Karnataka First

The Labour Party of North Wales in the United Kingdom has nominated Rajeev Metri, a senior cardiology nurse, for the parliamentary polls from the Wales region.

Mr. Metri hails from Daddi village in Hukkeri taluk of Belagavi district. He was earlier elected as a Councillor in Bodelwyddan town in North Wales, United Kingdom.

His family members said that he is first person from Karnataka to be elected to such a public office in North Wales.

Mr. Metri migrated to the U.K. in 2001. He entered frontline healthcare work with the National Health Service and is now the manager of the health and safety team.

He joined the Labour Party in 2019 and is contesting the 2026 Senedd elections from the Clwyd region under Welsh Labour.

He previously served as a Councillor for Bodelwyddan town and currently represents the Northwell Ward in Luton Borough Council, England.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

City’s M. Rishitha set a new national record in the 200 mts run at the 10th National Deaf Sub Junior and Junior and 27th National Deaf Senior Sports Championship 2025-26 organised by All India Sports Council for the Deaf at Gujarat University Ground, Ahmedabad recently.

Rishitha clocked 24.81 sec. to set the new national record. She also won the gold medal in the 100 mts sprint with a timing of 13 sec. Earlier, in the State Meet held at Marikamba Stadium, Sirsi, Rishitha won gold medals in 100 mts (13.2 sec) and 200 mts (28.5 sec). 

Currently, she is trained under Radesh, Head Coach, Team Optimum at Chamundi Vihar Stadium in Mysuru. A I PUC student at Sri Jayachamaraja PU College, Rishitha is the daughter of H.S. Darshini and T.C. Manjunatha couple of J.P. Nagar.

source/content: starofmysor.com (headline edited)

For the visually impaired students of Kalyana Karnataka, Braille Resource Centre at the Central Library of the Central University in Kalaburagi is a boon, as the unit is helping them to become self-reliant.

Braille Resource Center at the Central Library of the Central University at Kadaganchi village in Kalaburagi has opened a new world for research scholars like Shrikant and Panyan Sai Vinayak. Shrikant, a student at Department of Kannada, and Vinayak, a student at the Department of Linguistics, say the has given them new sight.

Deepa, a Second Division Assistant (SDA) at Bengaluru Rural Court, says the Braille Resource Center has helped her complete her bachelor’s degree. “CUK helped me in completing my graduation though I am blind. The Center not only provided the necessary study materials in Braille script, the teachers at the CUK helped me in studying the material and to appear for the exam,” she says.

The Center was set up after the initiatives of then Vice-Chancellor of Central University, the late Prof. M Maheshwaraiah, and Librarian of the Central Library of the Central University, Prof. PS Kattimani.

Kattimani and Maheshwaraiah used to visit Pandit Puttaraj Gawai’s Shree Veereshwara Punyashrama in Gadag frequently where they realized the struggles of the visually impaired in learning.

The Braille Resource Center was inaugurated by the then Chancellor of Central University of Karnataka, Prof. NR Shetty on October 28, 2018.

The objectives of the Center are to facilitate higher education of visually-challenged students by providing assistive technology to make them self-reliant and independent.

The Center also provides a resource ground for teachers and educationists to enhance their capacity to deal with students with visual disabilities.

Another objective of the Center is to create awareness among employers about possibilities of the students with visual disabilities if they are provided with assistive devices/software at workplace.

The Center also aims to facilitate their employability by providing a common platform for the visually challenged students and the corporate sector.

The Center also organises workshops and seminars for teachers to handle visually challenged students with hands on experience, etc.

At present the Center has basic facilities to serve the needy with ambition of having the best assistive technologies available for its visually challenged students with disability such as blindness and low vision studying in its post-graduate departments and to serve the student community.

The University intends to reach out to its visually impaired students to help them in higher education and enter the mainstream of society with self-confidence and dignity.

Gopal Dixit, Assistant Registrar, Central Library of CUK, used to provide technical support for converting regular text into Braille books and audio-books. Dixit said that the Centre has bought a Braille Index Basic-D V5 Braille Embosser, Lex Instant Reader and Scanner, NVDA audio software, and OCR Horizon (Multilingual) software. At the Center, regular text is converted into Braille and printed.

