Metro Mart August 2016

METRO mart Volume 6 Issue 1

August 2016

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

CZARINA’S ONAM COLLECTION Apollo Dimora A trend-setting array of commercial project Lulu to Build Second Biggest Mall inwww.metromartdaily.com thiruvananthapuram

ONAM

Celebrating the Spirit of Kerala!

August 2016

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August 2016

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Malayalees are waiting to welcome yet another Onam. The entire land irrespective of class and creed is in a festive mood to celebrate and proclaim the message of oneness and brotherhood. Every Onam brings in more hope in life and abundant memories to cherish. Onam gives colour and spreads fragrance in the lives of people like Athapookalam (which is the arrangement of flowers on the floor in an elaborate and colourful way on Atham day).

Foreword

Hi Readers,

The major venues of other cultural events include Vyloppilli Samskrithi Bhavan, University College, Techno Park, Poojappura ground and Gandhi Park. And there will be illuminations across the city to add colour to Onam celebrations, besides food festival and trade fairs.

It’s Onam! So celebrate the spirit of the harvest festival in its entire splendor. Decorate your house with Pookalams, listen to the melodious Onappattus and enjoy the festivals‌ Wish you a Happy Onam!

Warm Regards, Siji Nair

www.metromartdaily.com

Siji Nair Managing Editor & Director

The Onam market is active with innumerable varieties of products which make the celebrations and purchases more colourful and enjoyable. Every business establishment is trying to spread their wings to every town by opening outlets and reaching out to the consumers with attractive offers and schemes. This is an opportunity for everyone to choose the desired products according to their tastes and likes. Various venues in the capital city will come alive in a cultural extravaganza of music, dance, painting and martial arts, programmes in the modern, traditional, folk and classical genres of Kerala. The mega shows will begin on September 13 with a performance by music band Kodambakkom P O featuring singers Dinesh from Chennai, Gayathri, Abhilash Venkitachalam, Reshma Raghavendra and Vishnuraj, and the music will be accompanied by dance performances by Aradhana, Iniya and Arya.

August 2016

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Onam - Celebrating the Spirit of Kerala

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Showcasing Mesmerising Designs, Czarina’s Onam Collection Takes The City By Storm.

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Apollo Dimora A trend-setting array of commercial project

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Lulu- to Build Second Biggest Mall in thiruvananthapuram

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Centre for Continuing Education Kerala

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Somatheeram- the first resort to have made Ayurvedic teachings well-known beyond India’s borders

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Santhigiri- Promotes Transcendental Spiritual Values Hamid Ansari, Vice President

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Metro Update

mart Corporate Office:Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram Mera 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College P.O., Thiruvananthapuram – 695011, Kerala, India

Volume 6 Issue 1 August 2016 www.metromartdaily.com Read our e-edition-www.issuu.com/metromart Annual Subscription Rs 400

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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 P journal are not necessarily those of the Publishers.Metro Mart reserves the right to use th e information published here in any manner whatsoever. While every effort ha August 2016 METRO mart or omissions. © All Rights Reserved RNI No: KERENG/2011

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CO N TE N TS

Publisher Hari Shanker hari@martinfotech.in

Sub Editor V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant Ampili Nair Promod Pillai

Managing Editor & Director Siji Nair sijicn@gmail.com

Senior Creative Sayan Chaudhuri

Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar Baiju Jayakumar

GM Sales Sibu Nair

Published from Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post, Trivandrum 695013. Metro Mart is a monthly journal published from Trivandrum. Views and opinions expressed in the as been madewww.metromartdaily.com 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 August 2016 1/40037

C OV E R S T OR Y

ONAM Celebrating the Spirit of Kerala!

Onam is a celebration of equality, justice, prosperity and fairness, this national festival of Keralites commemorates the return of a mythical, righteous king – Mahabali.

Onam is the harvest festival that brings all of a Malayalee family together. In Kerala, festival dates are decided in accordance with the Malayalam calendar and the local traditions and customs. The celebrations of Onam start on Atham month, 10 days before Onam.

Atham Patthinu Ponnonam a typical onapookkalam.

Earthen mounds, which look somewhat like square pyramids,

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representing Mahabali and Vamanan(an Avatar of Vishnu) are placed in the dungplastered courtyards in front of the house and beautifully decorated with flowers. Known as Onapookkalamâ, it is a carpet made out of the gathered blossoms with one or two varieties of foliage of differing tints pinched up into little pieces to serve the

decorator’s purpose. It is a beautiful work of art accomplished with a delicate touch and a highly artistic sense of tone and blending. In a similar manner North Indians make something called “Rangoli” which is made of powders of various colors.

This 10-day long festival is celebrated with great pomp and fervour in Kerala. The festival falls during the Malayalam

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month of Chingam (Aug – Sep) and marks the commemoration of Vamana Avatara of God Vishnu and homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. A feast with 26 dishes, new clothes, pookalam (rangoli of flowers), dance and music are core activities of this ancient festival. One has to visit Kerala to visualize the high spirit of this grand festival in its full form.

Natives of Kerala who are settled in various parts of the world also celebrate the festival with great pleasure. Although due to limitations people across do not celebrate all the 10 days, Malayaless make it a point to celebrate the main day of the festivalThiru-Onam.

The Great Kind King Mahabali There is a myth behind the Onam festival. There is a tale why the people of Kerala prepare the grand lunch for the Mahabali to feast at their homes.

The story begins in the land of backwaters when everyone in the kingdom www.metromartdaily.com

of the King Mahabali lived happily. Prosperity, well being and happiness were the key feature of the good land. There was no discrimination on the basis of caste, class, rich and poor. The myth also says that people did not even lock their doors when they went out as there were no thieves.

However, the growing popularity and fame of King Mahabali planted jealousy in the minds of Gods who became

extremely concerned.

Taking advantage of the kind king’s nature, Lord Vishnu disguised as Vamana went to the king and asked for a piece of land. The generous King said that he could have as much land as he wanted although the Brahmin needed just 3 steps of land. As soon as the King granted land to the Brahmin, he started growing in cosmic proportions. That is when the King understood that he was not an ordinary August 2016

lay pookalam inside their houses due to space constraints.

