Kerala News Archive: January 2006

IT Kerala 2006 begins at Infopark, Kakkanad
Tuesday, January 31, 2006 | MP

The four day IT exhibition IT Kerala 2006 that will showcase the latest from the information technology sector including IT and IT enabled services begins from today at the Infopark, in Kakkanad,Kochi. A major recruitment drive will also be held during these days with over 5,000 job interviews expected on starting day of the event. There are over 25,000 applicants who had registered online for jobs. On the spot registrations are also available for interviews, but such candidates will be called based on the availabity of time. Around 100 IT firms are expected to participate in the event.

Paranju Theeratha Visheshangal
Monday, January 30, 2006 | MP

Directed by national award winning director Harikumar, Paranju Theeratha Visheshangal is a movie that deals with marital relationships. The movie tells the story of a couple who falls in love and get married but has a broken marriage which leads to divorce. The rest of the story portray how the seperation brings up so much pain in the lives of the two. Suresh Gopi, Lakshmi Gopalaswami play the lead roles. Also casts Manya,Jagadi Shreekumar, Sukumari, Janaardhan etc. The film casts Suresh Gopi in a totally different role from his usual violence theme is sure to cheer the family audience.

Overall tourism promotion award for Kerala
Monday, January 30, 2006 | MP

Kerala is said to have bagged the Center government’s overall tourism promotion award and as many as 6 awards have been honoured to the state tourism. The other awards include best literature on tourism for an instruction book on Ayurveda and the award for carefully carrying out the renewal work of Shaktan Tampuran's ancestral house. Under the private sector, Brunton Boatyard, Kochi, has won the national award in the three-star category. Also Coconut Lagoon at Kumarakom has won the best award for conservation and heritage hotel group. The awards will be given away at a function which is scheduled in Delhi on Feb 2.

CMs condition stable after surgery
Sunday, January 29, 2006 | MP

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, who has undergone a surgery at Davos, Switzerland after falling and injuring his right hip, is recovering. Chandy who is undergoing treatment at the Davos Hospital is said to be in stable condition. He is likely to be discharged in a week’s time. The Chief Minister who was in Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) meet, fractured his hip while accidently slipped on ice ground.

Chess
Saturday, January 28, 2006 | MP

Filmmaker Rajbabu is directing a new movie titled 'Chess' with Dileep playing the lead role. The film is said to be an entertainer with comedy cum action. Bhavana will play the female lead. After CID Moosa, Dileep and Bhavana are pairing up together with this movie, Chess. Cast also includes Jagadi, Sai Kumar, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Vijayaraghavan and Ashish Vidhyarthi- who will play negative character for the film. Superstar Films is producing the film. Screenplay is from Udaykrishnan and Sibi K Thomas. Cinematography by Sanjeev Shankar, lyrics- Girish Puthansherry and Vayalar Sharadchandran are the lyricits. Music composed by Suresh Peters.

Technopark campus to add on 1 mn sqft land
Saturday, January 28, 2006 | MP

With the major Mumbai hotels group, Leela Hotels decision to invest onto the IT infopark in Thiruvananthapuram, Technopark will add on another one million square feet of built-up area this year to its existing campus of 1.5 million sq ft built-up area. This will be a major expansion plan for the Technopark campus which currently holds over 90 IT firms that provide work for nearly 10000 skilled workers in the state. Apart from Leela group that is to construct a building of 400,000 sq ft built-up area in the campus, Technopark is also set to build another construction of 600,000-sq ft for the IT companies in its site. With leading IT firms planning to acquire more land in the campus, Technopark is planning to purchase 100 more acres for its campus, says Technopark CEO.

Rajamanikyam leaping towards the 'biggest-ever grosser' status
Friday, January 27, 2006 | AA

Malayalam cinema industry of 2006 is still filled by the euphoria created by the hits of 2005 such as Rajamanikyam, Thanmathra, Tiger etc., with no new releases in the past couple of weeks. "Rajamanickam", which has completed 50 days is continuing its winning streak in all major centers and is becoming the 'biggest-ever grosser' of Malayalam cinema. Dilip's Lion is the next expected major release.

Kinfra with major expansion plans for Kochi
Friday, January 27, 2006 | MP

The Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Kinfra) has big expansion plans in store for Kochi. Apart from its role in the development of many industrial parks in the State, Kinfra has also plans for building a convention centre near Kalamassery. It has acquired 240 acres at Kalamassery where it plans to house a high-tech trade center, a biotechnology park and a Special Economic Zone for electronics hardware along with a gem and jwellery park. The Corporation also got plans for a watercraft park on the Puthuvype Island.

