Metro Mart November 2014

METRO mart Volume 4 Issue 5

November 2014 `40

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

Debutante Conquers Hearts with Beauty and Talent Hamstrings The Holistic Approach to Slim and Toned Bodies

GEMS Empowering Lives Makinga Difference Building Happiness

Artech Realtors Fight Cancer with Knowledge

MobD ushers in a new paradigm in healthcare

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

This is the cover page quote of Shiv Khera’s best seller “You Can Sell”. Picked it up from Mumbai airport, this book gave a new thought when I was going through a dilemma to manage some of the sales executives, who were always pressurizing me about their unproductivity despite their sincere efforts. It’s a fact that the result finally matters, we are always distracted in our routines and deviate, and finally depend upon justifications of failure in the efforts we brought in, which further confuses and get loose ourselves.This can be avoided if we always keep ourselves focussed towards our goals - personal or professional and ensure not to get distracted.

Foreword

“Results are Rewarded, Efforts Aren’t” - Shiv Khera

We are hearing about Kerala hosting the National Games for quite a lot of times, and finally the national mega event is going to happen, 31st January 2015. Being one of the major centres Thiruvananthapuram is going to get a makeover and we expect a lot of people across the states visiting our city and we have a great opportunity to present our hospitality and win hearts.

But it’s not an easy task, if not done with proper planning and heartfelt sincere efforts. The efforts are not just the duty of the government authorities, but the responsibility of each and every citizen to give their contribution to the success of the National Games.

Hari Shanker Manag8ing Editor

“Swatch Bharath Abhiyan” is in news for the last couple of months after it was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and as per his challenge, taken up by several celebrites and politicians in India, our own MP Sasi Tharoor performing it at Vizhinjam Harbor. There are a lot of positive and negative reports we are reading about this, politicians trying to take advantage of different situations, to own or disown results. Is it the result we are looking forward to? Mahatma Gandhi dreamed about Swatch Bharat, and after almost six decades after independence we are not a clean nation, why? Is it because of Congress, Communists or BJP! The Clean India starts from us, from our home, street. Each and every individual can keep their room, premises clean, no Prime Minister should take a broom to sweep the streets in Delhi, rather we should see he runs this nation, thats the effort we need and which should come from within.

We at Metromart are planning to come out with a booklet about the city during the games with support of all stakeholders. We look forward for all of your supports to make it a huge success. Do write to us with your feedbacks to make Metro better.

Signing Off,

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November 2014

CONTENTS

12

Debutante Conquers Hearts with Beauty and Talent

16

Czarina’s Christmas Collection is all set to make waves this festive season

18

The Holistic Approach to Slim and Toned Bodies

20

Record-breaking Kerala Travel Mart concludes

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Volume 4 Issue 5 November 2014 www.metromartdaily.com

Annual Subscription Rs 400 Managing Editor Hari Shanker hari@martinfotech.in

CEO & Managing Director Siji Nair sijicn@gmail.com

Kerala is a unique, beautiful and diverse state but the infrastructure needs to be improved.

30

Mannarasala - the supreme place of worship of the serpent Gods

36

Fight Cancer With Knowledge

42

Building Happiness Artech Realtors

46

Sagara-the best Seafood restaurant in the city

60

Canara Bank- Global Bank with Best Practices

66

The Last Leaf

Sub Editor

V Viswanath

Editorial Assistant

Ampili Nair

Creative Assistant

Sayan Chaudhuri

GM Sales

Sibu Nair

Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar

Sales Officer

Venkidesh U

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

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

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

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RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037

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COVER STORY

THULASI NAIR

Debutante Conquers Hearts with Beauty and Talent She is all of 15 and has virtually ignited the silver screen down South with her talent and beauty. She has a knack of balancing her acting prowess with her studies, tuitions and weekend hangouts with her friends. She is the happening doll of Malayalam cinema whose 2013 debut film Kadal directed by Mani Ratnam and her recently bagged project Yaan which happens to be the directorial debut of Ravi K. Chandran has shown her acting prowess catapulting her to the big league.

Deepika Dewan

M

eet Thulasi Nair, a Tamil movie buff whose hard work and determination has led her to win positive reviews from critics and diehard fans alike. Daughter of former actress Radha and hotelier Rajashekharan Nair, Thulasi happens to be the younger sister of South Indian actress Karthika Nair.

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Born in Thiruvananthapuram, Thulasi was brought up in Mumbai. She is comfortable speaking in both Tamil and Malayalam, though her fluency in her native language is yet to achieve perfection.

Career Graph For Thulasi, acting is in

her blood and there is no denying the talent that she has inherited from her mother. Her entry in the film industry marked by the role in Mani Ratnam’s movie was the first step for her to acquire a place in the film industry. Having been treated like a daughter by Ratnam on the sets further helped Thulasi deliver to the script with ease and

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November 2014

confidence. In an interview, she once said that facing the camera for the first time was no reason to get nervous since it is merely an object that equips her to show her histrionics. “I am caught up with studies, and I am in no hurry to sign films. I have a long road ahead and have all the time to choose the right script.

Yaan is one such film,” says Thulasi.

girl”. Lending an air of grace to her role comes as a natural instinct to Thulasi whose performance has fetched her nominations for Best Female Debut Actress at the Vijay Awards and the South Indian International Movie Awards in 2014.

Encouragement and Tastes

Ever since her start in the world of filmdom, what has kept Thulasi Nair ticking are the words of Appreciation and Reviews appreciation from her Yaan Not all are born with a silver director Ravi Chandran. spoon in the mouth. In the Says she “He always made case of Thulasi Nair, it has it a point to praise my been a mix of vivacity, looks work and that boosted my and natural performance confidence. Besides, he was that has helped her steal always willing to clarify my the limelight. According to doubts.”

Rediff.com “When the script Proud of being a Mumbai demands that she come to life at the end she manages girl, Thulasi happens to be a pure Tamil movie buff to do it well”. As per Sify. com “Though she has a very who never misses a Tamil or little screen space, she has Telugu film release. Fond of tried her best to do a fair actor Vijay, Thulasi loves to job of the young, chirpy catch up with reading, web

surfing, pet animals and basketball.

Sibling Comparison Sisterly bonding and affection between Bollywood stars Karisma and Kareena Kapoor is known to many. Same is the case between Thulasi Nair and her elder sister Karthika Nair. However, going by the element of competition, one question that often arises in the minds of the viewers and gossip-mongers is the comparison bug. That doesn’t hold any good as according to Thulasi her love for her sister is huge enough to be taken over by competition. Such is the level of warmth and companionship between them that Thulasi sees her elder sister as a senior artist and guiding force. ‘Stay cool on the sets’ is her message to me, says Thulasi.

Juggling between her acting commitments with an academic stint at Podar International School in Mumbai, Thulasi Nair has very much on her plate to keep her occupied. But her bubbly spirit and her enthusiasm to perform to the director’s script is on the roll to take her places.

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SHOPPING

CZARINA

Czarina’s Christmas Collection is all set to make waves this festive season Trivandrum’s favourite designer boutique is showcasing an exquisite collection of trendy designer sarees from November 24 to December 24

T

he Great Czarina Christmas Collection’ features a wide array

of sarees in vivid colours and designs. From lush reds to bright blues to vibrant greens, the breathtaking look of these Christmas sarees will induce a haze of holiday euphoria all December long.

