Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (SK)
Beltangady, Mar 20: Capuchin Krishik Seva Kendra, Vimukti and Sacred Heart College, Madantyar, jointly organized a seminar in the college auditorium on Saturday March 17. Nethravathi Diversion, pushpagiri vanyadhama and gas pipeline were the issues discussed during the seminar.
Soon after the colorful inauguration the speakers of the day took over the sessions.
Dinesh Holla, an activist who had been working since 11 years for the conservation of wild life and Western Ghats, presented his scientific study that he made with regard to the wild life and Western Ghats. He said in his talk, “Nethravathi river emerges due to the submerging of smaller tributaries. We should join hands in raising our powerful voice against the dreadful projects which are the most impractical. The private companies and the governments are often allured because it involves lot of money and corruption. No human being can go against the nature. One can only preserve it and improve it and no way can one destroy it for selfish gain”. Further he said that it is most unreasonable to plan and divert the rivers. Studies have shown that one cannot divert the rivers and direct them to wherever one wants.
Fr Vinod Mascarenhas also shared his views. He said,” Western Ghats has very unique and pivotal place in the coastal region. While it generates monsoon, it also helps to sink the water into the ground and thus avoids floods. It also acts as strong protection wall against the natural calamities like cyclone and storm”. He called upon the audience to stand as solid as Western Ghats against the most inhuman projects of the private companies and government. He also sensitized and motivated the people to be always watchful and also fulfill the responsibilities as a citizen of a democratic country. He appealed the gathering to overcome narrow ideas like caste system and stand united to fight against these projects.
Sampath Kumar presented his findings with regard to another project on gas pipeline. He gave an example on how he, along with his villagers, drove out the Reliance company officials who, without the permission of Panchayat, entered their village to survey private properties.
Nruthya Rupaka was presented by the Vimukti Spanda Youth Club, Kalle. It was very much appreciated by the gathering. It depicted the role and responsibilities of every citizen and the impacts of the dreadful projects.
Soon after the Rupaka there was questionnaire hour where the gathering clarified their doubts and resolved to fight against these projects. Dr Robert Jose presented concluding remarks by requesting all presented audience to fight boldly against these projects and never to give up attitude.
Dr Robert Jose, principal , Fr Vinod Mascarenhas, speakers Dinesh Holla artist, Parisara Premi, Karavali Chitrakala Chavadi and Sampath Kumar Shetty, president of Cooperative Society, Bantwal and director of APMC were present.
Prof Joseph coordinated the programme. Prof Alex Sequeira, director of students association, Sacred Heart college, Mandanthyar proposed the vote of thanks.