Chota Dada
Thursday, January 26, 2006 | MP

Director Shafi is teaming up with Dileep in his new movie Chota Dada. Kireedam Unni will produce the film. The film is said to be an entertainer filled with comedy, romance and action. Shogan Films is the distributor of the film. Screenplay is by Udayakrishna-Sibi K Thomas. Expections are much high for this Shafi-Dileep winning formulae who has earlier produced hits like ‘Kalyanaraman'.

Govt revises rules for government job quota
Thursday, January 26, 2006 | MP

The Kerala government has come up with a significant decision to revise the rules on the State Sub-ordinate Services Rules for ensuring job reserved for the backward classes in government jobs. Acccording to the revised rule if enough candidates are not available for appointment for the reserved post, it would be kept vacant. With this each backward community will be guaranteed its share of posts. The decision to amend the rules came in view of the findings of the Narendran Commission on representation of Backward Classes in public services.

Satyan and Mohanlal film progressing at Molamattom
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 | AA

Satyan is coming back after 12 years with Mohanlal in his new film. The film tend to be similar in nature to his previous movies. Shooting is progressing at Molamattom, Thodupuzha. Mohanlal is a carpenter. Bharat Gopi is coming as the father of Mohanlal. Meera Jasmine is the heroine. Azhakappan is the camera man. Mohanan is the still photographer. Antony Perumbavoor is producing the movie.

Madhuchandralekha
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 | AA

Rajasenan is coming with Madhuchandralekha with Jayaram after Malayalee Mammanu Vanakkam. Its a second coming for Jayaram with Rajasenan after a gap of couple of years. The film is in the same track as previous Rajasenan movies. Jayaram claim that it will be a good family entertainer and will be a comeback vehicle for Jayaram and Rajasenan. Another notable thoing is the coming back of Urvashi with Jayaram. Actress Mamatha is acting as Rekha in this film. Its Mamtha's 4th film. Lekha is a jolly and humerous charector. Rekhunath Palery is the story writer. TK Devakumar is the production Executive. Yesudas and Minister AP Anilkumar were present during the puja of the film.

Vizhinjam port will be a reality by 2010: M V Raghavan
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 | MP

Ports Miniser M V Raghavan stated that the initial phase of the proposed Rs 4,360 crore Vizhinjam port will be operational by the year 2010. The port will be build in over a 150-acre area near the international beach resort of Kovalam in Thiruvananthapuram. The Mumbai firm Zoom Developers, Kaidi Electric Power Company of China and China Harbour Engineering Company, would undertake the project under a build-operate-transfer (BoT) scheme. They would operate the port for 30 years after which it will be handed over to the state government.

Dhyanam: CD on life and career of Mohanlal
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 | MP

A popular Malalyalam film magazine, Vellinakshatram has released an interactive CD Rom called 'Dhyanam' that depicts the life and career of the Malayalam superstar Mohanlal. Lal is one of the most adored artists in Kerala and the CD with detailed information on his life and history in the film industry is something which his fans would crave for. The CD priced at Rs 350, features details right from his childhood to the making of a superstar. The CD also depicts his soaring career graph, colorful photo galleries, impressions of his colleagues, his great stage shows, interviews at various stages of his career, 50 striking faces, awards he has won and some remarkable movie clippings.

SGRY scheme:Center funds Rs.13.6cr for 6 Kerala districts
Tuesday, January 24, 2006 | MP

The Centre Government on its second phase of payment has released Rs.13.61 crores as grants-in-aid under Sampoorna Grameen Rozgar Yojana (SGRY) to six districts of Kerala. The funds will be used for assistance towards rural development projects under SGRY in the districts of Alappuzha, Kannur, Kasargod, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Wayanad. The programme is aimed at providing additional wage employment and food security for people in rural areas.

Two big budget films for Mammootty
Monday, January 23, 2006 | MP

Malayalam superstar Mammootty has couple of big budget films awaiting him this year. The actor seems to make history again by joining up with hit directors like I V Sasi and Hariharan after a long time. His latest project is I V Sasi's big budget movie, Balaram Vs Tharadas. Another big budget film is also being planned for Mammootty this year with Hariharan and M T Vasudevan Nair teaming up together for the movie, titled 'Paiyam Palli Chandu’. The same team has worked together for 'Oru Vadakkan Veeragaatha' which bagged several national awards for the Malayalam film industry.

