Congress does not need BJP support: KPCC president Saturday, December 31, 2005 | AA
Rejecting reports of a possible `grand alliance' against the CPI-M in Kerala, KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala said onSaturday that the Congress did not require the BJP's support in the state. Reacting to reports that a section in the BJP favoured a `broad alliance' against communists in Kerala, Chennithala told reporters here that the party did not require the BJP's support nor a certificate from CPI-M for its secular credentials.
Kerala Governor greets people Saturday, December 31, 2005 | AA
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Governor R.L. Bhatia exhorted the people to remain united for all round progress and development of the state. In his New Year greetings to the people of the state, the Governor said ''I greet the people of Kerala on the eve of the New Year 2006. Let us stand together, sink narrow differences and strive for a fruitful year of all round progress and development. I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year.''
New Year rush: Bangaloreans prefer Goa, Kerala Saturday, December 31, 2005 | AA
BANGALORE: As the count down for New Year celebrations have started, a large number of Bangaloreans are heading towards Goa, Kerala and many other tourist destinations in the country to celebrate New year with their friends and families. According to travel agencies in the City, Goa seems to be a major holiday destination for those who want to take time off from their routine work and celebrate. There has always been a lot of rush for Goa, which is the hottest destination in India. Apart from Goa, people are also preferring places like Ooty, Munnar, Takadi and others in the south. ``There is heavy rush of tourists at all these places ,'' said an executive of the city-based travel agency Clipper Holidays. The New Year rush at the tourist destinations in the south started from the mid-December said Srinivas of Exotic Holidays. This is expected to continue till middle January.
VS Achutanandan to inaugurate CPM 'Kerala March' Saturday, December 31, 2005 | AA
The CPI (M) State Committee has decided to hold a Kerala March between 1st January and 25th January 2006. CPM State Secretary Pinarayi Vijayan will lead the March highlighting the slogan 'Comprehensive Development and Social Justice'. Opposition Leader VS Achuthanandan will inaugurate the March at Manjeshwaram on 1st January. After visiting all the 140 assembly constituencies of Kerala, March will conclude in Thiruvananthapuram on 25th.
No going back on Air Kerala project: CM Saturday, December 31, 2005 | MP
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has asserted that there was no going back on the State’s proposed international budget airline – Air Kerala project. The project is before the Center and the State is looking forward to hear a positive note on the matter. He said that the airline was mainly intended at providing cheaper airline services for the Gulf sector especially for those Gulf Malayalees from the poorer sections. He also alleged that Air Kerala was being denied mainly because of the national airliner, Air India which is making the most profitable services from the Gulf region.
Athbhutam Friday, December 30, 2005 | MP
The much acclaimed film director Jayaraj has set a new record in the history of film making by creating his feature film ‘ Athbhutham’ in just a span of 2 hours and 14minutes. The director claims that the movie was shot in just one camera with proper planning. The movie is based on a story in the Oregon state of the US where mercy killing is legally allowed. The movie is bilingual with a mix of artistes from around the world. Suresh Gopi plays the main lead. Atyhbhutham isJayaraj’s fourth film in the Navarasa series after ‘Karunam’, Shantam’ & Beebhat’ The movie is slated for release on Jan first week.
Rajapakshe to perform Thulabaram at Guruvayoor Friday, December 30, 2005 | MP
The visiting Sri Lankan President, Mahinda Rajapakshe will be reaching Guruvayoor to visit the popular Guruvayur temple near Trissur. He is expected to perform a ‘Thulabaram’- an offering with ghee, at the Temple where Lord Krishna is the divine being worshipped here. The President accompanied by his wife will have dharshan at the temple in the evening and would later leave to Colombo from the Nedumbassery International Airport.
