citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

20
LOCAL NEWS LIKE NO ONE ELSE DOES Citizen Matters Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012 FREE JP Nagar-BTM-Jayanagar ¹neóÉ£ï ªÉÄålgïìð www.citizenmatters.in bengaluru No. 3/119, 9th Main, 3rd Block, Jayanagar Ph:42068504/05 5 & 6 Puttenahalli lake! And now Sarakki lake too! 8 Forget the Gobi Manchuri 9 Somebody to take care of your dog when you are away 10 Sakala - get your job done! 18 The basics of baby proofing AFTER RUSSELL MARKET FIRE WHO’S SIDE IS BBMP ON? Page 11 12 Property tax Guide 14 Summer camp listings

description

citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Transcript of citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Page 1: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

LocaL news Like no one eLse does

CitizenMatters

Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012FREE

JP Nagar-BTM-Jayanagar

¹neóÉ£ï ªÉÄålgïìð

www.citizenmatters.in

bengaluru

No. 3/119, 9th Main,3rd Block, JayanagarPh:42068504/05

5 & 6 Puttenahalli lake! And now Sarakki lake too!8 Forget the Gobi Manchuri 9 Somebody to take care of your dog when you are away10 Sakala - get your job done! 18 The basics of baby proofing

After russell mArket fire

Who’s side is BBmP on?Page 11

12 Property tax Guide14 Summer camp listings

Page 2: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Submit your articles online at www.citizenmatters .in

Be A CItIzen JournAlIst!

Join our growing list of citizen writers and share what happens in your neighbourhood or elsewhere!

We welcome all citizens to share their stories about this city. We look for ideas for stories that other citizens will find useful or enjoyable. Sometimes there is no point writing about the obvious. For example, enough stories have been written about the traffic situation. But if you have a particular angle about an issue that has not been covered, or a lead about somebody

who is working to solve a problem, that works.

Dr.Anirban Basu | A. Gracias | Aakanksha Singh Devi | Aarti Mohan | Abhishek Angad | Aditya Todi | Ahila Ramasundaram | Akshey Kalra | amit | Amrita Sampathkumar | Anand R Yadwad | ANAND.R | Anirban Sen | Anirban Sen | Anit Kurian | Anita Bora | Anjali Goyal | Ankur Jain | Annapurna Murthy | Anupama Gummaraju | Anupama Rao | Anuradha krishna | Anuradha

Prasad | Anuradha Srinivasan | Aparajita Bose | Apurv Dhingra | Aradhana Janga | Archana Prasad | Arif Vakil | Arun Kumar | Aruna Shekar | Ashim Jain | Ashish Nair | Ashok Dwarkanath | Ashok Vasudevan | Ashutosh Sundaram | Aswin S | Avinash Krishnamurthy | Ayan Pramanik | B S GANESH | B S Iyer | B Venkatraman | Bala Venkata Sudhakara Reddy Vuyyuru |

Balaji Kutty | Balaji Srinivasan | Bangalore International Airport | Benedict Paramanand | Bharath Curam | Bhavani Bhaskar | Bhupendra P Shah | Brig (retd.) R S Murthy | Bryan O Ferrao | C R Sridhar | C S Vincent | C.R.Venkat Rao | Capt Harold Mascarenhas (Retd) | Centre for Advocacy and Research | Chakri P | Chandan S Raj | Chandni Atmakur | Chandrasekhara V

S | Chandrashekar Hekar | Chandrayee Bhaumik | Charu Sharma | Chatura Padaki | Chetan Boray | Chitra Srikrishna | D R Prakash | Debayan Deb | Deepa Peck | Deepa Ranganathan | Deepa Vaishnavi | Deepika Nagabhushan | Deepthi M S | Deepthi Sarma | Divya Bettampadi | Divya Harave | Divya Ravindranath... and hundreds more.

WRITE ARTICLES on problems you face, ideas you propose, local events you organise or attend and your experiences in day-today living in the city.

SUBMIT ALERTS on issues that need to be investigated.

SHARE EVENTS that your neighbours may like to attend.

COMMENT & DISCUSS on whatever matters to you.

And spread the word!This is your own community newsmagazine. A forum for topics that matter to you. All

about your city, your neighbourhood, your concerns and your initiatives.Come on, Time to get involved!

Page 3: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Citizen Matters Vol-4 Issue-05, 7-20 Apr 2012 KARENG/2009/28904. Published & Printed by Meera K for Oorvani Media Pvt Ltd. Printed at Lavanya Mudrana, 19, 15th cross, Vidyapeeta Circle, BSK I Stage, Bangalore 560060 Place of Publication Oorvani Media, 165, I cross, I block, Kmgla, Bangalore 560034. editor Subramaniam Vincent.

Page 4: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

633, 100 feet Ring Road JP Nagar 3rd Phase, Bengaluru - 560078Tel: 08026593210 fax: [email protected]:9980562020 [email protected]

Dr raja Shekar Y L is the Medical Director, Shekar Nethralaya

aD

ver

tiSe

r Fe

atu

re

The nasolacrimal duct (sometimes called the tear duct) carries tears from the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity. Obstruction of the tear duct, known as dacryostenosis, leads to the excess overflow of tears called epiphora. A congenital obstruction can cause cystic expansion of the duct and is called a dacrocystocele or Timo cyst.About Tear DuctsLacrimal (or tear-producing) glands secrete the watery part of tears. These glands are located under the browbone behind the upper eyelid, at the edge of the eye socket, and in the lids. Tears keep the eyes lubricated and clean and contain antibodies that protect against infection. They drain out of the eyes through two openings (puncta, or lacrimal ducts), one on each of the upper and lower lids.From these puncta, tears enter small tubes called canaliculi or ducts, located at the inner corner of the eyelids, then pass into the lacrimal sac, between the eyes and the nose).From the lacrimal sacs, tears move down through the nasolacrimal duct and drain into the back of the nose. That’s why you usually get a runny nose when you cry — your eyes are producing excess tears, and your nose can’t handle the additional flow. When you blink, the motion forces the lacrimal sacs to compress, squeezing tears out of them, away from the eyes, and into the nasolacrimal duct.

