Metro Mart July 2015

METRO mart Volume 4 Issue 12 July 2015

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T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

Biriyani and Dosa Festival at Biverah

AYURVEDA The Science of Longevity

s ’ J R

WIT

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AY D A

Come, find your passion at Tesori www.metromartdaily.com

Technopark’s 25th Anniversary Celebrations July 2015

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

There was a time when one thought the advent of portable media players and the growth of television broadcasting would see the end of Radio. But it was not to be!

The auctioning of 108 FM bands (frequencies) to private players in 2001 saw an evolution in programming technology and broadcasting reach of Radio in India. India’s first private FM radio station is Radio City Bangalore.

With the advent of FM stations came Radio Jockeys or RJs. It is not for every tom, dick and harry. An RJ has to be observant, analytical, persuasive, convincing, have spontaneity, patience – the list is endless. The programs offered by Radio Jockeys should have a perfect blend of entertainment and information. When interacting with the audience over the phone, the RJs need to be thorough with the subjects on hand – since the time duration for making an impact is very short.

Foreword

Dear Readers,

Today’s RJs have to be an entertainer, mind-reader, thoughtprovocateur, among many other roles. RJs sense the change in attitude, they herald the coming seasons. Come August and the festival season of Onam begins. Government discussions and meetings on Onam Fests have begun. Implementation of proper distribution of necessary commodities through ConsumerFed and SupplyCo is being analysed.

Political parties and self-help organizations have taken up organic farming to provide the State with pesticide-free vegetables. Students are hoping to have a vacation free of tensions. People from far and wide have started booking their tickets to back home to be with their near and dear.

Siji Nair Managing Editor & Director

The RJ through his/her program should be able to reflect the mood of the society on that particular day or time. He/She becomes the voice of the nation. Connect with the audience is the target mantra for every RJ. An RJ is not just an entertainer anymore. He/She can be said to have a major role in the molding of the society – depending on the size of his/her audience.

Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram would be heralding Onam with Metro Mart Food Awards-2015. The event would recognize the tasty efforts of the restaurants in and around Thiruvananthapuram. We welcome you all to experience and acknowledge the finest chefs in our city. www.metromartdaily.com

July 2015

CONTENTS A Day with RJ’s

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Kerala Tourism’s Muziris Heritage Project wins PATA Gold Award

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Biriyani and Dosa Festival at Biverah

RJ’s

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H WIT

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Volume 4 Issue 12 July 2015 DAY

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Read our e-edition-www.issuu.com/metromart

Annual Subscription Rs 400 Publisher Hari Shanker hari@martinfotech.in

Managing Editor & Director Siji Nair sijicn@gmail.com Sub Editor

V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair

Creative Assistant

Sayan Chaudhuri Arnab Chowdhury

GM Sales

AYURVEDA-The Science of Longevity

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Sibu Nair

General Manager-Marketing

Binoy K S

Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar

Come, find your passion at Tesori

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Technopark Gears Up For 25th Anniversary Celebrations

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Metro Update

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Baiju Jayakumar Ganesh Damodaran

Corporate Office:Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram Jayaraj Plus Towers, Murinjapalam, Medical College Post Trivandrum - 695011 Tel: +91 471 6065511/ 9947733339 Email: metromart.tvm@gmail.com Bangalore Office:No:217, 3B Main, OMBR Layout Bangalore – 560 043 Tel: +919038000711 Email: info@martinfotech.in Kolkata Office 313, Dorikal Byelane, Jheel Avenue, Dum Dum Road, Kolkata – 700 074, India

Published, Edited and Printed by Hari Shanker A G and Owned by Haritha Media Pvt Ltd and Printed by him at SB Press Private Limited, Statue, Trivandrum 695001 and Published from Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post, Trivandrum 695013 Metro Mart is a monthly journal published from Trivandrum. Views and opinions expressed in the journal are not necessarily those of the Publishers.

Metro Mart reserves the right to use the information published here in any manner whatsoever. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published in this edition, neither the Publisher no any of its employees accept any responsibilities for any errors or omissions. © All Rights Reserved 10 July 2015

RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

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COVER FEATURE

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

A Day

with

RJ’s A Sneak-peak into the life and work culture of Radio Jockeys in our city shows how they are totally different from the run-of-the-mill ones.

Radhika Retnam

All you need to be an RJ is a basic urge to connect with different kinds of people, share and listen to their stories and of course, a creative bent of mind. There’s something unique about these RJs— their style of speaking, the way they see or put things across. They keep the people updated about what’s happening around in a light-hearted, jovial fashion.

The best thing about being an RJ is that you can be a part of everyone’s life and impact it, one way or the other. RJs get invites to events like product/audio launches, press meets, shooting spots and so on. If you become an RJ then your job would include music programming, scripting, presenting radio shows, radio advertisements and lending voice to audio magazines and documentaries. A Radio Jockey is a bunch of adaptability, confidence and positive attitude. A focused approach, sense of humor, adapt www.metromartdaily.com

July 2015

ability and awareness in current issues is a must in this profession. Keeping the quality and standard of the program on a regular basis is quite a challenge, though. It’s not a trivial matter to understand the tastes of the listeners when catering to a wide section of the population. It becomes tough to judge on the basis of individual choices as what one likes may be disliked by the other. RJs create a niche for their program so that they know the specific kind of audience that they are serving and design their program accordingly. A good radio jockey should reach straight to the heart of his/her target audience and voice their feelings.

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RJ ANCY & RJ NEENU Club FM 94.3 Meeting Ancy aka RJ Sweet Ancy was most pleasurable as she was enticing with her sweet chuckles and big wide eyes. Her entry into Rj-ing was as unplanned as her unscripted shows on air – spontaneous and fun. RJ Neenu, RJ and music Scheduler in BIG 92.7 was very warm and welcoming. She pours out her love and passion for music all along the chit-chat.

How did it all start? Your journey as a Radio Jockey...

R J ANCY A I had been working in AIR for several years until 2001 when private FM stations started launching in Thiruvananthapuram. I got to know about Big FM through an Ad and joined the team through audition.