Amrithotsavam at Kottakal on Jan6 Thursday, December 29, 2005 | MP
Preparations are ahead for the Amritotsavam-2006 which is scheduled to take place at the Rajas High School grounds in Kottakal on January 6th. The organizers are expecting lots of devotees at the event where Mata Amritanandamayi is expected to give dharsan. The function will be attended by distinguished guests from the political circle as well as physicians from the Arya Vaidya Salas at Kottakal and other civil officials. Transport facilitiess are also being made to collect devotees from Malappuram, Kozhikode, Thrissur and Palakkad districts to take part in the event The
Despite tsunami terror, tourists are back to Kerala Wednesday, December 28, 2005 | AA
Tsunami scare dampened spirits at the height of the tourist season last year, Indian and foreign tourists are now coming back to Kerala to celebrate a 'warm' Christmas and New Year holiday this year. Two more cruise vessels, +MV Superstar Libra+, with 585 passengers and 770 crew, and +M V Astoria+, with 299 passengers and 257 crew, anchored at the Cochin Port this morning. While +Superstar Libra+, with mainly Indian passengers, arrived from Mumbai and would be returning there in the evening, Astoria, with a predominantly German tourist profile, arrived here from Mangalore on way to Colombo. Typically, the tourists are here for a day, arriving in the morning and leaving the same evening. The historical quarters of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi, a quick boat ride on the backwaters and shopping for curios are the major attractions for the tourists.
Congress urges govt to speed up Lavlin case Tuesday, December 27, 2005 | AA
Accusing the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) of trying to protect the guilty in the S N C Lavlin case, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) today urged the government to speed up the probe into the loss of Rs 374.5 crore in the electricity maintenance projects awarded to a Canadian firm. KPCC President Ramesh Chennithala alleged at a press conference that the Board was trying to protect the guilty in the case. KSEB has reportedly stated that the Controller and Auditor General's report on the loss in the Pallivasal, Chenkulam and Panniyar electricity maintenance projects was wrong.
CM is on a visit to Azheekkal village in Alappad Sunday, December 25, 2005 | AA
Chief Minister Oommen Chandy today visited the tsunami-hit Azheekkal village in Alappad area and handed over a cheque for Rs one lakh to 12-year-old Neetu, who lost her mother in the tragedy last year.Chandy, who visited Neetu's house with his wife Mariamma Oommen, said that paucity of funds would not come in the way of rehabilitation of tsunami-affected families in the state.The assistance was meant to meet Neetu's educational expenses whose father had predeceased her mother.
Special trains for Christmas Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
The Southern Railway has announced special trains between Thiruvananthapuram and Chennai to meet the heavy rush during Christmas. Advance reservation facility is available. On December 24, 26 and 30, the 632 Thiruvananthapuram-Chennai Central special will leave at 7.45 p.m. from Thiruvananthapuram and would reach Chennai Central at 12.45 p.m. next day. On December 23, 25, 27 and 29 the 631 Chennai Central-Thiruvananthapuram special will leave the Chennai Central at 4 p.m. and would reach Thiruvananthapuram Central at 7.30 a.m. next day.The special trains will have one A/C 2 tier, 8 sleeper class, 4 general second class and 2 luggage-cum-brakevan coaches. The stoppages for both the trains include Kollam, Kayamkulam, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi and Arakkonam. The 632 special will also have a stoppage at Perambur. On December 22 and 28, the 634 Thiruvananthapuram-Chennai Central special will leave Thiruvananthapuram Central at 5.30 p.m. and would reach Chennai Central at 10.15 a.m. next day. On December 31, the 633 Chennai Central-Thiruvananthapuram special will leave Chennai Central at 5 p.m. and would reach Thiruvananthapuram at 9.45 a.m. next day. The 633 and 634 special trains will have one A/C 2-tier, 8 sleeper class, 4 general second class and 2 luggage-cum–brake van coaches. The stoppages are Kollam, Kayamkulam, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi and Arakkonam. The 634 special will have an additional stoppage at Perambur.
Insurance scheme mandatory for overseas jobseekers Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
The Minister of State for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr. Oscar Fernandes told the Lok Sabha that the compulsory insurance scheme, Pravasi Bhartiya Bima Yojna (PBBY) is applicable to all citizens of India who are required to obtain an emigration clearance for overseas employment. The PBBY provides for insurance cover of a minimum sum of Rs.2.00 lakhs payable to the nominee/legal heir in the event of death or permanent disability of an Indian emigrant. It also provides for medical cover for the emigrant workers, maternity benefits and hospitalisation cover for the family of emigrant worker. The Government do not collect any amount under the PBBY, 2003. However, the Insurance Companies charge fair and reasonable premium for policy period of six months, one year and two years. The emigration fee prescribed under Rule 15 of the Emigration Rules, 1983 is for processing the application made for grant of emigration clearance and has no relation with the PBBY, 2003, the minister said.