“Christmas is the perfect occasion to gift something beautiful or wear something special.” explains Mrs. Sheila James, Founder & Proprietor of Czarina, “This is the reason why we have brought out an exclusive Christmas Collection. When you want to look great for a Christmas event, a gorgeous silk saree and designer blouse will create a truly merry aesthetic.”

Collection. Customers

and Supernet. A fine

A magnificent selection

will also find mesmerising

collection of designer

of Kanchipuram Designer

creations in Tussar,

blouses and brocade blouse

Sarees will be the highlight

Silk Kota, Georgette,

materials will also be on

of Czarina’s Christmas

Maheshwari, Silk Cotton

display.

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BEAUTY

HAMSTRINGS

The Holistic Approach to Slim and Toned Bodies In the back-breaking schedules that keep us engaged all day, how much time do we spare to keep our bodies slim and fit. Doing aerobics, brisk walking, gym might fill our needs to get back into shape but diet, physical activity, health and nutrition, all put together play an instrumental role in making us agile, both physically and mentally.

Deepika Dewan

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his is where Hamstrings, a leading slimming and wellness company based in Trivandrum comes in.

The specialty of Hamstrings lies in their wide range of fitness programmes customised to body type and calorie requirement that help fight obesity and regain shape.

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Since its year of inception in 2008 in the city of Trivandrum, Hamstrings has had its success stories vetted by hundreds of women who have regained confidence after having availed of the multiple fitness programs. Such has been the recognition and respect that Hamstrings is looking to expand its chain in the rest of India

and Middle East over the coming years.

Slimming and Fitness Service Portfolio Obesity is a major lifestyle ailment that leads to several health complications such as Osteoarthritis to lifethreatening diseases such as Diabetes and Cancer.

This naturally leads to depression and lowering of

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self-esteem.

As one of Kerala’s growing network of slimming centre, Hamstrings provides a reasonable bandwidth of weight management services that include Weight reduction, Spot Reduction, Body Firming, Body Therapy, Aerobics, Gym, Active Workout, Pre natal and post natal exercise program, Pilates, Breast Firming among others.

Beauty Therapy

Updated and advanced technology is put at disposal in addition to having professional nutritionists as well as registered practitioners on panel who monitor the slimming progress of their customers adequately and efficiently.

Slimming and Beauty regimen go hand in hand.

Hamstrings provide a complete package of beauty treatments such as Facials, Bleach, Manicure and Pedicure, Haircut, Hair Straightening & Smoothening, Volumizing, Permanent blow dry Waxing and Bridal Services.

Ayurveda -The Ancient Art of Healing In keeping with its philosophy of providing a complete bracket of health-oriented and wellbeing packages, Hamstring provides pleasing and relaxing treatments too that activate the selfhealing powers of the humans. Yes, the age-old Indian Ayurveda package available at Hamstrings helps increase your efficiency, vitality and zest for life through Abhyangam, Udwarthanam, Dhara, Thakhra dhara, Avi kizhi, Ela kizhi, Kaadi kizhi and Steam bath.

So get ready to savour this harmonious blend of scientific technologies in beauty and health complemented with nutritional counselling at Hamstrings in order to lead a joyous, stress-free life.

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November 2014

FOCUS EVENT

KERALA TRAVEL MART

Record-breaking Kerala Travel Mart concludes The eighth edition of Kerala Travel Mart Concluded with, the tourism industry giving indications of having grabbed, more than expected business from confirmed buyers who arrived from around the world. The three day long mart, which is the largest B2B summit in India, broke all past records in terms of arrivals of buyers.

MM Desk

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he Travel Mart hosted all together 861 domestic buyers and 241 international buyers. “There were an expected 30,000 buyer seller appointments lined up for the mart, but the figures crossed forty thousand business sittings between the potential buyers and sellers.” said Mr. Abraham George President Kerala Travel Mart 2014.

The Sellers included Adventure Tour Operators, Ayurveda Centres,

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Ayurvedic Resorts, Hotels, Homestays, Amusement Park, Convention Centres, Hotel Management Consultants, Houseboats, Resorts, speciality Hospitals, Museums, Travel & Tour Operators and more.

While UK, Germany, France, Malaysia, and USA topped the buyer arrival countries, newer markets like Singapore, Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, and Brazil had their buyers for the meet. All together, 45 countries had their

presence in the mart.

The three- day Travel Mart witnessed hectic schedules comprising of seminars, discussions and brain storming among the tourism industry fraternity of Kerala and from around the globe. Some of the key issues faced by the tourism industry came up for discussion and solid suggestions were forwarded by the experts.

• The governments in the state and the centre were urged to keep clear

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and long term policies to enhance the sustainable growth of the tourism industry. “While proposing an innovative PPP model development plan for the tourism sector, the meet appealed to the governments to initiate long term progressive outlook for the way ahead for Kerala tourism. “ said Mr. Anish Kumar, Secretary, Kerala Travel Mart 2014

immediately.

• Experts applauded Kerala’s responsible tourism model being successfully implemented in key tourism destinations in the state.

The industry urged the stake holders to take urgent measures to roll out of such responsible tourism projects in other selected destinations in the state

• Further ahead in responsible tourism, Mr. Suman Billa Secretary Kerala tourism who headed a seminar on “ Kerala tourism way ahead” outlined the need for drafting a road map for empowering the relevant community towards their social and economic fulfilment. While citing the examples of successful inclusion of local artists, artisans, agriculture producers and self-help groups in ensuring the responsible participation, the Mart expressed the need to explore ways to widen the relevant community spread.

“

The State government has held preliminary discussions with the ambassadors of 31 countries in Europe, Asia and the Far East to promote the Spice Route project Tourism Minister AP Anil Kumar

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Majority of the opinion makers of the tourism industry stressed the need for promoting responsible tourism models with assured participation from the local community.

The meet also wanted to design responsible tourism projects ensuring inclusive growth beneficial to the relevant community.

• Travel industry overwhelmingly welcomed the prestigious spice route project which connect 31 countries and featuring heritage important destinations and experiences. The Kerala tourism stall at the mart exhibition showcased

“

KTM has played an important role in strengthening the commercial network in state tourism.The tourism sector fetched Rs 23,000 crore last financial year.

The State government will continue to support the sector wholeheartedly and in a pro-active manner.

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy

and could convince the meticulous planning behind the product. Individual destination experiences like heritage rich Muziris along the spice route evoked immense curiosity among the buyers. The travel mart listed out products like cruise tourism as a potential area in the coming future.

• Expressing the commitment towards furthering the responsible tourism projects, tourism industry announced clean up Kerala initiative.

November 2014

FESTIVAL

GKSF

GKSF -The largest shopping carnival of the state Riding on success wave, the state government is gearing up for the eighth edition of Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF), which would be inaugurated by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in Kottayam on December 1.

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he largest shopping carnival of the state will end in January 2015. The festival is being organised by the state government in association with the Tourism Department, which will offer 100 per cent VAT refund to tourists from outside the state, who visit and shop in Kerala, during the season.

The shopping festival is conducted by the

Tourism Department in co-ordination with the Industries & Commerce Department, Finance Department and Local Self Government Departments.

