A green initiative: 498kW solar power plant installed on Yenepoya’s Derlakatte campus

coastaldigest.com news network
July 3, 2018

Managluru, Jul 3: In its continuing drive to usher in a more eco-friendly campus, Yenepoya, a deemed to be university, has taken the pioneering initiative to install a 498kW rooftop Solar Farm at its flagship campus situated at Derlakatte in Mangalore. The solar farm, which is spread over 5 different buildings on the campus, has been installed by Yenepoya Medical College in partnership with OV Energy. The new facility was inaugurated by Vice Chancellor, Dr. M. Vijaykumar, Finance Director Mr. Farhaad Yenepoya and Registrar Dr. G. Shreekumar Menon along with the CEO of OV Energy, Dev Arora on 27th June.

Addressing the informal gathering, Vice Chancellor of the deemed university, Dr. M. Vijaykumar said: “At Yenepoya, we not only train young doctors to save lives but also to promote a sustainable lifestyle and save our environment as well.” The solar panels installed on the tile roof buildings provide an impressive view with the backdrop of the lush green campus.

Green initiatives become sustainable only when they are economically tied into a project. This makes them practical and beneficial instead of just being idealistic.  Hence the decision to go solar was motivated not just to switch across to a cleaner, emission-free source of power, but also driven by a desire to enjoy significant savings on electricity expenditure. Rooftop solar being cheaper than grid power, the 498 kW plant will generate in excess of 6 lakh units of energy annually, translating to a yearly saving of approximately Rs. 25 lakhs to the university! This capital can now be deployed for the further development of facilities and resources for students of the medical college.

This project falls under the Solar Energy Corporation of India’s (SECI) subsidy scheme which extends financial support to educational institutions, home-owners and non-profits looking to make the switch to solar and thereby promoting widespread use of solar. The system also falls under the state net-metering policy whereby all the excess units of energy generated during the day are fed back to the grid and accorded due credit with the DISCOM, increasing the overall savings generated.

The beautiful architecture of the various buildings was perfectly suited for solar, utilizing the existing angle of the tiled roof to optimize the incidence of solar irradiation on the panels and ensure maximum energy output. The installation is also specially designed to avoid leakages in the roofing and also help in reducing the temperature of the interiors in peak summer, thereby calling for less energy for internal cooling.

The initiative to go solar is just the first of many that the University plans to take in its pledge to truly be a green campus and ingratiate in its students and faculty alike, a commitment to a sustainable lifestyle. Given India’s ambitious targets and commitments on the global stage, this wonderful initiative to contribute to India’s emission reduction is certainly the need of the hour and a stellar example for other institutions to follow.

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coastaldigest.com news network
December 20,2025

Mangaluru, Dec 20: City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has issued a high-alert warning to vehicle owners regarding a surge in cyber fraud targeting those looking to pay traffic violation fines. Fraudsters are reportedly exploiting recent government discount schemes on traffic penalties to deceive citizens.

The Scam: How Fraudsters Strike

Criminals are using SMS, WhatsApp, and social media to circulate suspicious links and APK files (Android application packages). They claim these apps allow users to pay e-challans at a discount.

•    Device Hacking: Downloading these unauthorized apps gives hackers full access to the victim's smartphone.

•    Financial Theft: Once the phone is compromised, fraudsters intercept OTPs and personal data to drain bank accounts.

•    Phishing Sites: Fake websites mimicking official portals are also being used to harvest banking credentials.

Already, two residents within Mangaluru city limits have reported significant financial losses after falling victim to these fraudulent apps.

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News Network
December 15,2025

Udupi, Dec 15: What was meant to be a post-pilgrimage gathering turned tragic in Padukere village of Brahmavar taluk, Udupi district, late Sunday night, when a clash among youths escalated into a fatal assault, leaving one man dead.

The victim has been identified as 30-year-old Santosh Mogaveera, a resident of Padukere.

According to preliminary information, the incident took place during a late-night drinking party involving a group of local youths who had recently returned after completing their pilgrimage to the Sabarimala shrine. An argument reportedly broke out among the group and soon escalated into a violent confrontation.

During the ensuing brawl, Santosh Mogaveera was allegedly assaulted and collapsed at the spot after sustaining serious injuries. He was rushed by local residents to a private hospital in Brahmavar, where doctors declared him dead.

On receiving information, senior police officials, including Brahmavar Circle Inspector Gopikrishna, Kota Police Sub-Inspector Praveen Kumar T, Station ASI Manthesh Jabagoudar, and head constables Pradeep and Ashok, visited the spot and conducted an inspection.

Police have taken four youths into custody in connection with the incident. A case has been registered at the Kota police station, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact sequence of events leading to the death.

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News Network
December 17,2025

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Melkar, Dec 17: The 17th Annual Day and Graduation Ceremony of Melkar Women’s PU and Degree College, themed “Fusion-2K25,” was celebrated with dignity and enthusiasm, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s academic journey. The programme reflected the college’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence, character building, and the holistic development of students.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. Asif Mohammed, whose presence greatly enriched the occasion. The celebration was further graced by the chief guests Mr. P. B. Ahmed Mudassir and Mr. Nissar Fakeer Mohammed, along with the distinguished guests of honour Mr. B. A. Nazeer and Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar. In their inspiring addresses, the guests encouraged the graduating students and appreciated the dedicated efforts of the management, faculty, and students.

The annual report was presented by the Principal, Mr. Abdul Majeed S, highlighting the institution’s academic progress, notable achievements, and extracurricular accomplishments during the academic year.

The presidential address was delivered by the esteemed Chairman of Melkar Women’s PU and Degree College, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasized the vital role of education in empowering women and shaping responsible citizens. He also stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and perseverance in achieving success.

Cultural programmes and academic recognitions formed an integral part of the celebration, showcasing the talents and achievements of the students. The graduation ceremony was a proud moment for the outgoing students as they were formally conferred degrees and wished success in their future endeavours.

Ms. Mashmooma Fathima served as the Master of Ceremonies. The welcome address was delivered by Ms. Fathima Nida, and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Ayisha Suhana.

The event successfully achieved its objectives and was highly appreciated by the guests and attendees.

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