Metro Mart August 2021

Volume 10 Issue 08 August 2021

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THE FESTIVAL OF

JOY AND HAPPINESS

REDESIGN WHILE RESTARTING HOSPITALITY BUSINESS POSTCOVID 19

INTERVIEW MR. ARUN KUMAR SINGH

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SPECIAL FEATURE

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Dear readers

Happy

Foreword

Onam

Kerala is decking up to welcome the 'mother of all festivals ' Onam. According to the gregorian calendar, the celebration is marked in the Malayalam month of Chingam, on the 22nd Nakshatra Thiruvonam which is considered as the festival's most auspicious day, generally falls in August or September. The festivities start ten days before Thiruvonam on the Attham day.

The frenzy never loses its momentum even after a couple of days of Thiruvonam. This year the main day is on 21st August, and the festival officially ends on 23rd August.

Once again, the festival is celebrated in the midst of the Covid 19 (second wave) pandemic which is evidently more devastating than last year. Along with the world, Kerala is also on the path of healing by licking and nursing its own injury. Despite the prevailing Covid restrictions and protocols, almost all major tourist destinations, hotels, and resorts in the state have been thrown open for the public. It's overwhelming to see the state administration's determined decision not to be a 'killjoy' by ruling out additional curtailments due to the public demand and festival mood.

The Kerala tourism department will celebrate Onam virtually this year to bring together Malayalees all over the world together on a digital platform and promote tourism for later times.

Undoubtedly, Onam is a harmonious, cheerful, and exuberant festival. Nevertheless, let us not forget about adhering to the 'new normal mores' while welcoming the majestic Maveli or decorating inevitable and symbolic pookKalams relishing the sumptuous Onam Sadya.

Happy Onam!

SIJI NAIR

Managing Editor & Director

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Contents Volume 10 - Issue 08 - August 2021

www.metromartdaily.com Read our e-edition: www.issuu.com/metromart Annual Subscription Rs- 500

Publisher

Hari Shanker

Managing Editor & Director

Siji Nair

Executive Director

Prasad M.

Executive Editor

N. Vijayagopalan

Editor

V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair

Sub Editor

P.J. Sam Alex

Project Head

Raj Nijith

Preethi J. L.

Design

Kiran Mohan

ManagerAdministration

Sabu C.N.

Manager-Accounts

Sindhu R.

Corporate Office:Metro Mart, MERA 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College P.O. Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 011 Tel: 0471 4015593 M: 0091 9995139933 / 9947733339 email: metromart.tvm@gmail.com Pune Office:2nd Floor, ARIANA, Above Unnati, Near New Poona Bakery, Wakad, Pune - 411 057 India Pune | Kolkata | Bangalore | Kochi

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The Festival of Joy and Happiness

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REDESIGN while RESTARTING hospitality business post-Covid 19

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Hotels need to think out of box and open other revenue earning sources

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Covid Care In Rheumatic Diseases

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Deep Breathing ExercisesTremendous Health Benefits at No Cost

Sijicn@gmail.com

Business Development Ratheesh Kumar Manager

Asst Manager-Sales & Jayaprakash R. P. Marketing

Digital Marketing Officer

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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 nor any of its employees accept any responsibilities for any errors or omissions.

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FESTIVAL

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The Festival of Joy and Happiness

C

elebration of the festival of Onam which is celebrated by Malayali population around the world is marked by happiness, excitement and enjoyment among all sections of people. Onam has the distinction as the most important traditional festival of the Malayalees in and outside Kerala.

Onam is a harvest festival observed with numerous festivities and rich in culture and heritage.

It is the official state festival of Kerala with public holidays that generally start four days from Onam Eve (Uthradom). Though Onam originated as a Hindu festival, it is considered more as a cultural festival and celebrated by almost all communities irrespective of religion.

Origin of Onam

Onam is celebrated as an outcome of reasons that have to do with mythology as well as old agrarian practices. If one is to go by the myth, then King Mahabali or Maveli was a generous and virtuous ruler, who had once ruled

N.Vijayagopalan

Kerala. During his rule, the kingdom became so prosperous that Devas (Gods of the Heaven) felt jealous about this and also for the reason that King Mahabali was an Asura - a member of the demon clan - who were the enemies of Devas. So, they sent Lord Vishnu in the guise of Vamana (a dwarf) to King Mahabali.

As an offering from the generous king, Vamana requested Mahabali for three feet of land. And at the time of measuring the three feet of land, Vamana grew so huge that he measured all the worlds in two steps. Since he had nowhere else to place his third step, Mahabali asked Vamana to place it on his head. Pleased by his benevolence, Vamana blessed Mahabali before he was sent to the nether world and granted him permission to visit his dear subjects once in a year. This occasion is celebrated by all Malayalees as Onam.

The other cause for celebrating Onam is because it is the time of the year when a good harvest has been gathered all over Kerala, resulting in plenitude and happiness.

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Celebrations, rituals and practices Onam falls in the month of Chingam, which is the first month according to the Malayalam Calendar. The celebrations mark the Malayalam New Year, are spread over ten days, and conclude with Thiruvonam. The most important day of Onam is Thiru Onam. Rituals pertaining to Onam festival commence ten days before Thiru Onam, on Atham. The actual Onam festival is actually celebrated on four days, on Uthradam (known as First Onam), Thiru Onam, Avittam (known as Third Onam) and Chathayam (known as Fourth Onam).

The Atham day is marked with the start of festivities at Vamanamoorthy Thrikkakara temple (Kochi). This Vishnu temple is considered as the focal centre of Onam and the abode of Mahabali, with the raising of the festival flag. Parades are held, which are colourful and depict the elements of Kerala culture with floats and tableaux.

