Hajabba, 57 others receive Rajyotsava awards

November 1, 2013

Bangalore, No 1: Underlining the need to protect land, language and culture, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday said that the onus was on the people.

He said, “The responsibility lies both with the people and the government.”

Conferring Rajyotsava awards on 58 persons at a colourful function at the Ravindra Kalakshetra, he said that people of the State have to emulate neighbouring States on protecting land, language and culture.

The award recipient included Akshara Santha Harekala Hajabba, an orange vendor who established a school on the outskirts of Mangalore.

Though number of awards had been limited to 50, it was latter decided to include eight more distinguished persons for their excellence in various fields to mark the 58th Rajyotsava.

The Chief Minister said that he had not interfered in the selection process, except referring the name of S. Ayyappan. “Honouring those who have excelled in various fields and made the land, language and culture proud, is really an honour itself for the government,” he said.

Of the 58 winners, theatre person H. Florina Bai, Agriculture Scientist Dr. Ayyappan and artist Sheela Gowda could not attend the function.

There was a standing ovation when Mr. Siddaramaiah conferred the award on 93-year-old Sulagitti Narasamma who helped women delivered of babies in rural areas without any medical facility, and Sohan Kumari, a yesteryear singer.

Speaking on behalf of award recipients, theatre and cine actor Girija Lokesh, appealed to the Chief Minister to sanction medical grants to aging artists and help them lead a dignified life.

Writer Ko. Channabasappa said that he had not anticipated the award and that he was happy that his contribution had been recognised.

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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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