Metro Mart February 2016

B FE 16 20

METRO mart Volume 5 Issue 7

`40

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

ATTUKAL PONGALA AN OFFERING OF THE SOUL www.metromartdaily.com

THE SACRED SANCTITIES OF KERALA

TAILOR MADE HOLIDAYS MEMORIES OF A LIFETIME February 2016

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

Gurucharanam Saranam

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

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February 2016

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

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February 2016

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

The city’s festival season has started off with the Pongala Mahotsavam at Attukal Devi Temple. All homes in and around the temple open up their homes to welcome and facilitate the Pongala offering by the devotees. The city’s culture of ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ can be witnessed during this event every year. As in previous years, Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram is at the centre stage with a Kiosk at the festival site and would be doing its humble part in the facilitations.

This issue of our magazine intends to take the readers through various aspects of Attukal. An article by Ampili Nair focuses on the belief of devotees on the supreme power of Attukal Bhagavathy, while the article by Anju Budhiraja dwells on pilgrimage tourism of Kerala.

Foreword

Dear Readers

We report on the bloggers from 25 countries coming together to participate in the third season of ‘Kerala Blog Express’. Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram provides its readers an insight into Ocean Gems and Pearls, in this edition’s Shopping section. Foodies can take up the recipe for ‘Scallops with broccoli and pine nuts’ given

by Ashok Eapen of Hilton Garden Inn. Other features in this edition include an update on the rising Malls across the city, Union Minister for MSME Kalraj Mishra’s visit to Coir Kerala 2016 and Nypunyam International Summit and Skill Fiesta 2016. The write-ups on ‘NT&T’s holiday packages’ and the ‘3-D coir-based paneling system’ add to variety of themes dwelt upon in this edition.

Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram looks at the ‘Navaratana ‘Experiessential’ Holidays’ – a venture by the tour operators in the state promoting destinations across the state. We also analyse in this edition, the research opportunities to be created in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi by the German house for research and innovation - DWIH New Delhi. We have also covered the inauguration of modernized Fish Market in Kazhakoottam.

Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram in this edition too has continued the efforts to provide our readers insight in to the events and personalities across the state.

Siji Nair Managing Editor & Director

It should be noted that the city has several programmes promoting healthy and clean lifestyle. One such initiative is the ‘Trivandrum Cyclathon 2016’. We are sure it is a commendable event which would be of significant benefit to the participants.

We wish all our readers a great month!

Regards Siji Nair

sijicn@gmail.com

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February 2016

CONTENTS

Volume 5 Issue 7 February 2016 www.metromartdaily.com

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

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

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

12

The Sacred Sanctities of Kerala

22

Attukal Pongala an offering for the soul

24

Intermingle of Art&Creativity

26

Kerala Blog Express Enters Season 3

34

Kerala Can Look Forward to be the Global Destination for Upscaling of Skills

36

Tailor made Holidays.

Memories of a Lifetime.

40

Coir wall panels to help insulate and sound-proof homes

52

Trivandrum Cyclathon 2016

64

Metro Update

V. Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair

Creative Assistant

Sayan Chaudhuri Arnab Chowdhury

GM Sales

Sibu Nair

Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar

Baiju Jayakumar

Corporate Office:Metro Mart Thiruvananthapuram MERA 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College PO,Thiruvananthapuram Kerala 695 011 Tel: 00919995139933 / 9947733339 Email: metromart.tvm@gmail.com Bangalore Office:No:217, 3B Main, OMBR Layout Bangalore – 560 043 Tel: +919038000711 Email: info@martinfotech.in Kolkata Office 313, Dorikal Byelane, Jheel Avenue, Dum Dum Road, Kolkata – 700 074, India

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

Metro Mart reserves the right to use the information published here in any manner whatsoever. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published in this edition, neither the Publisher no any of its employees accept any responsibilities for any errors or omissions. © All Rights Reserved 10 February 2016

RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

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February 2016

TOURISM

The Sacred Sanctities of Kerala There is so much more to Kerala than its backwaters, ayurveda, sun-kissed sands, beaches and cuisine. What intoxicate the travellers are the age-old temples, churches, mosques, and all that makes Kerala a sacred abode.

Anju Budhiraja Pilgrimage tourism is yet another facet of Kerala that is making news. The southern state has quite a number of pilgrimage centers such as temples and shrines that are a major source of attraction to tourists. The coconut land has many sacred temples, particularly those in Thiruvananthapuram alone that makes Kerala most visited amongst the religious people.

Whatever be the nature of the pilgrimage place, Kerala has the perfect backdrop in terms of a pure and pristine atmosphere that helps in invoking the Almighty through participation in temple festivals, devotional songs, and engaging oneself in multifarious temple activities.

Religious Places in Kerala Animals particularly elephants play a pivotal role in the holy worship and religious ceremonies at the temples and other sacred places in Kerala. This happens almost throughout the year when devotees throng to the religious

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places to participate in the annual fairs and festivals that happen.

In Kerala, there are number of pilgrimage

centres pertaining to each worshipping community, be it Hindus, Muslims, Jains or Christians. This universality despite diversity in religion is an endearing aspect

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February 2016

of Kerala. Some of the popular destinations comprising temples, churches and mosques are Guruvayoor,Sabarimala, Chottanikkara, Attukal, Bharananganam, Malayattoor, Maramon, Parappanangadi, etc where thousands throng to pay obeisance to their deities.

Kerala also happens to house ancient Jewish synagogues in Fort Kochi which is an island town.

The History and Avenues of Worship The holy face of the 20th century Kerala cannot be written without giving due recognition to the contributions made by Sri Narayana Guru and Chattampi Swamikal, the two great spiritual teachers of the present century. In the present day thousands visit Vallikkavu, a small coastal village in Kollam district to see and hear

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Mata Amritanandamayi, who provides spiritual consolation to all those who seek it.

Every religious place has a sense of value and significance attached to it. The tourism industry

in the state of Kerala is making valuable gains out of selling this fascination in the minds of people, both as places of tourist interest and as places of worship. Every year millions of pilgrims visit Sabarimala

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in the month of NovemberJanuary, which is when the pilgrims come in endless numbers.

Sabarimala is not the only place of attraction for the spiritual crowd. The Pooram festival at Thrissur is yet another spiritual and a socio-cultural event festival which is the most colourful festival of Kerala.

Celebrated during the summer season of AprilMay every year, Thrissur Pooram largely comprises of a procession of richly caparisoned elephants from various neighbouring temples.

Another important temple in Kerala is the Sri Krishna temple at Guruvayur which is popularly known as Dakshina Madura.

All major temples in the state celebrate yearly festivals which usually last around nine days. The colourful procession of elephants accompanied by vadyam and melam which are traditional temple percussion music is a usual sight.