Other days have diverse range of celebrations and activities including Vallam Kali (boat race), Pulikali (tiger dance), Pookkalam (flower arrangement), Onathappan (worship), Onam Kali, Tug of War, ThumbiThullal (women's dance), Kummattikali (mask dance), Onathallu (martial arts), 22

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Onavillu (music), Kazhchakkula (plantain offerings), Onapottan (costumes), Aththaachamayam (folk songs and dance), and other celebrations like cultural programs, sports competitions, dance events, martial arts, floral designs (pookkalam) shopping, donating time or food for charity to spending time with family over feasts. Men and women wear traditional dress. The Kerala sari or Kasavu sari is particularly wore on this day.

The Onam celebrations across the state start off with a grand procession at Thrippunithura near Kochi called Atthachamayam, also referred to as Thripunithura Athachamayam. The parade features elephants marching, drum beats and other music, folk art forms, floats and colorfully dressed people with masks. In Kerala's history, the Kochi king used to head a grand military procession

The procession path historically has been from Tripunithura to the Vamanamoorthy Temple in Thrikkakara, Ernakulam district.

in full ceremonial robes from his palace to the Thrikkakara temple, meeting and greeting his people. In contemporary times, this a state supported event. The parade floats traditionally feature scenes from epics such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.

Additionally, some floats include themes from the Bible as well as current themes thereby highlighting unity and harmony.

The procession path historically has been from Tripunithura to the Vamanamoorthy Temple in Thrikkakara, Ernakulam district. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu in his Vamana (dwarf) avatar. After arrival at the temple, the marchers offer a prayer.

Floral arrangements during Onam are a very popular tradition. The floral carpet, known as Onapookkalam or just Pookkalam, is made out of the gathered blossoms with several varieties of flowers of differing tints pinched up

into little pieces to design and decorate patterns on floor, particularly at entrances and temple premises like a flower mat. Lamps are arranged in the middle or edges. It is a work of art, typically the team initiative of girls and women, who accomplish it with a delicate touch and a personal artistic sense of tone and blending. When completed, a miniature pandal (umbrella) hung with little festoons is usually erected over it.

The pookkalam is similar to Rangoli which is made of powders of various colors and is popular in North India.

The traditional ritual of laying pookkalam (floral carpet) starts on Atham day. The pookkalam on this day is called Athappoo.

The size of the pookkalam grows in size progressively with each day of the Onam festival. Only yellow flowers are used on Atham with only one circular layer made and the design is kept simple. All August 2021

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over Kerala, Pookkalam competitions are a common sight on Onam day. Statues or figurines of Mahabali and Vamana are also installed at the entrance of each house on this day in some parts of Kerala.

Traditional dance forms including Thiruvathira, Kummattikali, Pulikali, ThumbiThullal, Onam Kali and others are performed during the Onam festival. Thiruvathira kali is a women's dance performed in a circle around a lamp.

Kummattikali is a colourful-mask dance. In Thrissur, festivities include a procession consisting of caparisoned elephants surrounded by Kummatikali dancers. The masked dancers go from house to house performing the colorful 24

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Kummattikali. Onam Kali is a form of dance where players arrange themselves in circles around a pole or tree or lamp, then dance and sing songs derived from the Ramayana and other epics.

Kathakali dance is also commonly performed during this time, with dancers enacting famous mythological legends. A famous venue for this is at Valluvanad (Northern Kerala) which is associated with the growth of Kathakali, and Cheruthuruthy, where Kerala Kalamandalam is located.

Pulikali, also known as Kaduvakali is a common sight during Onam season. This dance showcases performers painted like tigers in bright yellow, red and black, who

dance to the beats of instruments like Chenda and thakil. This folk art is mainly performed in the cultural district of Thrissur and thousands pour into the city to be a part of this art.

Performances of the ritual worship dance Theyyam are given during the Onam season. In this, Mahabali is played by the Onathar. Its variations include characters such as Oneswaran and Onapottan.

At the Thrikkakara temple, every day of the festival showcases one or more of these activities including Kathakali, Thiruvathira, Chakyarkoothu, Ottamthullal, Patakam, Onam songs and percussion instrument shows. The Onasadya here is grand in scale, and is attended by over ten thousand people from all religions and faiths. Festivities include Puli Kali (masked leopard dance) and traditional dance forms like Kaikotti Kali which are performed in various functions. The official Government celebrations start on this day with heavy illuminations in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode along with fireworks.

Major cities in Kerala, such as the political, commercial and cultural capitals namely Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Thrissur respectively, are lit up with lights and fabulous displays of fireworks.

Sumptuous Onam Sadya feasts

The Onam sadya (feast) is another very indispensable part of Thiruvonam, and almost every Keralite attempts to either make or attend one.

The Onasadya reflects the spirit of the season and is traditionally made with seasonal vegetables.

are prepared. In Thrikkakara temple, a mega-feast is conducted which is open to the public and is attended by more than twenty thousand people.

The Vallamkali (the snake boat race) is another event that is synonymous with Onam. Wellknown races include the Aranmula Uthrattadhi Boat Race and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race.

Numerous oarsmen row huge snake-shaped boats. Men and women come from far and near to watch and cheer the snake boats race through the water.

This event is particularly featured on the Pampa River, considered sacred and Kerala equivalent of Ganges River. As a tribute to the traditional snake boat race, August 2021

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a similar snake boat race is also held by the Malayali diaspora in Singapore annually during Onam at the Jurong Lake.

