institutional head Jayashankar welcomed the gathering.

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Warning! Cancer-causing chemicals found in bakery products, especially cakes in Karnataka

News Network

October 3,2024

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department has issued an urgent warning following the discovery of potentially cancer-causing chemicals in cakes sold by certain bakeries across the state.

Recent tests conducted by the department revealed that some cake samples, particularly those with vibrant colors, contain harmful synthetic coloring agents such as Allura Red, a substance known to pose health risks. The findings have raised concerns about the use of artificial colors in bakery products, especially given their potential link to cancer and other serious health conditions.

"We routinely test various food products, and this time, our officials noticed unusually dark-colored cakes on the market," said Srinivas K, Commissioner of Food Safety for Karnataka. "Upon testing, we found that a few cakes contained Allura Red, a synthetic dye associated with health risks."

The use of artificial colors, especially in popular cakes like red velvet and pineapple varieties, is widespread as it attracts customers, particularly children. However, many bakers prefer using natural, safer alternatives, while some opt for synthetic dyes to enhance the cake's visual appeal.

"Most bakeries use permissible, natural colors that are safe for consumption. Unfortunately, a few are resorting to synthetic dyes just to make their cakes more attractive," said a bakery owner from Electronic City, speaking anonymously.

Medical experts are warning that consuming synthetic colors can lead to numerous health issues, including asthma and allergic reactions.

"Some of these artificial dyes are carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure could have serious consequences, especially for children and young adults," cautioned Dr. Vandana G, a private medical practitioner.

While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) confirms that only a limited number of samples tested positive for harmful colors, legal action is being taken against the violators.

"There is no need for widespread panic or halting production. We are closely monitoring the situation, and only a few bakeries were found to be non-compliant. Rest assured, appropriate legal measures are underway," assured an FSSAI official.

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