What are blocked tear ducts? A blocked tear duct is a fairly common

and usually temporary problem that occurs in infants. Having blocked tear ducts does not mean that you don’t make tears. It actually means that the drainage system is blocked, so the tears that are made can’t drain out, and the eye becomes flooded. Blocked tear ducts occur in up to 20 percent of newborns. The condition can affect just one eye or both. For some babies, blocked tear ducts aren’t immediately evident at

birth and may not be noticed until the baby is a month old. What are the symptoms? When an infant has a blocked tear duct, the eye looks wet or tears may spill over onto the cheek, even when he or she is not crying. There is often mucoid material, a mucus-like substance, on the edges of the eyelid. What causes blocked tear ducts? For most children born with a blocked tear duct, there is only a small membrane

blocking the opening, which opens spontaneously as the infant grows. Usually the membrane opens by 10 to 12 months of age. How is it treated? Since the majority of cases resolve without treatment, most doctors suggest waiting to see if the duct opens on its own. There is spontaneous remission in 95 percent of cases by age 1. In the meantime, doctors

typically recommend keeping the eye clean, and may prescribe an antibiotic eye ointment to help reduce the discharge from the eyeIf the condition doesn’t resolve itself, a quick outpatient procedure, called a probe and irrigation is done. It’s performed under brief, general anesthesia so the child is comfortable. A small metal instrument is passed through the nasolacrimal duct to open the membrane. This procedure cures more than 90 percent of the cases that haven’t resolved on their own. In the rare situation that the probing doesn’t help, other measures, such as the placement of tubes, using a balloon instrument to stretch the opening, or surgery to create a new passage between the tear sac and the nose, can be done. But it’s usually not necessary. While there’s no debate about how to treat blocked tear ducts, there is some controversy about when to perform a procedure.

Don’t hate tears, they serve a purpose

Many children are born with an underdeveloped tear-duct system, a problem that can lead to tear-duct blockage, excess tearing, and infection.

Blocked tear ducts are common in infants; as many as one third may be born with this condition. Fortunately, more than 90% of all cases resolve by the time kids are 1 year old with little or no treatment.

Page 5: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012 CITIZEN MATTERS 5

Puttenahalli Neighbourhood Lake Improvement Trust (PNLIT) is trying to raise money for the recently revived Puttenahalli lake through Mahindra Spark the Rise funding contest. The entry “PNLIT - Nurturing Puttenahalli Lake

back to its pristine glory” is to serve as a template for reviving lakes with active

public participation.

Your support in the December preliminary round of voting helped us win a grant of `4 lakh from Spark the Rise. In

the grand finale, there are four prizes - `40 lakh for the winner, and `20 lakh each for three runner-ups. Winners are decided based on votes cast by both public and jury. Voting is open from 2nd to 15th April.

PNLIT is Bengaluru’s first citizen caretaker of a lake. The Trust is instrumental in giving a new lease of life to a lake, and making it home to over 50 species of birds.

Why does PNLIT need funds?

BBMP has officially handed over Puttenahalli lake to PNLIT for nurturing, for a period of three years

from May 2011-2014. While BBMP restored the lake in 2010, PNLIT gets no government funding for day-to-day expenses of the lake.

PNLIT also has some investment requirements and ideas to improve lake water quality, bird habitat etc. PNLIT has other eco-initiatives like promotion of cloth bags, waste management and nature walks.

Usha Rajagopalan is a trustee of pnlIT.

How to vote?* SMS ‘MHRISe P07’ to 54646.* vote online at www.spark-therise.com. Click on our project ‘PNLIt - Nurturing Puttenahalli Lake back to its pristine glory’, and click on ‘vote’ button.

CITIzeN RePoRTs

Puttenahalli lake needs your vote

We have inducted two teams of volunteers - PNLIT Mitra and PNLIT Young Rangers. We are happy to announce community gardening at the lake. Garden enthusiasts will be given a small plot of land on the lake bund in which to grow plants using organic manure. If you would like to join, please email [email protected]

Page 6: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

6 CITIZEN MATTERS 7-20 Apr 2012 Vol-4 Issue-05

JAyAnAgAr Jp nAgAr & BtM

We are pleased to announce a new voluntary, non-profit trust - Sarakki Lake Area Improvement Trust (Regd). The Trust wil help restore and rejuvenate the once pristine Sarakki Lake (also known as Jaraganahalli Lake) which has fallen prey to unprecedented encroachment, pollution by entry of untreated sewage from surrounding layouts, uncontrolled growth of water hyacinth and the consequent disappearance of birds and fishes.

We want to spread awareness of the consequences if Sarakki Lake were to disappear, work with the agencies responsible for restoration and rejuvenation and monitor the works. As a “neighbourhood watchdog” the

trust will ensure effective measures to restore the lake and its surroundings.

The founder trustees and office bearers are experienced

professionals from diverse fields and come from a wide cross section of the neighbouring communities. The trust Chairperson is R Jagannathan, Former DGP.

Individuals including Prof K S Bhat and Sudarshan G have helped immensely in setting up the trust.

We have noticed lorries entering the lake area and dumping debris thereby reducing lake area. With BDA now in charge of the lake, we have requested them to use stone blocks temporarily to prevent vehicles entering the area.

Sarakki Lake is very large (68 acres as per a BBMP survey, 2009) and requires lot of work to rejuvenate. We request everybody to be a part of this community initiative. As a first step, we request you to keep a watch and report any harmful or illegal activities.

Manjunath M p is a resident of Eshwara layout.and works as an IT professional. he is the secretary of slaIT.

sarakki lake too gets residents to champion its cause

CITIzeN RePoRTs

Builder L&T has filed a case in city Civil Court against all 2925 individual flat owners of L&T South City, off Bannerghatta road. The case is also against original owner of the land Dinesh Ranka and owners’ association SUGRUHA. It questions the validity of SUGRUHA, and says that a new association should be formed instead. Court has asked all 2925 flat owners to appear for the hearing on April 7th.

L&T, in their petition, says that

association can only be formed jointly by L&T, Ranka and all residents; SUGRUHA was formed only by residents with ulterior motives, and it cannot be recognised. SUGRUHA is not co-operating with L&T for forming new association and is hindering administration of the complex. L&T says that it can hand over the complex’s management only to the new association.

SUGRUHA has filed its objections

in court saying that it had already filed a case last year asking that L&T be prevented from forming a new association and that L&T responded to this by filing this counter-case. Karnataka Apartment Owners Act mandates that association should be formed as soon as seven flats in a complex are sold. L&T has not followed this, and is also holding `20 crore deposit from residents without providing accounts of it, SUGRUHA says.

NavYa P k

lawsuits spiral in l&t south City

Pic: Manjunath M P

Page 7: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012 CITIZEN MATTERS 7

He never let visual impairment come in the way of his endeavours. 41-year-old Mahantesh G

Kivadasannavar won the NDTV Sports Award, ‘Against The Odds’ (lifetime achievement) in February 2012. This JP Nagar resident co-founded Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled in 1997.

What brought you to Bangalore?

My childhood was in Belgaum, I had no formal education there, as there were no schools for the blind. In 1981, my father brought me to Bangalore and I joined Shree Ramana Maharishi Academy in JP Nagar. Later I joined National College, completed my MA in English Literature. I also taught literature for a while at the Law College in Bangalore.

How did Samarthanam start?

I knew a number of people who helped and wanted to help others, who were willing to spend time and generously fund. That led to the

idea of creating a platform where visually challenged students had an opportunity to study further. That was Samarthanam.

Where do you see Samarthanam going from here?

Personally, I am contented but the organisation has to grow and should reach out to the last disabled person. I want Samarthanam to be a pan-India organisation and reach all major cities and rural pockets of India.