Onam Sadya (Onam Feast) The Onam sadya (feast) is another very indispensable part of Thiruvonam, and almost every Keralite attempts to either make or attend one. The Onasadya reflects the spirit of the season and is traditionally made with seasonal vegetables. The feast consisting of cooked rice as the main item is served on plantain leaves and comprises of nine courses, but may include over two dozen dishes, including Chips (especially Banana chips), Sharkaraveratti (Fried pieces of banana coated with 26

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Normally, the largest chunk of Onam celebrations end by Thiruvonam. However the two days following Thiruvonam are also celebrated as Third and Fourth Onam.

jaggery), Pappadam, a variety of vegetable dishes, various types of pickles, buttermilk, coconut chutney etc. The feast ends with a series of desserts called Payasam (a sweet dish made of milk, sugar, jaggery and other traditional Indian savories).

Post Onam celebrations Normally, the largest chunk of Onam celebrations ends by Thiruvonam. However the two days following Thiruvonam are also celebrated as Third and Fourth Onam. The third Onam, called Avittom marks the preparations for King Mahabali's return ascension to heavens. The main ritual of the day is to take the Onathappan statue which was placed in the middle of every pookkalam

during the past ten days and immerse it in nearby rivers or sea.

The pookkalam will be cleaned and removed after this ritual.

Other customs

Onappottan in traditional costume is a custom in northern Kerala. Onappottan visits houses and gives blessings. People buy and wear new clothes for the occasion of Onam, and this tradition is called the Onakkodi.

During the Onam, Keralite Hindus install an image of Thrikkakara Appan or Onatthappan (Vishnu in the form of Vamana) in their home just as Hindus install images or murtis of Lord Ganesha on the Ganesha Chaturthi festival elsewhere. Many lamps are lit in Hindu temples of Kerala during this celebration.

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The swing is another integral part of Onam, especially in the rural areas. Young men and women, decked in their best, sing Onappaattu, or Onam songs, and rock one another on swings slung from high branches of trees.

Onam season is often associated with creativity as weavers and potters go for excess production to cater to increased demands for their products during the season, especially in North Kerala regions of Kannur and Kasargod. Handloom fairs are an integral part of the spirit of Onam festivities these days.

In some parts of Kerala, people indulge in various games and dances during and post-Thiruvonam. These are known as Onakkalikal. These include competitions such as Ox races 28

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(Maramadi matsaram), Uriyady, food-eating competitions, Pookalam competitions etc.

Onam is the biggest festival of Kerala. But, there is a lot more to Onam than being just a festival.

Onam reflects the faith of the people of Kerala, a strong belief in their legendary past, and power of worship. It shows the high spirit of the people who go out of the way to celebrate the festival in the prescribed manner and a grand fashion. Onam festival is an integral part of the culture and tradition of Kerala and is considered as the festival of festivals in Kerala with all the hue, pomp and festivities surrounding it. It is sometimes even referred to as a national festival on account of its celebration by the Malayali population spread across all the States of the country.

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SPECIAL FEATURE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

REDESIGN WHILE RESTARTING HOSPITALITY BUSINESS POST-COVID 19 Sureshbabu Sekharan

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he Covid 19 - the second wave has upended life for everyone after a temporary lull since it's an outbreak. Unarguably, the impact the pandemic had created on the hospitality sector is much more severe than any other sector globally. The tourism and hospitality industry came to a grinding halt once again, courtesy of several Indian states that have brought back lock-down-like restrictions especially on the interstate level.

This has marred all the chances of overall stability and growth momentum the industry thrives to be attaining.

ond wave period as the domestic travel cases were gradually rising and corporate travels have started gaining momentum. However, all are prepared for a tough moment now.

Many hoteliers believe that the hotel business will need direct government support to tide over the current crisis. Hotel chains that have multiple hotels in big Indian cities now staring at big losses as only costs keep mounting with limited revenue.

"We were forced to introduce new plans and strategies just to get on our heels with extra priority for health protocols suiting to 'new normal' for both customers and staffs.

With effective cost management and According to reliable data in the innovative guest service method we month of May and June 2021, were just scrambling up from the 25% of interviewed hoteliers from ground, but everything went for a various tourist destinations in toss once again post-second wave.

India expressed their concern that Now we are even unable to pay huge they were uncertain about what electricity bills let alone pending will happen in the future in terms staffs' salaries. Until unless the cenof Indian tourism. More than 55% tral or state government comes up in total stated that tourism in India with a reviving package for buttresswill hit an all-time low in the year ing us the industry can't survive. We 2021. However, 20% of hoteliers have adapted to the policy of rather stated that domestic tourism will being shut and wait for days to likely increase in the future that's brighten up than taking another big something to be sighing for Indian risk. Our staffs are already warned of hospitality. impending doom and they are prepared it too." Says Jose Palamattom, Occupancy levels had been plumVice President, Sands Hotel Private meted to single digits or nil except Limited, Juhu beach, Mumbai. for quarantine or other pandemic-related business during the first "Practicing future revenue at this quarter of the year. Many hotel moment is like staring at the face chains were starting for looking of a fortune teller. The only possiinto growth plans in the pre-secble temporary suggestion for the August 2021

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hotel industry seems to be 'the preparedness for worst'. Unlike the national lockdown, last year hotels are continuing to operate this time by strictly following safety and health protocols adhering to local restrictions. Hoteliers have already learned the fact that managing costs, streaming of operations and implementation of well-developed protocols to look after the safety aspects of guests could help them grappling over the crisis to an extent", opines Anup Antony, a hotel consultant from Kochi. A major worry for the hotel chains is that travelers from abroad may step away for sometime more as India's image as a safe tourism destination has taken a backseat during the second wave of the pandemic with international media painting a grim picture of human sufferings, misgovernance, and mismanagement of Indian health system.