Prime Minister to launch OCI card during ‘PBD 2006’ Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh would launch the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card at the forthcoming Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas (PBD) to be held in Hyderabad from January 7-9. The benefits of the card include Multi-purpose, multiple entry, lifelong visa for visiting India; Exemption from registration with Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO)/ Foreigners Registration Officer for any length of stay in India; Parity with NRIs in respect of all facilities to the latter in economic, financial and educational fields except in matters relating to the acquisition of agricultural/ plantation properties. However, the registered OCIs shall not be entitled to the rights conferred on a citizen of India under article 16 of Indian Constitution with regard to equality of opportunity in matters of public employment and election to Constitutional offices.
Placement assistance for students of NORKA-SCMS Institute Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
The School of Communication and Management Studies (SCMS) has entered into an agreement with a placement institution in the USA to provide job opportunities to those passing out from the NORKA-SCMS Institute. The cost for visa, travel expense and other expenses in the beginning of candidates’ stay in the US and the fee paid at the institute will be given to the candidate before travel. The next batch for CGFNS and IELTS courses will start on December 15. For more information, please call 0484-2556315.
NRKs would soon can vote Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
Following the persistent efforts of the Government of Kerala, the Union Government has agreed upon the issue of granting voting rights to non-resident Indians. This demand was first made during the 2002 edition of Samawayam, and later succeeded due to the consistent efforts of the Government of Kerala. The new development follows a draft amendment of the 1961 People’s Representation Act, which was presented to the Union Government by the Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Oommen Chandy. The Union Government is now planning to bring this amended act as an ordinance after the current session of the Parliament.
‘NORKA Centre’ to be set up in Thiruvananthapuram Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
The Department of Non-Resident Keralites’ Affairs would soon have a single office building to co-ordinate the activities of the Department of NORKA, its field agency NORKA-ROOTS, and the attestation centre. Named Norka Centre, the building would be set up in a 20-cent land near the Government guesthouse at Thycaud in Thiruvananthapuram. The decision to set up the Norka Centre was announced to the media recently in Thiruvananthapuram by the Chairman of NORKA-ROOTS, Mr. M. M. Hassan and the Principal Secretary for Non-Resident Keralites’ Affairs, Mr. Jiji Thomson.
Kannur Airport Project gets Cabinet clearance Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
The State Cabinet recently accorded clearance for the proposed Kannur Airport project. Talking to media persons after the cabinet meeting, Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister, said that the proposal would be sent to the Union Government for clearance. The state Government would hold 26% shares of the airport. The total project cost is estimated at Rs. 930 crores. The land acquisition cost is expected to cost around Rs. 140 crores. The state also expects assistance from the Union Government, since the project is an infrastructure development project. A viability gap funding of Rs. 120 crores is expected from the Union Government, the Chief Minister said.
Kerala’s Annual Plan 2006-07 finalised Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
Annual Plan size for Kerala for the year 2006-2007 has been finalised recently, at a meeting between Mr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission and Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala. The Plan outlay has been agreed at Rs. 6210 crores. An additional Central assistance to the tune of Rs. 50 crores has also been sanctioned for implementing the ‘Missions’ suggested by the Hon’ble President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, during his visit to the State.
Mahan Air starts Kochi-Teheran services Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
The Airline company of Iran, Mahan Air, has started services between Kochi and Teheran. Travellers from Kerala can avail of convenient connections and economy flights to the Gulf sector via Teheran, informed Mr. Mohammed Ahani, Deputy Chief of Iranian Mission in India and Mr. Mehdi Bahrami, Commercial Director of Mahan Air. The airline would operate three weekly flights on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The airline also operates four weekly flights from Delhi.