Now why leave the Christians behind? The festivals in the churches stand apart too. Christianity, it is believed, has a history of 2000 years in Kerala as Christian disciple St Thomas came here to spread the faith in 52 AD. The saint

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had built seven churches in the state, which are still considered as the main centre of Christianity in the country. With a good Christian population, Kerala celebrates almost

all Christian festivals on a grand scale.

The church at Niranam, dedicated to St Mary holds pride of place. The church celebrates its main

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

festival on August 15 and the birthday of St Mary is celebrated on a grand scale on September 8. The Church also celebrates the feast of St Thomas on July 3. Among Church festivals the Perunal at the Edappally church is the most popular one. The festival begins on April 23.

A unique phenomenon associated with Christian faith in Kerala is undoubtedly the Maramon convention. It is held every year during February on the vast sand bed of the river Pamba, below the Kozhencherry bridge and

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has the largest Christian gathering in Asia. Christians from all over the country and abroad assemble here to listen to the word of God as read and expounded by leaders of Christian thought.

Similarly, Islam also has many celebrations in Kerala, for instance, the Prophet’s birthday.

The spiritual tradition of Kerala is very rich and eclectic that welcomes everybody with a warm heart.

February 2016

COVER STORY

All Roads Lead to

Attukal Amma for Pongala

Sarva Mangala Mangalye Shive Sarvartha Sadhike Sharanye Trumbake Gauri Narayani Namo’stu Te

Attukal Bhagavathy - the deity of prosperity – resides in Thiruvananthapuram, on the banks of Killyar.

The temple of Attukal Bhagavathy has become the confluence of all devotees of the Goddess. Over the years, the temple has been called as the ‘Sabarimala of women’ due to the influx of women devotees. It should be noted that Kerala is a place where there are many major temples devoted to goddesses. The various forms of Saraswathy, Lekshmi and Bhadrakali have been installed across the State and worshipped.

be the celestial mother of every existing form and being. She is believed to be limitless. Prithvi Mata is believed to be the Mother Earth. Ushas meaning dawn is portrayed as the goddess warding off evil spirits of the night.

The tradition of Goddess Goddess Vak is said to worship in our country has a be the Mother of Vedas. very vibrant history. Rigveda She is believed to give - one of the four canonical intelligence and wisdom. sacred texts of Hinduism – Over centuries the indicated to be composed goddesses has been given around 1700-1100 B.C. many names and forms. mentions the goddesses of Goddesses are depicted as Aditi, Prithvi, Ushas, and benevolent, fierce, etc.

Vak. Aditi is considered to

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Shakti is worshipped as the Supreme Being among Shaivites and in Shaktism.

Among the various depictions of the Devi, Parvati as the consort of the God Shiva and Lekshmi as the consort of Vishnu are two of the major guises. Kali or Durga is a fierce form of the Devi.

Shaktism is a branch of Hinduism that recognizes Devi as the Power. Shakti is believed to be the dynamic feminine aspect of the Supreme Divine. Many Sanskrit literary works have taken inspirations from

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

the women taking centre stage. Women devotees felt in reading the works from far and wide come of Sri Shankaracharya. to Attukal with prayers in The modern day thinkers Shaktism or the doctrine their heart and cooks rice like Sri Aurobindo and Sri of the Goddess. The Indian Ramakrishna Paramahamsa porridge for the Bhagavathy. subcontinent has several have been influenced by the The rice porridge with places of worship dedicated other ingredients is made concept of Shaktism. to the goddess Shakti. These to boil over symbolizing places are called the Shakti their prayers to appease the There are many Devi Peethas. deity. temples in and around Thiruvananthapuram. Some The Hindu religious text of The Pongala at Attukal is of them are family deities Devi Mahatmyam describes allowed only for the women while some are installed the victory of the goddess folks. Participants at this in the ancient times by Durga over the demon ritual include devotees from great sages. One belief is Mahishasura. This scripture across the country as well that Attukal Bhagavathy is thought to be composed as from abroad. The firm is a form of Kannaki. around 400-500 A.D. by belief of the devotees is On Attukal Pongala day, the sage Markandeya. The that the Goddess provides millions of women throng title means ‘Magnanimity everything for them. The to perform the ritual of of the Goddess.’ Adi Pongala is offered for the Pongala – an offering to Shankaracharya praises prosperity and wellbeing Bhagavathy during the Shakti in the hymn month of Malayalam month of their entire family.

Soundaryalahari. The of Kumbha. The festival sees A spirit of sisterhood is presence of Devi can be

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Trust Members

K P RAMACHANDRAN NAIR Chairman

V L VINOD President

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K GIRIJA KUMARI AMMA Vice President

N K SREEKUMAR Treasurer

C AJITH KUMAR Secretary

RAJALEKSHMI Joint Secretary

February 2016

created in the women folks through the whole process of waiting together an entire day, cooking and the Pongala offering.

The event has turned out to be a moment of women’s pride and joy. The equality of all the women at the Pongala is highlighted.

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Regardless of caste, creed and even religion, the devotees gather in and around the sacred surroundings of Attukal and pay their tributes to Goddess Bhagavathy.

Bhagavathy is synonymous with Shakti, female aspect of the divine. Devi is viewed as the source,

essence as well as the substance of everything seen or unseen in creation.

Devi has become a symbol of the ultimate and supreme deity. Devotees of Attukal Bhagavathy believe the prosperity of Thiruvananthapuram is a gift of the Mother.

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

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February 2016

COVER STORY

Attukal Pongala

an offering for the soul

A silent revolution in the offing,….a celebration of feminity…! Come to Thiruvananthapuram on an Attukal pongala day, you will be able to perceive this. You could see the otherwise weaker section of society roaming with confidence at the pitch dark night. No other day they have this demeanor. It’s the confidence that Attukal amma instills on them. They literally become a Durga with courage on one side and love and benevolence on the other.

Ampili Nair

An entire city engulfed in the spirit of dedicating oneself at the feet of the goddess Attukal Amma.!

This is Attukal pongala, the largest women congregation in the world where at least one person from each household and thousands from outside the district and even abroad throng the temple to see their deity once.

When in distress to whom do we reach out to..? Its

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invariably mother, the ever inspiring pillar that never fail even if the whole world turns against us. Her lap is always our abode, ever nurturing and ever solacing. Attukal Amma is this and more to the teeming millions that gather here to offer pongala on the pooram star of Malayalam month Kumbham. Arrangements are all progressing to make this year’s Attukal pongala that falls on !5th of March 2015 a grand experience

Pongala festival , a tenday long festival that starts on the karthika star of Malayalam month Kumbham ends with the sacrificial offering or kuruthitharpanam at night on the tenth day. Pongala is celebrated on the ninth day of the festival. The pongala commemorates the reception accorded by women to Kannagi who took a sojourn at Attukal on her way to Kodungalloor after slaying King Pandya.