Kerala tourism sector focus on eco-tourism
Monday, January 23, 2006 | MP

The Kerala tourism department is focusing on eco friendliness and community participation to draw more tourists into the state. The tourism sector is promoting those investors coming up with environment friendly plans that would benefit the local population. With more tourists going for eco friendly destinations, homestays, and tours that help the travelers merge with the local culture are becoming widely popular. The Kumbalangi model village in Kochi is a fine example for this with tourist arrivals showing up a 35% rise. This model tourist village provides a variety of natural splendours to tourists maintaining the ecological balance of the location.

Keralite in Saudi not to lose his eye
Sunday, January 22, 2006 | MP

Naushad, the Indian national in Saudi Arabia who was sentenced for an eye-for-an-eye punishment finally gets pardon from the victim of the crime. Hailing from the Kollam district in Kerala, Noushad was facing charges in Saudi jail for partially blinding a Saudi national. The good news comes with days ahead of the Saudi King’s arrival in New Delhi who would be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day celebrations.

UAE firm to make steel snake boat for Kerala tourism
Saturday, January 21, 2006 | MP

A UAE based ship design and consultancy firm in Sharjah namely, Aries Marine Engineering Services has recently come up with an innovative design of making a steel snake boat, traditionally known as the 'Chundan Vallam' completely out of steel. The conventional boats usually made out of wood need experienced people for rowing. The new steel snake boats will be unsinkable and anyone with no experience can use these boats. They could be even converted to house boats to serve the tourists during the tourist season. The boat with 170 feet length will be the first steel boat of its kind and could make revolutionary changes in Kerala tourism sector, says the architect in charge of the project.

55 new flights from Thiruvanathapuram
Friday, January 20, 2006 | MP

The Thiruvananthapuram international airport is all prepared to add 55 new flight services to its existing domestic and international sectors in the coming months. This will include foreign carriers including Emirates, Al-Etihad, Saudi Arabian Airlines and Malaysia Airlines. Apart from Indian Airlines and Jet Airways in the domestic sector carriers like Air Deccan, Indigo, Kingfisher and Paramount are expected to start operations from Thiruvananthapuram airport soon. "As of now, close to 1.2 million passengers use the international airport here and with the new international carriers set to commence operations, the number would go up to 1.8 million a year. In the domestic sector, it will increase from 250,000 to 600, 000," says Kerala Association of Travel Agents- President Muraleedharan.

More Malayalam TV channels on the way
Friday, January 20, 2006 | MP

With more Malayalam channels set to hit the TV screens in the coming weeks, Kerala is witnessing an overflow in the number of TV channels being telecasted from the state. Currently there are 13 Malayalam channels and the number is expected to go beyond 20 with more and more establishments like the MM (Malayala Manorama group), Yatra group from Thiruvalla, and political parties eyeing the launch of news and entertainment channels. The impressive profits in the form of advertisements are indicated as the main reason behind the increasing number of the malayalam TV channels making Kerala, the state with the highest number of TV channels.

Govt bans pan masala near schools & hospitals
Thursday, January 19, 2006 | MP

The Kerala government has ordered for an urgent ban on the sale of the tobacco product- pan masala, near educational institutions and health centres. The announcement was made by the Chief Minister after a descion on this regard was taken after a cabinet meeting in Thiruvananthapuram. The ban order will be enforced with immediate effect.

Lok Ayukta hits back at CM
Wednesday, January 18, 2006 | MP

The Kerala Lok Ayukta came out with strong criticism saying the Chief Minister had no authority to inquire on its findings. ''Being a public servant under the provisions of the Lok Ayukta Act, the Chief Minister has no authority to sit in judgement over the findings of the Lok Ayukta,'' said Lok Ayukta Justice. This came in connection with the Chief Minister’s order for an inquiry on the Lok Ayukta's observations in the case against former Health Minister K K Ramachandran.

Dileep starrer, Lion movie postponed to Jan 27
Wednesday, January 18, 2006 | MP

The much awaited Dileep-Kavya starrer, Lion movie which was scheduled for release on Jan 20th is postponed for another week. The film is yet to finish on its technical side and hence the delay in its release. As of now, this Joshy movie will be hitting the theaters on January 27th. Lion is a movie with a political plot meant to cheer the crowds.