Canara Bank announces new interest rates Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
Canara Bank has announced an increase in interest rates for NRE and FCNR deposits, according to a release from the bank. The revised rates will be in effect from December 1.The new rate for NRE deposit for periods from one year to less than three years is 5.6 percent and 5.7 percent for a period of three years. The revised rates for FCNR deposits in British Pound are 4.43 percent (from one year to less than two years); 4.46 percent (from two years to less than three years); 4.47 percent (from three years to less than four years), 4.45 percent (from four years to less than five years) and 4.44 percent (for five years). The rates for corresponding periods for FCNR deposits in US dollar are 4.56 percent, 4.63 percent, 4.66 percent, 4.67 percent and 4.70 percent. The corresponding rates for deposits in Euro are 2.54 percent, 2.73 percent, 2.84 percent, 2.88 percent and 2.97 percent. Interest rates for FCNR deposits in Canadian dollar are 3.62 percent (from one year to less than two years), 3.74 percent (two years to less than three years) and 3.80 percent (three years). For the corresponding periods, rates for FCNR deposits in Australian dollar are 5.38 percent, 5.43 percent and 5.49 percent. Interest rates for RFC deposits in British Pound are 4.68 percent (from one year to less than two years), 4.71 percent (from two years to less than three years) and 4.72 percent (three years). For RFC deposits in US dollar, the corresponding rates are 4.81 percent, 4.88 percent and 4.91 percent. The corresponding rates for deposits in Euro are 2.79 percent, 2.98 percent and 3.09 percent.
Investment norms for NRIs eased: Mr. Oscar Fernandes Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
Investment norms for NRIs eased: Mr. Oscar Fernandes
The Government has put in place a liberal and transparent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy (which includes investment by NRIs) under which FDI upto 100% is allowed under the automatic route in most sectors, said the Minister of State for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr. Oscar Fernandes. Proposals requiring prior approval are considered by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) in a time bound manner. Activities under the automatic route do not require any prior Government approval and the investor is only required to report to the office of Reserve Bank of India within 30 days of inward remittance and/or issue of shares to non-resident Indians. Under the FDI Scheme, the additional facilities available to NRIs include investment in housing and real estate sectors and investment upto 100% in the air transport sector as against the permissible limit of FDI at 49% in the Civil Aviation Sector, the minister said.
NRKs would soon exercise their franchise Tuesday, December 20, 2005 | AA
NRKs would soon exercise their franchise
Following the persistent efforts of the Government of Kerala, the Union Government has agreed upon the issue of granting voting rights to non-resident Indians. This demand was first made during the 2002 edition of Samawayam, and later succeeded due to the consistent efforts of the Government of Kerala. The new development follows a draft amendment of the 1961 People’s Representation Act, which was presented to the Union Government by the Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Oommen Chandy. The Union Government is now planning to bring this amended act as an ordinance after the current session of the Parliament. The Prime Minister, several Union Ministers and the Chief Minister of Kerala have played a key role in making the dream of granting voting rights to non-resident Indians a reality in the near future. If things proceed according to the plan, next elections in Kerala would witness non-resident Keralites exercising their franchise. In that event, steps to include non-resident Keralites in the voters list would also be taken. Those present in Kerala during the next election would be able to cast their votes by using their passports as proof for identity.
Research on cancer gaining momentoum Sunday, December 18, 2005 | AY
There has been some progress in the research of the deadly disease cancer.'Bench-to-Bedside' concept that seeks transfer of basic research findings from 'the laboratory to the bedside' of the patient in the shortest possible time, will soon come into practice, says Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Bio-technology Director Radhakrishna Pillai. Pillai said research on a new combination for treating side effects during cancer treatment was fast progressing at the centre. Traditional medical know how would also be used in the preparation of the combination. Centre would also get the product patented after invention, he added.
UDF to take up people-friendly programme Friday, December 16, 2005 | AA
The UDF Liaison Committee asked the government to take up people-friendly measures, including in the agriculture and power sectors, UDF Convener P P Thankachan told reporters. ''The farmers should be given six months time for 'One Time Settlement' regarding agricultural loans and also a three per cent interest subsidy for those who remit all the dues,'' he said and added that the UDF sub-committees for traditional and agriculture sectors had been asked to submit their reports by December 28.
Malayalam film actor and producer T K Balachandran died Friday, December 16, 2005 | AA
Noted Malayalam film actor and producer T K Balachandran died here at his residence last night following a brief illness, He was 78. He is survived by his wife and a son. Mr Balachandran was under treatment for cancer.
