BRAND KERALA JANUARY 2012

Coir-Golden thread of kerala

Mr. Kochouseph Chittilappilly 1

News Maker of the Year

Coir Kerala

Aquashow 2012

BrandKerala

July 2011

Dhathri

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BrandKerala

January 2012

Vol 1

No.12

January 2012

Pages 60+2

Editor’s Note

The New Year comes with contemporary economic issues and challenges before us

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s the economy is facing renewed challenges on several fronts after the global financial crisis of 2008. The business sentiments are undermining worldwide.

Indeed, it is becoming one of the most challenging periods for policy makers of Kerala and world wide too.

According to our Country’s Finance Minister, that Indian economy will soon revert back to the path of higher growth trajectory and the present downturn is only temporary phase. The euro-zone crisis, downturn in external demand resulting in slowdown in exports, currency volatility and current account deficit among others has affected our economy. The food inflation has come down to 1.8% and there is moderation in inflation in general. The Finance Minister also indicates that the savings rate had also gone up and the Finance ministry given the necessary instructions had been issued to all the Ministries and departments to adhere to their expenditure ceilings.

Now it is a time that the need for putting our heads together to come up with practical policy options in addressing the challenges before us becomes vital. The policymakers should have to consider how Kerala integrates various human dimensions, across social, political, and economic spheres, for an interdisciplinary approach to problem solving needs to emerge. Now we have the tools of technology and communication to assist in this process. It is necessary to shift some of our focus back to near term issues even as we recognize that some structural imbalances remain to be addressed.

We need to work together for building consensus within different communities. A new form of communication and dialogue is needed for this, between different communities, between political entities, between social classes and economic stakeholders. A good leadership with a vision, practical approach and positive spirit can make Kerala a Real Brand.

Ravisankar K.V. Editor

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Content

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Coconut finds new horizons

Emmanuval Silks

Automobile

brand

Bigger vehicles @ lower prices

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Nirapara, a Tribute to Nature

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Multi Purpose Ertiga

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Magical Powers of Dhathri

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Renault Reveals Pulse

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Spreads Aroma of Indian Coffee

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Vanasree Honey

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Banking Banks hike NRE deposit rates

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SBT introduces Gold Point branches

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Banking Excellence Awards

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PNB’s Business up in the State

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Utsav Rewards Scheme

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2-in-1 credit cards

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column Kerala Need a New Development Strategy 6

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New Products Herbs and Berries

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New outletes New Marikar Nissan Showroom

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Josco Jewellers @ Chavakkad

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Lens & Frames @Elamkulam

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JBT Green Tech @ Kerala

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Managing Editor: Ravisankar K.V. Executive Editor: Rajani A. Copy Editor: Liza Shajan Associate Editor: Gopalakrishnan Pallath Assistant Editor: Shilo K.Dev Photo Editor: Hari P.S. Chief Layout Artist: Viajayagopalan G. Visualiser: Jessy George

News

Production Executive: Vishnu C.P.

The Global NRK Meet

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Emerging Kerala from September 12

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News Maker 2011

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Coir Kerala 2012

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India International Aqua Show 2012

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Mumbai: Satyanath.K.V Mob: +91-9833677962

Pure and Natural

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Bengaluru: Damodaran.K. Nayar Mob: +91-9035616040

Award for BPCL Kochi Refinery

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Pondicherry: Ramasubramanian Mob: +91-98949 77161

K F C focuses on MSMEs

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K F C launches e-sale Web portal

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Ayurvedic Healing for Brain Tumor

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Liver diseases on the rise in the State Non-alcoholics & women affected 30 Recognition for Malabar Botanical Garden

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Tribal villages changing into Eco-villages

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Film The Colours of the Mountain

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In Conversation with Legends

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Shopping Grand Festival Concludes

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here and now Variability in customer perception

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Co-ordinator-online Editor: Sreeram Sethunath Co-ordinator Circulation: Thulasi Parameswaran

Business & Editorial Contacts: New Delhi: Anilkumar.D Mob: +91-9868123311 Kolkata: Jayasree Singh Mob: +91-9433060333 Chennai: Ravikumar Mob: +91-9444910380 Hyderabad: Premraj. A Mob: +91- 9446514732 Coimbatore: Biju Thomas Mob: +91-9944194037 Trivandrum: Ravikumar.K. Mob: +91-9847560531 Sreejesh.S Mob: +91-99471 60531 Cochin: Shine Ahamed Mob: +91-99472 60531 Calicut: Vipin Gopinath Mob: +91-96561 03189 Shabeer M.P. Mob: +91-77362 31789

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No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of The Publisher of Brand Kerala All rights reserved. Copyright Š 2012 Owned, Edited, Printed and Published by K.V. Ravisankar at Modern Graphics, Cochin, Kollam for Arsha Offset Graphix, Thiruvananthapuram - 695 010.

Cover: Coconut Husk for Coir Manufacturing Photo: Ravisankar K.V. / Fovea Foto 7 7

BrandKerala BrandKerala January January 2012 2012

News

The Global

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he Global NRK Meet organised by the government and NoRKA-Roots has been inaugurated by Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala. During the two-day meet the delegates representing non-resident Keralites working in other States and abroad brought to the government’s attention a variety of problems which can sort out by the government. Participants have discussed their role in the State’s development, the investment opportunities in infrastructure and service sectors, and also issues pertaining to the rehabilitation of those returning from abroad.

The concluding session was Face to face with Chief Minister of Kerala. Mr. K.C. Joseph, Minister for NonResident Keralites’ Affairs has welcomed and moderated the interaction. So many problems and suggestions have been raised and Chief Minister has been given assurance for the following suggestions.

The proceeding data document will be send to every registered participant. A NORKA official will be ap-

pointed in Saudi to support the release of Malayalis who were in bars. Mr. Siddhique Ahmed, M. D., ITL-IRAM Group of Companies, Saudi, offered that he will be carried out the whole expenditure for the release and returns back them to Kerala. Mr. Oommen Chandy said” This new scheme begins from Saudi”.

The suggestion for setting up an ‘NRK Bank’ was proposed by Mr. M.A. Yusuf Ali, the vice-chairman of NORKA Roots at the Meet as Keralites working abroad has an interest to invest in India especially in Kerala.

Several delegates supported the suggestion during the interaction. The Chief Minister said “Union Government’s approval is needed. The proposal should be preceded by a detailed feasibility study and also inquiries with the Reserve Bank of India. “ The Global NRK Meet also suggested a joint venture project in the education sector—an ‘NRK University’ that would offered courses for NRK students as competitive as foreign universities. Chief Minister said in his reply the Education Department could be asked to look

Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala inaugurating the Global NRK Meet at Trivandrum. Mr. K. Babu, Mininister for Excuise & Fisheries Mr. K.C. Joseph, Minister for Rural Developmenmt, Culture & NORKA, Mr. P.K. Kunhalikutty, Minister for Injdustries & IT, Mt. K.M. Mani, Minister for Finance, Mr. V.S. Sivakumar, Minister for Transport, Mr. M.A. Yousuf Ali, Mr. C.K. Menon and Mr. T. K. Manoj Kumar IAS, Secretary, NORKA are also seen 8

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January 2012

into the suggesSaudi. Actions tion. Mentionshould be taken ing about both to release the bank and univerKeralites in the sity he said” jails at abroad Both legal and who are innotechnical issues cent and those involved have to who isolated in be analyzed. Let faraway lands us see what can due to cheating. be done.”

The age bar Mr. Oomfor the memMr. G. Karthikeyan Mr. K.C. Jospeph Mr. M.K. Muneer, Minister of Local bership in the Speaker of Kerala Legislative Assembly men Chandy Minister for NORKA Self Government- Panchayaths added the seats will be assured for NRKs’ children in the welfare fund will be relaxed up to 60. Legal assistance will higher education sector, if feasible. An NRK cell will be be provided for the needy in Gulf countries. NRK meet formed in the Kerala Police wing under the leadership of will be conducted at an interval of 2 years on last Thursan IG. DYSP will be appointed in every district to settle day and Friday of December. Schemes like Santwanum the NRKs’ cases in Kerala. The CM has assured Keralites will be restructured. working abroad that the government would give them The minister presented the proposal that submitted wholehearted support in their entrepreneurial ventures to the state government’s decision. A comprehensive in the State. He wishes to bring ‘right to services’ in every NRK survey should be conducted. The fees of NRI quota department. He added that Government will try to apshould be diminished as the Merit seats. Single window point a Malayali official in the Indian Embassy to avoid clearance should be approved for the small scale entrelanguage barrier and smoothen the service. Discussions preneurship by the returnees. The identity card problems will be initiated with Union Railway Minister to solve should be solved. Kerala government should be granted problems and more train services. award for the writers among the NRK. PRD will be honMr. Ramesh Chennithala has suggested NRI wards oured the NRK journalists with NRK journalist award. at district hospitals and Mr. Siddique has been agreed to Mr. Noyal Thomas IFS, CEO, NORKA proposed the sponsor the facility. vote of thanks. Mr. M. M. Hassan, Mr. Ramesh ChennithMr. K. C. Joseph concluded the meet by reading the ala, Mr. Babu Paul, Padmasree Mr. C. K. Menon, NoRKAdecisions. A Malyali official will be appointed in the Roots director, Mr. M. A. Yusuf Ali, Mr. Siddique Ahmed Gulf Embassy. Indian conciliate will be functioned in and Dr. M. Anirudhan were present on the dais.

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News

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merging Kerala , a biennial global business event being organised by the Government of Kerala, will inaugurate by Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India on September 12., 2012 at Le Meridien Cochin.

The three-day event to be held in Kochi from Sept 12-14 will showcase the investment opportunities across the state.

The Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC), the nodal investment promotion agency of the state government, has signed a MoU with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for promoting the event across the world. The MoU was signed by Mr. Alkesh Kumar Sharma, Managing Director, KSIDC and Mr. Sujith Haridas, Regional Director (Southern Region), CII, in the presence of Mr. P K Kunjalikutty State Minister for Industries & IT. The National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) will be one of the event partners.

The corporate leaders, Dept heads of various government institutions, foreign dignitaries, major regulatory institutions, banks and financial institutions, scholars, leading economists and eminent personalities will be expected to participate in the event. Business meets, Sectorwise conclaves, domestic and international road shows, discussions and debates will be conducted as part of the

event. The state government hopes to attract huge investments through partnership with potential investors for a slew of mega projects.

Supplementary gas infrastructure; Vizhinjam International Container Trans-shipment terminal; high speed rail corridor; Kochi-Coimbatore industrial corridor project; electronic hub project; power projects; waste management and centres of excellence in higher education are the key projects identified for partnerships during the meet.

The state government hopes to attract partnerships with potential investors for a slew of mega projects in the state. Key sectors identified for investment promotion at Emerging Kerala include IT and IT enabled services, tourism, healthcare, engineering and automotive, trade and retailing, food and agro processing value addition, gems and jewellery, rare earth minerals, textiles and garments, ports, ship-building and related industries.

Other sectors where the government will target investments based on equity partnerships with foreign investors or via public-private dĂŠtentes include electronics, education, gas based infrastructure, green energy, biotechnology, nanotechnology, pharmaceuticals, urban infrastructure development, petrochemicals, logistics parks, environment technologies, airport infrastructure, and water transportation.

Emerging Kerala will have the inaugural session, various plenary sessions, round tables; B2B conMr. Oommen Chandy, CM of Kerala and Mr. P.K. Kunhalikitty, Minister for Industries discussing the nects; business to governEmerging Kerala tie up with Mr. K.C. Mathews, CII Kerala chapter Vice Chairman and Mr. Alkesh Shar- ment (B2G) connects and ma IAS, Secretary- Industries and MD, KSIDC cultural performances.

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News

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he Managing director of V Guard Industries and Wonder La Amusement Parks, Mr. Kochouseph Chittilappilly was honoured as News Maker of the Year 2011 by Manorama News channel and as Tourism Man of the Year for 2011 by Association of Tourism Trade Organisation India (ATTOI). More than being a visionary in business, his commitment on ensuring quality, had set a trend in business models. His ventures V Guard and Wonder La ( Formerly VEEGA LAND) still enjoys the recognition as the best Kerala Brand in India and abroad and the most eco friendly and energy efficient theme park in our country, even after many years of its existence.

Mr. Kochouseph Chittilappilly proved to this world that life is more than what money can buy by donating his kidney. It made him different since no other person in his stature had ever done such a great thing.

Mr. Kochouseph Chittilappilly bagged the title News maker from the four finalists including Mr. Oommen Chandy ,The Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. P.K. Kunhalikutty ,IT & Industries Minister and Mr. Saleem Kumar, National Award winner for Best Actor 2011, by several round of voting by viewers . The former News Makers of Manorama News includes Mr. V.S. Achuthanandan, Former Chief Minister Kerala, and Mr. Madahavan Nair, Former Chairman, ISRO. TOURISM MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD by ATTOI is meant for recognizing achievements in the field of tourism through exceptional capacities. People with inspiring personalities, through their achievements are only chosen for this award. In the previous year’s Mr. Baby Mathew of Somatheeram Ayurvedic Resorts for his efforts in promoting Ayurveda as a tourism product, and for creating interest and researches in the field of traditional medicine. Last year’s recipient was Mr. Jose Dominic, the Chairman of CGH Earth Group for his efforts in establishing the importance of nature and tourism.

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News

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he Department of Coir Development, Government of Kerala is organising the World’s largest expo on Kerala Coir and Natural Fibre products Coir Kerala 2012, from February 04 - 07, 2012 at Alappuzha.

This is the second edition of the annual Coir Kerala Fair. The four day event aims at exploring and expanding the international market for coir products from Kerala and to encourage use of latest machinery Mr. Adoor Prakash, Minister for Health & Coir, Govt. of Kerala inaugurating the Coir New Year Tree as and technology in the coir part of Coir Kerala 2012 campaign organised by COIRFED production sector. This will leading Companies and Exhibitors and delegates from emerge as the biggest, most over 40 Countries, and is poised to emerge as the biginfluential and comprehensive event on Coir and Natugest, most influential and comprehensive event on coir ral Fibre products. This mega event will provide ample and natural fibre products. As many as 100 international opportunities for domestic manufacturers and overseas buyers from various countries and 200 buyers from the buyers to meet and interact on business, trading, joint national market are expected to visit the fair. ventures, strengthening of existing markets, establishing The event enables major trading and retail chains to new markets, transfer of technology and technical knowchoose latest designs, exchange ideas on current fashion how and widening of contact base. trends and preferences of customers for coming seasons Coir Kerala 2012 will be an International Event on and brings together the industry experts and technoloCoir that will provide a platform to comprehensively gists to share and exchange the latest research and technievaluate the current global market trends, innovation cal information on coir. in application of coir, opportunities and challenges, Coirkeralafair.com, the official website for Coir Research and Development in the field, the future of the Kerala 2012 has been launched by Mr. Adoor Prakash the natural fibre industry - particularly the coir industry Minister for Health & Coir. This will be the second edithrough National, International Seminars and in-depth Panel Discussions featuring eminent personalities, Indus- tion of the event to be organised by the Department of Coir Development, Government of Kerala with the suptry Experts, Entrepreneurs, Policy makers, Researchers, port of Union Ministry of Commerce. The Trivandrum Academicians and Thinkers representing various spheres based National Coir Research and Management Institute of the global natural fibre community, from Countries (NCRMI) has been entrusted the task of coordinating across the world.

Coir Kerala fair.

The Coir Kerala 2012 expects participation from

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News

India’s Premier Ornamental Fish Exhibition at Cochin

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ochin, the commercial capital of Kerala will host India International Aqua Show (IIAS) 2012 from February 10-14, 2012. IIAS is a biennial ornamental fish and accessories exhibition and trade fair is organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Kerala through the State Fisheries Resource Management Society (FIRMA) in association with the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. IIAS 2012 is supported by Kerala Aqua Ventures International Limited (KAVIL).

The immense natural resources which give the potential to develop Kerala into a major centre for ornamental fisheries in the region. Blessed with thousands of kilometers of freshwater bodies, the State boasts of several species of ornamental fish that are rare, valuable and in demand worldwide. The India International Aqua Show 2012 is just one among the many initiatives that the state Government has undertaken to promote and encourage present and potential entrepreneurs.

IIAS 2012 aims to encourage hobbyists, breeders and entrepreneurs in the field said the organisers. It will also provide a forum for exchange of views and interaction of ornamental fish breeders and traders apart from creating a platform for sales initiatives. The five-day

long event is expected to attract exhibitors, breeders, traders and visitors within India and outside the country. A rich variety of ornamental fish and accessories clustering under one roof creates the unique opportunity for exhibiting and marketing.

