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December 2003
Hollywood stars in Kerala ‘Backwaters’
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Hollywood stars Billy Zane, Erika Eleniak and Jeff Trachta will fly to India early in Year 2004 to act in a film titled ‘Backwaters’ by Indian director Jagmohan Mundhra. After catching the international attention with his hard-hitting Bawandar (starring Nandita Das ), Mundhra is all set to start an English movie with a Hollywood starcast. Titled ‘Backwaters’, the movie will be based on the story of a couple, a paralyzed woman and her husband, who fly to India for an Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala. The wife, who is confined to wheelchair, goes missing one day. The husband then goes in search of his wife. Leading roles in the movie will be played by Billy Zane (who played Kate Winslet's vile fiancé in ‘Titanic’), Erika Eleniak (of ‘Under Siege) and Jeff Trachta (from the famous soap ‘The Bold and The Beautiful’). It is also learnt that Mohanlal might play the role of a cop in the film. ‘Backwaters’ was supposed to go on floors from January next year, but has now been postponed till February. It will be shot in Kerela and London. -ApunKaChoice
Govt failed to address issues: Achudanandan
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
KANNUR: Charging the A K Antony government in Kerala with "unbridled corruption", opposition leader V S Achudanandan said the government had failed to address several issues faced by various sections of people. The over 30-month old rule by united democratic front government in the state had driven the state to unprecedented crisis in sectors like traditional industries, education, health and employment while unbriddled corrupt practices are on in several government departments,+ he told reporters here. Instead of focussing on government's +irresponsibility+ a section of the media had been adopting a +hostile+ approach to frustrate the opposition parties' bid to force the government to take corrective measures in various sectors, he said and asked the media to take up the issues vigorously. He said the congress led UDF had failed to fulfil its election promise that it would provide employment to five lakh people and create temperory jobs for over 15 lakh people. The government owed an explanation as to how the Rs 10,000 crore loan borrowed from various agencies had been allocated, he said and alleged that it had not earmarked any fund for reviving the crisis ridden traditional industries where over 15 lakh people are working while another 60 lakh people depend on them. Denying that the opposition had put a +moratorium+ on agitational programmes, he warned that it would chalk out strategies for series of agitations to highlight +anti-people+ programmes of the Antony government.
UDF leaders suggest Murlidharan Dy CM
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
NEW DELHI: UDF leaders from Kerala met Congress President Sonia Gandhi and understood to have suggested making KPCC chief K Murlidharan, son of veteran Congress leader K Karunakaran, as Deputy Chief Minister as a way out of the present crisis in Congress in Kerala. They urged Gandhi that Karunakaran should at any cost be prevailed upon to be in the UDF. Otherwise, there would be a bad situation in the UDF when Lok Sabha elections are approaching, UDF sources said. State Transport Minister R Balakrishna Pillai, Water Resources Development Minister T M Jacob, Cooperation Minister M V Raghavan and RSP (B) leader A V Thamarakshan, who head various constituents of the UDF, met Gandhi seperately. Later Jacob and Thamarakshan told reporters that she had assured them of steps to solve the crisis before the next session of the state assembly.
Kerala CM turns 64
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
KOCHI : Kerala Chief Minister A K Antony, who turned 64 on Sunday, had a quiet birthday and delcined to answer newsmen's questions on any issue. When reporters met him on Sunday evening shortly after arrival here from Thiruvananthapuram, Antony said he would not take any questions either on politics or on any other issues. Despite a persistent queries by reporters about the feud in his party and some of the UDF partners leaving for Delhi to hold disucssions with the Congress high command about the crisis, a smiling Antony refused to respond saying Sunday was for him a "political holiday". Asked about birthday festivities, the chief minister said he no longer celebrated birthdays. Antony said that his wife cut a cake and that was all. "Birthday celebrations are for children, not for grown ups," he said. Antony promised to meet the press on Monday. "You can ask me whatever you want on Monday. Spare me on Sunday," he added.
Priyanka enchanted by Kerala's beauty
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Kumarakom: "I never knew it is so beautiful ! I will come back again !!"--said Congress President Sonia Gandhi's daughter Priyanka Vadhra, who was on a holiday at this backwater resort in Kerala. Priyanka, who had a boat cruise in the placid Vembanad Lake with her children, made her comment of appreciation to the staff of the Kumarakam Lake Resort where she stayed with her husband Robert Vadhra, brother Rahul Gandhi and Rahul's Colombian friend Juvanitto. Throughout the cruise Priyanka had been talking about the panoramic beauty of Kerala, especially its palm-finged backwaters. She also enjoyed the food, especially the marine cuisine, said Jose Thomas Pattara, Managing Director, Lake Resort. A Kathakali dance performance was arranged for the special guests last night. The VVIPs left for Bangaram in the Lakshadweep this afternoon.
DGP promises action against 'blade mafia'
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala: DGP Hormis Tharakan said here on Tuesday that stern action would be initiated against the increasing incidents of attacks by private finance institutions on their clients. ''Stern action will also be taken against the financial institutions which deploy goondas to recover their investments,'' Tharakan told newsmen. He said that directives had already been issued to all police officials in this regard. He said that the police would be able to act more effectively against goonda attacks once the legislation to check goonda attacks, which was being framed by the Government, was implemented. Tharakan said that steps were being taken to set up coastal police stations in four ranges by April. The office of the State Crime Records Bureau had been made the cyber police station of the State and certain police officials were being given training to handle cyber crimes, he said.
'Immorality' complaint against Rahul Gandhi
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala Dec 31 A retired professor in Kerala has filed a complaint against Rahul Gandhi, the son of Congress president Sonia Gandhi, and his Colombian girlfriend saying that they should be charged under the immoral trafficking law. John M. Itty, a retired college professor in Alapuzha district, has contended that action should be taken against Gandhi and his girlfriend Juvenitta - who spent three days in the backwaters of Kumarakom - under the law because they stayed together even though they were not married. Itty had made his contention in a written complaint to the Kottayam Superintendent of Police S. Gopinath. Gopinath said his office received the complaint Monday but no action was taken on it. "I did not see Itty. All I received was a complaint that both Rahul Gandhi and his girlfriend should be charged under the law. Maybe he is trying to get some cheap publicity and that is why he resorted to raise such a complaint. I did not take any action because there was no offence," Gopinath told . The professor's son Shinoy John, a management student, said he knew his father had filed a complaint but did not know the details. "Right now my father is out of station," he said. Gandhi and his girlfriend had spent three days at the Kumarakom Lake Resort with sister Priyanka, brother-in-law Robert Vadra and their children joining them. They left Kochi for Lakshadweep Islands Tuesday. --Indo-Asian News Service
Budget session to begin on Jan 15
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Cabinet recommended to the Governor to convene the budget session of the state Assembly from January 15. Chief Minister A K Antony said the budget for the 2004-05 financial year would be presented on January 23 and the session would conclude on April 7. He said after the budget presentation, there would be a break from January 30 to March 1 to enable the Subject Committee to transact its business.
Bengal lose to Kerala
Sunday, December 28, 2003
Cuttack, Dec. 27 : Kerala beat Bengal 85-54 in a women’s group D match in the 54th national basketball meet on Saturday. Reigning men’s champions Tamil Nadu found their winning touch as they outplayed Jharkhand 91-72 in a group A encounter. Tamil Nadu did well to recover after suffering a shocking 73-83 defeat against Kerala last night. In another group A tie, Railways crushed Kerala 103-68. In group B, Services trounced Uttar Pradesh 104-50. Among women, Chhattisgarh defeated Punjab 75-53 in group A while Delhi outplayed Madhya Pradesh in group B.
Mandatory contract rule jolts job-seekers to Gulf
Sunday, December 28, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram: Gulf jobseekers who rejoiced at the Federal government’s Xmas gift — cancelling the return ticket stipulation — have been jolted by the new rider requiring mandatory job contract for the semi-skilled category. The decision came into effect on December 22. The Kerala Recruiting Agents Association has termed it discriminatory since it leaves out the skilled category of visa-holders from the purview of the mandatory job contract. Association president B Vivek said the stipulation would hit the prospects of thousands of Keralites who usually make their first Gulf travel on the strength of “free” visas obtained by benefactor friends and relations already employed in the Gulf. Why the Federal Government slapped a new stipulation while withdrawing another is still not clear. A plausible explanation is that the Government wanted an institutional mechanism to cover costs of job exigencies faced by new Indian recruits in the Gulf. Protector of Emigrants K Sudhakaran said the Federal Government intended to ensure this through the new mandatory insurance cover for all those coming under the semi-skilled category and proceeding on individual job visa. The new provision for a mandatory job contract, signed and counter-signed by employee and the employer, applies only to the semi-skilled workers who fall under the “emigration check required category”. The unskilled category is already bound by the requirement of producing a work contract attested by the Indian Embassy. Up to November 15, the Federal Labour Ministry held the recruiting agents responsible for job exigencies in the Gulf since they ought to have verified the contractual terms and obligations. But once the December 25 withdrawal of return ticket came into force, the Ministry made jobseekers individually responsible for their safe keep in the foreign land. Those trying to secure a job in either Oman or Bahrain are at a double disadvantage since the two countries do not mention the profession of the applicant on the visa while other Gulf countries do.
Chandy voices concern over delay in solution
Saturday, December 27, 2003
Thrissur: Voicing convern over the high command putting off a decision on resolving the problems in the Congress in Kerala, UDF convener Oommen Chandy on Saturday said the delay in settling the crisis had created a deep sense of disappointment among the party's rank and file. The delay in ending the uncertainty in the party had pushed workers at the grassroot level into lethargy, which was not a good sign for the party, Chandy, a close confidante of Chief Minister A K Antony, told reporters here. Chandy, however, said the pro-Antony groups had not given the high command any formula, nor had they set any timeframe for settling the crisis. He said the division in the party was so deep that the rival factions were virtually functioning like two parties. Chandy said CPI(M) was the 'biggest loser' due to the Congress factionalism as that party stood exposed by meddling in the Congress affairs.
Secretariat top heavy with IAS officials
Saturday, December 27, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amidst the ongoing agitation against redeployment and rationalisation of Government staff strength, what remains unnoticed is the top heavy Secretariat with 44 IAS officials in 37 departments. An important recommendation of the Administrative Reforms Committee was to limit the number of Secretaries in the Secretariat to 15 and redeploy the rest to the public sector units and special infrastructure projects.
Thousands witness deeparadhana after Thanka Anki submission
Friday, December 26, 2003
SABARIMALA: Thousands of pilgrims witnessed the deeparadhana after adorning the idol of Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa with Thanka Anki on Friday on the eve of Mandalapooja. Heavy rush of pilgrims was witnessed at Sannidhanam since Friday morning. The Thanka Anki procession was given a traditional reception at Saramkuthi by Sabarimala Executive Officer Krishnan Nair and Administrative Officer Sankaran Nair. Devaswom Minister G Karthikeyan, Special Commissioner D Sreevallabhan and Devaswom Commissioner Ayyappan Nair received the Thanka Anki at Sannidhanam. Tantri Kandararu Rajivaru and Melsanthi Gosala Vishu Vasudevan carried the boxes containing the Anki into the Sreekovil for deeparadhana. Earlier, the procession was given a traditional welcome at Pampa by Devaswom officials led by Pampa Devaswom manager Jayakumar, maramath executive engineer Jolly Ullas and Ayyappa Seva Sangham general secretary N Sreenivasan. The Anki was taken to Pampa Ganapathi temple premises and kept there for darshan till 3.15 p m.