IIM Kozhikode ties up with New Zealand Unv Thursday, December 15, 2005 | AY
The prestigious Indian Institute of Managment ( IIM ) - Kozhikode will soon have tie up with the Victoria University of New Zealand. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by IIM-K Director Krishna Kumar and VUW Vice Chancellor Neil Quigley. The two varsities would exchange faculty, students and academic information, materials, undertake joint research and participate in conferences and academic meetings.Speaking on the occasion, Prof Quigley said the agreement was part of globalisation strategy of seeking high quality teaching and research partners in the Asia-Pacific region. He said the opportunity for Indian students to study at Victoria has been enhanced with the decision of the New Zealand Government to charge only domestic fee for international doctoral studies from 2006 onwards.
Air Kerala to fly soon Wednesday, December 14, 2005 | AA
Oommen Chandy announced plans to launch Air Kerala, an airline that would link the state with the Gulf, where a large number of Keralites work. "We have finally cleared the project. We have decided to float a public limited company for the launch of Air Kerala," he told reporters here after a cabinet meeting. The project's initial outlay would be Rs.2 billion. The state government and its concerns would hold 26 percent share in the company floated for the purpose, he said. Non-resident Keralites would be invited to buy shares of the proposed company, he added.
Inflore-05 at Rajagiri School of Management Wednesday, December 14, 2005 | AA
Students from 50 management institutes in South India will particiapte in the management fest, `Inflore-05', being organised by Rajagiri School of Management, Kalamassery near here on December 17 and 18.
4 Films are Scheduled for Christmas Wednesday, December 14, 2005 | AA
Christmas films are getting ready for their release in the coming weeks across Kerala. Mammootty's family entertainer "Bus Conductor", Mohanlal's Blessy directed "Tanmatra", and Suresh Gopi's action thriller Tiger are the majour films expected for Christmas in Kerala. Tanmatra and Tiger are releasing on December 16 while "Bus Conductor" is scheduled for the days prior to Christmas.
Mohanlal going to US Wednesday, December 14, 2005 | AA
Mohanlal is planning to go to US on Dec 17 along with Priyadarshan for a 20-day holiday.
NRI's, get hold of your tourism cum health card Monday, December 12, 2005 | AY
An attractive scheme is introduced to attract tourists, which is a joint initiative of Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, Kochi-based super speciality Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Intersight Holidays Private Limited, a holiday management company in Kerala. A comprehensive tourism-cum-health card for expatriates and their families in Gulf countries will be provided at a cost of Rs 12,000, which can be renewed by an additional payment of Rs 2,000 in case it is not used. For families the premium is Rs 18,000. Benefits include comprehensive medical health screening at AIIMS, two nights and three days stay at any of the KTDC's premium properties -- Tea County (Munnar), Aranya Nivas (Thekkady), Samudra (Kovalam), Water Scapes (Kumarakom), Bolgatty Palace (Kochi) and Mascot. The cardholder also gets hospitalisation benefit up to Rs 100,000 covered by the National Insurance Company, personal accident cover for Rs 200,000, mobile SIM card on arrival in Kerala, airport pick-up and drop for health check up, special discount for holiday in India and services for air ticketing and travel arrangements.
Musical bonanza Sunday, December 11, 2005 | AY
A cross-section of songs from 1938 to 2005, was enjoyed in a musical fest which is being organized by the Kerala Chalachitra Academy jointly with Malayalam Cine Technicians' Association (MACTA) which started yesterday. Nearly 60 past and present singers, including noted singer K J Jesudas and Vineeth Sreenivasan, will present 140 songs in the five-day music bonanza, a journey on the history of Malayalam film songs. The festival has been divided into five categories and named "Shadjam, Rishabham, Gandharam, Madyamam and Panchamam. Twenty-eight songs between 1938 and 1962 would be presented during "Shadjam", the opening day of the fest. Noted music director Dakshminamoorthy, lyricise Bhaskaran, O N V Kurup, singer K P Udayabannu, would be honoured in the function. The second day, "Rishabam", would see more than 30 selected songs released from 1963 to 1975, followed by "Gandharam", Madhyamam and Panchamam", songs between 1976 and 1985, 1986 and 1995 and 1996 and 2005.