Now we are building a disabled friendly residential school building, which have no barricades, no obstacles, where they can move around easily.

Samarthanam to me is not a profession; it is a part of me.

DeePthi M S

More than 100 granite factories and 10 quarries located in Jigani industrial area near Bannerghatta adversely affects the health of residents in the villages of Kallabalu, Mahanthalingapura, Krishnadoddi, Poojigana Palya, Ellammana doddi and in Bellar Bande. More than 10 thousand people in these villages suffer from respiratory disorders and other allergies due to dust from these granite factories.

“So many villagers are suffering from bronchitis, tuberculosis, cough, allergy and other skin diseases due to inhalation of air polluted with dust,” says Shakunthala G, Assistant Medical Officer, Mahanthalingapura government hospital.

The fumes rising from granite factories contain flouride that affects the lungs. Residents are also fearful of house collapse because of the tremors caused by quarrying.

Krishnappa, panchayat secretary, Mahanthalingapura says that they had sent a request to the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board two months ago but no action has been taken yet. However Mahesh T, Environmental Officer, KSPCB says that the Board

had shut down the factories but High Court permitted them to resume work. The quarrying and allied activities are supposed to be carried out in “safe zone”, that is a place where there are “no forests and no habitation.” But in Karnataka the safe zones have not yet been identified, Mahesh adds.

SaNkar C G is a student of indian institute of journalism and New Media.

loCAl MAtters

NiMMa NeIghbouR

‘samarthanam is a part of me’

Quarries make 10000 residents around Bannerghatta suffer

Pic: Deepthi M S

A quarry in Mahathalingappura, one of the ten quarries in Bannerghatta which cause respiratory disorder to the people.

Pic: Sankar C G

other than Cricket I like playing Chess, listening to music, news and sports commentaries. I enjoy traveling a lot. I always find a

reason to get out. I am a big fan of Kannada movies. I have watched almost all Kannada movies released between 1973- 2000. I also love spending time

with my wife and two

children.

Page 8: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

8 CITIZEN MATTERS 7-20 Apr 2012 Vol-4 Issue-05

CheCk outs

forget the Gobi manchuriDo you want to taste authentic Chinese cuisine without the tadka? Here are some options you can check out in Jayanagar.

Three Quarter Chinese at Jayanagar is a perfect place to hangout during weekends as it is a part of a set up that includes Amoeba bowling alley and games floor for children and grown-ups. The restaurant specialises in authentic Chinese and north Indian cuisines.

The ambience is posh and the hospitality is good. Golden Fried Babycorn and Chicken Taipei are the most sought-after starters here. The restaurant serves buffet lunch at `350 without alcohol. “The best of all the buffets I have had in Bangalore. This place is an absolute delight right from the moment you walk-in and the menu is great”, says Shashank Srinivas, a customer. Wallet factor: `1000 for two (without alcohol)

Noble House is one of the best known Chinese restaurants in Jayanagar. While the signage on the outside is quite jarring, the interiors are done up beautifully in bamboo and dark wood. The ambience is quite upmarket and a refreshing alternative to Jayanagar’s regular eating options. It specialises in Chinese and Thai cuisines.

The hospitality makes you come back and of course the food too.

Dumplings, soups, noodles, crab and

lamb dishes are a must-try here. Wallet factor: `700 for two ( w i t h o u t alcohol)

Mainland China is one restaurant which cannot be missed when it comes to Chinese cuisine. Mainland china has four outlets in the city. Its authentic taste is what leaves the customers coming back for more. Located right in the heart of Jayanagar, it has one of the tastiest Chinese dishes in Jayanagar.

It has a varied range of flawless Chinese vegetarian and non v e g e t a r i a n food. Popular

items include: Prawn and chicken Szechuan, Ginseng Chicken and some exotic sea food as well. Mainland China serves buffet lunch as well for `495 + tax (Mon-Fri) and `595 + tax (Sat-Sun).

They have an assorted selection of desserts, including Chocolate brownie, fresh fruits, Strawberry Mousse, Cakes, Vanilla, Mango and Chocolate icecreams with chocolate sauce, nuts and raisins as add-ons. Mainland China is a good luncheon

option for business meetings. Wallet factor: Approx `1400 for two (without alcohol)

Canton Bar and Restaurant is a good place to spend quality time with friends and family. It serves great Chinese food. The must-eat

at this place would be Chicken Manchow and Pepper Chicken

Balls. Canton also serves alcohol.

The ambience is quite right for an evening chat or a get together. It serves very nice pork delicacies. The Pork Roast and Garlic Pork go well with chilled

beer. The prices are nominal. This place is also ideal for business meetings and fun filled lunch/dinner. Wallet factor: `250-700 for two (without alcohol)

three Quarter Chinese: 22nd Cross, Cosmopolitan Club, 3rd Block, jayanagar, ph:

30412940 ext: 336

Noble house: 197/F, 1st Floor, 8th ‘B’ Main, 27th Cross, 3rd Block, jayanagar. ph: 080 26541554

Canton Bar and restaurant: 28/29, 9th Main, 3rd Block, jayanagar, Bangalore-11, ph no: 080-600-00-600, 26630353

Mainland China: 5th Block, 9th Main Road, 40th Cross, 4th Block shopping Complex, jayanagar, Bangalore– 560041. ph: 26532525

NaGaShree Gururaj

Page 9: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012 CITIZEN MATTERS 9

Are you at your workplace worrying about your pet left alone at home? Or having nightmares of seeing your dog caged in with no proper food while you are out on a holiday? There are pet care centres in Bengaluru that promise to take good care of your pets while you are away.

Set in a green open place with trees around and free of confined places is Pet Space, located on Sarjapura Road. One rule that is strictly followed at Pet Space is ‘no leash’ for pets. All pets based on their temperament test results are put into a playgroup that suits them. These temperament tests are done at the time of check-in. Pet Space has an option of daycare and longer boarding facilities for dogs and cats. Pets get to follow the diet they are accustomed to. It costs about `350 -425 per day depending on size of the dog and food.

If your dog is fond of water, then Paw and Claw is the right place. Spread over 5000 sq ft of area, Paw and Claw also provides a dog pool. They give importance to the physical fitness of pets. Their routine involves a mid-day walk for dogs. Owners who request specific diets for their dogs are asked to provide them. They also provide daycare and longer term boarding for dogs. Rates are `350 per day and `250 per session in the swimming pool.

If you are looking out for boarding spaces for your cats or rabbits along with your dogs, then PetStepin’ is the place. They have facilities for day care and long stays for dogs, cats

and small pets like hamsters. The dogs are left open to play around all day, cats are kept in individual kennels with toys and are let out for a couple of hours. They have a menu on board but are open to accommodate specific diet as per the owners requirements. The prices ranges from `300-450 a night, depending on breed and age of dogs. `350 a night for cats. `100 per night for small pets. Day care costs `200-350.

