September 2014 by james paul

FROM EDITOR’S DESK

The service coordinate MAGAZINE ON EDUCATION VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4 SEPTEMBER 2014

During the 200,000 years of their existence on the planet earth, humans have been developing skills and services to make life viable. They developed new knowledge and capabilities to counter the existential threats and challenges creatively. They also designed efficient means to transfer these knowledge and skills from generations to generations. Creation and transfer of knowledge and skills remains the taproot of education ever since.

Managing Editor Dr. Varghese Panthalookaran CMI

Development of knowledge and skills and their intergenerational transfer are the major goals of modern education too. It enables design of suitable products and services that makes life on earth livable. For all!

Editor James Paul

However, for many, life on earth is not livable. They are challenged: physically, mentally or socially. They are often given lesser measure of talents. They are underprivileged, downtrodden and sidelined. They fill up the bottom regions of the societal pyramid. They are the foundation of that pyramid, yet they are permanently oppressed.

Associate Editor Dr. Prasant Palackappilly CMI

Columns T. P. Sreenivasan K. L. Mohanavarma Dr. K. N. Raghavan Sajit Malliyoor Dr. Jos Cletus Plackal Jose K. C. Marketing Manager Varghese Kachappilly CMI Art Sajo Joseph

Life is not at all rosy for them. They struggle for survival. They look up to help. They cry for it. True, their cry often falls on deaf ears! Society is yet to develop an ear that hears, a leg that sets out to help and a hand that caresses its poor. Governments need to promote it. Private persons shall not be exceptions. Luckily, playing dumb to the cries of the poor has become redundant. It has become an old fashion! The new trend is to listen to it, respond to it and to campaign for the same. Wipe out tears of those who weep, feed the hungry and skill the unskilled: these are the new-generation attitudes. A large number of initiatives is born round the world to take care of the poor and needy. Even the media, who trumpet “bad news”, are awakening. They gradually master the art of cashing in on the “good news” in the society. They spearhead movements and initiatives that take care of the environment, the poor, the downtrodden, the underprivileged and the neglected. The government, who used to collect tax from the citizens for charity purposes, devises new methods for the same. Minister K.M. Mani couples Kerala lottery with mercy works. He promotes gamblers to give for charity! The corporates, who bank on profits, wakes up to own their social responsibility. They do not resent the governments who define the principles of corporate giving. They embark upon them and make it a new coordinate of sustainable development of their concerns. The industrialists and entrepreneurs deftly add philanthropy to their profiles. They set examples and develop models for deftly integrating service component into their business models. And it works!

Contact: Rajagiri Media, Rajagiri Valley P.O, Kakkanad, Kochi-39. Phone : 0484 2973979 Mob: +91 9497711010 Mail : editor@rajagirimedia.com www.pallikkutam.com

People even prepare to donate their vital organs and life blood. They give themselves in charity. Campaigns and movements are on. Yes, it is an “Epoch of Giving”! Those who wish to excel in the new generation need to excel in the art of giving. They better attach altruism to their definition of success. Those who do not give only perish and decay. They do not sprout and grow. The givers gain! Ability to give is the modern measure of success. The new generation students need to master the art of sharing. They need to add the service coordinate to their life and career. The modern curriculum needs to cater to the service coordinate of education!

C ONTENTS CO VER ST OR Y COVER STOR ORY

Epoch of giving A seed needs to master the art of giving to sprout and flourish. A student needs to learn the art of sharing to get rooted. Givers gain! They will receive further! It is an epoch of giving. Learn to give !

Art of giving in education.................................... 30 T. P. Sreenivasan

Art of sharing: various facets.............................. 31 M. P. Antoni

National service: volunteerism and beyond....... 33

Abdul Jabbar Ahamed

A welcome change in media mindset.................. 41 Dr. John Edappilly

RESEARCH 13

EXPERT COUNSEL 18

GUEST COLUMN 61

Improving The success story of educational China institutions of Kerala Chinese people are the proud inheritors of one of the oldest as world-class civilizations that humankind has known. institutions

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Dr. Kuncheria P. Isaac

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Dr. K.N. Raghavan

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Pallikkutam | September 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014 STORIES OF LIFE 21

Fear to phobia, life to death! NEWS..................................................................... 06 INSIGHTS.............................................................. 26

Dr. Jos Cletus Plackal TIONS....................................................... INNOV INNO VATIONS ....................................................... 50 PERSONAL 23 INFO TECH............................................................ 58

A painful break-up

CONFESSIONS ..................................................... 66

Sajit Malliyoor YOURS TEA CHERL Y 09 TEACHERL CHERLY

POLICY WATCH 46

The Guru, the maker or the wrecker

Higher secondary/ higher education: is the government too confused?

Jose K. C

Dr. Dhanuraj

CREA TIVE LIVING 54 CREATIVE

Grow with/against jealousy

SUBSCRIBE NOW TURN TO P AGE 60 PA

EMVEE’S ARMCHAIR DREAMS 65

Beware, the revolution is around the corner

Dr. Varghese Panthalookaran Pallikkutam | September 2014

NEWS

AMU’s Kerala centre restricts use of mobiles on campus

ligarh Muslim University centre at Malappuram, Kerala, has imposed restrictions on use of mobiles by students on campus. They cannot carry the mobile phones to the administrative and academic block of the campus but can use their phones in the hostel, canteen or anywhere else. Dr Zakariya KA, director at the Malappuram Centre, AMU, said, “We have not banned the mobile phones, we have just restricted the use of mobiles on campus. The academic and administrative blocks are for a purpose and it is to make sure students concentrate on studies in class

and keep the sanctity of the busy administrative block. We issued the notice two days ago because student play games and are constantly communicating through different portals. The step is only to maintain the decorum of classrooms.” He further said, “There are other institutions too in Kerala that restrict the use of mobiles and it is not a step to curtail their freedom of communication, as it is being thought to be. To make sure that students follow this we have also said in the notice that defaulters will be punished.”

Students’ papers to be verified online

he time-consuming document verification process of Bangalore University (BU) students is all set to go online from the next academic year. The university is planning to upload scanned copies of markscards and degree certificates on its website to help employers verify documents of the shortlisted candidates easily. Manual verification takes about a month. BU cross-checks the certificates of about 150 students every day and 50 of these requests are from companies based in foreign countries. The new system is expected to prevent fake

degree holders from getting jobs and also save time for recruiters, job aspirants and university of ficials. Every year, over 1.5 lakh students graduate out of the 50 yearold university ., K N Ninge Gowda, registrar (evaluation), BU, said 56 agencies are mediating between companies and students on document verification. These agencies are charging Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000 for the purpose. “Online verification is the need of the hour. Some 30% employees with different companies in the country are learnt to have got jobs by submitting fake degree certificates,” said Ninge Gowda.

Talent search programme for school children

ducational Initiatives (EI), an Ahmedabad-based assessment and research company, and the Talent Identification Programme of Duke University (Duke TIP) announced the launch of a joint nationwide talent search programme for school children. The ‘Duke TIP ASSET India Talent Search 2014’ programme seeks to identify toppers in mathematics, science

and English in classes 7 and 8 and give them a platform to aim for more. The talent search test called ASSET (Assessment of Scholastic Skills through Educational Testing) will be conducted on November 30, 2014, for schools across India. There are totally 180 seats for the programme. Students who ace the test will have an opportunity to be part of a three-week summer programme that will be organized in India and the US. Courses such as international relations, cryptology and forensic science are offered to them. Duke University (US) started the programme way back in 1980. The ASSET test costs Rs 1,800 and the residential summer studies programme in India costs $1,500 while it costs $3,800 in the US. “We also offer full and partial scholarships. And those who opt out of the summer programme can be part of an e- learning set up along with American students,” said Mara Shurgot, director of International Programs, Duke University.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

NEWS

Only 17,500 poor kids provided free books, Delhi high court told

ut of around 70,000 children from poor and disadvantaged families, only 17,500 have been provided free books in this academic year, the Delhi government informed the Delhi high court on Tuesday.

free books and uniforms. The report filed by the directorate of education said 1,092 private schools provided details. It said

In an affidavit, the Delhi government also said that approximately 16,500 children have been provided free uniforms. A division bench of justice BD Ahmed and justice Siddharth Mridul will on Wednesday take into consideration the report by the Delhi government. Earlier, the bench slammed the government for filing a “wishy washy” report on the issue and asked it to file a status report on the number of students in the 6-14 age group in this academic year in schools in both categories as well as the number of students given

Poor ranking of education institutes upsets President

resident Pranab Mukherjee expressed his concerns over the fact that no higher education institute of the country figures in the list of the world’s top 200 schools. Inaugurating the country’s first Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST) at Howrah’s Shibpur, Mukherjee said: “We have more than 720 universities, 37,000 degree colleges and 11,000 polytechnic institutes. Yet what saddens me the most is that the standards of higher education institutes compared to international benchmark is abysmally low here.” He added: “In the list of top 200 universities prepared by grading organizations, not a single Indian institute, such as the IITs, NITs or universities, finds a place. ” Mukherjee called for increased co-operation between the country’s higher education institutes. He hoped that undergraduate education would be integrated at the IIEST, Shibpur, with postgraduation and research in engineering and science.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

68,951 children from the EWS (economically weaker section) and DG (disadvantaged group) categories were studying in these schools in this academic year. “The number of children getting free

textbooks is 17,497 and those getting free uniforms are 16,467,” the report said. It said children studying up to Class 8 in government schools were provided free textbooks and a fixed amount for uniforms. The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Khagesh Jha demanding proper implementation of the provisions of the Right to Education Act to provide free books and uniforms to children from the EWS and disadvantaged group categories in private unaided schools. The plea said unaidedrecognized schools were bound to give not only admission but also provide books, uniforms and other study materials free of cost to students admitted under the 25 per cent quota of EWS and disadvantaged groups.

Vietnam seeks India’s help on CBSE pattern in schools

ietnam sought cooperation from India to bolster its primary school education even as CBSE textbooks are slowly gaining popularity here. During external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj talks with the Vietnamese leadership, it was noted that India has a good primary school system. The Vietnamese side said they would be keen to work with India on possible ventures for cooperation at the primary level, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said.

Even as the government here seeks India’s help, Navneet Kalia, founder and chairman of Ismart Education, is making sure that Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) system of education finds its footings in the Communist country. Kalia, who has been living in Vietnam for the past 17 years, has introduced the CBSE teaching method in three subjects — Math, Science and English - in primary classes across 25 schools in major cities in Vietnam.

YOURS TEA CHERL Y TEACHERL CHERLY

The Guru, the maker or the wrecker Jose K. C

Is there any statement that can better the ‘guru’ concept envisioned in ‘matha, pitha, guru, daivam’ (mother, father, teacher, God)? Hardly any. Thus, teacherhood approximates divinity. Our classical notion of ‘teachers’ is so sublime that teachers are - like the trinity - ‘creators’, ‘preservers’ and ‘annihilators’, the awesome threesome – brahma, vishnu, shiva. No wonder, Ekalavya practised archery in front of his guru, Drona’s statue. He unhesitatingly offered his thumb as ‘gurudakshina’ upon demand. We Indians are thrilled by such lofty examples of gurus and disciples – not as much we are as are thrilled though. Pallikkutam | September 2014

YOURS TEA CHERL Y TEACHERL CHERLY

If the Ekalavya’s of today are to offer literally anything to their guru’s, they should first be ignited by the passion for learning and second should see a Rogerian personality in the teacher. Congruence, unconditional acceptance and empathy make a Rogerian personality.

f the Ekalavya’s of today are to offer literally anything to their guru’s, they should first be ignited by the passion for learning and second should see a Rogerian personality in the teacher. Congruence, unconditional acceptance and empathy make a Rogerian personality. To Carl Rogers (1902 -1987), being true to him/ herself, the therapist (teacher) takes the pupil into confidence. The trusting student is like an open receptacle, which takes in knowledge, skills and attitudes. The Rogerian teacher is a preconditionless guru, of course unlike Drona, but like a mother. Like Hawthorne’s Hester Prynne loves her bastardly daughter, Pearl, a teacher loves his pupils – whatsoever, good or bad, be their attributes. This unconditional love can sprout wings from a lump of mud, which some dull students are often compared to. See what Edison, once relegated by teachers as a lump of mud, says about the unconditional love of his

mother: “My mother was the making of me. She was so true, so sure of me, and I felt I had someone to live for, someone I must not disappoint”. The third Rogerian trait in a true guru is ‘empathy’. For, empathy redeems. The redeeming approach towards an erring scholar is empathy and dialogue, all non-judgemental. The Nobel Laureate Bertrand Russell says: “If you have the sort of liking for children that many people have for horses or dogs, they will be apt to respond to your suggestions, and to accept prohibitions, perhaps with some good-humoured grumbling, but without resentment… Teachers who have this quality will seldom need to interfere with children’s freedom, but will be able to do so, when necessary, without causing psychological damage… No rules, however wise, are a substitute for affection and tact”. Does the mechanism for student teacher intake to

the colleges of education ensure these qualities – beyond the academic merit – in the fresh entrants? Is teaching sought after first, as in countries like Finland and Singapore, before medicine and engineering? If not, every Tom, Dick and Harry becomes a teacher and teaching, hailed as the noblest calling, becomes a joke. Are our colleges of education hermitages where the teacher-aspirant undergoes the ‘tapasya’ in order to graduate as a true ‘guru’? If not, how can the destiny of the nation be shaped in her classrooms, as envisioned by the Kothari Commission (1964–66)? The fall of ‘guruhood’ There is no denying the fact we had great gurus and devoted students in our ‘gurukula’s and schools. We do still have them at least in some pockets of education. Is this fall of ‘Guruhood’ a historic inevitability? Partly yes.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

YOURS TEA CHERL Y TEACHERL CHERLY

Schooling has increasingly been looked upon as a passport for gainful jobs. Students thus become mere memory sticks, who reproduce knowledge onto the exam papers – knowledge rote learned from texts and teachers’ notes. There have been sweeping utilitarian trends across all fields of human activity. Such reductionist tendencies affected education too. Schooling has increasingly been looked upon as a passport for gainful jobs. Students thus become mere memory sticks, who reproduce knowledge onto the exam papers – knowledge rote learned from texts and teachers’ notes. Schools become proud of the tall bar graphs of their students’ exam performance. And, bar graphs often talk more than necessary. An instance in point is the dreaded ‘explanations’ demanded from teachers whose bar graphs are truly short. A Damocles’ sword indeed on their service!! So, ‘Let’s play safe,’ they advise themselves. Thus their bar graphs soon vie in length with others’.

dichotomy of the seven inseparable duos in education: head/heart, fact/feeling, theory/practice, teaching/learning, intellect/character, competition/ cooperation and technology/insight. Calling it the seven blunders of education, he conceives this sad split as the outcome of the uni-dimensional, utilitarian approach in education. We land up in hard times, following the Dickensian lines, when heart, feeling, practice, learning, character, cooperation and insight ebb in the upsurge of head, fact, theory, teaching, intellect, competition and technology. The pupil become just the object of education whereas to a ‘guru’, the pupil (as sacred as the pupil of the eye) is both the subject and object of education.

Seven blunders of education

Look at, for instance, the new approach of CFA (Continuous Formative Assessment: I would rather have

The former education minister of Bhutan, T S Powdyel (2010) talks of the sad

Pallikkutam | September 2014

‘continual’!!). Conceived with bona fide intentions as an antidote to the examinationdriven assessment, CFA has become, however, an unmanageable exotic exercise in overcrowded classrooms by overburdened teachers. And, when school principals advise teachers to award 20, or at least 16 for example, out of 20 CA marks to all (terrible democracy??), half this lucky lot score 8 out of 80, for instance. Forget the numerals I cite; the point is that the CA high scorer becomes the SA (Summative Assessment) low scorer. And, the above-average in the class get demotivated and the below-average learn academic helplessness. In fact, continual assessment is a beautiful concept for ongoing, formative education. But, in the west where ‘CFA practices ‘were born, they were and are Cinderella’s slippers and the teachers Cinderellas. Here, however, the teachers are sadly Cinderella’s sisters, trying hard to wear the slippers just to please some unknown princes. This is the tragedy when

YOURS TEA CHERL Y TEACHERL CHERLY

‘Greenery’ is a metaphor of liveliness and brimfulness. The intent is to redeem our education by espousing the eight greeneries in the school: environmental, social, cultural, moral, aesthetic, academic, intellectual and spiritual. we forget compatibility and enabling conditions in our schools.

After all, Einstein used only a percentage of his brain capability, it argues.

Asking to out-paul paul

Green schools – a possible answer

Paul is a teacher-asset to the school. He, like a highly professional baby sitter, can tell stories to young and old students in such passion that the students spontaneously open, to be fed – like the refusing toddler to an energetic, imaginative baby sitter. Paul plans his lessons for the multi-level class of differing IQs so that all his students feel success in learning. And, more than anyone, he knows that nothing succeeds like success.