Along with IIAS 2012, the Fisheries department is organising an International Seminar on ORNAMENTAL FISH BREEDING, FARMING AND TRADE named as , “ORNAMENTALS KERALA 2012”, . The topic of the seminar “Recent Trends in Production and Marketing of Ornamental Fish”.

Various competitions on the subtle, but challenging aspects of Ornamental Fisheries - such as breeding, innovative practices, technology and display have always been an integral part of past events. This will be continued at India International Aqua Show 2012 with more exciting prizes.

For detils: STATE FISHERIES RESOURCES MANAGEMENT SOCIETY (FIRMA) Email: firm2002in@yahoo.co.in Web: www.aquashowkerala.com For Stall Booking Contact: M/s.Team and Trade Expos Email: team.event@gmail.com aquashowkerala@gmail.com Mob : +91- 9380 545400 / +91- 9380 770540 / +91 – 98415 56565

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Shopping

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rand Kerala Shopping Festival has created a festive mood in Kerala. Illuminations on the shops, streets and the cheer of crowds witnessed Kerala’s shopping mood. Kite festival, X’mas fest, Kasaragode Mahotsavam, late night shopping, road shows and exhibitions added colour to the festival. The programmes as part of GKSF promote art, culture, customs and architecture of Kerala.

The 46 day long shopping extravaganza has concluded.

The official closing ceremony will be conducted on 23rd January at MSP ground, Malappuram.

So many attractive fests and events have conducted as part of the Shopping Festival. A festive atmosphere prevailed in the Eve’s beach on a sunny day with breeze to keep the kites

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aloft. All eyes were on the skies when the Chinese flying dragons, Japanese ‘rokkaku,’ and white kites symbolizing peace took off. As part of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival 2011, a kite-flying contest has been organised on the northern beach of Kovalam.

The initiative was organised by South Indian Bank, Grand Kerala Shopping Festival in association with Kite Flyers Thiruvananthapuram, Radio Mirchi, Kite Life Foundation Ernakulam, NGO’s of Kovalam, and MBA students of Lourdes Matha College of Science and Technology. It aims to spread the message of environmental awareness and persuade the tourists to ‘Think Green’. The event included kite workshops and a ‘Clean Kovalam Drive’.

Though not colourful, a mega kite with 350 kites strung together got all the attention as it swayed above the coconut groves. The contest has chosen the best kite, best message, and the best flyer for attractive prizes. Shibley from the College of Engineering won the prize for carrying the best message in the kite. Dino R. and seven year-old Amit Bava shared the prize for the best flyer and ‘Young Indian Tigers’ was adjudged the best motivated kite flying team. Fiftythree people were participated in the workshop. Mr. Rathan Kelkar, Director, GKSF and Padmasree Mr. G. Shankar, Habitat, have attended the valedictory meeting. The event ended with a live band performance.

As part of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival, Kochi has been offered a midnight shopping experience to customers for 14

days from December 20. All shops in the city have remained open till midnight and served customers. Named ‘Cochin Night Shopping,’ this unique event added more colour to the spirit of tourists and domestic shoppers. Night shopping has been added more flavour to Christmas celebrations also.

Entertainment shows and cultural programmes have been held every night at certain main locations and special contests among shoppers sponsored by participating shops. KSRTC has arranged bus services for night shoppers. Pre-paid taxi and auto counters have also been arranged in certain locations in the city. Customers have facilitated with en-cashing of the bus tickets at the shops after their shopping.

An innovative road show has organised by seven FM radio partners, including Akashvani, from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram to drum up support for the 45-day festival. This is for the first time in the State that an LED screen trucker has been used to screen the advertisements of the festival and of the partners. The screen lifted hydraulically and used for screening the competitions being organised by the jockeys of FM radio at the reception centres. The winners of the competitions have organised by the jockeys of six FM radio stations can participate in the mega contest. The road show was flagged off by Dr. Rathan Kelkar from Kasaragod bus stand.

GKSF’s ‘December Fest’ at Kanakakunnu Palace, Thiruvananthapuram has a grand success. This fest included handicraft items, Khadi, Handlooms, different products from tribal community, etc. And also features tribal cuisines, forest produce and tribal treatment. The main attraction is the village. The visitors have been fascinated with memorable experience of moving through the paddy field, climbing upon the tree house and walks through the hanging bridge. . Another main attraction was performances of North Malabar art form Theyyam in its traditional way. Theyyams like Pottan Theyyam, Pullur Kali, Elam Kolam, etc. attracted the crowd. Every one excited with the art performance by the renowned artists, rides and car- bike rash through the walls of the well. And of course, food bazaar tickled every one’s taste buds.

The huge cake made in the shape of GKSF logo exhibited at Gold Souk at Vyttila attracted many people’s attention. The cake has an area of 300 sq. feet and weighs 800 Kg. The Kasaragod Mahotsavam, being hosted as part of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF), has inaugurated

by Mr.A.P. Anil Kumar, Minister for Tourism.

The function has been graced by Mrs. Sukumari, the

great cine artist. Mr. Vidhu Pratap, Playback singer and team presented a music show on the day. Weekly draw of GKSF lots, magic show, shehnai performance by Usthad Mr. Hasanbhai, and Yakshagana has been staged during the festival. PerMr. A. P. Anil Kumar formances by winners of the school arts Tourism Minister festival, documentary screening, Mappila Pattu, comedy show, and music concert by Kanhangad Mr. Ramanchandran and has been held.

“The Grand Kerala Shopping Festival was a grand success and the success proves the wide acceptance of GKSF”, said Mr. A. P. Anil Kumar, Minister for Tourism. He added that the festival helped in the economic growth and overall development of Kerala. Visitors have a real ‘feel’ of Kerala with a complete package of tourism with shopping, he added. The government will offer more inducements to attract domestic and foreign tourists in the next edition of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival, according to the Minister.

He said “the government would stage trade exhibitions in various districts in the State. Such exhibitions would showcase the culture of the State, along with its various products.” This GKSF season witnessed a record delivery of more than fifty lakhs prize coupons.

On every day people purchased and got the prizes.

Every week drizzled with gold. The shopping encourages people with countless prizes. The first weekly draw of the fifth season of the GKSF was held at Kannur on December 11, Second at Palakkad on December 18, third lucky draw at Wayand on December 25th, fourth lucky draw at Kozhikode on Jan 1st and fifth draw at Kasaragod on 8th January. The first prize of 10 sovereigns each went to 15 shoppers and the second prize of five sovereigns each to 20 persons at every lucky draw. The winners have been selected from 8 lakhs of lucky coupons at every lucky draw. The gold prizes distributes through the selected branches of South Indian Bank. Finally a mega contest will be conducted at the concluding ceremony. The Mega winner will get One Kilogram of Gold and three other winners will get half Kg. of gold each.

15 merchants has been selected based on a lucky draw to participate in the next Dubai Shopping festival at free of cost.

And the Kasaragode lucky draw has been selected lucky shoppers too. Three Supplyco Markets got the chance to visit Gulf.

Nadilathu G. Mart, Pulpel Textiles, Avenue Regent, Krishna Jewellery, Pulimoottil Silks, Josco Jewellers, Rainbow Jewellers, Bharath Footwear, Popy Tex, Shertelli Coir Mat, Gold King Fashion Jewellery and Pournami Agencies also got the opportunity to visit the Dubai Shopping Festival.

Visitors had a real ‘feel’ of Kerala and the domestic customers had enjoyed the festival mood.

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Cu A o tv oe m r oS bt oi lrey Column

Niyathi

K

erala, a small State in India, support nearly 3% of Indian people with 1% of land area. State’s density of population is three times the national average.

When India launched five year plan in 1951 unified Kerala State was not formed. Kerala could therefore start full five year plan only since 1956, second five year plan. When we look back to 1951 and review the state’s growth over 60 years, the general achievement in all sectors is commendable. However, if we go deep, one will understand that the growth we achieved stand below what we envisaged and targeted. But scholars inside and outside India, call it, Kerala model development.

Kerala state but never formulated or named or envisaged a ‘Kerala Model growth’ under five year plan. Growth of literacy exerted its impact on socio-economic life of people since the early 20th century. Starting of schools and enrolement of all caste students and health care access and its awareness among people revolutionised state’s culture and life. As a result, later, death and birth rates declined, average life at birth increased infant mortality rate came down and finally lead to life style change and generation of problems.

Growth and spread of schools created more access to enrolement and its impact on literary and general education were very high. But in higher education, particularly technical education, State put low priority. In other words growth and spread of health and general education facilities revolutionized Keralites social outlook. But States’ industrial growth, particularly basic industries, was low and use of technology in agriculture and traditional industry were either avoided or neglected till early 1980s. Such a growth policy in the earlier plans badly affected commodity producing sectors and employment generation. But such an unbalanced sectoral growth strategy has never been evaluated and corrected and still it continues. Sometime, this is the major

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Kerala and Ecconomy

accumulated development crisis of the State.

Kerala complete 11 five year plans and 7 annual plans.

During this period state has spend nearly Rs.1,00,000.

During the 55 years (1950-2005) Kerala’s average annual growth rate was below national growth. State’s average growth rate was 3.06% during (1950-1990) against the national average of 3.5%. Similarly growth rate was unsustainable and below target. When India completed 10 Five Year Plans in 2007, only during the 4th and 9th Plan, Kerala’s growth rate stood marginally above India’s average growth. Table I below explain the growth rate

Growth Rate Under Five Year Plans Kerala and All India

Growth Rate (%)

Five Year Plans Kerala India First Five Year Plan (1951-56) 3.4 3.6 Second Five Year Plan (1956-61) 1.8 4.2 Third Five Year Plan (1961-66) 2.5 2.7 Fourth Five Year Plan ((1969-74) 3.5 2.1 Fifth Five Year Plan (1974-79) 1.4 4.8 Sixth Five Year Plan (1980-85) 2.9 5.5 Seventh Five Year Plan (1985-90) 4.4 6.0 Eighth Five Year Plan (1992-97) 6.5 6.7 Ninth Five Year Plan (1997-02) 5.7 5.4 Tenth Five Year Plan (2002-07) 6.5 8.0 under 10 five year plans in Kerala and India.

Growth rate under Five Year Plans was neither uniform nor stable. Similarly no five year plan could achieve the target. During the first 7 plans, general growth rate

never touched 5% but went to low level of 1.4% and to a high level of 4.4% only. But at all India level, growth rate went down to only 2.1% but raised to 6%. However, since the 8th Plan, growth rate stand above 5% in Kerala.

But when growth rate averaged 8% during the 10th plan at all India, it was only 6.5% in Kerala.

State’s primary sector did not perform as envisaged although state earmarked more outlay under plan. For instance, in the first plan, primary sector achieved 3.4% growth ate. But during all other plans growth rate stood below 3%. It even went to 0.3% negative growth during the 5th plan. Growth in the Secondary sector has also been poor. Although secondary sector achieved 5.3% and 7.5% growth during 3rd and 7th plan respectively, during all other plans, growth rate was below 5%. However, states service sector has been doing relatively well since the 3rd plan. For instance, growth rate has been 7.9% in the 8th plan against 6.3% in the 6th plan.

State’s Primary sector shared 55% of GDP and absorbed 55% of labour force in 1951 when State started Five Year Plan. After sixty years in 2010, share of primary sector to GDP came down to 16% and absorb only 25% labour force. However, share of secondary sector in State GDP which was 16% in 1957, increased to 24% in 2010.

But over the last 20 years (1991-2010) share of secondary sector in state GDP stand around 24-25%. It shows state’s industrial backwards. Meanwhile the Service Sector did good progress under five year plans and hence the share of service sector in GDP which was 24% in 1951, increased to 63% in 2010. It shows that nearly twothirds of state GDP originate from the service sector. The major question that would emerge here is; can the state sustain the service sector growth indefinitely?

State of Kerala has to change the development strategy being followed. We need to emphasise commodity producing sectors for which primary and secondary sectors need more investment in terms of capital and technology. It will generate more output and employment and generate a multiplier effect in the economy accelerating sustainable growth. Meanwhile the quality of health and education services has to be improved through effective management to support the primary and secondary sectors. It needs an integrated development plan. We wish state’s 12th Plan would make a beginning.

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January 2012

News

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the natural perfume ure and was being conceived Natural,’ in such a way as to fragrant take its financial sandalbenefits to the tribal wood people who depended oil from Marayur on forest produce has launched in the for their sustenance. market by Mr. K.B. For the time being, Ganesh Kumar, the perfume would Minister for Forests. be marketed through The sandal wood oil is sales outlets of the extracted and bottled Vanasree units of the by the Kerala Forest forest-dependent Development CorpoForest Minister Mr. K.B.Ganesh Kumar launchinhing the commercial sale of Sandal people. The possibiliration (KFDC). wood Oil produced by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation ties of widening the The government sales network would be considered in due course of time. had banned private sandal oil extraction units in the He said the sandalwood forests of Marayur would be State which came as a strategy to end the illicit felling managed on a sustainable basis. The KFDC had signed a and smuggling of the sandalwood trees from the reserve memorandum of understanding with the Forest Departand the task of productively putting to use the dead and ment for the supply of 10 tonnes of sandalwood each year wind-fallen trees of the Marayur sandalwood tree reserve at a fixed price to ensure steady supply of wood for the oil to the KFDC last year. extraction unit.

Mr. Ganesh Kumar said setting up of the sandalwood Mr. Sajan Peter IAS, Principal Secretary for Forests, oil extraction unit at Marayur was taken up by the governpresided over the function. Mr.R. Rajaraja Varma, Princiment as part of its 100-day programme. Though the unit pal Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr.N.V. Trivedi Babu, was commissioned during the first 100 days of the UDF Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. M. Manoharan Pillai, government, the product was reaching the market only KFDC chairman, and Mr. Amarnath Shetty, KFDC now. 5 gms of the natural perfume would cost Rs.1, 500. managing director addressed the function.

The Minister added the production and marketing of

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PCL Kochi Refinery has won “Rajbhasha shield” instituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs for excellence in implementation of the official language policy. Mr. Rajeeve B., Chief Manager (estates), received the award from Mr. ANP Singha, Secretary, Rajbhasha Vibhag, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Mrs. Girija V.R., Deputy Manager (OL), received the commendation certificate for her performance in implementing the Official Language Policy.

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Award

Times Group Award for Best Business Leaders of

Kerala

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Mr. Jose Dominic

Mr. Ravi Pilla

Mr. N. K Mohammed

Mr. Gopu Nandilath

r. Jose Dominic, Managing director, CGH Earth has received the Times Group EIB Lifetime achievement honour. While Accepting the award Mr. Jose Dominic described the honour as a humble experience, and dedicated the accolades to entrepreneurial excellence in Kerala. “It is possible to achieve success in Kerala through a vision, a dedicated team and best practices coupled with innovation and foresight. I envision a green and inclusive business future ahead for Kerala.”

Mr. Ravi Pillai, Managing Director, Nasser S Al-Hajri Corporation, Saudi Arabia , received the EIB Honour for Non-Resident Keralite of the Year. Mr. N. K Mohammed, Managing Director,Vythiri Village, Wayanad, received the EIB Honour in the hospitality category for his pioneering role in developing tourism and baring open new possibilities for the hospitality industry in the Wayanad belt. Mr. Gopu Nandilath, Managing Director, Nandilath Group, won the EIB Honour in the retail category.

Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister, Kerala felicitates the winners and said “ Kerala is presently at the crossroads, poised to enter a new era of industrialization and economic growth and prevalent perceptions of state by the outside world have weighed heavily on its progress. He added that the state’s entrepreneurs have played a cardinal role in highlighting its strengths and the transformative power of entrepreneurship in changing the lives of people. “As Kerala steps into a brave new era of development, in the process shedding the outdated and inaccurate perceptions imposed by history, we will have to strive to be seen in a new light. There is plenty of potential to be tapped by way of entrepreneurial innovation and infrastructural growth.”

The EIB Honours list comprised of Mr.Ravi Pillai, Chairman, R P Group of Companies (Non-Resident Keralite of the Year), Mr. P Sulaiman, Managing director, HiLITE Builders (Contribution in Real Estate), Mr. Shaji Thomas, Managing Director, Cotton Asia Textile Industries (Contribution in Manufacturing), Alex K Babu, Managing Director, Hedge Equities (Financial Services Sector), Dr N Prathap Kumar, Chairman, Meditrina Hospital (Healthcare Sector), Mr.Gopu Nandilath, Chairman, Gopu Nandilath Group (Retail category), Mr. N K Mohammed, Chairman & Managing Director, Vythiri Village (Hospitality Sector), Mr. Pradeep Vishwambharan, Chief Executive Officer, Accentia Technologies (IT & ITES Sector), Mr. Naushad, Managing Director, Mr. Naushad the Big Chef (Popular Gourmet Brand) and Mr. Mammootty, film actor (Entertainment).

