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Establishment ofCauvery Gallery

February

2015KJA Recommenda�on

KARNATAKA JNANA AAYOGA(Karnataka Knowledge Commission)

Government of Karnataka

Project Implementa�on:

The Na�onal Academy of Sciences, India

&

Na�onal Council of Science Museums

Ministry of Culture,Government of India

Department of Printing, Stationery and Publications, Bengaluru

KARNATAKA JNANA AAYOGA


No. 438-439, 4th Floor, Vikasa Soudha, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Veedhi, Bangalore - 560001Phone: 080-2226 8626, 080 - 2226 7626 email : [email protected]

website : www.jnanaayoga.in


Establishment of

Cauvery Gallery

February

2015

KJA Recommenda�on

Karnataka Jnana Aayoga

(Karnataka Knowledge Commission)



MESSAGE


River Systems contribute to the prosperity of society – impacting the social, cultural,

economical, and resources development in a region. The most river systems also abound with

tourist-spots and are a show-case of the historical, traditional, religious and ethereal aspects of our

country. The river Cauvery is among the most sacred rivers in the southern part of India (referred to as

the and its delta regions are popularly known asDakshina Ganga) Rice Bowl of South India.

Show-casing our river systems and creating an exposition of the great value of river Cauvery has

been an important element of consideration of the Karnataka Jnana Aayoga (KJA). KJA has carefully

looked into the importance of river Gallery (especially the Ganga and Brahmaputra Gallery developed

by National of Science India (NASI) as “knowledge systems” and has recommended theAcademy s,

development of a River Cauvery Gallery in Mysuru – in the pristine surroundings of Mysore University.

With modern multi-media displays and live models and exhibits, this Gallery will create awareness

amongst the people relating to the cultural, religious, economic, social, scienti�c and related aspects

of the river. The Cauvery Gallery, amongst few of its kind in India, can become a hub of education and

research for the river and be central to advanced scienti�c and sustainable development of the river

system. It is also expected that the younger generation will be inspired by the Gallery and it will convey

the importance of conservation and preservation of river systems.

KJA recommends this project to be implemented thru the Tourism Department of the

Government of Karnataka and with the active involvement/association of Mysore University. The

project would be implemented through the NASI but would be actually worked upon by National

Council for Science Museums (NCSM). I am sure that the KJA initiative for the Cauvery Gallery,

inspired by the Hon'ble Minister of HE and Tourism Shri Dehspandeji, will go a long way in furthering

education, tourism, environment, heritage development and also bring awareness to various

segments of society. I thank to the Members of KJA for their support and guidance in shaping this

recommendation. I am thankful to Mr PGR Sindhia for very useful inputs on the management aspects

of the Gallery.

I would like to speci�cally thank Prof Manju Sharma, President of NASI who readily agreed to

shoulder the responsibility of designing the Gallery and also to be associated in its implementation.

On behalf of the KJA, I am extremely pleased to present this recommendation to GOK for

implementation.

February 25, 2015 (K Kasturirangan)

Chairman

iii

MESSAGE

The National Academy of Sciences, India is the oldest of the science academies established in

1930 by a very eminent scientist of the country Dr. Meghnad Saha. The academy as per its mandate –

Science and Society has been undertaking many programs and activities relating to the popularization

of science, some innovative projects such as water, nutrition etc. with a special focus on application

of science and technology for the bene�t of both rural and urban women. In order to bring about

awareness regarding some of the important rivers of the country like Ganga and Brahmaputra, very

unique galleries have been established at Allahabad and Guwahati by NASI with the support of NCSM.

These are of special relevance to students from the view point of scienti�c, cultural, environmental

and economic point of view. They have also become an important feature in tourism and for general

public.

In a similar effort NASI has agreed to provide full support for implementation of a project in

Karnataka for the establishment of Cauvery Gallery in Mysore. I am con�dent that once the gallery is

operational it will become a great attraction for the tourists, students, scientists, ecologists and

general public. Mysore being a beautiful city for tourism with many historical monuments, the gallery

would be an added attraction. NASI and NCSM would do their best to set up the gallery as early as

possible. We are also thankful to Karnataka State Government, the Hon'ble Minister for Higher

Education and Dr. K Kasturirangan for this initiative, encouragement and full support.

February 2 , 20155 (Manju Sharma)

President, NASI

v

FOREWORD

Karnataka Jnana Aayoga (KJA) is a unique “platform” established by Government of Karnataka

as a body of experts and professionals in various �elds who, together, bring a wealth of knowledge

and expertise through new ideation, undertake extensive brain-storming and wide consultations on

important and relevant issues for the state's development. Tasks of KJA are mainly “proof-of-

concept” and get “anchored” with one or more departments of GOK – so that executive

implementation can get effectively coordinated by relevant departments of GOK.

In the last few months, KJA has actively initiated many new ideas and knowledge inputs in

coordination with various departments. One of the major initiatives has been in the cultural, tourism

and educational arena – the aim being to show how simple knowledge-steps can make a signi�cant

impact in spreading cultural awareness of our state's river systems. KJA has ideated for

establishment of a Cauvery Gallery –Cauvery river is an important water system originating in and

traversing the breadth of Karnataka and supporting the irrigation needs in a major way, drinking-water

needs of for large population of the state and hosting diverse �ora and fauna of unique ecological

value. The river also has tremendous historical, cultural, social, economical and geographical

relevance and its own time-traversed history the tryst of development of the people of this state.

KJA, with vision and design from NASI and NCSM, is proposing this advanced multi-media

Gallery that will capture the etymological, ecological, cultural, heritage and social characters of River

Cauvery through high-quality exhibits, detailed satellite images, multi-media displays, digital video-

shows etc. This Gallery, to be established in Mysore University campus, will become a major public

and tourist attraction and be a centre for learning and student interaction. This ideation of river

expositions can easily be replicated for many other river systems in the state (and in the nation) and

can be a cultural and educational impetus to understanding and learning of our river systems.