Through this shopping festival, the Kerala Government intends to transform the state into a hub for international shopping experience and thereby launch Shopping Tourism in the state. In the process, the brand image of Kerala Tourism would

go a long way to help upgrade the infrastructure of traditional marketing centers in Kerala.

The organizers are all set to begin ‘Season 8’ as one of the biggest ever shopping extravaganza, with novel initiatives and exciting prizes to shops, shoppers and customers.

Besides glitzy prizes, an array of entertainment is also awaiting. The budget of GKSF season 8 will be `40 crore.

CKTI and KTM Society felicitates Suman Billa IAS Kerala Tourism secretary Suman Billa was given a warm farewell by Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industries and Kerala Travel Mart Society as he is scheduled to take up his new responsibility as Joint Secretary Tourism in the central cadre, New Delhi.

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FOCUS EVENT

KERALA TRAVEL MART

Kerala is a unique, beautiful and diverse state but the infrastructure needs to be improved.

Eric Zuri

A

This year’s Kerala Travel Mart was the sixth one I have attended and since my first one in 2002 I have seen a number of developments in how the Mart has been organised. The venue has been changed during the intervening years and I feel that the venue this year was probably the most appropriate one from buyer’s point of view. The single level made it far easier to locate the sellers stands albeit that our appointment schedule meant that one appointment could be in section A and the next in Section D. I suppose the exercise was beneficial though.

lthough the venue was perhaps the best yet from the point of view of a buyer but for a first time visitor to KTM and Kerala, the location was not was not very prepossessing and certainly less attractive than most of the earlier locations.The entrance to the Mart itself was not really imposing. There was however evidence that Willingdon Island itself was being spruced up although

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it is a shame that that was not done before the Mart began.

I was rather surprised and disappointed to see the rather unkempt state of Kochi and particularly the condition of the roads.

Fort Kochi could be such a beautiful area if it was looked after better. I am of the opinion that road repairs have been rather overlooked and the number

of potholes is incredible. It was strange to see piles of stones by the roadsides and just a few feet away a large pothole. One might hope that improved road surfaces will encourage better driving practices which continue to fill the unwary visitor with doubts about their safety.

Reluctantly I must say that my overriding feeling about the Mart was one of a lack

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of energy. Of course the sellers were doing what that were there to do and a fine job they did too but the atmoshere was very flat. Previously we have been treated to dancers and other performing arts typical of Kerala. But this year there was nothing to lift one’s mood. The representation of a ship’s prow which comprised the centrepoint of the Mart and was provided

by Kerala Tourism, was quite impressive but I found myself just glancing at it as I moved from one appointment to the next. I think it would have been better placed at the entrance to the stands thereby making it the first thing visitors saw.

being made by those taking part in the demonstrations.

The examples of Keralan arts and ancient crafts along the way into the Mart itself were very interesting but again I found myself walking past them with hardly a glance in their direction.

Some live music or dancing would have drawn more attention to the efforts

sample their hospitality.

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With the Mart at an end, our Destination Management Company, Dravidian Trails, had arranged for me and two colleagues to have a private Fam tour down through Kerala to Kovalam, staying at a variety of hotels along the way. This was a journey I have undertaken before but was new to my colleagues and they very much welcomed the opportunity to see something of the real Keralan countryside.

spent at Soma Kerala Palace and Somatheerum where we were able to experience authentic ayurveda. A relaxing cruise on a Spice Cruises houseboat was a very enjoyable way to spend a few hours.

Kerala is a unique, beautiful and diverse state and is particularly suitable for a first time visitor to India but the infrastructure needs to be improved to prevent that all important first impression from being one of neglect.It was with interest that I read here in the UK about Prime

One of the real benefits of

Minister Modi’s efforts

KTM is the option to meet

to ensure India must

with hotel owners and then,

be cleaner by 2019 - a

hopefully, be fortunate

worthy ambition. I hope it

enough to be invited to

succeeds.

This indeed was our good fortune and we all recall warmly our stay at Fragrant Nature in Kollam. Likewise our final night in Kerala at

It is clear that many hotel and resort owners are striving to improve their properties which together with Kerala’s natural

the Turtle on the Beach in

attractions should ensure

Kovalam was a enjoyable

that Kerala maintains its

experience. I should also

position as a prime travel

not forget the nights we

destination.

November 2014

FOCUS NGO

GEMS FOUNDATION

Empowering Lives Making a Difference Life is never the same for all. For some, it is full of niceties and luxuries. And for some, it is a rough patch full of obstacles and deprivations when it comes to leading basic living.

Deepika Dewan

However, every cloud has a silver lining. An idiom that applies well to the GEMS (George Educational Medical & Charitable Society) Foundation based in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala that has been rendering commendable service to thousands of underprivileged people in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

G

EMS happens to be the first NRI initiative of its kind in India set up by the Founder Chairman, Mr. C. George, an NRI businessman of Kuwait, UAE and Singapore who belongs to Mavelikkara in Alleppey District of Kerala.

Moved by the tragic plight

he always had a keen

of the landless millions,

Having completed 36

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desire to work for the less fortunate. That paved way for GEMS, an institution which helped him embark upon an ambitious project for distributing land to 1000 landless families scattered in various parts of Kerala.

years of glorious existence in the year 2013, GEMS has multi-faceted community development projects running on a fast pace. GEMS brings a range of tireless and dedicated services such as Rehabilitation Work of Pavement and Slum Dwellers, Charitable

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Mr C George a NRI businessman of Kuwait, UAE and Singapore is the Founder Chairman of GEMS. He belongs to Mavelikkara, Alleppey District, Kerala, India.

His keen desire to work for the less fortunate in our society gave birth to the George Educational Medical & Charitable Society (GEMS Foundation) in India

Hospital, Free Medical Camps, Orphanage, Free Land Distribution Scheme, Family Counseling Centre, Vocational Training Program for Unemployed Women, Community Housing Scheme for Poor, Charitable Residential School and more that give a positive ray of hope to the under-privileged.

Thanks to GEMS, there is infinite hope and smile for every affected human of lower social strata. There is shelter and rehabilitation for the homeless; charitable clinics, health care, free medicines, nutritious food

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for the malnourished; clean water and electricity, security services, library, childrens park and recreation centre for the community; creches, primary education books, uniforms, noon meal scheme for the children; literacy courses, income generating training financial assistance, placement for women; medical aid and financial assistance for the elderly; counselling, de-addiction programmes, relief and rehabilitation work for drug addicts and many more work intervention areas where

GEMS has successfully forayed. Here are some of the currently functioning schemes: GEMS Hospital, Mavelikkara: Dedicated to serving the public on March 1, 1982, the Hospital started with meagre staff strength of two doctors and few helpers. Twenty years after its inauguration, the Hospital has 150bed capacity, 13 doctors including consultants and specialists, 70 nursing and paramedical staff that have treated and cured lakhs of patients. With monetary donation done

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by the Founder-Chairman to the tune of US Dollars 600,000, the Hospital marks an eventful chapter in delivering healthy future to the suffering and the deprived.

made by GEMS to provide

GEMS Residential School, Nedumangad: Providing free education to the poor and the needy girls along with free food and accommodation has been the single-minded focus of this school. Since it could not function as a fullfledged school owing to the Government’s policies, all girl students were moved to the new hostel at GEMS High School Complex at Chadayamangalam in District Kollam.

evils such as suicides and dowry deaths are brutally affecting the women and children thereby leading to gender inequality. In order to rehabilitate the deserted, battered and the destitute women and widows, two homes were set up in July 1999 - one at Parassala (close to Thiruvananthapuram) and the other at Kalliyode (near Medumangad) in an area of 20000 sq. ft. that had adequate provision for play ground and a garden to grow vegetables. The best part is that over 60 poor girls and women are provided free food, education, clothing, accommodation and medical aid.