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January 2012

New Products

Herbs and Berries Ayurvedic products from HLL

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LL Life care Ltd has recently joined hands with Arya Vaidya Sala Kottakkal with the aim of expanding the reach of Ayurvedic medicaments to larger segments of Indian Society. As part of its endeavour to offer high quality and affordable herbal products, HLL Lifecare Ltd has launched new products with Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal focusing on new markets. The products have been developed by Arya Vaidya Sala and will be marketed under HLL’s natural products brand, Herbs and Berries.

Dr. P.K. Warrier, Managing Trustee and Chief Physician, Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, and Mr. M. Ayyappan, Chairman and Managing Director, HLL, launched the products. A memorandum of understanding was executed between them.

HLL has already forayed into the herbal healthcare by launching an array of Ayurvedic medicines for women.

The new products being introduced are H&B Nourishing Hair Oil, H&B Anti-Dandruff Hair Oil and H&B Joint Care Cream. H&B Nourishing Hair Oil combines the effectiveness of eight Ayurvedic ingredients in coconut oil

base for the daily nourishment of hair follicles The first product developed and marketed as a part of this association is Lactohil which is a flavoured granular version of the classical medicament Stanyajananarasayanam which is a time tested formulation for enhanced lactation and general health support for new mothers. The product has been positioned through modern prescription channels by HLL in selected regions of the country. It has been well accepted for its efficacy and easy administration by new mothers and gynecologists based on the PMS data generated from different centres.

Lactohil is available in 250 g and 100 g packings with dispensing spoons.

Lactohil is complete galactogogue, the best natural formulation for promoting quality & quantity of milk for lactation. Lactohil is a unique galactagogue consisting of 23 pure herbal ingredients based on classical ayurveda which Promotes Motherhood Naturally. Lactohil is

Dr. P.K. Warrier, Managing Trustee and Chief Physician, Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, and Mr. M. Ayyappan, Chairman and Managing Director, HLL, launching the Herbs & Berries at Cochin 20

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January 2012

100% safe and potent preparation. Lactohil is available in banana flavour and is a tonic for physically weak nursing mothers to promote lactation, Hypogalactia, Agalactia, Delayed lactation and failed lactogenesis after Cesarean Section.

Subsequently, Chyavanules, the granular version of classical Chyavanaprasam devoid of its content of oil, ghee and honey was developed by the Product Development Department of AVS and standardised by the Quality Assurance Department after being authenticated by a Technical Committee. This is particularly suitable for the population in the 40+ age group because it provides all its classical therapeutic effects without the possible risk associated with the use of lipids. Chyavanules is formulated in a very user-friendly granular form and it is presented in attractive 250 g jars as well as in packets of 20 sachets of 10 g each. Both these products are now made available to the public through the Dealership network of AVS too.

New, fat free chyawanprash granules, the health supplement, is packed with 40 powerful Ayurvedic ingredients in purest form as prescribed by ancient texts. Each ingredient that goes into Herbs & Berries Chyavanules is handpicked by Ayurvedic experts from the best sources across the country so that to get an authentic Ayurvedic formulation for authentic healthcare.

A multi-mineral, multi-vitamin herbal supplement, Herbs & Berries Chyavanules, when taken regularly, has multiple health benefits. Chyavanules strengthens the digestive system and aids in the absorption and assimilation of food, helps combat constipation. It contains Amla, which is the best source of Vitamin C. This product augments the ability of the body to fight viral and bacterial infections. It sharpens memory and therefore considered a great memory booster and ensures cardiac fitness. Chyavanules has antioxidant properties which slow down ageing, purifies blood and eliminates toxins. It fights skin infections, improves complexion and enables easy absorption of calcium, leading to strong and healthy bones and teeth. Chyavanules tones muscles by improving the synthesis of proteins in the body and is a convenient health supplement. Just one sachet or 10 grams taken with warm milk everyday and you’ll be all charged with health.

The products will be available at all leading retail outlets and in the Arya Vaidya Sala’s exclusive stores.

The consumers will also have the option of buying the H&B range of products online. Herbs & Berries Chyavanules is available in 250 gm jars and 200 gm cartons.

Other user friendly new products are in the pipe-line to be marketed across the country as part of the AVS-HLL association.

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enesta, India’s largest windows and doors company, has launched its newest offering, the villa windows in Kerala. The villa window integrates the traditional Indian window design of grill and mesh (popularly made out of wood) with UPVC, the new age window material pioneered by the company. The traditional design for windows consists of a grill and mesh fitted on a wooden frame. The Fenesta villa window consists of an engineered UPVC frame that can accommodate a grill for security and a mesh to prevent insects from entering the home. Fenesta’s advanced UPVC blend makes the windows weather proof and provides insulation against noise and dust. It saves on air-conditioning costs and has negligible maintenance. For the first time, sizes that span entire balconies and rise from floor to ceiling can be made in casements (windows with sash that opens outside).

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January 2012

Banking

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he Reserve Bank of India’s move to deregulate interest rates on non-resident external (NRE) rupee deposits and ordinary non-resident accounts has encouraged banks to attract dollars. Many banks have announced a steep increase in interest rates on fixed deposits held by non-resident Indians. The interest rates on NRE deposits are now linked to banks’ domestic term deposit rates.

State Bank of India hiked interest rates on NonResident (External) Rupee term deposits by up to 5.74 percentage points. Following the revision in NRE deposit rates by India’s largest bank, other public sector and private sector banks are expected to follow suit. The bank will pay a uniform 9.25 per cent interest on NRE deposits (below Rs 1 crore) of all maturities with effect from January 1. It has also increased the highest tenor for NRE term deposits from 5 years to 10 years. Currently, retail NRE term deposits in the 1 year to less 2 years maturity bucket fetches 3.82 per cent interest; 2 years to less than 3 years (3.51 per cent); 3 years to less than 5 years and 5 years (3.64 per cent each). No interest is payable if the deposit is withdrawn before one year. In other cases of premature withdrawal, the interest paid will be 0.5 per cent below the rate applicable for the period the deposit has remained with the bank or 0.5 per cent below the contracted rate, whichever is lower.

Dhanlaxmi Bank announced an increase in interest rates on NRE rupee term deposits with effect from December 26, 2011. For term deposits with maturity period of one year and above but below three years, the bank will offer 8 per cent, against the current 3.82 per cent. While interest rate for deposits between three years and 10 years, the rate has been hiked to 7.75 per cent.

Punjab National Bank increases the interest rate on NRE

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term deposit to 9.25 per cent for period ranging from 1 year to 5 Years with effect from January 1. NRE Rupee deposits accounted for around 48 per cent (or $25 billion) of the total Non-Resident Indian deposits of $52 billion as on Octoberend 2011. NRE account can be in the form of savings, current, recurring or fixed deposit accounts. Such accounts can be opened only by the non-resident himself and not through the holder of the power of attorney. Balances held in the NRE account are freely repatriable. Further, accrued interest income and balances held in NRE accounts are exempt from Income tax and Wealth tax, respectively. Loans up to Rs 1 crore can be extended against security of funds held in NRE Account either to the depositors or third parties. Such accounts can be operated through power of attorney in favour of residents for the limited purpose of withdrawal of local payments or remittances through normal banking channels to the account holder himself.

South Indian Bank has hiked the NRE (non-resident external) term deposit rate from 6.75 per cent to a maximum of 9.25 per cent with effect from December 27. The revised rate will apply only to fresh deposits and on renewal of maturing deposits. Interest on NRE deposits is tax-free and the deposit and interest can be freely repatriated.

Federal Bank has revised interest rates on NRE term deposits. For one-year deposits, the rates will be 8.25 per cent for amounts up to Rs.50 lakh; 8.75 per cent for amounts between Rs.50 lakh, and Rs.one crore; and 9.10 percent for deposits above Rs.one crore.

ICICI Bank has increased its one-year NRE term deposit rate from 3.82 per cent to 6.50 per cent. Customers investing over Rs 15 lakh and up to Rs 50 lakh get another 0.50 per cent. Those investing over Rs 50 lakh and up to Rs 1 crore get 8.25 per cent.

HDFC Bank has increased their NRE term deposit rates of the same tenor to between 9 per cent and 9.25

per cent.

Bank of India hiked the interest rates on Non Resident (External) Term Deposits for various tenors. For Bank of India, the revised rates w.e.f. January 1, 2012, are as follows: one year to less than two years, 9 per cent; two years to less than three years, 8 per cent; and three years and above, 7 per cent.

Bank of Baroda also hiked the interest rates on Non Resident (External) Term Deposits for various tenors. As regards Bank of Baroda, the rates are: one year to less than two years, 9. 25 per cent; two years to less than three years, 9.25 per cent; and three years to less than five years, 9 per cent.

Private lender Yes Bank has increased the interest rates on fixed deposits held by non-resident Indians (NRIs) to 9.6 per cent from 3.82 per cent. The new rate is being offered on term deposits of 15 months 15 days to 16 months. YES Bank has raised the interest rates on its NRE and NRO accounts by 200 bps to 6 per cent for balances up to Rs 1 lakh and by 300 bps to 7 per cent for over Rs 1 lakh balance.

Kotak Mahindra Bank has also hiked interest rates on deposits of one to two years to 9.25 per cent.

Indian Bank has fixed rates on NRE term deposits. at 9.50 per cent for one year and above up to three years for deposits of less than Rs.15 lakh, and at 9.25 per cent for Rs.15 lakh and above and up to Rs.5 crores.

Lakshmi Vilas Bank for its part has revised the rate of interest for NRE term deposits with effect from December 22. Deposits under the maturity slab of one year to below two years will in fact attract 10 per cent from 3.82 per cent previously. Deposits of 2 years to below three years will fetch 8 per cent against 3.51 per cent and three years and above 7 per cent against 3.64 per cent.

IndusInd Bank has also increased the interest rates on NRE deposits to 9.25 per cent from 3.82 per cent.

Karur Vysya Bank has increased its rate to 10 per cent.

Allahabad Bank plans to hike interest rates on NRE term deposits on various tenors effective from December 26. The revised rates of interest on various time periods are as follows: one-to-less than two years, 7.50 per cent (3.82 per cent); two-to-less-than-three years; 7 per cent (3.51 per cent); and three years, 6.75 per cent (3.64 per cent).

State Bank of Hyderabad has increased interest rates

on NRE deposits with effect from December 22. The interest rate on deposits for one year to less than two years has been increased from 3.82 per cent to 6.50 per cent while on deposits for two years to less than three years, it has gone up from 3.51 per cent to 6.50 per cent. For three years and up to five years, the interest rate has been hiked from 3.64 per cent to 6.75 per cent.

Dena Bank too hiked the interest rate on NRE term deposits to 9.60 per cent for one year maturity and 9.25 per cent for maturity period ranging from above 1 year and up to 3 years. If an NRI opens an NRE deposit at the current rupee-dollar exchange rate of 53 to the dollar (he gets more rupees for his dollar) and one year down the line, say, the domestic currency appreciates to 49 (he pays less rupees to buy dollars for repatriation) then he gains not only in terms of interest but also in terms of favourable currency movement.

More banks are expected to announce a rise in interest rate in the coming days. It remains to be seen how the net interest margin of banks will be affected by these revisions.

Following the deregulation of interest rates on non-resident rupee (NRE) deposits by the Reserve Bank of India, many banks have queued up to increase the interest rates on NRE and NRO deposits. Some of the banks have gone on to increase the rates by three-fold. This has, predictably, forced the Reserve Bank to advice banks to exercise caution.

The apex bank has made it clear that the interest rates offered by banks on NRE and NRO deposits cannot be higher than those offered by them on comparable domestic rupee deposits. A prior approval of the board/ asset liability management committee may be obtained by banks while fixing interest rates on such deposits. At any point of time, individual banks should offer uniform rate at all their branches. The revised deposit rates will apply only to fresh deposits and on renewal of maturing deposits. Further, banks should closely monitor their external liability arising out of such deregulation and ensure assetliability compatibility from systemic risk point of view.

The RBI has also directed that state co-operative banks (StCBs) and district central co-operative banks (DCCBs) are free to determine their interest rates on NRE and NRO deposits of one year and above with immediate effect.

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Banking

Mr. S. Balachandran. Chief General Manager, SBT inaugurating the first Gold Point branch at Triavndrum. Mr. Murali, DGM and Mr. Padmakumar, Branch Manager, Gold Point are also seen

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BT introduces Gold Point branches The State Bank of Travancore (SBT) is introducing exclusive Gold Point branches to cater to the needs of those who need gold loans. The first of such branches was inaugurated by SBT Chief General Manager Mr. S. Balachandran.

Gold loans would be disbursed in 10 minutes at these branches. These branches would have extended business hours for the convenience of borrowers. Sale of gold coins and rental of safe deposit lockers would be the other facilities at the branches.

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State Bank ATM has started functioning in the Bhima Jewellery showroom at Thiruvananthapuram. Claimed to be the first in a retail outlet in the country, the State Bank ATM facility was introduced to ensure hassle-free shopping. It was inau-

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SBT also inaugurated its exclusive NRI Specialed Branch and New Personal Banking branch at Yatrika building, Vellayambalam junction, Trivandrum. SBT retained its Treasury branch at present location and started the new branches in the near by locality with more spacious and posh interiors for the emerging high profile customers. New NRI Branch is targeted the high income Malayalees businessman and professional across the world.

The minimum amount to start an account in this branch is Rs. 1 Crore. The branch is started its function with more than 200 VIP NRK customers.

gurated jointly by Mr.B. Govindan, Chairman, Bhima Jewellery and Mr.K. Murali, Chief General Manager, State Bank of India, recently. The function was attended

by Mr. Suhas Rao, Managing Partner, Bhima Jewellery and Ms. Gayathri Suhas.

Banking

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anking Excellence Awards-2011 have been selected Bank of Baroda and Karur Vysya Bank as the best banks in the public and private sectors, respectively, at the national level. Corporation Bank and Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) came second and third in Public sector respectively.

Lakshmi Vilas Bank came as the second best and the City Union Bank as the third best in the private sector.

Among the new generation private sector banks IndusInd Bank has won the first position. Yes Bank and Axis Bank are at the second and third positions respectively. North Malabar Gramin Bank has won the Best Bank Award for its performance in rural development sector.

Corporation Bank, Malappuram, has been selected the Best Bank Branch under the public sector in the state and its manager Mr. K U Nadirshah as the Best Branch Manager.

State Bank of Travancore Varavoor branch and IOB Harippad Branch won the second and third Best Bank Branch awards. Girinagar (Ernakulam) branch of Federal Bank won the Best Bank Branch under the private sector.

The manager of this branch, Mr. A P Abraham bagged the award for the Best Branch Manager. Kozhikode West Hill branch and Perumbavoor branch of South Indian Bank won the second and third positions respectively.

Kozhikode Bankers Club has been selected as the Best Bankers Club in the state. Bankers Club Greater Kochi and Bankers Club Angamaly stood as second and third respectively.Former Chief Justice of India V R Krishna Iyer headed the jury. The awards are accorded by the State Forum of Bankers’ Clubs.

While Presenting Businessman of the year award to Padmasree Dr. B. Ravi Pillai, Prof. K.V. Thomas, Minister of state for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution System, Govt. of India said that Indian Banking system has been strong and proved its mettle in the past, while the global financial sectors were in

crisis. “While there had been instance of loan waivers to distresses segments such as farmers, such gesture should not be considered as a routine affair”, he added.

Prof. Thomas also presented the “Banking Excellence Award “for the Best Public Sector Bank to Mr. N.S. Sreenath, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda. Mr. K.M. Mani, Finance Minister, Kerala said in his key note address that the bankers to be liberal in financing the farmers and SMEs. He presented the 2nd Best Public Sector Bank Award to Mr. A.M.M.G. Nair, Dy. General Manager, Corporation Bank and 3rd Best Public Sector Bank award to Mr. Mr. Eapen Joseph, Dy. General Manager, Indian Overseas Bank.

Justice Mr. V.R. Krishna Iyer presented the Award for commendable performance in the Rural Development sector to Mr. V.K. Saigal, Chairman, North Malabar Gramin Bank. Mr. Paul Abraham, Chief Operating Officer, Indus Ind Bank received Best bank Award for the New Generation sector from Justice Mr. V.R. Krishna Iyer.