I would like to express my gratitude and thanks to Prof Manju Sharma, President of NASI and Dr

Niraj Kumar, ED of NASI for the proposal and for readily being associated for the implementation of the

Gallery. On behalf of the Members of KJA, it is a matter of great pleasure that the project

recommendation on Cauvery Gallery is being submitted to GOK and will soon be implemented.

February 2 , 20155 (Mukund Kadursrinivas Rao)

Member-Secretary

Karnataka Jnana Aayoga (KJA)

email: [email protected]


vii

In preparation of this proposal and KJA recommendation on Cauvery Gallery proposal, KJA is

extremely grateful to:

• Shri. R.V. Deshpande, Honourable Minister for Higher Education and Tourism, GoK for all round

encouragement and support to KJA activities – especially in the recommendation of Establisment

of Cauvery Gallery.

• Members of KJA for their intense participation and guidance in developing this concept.

• Dr Manju Sharma, President of NASI and Dr Niraj Kumar, Executive Director of NASI who were the

key person who conceptualised and designed the project in its totality.

• Dr Kaushik Mukherjee, Chief Secretary, GoK for very valuable guidance and suggestions

• Mr Bharat Lal Meena, Principal Secretary, HED, GOK for all support and extremely valuable inputs.

Speci�cally, thanks to Mr Rajneesh Goel – previously Principal Secretary, HED who initiated the

departmental discussions and support for the KJA

• Mr ISN Prasad, Principal Secretary, Department of Finance for kind support and valuable

suggestions

• Shri Arvind Jadhav, ACS (Tourism), GOK and his team for enthusiastic support and useful

guidance

• Prof KS Rangappa, Vice-Chancellor, University of Mysore, Mysuru for unstinted support for the

Gallery project and for identifying a beautiful site for the Gallery in Mysore University campus

• Registrar, University of Mysore, Mysuru for facilitation and co-ordination on behalf of University of

Mysore

• Mr. K. Madan Gopal, Curator, Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum, NCSM for

extending technical support for design

• KJA Secretariat for overall coordination

GRATEFUL THANKS TO

ix

BACKGROUND

1. INTRODUCTION

2. ESTABLISHING THE CAUVERY GALLERY

3. INTRODUCTORY PANELS

4. ROLE OF NCSM

5. WORK PLAN

6. LOCATION INCLUDING THE SIZE

7. FINANCIAL REQUIREMENT

8. OUTCOME

9. PROJECT MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE PROPOSED BY KJA

ANNEXURE-1: MINUTES OF REVIEW MEETING BY HON'BLE MINISTER OF HE AND TOURISM

ANNEXURE-II: MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE PROPOSED BY KJA FOR PROJECT

CONTENTS

xi

Establishment of Cauvery Gallery

The Government of Karnataka reconstituted Karnataka Jnana Aayoga (KJA) in December 2013 under

Chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan. The main aims and objectives of KJA are to recommend action

for institution building, policy innovation and excellence in the �eld of education, health, S&T, industry,

entrepreneurship, research and innovation, traditional knowledge, agriculture, E-Governance, rural

development and ANY other relevant areas.

KJA initiated development of a River Cauvery Gallery in Mysore -

on lines with Ganga Gallery and Brahmaputra Gallery. The river Cauvery

is among the most sacred rivers of India in the southern region and

though to be the Dakshina Ganga or Ganga of South India on account of

its diverse characteristics and attributes. Cauvery Gallery would capture

the etymological, ecological, cultural, heritage and social characters of

River Cauvery. The proposed Gallery would have exhibits on river

Cauvery's journey, myths and legends, physiography, tributaries, geo-

scienti�c importance, biodiversity of the basin, socio-economic

importance, tourism, culture, fairs and festivals, threats to the river,

conservation and restoration efforts and research. These would be

projected through interactive multimedia with diorama, animations,

backlit graphic display, RFID based interactive exhibit with graphics, interactive map browser, panel

display supported by video and interactive virtual tour.

The idea is that the gallery is open to public and will help disseminating the

legend; glory and signi�cance of river Kaveri. NASI has stated that the setting up

of the gallery would take 9 months at a tentative cost of about INR 3.50 crores.

The conceptualization of the project would be done by NASI, in consultation with

KJA, and execution will be undertaken by NASI/NCSM. The Gallery would be

able to have footfalls upto 1000-1500 visitors per day.

Based on the recommendation of the KJA-TC (in its 1st meeting on Sep

17, 2014), KJA, in its 2nd meeting on Sep 21, 2014, has endorsed a proposal

from National Academy of Sciences India, Allahabad to establish a Cauvery

Gallery in Mysore. In consultation with the Department of Tourism, Dr. Manju

Sharma and NASI team along with KJA visited University of Mysore and an

interaction with the Registrar of the University of Mysore has resulted in a very

nice site for the Gallery at Old Professor Quarters/IHCN building.

University of

Mysore has resulted

in a very nice site

for the Gallery at

Old Professor

Quarters / IHCN

building.

The gallery would

have good exhibits,

detailed satellite

images, multi-media

displays, digital video-

shows and many other

details of the heritage,

cultural and resources

aspects of Cauvery.

BACKGROUND

1KJA Recommenda�on (Feb, 2015)

Hon'ble Minister of Higher Education and Tourism conducted a review meeting on November 29,

2014 of the Cauvery Gallery proposal – along with of�cials of Tourism department, HED of GOK

. Honourable Minister appreciated the KJA initiative for the Cauvery Gallery proposal and also(Annexure I)

endorsed the proposal made by NASI in this regard. It was discussed that such a Gallery will do great for

tourism, education and environment and also makes awareness to young persons and citizens of the state

and tourists. Good satellite images, maps and display need to be worked out. Design of the Gallery must be

discussed and consulted in early stage and then implemented. The management structure of the Gallery is

proposed by KJA after which the Government of Karnataka through Dept. of Higher Education/Tourism

Department, will administer/implement the project, as recommended by KJA.