Job contracts made mandatory for EC to semi-skilled workers
Friday, December 26, 2003
Job contracts made mandatory for EC to semi-skilled workers Saturday December 27 2003 00:18 IST THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Imposing another restriction on overseas recruitment, the Centre has made job contracts mandatory for those seeking emigration clearance (EC) in semi-skilled categories. The new restriction came into effect from December 22. The Centre had earlier imposed a regulation that those seeking emigration clearance should remit one-way flight charges in advance. However, following stiff opposition from various quarters and sustained efforts of the State Government, the regulation was lifted with effect from December 25 by implementing a mandatory insurance scheme. According to sources, as many as 20 individuals were denied emigration clearance under semi-skilled categories by the offices of the Protector of Emigrants in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi in the last few days for want of employment contracts. The new restriction will severely affect the State as a sizable section of emigrants from here are seeking jobs in semi-skilled categories. It is also not practical to obtain job contracts for individual visas, which are usually supplied through friends and relatives, it has been pointed out. ``Nearly 30 percent of the overseas job seekers from Kerala are from the semi-skilled categories. The authorities should take necessary steps to lift such restrictions considering the consequences it would have on the overseas job market, '' Kerala Recruiting Agents' Association president B Vivek said. ``The State Government will look into the issue and will take necessary steps,'' Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Minister M M Hassan said. Meanwhile, the Centre has also brought in a relaxation on recruitment to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by deciding that the `wakala' (job contract) issued by the employers need to be produced instead of demand letter, power of attorney and employment contract, sources said. NEW REGULATIONS COME INTO EFFECT: The new emigration norms, including the lifting of the existing rule that those going abroad seeking jobs should pay the return flight fare in advance and the implementation of a compulsory insurance scheme, came into effect from December 25. The insurance policy, Pravasi Bharathiya Bhima Yojana, which covers job and personal risks, is offered by various insurance companies, including the National Insurance Company, New India Assurance Company, United Insurance Company and various other private insurance companies. The premium ranged between Rs. 500 and Rs. 2000 depending on the period of coverage and risks covered. The National Insurance Company has opened a Pravasi Insurance Cell in Thiruvananthapuram for the purpose, according to a company statement.
Heavy rush as Sabarimala set for Mandala pooja
Friday, December 26, 2003
The Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple witnessed heavy rush for the fifth day today as the hilly shrine of Lord Ayyappa is all set for the Mandala pooja tomorrow. On Thursday, which was a holiday on account of Christmas, the line of devotees waiting for the holy darshan of the presiding deity at Sannidhanam extended up to Marakkoottam on the trekking path. The devotees had to wait for seven to eight hours in the queue to reach the Sannidhanam. There was also a heavy rush for the Neyyabhishekam offering at Sannidhanam and the devotees had to wait for a long time to offer the ghee for the ritual at the sanctum sanctorum today. The Thanka Anki procession, after its two-day journey, will reach Pampa at 1 p m on December 26. The Ayyappa Seva Sangham volunteers and Travancore Devaswom Board officials will give a traditional reception to the procession on its arrival at Pampa. The Anki will be kept at Pampa Ganapathi Temple for darshan till 3.30 pm. Later the procession will leave for Sannidhanam. On reaching Sannidhanam, Thantri Kandararu Rajivaru and Melsanthi Gosala Vishnu Vasudevan will receive the Anki. The deeparadhana, after adorning the Thanka Anki on the idol, will be held between 6.00 and 6.30 p m. The Ayyappa idol will be adorned with the `Anki' for the Mandala poojas to be held at 12 noon on Saturday. The Pampa Sangamam, the annual cultural festival organised by the Travancore Devaswom Board will be held at the Anjaneya Auditorium on the Ganapathi Temple premises at Pampa from January 5 to 7. The Devaswom Public Relations Officer, Mohan Perinad, told that the Union Minister of State forParliamentary Affairs, O. Rajagopal, would inaugurate the three-day festival at 5 p.m. on January 5. The TDB president, N. Babu, will preside over the function. M. Sambasivan will deliver the keynote address on the occasion. Francis George, MP, and Raju Abraham, MLA, will also address the inaugural function. The Transport Minister, R. Balakrishna Pillai, will inaugurate the cultural meeting on January 6. Swami Sookshmananda of the Sivagiri Madhom will deliver the keynote address. The Tamil Nadu Health Minister, Dalawai Sundaram, B. Madhusoodhanan Nair and V. S. Sarma will also speak. The Akhila Bharatha Ayyappa Seva Sangham has urged the authorities concerned to permit the vehicles of the pilgrims parked at Nilackal to come up to Pampa to pick them up on their way back to home. v
Christmas celebrated all over the state
Friday, December 26, 2003
Christmas celebrated all over the state Thiruvananthapuram December 26, 2003 Christians in Kerala, along with fellow believers around the globe, celebrated Christmas on Thursday with traditional fervour and enthusiasm, to honour the glory of the nativity of Jesus Christ. Special midnight services at churches and all round revelry marked Christmas celebrations in the state y. Thousands of believers, dressed in their `Sunday best', thronged the various churches. At the Palayam St. Joseph Cathedral in the state capital, Bishop Susapakyam led the prayers. Meat stalls remained open well into the the wee hours on Thursday. The churches in the state wore a festive look with illuminated Christmas stars, trees and cribs adorning the premises. In villages and small towns, Carol bands visted households ythroughtout the night to announce the divine buirth. the festival is also marked for hosuehold vists, family reunions and presnetation and sharing of gifts, sweets etc. Several hotels in the state also organised Christmas celebrations. Many hired jugglers, live bands and magicians to enliven the Christmas evening for their guests. It was also fun time at exclusive clubs and resorts dotting the coastal areas. several neighbourhoods, tug-of-war, party games and football matches were organised to celebrate the festival. The Christmas fervour had gripped the state from the first week of December itself with houses and churches being tinted with illumination and Christmas stars to announce the advent of the festive season. The shops and establishmensts in the state also recorded roaring business in the last one week. Special Christmas fairs were set up in many towns and cities of the state.
Women to approach court against fortnightly
Friday, December 26, 2003
Women to approach court against Malayalam fortnightly THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two women, whose relationship was featured in a Malayalam fortnightly recently, today said they would approach the court against the magazine as the article had caused them much trauma and resulted in their being ostracised. At a press conference here, Sheela (23) and Nandu (21) said they had found companionship with each other after becoming victims of gender harassment. They said the article had portrayed their relationship in bad light. The magazine had accused Nandu of having links with the drug mafia. "We lost our jobs and nobody is willing to employ us. At one point, we even contemplated suicide and it was the intervention of a non-Governmental organisation (NGO) which saved us from the brink of suicide. Our families also suffered because of the write-up," Nandu said. The women were in the news after Sheela's father, Vijayan, an autorickshaw driver, tried to take custody of his daughter by force from the Women's Police Station on Saturday. The police, however, allowed Sheela to go with her lawyer when she refused to accompany her father. Sheela had been living at Nandu's house in the Kazhakkuttom police station limits for the past several months. During the course of her stay there, Sheela's father had allegedly caused trouble at Nandu's house and following this, the women had approached the police against Vijayan. Sheela had also sought police help to retrieve her personal belongings from her father's house. (kaumudi.com)
Kumbalangi to be model tourism village
Friday, December 26, 2003
Kumbalangi to be model tourism village KUMBALANGI: Kumbalangi awaits a new dawn. For better or worse, the destiny of this picturesque village in the suburbs of Kochi would soon be determined with Chief Minister A K Antony declaring Kumbalangi as the first model tourism village in India, at a function here on Tuesday. While many people of Kumbalangi are waiting eagerly for development, a few, mainly environmentalists, view the proposed project with a little suspicion and apprehension. A D Ajayan, general convener of Vyapari Vyavasai Ekopana Samithi's Kumbalangi unit, believes that the project would open doors for the overall development of the village. ''Definitely, there will be a positive change with tourists, mostly foreigners, flocking the village. Along with many other sectors, trade and commerce of the village are set to benefit from the project,'' he said. However, he suggested that special stalls showcasing the heritage of the village should be set up and allotted to the traders. However, some environmentalists under the banner Kayal Samrakshana Samithi view the project with a little apprehension as they fear that the project would cause damage to the fragile eco-system of the village and thereby cause much other harm to the village's fisheries sector.
Only three films to hit the screen this Christmas
Friday, December 26, 2003
This festive season will have only three films. The trend of getting films ready for release during Christmas takes a back seat with both Mohanlal and Mammootty not participating in this year's Christmas offerings. Films which will be released are Jayaram's Manasinakkare, Dilip's Pattanathil Sundaran and Jayasurya's Pulivaal Kalyanam. The other releases due for Christmas - Mammootty's Vajram is yet to be completed while Pritviraj's Chakram has been embroiled in a court case. And for smaller films there are no takers. As usual it is a mixed bag for the audience with a combination of the old and new generation actors hogging the limelight. Actress Sheela makes a comeback after more than two decades through Sathyan Anthicaud's Manasinakkare. The film narrates the story of a mother (Kochuthresya) who discovers the joys and pains of relationships in life. Chacko Mappila (Innocent) and son Reji (Jayaram) struggle hard for their living. But still they are good at heart and are at the service of the villagers. Thresyamma gets attached to them. The problem, which arises when Thresyamma tries to make a living for them, forms the rest of the story. Ilayaraja also makes a comeback with melody numbers penned by Girish Puthencherry. Azhagappan cranks camera for the film. Pattanathil Sundaran would be Dilip's offering for Christmas. Vipin Mohan, Satyan Anthikkad's regular cameraman for over 20 years is turning director with this film. The script is by Sindhuraj. Navya Nair plays heroine after a minor clash with the producer over the issue of payment. The film is produced by Liberty Basheer and Vijayan Menon under the banner of Liberty Thara Productions. Dileep plays Sundaresan, a happy-go-lucky guy, who is forced to take up the responsibilities of his family after his father's death. He is forced to run the ration shop that his father had owned. Meanwhile he also gets married to Radhamani played by Navya. She is a well-educated girl and gets a job in the state secretariat. Suddenly ego problems rise between the couple, which leads to hilarious situations. The film is aimed to make the audience think and at the same time laugh. Director Shafi hopes to rework his winning formula in Pulival Kalyaanam after the success of Kalyanaraman. The film is a slapstick comedy with Jayasurya and Kavya Madhavan in the lead. The film shot in and around Kochi has a big star cast of Jagathy Sreekumar, Cochin Haneefa, Lal, Salim Kumar and Harishree Ashokan. Songs are by Kaithapram-Benny
Harishree
Friday, December 26, 2003
Soundarya, Mohanlal's heroine in Harishree: Soundarya will be the heroine of Mohanlal once again in Harishree produced by P K R Pillai under the banner of Shirdhisayi Creations. The film will be scripted and directed by Dr Janardhanan who is very active in the television channel. Songs penned by Girish Puthencherry has music composed by M Jayachandran. The film will be an Onam release. (sundaykaumudi.com)
Kalabhavan Mani's Tamil songs released
Friday, December 26, 2003
Kalabhavan Mani's Tamil songs released: When audio releases are publicised in a big way the audio cassettes of actor Kalabhavan Mani's Tamil songs were released without any fanfare. The actor who is famous for his rendering of Malayalam folk songs has this time taken to singing Ayyappa devotional songs in Tamil. Kalabhavan Basheer produces the cassette and Sidhharth - Vijay composes the music. The producers say that the cassettes are doing well.