In such a scenario, the ‘guru’ in Paul dies. He turns utilitarian. The graffiti of times tells us it is imperative to reverse the situation and redeem the gurus in our teachers. It is possible by reforming our

But, here’s the rub. Paul is a class teacher, house master, time table maker, literary coordinator, oratory club advisor, exam committee chair, boys’ warden besides the teacher of two different subjects in four sections of an average of 40 students each. Paul runs, pants, sweats and at times goes blank. Amid this vortex of activities, Paul admits he has recently resorted to ‘hockey stick’ corrections of students’ works, without really going through their thoughts. Back home, with his BP back to normal, he admonishes his erring ‘guru’ of un-Rogerian conduct. But then, the school management is apparently happy that it has asked Paul to out-Paul himself.

schools as ‘green schools’, to “reclaim the core objective of education” (Powdyel, 2010). ‘Greenery’ is a metaphor of liveliness and brimfulness. The intent is to redeem our education by espousing the eight greeneries in the school: environmental, social, cultural, moral, aesthetic, academic, intellectual and spiritual. So, ‘spiritual greenery’ – central to all – is the wakefulness of the spirit, especially of the students and the teachers in the little university called the school. This

‘spiritual greenery’ has been mentioned in the scriptures of great religions of Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam, as we had great gurus in the past. The visionary guru along with his disciples makes the school ambience so green and conducive to learning that each day the pupil looks forward to going to school. S/he generates good will and harmony such that each – be it the student or the teacher – becomes the other’s keeper, opposed to Cain’s rhetoric in the Old Testament. Thus, pupils respect one another, cooperate and compete; teachers role model. School life becomes so easy – even academic heavy weights of poems and equations turn pleasant challenges. Pupils learn to see the sun and stars through the window before they see the mud. A green school student cannot be mischievous because the aesthetics practiced there has elevated him/her to the lofty and the sublime. The green school guru also inculcates in him/her that being good is better than being great. Thus, the ‘green school’ with the guru there complements the ‘green home’ with the matha and pitha there. What a home-school co-existence!! The author is senior lecturer in English, College of Education, Samtse, Bhutan.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

RESEARCH

Improving educational institutions of Kerala as world-class institutions

Dr. Kuncheria P. Isaac

Graduates from our higher educational institutions lack skills and knowledge and aptitude for getting good employment in leading establishments. There are several difficulties and bottlenecks in achieving an excellent scenario in higher education sector. Introduction Among the states in India, Kerala can boast of high levels of literacy, near universal involvement in elementary education, high levels of social and human development. The performance of Kerala in education sector has been good and impressive and could receive the distinctive acclamation as the “Kerala Model”. Kerala can also claim that the first higher educational institution was started in Kerala (CMS College, Kottayam, 1817). Similarly the College of Engineering Trivandrum is one of the early engineering institutions in the country (may be 12th). The number of higher educational institutions have grown over the years but

Pallikkutam | September 2014

none of these institutions could obtain a brand equity either in the national or international level. Though we can boast of a few national leaders including the former President of India graduating from educational institutions in Kerala but we could not produce a Nobel laureate, not even a scientist, social activist, technocrat of world fame. The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) is 21.9 only which is just little above the national average of 20. Graduates from our higher educational institutions lack skills and knowledge and aptitude for getting good employment in leading establishments. There are several difficulties and bottlenecks in achieving an excellent scenario in higher education sector. Two major issues alone viz. size of

institutions and rigor in the system pertaining to Kerala are discussed in this article. Characteristics of World Class Institutions Well-known author Jamil Salmi stated the characteristics of World Class Universities/ Institutions as follows:

♦

Has an international reputation for its research

♦

Has an international reputation for its teaching

♦

Has a number of research stars and world leaders in their fields

RESEARCH

The Indian higher education system has the largest number of institutions with about 700 universities and over 35,000 colleges. But the average enrolment per institute is very low compared to other countries. ♦ Is recognized not only by other worldclass universities but also outside the world of higher education ♦ Has a number of world-class departments ♦ Identifies and builds on its research strengths and has a distinctive reputation and focus ♦ Generates innovative ideas and produces basic and applied research in abundance ♦

♦ Has diversified sources of income (for example, government, private companies sector, research income and overseas student fees)

The Indian higher education system has the largest number of institutions with about 700 universities and over 35,000 ♦ Provides a high-quality and supportive colleges. But the average enrolment per institute is very low compared to other research and educational environment for both its staff and its students (for example, countries. The data of USA, China and high-quality buildings and facilities / high- Europe is compared with India for the year 2010 and is given in Table 1. quality campus)

♦

Has a first-class management team with strategic vision and implementation plans

Produces ground breaking research output recognized by peers and prizes (for example, Noble Prize winners)

♦ Attracts the most able students and produces the best graduates ♦

Can attract and retain the best staff

♦

Can recruit staff and students from an international market

♦ Produces graduates who end up in positions of influence and / or power

♦

♦ Attracts a high proportion of students from overseas

♦

Attracts a high proportion of postgraduate students

Operates within a global market and is international in many activities (for example, research links, students and staff exchanges, and throughput of visitors of international standing)

♦ ♦

Has a very sound financial base

Receives large endowment capital and income

Size of institutions

Often has a long history of superior achievement Makes a big contribution to society and our times

Continually benchmarks with top universities and departments worldwide

♦ Has the confidence to set its own agenda. If the above attributes are examined, it can be seen that most of our institutions have not thought of them and hence are not able to produce highly skilled graduates.

From the above table, it can be seen that we have a large number of institutions but the average no. of students studying in an institution is very low compared to countries offering world class education. Looking at the requirements of an educational institution in terms of its ranking, especially in terms of internationalization and collaboration, anyone can conclude that miniature institutions in Kerala and in this country make it impossible to attain good rankings. The argument for more number of institutions is to have a geographical spread and increased access of rural population. But this geographical spread has its limitations to grow beyond a certain number of intake and provide world class facilities. It is always preferred to provide accommodation to faculty and students in the campus which is absent in most of the colleges in Kerala. The policy followed made all these higher educational institutions to function as “community college” system of USA and other

Pallikkutam | September 2014

RESEARCH

The changing nature of work, technology and competition in the global job market has far outpaced the current higher education system. The academic excellence can be achieved only if a rigor / relevance framework is employed. countries except that the courses offered are not really relevant to the community. Instead of these 1070 colleges in Kerala had we planned 70 institutions, these colleges would have become world class institutions with a GER higher than the national average. Of course, a shift in policy towards research and collaboration with national and international institutions should have followed. The average cost of education would also have come down which would have made it affordable to the common man. Still we are not late in reorganizing the system by making these colleges as clusters / multi campus universities with a shift in policy to have international faculty and focus on research. Rigor in the system The changing nature of work, technology and competition in the global job market has far outpaced the current higher education system. The academic excellence can be achieved only if a rigor / relevance framework is employed. The versatile framework applies to standards, curriculum, instruction and assessment. The framework is as shown in Fig.1.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

In thinking about ways to incorporate the Rigor/Relevance Framework in instruction and assessment, it is helpful to consider the roles that students and teachers take. When instruction and expected student

learning is in Quadrant A, the focus is on teacher work. Teachers expend energy to create and assess learning activitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; providing lesson content, creating worksheets, and grading student work. In this scenario the student becomes a passive learner. When instruction and expected learning moves to Quadrant B, the emphasis is on the student doing realworld work. This work involves more realworld tasks than Quadrant A and generally takes more time for students to complete.

When instruction and expected learning falls in Quadrant C, the student is required to think in complex ways â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to analyze, compare, create, and evaluate. Traditionally, this has been the level of learning that students graduated from high school with. Quadrant D learning requires the student to think and work. Roles have shifted from teachercentered instruction in Quadrant A to studentcentered learning. Quadrant D requires that students understand the standard or benchmark being taught thoroughly, but equally important, they must also understand and conceptualize relevant applications for the content being covered. It is pertinent to state that an academic calendar has to be followed by all universities / institutions by ensuring the required academic days required for each semester. But in reality, the colleges in Kerala never follow an academic calendar and the universities do not conduct examinations and publish results on time. It may be noted the Honâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ble Supreme Court has in Parshanath Charitable Society

RESEARCH

Some of the best educational institutions of the country like the IIT’s and IIM’s have gone ahead and banned politicization of student unions, with some States like Maharashtra and Kerala completely proscribing student union elections. vs. AICTE ordered to implement an academic calendar in all technical institutions and accordingly AICTE has issued orders to all universities to follow academic calendar. Most of the working days are not available for teaching learning process due to – (i) Student unrest in the campus (ii) Hartals (iii) Extra curricular activities (iv) Large number of holidays As a result of this, the effective working days is 50% of the required no. of days. I have observed that in one of the best government engineering colleges in the State has worked only for 11 days out of 22 days in a particular month in 2014 due to student unrest and other reasons.

In a recent article in Journal of Indian Law and Society Namrata Mukherjee on campus politics in India states that – “There are two points which are to be noted here. First empirical evidence has showcased that campus politics have ended up doing more harm than good. Not only are students subject to violence and coercion in institutes where campus politics is prevalent, but the quality of education also tends to suffer on account of the frequent disruptions by such bodies, which often resort to mob tactics to get their demands heard. Recognizing this, some of the best educational institutions of the country like the IIT’s and IIM’s have gone ahead and banned politicization of student unions, with some States like

Maharashtra and Kerala completely proscribing student union elections. Secondly, the argument by proponents of campus politics that democratic tradition requires political parties being active on campuses and the same is essential for mobilizing students for national causes and shaping future leadership is fallacious. Politicization of student unions has the inevitable consequence of imposing a fixed ideology on highly impressionable minds with the affiliating political party exercising undue influence on its members. This prevents member students from developing an independent and comprehensive outlook, as they are obliged to pay loyalties to the stance of their respective parties. While this may not be a theoretically sound argument, it is more or less in consonance with current trends. In

Pallikkutam | September 2014

RESEARCH

The society as a whole will have to take a look into the rigor of the education system in terms of teaching-learning process and other socio-political issues prevalent in Kerala. the light of the above, it can be contended that intellectual freedom plays an important role in shaping complete future leaders and political affiliation is not a condition precedent in either developing politically consciousness amongst the students or inculcating leadership skills. In addition, a student always has the freedom to pursuing his political beliefs outside campus.” But the fruits of it is yet to be experienced in Kerala and it is high time that academicians and policy makers think of better ways to implement rigor framework to achieve excellence in education. The student should concentrate on academic activities during the four months of the semester and may conduct other activities including industrial training during the remaining two months.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

Conclusions There are several attributes for bringing our education system in Kerala to that of world class institution level. Only two attributes viz. size of institutions and rigor in the system are discussed. The solution is not that difficult as we can make a few colleges to function as clusters to take advantage of the number and collaborate with institutions in the national and international level. A policy shift from mere ‘teaching’ colleges to ‘research’ colleges is proposed. The society as a whole will have to take a look into the rigor of the education system in terms of teaching-learning process and other socio-political issues prevalent in Kerala.

References

♦

Dharaskar, R.V. (2014), 113 Difficulties in Developing World Class Universities, Shroff Publishers and Distributors Pvt. Ltd, ISBN 13:978-935110-470-4

♦

Daggett WR (2005). Achieving Academic Excellence through Rigor and Relevance, International Center for Leadership Education.

The author is the Member Secretary of the All India Council for Technical Education, New delhi and designated Vice Chancellor of Technical University, State of Kerala.

EXPERT COUNSEL

The success story of China Dr. K.N. Raghavan

Chinese people are the proud inheritors of one of the oldest civilizations that humankind has known and there exists a distinct and direct link from its pre historic society to the present day one.

ne of the questions that I am asked frequently whenever the topic of conversation veers around to world affairs is the threat posed by rise of China to India and the world. There is a very popular school of thought that portrays China as an aggressive nation and cautions the whole world to be wary of its rise economically and militarily. The proponents of this line of thought point out the wars fought by China against Korea, India and Vietnam, the continuing claims that they make over Taiwan and the islands in the South China sea in addition to the alleged atrocities against the ethnic population in Tibet and Xinjiang as

evidence of their willingness to use the armed forces to force disputes over territory in their favour. Similarly they talk about the poor record of Chinese companies in matters regarding protection of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s), their aggressive push in markets in Africa and Latin America to procure raw materials and dumping of goods at very low value to capture foreign markets as proof of their intentions to become economically stronger by using any means, fair and foul. There is no denying the fact that China is presently the second largest economy in the world after USA and its military might is inferior only to that of the fire power of Pentagon.

But is the rise of this Asian giant such a bad thing for their neighbouring countries and for the rest of the world as is made out by some sections of the media and intelligentsia? Any study of China would require an analysis of how history would influence the behaviour of this country and its peoples. Chinese people are the proud inheritors of one of the oldest civilizations that humankind has known and there exists a distinct and direct link from its pre historic society to the present day one. History records the unification of China in 221 BC followed by an era renowned for the teachings of Confucius, which laid

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EXPERT COUNSEL

It was after the initiation of economic reforms from 1980 onwards that the Chinese economy turned around and embarked on a course of high growth to take it where it is positioned now.

emphasis on morality and social hierarchy. Tang dynasty that ruled China during 7th century AD could see their empire being acknowledged as the wealthiest and the most powerful one on the world while the first half of 18th century saw Qing dynasty bring Tibet and Turkmenistan also under Chinese control. However from the beginning of 19th century the failure of the Chinese society to accept and adapt to the changes taking place in the world outside led to stagnation and gradual erosion of their strength. Britain fought wars with the Chinese emperor demanding rights to sell opium within the country. A weakened China was forced at virtual gunpoint to

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accept many unequal treaties with the western powers and later on, with Japan as well. The fall of the Qing emperor in 1911 saw the country being ravaged by fights between the various war lords with central leadership being too weak to be effective. It was only after the founding of the Peoples Republic in 1949 that China could re unite as a nation; however the social experiments during the period of Mao such as Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution extracted a heavy price and the country remained backward economically despite becoming a nuclear power. It was after the initiation of economic reforms from 1980 onwards that

the Chinese economy turned around and embarked on a course of high growth to take it where it is positioned now. It is a fact that the trauma caused by the colonisers and imperial powers have left behind a big scar on the collective psyche of the Chinese people, who have become increasingly confident about the importance of their country and the place it commands in the comity of nations in present day world. Like the new generation Indians travel around the world for work Chinese entrepreneurs and companies see the whole world as a stage where they are entitled to perform. Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Economic diplomacy is the need of the hour for India in engaging with their strong, rich and proud neighbour north of Himalayas. role in minimising the impact caused by the global economic crisis of 2008 demonstrated their economic might. The setting up of an international lending agency on similar lines as the IMF, along with other BRICS countries, is one instance of they trying to bring about a new world order, where they and not USA would be the leading player. Similarly, efforts are being made to promote international trade in Chinese currency Renminbi, rather than in US Dollar, so that the latter could be replaced at a future date as the currency of choice in transnational transactions. Though a lot has been said about the allegedly sharp practices of Chinese companies and businessmen, ranging from employing labour gangs in distant Africa at a pittance to blatant violation of copyrights, none of the top business corporations of the world, except a few, have been able to resist the lure of cheap manufacturing and huge market that China provides them. In many ways rise of China is a product of the world order after the collapse of USSR in 1991 and

emergence of a unipolar world centred on USA. It is indeed admirable that despite having a leadership professing Communist ideals, China has been able to interact and parley with the western world on its own terms and fit into and grow in a milieu designed by elements believing in theories of capitalism and free market. Further, China has eschewed from demonstrating any of the military aggression that characterised behaviour of USSR during the Cold war era, and also stayed away from involving themselves in internal affairs of other nations. While seeking much needed raw materials for their industries from the poorer nations of the world, China has also taken care to invest in development of infrastructure there. Other nations, and particularly those who have not reached the stage of being developed, should do well to take a leaf out of the Chinese book and learn from them to utilize their strengths successfully to protect oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vital interests. Where does that leave India? China is our largest neighbour and biggest trading partner and it

would make good sense to engage with them positively rather than provoke them. The scars of the defeat suffered in the battle field in 1962 and the seemingly intractable border problem have not inhibited us from co-operating with them on issues of mutual interest such as WTO deliberations and issues of climate change. However the close relationship that China shares with Pakistan and their opposition to India being given a permanent seat in UN Security Council shows that things are not perfect either. India should ideally let trade and commerce lead the way in improving bilateral relationship as this is a language China can understand having themselves used it successfully to build bridges with the western world. Economic diplomacy is the need of the hour for India in engaging with their strong, rich and proud neighbour north of Himalayas.

The author is the Commissioner of Customs in Kochi, Kerala.

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STORIES OF LIFE

Fear to phobia, life to death! Dr. Jos Cletus Plackal

The misery of some people is in their inability to take a decision; more so, they don’t know why they can’t decide, act upon and live life to its optimum potential. There are some others who simply don’t know what is happening to them and make life miserable for themselves and others. One common denominator in all these is fear, nay phobia. No doubt, such people need outside help, preferably professional help.

ometimes we come across people who are tormented with indecision. No matter how attractive the options are, or how rewarding the outcome may be, decision will be far away. The misery of such people is in their inability to take a decision; more so, they don’t know why they can’t decide, act upon and live life to its optimum potential. There are some others who simply don’t know what is happening to them and make life miserable for themselves and others. One common denominator in all these is fear, nay phobia. No doubt, such people need outside help, preferably professional help.