GEMS Village: Despite growing economy, social

Free Land Distribution Scheme: A landmark effort

contribution and donation

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homes to the landless and homeless in India, this ambitious project that will cost more than one crore rupees includes purchase and distribution of plots, each of 871 sq ft to one thousand landless families from different districts of Kerala.

Proposals and donations are most welcome for rehabilitation of downtrodden and destitute women and orphan children. Donations to GEMS are exempt under section 80 G of Income Tax Act. Besides, GEMS is credited with FCRA Code No. 075900623 and is allowed to receive foreign in any currency.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Mannarasala - the supreme place of worship of the serpent Gods Though the legends related to the origin of a place cannot be deemed as its history, the story on the evolution of Mannarasala as the supreme place of worship of the serpent Gods is associated with Parasurama, the creator of Kerala.

T

he Raising of Kerala:

ings. Thus he raised the land from the sea and gave Sree Parasurama deit as a gift to the Brahmins cided to seek release according to the rules. This from the sin of killing the Kshathrias. He approached land came to be known as Kerala. That piece of land the holy Rishis. They was not habitable because suggested that he should make a gift of a land of his of the salinity. Not even own to the Brahmins. Para- vegetables grew there. surama, the son of Bhrigu, People began to leave the place. Bharghavarama was propitiated Varuna Deva pained at this. He under(the Lord of the Seas) to get some land for himself. took penance to please Lord Siva, who advised him He threw into the sea the axe which Paramasiva had that the objective could be given him with his blessrealized only if the flaming

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poison of the serpents was spread everywhere and that the only means of doing that was the worship of Nagaraja.

Parasurama, a Yogi, firm of will and above all desire, decided that he would take no rest until he saw Kerala come up as a land of evergreen beauty full of trees and plants, prosperous in every way. He set out with his disciples in search of a deserted jungle in order to please Naga-

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raja who was inaccessible and beyond anybody’s understanding. He found a suitable place near the seashore in the southern part of Kerala. Satisfied with having found a proper place for the realization of his cherished dream, the great Rishi constructed a Thirthasthala for the performance of penance.

Bharghavarama, a partial incarnation of Lord Vishnu, had to undertake very severe penance.

great pleasure. Ferocious serpents arrived at the spot at once to spread the flaming Kalakuda poison.

Because of the percolation of poison, the land of Kerala was desalinated, to become habitable with envious greenery.

Nagaraja makes his appearance

Installation

Nagaraja, who was pleased, appeared before Parasurama, willing to grant him his desire. According to the poem by Mannarasala M.G.Narayanan Namboodiri, the Nagaraja made his appearance as if : “ The unspeakable splendor of millions of moons!

The bright magnificence of emeralds stuck to the hoods. Golden jewels made attractive by miraculous embroidery!

Lotus feet worshipped by crowds of Gods! Brilliant beauty of form, full of youthfulness!”.

Parasurama prostrated at the lotus feet of Nagaraja and prayed to realize his objective. Nagaraja granted his request with

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Parasurama then requested the Lord to bless the land forever with his eternal presence, and that was also accepted by the kindly-disposed Nagaraja.

At a very auspicious moment Bhargavarama, the supreme devotee, installed, according to Vedic rites, Nagaraja, who is Brahma, Vishnu and Siva in one in the ‘Thirthasthala’ (Hall of pilgrimage) filled with Mandara trees, the place now known as Mannarasala. (The installed deity here represents Anantha (Vishnuswaroopa) and Vasuki (Siva in spirit). The installations of Sarpayakshi, Nagayakshi and Nagachamundi, the Naga deities, as well as of their associates were conducted in the proper places with the proper rituals. Parasurama performed to the accompaniment of Vedic recitation and singing of Sama, Abhishekam, Alankaram, Neivedyasamarpanam, Neeranjanam,

Sarpabali and other rites pleasing to the serpents and thereby made all the serpents happy.

Parasurama brought learned people from other religions; installed Durga and other deities in different places; appointed Brahmins who were Thanthric experts for performing poojas; nominated Kshathrias, peasants and the Ashtavaidyas who were supreme among the physicians; thus he brought Kerala, filled with beautiful vegetation and to prosperity.

After giving important instructions to be followed to preserve the sanctity of the place, Parasurama left to do tapas on Mahendra Mountains.

Mannarasala celebrations The Ayilyam day in Tulam, Kanni and Kumbham months in the Malayalam calendar and the Mahasivarathri are celebrated here with great pomp.

The Ayilyam in Kanni is the birthday of Nagaraja and that in Kumbham is the birthday of Anantha, the Muthassan of Nilavara (cellar).

Mannarasala Ayilyam The most celebrated festival at Mannarasala is the Ayilyam of Thulam. In

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November 2014

• Thiruvonam in the month of Chingam.

• From the 1st to the `12th of Karkitakam.

• Twelve days before Ayilyam in Kanni and Tulam.

• On the Ayilyam day of every month: the special Nurum Palum in front of Nilavara at the Illam.

• On Sivaratri day; Sarpabali in the temple.

• On the day after Sivaratri: Nurum Palum in Nilavara and Appooppan Kavu.

Locationthe beginning, the Ayilyam of Thulam had no speciality or importance. It was a regular custom for the Maharaja of Travancore to visit this temple on Ayilyam day in Kanni. On one occasion, the Maharaja could not reach the temple as usual and had to postpone the visit to the Ayilyam day in Thulam. The royal palace met all the expenses for the celebrations of that Ayilyam.Several landed properties were given away to the temple free of land tax in order to make the festival more attractive, as an expression of repentance. Thus the Ayilyam of Thulam came to secure a royal splendor and official glamour without difficulty.

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The Ayilyam days of Kanni and Kumbham are still celebrated with befitting grandeur.

Mannarasala Temple Timings Valia Amma has a special pattern of pooja everyday, and she must perform pooja in the sanctum sanctorum itself on certain days like :• On the first day of every month, malayalam calendar • On the day of Pooyam star each month, malayalam calendar.

• From the beginning of Magha to the eve of Sivaratri.

It is located near Haripad, 32 km south ofAlappuzha,14km from kayamkulam,115 km from Cochin International Airport and 125 km from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Kerala. In this temple, the rites are presided over by a priestess. The temple covers an area of 16 acres of dense green forest grove. The two main idols are Nagaraja or the serpent king and his consort, Sarpayakshini.

The most popular offering of this temple is ‘Uruli Kamazhthal’, the placing of a bell metal vessel upside down in front of the deity, which is believed to restore fertility to childless couples. Mannarasala

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November 2014

HEALTH

Fight Cancer With Knowledge

Dr M Krishnan Nair

T

In Kerala there will be approximately 100,000 cancer patients at a point of time (prevalent cases). Of this 35000 are incident cases (newly diagnosed) and 65000 surviving disease free, with recurrent disease and metastatic disease. For any health system such a large number will be a major strain and would demand huge resources.