R J NEENU N I’d been doing Television programs from 2004. Later I allied with Big FM. Daily waging a war with your own frames of mind ...

A It is a must in every profession to be pleasant always. It makes the work more enjoyable. In our case, our listeners don’t get to see us. So we have to pass down all the energy and positivity to them through our cheerful voice. We have to make every single day lively because we ought to let the audience be aware of the current affairs in an entertaining fashion.

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N The mike makes me smile. No matter how bad the day is, once I am here, listening to songs and chatting with the callers puts a smile on my face. That’s the sort of attachment I have with the mike.

What do you love the most about Thiruvananthapuram city?

A I love the people here. Compared to the traffic and metro status in Kochi, it is much more comfortable to stay in Thiruvananthapuram.

N It’s the safest city in Kerala. The greenery inside the city is simply alluring.

Favourite cuisine and dining spot...

A When it comes to food, ranging from wayside eateries to 5-star hotels I experiment a lot. Nonetheless, my first choice is Chicken Hyderabadi from Hotel Thaneem located in the Medical College road at close quarters to our office.

N I’m fond of Kallumekaaya fry from Hotel

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Gurucharanam Saranam

Lotus Parnasala Santhigiri Ashram Santhigiri P.O, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India-695 589 communication@santhigiriashram.org www.santhigiriashram.org +91 471 2419313, 8606083000, 8606084000

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Thakkaaram in Pulimood.

You had had a hectic day and you want to spend some time chilling out with friends...

A I’d drive straight to Ambrosia. We have almost all our re-unions and meet-ups there.

N When I have a hectic day, I’d rather go for a drive in the Kowdiar road or Pangode Military camp area.

Favourite wayside eatery in Thiruvananthapuram...

A The one in Pattom located in front of SUT hospital.

N I prefer the one situated in Vellayambalam junction.

The coffee shop that left you totally amazed...

A Nirvana in Kowdiar.

N CCD in Thonnakkal.

Your family friends arrive and you got to take them to the most bewitching tourist spot in Thiruvananthapuram...

A Without a second thought, I’d take them to the sun kissed beaches in Kovalam.

N Ponmudi.

Have you become more of a socially responsible person after being an RJ? How do you see the change?

A Our listeners receive what we speak just like sponge absorbing water. We understand that impact when we receive calls for matters like blood donation and the like.

N I had once found tissues and litter on flower pots in Arya Nivas at Pattom. I posted the picture of the littered flower pots in FB and somehow the next time I went there, it wasn’t there anymore.

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Such incidents make us more aware of our responsibility as RJs. Nightlife in Thiruvananthapuram...

A Right now I don’t find Thiruvananthapuram has nightlife as such. For a night out with friends I would opt to go for a second show.

N: Even for a musical night event, families walk out by 9 p.m. Thiruvananthapuram doesn’t encourage much of a nightlife. The only other options are Hotel Taj and Hilton where they conduct DJs on Saturdays.

Monthly shopping destination...

A: Kunnil Hyper market in Medical College junction.

N Pothys.

Much-loved Fashion hub for outfits and accessories..

A Brand Factory in Keston Road for outfits and Variety Mall for accessories.

N Jayalakshmi in East Fort and Niveda near Ayurveda College.

What do you love the most about being an RJ? A Interacting from 3-year olds to 50-year old people, it’s a lively and vibrant job. I feel young at heart, always.

N I love my listeners and it gives me immense pleasure when I get to know their happiness and satisfaction through the chat we have and the songs we play for them.

Imagine you are made the Collector for one day. First thing you’d change about the city...

A Huge Processions of political parties choke the city traffic. I will do whatever it takes to find a solution for that.

N I will focus on accentuating basic facilities like proper wash rooms, street lights etc in tourist areas like Shankumukam and Kovalam.

Message for the readers...

A Stay fresh and positive. Keep smiling.

N Be kind always. Spread happiness.

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RJ SHIFIN & RJ RAJESH Club FM 94.3

People don’t tune in to FM just for music. This is completely true in the case of the fun-packed program handled by RJ Shifin and Rajesh. They have earned a whole lot of regular listeners waiting to tune in to their show every evening.

How did it all start? Your journey as a Radio Jockey...

RJ Shifin S I was working in a software company and I realized I wanted a more vibrant job. Red FM offers me exactly the right kind of jovial ambience I’d always wanted to be in.

RJ Rajesh R I was into mimicry earlier. I started my career as a RJ when Red FM was launched in Kochi.

Daily waging a war with your own frames of mind...

S My father was terminally sick and one day I got a call from home to inform me the loss of my father just when I winded up my show. That is the nature of our job. No matter what, when we are in front of the mike, we have a responsibility towards our listeners.

R I try to maintain a gaily ambience at home. We start from home and return home after work. I believe that a day would be good if we leave home for work with a happy face.

What do you love the most about Thiruvananthapuram city?

S The best thing about

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Thiruvananthapuram is that we get all varieties of food here.

R As for me, in other cities like Kochi, fast life and traffic is disheartening. I am from Maravoor, near Kollam. Though I work in a city, I feel at home when I am in Thiruvananthapuram.

Favourite cuisine and dining spot...

S Kuruppettan’s special fish thala curry from Nadan Thattukada at Bakery Junction. The native ambience and mouth-watering flavours nudge your taste buds to grab a plate of whatever comes handy.

R: I am more of a homely person and enjoy home-made preparations. For the record, I like Hyderabadi Mutton Biriyani from Hotel Thakkaaram in Pulimood.

You had had a hectic day and you want to spend some time chilling out with friends...

S and R: Varkala beach Government guest house. You can apply online and get the sanction. The unmatched ambience makes us visit there often.

Favourite wayside eatery in Thiruvananthapuram S The one near LMS bus stop, in front of Government Hostel for Boys.

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R Savari thattukada in GPO-Vanjiyoor Road The coffee shop that left you totally amazed...

S and R We prefer open air tea-stalls to suffocated air-conditioned coffee shops.

