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CHAPTER – IV

PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA

4.1 INTRODUCTION:

India is a subcontinent with a geographical area of 32,87782 sq.kms

extending from the snow covered Himalayan heights in the north to

Kanyakumari in the south. The country is divided into 28 states and 7 union

territories. Karnataka is one of the major states in the nation situated at the

centre of the Deccan Plateau. Karnataka state covers an area of 1,91,791

sq.kms. divided into 29 districts . Uttar Kannada is one of the biggest

districts in the state of Karnataka with abundant natural resources.

4.2 GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION:

Uttar Kannada district is situated on the western part of the state on

the coast of Arabian Sea extending from North latitude 130-55

1 to 15

0-31

1

and east longitude 740-00

1 to 75

0-10

1. The district is surrounded by Goa and

Belguam in the north, Dharwad in the east, Shimoga and Udupi districts in

the south and the Arabian Sea in the west. Natural diversities made Uttar

Kannada the only district in Karnataka State which consists of three natural

divisions viz, the coastal region, upper ghat region or Malenad region and

the plain region. The district is blessed with natural floral beauty and

splendor. Evergreen rich forests in Sahyadri hills and Western Ghats,

Beautiful river valleys and the calm blue Arabian Sea contribute towards

infinite beauty of the region. The panoramic view of the valleys in which the

rivers luxuriously and joyfully flow makes one to forget cares and worries of

this mundane world. Serene and peaceful atmosphere of the district that too

in certain selected and sanctified places helps to gain “Real peace of Mind”

Beauty is truth and truth is beauty holds good in this area.

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Map 4.1

182

Map 4.2

183

UTTAR KANNADA DISTRICT

Map 4.3

184

Table 4.1 India-Karnataka-Uttar Kannada District-A Comparative

View (as per 2001 census)

Sl.

No

Particulars India Karnataka Uttar

Kannada

1. Total Area (in sq.kms) 32,87,782 1,91,791 10,222

2. Population 1,02,70,15,247 5,27,33,958 13,53,644

3. Males 53,12,77,078 2,68,56,343 6,86,876

4. Female 49,57,38,169 2,58,77,615 6,66,768

5. Rural Population 74,16,60,293 3,45,14,100 9,65,731

6. Urban 28,53,54,954 1,7,919,858 3,87,913

7. Decadal Growth of

Population % (1991 to 2001)

21.54 17.51 10.90

8. Density 324 276 132

9. Gender Ration

(Number of female per 1000

males)

933 965 971

10 Literacy Rate 65.4 66.6 76.6 Source UKD at a Glance 2005-06

4.3 MYTHOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE

DISTRICT:

The district has got an important place even in the Indian Mythology.

In tretayuga once the demon king Ravana started worshipping Lord Shiva.

One day lord Shiva was happy with Ravana’s devotion and penance and told

Ravana to ask Varas. Ravana asked for Atmalinga and Shiva granted it.

While bringing Atmalinga from Kailas, at the time of sunset, Ravana gave

the linga to a boy who was looking after cattles to hold it for some time. He

told the boy not to land the Atmalinga on the earth till he completes the

prayer. Lord Ganesh who disguised himself as a boy landed the Shivalinga

on the earth before Ravana completed the prayer. Later Ravana tried to lift

the linga from the earth but he failed. That place has become well known

pilgrim centre ‘Gokarna’ and ‘Panchakshetra’. There is also another story

that lord Parashurama has created this region and accordingly called by his

name ‘Parashurama Kshetra’. Murdeshwar in Bhatkal Taluk is said to have a

part of ‘Atma Linga” of Gokarna. Beautiful location of the temple

surrounded by the sea is really marvelous and is a tourist centre. Idagunji in

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Honavar taluk has an ancient temple of Ganapati who has only two hands,

believed to be installed by Narada Maharshi. This used to be a place of

penance of ancient Rishies.

The pages of history also attest the importance of this district. For

instance, the first Kannada dynasty Kadambas ruled Karnataka from

Banavasi in Sirsi taluk of this district. Banavasi was the capital city of

Kadambas. During the reign of Kadambas the kingdom was blessed with all

virtues in the world. Aadi Kavi Pampa once emotionally exclaimed that

“Arunkushmithodam Nenvudenn manam Banavasi Deshamum”. Even

during the reigns of Vijayanagara, Keladi and during the British period some

of the harbours and places were known as trade centres, Gerosoppa in

Honavar taluk was a famous trade centre during the rule of Chenna Baira

Devi who was popularly known as ‘Kari Mensin Rani’. During the freedom

struggle also the district played an important role. How can one forget the

famous ‘salt movement’ that has taken place in Ankola, there after popularly

known as ‘Bardoli’ of Karnataka. Karwar which is the headquarters of the

district is one of the safest and finest harbours in our country. Arabs had sea

trade with Karwar in ancient days. Baithkol was the oldest natural port used

by Arabs. Uttar Kannada district was initially under Madras presidency and

subsequently came under Bombay presidency. Till 1956, the district was in

Maharashtra state and after state reorganisation merged into Karnataka, the

erstwhile Mysore state.