In Kerala also the increase in cancer rates is same as in other states.

This is approximately 1 – 2%per year.

he population incidence cancer in Kerala, thus has

grown during the last 30 years from 100 per 100000 in 1980 to 130 per 100000 in 2012. The only states where there is an abnormally high rate of cancer are North Eastern states where it is approximately 250- 300 per 100000. This significant difference is due to the life style of the population such as heavy smoking and alcohol consumption and pre dominantly non vegetarian diets.

As all of us know cancer is predominantly a disease of old age and age is the most important non modifiable risk factor for cancer. In Kerala even though people talk a lot about the influence of life

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style in escalation of cancer

Kerala 40% of the cancer

rates, I presume that the

is men and 20% of cancer

rates have gone up more

in women is certainly due

because of the population

to tobacco use in different

aging and to very minor

forms. The influence of

extent due to changes

diet as a risk factor in Kerala

in life style. Of course in

has not been estimated,

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November 2014

but certainly the emerging

should also be simple

increase the expenses.

obesity among children

and reliable tests for such

So also breast screening,

and young adults could be

screening. Only in case of

Mammography is far more

major risk for cancer in the

breast cancer and cervical

expensive than pap smear

immediate future. Virus

cancer, screening has

screening. From the above

infection is responsible

proved to be of value in

it is obvious that screening

for cervical, hepatic and

reducing mortality. In all

is not a feasible strategy for

few oral cancers. Lack of

other cancers screening

early detection of cancer

physical activity is certainly

has not proved either

in poor resource settings.

a major risk factor for

practical or found to bring

Alternatively the population

breast and prostate cancer

down the mortality. In

could be educated on early

in our population which

the case of cervical cancer

warning signals of cancer

have emerged as common

pap smear screening done

and could be advised to

cancer in women and in

after the age of 40 at least

approach near by medical

men during the last 10

once in a women’s life time

facility to get them

– 15 years. The cancer

will reduce the mortality

examined for detection of

burden in Kerala could be

by 60% and if it is done 3

early cancer if they have

significantly reduced if we

times during her life the

symptoms.

institute legal measures to

mortality will be reduced

reduce population exposure

by more than 90%. As all

to tobacco and second

of us know cancer is an

hand smoke and educate

extremely rare disease. To

the public on healthy

detect one cervical cancer

food habits, importance

in the community at least

of physical activity and

about 5000 women have

vaccination against

to be screened. At an

cervical cancer.

average cost of Rs. 100 per

Cancer can be cured only if it is detected at an early stage. Early detection of cancer can be done either by screening or by clinical

pap smear one diagnosed case of cervical caner by screening would cost a phenomenal amount of Rs. 5 Lakhs.

The Regional Cancer Center had carried out a cancer detection program on the above lines and has been able to bring down the number of advanced cancer from 80% to 40%.

This programme had been hailed as a model for countries like India by World Health Organization.

The Kerala Government could have used this model which has been tested and

early detection strategies

Over and above this all

found successful when they

after sensitation to the

women in the screened

launched recently an early

early warning symptoms

population who are having

detection programme for

of cancer. Screening is

pre malignant and non

cervical, oral and breast

possible only in cancers

malignant condition have

cancer jointly by the NRHM

which have long natural

do be extended medical

and the DHS. The details

history and which have a

care for their other illnesses

of this programme are

precancerous stage. There

which would further

available as ‘Ten Year Action

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November 2014

Plan for Cancer Control’ in

to look elsewhere for such

the managerial guidelines

information.

of WHO.

The multidisciplinary clinics

Cancer treatment is a

of RCC can be replicated

multidisciplinary effort in

in all 23 Medical Colleges

which there is participation

in the state with minor

of Surgical, Medical and

redeployment of the staff

Radiation oncologists and

and minimal inputs in

Pathologists. Even though

terms of equipment (less

different types of cancer

than Rs. 10 crores). This

could be managed by the

would avoid the huge

same set of specialists,

rush of patients in RCC

it would be advisable to

and other bigger cancer

have organ and disease

centers which have almost

based groups as in the

been paralyzed in their

Western hospitals for

academic activities.Even

better academic and clinical

though the cancer rates are

outcomes.

going up a commensurate

The Regional Cancer Center as early as 1995 have brought in this philosophy in clinical

improvement has not happened in Oncology training of medical professionals.

of health service. It is felt that medical graduates at least during their house surgeoncy should receive a short exposure to Oncology on early detection, diagnosis and principles of treatment of the common forms of cancer.

While an oncology orientation has been discontinued most of the undergraduates presently get exposure to Pain & Palliative care.

Such exposure to Pain & Palliative care is very useful to any doctor. But it should not be a substitute for exposure to the basic principles of Oncology, lest the students will get an impression that cancer management is just pain management. Such trends unless corrected will hamper cancer management in our state and to some extent in the rest of the country. These need immediate attention of clinical practitioner, academics and all oncologists.

practice by establishing

Formerly undergraduate

eight multidisciplinary

students had training for

clinics on organ/disease

2 weeks in the Oncology

basis to help such clinics

Sections of medical colleges

to reach a high academic

with which they used to

level. Private practice

acquire basic knowledge

was also abolished in the

about the clinical features,

Regional Cancer Center to

diagnostics methods, and

promote such academic

referrals of cancer patients.

activities. Unfortunately

But of late Indian Medical

even after 20 years none

Council has made Oncology

of the clinics have brought

posting optional and most

out evidence based

of the medical colleges

management guidelines on

have dispensed with

clinical practice of individual

undergraduate posting in

cancers and most of the

Oncology, which has left a

The author Padmashree’ Dr M Krishnan Nair MD, FRCR, FRCPis the Founder Director of R C C. Head Oncology Dept, Senior

physicians in the state have

big void in the lower levels

Consultant Oncology

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November 2014

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November 2014

LIVING

ARTECH

Building Happiness Artech Realtors When you buy or invest in an apartment in Kerala, what would you desire about your apartment that would make you happy? The answers to these questions drives the brand.

And when you get the right answers, the choice is Artech.

Artech Realtors Pvt ltd was founded in the year 1994 with a simple mission of “Building Happiness”. In the past 20 yrs, under the able leadership of Artech Managing Director Mr. T.S.Asok the company has been doing just that…. making people happy with our apartments & projects and in the process became the leading builder in South Kerala. Artech’s impeccable reputation has been built on the strong foundations of good Locations, quality construction, timely delivery of projects & good after sales service.

The resultant goodwill has helped to launch 55 projects in various locations in Trivandrum, Kollam, Kottayam covering over 5 million square feet area. Artech also has the distinction of securing 3 Certifications from BIS. ISO 9001:2008, ISO 14001:2004,

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OHSAS 18001:2008.

Some of our landmark projects include the

Artech City Complex coming in the heart of Trivandrum at Vazhuthacaud in a land

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area of nearly 2 Acres with all the amenities required for a luxurious living.

Artech The Address at Kurvankonam - The first designer class branded apartment in Kerala. Artech Celestia at Nanthancode is our 55th project & is conceived as a lifestyle project having 1 apartment per floor. Artech Empire at Pattoor - the first fully airconditioned residential project in Trivandrum.