Chandran chetan’s wayside tea-stall near NSS high school in Shankar road is our favourite.

Your family friends arrive and you got to take them to the most bewitching tourist spot in Thiruvananthapuram...

S Firstly I’d take them to show Anaconda in our Zoo. The elephant rehabilitation centre in Kottur, lying in the lap of the Agasthyakoodam hill range is a must see in Thiruvananthapuram. Also, the light house in Kovalam cannot be left out.

R I’d choose to spend an evening with them in the rocks of Shasthampaara where you can touch the clouds and get bird’s eye view of the city.

Have you become more of a socially responsible person after being an RJ? How do you see the change?

S I was brimming with happiness when a well-known chain smoker in our locality came up to me one day and said that he decided to quit smoking listening to our show last day which was about the problems of smoking. We try to understand the significance of what we say and its impact on the readers.

R Recently Red FM had endeavoured some very effective campaigns such as Missed Call Activation Campaign for Blood donation and the Care for Hair Campaign – an attempt to produce maximum wigs for cancer patients. When we come up with such ventures, the response from the public is so overwhelming that it forces us to think more about our responsibility.

Night life in Thiruvananthapuram...

S and R Even in the case of Technopark

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in Kazhakootam, the techie lifestyle ends once you pass the gate. Majority of Thiruvananthapuram is village areas untouched by the city culture.

Monthly shopping destination...

S and R Big Bazar Much-loved fashion hub for outfits and accessories..

S and R Brand Factory in Keston Road and Fast Track in Pattom.

What do you love the most about being an RJ? S In the case of Radio, people are always clueless and curious about the making of our shows. Somehow I like to sustain that factor of curiosity in them and that makes me love my work more.

R (in one go) Decent salary and full freedom is the most attractive part of this job, as I see it.

Imagine you are made the Collector for one day. First thing you’d change about the city...

S When an outsider visits Thiruvananthapuram, the first impression he gets is through the N number of flex boards seen all around the city. I’d take necessary action for the removal of these Flex boards. It spoils the beauty of our city.

Also, I would allot a place solely for the political parties to conduct their protests.

Thus the public will not be affected.

R I would make sure to give maximum punishment for those who had abandoned their parents in old age home.

Message for the readers...

S and R When you speak with someone, even if it is for one minute, make sure you have left a smile on him/her. Always be a happy person and spread happiness to everyone around you.

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RJ NILJA & RJ CHINCHU Club FM 94.3 It’s quite impossible not to be crazy once you meet up these girls – cheerful and nutty as a fruitcake. The Mirchi girls were a full package of josh, gossips, and laughter. They simply bomb you with positivity.

How did it all start? Your journey as a Radio Jockey...

RJ Nilja N (with a glee) I made a mistake (like most of the people of my age) by pursuing engineering. I used to be the most talkative student in school. I was such a chatterbox that everyone who knew me always wondered where I’d end up in life. And, here I am happy beyond words working as an RJ. RJ Chinchu C RJ-ing was a fascination for me from a very young age. I got in here through an audition in 2012 and still feeling totally excited to be a part of Radio Mirchi.

Daily waging a war with your own frames of mind...

N When the mike is ON nothing else matters. We are accustomed to stabilizing and focusing our thought processes.

C Our brand is a sunshine brand. There is a ‘Mirchified’ nature for everything about us.

Once you enter our office it’s kind of really hard to feel low. Everything about this place is so much pleasant and positive.

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What do you love the most about Thiruvananthapuram city?

N Coming from Kannur, I love Thiruvananthapuram for its lush greenery within the arena of the city. The city is rich with its history; it has got many stories to tell us. The Kowdiar palace has left me flabbergasted when I saw it for the first time.

C Thiruvananthapuram is a blockbuster city. I bet there’s any other city in Kerala which has got everything within the limit of 50 km. We have a beach, Techno park, waterfalls, forests, hill station, airport, harbour—everything within a distance of 50km.

Favourite cuisine and dining spot...

N Biriyani from Hotel Ajwa in Panavila and Litchi gold ice-cream from Baskin Robbins C There’s a dhaba located adjacent to DMN Furniture in Chala. They specialize in hard boiled eggs and omelettes.

When you have had a hectic day and you want to keep calm and spend time chilling out with friends...

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N Kadalpaalam C Kowdiar Park or Public library

C Chala is pocket-friendly and I love walking around the place shopping.

Favourite wayside eatery in Thiruvananthapuram N and C The one in front of Anna’s Arcade in Palayam.

Much-loved fashion hub for outfits and accessories..

N Max and Pothys for outfits and Niveda for accessories. I also shop from the roadside vendors.

C I prefer Big Bazaar for outfits and I love to purchase my accessories from the North-Indian vendors seen all along footpaths in the city.

The coffee shop that left you totally amazed...

N Sarwa in Sasthamangalam C No matter how many new coffee shops pop up; my favourite is Indian Coffee House.

I love the coffee and cutlets there.

Your family friends arrive and you got to take them to the most bewitching tourist spot in Thiruvananthapuram...

N Jain temple in Chitharaal C Maathur Aqueduct Have you become more of a socially responsible person after being an RJ? How do you see the change?

N We have sponsored chairs in the Museum when we observed that there was shortage of chairs. People call us often for issues like traffic block and so on. That is the nature of our job and we keep our eyes and ears open to everything around us.

C Through my show we planned to deliver umbrellas for the road-side vendors and other people who are forced to work in the hot sun and heavy rains to earn their bread.

It gives me fullness and satisfaction to see the smile in their faces.

Night life in Thiruvananthapuram...

N and C When we plan a crazy night out with friends, we would drive straight to Cafe Beatles in Kovalam.

Monthly shopping destination...

N Spencers

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What do you love the most about being an RJ? N It’s the apt job for my nature. I am talkative and I do have a sense of social commitment. I don’t think I’ll find a better job for me than RJ-ing.

C I love the celebrity status I enjoy now and the fact that I get to meet up with so many established celebrities and film stars.