Sonia likely to address party men at Kochi in March
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 | MP

According to the State Congress President Ramesh Chennithala, Congress President Sonia Gandhi is likely to visit the state in March. Ms Gandhi is expected to attend a meeting of the Congress workers in Kochi and will be addressing the party workers on the concluding day of the meet. The visit is in view to strengthen the party men ahead of the upcoming Kerala assembly elections likely to be held in May.

Achanurangatha Veedu
Monday, January 16, 2006 | MP

Produced under the banner of Griha Mithra productions, Lal Jose’s Achanurangatha Veedu is a strong realistic film that deals on social issues. Comedian artist Salim Kumar plays a serious character in this movie. The film also casts Murali, Prithviraj, Indrajit and Madhu Warrier. The film is the story of a middle class family who got to face various challenges in life in the name of religion. Samritha and Suja Karthika and newcomer Mukta leads the female cast. Babu Janardhanan is the scriptwriter. Lyrics are by Vayalar Sarath Chandra Varma. Music composed by Alex Paul. Manoj Pillai does the camerawork.

No intention to join politics: Innocent
Monday, January 16, 2006 | MP

Denying the media reports, veteran Malayalee actor Innocent made it clear that he had no intentions to join the Kerala politics. There were media reports that he was being approached by the LDF to contest as their independent candidate from his own native, Iranjalakuda assembly constituency for the upcoming elections. The actor said the reports were groundless and maintained that even if someone comes up to him with a political offer he would say no.

CUSAT honours ISRO and Infy chiefs with doctorates
Monday, January 16, 2006 | MP

The Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) has awarded honorary doctoral degrees of Doctor of Science(D.Sc.) to the Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)- Mr. G. Madhavan Nair and Chief of Infosys Technologies, Mr. Narayana Murthy. CUSAT chancellor said that CUSAT is honouring itself by honouring these two personalities who have made valuable contributions to the country in the field of Science and Technology. Both Dr. Nair and Dr. Narayanamurthy admired CUSAT's efforts in encouraging research across various disciplines and in promoting higher education.

Infosys with major expansion plans in Kerala
Sunday, January 15, 2006 | MP

IT major, Infosys Technologies had formally taken over 50 acres of land in Technopark, Thiruvanthapuram to expand its software base in Kerala by setting up a software development campus there. The documents on the agreement were exchanged between the Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Infosys chairman N R Narayana Murthy. The firm already has a center at the Technopark with 550 employees. "The new campus will employ about 10,000 professionals in the next seven years in the full-fledged stage", said Mr Murthy. As per the agreement, Infosys would invest about Rs 150 crore on infrastructure at the center alone and another Rs 200 crore for the technology side.

Mohanlal as carpenter in Satyan Anthikkad film
Saturday, January 14, 2006 | MP

After his return from the US, Malayam superstar Mohanlal is set out for his New Year project with director Satyan Anthikad in which he ropes in the role of a carpenter. The film is yet to be named. The director well known to the family audience is making a comedy film with Mohanlal in the main lead along with Innocent, Jagathy and Bharath Gopi. Meera Jasmine plays the female lead. Shooting of the film is in progress at Thodupuzha and Moolamattam.

Smart City project deal on Jan 31; CPI-M resists
Saturday, January 14, 2006 | MP

With the government announcing that it would sign the final agreement on the Smart City project deal worth Rs.1.5 billion on Jan 31st, the opposition party, CPI-M stands firm with the objection saying it would not agree with the pact in its present form. CPI-M insisted that the agreement would lead to passing on the Infopark to the Dubai Internet City (DIC), which is unfavorable to the interests of the State. A high-level delegation from DIC is expected to visit Kochi on Jan 31st when the pact will be signed on the opening day of the state’s annual IT event, IT Kerala 2006.

Thikkodian award for poet O.N.V. Kurup
Friday, January 13, 2006 | MP

Renowned poet O.N.V. Kurup has been chosen for the 15th Thikkodian award. Writer O. N. V has been selected for the award for his immense contributions to the literature, and the drama songs section in particular. The award instituted by the Pushpasree Trust in Kozhikode will be presented on Jan 28th which marks the eminent Malayalam playwright Thikkodian’s fifth death anniversary.