Mr. K. Babu, Minister for Excise, Ports and Fisheries released the Souvenir and handed over the Best Private sector Bank award to Karur Vysya Bank. The prizes for the winners of Literary Competitions conducted by the State Forum of Bankers’ clubs were distributed by Padmasree Dr. B.R. Shetty, Managing Director & CEO, UAE Exchange Centre LLC. Mr. L.R. R. Warrier, President, State Forum of Bankers’ clubs presided over the function. District Collector, Padmasree Dr. B.R. Shetty ,Managing Director & CEO, UAE Exchange Centre LLC, Dr. V.A. Joseph, Managing Director & CEO, South Indian Bank, Mr. S. Balasubramaniam, Chairman, City Union Bank, Mr. V.K.Saigal,Chairman, North Malabar Gramin Bank, Mr. Abraham Thariyan, Executive Director, South Indian Bank, Mr. K.U. Balakrishnan, General Secretary, State Forum of Bankers’ Clubs, Mr. Peter Sebastian, Convenor, Reception Committee and Mr. Sivadasan P.Pillai, Assistant General Manager, Bank of India were also present.

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January 2012

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Banking

he credit-deposit ratio of Punjab National Bank (PNB) has touched 91.25 per cent in the State. While the total business of PNB across the nation was growing at 22.5 per cent and well set to touch Rs.6,000 lakh crore, its business in the State crossed Rs.7,000 crore, registering a year-on-year growth of around 30 per cent on December 2 this year.

Mr. K. R. Kamath, Chairman and Managing Director, PNB, said the C-D ratio was only one of the indicators of the bank’s impressive performance this year.

The volume of deposits in the State crossed Rs.3, 600 crore, for an annual growth of around 36 per cent, and advances touched Rs.3, 400 crore, posting a growth of more than 24 per cent. PNB continued to be in the expansion mode. A customer contact programme and a campaign to win back former customers would be launched shortly. The PNB Chairman has inaugurated the bank’s 141st branch and ATM in Kerala at Pantheerankavu in Kozhikode.

Punjab National Bank has launched a savings scheme called PNB Shikshak Savings Account scheme. It is a zero-balance account aimed at government school teachers and others.

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Utsav Rewards Scheme

ederal Bank has launched Utsav rewards, an exclusive loyalty programme for the bank’s debit card holders. The scheme will provide the customers with points accumulated over transactions, and will assist them in redeeming the same for a wide range of consumer products.

Mr D. Sampath, Additional General Manager, Federal Bank, said that customers will get one Utsav point for every hundred rupees spent through their Federal Bank debit cards at point-of-sale terminals and e-commerce mode. Over 33 lakh customers will benefit from this scheme.

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January 2012

The accrued points could be redeemed against goods including electronic, entertainment, music, sports and family products, gift vouchers as well as travel and movie tickets. Customers are also likely to benefit by getting higher points or discounts for purchases made from certain brands as decided by the bank periodically.

The bank has a simple registration and redeeming process which can be accessed through the website. The Utsav points are valid for 36 months from the month of accrual, and the introductory offer comes with two Utsav points on every Rs 100 spent at Federal Bank PoS terminals.

Banking

State Credit Plan Released

Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala releasing the State Credit Plan policy document prepared by NABARD in the presence of Mr. K.P. Mohanan, Minister for Agriculture, Kerala, Mrs. Radha Unni, Regional Director, Reserve Bank of India, Mr. K.C. Shashidhar, Chief General Manager, NABARD and Mr. K. Jayakumar, Addl.Chief Secretary and Agriculture Production Commissioner

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CICI Bank has launched a product under which two credit-cards are linked to a single card account with a single statement and single fee.

Card members will receive two cards — ICICI Bank Rubyx American Express Platinum Credit Card and the ICICI Bank Rubyx MasterCard Platinum Chip Credit Card.

The cards provide access to a host of privileges from American Express and MasterCard. Card members can choose between three reward plans and earn bonus points across merchant categories where they normally spend more. They have the flexibility to change their reward plan based on their changing needs.

Card members can access privileges across golf, travel, shopping, wellness and entertainment through programmes such as ICICI Bank Credit Cards Experience, American Express Selects TM and MasterCard Moments TM. 27

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January 2012

K F C focuses on MSMEs News

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he Kerala Financial Corporation (KFC) has come out with a comprehensive strategy for accelerating the State’s industrialization through the promotion of MSME’s in a big way.

The highlight of this strategy is a host of innovative schemes and customer-friendly procedures for all entrepreneurial solutions. As part of this strategic initiative, the Corporation has introduced special package for women and SC/ST entrepreneurs. Under this, the enterprise fully owned and administered by women entrepreneurs or SC/ST entrepreneurs are eligible for an interest reduction of one per cent in any of the eligible

KFC

launches e-sale Web portal

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he e-sale Web portal and core financial solution of Kerala Financial Corporation (KFC) has been launched by Mr. K. M. Mani, Minister for Finance, Law and Housing, Govt of Kerala.

Tata Consultancy Services has developed the core financial solution to fully computerize the loan accounts and automation of office procedures at KFC. The core financial solution will make the corporation a paperless organization in near future.

It will also inter-link all zonal offices and branches and undertake automation of transactions, appraisal, disbursement, recovery and also financial and administrative activities. With the new system, customers of the corporation would be able to use the services of the corporation online.

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January 2012

activities, subject to a ceiling of Rs 50 lakh. The Credit Guarantee Fund Trust scheme for MSE’s will provide credit facilities up to Rs 50 lakh per eligible borrower without collateral security.

There are also plans to introduce credit delivery in clusters wherein MSME’s having similar Mr. Yogesh Gupta, IPS, characteristics and problems are CMD, KFC located together. Likewise, there would be a special package to non resident Keralites, who returned home jobless due to the economic recession. They would be given finance up to Rs 100 lakh at 9 per cent interest rate.

Besides, the State Government has decided to launch an ambitious scheme Kerala State Self Entrepreneur Development Mission of Rs 2,000 crore with KFC as nodal agency for creating 20,000 enterprises and five lakh additional jobs.

LIC ties-up with Federal Bank

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ife Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has tied-up with Federal Bank for paying maturity proceeds of policies to LIC’s customers. Up until now, the maturity proceeds were paid by check from respective branch offices of LIC and were sent to policyholder one month prior to the due date to avoid any delays. However, now under the new arrangement the proceeds will be credited directly to the beneficiary’s account through National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT) on the due date.

According to the insurer, the initiative will not only prove to be cost-efficient in the longer run for LIC but it will also result in a much more efficient and transparent payment mechanism. With automation of the payment process, policyholders will no longer have to wait for checks to get cleared and instances of fraudulent encashment or checks getting lost in transit won’t arise.

Federal Bank has strong technical facilities which give the ability to send over ten thousand payments per day from each divisional office. Federal Bank is one of the few banks which have signed agreement with LIC for payment of maturity proceeds of policies.

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News

unit of Research oriented Ayurvedic treatment for Brain tumor has been started functioning at Govt. Ayurveda Hospital, Perinthalmanna. Mr. Adoor Prakash, Minister for Health has inaugurated the unit. As part of the programme Gratis Medical camp has been conducted under the headship of Hospital Management Committee, Corporation and Bharatheeya Treatment Department. Mr. Manjilamkuzhy Ali, MLA has presided over the function.

The State Government has given sanction to Dr. A. Manoj Kumar, Medical Officer, for the research oriented treatment. He has already cured few brain tumor patients. Ms. K. Sudha Kumari, Municipal Chair Person, Dr. Gopinathan, Joint Director, Bharatheeya Treatment Department, Dr. A. Manoj Kumar, Mr. Pathathu Jaffer and Mr. Muhammed Ali, Municipal Secretary, were also attend the function.

Mr. Adoor Prakash, Minister for Health inaugurating the new unit of research oriented Ayurvedic Brain Tumor Treatment Centre at Perinthalmanna

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hiruvananthapuram based Goodwill Group of Companies has been started their new retail showroom, Tara Sanitary Wares at Plamood-Pattom road. The showroom exclusively showcases sanitary wares of main brands. Mr. Avirachan, M. D., Goodwill Group of Companies, said “Quality products at standard price are our vision.

This 15,000 sq.feet air conditioned facility will be a new shopping experience for Trivandramites.”

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he Technology Business Incubator (TBI) at the Technopark has bagged the second place in the Best New Incubator 2011 category at the 10thAnnual Incubation Conference on ‘Best Practices in Science Based Incubation’, held in Auckland, New Zealand.

About 24 TBIs from across the globe took part in the competition. The award was presented to Technopark – TBI in “recognition of outstanding achievements as an

incubator.” This is for the first time that an incubator from India has won such a prestigious award.

The winners were chosen based on 22 quantitative indicators across different aspects of performance, good practice examples, and on the opinion of the international jury. The performance indicators were based on Return on Investment (RoI), Sustainability, and Performance.

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BrandKerala

January 2012

News

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ith the advent of increasing number of liver diseases –both alcoholic and non alcoholic- among men, women and children in the state, the NIMS Institute of Liver Studies and Gastroenterology, a total liver care centre under the 900 bedded NIMS Medicity will implement a massive awareness campaign. The movement aimed at creating a comprehensive understanding against all disorders including those related with Hepatitis alcoholism -will be implemented in association with government and non governmental agencies across the State.

Dr. D Jayakumar, MD DM, Hepatologist & Consultant Gastroenterologist, NIMS Institute of Liver Studies said liver care cannot be ignored as “a liver with poor health adversely affects the functioning of the total body�. It is also a falsebelief that liver disorders are always and only connected with excessive consumption of alcohol, he says. Liver functioning gets disturbed also because of harmful and infectious particles and excessive fat accumulation. This phenomenon is increasing in Kerala, of late. Even women are affected by liver diseases; the irony is that disor-

Mr. M. S. Faizal Khan Managing Director NIMS Hospital 30

BrandKerala

January 2012

ders affecting the liver are generally identified not at the initial stages but at later and in a critical situation where treatments become more complex. Terrific psychosocial burden affecting quality of life in general and coping with ill health as liver patients is a major embarrassment, without proper attention by the patient, family members and caregivers etc.

Liver disorders, chronic liver diseases and its end result - Cirrhosis in particular- are on the rise in Kerala. Awareness among general population about the causes of liver disorders and how it could be prevented is less, on the other hand.

This results in the uncontrolled rise of incidences of Cirrhosis, a potential threat that is looming large and a reality in the next decade or two. It becomes mandatory on the part of our healthcare policy makers to intervene urgently to contain the condition.

As Kerala has the highest rate of consumption of alcohol in the country, alcoholic or alcohol-induced liver diseases like alcoholic fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis and alcoholic cirrhosis are on the rise in Kerala. However, non-alcoholic Fatty Liver

Cath Lab of NIMS Hospital

Mr. A.P. Majeed Khan Chairman

Disease is also increasing in our state, at alarm- Prevention of Hepatitis B in India is high and all ing rates. Facilities like advanced fibro scanning carriers should get themselves evaluated to rule out shall facilitate ascertaining the severity of cirrho- chronic hepatitis. Very effective treatment options sis that has affected the liver, in percentage terms. are available today for both Hepatitis B and C inIf one’s count is below 10 in fibro scanning, the fections. Ascertaining efficiency of liver functioning, liver health is normal and if it is above 15, health percentage of liver cirrhosis that affected functionof liver is severely affected. Interestingly, this type ing of the liver etc. shall help control liver disorders of liver cirrhosis is not seen in alcoholics alone; to a greater extent. it is found in 2% of non-alcoholics as well, due to The campaign-comprising of awareness lecvarious other reasons. tures, medical camps to ascertain liver functionPrimarily attributed to the present ing standards etc. – intended by NIMS Alcohol is one of the Medicity will be organized in assoday lifestyle, non-alcoholic fatty liver commonly consumed disease, a spectrum in disease association with various government and ciated with obesity and characterized intoxicating substances in nongovernmental agencies including our state. The tendency as an abundance of fat in the liver is residents’ associations, professional diagnosed in individuals of all ages, to alcohol consumption bodies, Local self government instituboth men and women. This is the in Kerala has percolated tions and the like. We will also be asmost extreme form regarded as a ma- down to the youth. Easy sociating with governments including availability and increasjor cause of cirrhosis of the liver, and the department of health, “in fighting ing social acceptance for of unknown cause. Fatty liver occurs for liver health education among all alcohol consumption when fat is deposited in the liver not segments, including the medical fraamong all groups including only due to excessive alcohol use but ternity here”, concludes Dr Jayakualso related to insulin resistance and women and children has mar. The NIMS Liver Care Centre has increased liquor the metabolic syndrome. Most parecently updated its infrastructural consumption as well as tients will have few or no symptoms; facilities for comprehensive liver effisome may complain of fatigue, mal- liver disorders in Kerala. ciency tests and care, by adding the aise, and dull right-upper-quadrant most advanced fibro-scan machine. abdominal discomfort etc; mild jaundice may be Interested agencies shall contact the NIMS Innoticed, rarely. This can be diagnosed, following stitute of Liver Studies and Gastroenterology, to abnormal liver function tests during routine blood organize Live Care Educational camps in their lotests. cality.

Another major cause of liver cirrhosis in KeraContact: la- like elsewhere- is persistent infection with liver Anuja, NIMS@ 09496166061 specific viruses known as Hepatitis B and C .These Anup, NIMS@ 07293076776 viruses can silently cause ongoing liver damage Dr D Jayakumar @ 9847430440 without causing symptoms and result in cirrhosis.

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BrandKerala

January 2012

Brand

Nirapara a Tribute to Nature

R

ice, being the staple food from breakfast to dinner and dessert, Nirapara, the brand of rice products from KKR Food products caters to every application of rice in the lives of the people especially of south India.

KKR Group is now all set to become a name to reckon within food products. Nirapara rice, is one of the largest selling brand in Kerala. The Group is mainly involved in the manufacturing and exporting of quality rice, rice products, spices, spice products, etc.

The K.K.R group was set up in 1976 by Mr. K.K. Karnan, a man who set out with the vision to bring quality rice into the traditional homes of Kerala. The venture has started with traditional method of boiling, sun drying and milling grew into one of the most modern rice processing houses in India with the latest world-Class technology. KKR Mills boasts of a state- of the-art plant with the highest levels of technology in the world, ensuring products that meet the most stringent quality and hygienic standards.

The factory of KKR Mills is located in the green, pollutionfree Okkal Township, near Kochi. This facility is equipped with the latest technology in the world for every aspect of processing of paddy-right from destoning, cleaning, drying, de-husking, bran-removal, polishing and finally sorting. This infrastructure costs around 25 crore is one of the largest in India.

KKR Food products bring out wide range of food prod-

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January 2012

ucts into the market under the Nirapara brand. KKR Mills is the only rice mill in South India to use the Z-sortex machine capable of optical inspection for quality control. This machine scans every grain of rice and removes discolored, broken and immature rice, ensuring the only rice that meets the specification calibrated in the computer is selected for packaging. It results beautiful rice of even size, color and bran that is a feast for the eyes and a wholesome meal. Nirapara rice is processed using the nutri-select process which ensures that only the best quality rice with the optimum value of Vitamin B. It is available in a wide range of varieties that suit various tastes - brown rice and white rice in round-grained and long grained varieties. Besides these, there are specialty rice varieties for the varied traditional users of rice all over the world.

Nirapara rice comes in neat porous traditional jute-bags that help air circulation that is essential to enhancing shelf life, keeping it fungus free. The Nirapara rice choices are Single Matta Rice, Rose Matta Rice, Payasam Rice, Matta Broken Rice, Ponni Rice, Idli Rice, Jaya Rice, Cherumani Rice and Vita Rice.

Nirapara’s readymade rice powders have found a firm place in kitchen shelves across the world. Nirapara has rice flours suitable for a wide range of breakfast items. Idli Powder, Appam/Idiyappam Powder, Dosa Powder, Puttu Powder, White, Pathiri Powder and Rice Powder.

NIRAPARA rice and rice products are exported to UAE, Muscat, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, USA, Canada, UK,

Ne B r awnsd

Switzerland, France, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore etc.

KKR Mills also processes and markets wheat products for household use under the brand name ‘Nirapara’. Broken wheat is used to make nutritious wheat porridge, fine wheat (Sooji Rava) is used to make a delicious breakfast item called ‘Upma’.

Nirapara also has wheat flour which is used to make soft ‘Chappathis’.