If the idea of leaving your pets with other dogs is not comfortable, then Anvis can make arrangements for a foster home stay for your pets. Foster homes are selected by Anvis after careful consideration of their knowledge in taking care of pets. To avail this facility, one has to register as a member of Anvis. Depending

upon your dog’s temperament, suitable foster homes are made available for a short period of stay. Prices vary.

Pet Space: near Wipro Corporate office, Between hp petrol bunk and Indian oil petrol bunk, off sarjapur Road. ph: 9900-020-364, 9900-142-117

Paw and Claw: #27/3, Chikka Bellandur, sarjapur road. ph: 9845207866, 8884571185

PetStepin’: 38, Rustam Bagh, hal airport Road (Behind Manipal hospital) +91 97422 79644, +91 98865 84925

anvis: ph: 9972524880, 9060923349

DeePthi M S

CheCkpouts

doggie day care in Bengaluru

Pic: Petstepin

Dogs, cats, rabbits and even hamsters can find a friendly daycare or hostel while you are away at work or on a holiday.

Pic: Petspace

Pic: Petstepin

Page 10: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

10 CITIZEN MATTERS 7-20 Apr 2012 Vol-4 Issue-05

sAkAlA guarantee of services to Citizens Act

The pilot launch of the Guarantee of Services to Citizens Act 2011 (Sakala) in Jayanagar saw only 31 applications filed. The pilot was on between March 1st to March 31st at the Jayanagar Revenue office.

The number 31, however contradicts the government figure of 72, 505 applications for the same period. This office covers four BBMP wards (168-171).

An official at the revenue office on condition of anonymity explained why the numbers were so low. “Here we have minimum three days to deliver services. People prefer availing Bangalore One services as their delivery model is quicker,” he said.

The Act has been implemented in the entire state from April 2nd.

What is the Act for?

The Act is to help citizens get government services without hassles and on time, and to hold government officials accountable. It covers all government bodies,

public sector companies and non-government bodies funded by government.

What are the services covered under the Act?

The Act covers 151 services under 11 departments. These include issue of khatas, ration cards, permission for holding protests etc. Check the procedure for getting different services at http://sakala.kar.nic.in/kgsc1/gsc_home.aspx.

Who are authorities under the Act?

Designated officers (Dos): Specific officers designated for providing each services. Competent officers (Cos): Officers whom you can appeal to if DO does not provide the service. Appellate Authority (AA): Deputy Secretary or above who can take action if the CO does not respond.

For different services, different time

limits are set for DOs to deliver it, and for COs and AAs to dispose the appeals. For example, if you want to get a driver’s license, the DO for this is the RTO / Assistant RTO. If they do not issue license within the deadline of 30 days, you can complain to Deputy Commissioner of Transport (DCT) who is the CO for this service. If the DCT does not dispose your appeal within his 15-day deadline, you can complain to Joint Commissioner of Transport (JCT), who is the AA. JCT has to respond to your appeal in 30 days.

What if I do not get an acknowledgement or the service itself?

You can file an appeal with the CO within 30 days of default/denial of service; appeal does not require any payment. You have to fill a form and submit information about your application.

What relief can you get?

CO will acknowledge your application, hold hearings and get the service delivered. He will also give compensation within 30 days of your appeal. Compensation is Rs 20 per day of default of service, at maximum of Rs 500 per application. This amount will later be recovered from DO. Only if DOs are habitual offenders will their lapses be recorded in service records.

What if my appeal is rejected or I do not get a satisfactory order?

You can file a second appeal with the Appellate Authority (AA) within 30 days of CO’s order, with a self attested copy of the CO order and copy of documents mentioned in the appeal. AAs may hold hearings, get compensation levied from them, order departmental enquiries, or even appoint another officer to investigate the issue.

NavYa P [email protected]

Government’s guarantee not just promise?

WHAT’S NEWIn every DO office, there will be a board displaying information on services and how to apply for them. On submitting the application, you will get an acknowledgement slip with date of delivery of service, and an acknowledgement (GSC) number. You will get an SMS once your request is processed. If your application is incomplete, the acknowledgment will mention this and not give a date of delivery. If the application is rejected later, DO has to record the reason for that. You can check your application status using GSC number at http://www.kgsc.kar.nic.in or by calling the helpline 44554455. In case of delay, you can file complaint at the helpline or mail [email protected].

Sakala may not be faster than Bangalore One, but the government guarantees that your job will be done. Here’s how.

Pic: Abhishek Angad

Page 11: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012 CITIZEN MATTERS 11

russel MArket CrIsIsWho’s side is BBmP on? A traders’ initiative to rebuild Shivajinagar’s gutted-Russell Market after the February 25th fire mishap has led to a standoff between them and BBMP. BBMP has sent an eviction notice to Russell Market traders citing dilapidated conditions.

Though the fire weakened the market structure initially, renovation seems to have restored strength. To rebuild the structure, traders employed a third party, KK Infrastructure Pvt Ltd. All the affected traders contributed funds along with money received from the government.

Work has started on the ground floor and the full restructuring of gutted first floor will begin. The construction c o m p a n y claims to have e x t e n d e d the life of the structure by 100 years.

KK Infrastructure has also asked Civil Aid, a Bengaluru based organisation that verifies structural quality of buildings. BBMP has also setup a committee to look into the issue of fire and the building’s stability, says K R Niranjan, Special Commissioner (Project, Resource & Finance)-BBMP. “Until then Russell Market will continue to work as it is. We are also awaiting Civil Aid’s report on the stability of Russell Market”, says Niranjan.

Foul play suspected?

The origin of the fire on February 25th, though reported as short circuit, is rumoured to be be a case of arson. The reason: an unconfirmed report that BBMP was anyways planning to evict the shopkeepers to make way for a multi-level parking complex. Traders fear that the fire was an arson caused by BBMP’s plans, to force them to vacate.

However, local corporator, Shakeel Ahmed (Congress, Bharathinagar), denied rumours of BBMP plans to evict the market for a parking complex. “Russell market was never meant to be rebuilt for parking. There are plans to construct a parking lot but it is on the opposite side of the market, for which a sum of Rs.40 crores has been approved by the central government.”

He does however disagrees with BBMP officials’ plans to evict shopkeepers and says, “Russell Market attracts buyers from all over Bangalore and eviction is not a solution.”

The situation is further complicated by BBMP’s unwillingness to cooperate with traders wanting to continue with their business, after the fire. BBMP has now locked up the public toilets in the market, which the traders find a problem.

Power supply not restored

Over 400 of the shops open for business now, have had no power

after the fire. BESCOM cut electricity for the entire market just after the fire, forcing the traders to use kerosene or gas lanterns and emergency lights.

BESCOM however wants a letter from BBMP to restore power supply. A BESCOM official, under condition of anonymity, says, “BBMP has to send us a request for restoring the supply for the part of market unburnt.” So far there is no proposal from BBMP to restore the supply.

