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Draft:Dr Ram Prasath Manohar V IAS

Dr Ram Prasath Manohar IAS
Chairman, Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board

Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar[1] V, IAS, currently serves as the Chairman of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). He has played a significant role in managing the recent water crisis in Bangalore[2].

Early life and education

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Manohar was born in Rajyapalyam, Tamil Nadu.

  • Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) from Madras Veterinary College
  • Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc) in Genetics and Biotechnology from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar
  • Master of Arts (M.A.) in Public Policy from Delhi University
  • Master in Business Law from National Law University
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Competition Policy and Law from National Law University, Delhi

Awards and Fellowships

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  • Young Scientist Award by the Government of India in 2001
  • Dr. P.S. Lalitha Award in 2002 from the Indian Biomedical Scientist Association
  • ICAR Junior Research Fellowship in 2003
  • CSIR Senior Research Fellowship in 2006
  • National Award for implementation of Vidyarthi Belakku Scheme by GOI in 2018
  • National Best Practices Award for Implementation of PMAY in 2019-2020 from Ministry of Mining GOI
  • Rashtriya Khanij Vikas Puraskar 2020-21 For Karnataka State As Director of Mines

Professional Experience:

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  • 2006-2007: Soon After post-graduation Dr Manohar Has worked as an externship fellow in Texas, USA
  • 2008-2010: Selection to IRS, Indian Forest Service, Indian Police Service, and Indian Administrative Service

In 2008, Dr. Manohar was selected for the IRS and the Indian Forest Service. In 2009, he joined the Indian Police Service, and in 2010, he achieved his goal of entering the Indian Administrative Service.

  • 2012-2013: Assistant Commissioner, Bhatkal
    • Establishing a paperless office
    • Implementing a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for a dialysis unit
    • Setting up blood storage units in Bhatkal
  • 2013-2016: CEO, Karwar District

During his tenure as CEO of Karwar district, Dr. Manohar introduced three innovative projects:

  • APJ Abdul Kalam Sushandi Merit Fellowship: For Providing skill based integrated graduate courses & employment and educate youth in association with Deshpande Foundation Hubli
  • Surya Project for women's upliftment and empowerment
  • DISHA Project, a special service portal for the welfare of differently-abled persons, which was extended statewide
  • He also significantly improved the district's ranking in Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) schemes, moving from the 20th position to the top 5 within three years.
  • He has implemented Swacha Bharath Mission Successfully to make the Karwar District ODF.
  • 2016-2019: Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate, Ballari
Vidyarthi Belaku Program Launch in Ballari

Impact on Education in Ballari District by Deputy Commissioner

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Educational Reforms in Ballari District

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Upon being appointed as the Deputy Commissioner of Ballari, He noticed that the district was ranked last in the SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) results across Karnataka. Recognizing the transformative power of education in driving socio-economic reform, he spearheaded several initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes in the region.

Vidyarthi Belaku Program[3] One of the key initiatives was the Vidyarthi Belaku program, designed to reduce dropout rates. Under this program, all students with a minimum of 75% attendance were awarded a scholarship of Rs. 2000. This financial support enabled parents to purchase essential educational materials such as books, stationery, and other study resources for their children.

Additional Educational Initiatives

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To further bolster education in Ballari, he introduced night schools and various reward programs. These efforts collectively fostered a positive learning environment and motivated students to excel academically.

Impact and Results

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As a result of these dedicated efforts, Ballari district witnessed a significant improvement in its educational standing. The district ascended from the 30th to the 5th rank in SSLC results in Karnataka. This remarkable turnaround not only enhanced educational outcomes but also spurred numerous socio-economic reforms. These reforms played a crucial role in empowering marginalized communities, particularly those affected by the region's mining activities.

Personal Commitment

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Understanding the pivotal role of education in his own life, He was deeply committed to advancing educational opportunities in Ballari. The initiatives undertaken during his tenure as Deputy Commissioner have had a lasting impact on the district, fostering a brighter future for its residents.

  1. Vidyarthi Belaku Bringing Ballari to the Top 5 in Education Sector - Indian Masterminds Dated: October 31, 2022

In Ballari, Dr. Manohar's notable initiatives included:

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  • Introducing the Ballari Business Summit[4]
  • Launching "Wings to Fly" for young entrepreneurs
  • Gaining national recognition for the Ballari Education Programme under the District Mineral Foundation Trust funds

2019-2022: Various Key Roles in Bengaluru:

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  • Commissioner, Employment and Training
  • Managing Director, Rajiv Gandhi Rural Housing Corporation Limited[5]
  • Managing Director, Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation
  • Director, Department of Mines and Geology
  • Special Commissioner, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP)[6]

Educational Initiatives: "Wonder on Wheels" and "Vidyarthi Belaku[7]"

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Vidyarthi Belaku inauguration

During his tenure as Special Commissioner of BBMP, Dr Ramprasath has launched two significant educational initiatives in Bengaluru: "Wonder on Wheels" and "Vidyarthi Belaku." These programs aimed to address the alarming dropout rates among school-going children post-COVID-19 and to make learning an engaging and accessible experience for all students[8].