4.4 AREA AND POPULATION:

The Uttar Kannada District covers an area of 10,291 sq.kms, divided

into 11 taluks with Karwar as its Head Quarters. Joida is the largest taluk

with an area of 1890sq.kms, while Bhatkal is the smallest taluk with an area

of 349sq. kms. The Malenad region spreads over Siddapur, Sirsi, Joida,

Yellapur taluks. Plain region consists of Haliyal and Mundgod taluks, while

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the biggest being coastal region which consists of Karwar, Ankola, Kumta,

Honavar and Bhatkal taluks. Uttar Kannada district has 35 Zilla Panchayat

constituencies, 123 Taluk Panchayat constituencies and 207 Gram

Panchayats. According to 2001census 9.66 lakhs of the total population of

13.5 lakhs live in rural area. The area and population details of the district

are shown in the table number 4.2 below.

Table 4.2 Area and Population of U.K District (As per 2001 census) Taluks Area

in sq.

kms

Population (As per 2001 census)

Total Males Females Rural Urban Densi

ty

Sex

Rati

o

Ankola 919 1,01549 51,398 50,151 75,411 26,138 110 976

Bhatkal 349 1,49338 73,740 75,598 1,07,196 42,142 428 1025

Haliyal 847 1,59141 81144 77997 80350 78791 125 964

Honavar 755 160331 80018 80313 142507 17824 212 1004

Karwar 732 147890 75160 72730 72852 75038 202 968

Kumta 582 145826 73834 71992 111327 34499 251 975

Mundgod 668 90738 48973 41765 74565 16173 136 853

Siddapur 859 100870 51107 49763 86820 14050 117 974

Sirsi 1320 175550 89286 86264 110215 65335 133 966

Joida 1890 48914 24590 24324 48914 00 26 989

Yellapur 1301 73497 37626 35871 55574 17924 56 953

Total 10222 1,353,644 686,876 666,768 865,732 387,914 132 971

Source: UKD at a Glance 2005-06

4.5 ADMINISTRATIVE PROFILE:

The district is divided into 11 taluks. The district capital is at Karwar,

the northernmost coastal taluk. The Deputy Commissioner is the

administrative head of the district. The Chief Executive of the Zilla

Panchayat has also his office at Karwar. The Zilla Panchayat consists of the

elected representatives of the people. The district has four Assistant

Commissioners-at Karwar, Kumta, Bhatkal and Sirsi. The Tahasildar is the

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administrative head of the Taluk. The villages are grouped under Village

Panchayatas, run by elected representatives.

The district, being the most forested on in the peninsular India, has a

well-organised unit of the Forest Department. Named ‘Kanara Circle’, its

administrative head is the Conservator of Forests. The Circle comprises of

five territorial forest Divisions with the headquarters at Haliyal, Yellapur,

Karwar, Honavar and Sirsi. Each Division is headed by a Deputy

Conservator of Forests. The entire forest area of the district is divided into 34

forest Ranges, each under a Range Forest Officer, and 131 forest Sections

each under a Forester and 425 Beats each under a Guard.

The Fisheries Department is under the Deputy Director of Fisheries.

The Department, with headquarters at Karwar, administers matter pertaining

to marine, estuarine and inland fish resources. In addition Karwar also has

the branch office of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI),

Cochin. Scientists here gather regular data on marine fisheries.

The Agriculture Department is headed by the Joint Director, whose

office is at Karwar. The district is well known for horticultural biodiversity.

Horticulture is under the jurisdiction of the District Horticultural Officer

whose office is at Sirsi.

For the purpose of administration the district has been divided into

four sub-divisions viz. (1) Karwar Sub-Division, Comprising Karwar,

Haliyal and Joida talukas. (2) Kumta Sub-Division comprising Kumta and

Ankola talukas, (3) Sirsi sub-division comprising of Sirsi, Siddapur,

Yellapur and Mundgod talukas and (4) Bhatkal Sub-Division comprising

Bhatkal and Honavar talukas.

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Table 4.3 GENERAL INFORMATION (As on 31-03-2008)

Taluk Hoblies

VA

Firkas

Grama

Pancha

yaths

Villages

Twon

Panch

ayats

Urban

Agglo

meration

Munic

ipalities

Inhab

ited

Un

inha

bited

Ankola 4 21 19 80 1 1 5 0

Bhatkal 2 19 16 60 0 0 1 1

Haliyal 4 23 20 111 18 1 0 1

Honavar 3 24 24 92 1 1 0 0

Karwar 4 26 17 51 1 0 1 1

Kumta 4 23 20 111 7 0 3 1

Mundgod 2 9 13 84 7 1 0 0

Siddapur 3 30 21 195 1 1 0 0

Sirsi 4 32 27 221 1 0 8 1

Supa 3 14 15 114 6 0 0 0

Yellapur 2 18 14 127 0 1 0 0

Total 35 239 206 1246 43 6 18 5

Source: Uttar Kannada District At a Glance 2007-08

4.6 CLIMATE AND RAINFALL:

The climate of different parts of the district varies largely. It is

generally humid, hot along the coast, cool in the ghat region and warm and

equable in the eastern upghat region. The climate of the entire district may

be described as healthy.