Despite hostility from BBMP, the traders feel confident of their local corporator and MLA’s support. Pervez Ahmed, Secretary-

Russell Markets Union said, “We have got full support from our Corporator, Shakeel Ahmed and MLA, Roshan Baig and therefore we will be able to start our work again. Negotiations are continuing with BBMP and we hope that electricity will be restored soon.”

aBhiShek aNGaD [email protected]

CovER CREdITs: Cover creditsRussel Market shops gutted after fire. pic: abhishek angad. Inset: Russel Market scene. pic: M s gopalCollage: pics courtesy: Kaveri singhji

RUSSEL MARKET REGULARS PITCH IN

Kaveri Sinhji, CEO of a cultural consulting company, is a regular visitor to the market. She decided to start a postcard campaign to

aid fire victims. The process started a day after the mishap.Photographs of the market (before the fire), is available for sale for Rs 100 in the form of postcards. The postcards also

include a cartoon from well known cartoonist Paul Fernandes. Postcards worth Rs 11000 have been sold so far. Log on to www.bluefoot.in for details.

pic: abhishek angad.

Page 12: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

12 CITIZEN MATTERS 7-20 Apr 2012 Vol-4 Issue-05

for your Info

Ask a person who would have died of an adverse drug reaction if not for steroids, what does S/he thinks of steroids. The answer would be, it is a boon.Ask a man whose wife, suffering from arthritis and on long term steroid medication, dies due to a perforated bleeding peptic ulcer: what does he thinks of steroids. The answer would be – a curse. Steroids or a n a b o l i c steroids have been in the news for all the wrong r e a s o n s , especially with sports people and doping scandals. Most drugs used in sports are anabolic steroids or their derivatives.Steroids are used in various forms: applied in cases of skin diseases, administered orally for arthritis, joint

pains and inflammatory conditions, injectible for brain tumours or head injury, for inhalation as in cases of asthma, nasal mucosal inflammation, sinuses, airway, chronic lung diseases and so on.In a layman’s mind, there is always a debate about pros and cons of

steroids. Some of the important side-effects noted in literature include effects on endocrine glands causing insulin resistant diabetes, hypothyroidism and hypogonadism. Other adverse effects include osteoporosis, and aggravation of peptic ulcer disease. It is known

to cause gastrointestinal bleeding. A major side-effect is, it decreases the immune reaction. To sum up:f Steroids if used judiciously have a great beneficial effect.f If the doctor is prescribing steroids then you must inform the physician

of use of any other drugs / history of diabetes, any lingering infection which may flare up, or symptoms of ulcer disease like pain in upper abdomen, related to meals, history of vomiting, history of bleeding with vomiting or passing dark coloured stools .f In children, there are a few situations where steroids are advised. They have reduced the morbidity and mortality significantly in children afflicted with leukemia, asthma, rheumatic diseases, and other inflammatory disorders. However one needs to watch for side-effects like mood changes, increased hunger, problems falling or stay asleep, nightmares, acting withdrawn, weight gain, pain (such as muscle cramps), indigestion, growth of body hair and red/flushed cheeks.f Should never be used without being prescribed by a doctor.

steroids: bane or boon?

Pay your property tax for 2012-13BBMP has started property tax payment collection for 2012-13. Application forms for tax payment are available at all offices for a fee of Rs 5. Garbage cess should be calculated and paid along with property tax.

TAX RATES & REBATES

• No revision in rates. No change in self-declared tax and building depreciation.

• Pay by 30th May 2012. After that, additional interest of 2% for every month of delay.

• Get a rebate of 5% by paying the full amount by 30th April.

WHERE TO PAY

• All BBMP offices and Bangalore One centers on all working days. Payment hours are from 9 am to 12.30 pm, and from 3 pm to 7 pm. Locate your Bangalore One centre here: http://www.bangaloreone.gov.in/public/b1centres.aspx

• You can pay in two half-yearly installments. The first installment is due without interest by 30th May 2012 and the second without interest by 29th November 2012.

ONLINE PAYMENT

• Those who have already declared tax for 2008-2009, can use their credit/debit cards to pay tax online on BBMP website. For 2011-12 and 2012-13, pay at: http://1113.sasbbmp.comFor 2009-10 and 2010-11, pay at: http://sasbbmp.com

B REGISTER/SAKRAMA

• All property owners with property in B Register (temporary Khata) and those who have not yet obtained a Khata can also pay tax in the nearest office.

• Owners of properties in revenue layouts and apartments can pay self-declared tax in B Register in the nearest office until those sites

are legalised under ‘Sakrama rule’. (Editor’s note: Readers, Sakrama Bill not yet approved by Governor of Karnataka)

CASH OR CHEQUE OR DD?

• Pay by cheques/DD/pay order or by credit/debit cards.

• If tax amount is less than Rs 1,000, it can be paid by cash.

• Those who pay by DD/pay order for amounts above Rs 15,000 will be given acknowledgement receipt immediately. For cheque payments, receipt will be given after cheque realisation. If cheque amount is less than Rs 15,000, acknowledgment will be given immediately.

NeWS DeSk

This article was compiled with information from a BBMp release. For detailed guide, see: http://bangalore.citizenmatters.in/topic/property%20tax

heAlth MAtters

CoL (ReTD) DR MukuL sAxeNA

Pic: Wikimedia Commons

Page 13: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012 CITIZEN MATTERS 13

Mary Issac from Jayanagar started Child Fund Association in 1982. providing children shelter and support. She has also helped several families by sponsoring fees, books, uniforms and clothes. Mary is one of the 47 nominations for this year’s Namma Bengaluru Awards.

Namma Bengaluru Awards were constituted by Namma Bengaluru Foundation, convened by Rajeev Chandrasekhar, MP, to honour such unsung heroes and institutions for their exemplary work towards society. Nomination were collected under six different categories; groups and organisations, citizens, public officials, public institutions, social entrepreneurs and elected representatives. NGOs, Residents Welfare Associations, educational institutions, NGOs, Public Officials, Social Entrepreneurs, Elected representatives are among the nominees. Out of the shortlisted candidates, a select few will be awarded on 7th April in a glittering ceremony at National College Grounds in Basavanagudi.

On being nominated Mary says, “If I win I could use the prize money on the education of children. I am helping 12 girls doing SSLC and they need money to go to college including fees, bus pass etc.”

SAAHAS, an NGO has been nominated under Social Entrepreneurs category from Jayanagar. It is focusses on zero waste projects in Bangalore. It collects used packaging like the tetra paks, recycle them into products

that can be sold.

Wilma Rodrigues, Director, SAAHAS says she is “delighted to learn that there is an acknowledgement and acceptance of waste management problems and solutions.”

Another nominee is Jayanagar based Dream-a Dream. This organisation helps develop life skills in disadvantaged urban children and youth. “Getting nominated in Namma Bengaluru Awards 2011 was a very proud moment for us. We are strongly focussed on upliftment of urban youth and this will definitely help us,” says Vishal Talreja, Co-founder and Director, Dream-a-Dream.