2 KJA Recommenda�on (Feb, 2015)

River systems have remained important through the ages. Among the most distinctive features of

India are its rivers, which hold the highly religious importance among its people. Covering the vast

geographical area of 329 million hectares, Indian rivers have been an important reason for the rural

prosperity of India. Carrying a wider importance in cultural, economical, geographical as well as religious

development, the rivers of India are of great value. In India, rivers are given a divine status and are even

worshiped among the Hindus. They provide tourists a wonderful insight into the historical, cultural and

traditional aspect of India. Some of the most prominent rivers in India include Ganga, Yamuna, Krishna,

Godavari, Narmada and Kaveri. Ganga andThe civilization of India was nurtured in the river basin of the

the Jamuna which has been the heart of ancient India. The Ganga has been known for its purity and divinity

and the Hindus believe that a bath in her waters cleanses one of all sins. The river Jamuna is known for her

devotion. The river was worshipped in ancient times when the Aryans lived in Punjab.Saraswati (The

Saraswati changed its course in later ages and gradually disappeared in the deserts of Rajasthan).

Apart from these three, the other rivers considered sacred are the Godavari, Narmada, Sindhu (Indus) and

Kaveri (Cauvery). Some other sacred rivers are Saryu, Gomti, Gandaki, Sabarmati, Tamsa,

Chandarbhaga, Shipra and Kratmala.

Rivers have been of fundamental importance throughout the human history. Water from the rivers

is a basic natural resource, essential for various human activities. Therefore, the river banks have attracted

settlers from ancient times. These settlements have now become big cities. Using rivers for irrigation,

navigation, and hydro-power generations is of special signi�cance for country like India, where agriculture

is the major source of livelihood of the majority of its population.

Rivers have remained important through the ages witnessing great

cultural, economic and industrial progress since ancient times and

promoting tourism and �shing activities in a big way; and also the

backbone of the development of Indian agriculture.

The Ganges has always been a religious icon in the world;

particularly, in India because the people of India rely on it for most of the

life functions in its nearby area. The river is the heart of Hinduism,

inscribed profusely in the Vedas, the Puranas and the two Indian epics,

the Ramayana and the Mahabharata and also believed to purify the soul

after a person dies and the remains are released into the river.


The River Ganga, also

known as the Ganges, is

the greatest waterway in

India, originating in the

Himalayas at Gaumukh

and �ows into the Bay of

Bengal.

INTRODUCTION 1



In the light of the above, a project on establishment of the ofGanga Gallery in northern region

India at Allahabad, (Uttar Pradesh) was conceptualised and designed by the concerted efforts of the

Academy with distinct objectives; and in due course the Ganga Gallery was established in the year 2011

with different models and exhibits to make the public aware of the multifaceted features of the holy river

including its socio-economic, cultural and scienti�c aspects.

Similar efforts were also made to establish another

gallery, viz. in the of theBrahmaputra Gallery eastern part

country i.e. in the state of Assam to highlight the versatile

traits of the river Brahmaputra.

The river Cauvery is among the most sacred rivers of

India in the southern region and thought to be the Dakshina

Ganga Ganga of Tamilnadu, South Indiaor on account of its

diverse characteristics and attributes. River Cauvery is well

inscribed in Tamil literature because of its holy importance and sacredness. Bathing in holy water of

Cauvery is one of the traditional beliefs in India. The striking Shivasamudram falls of Cauvery River is the

second biggest water falls in India.

In view of these facts, and at the request of Hon'ble Minister for Higher Education and Tourism,

Chairman KJA had requested Dr. Manju Sharma, Former Secretary, DBT and Former President, NASI to

establish a Cauvery Gallery – on lines with Ganga Gallery and Brahmaputra Gallery. Dr Manju Sharma, with

the consent of the NASI-Council, had sent a preliminary intent proposal – to establish a high-quality Gallery

that captures the etymological, ecological, cultural, heritage and social characters of River Cauvery. The

gallery will have good exhibits, detailed satellite images, multi-media displays, digital video-shows and

many other details of the heritage, cultural and resources aspects of Cauvery. The idea is that the gallery is

open to public and will help disseminating the legend; glory and signi�cance of river Kaveri. Therefore, the

Academy now envisages to establish Cauvery Gallery, another museum based on the River Cauvery in the

southern part of the country at Mysore, in the state of Karnataka.

4

Cauvery, originating from the

Brahmagiri Hill in the Western

Ghats and �owing towards the Bay

of Bengal, the river travels along

the States of Karnataka and

Tamilnadu in the south-eastern

direction.

KJA Recommenda�on (Feb, 2015)


The Cauvery River is one of the important rivers in our country. The river along with its major

tributaries (Kabini, Noyyal, Bhavani, Amaravathy, Lokapavani, Kapila, Hemavathi etc.) pass through

important urban centres including Bangalore, Mysore, Coimbatore, Trichy and Erode and acts as a lifeline

to the people of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

The project will be implemented by:

• The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), Allahabad and

• National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Kolkata

with the help of Mysore University and Karnataka Knowledge Commission (KKC).

The holy river Cauvery (Dakshina Ganga or Ganga of Tamilnadu, South India) on account of its diverse

characteristics and attributes, has several dimensions, which could be described and depicted

scienti�cally with the help of interactive modules, as below-

ESTABLISHING THECAUVERY GALLERY 2



The introductory panel will give a brief account of the gallery and its objectives. It will orient the visitors in

such a way that they feel encouraged and motivated to appreciate the various issues connected with the

Cauvery river. Mode of presentation- Panel based with relief and graphics.