The pongala with a literal meaning ‘that which boils over’ is a rice porridge

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with jaggery , coconut gratings and raisins offered to appease the goddess Attukal Amma. After the offering is made, the temple priest consecrates it by sprinkling holy water over the earthen pots. The pongala can be interpreted as the representation of god realization through five elements like fire, air, water, earth and space.

Women, from all walks of life, irrespective of caste and creed assemble around the temple precincts to

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a radius of 7 km to offer pongala naivedium to Attukal Amma. Since the temple premises cannot afford to accommodate the millions, the public roads, pavements, government offices, schools, colleges, bus terminals, railway stations and courtyards are thrown open to offer Pongala.

The festival begins with the musical rendering of the saga of Goddess Kannagi called’ thottam pattu’ along with the kappukettu ceremony. An ambience of solemnity and sanctity

prevails throughout the festival. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

The temple authorities, voluntary organizations, local people, festival committee members and various government departments see to it that the festival is conducted without a hitch. Law and order is ensured with the support of the police and volunteers. Those who had participated once cannot hold them back and come back the next year with more vigor..To what can we attribute this feel to, other than the charisma and the love that Bhagavathy showers on them‌.

February 2016

SHOPPING

Intermingle of Art&Creativity Ocean Gems and Pearls Diamond Jewellery exclusive show room belongs to the reputed Jewellery. It is an ISO 9001:2015 Certified private limited company.

It deals with 100% BIS Hallmark Jewellery. Chairman of this company Ms. Shamla Paul is a well qualified gemologist and jewellery designer with special talent to recognize and evaluate quality gems and pearls.

varieties, Odd Coral and Coral drops etc are readily available in the store.

15 years of successful tenure in this field made this expert significant pioneer in this field with the demonstrated extra ordinary excellence that is added with the authority. This is a best and one stop store to find fabulous range of finely crafted ornaments those are very well associated with the affordable price tags too.

The area of expertise among the array are Yellow Sapphire, Cat’s eye, Peridot, Malachite, Lapis lazuli, Black and Green onyx jewellery, Grey, Black, White, Off White, Golden Grey, Yellow, Silver, Pink, Peach and Black pearl jewellery, Pink, White and Red Coral jewellery, Golden, Smoky topaz and Lemon topaz jewellery, Aquamarine, Emerald and Ruby jewellery, Navaratna rings, Birth stones as well as a sparkling collection of amethyst jewellery. Select from a variety of rare designs of rings, bracelets, chains, necklaces etc.

Ocean Gems and Pearls would like to introduce their Model and Brand Ambassador Ms Sitharathe South Indian famous Film actress. Ocean Gems and Pearls is introducing a wonderful version of Italian Odd Coral design in the city first time. It is very bizarre design that imported from Italy. Roots of Coral in two

The major specialty of this pioneer made gems and pearls ornaments is the Life Time Guarantee, which is very rare and scares to be seen anywhere in this field. All types of gold works and repairs undertaken successfully at this store. Guarantee Certification provided by this store will be a great

Ms Shamla Paul

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opportunity for the buyer to exchange their old gold ornaments at any point of time that will be replaced with BIS Hallmark jewellery.

There is an additional special service available from this expert that is ring naming and diamond naming. This store is also a reliable place for your light weight ornaments, gold, silver, precious stones, semi precious stones and many more too. For all dealings, they offer buy back guarantee of 80% on gems and precious stones and 100% on Diamonds.

Ocean Gems and Pearls gallery is enriched with wide variety of collections starting from pearl to precious gems.

The mastery in work made the OCEAN GEMS & PEARLS as an unique pearl collection shopping place in the city and is the best place to shop any gemstone ornaments

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February 2016

FOCUS EVENT

Kerala Blog Express Enters Season 3 30 leading bloggers from 25 countries to travel for 2 weeks on Kerala Blog Express Bloggers from Brazil to Belgium and Spain to South Africa took part in the Kerala Blog Express Season 3 that began at Thiruvananthapuram.

Kerala Tourism Minister Shri A P Anilkumar flagged off this year’s edition at the Mascot Hotel, which witnessed the participation of 30 leading bloggers from 25 countries.

Launched in 2014, Kerala Blog Express is a twoweek long road trip that targets the most influential bloggers in the global travelling community, who will share their experiences with readers, recommend destinations and also act as travel agents.

“After two hugely successful editions, the response to the third season of Kerala Blog Express has been remarkable,” said Shri Anilkumar.

“I hope that this year will be even more successful and will further help in

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promoting tourism,” the Minister said.

He also expressed his gratitude to the Kerala Blog Express partners such as Silk Air, Airtel and other hospitality groups.

The Kerala Blog Express 1.0

was a great success due to its accurate planning and well designed execution. It created a significant buzz worldwide about Kerala as a tourist destination.

The second season, with added attractions, reaped benefits of the impact

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

that the first edition created and sustained the momentum in the tourism sector.

This year, the participant registrations hit a new high with more than 1,000 bloggers from 66 countries registering for the event. The selection of participants is made by travelling enthusiasts themselves online by voting for their favourite bloggers. Those who get the highest votes are chosen.

The 30 participants of Season 3 were selected on the basis of factors such as nationality, number of votes they received, social media reach and quality of the blog.

The participants this year include Carla Boechat and Patricia Schussel Gomes from Brazil, Rebecca Coutant and Brittany Kulick (United States), Els Mahieu (Belgium), Javier De La Cruz Valdemoro (Spain), Verushka Ramasami (South Africa), Matthias Derhake (Germany), Céline Simon (France), Brittany Hemming (Canada) and Aleksandra Swistow (Poland).

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“The presence of Keralites are felt across the globe, likewise we want the world to come to Kerala for exploring the beauty of the state,” said Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri Jyothilal.

“The two-week travel plan that ends on February 28 covers major tourist destinations from Thiruvananthapuram to Wayanad,” she added.

“Kerala, one of the top ten biodiversity hotspots in the world is a land Ayurveda, Yoga, martial arts. We suggest every travel to come to our land for Ayurvedic treatment that will rejuvenate your mind and soul” Shri Jyothilal added.

The bloggers shared their joy and excitement on being the part of the Blog Express. Nidhi Thakur from Himachal Pradesh, the only Indian Blogger said that she is very eager to explore Kerala that was familiar to her only through movies with the picturisation of songs with dance sequences.

“The bloggers through this trip will get to know the Kerala products like Kathakali, Sadya, and Village experience” said Kerala Tourism Director Smt TV Anupama while introducing the bloggers at the flagging-off ceremony.

