“Development models should be questioned, before accepting it,” said filmmaker Girish Kasaravalli.

Speaking at the valedictory of ‘Sthalantharavu sahithyavu’ (displacement and literature) organised by the St Aloysius College and Neenasam Prathishtana here on Sunday, he said “many a times we accept the development models without questioning it. We should try to find out an alternative model as well,” he added.

Citing an example of production of hydroelectricity, which results in displacement of people owing to the construction of dam, he said: “We need electricity, but we should also find out solution to reduce the loss in the transmission of power from the production centre, so that there is no need to have more hydroelectricity production stations.”

“By giving continuous publicity in media on a particular development models, people accept it as part of their life without understanding the gravity of the situation. We always think US as model for us without realising the Indian situation,” he added.

‘Sthalantharavu sahithyavu’ (displacement and literature) is applicable and suitable to Dakshina Kannada district, which is undergoing rapid changes with several developmental projects coming up.  Earlier, Girish Kasaravalli’s ‘Dweepa’ movie was screened, followed by discussion with Mr Kasaravalli.

St Aloysius College Principal Fr Swebert D’Silva, Neenasam Prathishthana Director Prof T P Ashok, Na Damodar Shetty among others were present.