Artech Avantika is a private eden set amidst the quiet charm of Vellayambalam and boasts of multiple leisure amenities; Artech Srirema Villaments the first green Villaments concept in Trivandrum.

Artech has 3 projects in Kollam which have become the preferred choice for customers. In Kottayam our project Artech Rio is coming up at the end point

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of Thazathangadi boat race & offers a breathtaking view of the Meenachal river. The company is in the process of launching some very unique landmark projects across various locations of the state including Trissur, Calicut & Cochin.

In accordance with this policy, the company will be handing over 5 projects before the end of this financial year.

Customer service is the backbone of any business and therefore Artech has set up various divisions exclusively for this purpose.

Artech opened it’s1st international sales and customer service office in Dubai in 2011 to provide client servicing to our overseas customers.

For more informationArtech Realtors Pvt. Ltd

Artech House, TC 24/2014(1) Near Taj Vivanta, Thycaud Thiruvananthapuram 695014 Kerala, India E-mail: sales@ artechrealtors.com Phone No: +91 471 301 8114 to 301 8118, +91 471 232 7118

November 2014

HEALTH

AYURVEDA

Kerala is the best for Ayurveda with its good climate, soil, water and greenery.

All the herbs required for Ayurveda grow abundantly in Kerala and here tourism and Ayurveda complement each other.

D

Gangadharan spoke passionately about Ayurveda laying to rest all misconceptions on Ayurveda...being stagnant and outdated.

He reiterated the need to have centres of excellence for Ayurveda and more institutions for research if it is to be widespread and understood by all. With 3 decades of experience in the field of Ayurveda, Dr. Gangadharan stressed on the sanctity and purity of Ayurveda and how Kerala has the best of Ayurveda.

r.

Mr Hans spoke on the role played by Ayurveda in Tourism.� It goes beyond wellness� he said. Tourists will stay for 1 to 2 weeks for Ayurveda. They would try it for a short while and then return for the final treatment. Therapists

44 November2014 2014 44 November

need to be trained to educate the tourists on the positive healing aspects of Ayurveda. He requested the govt. to cut down on red tapism and ensure hassle free travel to Kerala.

Dr Petra, tour operator spoke on the importance of green leaf and olive leaf certification for Ayurveda.

She said Ayurveda is rooted in Kerala where it all began.

She wanted lady doctors and female therapists for her lady tourists who travelled alone from Germany.

She mooted the idea of Resorts and Ayurveda Centres being managed by women. Germans are more open to staying at Resorts which are nature friendly. She wanted better infrastructure for

her groups, roads with no potholes so that tourists could go out and interact with the local community.

Mr. Baby Mathew - CMD of Somatheeram Ayuvedic Resort stated that Kerala is the best for Ayurveda with its good climate, soil, water and greenery. All the herbs required for Ayurveda grow abundantly in Kerala and here tourism and Ayurveda complement each other.

He wanted Ayurveda Centres in a resort like ambience so that people coming in from abroad could be treated keeping in mind their comfort levels..

He wanted licences to be issued to manufacturers of Ayurvedic medicines, certification to guide tourists to authentic ayurveda centres and approval of the govt. to include Ayurveda in treatments accepted by Insurance companies.

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November 2014

DINING

SAGARA

Sagara-the best Seafood restaurant in the city For the last 16 years Sagara has been providing the Thiruvananthapuram cityites with tasteful and mouth-watering sea food specialties. In this time, Sagara has demonstrated themselves as the best Seafood restaurant in the city. It was Chandrakumar who started Sagara at Vazhuthacaud and now his son Liju helps him with the restaurant functions. The menu at Sagara has a wide variety for the customers to choose from, like Muyal Vindaloo, Kuttanadan Tharavu Roast, Turkey Roast, etc. Now, apart from the Vazhuthacaud restaurant, they have a new one at Bypass Road.

S

agara has a host of dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If idiyappam/appam with vegetable curry, puttu and meen curry, dosa and mathi fry, and puttu, payaru and pappadam are some of the dishes served for breakfast, fish curry meals, kakka erachi fry, meen motta thoran and chippy masala are on the lunch menu and thattil kutti dosa, kutty idli meen curry, ari oratti and mutton masala

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are some of the dishes for dinner.

The seafood at Sagara includes squid, oysters, crabs, seer fish, tuna, karimeen, etc. Both sea fish and lake fish are made available at their restaurants. Prawn fry, prawn roast, and tuna, avoli, are some of the fast moving seafood dishes at their restaurants. Sagara in addition provides their

customers with a variety of items. Seafood dosa, mixed seafood dosa, prawn dosa, squid dosa are some of them. Prawn biryanis, squid biryani and seafood biryani are likewise in great demand at Sagara. At this restaurant there is a special item with crab meat.

Kappa and Konju theeyal is one of the Nadan items at Sagara. Kallumeykkaya nirachathu, Kallumeykkaya fry, Kallumeykkaya roast

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are also available at this restaurant. During weekends the customers could also enjoy Varaal Pollichathu and Kaari fish.

The main chef at Sagara is Ranjith. Indian food preparation is taken care of

by Ajayan. These two and the other chefs at Sagara have been extensively trained.

Sagara at Bypass Road near Karikkakom temple has become a go-to place for all the food lovers from Technopark and other IT establishments in the city. Travelers in this bypass route too find

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this a comfortable place to dine at. One important thing to be mentioned is the hygiene precautions at Sagara’s both restaurants in Vazhuthacaud as well as in Bypass Road. The kitchens at both these places are see-through. The clients would have a clear idea of the cleanliness of preparation and serving.

The employees are closely monitored for cleanliness and hygiene. This gives the customers more confidence in eating out at the Sagara Restaurants.

The popularity of Sagara is evident from the high

percentage of regular customers at their restaurants. There are even customers who come from Kollam and other places in search of Sagara.

Sagara restaurant has also envisioned a Seafood Festival soon at their Bypass Road establishment. They have plans to include variety seafood dishes from Kerala as well as from Odisha and Kolkata.

Contact- Sagara Vazhuthacaud Junction, Trivandrum& Byepass Road, Near Karikkakom Temple,Venpalavattom 0471 2333434/ 9895947222

November 2014

METRO FOCUS

Karyavattom Greenfield Stadium to join the league of International Stadiums Thanks to the conduct of the 35th National Games, Kerala gets its first world class stadium that is fast nearing competition at the city outskirts.

The stadium conformed to international standards in football and cricket prescribed

by FIFA and ICC, has a capacity to accommodate approximately one lakh spectators and can seat 50,000. Spread over 37 acres and expected to cost Rs 161 crores, it has been named as the Karyavattom Greenfield Stadium.

I

day sporting extravaganza, the 35th National Games would be held.

It would be in this stadium that the Opening and Closing ceremony of the 15

Since the land belongs to the Kerala University and it will be handed to them after 15 years. While the stadium is located in 30.5 acres, 6.5 acres is kept aside for creating a parking lot which will accommodate

t becomes the first of its kind in the country being built under the PPP (Private Public Participation) model in association with IL&FS, a leader in the construction industry.

48 November2014 2014 48 November

more than 1000 vehicles.