Mirela Surghie, from Romania said that Kerala is known for its Ashrams in her country. “Seventyfive percent of my travel blog readers are women.

Travelling helps women to live their dreams and enjoy themselves, which I am doing now,” she said.

February 2016

FOCUS EVENT

“Kerala model” of liquor policy praised by international delegates Chief Minister Shri Oommen Chandy inaugurates Subodham I-Con 2016 International policy advocates praised Kerala’s alcohol policy as a “model for the world” and said they would like to collaborate with the government in the global fight against alcohol at the inaugural function of Subodham I-CON 2016, an international conference on ‘Effective Strategies for the Prevention of Alcohol & Substance Abuse’ at Tagore Theatre in the capital city.

Chief Minister Shri

the state government’s

harm reduction and

Oommen Chandy

2014-15 liquor policy

research from around

inaugurated Subodham

aimed at an ‘addiction

the globe.

I-CON 2016, a three-day

free Kerala’ by 2030.

conference that will

The conference will also

showcase to delegates

consider global trends

from around the world

in demand reduction,

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February 2016

“There have been measurable results in supply reduction thanks

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

to the government

last April to tackle

the government for

policy; crime rates

addiction through

seizing the opportunity

have come down

awareness, research

to take action. “It

and there has been

and rehabilitation

is noteworthy that

an improvement in

programmes.

the government has

the quality of life of families,” said Shri Oommen Chandy. “I hope the world will consider this as a new Kerala model in this area.”

“The government has earmarked Rs 78 crore for Subodham this year, and Rs 148 crore over the next two years,” said Excise Minister Shri K Babu. “It is our

recognised that its first priority is the people’s health and social well being,” said Mr Rutherford in his keynote address. “A partnership between civil society and the

Around 150 national

endeavour to take the

and international

government’s bold

delegates including

and determined liquor

representatives from

policy to its logical

the World Health

conclusion in the face

Also present at the

Organization, the

of brutal victimisation

function were Principal

United Nations Office

and baseless

Secretary of Taxes

on Drugs and Crime, the

allegations.”

Shri W R Reddy, Excise

Global Alcohol Policy Alliance and NGOs will participate in the conference hosted by the Subodham initiative set up

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Global policy expert Mr Derek Rutherford and WHO Expert Committee Chairperson Prof Sally Casswell congratulated

government is essential for taking forward this government policy.”

Commissioner Shri Anil Xavier, Subodham Advisor Shri Johnson J Edayaranmula and Subodham Director Dr K Ampady.

February 2016

RECIPE

Scallops with broccoli and pine nuts Ingredients

Quantity

Scallops Pine nuts Onion powder Chopped Garlic Salt Pepper Olive oil Lemon Butter White wine

180 Gms 20gms 10 Gms 10 Gms to taste 1 gm 15ml 1 no.

20 Gms 15 ml

Ashok Eapen K Executive Chef Hilton Garden Inn, Trivandrum

Method of Preparation 1.Blanch broccoli and cool it to room temperature 2. Heat oil in a pan add pineuts ,chopped garlic , onion powder and sautĂŠ.

3. Add the broccoli ,toss it and season it.

4. Marinate the scallops with lemon ,olive oil and salt,pepper 5. Braise the scallops in a hot pan with butter and white wine till done.

6.Serve with scallops with the broccoli & pinenuts.Drizzle olive oil on top

Meen manga cuury

Method of Preparation

Ingredients

Quantity

Snapper Fish cubes Coconut (Grated) Kashmiri Chilly Powder Turmeric Powder Coconut Oil Raw Mango (Peeled & cut in dices) Green Chilly (Slit) Ginger Julienne Small Onions (Peeled) 25 g.

Onion (Sliced) Curry Leaves Mustard Salt

8nos 2 nos.

15 g.

5 g.

50 ml.

100 g.

15 g.

15 g.

100 g.

2 sprig.

3 g. to taste

1. Rub the fish with salt, pinch of turmeric and coconut oil and keep aside.

2. Grind coconut, turmeric, chilli powder and half of the shallots to a fine paste.

3. Heat half of the oil. Add sliced onion, salt, green chillies. SautĂŠ till the onion become soft, add ground coconut paste and mangoes and little water allow the gravy to cook on a low fire.

4. When the gravy is cooked add marinated fish cubes simmer for 10minutes.

5. Heat the remaining oil, add mustard seeds, curry leaves and sliced small onions and couple of whole red chillies fry till onions become golden colour. Temper the curry and adjust the seasoning.

6. Served hot with steamed rice or hoppers

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February 2016

FOCUS EVENT

‘No woman, no village engaged in the coir industry will ever havecause for regret’ : Kalraj Mishra Hailing the centuries-old tradition of the coir industry in Kerala, Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Shri Kalraj Mishra promised that the survival of India’s largest rural-based sector would never be in doubt.

Inaugurating the valedictory function of the national seminar at EMS stadium here, the Union minister said, “No part of India will be devoid of coir products, no city without a coir outlet and no region without coir representation.”

Noting that the Indian coir industry contributes to the national economy by bringing in foreign earnings of over Rs 1,600 crore per annum besides holding a domestic market share of Rs 3,500 crore annually, he said “the central government is behind the coir industry 100 per cent”.

As well, Shri Mishra added, since the majority of the workforce is rural women, the “promotion of the coir industry is tied to the empowerment of women and development of rural India”.

“No woman and no village engaged in the coir

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Coir Minister Adoor Prakash presenting a memento to MSME Minister Kalraj Mishra at Coir Kerala 2016 at the valedectory ceremony of National Seminars. Smt Rani George, KN Satheesh, CP Radhakrishnan are also seen industry will ever have cause for regret,” he said

Minister for Revenue and Coir Shri Adoor Prakash echoed the sentiment, Observing that “econoting that “increased friendly, biodegradable modernisation and products opened up mechanisation” of coir avenues for greater processing, production investment in the coir besides incorporating sector”, the Union minister new-think in marketing said “the need of the and branding is the way hour is the adoption of forward. modernised production and processing facilities “Kerala’s coir ministry has to stay competitive and worked, and will continue ahead of challenges posed to work with the Ministry by synthetics”. of MSME, to ensure our

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products remain at the pinnacle of the global coir industry,” he added.

Newly appointed Coir Board Chairman Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ex-MP said, “The Coir Board will tackle any challenges to ensure that an industry that is 99.9 per cent rural-based will not only survive but grow further.”

“There are no politics in development – except politics for development.

The welfare of the workers and industry’s viability are two sides of the same coin,” he added.

The Union Minister also visited a demonstration unit of the Kerala State Coir Machine Manufacturing Company (KSCMMC) where he expressed his admiration for the efforts of and strides made by the KSCMMC. KSCMMC Chairman Shri D. Sugathan Ex-MLA received the Union Minister at the unit.