Prithviraj gets into ‘Khaki’ again
Thursday, January 12, 2006 | MP

After ‘Sathyam’ and ‘The Police’ actor Prithviraj is donning the khaki uniform once again in M Padmakumar’s new venture ‘Khaki’. The shooting of the movie is underway and Prithvi says it is one of the most realistic cop stories to hit the Malayalam screens. The actor was recently engaged with his Tamil film ‘Parijatham’. Mamta of Mayookham fame plays the female lead in ‘Khaki’.

Kovalam witness decline in tourists this season
Thursday, January 12, 2006 | MP

The beach resort at Kovalam is experiencing a drop in the tourist arrivals this season. The trend indicates that tourists who spend the day at the beaches head for other destinations by the evening. The weather condition has been not so good this season and the rains and lack of space at the beaches is making a negative impact on the resort. Complaints like recurrent power interruptions, drug selling, lack of efficient garbage dumping system and drinking water shortage is holding back the resort. And with the growing demand for high profile hotels, it’s mainly the small hotels that suffer the loss this season.

Muraleedharan rules out return to UDF
Wednesday, January 11, 2006 | MP

Democratic Indira Congress-Karunakaran (DIC-K) leader K. Muraleedharan who left Congress last year maintained that there would no return to the UDF whatever be the case. "Even if we are to suffer we will not return to the Congress-led UDF", said Muraleedharan. He also said that more on the party's future strategies will be taken when the party would meet on January 18th.

Balram Vs Tharadas
Tuesday, January 10, 2006 | MP

All eyes are glued for this I V Sasi’s big budgeted movie Balram Vs Tharadas, where Mammootty brings intact the roles of ‘Inspector Balram’ and ‘Tharadas’ all together in a different version. The film holds significance with Mammooty playing the continuation of his characters from his earlier hits ‘Aavanazhi’, ‘Inspector Balram’ & ‘Aathirathram’. Mammootty is being cast in double role playing a brave cop ‘Balram’ in hunt for the international smuggler ‘Tharadas’ and the clash between the two are being portrayed in ‘Balram vs Tharadas’. The heroine for the movie is model turned Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif, who ropes in to the Malayalam film industry for the first time. She plays an actress and lover of ‘Tharadas’ in the film. Also casts Mukesh,Siddique,Vani Vishwanath. Music is by Jasi Gift. Written by S N Swami; script by T Damodharan. The movie is being shot at Kochi, Kozhikode, Goa, Dubai and London. The anticipations are much high with I V Sasi, T Damodharan and Mammootty, teaming up after a very long gap, perhaps to repeat the success of another block buster. With a budget of over Rs 5crore, this action packed thriller is no doubt the much awaited movie of the year!
Click here for Belram vs Tharadas Full Coverage

NIT Calicut teams up with Taiwan university
Tuesday, January 10, 2006 | MP

The National Institute of Technology, Calicut (NIT-C) has tied up with the National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences (KUAS) in Taiwan for an academic exchange programme. The programme is aimed to promote academic interaction by exchanging students and faculty members among the two universities. It has also been planned to start joint programmes in management and other areas with exchange of faculty between the two universities. This would include university faculty members visiting each other univer

Silent Valley National Park insist on buffer zone
Sunday, January 8, 2006 | MP

With Silent Valley National Park celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Park officials insisted the government on the implementation of its 600 sq. km area surrounding the Park as its buffer zone. The park is facing serious problems with encroachments from various sides threatening the biodiversity of the Park. Though the Park has already made the proposal, the government is yet to make an action on this. Silent Valley houses thousands of flowering and crop plants with many of them being rare species.

‘Tiger’ fail to live up the expectations
Sunday, January 8, 2006 | MP

Reports indicate that the much hyped Suresh Goipi starrer ‘Tiger’ did not make it up to the boxoffice the way it was expected from a Shaji Kailas –Suresh Gopi movie. The collection figures turned out poor even on its release day. Suresh Gopi who adorns the role of a brave cop in this investigative story had many expectations from his fans. However the film received a rather halfhearted reception at the theaters.

Gujarat team with tourism campaign in Kerala
Saturday, January 7, 2006 | MP

A team of officials from Gujarat is in Kerala to promote tourism in the state. The delegation headed by Gujarat Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Kaushik Patel said that they were in Kerala to promote its campaign ‘Sampark Setu’ aimed at building a bridge with the Gujaratis in Kerala to carry out visits to Gujarat. The Gujarat Government also has plans to operate direct train services between Kerala and Gujarat via the Konkan route. These train services would also benefit the malayalee communities in Gujarat.