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Jessy(not the real name) is a 24 year old, youngest of four children, three girls and one boy. Parents are very loving and caring, and took extra care of their youngest daughter. Jessy is quite pretty and attractive, was good at studies, sociable and outgoing. She did marry a young man of her liking, arranged by her parents and family. After a year of married life the couple came to the clinic for counseling help. The presenting problems were alarming , and it was pretty clear that the marriage was in tatters, beyond any repair! The

husband complained about his wife’s unusual ways of behavior. She was quite afraid of intimacy, closeness of any kind with her husband; and she kept away even from his parents. Although her parents told that Jessy was very loving and generous, that was not the case, at least after the marriage. On Jessy’s part, the very crux of the problem was intimacy. She simply could not make love with her husband whom she says is a very loving and caring person. There was nothing in her childhood or adolescence that created traumatic scars

STORIES OF LIFE

Whenever Jessy thought of becoming a mother, the dreadful thought of losing her husband (in a similar tragic accident) flashed in her mind, paralyzing her. This excessive fear of losing her husband resulted in Jessy’s inability to make love with her husband and to become a mother. deep enough to disturb and distort her normal sex life. On deeper probing Jessy got in touch with her unusual phobia about getting pregnant. Having a baby was the last thing Jessy wanted in this world! But why no baby?

thought of losing her husband (in a similar tragic accident) flashed in her mind, paralyzing her. This excessive fear of losing her husband resulted in Jessy’s inability to make love with her husband and to become a mother.

Jessy was helped to get in touch with some of the most repressed memories of her recent past. Soon after their marriage Jessy lost both her dear father and the only brother in a very tragic accident. Ever since that accident, she began to show signs of depression and fear. It was beyond the capacity of any loving daughter and sister to face the twin tragic deaths of the most significant men in her life. This unfinished loss and grief was eating up all her energy from within. Whenever Jessy thought of becoming a mother, the dreadful

Hence the therapeutic procedures were centered around, a) the unfinished trauma and grief about her beloved father and the only brother, and b) helping Jessy to make realistic appraisal of and reality testing of the potential loss of her husband in a similar accident at present, c) revisiting and reworking similar events that occurred in the past, that may be carrying cumulative emotional contents of fear and grief.

After the first phase of therapy, Jessy began to show signs of improved relations

with her husband and began to express warmth and closeness. The follow-up visits strengthened their bond and that helped Jessy to reduce her phobia about losing her husband. Before long, she conceived and gave birth to a healthy baby boy. By the latest count it is learned that Jessy and Joe have three healthy children. As to the fear of impending accident? Yes, indeed, Jessy unconsciously repeats, “Dear, drive cautiously”, and Joe consciously translates it into, “Dear, I love you, and want you around for a looong time!”

The author is licensed clinical psychologist (HRT), Jeevas Centre Aluva.

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PERSONAL

A painful break-up Sajit Malliyoor

Knowing what went wrong in the relationship is important to you, since it may have many lessons for your future. Every failure is an opportunity to learn and you have a long way to go in life. Hence, the onus is with you to unravel the mystery of the break up.

am writing this letter with much emotional pain and consternation. At this moment, I feel I am stuck in a dark room, not knowing in which direction to move. I am a twenty-one year old woman entering the final year of my professional education. Towards the end of my first year, I entered into a relationship with a boy in my senior batch. In just one year’s period the relationship became very strong, or at least I thought that is the case. We were together whenever it was possible, which was for most part of the day. We had shared several plans and dreams for a bright future together. We belonged to the

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same class, cast and religion and we didn’t anticipate any objections from our families either. Everything was fine and smooth until about six months back. Then without any explanation, our contact diminished. He had then completed his course and was in the lookout for a job. He used to travel to various cities for the purpose. I didn’t notice it in the beginning, but his calls and messages came down gradually. Initially I ascribed it to his busy schedules, but later on when I asked for an explanation, he kept denying that anything is unusual. I am not a demanding person; hence I never made an issue out of it. During the last month he

hardly ever called, and finally a week before, I received an email from him saying that things are over between us. When I asked for the reason in my reply mail, he only replied, he don’t believe that he owe me an explanation. I am not a person to wear my emotions on my sleeve, and may be you could call me egoistic, but I don’t feel like going back to him for an explanation or try to rework the relationship. At the same time, I am dying to know what went wrong in the relationship. I don’t know what to do or how to proceed from here. Could you please give me a direction?

PERSONAL

Since he came to your life through an educational set up, it is most likely that you may have several common friends. Find and engage someone, who is empathic and mature enough to handle the emotional situations. Before offering any help, I would like to have little more clarity on what bother you most at the moment: whether it is the loss of a meaningful relationship, or the lack of an explanation to the break up. If it is the reason for the break up, then probably the only person who can throw light on it is your friend. You have to ask him to explain; either directly or through someone known to both of you. I am at loss to make a second guess on what went wrong between you two, since the available information is very limited. You have chosen to highlight only the bright and sunny side of the relationship. If it was all that positive, it is indeed mysterious why the separation occurred. Knowing what

went wrong in the relationship is important to you, since it may have many lessons for your future. Every failure is an opportunity to learn and you have a long way to go in life. Hence, the onus is with you to unravel the mystery of the break up. Having self-respect or pride in yourself shouldn’t stop you from finding out the reason for the loss of a relationship that meant a lot to you. You are not a lesser person when you demand an explanation and I can’t think of a reason why he says that he doesn’t owe you one. If you still feel that you cannot go back to him anymore with a request to know the facts, you could entrust the job with a common friend of yours. Since he came to

your life through an educational set up, it is most likely that you may have several common friends. Find and engage someone, who is empathic and mature enough to handle the emotional situations. You may not just be happy by knowing his version of what went wrong. You may ideally be looking at an opportunity to have an open discussion with him and telling him how things looked from your side and how you felt about the whole incident. Then only you may feel a complete closure to the episode. Until then it is likely to keep nagging you, unless you are willing to let go of it and move on with life. Let’s hope that he show the willingness to share what he think of the relationship. On the other

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PERSONAL

Don’t fight your feelings. Instead, identify and acknowledge them. Trying to supress or ignore your feelings will only prolong the healing process. hand, it could also be the very loss of a meaningful relationship that is bothering you. By your own admission, you have invested heavily on the relationship and whether you choose to acknowledge it or not, it may be the loss of this relationship that is causing this much consternation in you. It is never easy when a significant relationship ends. Whatever the reason for the split – and whether you wanted it or not- the break-up of a relationship can turn your world upside down and trigger all sorts of painful and unsettling feelings. A break-up is painful because it represents loss, not just the relationship and companionship but also of the shared dreams, hopes, plans, and support. Grief is a natural reaction to loss. Experiencing the pain of grief is never easy. However, it is important to know that you can and will move on. The old adage that time will heal

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all the wound is very true here. Just remember that grieving is essential to the healing process. The pain of grief is precisely what helps you to let go of the old relationship and move on. And no matter how strong your grief is, it won’t last forever. You should realise that it is all right and normal to have different feelings at this stage. You may feel lots of ups and downs, and feel many conflicting emotions like confusion, anger, resentment, and sadness. Don’t fight your feelings. Instead, identify and acknowledge them. Trying to supress or ignore your feelings will only prolong the healing process. I am not sure if you were doing it already, but sharing your feelings with your friends and family can ease your burden and help you get through this period. Don’t try to go through this alone. Isolating yourself can raise your stress levels, reduce your

concentration and get in the way of your studies, other relationships, and your overall health. If this reaching out doesn’t come to you naturally, consider meeting a counsellor or clinical psychologist. I mentioned earlier that there are lessons for you in a relational break-up. In fact, every emotional crisis is an opportunity to learn and grow. If you ever get a chance to openly discuss with your friend on what went wrong in your relationship, try not to dwell on who is to blame, or beat yourself up over your mistakes. Instead, use it as an opportunity to learn more about yourself; how you relate to others and the problems you need to work on. It is important to understand how the choices you made affected the relationship. Learning from your mistakes is the key to not repeating them. Send queries to malliyoor@outlook.com

INSIGHTS

Fight against “Preparing to teach” enhances learning childhood W obesity

hildhood obesity rates have skyrocketed recently. Children’s life expectancies decline for the first time in a century due to increased numbers of overweight kids. Overweight during childhood is associated with health issues later in life. Obesity, coupled with a lack of physical activity, can lead to coronary heart disease, hypertension, Type II diabetes, and other chronic diseases. A new research by Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) suggests that teachers’ leadership in physical activities makes young children more active and less sedentary. FPG team has developed “Be Active Kids” and provided materials—including balls, chalk, scarves, beanbags, and hula hoops— and asked teachers to incorporate activities like “Jump for the Sky” and “Inchworm Wiggle” into their lesson plans.

hich is better way to learn: to learn in anticipation of a test or to learn expecting to teach? A new research by Washington University in St. Louis suggests that learners expecting to teach recalled more material correctly. They organized their recall more effectively and they had better memory for especially important information. This is in sharp contrast to the learners expecting a test. The result is published in the journal Memory & Cognition.

The result is based on a series of readingand-recall experiments in which one group of students is told they will be tested on a selection of written material, and another group is led to believe they are preparing The researchers observed that the works to to teach the passage to another student. In increase activity and to decrease sedentary reality, all participants were tested, and no behaviors, and results are most striking one actually engaged in teaching. Study when teachers head the activities. participants who expected to teach

produced more complete and betterorganized free recall of the passage. They also correctly answered more questions about the passage than did participants expecting a test, particularly those questions covering main points. Findings suggest that simply telling learners that they would later teach another student changes their mindset enough so that they engage in more effective approaches to learning than did their peers who simply expected a test. The research suggests that the student mindset has big impact on student learning. Positively altering a student’s mindset enhances learning. Such a positive change of attitude can be effectively achieved through rather simple instructions.

Self-interest is wired into the brain

new study suggests that humans’ sense of unfairness is radically affected by their self-interest. Strongly influenced by their self-interest, humans do not protest being overcompensated, concludes researchers of Georgia State University’s Brains and Behavior Program. This implies that humans are less concerned than previously believed about the inequity of others. The findings are published in the journal Brain Connectivity. It has long been known that humans show sensitivity when they are at a disadvantage. However, they often close eye towards injustice to others. The researchers, for example, found that humans do not show any sensitivity when they are overcompensated. This suggests that humans are more interested in their own outcomes than those of others.

The true sense of fairness demands that I get upset if I get paid more than you because I don’t think that’s fair. However, such a thing does seldom happen in real life situations, the researchers conclude. These responses are rather wired to the brain, suggest the researchers. It is found that a network of brain regions consisting of the left caudate, right cingulate and right thalamus had a higher level of activity for overcompensated offers than for fair offers. For protest, a different network, consisting of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and left substantia nigra, came into play. The researchers mapped out how the brain activity flow occurred within these networks during decisionmaking.

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INSIGHTS

What is good in feeling bad at work? A

recent research by the University of Liverpool suggests that, contrary to popular opinion, it can be good to feel bad at work, whilst feeling good in the workplace can also lead to negative outcomes. The results are published in a special issue published in Human Relations. The research explores the role of emotions in workplace.

The study found that the commonly-held assumption that positivity in the workplace produces positive outcomes, while negative emotions lead to negative outcomes, may be in need for reconsideration. This is partly due to this assumption failing to take into account the differences in work contexts which effect

outcomes, suggests the study. For instance, anger does not always lead to negative outcomes and can be used as a force for good through acting upon injustices. In some cases, anger can be considered a force for good if motivated by perceived violations of moral standards. An employee, for example, could express anger constructively after a manager has treated a fellow worker unfairly. In such cases, anger can be useful to prevent these acts of injustice from repeating themselves in the future. Likewise, being too positive in the workplace, rather than resulting in greater well-being and greater productivity, can lead to complacency and superficiality.

Abusive leadership can be toxic to teamwork

study by the Michigan State University points at the toxic effect of nonphysical abuse by a supervisor. Accordingly, the supervisors who are abusive to individual employees can actually throw the entire work team into conflict, hurting its productivity. The study was conducted in China and the United States. The results are published in the Journal of Applied Psychology. The study suggests that those supervisors who belittle and ridicule workers not only negatively affect those workers’ attitudes and behaviors, but also cause team members to act in a similar hostile manner toward one another. It creates a context where everybody

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suffers, regardless of whether you were individually abused or not. The findings could be explained by social learning theory, in which people learn and then model behavior based on observing others, in this case the boss. Workers emulate both positive and negative behavior of the supervisors. The finding throws light into team rehabilitation following abusive supervision. In the past, companies may have simply targeted abused employees with efforts to restore their self-esteem. The new study points at the need for efforts to fix the team’s interpersonal relationships by re-establishing trust and harmony

Communication is the key

nterdisciplinary teams abound in today’s workplaces. Diverse organizations, including management consulting firms, research and development laboratories, hospital trauma centers, constitute interdisciplinary teams to achieve important goals. These teams are destined to solve extremely complex problems. Diverse teams, however, need to master the art of “information elaboration” discussions in order to be reach their full potential, concludes the study by Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business. The results are published in Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes. Information elaboration consists of open exchange of relevant information and ideas, clarification on perspectives offered by others, and integration of this information and feedback. Armed with information elaboration skills do the cross-functional teams capitalize on their diverse knowledge resources and achieve success. Interdisciplinary teams need to be staffed with members who have the “can do” ability and “will do” motivation to engage in information elaboration discussions. Another key element to assembling a successful team is to include members who are motivated to share in the leadership of the team and willing to collaborate in its decision-making. Trusting teammates also plays a big role. People who have a high level of “selfreliance beliefs” tend to mistrust others, which can derail the team. The more “turbulent” or unpredictable an environment is, the more likely a team is to succeed when they have information elaboration discussions as part of their process, observes the study. The opposite is true for teams that work on more routine problems in less disruptive settings. In these cases detailed communication is of minimal value and sometimes drains resources.

In the past parents used to teach children to give alms and to share what they have with others. Then the society turned individualistic, people tending to hoard things for their own relish. There occurs a paradigm shift today. Giving has become a mode of living, a truly modern attitude. A truly rich person needs be natural giver, a philanthropist. A successful corporate exercises their corporate responsibility willfully! Pallikkutam captures the trend of giving that marks modern times.

COVER STORY

Art of giving in education T.P. Sreenivasan

Together with modern knowledge and technology, the students must imbibe the spirit of service and sacrifice. Programs with social service and civic responsibility content should be part of the curriculum in our educational institutions.

ducation is not only a matter of receiving knowledge, but also of giving it. It is the only wealth that grows by giving. The more you give, the more you receive. Charity and service are also similar in nature. Social responsibility should be part of education because of the intrinsic linkages between the two. “Giving while learning” is part of the educational process at every stage. Education without service will be incomplete. Giving and sharing have been a part of the human civilization from time immemorial. It is an instinct that is special to mankind. Other animals fight and kill for their sustenance and comfort, but human beings have a natural tendency to share, particularly with those less fortunate and less endowed. But in its mad race for progress and prosperity, people tend to become selfish and self-centered. For this reason, a conscious effort has to be made to nurture this instinct in children. The best way to do it is to incorporate a sense of service in the curriculum itself. A period of national service is part of the educational curriculum in many countries. It takes the form of a semester or a whole year being set apart for national service, including military service. The military service is often designed not to nurture a

fighting force, but to inculcate discipline and a sense of service in the students. Service in the army is symbolic of the ultimate sacrifice for the nation, but the armed forces are themselves engaged in nation building activities in peace times. Prevention of disasters and relief are also essential ingredients of military training. In India, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) has been created to “develop qualities of character, leadership, comradeship, courage, discipline, spirit of adventure, secular outlook and the ideals of selfless service amid the youth of the country and to create a human resource of well organized, skilled and motivated youth, to endow with leadership in all walks of life and always be ready to serve the nation.” The National Service Scheme (NSS) also has similar objectives, with primary focus on the development of personality of students through community service. Kerala has its own Student Police Cadets Project, which “trains high school students to respect the law, practice discipline and civic sense, and develop empathy for vulnerable sections of society. It also strengthens commitment towards family, community, and the environment, enabling them to resist negative tendencies such as substance abuse, deviant behavior,

intolerance, and other social evils.” The educational institutions around the globe have similar voluntary organizations and groups to supplement education with the sense of service. Apart from helping others in need, the students develop their own personalities in the process of giving. Blood donation, for instance, is a vital activity by which life itself is given to others in drops. The students not only have to avoid the evils of the society, but also help others to escape from them, if they have fallen in the trap. They also have to develop a sense of cleanliness, not only for themselves, but for the community. Protection and preservation of the environment is vital for the very survival of the globe to sustain life on the planet. Our saints and sages have taught us that the purpose of education is to mould young minds to create better human beings and to equip them for the opportunities and challenges of the future. Therefore, together with modern knowledge and technology, the students must imbibe the spirit of service and sacrifice. Programs with social service and civic responsibility content should be part of the curriculum in our educational institutions.