Kerala observed the Anti Ragging Day Saturday, December 10, 2005 | AY
Colleges in Kerala observed the 'Anti-Ragging day'on the 5th in the backdrop of the brutal sexual assault on a nursing student by her seniors even as demand for amendments to the existing laws for rooting out the menace is gaining momentum. Though Kerala Education Minister E T Mohammed Basheer claimed that the provisions in the Kerala Prohibition of Ragging Act, 1998 are more than enough to deal with such cases, a section of the society thinks otherwise. College teachers, lawyers and sociologists are of the opinion that ragging, considered to be ''personality development'' or ''positive interaction'' by seniors, is neither ''positive nor interactive'' but only a violation of human rights and an ''exercise in sadistic pleasure.'' The Kerala Government decided to observe the''Anti-Ragging day,'' after a bitter ragging incident which turned into sexual assault on the 17-year-old nursing student at the School of Medical Education (SME) at Kottayam last month hit the headlines.
Dileep yet again in a double role Saturday, December 10, 2005 | AY
Dileep will be playing a dual role in his next movie. This movie, which is yet to be given a title will have Dileep performing a dual role. The shoot of this flick will begin in January. This will be Dileep’s second movie after Kunjikoonan, in which he had a double role. He definitely wants to show the same mettle he showed in Chandupottu to make this one also a success. Gopika is yet again is lead lady. Ilayaraja, the music director, has already composed four songs. Director Kamal is very happy to have Ilayaraja composing music for him.
Mohanlal's heroine decided Saturday, December 10, 2005 | AY
Mohanlal and Laila are to come together in Mahasamudram, as announced in the press conference. This combination should keep the audiences happy and the distributors delighted!
Mahasamudhram Friday, December 9, 2005 | AA
Mahnalal's Mahasamudhram will be directed by the new comer Dr S Janardhanan. The shooting will soon begin in Thiruvananthapuram. Cast includes Padhmapriya, Rehman, Jagadi, Innocent, Sai Kumar, Siddhique and others. Dr S Janardhanan is making his directorial debut with this film. Thiruvananthapuram is the main shooting location for the film.
Prajapathy Friday, December 9, 2005 | AA
Another big project announced recently is Mammotty's Renjith film ‘Prajapathy’. After ‘Black’, ‘Rajamanikyam’ was the film they were supposed to do. But Renjith backed off at the last moment as he was not sure about the subject. ‘Rajamanikyam’ turned out to be the biggest hit of 2005. Renjith will write the story, screenplay and dialogues for ‘Prajapathy’ and once again after ‘Rajamanikyam’ Veliya Veettil Siraj will produce it. The Mammotty-Sreenivasan combo will also be seen in this movie after a long time.
Pothanvava Friday, December 9, 2005 | AA
After the ‘Thommanum Makkalum’ and ‘Chandupottu’, by Benny P Nayarambalam is preparing the script of Pothanvava. It will be a Lal creation film. Director for this film is not yet finalized. Mammootty will be the hero.
Mammootty’s Rajamanickam is creating box-office history Friday, December 9, 2005 | AA
Rajamanickam is emerging as the highest grosser of 2005 beating Mohanlal’s Naran or Udayananu Tharam and Dileep’s Chanthupottu. It is the latest blockbuster and record setter at the Malayalam boxoffice that has Mamotty playing the lead. The cinegoers have taken the Trivandrum style slang to their hearts creating a mass appeal to the film, young and old alike. Repeat audience for the film makes it already a box office hit in the history of malayalam cinema. It's amazing to know that Mammootty still holds a big influnece in the boxoffice charts of Kerala raising it to higher levels. His upcoming release Balaram Vs. Tharadas is the next keenly watched film expected for this Christmas. With this exceptionally appealing hit, Anwar Rasheed, director of this Mammootty starrer, joins the club with Blessy and Rosshan Andrrews. It is further reported that many south indian stars have seen the film Rajamanickam and intended to do it in their own languages. Venkatesh is romoured to do the remake of film in Telugu. Leading financier Satyamurthy seemed to have bagged the rights of the Telugu version. The report is that Venkatesh, having seen the special screening of the film, is all excited about it. The movie will be remade in Tamil with Sarath Kumar playing the lead role. Anwar Rashid himself will direct the Tamil version. But the latest buzz is that Raajamanickyam itself will have its second part planned with the same star cast and crew later next year. The director and the actor have confirmed the sequel to Raajamanickyam. Recent Asianet interview of Mammootty by Jagadish confirmed the chances of a sequel coming up soon.