The Stadium is divided into four zones with the North Zone is kept for cricket while the East is for football. Each zone will be equipped with all high tech facilities like players’ lounge, gymnasium, media center, stock room and the South Zone will house malls and food courts.

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November 2014

The Stadium also has indoor facilities for the Games which include two squash and volleyball courts each besides a basketball court and facility to play table tennis. A state of art Olympic size swimming pool is also there besides a kid’s pool.

stadium is that its roof is 50 percent covered compared to others International Stadiums which are only covered 30 percent. The roofing of the stadium is done with tensile fabrics which have the features of UV protection and anti – fungal properties.

Other facilities include retail space, gymnasium, convention center, dormitories, and lighting, making it suitable for holding day and night events,It also include club house with restaurants, VIP area, corporate boxes and locker rooms.

True to its name, stadium is built on the ‘green’ concept with trees all around it.

Rainwater harvesting will be done for maintaining the lawns. The sewage will be treated to retain the greenery.

Other feature of the

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November 2014

The eco-friendly stadium strictly follows the National Building Norms. It has also

attained the clearance certificate from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and the Pollution Control Board (PCB).

Its location also has an advantage as it is just 500m from the Kovalam – Kollam bypass.

So all in all this is going to be one location which is going to bring cheer not only to the athletes and sports persons, but also for the sports buff. Even special arrangements are there for the physically challenged, who can have a comfortable seating.

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November 2014

METRO EVENT

Less than 30% of people using public healthcare: Dr Ellangovan International Training in Procurement Management begins at HLL Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 14: The public healthcare system in India, despite having some of the best doctors in the country, is being used only by less than 30% of the population because of lack of diagnostic systems and inadequate supply of drugs, Dr K Ellangovan, Health and Family Welfare Department secretary has said.

He was speaking on Monday after inaugurating the International Training Programme on Procurement Management in Healthcare Sector, organised by the HLL Academy, the academic wing of central mini-ratna PSU HLL Lifecare Limited, in association with the World Bank and the Government of India.

Around 36 selected healthcare professionals sent by various health ministries, Government Departments and National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) participated in the training session.

November December January March 2014 2014 2014 2013 2013 2014 52 March 2014 52 November 2014 52 July

“There has been an eight percentage increase in the number out-patients in public hospitals since the Government made generic drugs available. This shows the importance of effective procurement in the healthcare sector,” Dr Ellangovan said.

He also pointed out that the international training programme is a timely one because public procurement in healthcare is facing many challenges including the right assessment of the needs and making priorities.

The former Secretary to

Government of India Shri R Poornalingam, who presided over the function, said the procurement of drugs and equipment delivery plays a vital role in deciding the success of healthcare delivery in India, where the allocation are very poor, particularly in states such as Bihar.

Shri A K Kalesh Kumar, Capacity Coordinator, World Bank; Dr Babu Thomas, Director – Marketing, HLL Lifecare Limited; Prof N K Mohan Das, Director, Angloscape and Shri G Sreekumar, Head, HLL Academy spoke at the event.

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November 2014

METRO UPDATE

Clint Memorial International Children’s Painting Competition Winners Honoured Winners of the Clint Memorial International Painting Competition received their prizes from Tourism Minister Shri A P Anil Kumar at a ceremony held in the city today.

A

nujath Sindhu Vinaylal of Thrissur received the first prize, consisting of a memento, a certificate and a tour package for six nights within Kerala. Second placed Irtiza Anika Haqe Probonti of Bangladesh, who won a tour package of five nights, was unable to make it to the function.

Winners along with the Additional Director (General), Kerala Tourism, Anupama TV, Secretary, Kerala Tourism, Shri Suman Billa, Chairman of Kerala Lalithakala Akademi, Shri K A Francis, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism

Viara Pencheva of Bulgaria, Meenakshi Nair J from Kottayam and Meghna Unnikrishnan from Chennai were the recipients of the third prize, consisting of a memento, certificate and a tour package for four nights within Kerala.

the child prodigy Edmund Thomas Clint. Born in Kochi, Clint had drawn worldwide attention by creating more than 25,000 drawings and paintings as a child before he passed away in 1983 one month short of his seventh birthday.

Launched in January this year, the Clint Memorial International Painting Competition, was conducted in memory of

“Clint was a true master artist. He had painted as many paintings as a person could in his life time”, said Hon’ble Minister for

The gathering at the ceremony

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1st Prize (Painting)

Tourism, Govt. of Kerala, Shri A P Anil Kumar The online competition, organised by Invis Multimedia on behalf of Kerala Tourism, received 4,350 entries from 40 countries. The theme was Kerala and the state tourism department had provided two e-books — one on the life of Clint and the other on Kerala — to all the participants.

The award ceremony kicked-off with the showcasing of the 25 paintings by the winners.

‘God’s own child from God’s own Country’, a 3-minute movie on Clint, was screened for the audience.

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November 2014

METRO UPDATE

Cake Mixing Ceremony at Uday Suites Uday Suites gears up for a magical Christmas with a traditional Cake Mixing Ceremony

T

he 23rd November evening was received with great cheer as Uday Suites hosted its annual Cake Mixing Ceremony to celebrate and begin the joyous festival of Christmas. Guests from United Kingdom, and other European countries along with the travel and tourism fraternity, invitees and staffs from the hotel were present to enjoy the ceremony and everyone had a wonderful experience participating in the wonderful event, as Uday Suites bring the Christmas cheers to the Trivandrum city.

Guests and staffs were dressed in aprons and chef caps to fit the role of cake mixing team. It was

1st Prize (Painting)

a great experience for all present there to witness

the exciting annual event that took place through the making. By the end of the day around 25ltrs of alcohol was used with 200kgs of dry fruits, honey, spices and brown sugar.

There was fun, frolic, laughter and joy all around and guests enjoyed every bit of the magical journey Uday Suites put up for them.

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November 2014

METRO UPDATE

MobD ushers in a new paradigm in healthcare Elevating Kerala to the international standards in healthcare, an innovative, young healthcare company based out of Trivandrum has come up with a novel venture called mobD. mobD (pronounced mobDEE) - a Mobile Diagnostics and Health service provider - brings affordable quality healthcare to the comfort of your home, for those who are unable to make it to the hospitals owing to poor health.

L

ed by Harish Haridas, healthcare entrepreneur and alumni of the Oxford University, the unique healthcare platform offers a wide range of services comprising doctor on call services, physiotherapy, nursing Services, home cardiac Care, home diabetic Care, and specialist services for the Senior Citizens and NRI segment.

Services for newborns, mothers and care aimed at corporates are other vital features from mobD. The strength of mobD lies in the highest quality of services by physicians,

registered nurses, associate nurses, caretakers and physiotherapists.

Depending on the patient’s specific needs, mobD has highly proficient staff that can assist patients suffering from orthopaedic, cardiac, psychological, respiratory, and diabetic ailments. mobD’s nursing professionals provide post-surgical care at home to those patients who have undergone surgeries, traumas and surgeries such as total knee replacement, total hip replacement, or transplant et al. Trained nurses and physicians

will help patients with administering drugs, dressing up wounds and will support them with tasks that they are unable to carry out themselves.

The mobD Palliative Care programme, provided by a team of doctors and nurses extends personal care and companionship to improve the quality of client’s life.