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COVER STORY

Art of sharing: various facets M.P. Antoni

Sharing has its roots in ‘giving’ and very much built up on the principle of mutuality and co-existence of humankind. The principles of sharing and giving are the foundation of many religions in the world.

haring and Giving are two distinct words used to express the helping attitude of an individual. Both remind us of the same thing in a given situation, even though they differ in literal meaning and by their characteristics. Giving or sharing takes place at individual as well as institutional level. Both result out of the social instinct in each human being to care for their fellow beings to come up in life. Sharing has accumulated today common characteristics and distinguishable features and the society values it as part of social recognition and social responsibility whether in an individual level or institutional/corporate level. What motivates or principles of sharing We observe that the progress widens disparities in our society. One could see the following divides in the society today:

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Digital divide Education divide

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Technology divide Prosperity divide

sharing. Rather, it is the care and concern for others that promotes sharing habit.

Sharing has its roots in ‘giving’ and very much built up on the principle of mutuality and co-existence of humankind. In a world where these divides exist, inculcating the habit of sharing could result The principles of sharing and giving are the in lessening the divides between the haves foundation of many religions in the world. The philosophers and architects of nations and have-nots. I do not want to discuss advocated sharing as fundamental to whether sharing is an ultimate remedy to development of human relationship and do away with the divides or not. But I integration. Law of Giving is fundamental would like to give an overview on what to religions too. sharing means and how we can promote that culture in our society. How could a person grow alone without It is very human that people wish to have help and support from others? Development of personhood is a product many things for the enrichment of their of many contributions: by the parents, lives. Some of them are mad after teachers. Even the nature contributes to it. accumulation of wealth and facilities for Everybody makes use of community their enjoyment. There are people who realise later in their life that ‘sharing things resources in one form or other to come up is divine rather than owning it’. Sensitivity in life. The place where we were born and towards the needs of the fellow-beings is a lived, the social groups with whom we great value that contributes to the mission mingled, the institutions from which we of sharing. It is not abundance that leads to acquired knowledge, all these fabricated Literacy divide

COVER STORY

When sharing becomes a habit of many and many follows that path, it becomes a movement. It passes a powerful message to others to share their money and time for the empowerment of the under privileged without any motive of receiving back. our person. Hence everybody has an Individual Social Responsibility. They are indebted to give back, to share and to return to the society which supported in their formation. Individual Social Responsibility (ISR) Vs Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Why practise art of sharing?

to others to share what they have and When an individual shares, many more will their time for the empowerment of the poor and the under-privileged, without want to follow that path. It becomes a expecting anything back. We need to movement. It passes a powerful message develop a heart for sharing to master the art of sharing. As Mahatma Gandhi put it: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. The art of sharing, when it becomes a movement, would definitely enhance the learning experience of the new generation students. They grow socially and spiritually, learning more about their place in community as citizens of their country and as stewards of the world. Besides, it will foster a lifelong predilection for helping the less-fortunate. It also motivate them to raise their voices and actions to solve the social problems around them.

The concepts of giving and sharing undergo drastic changes today. Financially successful business people like Paul Newman and Bill Gates visualize giving back to the society as their social responsibility. Many more across the world, including a number of Indians individually as well as at corporate level practice it to become responsible corporate citizens. In India today it is mandatory for the corporates to practice ‘corporate giving’ as part of Corporate Social Responsibility. They adopt various ways of reaching out the needy communities around them. The corporates share their wealth and manpower in eliminating the vicious circle of poverty and indirectly develop own image and gain the goodwill of the society.

The author is the Project Director of Rajagiri outREACH, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Kalamassey.

Charity to sustainability : The Rajagiri model

ajagiri outREACH began its child sponsorship project based on the motto of ‘child as the focus, family as the unit and community as the milieu of development’. Most of the activities undertaken by Rajagiri outREACH (formerly Rajagiri -CASP) were founded on the mode of helping a person to help oneself by way of educational sponsorship. Doing education in the living situation through hard work and receiving support from fellow beings in building knowledge base, communication skills and leadership skills are the challenges before

each one of them. The effort from each one decides their destiny. The support mechanism built around them through the Village Development Committee, Community Teaching programme, Souhrudam camps, Counselling services etc. make them grow with the principle of selfreliance. The sustainability of this child-centred development initiative greatly depends on the volunteering attitude of the people involved in the process. A needy child and a willing sponsor is the most important component in the sharing process. A bond between

them is promoted through the social work agency and volunteer group which is known in different names or tags. The needy child and the willing sponsor look up on the agency and volunteer group in fulfilling their dream of sharing and giving. Rajagiri outREACH is successful in motivating many to come forward in this process of empowerment and entitlement. It also spreads the habit of giving back to the society among the empowered lot who live in different parts of Kerala State.

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COVER STORY

National service: volunteerism and beyond

Abdul Jabbar Ahamed

The concept of national service involving students was part of the concept of Mahatma Gandhi that students should learn to exercise their social responsibilities. The Question and Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Answer There is a question we repeatedly hear, whenever we discuss about education: What is its outcome? What is been given back to the society, once a student have completed his education? Among various schemes and programmes designed for students, National Service Scheme (NSS) stands out while answering this question. The concept of national service involving students was part of the concept of Mahatma Gandhi that students should learn to exercise their social responsibilities. Gandhi suggested that instead of undertaking academic research about economic and social disability, the students should do â&#x20AC;&#x153;something positive so that the life of the villagers might be raised to a higher material and moral levelâ&#x20AC;?. Students should be preparing themselves for a total dedication in memory of those who provided the sinews

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of the nation with the services and national goods so essential to the society. They should not treat their period of study as one of the opportunities for indulgence in intellectual luxury. He advised them to form a living contact with the community in whose midst their institution exists. As the scheme was devised on the footings of Mahatma Gandhi, the service of NSS was often mistaken as a mechanism to undertake tasks of community cleaning. It is true that for quite a long period since its inception, programs of NSS gave importance to community cleaning programmes in the adopted villages and their vicinity. However, today its reach is much wider. Let us have a glance through the chronicles of NSS since its inception to realize how NSS stand out in providing answers to the age-old

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Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, in his letter to the state Chief Ministers, stressed the idea of having social service as a prerequisite for graduation. He further directed the Ministry of Education to formulate a suitable scheme for introduction of national service into the academic institutions. question: What can student community give back to the society, as they savour the tax money amassed from the princes to paupers of this nation? A brief history of NSS After the Indian Independence, the University Grants Commission headed by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan recommended introduction of national service in the academic institutions on a voluntary basis. The idea was again considered by the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) at its meeting held in January, 1950. After examining various aspects of the matter and in the light of experience of other countries in this field, CABE

appointed. Dr. C. D. Deshmukh Committee, Prof. K. G. Saiyidain’s Study and the Education Commission headed by Dr. D. S. Kothari (1964-66) were a few In 1958, the then Prime Minister milestones in the pursuit of developing a Jawaharlal Nehru, in his letter to the state framework for the national service Chief Ministers, stressed the idea of programme for students. The Vice having social service as a prerequisite for Chancellors’ Conference in September, graduation. He further directed the 1969 welcomed these recommendations Ministry of Education to formulate a and suggested that a special committee of suitable scheme for introduction of Vice Chancellors could be set up to national service into the academic examine this question in detail and to work institutions. In 1959, a draft of the scheme out a detailed program. Based on their was placed before the Education recommendation, the Planning Commission Ministers’ Conference. In pursuance of the of India sanctioned a project outlay of Rs. recommendations of the conference various 5 Crores for NSS during the Fourth Five committees on national service were Year Plan. recommended that students and teachers should devote some time to manual work on a voluntary basis.

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NSS Units are constituted only in 15109 colleges, which covers just 43% of the total number of colleges in India. Given the opportunity for students to join they could have reaped the rich benefits of personality development through NSS. On September 24, 1969, the then Union Education Minister Dr. V. K. R. V. Rao, launched the NSS programme in 37 universities covering all States and simultaneously requested the Chief Ministers of States for their cooperation and support. It was appropriate that the programme was started during the Gandhi Centenary Year, as it was Mahatma Gandhi who inspired the Indian youth to participate in the movement for Indian independence and the social uplift of the downtrodden masses of our nation. The cardinal feature of the programme was that it was organised by students themselves. Both students and teachers through their joint participation in social

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service programs, develop a sense of involvement in the tasks of nation building. Besides, the students also obtain workexperience, which would help them to find avenues of self-employment or placement in some organisation at the end of their studies. Unique NSS programs As per the UGC report on “Higher Education in India at a Glance” (2013) there are 35539 colleges in India. In the category of degree awarding universities, there are 44 Central Universities, 67 Institutes of National Importance, 129 Deemed-to-beUniversities, 154 Private Universities and 306 State Universities with a student enrollment of about 23.2 million. However,

as per the NSS Program Adviser Cell’s brochure, ‘Campus to Community’ (2012), NSS Units are constituted only in 15109 colleges, which covers just 43% of the total number of colleges in India. Given the opportunity for students to join they could have reaped the rich benefits of personality development through NSS. From 40000 in the year 1969-70, the number of NSS volunteers has increased to 3257104 today. There are excellent track record and exemplary performance of NSS volunteers and units, which have earned them respect and confidence of the people of the land. The Special Camping Programmes were organised under the themes: “Youth against

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NSS volunteers were considered as the community cleaning agents during initial phase of its inception. However, the times have changed and the NSS volunteers are considered today as Social Engineers who are capable of bringing about radical and massive changes in the society. Famine” (1973), “Youth against Dirt & Disease” (1974-75), “Youth for EcoDevelopment” and “Youth for Rural Reconstruction”, “Youth for National Development” and “Youth for Literacy” (1985-93), “Youth for National Integration and Communal Harmony” (1993-95) have contributed both to the community as well as to the students. The theme for the year 1995-96 onwards for Special Camping is “Youth for Sustainable Development” with focus on Watershed Management and Water land Development. Themes for Special Camping were selected in accordance with national priorities. Again, from 1991-92 onwards NSS has launched a nationwide campaign for AIDS Awareness called “Universities Talk AIDS (UTA)” which has earned international attention and appreciation. As it was pointed out earlier, NSS volunteers were considered as the community cleaning agents during initial phase of its inception. However, the times have changed and the NSS volunteers are considered today as Social Engineers who are capable of bringing about radical and massive changes in the society. Speaking facts In an effort of giving a portion of what they receive from the society back to it, students strive to do their best through NSS. Eevery NSS volunteer set apart and dedicate 120 hours a year in various developmental activities of the society. At the national level 3257104 volunteers doing 120 hours service will result in 390852480 human hours, which is

equivalent to 16285520 days per year of student service for India. This is equivalent to a whopping 44618 human years in a single year. In Kerala 173000 volunteers doing 120 hours of service result in 20760000 hours which is equivalent to 865000 days or 2370 human years every year. Such a massive amount of human resource made available before the country could be effectively tapped for human development as well as for the nation building activities. Over and above the given facts, every year a half of the registered volunteers attend seven day

special camp, aimed at undertaking projects of special requirements. On the whole, a student who joins in NSS as a volunteer will remain in NSS for two years and perform 240 hours of community service and participate in one 7 days residential camp in the adopted area. These exposures enable the volunteer to know the self and others and understand the world and reality in a better way. Every year 1.6 million NSS volunteer at national level and 0.086 million volunteers in Kerala, attend the special camp and reap rich experiences, which normal class room

lectures cannot provide. The experience gained from NSS programs sharpen and expand the human values, enhance individual development and develop life skills of the volunteers. On NSS technical cell At national level, NSS units are allocated under various universities and directorates for effective implementation of various programs. In Kerala, there are eight universities and five directorates. The following are the few flagship programs of Technical Cell for reference: The Asset Survey Project (2006) undertook by the NSS volunteers of Technical Cell was internationally acclaimed for its authenticity and vastness. This project was aimed at preparation of asset registers at every local self government institution. Volunteers of NSS Tech Cell have done survey of land, roads, canals, bridges, machines and equipments under each LSG institutions and prepared an asset register. This massive effort was acclaimed by the United Nations. Through Punarjjani Project, NSS volunteers aimed at restoration of healthcare facilities of government hospitals of the state. The project has created an asset of Rs. 50935013/- in one year. This novel project helped restoring health care facilities in 42 government hospitals. Those health care facilities, including costly machines, which otherwise would have been treated as waste were restored through the project. The actual asset created would have been much larger, if all the maintenance works

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It is evident from various studies that students engaged in community service are more aware, disciplined, confident, and assertive in their life when compared with others who did not experience in voluntary activities. National Service Scheme could create a healthy student community in India. were taken in to consideration, which were implemented in previous years. 153036 units of blood were donated by the volunteers of NSS Tech Cell during the last three years. It is the largest number of blood donations by any university or directorate in Kerala. This achievement was later appreciated with National Appreciation Award by the President of India in 2011-12. Energy Auditing and Conservation Program: NSS Volunteers of Technical Cell have conducted energy audit of 1644 institutions. Through various energy conservation programs volunteers have saved 52 MW of electricity in the year 2012 as endorsed by the Kerala State Electricity Board. Keralaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Total Literacy Drive stands tall in front of the world. NSS was an active agent in the program. Currently NSS has undertaken another herculean: The Total E-Literacy Program plans to enable all citizen of the state of

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Kerala to avail the E-enabled services. As pilot project NSS Technical Cell has already completed this project in Pallichal Panchayath in Thiruvananthapuram district. More than 24000 residents from all walks of life of the panchayath have benefitted from it. This year 100 panchayath all over Kerala are targeted by NSS Technical Cell under this project. The outlook Even though NSS volunteer is a small portion of the total student community of the nation, the service rendered by them is of immense value in national development. Recognizing this aspect, UGC and Association of Indian Universities (AIU) are actively considering induction of social service in the higher education curriculum in India. Four regional workshops were already conducted in four regions of the country in this regard. It is evident that voluntary service enriches volunteersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; personality and nurtures their skills

through community interaction and community living. Students could be capable contributors to the communityand nation-building processes. If given the ample opportunity to involve in community service through NSS in colleges or schools, it will bring constructive change in student behavior and attitude. It is evident from various studies that students engaged in community service are more aware, disciplined, confident, and assertive in their life when compared with others who did not experience in voluntary activities. National Service Scheme could create a healthy student community in India. The author is the Program Coordinator of NSS Technical Cell working under the Directorate of Technical Education, Kerala and is elected member of the committee for inducting social service in the university curriculum in India.

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Boby Chemmanur: businessman with own ways of giving Boby Chemmanur, the philanthropist, completed his 812 Kilometers marathon from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram to create the world’s largest blood bank named ‘Boby Friends Blood Bank’. This is a unique venture with the motto “Give Blood, Save Lives”.

oby Chemmanur International Group has a trusted tradition of 151 years. Though born to a business family, initially Boby’s interests were not in business. While in school, Boby happened to read a book on Mother Teresa and it became a life-changing event. He was totally inspired by the purity of love and sacrifice shown by Mother Teresa towards humanity.

wedding. Many bright students have been unable to continue their studies for want of financial resources.

Chemmanur Blood Donation Forum led by Mr.Boby Chemmanur, helps Lakhs of patients during emergency. The Forum, has 1,50,000 members including Boby friends, Boby Fans and the staff of Boby Chemmanur International Group, always willing to donate blood to the needy.

Mr. Boby Chemmanur’s vision is to establish a poor home wherever Chemmanur International Jewellers Group has showrooms. Volunteers of “Chemmanur Life Vision” who find poor, destitute people lying on the wayside, bring them to the poor home where they are taken care of for their entire lifetime. They are provided food, medicine and accommodation without any discrimination of cast, creed, religion or politics. Each year Chemmanur Life Vision distributes rice to twenty thousand poor families, absolutely free and always at hand to help the poor in their financial crisis. Boby Chemmanur’s Life Vision finds people who are struggling under below poverty line, and helps them with a house to live in. Several families have got a shelter by this effort. Till now, Life Vision conducted several mass marriages in different parts of our country, without any discriminations of religion or class. Added to this, is a new plan to help brides of poor families. Every month new brides are offered gold ornaments during their

Chemmanur International Jewellers’ Cricket, Football and Badminton teams. He himself discovered sportsmen from his staff and involved them in the sport of their preference.

Chemmanur Life Vision has several ambulances which rush to accident spots, and help those in need. This free service also helped to save numerous lives.

Chemmanur Life Vision’s scholarships are provided to numerous such students annually. Sports and games - another area of interest to Mr. Boby Chemmanur! An avid sportsman, his interest is not confined to sitting in the galleries. He actively played football, badminton, basketball, cricket and tennis during his school and college days. Shooting and adventure sports are the other areas of interest. Boby is the motivating spirit in developing the

Boby Chemmanur, the philanthropist, completed his 812 Kilometers marathon from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram to create the world’s largest blood bank named ‘Boby Friends Blood Bank’. This is a unique venture with the motto “Give Blood, Save Lives”, spreading awareness to the millions on the importance of donating blood to the needy and saving precious lives. Millions of people have already registered their names with Boby Friends Blood Bank, we can say, Boby Chemmanur’s marathon has created a positive impact on the society. The sportsman spirit, charity and confidence lead Boby Chemmanur to turn the impossible to possible.