Brahmin. The first step of Lord Vishnu covered the world, second the whole of the skies. He then asked King Mahabali space for him to keep his third foot.

visit his subjects at least once in a year. Malayalees believe that Mahabali visit them every Onam and hence celebrate the festival.

The Traditional Mundu Veshti and Kasav Saree Onam is incomplete without Onakkodi, the new clothes purchased for the festival. Dressing up in the traditional mood of the state is considered to the significance of the prosperous and truthful life of the subjects during the flawless reign of the King Mahabali. Men dress up in mundu (white dhoti with golden or a colorful border) and women in set saree or kasav saree (white saree with golden border).

Celebrations There are lot many traditional dance forms that are performed on this day. Tiger Dance and Mahabali with folded hands Pookalam Kaikottikali are some of bowed before Vamana and Pookalam is a floral carpet the famous one. Boat asked him to place his last made in various designs races (Vallamkali) are step on his head so that he on all the ten days of also a part of the great could keep the promise. The the festival. It is similar celebrations. The snake Brahmin placed his foot on to a rangoli, only that boat race is an event the head of the King, who the color powders are that is synonymous pushed him to patala, the replaced with colorful with Onam. About 1000 nether world. But the King flowers. People make it oarsmen row huge snake asked for something before in front of their houses boats while singing he was killed, he requested on the mud, Malayalees songs. The sight is worth the Lord to allow him to who reside outside Kerala

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watching.

Food (Onasadya) The important part of the Onam celebrations is the feast called Onam sadya where up to 26 dishes are served on a banana leaf and are to be consumed with the hands while sitting on the floor cross-legged.

The main 10 dishes that are served are: Rice Rice is the main item in an Onam sadhya. It is always the semi polished brown Kerala or red rice. The brown rice is not only tastier than the polished rice but is also very nutritious. It is a powerhouse of nutrient content and health benefits and is always a better choice than white rice. It gives you fiber, protein and selenium.

Sambar Sambar is nothing but a thick gravy vegetable stew made of lentils, vegetables like drumsticks, tomato and potato flavored with herbs. It is one of the most loved dishes in South Indian cuisine. It accompanies almost every meal. Though a lot of readymade Sambar www.metromartdaily.com

powder is available in the market, nothing beats the freshly added spice into homemade Sambar.

Rasam Rasam is a watery dish made with tamarind juice as a base, with tomato, chili pepper, pepper, cumin and other spices as seasonings. It is very spicy in taste and is best known for aiding digestion. It is simple yet comforting to your full tummy.

Aviyal It is a thick preparation made with a mixture of vegetables. The base of Aviyal is mixture of various vegetables and coconut. It is seasoned with coconut oil and curry leaves. Aviyal is considered an essential part of the Onam sadya.

Pachadi Pachadi is nothing but a traditional Kerala recipe of vegetables or fruits such as cucumber or pineapple cooked using August 2016

it are peas, green beans, raw jack fruit, carrots, or cabbage (usually) with grated coconut. The goodness of vegetables along with the flavour of coconut is a tasty and healthy combination.

Achaar Achaar is good old spicy tangy Indian pickle made with garlic, lots of spices and mustard oil. The main ingredient will differ from raw mango, lime or lemon as per personal preference.

Pappadam Pappadam is just like a regular pappad, a ready to fry round wafer.

Guruvayoor pappadums are very popular in Kerala Onam Sadya. yogurt and coconut paste. The special flavor of this pachadi comes from the freshly grounded mix of grounded coconut, cumin and green chili and makes it an awesome dish.

Puliyinchi Puliyinchi is a hot and sour dish made up of ginger, tamarind,

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green chilies, and jaggery. The paste like consistency sweet and sour chutney goes well with everything. This sweet and sour side dish will add a tangy twist to your Sadya.

Thoran Thoran is a dry vegetable dish made with sautéed vegetables of all kinds.

The vegetables used in

Payasam There are several varieties of ‘payasams’.

One is in which rice, wheat or vermicelli is boiled with milk and sweetened with sugar.

It goes by the name of ‘pal payasam’. Another is made of boiled rice or dal or wheat, to which is added jaggery and coconut milk. Both are flavoured with spices.

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S HOP P I NG

SHOWCASING MESMERISING DESIGNS,

CZARINA’S ONAM COLLECTION TAKES THE CITY BY STORM.

Czarina’s gorgeous new Onam Collection is already making waves within a few days of its launch. Women searching for the perfect gift this festive season are now heading straight to Trivandrum’s leading designer boutique.

A spellbinding collection of Onakodis awaits them at Czarina, including the traditional set mundu, a new range of designer Kerala sarees starting from Rs. 1500, and exquisite partywear specials. Czarina’s Kerala saree, known for its understated elegance and embellished with block print, mural paintings and embroidery, is the highlight of this year’s Onam Collection. The fabric painting of intricate murals on these sarees,

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created by famous artists, endows them with a unique look.

In addition to the trendsetting festive

apparel, Czarina also showcases a wide variety of other sarees this Onam. Kotas, Chanderis, Maheshwaris, Banarasi Silks, Silk Kotas,

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Kanjeevarams, Uppadas, Tussar Silks, Georgettes, Crepes and Chiffons are available in a range of colours and designs. Since ‘Chingam’ is the month of weddings, Czarina Royale, the premier silk saree boutique, has come out with a special set of wedding sarees, including Kanjeevarams, Banarasis, and soft silk materials in a variety of hues and shades. The Kanjeevaram sarees with Banarasi designs introduced in Czarina Royale is already a bestseller. Czarina also has blouse materials and ready-made blouses in various styles and designs like kalamkari, indigo print, floral designs, embroidery and ikkat, among others. For those who prefer a nontraditional Onam, there is an array of salwars, kurtis and dupattas on display.

The Onam Collection ends on September 13th and the showroom will be open on all Sundays till then. Czarina is located at Catholic Centre, on Statue-General Hospital Road. To know more about the Onam Collection, visit Czarina’s Facebook page http:// www. facebook.com/ CzarinaDesignerSarees or call 9387721322.