✦ Panels/Exhibits on Ecological Aspects:

The jungles abound in wildlife. The vistas of the hills and valleys of Coorg are the spectacular views, which

are a treat for nature lovers. On either side of Kaveri River are several waterfalls. At Sivanasamudra the river

drops 320 ft (98 m), forming the famous Shivanasamudra Falls known separately as Gagana Chukki and

Bhara Chukki .Three kilometers away from Srirangapatna, the Kaveri is the basis for the Ranganthittu Bird

Sanctuary. The river also joins the Hogenakal Falls before arriving in the town of Hogenakal and Srirangam

in Tamil Nadu. Mode of presentation Animation supported with graphics & Diorama.-

3 INTRODUCTORY PANELS



The river basin supports a wide spectrum of organisms, many of which are endemic. It is the

natural habitat of many �sh varieties including the Mahseer, one of the popular game varieties. The region

around the Cauvery River (the Basin) is an agriculturally important and unique region. The river breaks into

a large number of distributaries before falling into the Bay of Bengal, south of Cuddalore, creating a wide

delta called 'the garden of southern India'. Mode of Presentation: Graphics and interactive modules.

The region is unique because of the interaction of humans (communities) with the landscape of a river and

its distributaries leading to the development of unique strategies for river management, particularly of �ood

waters, and its exploitation in �eld, irrigation by establishing a network of distribution channels, a system

that has become a lifeline for the regional agriculture (food and nutritional security) and development.



The local communities and rulers of the region have displayed excellent engineering skills in establishing

an extensive network of irrigation, particularly in the deltaic area. The �rst dam, today called the Grand

Anicut, was built in the 2nd century CE, at the point where the river divides. A second dam (1836–38) was

constructed across the Kollidam (Coleroon) River. Cauvery's northern and larger channel saved the old

system from silting and extended irrigation to agriculture. The river

passes through diverse topography, including arid to semi-arid

tracts and ends in the coastal swamps. It has resulted in the

evolution of diverse and unique practices for eco-friendly and

sustainable management of livestock on the one hand, and

conservational �shing techniques on the other, in addition to

conservation �eld agriculture. In this process of agricultural

development, the region has evolved and conserved genetic

diversity among minor millets in the dry areas, while in the case of

rice both for rainfed and irrigated systems in deltaic areas, which

are supported by both good rainfall and a network of irrigation. For

these contributions, the region deserves to be proposed as another

National Agricultural Biodiversity Heritage Site based on the indices

described by Singh and Varaprasad (2008). The Cauvery divides

into numerous branches and covers the whole of the delta with a

vast network of irrigation channels in Nagapatnam and Tiruvarur

districts, and gets merged into the wide expanse of paddy �elds.

In the fertile river valleys (Marutam regions) of the Cauvery, Periyar and Yaigai, agriculture �ourished and

surpluses were produced particularly during the three ancient dynasties, the Chola (c. 900–1270 CE), the

Chera (3rd century BCE to 12th century CE), and the Pandya (560–1550 CE) (Singh 2013).

The basin is characterized by rich and unique �ora and fauna. The vegetation comprises of tropical dry

deciduous forests, tropical thorn forests and mangroves. The tropical dry deciduous forests are dry

broadleaf forests of the Southern Deccan Plateau. These have three stories, with an upper canopy at

15–25 m, an understory at 10–15 m, and undergrowth at 3–5 m. The trees are draped in lianas in denser

and mature forests.

The tropical thorn scrub forests are xeric scrubland consisting of open, low vegetation that is

characterized by thorny trees with short trunks and low, branching open crowns. The trees attain

maximum heights of 6–9 m. Typical grasses of these forests include Chrysopogon fulvus (Spreng.)

Chiov., Heteropogon contortus L., Eremopogon foveolatus (Delile) Stapf, Aristida setacea Retz., and

These developments

made settled

agriculture the main

occupation of more

than 60 per cent of the

population of the

region living in rural

areas of the river basin.



Dactyloctenium L. species. The second story of the

thorn forests consist of spiny and xerophytic species,

mostly shrubs, dominated by Acacia L. species,

Balanites roxburghii Planch, Cordia myxa Roxb.,

Capparis L. spp., Prosopis L. spp., Azadirachta indica,

Cassia �stula, Diospyros chloroxylon Roxb. etc.

The tidal mangroves represented in Pichavaram

include, Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Blanco.,

Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh., A. of�cinalis L.,

Ceriops decandra (Grif�th) Ding Hou, Rhizophora

apiculata Blume, R. mucronata Lam. Wherever there is

an intrusion of the sea along the coast, the following

common salt-tolerant species can be found: Apluda

mutica Linn., Atriplex repens Roth., Eremopogon

foveolatus (Del.) Stapf, Sporobolus tremulus (Willd.)

Kunth, and Suaeda Forssk. ex J.F. Gmel. spp.

The important crops cultivated in the semi-dry hills are

millets, pulses, and oilseeds in the kharif (rainy)

season, and sorghum and oilseeds in the rabi (post-

rainy) season. Groundnut is cultivated in north-eastern

Tamil Nadu both under irrigated and non-irrigated

conditions.

The Cauvery basin is a granary of paddy, particularly

the area supported by the network of irrigation canals.

The major paddy-producing areas are Mandya in

Karnataka, and the eastern coastal or deltaic regions of

Tamil Nadu, i.e., Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Cuddalore

and Pudukottai. Pulses, black gram, and green gram

are next important crops, grown in the rice fallows

throughout the delta region from January onwards

under no tillage condition. Mode of Presentation –

Pictographics & interactive modules.

The major species are Acacia

catechu Brandis, A. chundra

Willd., A. leucophloea Willd.,

Albizia amara (Roxb.) Boivin,

Anogeissus latifolia (Roxb.) Bedd.,

Azadirachta indica A. Juss.,

Boswellia serrata Roxb., Cassia �

stula L., Chloroxylon swietenia

DC., Dalbergia latifolia Roxb.,

Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight

& Arn., Diospyros montana Roxb.,

Hardwickia binata Roxb.,

Plecospermum spinarum,

Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb.,

Shorea talura Roxb.,

Stereospermum personatum

(Hassk.) Chatt., Strychnos nux-

vomica L., Terminalia bellirica

(Gaertn.) Roxb., T. paniculata

Roth, T. tomentosa Wight & Arn.,

and Wrightia tinctoria (Roxb) R.Br.