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Business for charity: insights of Padmasree Dr. Melamparambil “Corporate social responsibility is humanitarianism, not charity, but social, moral obligation of each and every individual and institution”. - Padmashri Dr. Kurian John Melamparambil

lmost all are doing business with others money i.e. money from the public, either from bank or from shareholders depending upon the nature of the business. ‘The larger the business, the higher will be the dependency on public fund’. Therefore, a businessman is not only an organizer cum custodian of the business but also the trustee of public money. Therefore, the public has the right and he has the obligation to share the profit he makes with the needy. This is how Dr. Kurian John thinks. This is also his life vision. According to Dr. Kurian John, sound health to a person, both physical and mental is what is primarily required to make him self-reliant. Food, clothing and shelter, the so called basic needs, come only next to that. If people are healthy, they will be able to work and meet their needs; the problems of the society will subside. Death of his father, M.V. John due to a cardiac arrest made Dr. Kurian John to pause, think and realize the value of life. Being a Sunday, his family could not manage to give the kind of treatment to save his father’s life. He died soon after the heart attack. Dr. Kurian John lost his father in the prime of his youth, which radically shook his

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life. The dying man’s last words were, “Oh God, free me from this pain”. Dr. Kurian John decided to dedicate himself to relieve the pain of the sick and the suffering. His helplessness to stop the untimely death of his father made him think of ways by which he could help in preventing others from suffering a similar fate. The idea, that was born in that tragic moment of his life, lingered in his thoughts. On 10th September 1986, Dr. Kurian John formally started the “Melamparambil Varghese John Memorial Charities” (Melam Charities), named after his father. The main objective of Melam Charities was to help and support

poor and needy patients by facilitating medical treatment. The Charity also extends scholarships to deserving children of the patients, and also housing, clothing and food to their dependants during the period of treatment, if required. With the interest earned from the corpus fund, and contribution from his salary, he expanded his activities without any publicity or fanfare. As the request for support increased, he was pressed for more funds of his own and that made him start ‘Melam’ brand of Food Products in 1992, a major portion of whose profit flowing into the Charities. Till the date, Melam Charities have provided free treatment to more than 1.5 Lakhs poor needy patients. Apart from being a humanitarian Dr. Kurian John Melamparambil is an entrepreneur par excellence. He was honored with the National Award for Outstanding Entrepreneur in 1997. He was also conferred with Padmashri award in 2010.

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Philanthropy: art or science or neither? What Mother Teresa practiced for her life and recommended for the Missionaries of Charity was rather an Art of Philanthropy. They wanted to wipe the tears of the destitute, prepared them to die peacefully at their hands. They are full of love and compassion in their act of charity.

iving is no more an amateur activity today. It has already assumed professional character. Philanthropy is the name of professional giving. It is often strategic giving. Philanthropy often shows two faces: the face of an art and that of a science. Just like a piece of art, philanthropy is intuitive, holistic, subjective and judgment-based. It demands you a lot of empathy to practice philanthropy. You should be in a position to put yourself in someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoes. Just like an artwork, philanthropy emanates from abundance of love and passion. Philanthropy as an art is a joy in itself. It does not care about the effectiveness. What Mother Teresa practiced for her life and recommended for the Missionaries of Charity was rather an Art of Philanthropy. They wanted to wipe the tears of the destitute, prepared them to die peacefully at their hands. They are full of love and compassion in their act of charity. It did not bother them, whether that would ultimately put an end to the problem of destitution or the rejection of the newlyborn or the dying by the society. They were often criticized for treating the symptoms of the problem, not the problems themselves, promoting antisocial attitudes in the society. However, those criticisms are unfounded. Just like a piece of art can evoke solutions

to major problems in totally unexpected ways, the art of philanthropy could capture and change the heart of the world forever!

A donor usually loses his initial passion, if he/she becomes slave to the effectiveness of charity. It will be soon evidenced that what one can contribute to the solution of the problem is nothing more than a drop in The science of philanthropy, on the other a vast ocean of social problems. The hand, underscores the effectiveness of the institutionalization of philanthropy often work of charity. A philanthropic project kills its beauty. Philanthropy compares a needs to be effective to solve the problem flower, which can be appreciated in its at hand. It is founded on deeper research wholeness, without any justification for into the root-causes of the social problem that aesthetic experience. That may not be and the suggested solutions should take the sufficient to the science, which by its very problem by horns. There is a strong nature, explores into the components that defines its beauty. A scientific discourse on a flower can, therefore, be far away from the direct vision into the beauty of a flower. All parts together may not emphasis on the results, on impact, on constitute the whole! metrics. It is a mission-centered philanthropy. It may lack elements of risk- In conclusion, one may say that taking or creativity. It is often processphilanthropy is very much an art, so much oriented and hence more expensive. The it is a science or neither of them. It is social changes need be measurable and something holistic emanating out of love accountable. However, what are important and compassion, often immeasurable, in life are those that cannot be truly whose effects being measured only to measured. Intangibles of an institution or a satisfy scientific curiosities. society are often more significant to its *This work draws inspirations from the functioning than the tangibles. The major blogs of Peter Karoff, the founder of The philanthropic foundations of the human Philanthropic Initiative (TPI) and the history, like Carnegie foundation, author of The World We Want-New Rockefeller Foundation or Bill and Milinda Dimensions in Philanthropy and Social Gates Foundation followed the science of Change (AltaMiraPress, 2008) Philanthropy. They consider philanthropy more as a science than an art.

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A welcome change in media mindset Dr. John Edappilly

A regular good event or success story doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t capture Media attention but the irregularity, corruption, crime or failure of a project would make it highly noticed and even be celebrated day after day.

he traditional practice in media is that politics take precedence in news. Accidents or natural calamities get priority according to their impact and volume. Good news is no news for Media; it is good only for the preacher in the Church. Bad news is the real Big News in Media to provoke its potentials. A regular good event or success story doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t capture Media attention but the irregularity, corruption, crime or failure of a project would make it highly noticed and even be celebrated day after day.

Unless On 25 April 2011, CBI arrested former CWG Organizing Committee (OC) chairman Suresh Kalmadi in the TimingScoring-Result (TSR) case under Sections 120 B (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code, who the heavens would have come to know the intricacies and importance of such a deal?

Is it not the presumable loss of Rs. 1.86 trillion to the government according to the estimates of CAG that brought the Coal Mining Scams in which many former governments were involved, came to our notice? The SNC Lavalin Case, Solar If former Telecom Minister A Raja were Panel Cheating Case, Bar closing, Munnar not arrested on June 2, 2011 on charges of Evacuations, TVM Candidacyâ&#x20AC;Ś all come criminal conspiracy, cheating, abuse of to media because of their negative punch office and forgery, creating a loss to the and they turned out to be media news government to the volume of Rs. 1.76 festivals for weeks and months in our lakh crore, none of us would have noticed country. True, Media has a real corrective the very issue of telecom license practice. and healing contribution through such high

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lighting, research and depth analysis, without which perhaps the legislature, executive and even judiciary would have acted culpably due to multifarious pressures. Media do a great positive service here, even though they do not persevere many a times to lead the issue to a just and ideological conclusion. Since negative criticism would bring in more emotional reactions of the subscribers, media takes advantage of it for their better earnings. There are many positive and creative efforts and success stories in the areas of development, social integration and community cohesion which usually never catch media attention in the past. But of late we notice a telling welcome change happening with media. They become sensitive and positively promote clear awareness and create effective

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Fr. Davis Chiramel a priest of Thrissur Archdiocese who donated one of his kidneys. He started the Kidney Federation of India (KFI) and traveled from Kazargod to Trivandrum to speak about Kidney donation. participation of people in meaningful lifegiving and love- sharing contributions in the society. ADWEEK of June 17 writes that for two years, Brazilian side Sport Club, Recife has urged fans to sign up as organ donors. The BBC catches up with the campaign. The spot, “Immortal Fans,” features supporters in need of transplants. It says to one man, waiting on new corneas, “I promise that your eyes will keep on watching Sport Club, Recife.” And it’s working better than anyone could have hoped. The ad has aired on television before every SCR match, and according to the BBC, 66,000 have signed up so far for the “sport donor” card. The increased awareness can’t be measured so exactly, but in the campaign’s first year, the transplant waiting list in Recife, Brazil’s fifth-largest city, dropped to zero. And the number of

heart transplants performed in the surrounding state more than quadrupled. Health Marketing Quarterly, Vol. 25(1/2) 2008 speaks of national news and other non-fictionalized coverage of organ donation are even more common, with stories appearing over twenty times a month on average. The U K based N H S Organ Donor Register group tells that almost 5000 people die each year who could become an organ donor. To make a real difference they request the people to join with NHS Organ Donor Register as by that time 20,565,792 people have already joined them.

human brotherhood is thriving all over the world through the new media sense of promoting the positives in humankind. It has thriving local and regional samples too. Bobby Chemmanur a great gold merchant undertook an all Kerala Marathon of running 600 kilometers, average 50 kilometers per day, to inspire and instill the message of blood donation among the people with the slogan “Give Blood and Save Life”. It collected 2000000 likes in the Facebook and sensible media attention in TV, Radio and News Papers.

The New Sunday Express of 24- 08- 2014 gives a vivid picture of Fr. Davis Chiramel a priest of Thrissur Archdiocese who The New York Alliance for Donation is donated one of his kidneys to Mr dedicated to increasing organ, eye and Gopinath of Varandarappilly. Eventually tissue donations throughout the State. Their goal is to ensure that every person in he started the Kidney Federation of India New York waiting for a transplant receives (KFI) and traveled from Kazargod to Trivandrum to speak about kidney one. This kind of media promotion of life donation and started accident care and through the great sense of sharing with

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Good news is that the modern media has become more sensitive to the positive thrusts of the society and finds news value for the success stories. transport service which has at present 15 ambulances, 30,000 volunteers and 15 branches. He undertook a sky diving venture at Lancaster, U K to create Kidney Donation awareness. Now he is embarking on another venture “Ma Nishada” which embodies the message- ‘No violence, No rape, No alcohol and No suicide’. Incidentally around 75,000 people have committed suicide in Kerala in the past 10 years.

community stakeholders, and committed citizens who are willing to help out. Digital Equality: Empowering Underprivileged Youth in India with Information and Technology, a nonprofit organization, helps children in the Mumbai slums and other impoverished areas improve their futures by training them to use computer. Facebook and Google say they are attempting to close the “digital divide,” the disparity between the haves and the havenots of access and ability to use the The other day all media carried the news of Internet. Of course, having the Internet launching the program “Clean Campus and offers considerable benefits for everyone, Safe Campus” of which Mega Film Star, including people living in poverty. Mr. Mammootty, is the brand ambassador. Apart from this kind of global efforts Teach a Class is a non-profit organization media has created a new world of local and which uses technology to impart education regional efforts to help humanity to be in novel ways to children in orphanages. more socially aware and be available for Through online classes, it hopes to reach the vulnerable class. Creating social out to these children with the support of awareness in the growing young minds teachers, partner organizations, local many media institutions have ventured to

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work out a number of novel campus attractions like: “Padipura, Vidya, Seed, Chocolate, Akshara Malayalam, so on and so forth. Ultimately the good news is that the modern media has become more sensitive to the positive thrusts of the society and finds news value for the success stories of individuals and institutions especially promoting life by giving blood, or sharing life through organ donation for a different needy person, or sharing information and skills training among the poor and marginalized, or promoting a good sense of citizenship among growing young students. Such media news creates a new sense of equality and solidarity in the society. Let each of us join this new spirit of communication media which aids humanity on different levels and promote it to the greatest success in our society.

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Principles of corporate giving (Source: Company Act 2013 by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs)

Every company, private limited or public limited, which either has a net worth of Rs 500 crore or a turnover of Rs 1,000 crore or net profit of Rs 5 crore. A company which does not satisfy the specified criteria for a consecutive period of three financial years is not required to comply with the CSR obligations. Which clause of the Act deals with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of corporate? Companies Act 2013: Section 135 and Schedule VII deals with Corporate Social Responsibility Policy.

♦

Reducing child mortality and improving maternal health.

Central Government and rural development projects.

♦ Combating human immunodeficiency

♦

virus, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, malaria and other diseases.

♦ Ensuring environmental

When did the Company Act 2013 come sustainability. to effect? ♦ Employment enhancing vocational It came into effect from April 1, 2014. skills. Who all are supposed to participate in CSR? Every company, private limited or public limited, which either has a net worth of Rs 500 crore or a turnover of Rs 1,000 crore or net profit of Rs 5 crore. A company which does not satisfy the specified criteria for a consecutive period of three financial years is not required to comply with the CSR obligations.

What are the activities that could be undertaken to fulfill CSR Obligations?

♦ Eradication of extreme hunger and poverty.

♦ ♦

Promotion of education.

Promotion of gender equality and empowering women.

Who shall formulate and monitor CSR policy of a company? To formulate and monitor the CSR policy of a company, a CSR Committee of the Board needs to be constituted. The CSR Committee to consist of at least three directors, including an independent director, wherever applicable. What are the different ways of organizing CSR activities? A company can undertake its CSR activities through a registered trust or society, a company established by its holding, subsidiary or associate company or otherwise, provided that the company has specified the activities to be undertaken, the modalities for utilization of funds as well as the reporting and monitoring mechanism.

How much money need to be invested for CSR activities? At least 2% of its average net profit for the immediately preceding three financial years.

Such other matters as may be prescribed.

♦ ♦

Social business projects.

Contribution to the prime minister’s national relief fund or any other fund set up by the Central Government or the State Governments for socio-economic development and relief and funds for the welfare of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, other backward classes (OBCs), minorities and women.

♦

Contributions or funds provided to technology incubators located within academic institutions approved by the

How should a company report on its CSR spending? The report of the Board of Directors attached to the financial statements of the Company shall include an annual report on the CSR activities of the company. How shall a company announce its CSR policies? If a company has a website, the CSR policy of the company would need to be disclosed on such website.

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Gambling to give! In appreciation of “Karunya Benevolent Fund” Dr. Raju Mavunkal

Every person who takes this lottery is an ambassador to a great mission of charity. The beneficiaries are also doing the same in their true faith.

he government of Kerala is on the verge of the completion of its many ambitious projects. It is not the tinkling of mere words which should prove the capacity of a government. The Honourable Finance Minister, Sri. K. M. Mani has envisaged a lot of programmes on financial reformation and one such is Karunya Lottery. ‘Karunya’ and ‘Krunya plus’ are the two lotteries in this category. Lottery as such is just a game of gambling, as people say. Some win and some lose. But it has been turned into the benefit of the poor community of Kerala. This has made tremendous achievements in the health care programmes of the downtrodden. By this particular venture, the Honourable Finance Minister of the State of Kerala, Sri. K. M. Mani has opened a way for prosperity in many ways. While introducing the lottery in a new way, it has helped the sustainability of the lottery system. This venture has not only helped to promote

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the morale of the government but also helped a lot of people to sustain their lives. To instil it into such a system of social factor, which will help those downtrodden and especially those who require the most palliative care, the noble ‘Karunya Benevolent Fund’ could accumulate 427.74 crores from this particular Karunya Lottery alone. 40551 people suffering from heart, liver, kidney, brain, cancer, haemophilia diseases, surgery, palliative care and so on, could avail themselves of the benefit of this scheme so far. Every person who takes this lottery is an ambassador to a great mission of charity. The beneficiaries are also doing the same in their true faith. At this time we remember those who won the prizes in this lottery and there by showed great attitude towards contributing their share to this charity mission. This is not an end. It is sure that this is a beginning of many such

other activities which will contribute to the general welfare of the state. In a striving state like Kerala, the Karunya Lottery put forward by the state government is one of the best proposals we have ever seen. Whatever the amount the government derive from the Karunya Project is fully spent on the care of the poor who suffer from mortal disease who have no help from any other hands. This particular project taken up by the Finance Ministry is a very good beginning. ‘Karunya Lottery’, a part of the lottery system in Kerala is a model to be beheld and to be emulated. Let our neighbouring states may also take up similar projects. Karunya is a badge whereby the government could show how thousands of people could partake of a welfare system. The author is the Media Advisor (Karunya), Office of the Minister for Finance, Housing and Law, Tvm.

POLICY W ATCH

Higher secondary/ higher education: is the government too confused? Dr D. Dhanuraj

Kerala is known for its efforts in universalizing school education. From the beginning of 19th century, education has taken the centre stage of the social revolution and all the communities tried their best to educate their wards by setting up schools and spreading the message of importance of education.

llotment of new batches to the high schools to upgrade them to higher secondary schools is the latest controversy surrounding the education sector in Kerala. Since its beginning since early 90s, higher secondary sector courted controversy in regular intervals. Prelude to the higher secondary, even pre-degree had also its share of polemics in the 80s. So what is wrong with the sector and why this high decibel every time! Kerala is known for its efforts in universalizing school education. From the beginning of 19th century, education has taken the centre stage of the social revolution and all the communities tried

their best to educate their wards by setting up schools and spreading the message of importance of education. Post independent times, the efforts were more streamlined with the support of the state government. The education bill of 1957 gave legal sanctity to the aided sector. This along with the political representation of the communities in the government eulogized this sector and the demand for the school education gave way to competition among the schools by late 90s. Opening up of many unaided private schools created spurt in the market place of school education in Kerala.