The first set of products to enter the market is spices and pickles under the brand name. ‘Nirapara Silky’.Nirapara Silky spice powders are made from the best quality spices sourced from all over the country and processed and packed in a state-of the-art facility that meets the highest standards of hygiene. The spices are available as both pure spices and ready mixes that are used to make the popular South Indian Curries. Red Chilli Powder , Coriander Powder, Turmeric Powder, Sambar Powder, Rasam Powder, Black Pepper Powder, Chicken Masala, Fish Masala, Meat Masala, Curry Powder, Pickle Powder and Garam Masala.

Nirapara Silky Pickles features traditional pickle recipes using unique spice mixes and vegetable oils are made with a wide variety of Vegetables. Nirapara Silky pickles are delicious, mouthwatering and are the perfect appetizer in every meal.

Ginger Pickle, Cut Mango Pickle, Hot & Sweet Lime Pickle, Hot Lime Pickles, Bitter gourd Pickle (White), Mixed vegetable Pickle, Vadukapuli Lime (Red) Pickle, Tender Mango Pickle, Hot and Sweet Mango Pickle, Garlic Pickle, Kadukumango Pickle, Gooseberry Pickle, Bitter gourd Pickle (Red), White Lime Pickle, Vadukapuli Lime (white) Pickle, Wild Mango Pickle, Irumbenpuli(Karambula) Pickle, Tindora Pickle (Kovakka), Lololica (Scram berry) and Coconut Chutney. These pickles are manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility meeting international standards of hygiene and purity. Only the best quality materials are sourced. The pickles are made under the supervision of experts. All Nirapara products assures quality.

To achieve greater heights the group has plans to set up a food park with facilities to process and manufacture a wide range of food products like spices, pickles and other products for world markets.

T

he Kerala State IT Mission has introduced e-Procurement System for government departments to ensure transparency & efficiency in public procurement. Sri P.K. Kunhalikkutty, Minster for Information Technology, Industries & Social Welfare, Government of Kerala will formally launch the e-Procurement Web site for Government purchases.

E-Procurement is a Mission Mode Project (MMP) under National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) of Government of India (GoI) and currrently implemented across the State by the Kerala State IT Mission, with technical support from the National Informatics Centre (NIC).

Introduction of e-Procurement is part of the government’s commitment towards e-Governance and making Kerala a totally e-enabled State. Considering the large quantum of work being executed by Government departments/ agencies for the tendering processes and procedures, the project will be implemented will be in the Departments of Public Works, Irrigation, Transport & Police in the first phase. Initially, high value tenders are envisaged to be processed through e-Procurement. The system will be expanded to all government procurements in future, based on user familiarity with the system.

Kerala State IT Mission has successfully fulfilled the mandate given to them to spearhead and implement this unique project to utilize ICT enabled tools and process re-engineering in public procurement as part of the State Government’s initiative towards ensuring more transparency and increased efficiency in handling public procurement in the State. This process is envisaged to further increase healthy competition among the bidding community and will lead to cost reduction for Government. An estimated 5-10 percent of cost saving could be achieved through the adoption of e-Procurement system, as per global standards.

Implementation of e-Procurement system shall also facilitate greater than before transparency and trust in public procurements; more efficient utilization of public funds & cost reduction; enhanced process efficiency & better decision making; faster procurement cycle, reduced human interface and anytime & anywhere bidding etc. Elimination of cartel formation shall also lead towards larger participation of competent bidders.

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BrandKerala

January 2012

Cover Story

I

ndia occupies a comfortable position in production and productivity of coconut, when compared to other major coconut producing countries, India has to go a long way in strengthening the processing sector. A large number of coconut products are manufactured in the country which have both domestic and export market.

Vinegar and soft drink are manufactured in the country from coconut water. Tender coconut water concentrate is another product which is manufactured and marketed successfully. Know-how for the preservation and packing of tender coconut water has been transferred to six firms in the country. Nata-de-coco is a gelatinous delicacy formed by the action of a micro-organism Acetobactor xylinium in a culture medium of coconut water.

The Coconut Development Board is planning to set up 5,000 kiosks across the country to carry out tender coconut sales at highways, express highways, shopping malls etc.

The kiosks can be coined as tender coconut bars wherein the value-added products such as tender coconut lessee, shakes, chilled tender coconut also will be obtained.

The objective is to help the product to compete with other soft drinks which are packaged and promoted very attractively. In future, a common trade mark for

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January 2012

kiosk will aid in the marketing of tender nuts all over the country.

The Project Approval Committee meeting of the Technology Mission on Coconut held at Coconut Development Board, Kochi, has cleared a project for setting up a Neera demonstration unit in Karnataka. The project is to be set up at Horticulture Farm, Thumbe. The project to manufacture and preserve Neera, the sap extracted from inflorescence of coconut palm, involves an investment of Rs.1.15 crore. The share of the Coconut Development Board (CDB) for the project is Rs.28.75 lakh.

The project was submitted by the Department of Horticulture, Karnataka Government, under the Technology Mission. The technology developed by the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) and Defence Food Research Laboratory, Mysore, are available for preservation of the natural drink for periods ranging from three days to two months.

The nutritious beverage is obtained by slicing the inflorescence and collecting the sap before it gets fermented.

Neera can easily be converted into value-added processed products such as jaggery, candy, ice cream and toffee.

Neera being a non-alcoholic drink, the Board intends to promote the product either as a beverage or as valueadded products. The product is expected to provide better

returns to the coconut farmer, apart from offering avenues for rural employment in projects for producing value-added products. Neera becomes toddy when fermented.

Many companies in the West are thriving on products made from coconut. These include packaged tender coconut water, coconut milk ice-cream, and coconut milk yoghurt.

Co Yo, an Australian company, promoted with the tagline, ‘Heaven in a mouthful, markets coconut milk icecream lactose-free, soy-free and gluten-free. The coconut milk yoghurt is dairy Free, Gluten free, Lactose Free and Soy Free.

A California-based company, Zico, with tagline ‘naturally powered, markets tender coconut water. The company makes a detailed presentation about the merits of coconut and its products on its marketing website as follows. For more than 4,000 years, coconut water has been revered as a natural source of nutrition, wellness, beauty and hydration. In times of famine and war, coconut water has been used as an intravenous fluid and saved many lives. It’s the only natural substance that can be safely injected into the human blood stream. Now modern science has validated its effectiveness, especially as a natural sports drink.

ZICO contains the five essential electrolytes that gives your body everything it needs to stay hydrated and perform at your best. One ZICO has more potassium than a banana – 15 times more than most sports drinks – to prevent cramping. Drink ZICO before or during a workout for the natural energy you need for optimal performance.

After a workout, ZICO replenishes and re-hydrates you to speed recovery.

The natural product contains the five essential

electrolytes — sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus — that give human body everything it needs to stay hydrated. It contains more potassium, 15 times more than most sports drinks, helpful in preventing cramping, the promotional literature says. Coconut water can become an important alternative agricultural product for the developing world, according to the company.

Vita Coco, another U.S. company, markets packaged tender coconut water as a functional drink. Vita Coco is about hydration. And hydration is important no matter what you do. It’s okay if you’re not a marathon runner, a football player or a Tour de France winner. Life is hectic enough, and you should be hydrated while you live it. Go ahead, get hydrated and remember that life is a sport.

O.N.E., another company based in the U.S., which markets tender coconut water. The company says, The O.N.E. for total hydration. Coconut water contains some of the same electrolytes found in blood, and is a good source of potassium. It continues for another brand FOR ACTIVE BODIES & MINDS. Say goodbye to sugary, artificial sports drinks. We’ve taken pure coconut water, nature’s sport drink, and added herbs and minerals to keep you active and in balance.

Coconut is on a comeback trail after having gone through a perilous journey in recent years. A slew of measures being adopted by the Coconut Development Board are expected to revive the sagging fortunes of the crop.

The primary task of the board is to restore the confidence of the farmer in the crop. Mr. T.K. Jose IAS, Chairman, Coconut Development Board is confident that it can be done with coordinated efforts of the government, farm agencies, and the people.

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BrandKerala

January 2012

Brand

Magical Powers of

Dhathri

T

he Dhathri Group is a leading consumer products and wellness service provider in the Ayurveda segment in Kerala. Hailing from an ancient tradition of Ayurveda, Dhathri is known for the authenticity of the products and services. Dhathri has created a strong brand presence in the hair care, skin care, general health care, slimming products and wellness services stream.

The magical powers of Ayurveda in healthcare and rejuvenation of body, mind and soul have been established across the world. The secrets that lay submerged in the ancient pamphlets and age-old therapeutic practices have been brought to light, for the benefit of mankind.

It all began nearly two centuries ago, when one of the forefathers of the Dhathri Group, Mr. Parameswara

Vaidyar, laid the foundations for a long, illustrious tradition of medicines and healing in the small town of Kayamkulam. He was believed to be gifted with a spiritual power for healing any illness. The people accepted him as a Godsend curer and turned to him for all kinds of diseases. Over a period of time, this grew into a widely accepted tradition of healthcare and the knowledge was passed on from one generation to the next. Finally, in early nineties, it materialized as the Warrier’s Hospital and Panchakarma Centre at Kayamkulam.

Dhathri group offers a large bouquet of branded products and services aimed at health and well being of the individual. Today, as an Industry leader, its products and services are enjoyed by millions across the world. The products are prepared under stringent quality control.

Dr. S. Sajikumar Managing Director Dhathri Ayurveda (P) Ltd.

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January 2012

Authentic ingredients sourced from traditional herbal gardens and untouched mountainsides are only used.

Dhathri’s products are GMP certified and renowned for their quality and effectiveness. Dhathri Hair Care Herbal Oil, Dheedhi Shampoo, Dhathri Hair Care Plus, Dhathri Hair Care Cream, Dhathri Dandruff Oil, Dhathri Chemparathi Thaali and Dhathri Hair Care Capsule are the main products Dhathri Ayurveda Private Ltd branded consumer goods like Dhathri Hair care herbal oil, Dhathri fairness face pack, Dheedhi Shampoo etc and has evolved into a household name in the Ayurveda segment in a short span of 6 years. Dhathri, with its range of 25 ayurveda products and has won the trust of millions across the world.

The products are prepared under stringent quality control and the ingredients sourced from traditional herbal gardens and untouched mountain ranges.

Dhathri Ayurveda Pvt Ltd started 6 years ago with its flagship product - Dhathri Hair oil. Since then, we have been continuously identifying the needs of the consumer and offering innovative solutions for maintaining health and wellness through authentic ayurvedic products and services. Today Dhathri is an umbrella brand catering to hair care segment, skin care segment, slimming solutions and health care segment. Dhathri has already attained a significant market share in the hair care market and is now a successful market leader in the beauty care product market.

The Dhathri Group has taken a big ticket entry into the services stream with the Warriers Hospital and Pachakarma Center, Dhathri Ayurkendra’s, abS clinics (Ayurveda, beauty and Slimming) and the Dhathri Diabetic Poly Clinic. These service initiatives offer a 360

degree wellness solution to the lifestyle induced diseases which is growing at an alarming pace.

Dhathri is founded on a three-century-old tradition of Ayurveda. The pioneering efforts of the forefathers of Dhathri group who had diligently followed the ancient ayurvedic scripts and formulated the therapeutic practices for posterity are now being recognized by millions across the globe.

Every health care treatments administered through Dhathri Ayurveda kendras make use of medicinal products containing authentic ingredients sourced from traditional herbal gardens and untouched mountainsides.

All the treatments are done under strict supervision of Doctors by expert therapists. The health care services and authentic ayurveda packages of Dhathri have won widespread recognition all over the world.

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BrandKerala

January 2012

Brand

T

Mr. T. O Ouseph

he new showroom of Emmanuval Silks, garments outlet, was opened by actor Mr. Shahrukh Khan at a glittering function.

The stylish showroom with a five lakh square feet area is situated at Edapally.

The showroom is equipped with modern facilities for making shopping a pleasant experience. With two mammoth showrooms in Thrissur and Kottayam, Emmanuval opened its third showroom in Kochi.

The showroom offers a wide range of facilities for the customers.These include parking facilities for about 1,000 cars; VIP lounge in every floor; fancy stores to facilitate matching of dress materials; ATM facility; vast food court, large children’s play area with computer games, internet café, feeding room, full time doctor’s service and prayer hall. Availability of fashion designers and live fashion shows are among other facilities on offer.

The Collections include Kasavu Club, Mens Club,

Mr. T O Byju 38

BrandKerala

January 2012

Royal Club, Fashion Club, Celebration Club, Wedding Club, Readywear Club, Kids Club and Season Club.

Kasavu Club presents the grandeur of silk in a thousand shades, each like a dream. It is like a poem gently woven

with the finest silks in the world, with golden threads you marvel. Mens Club finds interpretations of your manly attitudes. Outfits that spell out the personality that you are and becomes you in the most perfect and masculine way. A breath taking collection in formal and casual Ready to wear, Suitings, Shirtings, Shervanis, Kurthas and anything a man of taste looks for.

Royal Club is a collection of Sarees befitting a queen.

Drape yourself in the majestic array of exquisite sarees from all over India. The royal club presents an exquisite range, and each Saree becomes a woven expression to give an imperial aura around you.

Fashion Club meant just to get the heads to tune wherever you go. Tuned with the tastes of time, here is hosted a vast domain for designer wear and branded wear giving wings to the fashion concepts of one and all.

Celebration Club presents the finery that makes you fully merge to the true spirit of occasions. A rich array of Pearl Zari embroidered Sarees from which you would find the one you always cherished for, without breaking your wallet.

When the glittering bells chime for that special day, the one and only special occasion of your life, make it ever lasting moments of happiness with Emmanuval Silks’ Wedding Club. A collection of finest wedding wears to make you the princess and prince of the day.

Gets latest prêt porter line from the Readywear Club

of Emmanuval Silks where gorgeous designs and striking shades find the perfect blend, launching a real fiesta for the exquisite range of ready wear.

Kids Club presents the colorful world of kids wears.

Stylish frocks, suites, capri, tops, skirts and shorts where you might even think like fashion does more with kids wear than with grown-ups’.

Season Club’s simply glorious the coloration of nature through seasons.

Find its vibrations reproduced in drape for you. Explore the dazzling collection of seasonal dress materials at Emmanuval Silks. Be feathered and flap the wings towards your skies.

The Emmanuval group, founded by the late Mr.T .D.Ouseph, established the first garments outlet at Thrissur in 2008. He was a visionary businessman.

Twenty years ago, when he started his business in sarees, there were already many in the field. He created a niche of goodwill for Emmanuval by being very sincere and hardworking and being answerable to the customers he had.

This dedication to the business paid off and eight years

later, Mr. Ouseph opened another wholesale textile business at Jai Hind Market, Thrissur. And he went on to set up many establishments after that. What started off as a modest shop by the name Emmanuval Sarees in Mannampetta in Thrissur twenty years back is now the favoured retail garment and clothing destination for many. The shift from being a known distributor to a well known retailer has been gradual. Mr. Ouseph and Mrs. Annie Ouseph started their little enterprise in the suburbs of Thrissur, focus was on wholesale business. Now the group is being managed by the next generation; the brothers Mr. T.O. Shaju, Mr. T.O. Byju, Mr. T.O. Raju and Mr. T.O Jiju being the partners.

Emmanuval has been committed to customer satisfaction and innovative styles. The group has a corporate social responsibility wing that spearheads the charitable activities of the group. For future, Emmanuval has charted a steady growth plan. The group having outlets at Thrissur and Kottayam, plans to open showrooms at Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode and Qatar.

E-mail: emmanuvalsilks@gmail.com

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January 2012

TNeecwhsn o l o g y

H e r e an d N o w

N. Nandakumar Kartha

I

f I remember correctly, 25 years have passed, since I had my worst financial crisis of my life.

At that time I was residing in Bangalore.

During the period there was an acute shortage of drinking water. I had to buy drinking water in polyethylene bags at a cost of Rs.15/ liter. My salary was hardly enough to meet my family drinking requirement for a week. Therefore, as much as possible I used to go on tour to meet my drinking water requirement in company’s expense!

The same person I am today buys drinking water in PET bottles at a cost of 12 whenever I am away from home, which has now become a part of my living.

I used to wonder how that transformation of my perception has changed; for good, of course.

Incidentally, I have noticed that in spite of the inflation during the last 25 years, it has not affected the drinking water industry. How come?

As a case study, I would like you to consider two significant outcomes that revolutionized the drinking water industry.

How the manufacturers have been maintaining the same price for the past 25 years. This could be an ideal benchmark for entrepreneurs and work on the quality management system for constancy in price.

16th century water duet at Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad, Kerala 40

BrandKerala

January 2012

Second one is that the variability of customer perception; that the customers are willing to spend on drinking water more than cost of milk which was once upon a time other way round. Water was never been a subject of consideration, whereas milk for every family was a must.