Santalum album L. (sandalwood)

was an important species of these

forests, now under threat.



The river provides a signi�cant level of species and genetic diversity in �shes, including ornamental �shes.

Jayaram et al. (1982) published a survey of the entire River Cauvery system with a major account on �sh

fauna. The river system is very rich in �sh biodiversity (Jayaram et al., 1982; Balasundaram et al., 1999).

The �sh diversity of Periyar, originating as a natural spring in the Kolli hills, recorded a total of 19 species of

�sh belonging to 15 genera and 9 families. The mangroves and halophytes are also found in the coastal

areas (Ravindran et al., 2005a).

✦ Panels/Exhibits on Scienti�c/Geographical Aspects:

In the upper catchment of the Kaveri River in the Sahyadri Mountains of southern India, middle to lower

crustal Archean granulite grade ma�c and felsic rocks with similar structures and textures are exposed

under the conditions of active tectonics, high rainfall and thick tropical vegetation. Occurrence of the two

major rock types in close association under identical geological, geographical and biological conditions

provides an uncommon situation for the study of weathering, elemental mobilization and sediment

generation processes. Field observations, mineralogical and geo-chemical data including major, trace and

rare earth elements (REE) of fresh rocks and variably weathered saprolite samples suggest that close

association of 'ma�c' and 'felsic' rocks accelerates the denudation processes by early weathering of ma�c

minerals in felsic rocks and ma�c rocks in the terrain. Due to differential weathering of rocks, unweathered

to less weathered felsic grains are likely transferred to the coarser fraction of �uvial sediments deposited

on the �oodplains of the river imposing an upper continental crust (UCC) geo-chemical signature. It is

found that during chemical weathering, in addition to other factors, weatherability of host minerals of REE

control the mobility of REE in the weathering pro�le. It is suggested from the observations on the

weathering process and on the geo-chemistry of derivative sediments, that in a tectonically active system

with a climate maximum, as in Sahyadris, equilibrium could be dynamically maintained between

weathering and erosional regimes. There exist certain commonalities between surface denudation and

Biodiversity Terrapins in the river



mantle-magmatic geochemical differentiation processes. Similarity of these processes, therefore, may

have implication to common UCC-like geochemistry of Post Archean sediments. Mode of Presentation –

Dioramas/3D Films & Pictographic Display.

More interactive multimedia display will be on the following research issues -

• Ecology – Botany and Zoology

• Geology – Geochemistry

• Climate Change

• Soil Texture etc.

A View of the distribution of Felsic & Ma�c rocks



✦ Panels on Economic Aspects:

The source of the Cauvery lies in the state of Karnataka, and the river �ows in the direction of south-

eastward. The waters of the river have been an important source of irrigation since primitive days; as early

as the early 1990s. Survey shows that around 95 % of the Cauvery

water was used for agricultural use before �owing into the Bay of

Bengal. The delta of the Cauvery is so mature that the main river has

almost lost its link with the sea, as the Kollidam, the distributary of the

Cauvery is seen to possess most of the �ow.

Coorg is the �rst bene�ciary place receiving Cauvery's benevolence

and does her proud with lush vegetation. It is the land of sandalwood

and cedar where betel vines hang gorgeously to the trees. Swaying

with a grace typical of the area, areca palms and cardamom plants

add spice to the exhilarating atmosphere. The river is also important

for its irrigation canal projects.

The Cauvery River is most useful in providing water for irrigation, water for household consumption and

the generation of electricity in the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. An estimate at the time of the �rst

Five Year Plan puts the total �ow of the Cauvery at 12,000,000 acre feet (15 km^3 ), of which 60% was

used for irrigation. The Torekadanahalli pump station sends 540 Mld (million liters per day) of water from

Cauvery 100 km to Bangalore. The river has supported irrigated agriculture for centuries and served as the

lifeblood of the cities of South India.

More than 60 per cent of the total population in the river basin lives in the rural areas and their major

occupation is agriculture. Forty-eight percent of the lands are under cultivation in the basin. Around 24 per

cent of the cultivable area has some or other means of irrigation. The basin is shared by Karnataka and

Tamil Nadu. The Cauvery delta region is known as the

'Rice Bowl of South India' or the 'Food basket of Tamil

Nadu', providing 40 percent of agricultural production of

Tamil Nadu. The farmers follow rainfed farming in the dry

areas and hilly outcrops of the Shevaroy, Kolli, and

Pachamalai hills, and irrigated farming along the

hinterland of the Cauvery basin and delta.

Fishing is a common agricultural activity both under the

river system and marine system in the coastal region

The Cauvery delta

region is known as the

'Rice Bowl of South

India' or the 'Food

basket of Tamil Nadu'



using traditional methods, contributing to pro-poor goals, providing employment; and is a source of

livelihood to many people. Mode of Presentation – RFID based interactive exhibits.

✦ Panels on Tourism:

Cauvery river is an important river of Southern India in tourism aspects also. As it is the most sacred

rivers of southern India, there are many temples and other tourist spots along the side of the river, which are

crowded by pilgrims/tourists throughout the year. The striking Shivasamudram falls of Cauvery River is the

second biggest water falls in India. Mode of Presentation - Interactive Map browser & Interactive

Virtual tour.

✦ Panels on Culture, Fairs and festivals :

True to its colourful heritage, people along the river has an array of fairs and festivals. On Cauvery

Sankramana day in October, thousands gather at Tala-Cauvery temple on Brahmagiri Hill to witness the

rise of the fountainhead of the River Cauvery. Mode of Presentation: Pictographics and multimedia with

musical resorts.