It was during this time in early 90s, Government took the decision to set up Higher Secondary courses to replace PreDegree (delink it from colleges) courses. While the early phase of school education (upto high school level) was demand driven which was facilitated by the Government rules, the allocation of the Higher Secondary schools was more or less based on the replacement criteria. While the universities were responsible for PreDegree that time, the pre degree seats were split among three main universities. These structures were replaced at the state level by a single board coming under Education Ministry of Government of Kerala. So the

Pallikkutam | September 2014

POLICY W ATCH

There is no doubt that the private managements contributed significantly to the school education system in Kerala. They are very powerful in Kerala for many a reasons but prominent for their educational initiatives. allotment has been based on the number game. There were predominantly four groups under Pre- degree system catering different combinations of the subjects. In the early years of Plus Two, these were replaced by Science, Humanities and Commerce. Later, different combinations were introduced. Higher Secondary batches were allotted in the High Schools of the yesteryears. Moreover, the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aidedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; system in Kerala become a tool for political bargain for the different managements as it inaugurated fresh round of teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appointment which yield good returns for them.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

The traditional management groups in Kerala were more active and omnipresent in the school level education. The conservative administrative system and political class were averse to opening up of Arts & Science college sector. This limited the scope and scaling up of the education sector. The best practices in the school level were not graduated to the higher education level. The growth was stymied by the regulatory systems and over protection by the government. It was a very late decision to frame a policy for setting up selffinancing colleges in professional courses.By that time the damage had already been occurred.

There is no doubt that the private managements contributed significantly to the school education system in Kerala. They are very powerful in Kerala for many a reasons but prominent for their educational initiatives. Talented youngsters in Kerala chose teaching as career with the spurt and legalization of the sector. With the lesser number of job opportunities and shrinking space for industries, school level education became the avenue for the job aspirants by 80s leading to the distorted demand and supply equation. This has increased the bargaining power of the managements as they become one of the chief custodians of the jobs in Kerala.

POLICY W ATCH

At the higher secondary level, the state could attract the private players to set up skill development courses and certificate programs. While the demographic dividend of Kerala was confined to the high enrolment rate, thanks to the proliferation of schools, the state failed in building an eco-system that would carry the benefits of the school education to the higher level. With this distorted mechanisms that we practiced over the years, it is difficult to decide on the options and choices for the number of seats to be allotted at higher secondary level. On one hand, there is an increasing tendency from the state to ensure 100 % pass at SSLC level leaving the merit in doldrums. On the other hand, there is profligacy of engineering colleges. The conventional arts & science colleges are still running the old fashioned courses or low quality content which refrain the students to join them for the fear of career options. Added to the woes are the low fertility rates and passing of the

demographic dividend from the state. There is the issue of excess teachers also at the school level. The Open School System is not so popular for the social and cultural values predominant in the system. There is also an argument in favour of allotting more number of seats in Northern Kerala since Southern Kerala is already having excess number of seats. At the same time, vacancy of seats is reported in higher secondary schools like many other selffinancing engineering colleges. There is no single solution to this vexed issue. It demands for the overhauling and innovations at every level. At the school level, innovations and new models are possible since the state has almost assured school education to every kid in the state. The presence of private unaided sector could be a balancing force at the school level to ensure quality and competition. At

the higher secondary level, the state could attract the private players to set up skill development courses and certificate programs. It is upto the parents and children to decide on the career they want to choose. At the higher education level, the policy shall be to open up the sector for more autonomous colleges and private initiatives if the Government has less resource to set up new colleges. Let the autonomous colleges and the private universities decide on the content of their teaching. The role and responsibility of the government is to ensure that all students have enough options to choose from and not dilly dallying with unnecessary regulations

The author is the Chairman, Centre for Public Policy Research

Pallikkutam | September 2014

PAINT A ST OR Y STOR ORY

Pallikkutam “Paint a Story” Photography Contest Purpose: To promote visual communication, creative expression and imagination skills among students, teachers and parents. Eligibility The contest is OPEN to all students/teachers/parents from all states and union territories of Indian state.

Sample Story

Theme for Month of September, 2014

“Buoyancy of life”

Rules and Regulations:

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The photograph must be digital, may be in color or black & white with ♦ The contest to open to all stakeholders minimum size of 1024 X 768 (Pixels). of education, including students, parents and teachers. ♦ The participant should provide full details (Postal Address, Land ♦ A maximum of three still photos may contact Phone, Mobile Phone, Email Address, etc.) be used to “paint a story” based on the in an attached file. theme mentioned. Arrange the photographs accordingly that they shall communicate a ♦ All entries will be screened by a panel message or tell a story to the viewers. of photographers and educationalists.

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A participant can submit a maximum of ♦ Photographs submitted to the TWO entries. competition will not be returned. Rajagiri Media will be free to use them for ♦ Photographs must be natural and educational purposes in the electronic or without any digital make-ups, e.g. print publications. “Photoshop” works. ♦ The decisions of the judges are final ♦ The title/caption of the entry, if any, and not subject of arbitration. may be submitted as attachment to the submission. ♦ In all matters and disputes, the decision of the Director, Rajagiri Media will be final and binding.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

Please Note:

♦ All entries received will be catalogued and archived by Rajagiri Media. ♦

The prize-winning entries will be treated as the copyright of Rajagiri Media. Submissions:

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The last day of submission is 28th of the month of contest. (28th September).

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The entries shall be submitted to

managingeditor@rajagirimedia.com Prizes

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There are three prizes for the monthly contest: The first prize carries Rs. 500/- , second prize Rs. 300/- and third prize Rs. 200/-

INNO VATIONS INNOV

Emerging era of cloud computing Life under Antarctic ice C exposed T he researchers from Montana State University, USA has brought about a breakthrough bringing to light an active ecosystem one-half mile below the surface of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. The life is in the form of microorganisms that live beneath the ice sheet and convert ammonium and methane into the energy required for growth. Many of the microbes are single-celled organisms known as Archaea,which is one of three domains of life, with the others being

Bacteria and Eukaryote.The reusults are published in Nature. The team found life after drilling through half a mile of ice to reach Subglacial Lake Whillans. It was surprising to know how the microbes function without sunlight at subzero temperatures. Many of the subglacial archaea use the energy in the chemical bonds of ammonium to fix carbon dioxide and drive other metabolic processes. The researchers assume that the source of the ammonium and methane is most likely from the breakdown of organic matter that was deposited in the area hundreds of thousands of years ago when Antarctica was warmer. The results give the first direct evidence that life is present in the subglacial environment beneath the Antarctic ice sheet. The researchers discovered not just life but an active ecosystem underneath the Antarctic ice sheet.

loud computing utilizes a network of remote servers to store, manage and process data, rather than a local server or a personal computer. In recent years, cloud computing has become the dominant method of providing infrastructure for Internet services. The National Science Foundation (NSF), USA has recently announced two $10 million projects to create cloud computing testbeds, “Chameleon” and “CloudLab” to enable the academic research community to develop novel cloud architectures and pursue new applications of cloud computing.

These projects are expected to enable academic researchers to experiment and advance cloud computing architectures that can support a new generation of innovative applications, including real-time and safety-critical applications like those used in medical devices, power grids, and

transportation systems. Chameleon will consist of 650 cloud nodes with 5 petabytes of storage. It can be configured as custom clouds using pre-defined software to test the efficiency and usability of different cloud architectures. Like its namesake, the Chameleon testbed will be able to adapt itself to a wide range of experimental needs. The second NSFCloud project supports the development of “CloudLab,” a large-scale distributed infrastructure based at the University of Utah, Clemson University and the University of Wisconsin, on top of which researchers will be able to construct many different types of clouds. The ultimate goal of the projects is to advance the field of cloud computing broadly by developing new concepts, methods and technologies to enable infrastructure design.

Biodegradable plastic out of biowaste?

an you think about developing chairs, synthetic rugs and plastic bags out of cocoa, rice and vegetable waste rather than petroleum? A report published in the ACS journal Macromolecules, suggests that biodegradable plastic could be made out of biowastes. The study gives ideas to solve the problems of agricultural and plastic waste simultaneously. In 2012, 288 million tons of plastic was produced worldwide. But its ubiquity comes at a cost. Synthetic plastics persist for hundreds or thousands of years while releasing toxic components with the potential to harm the environment and human health. Also, plastics are made out of petroleum, which is a nonrenewable source. The shift to more environmentally

friendly bioplastics has been challenging and expensive. The report suggests a simple, less costly way to make the transition. An organic acid that occurs naturally and can process cellulose, which is the main building component of plants and also the most abundant polymer in nature is used in the process. The acid was mixed with parsley and spinach stems, and husks from rice and cocoa pods. The resulting solutions on testing showed an attractive range of traits from brittle and rigid to soft and stretchable — similar to commercial plastics. The new process bears promise to replace some of the non-degrading polymers with the present bioplastics obtained from agrowaste.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

INNO V ATIONS INNOV

New method of artificial photosynthesis

ater is abundant. So is sunlight. Can we split hydrogen out of water using sunlight? Hydrogen offers potential as a zero-carbon replacement for petroleum products, and is already used for launching space craft. An Australian National University (ANU) team has successfully replicated one of the crucial steps in photosynthesis, opening the way for biological systems powered by sunlight which could manufacture hydrogen as a fuel. The team created a protein which, when exposed to light, displays the electrical heartbeat that is the key to photosynthesis. The system uses a naturally-occurring protein making the process affordable. Large amounts of

hydrogen fuel produced by artificial photosynthesis could in fact transform the economy. The team modified a muchresearched and ubiquitous protein, Ferritin, which is present in almost all living organisms. Ferritin’s usual role is to store iron, but the team removed the iron and replaced it with the abundant metal, manganese, to closely resemble the water splitting site in photosynthesis. The protein also binds a haem group, which the researchers replaced with a light-sensitive pigment, Zinc Chlorin. When they shone light onto the modified ferritin, there was a clear indication of charge transfer just like in natural photosynthesis.

The “language” of the animals M

any species of animals produce complex vocalizations. Consider the mockingbird, for example, which can mimic over 100 distinct song types of different species. The vocalizations of many animals often contains languagelike characteristics, according to a study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B. The study analyzed the vocal sequences of seven different species of birds and mammals and found that the vocal sequences produced by the animals appear to be generated by complex

Secrets of cowmilk allergy unravelled

ow milk allergy occurs in children and in adults. Such an allergy may cause swelling of the mouth and mucous membranes, diarrhea, exacerbation of neurodermitis, and in rare cases even an allergic shock. Precise diagnostic investigation helps to differentiate between allergy and intolerance and thus avoid incorrect diets which, under certain circumstances, may cause malnutrition. Milk allergy is frequently confused with lactose intolerance. However, these are two entirely different mechanisms that occur in the body. People with lactose intolerance do not digest lactose properly because they lack an enzyme known as lactase. In the case of

Pallikkutam | September 2014

the potentially much more dangerous cow milk allergy, however, the body’s immune system attacks milk proteins with its own IgE antibodies. Scientists at the University of Vienna has shown the mechanism that makes the milk allergenic. According to them, a specific protein in milk known as betalactoglobulin is able to initiate an allergy only when being devoid of iron. Loaded with iron, the protein is harmless. The scientists discovered the same mechanism recently with regard to birch pollen allergy. Their findings help to decipher allergic reactions and were published in the journal PLOS ONE.

statistical processes, more akin to human language. Scientists have assumed that the sequence of animal calls is generated by a simple random process, called a “Markov process.” The use of the Markov process in examining animal vocalization assumes that the sequence of vocal elements is dependent only on a finite number of preceding vocal elements and that it posseses languagelike structures. The vocal sequences of chickadees, finches, bats, orangutans, killer whales, pilot whales and hyraxes were analyzed in the study. It was found that most of the vocal sequences were more consistent with statistical models that are more complex than Markov processes and more language-like.

HEAL TH WATCH HEALTH

Boost your memory by eating right Control your cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels with diet, exercise, and medicines like statins or beta-blockers if you need them. How diet can help -or harm- your cognitive fitness.

associate epidemiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Before you cut into a big T-bone steak with French fries, here is some food for thought: Research suggests that what we eat might have an impact on our ability to remember and our likelihood of developing dementia as we age.

Diets high in cholesterol and fat might speed up the formation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. These sticky protein clusters are blamed for much of the damage that occurs in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s.

Take that steak you’re about to slice into, for example. It’s loaded with saturated fat, which is known to raise blood levels of unhealthy low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Other kinds of fats, such as trans fats, do the same thing to LDL.

The diet and memory connection

As evidence of this effect are the results of a study conducted by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, published online May 17 in the journal Annals of Neurology. Women in the study who ate LDL cholesterol builds up in, and damages, the most saturated fats from foods such as red meat and butter performed worse on arteries. “We know that’s bad for your tests of thinking and memory than women heart. There is now a lot of evidence that who ate the lowest amounts of these fats. it’s also bad for your brain,” says Dr. Francine Grodstein, associate professor of The exact reason for the connection medicine at Harvard Medical School and between diets high in saturated and trans

fats and poorer memory isn’t entirely clear, but the relationship may be mediated by a gene called apolipoprotein E, or APOE. This gene is associated with the amount of cholesterol in your blood, and people with a variation of this gene, called APOE e4 are at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease. “About 65% of individuals who wind up with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease in their 60s and 70s have that gene,” says Dr. Gad Marshall, assistant professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School. How does the APOE e4 gene contribute to dementia? Researchers aren’t exactly sure, but they have discovered that people with this genetic variation have a greater number of sticky protein clumps, called beta-amyloid plaques, in the brain. These plaque deposits, which are associated with

Pallikkutam | September 2014

HEAL TH WATCH HEALTH

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil help improve the health of blood vessels, reducing the risk of a memory-damaging stroke. the destruction of brain cells, are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. The connection is a little clearer when it comes to memory loss that’s related to blood vessel damage. The buildup of cholesterol plaques in brain blood vessels can damage brain tissue, either through small blockages that cause silent strokes, or a larger, more catastrophic stroke. Either way, brain cells are deprived of the oxygen-rich blood they need to function normally, which can compromise thinking and memory. Other ways to protect memory as you age Diet isn’t the only way to preserve memory. If you want to keep your brain sharp as you get older, follow these recommendations: Control your cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels with diet, exercise, and medicines such as statins or betablockers if you need them. Quit smoking. One review of studies associated smoking with a significantly higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

and mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—the stage of memory loss that often precedes dementia. The Mediterranean diet includes several components that might promote brain health: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil help improve the health of blood vessels, reducing the risk of a memorydamaging stroke. Fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to lower levels of betaamyloid proteins in the blood and better vascular health. Can food preserve memory? Although certain foods do seem to protect memory, our experts say research on the subject is still too preliminary to recommend any specific memoryenhancing foods. “The truth is, we still don’t know a lot,” Dr. Grodstein says. “So I don’t think we’re ready yet to identify a brain-healthy diet in the way we are a heart-healthy diet.”

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

The Mediterranean diet includes fruits and vegetables whole-grain breads and cereals beans and nuts olive oil very limited red meat no more than four eggs per week

moderate wine consumption (one glass a day for women).

A number of dietary supplements claim to improve memory, concentration, and focus. These products often contain blends of supposedly memory-boosting ingredients such as antioxidants and omega3 fatty acids—some of which are found in the Mediterranean diet.

Work with your doctor to keep your weight in a healthy range for your height. A body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal. Foods for memory

Pallikkutam | September 2014

So what are the components of a hearthealthy diet? They’re very similar to the ingredients in the Mediterranean diet, which so far carries the strongest evidence of any diet-related intervention for preserving memory, Dr. Marshall says.

Supplements and memory

Get outside for a brisk daily walk. Exercising three or more times a week has been linked to a lower risk for dementia.

If saturated and trans fats are the food villains, then mono- and polyunsaturated fats may be the heroes in the dietary battle to preserve memory. In particular, the Mediterranean diet, with its menu of foods that are high in healthy unsaturated fats (olive oil, fish, and nuts) has been linked to lower rates of both dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease

including dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease,” Dr. Marshall says. When you eat a heart-healthy diet that is low in saturated fat, you reduce your risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, all of which are believed to contribute to memory loss.

Yet doctors are finding that what’s good for the heart may also be good for the brain. Protecting the blood vessels by following a heart-healthy diet might just protect the mind too. “A lot of the cardiovascular risk factors have been shown to be risk factors for dementia,

The trouble with these products is they’re largely untested. “There’s a lot of information out there on supplements that isn’t evidence-based,” Dr. Marshall says. “And it’s not to say some of them might not work. We just need better proof.” Many supplements that have been studied against a placebo (inactive pill) have not been shown effective for treating or preventing dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease.