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August 2016

D I N N I N G

Apollo Dimora

A trendsetting array of commercial project Dimora is a premium class business hotel that offers the best and the latest in hospitality at international standards.

Apollo Dimora, a Four plus Business Hotel located opposite to the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station and adjacent to the KSRTC Bus Stand, built on 1.5 acres of land fully equipped with latest modern facilities. It has 135 rooms, 2 Restaurants, 5 Conference / BanquetHalls of which the largest can accommodate up to 300pax, 3 Board Rooms, Fitness Centre, Swimming Pool, Prayer Room, Smoking Lounge and the largest parking facilities for any hotel in Thiruvananthapuram. It

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is the only hotel in the city to have a mechanical car park.

At Dimora all rooms are equipped with conveniences like Centralized AirConditioning, Satellite TV, Personal mini fridge, Large spring beds, Luxury mattress and pillows, Multi-adaptors, Electronic safe, Iron and Ironing board, Auto temperature control, Hair Dryer and Tea/Coffee maker. Additionally, each room has smoke detectors and sprinklers.

Other External Services includes Electronically

controlled access to guest rooms, Wired and wireless internet connection, 24-hour Business Centre, Seven Conference / Banquet halls, Parking space for 160 cars, One Board room seating 15pax, CafĂŠ Hive - Multi Cuisine Restaurant, Vega Dimora - Pure Vegetarian restaurant with a dedicated Veg Kitchen, 24 hours In Room Dining, Concierge, Valet Parking, Prayer Room, Fitness center, Swimming pool, Smoking and Non Smoking Rooms, Smoking Lounge, Room for the Differently Abled, Laundry & Dry Cleaning Services, Currency Exchange and

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August 2016

Doctor on Call.

Dimora has a pure vegetarian restaurant ‘Vega Dimora’ with a dedicated Vegetarian Kitchen and the utensils used here are also separately marked which will make Vega Dimora a standout restaurant for the pure vegetarians of the City.

Trivandrum city was losing big National and International conferences due to lack of big conferencing facilities and accommodation scarcity. Apollo Dimora has opened doors for the Government, IT, Corporate guests of Trivandrum City by launching the largest hotel in the city in terms of inventory and is equipped with sufficient banqueting and conferencing facilities.

Apart from this, the construction of services apartment with 65 rooms near to the property will commence soon.

The second project in the chain is Apollo Dimora, Kozhikode to be located close to Kozhikode Cyber & IT Park. Planned on 1.75 acres of land which will comprise of 100 rooms and 65 service apartments, the construction will commence from next

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month. The management has announced that in another 3 years time, the Apollo Dimora chain which also be extended to Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Dubai, Singapore and Jeddah.

Apollo Dimora Opp. Central Railway Station, Thampanoor, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695001 Phone: 0471 306 0333 Visit-http://www. apollodimora.com/

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D E V E L O P ME N T

Lulu

to Build Second Biggest Mall in thiruvananthapuram

LuLu Group International today is a highly diversified entity with operations spanning a vast geographical landscape.

Spearheaded by the retail division, the Group has interests in Imports & Exports, Trading, Shipping, IT, Travel & Tourism and Education.

Lulu Group, the Abu Dhabi-based international retailer is developing its second Lulu Shopping Mall, a hotel and an international convention centre in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Indian

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state of Kerala.

Spread over 19 acres of land located on the National Highway in Akkulam, this will be the second biggest shopping mall in the country after the Lulu Mall in Kochi.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan laid the foundation stone for the mixed use project in a glittering function presided over by Leader of opposition Ramesh

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Chennithala and other prominent personalities including ministers, MPs, MLAs, said Yusuff Ali MA, managing director of Lulu Group.

Being built at an estimated cost of Rs2,000 crores ($300 million), Lulu Mall will have a built-up area of more than 2 million sq ft in four floors. The project is the largest private investment in Kerala in recent times, said a statement. The mall is

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designed by UK-based Design International consultants.

Slated to open by early 2019, it will house a Lulu hypermarket as anchor store and will include some of the best brands in fashion, cosmetics, home furnishing and jewellery. Other attractions include a family amusement centre, a food court with a capacity of 3,500 guests, restaurants, coffee shops and a

nine-screen multiplex and also will have parking for 3,000 cars with easy access from all main roads and will adopt latest traffic management system.

The project also includes a 150-room luxury hotel which will be adjacent to the mall and an international convention centre. The shopping mall will be environmental friendly and will adopt LEED certificate specifications, the statement added.

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August 2016

Snapshot@Rudra Nite

New logo of Rudra Leisure Services Pvt Ltd unveiling by Sri. Venu V, IAS during Rudra Nite

Mr. Roopesh, State Coordiantor, Responsible Tourism receiving the bicycle keys from Sri. U V Jose donated by Rudra Leisure Services Pvt Ltd for village tourism in Kumarakom

People behind responsible tourism in Kumarakom got honoured by Sr. Venu V IAS & Sri. U V Jose in the presence ofRenowned actress Mrs. Asha Sharath

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trueberry.in

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L

I T E R A T U R E

THE BOOK

‘The Architect and the Magician’ presents a vision to youngsters A motivational book titled ‘The Architect and the Magician’ written by Sri.N.Vijayagopalan was released by Dr.D.Babu Paul IAS (Retd.) former Additional Chief Secretary to Govt. of Kerala in a function held at Press Club, Trivandrum.

Sri.N.Vijayagopalan welcomed the gathering.

The book was received by Sri.M.G.Radhakrishnan from Dr.Babu Paul. Sri. Shankar Ramakrishnan, noted Cine Actor and Film Maker was a special invitee. Advocate Shane Wilfred Morris, President, Anglo Indian Association, Trivandrum introduced the book to the gathering. Dr.Babu Paul, Sri.M.G.Radhakrishnan and Sri.Shankar Ramakrishnan spoke on the occasion.

Sri.B.Harikumar,

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Actor and Writer and Sri.T.S.Jayaraman, former Senior Manager, Canara Bank etc. delivered felicitation speeches.

The entire dignitaries spoke very high of the book which got an overwhelming response in the launch function through sale of 108 copies on the spot.