Imagine you are made the Collector for one day. First thing you’d change about the city...

N I’d make sure that only pesticide-free vegetables are sold in Thiruvananthapuram.

I’d also find a solution for proper waste disposal.

C Would take necessary action to abolish the inhumane attitudes of private hospitals.

Money and legal formalities should be taken care of only after the person has revived from his critical condition. Saving the life of a person should be the primary importance.

Message for the readers...

N Always keep in mind that we should spare our earth for our future generations also. Keep away from littering and spoiling our mother earth.

C Worrying about the past and future will not change anything. Try to live in the present always.

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RJ Vinu & RJ Muzafir Club FM 94.3

The happy hours with RJ Muzafir and RJ Vinu were lovely and amiable. Sharing experiences, life-stories and much more, we just couldn’t keep track of time. They open up about how exciting life is once you work as a Radio Jockey.

How did it all start? Your journey as a Radio Jockey...

RJ Vinu V I was in this field for 7 years as a Dubbing artist. I came to know about Club FM through a friend.

RJ Muzafir M I wanted to be an RJ right from my childhood. It was a dream come true for me.

Daily waging a war with your own frames of mind...

V When I am in front of the mike, nothing else matters.

M Some days I feel really low, but luckily people don’t realize it. After attending the calls, we naturally gel with the happiness of our callers.

What do you love the most about Thiruvananthapuram city?

V: It’s my home town so I have special

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warmth and love towards this city.

M I’m from Kannur and when I came to Thiruvananthapuram what amazed me was that even though it is a city, it doesn’t have most of the negatives seen usually in other cities like pollution, crowd or traffic. There are trees and shelter even inside the city.

Favourite cuisine and dining spot...

V Fish curry from Ammachikada located in Pettah near the railway station.

M Puttu and payaru curry from Mothers Veg Plaza in Bakery Junction When you had had a hectic day and you want to keep calm and spent time chilling out with frnds..

V Varkala beach M Shankumukam beach Favourite wayside eatery in

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Thiruvananthapuram V The one in Pattoor Junction M I often go to the one in Pulimood junction near Mathrubhumi Books.

The coffee shop that left you totally amazed...

V CCD in Kowdiar M I am not a coffee person. Nevertheless, I liked the ambience in Nirvan, Kowdiar Your family friends arrive and you got to take them to the most bewitching tourist spot in Thiruvananthapuram...

V Mangayam forest.

M Magic planet in KINFRA Park, Kazhakootam Have you become more of a socially responsible person after being an RJ? How do you see the change?

V: I am doing the morning show where we discuss many socially relevant issues. So, to an extent, yes, there has been a change in me.

M Since we get to interact with so many people we try to be more responsible towards them. As an RJ, I believe that I have a better platform to bring an impact on the people making them aware of the current affairs.

Much-loved fashion hub for outfits and accessories...

V Big Bazaar in Pattom.

M I prefer OTTO located opposite to Pothys.   What do you love the most about being an RJ? V I am lucky enough to befriend people of different age groups. This is one perk about this job that I love the most.

M: Everybody wants a feeling of importance. As a child, we always make up stories to share with our friends at school.

When we get back home, we elaborate about the incidents at school to our mothers. It is a pleasant feeling to realize that through this job we have so many people listening to us.

Imagine you are made the Collector for one day. First thing you’d change about the city...

V I will make sure that people who use mobile phones while driving will have their license banned.

M According to the rule, those who take part in political processions and marches ought to stop every 10 minutes to give space for transport. I will make that rule put in to practise in our city.

Night life in Thiruvananthapuram...

V In my opinion, the only option left is theatres.

M Thiruvananthapuram is not a nonsleeping city like Madurai. I don’t think Thiruvananthapuram has a night life at all.

Message for the readers...

V Fill your life with lots of music n fun.

M I have observed that nowadays people give more importance to material things, i.e. instead of loving an SLR camera, we should try to be passionate about photography.

Monthly shopping destination...

V Since we do not have a mall in Thiruvananthapuram, I prefer spending my time shopping in Pothys M Spencers and More.

RJs welcome us every morning with positive vibes and good music and entertainment. If you have a good RJ speaking over your earphones, then the world can be a better place.

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METRO mart T H I R U VA N A N T H A P U R A M

Kerala Tourism’s PATA Muziris Heritage GOLD Project wins AWARD Kerala Tourism has bagged this year’s prestigious Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Awards for its Muziris Heritage Project in the ‘Heritage & Culture’ category.

The award, sponsored by the Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO), was bestowed on the Muziris Heritage Project for its conservational aspect, uniqueness and impact on local community.

“This award is recognition of the Muziris project, aimed at restoring the historical and cultural significance of the ancient town that stretches across North Paravur in Ernakulam to Kodungalloor in Thrissur,” said Tourism Minister Shri A P Anilkumar.”The flagship project of government of Kerala is one of the biggest heritage conservation projects of modern India,” he added.

Supported and sponsored by MGTO for the last 20 years, this year’s PATA Grand and Gold Awards recognise the achievements of 25 separate organisations and individuals.

“Being a part of the Spice Route Project, which is supported by UNESCO, the Muziris project already has a key status in the cultural tourism map,” said Kerala Tourism Secretary, Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao. The award further highlights its prominence in international www.metromartdaily.com

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heritage tourism,he added.

There were 269 entries from 83 organisations and individuals worldwide for this year’s award, the highest number since 2007. The awards will be presented on September 8 at PATA Travel Mart at Bangalore. Over 800 industry executives will attend the award ceremony.

“The list of PATA Gold Awards 2015 winners unveils once again the very best of Pacific-Asia tourism practices,” said MGTO Director Ms Maria Helena

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de Senna Fernandes. She added that the excellence and innovation revealed by the works and projects awarded are impressive and can provide inspiration to raise the standards of tourism industry stakeholders in the region.

Noting that no other tourism department in the country could win this much-admired award this time, Tourism Director Shri P I Sheik Pareeth said the PATA award acknowledges Kerala Tourism’s excellence in heritage conservation.