Fazil's Mohanlal film
Friday, December 26, 2003
Fazil's Mohanlal film to start in Jan: Fazil's new film starring Mohanlal will start on January 23. Fazil pens the story and the script. Apart from Mohanlal, Innocent, Cochin Haneefa and many others cast in this yet to be named film. Sonia Agarwal who acted in Kathal Kondein will be the heroine of this film. This lal film will be a Vishu release.
Pope Calls for Peace in Christmas Message
Thursday, December 25, 2003
VATICAN CITY - A frail Pope John Paul (news - web sites) II in his Christmas message asked Christ to save the world from war and terrorism — "the great evils" afflicting mankind at the start of the third millennium. John Paul delivered his traditional Christmas Day blessing, known as his "Urbi et Orbi" message — Latin for "to the city and to the world" — just hours after celebrating a lengthy Midnight Mass inside the poinsettia-decked St. Peter's Basilica. While he cut back on his holiday schedule this year, the pope delivered both his homily and his Thursday message in a clear and strong voice. Though tired, he appeared far stronger than during the series of celebrations marking his 25th anniversary as pope in October, during which he turned over many of his remarks to others to read. The 83-year-old pope suffers from Parkinson's disease (news - web sites), as well as hip and knee ailments that make it practically impossible for him to walk or stand. He also has difficulty speaking, yet he delivered his remarks in their entirety and also offered his traditional Christmas Day greetings in some 62 languages, including Aramaic, Arabic, Hebrew, Hindi, Maori and Swahili. John Paul offered his noontime prayers from the stairs overlooking St. Peter's Square, blessing thousands of the faithful and tourists who gathered under a brilliant and around a life-sized nativity scene and 100-foot Christmas tree. Waving flags and handkerchiefs, they cheered and screamed when he was wheeled out in his chair, dressed in golden vestments and a jeweled golden miter, and interrupted him several times during his greetings with cheers and song. Some had tears in their eyes. In his comments, John Paul recalled that Christmas Day marks the biblical birth in Bethlehem of Jesus Christ, to whom he directed his appeal to save the world from "the great evils" afflicting mankind at the start of the third millennium. "Save us from the wars and armed conflicts which lay waste whole areas of the world, from the scourge of terrorism and from the many forms of violence which assail the weak and the vulnerable," he said. "Save us from discouragement as we face the paths to peace, difficult paths indeed, yet possible and therefore necessary." He said it was particularly urgent to follow such paths to peace in the Middle East. John Paul has spoken out frequently during the past three years of Israeli-Palestinian fighting, calling for leaders on both sides to have the courage to find peace. He has also frequently denounced terrorism and lamented the war in Iraq (news - web sites). During his Midnight Mass homily, the pope said: "Too much blood is still being shed on earth. Too much violence and too many conflicts trouble the peaceful coexistence of nations." "You come to bring us peace," John Paul said of the baby Jesus. "You are our peace." The Vatican (news - web sites)'s newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano, headlined its holiday edition: "Christmas 2003, a cry for peace." Security around the Vatican was particularly tight this year, amid reports that churches could become terrorist targets. Clusters of police lined the main boulevard leading to St. Peter's on Thursday morning, and the faithful attending Midnight Mass had to pass through metal detectors. The boulevard itself has been closed to traffic overnight during the holidays as part of Italy's stepped-up security measures. Following Thursday's events, John Paul is scheduled to lead New Year's Eve prayers Dec. 31 in St. Peter's and preside at Mass in the basilica New Year's Day. The Vatican, however, has dropped two traditional papal events at the start of the new year — the ordination of bishops Jan. 6 and baptisms on Jan. 11 — to ease up on John Paul's schedule.
Entries invited for Aravindan Puraskaram
Thursday, December 25, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chalachitra Film Society has invited entries from Indian debut filmmakers for the 13th Aravindan Puraskaram. Chalachitra said in a statement here on Tuesday that films made in Indian languages/English and also censored between January and December 2003 were eligible for the competition. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 10,000, memento and a citation. Entry forms and more details can be obtained from the Secretary, Chalachithra Film Society, `Girija,' KNRA-14, Kailas Nagar, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram-12 or over telephone number 0471-2358575 or fax 0471- 2311890. The duly filled entry form with the film should reach by January 31, 2004.
Xmas spending spree caught in EMI trap
Thursday, December 25, 2003
KOCHI: With the sensex defying the Newtonian principle, the rubber and coconut growers sporting wide grins and ad spending up by 12 to 15 per cent, one might surmise that all is well with the market and that the incorrigible consumer of the State is on a spending- spree this festive season. Not so, if you go by the facts on the ground. Be it textiles, white goods or other consumer durables, the most famous spender in the country is not buying this season, with the market experiencing a 20 to 30 per cent slump in sales. And the drop has been attributed to factors as varied as the ubiquitous EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) and falling interest rates, diminishing purchasing power, the consumer turning wise and investor-friendly, a non-performing Government and even the disappearing middle class. ‘‘Despite the general bonhomie, there has been a 20 to 30 per cent dip in sales across all sectors, be it textiles or consumer durables this season compared to last year or even Onam. Except for the Kottayam and the surrounding rubber region, it is the same across the State. This shows that we have not come out of recession,’’ says E S Jose, president, Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Industry. With interest rates for housing and vehicles hitting an all-time low, the middle class, the traditional consumer, specially during festivities, has been caught in the EMI trap lowering their purchasing power considerably. ‘‘We are now moving into a credit economy and for the salaried class the monthly burden has increased with the easy availability of interest-free loans which calls for long-term commitment. Despite offering a whopping 50 per cent discount, sales are yet to pick up,’’ says K N Marzook, chairman and managing director, Colombo Group of Concerns. Attributing the phenomenon to industrial stagnation and a non-performing Government, he says that the middle class was on the verge of disappearing. ‘‘There is now only the high and the low income group. The NRIs who earlier fuelled business during festival season have dwindled and the so- called boom has been blown up,’’ he says. While the soaring gold predictably has seen a 40 per cent fall, even textiles which do well have been hit. Says R Ramamurthy, treasurer, All- Kerala Textiles and Garment Dealers Association, ‘‘From Ramzan we have been experiencing a lean period. Money market has tightened and flow from the Gulf has also slowed. Also, the floating population has decreased and suburbs have developed.’’ If that was the case in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram fared no better. ‘‘The market is yet to come alive,’’ says M V Nazeer, manager, Shoba Textiles. After October, the textile market has generally been dull. We only had average sales, he added. The traditional Xmas cards have also had a bad time. ‘‘The sale of cards has decreased considerably when compared to previous years. I think the option of sending your wishes via e-mail and SMS has made the cards lose their charm,’’ says Shaji, manager of Sophiya’s World, one of the Archies outlets at Kozhikode. But sweetening this Xmas are the cakes. ‘‘The sales have been very good and people are ready to wait for their orders to be delivered. Our strategy of serving freshly baked cakes has worked,’’ says K R Balan of K R Bakes.
Thanka Anki procession begins
Thursday, December 25, 2003
The procession carrying 'Thanka Anki,' the golden attire meant to adorn the Ayyappa idol on the 'Mandala Pooja' day, set off from Aranmula Parthasarathi Temple to Sabarimala at 0630 hrs today. The Thanka Anki weighing 420 sovereigns was dedicated to Lord Ayyappa by Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma Maharaja of the erstwhile Travancore State in 1973. The Anki was taken out from the Devaswam Strong Room at 0500 hrs and kept at Aranmula temple premises till 0630 hrs for the devotes to have darshan before it was taken to a decorated motorised chariot. Amidst chanting of Sarana Mantras, the Thanka Anki procession commenced its journey towards the holy hillock at 0630 hrs. The procession was provided with protection by Tranvancore Devaswam Board officials and a special team of Kerala Armed Police. The Thanka Anki was accorded rousing reception at Karamveli, Elanthoor, Elavumthitta, Prakkanam, Omalloor, Pathanamthitta and Kumbazha on the way before it reached Konni Muringamangalam Mahadevar Temple for overnight halt today. the procession would reach Pampa by noon on december 26. . The Thanka Anki will be kept at pampa Ganapathi temple till 1500 hrs and thereafter, it will be carried on head by Ayyappa Seva Sangham Volunteers to Sannidhanam. At Saramkuthy, the Anki procession will be recived by Devaswam authorities. Then the Sabarimala Melsanthi will take over the Anki and after adorning the Ayyappa idol with it, will perform 'Deeparadhana.' The auspicious Mandala Pooja will be performed on December 27 at 1230 hrs. The hill-shrine will be closed the same day at 2200 hrs marking the conclusion of 41-day-long 'Mandala pilgrimage season.' The temple will be reopened on January one at 1700 for Makaravilakku Festival.
Church-led tour agency in God's Own Country
Thursday, December 25, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A Catholic congregation has set up a tourism agency in Kerala to take visitors around pilgrim centres in the state, famed for its long tradition of religious co-existence playing host to Jewish, Christian and Islamic faiths. 'Godsland Tourism,' set up by Carmalites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) at Aluva near Kochi and headed by Fr Mathias Mundadan, had already taken a few batches of domestic tourists to places like Malayattur, associated with St Thomas. "The agency is in a take-off stage. We aim to help groups interested in seeing religious places in the state," Fr Mundadan said. Known far and wide for its sylvan beaches, backwaters, and rain forests, Kerala has a string of ancient and medieval churches and the country's oldest Jewish synagogue at Mattanchery in Kochi. The Government had identified pilgrim tourism as an area to be promoted with earmarking circuits linking places of religious association with the Hindu, Christian and Islamic faiths. "So far we had a few batches of Indian tourists. We have plans to expand the network by establishing links with European and American tour agencies," he said.
We are being hounded, complain two Kerala lesbians
Thursday, December 25, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two self-confessed lesbians have complained they are being hounded by society because they want to live together. Unnimaya, 23, and Sheela, 21, said their woes began after a vernacular magazine wrote about them. "We had no problem till a magazine came out with a story about us. Since then, we have been moving from place to place, and everywhere people turn us away," said Unnimaya at a press conference at which Sheela was also present. The two women belong to a rural area near this Kerala capital. Unable to find work, they travelled to the hilly district of Wayanad and survived doing odd jobs. Then the magazine wrote about them. Unable to find work after the article appeared they even attempted suicide but were saved in the nick of time. "We do not understand what is wrong with people. Don't others also live and stay with friends? Then why are we being hounded?" asked Sheela after the press conference turned rather nasty with questions that were not strictly journalistic being asked. Intervening, human rights activist S. Jayasree lashed out at the media for asking irrelevant questions. "Indian law allows two majors to live together," Jayasree asserted, urging the media not to delve into the personal details of the two women. The duo was picked up on Sunday after Sheela's father created a row on the main road when he was prevented by rights activists from taking her away. "I did not go with my father because I don't like to go with him. Don't I have the right to live a life of my own?" asked Sheela. "We have been treated badly even by the police. They used foul language against us," she complained. City Police Commissioner Rajan Singh said the two women were released since they had not committed any offence. Unnimaya and Sheela said they were determined to live together and would take their case to the Supreme Court if necessary.
Infosys to start Kerala centre operations in Jan
Thursday, December 25, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala Dec 24 Infosys Technologies, India's largest listed software exporter, is set to start operations in its software facility located at the sprawling Technopark campus here from January. The company, which decided to open a centre in Kerala early this year, organised a small function on December 15 here, which was attended by its director Shibhu Lal and vice president A. Krishnamurthy. The formal opening of the Infosys facility will take place in the first week of January, said K. Jayakumar, general manager of Technopark, a state-of-the-art hub of technology companies. "Initially, 50 engineers would be posted at the centre. The number would touch 500 in a matter of six months," Jayakumar told . Bangalore-based Infosys has reportedly short-listed a batch of software engineers for their office here. Krishnamurthy will head the local centre. Meanwhile, Infosys is also building its own premises a short distance away from the Technopark campus.