✦ Panels on Pollution aspects & Conservation Measures

The once perennial Cauvery river is turning into a dumping ground with several places polluted completely.

Dead �sh, dirty clothes, plastic bags and tea cups are seen �oating in the river at several points such as

Amma Mandapam, Cauvery Bridge near the Rockfort temple and at other locations. Farmers on the other

hand are constantly raising their voice to desilt the rivers in the district so that the ground water level is

recharged. Several measures may be adopted to control the pollution and conserve the river, as sewage

treatment plants, which includes physical, chemical, and biological processing to remove physical,

chemical and biological contaminants. Its objective is to produce a waste stream and a solid waste or

sludge suitable for discharge or reuse back into the environment. Mode of Presentation –

Graphics/Interactive Modules and Dioramas.

There will be many other display

panels in the gallery, as on unmanned

quiz, oath for the conservation efforts,

dam relevance, Cauvery basin

medicinal herbs their importance in

eco-health tourism etc.


The National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Kolkata is the main organization which installs

exhibits with high quality electronically interactive features. Their help has been taken earlier in establishing

the Ganga & Brahmaputra galleries by the Academy in Allahabad and Guwahati, respectively. The same

will help us in getting the idea implemented practically in a scienti�c and aesthetic manner.

4ROLE OF NCSM




5 WORK PLAN

The Academy has already developed the concept brining out the importance of the river and the basic

ideas about the exhibits, their type, importance, priorities of the different aspects of the river Cauvery, as

detailed above; then NCSM will draw the chart of the different types of the exhibits depicting the various

aspects of the river in & as interactive domain. This work will take about 2 months. Dr. Manju Sharma along

with NASI and NCSM of�cials, representatives from KKC, Mysore University and any other experts to be

involved would �nalize the �nal road map for the exhibits. Preliminary work relating to the exhibits has

already been done by NCSM in consultation with NASI.

Further, the NCSM will make a power point presentation for the types of exhibits/models to be displayed

with their functional details, to be endorsed by the Advisory Committee of the NASI for the Gallery; the

Karnataka govt. will also be consulted, when required for its valuable advice.

After this scheduling of the exhibits, the NCSM will be handed over the site for installation of the exhibits in

next 6 months. Thus, the total duration will be of approximately 9 months.



17

As agreed upon the location of the gallery will be at Old Professor Quarters/IHCN building in Univ. of

Mysore, Mysore. The photograph of the building is given below-

The total area is also given as Appndx. I & II

6LOCATION INCLUDING THE SIZE

KJA Recommenda�on (Feb, 2015)


Tentative Budget for setting up of Cauvery gallery in Mysore By National Academy of Science India (NASI),

Allahabad

7FINANCIAL REQUIREMENT

Sr.

no.Details

Estimated

cost

(Rs. In

Lakhs)

1. Exhibits: Conceptualization, design, development, fabrication &

Installation of exhibits including diorama, touch screen multimedia

and other interactive features for the Cauvery Gallery150.00

2. Other Equipments

· 25 KVA silent DG set

· AC in the halls

· Computer Tables &Furniture (Chairs for conference /

seminar room)

10.00

10.00

10.00

3. Landscaping 5.00

4. Gate near the entrance 5.00

5. Travel and other expdt. for expert committee members (5-8 times) 15.00

6. Contingency 15.00

7. Maintenance of the gallery and exhibition till inauguration or up to 3 years 30.00

8. Fixing of vitri�ed tiles in the �oor & other civil works 25.00

9. 3D equipments & related shooting/editing etc. 50.00

10. Electricity bills and other miscellaneous expenses 25.00

Approximately Rs. 03.50 Crores


Sensitisation of the population specially students in the region, focus on conservation and a source of

tourism would be the key deliverables of this project. It will have tremendous ecological, economic, social,

cultural and scienti�c signi�cance. Investment in the project would lead to signi�cant revenue generation

in about one year and it will be a continuous process.

With the display of the live models and exhibits the students and scholars will come to know about the facts

coupled with the river. They will also learn about the famous events that took place in the past, river-based

recreational activities, its uses which include �shing, bathing, transport, rafting and swimming among

others the world's major cities located near the banks of river and other interesting trivia and information.

As the river is crucial and concurrent with many of the environmental issues that concern society, so it will

be a focus of research and will be studied by a wide range of scientists and technologists including

hydrologists, engineers, ecologists and geomorphologists.

8 OUTCOME



KJA proposes the following project management structure for the Cauvery Gallery Project (illustrated in

Annexure-II):

• Cauvery Gallery Project can be administratively anchored either in Tourism Department of GOK

• Budget and funds may be allocated and disbursed from the anchoring administrative department.

• The Project may be awarded to NCSM, GOI directly and NASI. NSCM may be project implementation

agency and the funds can be released either to NASI or NCSM.

• NASI will be coordinating as Project Coordinator and will be given the responsibility to oversee the

implementation of the project. NASI can be responsible jointly with NCSM for design, monitoring,

certifying progress/work and reviews etc

• GOK may establish a Project Management Board with Dr Manju Sharma, President, NASI as Chair

and with KJA and other experts from GOK etc as Members. Expenses and administrative needs for

the Board to function may be allotted from Project funds.

• A local Mysore-based project monitoring committee may be established under the Board for

monitoring the work.

• Mysore University may be directed to hand-over the site of the Gallery to NASI – so that they can

manage the same for gallery implementation.

• Gallery may be operated by NASI for 3 years – and within that time, GOK may establish a suitable

autonomous body for the management/operations of the Gallery.