Wonder on Wheels

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The "Wonder on Wheels[9]" initiative encourages children to study in a natural environment. He remodeled 10 BMTC buses to serve as mobile classrooms. These buses travel to various locations, allowing children to engage in educational activities and tutoring sessions provided by government teachers and volunteers. Each session lasts for one hour, focusing on interactive and nature-based learning.

Vidyarthi Belaku

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"Vidyarthi Belaku" is designed to reach students in remote areas, bringing education directly to their communities. This initiative aims to make learning accessible to children who may not have easy access to traditional schools. By providing education in their localities, "Vidyarthi Belaku" helps to reduce dropout rates and encourages continued education.

Impact of the Initiatives

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Post-COVID, a survey revealed that over 40,000 students had dropped out of school between 2020 and 2022. The "Wonder on Wheels" and "Vidyarthi Belaku" initiatives were developed to make learning fun and engaging, thereby motivating children to resume their studies. These programs have been successful in retaining most of the participating children, providing them with the necessary support and resources to continue their education.

Continuing the Legacy[10]

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As the Special Commissioner of BBMP, He had continued to support and expand these initiatives, ensuring that they reach as many children as possible and make a lasting impact on their educational journeys.

2023-Present: Chairman, Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB[11])

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As the Chairman of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), Dr. Manohar has led several critical initiatives to improve water supply and sewage management in Bengaluru:

 
  • Water Conservation Programs[12]: Launched multiple campaigns to promote water conservation among residents, including the implementation of advanced water-saving technologies.
  • Infrastructure Development: Oversaw the upgrade and expansion of the city's water supply and sewage infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the population.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Introduced sustainable water [13]management practices, including rainwater harvesting and the recycling of wastewater for non-potable uses.
  • Community Engagement Enhanced community engagement through awareness programs and partnerships with local organizations to ensure the effective implementation of water management policies.
  • Technological Innovations: Implemented smart water metering systems and advanced leak detection technologies to reduce water loss and improve efficiency.

From Protests to Zero: The Sintex Tank Solution [14]

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Once plagued by protests and chaos over water scarcity, Bengaluru witnessed a remarkable transformation in 2024, all thanks to a seemingly simple yet ingenious solution: Sintex tanks. In the past, the city often grappled with unrest as lower-income communities and slums took to the streets, demanding access to drinking water. BWSSB's headquarters became a focal point for demonstrations, with crowds brandishing empty vessels, disrupting traffic in the heart of the Central Business District.

Amidst this turmoil, the city's water board, under the visionary leadership of its Chairman, devised a game-changing strategy. Recognizing the inefficiency and inequity of relying solely on tanker deliveries during droughts, the Chairman spearheaded the deployment of 1500 Sintex tanks across key areas inhabited by marginalized communities. This bold move aimed not only to address immediate water needs but also to quell social unrest and streamline logistical challenges faced by BWSSB.

Initially met with skepticism, the impact of the Sintex tank initiative was nothing short of revolutionary.

By ensuring the timely filling of the tanks and maintaining a steady supply of water, BWSSB effectively diffused tensions and restored public confidence. The sight of Sintex tanks brimming with water provided a sense of security and relief to residents, alleviating their fear of scarcity and uncertainty.

  1. BWSSB’s move mitigates water woes in Varthur May 7, 2024, Bangalore Mirror
  2. ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ನೀರಿನ ಸಮಸ್ಯೆ ನೀಗಿಸಲು 582 ಕಡೆ ಸಿಂಟೆಕ್ಸ್‌ ಟ್ಯಾಂಕ್‌; 94 ಮೊಬೈಲ್‌ ಟ್ಯಾಂಕರ್‌ Vijaykarnataka 10 Mar 2024
  3. Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board
  4. Karnataka Govt Attempts to Solve Bengaluru's Water Crisis, Mandates Registration of Water Tankers News 18 FEBRUARY 28, 2024

When Manohar took over as Chairman of BWSSB, he brought a fresh perspective and a sense of urgency to address the water crisis. His vision was to make Bengaluru water sufficient by July 1, 2024, and water surplus by July 2, 2024[15]. To achieve this, he implemented several innovative measures and mobilized resources efficiently.

