Daijiworld Media Network—Bantwal (RD/CN)
 
Bantwal, Aug 1: An undivided Dakshina Kannada (DK) earthmovers’ association has been floated here on Wednesday, July 30, with the participation of owners of JCB and Hitachi earthmovers operating in DK and Udupi.
 
K A Satischandra, proprietor, Hosamane Earthmovers, was elected president of the newly-floated association during the meeting held on Wednesday evening, at Hotel Rangoli, B C Road. Former taluk panchayat president Satischandra has been actively involved in various businesses. 

He is also serving as president of Kadekar C A Bank, Bantwal taluk rubber and bee-keeping multipurpose co-operative society, and various other social and co-operative establishments.
 
The association decided to undertake a membership drive of all earthmover owners in the undivided district. The aim is to revise and affix hourly rental charges of earthmovers in the backdrop of hike in essential commodities. 

It was also decided to boycott owners of earthmovers who have not become members of the association, not affixed revised tariff on earthmovers, and not paid professional tax. In order to strengthen the association and to elect other office-bearers, a meeting will be held at the same venue on Sunday, August 3, and at Ashrama Hotel, Brahmavar, on Sunday, August 10. 
 
M P Bhat and Jagannath Surya were elected secretary and treasurer, respectively. Association leaders Vijay Rai, Yogish Poojary, Steven D’Souza, Ravi Chekkittaya, and Raghavendra Baipadittaya, were also present.