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All hospitality professionals admit that the current crisis makes a turning point in their industry as nothing would be as same as before.

Crisis Management All hospitality professionals admit that the current crisis makes a turning point in their industry as nothing would be as same as before. Nevertheless, if there's a little amount of wisdom and research properly put on, can be helped the hospitality sector to a great length.

Anytime markets can be shut down for one day or another owing to the increased or malleable health uncertainties by the local authorities.

The economic problem will deepen if owners can't adjust operating costs by verifying the various level of market demand. Flexible arrangements with suppliers and real estate owners could also help to better manage cash flow. Overabundance staffing level that largely consumes limited financial resources needs to be avoided at any cost. Daily or weekly cost and revenue planning must be established in order to manage the operational and financial risks during these times of uncertainty. If the risk and financial burden are too high due to low and oscillating levels of demand it's more sensible to keep the business closed.

sectors with more relaxations in domestic airline services and eased guidelines for corporate functionings.

3. Reopening of international markets with more inward and outward flight services and relaxed travel policies.

Cautions in the air

Tourists and travelers themselves will naturally be cautious in the post Covid -second wave scenario. Social distancing and new health regulations will continue to be the new norm for restaurants and hoteliers. New Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for consumers' touchpoints will be required besides additional training sessions for service staff.

Apart from social distancing restricted use of available spaces and partial use on available rooms to be taken into consideration which means putting safety and health first and the financial and economic interest might be secondary which is easier said than done though. The profiles of customers and their demand will also probably be changed Again, our domestic and Internation- in comparison to the pre-Covid al markets are differently impacted 19 status. Also, keep in mind the by the pandemic second wave, fact that the needs of domestic markets could be reopened in three tourists may be different from the steps process. service expectations of an inter1. Smooth reopening of local hospi- national tourist. tality markets under tight restrictions Hoteliers must consider boosting and guidelines of local authorities. digital solutions in their business.

Virtual tourists guides, specific 2. Reopening of national tourism August 2021

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service apps, virtual menus, automated check-ins, and paperless payment systems are areas where human touchpoints can be reduced while focusing on service expectations and efficiencies. At the same time make sure the individual needs of the customer dictate the intensity of the digital experience.

At the end of the day, it's he who knows how to combine innovations and profitability who will be a clear winner.

Employer - Employee bridge As for employers, streamline your workforce, educate them about the current business situations and challenges and explain when and where they should be transparent.

Once you have the right people in your business you then need to invest in training them with respect 34

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to health regulations and uncompromising quality service. The objective is to have motivated and skillful service employees since they are the main source of 'excellence in the service industry.

Given the 'down market syndrome' try to avoid the decision of hiring and firing on a random basis. Identify a core 'care team' that consists of few key employees ideally equipped with experience in various departments and operational tasks. Managerial communication and proximity are imperative and teamwork and multitasking are excellent ways of bridging operational gaps and avoiding higher fixed costs based on overstaffing. The multi-tasking nature of the core team will allow managers to revise SOPs and manage the quick incorporation of newly hired staff.

Employees need to be motivated

and frequently reminded about their specific and special roles. What employers could reassure them is also the minimum level of income security, an open ear for operational concerns, a long-term commitment, and required empathy and kindness in such difficult and challenging business circumstances.

provide them with clarity while letting them know the rules they need to adhere to while traveling.

Staying updated on the latest information will help enhance customer service. Prioritize and build systematically while offering your service as an experience your customers will cherish forever.

Know Your Customer

Virtual Service

Knowing who your customer is and analyzing their needs can supplement your business growth and enabling you to serve them better.

Knowing the customers' concerns, adapting the operational processes to their new needs, and building a composition advantage around them will mainly depend on how well business owners can listen and interact with them. Service is all about people that's the ' basic feet' which will remain so despite the many changes brought on by the post covid 19 pandemic. In fact, the pandemic has transferred numerous aspects of the industry and some of them are likely to have remained even after the crisis has passed. The challenge is to pinpoint what will and won't work during such explosive times.

Keep a tab on the number of throwback posts you share in the pre-pandemic times. The content you post needs to evolve along with your business in tandem with the changing times and the market scenario and how your business has adapted to it etc.

If your business is a restaurant then sharing content about home deliveries, contactless deliveries, etc will allow your customers to see how your offerings have been enhanced to suit the situation. In short, businesses in the hospitality industry must learn to pivot, adapt and flow with the scenario whilst looking for opportunities.

This is perhaps the best time to experiment.

Reregulate your targets and goals entirely according to the current situation is another possibility. Try best to restart the cash flow. Ensure that your business is updated on the latest guidelines and regulations put out by the central and state governments. Communicating the same to your customers is also crucial. It will

Despite the vaccination drive, it's evident that it might take a couple of months for things to stabilize which means that the number of Digital Nomads will continue to do their jobs. Adapting essential solutions and evolving to the fast-changing scenarios will allow business in the industry to bounce back normally and thrive sooner than later.

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What They Say Let us see what some of the key persons in the hospitality business have to say about the scenario.