Plachimada Coke plant gets permit, but with conditions
Friday, January 6, 2006 | MP

The reopening of the controversial Coca Cola factory at Plachimada in Palakkad gets approval from the Kerala High court but certain conditions apply.The plant was shut down in March 2004 after reports alleging the usage of polluted water for the making of the soft drink at the plant. The factory is given license on condition that they would not draw water from Plachimada and also asked to fulfill as many as 17 conditions put forward by the Perumatty Village Council.

Bhavana’s entry into Tamil
Friday, January 6, 2006 | MP

Actress Bhavana is all set to make an entry into Tamil film industry with her new project ‘Aarya’ where she plays a medical college student. She will be playing opposite popular actor Madhavan who also plays a medical student in the film. The director of the movie is said to have liked her face after seeing her movies like Naran, Swapnakoodu etc. She in fact was keeping away from many of the Tamil offers mainly wanting to work under good banners. With the shooting of ‘Aarya’ in progress, one can hope to watch out for her new acting talents in Tamil.

State witnesses investment boom, says Minister for Industries
Thursday, January 5, 2006 | AA

An investment to the tune of Rs. 40,000 crores was drawn to the State in the last four-and-a-half years, said Mr. V. K. Ebrahim Kunju, Minister for Industries. Around 2 lakh people are expected to get indirect employment through the various projects. The minister also said that, of late Kerala has become an investment friendly destination. Six of the eight Industrial Parks in the State have been fully occupied. Quality infrastructure facilities have been implemented in the Industrial Parks. The revival of sick public sector units is under the active consideration of the Government, the minister said. Large numbers of projects were implemented in the private sector in the last year with financial support from banks. This has also resulted in an increase in the CD ratio of banks.

CM lays foundation stone for Norka Centre
Thursday, January 5, 2006 | AA

At a solemn ceremony held at Thiruvananthapuram on December 21, 2005, the Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Oommen Chandy laid the foundation stone for the Norka Centre. The function was presided by the Chairman of NORKA-ROOTS, Mr. M. M. Hassan. Mr. M. A. Yusuf Ali, Director, NORKA-ROOTS delivered the welcome speech, while the Principal Secretary for Non-Resident Keralites' Affairs, Mr. Jiji Thomson delivered the vote of thanks.

ODEPC to recruit nurses to UAE
Thursday, January 5, 2006 | AA

The Overseas Development and Employment Promotion Consultants (ODEPC) ensures security of the candidates recruited through them, said Mr. Babu Divakaran, Minister for Labour. Mr. S. Srinivasan, Labour Commissioner, said that a recruitment drive for nurses to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) would be conducted in January. Kuwait has also conveyed its interest to recruit nurses from the state. Recently ODEPC had selected 639 nurses for placement in Saudi Arabia. A first batch from the selected candidates has already joined duty, and others would join duty soon. The experience in state-of-the-art super speciality hospitals would increase the career prospects of the nurses. Over 5000 Keralites have joined various jobs abroad, according to Mr. Srinivasan.

Online tracking of air cargo launched
Thursday, January 5, 2006 | AA

The new infrastructure for the speedy clearance of import and export cargo at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport was inaugurated recently by the Chief Minister, Mr. Oommen Chandy. Set up at a cost of Rs. 3.9 crores, the facilities would offer better service to the clients. Mr. M. V. Raghavan, Minister for Co-operation presided over the function. A web- enabled Electronic Data Interchange facility was inaugurated by Mr. Raghavan. The facility would help NRKs to keep track of cargo they send to the state from anywhere in the world, through the website of Kerala State Industrial Enterprises (KSIE), www.keralarcade.com. The KSIE also offers online tracking of cargos to the Kozhikode airport. The KSIE manages the air cargo complexes at Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode.

State games: Thiruvanathapuram champions
Thursday, January 5, 2006 | MP

Thiruvanathapuram district became champions in the games level in this years State Games and Athletic meet. Earning 168 points this is the tenth time they are securing the championship in a row. Thrissur district won the second spot pushing Palaghat to the third position. The athletics level competitions will start from today following the inauguration of the athletics meet by the Education minister.

Life imprisonment to DSP in February 2005 murder case
Thursday, January 5, 2006 | AA

Kottayam: A city court today sentenced a senior police officer to life imprisonment for killing his relative who allegdly had an illicit relationship with his wife. Besides sentencing suspended DSP R Shaji, District Sessions Judge R Natarajan also awarded life term to co-accused Mevakkattu Binu.