The Malnad region is characterized by heavy rainfall in the southern

parts, varying from 3048 mm to 3556mm and the northern transitional belt

with 1016mm to 1524mm of rainfall. The coastal belt receives rain fall

varying between 2540mm to 3556 mm.

The temperature of the district varies from15oc in winter to 34

0c in

summer. The year may be divided into four seasons 1) Summer from March

to may has raising temperature with the maximum temperature of the year

occurring in April or May. Humidity begins increasing from May onwards.

2) The south –west monsoon from June to September lasts for four months

from the beginning of June. It is characterised by overcast skies and heavy

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rainfall in the coastal region and Malnad area. 3) October and November

constitute the retreating monsoon. 4) The period from December to February

is generally dry with clear bright sky, low humidity and agreeably low

temperature. There is very little rainfall in this season.

Table 4.4 Taluk-wise normal rainfall

Taluk Rainfall (mm)

Bhatkal 4016

Honavar 3686

Kumta 3754

Ankola 3406

Karwar 3120

Joida 2381

Yellapur 2699

Sirsi 2536

Siddapur 2937

Mundgod 1156

Haliyal 1268

Source: Uttar Kannada District At a Glance 2007-08

4.7 SOIL STRUCTURE:

The soil of this district is mostly derived from latertic and trap

formations. In the ghat regions lateritic soil at the base is covered by shades

and mixed with humus of the forest and has formed a soft type of soil known

as Kagadali soil which is rich in Mineral contents and plant nutrients. In the

coastal plain, along with sea coast, the soil is sandy and in a number of

places mixed with the river alluvia. The low lying marshy lands of the

coastal plain, popularly known as Gaznis, contain clay mixed humus and

support salt resistant paddy. The latertic soil predominates in the talukas of

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Honavar, Kumta, Bhatkal, Siddapur, and part of Joida. In Karwar and

Ankola one can see latertic soil mixed with gravelly soil derived from

granites and sandy soil. Red soil derived from lateritic and traps are noticed

in Mundgod, Haliyal and Joida talukas. Patches of alluvial soil are also

found in these talukas. The organic content of the soil is high in uplands. The

soil in general is found to be acidic, rich in nitrogen, deficient in

phosphorous with a low medium potassium content.

4.8 AGRICULTURE PROFILE:

The people of different agro-climatic zones have domesticated or

evolved various plants or animals for their specific regions. The agricultural

system is closely interwoven organically with livestock and forests. Rice

varieties exist to suit special habitats like coastal saline marshes, water-

logged areas and dry rain-fed region. Farmers have also domesticated the

wild varieties of fruits, or other species for cash or for household food

security.

The coastal tract (Karwar, Ankola, Kumta, Honnavar and Bhatkal

taluks) covering 3300 km2 is more densely populated. It has 12.3% of area

under cultivation, most of the lands coming under the jurisdiction of the

Forest Department. Rice, coconut and groundnut are the main crops here.

The coastal zone is rich in fisheries. The crestline taluks namely Joida,

Yellapur, Sirsi and Siddapur cover about 5.4 thousand km2. Here only 7.2%

of the area is cultivated, the main crops being areca nut, pepper, cardamom,

banana and rice. About 86% of the land is under the legal possession of the

Forest Department.

Mundgod and Haliyal taluks, (1.5 km2 area) towards the north-east

merge with the flatter terrain Deccan plateau. Here about 19percent area is

cultivated, mainly with rice, millets, pulses, sugarcane and cotton. Most

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farmers carry out organic farming and have very limited dependence on

chemical fertilizers pesticides.

Taking the district as a whole the net cropped area in 2004-05 was

only 11.2% of the total geographic area. There are ecological and historical

reasons behind such small area put to agriculture.

Table No. 4.5 Land Utilisation 2007-08 (Hectares) of U.K. District

Taluk

Geograp hical Area Forest

Non Agric ultural

Bar ren Total

Culti vable waste

Parm anent Pasture

Trees and Groves Total

Ankola 91872 75374 1590 2186 3776 1006 1382 552 2940

Bhatkal 34892 25433 963 567 1530 173 1130 702 2005

Haliyal 84745 57819 2978 952 3930 290 344 249 883

Honavar 75480 57632 4651 423 5074 480 1432 1075 2987

Karwar 73210 55104 4205 677 4882 110 19 230 359

Kumta 58331 39641 3066 2247 5313 763 2075 8 2846

Mundgod 66809 48333 308 1490 1798 1120 0 376 1496

Siddapur 85928 68130 861 1335 2196 50 3584 143 3777

Sirsi 132233 103270 849 3648 4497 646 5773 711 7130

Supa 191069 165873 13657 1789 15446 1043 420 337 1800

Yellapur 130110 116986 1294 920 2214 769 693 431 1893

Total 1024679 813595 34422 16234 50656 6450 16852 4814 28116

Source: Uttar Kannada District At a Glance 2007-08

4.9 RIVERS OF THE DISTRICT

Uttar Kannada is the land of rivers. There are five important rivers

flowing in the district from the high range of mountains to the Arabian Sea.