Today, bottling purified water has become a big industry in the country!

To understand the variability of customer perception and how to go about it, here is a story of two Ants.

An ant living in salt-hill in Poona met in Ahmedabad a friend of his from a sugar-mill in Meerut. The fat, corpulent, cheerful! Meerut ant inquired in sympathy and friendship if there was famine in Poona, for the Poona ant was thin, emaciated and melancholy. During the meeting it was decided that Poona ant should visit the home of the fat friend from Meerut. While packing for the holiday trip to Meerut, the Poona ant carried a few day’s rations with it. Even after a couple of days’ stay in the mount of sugar, the Poona ant looked more depressed and unhappy. His host was anxious and worried.

To inquiry for the cause of his depression, the Poona ant replied, “friend, there is every comfort here. But the taste of your food does not suit me.” It was a shocking surprise to the host. “If sugar which is all but sweetness is not sweet to the Poona friend” he wondered, “what else can taste sweet for him?” On closer inquiry it was discovered that the Poona ant had still some salt bits in his mouth!

He was however persuaded to spit them out, and then lo!

The very same sugar which was not sweet before became the sweetest thing the Poona ant had ever tasted!

The company’s value addition process that make customer spit the resistance of the pre - set mind is called the Quality. That is why quality is also defined as “Attitude of mind!”

(Author is a well known Management information Consultant, Auditor and Trainer n.nandakumarkartha@gmail.com)

News

T

Mr. P.T.M. Suneesh MD, KSWDC

he Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation (KSWDC) will disburse Rs. 1 Cr to 39 self-help groups in the state under microfinance, which facilitate direct benefits to 400 women. The Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation (KSWDC) targets an all-time high central assistance amounting to Rs.20, 00, 00,000 during this (2011-12) financial year. The National Minorities Development Finance Corporation (NMDFC) will contribute Rs. 1, 200, 00,000; the National Backward Classes Finance & Development Corporation (NBCFDC) shall contribute Rs. 6, 00, 00,000 and the National Scheduled Caste Finance & Development Corporation (NSCFDC), Rs. 2, 00, 00,000.

Budget provision from the Government of Kerala too considerably increased, in the last five years. As this (2011-12) year’s budget allocation from the State government touched another record Rs. 6, 08, 93,000, in 2010-11, Rs. 4, 28, 64,000 was sanctioned. Budget provision for the functioning of the Corporation was only Rs.1, 20, 00,000 in 2005-06.

Rs.1, 70, 00,000 was sanctioned in 2006-07; Rs. 3, 14, 57,000 in 200708 and Rs. 3, 30, 00,000 in 2008-09.

KSWDC also showed an impressive profile on the repayment & recovery fronts in the last 5 year cycle. From a total repayment of Rs. 2,30,73,353 with an average Rs. 19,22,779 in 2005-06, KSWDC rose to Rs 5,75,69,931 last year, with Rs. 47,97,494 collection in a month.

With a monthly repayment of Rs. 1, 02, 67,257, the Corporation eyes a solid Rs. 12, 32, 07,084 settlements, this fiscal.

One of the major reasons for the swift change in the performance is KSWDC’s in-built, strong professional atmosphere among its employees. This resulted in optimum utilization of funds and also remarkable recovery status. Healthy official atmosphere, diversification of the operational functions and a progressive graph added to its performance.

For KSWDC, a just and equal society is not a distant utopian dream, for here empowerment is real and yields tangible results. By encouraging women to be ambitious and confident about their success drives, KSWDC furnishes them with the required support system that makes their needs come into fulfillment. Economic dependence being a weighty hurdle in the realization of such a cause, the organization has many a scheme and policy to cater to the growing demands of the women of the state.

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January 2012

Brand

S

ince the 50’s, Keralites have been enjoying the unblended rich coffee and food served by amiable waiters clad in stiffly - starched uniform in a unique classical ambience. While many restaurants and coffee shops are owned or managed by the owners or partners here at Indian Coffee House the ownership is with the Employees. It is completely owned and managed by its employees. The society is governed by an eleven member managing committee elected from the employees. Indian Coffee Houses from Thrissur to Trivandrum is under the control of India Coffee Board Worker’s Co-operative Society Ltd. No.4227, Thrissur. The Society registered with District Industries Center, Thrissur. Over the years, the society has stick on to the traditional values of good taste, courteous service and unmatched quality. These values were and still are what makes Indian Coffee House the biggest restaurant chain in Kerala.

The society now has a chain with over 51 outlets and associate canteens operating in all major towns from Thrissur to Thiruvananthapuram. The Indian coffee house also has branches near all important govt. establishments Secretariat, Legislative assembly, MLA-Hostel, Medical colleges, and Universities. The society also sells pure coffee powder known for its rich aroma and strong flavor at reasonable prices to the public. The society has received appreciation and support from Govt and public which is gratefully remembered.

The ‘Indian Coffee House’ started by the Coffee Board in early 1940s, during the British rule. In the mid 1950’s the Board closed down several Coffee Houses in different cities throughout India. At that time the Board has taken decision to dismiss the employees. A large number of employees lost their jobs. That was a turning point, the well known great communist leader com. A.K.G ( Ayillyath Kuttiari Gopalan Nambiar ) took over the leadership of the said employees and organized Societies all over India in different states namely India Coffee Board Worker’s Co-

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Operative Society.

A lot of dismissed Coffee Board employees were dedicated their life, money and muscles for the formation of the Society. The first Society was formed in Banglore on August 1957. The first new generation Indian Coffee House opened in Delhi on 27th December 1957. Society Registered in Thrissur on 10th February 1958. The first Indian Coffee House opened at Thrissur on 8th March 1958.

It was also the forth in the country. The Coffee House was inaugurated by Com. A.K.G. The Society is established on 1958 and the founder President was Adv. T.K. Krishnan, and secretary was Mr. N.S. Parameswaran Pillai.

The Indian Coffee House has got prestige and proud not only in Kerala but also in different parts of India. The first Indian Coffee House was opened in New Delhi on 27 October 1957. Gradually, the Indian Coffee House chain expanded across the country, with branches in Pondicherry, Thrissur, Lucknow, Nagpur, Jabalpur, Mumbai, Kolkata, Tellicherry and Pune by the end of 1958.But the Society was registered in Thrissur so the head office of Indian Coffee House is at Thrissur. Still with many support from the Employees the Indian Coffee House is running to achieve its pride and excellence and there support is there customers.

The prestige of the Indian Coffee House increased with a lot of beloved regular customers in all places. The employees dedicated a good service to each and every customer. Indian coffee house is contender and first runner of CNBC Awaaz Consumer Award 2008 as most preferred consumer brands of India based on research by The Nielsen Company.

The Nielsen Company conducted research across 17 product and service categories across the country in 21 cities, and 84 rural locations. The study covered 10,000 respondents across all strata of society to arrive at the most preferred brands. Barista, McDonalds, Indian Coffee House, Café Coffee Day, and Pizza Hut competed for this award. Café Coffee Day, where a lot can happen over coffee, emerged the winner of the category.

Brand

H

ONEY is a supersaturated sugar solution with approximately 17 percent water. Besides carbohydrates, honey contains protein, vitamins and minerals. Apart from its high calorific value, honey is known for its medicinal properties too.

Honey yields 64 calories per tablespoon, making it a more concentrated source of energy than other common sweeteners.

Honey Hunting or honey harvesting which involves robbing honey from wild bee colonies is one of the most ancient human activities and is still practised by aboriginal societies in parts of Africa, Asia, Australia and South America.

Honey harvesting is a major means of livelihood of tribes in the forests of Kerala. Under the auspicious of the Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) and Eco-development Committees (EDC), the honey collectors have been trained in the last four years in scientific and nondestructive collection of honey and value addition by a process called ultra filtration. It marketed through Forest Developement Agencies (FDA) in attractive bottles.

Honey is produced by honey bees belonging to the Apis family. Apis Dorsata, the giant honey bee, is very common in the forests of southern-eastern Asia. The comb is approximately 1 metre across. Nests are mainly built in exposed places far off the ground, on tree limbs and under cliff overhangs. Apis Dorsata is an aggressive bee and has never been domesticated as it does not use enclosed cavities for nesting. These bees are good honey gatherers with an average yield of 50-80 kg per colony.

Apis Cerana Indica, are small honey bees found in the forests of southern and south-east Asia. Their honey yield is lesser, because they form smaller colonies. They

construct multiple parallel combs with an average honey yield of 6-8 kg per colony.

Apis Florae, the dwarf honey bee is another wild honey bee of southern and south-eastern Asia. These bees make exposed single combs built on branches of shrubs and small trees. They are poor honey yielders and yield about 200-900 g of honey per colony.

Trigona Iridipennis are stingless honey bees found in the forests of the tropics which make nests in hollow tree trunks and wall cavities. They yield 300-400 g of honey. All the four types of honey bees are seen in the forests of Kerala.

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New Outlets

T The New Marikar Nissan showroom at Anayara in Thiruvananthapuram jointly inaugurating by Mr. Manoj Kumar, Vice-President, Operations, Hover Automobiles India, and Mr. Zulfiquar Marikar, Managing Director, Marikar Nissan. Mr Rajwanth Ben, Chief Operating Officer, Marikar Group, Ms Nazira Marikar - Director, Marikar Nissan, Mr. Rajiv Gupta, Head, After Sales, Hover Automotive India Pvt. Ltd are also seen

Josco Jewellers @ Chavakkad

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osco Jewellers has recently opened a new Gold & Diamond Jewellery showroom at Chavakkad. The new showroom features an exquisite collection of gold, diamond and platinum ornaments.

Mr. Tony Jose, M.D and CEO of Josco Group lit the lamp at the inaugural ceremony, while film actresses Ms. Kavya Madhavan and Ms. Mythili inaugurated the new showroom.

Josco Group Executive Directors Mr.Babu M Philip

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he Lens & Frames optical showroom chain has inaugurated its 18th branch at Elamkulam. An array of frames in varied designs and styles are available to suit the needs of customers.

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he New Marikar Nissan showroom at Anayara in Thiruvananthapuram has jointly inaugurated

by Mr. Manoj Kumar, Vice-President, Operations, Hover Automobiles India, and Mr. Zulfiquar Marikar, Managing Director, Marikar Nissan.

Mr. Rajwanth Ben, Chief Operating Officer, Marikar Group, Ms Nazira Marikar - Director, Marikar Nissan, Mr. Rajiv Gupta, Head, After Sales, Hover Automotive India Pvt Ltd. Mr. Ameer Shahul, Head, Communications and External affairs, Nissan Motor India & Renault-Nissan Automotive India and Mr. Mriganka Bharali, Senior Manager, Dealer Development, Hover Automotive India were also present during the occasion. 5 cars, 1 Nissan Sunny and 4 Nissan Micra were delivered on the inaugural day.

and Dr.Dany Tomas, Mr. K.V. Abdul Kadher MLA Guruvayoor, Ms. Sathi Ratnam , Municipal Chairperson, Chavakkad, Rev. Fr.Bernad Thattil, Palayoor Marthoma Archdiocesan Shrine Rector, Mr. Srirudran Namboodhiri, Mammiyoor Temple Melsanthi, Mr. Syed Kamarudeen Badusha Thangal, Manathala Juma Masjid Khateeb and Mr. Mohammad Yasim, MD, Hotel Elite, Guruvayoor were also present.

J

BT Green Tech Equipment & Services, a subsidiary of the Industrial Services Middle East LLC, Dubai, a leading company in water purification and industrial services, has launched its operations in India by setting up its manufacturing and assembling unit at the SIDCO Industrial Estate in Pappanamcode, Thiruvananthapuram.

The unit will manufacture water-purifying equipment and systems for households, hotels, hospitals and industrial establishments.

Award

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ight films on environment and wildlife from Kerala have competed at the sixth edition of the CMS Vatavaran film festival on environment and wildlife. Out of eight films five have been achieved seven awards in different categories.

Mr. K R Manoj’s A Pestering Journey has won Delhi Chief Minister Environmental Conservation Award of the sixth Vatavaran Environment and Wildlife Film Festival. A Pestering Journey is a voyage through two pesticide tragedies in post independent India. It is an attempt to interrogate the legitimate forms and technologies of killing available in a culture. Taking a pestering turn, the journey blurs the boundaries of nature and culture, of self and other, of life and death and many other comfortable binaries we inhabit. It tries to ask how much regard for life a culture should have Mr. K.R. Manoj to ponder over the question, what a pest is. The Jury citation reads “More than being just a film about Endosulfan and its after effects, this heart wrenching documentary destroys the myth of the “Green Revolution”. Beautifully filmed, it reveals why it is dangerous to tamper with nature. The story of suffering in the two towns of Bathinda and Kasargod is told with a mesmerising poignancy, a deeply moving narrative that leaves viewers stunned.”

Mr. Suresh Elamon’s ‘Home – Our Garden of Eden’ won the Birla EDUTECH Films for Children Award for the best film in the children’s section. The film, under Birdwing Films’ production, is a 30-minute peep into the multitude of living things that populate our gardens. The father motivates the children to explore the animal life in their own garden. Along with the siblings, we discover the rich flora and fauna that exists even in a suburban garden in the city. The Jury citation reads “This is a heart warming film about two siblings, with a wildlife enthusiast father who urges them to first observe the wondrous creatures in their backyard, before visiting a wildlife park. As brother and sister explore their surroundings, they discover to their joy, that a whole new world exists right next to them. Blending beauty with simplicity, this is an important film conveying multiple lessons.”

‘The Fall of Jataayu’ bagged two awards both the new comer award and Technical Excellence Award for Best Editing directed by Mr. Siddharth M P and Mr. Kyriakos Stylianopolous and produced by University of Otago. The jury citation reads “This stunningly conceived and cleverly edited film juxtaposes the vulture’s tragic reality with its glorious history in Indian mythology. The powerful dance form Mr. Suresh Elamon Kathakali is brilliantly used to evoke emotions. Mixing myth with reality, the film highlights the commendable efforts being made to save the vultures and bring it back from the verge of extinction.”

‘Shelter’ also bagged two awards both the Animation Award and Technical Excellence Award for Best Editing. The film directed by Mr. Reghu Gopal and produced by Technopark based Vyga Animations. Shelter’ portrays the story of a man is in search of a shelter in thunderstorm. He finds shelter under a tree. His greed for comfort exceeds and finally cuts down the tree which gave shelter. He and his family exposed to the cruel world. Mr. Reghu Gopal with years of experience in the animation field currently works as creative director with Vyga Animations. ‘Shelter’ is his directorial debut. The Jury citation reads “The film effectively captures the message that mankind’s endless quest for materialistic desires can actually destroy the very basis that provides shelter, in the first place. The story of a man who takes shelter from rain under a tree during a thunder shower and then colonises the tree with fatal consequences achieves that magical combination of conveying the maximum impact with extreme delicacy”.

Mr. Sajan Sindhu’s ‘My Home is Green’ won Technical Excellence Award for Best Cinematography.

The film produced by Ellora Multimedia. The jury citation reads “A sensitively made animated film that looks at the tragic consequences of pesticides. The tale of an unusual friendship between and ant and a caterpillar captures how mindless use of pesticides such as Endosulfan destroys countless insects that do no harm to our crops. This brilliantly edited film needs to be shown widely for maximum impact.”

Out of 68 nominated films 51 Indian and 17 international films were competed. Three hundred Mr. Sajan Sindhu films from 27 countries were screened at the Vathavaran festival.

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Automobile

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armakers are now looking to upsize customers to bigger vehicles by bringing down prices closer to small cars – a predominant yet crowded segment, where the growth rate has now slowed.

Though India is now viewed as a small car hub, almost no launch or unveiling in that space is scheduled for 2012.

At starting prices closer to top-end hatchbacks – around Rs 6-7 lakh, a new segment of Compact Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) has emerged. Some manufacturers are also betting on the 7-8 seater Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) segments, which caters to large families.

Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai are showcasing concept compact SUV versions at the Delhi Auto Expo, while Mahindra & Mahindra is gearing up to launch the miniXylo, Renault will launch the Duster and Ford is reportedly planning to roll out the Ecosport.

Maruti will also launch the Ertiga MPV next year, with Nissan/Ashok Leyland driving in their MPV

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models. General Motors is also rumored to be eyeing the segment.

Companies have also been encouraged by Government’s dual excise structure on cars which puts a 10 per cent duty on cars below four metres length and with engines below 1.2 litre (petrol) and 1.5 litre (diesel). This has kept the pricing very competitive for these new segments of compact sedan and compact SUVs. With a 78 per cent (9.47 lakh units, April-Nov 2011) share of the market, the small car space has seen a flurry of launches over the past two years. Now, about 25 models exist in the entry and premium hatch space from across nearly all carmakers.

