Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Oct 28: Food adulteration, rising dog-bite incidents, infectious diseases and farmers’ concerns were among the key issues discussed at the second-quarter Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) progress review meeting of Mangaluru taluk, held at the taluk panchayat on Wednesday under the leadership of MLA Y Bharath Shetty.
The meeting highlighted concerns over possible adulteration in edible oils, milk powder and other food products. Officials also discussed staff shortages affecting food safety inspections and enforcement activities.
8,910 dog-bite cases reported
The meeting reviewed 8,910 dog-bite cases, including 6,444 involving domestic dogs and 2,466 involving stray dogs. The figures highlighted the need for continued attention to public safety and the management of stray dog populations.
94 malaria cases, 19 confirmed dengue cases
Health officials reported 94 malaria cases in Mangaluru taluk, including 70 imported cases and 24 locally acquired cases. In urban areas, 565 suspected dengue cases were reported, of which 19 were confirmed. Five cases of leptospirosis were also recorded.
Officials noted that some migrant workers arriving from states such as Jharkhand had fever upon arrival or developed symptoms within a few days. While several cases were imported, local transmission had also occurred in certain areas, including near construction sites.
Dengue card-test results are being cross-verified through ELISA testing. Regular larval surveys are conducted on the first and third Fridays of every month, with municipal teams and rural staff involved in mosquito-control measures, including fogging.
Healthcare and immunisation reviewed
The meeting reviewed school immunisation targets, institutional deliveries and family planning services. Institutional deliveries stood at 72%, while female sterilisation coverage was reported at 26%. Officials also discussed the preference for temporary contraceptive methods, including Depo injections.
Preventive healthcare initiatives, lifestyle modifications and the management of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes were also discussed. Monthly wellness camps targeting students, teachers, senior citizens, workers and rural communities were proposed as part of outreach efforts. The promotion of yoga, pranayama and AYUSH-based healthcare was also highlighted.
Farmers raise crop insurance concerns
Farmers’ difficulties in obtaining crop insurance claims due to changes in eligibility criteria and loss-assessment calculations were discussed. Coverage for arecanut, black pepper, paddy, coconut and mango was reviewed, along with the roles of central and state governments in implementing insurance schemes.
The meeting also discussed subsidies for agricultural machinery, including tractors, weeders, rotavators and harvesters, as well as the impact of irregular rainfall on irrigation and crop health.
Student welfare and infrastructure needs discussed
The availability of hostel accommodation, particularly for post-matric students, was another concern. Participants discussed improving the regional distribution of student welfare facilities and outreach programmes to ensure wider access.
Infrastructure requirements, including water management, drainage and irrigation support, were also reviewed. The importance of interdepartmental coordination and efficient utilisation of public funds was emphasised to improve the implementation of welfare and development schemes.