KAS Officer, h M Mujeeb Ahmed is the Chief Executive officer of the Roerich & Devaki Rani Roerich Estate Board. Nominated in the Public Official category, this Koramangala resident enjoys a clean record and has been a role model for colleagues and subordinates. A very delighted Ahmed says, “remaining honest is the ardent duty of any public servant. It is an one in a lakh opportunity to be a public servant and I am happy that I am able to keep my hands clean.”

Another public official from Jayanagar, Dr P R krishna Prasad, Scientist, Head of University of Agricultural sciences, Bangalore is also a nominee. He has developed and improved varieties of wheat, rice, sugarcane, brinjal.

Filmmaker and environmentalist, suresh heblikar from Jayanagar has made two dozen short films and documentaries on solar energy, wildlife, lakes, Western Ghats, and conservation. He is also the founder of Eco Watch, an organisation aimed at protecting the fast disappearing forests and water resources. Heblikar has been nominated under Citizen Category. He says, “It increases my responsibility, makes me feel more committed towards the society. “

shanti Raghavan who founded Koramangala based Enable India, which trains and counsels people with disability, is another nominee. She works with corporates and helps a large number disabled find employment opportunities.

aBhiShek aNGaD

feAturenamma Bengaluru awards this weekend

OTHER NOMINEESCitizensDr Narpat SolankiFr. Anthony SebastianUday VijayanG Manohar Row Auto ShivakumarDr Meenakshi BharatDr B S VenkateshDr B Ramana RaoMeena K JainPublic OfficialsVidya shankarU V SinghP Manivannan Sudhindra RaoLakshmamma

Lata KrishnaraoShrishail S IKrishna MurthyPublic Institutions LokayuktaBangalore OneBangalore Traffic PoliceSocial EntrepreneursHarish HandePavithra Y SDaily DumpElected Representatives Krishna Byre GowdaRajendra RShoba KarandlajeSuresh Kumar

Mary IssacWilma Rodrigues

Shanti Raghavan

Page 14: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

ART & sCIeNCeShemRock PReSchool & Day-caRe: Theme activities, field day out, grand carnival, amazing races & personality develop-ment, 23 apr-1st may, mon-Fri, 10am-1pm, age 2-10 From 1st Std, Near Brigade millen-nium. JP Nagar 7th phase- Ph: 9686200112/ 2525.

Helping Hands: classes for under per-formers, Starts: may 1st, JP Nagar 5th Phase. Ph:9880647825

Kids Home: Dance, music, drawing, craft, fort making, painting, without gas cooking. Puppet shows, puppet making; Starts: 2nd week apr mon-Fri age-From 3years; 5th phase JP Nagar, Ph:66815301

UC mas mental aritHmetiC sys-tem and CUrve: abacus, handwrit-ing improvement. Starts: 16th apr 9.30am-11.30am mon-Fri age-4.5-13, Fees:2000, aV education Society, J.P Nagar 5th Phase, Ph: 9901077668, 9901077668

time Kids: Drawing, painting, music, dance, aerobic, indoor toy play, storytell-ing; Starts: 9th apr- may end, 9.30a.m to

summer camp listings

Continued in pg 17 >>

sHri sai mind CareNear GNR kalyana mantapa, 18th main,

Jayanagar 4T block, BangaloreabacusVedic mathshandwritingcalligraphyPhonicsmusic

languagesRangoliDrawingarts & craftschessTution

memory Tech-niques

Dancemehendi classchocolate mak-

ing

mobile: 93797 63375Summer camp starting 5th April

Page 15: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Taxi services * Tution classes * Music & dance classes * Competitive exam coaching * Catering * plumbers * Electricians * Real estate * pet walking * personal Fitness...Citizen Matters Classifieds reach over 36000 homes

To PLACe youR ADs & CLAssIfIeDs - CALL 9901685368

heaLth & NutritioNSRINIVASA DENTAL

CARE CENTRE Dr. VIShWaS # 383, 8th main, 7th cross, mico layout, BTm 2nd stage, Bangalore- 76. Ph:41201345, 9845195605. multi specialist Dental clinic & Implant centre.

CHILDRENS DENTAL CLINIC

DR. NeRaJa RaJU consultant Pedodontist. For appointment : 9845195605, 41201345. address: # 383, 8th main, 7th cross, mico layout, BTm 2nd stage, Bangalore-76

eDuCatioNINTENSIVE COACHING

acca/ca/cIma/cS/IcFaI/IcWa & mBa With latest corporate case Studies. contact: lalitha Group, #5,Behind Smart,19th cross, 24th main, JP Nagar 5th Phase, Bangalore-78. Ph:080-26490907, 9742167094, 9902888485, 9448117457

reaLtYBUILDERS/DEVELOPERSmanjunatha architectural Plan, Structure Design, Sanction Plan, Vaastu Plan, estimate & constuction of Bldgs Shop #1, 5th main, mico layout, BTm 2nd Stage, Near SBI. call mune Gowda 9845416748, 9844468507, 3297645

LAVANYA REAL ESTATE 2 & 3 Bhk Flat for Rent / Sale in BTm layout, Bannerghatta Road, J.P. Nagar, Jayanagar & koramangala. contact: 9916706389, 9611444944. email: [email protected]

otherSBANGALORE TIMBER &

PLYWOODSall Types oF Plywoods & laminates. Dealers In : Teak, honne, Sall, Neem, Beach, Silver, Round logs & cut Sizes. # 647, 16/2/3, arekere Gate, Near BPl Bus Stop, Bannerghatta Road. call: 9845604013, 26583501

HERBAL PEST CONTROL SERVICES

FoR aNT, cockroach, Bedbug, Termite, Rat etc. 100% Safe & effective. No Smell/Stain. 2Bhk Rs. 450. We also do annual maintenance contract: Rs 1200/year only!call: 9972711444/ 8971223206.

Bangalore’s own interactive newsmagazine

eDIToRsSubramaniam VincentMeera KPadmalatha Ravi

JouRNALIsM TeAMNavya P KAnisha NairAbhishek [email protected]

MkTg/CIRCuLATIoNRaghavendra 98455 06477Satvik [email protected]@oorvani.in

ADVT sALesRamachandran P 9901 685368Srikant [email protected]

DesIgN/PRoDuCTIoNShivakeshava M

fouNDeD by Meera KSubramaniam Vincent©Oorvani Media Pvt Ltd.