The author N.Vijayagopalan has nearly four decades of experience in diverse areas, having held several senior and key positions in a high profile

nationalized bank, two reputed Housing Finance Institutions, a leading Non Banking Finance Company and a successful Information Technology Company in India. He has rich practical experience in the corporate world, banking and finance, administration, human resource management, employee mentoring, as a trainer, as an orator, and as an author of many articles on management topics. The positions held by him include Zonal

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August 2016

Head, State Head, Deputy General Manager, General Manager, CEO etc. in various organizations.

The author has a national exposure having worked in seven States in India and having travelled extensively throughout the country and abroad.

He has handled and addressed many sessions on developing personal skills, managerial skills, organizational abilities, leadership qualities and various other management topics in reputed colleges and Management institutes.

He has attended a good number of seminars, workshops, and conferences including international seminars and presented papers.

The author has introduced several innovations in the organizations where he worked and has won many recognitions

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and distinctions while in employment. He is a Post Graduate in Science from the University of Kerala with a consistently brilliant academic background and a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers. The articles in this book have originated from the experience the author gained from serving diverse vital segments in various capacities for a long span of time.

The book ‘The Architect and the Magician’ presents a vision to youngsters as to how to shape their life. It aims to address the requirements of ambitious students of any discipline, youngsters who are on the threshold of starting their careers, aspiring young Managers who look forward to tasting

the corporate success and anyone who aspires to become great achievers and make a mark in life. The book attempts to provide crucial insights into various facets of exploiting the potential of one’s mind for accomplishing astounding success in life. The book suggests practical ways to prevent oneself from being engulfed by negative thoughts and demonstrates how good thoughts do attract success and happiness.

It speaks of a series of practical measures a person should adopt to successfully face life by overcoming challenges and hurdles and achieve success. It is a confidence booster for readers. A rich array of case studies from real life and stories of world

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August 2016

famous personalities and renowned men and achievers of yesteryears as well as contemporary period is presented in the book. This book will take the readers to a world of practical positivism and trigger a change in the mindset of readers.

Opinion about the book expressed by the dignitaries “‘The Architect and the Magician’ is a totally different book from other such books. It is a truly distinct motivational book. The book instills confidence and optimism in the minds of the readers and encourages them for facing the challenges of life. It gives a lot of practical ideas and tips as to how to emerge successful in this highly competitive world.” expressed by Dr.D.Babu Paul one of the

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dignitaries.

Sri.M.G.Radhakrishnan – ‘The Architect and the Magician’ is a highly noteworthy and distinct motivational book which will be highly useful for students and those who have just entered a job. It is full of practical tips as to how to come up in life withstanding adversities and challenges. It will trigger a change in the mindset of the reader.

Sri.B.Harikumar – To put it briefly, ‘The Architect and the Magician’ is a very beautiful book which really appealed to me.

What makes the book different from other such books is the style of brevity adopted by the author. What can be written in pages and pages has been presented in a few sentences and at the same time in beautiful and emphatic

words by the author.

It reminds me of the writing style adopted by Sri.M.T.Vasudevan Nair.

Sri.Shankar Ramakrishnan – The book is ideal for giving as a gift to any one which is close to the heart of the giver or who the giver strongly desires to succeed in life.

There cannot be a better gift for giving to someone you crave for succeeding in life.

Sri.Shane Wilfred Morris – The book will prompt the reader to take sincere initiatives for emerging successful in life.

Sri.T.S.Jayaraman – Reading the book with its seventeen chapters gave me the feeling of attending a music concert consisting of seventeen songs in seventeen enchanting ragas.

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E D U C A T I ON

Centre for Continuing Education Kerala imparts need-based training

Centre for Continuing Education Kerala imparts need-based training to the unemployed youth, provides special training for small-scale industries, publishes study material for regular and distance education programme, and conducts vocational training.

Dr G S Gireesh Kumar Director, Ccek

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The persistent effort of CCEK has been to make optimum use of the under-utilised infrastructure in educational institutions and make it income generating. The Centre is committed entirely to social upliftment besides the growth and development of technical education, industry and

business.

CCEK is offering the programmes through its sub-centres established at Government/ Aided Engineering, Polytechnic, Arts & Science Colleges and VHS Schools across the State. Each sub-centre has an advisory committee comprising the College

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

and managerial environment. * To conduct in-service training to workers in the industries of organized and unorganized sectors for the enhancement of productivity and equip them to meet the challenges of changing technologies.

Aims & Objectives * To establish partnership with industries and * To impart needcommence for identifying based training to the human resource unemployed youth requirement and to increase their training needs. employability in key * To make identify the sectors of our economy. * To offer full-time, part- training needs of specific sectors and plan and time, formal and nonorganize suitable training formal programmes to upgrade the management programmes for them. * To develop and publish skills in small- scale training materials for business and industry. regular and distance * To provide special education programmes. training for small * To identify the areas business development in which distance utilizing locally available education and open resources. learning methods are * To conduct vocational appropriate, and to training to meet the specific needs of industry design and conduct such programmes. and business. * To identify the * To conduct re-training employment potential for professionals and areas and to conduct executives in industry, competency based business and service skill development sector so as to enable them to cope with the fast programmes. * To undertake such other changing technological Principal, senoir staff and the Manager of the Continuing Education Programme [who is selected by the Institutional Programme Implementation Unit of the institution concerned.]

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activities as are required to fulfill the objectives of the Centre.

Coaching programme for Civil Services Prelims Examination June Batch /Batches (Regular) This is a six months intensive coaching programme, Classes will commence on 10th June 2015 and ends in the last week of November. Classes are held Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

General Studies (common for all civil service aspirants) are held between 9.15 am and 4.00 pm. The evening hours, 4.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. are generally designed as Library Hours. The students’ presence at the library during library hours is mandatory. Test papers are conducted in every week. Classes for optional subject will be either from 7 AM to 9 AM or from 4 PM to 6 PM December Batch/Batches (Regular) The November Batch is a course of six months’ duration, beginning in the First or second week of December and ending in the last week of May. Classes are held five August 2016

days a week, Monday to Friday from 9.15 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. All the activities mentioned under the June Batch are conducted for the November Batch also including the classes for the optional subject.