Kerala top in National Junior Athletic Meet
Thursday, December 25, 2003
Kollam,Kerala: Host Kerala retained the overall championship bagging 487 points at the 19th National Junior Athletic Meet which concluded at the All Bahadur Stadium here on Thursday. A total of 22 new meet records were created at the four-day meet. Tamil Nadu came second position with 291 points followed by Uttar Pradesh with 234 points.
Swaralaya Yesudas award for K.S.Chitra
Thursday, December 25, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala: K.S.Chitra has been selected for the Swaralaya Yesudas Award, 2003 and the Life time contribution award will be given to P.Leela. Announcing this at a function here on Tuesday, the office-bearers of Swaralaya said that the award would be given away at a function to be held here on January 4. The Yesudas award carries a prize money of Rs 1 lakh and a statuette designed by Kanai Kunhiraman.The jury, chaired by P.Bhaskaran, had B.Ekbal, Perumbavoor.G.Raveendranath, Bhagyalakshmi, Neena Prasad, and G.Rajmohan as members.
Govt shelves Road Safety Ordinance
Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Government on Tuesday shelved the Road Safety Authority Ordinance approved by the Cabinet last week, apparently after it was found that some of the provisions in it clashed with Central laws and inter-departmental differences over the measure. The Government planned to bring in a comprehensive legislation in place of the Ordinance which was meant to check increasing road mishaps in the State, Chief Minister A K Antony said during his cabinet briefing. There was a consensus in the cabinet on bringing in such a legislation. The common view was that it should be brought in as fool-proof bill in the coming session of the Assembly after examining all aspects, he said.
First Haj flight on Dec 24 from Karipur
Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Kozhikode, Dec 22 - The first flight carrying Haj pilgrims from India will take off from Karipur airport here on December 24, with all preparations complete and the Haj camp slated to be operational from tomorrow. As many as 7,658 pilgrims from Kerala and 124 from Lakshadweep would embark on the religious trip from Karipur, selected as the best embarkation point in the country last year, under the aegis of the government, while another 7,000 would go through private tour operators. The camp would be inaugurated by IUML leader Panakkad Sayeed Muhammadali Shihab Thangal at a fuction, to be presided over by Industries Minister P K Kunhalikutty tomorrow, Haj Committee CEO and District Collector T O Sooraj briefed newsmen here today. Pilgrims would report a day ahead of their trip at the camp, where 800 devotees could offer prayers at a time. Over 300 volunteers would be positioned at the camp, Committee chairman K Alikutty Musliar said. The first Air India flight, carrying 410 pilgrims, would leave at 1100 hrs on December 24, to be followed by daily trips till January 11. Under the State Haj Committee, 4,091 men and 3,567 women had been selected, besides the 124 from Lakshadweep. Special committees had been formed to take care of the pilgrims at the Holy places and other destinations and the pilgrims from the state would be accommodated at Shamia in the Holy centre, Prof Musliar said. Out of the Haj quota of 1.22 lakh for the country, about 32,000 were usually given to the private operators while keeping the rest with the government.
Tourist flow to Kerala up: Thomas
Monday, December 22, 2003
KOCHI : Kerala Tourism and Fisheries Minister K V Thomas on Sunday said there was a marked increase in the flow of international and domestic tourists to the state during the last year. The number of international tourists who visited the state in 2002 was 2.33 lakh compared to 2.08 lakh in 2001, while the domestic tourists, without including those coming on a pilgrimage, was 56 lakh in 2002 compared to 53 lakh during 2001, he said at a press conference. In the current year also the flow of international tourists so far was good, he said, adding about 30 per cent international tourists were expected during this year. The government had decided to allot Rs one lakh each to four 'temple festivals', including Chinakkathur Bhagavathy Temple festival, Uthralikavu pooram, Aarattu pooram and Sakthikulangara Mahotsavam, the minister said. He said that Chief Minister A K Antony would inaugurate the Kerala tourism-initiated project of making Kumbalangi, a small village 16 kms away from the city, as a 'model tourism village' on Dec 23.
Karunakaran group keeps up pressure
Monday, December 22, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Signalling that the Karunakaran faction in the Congress in Kerala was not going to be cowed down by the anti-defection law, a prominent group leader on Sunday said that MLAs loyal to the senior leader would position against Antony in the Assembly if a leadership change was not effected before the House assembled next month. "If Antony is not removed, our MLAs will have to position against him in the House. It will be difficult for them to support him," Karunakaran faction spokesman and KPCC general secretary, Rajmohan Unnithan, told reporters here. Denying that the faction's 'remove-Antony' campaign had run aground with some of the MLAs deserting the camp, he said the faction's support base was intact, despite some persons switching loyalties. "The desertion of a couple of MLAs has no impact at the grassroot level. The rank and file of the party are still with us," he said, adding the leadership meetings would be held in all the 14 districts next month to equip the group to face future challenges.
'Hidden agenda behind slashing X'mas holidays'
Monday, December 22, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Congress (M) leader and revenue minister K M Mani on Saturday took strong exception to the Centre's decision to defer Christmas holidays to January for the Kendriya Vidyalayas and alleged that the move formed part of "the BJP's hidden agenda". "The Centre's decision to defer Christmas holidays to January is a big blow to the secular traditions of the country. This forms part of the BJP's hidden agenda to belittle the importance of Christmas. Such communal and fascist stances are not going to click in India ," Mani said in a statement here. Christmas was not celebrated by Christians alone. The entire world would join in the festivities, setting aside religious barriers, he said. The slashing of Christmas holidays would greatly disappoint Keralites residing in various parts of the country. The tradition of communal harmony fostered by Malayalis was hurt by the decision, he said. Mani demanded that the Board of Central Schools and the Union Government reconsider the decision.
Stringent rules turn kidney patients to TN
Monday, December 22, 2003
KOCHI : Faced with stringent rules and formalities regarding unrelated renal transplants in Kerala, kidney patients are turning to neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka for 'hassle free' transplants. Only very few unrelated kidney transplants have taken place in Kerala this year whereas over 250 transplants were being done annually in the past. During 1999 and 2000-01 in hospitals in Kozhikode alone 591 kidney transplants was carried out, doctors say. The Authorisation Committee constituted by the state Government under the Organ Transplantation Act, 1955, had given permission for only seven unrelated transplants so far this year, its Member Secretary and Calicut Medical College Professor Dr Sherly Vasu said. Complaints of patients developing complications after surgery done outside the state have also been reported in some cases. A patient here who underwent kidney transplant in Coimbatore six months ago, is now on dialysis as his body had rejected the organ with in a week of the surgery, his son Binu told According to nephrologists here, compared to Kerala, the transplant rules were more 'relaxed' in Tamil Nadu. Those wanting a 'Malayali', 'Muslim' or a 'Hindu' kidney can get the same in Tamil Nadu, while it was impossible here, they say. In Kerala, the approximate expense for renal transplant is between Rs 1.5 to Rs two lakh, while it was over Rs three lakh in neighbouring states, doctors here say.
Kerala leads Medal Tally with 217 points
Monday, December 22, 2003
Kollam,Kerala: Three new records were created on the second day of the 19the National Athletic Championship here yesterday, while Kerala maintaining the medal tally with 217 points. With two-days remains, Tamil Nadu is in the second spot with 125 points, followed by Karnataka in the third place. In the Girls(Under 16) High Jump, Kavya of Karnataka created a new record by jumping 1.69m. In the Girls(Under 18) 400m. Pinky Pramanik of West Bengal created a new maker by returning a time of 54.92 sec, bettering the old record of 56.25 set by Geetha of Andhra Pradesh. Sukhdev Singh of Punjab created a new record in the Boys Shot Put by putting the shot to a distance of 16.67m. After 50 events, Kerala have 13 golds, 10 silver and 11 bronze, Tamil Nadu have four gold, seven silver and five bronze.
Beach carnival from Sunday
Sunday, December 21, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A 10-day beach carnival-cum-shopping festival will be held at Sanghumugham beach here from on Sunday. The festival will be being jointly organised by the ‘Eventway’ and the Thiruvananthapuram District Tourism Promotion Council. A flower show with rare collections of orchids and other flowers will be organised. It will open to public from 11 a.m to 9 p.m every day. More than 150 stalls selling building material, security systems, electronic goods, handicraft and fancy items will be set up. Games for children will be an added attraction of the carnival. A food festival will also be organised and ‘Kuttanadan’, ‘Continental’ and south Indian delicacies will be offered. ‘Ganamela’ by various artistes, dance performances and rock shows will be organised in the evenings.
Kerala's youths are unemployable
Sunday, December 21, 2003
KOCHI: Officials of Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Corporation who came to Kerala recently to recruit lower to middle-level staff for its India plants failed to hire even one candidate matching their needs. Bangalore-based call centre/BPO firm 24/7 Customer Service.com held a walk-in interview in Kochi for hiring staff for its Indian operations and ended up recruiting none. Kerala which perhaps has the largest number of educated unemployed is now getting the dubious distinction of having the largest pool of unemployable youngsters if the recent experience of some of the big recruiters is anything to go by. Many multinationals and big corporates are finding it difficult to recruit the right kind of people from Kerala, especially for low and middle-level category, say experts. According to them, the Kerala employment-seekers lack communication skills and their practical knowledge in various jobs is almost nil making it a difficult proposition for prospective recruiters to hire freshers. A fact which was stressed by V Ramachandran, Vice-Chairman, State Planning Board, during a lecture in Kochi. ``Our youths are not unemployed but unemployable'', he said. He blames the State's education system for the mess. ``The education system in Kerala is frozen,'' Ramachandran said. While institutions in Kerala offer no new courses, states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have come up with a wide range of new courses, aimed at specialised jobs. T K Jose, executive director, `Kudumbashree' (Kerala State Poverty Eradication Mission), adds: ``Malayalis are found good only in general job category and in highly sophisticated technology side. But, in specific skills in the lower and middle-level, our youngsters fare very poorly.'' Recently, two multinational insurance firms MaX New York and AMP Sanmar on a recruitment drive in Thiruvananthapuram held written tests for candidates wanting to pursue a career in insurance sector. Though the candidates, including post-graduates and graduates in various streams, took the test where the questions included simple arithmetics and English grammar, not one could get the required marks, points out Jose. Similarly, for its BPO operations, the 24/7 Customer Service.com held a test in spoken English for candidates from a premier Kochi-based women's college and went disillusioned. ``The level of spoken English was just average, and imagine the standard in other institutions in the State,'' said G C Gopala Pillai, managing director, KINFRA. There are many instances when Kerala candidates lose out during a telephonic interview, said Kudumbashree's Jose. He said the solution lies in the educational institutions providing all- round development of the students. Through Kudumbashree itself, lakhs of youngsters and women in families below the poverty line have acquired skills in a range of jobs, he added. To bridge the current problem of recruiters not getting the right candidates, the Kudumbashree is also setting up a virtual employment exchange on the Internet. ``Our objective is to provide a link for genuine employment- seekers with the employment providers,'' he said.