CREA TIVE LIVING CREATIVE

Grow with/against jealousy Dr. Varghese Panthalookaran CMI

Iago decides to spend all his creative energy into the destructive project: “Elimination Othello”. Iago also ignites the fire of jealousy in Othello, his commander, over his wife Desdemona. In the process, Iago himself falls into a state of permanent dissatisfaction. Jealousy: A state of permanent dissatisfaction!

life and attempts to rather live another‘s life! An honest analysis may expose “Iago moments” in your life too: moments when Iago, the sinister villain of the Shakespearean tragedy Othello (c. 1601– you wanted to live the other’s life. As the other is living that life, you might have 04), is a candid depiction of a seriously been compelled to suppress your hidden jealous person. Iago discovers that Othello animosity against them. Jealousy is a has the life and occupation which he universal mind-set, powerful enough to always dreamed of: the eternal reason for break you or to make you. Hence master jealousy! Iago decides to spend all his the art of being creative and innovative so creative energy into the destructive as to grow with/against jealousy! project: “Elimination Othello”. Iago also ignites the fire of jealousy in Othello, his Kain, the first murderer reported in Bible, commander, over his wife Desdemona. In was rather straight-forward in his jealous the process, Iago himself falls into a state reaction towards his sibling, Abel. God’s of permanent dissatisfaction. acceptance of the sacrificial offer of Abel kindled jealousy in Kain. The outright A jealous person typically develops contempt for one’s own talents, career and rejection of God of his sacrifice added fuel

into the fire. He developed a devastating sense of insecurity and inferiority. Out of burning jealousy, Kain murdered his brother Abel, eliminating him from the face of earth. He might have imagined that in the absence of Abel, he would find favor with God. However, to his great disappointment, God came in search of Abel, whom he murdered. God inquired of Kain: “Where is your brother?” The pleading of Kain that he is not appointed as the keeper of his brother only infuriated God further. God said: “What hast thou done? The voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground. And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother’s blood from thy hand; when thou tillest the

Pallikkutam | September 2014

CREA TIVE LIVING CREATIVE

Whatever hinders one from following one’s own passion and tastes are obnoxious. It breaches individual freedom and selfrespect. It repudiates the uniqueness of the person. It violates the individual mission-in-the-world. That is undesirable. ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth.” (Genesis 4:10-12). The jealousy was thus punished with “rootless-ness” and “fruitless-ness”, i.e., with fugitiveness of life and futility of efforts! Jealousy extinguishes the creative fire glowing within you. The coldness flows to the roots of your existence making you numb and insensitive. It douses your creative prowess. It vitiates your innovative spirit. Jealous projects will eventually turn futile. Jealous designs are doomed to be defeated in the course of time! Some envy others, since the other is subjected to extra-mercy of God. That

Pallikkutam | September 2014

God shower favors on others is not tolerated by them. They consider it as an offence of God against them. The workers in the vineyard were envy of those 11th hour workers, who worked just for one hour and drew the full salary of the day (Mt. 20, 9). They could not digest an act of mercy on the part of their master, who might have been sympathizing with those who were weak in the placement drive! He might have been just careful that their families shall not starve. However, the workers in the vineyard cried foul against the master, who was nevertheless not prepared to dance to their tunes. He discredited their envious critique, asking them the counter question: “Is it not

lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? (Mt. 20, 16) Angry was also the steward who received just one talent from his master, while other stewards were granted two and five talents respectively. Out of self-contempt and envy he hid his talent under the earth. He wished to teach his unjust master a lesson. He pressed for an attitudinal change in his master, who, according to him, was cruel to him by giving him the least initial capital (Mt.25:14-30). He could not see into it that it suffices to double his talent into two to reap the same glory garnered by his better talented colleagues. Envy engenders a mental state of permanent dissatisfaction, which like a desert acts as a

CREA TIVE LIVING CREATIVE

Creative minds should learn how to handle the jealous with care and caution. The most common practice is to dismiss jealous comments or to avoid the jealous people. grave yard for creativity and innovation. Those innovations driven by envy lead to enhanced dissatisfactions and added dejections. Growing with envy A certain amount of envy would serve better growth and development, especially of children. A mother, for example, asks her boy child to emulate his father and grow day by day into his stature. And the child does so. So does a father ask his girl child to learn from the mother and to grow into her stature, which helps the child to grow! Teachers may intentionally trigger envy in the class at their best students positing them as role models. It may also at times work. Students may grow fast with envy! Moderate level of envy catalyzes personal and societal growth and development. However, envy-generating comparisons would turn counter-productive in the long run. Living other’s dream is not attractive to persons with industry. Asking them to follow the other’s passions and to live other’s dreams is inappropriate. Whatever hinders one from following one’s own passion and tastes are obnoxious. It breaches individual freedom and self-respect. It repudiates the uniqueness of the person. It violates the individual mission-in-the-world. That is undesirable. Avoid “bad eye” of others! It is a common practice in India, that the new structures and constructions are protected against the “bad eyes” of the envious people. In front of buildings that are being built, imposing effigies (Nokkukuttikal) are placed in order to distract envious onlookers. Innocent face

of a new-born baby is often dotted with a black spot, for the same purpose. It is widely believed that something new and invaluable needs to be protected from envious or bad looks. One could easily dismiss such practices as superstitious. However, the fact remains: the creative and successful people are often victims of foottraps of the jealous is a fact. The envious would pester you, if you are a creative mind venturing into something innovative. They would distract you when you need your concentration at the most. They would put stumbling blocks in your paths

They will be persecuted for no mistake of theirs. They will be exposed to envious looks and acts. Creative minds should learn how to handle the jealous with care and caution. The most common practice is to dismiss jealous comments or to avoid the jealous people. However, in the new world, where privacy drastically thins out, such a strategy may not be effective. It may even backfire. Since, those who avoid others are also avoided. Given below are some tips to conquer the jealousy of those who meddle with your creative projects:

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Be friendly: Love your enemies and give them positive appreciation and assurance. That is the only proven weapon against envious aggression, wielded by the masters.

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Be kind: Shower your blessings on those who hate you or envy you. Your kindness may find reciprocation.

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Be benevolent: Pray regularly for those who envy you and keep your minds out of hateful entanglements with them.

♦ Be good: Think good, speak good and do good to those who harm you out of jealousy.

of progress. They will throw stones at you if you are fruitful. It is said that only those ♦ Be generous: Grant others mango-trees with abundant fruits alone will significantly more than what they actually be stoned! deserve. Creative minds are usually sensitive too. They are often touch-me-nots. They fold their leaves of creativeness and wither away even at a mild offensive touch of the envious opponent. It is that intense sensitivity that makes and maintains their creativeness. The same sensitivity could prove harmful to them, especially when they encounter inimical jealousy. They will be readily mobbed at their workplace. They will be ragged at their starting points.

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Be forgiving: Whole-heartedly forgive those who have already trespassed against you. These suggestions are derived from the lives and teachings of noble gurus, who have safeguarded themselves against the attacks of envious people in their lives. These are also sure ways of conquering jealousy in the world and to keep you creative and innovative.

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CREA TIVE LIVING CREATIVE

Keep exploring the new possibilities of life. Keep the inner freedom of a son without dilution. And just neglect the envious outcries and accusations of the “elder brother”, who never dares to venture out! Keep exploring your possibilities You should always strive to take leave from your “comfort zones” in search of the new and versatile experiences, whatever may come on the way. Breaking away from “comfort zones” is not considered desirable by the cowards. They confuse “remaining within the comfort zones” with the virtue of “being steadfast”. The Pharisees of Jesus’ times believed so. To convince them of the need of breaking out of the comfort zones, the Parable of the Prodigal Son is told. It is a story of two sons of a father: the elder one, who loves to remain steadfast within the fourwalls of his father’s place and the other who would rather venture into the world outside. The younger son was promoted by the father, who even awarded him his share of paternity to facilitate his venture. His generous sharing with his friends and celebration of his life but made him poor soon. During the famine days he had to do jobs that were considered ignoble to his race (Jewish race) to keep himself alive. At his wit’s end, he decided to

Pallikkutam | September 2014

return to his father’s place. The father declared a great feast to celebrate his home-coming. The elder brother, on the other hand, wished to remain within the “comfort zones” of his father’s home. He never ventured out. He delivered his father a “slave’s service”, as he himself describes it later. The father would only unwillingly approve of it. The elder son did not exercise his freedom-as-a-son to celebrate his life with his friends. He found fault with his father who did not give him even a sheep to celebrate with friends! The father was extremely careful with the elder son and attached his share in the patrimony to himself. He did so with the strange argument that “everything I have is yours” (Lk.15: 30). An argument, the father shunned in the case of his younger son! At the end the parable, the readers may be promoted to ask a strange question: Who is the true prodigal son of the parable? Is it the younger one who dared to venture out of his comfort zones availing his share in the patrimony and celebrated his life or the elder one, who

remained within his comfort zones like a house slave, who never appropriated his share of the patrimony and who never dared to venture out? Jesus seems to keep empathy for the younger son of the parable! His life compares better with that of the younger brother. As scripture suggests, Jesus relinquished the comfort of being with his Father in heaven (cf. Phil. 2, 6). He identified himself with the sinners and taxcollectors on earth. At the appointed time he retreated to his father in heaven emptyhanded. In his lifetime Jesus had won for himself the title as “Friend of sinners”: an accusation the Pharisees made at Jesus, which is repeated by the elder son against the younger one in the parable. The Master sets an example for the creative minds! Dare to venture out. Keep exploring the new possibilities of life. Keep the inner freedom of a son without dilution. And just neglect the envious outcries and accusations of the “elder brother”, who never dares to venture out!

INFO TECH

Ratan Tata invests in Snapdeal I

n a boost to India’s consumer internet story, Ratan Tata has invested in homegrown e-tailer Snapdeal in his personal capacity. With this, he joins other tech titans including Wipro’s Azim Premji and Infosys’ N R Narayana Murthy in making investments in the burgeoning $3-billion ecommerce sector.

excellent validation of our focused strategy on building a long term enterprise and marks the start of a very important phase for the company.” Snapdeal has

Tata and Snapdeal have not disclosed the investment amount. The 76-year-old chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, credited with transforming India’s largest private sector conglomerate with a string of marquee global acquisitions, is expected to be a minority investor. Tata Sons is the holding company of the $103 billion Tata Group with interest spanning from steel to automobiles. Kunal Bahl, co-founder & CEO of Snapdeal, said, “This is a very proud and exciting moment for the entire Snapdeal family. An investment by a legendary and respected figure like Mr Tata is an

previously raised about $350 million in funding. In February, one of the world’s largest digital marketplaces eBay led a $134 million (Rs 830 crore) investment.

eBay invested $100 million and the rest came from existing investors like Nexus Venture Partners, Kalaari Capital, Bessemer Venture Partners and Intel Capital. It subsequently received a $100 million round from Premji’s investment arm Premji Invest, Temasek, BlackRock and others. Tata is boarding Snapdeal at a time when the online marketplace is seeing huge interest from customers, thanks to discounted offerings, the massive array of offerings, and the ability to buy from the comfort of their homes. India has 243 million internet users, and this number continues to grow rapidly due to increased smartphone penetration. Snapdeal’s biggest rivals in India, Flipkart and Amazon, both recently received humongous amounts of investment commitments. Flipkart received $1 billion, and Amazon $2 billion. The Tata investment, even if small, gives Snapdeal something of a morale boost in this environment.

HP beats Dell in Q1 PC sales H

ewlett-Packard (HP) got back its top spot in the PC market in the quarter ended June thanks to the execution of a large education deal in Tamil Nadu. Its overall market share was 29.5%, up from 20.9% in the first quarter ended March, according to research firm IDC. Dell, which was No. 1 in the first quarter with a 23.1% share, was second this time with a 19.1% share. Lenovo was third with a 13.9% share. The Tamil Nadu deal helped HP’s share in commercial notebooks to jump to as high as 51.4%. Lenovo, at No. 2, was way behind at 16.8%. In commercial desktops, HP was second to Dell. In consumer desktops and

notebooks, HP was No. 1. In the former, Lenovo was marginally behind, in the latter, Dell was 4 percentage points behind

The overall PC shipments for the second quarter stood at 2.55 million units, a substantial growth of 23.6% over Q1, but a drop of 27.8% over Q2 of last year. “The market remained upbeat buoyed by business purchases, as well as channel intake of low priced PCs at the end of the quarter,” IDC said.

HP’s 31.4%. HP was the leader through much of 2013.

The commercial PC segment grew sequentially by 34.5%. “A clear mandate in elections signalled a mark of recovery in the economy. Against last calendar year, business prospects are expected to remain moderately better in the coming six months,” IDC said.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

INFO TECH

NASA’s robot army to explore other planets N

ASA is developing an army of autonomous self-driving robots — equipped with webcams and GPS — that could one day be sent to explore alien surfaces on other planets.

Once one of the rovers finds something

“Now people are realizing you can have much smaller, much simpler robots that can work together and achieve a task. One of them can roll over and die and it’s not the end of the mission because the others can still accomplish the task,” Leucht said.

The robots, dubbed “swarmies,” are much smaller than other NASA robots like the car-sized Mars rover Curiosity. Each comes equipped with a webcam, WiFi antenna, and Global Positioning System (GPS) system for navigation, and the swarmies function in a way similar to an ant colony.

The swarmie tests are still in the preliminary stages, and currently the robots are only programmed to hunt for barcoded slips of paper.

When one ant stumbles across a food source, it sends out a signal to the rest of the colony, and then the ants work together to cart the food back to the nest. Engineers from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida developed software that directs the swarmies to fan out in different directions and search for a specific, predetermined material, like ice-water on Mars.

“For a while people were interested in putting as much smarts and capability as they could on their one robot,” said Kurt Leucht, one of the engineers working on the project.

Over the next few months, swarmie tests will also include RASSOR — a mining robot specially designed to dig into alien surfaces and search for interesting or valuable materials. interesting, it can use radio communication to call other robots over to help collect samples, ‘SPACE.com’ reported.

The tests will determine how well the swarming software translates to control other robotic vehicles.

Facebook, Twitter users in US unlikely to share opinions: Study

eople who use Facebook and Twitter are less likely than others to share their opinions on hot-button issues, even when they are offline, according to a surprising new survey by the Pew Research Center.

Keith Hampton, a communications professor at Rutgers University who helped conduct the study.

The survey was conducted shortly after Edward Snowden acknowledged leaking The study, done in conjunction with classified intelligence that exposed Rutgers University in New Jersey, widespread government surveillance of Americans’ phone and email records. challenges the view of social media as a vehicle for debate by suggesting that sites Hampton said the Snowden case provided like Facebook and Twitter might actually researchers with a concrete example of a encourage self-censorship. Researchers said major national issue that divided they detect what they call the “spiral of Americans and dominated news coverage. silence” phenomenon: Unless people know Of the 1,801 adults surveyed, 86% they their audience agrees, they are likely to shy would be willing to discuss their views away from discussing anything about government surveillance if it came controversial. up at various in-person scenarios, such as at a public meeting, at work or at a In other words, most of us are more comfortable with ice-bucket challenges than restaurant with friends. But just 42% of political banter. “People do not tend to be Facebook or Twitter users said they would be willing to post online about it. using social media for this type of important political discussion. And if What’s more, the typical Facebook user anything, it may actually be removing — someone who logs onto the site a few conversation from the public sphere,” said times per day — was actually half as

Pallikkutam | September 2014

likely to discuss the Snowden case at a public meeting as a non-Facebook user. Someone who goes on Twitter a few times per day was one-quarter as likely to share opinions in the workplace compared with those who never use Twitter. Only when a person felt that their Facebook network agreed with their opinion were they twice as likely to join a site discussion on the issue, the survey found. Another finding was that social media didn’t make it easier for people to share opinions they wouldn’t otherwise share. Of the 14% of Americans unwilling to discuss the Snowden case with others in person, fewer than one-half of 1% were willing to discuss it on social media. Lee Rainie, director of the Pew Research Center Internet Project, said it’s possible that social media actually sensitize people to different opinions.

GUEST COLUMN

Fs‚ HmWw, Ft‚Xp am{Xw sI F¬ taml\h¿Ω

kmºØnI`{ZXbpsS AfhptIm¬ BkvXnbpsS IW°√, Nnehm°m\p≈ IgnhmWv F∂ Bibw C∂v AwKoIcn°s∏´p Ign™ncn°p∂p. √mh¿°pw Adnbmhp∂ IYbmWv.

tIcfØnse C∂sØ sF Sn Xeÿm\amb Xy°m°c Xeÿm\am°n \mSp `cn®p sIm≠-ncp∂ amthen hmWncp∂ ImeØv am\pjsc√mcpw H∂p t]mse Bbncp∂p. I≈hpan√, NXnbpan√, s]mfnhN\w t]mepan√. I≈∏dbn√, sNdp\mgnbn√. BsI ]cam\μw. tamjWan√. Ip‰IyXyßfn√. Cu hnhcw Cutcgp ]Xn\meptemIØpw ]m´mbt∏mƒ kz¿§temIw `cn°p∂ tZth{μ\v `bambn. Xs‚ tZh{]PIƒ alm_ensb £Wn°ptam `qanhn´v kz¿§w `cn°m≥ hcm≥? `bw Pallikkutam | September 2014

h∂m¬ ]XnhmWv, C{μ≥ HmSns®∂v almhnjvWphns‚ Im¬°¬ hogpw. c£n°Ww. C∂sØ hyhÿbv°v am‰w h∂m¬ ]ns∂ {]fbamWv. {]fbØn\v C\n aq∂p bpKßƒ IqSn IgnbWw. almhnjvWp H∂mtemNn®p. AhXmcsaSpØp. hnjvWp`Khms‚ A©masØ AhXmcambncp∂p. ao\pw, Babpw, hcmlhpw, \cknwlhpw Ign™v ]q¿Æ a\pjy\mb cq]Øn¬ BZysØ AhXmcw. At±lw Hcp Ip´n {_m“Ws‚ cq]saSpØp. hma\\mbn. t\sc Xy°m°cbnseØn. alm_enbpsS kz`mhw am\pjnI`mhamWv. AXv C{μs‚

B¿Ønb√. a\pjys‚ sjbdnwKv kz`mhamWv. AXnYn tZthm `h: AXnYn tZh\mWv. AXnYn°v F¥pw tNmZn°mw. alm_en \¬Ipw. Ip≈\pw I-m¬ ]©]mhw F∂p tXm∂n°p∂h\pamb {_m“W°p´nsb I≠-v alm_en°v kvt\lhpw hm’eyhpw tXm∂n. alm_en tNmZn®p. Ip´n°v F¥mWv th-≠Xv? Hcp sNdnb Aºew. Fs‚ CjvStZhXbmb kwlmcaq¿Øn ]cainhs\ {]XnjvTn°Ww. F∂n´v ChnsS Xmakn®v ]qPmZnI¿Ωßƒ \SØWw.