Shri Mishra also inspected three new machines developed by the National Coir Research and Management Institute: a

S WEET P U R E

power loom, a de-fibering machine and a willowing machine.

The function was attended by Smt Rani George IAS Secretary (Coir), Government of Kerala, Director of Coir Development Sri K.N. Satheesh IAS, Kerala State Coir Corporation Chairman Shri K.R. Rajendra Prasad, Foam Mattings India Limited Chairman Shri P. Narayanankutty and Kerala State Coir Workers Welfare Fund Board Chairman Shri A.K. Rajan.

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February 2016

FOCUS EVENT

Kerala Can Look Forward to be the Global Destination for Upscaling of Skills Curtains came down on the three-day Nypunyam International Summit and Skill Fiesta 2016 today. Prizes to the winners of the Skill Fiesta contest were given away at the valedictory function addresssed by Sri Shibu Baby John, Minister for Labour & Skills, Government of Kerala.

The winners in each category got a gold medal and a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, while the second prize winners were presented with a silver medal and Rs 50,000 each.

Sri Shibu Baby John, Minister for Labour & Skills, in his address, said that with the Nypunyam International Skill Summit and Skill Fiesta 2016, Kerala has set an example for the whole of the country to follow. The state should now look at being the destination for upscaling of skills for educated youth, he said .

Pointing out that the roadmap is now ready, the Minister said there are a couple of obstacles that we now need to remove from our path. It is a fact that we do not understand the dignity of labour. Parents are not sure as to how the aptitude of a child is determined. Several social stigmas come attached when a future career is thought about. We attach a lot of importance to other factors, he said, wondering

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how better is an employed engineer than an employed plumber! The prevailing system is such that people live in an unrealistic world. We need to change that, only then will skill development be meaningful, the Minister added.

Another problem we witness is the way the industry laments on shortage of skilled workforce. However, the industry isnt doing much to create a skilled workforce, the minister said. The indutry needs to hand hold talent and develop skills in youth.

By overcoming obstacles, Kerala can look forward to be a global destination

for upscaling of skills.

Kerala should shun its land of controversies tag and tansform itself into the land of hopes, Sri Shibu Baby John said.

Sri K Biju IAS Director of Employment & Training, Government of Kerala welcomed the gathering and presented an overview of the event. Sri Rahul R IRS, Managing Director, Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE), Dr Ramesh Babu, President SMS’ 80Foundation & SKINET Member, Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE) offered felicitaions and Sri Sreekumar B, Aditional Director, Directorate of Training, proposed a vote of thanks.

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February 2016

SHOPPING

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When Richard McClintock says “I am delighted to say that my family had a memorable holiday in Kerala with the excellent services of Nashe. Keep it rocking....” he said something worthwhile and valuable for current and prospective customers.

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and individual travellers.

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holiday ideas of NT&T are an inspiration that make your holiday truly special.

With NT&T you can take your pick from unlimited sightseeing activities and also choose luxurious upgrades to your like.

Aim and Philosophy of Nashe Tours For any business entity to fructify, what you need is someone who understands your requirements. NT&T aims to make your travel, big or small, an experience in itself.

Professionalism, competitive rates, and

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service of the highest order are highlights of NT&T that help it tune its services according to customer’s demand in a sufficient manner.

NT&T has a firm belief in honest and transparent deals with no compromise on service.

Conferences and Exhibitions – A Plus Point Of Nashe Tours The corporate world is a focused world where timelines and performancebased results go hand in hand.

And for that, the right kind of ambience is needed which enhances interaction and decision making.

Nashe Tours helps you in identifying appropriate tactics and budget needed to achieve your objectives. From site selection and negotiations to planning the smallest of details such as the venues, cuisine, arrangements, and taking care of your marketing and registration, all are wellhandled under one umbrella

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by NT&T. NT&T fully respects the nuances and pressures that come with a conference or exhibition of stature and gives you the required solutions and toppings to ensure your conference is a roaring success.

The next time you have a family or solo travel from Kerala to any international destination up your mind, get in touch with Nashe Tours & Travels to find out the real and memorable taste of travel.

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Nashe Tours & Travels 3rd Floor, Devaki Gopal Building, Temple Road, Sasthamangalam 695010,Trivandrum Kerala,India Phone: +91 471 - 4061929 Mob:+91 7561882107 Registered Office- NASH DOM, Bhagavathi Lane, Sasthamangalam P.O, Trivandrum, Kerala, India Nashe Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd. ES 6 , 6th Floor, Heavenly Plaza.Kakkanad, Cochin, Kerala, India Phone: +91 484 4061929, 4052742 Email: ntt@nashmice.com

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February 2016

FOCUS EVENT

Coir wall panels to help insulate and sound-proof homes A 3-D coir-based panelling system that absorbs sound and heat could offer a superior, low-cost and organic alternative to synthetic acoustic design products in homes, offices and theatres.

The 3-D coir wall panels, fashioned by a private engineering group, are among the many innovations on display at Coir Kerala 2016.

Taking advantage of coir’s natural sound- and heatabsorbing properties, they are tailor made for homes in hot and humid climes and spaces where sound is at a premium like cinema halls and recording studios.

Also, the panels are not just pleasing to look at, they are practical too.

“The pores in coir allow it to absorb 50 per cent of sound and heat, offering a viable method to soundproof and insulate rooms. This allows it to be used for wall panelling instead of plastic, wood or tiles,” said Prem Kiran, who mans the 2M Engineers Group stall in the International pavilion at the EMS stadium here.

“It looks very natural as well – even as false ceilings.”

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The panel begins as a sheet made of coir felt, which when formed to specification is sprayed on with phenolic resin – lending the product its fire-resistant and water phobic properties. This sheet, once dried, is pressed using a 100-tonne hot press at a temperature

of 120 degree Celsius and moulded into any shape and size the customer requires.

“The complete material is coir. This is a natural product made entirely out of coconut fibre. It is the only option available to people who want an

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February 2016

organic product,” Kiran said. “You cannot mould wood and plastic is nonbiodegradable.”

Being lightweight – each 1.5 x 1.5 feet sheet of six pieces weighs about 300 gms, the panel is easy to install and remove. This allows it to be carried or hung wherever the customer chooses.

“It just needs to be hammered onto a plywood backing with the size of the wall panel depending on the customer’s requirements. It will maintain shape at room temperature, in cold weather and even after a wash with water.”

Besides coming in any design the customer specified, it has the added benefit of being hardy enough to resist termites and pests.

“This is the sort of product

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that has tremendous applicability to Kerala’s homes. Being waterproof, it can be cleaned regularly while keeping homes dry during our monsoon season,” said Mrs Rani George, Secretary, Coir Development, Government of Kerala.