The Kali Nadi rises in Joida taluk, the Gangavali which rises in Dharwad

district flows through Ankola taluk. The Aghanashni rises near Sirsi,

Sharavati which forms the famous Jog Falls flows through Honavar Taluk

The other important rivers of the district are the Venkatapur and the

Varada. Except Varada river which flows eastwards, all other river flows

from east to west, cutting the western ghats into deep valleys, thus rendering

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themselves unfit for irrigation but at the same time fit for generating

hydroelectric power.

4.10. SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS OF THE DISTRICT

Though the district is located in coastal area, it is not so famous for its

Marine products. But activities connected with fisheries are carried out on

large scale with the help of state Govt. as well as central Govt. The major

population lives in rural area undertaking agriculture as their main

occupation. The main traditional occupations are agriculture, fisheries,

animal husbandry, sericulture, horticulture, beekeeping leather works etc.

Table No 4.6 Classification of Workers of U.K. District

Taluk

Workers Non Workers

Cultivators Agricultural Labourers

Main Marginal Male Female Total Male Female Total

Ankola 36,386 16,409 48,754 11,354 8,116 19,470 4,085 5,044 9,129

Bhatkal 39,986 13,273 96,079 5,356 2,799 8,155 1,603 4,801 6,404

Haliyal 44,107 8,235 53,509 15,683 10,651 26,334 3,875 6,570 10,445

Honavar 51,810 11,900 96,621 6,391 2,403 8,794 2,821 3,533 6,354

Karwar 44,359 12,742 90,789 4,562 2,972 7,534 2,199 2,385 4,584

Kumta 44,296 13,196 88,337 7,471 2,403 9,874 4,541 4,373 8,914

Mundgod 32,234 9,245 49,259 11,457 5,723 17,180 5,890 6,945 12,835

Siddapur 37,707 19,571 43,592 8,520 5,974 14,494 2,296 3,704 6,000

Sirsi 67,084 10,187 98,279 10,985 3,477 14,462 5,268 4,724 9,992

Supa 17,202 4,758 26,954 5,571 3,069 8,640 1,692 2,093 3,785

Yellapur 26,465 4,260 42,772 6,892 1,521 8,413 3,607 2,509 6,116

Dandeli 13,666 2,200 37,421 12 5 17 14 1 15

Total 4,55,302 1,25,976 7,72,366 94,254 49,113 1,43,367 37,891 46,682 84,573

Source: Uttar Kannada District At a Glance 2007-08

The Temples: The Madhukashwar Temple at Banavasi, Ulavi

Channabasaveshwar Temple at Ulavi, Siddivinayak Temple at Idagunji,

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Mahabaleshwar Temlple at Gokarn, Shiva temple at Murdeshwar,

Marikamba Temple in Sirsi are famous places of worship in the district.

The Monuments: Jain Basti and Swarnawalli Mata, Sonda Fort, Mirjan

Fort, Jain Basti of Georsoppa in Honavar taluk are famous for ancient

monuments. Mosque at Bhatkal is also known for its marvelous designs.

Art and Culture: Folk arts like Suggikunitha, Holi dance, Hulivesha, Siddi

Dance, are famous and traditional. Yakshagana is also famous in the district.

Tribes:

The main tribes of the district are Sidhi, Kunabi, Halakki, Vakkaliga,

Gonda and Gouli. Siddhis are said to have been brought by the Portuguese

from Africa as slaves some four hundred years ago. Their population is

around ten thousand and generally found in Haliyal, Yellapur and Ankola

taluks. Now their culture is completely Indian and have adopted mainly

Hindu religion. A small portion of the population of them belongs to

Muslims and Christians. They are extremely poor and backward and mainly

work as agriculture labourers in the field of Havyak Brahmins.

Halakki Vokkaligas living in the foot of western ghats are known as

“Aborginals of Uttar Kannada”. Their distinctiveness and backwardness are

too obvious. They have administrative system of their own and the headman

is called “Gouda”. Their way of living is still ancient and need amalgamation

with main stream. The men are practically naked at home and the women

decorated with beads and necklaces, heavy nose rings have disinct attire.

Goulis are nomadic tribes who migrated from Maharashtra. They are

mainly cow and goat rearers. They stay on the fringes of forest. Some have

taken up agriculture.

Kunabis are said to be the most backward of the tribes of Uttar

Kannada District. They live in small groups deep inside forests in bamboo

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huts built in a row sharing common walls. Not having access to the medical

facilities due to seclusion, mortality rate among them is very high.

Gonds live mainly in the forest of Bhatkal taluk. They live off forest

products. They have rich folk culture of tribal dance.