Baby Marhew Somatheeram President Kerala Travel Mart

Suresh M. Pillai Vice President SIHRA

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Kerala Travel Mart, along with the state government’s tourism and health departments, launched a free mass vaccination drive in Kerala. The campaign is part of a state-wide drive that seeks to vaccinate everyone in the tourism sector so as to make tourism destinations completely vaccinated zones. KTM Society is holding camps till this month-end in all the districts to inoculate tour operators, front-line workers and those who work in the field of tourism that includes, hotels, restaurants, tourist taxi drivers, tour guides, houseboats, homestays and serviced villas.

The drive is for the benefit of those who have yet to get their first doze as well as those awaiting the second shot.

Another aspect for the industry to go on without hurdles at this testing time is vaccination. Vaccination must be strictly and quickly carried out because people need to feel safe when they travel somewhere.

They should be allowed to travel to different locations at least after the first shot. Furthermore, it should be made easier for people to display their vaccination certificates while making reservations. Owners should get their employees vaccinated as early as possible.

Domestic tourism offers main chances for driving recovery and supporting the tourism sector at this crucial time of reopening the industry which could compensate for the downing trend of the international tourism business. Many countries including China, Spain France, and the United States have already moved towards promoting domestic tourism and they are all out of danger zones and their glinting economy stands as a testimony

Jose Pradeep Secretary, Kerala Travel Mart Tourism continues to be one of the sectors hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic in India and the situation is still uncertain as opposed to the other sectors that have started to recover. Unlike the last year's lockdown during the start of the pandemic, post-second wave reopening seems to be complex keeping in mind the zonal curfew and restrictions, and the new preventive measures SOP released by the Government for the tourism sector. All hotels and other hospitality units have to take suitable measures to restrict any further transmission of COVID-19 while providing accommodation and other tourist services.

The third wave of Covid-19 is a critical juncture and the future of Kerala's tourism sector depends heavily on how we handle it. If the sector is not revived now, it might cause irrevocable damage to the Kerala tourism sector in the long term. The need for the moment is a formula for survival rather than planning for long-term profitability as the sword of the third wave is still dangling over us. Effect cost-cutting measures in various aspects are the need of the hour to balance the income-expenditure ratio. Hotels have to pay heavily on taxes and acquire various licenses such as trade licenses, bar licenses, property taxes, etc. Therefore, the waiver of license fees and deferment on statutory dues for the hospitality and travel sector would be the right move. A large number of employees have either lost their job or not getting their salaries.

The government should provide funds from any Government scheme to provide remuneration to the staff of the tourism sector.

Keeping in mind that there is currently no timeline for complete vaccination to combat the pandemic, the tourism sector would take a long time to recover and return to profitability. Domestic tourism, on the other hand, should be the first priority in redeveloping India's tourism economy. The tourism industry, as well as the government, should take all measures to avert job losses and provide whatever financial assistance that may be available. There is an urgent need for specially designed protocols with effective SOPs while protecting the jobs and businesses in the tourism sector. Many countries as preparing measures to help tourism's long-term recovery, encouraging the digital transition and a shift to a greener tourism system, and rethinking tourism for the future.

Vaccination has boosted hopes however the rate of vaccination is too slow for the tourism sector to wait. Industry insiders are of the opinion that prioritizing immunization of front-desk personnel, publicizing the status of vaccinated staff on a public forum, and organizing a vaccination for the resort workers in distant places will assist rebuild traveler confidence.

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Tourism gives jobs in Kerala for skilled and unskilled workers and the total number of business establishments shut down during the last one year are around 20000 and out of this 12000 are hotels. A hotel gives a minimum 5 employment to over 100 jobs and we already lost thousands of jobs in this sector.

There are also more than 12lakhs of NRK returnees Anish Kumar P.K. waiting for jobs in Kerala who all lost jobs in middle east. Kerala is facing acute job losses and much more CEO The Travel Planners tourism organizations are on verge of closing down.

Amidst Covid tourism needs to be operated safely to protect the existing jobs and its time for Kerala to use the edge of vaccinating the frontline workers as a tool to give confidence to travelers to visit Kerala from other states. Post covid travel is to reconnect with nature and Kerala needs to be projected as a sought after destination for nature lovers.

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INTERVIEW

HOTELS NEED TO THINK OUT OF BOX AND OPEN OTHER REVENUE EARNING SOURCES Mr. Arun Kumar Singh, a veteran in hospitality industry with an illustrious career spanning over three and half decades in Hospitality Management joined as the Director of FHRAI – IHM at Greater Noida, effective 1st March 2021.

Mr Singh brings to FHRAI-IHM his expertise in Institutional and academic administration.

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1. Can you briefly narrate the milestones in your career journey so far?

I started my career in Hospitality Industry in 1984 after after doing HM from IHM,Lucknow and after serving fir more than 3 years in Industry I moved to academics and joined IHM,Jaipur as Faculty .

In 1996 I jot the opportunity to start academic administration,infraFood Craft Institute, Jodhpur as OSD structure building and people and then Principal. That exposure of management .

9 years gave me immense exposure 2. How do you propose to establiash and leading a institute to put your exposure and we got FCI,Jodhpur upgraded spanning over three and as State IHM with in 5 years of its establishment. half decades in HospitalIn 2004 I got an opportunity to move to my alma matter IHM,Lucknow as Principal and during my tenure of 9 years we not only upgraded the existing infrastructure but added additional training infrastructure of 60.000 sq.fts. Working as Principal in same Institute where you studied and where your teachers are working as faculty was a memorable period for me as I got complete support and guidance of them in functioning of Institute.

Then in 2013 I was selected and moved as Principal ,IHM,Mumbai which was most prestigious hospitality institute of south east Asia .

This period was full of learning and gave me immense satisfaction. The dedication, discipline among faculty and staff I saw in Mumbai is a rare in Institution now a days.I retired in December ,2020.