Watch webcast live, CM's press briefing Wednesday, December 7, 2005 | AY
People can now watch, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, live, briefing the press after cabinet meetings. This is the first time that a Chief Minister's cabinet briefing was being made available through a website. President A P J Abdul Kalam had sent a congratulatory message to the Chief Minister for ensuring transparency in administration. The website and live webcast facility had been installed using free software by the government-owned Centre for Development of Imaging Technology (C-DIT).
Special savings bank account from SBT Wednesday, December 7, 2005 | AA
State Bank of Travancore (SBT) has launched a ‘no-frills’ account named ‘special savings bank account’. Account holders will not be eligible for ATM cards, chequebook and internet banking facilities. There will be no restriction of minimum balance for opening the account. The scheme promotes the concept of extending banking facilities to all, particularly to those deprived of such a banking facility.
International Film Festival of Kerala begin on Dec 9 Wednesday, December 7, 2005 | AA
There will be no Malayalam films in the ‘Indian Cinema Today’ section of the eight-day International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), which begins on December 9. Nine Indian films, including Aparna Sen’s ‘15 Park Avenue’, Girish Kasaravally’s ‘Haseena’ and Jahnu Barua’s ‘Mein Ne Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara’, will be featured in the section.
Keralite prisoner in Iraq released Tuesday, December 6, 2005 | AY
Sijo, hailing from Kottayam district, who had been in custody of the US-led forces in Iraq for the past four months was released from Abu Ghraib prison in Baghdad yesterday. Sijo, working with a Kuwaiti catering firm supplying food to US soldiers, was arrested about four months back on the charges of entering a ‘‘prohibited’’ area and taking photographs without permission. The US forces claimed he was found taking unauthorised photographs of Mosul Airport and was in possession of photos of other installations.
Tourists visiting Kerala increasing Monday, December 5, 2005 | AY
Tourism is gearing up in kerala, since the flow of foreign tourists is marginally higher, especially at Kovalam. During last season 3.43 lakh tourists from abroad had visited Kerala and domestic tourists inflow was to the tune of 59 lakh. Almost all the hotels of Kerala have been reserved for the entire season and high-end hotels are fully booked till the end of February 2006. Two flights from London on a weekly basis have started coming to Thiruvananthapuram since the beginning of November. The government is focussing on tourism sector now since it contributes almost Rs 6,000 crore to the GDP of the state every year. The hike in hotel tariff in Kerala during November-February is rather unaffordable to average tourists both domestic and foreign. Fairly high domestic air charges to Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram is also a serious issue of tourism industry of the state. The general feeling that Kerala is an expensive tourist destination would hit the industry very badly in future.
Kerala well presented at WTM and London Sunday, December 4, 2005 | AA
Kerala was showcased at its enthralling best at the inauguration of the Road Show and the Celebrating Kerala festival at Rasa Maricham at Holdiay Inn on the 18 th of this month. Hosted by Kerala Tourism, the Kerala Evening followed the World Travel Mart (WTM) held at London from the 14 th to the 17 th of November. High profile meetings with leading tour operators and premium travel publications marked the travel mart. Editors of leading travel publications like Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast Traveller, Tour Hebdo and prominent outbound tour operators such as Thomas Cook, Kerala Connections, Thompson Holidays, Highlite Holidays, Gullivers Travel, Amen Travel Services, Trans Indus Holidays, Great Vacations and Ampersand tours witnessed the presentation on Kerala.
Aranmula , an International destination Sunday, December 4, 2005 | AA
Aranmula, the picturesque village in Pathanamthitta district has been declared as an international tourism destination by the Union Government. It has also been included in the Cultural Tourism programme, a joint initiative of the Union Ministry of Tourism and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The Vastuvidya Gurukulam, an institution under the state Cultural Department for the promotion of Kerala's traditional architecture, is the implementing partner of the project.
Houseboat with Jacuzzi launched Sunday, December 4, 2005 | AA
The increasing number of takers for holiday options in Kerala's Houseboats has inspired entrepreneurs to come up with novel ideas to woo tourists. The newest addition, a houseboat from Whitewater Cruises, offers Jacuzzi on board. Mr. K. C. Venugopal, Minister for Tourism, inaugurated the houseboat recently. Besides Jacuzzi, Aroma Therapy and Floral bath are other attractions offered by Whitewater Cruises.