Anju Bobby George finds sponsor
Sunday, December 21, 2003
Anju Bobby George seems to have reached the right track - the long jump star has bagged a sponsorship for this crucial Olympic year. The relief was obvious on her face, as well as that of husband and Coach Robert Bobby George, at a press conference where Sobha Developers announced a yearlong sponsorship. Announcing the decision to reporters in Bangalore on Wednesday, Sobha Group chairman P.N.C. Menon said: "It was a spur-of-the-moment decision. We offer to fund Rs 30 lakh for one year. Our only hope is that she wins a medal at the Olympics." It is a move perhaps unprecedented on the Indian athletic scene. With monetary struggles behind them, Robert George said, "Now that we are financially secure, we can concentrate solely on training. We are very thankful to Sobha, especially as they stepped in at the right time. Even a month's delay would have been a setback." Anju had been looking for a sponsor following her bronze medal victory at the Paris World Athletics Championships. Her efforts to secure financial stability gained momentum when the central government failed to keep its promises of cash awards for medals won at the Manchester Commonwealth Games and Busan Asian Games last year. In an interview with The Times of India last week, Anju had said that a sponsor would eliminate the need to rely on government help. That goal has now been realised. It is learnt that the promised cash award is likely to be released in April next year. Following a debate in Parliament last week, the finance ministry took up the payment issue. "The government's reason for the delay is lack of funds," said Robert. "Uma Bharti (then sports minister) had made the announcement in the middle of the financial year, so it could not be implemented. The government should have sanctioned the money at the start of the current financial year - April 2003, but nothing was done. Hopefully they will take up the issue next year," he added. The 'file' is now with the finance ministry. Should things go according to plan, Anju, the only Indian athlete to qualify for the meet, will participate in the World Indoor Championships in Budapest in March - her first event for the year. She will then travel to Osaka and Qatar before leaving for Europe. "Prior to the World Championships in Paris, we spent around nine weeks in Europe . That helped tremendously. Now, we can set up a training base in Europe , perhaps in Berlin , Valencia or Paris . It would go a long way in preparing for the Olympics," said Robert.
K.R.Gowri inaugurates Naari pooja
Sunday, December 21, 2003
Alappuzha,Kerala: Agriculture Minister K R Gowri inaugurated the naari pooja (offering prayers to women) that was performed in connection with the panthrandu noyambu at the famous Chakkulathukavu Devi temple at Neerattupuram on Friday. Temple head priest Radhakrishanan Namboodiri performed the rite by offering poojas at the feet of Gowri after washing them. The same rite was later performed on hundreds of women devotees. Gowri, an atheist and a Marxist-turned-Congress ally, had recently surprised political circles by stating that she was a devotee of lord Krishna during her childhood. Her presence at Amrithavarsham, the 50th birthday celebrations of Matha Amrithanandamayi, too had aroused public curiosity. In recent years, Gowri appears on her birthday with sandal paste on her forehead.
Breakthrough in murder case of DYFI activist; Five held
Sunday, December 21, 2003
Aluva,Kerala: In a major breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of DYFI activist, Sabeesh, 22, of Kakkanatt House, Neerikkode here, police led by Aluva CI P Kunjiraman have nabbed five accused from railway station premises here this morning. According to CI Kunjiraman, Sabeesh was attacked by a gang of anti-socials with iron rods at Neerikkode on December 5 in the evening. Sabeesh was rushed to Karothukuzhi Hospital and later shifted to Kottayam Medical College Hospital. Sabeesh succumbed to his injuries on December 9. Previous enmity was said to be the cause of the attack, police said. A hartal was observed in Alangad following the death of Sabeesh. DYFI activists were on a warpath urging to book the culprits. Acting on a tip off, CI Kunjiraman, SI K G Babukumar and ASI K A Joy nabbed five accused from the railway station premises at 5.30 a.m. on Friday. They were identified as Suresh, 22, Pynadathukattil, Madhu, 20, Thuppattuparambil, Sinib, 20, Putherpurackal, Linish, 22, Varattupady, and Jobby, 24, Maliakkal. Police charged cases against them for rioting and murder under IPC 143, 147, 148 and 302. The accused were remanded to judicial custody.
Asianet to create information highway in Kerala
Sunday, December 21, 2003
KOZHIKODE: Asianet Satellite Communications Ltd, the largest cable network services company in Kerala, is planning to create an information highway in the State. The company, which is a licensed internet service provider among its different broadband network services, will now lay optical fibre backbone to provide high-bandwith connectivity to all parts of the State and interlink its various local networks, according company senior vice-president S Rajeev here on Saturday. Being one of the largest private sector player with over Rs 350 crore investment for its infrastructure, it has already laid 40,000 km of hybrid fibre coaxial cable network, set up 45 earth stations and sophisticated facilities for network monitoring, data transmission and web services. As the leading cable network operator, the company enables over half a million homes to watch 60 TV channels besides promoting its own eight exclusive cable channels. Rajeev, speaking on the occasion of its `fortune hunt lucky draw' for the subscribers, said the Asianet also was in the process of upgrading and modernising the infrastructure to offer upto 500 channels in the near future, besides opening up new vistas in the form of the web and interactive digital multimedia services.
46 bombs seized
Sunday, December 21, 2003
Kannur, Dec. 21. As many as 46 country-made bombs were unearthed by police during a raid at Cheruvanchery here under the Kannavam police station limits on Saturday. The police said that the bombs were found in a gunny bag inside the toilet of the Primary Health Centre at Cheruvanchery, about 35 km from here. The crude explosive devices were found by the police party led by the Kannavam SI, K.M. Manomohanan, during the raid conducted in the politically sensitive area. The Cheruvanchery area had witnessed political clashes in the past. A six-year-old girl had lost a leg in a bomb attack during a local body election there a few years ago.
Soopy withdraws order on printing of textbooks
Saturday, December 20, 2003
Following the row, sparked off by a newspaper report, State Education Minister Nalakath Soopy on Friday withdrew the Government order allotting the printing of school textbook to 31 private presses in violation of norms and procedures. In an official statement here, Soopy said that private presses would be given printing contract only after a detailed inquiry. He said that the decision was taken in the wake of the allegations that the defaulters and applicants owning no presses of their own were among those who had been awarded the contract for printing school textbooks. The New Indian Express newspaper on Thursday had reported the murky deal in the textbook printing. The decision to engage private presses for the textbook printing job was taken as it was found that the government presses and those coming under the public sector always failed to complete the job within the stipulated time, the release said. Soopy denied the allegation that his office had intervened in the selection of private presses.
Kerala to enact 'Goonda Act':Antony
Saturday, December 20, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Government is to bring forth a 'Prevention of Anti-Social Activities' bill, similar to the 'Goonda Act' prevalent in some states, to check increasing crimes in society, said Chief Minister A K Antony. In a statement, the chief minister said the government was seriously considering a legislation to prevent goondaism and anti-social attacks on individuals and institutions and atrocities against women. The state home and law departments had been instructed to draw up the draft of the bill with a view to plugging the loopholes in the existing legislations, he said. The chief minister added that the demand for stricter laws to deal with anti-social activities had been made by several quarters in recent days.
Nayanar returns to Kerala after treatment
Saturday, December 20, 2003
Former Kerala Chief Minister and CPI(M) Politburo member E K Nayanar reached Thiruvananthapuram on Friday after treatment at the Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre in New Delhi. Nayanar was admitted to the hospital 25 days ago for expert treatment after he suffered a heart attack at Thiruvananthapuram. Two blocks in the heart valve were removed through Angioplasty 15 days ago. Speaking to reporters at his flat near AKG centre, Nayanar said that though he felt okay, doctors have advised him to take complete rest for the next two weeks.
Abouna bags top honours at IFFK
Saturday, December 20, 2003
The curtains came down on the eighth International Film Festival of Kerala-2003 here today with the French film, Abouna, directed by Mahamat Saleh Haroun, bagging the prestigious `Suvarna Chakoram' for the best feature film. The director of the Brazilian film, The men who copied, Jorge Furtado, won the `Rajata Chakoram' award for the best director. The Chief Minister, A.K. Antony, gave away the awards at a colourful ceremony held in the Nisagandhi auditorium this evening. The Senegalese film, The prize of forgiveness, directed by Mansour Sora Wade, bagged the `Rajata Chakoram' comprising a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakhs, a certificate and statuette for the best debut film director. The directors of the films, Abouna and The men who copied were not present to receive the awards. The Fipresci (International Federation of Film Critics) Special Mention Award was presented to Rajiv Vijayaraghavan, director of the Malayalam film, Maargam. The audience award consisting of a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, citation and statuette went to the Afghan film, Osama, directed by Siddiq Barmak.
Leadership change not in our agenda- Mani
Saturday, December 20, 2003
State Revenue Minister and Kerala Congress[M] leader K M Mani today made it clear that leadership change in UDF is not in the agenda of other UDF partners. Mani was speaking to reporters after the meeting with the Congress President Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi. Mani said that he discussed various aspects of the crisis with Sonia Gandhi at length. He hoped that the high command would resolve the problem before the coming budget session of the State Assembly being scheduled in mid-January. "I strongly urged Sonia to take urgent measures to solve the crisis at earliest or the party will face a bitter defeat in the coming polls.", Mani said. Mani denied the reports that there was any secret discussions with Industries Minister and IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty. Mani will meet the three member committee constituted by Sonia Gandhi to tackle the Kerala crisis, during the next two days. Meanwhile, P K Kunhalikutty, who arrived here in response to the summons by Sonia Gandi, also called on at latters residence. KPCC President K Muralidharan will reach Delhi tomorrow for further discussions.