“Coir Kerala exists to showcase and help market such innovations as well

as provide an incentive to our engineers and designers to fashion bold, new, sustainable products using our natural coir resource,” she added.

With attractive pricing – one square feet of the panel (four pieces) costs Rs 110 with nine piece squares going for Rs 250, the product has received interest from overseas.

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February 2016

EVENT SCAN

Skill and Knowledge Real Drivers of Socio-Economic Growth in Any Progressive Society: Governor P. Sathasivam Justice P Sathasivam, Governor of Kerala, Sri Shibu Baby John, Minister for Labour & Skills, Government of Kerala and Sri Rajesh Agarwal, Joint Secretary and CVO, Union Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship key government dignitaries in the event

Focus on vocational education and training in Kerala has gone a long way in up-skilling and integrating young people into the global market. In this context, the Department of Labour and Skills, Government of Kerala, has made a clear commitment to raising the status of vocational education and training with the objective of developing industryresponsive and globallyemployable manpower, according to Justice P Sathasivam, Governor of Kerala.

Speaking after inaugurating the Nypunyam – International Skill Summit and Skill Fiesta – 2016 in Thiruvananthapuram, the Governor said the event is one such initiative of the

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Government to look at skill enhancement through a brand new prism and skill development activities through a paradigm shift.

Pointing out that skill and knowledge are the real drivers of socio-economic growth in any progressive society, Justice P Sathasivam stated that Kerala’s skill levels have never been better. Every year, approximately sixty thousand students

are undergoing stateof-the-art training in vocational skills. The global employability basics, such as technical talent, literacy and team building skills are at par with international standards, he pointed out.

Complementing the entire team behind Nypunyam – International Skill Summit and Skill Fiesta – 2016, especially for their efforts in taking on the challenges of conducting

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February 2016

an International Summit of such a scale, he expressed happiness over the fact that Nypunyam is providing the platform for the State to discuss and deliberate on the strategies and formulae that can take skill development in Kerala to a new level. This initiative can be viewed as a device to improve the efficacy and contribution of labour to overall production, he added.

Lauding the Skill Fiesta, stating that it is a first of its kind in India, the Governor said the event marks the culmination of a challenging selection and

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training process at three levels. The competition brings together young people from across the state in order to compete in their chosen trade or specialization.

The key objective of the competition is to inspire young people, teachers, parents and others; and to raise awareness that enhancing vocational skills can lead to global opportunities. The competition shall also impart a much-needed boost to the perception of vocational skills in young minds, he stressed.

Showering applause on the Industrial Training

Department (ITD) which works under the Department of Employment and Training, and Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence for organising the summit, he said the ITD has 77 ITIs functioning all over Kerala, of which 34 Government ITIs have virtual classrooms that give students an exposure to reality. “Many of our Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) are also equipped with 3D interactive teaching aids, bio-metric attendance systems and unique websites. The benefits of noon-meal and nutrition programmes, covering all ITIs, reach around 28,000 students. The institutes have tieups with Volkswagen, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and Toyota Kirloskar Motor.

An exclusive job portal for ITI certificate holders is another advantage

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February 2016

extended by Industrial Training Department to the youth of Kerala,� he said.

He also complimented the Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE), the skill development mission of the Government of Kerala, for facilitating and coordinating all skill development initiatives of the State with the aim of ensuring employability of Kerala youth and thereby eliminating the global skill gap.

The activities of KASE have positive effects on the social and economic fabric of the State. As of now, KASE has set up Centres of Excellence across four sectors, namely nursing, security, teaching and oil & rig with job guarantee.

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Pointing out that the Kaushal Kendras in Kollam and Kozhikode are further milestones in the history of skilling initiatives, he said the Indian Institute of Infrastructure and Construction (IIIC), which will begin functioning from next month, will change the overall perspective of blue collar jobs across the State.

Sri Shibu Baby John, Minister for Labour & Skills, Government of Kerala, in his presidential address, said that Kerala has created a roadmap for all to follow with regard to skill development. Adding that the roadmap is not just for Kerala, he said that it is for the governments across the country to follow.

Stating that people have been passionately talking about skill development, actual skills were not to be found. The visits by the Labour and Skills department team to regions where skilling was seriously seen have now helped us to know which way to go, he said.

Pointing out that the youth possess the skills, what is needed is a proper guidance on what they should focus on. If that is done, the sky would be the limit for the young people around us, he added.

The Minster also handed over the memorandum of understanding signed between the Ministry of Labour and Skills and NICMER, to Sri, Mangeshkar G Khorgaonkar, Director NICMER, in the presence of the Governor.

Sri Rajesh Agarwal, Joint Secretary and CVO, Union Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, in his address said that skilling should come to the forefront

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February 2016

and it should aim at making people aspirational. Pointing out that ITI admissions are not currently the first choice among students, Sri Agarwal stressed that efforts need to be made to make that ITIs are seen as a first choice.

Events like Nypunyam – International Skill Summit and Skill Fiesta would help in this regard, he added.

Adding that the event will bring in aspirations and quality, Sri Agarwal stated that skills training should tread the path of betterment and enhancement, which ultimately will help the jobs that ecosystem.

Dame Asha Khemka, Chief Executive, West

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Nottinghamshire College Group, United Kingdom, who applauded Kerala for being the foremost state in education and literacy, said that by being at the forefront in providing education and training, we have the responsibility to create literate and employable citizens.

According to Sri Tom Jose, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Skills, Kerala has taken bold steps in ensuring quality in skill development. He pointed out that the states and the Centre have realised that it is a duty to prepare youngsters for a dignified

survival. Sri Tom Jose also suggested that the attitude of people towards blue collar jobs needs to change.

Sri Rahul R, IRS, Managing Director, Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE) welcomed the gathering. Sri. Ranjan Choudhury, Investing & Incentivizing, World Skills India and Corporate Social Responsibility Engagements, NSDC, Sri Harikrishnan Nair, Chairman, CII, Kerala State Council, Dr M T Reju IAS, CEO, Additional Skill Acquisition Programme, Govt of Kerala also spoke. Sri J Harikrishnan, COO, KASE, proposed a vote of thanks.

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February 2016

METRO FOCUS

Trivandrum Cyclathon 2016 Event aims to promote healthy lifestyles and make the capital city greener

Cycling enthusiasts will take over the capital city for the Trivandrum Cyclathon 2016 on February 14, in a drive to encourage a healthy lifestyle among city dwellers through physical activity.

A pioneering initiative by Stark, the ace ad agency is organising a cycling event, because it seemed the ideal social medium to convey the message of promoting a healthy and clean lifestyle, not just for the individual, but also for the capital city.