I worked for 33 years I worked in Hospitality education and gain immense exposure in the field of

ity Management in the new assignment?

I joined FHRAI-IHM in March,2021 with the aim to get ready Institute for affiliation with National Council fir Hotel Management,Noida (under Ministry of Tourism,Govt.of India ) under the guidance of FHRAI office bearers and with the support of FHRAI Secretariate.Our focus will be in establish this Institute as reputed Hospitality Mgmt.

Institute in short span of time and motivate faculty to also engaged in Research and Development in Hospitality .

3. How do you assess the changing face of the Indian hotel brands in the pandemic scenario?

Indian Hotel brands now can not live and survive in isolation in the era of globalisation. In August 2021

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the present pandemic situation we all need to think out of box and open other revenue earning resources to overcome the financial constraints in the hotels and make hotels secure and safe in the time of pandemic .

Retaining existing staff of the hotel is big challenge and all establishments need to do all possible efforts to retain them.

Indian hotel brands have better understanding of business environment including guests and investors therefore I feel in such difficult time they will be able to survive and take hospitality industry ahead in time to come.

4. What are your views on the availability of qualified manpower for the hotel industry? What more needs to be done in this direction?

In my view we are having large no. of govt.and Private IHMs but only few are providing reasonable number of quality manpower at Management and Sr.Supervisory level to the Luxury sector of Hospitality and test are engaged mainly in providing Entry Level Opportunities.

We need to develop mindset of students towards self learning, problem solving, acquiring managerial skill along with hotel and restaurant operational skill thus providing them an environment in Institute to develop that much confidence in them that they can face the competitive business environment learn and grow .

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5. Do you think that the prevailing training systems for hotel staff properly equip them to meet the emerging challenges, particularly in an environment propelled by technological innovations?

Institutes provide knowledge and basic skill among students and then students learn and develop themselves by working,exposing themselves to new business realities and moulding themselves.

Technological innovations are continuous process and while in industry they see use learn and master themselves.

6. What according to you are the major challenges faced by the hotel industry in India in the present scenario?

A major challenge to the hotel industry is how to cope with the effect of COVID in business as present situation is prevailing for last 14 months and has badly hit the industry. Home delivery of food and beverage is an option but there are several challenges in that also.

One major retail F & B service outlet organisation in India has increased order delivery segment from 25% to 56% and reached to pre pandemic level of revenue . I mean to say changing present pandemic situation is not in our hand but exploring options can help us in increasing revenue to sustain in such a difficult situation. Providing hotels to COVID

isolation patients is also proved to be a source of revenue generation though with least margin .

7. What are your expectations on the support required from the central government for hotel sector restoring the vibrancy of the preCovid 19 times?

Central Govt. should extend below measures In fiscal measures Central Govt.

May please extend a Moratorium of 3 years, waiver on interest of loans,may provide working capital and Govt. should bear the interest burden of Hospitality Sector etc. whereas waiver statutory charges like GST holiday fir 6 months , waiver of property tax, water and electricity charges and license fee by central and state govt.

and deferment of fiscal statutory compliance deadline like direct and indirect taxes m,professional taxes etc.

If these measures are provided

by Government, then hospitality industry will be in position to survive.

8. What do you envisage focusing at over the next three years in your assignment as the helmsman of FHRAI-IHM? First we need to make our presence in the hospitality sector and among students community by using social media and then provide right environment for the self motivational growth of students and inspire them to develop their personality, communication, to gain knowledge and skill and to acquire managerial input to face the industry with interest and grow .

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HEALTH CARE

COVID CARE IN RHEUMATIC DISEASES

Dr. Hima Sreekumar MBBS, DNB General Medicine Consultant Physician Institute for Rheumatology and Immunology Sciences(IRIS) Trivandrum

Introduction The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) was first detected in Wuhan, Hubei province of China in December, 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide to an extent that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global pandemic on March 11, 2020.

As of mid August, 2021, the disease has affected over 20 million people worldwide and caused around 43 lakh deaths. In India, 3 crore cases and 4.3 lakh deaths have been reported.

Even though vaccination Program is in full swing, checking the spread of the disease is still a difficult goal and hence the importance of appropriate general measures in preventing the disease spread. Special care is needed 44

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for the higher risk population including elderly and immune suppressed individuals.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus-2 belongs to the family of virus know as Coronaviridae. The disease caused by this virus is known as COVID-19. The virus is transmitted via respiratory droplets and aerosols. Corona viruses are made up of 4 structural proteins – the spike protein (S), membrane protein (M), envelope protein (E) and nucleocapsid proteins (N).

The S protein protrudes from the viral surface and hence is the most important factor for host attachment and penetration. ACE-2 is identified as the functional receptor for SARS-

CoV-2 and is abundantly expressed in cells lining the respiratory pipes.

This is the very same receptor that mediates the action of commonly used antihypertensive medications as Lisinopril, Enalapril etc. This receptor is the site for S protein binding, which is the starting point of host cell invasion. It has also been well documented that acquiring proetective antibodies to S protein is associated with development of immunity to the infection.

After the viral particles are released into the respiratory lining of lungs, they undergo multiplication and the newly formed viral particles invade adjacent cells as well as provide fresh infective material to aid in disease spread via respiratory droplets.

as fever, malaise and dry cough.

Majority of patients do not progress beyond this phase as the immune response is sufficient to contain the infection.