Kerala to showcase core industries to woo global majors
Saturday, December 20, 2003
New Delhi, Dec 20 : Global majors Walmart and Ikea are some of the leading buying houses and retailers that Kerala is targeting through the first international buyer-seller meet in the state in February. The aim of the Kerala Business-to-Business Meet 2004 "is to enhance alliances (with foreign firms) by showcasing the wide range of our traditional and core sectors," Kerala Minister for Industries and IT K.P. Kunhalikutty told a press conference here Saturday. The B2B meet is being held from February 19 to 21 at Kochi. The meet will also see the launch of the Kerala brand of products "with a focus on ethically produced products (that conform to global norms for labour)", said P.H. Kurien, industries secretary and managing director of the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation. Around 15 foreign trade missions apart from 150 buying houses, major retailers, international missions, defence and railway representatives and potential investors will attend the meet. Expatriate Indian businessmen are also expected. So far trade missions from the Netherlands, Britain, the US, South Korea, Malaysia and Germany have confirmed their participation. About 400 small and medium scale entrepreneurs from the state will take part in an exhibition to be held alongside the meet. The 10 core sectors to be projected are ayurveda, handloom, handicrafts, spices, rubber and plastic products, wood and wood substitutes, food processing, chemical, electric and electronics. For some products like pepper, rubber, coir, ayurveda and bell metal, Kerala is the dominant producer and exporter, the minister said. Rejecting the popular perception that Kerala does not have much of an industrial or manufacturing base, Kunhalikutty said the industrial sector holds a 20 percent share in the state's gross domestic product. The B2B meet is being held a year after the global investors meet in the state, and Kunhalikutty stressed that the two events differed in focus. While the investors' meet had focused on long-term projects, the upcoming meet will help draw attention to traditional small and medium enterprises. "The industries and manufacturing sector has been quite vibrant, contributing significantly to the state's average annual growth of around eight percent," Kunhalikutty said. Kurien said the meet was "expected to provide the ideal platform to make a lasting relationship between the core sectors and national and international participants. As a result of the meet, some investments may also come in." Kunhalikutty added: "By providing a direct access between manufacturers and buyers, we hope to reduce the response time to changing market demands/trends that the buyer could leverage. At the same time, the platform will enable the manufacturers to procure cheaper intermediaries and raw material and also technical know how." Said G.C. Gopala Pillai, managing director of the Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation: "The platform could also provide food processors in the state technical know-how for processing and exporting our ethnic preparations." Indo-Asian News Service
'Discerning' Kerala audience win rave reviews
Saturday, December 20, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram: The 'discerning' Malayali audience won rave reviews from festival programmers from different parts of the world, who described the audiences packing the six venues of the 8th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) as very ''evolved and involved.'' "I find it different in Kerala. Malayalis have an evolved taste for good cinema," said Rada Sessic, documentary maker and festival programmer, while participating in the last Open Forum of the IFFK yesterday. Speaking on the topic of "Fetival Programming", Ms Sesic said she personally chose films that were interesting, different, inspiring and good. Praising the manner in which the IFFK, which concluded here last evening, had been organised, Ms Sessic said this year's festival was very good both for the way it had been conducted and the quality of the audience. "The audience is not lazy and they make it known if they don't like something, which is a welcome trend. The same goes for the serious discussions that have taken place as part of this festival," she said. IIanna Fisher, festival programmer from Canada, said the Indian Panorama had helped both the indian and foreign audience to see the Indian films. She added that she was very fond of Malayalam films, which were of a special kind that she had not seen anywhere else. "Malayalam films have a rhythm. It is really beautiful and unique. I congratulate the moviemakers here," she said. Gautam hooja, festival programmer, stressed that marketing was important for the success of films. "Distributors act as an important link between the filmmakers and the audience," he said. (manoramaonline.com)
Parayam
Friday, December 19, 2003
PARAYAM is all about young love laced with humour. Raju works for Dream World as a personal manager. He stays with his family, which consists of his father, mother, sister and his brother. Raju's father suffered in a tragic love story. Now he does not want his son to suffer the same fate. Sudha works in a customer care center. Raju falls in love with Sudha. Rajus father notices sudden change in his son. On enquiry he finds out that his son is in love. Now it's all encouragement from his father to propose the girl whom he loves and he also advices that he should marry that girl. Raju decides that he will let Sudha know his feelings and for this purpose he goes to the hostel where she resides. But then something unusual happens. PARAYAM is a love story laced with humour. The screenplay is penned by Suresh Poduval and Jafar has written the dialogues. Jishnu acts as Raju and Bhavana acts as Sudha. Innocent plays the role of Jishnu's father. Rest in the cast includes Cochin Haneefa, Salim Kumar, Nedumudi Venu, Vijeesh, KPAC Lalitha and Suja Karthika. David Kachappilli produces the film. (Source: http://movies.indiainfo.com/malayalam/)
Jalothsavam
Friday, December 19, 2003
Kunchako, Navya in JALOTHSAVAM Geetha is a hard working girl. She saves every rupee that she earns for wedding. She does all type of work which includes rowing boats on the lake, to making coir items. Though she leads a busy life, at the end of the day one can see sorrow in her eyes. One look at her and one can say that there is something, which is hurting this girl terribly. Geetha lost her parents when she was very small. The government has released financial aid for her, which would reach her only when she majors. She was brought up by Pappyamma. Geetha is in love with Aalackal Chandran, who is a medical representative. He is also a newsreader in Kuttanad Cable Vision. Once upon a time the Aalackal family was known for its generosity. But things change and today this family is not is such a good state. Chandra strives hard to bring things as they were several years ago. Geetha and Chandran love each other dearly, but their commitments come in the way of them confessing their love. JALOTHSAVAM stars Kunchako Boban as Chandran and Navya Nair as Geetha. This film is being shot in Pulikunnu, Kainakari, Chambakulam, Nedumudi in Kuttanad. Alphonse Joseph scores music for this film. Prasad and Vayalar Sharat Chandra Varma pen the songs. This film is being produced by Shyam Jajan also has Nedumudi Venu, Sujatha, Riyaz Khan, Jagathy, Jagadhish, Machaan Varghese and many others in the cast. (Source: http://movies.indiainfo.com/malayalam/)
Vadakkum Nathan
Friday, December 19, 2003
Mohanlal has been signed to act in Shajun Karyalal's film named Vadakkum Nathan. He plays the role of a Sanskrit Professor Bharath Pisharadi. Lyrics by Girish Puthencherry and music by Raveendran songs were composed in Manani Baba's residence in Thrikaripur near Nileshwaram since the producer is a devotee of the Baba. Under the banner of Baba Creations, A V Govindan Kutty and M Rajan, a business magnet in Doha, produce the film. Santhosh Sivan wields the camera and editing is by Ranjan Abraham. Shokla Films will release the film in the theatres (Source: Galatta.com)
Jagathy V/S Jagathy
Friday, December 19, 2003
Jagathy Sreekumar has few equals when it comes to comedy. This ace comedian, who has acted in more than 1000 movies, has made us laugh so much that the mere mention of his name is sure to bring laughter. Surya TV has selected the best of Jagathy’s comedy scenes and has included them in a programme- Jagathy V/S Jagathy. So for a daily dose of Jagathy’s comic antics, just tune into the programme, aired from Monday to Fiday at 6.00 pm. Ranjith Chengamanadu of “Oorakkudukku” fame is the anchor of “Jagathy V/S Jagathy”, directed by Anil Pathirapally.
Priyadarshan’s team grows
Friday, December 19, 2003
Sibi-Udhayan have been brought in to write the screenplay of the film. The story is by Priyadarshan. This is the first time that Priyadarshan is looking beyond his usual set of writers- Shrinivasan, D Damodharan and Gopalakrishnan. Sibi-Udhayan have an impressive record when it comes to writing for the younger crowd. They were the ones who had written the screenplay for director Joshi’s ‘Runway’, another Dileep starrer. This is going to be one of the films Dileep would start working in the moment he returns from his Gulf Tour. According to initial reports available, the film is going to be about a thief. Inspired by ‘Meesha Madhavan’ eh? The way films are being made about thieves, should we be considering legalizing this profession too? http://malayalam.cinesouth.com/
Jayasurya playing safe with Kavya now
Friday, December 19, 2003
She was a promising actress who was bound to go places and he was compering a show, ‘Jagadi Vs Jagadi’ on TV. Three years ago, one night, he was very excited, because the next day they were going to shoot a telephonic interview with Kavya Madhavan. Jayasurya was going to conduct the interview and it was going to be telecast as Onam special. He didn’t hide the fact that he was very thrilled about the interview. Little did he know that soon he would be acting as her hero in films. “Hey! Those days I wasn’t even thinking about making an appearance in films. Let alone Kavya Madhavan. I was all thrilled and excited about speaking to Kavya. Now I’m acting as her hero. That’s Fate.” The next question naturally was about rumors of their wedding. He burst out laughing. “What!!! She is a good actress. I work with her. I have had enough love affairs when I was in college. Now I’m here to work.” http://malayalam.cinesouth.com/
Vindhya as new Shakeela?
Friday, December 19, 2003
Her claim to fame was her eloping away with her lover. But, marriage didn’t stop this actress from going the glamour way. Fact is- she had become glamorous only after her wedding. She makes an appearance in Malayalam films in director Vinayan’s ‘War and Love’. In the film, she pairs up with Prabhu and plays the role of an Army official. That’s a pretty decent role for an actress who didn’t have many opportunities to explore her talents. But, the actress is known these days in Tamil for her glamorous performances. Her new Tamil film ‘Vayasu Pasanga’ is the story of three adolescent boys and two girls. Vindhiya plays a very HOT role in the film. Initial hype about the film is so high that territorial rights of the film have already been sold. Okay! Shakeela gone! Vindhiya’s here! http://malayalam.cinesouth.com/
The truth behind the Saritha-Mukesh break-up?
Friday, December 19, 2003
Nobody trusts anybody else. You don’t have to look too much to find instances of betrayal and back stabbing. It gets even more horrible when these allegations are against some of the biggest names in the industry. Let’s get to the issue. Saritha, Mukesh’s soon-to-be former wife, was one of the producers of the Tamil film ‘Friends’. Siddhique and Lal were the other producers. Mukesh was to play a role in the film. While producing the film, they ran out of cash and Lal had to sell his wife’s ornaments to get money. Saritha claims she had sold her house to get finances for the film. The camaraderie disappeared the moment the film was released. It became a superhit. Saritha alleges that she was not given a share in the film’s profits. She claims that she is still paying the interests over the money she had borrowed for the film. The problem is- Mukesh had acted in Siddhique-Lal’s recent film ‘Chronic Bachelor’ too. He wouldn’t have done so had there been pending money transactions. But then, soon afterwards, Saritha and Mukesh went to the courts to seek a permanent separation. We wonder how much ‘Friends’ had to do with it. http://malayalam.cinesouth.com/
K Karunakaran's support is waning in Kerala
Friday, December 19, 2003
The political fortunes of veteran Congress leader K Karunakaran continue to be on the decline with supporters of his arch foe Chief Minister AK Antony finalising strategy against him. Antony's return from Delhi on Sunday and his clarification that he is not soft-pedalling the issue has brought fresh cheer for his faction. A senior leader said United Democratic Front (UDF) convenor Oommen Chandy was out of town for a day but the Antony faction would have another round of meetings to discuss the final move as soon as he returned. It's not good news for the aged Congress leader, who was hoping to topple the Antony government with help from the Opposition and his own supporters within the party. But his support is dwindling. At a meeting on Saturday, more legislators from his group said they would not join him in bringing the government down. "I have always been loyal to Karunakaran because I love him. But I am sorry to say I won't be there if there is any move to pull down the Antony government for any government to be formed with the Left Democratic Front's (LDF) help," said first time legislator K Mohan Kumar. In April this year, Karunakaran had the support of 26 legislators. This has come down to 18. "I am really proud of the MLAs in Kerala. Despite offers of Deputy Chief Minister, ministerships and even a cash prize of Rs 10 million, not a single MLA could be purchased," said Assembly Speaker Vakkom Purushothmanan. Reports indicated that even Karunakaran appears resigned to the fact that his dream of becoming the Chief Minister for a record fifth time would remain unfulfilled. He has told his supporters that he would fight Antony single-handedly if called upon to do so.
Film fest: Audience to select best film
Friday, December 19, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala: Delegates of the International Film Festival of Kerala will vote to decide the best film on Friday. The delegates' award, carrying a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, introduced a couple of years back, has become popular and film enthusiasts are expected to eagerly participate in the `polling' between 9 am and 4 pm on Friday. The vote would be to select the best film in the competition section only. With four Malayalam films participating in the competition section, chances are that one of them might win the poll. However, the section, which had 19 films, included excellent films from Latin American countries. Chief Minister A K Antony would distribute the Rs 10-lakh Suvarna Chakoram (Golden Pheasant) award to the winner of the best film on Friday. The jury is chaired by eminent Cuban director Humberto Solas.