The Central Library of CUK has made books in various languages available in Braille and provides them free to the needy. In addition to Braille books, the library converts the same texts into MP3 format to create audio books using OCR Horizon software.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Battu Satyanarayana, said the university would continue the services to the visually impaired students across Kalyana Karnataka. The Center is in the process of signing MoUs with NGOs to expand services to the blind, Dixit said.

The library has conducted two workshops and trained 80 visually impaired students from Kalaburagi in association with the National Federation of the Blind (NBF), Bengaluru, and Enable India, Bengaluru. Most recently, it organised a one-day workshop titled ‘Vision Beyond Sight: Empowering the Visually Impaired’ in collaboration with Nava Kalyana Jyoti Janapara Vedike. This event trained 75 visually impaired students, with Prof. Kiran KT as the key resource person. He provided hands-on training, demonstrating how to listen to audio books, practice Braille reading, and addressing participants’ doubts.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

In an inspiring academic achievement a rural student from Chikkamagaluru Rishal Tauro has secured a gold medal in Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning bringing pride to her family and native region.

Hailing from Koove village in Mudigere taluk, Rishal completed his engineering degree at Srinivas University Institute of Engineering and Technology in Mangaluru. Her academic excellence was celebrated by members of the Tauro family who organised a felicitation programme in her honour.

The event was graced by chief guest Raymond D’Cunha Takode, president of the Konkani Bhasha Mandal Karnataka and a senior multilingual writer and journalist.

Speaking on the occasion he stressed the importance of encouraging young achievers and urged students to use their education for the upliftment of underprivileged sections of society.

He further said that students who receive quality education should not focus solely on personal success but also contribute towards improving the lives of people in their native regions who continue to face economic and social challenges.

The programme was presided over by John Tauro, a senior member of the Tauro family while Stany Tauro vice-president of the State Teachers’ Union organised the event.

Among those present on the dais were Raymond D’Cunha Takode, John Tauro, Stany Tauro, gold medallist Rishal Tauro, her father Joseph Tavro and grandfather Antony Walder.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

In a landmark moment blending tradition with innovation, Muller’s Cosmeceuticals was officially launched during the 36th Graduation Day ceremony, marking a significant expansion of Father Muller Charitable Institutions’ legacy in healthcare and wellness.

The launch was inaugurated by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangalore, alongside Dr Gangadhara Somayaji, vice chancellor of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), in the distinguished presence of Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, director of FMCI.

With a rich heritage spanning over 146 years, rooted in the timeless principles of homoeopathic care—gentle healing, natural balance, and eco-conscious practices—the institution continues to evolve while remaining anchored to its founding mission inspired by Fr Augustus Muller SJ. This latest venture represents a seamless fusion of tradition and modern scientific advancement.

Announcing the new division, Fr Nelson Dheeraj Pais emphasised the institution’s longstanding expertise in homoeopathic formulations and ethical pharmaceutical manufacturing. He described Muller’s Cosmeceuticals as a forward-looking initiative aimed at bridging the gap between dermatological science and gentle, therapeutic skincare.

The range is designed to offer solutions that are both clinically relevant and skin-friendly, catering to the evolving needs of modern consumers.

The newly launched range reflects a harmonious blend of “nature meets science,” offering sustainable and transformative solutions for skin and hair care. Collaborating with ORIGO Cosmeceuticals and drawing from centuries-old homoeopathic formulations and refined with contemporary expertise from the Faculty of Homoeopathy, these products have been carefully curated for today’s lifestyle and environmental challenges.

The inaugural product lineup includes:

· Muller’s Skin Revive Serum

· Muller’s Sunguard Cream

· Muller’s Alpha Brightening Serum

· Muller’s Detan Lotion

· Muller’s Follicle Density Serum

· Muller’s Freckle Free Cream

· Muller’s Clear Skin Face Wash

· Muller’s Advanced Luxe Moisturizer

· Muller’s Malwa Stem Hair Serum

· Muller’s Clarifying Enzyme Gel

· Muller’s Nil Gray

· Muller’s Gentle Cleanse Shampoo

Each product embodies the institution’s commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, promising effective care rooted in holistic healing principles.