As cities around the world try to find solutions to traffic and pollution issues, dedicated cycle lanes and

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roads in some areas are earning fans for the fast improvement it makes on the cityscape.

“We have an enthusiastic response to the event,” said Jayesh P of Stark.

“After all, Kerala is a great market for cycles with more people taking it up not just for commuting, but also as a stress-busting exercise. The double benefit is that the city will experience reduced traffic and pollution. We hope that this event will prompt the district administration to consider introducing cycle lanes.”

Trivandrum Cyclathon 2016 is being organised with

title sponsorship support from SilkAir, the Regional Wing of Singapore Airlines and in association with IBS Software Services Private Limited. Medical support will be provided by KIMS Hospital.

SilkAir’s Thiruvananthapuram Manager Mr Xavier Tan said: “We are excited to be the title sponsor of the SilkAir Trivandrum Cyclathon 2016, and look forward to promoting healthy and sustainable living in the beautiful city of Thiruvananthapuram.

SilkAir has been flying to the city for over 16 years, and has always received strong support from the

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community.”

The event will be flagged off from the city’s cultural hotspot Manaveeyam Road and will traverse the Vellayambalam– Kowdiar–Pattom–PMGVellayambalam circuit.

The city’s foremost cycling groups, the Trivandrum Bikers Club and the Indus Cycling Embassy, are also supporting the programme, which the organisers hope will turn into an annual event for enthusiasts.

The event caters to different age groups and fitness levels; the Champions Ride covering a distance of 40 km is for those aged above 18, the Trivandrum Fitness Ride over a 14 km distance is open to children aged 13 and above and the Stark Kids Fun Ride of 2.5 km is for children between 10 and 12. The event has already received a good response with 130 registrations, with a 61-year-old participant in the Champions Ride.

Fitness Ride needs to be completed in one hour. The Champions Ride carries a total cash prize of Rs 50,000. There will be medals for all finishers in all categories and certificates for all participants.

“With the various lifestyle diseases on the ascent, staying fit through regular

exercise is not an option, but a necessity, said IBS Executive Chairman Mr V K Mathews. “Initiatives like the Trivandrum Cyclathon are a welcome step in this direction.”

For more details on the event and to register, log on to: www. trivandrumcyclathon.in or call +91 97456 36344.

The Champions Ride will be flagged off at 5 am by District Collector Shri Biju Prabhakar. The Fitness Ride starts at 7 am and the Kids Fun Ride at 8 am.

The time allotted for the Champions Ride is two hours, while the www.metromartdaily.com

February 2016

FOCUS EVENT

MTB Kerala 2016 concluded Ajay Pandit Chhetri of Nepal emerged victorious in the International Cross Country section of the fourth International Mountain Bike Challenge at Kottur Thiruvananthapuram.

Ajay pedalled the 5.5-km rough terrain from Pankavu through steep slopes, curves and numerous streams of the forest area in Kottur to reach the finishing point in one hour 49 seconds.

Aayman Thing Tamang of Nepal came second by covering the distance in one hour 50 seconds and Jean Mariolodovsky of Mauritius came third.

In the National Cross Country event, Kiran Kumar Raju of Karnataka came first by clocking one hour 55 minutes 13 seconds.

Andhra Pradesh’s Venkateswara

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Reddy came second and Makhan Singh of Madhya Pradesh came third.

Riders from six countries participated in the fourth MTB Kerala 2016, an initiative of Kerala Tourism to promote adventure tourism in the State.

The event was held under the aegis of Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society and

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Cycling Federation of India

Cycliste Internationale

with the support of Union

(UCI).

February 2016

METRO FOCUS

Unprecedented Industry Alliance in Kerala to Light Up India’s Tourism Calendar in 2016 Navaratana ‘Experiessential’ Holidays offer 99 experiences in 9 days; A total of 500 tour packages to be offered in first phase

First it was the Kerala Travel Mart. Now, nearly two decades after they came together to launch the country’s only travel trade show by a state, tour operators in ‘God’s Own Country’ will team up once again to create a consortium to sell an unprecedented 500 packages for visitors to the state.

The highlight of the packages, called Navaratana Experiessential Holidays, is a nine ‘gem-like’ days of essential experiences in Kerala, including an insight into village life, community

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interactions and promotion of sustainable tourism practices.

Tourists will be able to launch their holidays by breaking a coconut at a temple, a traditional method in Kerala of

making an auspicious beginning. They could also travel in boats on the state’s iconic lakes and rivers with the local people, and eat the mouthwatering lunch with a Syrian Christian Orthodox family of central Kerala. The more adventurous will also

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February 2016

be able to climb the coconut trees, do fishing in the lakes or make coir with village women.

commitment to promote tourism and contribute to the growth of all sections of the society,” he added.

The first phase of packages by the consortium, Association of Tourism Trade Organisations India (ATTOI), targeted at foreign tourists was launched by Kerala Tourism Minister Shri A P Anilkumar. It will be followed by another phase of packages for domestic tourists.

“The initiative also underlines the determination to continue to serve our esteemed guests from all over the world and present them with life-changing experiences in our state,” the Minister said.

“The public-private partnership in our state’s tourism sector has been demonstrating to the world the huge benefits in working together. The new alliance of tour operators in Kerala is yet another example of the

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“The state government’s plan allocation to the tourism fund has been increased from Rs 100 Crores to Rs 225 Crores in the course of five years. This will be further increased in the coming budget session,” said the minister.

Shri Anilkumar launched the Navaratana ‘Experiessential’ Holidays package by handing over the first copy of the package brochure to reputed tour operator and travel writer from Sweden, Ms Marianne Hard Af Stegarstad.

The finer elements of the industry consortium by ATTOI involve the coming together of hotels, tour operators and vendors at each destination.

“It is the first time in India that tour operators are gathering under one umbrella for joint promotion of a package,” Shri Anilkumar said.

The move is expected to

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February 2016

support the industry partners.

“It is not only a product updating for Kerala, coming out of the same old repeated itineraries and products, but a step that will help rebrand Kerala as a “new destination” and overcome competition from other destinations,” the Minister added.

The Navaratana ‘Experiessential’ Holidays ensure a feeling of freshness through handson experience of the “real Kerala” of superficial holidays. Local interactions and highlighting the unique traditions and life style of Kerala are the other components of the package.

“Coming out of the comforts of the hotel room and car and to taking a plunge into the Kerala

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life is the motto of the new packages,” said Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri Jyothilal.

“The new campaign currently covers places in Southern Kerala.

We will further include destinations in Northern Kerala as well,” the Secretary added.

ATTOI president Shri Anish Kumar P K, who was present on the occasion, said it was a collective and focused effort to promote the destination.

“The Navaratana ‘Experiessential’ Holidays is going to redefine the way we see Kerala with 99 unique experiences in nine days,” Shri Kumar said.