Table No. 4.7 SC and ST of U.K. District

Taluk

Schedule Caste Scheduled Tribe

Rural Urban Rural Urban

Total Male

Fem

ale Total Male

Fem

ale Total Male

Fem

ale Total Male

Fe

male

Ankola 4585 2280 2305 3534 1738 1796 113 70 43 152 73 79

Bhatkal 12452 6156 6296 606 273 333 7936 3968 3968 551 276 275

Haliyal 4917 2477 2440 7848 3948 3900 1394 706 688 1710 840 870

Honavar 6737 3405 3332 513 240 273 234 113 121 34 17 17

Karwar 2884 1468 1416 2881 1523 1358 2906 1365 1541 1054 548 506

Kumta 6745 3392 3353 2021 987 1034 41 22 19 34 22 12

Mundgod 10695 5489 5206 2906 1436 1470 3286 1695 1591 315 174 141

Siddapur 5573 2808 2765 727 352 375 791 397 394 71 33 38

Sirsi 10463 5331 5132 8483 4303 4180 977 521 456 730 377 353

Supa 3127 1584 1543 0 0 0 813 417 396 0 0 0

Yellapur 2558 1286 1272 1641 833 808 494 268 226 145 76 69

Total 70736 35676 35060 31160 15633 15527 18985 9542 9443 4796 2436 2360

Source: Uttar Kannada District At a Glance 2007-08

4.11 FOREST AREAS:

Uttar Kannada district has forest covering 80% of the total

geographical area. Major forest in Uttar Kannada District is concentrated in

Joida, Yellapur, Sirsi and Ankola taluks. These four talukas account for

57.02% of total forest area. The district consists of five forest division viz. (i)

Haliyal (ii) Yellapur (iii) Karwar (iv) Honavar (v) Sirsi

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4.12 PRIDE OF UTTAR KANNADA DISTRICT:

a) Kali Nadi Hydro Electric Project (KPCL)

Like the Goddess Kali, after whom it is named, the kali nadi is a black

river. And like the powerful goddess, this river too releases endless energy.

The west flowing Kali Nadi has its origin at an elevation of 900m, near the

Diggi village in the western Ghats of Karnataka. Its 160km long journey

ends at the Arabian Sea near Karwar. The estimated power potential of the

river is about 1700 mw, with an annual yield of 6500 mu. So far 1210Mw

has been harnessed from two stages. In stage Ist of the project, the 101M high

Supa Dam was built across the Kalinadi in Joida taluk of the U.K district.

Fraught with problems and difficulties, the construction of the dam was

daunting task, posing new challenges to the engineers and geologists on the

job. Today, the Dam stands as testimony to the “never-say-die” spirit of

KPCL and its people. The Supa Dam Powerhouse has an installed capacity

of 2x50mw with an annual energy generation of 450mw. The generating

units were commissioned in 1985. Also part of stage Ist of the Kalinadi

Hydro Electric Power Project are: The Upper Kaneri Dam built across the

Kaneri river a tributary of Kalinadi. The Bommanahalli Pickup Dam, The

Tattihalla Dam and The Nagjhari Power House (3 units of 135mw and 3

units of 15mw)

The construction of the composite Kodasalli Dam in 1989 marked the

beginning of Stage II of the Kalinadi Hydro Electric Project. This stage of

power development in the Kalinadi valley comprises dams and powerhouses

across the Kalinadi, near the villages of Kodasalli (Yellapur taluk) and

Kadra(Karwar taluk) of U.K. District. The Kadra Power house (3x50mv) and

kodasalli powerhouse (3x40mw) will contribute 270mw of installed capacity

with an yield of 1080mu per annum.

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b) NPCL, Kaiga

Nuclear Power Station established at Kaiga by Nuclear Power

corporation Ltd. is one of the very few in India. It was commissioned on

March 5, 2000. This 220mw pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) at

Kaiga is indigenously designed, meets the largest safety standard and has

state of art technology including computerized controls. It went critical in

September 99, and is now Synchronsied to the grid. That apart this nuclear

power plant also incorporates a full – scope simulator for superior and

comprehensive training a operators. This, and its companion unit at Kaiga,

will augment power supply to the southern grid.

c) Project – Seabird:

Project- Seabird is the prestigious Indian Navy Project of construction

of Naval Base. The project is progressing at a record speed and the first

phase is likely to be completed by June 2005. The First phase work consists

of 1.8 km break water joining, Anjadeep island to the main land, a 3.2 kms

break water from Arga island to round island running north- south and

channel 300mts wide and 14mts deep for the ships to move into the harbour.

It will have state of the art dockyard with shiplilft features to carry the ships

to the repair yard. There will be naval airport too near Algeri. Along with

these, the project will have accommodation for officers and sailors, an

administrative block, a 100 bed hospital, ammunition depot etc.

4.13 RESOURCE OF THE DISTRICT:

a) Agricultural Resources: Agriculture sector constitutes to play a

prominent role in the development of the economy of U.K. District. Nearly

80% of the total area is under forest. Paddy is the major crop in the district.

Haliyal, Mundgod and Sirsi are predominantly cultivating paddy. The other

important crops grown in the district are sugarcane and ground-nut. The

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other minor crops cultivated are Ragi, Jower and Pulses. Approximate

annual production of paddy is 1,82,000 tons, Sugarcane is 45,000 tons and

ground nut 4692 tons.

b) In the Coastal belt Coconut, Arecanut, Cashew nut, Pepper, Betal,

Banana, Mango, Pineapple, Sapota, Guava and Vegetables are the main cash

crops. The main crops cultivated in malnad are Coconut, Arecanut, Cashew

nut, Pepper, Cardamom and Fruit crops like Mango, Pineapple and all kinds

of vegetables. Areca nut is the main cash crops.