 

One of his first steps was to understand the ground realities and address immediate concerns. Recognizing the importance of a stable water supply, he formed a special task force to manage the crisis. A notable initiative was the deployment of 1,500 Sintex tanks in lower-income areas and slums. This simple yet effective solution ensured that residents had access to water without the chaos and conflicts that typically accompanied tanker deliveries.

By keeping these tanks filled continuously, BWSSB managed to provide a reliable water source, significantly reducing public agitation and protests.

Sustainable Practices and Lake Rejuvenation

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One of the key aspects of Dr. Manohar's vision was to enhance groundwater recharge and ensure sustainable water management. BWSSB initiated a program to refill lakes with treated wastewater. This not only helped in groundwater recharge but also restored the ecological balance of these water bodies. By rejuvenating lakes, BWSSB aimed to bring back Bengaluru's historical legacy of being [16]a city of lakes.

The board also promoted the use of treated water for non-potable purposes, such as construction. BWSSB supplied 10 MLD of treated water daily to the construction industry at subsidized rates, reducing the reliance on freshwater sources.

To ensure the quality of treated water, BWSSB collaborated with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to upgrade its treatment plants, producing zero bacterial water suitable for various industrial applications.

Five Star Challenge [17]

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BWSSB understood that sustainable water management required active participation from the community. He launched the "Green Star Challenge," encouraging commercial buildings, hotels, apartments, educational institutions, and hospitals to adopt water-efficient practices and use treated water for non-drinking purposes. The initiative involved a star rating system based on five key actions: using water efficiency technology, utilizing treated water, recharging groundwater, monitoring water consumption, and promoting water sustainability[18].

The response was overwhelming, with over 1,500 institutions participating in the challenge. This initiative not only fostered a sense of responsibility among bulk consumers but also highlighted the collective effort needed to achieve water sustainability[19]

  1. ^BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar urged citizens to report violations, and assured swift action by the board - The Hindu BusinessLine
  2. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2024/Mar/24/adopt-five-formulas-reduce-water-usage-bwssb
  3. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/10-water-supply-to-be-cut-for-those-consuming-40-lakh-to-2-crore-litres-a-day-from-april-10/article68017363.ece
  4. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/technology/bengaluru-water-board-to-reduce-supply-by-10-for-users-consuming-over-40-lakh-litres-per-month-12558231.html
  5. https://thewaterdigest.com/over-600-register-for-green-star-challenge-in-two-weeks-in-boost-to-bwssb-water-saving-campaign-in-bengaluru/
  6. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/bengaluru-water-board-launches-green-star-challenge-for-hotels-restaurants-amid-crisis-101711164626495.html
  7. https://salarnews.in/city-news/details/34972/bwssb-launches-green-star-challenge-for-eateries-to-conserve-water
  8. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2024/Mar/23/bwssb-launches-green-star-challenge-for-hotels
  9. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/629-buildings-register-for-bwssb-s-green-star-challenge-3007388
  10. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/green-star-challenge-for-hotels-and-apartments/article67980893.ece
  11. https://hospitality.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/hotels/bwssb-launches-green-star-challenge-for-hotels-restaurants-in-bengaluru-to-conserve-water/108729893
  12. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/bwssb-launches-portal-for-green-star-challenge-2983027
  13. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/bwssb-chairman-v-ram-prasath-manohar-ensures-equitable-water-distribution-in-bengaluru-slums/articleshow/108570434.cms

Recent Media Clippings:

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How Bengaluru tided over its water crisis this summer - India Today

Bengaluru: Major water shutdown in these areas today. Full list here | Today News (livemint.com)

Bengaluru Was Going to Run Out of Water by 2020. Did That Happen? (thebetterindia.com)

Bengaluru’s Water Shortage is Worrying But Not Yet Alarming | Experts Decode Plan for IT City (msn.com)

Board Members - Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (karnataka.gov.in)

If you face water problem in Bengaluru, call BWSSB Chairman - The Hindu

BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar urged citizens to report violations, and assured swift action by the board - The Hindu BusinessLine

Interactive meeting with Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar, IAS Chairman Bangalore Water Supply and Sewage Board (BWSSB) – FKCCI

Water supply board chief assures residents of stable water supply in Bengaluru (aninews.in)

Bengaluru’s Water Crisis Prompts Ban on Drinking Water for Non-Essential Needs, with a ₹5,000 Penalty - The Hindu

185 lakes to be tapped to meet water shortage: Bengaluru Water Supply Board | Today News (livemint.com)

MC Interview: Bengaluru water board chief assures there’s enough drinking water to last till monsoon; says misinformation campaign is on to defame city (moneycontrol.com)

BWSSB Chief: BWSSB Chairman V Ram Prasath Manohar Ensures Equitable Water Distribution in Bengaluru Slums | Bengaluru News - Times of India (indiatimes.com)