Weekend Batch/Batches For the convenience of those who have jobs or studying for various other courses, week end batch/ batches with classes on Saturdays and Sundays are also conducted.

Civil Service Prelims Evening Course This is a course comprising one year duration, It is a course which is useful for the Civil Service aspirants of Kerala who are employed or studying for various courses. The timing of the class will be 6 PM to 8 PM

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August 2016

from Monday to Saturday.

Other Courses 1. Civil Service Foundation Course -- for Plus One, Plus Civil Services Prelims Examination 2015 - Crash Two & Degree students 2. Talent Development Course Course -- for High School This is a crash course Students comprising two months duration (June 3 to August 3. National Talent Search State Level Examination 2, 2015) for equipping the Civil Service aspirants Coaching Classes - for tenth standard students for appearing for the 4. National Talent Search Civil Services Prelims Examination Coaching Examination 2015.

Classes - for students who Coaching programme have cleared the NTSE first for Civil Services Mains level Examination Main Exam Coaching For more details, please Coaching classes for contact the Civil Service Main The Director Examination commence Centre for Continuing immediately after the Education Kerala Preliminary Exam is Anathara Lane, Charachira, over. The course fee will Kowdiar P.O. be refunded when the Thiruvananthapuram, student is found eligible Kerala, PIN– 695 003 for admission to the Phone /Fax: 0471-2311654, 2313065 adoption scheme.

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

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August 2016

H E A L T H

Somatheeram the first resort to have made Ayurvedic teachings wellknown beyond India’s borders

The guests at the Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort live far removed from mass tourism in the middle of a large tropical garden above an expansive, endless beach. They can choose between 11 traditional Kerala houses and 59 cottages.

The Ayurveda

lagoons. Trivandrum, the

now, Somatheeram is

applications leave

capital of the province,

an Ayurvedic centre

them enough time for

has bustling markets

that adopts this holistic

extended walks on the

and historic temple

approach and at the

beach, meditation, yoga

complexes. It is only half

same time reflects India’s

or simply daydreaming

an hour’s drive away by

culture and beauty.

in a hammock. Nearby

car.

The physicians at the

there are small villages

Being the first resort to

Somatheeram Ayurvedic

to explore and guests

have made Ayurvedic

Health Resort put

can also discover more

teachings well known

together an individual

of southern India during

beyond India’s borders,

therapy programme from

tours, organised by

its aspiration was to

many different Ayurvedic

the resort: the hotel’s

provide Ayurveda, yoga

applications for every

houseboats whisk them

and meditation in a

single guest, based on the

away into the water

peaceful and captivating

guest’s health condition

world of the backwaters,

setting, supported by

and life style. Therapy

a widely ramified network

an Ayurvedic nutrition.

clients rid themselves of

of rivers, canals and

For almost 30 years

all the dead weight that

40

August 2016

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

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August 2016

has accumulated in them over the years. Whether they undergo classic panchakarma treatment for inner cleansing, weight reduction or anti-aging treatment: comprehensive packages are available depending on a person’s individual needs.

three times already. With

Our intensively trained and

these governmentally

experienced team of 13

certified appreciations of

doctors and 70 therapists

its services and quality,

is led by the internationally

it spearheads all its

known Ayurveda doctor, Dr

competitors. Somatheeram

Sreelatha, and supported

also holds the “Green

by Dr C. A. Raman, former

Leave Certification” by the

long-term Minister of

Government of Kerala.

Health for Traditional Indian

Contact Details:

Medicine in Kerala.

Indian Address:

Somatheeram is the undisputed No. 1 in its

Somatheeram Ayurvedic

field. So far it has been

Health Resort

awarded ten times as “The

Best Ayurvedic Centre”

Chowara P. O. South of

and has received the

kovalam

“National Tourism Award”

Trivandrum -695501

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August 2016

Kerala, India Phone: +91-471-2266501 Fax : +91-471-2266505 Email : info@ somatheeram.org European Service office: Somatheeram GmbH Gartzenweg 2 40789 Monheim am Rhein Germany Phone : +49-2173-9938850 Fax : +49-2173- 99388-59 Email: europe@ somatheeram.org Web : www. somatheeram.org

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

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Ph: 0487-2332255. Fax: 0487-2336232

Email: mail@ksfe.com Website: www.ksfe.com

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August 2016

TOMYAS

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G.O. (Rt) No. 579/2016/TD dt. 27/07/2016

M E T RO E V EN T

Santhigiri Promotes Transcendental Spiritual Values Hamid Ansari, Vice President

The Change for the better is, in essence, the spiritual message that Navajyoti Sri Karunakara Guru gave to the world. The change comes from introspection and by placing the welfare and benefit of others before self. This was stated by Sri Hamid Ansari, the Vice President of India, while inaugurating the Navati celebrations of Navajyoti Sri Karunakara Guru in the morning today at Santhigiri Ashram.

Spirituality is about

to something larger than

of purpose, your personal

seeking a meaningful

yourself, he said.

definition of spirituality

connection with

Some may find that their

may change throughout

something bigger

spiritual life is intricately

your life, adapting to your

than yourself, which

linked to their religious

own experiences and

can result in positive

manifestations and

relationships. Karunakara

emotions, such as peace,

forms, while others may

Guru also challenged their

contentment, gratitude,

pray or find comfort in

followers to change their

and acceptance. It

personal relationship

present way of thinking

allows for cultivating a

with God or a higher

and move into a grander

positive state of mind,

power. Still others seek

and larger experience- be

which can broaden your

meaning through their

meditation, prayer and

outlook to recognize and

connections to nature

service to others, he

incorporate a connection

or art. Like your sense

added.

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August 2016

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

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August 2016

Commenting on the ancient Indian science of Yoga, the Vice President said that Yoga is a centuries old practice and its practice has been found to reduce stress, decrease depression and anxiety, regulate book pressure and increase feelings of well being.

Swami Gururetnam Jnana Tapaswi, the Organizing Secretary of Santhigiri Ashram welcomed the gathering, which was presided over by the Governor of Kerala.

