By K.G.Vasuki

Bangalore, Jan.2 (ANI): To protect the three local rare and unique flower species--Mysore Mallige (Jasmine), Udupi Mallige, and Hadagali Mallige-of Karnataka have been patented.

The GI (Geographical Indication) status has provided excusive rights to the local community to cultivate these three crops and continue to grow for 10 years and more.

All the three flowers are household names in Karnataka and known around the world. The new status helps protect its commercial interest too.

'Three flowers Mysooru Mallige, Udupi Mallige and Hadagali Mallige along with Mysore betel leaf and Nanjangud bale (a variety of Banana) were registered under Intellectual Property Right (IPR)," said K.Ramakrishnappa, the Director of Horticulture.

"Favorable weather condition have nurtured rare plant species and six out of ten plant species that have been registered under the intellectual property rights
are from the State," K.Ramakrishnappa added.

Awareness of Genetic Programming is essential to protect rare plant species and the government is conducting workshop to create more platforms for individuals to discuss and patent rare species.

Karnataka has 411 Horticulture farms in the State, where information on these flowers by way of demonstration is given. The State government is actively promoting the cultivation of these rare species.

Mysore Mallige derives its name since it is grown mostly around Mysore and partly in Srirangapatna taluk in Mandya district. The uniqueness of this jasmine variety is its lingering fragrance. Besides, Mysore Mallige is grown in Hadagali and Udupi places.

Hadagali Mallige, locally known as "Vasane Mallige", is grown mainly in Hoovina Hadagali and surrounding areas in Bellary district.

However, the cultivation of Udupi Mallige is of relatively recent origin. Cultivation of this variety of jasmine started in Shankarapura in Udupi district about 100 years ago. The flower is in high demand in places such as Mumbai, besides the coastal region.

These flowers have a long shelf life and can stay fresh for about three to four days in the bud condition.

Labels: Science

Bangalore, Sep.9 (ANI): An innovative woman industrial designer has designed clay pots to conveniently and hygienically make compost and organic waste at home. These eco-friendly pots basically help prepare and keep organic waste to a value-added product.With her concept, based on age-old wisdom of utilising waste, Poonam Kasturi has also set up a Daily Dump Company. It designs products and services that manage home waste. Poonam said: "It has a lot to do with how people perceive this. How Indian housewives actually look at waste. We noticed people were not interested in an expensive product for this purpose beyond rupees 600. Anything beyond it is not paid attention to."Today, this young entrepreneur is a big a success due to her earthware pots and concept is catching up. Poonam said: “We didn't want to use a factory production system to produce this specific product. If you want to start something, it has to be really simple. It has to fit and the whole thing of garden and terracotta and even the material is also very good for taking compost."These attractive earthenware pots, punched with holes for aeration and one set atop another. The Organic compost is filled in the topmost pot and then interchanged as the bulk of the garbage matures and declines.The units need to be stirred at least once within three to five days. Maintenance involves using natural 'Neem' spray to mask any odour and the addition of an organic culture to accelerate the decomposition process.A full cycle may take up to two months or more for significant decline in volume. Daily Dump offers service support and information on knowing and segregating home waste.Poonam found a great demand for these eco friendly products in over 100 countries. She claims that her eco-friendly initiative has an advantage in an urban situation. These products have a great demand and Rag pickers association from Delhi has come forward to start a business in daily dump products. There are serious inquiry from U.K., Australia, Denmark, and Ireland, Poonam added. (ANI)

Labels: Science