Bengaluru’s Water Shortage is Worrying But Not Yet Alarming | Experts Decode Plan for IT City (msn.com)

References

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  1. ^ Bureau, The Hindu (2024-03-08). "BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar urged citizens to report violations, and assured swift action by the board". BusinessLine. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  2. ^ Video | Tackling Bengaluru's Water Crisis: Sustainable Solutions For It Hub's Water Scarcity. Retrieved 2024-07-19 – via www.ndtv.com.
  3. ^ "Bringing Ballari to the Top 5 in Education Sector -". Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  4. ^ "Ballari business summit in Jan". The Hindu. 2016-11-23. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  5. ^ Service, Express News (2021-09-15). "BMTC gets new chief in IAS rejig". The New Indian Express. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  6. ^ elets Tv (2022-10-06). Dr. V. Ram Prasath Manohar, Special Commissioner, BBMP at State Education Summit. Retrieved 2024-07-19 – via YouTube.
  7. ^ Aug 8, IANS / Updated; 2022; Ist, 06:00. "BBMP to provide tuitions for poor kids". Bangalore Mirror. Retrieved 2024-07-19. {{cite web}}: |last2= has numeric name (help)CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  8. ^ B.P, Darshan Devaiah (2022-08-22). "BBMP to start tuition centres for poor children at 10 locations". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  9. ^ Yacoob, Mohammed (2022-08-27). "Learning centres for poor students to come up in all wards of Bengaluru". The New Indian Express. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  10. ^ "Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike moots starting night schools for underprivileged kids". The Times of India. 2022-06-12. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  11. ^ Bangalore Water Supply and, Sewerage Board. "BWSSB".
  12. ^ "Bengaluru water board installs five lakh aerators in public taps amid crisis: Report". Hindustan Times. 2024-04-21. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  13. ^ Bureau, The Hindu (2024-04-01). "10% cut for those consuming 40 lakh to 2 crore litres a day from April 10 in Bengaluru". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  14. ^ May 7, ByY Maheswara ReddyY Maheswara Reddy / Updated; 2024; Ist, 06:00. "BWSSB's move mitigates water woes in Varthur". Bangalore Mirror. Retrieved 2024-07-19. {{cite web}}: |last2= has numeric name (help)CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  15. ^ May 7, ByY Maheswara ReddyY Maheswara Reddy / Updated; 2024; Ist, 06:00. "BWSSB's move mitigates water woes in Varthur". Bangalore Mirror. Retrieved 2024-07-19. {{cite web}}: |last2= has numeric name (help)CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  16. ^ Water-Digest (2024-05-04). "Over 600 Register for Green Star Challenge in Two Weeks in Boost to BWSSB Water Saving Campaign in Bengaluru". Water Digest. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  17. ^ DHNS. "629 buildings register for BWSSB's 'Green Star' challenge". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  18. ^ DHNS. "629 buildings register for BWSSB's 'Green Star' challenge". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 2024-07-19.
  19. ^ Jul 15, BySridhar VivanSridhar Vivan / Updated; 2024; Ist, 06:00. "Rainwater Harvesting Mandate in Bengaluru for Borewell Excavation". Bangalore Mirror. Retrieved 2024-07-19. {{cite web}}: |last2= has numeric name (help)CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  1. BBMP to provide tuitions for poor kids Bangalore Mirror Aug 8, 2022
  2. BBMP to provide tuition to kids hailing from poor families Newstrail India 2022-08-09
  3. Bangalore: Civic body to offer tuitions for poor kids from Aug 15 Siyasat 7th August 2022
  4. BBMP to start tuition centres for poor children at 10 locations - The Hindu August 24, 2022
  5. Bengaluru Civic Body to Provide Tuitions for Poor Kids from August 15 News 18 AUGUST 07, 2022
  6. https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2022/Aug/27/learning-centres-for-poor-students-to-come-up-in-all-wards-of-bengaluru-2492205.html
  7. https://themeghalayan.com/bluru-civic-body-to-provide-tuitions-for-poor-kids-from-aug-15/
  8. https://inshorts.com/en/news/bbmp-to-offer-tuitions-for-poor-kids-from-august-15-onwards-1659868252935
  9. https://kannada.oneindia.com/news/bengaluru/bbmp-to-offer-tuitions-for-poor-kids-from-aug-15-know-details/articlecontent-pf244911-264574.html
  10. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/bbmp-moots-starting-night-schools-for-underprivileged-kids/articleshow/92153374.cms
  11. https://seepositive.in/education/bengaluru-civic-body-will-offer-poor-children-tuition-from-aug-15/
  12. Free Tuition to Poor Kids Udayavani Aug 8 2022
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