Dy. Chairman of Rajya Sabha Sri P.J. Kurien, Swami Chaitanya Jnana Tapaswi, General Secretary of Santhigiri Ashram, Sri K. Raju, the Minister for Forests, Dr. A. Sampath, M.P., Sri C. Divakaran, MLA, Sri Koliacode N. Krishnan Nair, former MLA and Padhma Bhushan Bindeshwar Pathak also were present in the Meeting.

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August 2016

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

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August 2016

METRO UPDATE

‘Community-stakeholder participation will benefit local population’, Tourism Minister Launches two-month-long Green carpet campaign for upkeep of state tourist destinations

While Kerala Tourism spends money on a destination, it is stakeholder and community cooperation in its continued maintenance that will ensure the local population benefits from this investment, said Minister for Tourism Shri A.C. Moideen, who launched the tourism department’s Green Carpet initiative in the capital.

The multi-agency participatory campaign, which starts today and runs until October 31, has roped in tourism and trade stakeholders, local self-government bodies,

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August 2016

varied programmes such as the National Service Scheme (NSS) Technical Cell under the Directorate of Technical Education, Suchitwa Mission, Kudumbasree, educational institutions, NGOs and other social organisations for its implementation.

“We hope the initiative can help create a feeling that the community can contribute and benefit from the tourism industry,” said the Minister, speaking at the launch event at Mascot Hotel. Shri Moideen also unveiled the campaign logo and released

three tourism shorts: on wildlife, Kochi and Munnar.

Everyone has to work together to build up tourism in the state, as it is set to be the most financially viable industry for Kerala – with the scope for remittances from the Gulf coming down, noted Shri K. Muraleedharan MLA in his presidential address.

“Our main challenge is to get local cooperation in waste management,” he said. “We have to build up awareness about the setting up of waste management plants and we have to take practical

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

www.metromartdaily.com

August 2016

measures to tackle the challenges we face.”

Tourism Secretary Dr Venu V. expressed hope that the initiative would light the spark for more projects built with active public participation.

Green Carpet has a 10-point agenda aimed at spurring collective action to improve the quality of infrastructure and amenities at 84 holiday hotspots and working towards building a sustainable destination management system.

The 84 destinations were identified through a consultative process, said Tourism Director Shri U.V. Jose. “Tourism is always a multi-stakeholder, public participation sector and the aim is to build a sustained system, rather than to do a maintenance job on one day,” he said.

High on the priority actions list are measures to improve community and collective participation in destination development, operation and management and the appointment of designated destination managers for effective centralised co-ordination and management. At the destination level, task forces and monitoring cells are being put in place

50

August 2016

to ensure the initiative’s success.

The agenda for action addresses ground-level concerns including waste management, infrastructure, safety and sustainability and clearly marks out what needs to be achieved before November 1, when the tourist season officially gets underway.

Included in the agenda are goals for a clean and hygienic environment; installing a scientific and sustainable system for solid waste collection and management; proper and regular maintenance of public toilets; and safer drinking water and food.

It also requires destinations to have in place wellmaintained lighting and pathways; appropriate signage, all necessary tourist facilities and equipment, besides

ensuring adoption of green principles and moving towards carbon neutrality.

Other key areas addressed in the checklist are: safety and security arrangements backed by a contingency response system; facilities for provision of up-to-date information, feedback and complaint redressal systems; well-trained and responsible staff, including volunteers and service providers, fitted with distinguishable name badges.

Also present at the launch were Suchitwa Mission Executive Director Dr K. Vasuki, KITTS Director Dr Rajashree Ajith, Ward Councillor Shri Palayam Rajan, President of the Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industry Shri E.M. Najeeb, KTM Society President Shri Abraham George and Additional Director (General) Kerala Tourism Shri Balamurali.

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

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August 2016

METRO UPDATE

Kerala selected as “Place to visit in 2016-17” God’s Own Country most reviewed destination onmytourreview.com

Global visitors have selected Kerala as the “Place to visit in 2016-17” through mytourreview.com, a leading online review platform for appraising global tour operators.

The website will now promote God’s Own Country among global tour operators and travellers.

Kerala Tourism Director Shri U V Jose said God’s own Country is a destination that has always benefitted from positive word of mouth reviews from international travellers. “Online platforms are an influential and fair tool that tourists have used to spread the good word about Kerala, which has again come on top as a must visit destination.”

The website was launched

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August 2016

to tie in with World Tourism Day (September 27) in 2015. Devised to review international tour operators, and also taxi drivers and tour guides, and help build quality in the business, the site offers a first of its kind online representation for these services in the travel industry. It now has 500 global operators registered on its portal, and has so far received 300 reviews in a short span of less than a year. More than 80 per cent of the traveller reviews

were on Kerala-based tour operators, which prompted them to pick the state for the campaign.

“Mytourreview.com is top of Google search for ‘tour operators’ purely through the traffic it has generated. The credit goes to Kerala for being the most reviewed spot,” said Shri Anish Kumar, CEO of touroperating company The Travel Planners. “We hope that this new honour for Kerala will continue to drive it as one of the most popular sites to visit internationally.”

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

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August 2016

METRO UPDATE

Kumarakom to get facelift before start of tourist season An action plan for the comprehensive development and a revamp of the popular Kumarakom tourist destination was proposed at a meeting of tourism industry stakeholders.

Committees were set up to look into the various issues, such as basic infrastructural maintenance, lake and canal conservation, waste management, repairs to pedestrian walkways and practicing the Responsible Tourism initiative.

Ettumanoor MLA Shri Suresh Kurup, Kerala Tourism director Shri U V Jose and elected representatives of various local bodies participated in the meeting. The newlydevised committees will submit reports, by September 3, recommending short and long term action. “On the basis of this report, further action will be undertaken,” said Shri Jose. “By November 1, Kumarakom, Arpookara and Aymanam panchayats, which come under the title of the Kumarakom destination, will

54

August 2016

be spruced up to receive visitors.”

Shri Kurup noted that making Vembanad Lake free of waste is the top priority.