• Involvement of lower respiratory tract and progression to ARDS(adult respiratory distress syndrome) – around 1 in 5 patients progress to this stage resulting in severe symptoms. This is characterized by release of chemicals which further drive the immune system known cytokines which results in the inability of the body to control the disease

Risk Factors

Risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes include SARS-CoV-2 infection is characterized older age (>65 years), male sex, and pre-existing co-morbidities by an initial cytokine storm that can (hypertension, diabetes, obesity, result in acute respiratory distress cardiovascular diseases, and chronic syndrome (ARDS) and macrophage respiratory diseases). Additionally, activation syndrome (MAS). This immune-compromised individuals, initial phase is followed by a period including people with systemic of immune dysregulation. rheumatic diseases, are at increased Stages of the disease risk of infection by SARS-CoV-2.

include:

• Asymptomatic phase – the virus binds to nasal epithelial cells and enters via ACE-2 receptor followed by local replication and propagation to the lining cells of the conducting airways. There is a limited immune response at this phase which is highly infectious and can be detected by nasal swab testing.

Rheumatic diseases and COVID-19

Certain studies have shown increased prevalence of COVID-19 in autoimmune diseases. The increased prevalence of COVID-19 in inflammatory or autoimmune rheumatic diseases can depend on numerous factors, such as diseaserelated immune-system alterations • Infection of the upper respiratory or the use of immune-modulating tract – the virus migrates to the drugs; and unknown genetic upper respiratory tract via conducting and environmental predisposing airways and symptoms develop such

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SPECIAL FEATURE

conditions. However, there are studies which have demonstrated no increase in risk of developing disease in rheumatological patients when compared to general population.

Patients with rheumatological diseases are predisposed for getting infection; also certain studies have shown increased prevalence of serious infections in persons with rheumatological disease and those with underlying interstitial lung disease. Hence people with rheumatological disease are considered a vulnerable group so utmost care should be taken.

GENERAL CARE • Social distancing

• Adequate hand hygiene • Proper use of mask • Avoid contact with COVID-19 46

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suspects and patients • Balanced nutrition and adequate fluid intake • Adequate exercise regimen according to the disease activity

MEDICATIONS

IN patients with rheumatic disease, all medications can be continued unless there is no infection or symptoms. If there is a contact with COVID-19 or symptoms with COVID-19, early testing is recommended. If a patient with autoimmune rheumatological disease is tested positive for COVID-19 infection, or develops symptoms pertaining to COVID-19 with a history of COVID positive contact one will need modification of the existing medications including steroids.

Recent recommendations of American College of Rheumatology

(ACR) updated in February 2021, suggest that anti-malarial therapies (HCQ/CQ), SSZ, MTX, LEF, immunosuppressants, non-IL-6 biologics, and JAK inhibitors should be stopped or held (M/H) regardless of COVID-19 severity.

Patients using non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for pain relief, are advised to stop NSAIDS, if they develop severe respiratory symptoms. In case of cytokine storm, interleukin inhibitors can be used after assessing the clinical condition.

REINITIATION OF TREATMENT Reinitiating of treatment should be made on a case-to-case basis and it can be done according to discretion of the treating physician with guidance from ACR recommendations.

For patients with uncomplicated COVID-19 infections (characterized by mild or no pneumonia and treated in the ambulatory setting or via self-quarantine), consideration may be given to restarting rheumatic disease treatments (e.g., DMARDs, immunosuppressants, biologics, and JAK inhibitors) within 7–14 days of symptom resolution. For patients who have a positive PCR test result for SARS-CoV-2 but are (and remain) asymptomatic, consideration may be given to restarting rheumatic disease treatments (e.g., DMARDs, immunosuppressants, biologics, and JAK inhibitors) 10–17 days after the PCR result is reported as positive.

VACCINATION All patients with rheumatological diseases on immunosuppressants should be vaccinated with available COVID-19 vaccines. No one vaccine has been shown to be superior to another in this context. However inatake of some medications as Methotrexate, Tofacitinb and Rituximab can be associated with a lesser immune reponse and hence lesser efficacy of vaccines in patients taking them. Infact the ACR recommends stopping methotrexate for 2 weeks and tofacitinib for one week after vaccination. Rituximab may be delayed by 4 weeks after the final vaccination if the disease activity permits. All other drugs may be continued prior to and post vaccination.

PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT As with the general population, COVID-19 infection as well as preventive self isolation is risk factors for development of psychological disorders including clinical depression in rheumatological patients. This should be addressed and adequate measures should be considered to prevent the same, including provision for hospital visits / tele-consultations as and when necessary, according to the disease activity. In addition, their caregivers should be educated regarding the need for proper emotional support during this pandemic crisis.

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HEALTH

Deep Breathing ExercisesTremendous Health Benefits at No Cost

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ir to breathe for intake of oxygen is perhaps the only thing human beings get free on this earth.

When we consume optimum level of this ‘freely available oxygen’ through deep breathing exercises, the benefits are amazing.

stress, relax your mind and body and can help you sleep better.

It is not an exaggeration to say that inhaling, exhaling a few deep breaths every day could make a drastic improvement in your lifestyle. It is a scientifically proved fact that taking just a few moments each day to practice some deep breathing exercises can decrease

Deep breathing is a natural painkiller

August 2021

Science has established that breathing correctly is important for your overall well being. Studies have revealed that its benefits are uncountable. Let us have a look at some of the important advantages of deep breathing.

When you deep breathe, the body releases endorphins, which are the feel good hormones and a natural pain killer created by the body itself.

Deep breathing improves blood flow

breaths can signal your body to detoxify and return to a sense of calm, which can help you sleep When we take deep breaths, the upward better. Those undergoing insomnia are often suggested practising and downward movement of the diaphragm helps remove the toxins from breathing exercises, along with meditation before bedtime for the body promoting better blood flow. good sleep.