Sex is very important for women in Kerala
Friday, December 19, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala Dec 19 A survey among married women in Kerala reveals that sex plays an important role in their day-to-day life with as many as 76 percent saying they need to have sex regularly. Of this, 36 per cent say that sex is 'very, very important'. Just four per cent of them felt that sex was least important while 10 per cent opined that sex was not very important and five per cent preferred not to reveal their mind on this topic. The survey was conducted by Vanitha, a leading women's magazine, at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode among women in the age group of 21 to 45 having a monthly family income of Rs. 4,000 and upwards. Of the women surveyed with a questionnaire, 90 per cent of them were unemployed housewives. The survey was called the Vanitha-AC Nielsen survey. It also had a classification that was split in three age groups: 21-30, 31-40 and 41 to 45. An interesting observation was that the pattern of answers in the three age groups was more or less similar. Among other interesting facts revealed was that 61 percent of the women were extremely happy with their sex life, 12 percent were more or less happy and eight per cent were unhappy. Regarding the frequency of intercourse with their husbands, just 10 percent of them had a daily routine, while 30 percent had sex more than once a week, 14 percent had just one session every week, 10 percent once in two weeks, five percent once a month, three per cent once in two months, two per cent just occasionally while 27 percent preferred not to reveal it. With regard to sexual fantasies, 28 percent agreed to harbour fantasies while 37 percent preferred not to reveal their mind and 35 percent said a firm no to it. A huge 80 percent of those surveyed did not like watching blue films while 14 percent of the younger housewives preferred to watch blue films with their husbands. Only two percent of the married women agreed that they had extramarital relations, while 43 per cent preferred not to speak their mind and 55 percent said they have no such relations. But what was more intriguing was that while just two percent agreed to having extramarital relations, colleagues and relatives accounted for 22 percent each as their partners, while 33 percent of the partners were friends of their husbands. Another 22 percent preferred not to speak about who their extra marital partner was. When it came to finding out about extra marital relations of their husbands, 29 percent said that they would suspect other relations while another 29 percent preferred to sort it out with their husbands by talking about it. Nine per cent said they would immediately go for a divorce, six percent said they would pardon their hubbies and 34 percent preferred not to reveal their mind. The survey also noted that a lifestyle change among Kerala women was understandable in keeping with fast changes in lifestyles around the world.
Asianet to relay Cricket Test
Friday, December 19, 2003
Kochi,Kerala: The ESPN-Star Sports is back on Asianet bouquet. The sports channel that went off the air following alleged default on payment by Asianet Satellite Communications Limited returned to drawing rooms late tonight following settlement to the issue. According to Rajesh Kaul, director, sales, ESPN, the issue was resolved after Asianet paid up all pending dues. ``We have renewed our contract for one more year. The signals were activated by evening and the service has been resumed,'' Rajesh said. This brings cheers to cricket buffs in the State as the renewal of ties lays to rest all apprehensions about telecast of the India-Australia cricket series. ''Yes, we will telecast the cricket series. It will all be the same,'' he said. The ESPN had resorted to the extreme step of snapping signals after Asianet Satellite Communications Limited failed in paying about Rs 4 crore. But Rajesh refused to give details of the settlement. ''We've settlled the issue and they have paid us some amount. And the telecast has been resumed,'' he said.
Size of the Annual Plan to be increased: Minister
Friday, December 19, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, KERALA: Finance Minister K Sankaranarayanan stated that the size of the Annual Plan for next year would be increased. The minister disclosed this while talking at a function organised at the Medical College here, today. He said that the forthcoming budget would contain projects that would benefit the people and would be a development oriented budget. As the sales tax collection has improved the government treasury is burgeoning. The minister also said that when the Finance Commission arrives here tomorrow, the problems faced by the state would be presented in detail before it.
Fake stamp papers, certificates seized
Friday, December 19, 2003
Fake stamp papers, certificates seized in Kerala town Press Trust of India Piravom, December 19 Fake stamp papers totally worth Rs 2.40 lakh, 10 seals, and blank certificates of Kerala and Pune universities, were seized by police in a raid conducted at a house at Mulakulam Karingode bordering Ernakulam and Kottayam district, early on Friday. Police said they took into custody one John, a 70-year old man from whose house the seizures were made. But the arrested man's son, Mathews (28), believed to be the prime accused, escaped. Acting on a tip off, a strong police team led by Pala DYSP Nirmal and a Sub inspector, KP Sugathan, surrounded the house on Thursday night and started searches. The raids went on till early Friday morning. Sugathan told that paper rolls for being used as stamp paper, computer printouts, seals belonging to Thalayolaparambu Sub Registrar's office and Vaikom sub treasury were also seized. From the house, twelve fake stamp papers were seized. Further searches, led to the recovery of the fake certificates. The arrested man was produced before the Vaikkom first Judicial Magistrate court, who remanded him to 14 days judicial custody.
AICC summons Kunhalikutty, Mani
Friday, December 19, 2003
New Delhi, Dec 18 - AICC sub committee dealing the Kerala affairs summoned Ministers PK Kunhalikutty and KM Mani to Delhi yesterday. The leaders were urgently summoned to Delhi as I faction leader K Muraleedharan informed Ahammed Patel, AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala affairs, that they will sit as a separate block in the Legislative Assembly if their demand is not met. Mani would reach Delhi today and Kunhalikutty by tomorrow. The AICC leadership summoned Kunhalikutty instead of E Ahammed as the representative of Indian Union Muslim League. E Ahammed was taking a stand favourable for K Karunakaran. Ahammed later told mediapersons that he himself instructed Kunhalikutty to represent IUML, as the later is a minister in Antony's cabinet. Muraleedharan who held talks with Ahammed Patel for about 40 minutes continued their demand of leadership change. He added that the present defection bill moved in the Lok Sabha cannot be implemented in Kerala, as this bill would become law only after six months.
I'm fed up with group politics says A.K. Antony
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Chief Minister A K Antony declined to comment on the Congress infighting and the ongoing initiative by the party High Command to settle the crisis, saying "people are fed up with such news items." "If they (people) don't want to hear it, I am also not willing to discuss it with the Press," Antony told newspersons here after a meeting of the State Cabinet. "How long will we go on discussing such issues? I am also fed up with it. We will discuss some development issues affecting the commonman," he said, adding that the topmost priority before his Government was to get a favourable award from the 12th Finance Commission. Asked to comment on the statement of veteran leader K Karunakaran that Antony continuing in office would be dangerous, the Chief Minister said there was no administrative crisis in the State. However, he could not say that everything was perfect. The situation in Kerala was far better than the one which prevailed 30 months ago when his Government assumed office. To another question, Antony welcomed the bill seeking to debar a defector from holding any remunerative political post for the remaining tenure of the legislature or unless re-elected. On whether the new bill would strengthen his Government, he said the bill was supported by all political parties, including those who were trying to form an alternative Government in Kerala.
KU not to grant affiliation to new Proff. colleges
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala: The Kerala University Syndicate has decided not to grant affiliations to new medical and engineering colleges next year. The Syndicate meeting held here today, however, decided to give affiliation to new ayurveda, pharmacy, dental and nursing colleges as there was a need for more seats in these sectors. However, the decision has to be ratified by the affiliation committee which meets on December 30. A large section in the Kerala University Syndicate felt that there was no need for more engineering colleges as there was sufficient number of engineering seats. The Syndicate found that the managements which had applied for medical colleges did not have the required infrastructure. The Syndicate was also against granting affiliation to B Ed colleges as the inspections in these colleges had not been completed. There was also no need for granting affiliation to unaided arts and science colleges. Moreover, the Government has not given sanction to new courses allotted by the university in the Government and aided colleges, the Syndicate felt. The Syndicate also decided to observe January as development month. As many as 10 new projects will be inaugurated during the month. They include making Malayalam the official language of the university, fast-track system for giving degree certificate and introducing new feeder line for Karyavattom Campus.
HC issues notices in ISRO espionage case
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
Kochi,Kerala: A Division Bench of the Kerala High Court on Tuesday issued notices to the CBI and the state government on a writ appeal seeking re-investigation by an independent agency or a judicial inquiry into the ISRO espionage case. A bench comprising Justice Cyriac Joseph and Justice K Padmanabhan Nair issued the notices while admitting the appeal filed by former Intelligence Bureau official P A Vishwambaran. The court directed the respondents to file their counter affidavits within a month. A single judge had earlier dismissed the petition, against which the appeal was filed.
Anti Karunakaran meet today
Monday, December 15, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala: An informal meeting of anti-Karunakaran group will take place today here. The talks may evolve round what steps should be undertaken against Karunakaran group. The meet will be under the leadership of Oommen Chandy. The report that Antony had told high command that there is no need to take disciplinary action against 'I' group, had sown confusion in the anti-Karunakaran ranks. However, the denial of such a report by Antony has given added confidence to them.
antony for probe in to PSC question leak
Monday, December 15, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Seeking to put aside the political controversies dogging his Government, Kerala Chief Minister A K Antony said the 'single-point agenda' before him right now was to get the maximum benefits from the 12th Finance Commission which will be visiting the state shortly. "We could not present our case properly before the eleventh commission. Hence, we had suffered a lot. Now, it is the responsibility of all political parties to work hard for gaining our legitimate share," he told newspersons at the airport here on his arrival from New Delhi. Antony held a series of discussions with the Congress High Command to find a solution to the problems within the state unit of the Congress. On the leakage of the question papers of the Public Service Commission, the Chief Minister said the Government would hold a proper inquiry into the matter after consulting with the PSC chairman as it would adversely affect the interests of millions of job seekers in Kerala. The State Government would also be able to find a lasting solution to the tribal land problem as the Centre had agreed to release 7,658 hectars of forest land for the distribution among landless tribal families, he said. The State Government would also get another 7,000 acres of land from the Aralam farm, which was now under the Central government.
Microsoft gets Windows XP update ready
Sunday, December 14, 2003
Microsoft is set to release a test version of the next update to Windows XP, which adds security features as well as improved support for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi networks. The beta version of Windows XP Service Pack 2 is expected to be made available to testers soon via Microsoft's developer Web site. The final version is expected to be released in the first half of next year, Microsoft said. "The Windows XP SP2 beta is intended to provide software developers and IT professionals an opportunity to conduct early testing and to allow Microsoft to collect valuable customer feedback," the software company said in a fact sheet it provided to reporters. "During this beta, Microsoft hopes to garner significant feedback from developers and IT professionals that will be incorporated into and improve the final product." Microsoft said that the software will be made available to information technology managers and developers via the MSDN Web site, and the company also will test the software using a number of people who have registered to be beta testers. In all, there will be hundreds of thousands of testers, Microsoft said. Among the security improvements in Service Pack 2 are a beefed-up version of Windows Firewall, previously called Internet Connection Firewall, and software designed to block pop-up ads and prevent the unintended downloading and installation of software. The company also turned off the Windows Messenger service, which had been abused by some hackers. The improved firewall will be turned on by default and is designed to prevent all ports from accepting information from outside networks, unless permitted to by an application. Microsoft also said it has taken a number of steps to reduce a type of exploit known as a buffer overrun, but the company warned that it is probably impossible to completely eliminate such vulnerabilities. "Although no single technique can completely eliminate this type of vulnerability, Microsoft is employing a number of security technologies to reduce the likelihood and potential of an attack in a number of different ways," Microsoft said. Additionally, the company said the new Windows XP will make it easier for customers to turn on the automatic update feature, which downloads and installs critical updates automatically. Microsoft stressed the importance of the additional security features for smaller businesses and consumers. "All computers that are connected to the Internet need protection against network-based attacks like Blaster," Microsoft said. "This protection is especially important for non-enterprise businesses customers and home customers connected to the Internet via cable modem, DSL or dial-up, as well as mobile laptop users who may not always be protected by a corporate firewall." The software maker has been under pressure to improve the security of Windows after a spate of high-profile attacks earlier this year. The company has said that securing its code is a key focus in its development of Longhorn, the next major release of Windows. However, it has also said it will make improvements before that operating system arrives. Microsoft has not said when the OS will ship, but it is not expected until late 2005 or 2006. The new Service Pack will upgrade Windows XP to support a later version of the short-range Bluetooth wireless technology, Microsoft said. It also includes a utility that makes it easier to connect a PC in a wide range of wireless hot spots, places where wireless Web access is available to the public, without adding special software. Microsoft said that the features in the beta represent just a "subset" of those that will be in the final release. "Things could be removed," said Matt Pilla, senior product manager for the Windows group. "Undoubtedly, things will be added." Pilla said that more security features are likely to be added, but did not go into specifics. "Certainly, the focus of this release is largely security-related technologies." With SP2, the company also is adding some of the Windows Media 9 technology into Windows Media Player because of its improved security, Pilla said.