In Semi-malnad the fruit crops like Mango, Sapota, Guava, Banana

and Pineapple, all varieties of vegetables and subsidiary food crops are

grown. In upghat taluks cocoa is also being grown. In addition to this, spice

crops like Cloves, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Turmeric are also grown.

The average annual production of Arecanut is about 23400 Tonnes,

Coconut about 3800 Tonnes, Banana 39000 Tonnes, Mango 10000 Tonnes,

Pineapple 6500 Tonnes and Papaya 12000 Tonnes.

Horticulture Department is extending its activities in supply and

services of all Horticultural Plants and seed materials of high yielding

varieties under different schemes. Cardamom Development scheme is in

operation in Sirsi, Siddapur and Yellapur Taluks. Vegetable development

schemes, Plant protection scheme, Fruit development, Cashew development

schemes are in operation in the district.

Based on these Horticultural resources there is scope for promoting

industries like Banana Chips & Powder, Fruit bars, Juices, Squashes,

Canning of Jack fruits, Coir products, Desiccated Coconut powder, scented

supari and Briquitted fuel etc.

c) Animal Husbandry: Animal Husbandry is also playing a natural role to

provide supporting activity required for farming. The 4 Taluks constituting

198

malnad region viz. Siddapur, Sirsi, Joida and Yellapur have been considered

as potential area for dairy development.

The poultry has become one of the major occupations in the district.

Consumption of eggs and use of Broiler Chicken is substantially increasing

due to the change in the dietary habits and increasing living standard. A

balanced feed is more essential in maintaining the health of the birds and

increasing their laying capacity. The consumption of Egg in the District is

estimated about 2 lakhs and 50 Tonnes chicken meat per day. The

production is about 50% of the demand. There is a very good scope for

poultry related activities.

d) Forest Resources: Uttar Kannada District is rich in Forest Resources.

80% of the district is under Forest. The total area under forest is 8,15,202

Hectares. The vegetation consists of semi-ever green, Moist deciduous types.

The species in semi-ever green type are cane, Benate, Hebbalsu, Gulma. The

general species in moist deciduous are Teak, Sissum, Honne, Nandi, Mathi,

Kindal, Holedasal, Toon, Burga, Jamba, Neval, Bamboo, etc.

Timber is exploited and brought to Timber Depot and sold in auction.

There are totally 29 Major and Minor depots in the District. Over 60% of

Uttar Kannada District is ideal natural zone of Dowga and Medri Bamboo

because of severe biotic factor and grazing. Minor Forest produces which are

used in manufacturing of medicinal and aromatic products are available in

plenty.

Apart from Timber, the important minor produces with annual average

extraction are shikakai about 115 Tonnes, soap nut 80 Tonnes, Honey 26

Tonnes Cane about 2 Lakhs Nones. Bamboo 4 Lakhs Nos., Cocom 150

Tonnes, And Cashew about 2000 Tonnes.

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e) Fisheries Resources: Uttar Kannada District has a coastal line of 144km

endowed with rich marine resources. The fish are landed through Purse-

seiners, Trawlers and other mechanised boats. The fish production plays a

very important role in the district economy. There are 14 – minor ports in the

district. There are main 16-fishing centres 5 fishing harbors in the district.

Mackerels, Sardines, Prawns and other export potential fishes are found in

abundance in the sea. Shrimp culture has become a very good activity in the

coastal area.

There are about 33 – Fisheries Co-op Societies in Uttara Kannada

District. The fish are marketed both inside and outside district. About 10%

are utilized for manure purposes, for coconut and other crops. A number of

schemes for the development of fishing industry are in operation in the

district. The annual average fish catching in the District is 47800 Tonnes and

inland fishing is about 79 Tonnes.

f) Mineral Resources: The area under the mineral covers all together an

extent of about 5360 SQ.KM. The mineral found in the district are Iron Ore,

Manganese Ore, Asbestos, Glass Sand, Kaolin, Lime Stone, Pyrites, Quartz,

Building Stones etc.

Iron Ore: Iron Ore is found at several places in Honnavar, Ankola and

Yellapur Taluks in the western half of the district. The total deposits in these

areas are more than 20 million tonnes of medium and high grade Ore. The

main location of iron deposits are Apsarkonda area (Honnavar Taluk),

Bisgod area (Yellapur Taluk), Kalche Area (Yellapur Taluk), Kumta

Area(Kumta Taluk) Bhatkal area (Bhatkal Taluk), Kodaigadde area

(Yellapur Taluk), Kuntgani area(Ankola Taluk) etc.

Manganese: In the densely wooded region of Dandeli, Virnoli and Kulgi

Manganese Ore occurs as small lenticular bodies associated with leterite.