[email protected] Ph: 080 — 41737584

Citizen Matters

Taxi services * Tution classes * Music & dance

classes * Competitive exam coaching *

Catering * Plumbers * Electricians * Real

estate * Pet walking * Personal Fitness

PLACe youR ADs & CLAssIfIeDs

Call Ramachandran

Ph: [email protected]

Page 16: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

16 CITIZEN MATTERS 7-20 Apr 2012 Vol-4 Issue-05

see & doTALksHer master’s voice; women and the gramophone recordsAn audio-visual lecture presentation on by Vikram Sampath13 apr, 6.30 pm Bangalore international centre, TERI complex,4th main, 2nd cross, domlur II stage, rsvp 98865 99675

Meet Jack Canfield live in Bangalore sat 14 apr 4pm, Christ university auditorium, hosur roadWoRkshoPScrabble workshop - “playing professional scrabble”Facilitated by Satish Srinivasan,professional scrabble player Tue 17 apr - sat 21 apr, just books 3rd block koramangala, near sevasadan instituteCoNTesTDare 2 drive - corporate editionFirst ever corporate TSD rally in Bangalore.Get your car and navigator ready to go on a drive of your lifetime! www.thrillerlife.com 21-22 apr

Greenscraps: Nature journaling workshopConducted by Sangeeta Kadur. Call 98868 12598 starts 7.30 am, april 30, lalbagh

MusICDignity 17th Anniversary: Celebrate the celebritiesAmitasana Das Prabhu speaks on bhakti. Followed by Light classical music by Manasi Prasad.3 pm 8 apr, pramilabai Mane BBMp school, vijayanagar-Magadi Road. ph: 4219 8395 fILMsDocumentary Film festival 7 Apr, 5:00 pm Pink Saris7 Apr, 5:30 pm Sahitya Sanje - Lectures On D V Gundappa7 Apr, 7 pm Love In IndiaApr 8, 11 am Kahan Kahan Se Guzresuchitra Centre for Film & drama, BanashankariTheATReRangashankara Plays7 Sat, 8 Sun: Bombay Talkies (E) (also at 3.30 pm on sun) 10 tue, 11 Wed: Gundaayana (K) 12 Thu, 13 fri: This Eng14 Sat: The devil’s tree (E) (kids above 5)15 Sun: Narigaligeke Kodilla (K) (also at 3.30 pm) (kids above 5 years)17 Tue to 20 fri and 11 am on 21 sat: Boy with a suitcase (E) 21 Sat, 22 sun: Yen hucchuri...Yaak hingadtiri… kannada (also at 3.30 pm on sun)

MusIC seAsoN

74th Sree Ramavnavami Celebrations 7 Apr Sanjay Subrahmanyan 8 Apr U Srinivas & U Rajesh ( Mandolin) 9 Apr H K Venkatram-G Ravikiran-Ashwin Anand ( Venu Veena Violin) 10 Apr Rudrapatnam Brothers 11 Apr Papanasam Ashok Ramani

12 Apr O S Arun 13 Apr Abhishek Raghuram14 Apr Mysore Nagaraj & Manjunath

(violin) 15 Apr Ajoy Chakravarthy 16 Apr Lalgudi G J R Krishnan & Vijayalakshmi17 Apr Pattabhirama Pandit 18 Apr Saralaya Sisters 19 Apr N Vijay Siva/Dr Hemalatha/ Poongulam Subrahmanyam/Anirudha Athreya20 Apr Sikkil Gurucharan 21 Apr 6:30 pm Mysore Manjunath & Ronu Majumdar (Carnatic-hindustani Jugalbandi)22 Apr Ranjani & Gayathri 6.30 pm (till May 6), Fort high school ground

Ramanavami Concerts, Sri Jayarama Seva Mandali 7 Apr – G Ravikiran8 Apr – Seeta Kalyana

followed by Dance by Divya Bhushan10 Apr Veena – R.K Padmanabha11 Apr – Kalavathy Avadhooth12 Apr – Prince Rama Ravi Varma13 Apr – Ranjani Gayatri14 Apr – Dance – Ramu Kunnigal15 Apr – Rama Pattabhisheka and Rathotsava#492/a, sri jayarama seva Mandali Road, 8th block jayanagar,

Nadasurabhi concerts Kasturirangan ( Vocal) disciple of T N Seshagopalan with B Raghuram, B C Manjunath, Sukanya Ramgopal15 apr , 4:15 pm, heritage academy hall, KoramangalaRamanavami celebrations: V Sankaranarayanan (vocal)7 apr, sri Rama seva mandali, Koramangala

Vocal Concert by Mambalam Sisters ( Vijayalakshmi & Chitra)7 Apr, Indranagar Sangeetha Sabha (Purandara Bhavan)

Other venues with music concerts:Sri Ramanavami Music Festival, Sheshadripuram College PremisesSri Rama Navami Sangeetotsava, Raja Rajeshwari Nagar

Page 17: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Vol-4 Issue-05 7-20 Apr 2012 CITIZEN MATTERS 17

summer camp listings << from pg 14 12.30p.m, age-1.5-8, JP Nagar 2nd phase, Ph:65681711

JUst 4 U sUmmer Camp: Drawing. Painting, dance, shlokas; Starts: apr 7th, 9.30a.m-12.00p.m, BTm 2nd stage, Bann-erghatta road, Ph: 26687473, 9874787260

sUmmer Camp Karate Classes: karate, stick training, 8.30am-10am, mon-sat, age groups: 5+, Fees: 500, JP Nagar, Bann-erghatta road, Ph: 9343727928,

Kidz n Brainz: art & craft, accountancy, abacus & vedic maths; Starts apr 1st week,

9.30am – 11.30am, age: 1st std, mico layout BTm 2nd stage, Ph:9845049119

FeviCryal art & CraFt Camp: art & craft, music & movements, field trips, Start: 5-29 apr, 9.30am-1.30pm mon-Fri Fees: 2300-2900. BTm 2nd stage Ph: 9902815643, 26680441.e mail: [email protected]

indian art & danCe: Revisit epic Ra-mayana. age, 3-6, Science innovaton lab age: 7+, 6-19 apr; Workshop in calligraphy age: 8+, 6-21 apr; Fusion fun camp age: 3+, 2-13may Start: 6-29 apr, 9.30a.m-12.30p.m,

mon-Fri Fees: 2300-2900, BTm layout 2nd stage Ph: 26782703, 9880956343.

sUmmer Carnival: magic school, dance, picnic day, cultural programme, stage show. Start: 9th-29 apr & 7th -27th may 10am-1pm, mon-Fri, age groups: 2-14 Fees: 2300-2900, little millennium, 5th block Jay-anagar, Ph: 22444888, 9845063940.

sUmmer FUn @ eUroKids: Story time, creative time, music & movement etc, age: 3-10, mchS layout BTm 2nd stage, Ph: 8453340248

eVents & hAppenIngs

Feet up, eyes glued to television, magazine in hand, house in a mess and she is in her own world of relaxation. The “Right to leisure” poster was brought out by Asmita, an Andhra Pradesh based NGO. Those gathered for the launch of ‘Our pictures, Our Words’ book published by Zubaan, could relate very well to the poster.

The pink poster is one of the hundreds of other pictures in the book - Our Pictures, Our words by Laxmi Murthy and Rajashri Dasgupta, published by Zubaan. The book was launched on March 31st at Jaaga – KH road. The event was organised by Network of Women in Media, Bangalore (NWMB), Jaaga and Zubaan publishers. The book

is a compilation of pictures, posters and graffiti of the various women’s movements across India.