“That would, to a large extent, be a solution to the main issues facing the region” he averred. “Plastic waste poses the biggest challenge. Machinary to convert plastic waste into pellet form should be set up. It is neither expensive nor does it take up too much space, and it is a project that can be easily undertaken by the panchayat.”

Kumarakom’s internationally appreciated Responsible Tourism initiative will be a prime focus with particular attention given to waste management and canal

conservation, said Kerala Tourism director Shri U V Jose.

Shri Jose noted that money was not an issue to overcoming the problems faced in waste management.

“Kumarakom’s Responsible Tourism programme was the most appreciated of the Kerala Tourism projects, including in London,” noted the Tourism director.

“Several international agencies have expressed an interest in making studies on the initiative and it is our responsibility to make sure that it continues to be an energetic project. Responsible tourism is the sustainable way forward for the industry.”

Shri U V Jose instructed private stakeholders and the Kumarakom panchayat to make all attempts to safeguard the initiative, and

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

be competitive, if necessary.

“Priority should be given to lake conservation with steps to tackle weeds, and preventing the release of effluents from houseboats and resorts,” he said.

Private stakeholder pointed out several regional issues that demanded immediate attention, such as electricity distribution and the protection of canals.

“The panchayat’s main limitation is the lack of funds,” said Panchayat President Shri A P Salimon. “Several waste management projects are being undertaken with the help of agencies, but more projects need to be taken up in partnership with the tourism sector.”

Also present at the meeting were KTDC MD Shri D Balamurali, Kumarakom panchayat Vice President Smt Sindhu Ravikumar, panchayat members and tourism industry stakeholders.

www.metromartdaily.com

August 2016

METRO UPDATE

Somatheeram Ayurveda Group Wins Again National Tourism Award 2014-2015 Somatheeram Ayurveda Group emerged again as the winner for Best Ayurveda & Wellness Centre Award 2015.

The award ceremony was held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi o n 30th July 2016. Lok Sabha Speaker Ms. Sumitra Mahajan and Minister of State for Tourism Dr. Mahesh Sharma presented the award to Mr. Baby Mathew, Chairman & Managing Director and

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August 2016

Mrs. Sarah Baby Mathew, Director of Somatheeram Ayurveda Group.

Best Ayurveda & Wellness Centre Award by the Tourism Ministry of India is a covetous feat in the Ayurvedic arena.

The new feather in the cap is in addition to the

numerous international and national accolades that the group has been presented with since its inception.

Somatheeram group is widely recognized for its excellence and quality in treatment, care and environmental responsibility.

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

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August 2016

METRO UPDATE

Kovalam to undergo makeover before tourist influx Security, safety headline agenda at joint action meeting between Kerala Tourism and local bodies

Kovalam, the crown jewel of Kerala’s destination portfolio with its pristine crescent-shaped beaches, palm-lined coves, and rock promontories, is set to become safer and more secure than ever before ahead of the high-volume tourist season.

In a novel initiative, overall charge of the coastal hotspot’s security – hitherto split into separate jurisdictions between a number of

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August 2016

government bodies – will be consolidated in the hands of a ‘Destination Manager’. The position will become the designated authority to handle matters of day-today operational security.

Furthermore, the entire resort area will be blanketed 24x7 by a security system that incorporates a CCTV surveillance network.

As well, discrete fencing

would be put up around popular viewpoints such as the Edakkal rocks to ensure tourist safety without becoming an eyesore.

The improved security is but one aspect of a planned facelift for the destination that put ‘God’s Own Country’ on the world tourist map.

A short-term roadmap was laid out by Kerala Tourism at a joint action

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

meeting here on Thursday that brought together some 40 representatives from a number of government departments as also tourism and trade industry stakeholders and emphasised the need for collective action to find permanent solutions to the site’s problems.

The gathering was attended by Kovalam MLA Shri M. Vincent and Shri U.V. Jose, Director, Kerala Tourism. Among the other issues discussed were infrastructural concerns such as the supply of potable water, waste management, adequate vehicle parking facilities and public safety measures besides updates on the status of renovation works.

“The meeting was convened to both assure involved parties of resolute support at all

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levels to help preserve Kovalam and to ensure that all corrective measures currently being implemented are completed well before the first week of November, when the tourist season officially kicks off,” Jose said.

Noting that preserving Kovalam’s natural beauty would require shared commitment, he added that joint efforts such as the undertaking between the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHRA) and the Kovalam Protection Council to help guarantee proper lighting and the maintenance of such throughout the resort were steps in the right direction.

“The KHRA and the Kovalam Protection Council are also working together to check further dumping of waste,” Jose

said. The action plan called for finding a permanent solution to the problem of garbage disposal.

Alleviating the drinking water shortage is also high on the agenda with the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) expected to pump water from its Vellayani treatment plant. As well, the Public Works Department (PWD) undertaking to lay distribution pipelines to supply Kovalam is said to be on schedule.

Besides the KWA, PWD, KHRA and the Kovalam Protection Council, the meeting saw representation from the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, the District Tourism Promotion Council and the Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation, among others.

August 2016

METRO UPDATE

New application window, schedule for regional culinary competition Launches two-month-long Green carpet campaign for upkeep of state tourist destinations While Kerala Tourism spends money on a destination, it is stakeholder and community cooperation in its continued maintenance that will ensure the local population benefits from this investment, said Minister for Tourism Shri A.C. Moideen, who launched the tourism department’s Green Carpet initiative in the capital.

The multi-agency participatory campaign, which starts today and runs until October 31, has roped in tourism and trade stakeholders, local self-government bodies, varied programmes such as the National Service Scheme (NSS) Technical Cell under the Directorate of Technical Education, Suchitwa Mission, Kudumbasree, educational institutions, NGOs and other social organisations for its implementation.

“We hope the initiative can help create a feeling that the community

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August 2016

can contribute and benefit from the tourism industry,” said the Minister, speaking at the launch event at Mascot Hotel. Shri Moideen also unveiled the campaign logo and released three tourism shorts: on wildlife, Kochi and Munnar.

Everyone has to work together to build up tourism in the state, as it is set to be the most financially viable industry for Kerala – with the scope for remittances from the Gulf coming

down, noted Shri K. Muraleedharan MLA in his presidential address.