PATA had honoured Kerala Tourism for the Responsible Tourism initiative in Kumarakom and Kerala tourism’s popular e-Newsletter in 2014.

Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for profit association that is nternationally acclaimed for acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.

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July 2015

DINING

Biriyani and Dosa Festival at Biverah The Thiruvananthapuram foodies can relish ‘Dosas’ and ‘Biriyani’ from different regions of India as part of a food festival organised by Biverah Hotel and Suites, at Kumarapuram.

This festival is in continuation of the Food Mela that began in April.

It will now continue at this family restaurant, located ideally between Pattom and Medical College.

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July 2015

The guests at this restaurant would be offered a specially-designed promotional menu during the festival. The organizers have envisaged on taking the guests on a journey

through the diverse Indian cuisine.

The varieties that would be offered include a long list of Indian specialties.

The Dosa lovers can choose

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July 2015

from Mysore Masala dosa (popular as king Dosa), plain dosa, garlic chutney dosa, Kutty dosa, sandwich dosa, oriental dosa and so on. The wide varieties also include spicy and nonvegetarian dosas such as Podi egg masala dosa, sea food dosa, sausage masala dosa, chettinad chicken dosa, chicken tikka dosa, Biverah special dosa, chicken stuff kheema dosa, etc.

to mouthwatering Biriyanis of various recipes and combinations from across India. Biriyani items include Chicken Tikka Biriyani, Thalasseri Mutton Biriyani, Ambur Veg Biriyani,

Malabari Mutton Biriyani, Mahi Lazeez Biriyani, Kochikodan Kozhi Biriyani among others. Various vegetarian biriyanis too find a prominent place in the list.

Again, as with the dosas, the Biriyani lovers would be treated

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July 2015

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Biverah Hotel & Suites is providing a great opportunity for their guests to feast on both traditional and contemporary items of Biriyani and Dosa. The chefs at the restaurant are bound to wow their guests by creating culinary delights that would suit every taste and palate.

The restaurant caters to its guests during day and evening hours & night.

They also offer free home delivery. Reservation facility is provided for those food

lovers who want to book their place and time – Biverah Hotel & Suites at

8606900603.

Experience new recipes and traditional items at Biverah!

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CoderTech IT Solutions LLP. prides itself of its state-of-the-art Coder infrastructure, with highly motivated individuals as our backbone.

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Mob : +91 9447255919 Tel : +91 471 237 3719 Email : info@codertechsolutions.com

July 2015

HEALTH

AYURVEDA-The Science of Longevity Ayurveda as the name implies science of life is related to traditional treatment methods and herbal medicines. More clearly it is a science meant for complete well being of human body and the eradication of specific symptoms of disease.

Compared to other states Kerala has an unique system of life Dr. Kavya Prabha which suits very much with the same mentioned in Ayurveda.

According to Ayurveda ,vata,pitta and kapha are the three fundamental units of body.Balance of these doshas is arogatha(health) and imbalabce is the roga(disease).Ayurveda

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chikitsa is mainly classified into two-sodhana chikitsa and samana chikitsa.

of disease can be removed.It includes special techniques like vamana(emesis),virecha na(purgation),vasti(enema), Sodhana chikitsa -It means nasya(nasal medication) and the expulsion of dosha from raktamoksha(blood letting). the body ie the root cause Sodhana chikitsa commonly

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known as panchakarma.

Samana chikitsa -It helps to balance the imbalanced dosha without eliminating them from the body.

4.Nasya -medicine instilled into nose.

5.Raktamoksha -application of leech etc. to remove the vitiated blood.

Panchakarma is an effective and miraculous Ayurvedic method of treatment which detoxifies the body.

Panchakarma procedure has purvakarma(prepurification therapy)include snehana and svedana.

Snehana is nothing but the oleation therapy which may be external or internal.Internal oleation is the intake of medicated oil.The amount of oil is fixed according to condition.External oleation means whole or partial body massage with medicated oil.Swedana karma(sudation therapy) make the body to sweat.

These procedures help to bring the dosha(toxins)to the site of elimination from all part of the body.

Beside these therapies,Kerala follows some special treatments like,

1.Vamana - the medicines are given orally and made the person to vomit.

Karkitaka chikitsa or sukha chikitsa

2.Virechana -the medicines are given orally and made the patient to purgate.

3.Vasti -medicated oil,ghee or decoction is administered through rectum. www.metromartdaily.com

1.Navarakizhi -fomentation with navara rice cooked in milk and medicated kashaya.

2.Navaratheppu-application of paste of navara rice over the body.

3.Pizhichil -pouring of medicated oil all over the body.

4.Dhara -dripping of either oil or kashaya over the body.

5.Thalapothichil-covering of head with medicated paste 6.Thalam -medicated paste over the vertex.

Karkitaka is considered the most challanging month of the year,because the body get vitiated due to the climate and requires effective treatment.

Karkitaka has long been identified as the period of preventive treatment,as

the human body will also be receptive to ayurveda medicine.Now let’s see the benefits this chikitsa.

-many toxins are accumulated in our body through air,food and water.

By karkitaka chikitsa these toxins removed.

-improve circulation of blood and give nourishment to the body.

-breaking down the fat and toning the body.

-oushada kanji prepared with selected ayurveda drugs ehance the strength July 2015

and boost immunity.

-it repair the entire body system,thereby making the body fit and healthy for the year ahead.

These therapies work wonder when performed properly under the supervision of well experienced ,efficient ayurveda physician.Only an experienced physician can select the therapy which is suitable for one person.

Varsha ritu(rainy season) regimen Ayurveda ,the science of life emphasized the importance of seasonal regimen for maintaining health as well as preventing disease.

As the body is greatly influenced by the external environment,during rainy season immunity of our body reduces and make us susceptible to many diseases.The climate change became unpredictable today,adaptation according

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to the change became the key for survival.

Rainy season is the time to keep our body away from the attack of diseases like fever, cough, jaundice, typhoid, cholera, dengue fever, chikungunya etc.