The book launch was followed by a panel discussion on Feminism and its relevance in today’s India. The panelists included Laxmi Murthy, Ammu Joseph, independent journalist, Maithreyi Krishna Raj – former Professor and Director, Research Centre for Women’s Studies at SNDT Women’s University and part of the Women’s Movement since 1975, Padmalatha Ravi, Associate Editor, Citizen Matters, and Subramaniam Vincent, Co-founder, India Together and Citizen Matters.

aNiSha [email protected]

Feet up, eyes glued to television, magazine in hand, house in a mess and she is in her own world of relaxation. From “Right to leisure” a poster by NGO Asmita.

Poster women captured in a book

runninG your WAy to heAlth!

32 runs will take place across the city in 32 months! on the occa-sion of world health day, Banga-lore Schools Sports Foundation will hold its first 3-mile run on April 7th in association with wellness India. It is organised to promote health and sports from a grassroot level. The run will start from Kan-teerava stadium from 7 am. The registration starts at 5.30 am and felicitation would start from 8.15 am. The categories for the 3-mile run are - Childrens Run, Family Run, Corporate Run and Com-munity Run.Citizen Matters is the media part-ner for the event.

Continued in pg 18 >>

Page 18: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

18 CITIZEN MATTERS 7-20 Apr 2012 Vol-4 Issue-05

gloBal art worKsHop: Free work-shop, creativity for children, 5-15 yrs, april 13th (Friday). Basavanagudi, near National college. Registration closes 10th apr. call Preetha @9620234312.

sUmmer Camp at ninos pre sCHool: arts & crafts, Story Telling, Pot Painting, Drawing, Water Painting, music & movement, Public Speaking, 2-5 yrs & 5 yrs+,Fees Rs. 2000 2nd Stage BTm layout, Bangalore 560076, 91 80 40917477, Ph: 9845579609 [email protected]

rangasHanKara aHa sUmmer express: Workshops: music by Bombay Jayashri, acting, Filmmaking, Visual arts, Theatre workshops by anurupa Roy, Shaili Sathyu and hamsa moily. Registrations open, write to [email protected]. 9 apr to 6th may, Rangashankara, JP Nagar

natyalaya sUmmer Camp worK-sHop: Dance, music, Fitness, art classes etc, 30th apr to 26th may, 10.30am to 2 pm, age 4-14 Fees :5000, at JP Nagar & Jayanagar, Ph: 26581888,9243378678

sPoRTs & ouTDooRspeCial sUmmer Camp Karate: ka-rate. age groups: 5+, kitturu Rani Stadium, 3rd block Jayanagar, Ph:9880352165. [email protected]

yisa sUmmer Camp: yoga, dance, clay modeling, drawing, painting, etc, and Sports: cricket, basketball, swimming etc. 5th apr-15th may, age : 5 -16, mahatma childrens home, JP Nagar. Srinivas: 9880567144

Kslta-tennis CoaCHing Camp: age 4-18, also for adults, 45 days from april 09th, 2012; certified coaches. conducted at cubbon Park & Sree kanteerava Stadium. Niranjan Ramesh, chief coach: 9901893601. abdul huq Rabbani, manager, kSlTa, Ph: 22861010

Horse riding staBles: apr 30-may 25 (Second batch), JP nagar 7th Phase opp to Brigade millenium, Ph: 9611352885

BUlldog tennis aCademy: Sum-mer camp 4-14 yrs, International Tennis Fed-eration approved Play&Stay, off kanakapura Road. Tel:99000 95604

Btm roller sKating ClUB: Sarts: 9th apr-3rd may & 7th may- 31st may, 7am-9am, 3pm-5pm, address: BTm 2nd stage, Ph: 9945175788, 9611018988

gerry martin’s wildliFe worK-sHops: at Sarjapur Road. Fun-filled out-ings at Western Ghats and Wildlife sanctuar-ies. Start:3-4 may, 10-11 may & 24-25 may. Ph:9886169698.

This listing is a free service from Citizen Matters.More listings & details online at: http://

bangalore.citizenmatters.in/events/genre/Summer%20Camp.

lAst word

I was at a baby store and in walked a pair of newly minted parents buying everything that the “helpful” store staff pointed to them. Socket covers? Door slammers? latches? Bring it on. Baby monitor? But of course. Do you even need to ask? Diaper pail? Umm...looks cool...ok we will think about that one.

I had to restrain the urge to run and shake the lovely pair out of their baby buying stupor. Because that was me six and half years back, visiting stores armed with a list, courtesy baby books, baby websites and friends, all made, manufactured and living in US. And though I never went to the extent of buying a

diaper pail, I was rather diligent with

the baby proofing bit and did come close to picking up a safety gate for my single level home, where with a hop, skip and jump you can reach the kitchen from the dining table and the dining table from the living room couch.

It wasn’t my fault though. Read up on baby proofing on the net and you will know what I mean. The more you read, the more dangerous your house starts to seem. Even potentially harmless things like soft couches and curtains hold sinister possibilities. As for table corners, stairs, doors and balconies, those are to babies what haunted houses are to most adults. Best avoided.

Reading up is rather scary, especially for the first time parent who is

surrounded by equally novice friends and family members who throw their hands up in the air and say, “We had kids 30 years ago. You do what you think is best.”

The first time I was text bookishly diligent about baby proofing the house. I got corner cushions to cover pointy table sides, anti door slammers, wardrobe latches and the mandatory socket covers. I looked around my home and suddenly everything was a potential threat. From the iron (which IS a threat) to the sketchpen cap and the house plants.

The baby was rather respectful about my babyproofing tactics in the initial days. Until one day I discovered him trying to shove the corner cushion into his mouth. So this time, I have just lifted everything to a height that baby number two is unlikely to reach in the next one or two years. Some things have surely come in handy this time around too, like the wardrobe latch, perfect for low cabinets that hold baby’s favourite things -- cutlery or cleaning sprays. Now if you find a way to childproof the shoerack, do let me know that.

ConfessIons of A seCond tIMe MoM

reShMi ChakraBortY

the basics of babyproofing

summer Camp listings<< from pg 17

Page 19: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition

Just In

In a city council meeting on March 29th, corporators decided to increase their salaries. The state government’s sanction is now awaited.

Revised monthly remuneration

Mayor - ̀ 40,000 (from 20,000); Deputy Mayor - `30,000 (from 15,000); Councillors - `25,000 (from 7500); Retired councillors - `20,000.

Meanwhile, Chairman of BBMP Accounts Committee, A L Shivakumar, exposed discrepancies in the BBMP’s accounts department after an inspection on March 26th. A BBMP release noted the following:

* Employees paid off loan amounts, yet installments were deducted from their

salaries. Syndicate Bank returned the money. The DDs were lying around for four months and no action was taken.

* Many letters and documents have been lying pending in the office’s receiving section for 6-7 months; some for over a year.

mayor salary to double

Page 20: citizen matters 7 april 2012 jpnagar edition