Understanding the delicacy of elderly care and nursing newborns and new mothers, mobD deploys the best homecare providers in these areas.

Specially trained nurses assist new mothers in the

“Value, quality care, and convenience are the three tenets of our philosophy. We promise to provide comfortable healthcare at a time of the patient’s convenience. We want to disrupt the traditional bricks and mortar model of hospitals by reducing patient waiting and traveling time. Through mobD patients are directly engaged in their health issues and this ensures a continuous and seamless participation from the patient” Harish Haridas Founder, CEO

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most challenging phase of their life and finds pleasure in working with their family.

The service providers are willing to alter elderly care plans according to the circumstances of each family.

clinic offers physiotherapy services by internationally accredited experts and latest techniques to overcome a number of physical ailments including sport injuries, post surgical rehab, and spinal care.

With the specific intention to help stress of young Indians stationed outside, mobD offers an NRI package that will ensure good-health for aged parents living alone. A team consisting of a doctor and nurse will visit the parent’s home for an initial assessment, which will form the basis for the care plan that involves regular visits and check-ups.

Based on ergonomics, the science of matching the physical requirements of the job with the physical capacity of the worker, mobD provides customised packages for corporate companies in stress management, executive health check, preemployment screening, and on-site physiotherapy.

The mobile healthcare

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The mobD management has a breadth of experience

acquired from various parts of the world. Overseeing the care to all patients is Chief Medical Officer Dr. LeshmiHaridas who has completed her MBBS with distinction from Imperial College London, and is a Member of the Royal College of Physicians (UK).

An advisory board comprising technology entrepreneur and the Chairman of Startup Village Sanjay Vijayakumar, and entrepreneur and investment advisor Ryan Chadha back the management team.

For more details, visit: http://www.mobd.in/

November 2014

METRO UPDATE

Canara Bank- Global Bank with Best Practices Widely known for customer centricity, Canara Bank was founded by ShriAmmembalSubbaRaoPai, a great visionary and philanthropist, in July 1906, at Mangalore, then a small port town in Karnataka. The Bank has gone through the various phases of its growth trajectory over hundred years of its existence.

G

rowth of Canara Bank was phenomenal, especially after nationalization in the year 1969, attaining the status of a national level player in terms of geographical reach and clientele segments.

Eighties was characterized by business diversification for the Bank. In June 2006, the Bank completed a century of operation in the Indian banking industry.

The eventful journey of the Bank has been characterized by several memorable milestones.

Today, Canara Bank occupies a premier position in the comity of Indian banks. With an unbroken record of profits since its inception, Canara Bank has several firsts to its credit.

These include: • Launching of Inter-City ATM Network • Obtaining ISO Certification for a Branch

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• Articulation of ‘Good Banking’ – Bank’s Citizen Charter

Keeping customer convenience at the forefront, the Bank

• Commissioning of Exclusive Mahila Banking Branch

provides a wide array of alternative delivery channels that include over 6509 ATMs, covering various centres. Several IT initiatives have been undertaken during the year, which include Funds Transfer through Interbank Mobile Payment Services (IMPS) in ATMs, ASBA facility to net banking users, E-filing of tax returns and facility

• Launching of Exclusive Subsidiary for IT Consultancy • Issuing credit card for farmers • Providing Agricultural Consultancy Services • Providing state of art IT Products for customers such as e-info pass book, ewallet etc.

Over the years, the Bank has been scaling up its market position to emerge as a major ‘Financial Conglomerate’ with as many as nine subsidiaries/ sponsor institutions/ joint ventures in India and abroad. As at 30/06/2014, the Bank has further expanded its domestic presence, with 5003 branches spread across all geographical segments.

for viewing details of tax deducted at source, Terminal at select branches for customers to use net banking, SMS/e-mail alerts for all transactions done through ATM, net banking, POS, mobile banking, online payments irrespective of amounts, online loan applications and tracking facility, generation of automatic pass sheets through e-mail, e-info pass book, e-wallet and automatic renewal of term deposits.

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Under Government business, the Bank has implemented internet based application for UGC Maulana Azad National Fellowship Scheme, Web portal for National Scheme for Girl Child Secondary Education, Electronic Accounting Systems of e-ReceiptsCustoms (EASeR-C) for collection of customs duty and e-payment of commercial taxes module for UP, Karnataka, Delhi and Tamil Nadu.Not just in commercial banking, the Bank has also carved a distinctive mark, in various corporate social responsibilities, namely, serving national priorities,promoting rural development, enhancing rural self-employment through severaltraining institutes and spearheading financial inclusion objective.

Promoting aninclusive

growth strategy, which has been formed as the basic plank of national policy agenda today, is in fact deeply rooted in the Bank’s founding principles.

“A good bank is not only the financial heart of the community, but also one with an obligation of helping in every possible manner to improve the economic conditions of the common people”.

These insightful words of our founder continue to resonate even today in serving the society with a purpose. The growth story of Canara Bank in its first century was due, among others, to the continued patronage of its valued customers, stakeholders, committed staff and uncanny leadership ability demonstrated by its leaders at the helm of affairs. We strongly believe that the

next century is going to be equally rewarding and eventful not only in service of the nation but also in helping the Bank emerge as a”Global Bank with Best Practices”. This justifiable belief is founded on strong fundamentals, customer centricity, enlightened leadership and a family like work culture.

Total no of branches : Bank as a whole( as on 30/06/2014 including 7 overseas branches): 5010 No of branches in Kerala as on 26/08/2014: 407 No of branches in Trivandrum Circle as on 26/08/2014: 137 Business position Global business as on 30.06.2014, Bank as a whole : Rs.731940 Crores For more informationhttps://www.canarabank.in

Kallingal Auto-Taxi Fare meter Customer Service Centre Kllingal Auto Taxi fare meter Customer Service Centre was inaugurated

by Mr Ledson Raj (Legal Metrolology Department assistant Controller).

Kallingal Automobiles Managing Director Kallingal Shafeek, Legal Metrolology Inspector Siju Sathyadas ,KallingalShafeer,Kalling al Bajaj Manager Harrison www.metromartdaily.com

Fernandez,Sales Manager Rajagopalan Nair,Dillep

Muhammed,Sudarshanan Nair were present.

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November 2014

Early start to Kerala’s tourist season It’s a state that has a blend of exotic tourism destinations, rich heritage of dance, culture, cuisine, handlooms, festivals, pilgrimage, adventure and more.

God’s own country, Kerala is the perfect paradise for Indian and International tourist visitors who get to relish serene beaches and long shorelines, emerald backwaters, lush hill stations, waterfalls, plantations and exotic wildlife, Ayurveda, historic and cultural monuments and temples, all of which that bring a unique and heavenly experience.

The most sought-after destination for business and leisure, Kerala has India’s most advanced society, world class health care, 100% literacy, India’s lowest infant mortality and highest life expectancy rates to boast of. Which is why, Kerala is fast emerging as the prime spot for family-oriented, package destinations for the business community and the favourite hub of nature-explorers.

So if you wish to explore unending destinations, festivals, gourmet specialities and more, put Kerala as the first in your itinerary. It is where peace, tranquillity and good life belongs.

Want to wish you a wonderful, restful and safe travel season!

Siji Nair

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