DIET & DRINKS 1. Cereals,old barly,rice,wheat etc. should be used.

2.Light and hot food should be taken.

3.All types of food taken with ghee and honey.

4.Boiled water should be taken.Water can be boiled with pippali,pippalimoola,sundi etc. which increases the digestive power.

LIFESTYLE 1.Avoid river water,sleeping during daytime and sunbath 2.Avoid getting wet.

3.Take hot water bath.

4.Keep the surroundings clean and not allow water get accumulated around to prevent the development of mosquito etc.

5.Fumigation of house with smoke of dried leaves of neem in evening.Fumigation with Aparajithadhoomam which is available in market is also useful.

6.walks with footwear.

Diabetic patients have to take special care about your feet and keep them dry and clean.To prevent fungal infection between toespaste of turmeric and neem is recommended.

7.Karkitaka chikitsa or sukha chikitsa.It helps to maintain health and preventing diseases.

Enjoy the monsoon.Keep in mind -prevention is better than cure. “ Loka samasta sukhino bhavantu�

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July 2015

SHOPPING

Come, find your passion at Tesori Tesori is the creation of a mother - daughter duo whose innate love for fashion and creativity led to the conceptualization of this boutique studio right in the heart of Trivandrum.

A quaint yellow-brick store, Tesori beckons you with its eye-catching logo of butterflies with the promise of something special as you step into the warm inviting interiors with its wooden laid floors and beautiful paintings lining the walls.

Upscale and elegant, Tesori offers an eclectic collection of sarees,

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salwars, hand bags, accessories and designer jewellery handpicked and curated from all over India.

Their collection consists of carefully-selected combinations of timeless designs in soft colors and rich fabrics and an array of pure silver jewellery set in semi-precious stones designed exclusively for the

store.

Tesori works with a range of up and coming talented designers from across the country to bring to their clientele a classic, fresh and vibrant collection that has been highly appreciated.

Manu Nair, an MBA with a background in consulting and IT, was spurred by her

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July 2015

“Our customers come to us with the confidence that they can always find that special something perfectly matched to their tastes and sensibilities and never leave disappointed. We are like your own personal shopper, saving you time and the hassle of going around trying to find that perfect ensemble be it for a fun or festive occasion,” says Manu Nair.

love for fashion, fabric and design into creating Tesori with the support of her mother, Mrs. Rema Gopalakrishnan, former director of Tandem Group.

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Tesori supports ethical fashion and works closely with the Andhra Pradesh weavers association, APCO, where they source directly from the weavers in the Nellore and Guntur regions of AP. Some of the traditional types of weaving that are being revived, like the jamdani work from Bangladesh and the double ikkat patola from Gujarat can be seen prominently displayed in the store.

Tesori also houses an ecofriendly collection for the environmentally conscious shopper. One of the things that make Tesori stand out is their support of womenled initiatives. A significant part of the store’s clothing and accessories are sourced from women designers and small labels owned

exclusively by women.

They also have their own in-house designs that have been received very well, and are happy to announce that customers can expect more such original designs in the coming months!

For Onam Tesori will be coming out with a range of traditional Kerala sareee infused with contemporary elements. The focus will be on blouses with patchwork, geometric, kutch and batik prints with an added emphasiz on colour and texture. We will also house an eclectic collection of Uppadas, georgettes, Cut work sarees, hussars and cottons.

Mrs Sujatha Karmachandran is the promoter and partner of Tesori in house design studio.

The Tesori experience transcends the routine shopping experience and holds true to their tag line: “Come, find your passion at Tesori!”

Contact-Tesori,Tandem Buildings, Statue General Hospital Rd, Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695001, Phone:0471 301 9001

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July 2015

celebration

Technopark Gears Up For 25th Anniversary Celebrations Technopark, India’s first IT Park is gearing up to celebrate its silver jubilee in a big way by lining up a series of programmes that get underway on July 27. It was on July 28, 1990, that the Kerala government started works on Technopark that has now emerged as one of the most conducive places in the country for IT/ITeS operations.

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala Shri OommenChandy will officially launch the month-long silver jubilee celebrations on July 27 at Mascot Hotel by unveiling the new logo of Technopark in the presence of Hon’ble

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July 2015

IT and Industries Minister Shri P K Kunhalikutty and other dignitaries.

A delegation of Ministers, MLAs, government officials and media will visit the Technopark Phase III

campus on July 29 to witness the development projects underway in the third phase of the park, which will be followed by an event for the delegates.

On July 30, a get-together

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is planned at the podium of Technopark Phase III campus which will be attended by CEOs of companies in Technopark.

The main event, as part

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of the silver jubilee celebrations, will be held at the Amphitheatre near Park Centre on August 5, 2015. The Chief Minister will officially inaugurate the functions

in the presence of the IT Minister, other ministers and Government officials and other dignitaries.

Former Chairpersons, Members of Governing Councils, Government

July 2015

officials, former CEOs and other personalities who were responsible for envisioning and the build-up of Technopark right from the early days of Technopark will be invited for the function.

The inauguration will be followed by a performance by the band “Thaikkudam Bridge�.

During the month of

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July 2015

th

Anniversary

August, as an extended series of events related to the celebration, the inauguration of the new 2.5 crores solid waste management plant and the new security control room will be conducted.

The celebration will be concluded with the laying of the foundation stone for the largest IT building in the Phase I campus of Technopark.

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July 2015

METRO UPDATE

Kerala Tourism Fosters More Investment at TIM Offering opportunities for investors and decision-makers to network, and in a bid to attract investments into the lucrative tourism sector, Kerala Tourism participated in the first ever exclusive Tourism Investors Meet (TIM), organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Tourism Finance Corporation. The two-day meet that began on Wednesday took place in New Delhi.

