Plea for reduction on stamp duty
In a memorandum submitted to Governor Rameshwar Thakur, former minister P G R Sindhia has sought intervention to drop the move to increase the fee on stamp duty by 20 percent  from March 1, 2008. Mr Sindhia said the move to increase stamp duty will cause immense hardship to the poor and middle income groups.
Minimise fuel duty: SUCI
The Socialist Unity Centre of India (SUCI) has appealed to the governor to minimise cess and duty imposed on petrol and diesel. In a memorandum submitted to the Governor, the SUCI has said that the sudden hike petrol and diesel prices was an unjustifiable burden on the public, and the State Government should minimise the additional cess and duty to lessen the burden on the public. SUCI has also urged the governor to appeal to the Central Government to withdraw the hike in petrol and diesel prices.
Honour for folk artiste
Folk artist Munivenkatappa of Shidlaghatta taluk in Chikkaballapur district has been selected for the Dr L Basavaraju award, constituted by Dr L Basavaraju Trust. The trust constituted the award to honour contributions to the cultural field. The award carries Rs 10,000 in cash and a citation. The award will be presented at Adima Kendra in Terahalli Betta of Kolar district on February 21.
Photography contest
The Sagara Photographic Society has invited photographs for the eighth state level photography contest from youth below 35 years of age. The themes for the competition are - rural life, and moments of mood. Those interested should send four prints (8’’X12’’ size) of their photographs. Last date to send the entries is March 20, 2008. Call: 94802-80997 or 08183-229243.
No support for bundh
Hubli, dhns:  Karnataka State Secondary Teachers’ Association has opposed the State-wide school and college bundh proposed on February 26. The bundh call has been given by former education minister Basavaraj Horatti, and office-bearers of a federation to protest against the government order making B Ed compulsory for PU teachers. Convener of the Association, Prof R M Kuberappa, said, “This isn’t the right time to hold bundh.”