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Manganese bearing zone has been divided into three regions as under Joida-

Petha region about 170sq miles in extent. Yellapur region 20 sq miles Sirsi,

Kumta & Ankola region 12 sq miles Total 202sq miles

In the district the total reserves may amount to 10 million tonnes of

ore ranging in its manganese contents from 30-52 percent manganese of

which about 4-5 million tonnes containing 35% of Manganese and above are

workable grades.

Bauxite: Aluminious laterite is found about four miles south of Honnavar

Bhatkal Road. An analysis of sample of the material showed 35% A12203.

Alumnus latrite (bauxite) containing more than 50% alumina and low

percentage of silica is found to occur in a reddish brown laterite covering an

area of about 2sq miles at Mundallli and Talgod Villages near Bhatkal.

Clay: In this district deposits of China clay (Kaolin) is reported to be

available at the following places. Castle Rock, Kungini and N.W of Joida

Taluk. Kodemane Kumta. Venkatapur & Bhatkal of Bhatkal Taluk,

Haddinbal Village, Varunkeri of Honnavar Taluk.

Limestone: Limestone of varying extent and ranging in composition from

high calcium to dolomite types are found in Joida, Yellapur and Kumta

Taluks. A bed of kankary limestone occurs as thick capping on the flank of

hill about two miles to the N.W. of Vadekuli Village in Yellapur Taluk. This

deposit is in a deep valley. This is reported to be in good quality having 49-

54% CaO with no silica.

Beach Sand (Glass Sand): Fine to medium white silica sand occurs in the

Malki land below 2 feet of surface sandy soil at a distance of about a furlong

east of the sea-shore Bengre and close to the sea at Karkallu in Bhatkal

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Taluk and one mile west of Haladipur Honnavar Taluk. An analysis of these

samples has shown 98.26% SiO2

Building Stones: Granite Stones are quarried at some of the places in the

granite regions for using as building stones and laterite in the regions where

it is found is cut into the shape of large sized bricks for building purposes.

g) Human Resource:

Population: As per 1991 census the population of Uttar Kannada District is

12.20 Lakhs comprising of 6.20 Lakhs males and 6.00 Lakhs females. Of the

total population about 9.25 Lakh people are living in rural areas and about

2.95 Lakh people are living in urban area. Density of population is 119

persons per sq.km. The percentage of literate persons is 67, male literacy is

76% and female literacy is 57%. A study of the occupational pattern shows

that 2.09% of the total population is engaged in industrial activities.

Table No. 4.8 Literates of U.K. District.

Taluk

Rural Urban Total

Total Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female

Ankola 48442 27937 20505 20397 10945 9452 68839 38882 29957

Bhatkal 62668 34899 27769 32325 16681 15644 94993 51580 43413

Haliyal 39611 24343 15268 17259 9531 7728 56870 33874 22996

Honavar 92439 50734 41705 13947 7445 6502 106386 58179 48207

Karwar 51549 28988 22561 59376 32303 27073 110925 61291 49634

Kumta 76406 42881 33525 26573 14329 12244 102979 57210 45769

Mundgod 43482 27489 15993 10970 6113 4857 54452 33602 20850

Siddapur 58234 32340 25894 10844 5849 4995 69078 38189 30889

Sirsi 74708 41004 33704 51037 27027 24010 125745 68031 57710

Supa 27404 16136 11268 0 0 0 27404 16136 11268

Yellapur 33864 19285 14579 13102 7093 6009 46966 26378 20588

Dandeli 0 0 0 39387 21918 17469 39387 21918 17469

Total 608807 346036 262771 295217 159234 135983 904024 505270 398750

Sourc:Uttar Kannada District At a Glance 2007-08

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Unemployed youth: The main reason for the industrial backwardness of

U.K. District is lack entrepreneurship among the people.

Artisans: There are 17278 artisans in the District. The major categories of

the Artisan in the District are found in coir, carpentry, cane and bamboo,

blacksmiths and Jewellery. The important talukas where concentration of

Artisans is found are Karwar, Sirsi, Kumta, Haliyal and Mundgod.

Sandalwood artisans of Kumta and Sirsi are well known for carving work.

Karwar is known for excellent jewellary work where jewellary is being

exported.

Table No. 4.9 Literacy Rate (%) 2001 Census

Taluk

Rural Urban Total

Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total

Ankola 83.1 62.9 73.2 93.0 80.9 87.0 85.7 67.7 76.8

Bhatkal 77.2 58.9 67.9 94.0 86.4 90.2 82.0 66.5 74.1

Haliyal 71.1 46.5 59.0 84.9 70.2 77.6 74.5 52.4 63.7

Honavar 82.3 66.4 74.3 92.9 82.7 87.9 83.5 68.2 75.8

Karwar 89.1 69.7 79.4 93.7 82.7 88.4 91.5 76.3 84.0

Kumta 86.3 69.0 77.7 91.6 79.6 85.7 87.6 71.6 79.6

Mundgod 78.6 56.2 68.5 86.2 72.9 79.8 79.9 59.3 70.5

Siddapur 85.1 69.2 77.2 92.9 80.9 87.0 86.2 70.8 78.6

Sirsi 84.1 71.3 77.8 92.8 85.0 89.0 87.4 76.4 82.0

Supa 76.8 54.0 65.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 76.8 54.0 65.4

Yellapur 78.4 62.5 70.7 90.0 77.7 83.9 81.2 66.3 73.9

Dandeli 0.0 0.0 0.0 90.4 75.5 83.1 90.4 75.5 83.1

Total 81.6 63.5 72.7 91.8 80.6 86.3 84.5 68.5 76.6

Source: Uttar Kannada District At a Glance 2007-08

h) Apiculture: Environment of Uttar Kannada District is suited for

promotion of Apiculture. Madhuvan, Bilagi, Taluk siddapur is an Apiary

Centre in the District. At present there are about 1633 Bee-Keepers.