“This is an ideal platform

the various investment

for the tourism industry

represented the state during

opportunities available,”

to network with key

the meet.

he added. The TIM brought

leaders and decision

together investors, policy

Apart from the

in the country,” said Kerala

makers and industry leaders presentations on possible investment avenues and from various enterprises

Tourism Secretary Shri G

and institutions.

incentives by the state

“We hope to get more

included special sessions on

tourism potential.

private investors for the

tourism infrastructure and

tourism sector post this

“We have showcased the

opportunities for investment

meet,” said Dr M Beena,

incentives provided to

and pre-structured one-

MD, Kerala State Industrial

developers for setting up

to-one business meetings

Development Corporation

projects and highlighted

between state governments

(KSIDC), who also

and prominent investors.

makers in various sectors

Kamala Vardhana Rao, while presenting Kerala’s

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July 2015

governments, the meet

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METRO UPDATE

ICGE 2015 Aims At Finding Priority Areas For Action In Gender Gender Park calls for paper/poster submissions to the international conference

Grasping the labyrinthine

a “game changer” in the area

misinterpretations and

of gender. UN Women, the UN

controversies around gender

organisation for gender equality

equations in today’s constantly

and women’s empowerment,

changing socio- economic and

is also a key partner of the

political scenarios will be the prime

conference.

task of the first International Conference on Gender Equality

Gender Park has invited papers

(ICGE) 2015 that will also aim to

and poster submissions for

forge new perspectives in this

the international conference,

area.

themed ‘Gender, Governance and Inclusion’, which looks

Organising the mid-November

forward to identifying priority

event at Kovalam is the Gender

areas for future focus and action

Park, which functions under the

in the area. The papers, which

state government’s social justice

must be empirically grounded,

department, as the first of a series

are expected to reflect the

of biennial conferences that will

theme while focussing on work,

initiate dialogue and function as

citizenship, health, masculinities,

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education, globalisation and social security, and the media.

The last date for submission of abstracts is August 30. Selected papers must be submitted in full

by September 15. The best of these will be considered for a highquality publication.

For formatting guidelines for poster submissions and other details, please check www.icge.in Registrations for attending the conference are now open.

Paper presenters and the poster presenters are required to register for the conference for presenting their work.

July 2015

METRO UPDATE

Culture Minister Shri K C Joseph announced Sudarshan Shetty as KMB 2016 curator Nearly a month after a high-powered panel of artists and prominent personalities made their unanimous decision, Minister for Culture Shri K C Joseph announced one of the most innovative Indian contemporary artists, Sudarshan Shetty, as the curator of the Kochi Muziris Biennale (KMB) 2016 at a function in the capital. The new curator continues the KMB tradition of being an exhibition curated by an artist.

“KMB has contributed to Kerala’s culture, tourism and hospitality industries and renewed India’s cultural position in the world. We will extend full support to the programme in the coming years,” said the minister at an afternoon

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event attended by political bigwigs and artistes from the state, including biennale founders Bose Krishnamachari and Riyas Komu. “The new curator will be vital to furthering this site of art.”

Shetty, 54, takes over the

mantle of KMB curator and artistic director from Jitish Kallat. Both are Mumbai-based artists of international renown, with Shetty’s installations and multi-media works being shown across the US and Europe. His work

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July 2015

featured in the first KMB and he is the only Indian artist who has been commissioned to create a public sculpture in Japan.

“Through just two biennales, the KMB has acquired the role of one of the most

featuring 52 international

important exhibitions

and 42 Indian artists, and

globally,” said Shetty, who

received nearly 5 lakh

was at the function with

visitors.

his wife and daughter. “It is a privilege to be declared curator. This is early stages and my thoughts will undergo several changes, but I will be looking to the future while considering the past, in putting together

“It is good to have a curator who has worked in various mediums and so can understand in various ways how art can capture aspects of life,” said MP Shri Shashi Tharoor. “We

the exhibition in 2016.”

have overcome some of

KMB 14 was 108-day event,

in recognising the role

spread across eight venues,

of KMB and people are

the parochial mentalities

coming from all over the country and the world to see it. So, we should strongly invest in it.”

The new curator was selected after a month-long

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July 2015

deliberation by a panel under KBF comprising artists Amar Kanwar, Atul Dodiya, Bharti Kher, Jyoti Basu, and patrons Kiran Nadar, Ranjit Hoskote, Shireen Gandhi, V Sunil, and also Kochi Biennale Foundation President Krishnamachari and Secretary Komu.

Present at today’s function were former Culture Minister Shri M A Baby, Kochi MLA Shri Dominic Presentation, Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Smt K Chandrika, Kochi Mayor Shri Tony Chammani, film makers Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Shaji N Karun and Lenin Rajendran, and Planning Board Member G Vijayaraghavan, Former DGP and KBF trustee Hormiz Tharakan, ADGP R Sreelekha, Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy chairman Soorya Krishnamoorthy.

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July 2015

METRO UPDATE

Bhima Govindan Selected for BSICC’s Lifetime Achievement Award Bhima Group Chairman Dr B. Govindan was chosen for the British South India Council of Commerce (BSICC)’s 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award, for his outstanding contribution to the Indian gems and jewellery industry.

The award, which recognises the achievements of prominent business persons and organisations from south India and UK’s south India community, was received by Dr. Govindan in UK Parliament house, during its business meet.

BSICC promotes trade and investment opportunities between the UK and South India.

Dr. Govindan received the award from Lord Swraj Paul, a veteran of British politics and a global industrialist, in the presence of Shri Virendra Sharma MP UK Parliament, Patron of BSICC; Shri Sujit Nair, BSICC Chief Coordinator and Director; Shri Harish Haridas, Kerala Chief Representative, BSICC and Vice-Chairman, Lords Hospital; and Lord Brett Mclean.

Mr. Suhas Rao, Managing Director, Bhima Jewellery, spoke about investment opportunities in Indian Gems and Jewellery Industry. Mr Jim James, UKTI Advisor spoke of the

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July 2015

Dr Govindan, Chairman Bhima at the BSICC award ceremony with Lord Swraj Paul ,Shri Virendra Sharma,Lord Brett McLean, Mr Suhas Rao,Bhima MD Mr Harish Haridas, Chief Kerala Representative, BSICC and Mrs Jaya Govindan(Bhima

potential for strengthening India-UK trade relations.