The Navaratana ‘Experiessential’ Holidays also envisage interactive cooking demonstrations to experience Kerala’s famous culinary culture,

eating dosa at local restaurants, having coffee with a Brahmin family to echo the tradition of ‘Agraharam’ visits, walks through the wavy, lush green paddy fields, and bullock cart rides.

A tour of the Muziris heritage project reviving Kerala’s more than two-millennia-old trade and cultural ties with the rest of the world will be another attraction of the packages.

The packages will also include insights into the state’s time-tested tradition of Ayurveda and full body massages. Jungle boat safari, backwater cruises on houseboats and tea factory visits will be the other highlights.

South Kerala Hoteliers’ Forum President Shri Chacko Paul and ATTOI Secretary Shri Sreekumara Menon also attended the function.

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February 2016

EDUCATION

DWIH organises Info-sessions on German Higher Education Research Opportunities in Thiruvananthapuram & Kochi

The German House for Research and Innovation - DWIH New Delhi has organized “Info-sessions on German Higher Education and Research Opportunities” in Thiruvananthapuram & Kochi from 10th to 13th February 2016.

The event aims to act as a gateway through which Higher Education & Research Institutions from Germany will offer information about their courses and provide them with a broad overview of the scope and role of their respective organisations in promoting science and research in Germany.

At the same time, the representatives of these

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institutions will have the opportunity to interact with faculty members and prospective students and address their queries to enable them to make the best possible decisions about their research careers.

Headed by Dr. Alexander P Hansen, Chairman of the Board of DWIH New Delhi, the German delegation will see

participation from leading universities, research institutes and funding organisations namely: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Freie Universität Berlin, Heidelberg Centre South Asia (HCSA), Technical University of Munich (TUM), Max-Planck Gesellschaft (MPG) and German Research Foundation (DFG).

The representatives

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of these German organisations will conduct Info-sessions to address students of Master programmes, PhDs, Post-doctoral candidates and faculty members at Cochin University of Science & Technology (CUSAT); Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram; Kerala University (Karyavottam Campus) as well as IISER, Thiruvananthapuram.

On 12th February, a panel discussion with the German delegation on life in Germany, research experience and social experience took place at Goethe-Zentrum, Thiruvananthapuram.

This included presentation on Study, Research and Funding in

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Germany. The delegation was also available to hold one on one interactions and disseminate all necessary information required by Indian students, scientists and researchers to pursue their careers in Germany.

This event aims to provide ample first-hand information on research and innovation in Germany and further intensify the existing Indo-German collaboration in the fields of science and higher education.

About German House for Research and Innovation DWIH New Delhi Inaugurated in October 2012, DWIH New Delhi is a result of the German Federal Foreign Office’s strategic initiatives to

internationalize science and research. Set up with the aim of enhancing the outreach of the German science and research landscape in India and exploring opportunities to synergise and stimulate cooperation between the German and Indian scientific communities, DWIH New Delhi is a successful consortium of 15 German organisations comprising funding institutions, research centres and universities.

It serves as a ‘one-stop shop’ for information on German science, research and innovation, targeting students, researchers, employment seekers, businesspeople and potential partner institutions in India.

For further information, please visit: www.dwih.in

February 2016

METRO UPDATE

Modernised fish market at Kazhakoottam Minister for Fisheries, Ports and Excise, Shri K Babu inaugurated a Rs 232.64-lakh modernised fish market at Kazhakoottam.

Minister for Fisheries, Ports and Excise, Shri K Babu inaugurated a Rs 232.64-lakh modernised fish market at Kazhakoottam.

“While projects worth Rs 23.90 crore have been completed, Rs 86.44 crore worth projects are under construction and projects including modernised fish markets with a total outlay of Rs 6.01 crores at Pazhayakunnumel, Nadayara and Attingal have been submitted for approval,” said the Minister.

Set up by the Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation Limited (KSCADC), aimed at the comprehensive development of the coastal areas in the state, the Kazhakoottam market, part of a chain of hygienic fish markets, with

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February 2016

96 commercial stalls, chill room, flake ice unit, an effluent treatment plant and a toilet block. The 668 sq m market is fitted with modern amenities, including slab and sink for cutting and cleaning fish, and a clog-proof drain.

KSCADC has been implementing projects worth Rs 600 crores in Kerala, of which Rs 116.35 crores worth projects have been implemented in Thiruvananthapuram.

As part of the integrated fishing village development program, Shri Babu distributed Rs 40,000 each to around 100 fishermen from the fishing villages of Thumba and Valyaveli.

The function which was presided by Adv MA Vahid MLA. Other dignitaries at the function were Councillors Smt Bindu and Smt Prathibha Jayakumar, KSCADC MD Dr K Ambady, Director Board Member Shri Veli Varghese, Chief executive Engineer Shri Mohan Das .​

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February 2016

T he L ast L eaf What are the characteristics of a good teacher? – One might say excellent subject knowledge and good teaching skills. Does it end with that? No, it does not. The requirements of a good teacher are endless. Effective communication, confidence, empathizing, dealing with conflicts, motivating, organizing, all are part of the essential basic teaching skills.

Teachers have played a significant role in a student’s development throughout the ages.

Indian culture had a number of examples of Guru-Shishya (Teacher-Student) where knowledge is conveyed through a spiritual relationship that develops between the teacher and disciple.

The Guru mentors the Shishya with the ultimate goal of overall development of the Shishya.

The past decade or so, the teacher-student relationship has seen a drastic change. Role of a teacher is being limited to imparting textual knowledge. The students consider the ultimate goal is to pass the exams. The necessity for overall development of the student is lost on both parties. Some blame this shift came in due to the influence of Western education. Some say it is just lack of interest in both teachers and students. Whatever the case may be it is of utmost importance that a healthy teacher-student relationship is maintained. The teacher should be able to provide a wholesome development of the student. Parents and guardians should show the children how to respect the elders and in particular teachers.

Of course, new technologies are making this more difficult. Coaching students online and lectures through video conference is the modern way in education. This does not provide much chance for individual development of a student. Gone are the days when a teacher totally commits to his/her student’s overall growth.

The avenues to derive knowledge are multiple for today’s students. They enter the class with a mind full of information from the net, newspaper or just the TV. This necessitates the teacher to be open-minded, patient and a great communicator. It falls on the teacher’s hands how the student analyses it and picks out the positive ones. Proper guidance over time would enable the students to weigh the pros and cons on their own.

Of course, an individual’s academic and social development starts at home; however, it is nurtured and advanced best only by a good teacher.

Am I right? Let me know at sevenv2011@gmail.com

V Viswanath Sub Editor

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February 2016

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February 2016

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February 2016

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