9PROJECT MANAGEMENT

STRUCTURE PROPOSED BY KJA




Participants:

1. Shri. R. V. Deshpande, Honourable Minister for Higher Education and Tourism, GoK

2. Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Chairman, KJA

3. Shri. Priyanka Kharge, M.L.A (Chittapur)

4. Dr. Rajaneesh Goel, I.A.S, Principal Secretary, Department of Higher Education, GoK

5. Shri. K. S. Saibaba, I.A.S, Secretary to Govt., Department of Ecology and Environment, GoK

6. Prof. C.R. Babu, Professor Emeritus, School of Environmental Studies, Centre for Environmental

Management of Degraded Ecosystems, University of Delhi

7. Prof. K.S Rangappa, Vice Chancellor, Mysore University

8. Ms. G. Satyavathi, I.A.S, Director, Department of Tourism, GoK

9. Mr. Ramachandra, I.A.S, Secretary to Govt., Department of Ecology and Environment, GoK

10. Mr. Shivanna I.F.S, Chief Executive Of�cer, Lake Development Authority, GoK

11. Mr. B. J. Hosmath I.F.S, Managing Director, Jungle Lodges and Resorts

12. Mr. Brijesh Kumar I.F.S, Chief Conservator Forests, BBMP

13. Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive Secretary, National Academy of Sciences India, Allahabad

14. Mr. S R Nagaraj, Executive Engineer, Lake Development Authority

15. Mr. K Madan Gopal, Curator, N.C.S.M. , GoI

16. Mr. Mohan, Under Secretary, Department of Tourism

17. Mr. R. K. Singh, Member Secretary, Karnataka Biodiversity Board

18. Dr. Mukund Rao, Member Secretary, KJA

19. Dr. Padmavathi B. S., SRA, KJA

Karnataka Jnana Aayoga

(Karnataka Knowledge Commission)

Minutes of the Review Meeting on KJA initiatives of Cauvery Gallery and Biodiversity Park

ANNEXURE I

Venue: Room No. 422, Vikasa Soudha, Bengaluru

Date: November 29, 2014

Time: 3:00-4:30 PM




A] Background

1. At the joint initiative of Honourable Minister for Higher Education and Tourism, Government of

Karnataka and Dr K Kasturirangan, Chairman of Karnataka Jnana Aayoga (KJA), KJA had steered

and coordinated for 2 important knowledge initiatives:

1.1. Establishment of a Cauvery Gallery in Mysore University – through Dr Manju Sharma,

President of National Academy of Sciences India, (NASI). It is to be noted that NASI has

established similar river galleries for Ganga in Varanasi and for Brahmaputra in Guwahati

and thus has the heritage of undertaking such activities.

1.2. Development of a Biodiversity Park in Bengaluru through Prof. C.R. Babu, Professor

Emeritus, School of Environmental Studies, University of Delhi for the Biodiversity Park at

Madivala Lake System, Bengaluru. It is to be noted that Prof Babu has been the key person

for establishing Yamuna Biodiversity Park in Delhi and has the full experience of

undertaking such activities.

2. KJA had also facilitated visits of Dr Manju Sharma to Mysore University (MU) and had identi�ed a site

for the Gallery in MU, in coordination with Vice-Chancellor and Registrar. Similarly, Prof Babu had

visited Madivala lake, in coordination with Lake Development Authority (LDA) and identi�ed the site

details. These concept notes were also discussed with Mysore University and Lake Development

Authority and have their broad acceptance for the concept.

3. KJA, in its 2nd meeting held on September 21, 2014, had considered the initial concept proposals for

the Cauvery gallery and Biodiversity park and had recommended for both of these to be undertaken

through Government of Karnataka (GOK).

4. Based on these initial concept and site visits, KJA has now received formal proposals from NASI for

the Cauvery Gallery and from Prof Babu for Biodiversity Park. This meeting is for a GOK

Departmental review of these 2 proposals and to seek guidance of Hon'ble Minister for next steps.

B] Cauvery Gallery

5. On behalf of Dr. Manju Sharma, President of NASI (who could not attend), Dr. Niraj Kumar, Executive

Secretary of NASI and Mr. Madan Gopal, National Council of Science Museums made a presentation

on 'Cauvery- Gallery' proposal. The proposed Gallery would be established at the Old Professor's

Quarters located in Mysore University campus in Mysore. NASI has undertaken Ganga and

Brahmaputra Gallery and details of the same were presented. Detailing on the major sections of the

proposed Cauvery Gallery, Mr. Madan Gopal said the Gallery would have exhibits on river Cauvery's




journey, myths and legends, physiography, tributaries, geo-scienti�c importance, biodiversity of the

basin, socio-economic importance, tourism, culture, fairs and festivals, threats to the river,

conservation and restoration efforts and research. These would be projected through interactive

multimedia with diorama, animations, backlit graphic display, RFID based interactive exhibit with

graphics, interactive map browser, panel display supported by video and interactive virtual tour. Dr.

Niraj Kumar stated that the setting up of the gallery would take 9 months at a tentative cost of about

INR 3.50 crores. He further added that the conceptualization of the project would be done by the

NASI, in consultation with KJA, and execution will be undertaken by NASI/NCSM. The gallery would

be able to have footfalls upto 1000-1500 visitors per day.

6. Dr Kasturirangan suggested that NASI is a science academy and is best suited for implementing the

same – it is an autonomous body under DST and its accounts are audited by Government. It is also

planned to have a Project Implementation Committee chaired by Dr Manju Sharma and other KJA

Members/GOK of�cials/MU of�cials. A Project Director would be identi�ed by NASI and they would

implement the project.

7. VC, MU mentioned that the Gallery will be an important activity in the 100th year celebration of MU.

8. The proposal was appreciated and endorsed by all participants, including the Hon'ble Minister. It was

discussed that such a Gallery will do great for tourism, education and environment and also make

awareness to young persons and citizens of the state and tourists. Good satellite images, maps and

display need to be worked out. Design of the Gallery must be discussed and consulted in early stage

and then implemented.