Son of late Shri Bhima Bhattar, the founder of Bhima Jewellery, and Smt. Vanaja Bhima Bhattar, Shri Govindan began his career

as a sales and marketing executive for Bhima& Bros, Alappuzha.

He has been instrumental in steering the business to its present success and also to a large extent

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in changing the face of

several years and also

Commerce and Industries;

jewellery business for

maintains the top position

Chairman of the rate fixing

the better. Under his

in prizes and coupons of

Committee, Gold & Silver,

leadership, Bhima, rose to

Grand Kerala Shopping

Kerala.

an 8000 crore company

Festival, conducted by

and it is identified in

the Department of Kerala

Kerala as the first ISO-9001

Tourism.

certified jewellery and the first BIS certified jewellery showroom.

He is also a govt. approved gold valuer. In recognition to his contribution to

Shri Govindan also

the field of jewellery,

holds several positions

he has bagged several

including the Director

honours including the

Additionally, Bhima is the

Board Member of All India

Karmashreshta Award, the

highest VAT paying jeweller

Gems &Jewellery Trade

Life Time Achievement

from a single outlet. It

Federation, President of

Award organised by the

has been retaining its

All Kerala Gold & Silver

Art of Jewellery Magazine,

position of the highest

Merchants Association,

and Trivandrum Chamber of

sales tax paying jewellery

Vice-President of

Commerce and Industry’s

showroom in Kerala for

Trivandrum Chamber of

Business Excellency Award.

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July 2015

METRO FOCUS

Labour Dept launches Praveenyam on World Youth Skills Day The Kerala government celebrated Naipunya Dinam 2015, showcasing the achievements of the state in skill development. The occasion also marked the launch of ‘Praveenyam’, a life skill training programme for youth in partnership with Tata Strive. The programme will be implemented through Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence, the nodal skill development agency of the state.

Aimed at youngsters between 14 to 30 years, Praveenyam empowers its participants by improving their non-cognitive skills and ensuring employability.

Dr Renu Raj, who secured 2nd rank in the Indian Civil Service examination, was honoured with the Vidya Naipunyam award. Awards were also given to 15 students from various ITI institutions who received excellent placements abroad.

“Even though the youth of Kerala find employment abroad, a majority of them work in the lower strata for a lesser pay. Our skills development programmes are aimed at ensuring better salaries,” said Minister for Labour and Skills Shri Shibu Baby John, in his inaugural address, after unveiling the logo and prospectus of Praveenyam.

The event was aimed at recognizing the importance

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July 2015

of ITI and other such institutions in a growing economy.

speech was delivered by KASE Managing Director Rahul R IRS. Shri Shankar Venkateswaran, Chief, “We would have earned Tata Sustainability group, thrice the amount of foreign provided an insight into the currency had we focused Praveenyam life skill training on skill development programme. earlier,” observed Minister for Panchayats and Social FICCI Co-chairman Justice Dr M K Muneer, Shri Deepak L Aswani, who pointed out that skills Department of Higher development programmes Education Additional chief helped Kudumbasree soar secretary Dr KM Abraham higher and serve as a role IAS, Directorate of training model for countries in Additional Director P K Africa.

Madhavan, and the Centre’s Directorate General of The event was presided training Joint Director over by Labour and Skills Sri Shahjahan were also Principal Secretary Shri Tom Jose IAS. The welcome present.

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July 2015

METRO FOCUS

Technopark receives best performance award from planning board Technopark was conferred the second place in the State Planning Board’s awards for best performance in plan implementation in 2014 at a function held at the city.

The IT Park has secured the second rank under category (II) for the timely monitoring and completion of its projects. Category (II) includes departments and implementing agencies which have a budget allocation of Rs 10-100 crores. The award consists of a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh and citation.

This is the inaugural award instituted by the State Planning Board to recognize

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July 2015

the most efficient agencies

Oommen Chandy. Minister for Rural Development, Planning, Norka and Culture, parameters lay down for Shri K C Joseph; Minister the award included Plan for Industries, Information Governance, Physical Technology and Urban achievement, Innovation, Affair, Shri P K Kunhalikutty; Centrally sponsored and State Planning Board Vice other Schemes.

Chairman and former Central Cabinet Secretary Minister for Finance Law Shri K M Chandrasekhar and Housing Shri K M Mani and Principal Secretary to presented the award to the department of IT and Shri K G Girish Babu, CEO Industries Shri PH Kurien Technopark, in the presence were also present at the function. of Chief Minister Shri in fund utilisation. The

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Mr V K Prasad General Manager Vivanta by Taj, Trivandrum

T he L ast L eaf

Trivandrum

City With Thousand Year Old Rich Heritage Trivandrum as we know it now is a city with thousand year old rich heritage, values and charm of new age development. There exists a cohesive environment that helps both the traditional values and technological development to co-exist and grow simultaneously.

People visit the city to get peace and solace in the harmonious environment of religious beliefs; tranquility and traditions.They also visit the city for the favorable business environment created with the development of IT Park. It is also considered as the Bureaucratic capital of the state with the nerve center of all activities of importance.

Technology is the driving force behind all business and the city is host to many such companies from around the globe making it a unique conglomerate of such diverse set-up.

The need of the hour is also better travel connectivity. Due to lack of direct flights to key metros like Mumbai, Delhi; the city losses opportunity to benefit from tapping these crucial touch point markets. This will also enhance the MICE segment which in turn will be a big boost to the tourism economy. To manage the corporate travel all the key stakeholders such as airlines/hotels/destination management companies and travel agents need to be in one platform and take the city of Trivandrum into a World Class destination.

We need to find a fine balance between the collaborators to give outstanding service and value for money to the visiting tourists, which will enable them to visit Trivandrum multiple times and hence enhance tourism sector as a whole.

Tivandrum has the charm and elegance to offer a variety to the corporate travelers as well leisure travelers. All the ingredients are there, we just need to energize ourselves to make it happen.

Let me know at Krishna.prasad@tajhotels.com

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