However, small car sales in April-November 2011 fell seven per cent largely on market leader Maruti’s labour troubles and overall market slowdown. This is while the other car segments together gained 13 per cent (2.71 lakh units) in sales, though the absolute volumes were much smaller.

Multi Purpose

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aruti Suzuzki, the Indian car giant is all set to tap into the growing multipurpose vehicle segment with the Ertiga compact MPV. The all-new Ertiga will be Maruti’s first crack at

the MPV segment.

Powering the Ertiga MPV will be an array of both diesel and petrol engines with the petrol unit being a new 1.4 Liter K-series- the K14- that will be debuting in the Indian market with the Ertiga MPV. This petrol engine featuring variable valve technology to maximize mileage will produce 94 Bhp of peak power and 130 Nm of peak torque. . It will displace 1372cc and deliver a decent 95bhp. The diesel unit powering the Ertiga will be the 1.3 liter Fiat Multijet engine with a variable geometry turbo. So, the state of tune of the Ertiga’s diesel engine will be similar to that of the Maruti Suzuki SX4 Diesel, with 90 Bhp of peak power and 200 Nm of peak torque.

Ertiga also expect a lot of parts sharing with the Maruti Swift both inside and outside. The headlamp, in particular, resembles the Swift’s while the rest of the exte-

Automobile

rior looks like an extended version of the Maruti Suzuki Ritz. This Ertiga will likely be priced at an aggressive Rs. 5.7 lakh, going all the way up to Rs. 8 lakh for its top-end diesel variant.

It carries the family look with the front resembling the Ritz hatchback while the peeled-back headlights that stretch to the pronounced wheel arches are reminiscent of the new Swift. The front bumper styling is quite sporty with a large air inlet and enclosures for the fog lights. Tail styling looks rather generic though.

The Ertiga will seat seven people, which explains this mini-MPV’s 4.2-metre length and 2740mm wheelbase.

An interesting detail worth a mention is the corrugated roof for added strength. Maruti has made all efforts to make its new mini-MPV as car-like as possible and in fact the dashboard and steering wheel have been carried over from the Swift. Lighter materials do their part in giving the interiors a more premium look. The middle and last row occupants will get roof-mounted AC vents for improved cooling. Oddly, climate control will not be offered even on the top-end ZXi and ZDi variants.

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Automobile

Renault Reveals Pulse

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enault is revealing Pulse, an upscale compact car developed for the Indian market

by Renault’s Design Center in Mumbai. It is scheduled for launch in January 2012.

Pulse is designed for young, upwardly mobile professionals in a country that has one of the fastest-growing and youngest working age populations.

Its sporty design, dynamic driving experience and advanced features such as the smart access key to open and start the car by just pushing a button or the automatically folding outside mirror, position it at the top of the A-B segment. It is the ideal introduction to the Renault world for entry-segment up-graders looking for a bold, fuelefficient compact car that is fun to drive both on the open road and in the city.

In terms of design and styling, Renault Pulse looks same like Nissan Micra sans the front grille, rear bumper, front bumper, headlights, tail lights and company’s logo but it looks much better and handsome. But Renault should have tried something else to differentiate Pulse from Nissan Micra. The front end features huge Renault logo in centre, black matte finish grille below it and front bumper with huge air-dam flanked by round-shaped clear lens fog lamps. The side profile of Pulse with curves and thick C-pillar. The rear of Renault Pulse features big Renault logo in centre and Pulse insignia below it in chrome finish. It is expected that Renault Pulse will win hearts of Indian buyers who want a stylish and spacious hatchback with cute looks.

The interior of Pulse is very spacious and features new steering wheel and different colour scheme for seats and door pads. The boot space of Renault Pulse is very decent and can accommodate 2-3 suitcases easily. The top model of Pulse is expected to feature power steering, power windows, remote central locking, air-conditioner, rear defog48

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ger, rear washer/wiper, leatherette seats, dash integrated music system and rear parcel tray. The central console and instrument cluster which are in silver finish and looks very different and unique. It is expected that top-model of Renault Pulse will feature Dual SRS airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution).

Pulse will feature the 1.5 dCi diesel engine that has proven highly popular not just in India, but around the world. It ranks among the best in class for daily city driving with record low fuel consumption. Its fuel efficiency, responsiveness and reliability reflect the qualities of the RS27 engine developed by Renault Sport F1. Renault’s research into improving power train and fuel efficiency by reducing friction in Formula 1 cars has been applied to the 1.5 dCi engines.

The Renault Pulse will initially be launched in diesel only and petrol variant will be launched later.

The petrol model of Pulse will be powered by 1198cc engine which generates maximum power of 75 bhp with maximum torque of 104 nm. The diesel model will be powered by 1461cc engine which generated maximum power of 64 bhp with maximum torque of 160 nm. It is expected that Renault Pulse diesel will initially be available in two variants - RxV and RxZ. Renault Pulse petrol is expected to be launched in March 2012 It is expected that Renault Pulse will be priced in the region of 5-7 lakh rupees. The base model of Pulse petrol is expected to be priced at 5.5 lakh rupees and base model of diesel at Rs. 6 lakhs. Renault Pulse is expected to be available in at least seven shades: Brilliant White, Midnight Black, Striking Silver, Dark Grey, Light Blue, Bright Red and Leaf Green.

Ezhuthachan Award

News

Mr. M. T. Vasudevan Nair, Njanapeeth laureate, receiving the Ezhuthachan Pursakarom. The highest literary honour of Govt of Kerala from Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister. Mr. K.C. Jospeh, Minister for Culture, Mr. Perumbadavom Sreedharan, Chairman, Kerala Sahithya Academy, Mr. K. Jayakumar IAS, Addl. Chief Secretary, Kerala and Mr. Sajan Peter IAS., Secretary, Culture are also seen

New Products from Springfeel

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pringfeel Polyurethane Foams has launched a range of technologically advanced sleep solutions. These premium quality products are designed keeping in focus the developing demand for better sleep experience of the Indian customer. Finesse Micro pocketed Box Top mattress is a 14 inch internationally styled mattress quilted with natural bamboo fibre blended polyester fabric.

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HOW IS 2012 FOR YOU? Aries

The first half of this year is not so good, there are hindrance in every effort, will face a lot of travel and trouble in travels, financial troubles, health problems to the spouse, quarrel with the spouse and change of job or profession. Will not get help or encouragement from kids and kins but this situation changes after June. Enjoy incoming of money and prosperity in the family. If single will get married, will feel pleasure in working places. Chance for accusation of luxury items and there enjoyments, prosperity, new positions are in the card. Health during this year is satisfactory, but there may occur minor disturbance of stomach ache or eye trouble. Financial position is satisfactory, this year is also good for servicemen, they will get good position and promotion, professionals and businessmen can start new ventures.

TAURUS

Will enjoy much wealth and comfort, win over enemies, and purchase new lands or house. Will get every kind of happiness from spouse and help from government agencies.

Sometimes may fall as prey to scandals on account of some relationship. May visit holy places, and will spent money for charitable work. Beware of theft at home. Care should be taken while traveling, and may feel some disturbance in domestic happiness. There will be good health and financial position will be better. servicemen, professionals, and businessmen will succeed in all enterprise and gain money through various ways.

Those who are awaiting for job in foreign country will get it.

Gemini

This year is auspicious; there is increased income from various source and gain of wealth. There will be domestic happiness and pleasure. Success in enterprises, auspicious events and celebrations, prosperity, accusation of luxury items are possible. Unmarried may get married. Service men may get new position. Repair of vehicle or renovation of home is indicated.

No serious ill health is feared for this year, finance will be tolerable, gain of various source of income, real property are well flourished during this year. For service men new position and promotion for professional and businessmen there is progress through out this year, this year is good for romance and love affairs.

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By K.S. Sasthry E-mail: sastri_astro@yahoo.in, Mob: 9446382329

Cancer

Mixed result this year, the first half is not good, losses, tedious and wearisome journeys, sorrows, criminal proceedings, ill health are the sort of unhappiness in the first half. The situation changes gradually in the second half, there will be happiness auspicious celebration, success in enterprises, popularity favors, and health improves. Real property affair will suffer some bad impact, this year is favorable for some. The servicemen who are awaiting for transfer for the same will get it.

Professionals and businessmen triumph and revels and enmity are indicated. It is not a good period for construction work.

Leo

Prosperity, new academic distinctions, gains and happiness, auspicious events and celebrations, accusation and enjoyment of luxuries, birth of a new child in family, success in enterprises, and good health are suggested. There will be occasional failure, delays and setback, losses, misunderstanding and quarrels in the beginning of the year. Domestic happiness, marriage and other auspicious occasions occur in the family.

There will be increase of income. Careful control of expenditure is needed. There is success in partnership, win in court cases, real property matters and all activity connected with it with succeed. Servicemen will succeed in test interviews and get promoted. There is remarkable progress in business.

Virgo

This year is not good for you.

Profitless enterprises, increased expenditure, losses, dispute and misunderstanding with relatives, unwanted litigations, domestic troubles and unhappiness, tedious journeys, displeasure of superior are the possibilities, but that will be neither serious nor continuous.

From April to June, financial position is likely to deteriorate, but it will not be down all the time. This year is unfavorable for matter connected with real estate. It will be more or less routine year as far as servicemen are concerned. The turmoil will not go below the average for businessmen and professionals.

Libra

Capricorn

This year gives you mixed result, the first half give good result, favors from elders and superiors, success in enterprises, purchase of new jewels and other article, study of new subject, marriage, good name and popularity, but in the second half things changes. Rivals and enmity increases, long and tedious journeys needed, disagreement with friends who become enemies, death of a relative, domestic unhappiness etc. There may not be any serious illness but some specific ailment such as stomach disorder, urinary infection etc. trouble you. Financial ventures should not be undertaken. Not good for speculation.

Real property matters are not much favored. This year is more favorable for servicemen. Some inevitable setback arises for businessman and professionals.

Mixed result for this year. New status and position, triumph over revels and enemies, auspicious event in the family, general prosperity for the children, success in enterprises and good things to be expected to this year. The second half of the year experiences anxieties and apprehensions, distant journeys, losses, delay in enterprises, ill health etc. can be experienced.

Major illness will not be feared in this year. Health of any other family member is affected. Domestic happiness in the first part of the year and thereafter quarrel within the family members. Financial position is above average this year. Real property matters need careful studies and investment, during this year. Servicemen suffer a lot, professionals and businessman suffer lot of enmity and revels in their field.

Scorpio

Aquarius

Mixed result for this year. Success in enterprises, prosperity, good health, triumph on revels and enemies, enjoyment of luxurious life, all these will be felt in the second half of the year, the first half of this year will give you loss of position, false charges, quarrels and misunderstandings, and tedious journeys.

This year is unsatisfactory in the matter of health. Almost in the middle of the year, domestic peace may loss, financial is not so good. Beware of loss of money and goods. Caution may be taken during travel. Real estate matters go average. For servicemen there is likely lot of trouble, disfavor of superiors, punishment, travels etc. Professionals and businessmen will gain above average progress. Those who are awaiting job abroad can get the same in this year.

Sagittarius

This is an auspicious year. Good position and status, gain of money, marriage, good health, professional advancement, auspicious events and celebration, domestic peace and ceremony, educational and academic success are likely to be happening during this year. As far as health is concerned, some weakness prevails. For some month in the middle of the year, there is the death of some relative and friend which cause much worries. Some financial stress may be experienced towards the end of this year so financial management is needed. Speculation will do good. Real property matter will go flourished, and yield much wealth through it. The first half of the year is favorable for serviceman, businessmen and professional will start new enterprise, partnership will do good for them.

This year is unfavorable for you.

Revels and enmity increases, losses and difficult journeys, quarrels increase, increased expenditure, worries of all sorts, obstacles in enterprises, troubles from revels and enemies. This year is not good for the general health. Lack of domestic harmony, quarrel may arise with relative outside the domestic circle, financial position is not so good in this year. If expenditure is not rigorously controlled critical financial situation arises. This year is not good for speculation. It is not favorable for real property business.

Some small investment can be done in some favorable months in this year. Servicemen have to give explanation to the superiors. Sometimes there are chances of some punishment transfer.

The professionals and businessmen need much care in their working field. There is delay in enterprising.

Pisces

Mixed result for this year. The first half of this year is favorable, gain of money, prosperity, name and fame, good position and status, enjoyment of luxurious life, marriage or birth of a new child in the family, gain of job for unemployed are indicated, but in the second half phase, health troubles, quarrel with friends and relatives disgrace, losses through debits, difficulties caused by enemies may occur. The health condition is not feasible from the second half. Necessary medical checkup is needed. Domestic peace is not seriously disturbed. Income as well as expenditure will increase and reach a high level. Speculation can do good. This year is more favorable for real property and services. Gain of property may take place unexpectedly. For service man this year is good and satisfactory. Those who have been unemployed will be employed soon. Professionals and businessman can triumph over revels and enemies and there is success in new enterprise and partnership business.

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News

M

conservation of the endanalabar gered plants of the erstwhile BoMalabar Region. . tanical The Garden is mainGarden tained by Malabar Botanical (MBG) Garden Society (MBGS), has received Prof. John C. an autonomous organizaJacob award instituted by the tion under the administraGreen World Research Centive control of Science and tre in Biodiversity ConservaTechnology Department of tion and Environment EduGovt. of Kerala. cation. Dr R. Prakashkumar, The Garden is spread to Director, Malabar Botanical an area of about 40 acres Garden, received the award from Prof. V. N. Rajasekha- Dr. R. Prakashkumar, Director, Malabar Botanical Garden, receives of which about 15 acres is Prof. John.C.Jacob award instituted by the Green World Research marshy land and the remainran Pillai, Executive Vice President, KSCSTE. Mr. P. Centre from Prof. V. N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Executive Vice Presi- ing part is a hilly terrain dent, KSCSTE providing diverse habitat for K. Gopi presided over the varieties of plants. By virtue of possessing a vast morass function and attended by Prof. Sobeendran, Chairman, land, the Malabar Botanical Garden becomes unique in Green World Research Centre and Mr. M. A. Johnson. the nation for ex situ conservation of aquatic/wetland The Award carries a memento and `10,000/- cash prize. plants and for undertaking research on them.

The Malabar Botanical Garden is a centre for research on the aquatic plant diversity of the country and for

www.tourismindia.travel www.brandkerala.biz www.keralatourismmagazine.com 52

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January 2012

News

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s the first stage of creating an Ecofriendly world, the Forest Department of Kerala will take the initiative to develop Edamalakudy, the first tribal Grama Panchayat in the State, with Rs. 1 crore project for developing infrastructure.

Since Edamalakudy is part of the forest area, an empowerment committee with various department officials as members will be formed to co-ordinate the utilisation of funds allotted by various departments. Explaining the features of the works to be taken up in the initial stage, a major focus of the project will be on cardamom cultivation, the main cash product of the tribes.

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In the initial stage, 1500 acre will be cultivated in organic way. The only way getting Edamalakudy is a 22 km. walk through the forest. No transportation is possible now. So the department will make arrangements to store the products there. The main crops here are cardamom, vegetables, rice, etc.

No inorganic fertilizers or pesticides were used here.

So it is easy to make this place, an eco friendly village.

Due to the good quality, these products have large demand. Besides these products, forest honey is also available from here. The committee under forest department has the responsibility to store and market these products.

he latest outlet in the chain of distribution network of DC Books has opened at Convent Junction, Ernkualam. Mr. M.K. Sanu, educationist and writer has opened the outlet. The 4000 sq. ft. facility show cases fiction, children’s books, reference books, self help titles, arts, science, medical, management books and special section for academic books.

A

lifestyle showroom of Anna-KITEX group has inaugurated by Mr.K. Babu, Minister for Excise at East Fort Junction, Tripunithura recently.

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Film

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r. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala has inaugurated the 16th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) at Thiruvananthapuram. Inaugurating the weeklong event, the Chief Minister said that IFFK creates a festival mood in Kerala, especially in Thiruvananthapuram. The unity of people reflects the victory of Cinema. This unity can give good cinema and of course Malayala Cinema can able to achieve this target.