9. Honourable Minister appreciated the KJA initiative for the Cauvery Gallery proposal and also

endorsed the proposal made by NASI in this regard. He also noted the Ganga and Brahmaputra

Gallery work of NASI and noted that the role of Dr Manju Sharma in this proposal is key person. He

also mentioned that a positive projection of Cauvery and its history/resources/environment and

bene�ts is extremely important. A plan for sustenance and maintenance of the gallery needs to be

also built-in – for students it can be subsidised but an entry fee concept must be built-in. He further

said that the areas for display on language, ethnic and cultural aspects can be identi�ed in

consultation with Tourism Department.

10. Based on the discussions, the following actions were identi�ed:

10.1. NASI to submit a DPR (Detailed Project Report) incorporating the suggested changes by

the end of December, 2014. NASI could run the gallery for three-years and by then

recommend an appropriate mechanism for the Gallery operations – through a JV or

Tourism Department or Mysore University etc



10.2. KJA can once again consider the proposal and formally recommend to GOK. KJA may also

recommend an appropriate management structure and funding mechanism for the project

implementation.

10.3. Vice-Chancellor, Mysore University, to take up action for hand-over of the site building to

NASI/NCSM for setting up of the Gallery.

10.4. Tourism Department, in coordination with Higher Education Department, could administer

the project on behalf of GOK with KJA involved in project design and monitoring and MU

involved in the project implementation.

10.5. As NASI is an autonomous body and NCSM is a central government agency, the modality of

funds transfer – either to NASI or NCSM needs to be considered. NASI may consider and

suggest best option to KJA – who can make a recommendation, appropriately.

C] Biodiversity Park at Madivala Lake System

11. Prof. C.R.Babu made a detailed presentation on the Biodiversity Park proposal and said that there is

an urgent need to bring back the natural green-heritage of the city. It would be a unique landscape

where ecological assemblages of native species in the form of biological communities are recreated

and maintained over few hundred hectares of degraded or marginal lands. Prof. Babu also briefed

about the Yamuna and Aravalli Biodiversity Parks established in Delhi. The Biodiversity Park would

act as a nature reserve that harbours natural heritage of the area and has conservation, educational,

and cultural values, and also enhances the quality of environment in urban centres. The plan is to

recreate self-sustaining ecosystems with native �ora and fauna characteristic of the area for

enhancing the quality of environment. Apart from the above mentioned functions, the Biodiversity

Park buffer the local weather and serve as sink for CO2 and urban pollutants and also serve as a

adaptation to climate change.

12. Highlighting the major landscape features of the proposed biodiversity park, Prof. Babu said the park

will have mosaic of wetlands interspersed with grasslands and scattered trees, greenways with

walkways, shelter belt of bamboo thicket, shrub-land of native fruit bearing shrubs, a shoreline

community of marsh plant species, aquatic community, game �shing zone, herbal and scented

garden and nature interpretation centre among others. The time estimated for developing the lake

into a full-�edged biodiversity park is 5 years and Prof Babu mentioned that the direct intellectual

cost would be about INR 2.20 crores – not including the survey and landscaping and civil-works

cost.

13. The proposal of Biodiversity Park was appreciated and endorsed by all participants, including the

Hon'ble Minister. It was discussed that sustaining such a nature reserve would not only be good for

environment but would be a spot for tourism and also for environmental education in the state. In




fact, the need is for many more such parks across the state that will cause a positive in environment

– Yelahanka and Jakkur lakes were mentioned. It was agreed that similar activity can be taken up

after the Madivala project is done and a bench-mark is established. In particular, key issues of

BWSSB sewerage water �ow into Madivala, civil works required etc were also discussed.

14. Hon'ble Minister expressed his support for developing the biodiversity park in Madivala lake. It was

noted that the lake area belongs to Forest Department and that a detailed DPR would be required. It

was also discussed that the best agency in the state for administering the project was the Lake

Development Authority (LDA) – who should implement and maintain the project as per advice of Prof

Babu.

15. Based on the discussions, the following actions were identi�ed:

15.1. Prof Babu to submit a DPR (Detailed Project Report) incorporating the suggested changes

by the end of December, 2014. LDA to prepare detailed costs for civil works, landscaping

etc and other costs and provide same. Prof Babu would be the key person to

guide/supervise and look through the implementation.

15.2. KJA to formally once again consider the DPR proposals (incorporating Prof Babu and LDA

costs) – in coordination with LDA/Forest Dept/Tourism Dept and recommend the same to

GOK for implementation. KJA may also suggest a project management structure. If

required, funds for the �rst 3 months for Prof Babu can be made available through KJA.

15.3. LDA would be the nodal agency of GOK for implementation/maintenance of project and

LDA can work out necessary interface to be worked out with Forest Department.

D] General

16. Hon'ble Minister appreciated and thanked Dr Kasturirangan and speci�cally KJA efforts to fructify

these 2 initiatives. He mentioned that KJA has identi�ed and shaped these 2 initiatives with its best

efforts and it is now for GOK Departments to take up implementation. These 2 projects are important

for the state. He mentioned that KJA should continue to facilitate the DPR stage and must be involved

in the design and monitoring activities.

17. Dr Kasturirangan, Chairman, KJA thanked Hon'ble Minister for the review and guidelines and assured

that KJA would continue its efforts with the relevant GOK departments to see that these 2 projects

become successful.

18. The meeting ended with thanks to Chair.

(R.V. DESHPANDE)Minister for Higher Education

& Tourism Department


Establishment of Cauvery Gallery Establishment of Cauvery Gallery


Establishment ofCauvery Gallery

February




Project Implementa�on:

The Na�onal Academy of Sciences, India

&

Na�onal Council of Science Museums

Ministry of Culture,Government of India

Department of Printing, Stationery and Publications, Bengaluru



No. 438-439, 4th Floor, Vikasa Soudha, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Veedhi, Bangalore - 560001Phone: 080-2226 8626, 080 - 2226 7626 email : [email protected]

website : www.jnanaayoga.in


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