GUEST COLUMN

\msa√mw HmW\mƒ hoń¬ HØpIqSm≥, F∂n´v _‘p°fpw kvt\lnXcpw \m´pImcpw F√mhcpambn \ΩpsS kt¥mjw ]¶nSm≥ ImØncn°p∂ amthen{]PIfmWv. tIcfØns‚ Db¿∂ PohnX\nehmcØns‚ ImcWhpw \ΩpsS Cu amthen at\m`mhamWv. AXn\p≈ CSw \¬Iym¬ aXn. F{X `qan thWw ? aq∂Sn aXn. kt¥mjw. FhnsSbmsW∂p h®m¬ CjvSap≈nSØv FSpØpsIm≈q. ]n∂sØ IY \ap°dnbmw. hma\s‚ sNdnb ]mZw hf¿∂p hf¿∂v BImiw apń. hma\≥ c≠-p NphSp h®v alm_enbpsS A[o\Xbnep-≠mbncp∂ tIcfØnse `qan kz¥am°n. aq∂masØ NphSv FhnsS hbv°Wsa∂v tNmZn®t∏mƒ AZv`pXhpw NXnbpw I_fn°s∏´Xnep≈ hnjahpw H∂pw hIhbv°msX alm_en kz¥w Xe XmgvØn Imń. ChnsS ht®mfq. amthen°v tIcfw hntS≠-n h∂p. At±lw ]mXmfØnte°v t]mbn. ]s£ almhnjvWp Xs‚ s]cpam‰Øn¬ Zp:Jw tXm∂n

i‡nbpsS aqeImcWw `qanimkv{X]camb {]tXyIX, \o NncRvPohnbmIs´. \n\°p {]IyXnhn`h e`yX, P\ßfpsS acWan√. F√m h¿jhpw A≤zm\tijn, Dd® Zo¿L NnßamkØnse XncpthmWw ho£Wap≈ `cWt\XyXzw, \mfn¬ \n\°p tIcfØn¬ hcmw. ChbmWt√m. H∏w kaqlØn\v \ns‚ {]PIsf ImWmw. Ah¿ \√ B¿Ønbpw kzm¿∞Xbpw \n\°pth≠-n ImØncn°pw. thWw. Cu amthen°Y a\pjys‚ CXv s]mXp XXzw. ]s£ CXn\v B¥cnIamb am\knI`mhØns‚ A]hmZambn CsX√mw XmcXtay\ hnImkØns‚ IYbmWv. Ipd™ tIcfobkaqlw amthensb A\p{Kln®p.

ASnÿm\PohnXkuIcyßfnepw PohnX\nehmcØnepw G‰hpw Db¿∂ \nehmcw ]pe¿Øp∂p. kmºØnI`{ZXbpsS AfhptIm¬ BkvXnbpsS IW°√, Nnehm°m\p≈ IgnhmWv F∂ Bibw C∂v AwKoIcn°s∏´p Ign™ncn°p∂p.

BUwkvanØpw Io≥kpw am¿Ivkpw C∂p-≠mbncps∂¶n¬ tIcfØns‚ ASnÿm\]camb ]pXnb Nn¥Iƒ sIm-≠pht∂t\. kmºØnI \s´√v F¥mWv? GXp Ah¿°v tIcfw \√ Hcp kaqlØns‚bpw kmºØnI Pallikkutam | September 2014

GUEST COLUMN

]©m_neqsS Ingt°m´pw ]Sn™mtdm´pw Poh\pw am\hpw c£n°m≥ F√mw hns´dn™v ]emb\w sNøp∂ e£°W°n\v P\w. A°q´Øn¬ Hcp s{Sbn\ns‚ apIfn¬ IpØnbncp∂v C¥y\Xn¿Ønbnte°p bm{X sNøp∂ Bƒ°q´Ønembncp∂p A\n¬ F∂ ]Xnt\gpImc≥. kmºØnI ]co£W imebmtbt\. tIcfØns‚ ASnÿm\ kmºØnIi‡n F¥mWv ? H‰ hm°n¬ ]dbmw. KylmXpcXzw. s\mÃmƒPn°v sskt°. amthen X∂ kz`mhamWnXv. tbip{InkvXp A©∏Øn¬ \n∂v Aømbncw kyjvSn®Xv PmehnZy Bbncp∂n√. Kncn{]`mjWw tIƒ°m≥ h∂ F√mhtcmSpw Ah¿ sIm-≠p h∂ `£Wsa√mw HcnSØp \nt£]n°m≥ {InkvXp`Khm≥ Bhiys∏´p. Zcn{Z\v H∂pan√mbncp∂p. CSØc°mc\v c-≠pw [\hm\v \qdpw Ipt_c\v AXn¬ IqSpXepw. Ahsb√mw H∂n®n´v hoXw h®t∏mƒ F√mh¿°pw hbdp \ndbv°m\mbn. _m°n hcnIbpw sNbvXp. `£WamWv GXp PohnIfpsSbpw Poh≥ \ne \n¿Øp∂Xv. AXpsIm≠-v kzm`mhnIambpw kz¥w Pallikkutam | September 2014

BlmcØns‚ ImcyØn¬ GXp Pohnbpw kzm¿∞cmWv. ]s£ B kzm¿∞sØ adn IS°m\p≈ Ignhv t\SnbXmWv a\pjyPohnsb temIm[n]Xnbm°nbXv. Fs‚ Hcp kplyØp-≠mbncp∂p. A\n¬ Ipam¿ a¬tlm{Xm. ]©m_n. cknI\mWv. _nkn\ pImc≥. ]©m_n¬ tdmlvS°n¬ \n∂v FcpaIsf hmßn t_mws_bn¬ sIm≠pt]mbn hn¬°pI. ]ØºXp sIm√w apºv \√ em`w In´p∂ ]cn]mSn Bbncp∂p. a‰mcnepw I≠-n´n√mØ Hcp coXn At±lØn\p-≠mbncp∂p. Xs‚ `£Ww Aev]sa¶nepw sjb¿ sNøpw. Xs‚ N∏mØnbpsS Hcp ]¶v B¿s°¶nepw \¬ImsX Ignt°≠-n h∂m¬ hbdp \ndbpIn√. Xy]vXn hcnIn√. Rßƒ 1960- IfnemWv ]cnNbs∏´Xv. bmZyOnIambn

at≤y¥ybnse Hcp Dƒ\mS≥ \mtcm tKPv dbn¬shbnse Hcp H∂mw ¢mkv Iw]m¿´sa‚n¬ h®v. cm{Xn kabw. Rßfncphcpw am{Xw. Fs∂ \n¿_‘n®v At±lw Xs‚ AØmg®∏mØn Xn∂m≥ \n¿_‘n®p. BZyw Rm≥ kΩXn®n√. ]ns∂ At±lw Xs‚ Cu ioeØns‚ IY tI´t∏mƒ Rm≥ H∏w IqSn. `£Ww sjbdnwKv Fs‚ PohnXØns‚bpw `mKambn. IY CXmbncp∂p. 1947. C¥y kzX{¥bmbn. cmjv{Sobamb kzmX{¥yw ]©m_nepw kn≥Unepw hcpØnb hn\ \ap°v C∂v Ahnizk\obamWv. C¥ybnsebpw ]mInÿm\nsebpw cmjv{Sobt\XyXzw ad°m\m{Kln°p∂ Zpc¥amWv. kl{km_vZßfmbn Ab¬°mcmbn Ign™ lnμp˛ap…nw kaqlw s]s´∂v i{Xp°fmbn. ]©m_neqsS

GUEST COLUMN

`£Ww sjb¿ sNømsX A\nen\v Hcp t\chpw hbdp \ndbmdn√. hmkvXhØn¬ F√m BNmcßfpsSbpw A¥ Ø Cu sjbdnwKt√? Ingt°m´pw ]Sn™mtdm´pw Poh\pw am\hpw c£n°m≥ F√mw hns´dn™v ]emb\w sNøp∂ e£°W°n\v P\w. A°q´Øn¬ Hcp s{Sbn\ns‚ apIfn¬ IpØnbncp∂v C¥y\Xn¿Ønbnte°p bm{X sNøp∂ Bƒ°q´Ønembncp∂p A\n¬ F∂ ]Xnt\gpImc≥. c≠p Znhkw. cm{Xnbpw ]Iepw. Xoh≠-n IpSnsh≈hpw `£Whpw In´m\nSbp≈nSØp t]Sn®p \n¿Ønbn√. AhnsSsbms° B{IaWw D≠mtb°mw. aq∂mw Znhkw cmhnse sRńbpW¿∂p. I≠Xv Aev]aIse Xnc°n\nSbn¬ Hcp Ipń Hcp henb N∏mØn ISn®p Xn∂p∂p. hni∂v ]cnkct_m[w \in®v A\n¬ IpńbpsS t\sc ssI \oń. Ipń Nncn®psIm≠-v N∏mØn°jWw A\nens‚ t\sc \oń. AXv ]nSn°m\mbn apt∂m´m™ A\nens‚ hncepIƒ sXmSp∂Xn\p aqºv IpńbpsS AΩ AXp I-≠p. I≈≥. Ip™ns‚ hmbo∂v tamń°pt∂, F∂v Aedn. N∏mØn°jWw sXdn®v Im‰n¬ ]d∂p. Xoh≠-n AXnthKw ]mbpIbmbncp∂p. A\n¬ s]mń°c™p. Ip™pw Ic™p. t_mKnbpsS apIfnencp∂ Bƒ°mcpsS Ip‰s∏SpØp∂ t\m´w A\nens\ PohnXØns‚ `mKambn. `£Ww sjb¿ sNømsX A\nen\v Hcp t\chpw hbdp \ndbmdn√. hmkvXhØn¬ F√m BNmcßfpsSbpw A¥ Ø Cu sjbdnwKt√?

H∂mtemNn®m¬ \mw D]tbmKn°mØ, \ΩpsS Bhiyw Ign™v A[nIamb hkv{Xhpw `£Whpw kºØpw icn°pw AXn√mØhcpsS IqSnbt√? Im‰pw shfn®hpw agbpw ip≤hmbphpw BcpsSbpw kz¥a√. AXp t]mse Xs∂bmWv hn⁄m\hpw. A\p`hØn¬ \n∂v t\Snb Adnhv ]¶p hbv°pI

F∂XmWv am\hkaqlØns‚ hf¿®bpsS tImWn∏SnIƒ. Ccp]Xp sIm√w apºmWv. Fs‚ F¨]Ønbmdp hb mb AO≥ hm¿≤IyklPamb AkpJßfpambn FdWmIpfsØ saUn°¬ s{SÃv Bip]{XnbnemWv. acWkabw ASpØncn°p∂p. Rm≥ Ft∏mgpw H∏ap≠-v. Hcp Znhkw cmhnse. AO≥ ]Xnhnepw BthitØmsS A∂sØ ]{Xhm¿ØIƒ At\zjn®p. ]s£ Hcp h√mbva. slUv \gvkv h∂p t\m°n Ft∂mSp ]d™p. \mUn anSn∏p

Ipd™p hcnIbmWv. C\n IqSpX¬ kaban√. F√mhscbpw Adnbnt®mfq. Ah¿ t]mbn Aev]w Ign™v AO≥ Fs∂ t\m°n ]p©ncn®p. B IÆpIƒ H∂p Xnfßn. sas√ AXS™p. B Ahkm\sØ t\m´w F\ns°mcp B⁄bmbncp∂p Fs∂\n°p tXm∂n. Rm≥ ]pdØndßn. Fs‚ kplyØv Bip]{XnbpsS A[n]≥ tUmIvS¿ ]pfn°\pambn _‘s∏´p. ]d™p. AO≥ Ahkm\ambn Aev]w apºv Ft∂mSp ]d™p. AOs‚ IÆpIƒ B¿s°¶nepw sjb¿ sNøWw. Zm\a√. At±lw DS≥ AXn\v G¿∏mSp sNbvXp. Rm≥ Hcp I≠ojt\ h®p≈p. CXv ]ckyam°cpXv. ]ns∂ c-≠p t]¿°v Hmtcm IÆp hoXw sImSp°Ww. Ah¿ Bsc∂v RßtfmSv ]dbcpXv. BcpsSbmsW∂v IsÆ∂v AhtcmSpw ]dbcpXv. a\pjysc \∂mbn Adnbmhp∂ tUmIvS¿ ]pfn°≥ Fs∂ t\m°n Nncn®p. h¿ΩmPn I≈w ]dbpIbm. AO≥ ]d™n´n√. At√, h¿ΩmPn? Rm≥ ]d™p. \mhp sIm-≠√, IÆp sIm-≠mWv ]d™Xv. tUmIvS¿ th-≠Xp sNbvXp. C∂pw c≠-p t]¿ FhnsStbm Fs‚ AOs‚ IÆpIfneqsS temIw ImWp∂p. Fs‚ AO≥ sjbdnwKneqsS amthensbt∏mse Pohn°p∂p.

Pallikkutam | September 2014

EMVEEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ARMCHAIR DREAMS

Beware, the revolution is around the corner In the first policy announcement of Modi government, in his address to the new parliament, President Pranab Mukherji said. My Government will ensure that within 10 years every family in the country will have a pucca house, 24x7 electricity and pure water supply. Out came many other promises. There would be 100 new cities, 100 new airports and convert 1000 selected villages to decent towns.

t is time for the inevitable. The revolution is just around the corner.

The JNU princes ruling the Communist Party of India (Marxist) party were a bit apprehensive by the results of the recent Lok Sabha elections. Will it be like the Manmohan Singh Government? He purposefully tried to make every Indian a slum dog millionaire and outwitted the left with economic jargon. Will this Narendra Modi also follow suit? But their anxiety was short living. In the first policy announcement of Modi government, in his address to the new parliament, President Pranab Mukherji said. My Government will ensure that within 10 years every family in the country will have a pucca house, 24x7 electricity and pure water supply. Out came many other promises. There would be 100 new cities, 100 new airports and convert 1000 selected villages to decent towns. In his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of Lal Quila, please note the fort is not saffron or tri color or green or white, but Red, the copy right of communism, Modi emphasized only about toilets and not about World Bank. The princes of Jawaharlal Nehru University, the Marxist party satraps of New Delhi are really very intelligent. Now, they proclaimed, nothing can stop the revolution. They

Pallikkutam | September 2014

had never visited an Indian village, not because of their allergy to the dirty raw materials of the inevitable Marxian revolution, but simply because of the absence facility of the most basic biological need of human beings. The Indian villages had no toilets. The Congress party purposely used this weapon to keep the Marxist princes away from the people. Now the hurdle is coming to an end. Narendra Modi is a go-getter. He has shown it in his Gujarat. We can believe him. Now only problem is to know what is Modiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ultimate plan? Will he make the toilets in all these houses, western style and ecofriendly? The fact that he has mentioned about drinking water supply makes it ambiguous. Does he mean that there would be no tissue paper? If that is the case, does he think that the revolution will wait? No. Hope he is sensible. The problem is we would like to advise him. But the fellow speaks in Hindi and we speak only English. And the media fellows! When we want to make revolutionary announcements in Delhi, only Malayalam T V channel fellows come. Really frustrating. But we will not stop. In our trips to the villages when the western type toilets start functioning, we will try to keep packets of tissue paper in our suit cases. After all, the revolutionaries are revolutionaries.

CONFESSIONS Smriti Irani

“When I was born, someone hinted to my mother that ‘beti to bojh hoti hai’! (daughter is a burden) and therefore she should kill me. But my mother was brave and she did not do that because of which, today I am standing here in front of you.”

Smriti Irani Union HRD Minister

Printed and Published by Fr.Varghese Panthalookaran CMI on behalf of Rajagiri Media, Rajagiri Valley PO, Kakkanad, Kochi-39 Ph: 0484-2428249. Printed at Five Star Offset Printers, Kochi. Editor: James Paul