30 Shiv Sainiks injured in lathicharge
Sunday, December 14, 2003
PATHANAMTHITTA: The 'bullock-cart march' taken out by the Shiv Sena activists to the famed Sabarimala Ayyappa temple, demanding free travel facilities for devotees, turned violent on Saturday, leaving 30 people injured. A tense situation prevailed in the region, even as 30 Shiv Sena activists were taken into custody in connection with the incident. The march, which started from Thiruvananthapuram with 30 bullock-carts and horse-driven carts on December 10, demanding free travel in trains and buses for Ayyappa devotees, was reduced to eight bullock-carts and one horse-cart when it reached at Pathanamthitta on Saturday afternoon. On the way, the Sena workers laid siege to Kilimanoor and Kottarakkara bus stops. The protestors, on their way to Sabarimala, tried to besiege the Pathanamthitta KSRTC bus station, provoking the police to resort to lathicharge. In an attempt to gain entry into the KSRTC bus station, the activists tried to breach the police cordon in small groups, which led to altercation and resultant lathicharge by the police. An eye of a bullock was damaged by the lathi-blow. The protest march, led by Shiv Sena Rajyapramukh M S Bhuvana Chandran and Spokesman Pallickal Sunil, was scheduled to be stopped at Pampa. All the bullocks were taken on rent from various places in Thiruvananthapuram and Neyyattinkara on daily basis. The participants in the march from across the State totalled more than 500. All the injured were admitted to the Pathanamthitta General Hospital and private clinics. Police also siezed the bullock-carts and the lone horse-cart.
Zanussi amazed by Kerala audience
Sunday, December 14, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: World renowned Polish film maker Krystoff Zanussi said that he was amazed to see packed theatres at Thiruvananthapuram even at 0800 hrs. However, Zanussi frowned upon the excessive use of mobile phones by the cine viewers and said these gave films a feel of tele-serials. "In between television programmes, telephones and many things around will disurb you. Films are to make the public forget who they are and where they are for the time they watch the film. This is disappearing from the Kerala scene," said the ace director. Referring to mainstream Indian cinema, he said this had acted as a buffer by keeping Hollywood away and maintaining the identity of India. India, with a fast growing society, is free from Hollywood because of its own commercial productions, he said. He said he would be willing to make films in India, provided there was adequate financial assistance. Zanussi's latest film 'Skarby Ukryte' (Hidden Treasures), which traces the life of Roza, an aristocratic elderly woman, since the collapse of the Berlin Wall, was screened on Sunday and evoked mixed reactions from critics. Zanussi expressed apprehensions about the decision to make Goa the permanent venue for the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). He said while Goa with its beautiful beaches may be a good destination for vacations, it was certainly not fit as a venue for an international film festival. "Where will the audience come from? Will they charter the marvellous audience from Kerala or Kolkata to Goa," he wondered. There were several film festivals which had great parties, wonderful press and guests, but no audiences. "These are dead festivals. Mundane events," he said.
CM for probe into PSC question paper leak
Sunday, December 14, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Seeking to put aside the political controversies dogging his Government, Kerala Chief Minister A K Antony said the 'single-point agenda' before him right now was to get the maximum benefits from the 12th Finance Commission which will be visiting the state shortly. "We could not present our case properly before the eleventh commission. Hence, we had suffered a lot. Now, it is the responsibility of all political parties to work hard for gaining our legitimate share," he told newspersons at the airport here on his arrival from New Delhi. Antony held a series of discussions with the Congress High Command to find a solution to the problems within the state unit of the Congress. On the leakage of the question papers of the Public Service Commission, the Chief Minister said the Government would hold a proper inquiry into the matter after consulting with the PSC chairman as it would adversely affect the interests of millions of job seekers in Kerala. The State Government would also be able to find a lasting solution to the tribal land problem as the Centre had agreed to release 7,658 hectars of forest land for the distribution among landless tribal families, he said. The State Government would also get another 7,000 acres of land from the Aralam farm, which was now under the Central government.
Govt. considering subsidy for film industry
Sunday, December 14, 2003
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 14 Kerala Information Minister M M Hassan today said the Government is considering allotment of subsidy for films. Inaugurating the 'Film Market', organised jointly by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC) as part of the ongoing 8th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), the minister said discussions would be held with major film organisations in this regard soon after the film festival. ''The Government is doing the maximum for the development of films. We have conferred the leadership of two major film organisations on qualified persons. Desipte the financial crisis, the Government is moving ahead with various development initiatives,'' he added. The 'Film Market' has been organised with the aim of exploring the international market for Malayalam films. It also intended to bring more films from all over the World to Kerala, State Chalachithra Academy Chairman T K Rajeev Kumar said. Presiding over the function, he said that to get more attention for the IFFK at the international level, plans were being made to organise the festival in coordination with the tourism sector. The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Department of Tourism, Information and Public Relations Department (IPRD) and C-DIT are participating in the Film Market, besides the KSFDC. KSFDC Chairman P V Gangadharan, Managing Director T K Raveendran, noted film director Hariharan, NFDC Director P Parameswaran and PRD Director G Rajasekharan attended the function at Hotel Horizon this morning.
No change in approach says Antony
Sunday, December 14, 2003
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Chief Minister A K Antony made it clear that there was no change in his stand on the issue of finding a solution to the crisis within the State unit of the Congress, thus totally denying media reports that he recommended to the High Command that no action be initiated against the leaders of the rival faction headed by veteran leader K Karunakaran. "I have not changed my stand. Reports on the contrary are baseless," he told newspersons at the airport here on his arrival from New Delhi where he held the second round of discussions with the party High Command on the crisis within the party state unit arising out of the demand by the Karunakaran faction for a leadership change. Antony's clarification came in the wake of stiff opposition from his own camp which was demanding stern action against the dissidents in the party, including Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee President K Muraleedharan. He was under tremendous pressure from leaders like United Democratic Front convener Oommen Chandy and others to act against Muraleedharan. The High Command was also reportedly waiting for a green signal from Antony before taking disciplinary action against anyone. "I stick to my earlier stand. I have not disclosed the details of my meeting with the party leaders to the media," he said, but refused to elaborate whether he had recommended action against the leaders or not. He expressed the hope that the High Command would be able to find an amicable solution to the crisis. Meanwhile, sources said the 'anti-Karunakaran' factions within the Kerala unit of the Congress would meet here to chalk-out their strategies, especially in the wake of Karunakaran's claim that he had secured an assurance from the party High Command that Antony would be replaced. The central leadership had already denied the claim and maintained that no decision had been taken as yet on the issue.
More cops during Mandala pooja
Friday, December 12, 2003
More cops to be deployed during Mandala pooja Friday December 12 2003 11:39 IST SABARIMALA: Arrangements have been made to meet the rush of pilgrims during the Mandalapooja days. Around 1,020 police personnel will be on duty at Sannidhanam in view of the heavy rush. New Sannidhanam police special officer R Radhakrishnan told this website's paper that if needed, necessary arrangements had been made for deploying more police force from Maniyar AR camp. The police personnel included 11 DySPs, 39 CIs and 99 SIs, Radhakrishnan said. For effective crowd control and operational reasons, the total area had been divided into 10 sectors, which include Sopanam, Pathinettampadi, Nadapandal, Malikappuram, Vadekkenada, Pandithavalam, U-turn, Saramkuthi and Marakoottam, he said. In Pampa, 500 police personnel would be on duty in the third phase covering Mandalapooja on December 27. The police officers would include eight DySPs, 10 CIs and 60 SIs. More police personnel would be deployed to control traffic and more two-wheeler riders would be deployed to ease traffic bottlenecks. Van attacked by Tusker: A Mahindra van, after alighting the pilgrims at Pampa, bound for Nilackal parking area was attacked and smashed by a wild tusker near Nilackal Colony on Wednesday night. However, Manikantan, the driver of the vehicle, belonging to Parassala, escaped unhurt.
Gulf Regional Centre in Kerala
Friday, December 12, 2003
NEW DELHI: Owing to the pressure from the Govenment of Kerala, the Human Resource Development Ministry has decided to open a Regional Centre for authentication of educational certificates of job seekers in the Gulf countries. The decision was taken by HRD Minister Murli Manohar Joshi following Kerala Chief Chief Minister A K Antony's appeal to Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The government said the HRD Ministry has written to the Kerala government for a suitable accommodation for the office. The Ministry has also asked the Ministry of External Affairs to make arrangements for counter-signing the certificates in Kerala itself to avoid inconvenience to the people who otherwise would have to come to Delhi for authentication and counter-signature. According to the Ministry, the regional centre will be opened soon. A large number of people from Kerala require their certificates to be attested by the Department of Secondary and Higher Education under the Ministry of Human Resource Development to seek work permit and visa in Gulf countries. The attested certificates are later countersigned by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Antony orders inquiry into attack on 'Deepika'
Friday, December 12, 2003
Antony orders inquiry into attack on 'Deepika' office THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister A K Antony ordered an inquiry into the attack on the Kannur unit office of the Malayalam daily 'Deepika' on Wednesday. The Chief Minister said Kannur Superintendent of Police had been asked to investigate into the incident and strong action would be taken against the culprits. Report from Kannur said a five-member group, suspected to be fundamentalist National Development Front (NDF) workers, attacked and ransacked the unit office around 0730 hrs. In Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Union of Working Journalists took out a protest march towards the State Secretariat demanding the immediate arrest of all the accused in the case.
Anand Parthasarathy gets 'Cyber Oscar'
Friday, December 12, 2003
BANGALORE: Anand Parthasarthy, quite popular among Kerala readers of The Hindu bagged the the coveted "Cyber Oscar award" for his prolific reports on the Information Technology sector. The Chennai-based IT correspondent has been selected for his story on "India's first-computer-literate village", in Malapuram district of Kerala, a press statement said. Parthasarthy is one among the four journalists who have been selected for the award. The other three scribes are from Brazil, Tanzania and Nigeria. The award, which carries a prize of $ 2,000 each and a plaque, termed "Cyber Oscar", will be presented at a ceremony in Geneva on December 11, the statement said.
We didn't ask for change: Pillai & Jacob
Friday, December 12, 2003
ERNAKULAM: The B and J facion leaders of the Kerala Congress, R Balakrishna Pillai and TM Jacob said at Muvattupuzha near here that they never asked for a chane of leadership in the UDF. Both Pillai and Jacob, ministers in the UDF government were here to pay homage to the founder leader of the Kerala Congress KM George. "The crisis in Congress is purely an internal problem of that party. We do not have anything to do with it," said Pillai and Jacob while speaking to mediapersons at Muvattupuzha. "If only the Congress leadership ask our opinion that we can tell what we feel. Till then, it is their own affair,"said the leaders. Both the leaders said that there will be some changes in Kerala Congress before the next Lok Sabah elections. "We are for the unification of the party. But we alone can not do the merger . Other factions have to feel the necessity of the merger,"said Pillai.
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