Production of honey is between 10000 to 140000kgs. Ankola bee-keepers

Co-op Society, Sirsi, Bee-keepers Co-op Society, Honnavar Bee-keepers Co-

op. Society and Lambs Society Bhatkal are engaged in the collection of

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honey and supply of bee boxes. Following are the places were bee colonies

are available.

KAIGA NUCLEAR POWER STATION

Photo 4.1

Kaiga a small village located amidst sylvan surrounds of Western

Ghats and situated at 12 kms away on the left bank of river Kali upstream of

Kadra Dam in Karwar, has been transformed into a most modern and state of

the art nuclear power plant. The Nuclear power station established at Kaiga

Nuclear Power Corporation Ltd., is one of the very few in India which was

commissioned on March 5, 2000. This 220 MW pressurized Heavy water

Reactor at Kaiga is indigenously designed, meets the latest safety standards

and has state of the art technology including computerized controls. It has

four units with one still under construction. The two oldest units comprise

the west half of the site and the two newer units are also adjoining on the

east side of the site. All of the four small sized Candu plants of 200MW. The

Kaiga Atomic power station has created a history in October 2007 by

making a land mark achievement of generating power continuously for 406

days, surpassing the earlier record held by America.

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Table- 4.10 KAIGA Atomic Power Station Data

Country India

Utility Nuclear power corporation of

India Ltd.

Start of project 1989

Start of commercial operation November 16,2000

Active Reactors 3(660MW)

Reactors Under Construction: 1(220MW)

Total generation in 2006: 2,231 GWh

Average Annual generation(

Last 5 Years)

2,712 Gwh

Net generation 173898 Gwh

As of July 22 2007

Photo 4.2

205

KADRA HYDEL POWER HOUSE

Like the powerful Godess Kali ,the river Kali also releases endless

energy. The west flowing Kalinadi has its origin at an elevation of 900 m.

near the Diggi Village in the western Ghats of Karnataka. Its 160 km long

journey ends at the Arabian sea near Karwar. The Kadra power house has

been built on the left bank of the river with an installed capacity of 150 MW.

The power house integrates three, 50 MW Kaplan turbines which are

coupled to the generating units.

Commissioned Dates

Unit-1 02-06-1997

Unit-2 23-01-1999

Unit-3 21-05-1999

Photo 4.3

206

SHARAVATI TAIL-RACE

The river Sharavati is the pride of Karnataka. Originated in western

Ghats near Ambu-Threertha in the Shimoga district flows in an arrow speed

to reach the Arabian sea. In the course of its journey it has created a world

famous Jog falls. When the river enters Uttara Kannada District, another

dam has been constructed near Gerusoppa known as Sharavati Tail Race

intended to generate the power. In spite of severe protest and agitation by

environmentalists, the KPCL successfully completed the venture, and started

power generation in the year 2003. The power house on the right bank of the

Gerusoppa dam consists of four Francis-type turbines coupled to the

generating units of 60 MW. each.

Photo 4.4

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Table 4.11 Uttar Kannada District – A SWOT Analysis

Strength Weakness

The District has forests covering 80% of

the total Geographical Area.

Forest produces are available in plenty.

Literacy rate is more than 65%

The district has a coast line of 140kms.

Horticultural products and spices are

grown.

Sufficient rainfall

Natural Diversities

Ideal district for eco-friendly industries

Number of tourist Picnic spots &

Beaches

Five major rivers flows here.

Konkan Railways National Highway &

Ports

Non availability of land for

agriculture and other

development activities lack of

R&D facility in respect of

utilization of forest produces

and minor forest produces.

Lack of active NGO groups to

create strong entrepreneurship.

Lack of latest technology for

processing of fish and other

marine products.

I.T. enabled services still to

pick. Up Intellectual

Migration - Highly qualified

personnel prefer jobs in

Bangalore. Mumbai, Goa,

and at abroad.

Lack of infrastructure for

promotion of Tourism

Opportunity Threat

Scope for agriculture and food based

industries

Development of Tourist spots and

Beaches for linking service activates.

Use of silica sand for industrial purpose

Processing of shelf lime and salt based

products

Agro products, Medicinal plants,

Horticulture products and spices

processing

Average 105 days of rainfall in a year.

Soil erosion and sea erosion.

Sea level may increase due to

Global warming.

Investors are scared of

Environmental Laws.

Air pollution and water

pollution may increase.

Due to the strategic projects

like Kaiga, Sea-bird, the

district may become target

for attack.

Flood havocs.