The launch of Muller’s Cosmeceuticals stands as yet another feather in the cap of FMCI, extending its trusted homoeopathic legacy into the realm of cosmetics and personal care. With plans for an expanded product portfolio in the near future, this new production division is poised to benefit not only homoeopathy practitioners and users but also the wider public seeking safer and more meaningful skincare solutions.

As the institution steps into this promising new chapter, the message resonates clearly: a collective move towards safer, holistic, and clinically grounded approaches to skin and hair care.

Also were present during the inaugural Fr Nelson Dheeraj Pais, administrator of the Father Muller Homoeopathic Pharmaceutical Division, Fr Nilesh Crasta, administrator of the Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Fr Ashwin Crasta, assistant administrator of the Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Dr E S J Prabhu Kiran, principal of the Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College, Dr Vilma D’Souza, vice principal of the Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College, Dr Girish Navada, medical superintendent of the Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Dr Reshel Noronha, convenor of the 36th Graduation Day, Mansur Khan, CEO of the ORIGO Cosmeceuticals, Rathan Kumar, production manager of the Father Muller Homoeopathic Pharmaceutical Division.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

Mumbai-based poet and writer Anitha P Takode was honoured with the prestigious ‘Sankamma Sankannavar Endowment Award’ during the annual awards ceremony organised by the Karnataka Lekhakiyara Sangha (Karnataka Women Writers’ Association).

The event took place last Thursday, April 9, at the Nayana Auditorium of the department of Kannada and Culture, Kannada Bhavan, Bengaluru.

Anitha P Takode received the honour for her debut poetry collection titled ‘Menakkantida Batti’, published by Takode Enterprises, Mumbai.

The awards were presented by former chairman of the Kannada Development Authority, Prof S G Siddaramaiah, and renowned journalist and editor of https://www.google.com/search?q=Avadhi.com, G N Mohan, who served as the chief guests for the evening.

President of the Karnataka Lekhakiyara Sangha, Dr R Sunandamma, noted litterateur Dr N Gayatri, and Sama Satish were present on the dais. The dignitaries congratulated the awardees for their significant contributions to Kannada literature.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

The National Institute of Technology Karnataka has introduced an innovative AI research platform named NOMAD (Node for Open-source Mobile AI Deployment) at its beachfront campus in Surathkal.

The platform is designed to operate effectively in remote, resource-constrained, and disaster-affected regions where traditional cloud-based infrastructure often fails.

With the growing dependence of artificial intelligence systems on centralised data centres, real-world environments such as coastal regions and disaster zones face major challenges related to connectivity, power supply, and infrastructure. NOMAD aims to bridge this gap by enabling on-site AI computing at the edge, ensuring real-time data processing and decision-making even in critical conditions.

The facility is set up within a repurposed shipping container at the NITK SEARCH research station along the Arabian Sea coast. It functions as a self-sufficient unit with four independent power sources, including grid supply, rooftop solar panels, a towable solar-battery unit, and a diesel generator supported by UPS backup. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity, the system integrates institutional fibre, broadband, and a wireless bridge.

NOMAD features a robust computing system that combines open-source clusters, edge devices, and high-capacity storage. Plans are also under way to integrate institutional high-performance computing (HPC) resources into the platform. The space is designed to support advanced research, teaching, and immersive learning experiences.

The project is spearheaded by Dr Pruthviraj U, associate professor in the department of water resources and ocean engineering. The platform focuses on areas such as edge AI architecture, AI-driven water systems, and coastal disaster intelligence, particularly aiding in situations like landslides and floods where connectivity is often disrupted.

The initiative is also supported and mentored by Padmanand Warrier, a distinguished alumnus of NITK with extensive experience in large-scale technological systems. The institute plans to further expand NOMAD through interdisciplinary collaborations and integration into academic programmes.

Speaking about the initiative, Warrier highlighted the importance of edge-based innovation in artificial intelligence. He stated that during coastal disasters, infrastructure is often the first to collapse, and platforms like NOMAD ensure that advanced AI systems continue to function, enabling timely and critical decision-making on the ground.