Kovalam, an all-time destination Sunday, December 4, 2005 | AA
An ambitious project devised by Kerala Tourism would offer tourists from all over the world their dream destination equally charming round the year. The 'Submerged Artificial Surf Reef' proposed by the Kerala Tourism at the Eve's beach is a multipurpose project, which would ensure safety of tourists and protection of the coast. This will boost water sports like boating, water skiing, scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing and wave riding.
'Arts and Crafts Village' in Vizhinjam Sunday, December 4, 2005 | AA
Kerala Tourism has revealed its plans to set up an 'Arts and Crafts Village' in Vizhinjam near Kovalam. The Rs. 72 million project will be set up in an area of 16 acres. The project will get an assistance from the Union Government to the tune of Rs. 50 million and the State Government will provide the Rs. 22 million. The project will be completed in a year.
Madhuchandralekhain Saturday, December 3, 2005 | AY
Director Rajasenan and Jayaram, whose combination has given u sso many memorable films are uniting once again in 'Madhuchandralekhain', where his co- star will be his one-time lucky heroine Urvashi who is making her film appearance after Achuvinte Veedu. This film will be another comedy entertainer where a man and woman is forced to marry due to some circumstances and live together. The screenplay is by Reghunath Paleri and music is by M. Jayachandran. The cast also has Harisri Asokan Cochin Haneefa, Bheeman Raghu among others. The shooting of Madhuchandralekha starts on December 19 in Shornur.
Kamal starts a Dileep movie Saturday, December 3, 2005 | AY
Shooting of Dileep’s new film with director Kamal will begin on the 26th of December. Dileep is playing dual roles in this film. Gopika is the heroine. Kamal is extremely eager to start working in the film because he gets to work with Ilayaraaja for the first time.
National meet on herbal drugs Saturday, December 3, 2005 | AY
"Evidence-based herbal drugs: prospects and challenges" will be the theme of the Congress being organised jointly by Oushadhi, Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment and the Medicinal Plants Board of the Union Government, on the two-day fifth national congress on medicinal plants that begins in the capital on December 4. Around 150 delegates from the country are expected to participate in the congress. The former vice-chancellor of the University of Kerala B. Ekbal also attend the congress. The exhibition is being organised by the TBGRI, Agriculture University, Government Ayurveda College and the KFRI. Minister for Forest Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan will inaugurate the valedictory function. The herbal industry is billed to become the country's second biggest revenue earner after IT industry. Herbal medicine is still used by about 75-80 per cent of the world population, mainly in developing countries for primarily health care because of better cultural acceptability, better compatibility with human body and lesser side effects.
Direct flights from Iran to Kochi Saturday, December 3, 2005 | AY
Mahan Air, a private airline of the Islamic Republic of Iran, started its operation of direct weekly flight on Tehran-Cochin sector. A gathering of Iranian and Indian delegation was present at the Cochin airport on the occasion. The ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to New Delhi in his message said that the growth of trade exchange between the two countries has made it imperative to increase direct flight operations. Presently, direct flights operate between Iran and India on Tehran -Mumbai and Tehran-New Delhi sectors. Establishment of direct flights between Tehran and Cochin, is in view of the tourist attractions in this state and also good opportunities in the fields of information technology and pharmaceuticals.
Loss in Pepper business Saturday, December 3, 2005 | AY
According to chief minister Oomen Chandy, the Kerala Cooperative Marketing Federation (Marketfed), will suffer a loss Rs 15 crore on exports of 4,800 tonne of pepper, procured by it, as the subsidy given by the centre is just one-third of that sought by the state. The government’s subsidy includes Rs 5 per kg towards exports and Rs 2 towards freight. The price of Indian pepper in the international markets is currently almost on par with that of other origins. Vietnam is currently quoting $1,400 a tonne (that is Rs 64.2 a kg), while the Indian price is $1,425 a tonne (Rs 66 a kg). Also with the price difference lowering over the last few months, traditional buyers of Indian black pepper such as Canada, Australia, Japan and the US have starting looking at it again.