“Our main challenge is to get local cooperation in waste management,” he said. “We have to build up awareness about the setting up of waste management plants and we have to take practical measures to tackle the challenges we face.”

Tourism Secretary Dr Venu V. expressed hope that the initiative would light the spark for more projects built with active

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

public participation.

Green Carpet has a 10-point agenda aimed at spurring collective action to improve the quality of infrastructure and amenities at 84 holiday hotspots and working towards building a sustainable destination management system.

The 84 destinations were identified through a consultative process, said Tourism Director Shri U.V. Jose. “Tourism is always a multi-stakeholder, public participation sector and the aim is to build a sustained system, rather than to do a maintenance job on one day,� he said.

High on the priority actions list are measures to improve community and collective participation in destination development, operation and management and the appointment of designated destination managers for effective centralised co-ordination

www.metromartdaily.com

and management. At the destination level, task forces and monitoring cells are being put in place to ensure the initiative’s success.

The agenda for action addresses ground-level concerns including waste management, infrastructure, safety and sustainability and clearly marks out what needs to be achieved before November 1, when the tourist season officially gets underway.

Included in the agenda are goals for a clean and hygienic environment; installing a scientific and sustainable system for solid waste collection and management; proper and regular maintenance of public toilets; and safer drinking water and food.

It also requires destinations to have in place well-maintained lighting and pathways; appropriate signage, all necessary tourist facilities and equipment, besides

ensuring adoption of green principles and moving towards carbon neutrality.

Other key areas addressed in the checklist are: safety and security arrangements backed by a contingency response system; facilities for provision of up-to-date information, feedback and complaint redressal systems; well-trained and responsible staff, including volunteers and service providers, fitted with distinguishable name badges.

Also present at the launch were Suchitwa Mission Executive Director Dr K. Vasuki, KITTS Director Dr Rajashree Ajith, Ward Councillor Shri Palayam Rajan, President of the Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industry Shri E.M. Najeeb, KTM Society President Shri Abraham George and Additional Director (General) Kerala Tourism Shri Balamurali.

August 2016

METRO UPDATE

Onam Aiswaryolsavam @ Kallingal Showroom Bajaj Finance all India head Ronak Singh inaugurating the Onam Aiswaryolsavam at Kallingal showroom.

Kallingal Group managing director Kallingal Shafeek, directors Kallingal Shafeer, Kallingal Shakker, Jaison John, Murali Krishna, and Harinath Muraleedharan are also seen.

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August 2016

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August 2016

Ambulance 108

BSNL Land Line: 155300 BSNL Mobile: 0471-155300

Fire Station 101

Anti Piracy Cell 0471 2460001 Mob: 9447210124, 9497981037 E-mail: spapc.pol@kerala. gov.in

Civil Supplies 1967(Toll free no:) 1800-425-1550 (Toll free no:)

Food Adulteration Helpline 1800 425 1125 (Toll free)

Anti-Ragging Helpline 1800 180 5522 (Toll free) Online Enquiry: www.antiragging.in Chief Electoral Officer Control Room: 04712301080 Fax: 0471- 2301081 E-mail: ceo_kerala@eci. gov.in

Coastal Police Alert and State 0471-2556699/ 2320101 Police Monitoring Room Commercial Taxes 1800 425 4777 (Toll free) 9446505527 (Mobile) E-mail: vathelpline@ keralataxes.gov.in Consumer Toll Free Helpline 18004251550

Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund 04712518513/0471-2518487/ (CMDRF) 0471-2518795/0471-2518332

CPC Call Center 1800-425-2229

Chief Minister’s Grievance 1076 (From BSNL) Redressal Cell 18004251076 (From others) 91-471-1076 (From Outside India)

Disaster Management Helpline 1077 (Collectorate)

Crime Stopper 1090

1070 (State Control Room)

Child Helpline 1098

E-filing Call Center 080-26982000 (for e-filing of return)

Citizens Call Centre 0471-2115054/98, 2335523

Election Helpline 1950

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August 2016

Forest Helpline BSNL Land Line: 155 300 BSNL Mobile: 0471 155 300 Other Networks: 0471- 211 5054/98, 2335523 General Administration 0471- 2518463 (Co-ordination) Helpline for Ex-Service Men 1800-11-3999 (All working days: 9.00 am5.30pm) Helpline to nab Garbage offenders 9496434517 (Only for Thiruvananthapuram) Highway Alert 9846 100 100

Kerala Public Service Commission 0471- 2554000 Call Centre KSRTC Helpline Control Room Tel: 0471 - 2463799/ 04712471011 ext 238 Mobile: 94470 710 21 Kudumbashree Travels

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0471-2728454 call centre number (for Thiruvananthapuram city)

(24X7 Toll free No.)

8590000543

PWD Helpline 1800 425 7771

State Consumer Helpline 1800-425-1550 (Toll free)

Labour Minister’s Helpline 155 300

Rail Alert 9846 200 100

Sutharya Keralam 155 300

Police Station (Nearest) 100

Ration card renewal Tel: 0471-2320379, 9495998223, 9495998224, 9495998225.

Police Helpline (Head Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram) 0471-324 3000/4000/5000 Police Message Centre 94 97 900000 Police High Way Help Line 9846 100 100

Sabarimala Virtual Queue 0471-3243000/ 3244000/ 3245000 Secretariat Central Agency Tel: 0471- 2327558/ 2518202 (Out of Office hours)

Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana SLBC Call centre: 1800 425 11222

Secretariat Enquiry 0471- 2336576 Fax: 0471- 2333115 (IBMC/ Secretariat)

(PMJDY)

SHE TAXI 24x7 Call Centre

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Tourist Information toll free 1-800-425-4747 Trivandrum Medical College 0471-2528300 MCH Casualty : (24 hrs) UID/Aadhaar 1800-4251-1800 (Toll free number) Website: uid.kerala.gov.in Vigilance & 8592 900 900 (Toll Free Number) Anti-Corruption Bureau Women Helpline 1091

August 2016

66

August 2016

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

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August 2016

68

August 2016

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