Deep breathing improves immunity

Deep breathing brings fresh oxygen and exhales out toxins and carbon dioxide. When the blood is oxygenated, it ensures smoother functioning of your vital organs, including the immune system. A cleaner, toxin-free and healthier blood supply help ward off infection-causing germs from the base and strengthens your immunity. Deep breathing also acts as a natural toxin reliever. It also benefits the absorption of vitamins and nutrients in the body, making sure you recover faster as well.

Deep breathing calms down anxiety Practising deep breathing is a sure solution to calm down anxiety.A lot of experts and psychologists swear by the fact that deep breathing can do wonders in removing anxious thoughts and nervousness in a jiffy. Deep breathing slows down your heart rate, allows the body to take in more oxygen and ultimately signals the brain to wind down. It also balances your hormones, lowers down cortisol levels, increases endorphin rush in the body.

Deep breathing helps you sleep better Following a simple deep breathing regime- '5-4-3-2-1' can guarantee better sleep. Taking slow, deep, long

Deep breathing increases energy level Due to increased blood flow, we get more oxygen into our blood. Increased oxygen results in increased energy levels.

Deep breathing improves posture Believe it or not, bad posture is related to incorrect breathing. Try to breathe deeply and notice how your body starts to straighten up during the process. When you fill your lungs with air, this automatically encourages you to straighten up your spine.

And when you make it a regular practice, your posture definitely improves a lot.

Deep breathing reduces inflammation A lot is reported in the medical field that diseases like cancer only thrive in bodies that are acidic in nature. Deep breathing is said to reduce the acidity in your body, thereby making it alkaline. Stress also increases acidity level in the body. Breathing also reduces stress and thus the acidity.

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toxifies the body Carbon dioxide is a natural toxic waste that comes out from our body only through breathing. But when our lungs are compromised by shallow breathing the other detoxification system starts working harder to expel this waste. This can make our body weaker and lead to illness.

digestive system, thus making it work more efficiently. The increased blood flow due to deep breathing also encourages intestinal action which further improves your overall digestion. In addition, deep breathing results in a calmer nervous system, which in turn also enhances optimal digestion.

Deep breathing relaxDeep breathing stimu- es mind and body lates lymphatic system As our breathing is what moves the lymph, shallow breathing can lead to a sluggish lymphatic system which will not detoxify properly. Deep breathing will help you get the lymph flowing properly so that your body can work more efficiently.

Deep breathing improves digestion Breathing deep supplies more oxygen to all our body parts including our

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When you are angry, tensed or scared, your muscles are tightened and your breathing becomes shallow. Your breathing constricts.

At this time your body is not getting the amount of oxygen it requires.

Long deep breathing reverses this process, allowing your body (and mind) to become calmer.

Yes, deep breathing gives us tremendous health benefits at no cost! Then why not make it a regular practice?

News

KTDC’S ‘IN-CAR DINING’ TO SERVE FOOD IN PARKED VEHICLES

A

iming to allay health risks while eating in public spaces amid the pandemic, the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) has launched a novel facility that serves food to travellers inside their vehicles.

Through the ‘In-Car Dining’ scheme, customers can place orders and receive dishes of their choice from the KTDC’s Aahaar Restaurants by remaining in their parked vehicles, Tourism Minister Mr. P. A. Mohammed Riyas said.

Adhering to Covid-19 protocols,

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breakfast, lunch and dinner, besides snacks, will be served under the ‘InCar Dining’ scheme. Initially, select KTDC restaurants in the state will carry out the scheme, he added. “‘In-Car Dining’ seeks to provide our customers with a new experience,” Mr. Riyas said in Thiruvananthapuram on June 18, after reviewing a set of ongoing tourism projects as well as the activities of the KTDC. “We plan to reach out to the people with safe and tasty food.”

“The KTDC hotel chains will be renovated under the project ‘Mission Facelift’ after classifying them on a priority basis,” he said.

“Moreover, floating restaurants will be set up in select destinations across the state on the lines of the one at Veli in Thiruvananthapuram.

The first of which will come up at Kadalundi in Kozhikode district,” the minister added.

KTM’S FREE COVID VACCINATION CAMP

K

erala Travel Mart, along with the state government’s tourism and health departments, launched a free mass vaccination drive in Ernakulam district to revitalize the holiday industry that has remained dull for one-and-a-half years owing to Covid-19.

The drive, being held at BTH Sarovaram in Cochin Bypass aims to counter an anticipated third wave of the pandemic, organizers said.

The campaign is part of a state-wide drive that seeks to vaccinate everyone in the tourism sector so as to make tourism destinations completely vaccinated zones. KTM Society is holding camps till this month-end in all the districts to inoculate tour operators, front-line workers and those who work in the field of tourism that includes hotels, restaurants, tourist taxi drivers, tour guides, houseboats, homestays and serviced villas.

Kochi Mayor Shri M Anil Kumar and Ernakulam District Collector Shri Jafer Malik IAS opened the threeday program at suburban Maradu, marking the start of inoculating 2,500 people in the tourism sector.

KTM Society president Baby Mathew Somatheeram, secretary Jose Pradeep, vice president S The drive is for the benefit of those Swaminathan, former president who have yet to get their first dose Abraham George and tourism deputy as well as those awaiting the second director Abhilash T G participated. shot.

KTM Society, which is the country’s biggest organization in the travel and tourism segment has been working towards reviving the industry since the spread of the coronavirus in the state.

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