This initiative marks a significant step by NITK Surathkal towards advancing practical and resilient AI solutions, bringing technology closer to real-world challenges.

source/content:daijiworld.com (headline edited)

 A proud and memorable moment was celebrated as Henry Mendonca (H M Pernal) was honoured on receiving the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award for 2025 for his acclaimed work ‘Konkani Kaavyem: Rupam Ani Roopakam’.

The felicitation ceremony, organised by the Kanara Cultural Association (KCA), Delhi, turned even more special with the presence of distinguished personalities including Gokuldas Prabhu and Ananth Agni, whose participation added inspiration to the occasion.

Former president Vincent Menezes also graced the event, lending further dignity to the gathering.

Expressing his gratitude, Mendonca thanked the KCA family for the honour and recognition, describing it as a moment of immense pride.

Members of the executive committee and area representatives were present, making the event a memorable celebration of literary excellence.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

In a move to boost non-fare revenue, Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited has entered into an agreement worth Rs 40 crore with Bagmane Developers Private Limited to rename a key metro station along the Outer Ring Road corridor.

Under the deal, the DRDO Sports Complex Metro Station will be rebranded with the Bagmane name for a period of 20 years. The company has already paid Rs 20 crore as advance, with the remaining amount to be paid as per the agreement terms.

The station is part of the crucial Silk Board–K R Puram metro corridor, which forms a segment of the 19.75-km stretch connecting to the airport line. The corridor is progressing rapidly and is expected to be opened for commercial operations by December this year.

The agreement was signed between BMRCL managing director Dr J Ravishankar and Bagmane Developers representative Aditya Bagmane.

This is not the first such initiative, as several metro stations in Bengaluru have already been named after private entities. These include Biocon Hebbagodi, Delta Electronics City, and Prestige Group Bellandur stations, with the latter reportedly involving a deal of around Rs 90 crore.

Officials said discussions are under way to finalise similar naming rights for two more stations on the same corridor. The initiative is expected to generate additional revenue for BMRCL and support the operational and maintenance costs of the metro network.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

In a landmark decision set to benefit patients awaiting kidney transplants, the Karnataka Government has issued guidelines permitting multi-pair kidney paired swap transplantation, moving beyond the traditional two-way system.

The Karnataka Multi-Pair Kidney Exchange Transplantation Guidelines 2026 were issued via a government order on April 4, laying out a framework for swap donations involving three or more donor-recipient pairs.

“A significant number of donor-recipient pairs in Karnataka are unable to undergo transplantation on account of biological incompatibility. Applications have been received from registered transplant hospitals in Karnataka seeking approval for multi-pair Kidney Paired Exchange Transplantation involving three or more donor-recipient pairs,” the order said.

Until now, under the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA) 1994, kidney swaps were limited to two incompatible donor-recipient pairs. Each donor had to be a near relative of their intended recipient, and the swap was confined to a simple two-way exchange. This restriction left many patients unable to undergo transplantation due to incompatibilities such as ABO blood group mismatch and others.

Swap donation works by allowing two families, each with a donor and recipient, to exchange kidneys when the donor is incompatible with their own relative. The donor from one family gives a kidney to the recipient in the second family, and vice versa. Under section 9(3A) of THOTA, such exchanges were previously permitted only between two pairs.

The new guidelines now allow multi-pair kidney swap transplantation, subject to eligibility conditions. In this process, three or more donor-recipient pairs are linked in a group.

Each donor who is incompatible with their own relative donates a kidney to another patient in the group, while their relative receives a compatible kidney from a different donor in the same group.

The guidelines further detail the approval mechanism, mandatory documentation processes, ethical safeguards, and operational protocols to ensure transparency, accountability, and patient safety.

Health experts have welcomed the move, emphasising its potential to save lives.

“By enabling multi-pair exchanges, patients previously unable to find a compatible donor now have a real chance at a life-saving transplant,” said a senior transplant surgeon in Bengaluru.

Officials stated the initiative will also encourage more families to come forward for organ donation, reduce waiting lists, and provide hope for patients with end-stage renal disease facing urgent medical needs.

The Karnataka government’s move is expected to significantly strengthen organ transplantation infrastructure in the state and serve as a model for other regions looking to expand kidney donation programmes.