Veteran actress Mrs. Jaya Bachchan was the chief guest, presided over by Mr.K.B. Ganesh Kumar, Minister for Sports and Cinema. Mr. Sajan Peter IAS, Secretary for Culture has welcomed the gathering. Mr. K.C. Joseph, Minister for RD, Planning and Culture, Mr.V.S. Sivakumar, Minister for Transport and Devaswom , Mr.Sasi Tharoor, MP, , Mr. S. Priyadarshan, Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairman and festival director, Mr. Gandhimathi Balan, vice-chairman, Mrs. Bina Paul Venugopal, festival deputy director, Mr. B. Sasikumar, Kerala Film Chamber president, Mr. B. Unnikrishnan, FEFCA president and Mr. Harikumar, MACTA chairman were present. Versatile actor Mr. Om Puri, veteran Malayalam actress Mrs. Sukumari, and jury chairman and Australian film-maker Mr. Bruce Beresford also graced the occasion.

The festival catalogue was released by Mr. K. C. Joseph by giving a copy to Mr. Ompuri and festival bulletin was released by Mr. V. S. Sivakumar by handing over a copy to Mr. Sasi Tharoor, MP at the inaugural function.

Speaking at the function, Mrs. Jaya Bachachan said that it was after a gap of 20 years that she was visiting 54

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Thiruvananthapuram. ‘‘I had come here in 1991 when the city hosted the Children’s Film Festival. I have very fond memories of this place,’’ she said. She emphasized that the presence of stalwarts such as Adoor Gopalakrishnan and P.K. Nair adds the quality and legitimacy of the IFFK. “I learned a lot from Adoor and Nair Sab.” She added.

This was followed by a cultural programme, ‘Destiny’s Dice,’ based on the epic Mahabharata and directed by film-Director Mr. T.K. Rajeev Kumar and followed by the screening of the inaugural film, ‘Under the Hawthron Tree,’ directed by Chinese film-maker Mr. Zhang Yimou.

Latin American film The Colours of the Mountain directed by Mr. Carlos Cesar Arbelaez bagged the Suvarna Chakoram at the 16th International Festival of Kerala (IFFK).

Minister for Cinema Mr. K.B. Ganesh Kumar handed over the award to Mr. Carlos Cesar at the closing ceremony of the festival at the Nishagandhi auditorium.

The award carries a cash prize of Rs.15 lakh, citation, and memento.

The Rajatha Chakoram award for the best director was bagged by Iranian filmmaker Mr.Hamid Reza Aligholian for his film Flamingo No. 13. The award carries Rs.4 lakh, memento, and citation.

Mr. Sebastian Hiriat, director of the Mexican film A Stone’s Throw Away, received the Rajatha Chakoram, for the best debut director. He received a cash prize of Rs.3 lakh, memento, and citation.

The audience award for the best competition section film was won by the Chilean film A Painting Lesson directed by Mr. Pablo Perelman.

Mr. S. Priyadarshan, Festival director and chairman

of Kerala State Chalachithra Academy, welcomed the guests. The function has presided over by Mr. M.K. Muneer, Minister for Panchayat. Mr. Muneer said “This is unbelievable. Seven days with same culture, same affection and same feelings. Only cinema can create such a bond.”

Mr. Shibu Baby John, Minister for Labour has addressed the gathering” Earlier cinema was an entertainment but now it’s a curse. A harmonious move and effort is needed to bring back the people to theatres.”

Bollywood director Mr. Subhash Ghai, the showman of Hindi Cinema, said although he made films of a different genre he was an ardent fan of art-house and festival films. “I love attending film festivals as they offer the opportunity to watch films from all over the world, giving us insight on the changing society, culture, and values across the world. The International Film Festival of Kerala is one of the most reputed festivals in India and abroad.”

Mr. K.B. Ganesh Kumar, Minister for Sports, Forests and Cinema has said that steps will be taken to ensure that only genuine film viewers are issued delegate pass from the next edition of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).

“Attending film festivals to watch world cinema has an academic and artistic value to it. But some people come to this festival to watch uncensored films on the pretext of watching world films.

This will not be entertained anymore,” He added He said the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy would go for a total revamp before the next film festival in which a cross-section of films from all regions of the world would be showcased.“ We will take this festival to a different level, and try to make it one of the leading film festivals of the world. The awards given away at the IFFK will be among the most coveted film awards in the world,” he said.

Australian director and jury chairman Mr. Bruce Beresford, jury members Ms. Laurence Gavron and Mr. Rahul Bose and Mr. Gandhimathi Balan, Vice-Chairman were present. Ms. Bina Paul Venugopal, festival deputy director declared the awards. Mr. K.G. Santhosh, Secretary proposed the vote of thanks.

The NETPAC award for the best Asian film was given to the Bengali film At the end of it all directed by Ms. Aditi Roy. Director Mr. Salim Ahmed’s Abu Son of Adam bagged the NETPAC award for best Malayalam film.

Turkish film Future Lasts Forever directed by Ozcan Alper received the FIPRESCI award for best competition section film, while Abu Son of Adam bagged the best Malayalam film award instituted by the organisation. The film also won the Hassankutty award, instituted by filmmaker Mira Nair for the best debut director which carries a purse of Rs.50, 000.

Media awards for best coverage of the week-long event were also presented at the function. Media awards for best coverage of the week-long event were also given away at the function. Mr. P.S. Jayan of Mathrubhoomi and Mr. R. Rins of Metro Vartha received the award for best print media reporting. Mr. Shibu P.S. of The New Indian Express received special mention. Ms. N. Sreeja of Indiavision and Mr. Augustine Sebastian of Reporter channel shared the best television reporting award.

The award for best online coverage, which was instituted for the first time, was bagged

by Yentha.Com and Metro Matinee.Com. Best radio reporting bagged the AIR. Best theatre awards in the Best Technical Expertise Award bagged

by Sree Padmanabha and best Convinience by New Theatre.

The function was followed by a cultural programme, ‘Tholppava Koothu’ (shadow puppetry) directed

by Mr. T.K. Rajeev Kumar.

The award winning film The Colours of the Mountain was screened at the end of the ceremony.

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Film

O ‘

pen Forums’ and ‘In Conversation With’ were the most discussed and crowd pullers of IFFK 2011, which concluded recently at Trivandrum.

The inaugural edition of this year’s In Conversation began with a rendezvous between the renowned Australian filmmaker Mr. Bruce Beresford and Mr. Shaji N. Karun, the famous Malayalam film director. Prof. Prabodh Parikh, the well-known Gujarati poet, fiction writer and visual artist, moderated the meeting.

MACTA Chairman Mr. Harikumar was also present on the dais. The two prominent filmmakers shared their experience in filmmaking and things, which influenced them in the field of Cinema. The first Open forum of this year was inaugurated at ‘Mohan Raghavan Pavilion’ by the famous Malayalam actor Mr. Innocent. ‘Freedom of Expression in Films’ was the topic of discussion. Dr. Biju, Kamal, S. Priyadarshan, and MACTA Chairman Harikumar exchanged their views and concerns on the subject.

The issues of censorship, reaction of viewers towards story plot, creative possibilities of a director were some of the issues discussed. An exhibition titled ‘Landscape in Cinema’, showing the creative inputs of Art Directors, to the film production process, was inaugurated by prominent Indian actor Mr. Om Puri at Kanakakunnu Palace.

The function also witnessed the honouring of the veteran Art Director Mr. S. Radhakrishnan.

The second session of this year’s In Conversation was honoured by the presence of the National Award winning actor, director, and producer, Mr. Prakash Raj. He shared his memories in the industry. Mr. Madhu Iravankara moderated the meeting. Sharing of the ‘International Film festival experience’ by the representatives of other International Film festivals was the highlight of the open forum, which was moderated by Mr. U. Radhakrishnan. Barbra Laury, Martinie Armand, and June Givanni shared their experience with the delegates. Mr. Mark Davis said that he was surprised by the audience response for the football package.

The third In Conversation had Wasis Diop, the Senegalese musician on the dais, along with June Givanni.

Wasis Diop, the younger brother of the well-known Senegalese filmmaker ‘Djibril Diop Mambety’, shared his personal and professional relationship with his big

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brother. He recollected the childhood experiences of the siblings in Africa. Diop spoke about his upcoming venture, a documentary that looks back to 50 years of African Independence and analyses the precarious position the African generation between their cultural past and the globalised contemporary world. Alexandra Specale, Wasis Diop, Laurence Gaauron, and June Givanni talked about African Cinema at the Open Forum. The versatile directors Renjith and Rajasenan launched the December edition of ‘Sangham Magazine’ and a book on veteran Bengali film director Rithwik Ghatak on the occasion.

Famous Italian American singer Pola Chapelle was featured in the fourth session of In Conversation with Shai Heredia, well-known filmmaker and curator. Pola, wife of Adolfas Mekas, prominent film director, spoke vibrantly and extensively on her husband in an hour-long conversation. The Open Forum featured Rosa Carillo, Nirupama Sundar, Uma Da Cunha, Rada Sesic, and Leena Manimekalai. The topic for the discussion was ‘Promotion of Regional Cinema Abroad’. The book commemorating the veteran actor Madhu’s 40 years in cinema, ‘Vellithirayude Madhavapaurnami’ authored by Vinil Malayilkada and its English translation ‘Madhu: The Darling Lover of the Silver screen’ by Shatrughnan, was released by acclaimed actor Mohanlal on the day.

On the sixth day of the festival, Adrian Sitaru, Romanian filmmaker and jury member was featured in the In Conversation with Rada Sesic.

He spoke about the way he does his films.

He said

that making film was very difficult and had to do soaps in television in order to get some money for his films.

The Open Forum dealt with the ‘Arab Cinema and Arab Spring’. The forum was moderated by Shaji N. Karun.

Tunisian filmmaker Elyses Baccar, Iranian director Hamid Reza Aligholian, and Sasi Paravoor were present.

Four books were launched in the forum. ‘Unnikkuttanu Joli Kitti’, Anthony Kwin, ‘World Famous Directors’, and ‘Drishya Talam’ were the books launched. Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Shaji N. Karun, and T.A. Razak were present in the function.

Turkish director Semih Kaplanoglu was the guest in the sixth In Conversation. Right to the money, the question was about the trilogy in reverse. He said that a trilogy was not really in his mind when he did his first film in the series, ‘Egg’. But, by the time, he completed his first movie he had done with the script of the second movie ‘Milk’. The reason for writing such a script is his habit, said Kaplanoglu. “Satyajit Ray’s cinemas have influenced me in my editing and direction. He is my inspiration”, said Kaplanoglu.

Defne Gursoy translated Kaplanoglu who spoke with Nandini Ramnath. The final Open Forum began with a tribute to late Mohan Raghavan. The book, ‘Mohan Raghavan: Oru Orma Pustakam’ was released. Asha Joseph edited this book for Mathrubhumi Books. Director Renjith released the book by handing it over to T.V. Chandran. Later in the Open Forum, the directors spoke about their movies.

Prashant Nair, Pablo Perelman, Miaoyan Zhang, and Nick Reding were part of this event.

This year’s final In Conversation featured Rahul Bose, prominent actor and director with Uma Da Cunha. He shared his experience as an actor and a director. He also spoke about his views on filmmaking and the qualities of a director. He said that his roles in films like ‘The Japanese Wife’, ‘Before the Rains’, etc. were very difficult to do.

The 16th edition of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) was concluded as being a big success. Latin American film ‘The Colours of the Mountain’ directed

by Carlos Cesar Arbelaez bagged the Suvarna Chakoram for best film. Minister for Cinema, K.B. Ganesh Kumar handed over the award to Mr. Carlos Cesar at the closing ceremony of the festival at the Nishagandhi auditorium.

The award carries a cash prize of Rs.15 lakh, citation, and memento. Iranian filmmaker Hamid Reza Aligholian bagged the Rajatha Chakoram award for the best director for his film ‘Flamingo No. 13’. The award carries a purse of Rs.4 lakh, memento, and citation. Sebastian Hiriat, director of the Mexican film ‘A Stone’s Throw Away’ received the Rajatha Chakoram for the best debut director. He received a cash prize of Rs.3 lakh, memento, and citation. The Chilean film ‘A Painting Lesson’ directed

by Pablo Perelman won the audience award for the best competition section film. The director said this was the best award he received for his film so far.

Apart from the main festival awards, awards instituted by the Network for Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC), FIPRESCI (International Federation of Film Critics), and the Hassankutty award for the best debut director instituted by filmmaker Mira Nair were presented at the function.

The NETPAC award for the best Asian film was given to the Bengali film ‘At the End of it All’ directed by Aditi Roy. Director Salim Ahmed’s ‘Adaminte Makan Abu’ bagged the NETPAC award for best Malayalam film.

Turkish film ‘Future Lasts Forever’ directed by Ozcan Alper received the FIPRESCI award for best competition section film, while ‘Adaminte Makan Abu’ bagged the best Malayalam film award instituted by the organisation. The film also won the Hassankutty award, which carries a purse of Rs.50, 000. The award for the Best Theatre was bagged by ‘Sree Padmanabha’ theatre. Media awards for best coverage of the weeklong event were also presented at the function.

Bollywood director Subhash Ghai, Minister for Labour, Shibu Baby John, Australian director and jury chairman Bruce Beresford, jury members Laurence Gavron and Rahul Bose, chairman of Kerala State Chalachithra Academy S. Priyadarshan, Vice-Chairman Gandhimathi Balan, secretary K.G. Santhosh, and festival deputy director Bina Paul Venugopal were present at the function presided over by Minister for Panchayat M.K. Muneer. The function was followed by a cultural programme based on ‘Tholppava Koothu’ (shadow puppetry) directed by T.K. Rajeev Kumar. The award winning film ‘The Colours of the Mountain’ was screened at the end of the ceremony.

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Art & Culture

T

Shadow Puppetry of

Kerala

he puppets are playing in tune with the singing behind a long curtain illuminated by traditional earthen lamps and their shadows fall on a white cloth. The shadows pull us to the storyline and we gradually nod our head with the singing. An amazing ritual art which steals your mind and spirit.

Tholpavakoothu is the shadow puppetry of Kerala.

In Malayalam, Thol means leather; Pava means puppet and Koothu, the play. This is performed as a ritual at the Bhadrakali temples in and around the districts of Palakkad and Malappuram in the state.

This ancient ritualistic art form, very little is known about the period of origin. It is said to have originated in the 18th century is also known as pavakoothu (puppet play) or nizhalattam (shadow play). This entertainment art is performed on a special stage called koothumadam in the temple courtyard.

Pavakal (Puppets), usually representing four characters from the Ramayana, are arranged behind a long white screen, in front of bright wick lamps. The puppets made of deer skin are made to dance to songs from the Kamba Ramayana (the Tamil version of the epic). The performance starts late at night and continues up to daybreak.

It is believed that the compositions for Tholpavakoothu were done by Chinnathampi Vadhyar, based on the version of the epic Ramayan written by the great Tamil poet and scholar - Kambar, who lived in 12 C.E. With Ramayana as the theme, the puppets in Tholpavakoothu represent characters in it. Poems and narrations accompany the play.

Several Bhadrakali temples in Palakkad have Koothu-

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madams, permanent structures for staging the puppetry.

The stage is curtained-off with a white cloth and leather puppets are held up with sticks, behind the screen.

Earthen lamps are placed behind the puppets to create shadows on the screen.

As per belief, Goddess Bhadrakali who was busy in her fight with Dharika, whom she eventually kills, could not watch the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana and the subsequent release of Sita, the beloved wife of Rama. Since the goddess missed that epic battle between Rama and Ravana, the story of Ramayana was staged in the form of Tholpavakoothu, especially Yudha Kanda, the chapter dealing with the war. The story of Ramayana is composed for Tholpavakoothu in 21 parts, which are presented during 21 nights. About 180 puppets are needed for a full performance.

The art form is usually staged late in the evening. By nightfall, performance begins on a specially made stage called the koothumadam.

Here, the puppets are played behind a long curtain illuminated by traditional earthen lamps.

The puppets are flat and made of malleable deerskin, and their shadows fall on a white cloth stretched taut across the koothumadam. As per the local belief, this ritual art form is watched by the goddess, who in turn blesses the community.

Kerala, a land with a culture and tradition that have many interesting facets, has over the years become a fascination for visitors from around the world. Its cultural fabric is woven by the captivating threads of traditional practices and beliefs. Among them, the ritual arts deserve special mention.

January 2012

O w n e d , E d i t e d , P r i n t e d a n d P u b l i s h e d b y R a v i s a n k a r K . V . P r i n t e d a t A r s h a O f f s e t G r a p h i x , Shreehari, T.C.9/2519-1, Janvilla Lane, Vellayambalam, Sasthamangalam, Thiruvananthapuram - 695 010 and Published from TC 9/1785, P-99, Anandam, Pullekonam Lane, Sasthamangalam P.O., Thiruvananthapuram-695010, Kerala, India Editor: Ravisankar K.V.

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