Actress Philomina in memories
Wednesday, January 4, 2006 | MP

Many from the Malayalam film industry paid homage to veteran Malayalee actress Philomina who passed away on Monday at her son's residence in Chennai. She was 74. She was sick and was suffering from brain related complications. Philomina has acted in over 750 malayalam films including serious and comedy roles; One of her most notable film being Siddique-Lal's superhit film 'Godfather' where she played the main role of 'Anaparel Achamma' along with drama artist N N Pillai.

Effective measures for checking backwater pollution
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

Following scientific studies to analyse the level and impact of pollution of the backwaters in Kerala due to the presence of houseboats, the Government of Kerala has made it mandatory for the houseboat operators to use four-stroke engine within six months, instead of two-stroke one. This is one among the several initiatives taken up to check the alarming rise in pollutants in the backwaters, which is threatening the ecosystem of lakes and rivers in the State. According to the Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mr. E. K. Bharat Bhushan, besides making four-stroke engines mandatory for houseboats, two common facility centers would be soon set up at Alappuzha and Kumarakom for treating the waste from the houseboats. This facility would enable, houseboats to empty the oil residues, sewage and kitchen waste directly into the common facility center, Mr. E. K. Bharat Bhushan said. Also the crew manning the houseboat will be given training in house keeping and also in etiquettes to be followed while interacting with the guests. A single window system to help houseboat operators to get permit for operating in the backwaters would also be introduced.

Central assistance for tourism projects in Kerala
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

Replying to a question raised in the lower house of the Parliament made by the Member of Parliament from Kerala, Mr. Chengara Surendran, the Union Minister for Tourism, Ms. Renuka Chowdhury said that four tourism projects in Kerala worth Rs.260 million has been sanctioned by the Union Government. The projects include setting up of a golf course and country club adjoining the international airport at Nedumbassery; development of Heritage Town in Alappuzha; and beach tourism circuit involving six popular beaches in Kerala.

National recognition for Kerala Tourism
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

Kerala Tourism walked away with the prestigious Galileo Express Travel & Tourism award for the Best State Tourism Board. In a glittering ceremony hosted at The Oberoi, Mumbai, on 7th December 2005, Principal Secretary, (Tourism),Mr.E.K Bharat Bhushan, collected the award for Kerala Tourism. The occasion was marked with the presence of distinguished delegates from the industry and celebrated guests. The Galileo Express Travel & Tourism Awards is an annual event that honours the key players of the tourism industry. Aimed at establishing a benchmark in the industry, the awards in various categories of travel and tourism have been constituted to raise the standards of quality in product offerings and levels of service in the tourism sector. India's only tourism Superbrand, Kerala has a long-term highly focused marketing and conservation strategy that strengthens its positioning as the destination for the global up-market tourist.

Tourism headed for major growth: Minister for Tourism
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

An investment to the tune of Rs. 40,000 million by the public and private sectors is expected in the State within two years, said Mr. K. C. Venugopal, Minister for Tourism. The minister was speaking after inaugurating a seminar on the topic “Tourism: Prospects and Challenges" organised jointly by the Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS) and the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) at the Kanakakkunnu Palace in Thiruvananthapuram recently. By earning foreign exchange and improving infrastructure facilities, the tourism sector has played a major role in the development of the State, the minister said. Maintaining the serenity of nature and culture, and ensuring that the local community benefit from the tourism are important factors, the minister pointed out. Though in a small way, the traditional sectors and the rural community have started reaping the benefits from tourism. Emphasising on the State's commitment in providing necessary facilities for the long-term development of tourism, the minister said that the demand for trained professionals would be met by setting up an International Hospitality Institute in Alappuzha.

Ordinance to safeguard Ayurveda sector: Minister for Tourism
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

The State Government would soon issue the ordinance to regulate the functioning of Ayurveda parlours in Kerala, said the Minister for Tourism, Mr. K. C. Venugopal. The minister was speaking after inaugurating the valedictory function of the three-day ‘Global Ayurveda Summit and Ayurveda Expo’ at Thrissur. The state has enormous potential in health tourism and the State Government through the ordinance intends to ensure the sustainable and quality development in the sector.

Bekal to get more infrastructure facilities
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

As part of the efforts to boost the infrastructure development in Bekal, the State Government has entered into a lease agreement with two companies. According to this, Cgh Earth leading hotel group would construct a five star hotel in the destination. The project would be implemented soon. Air Travel Enterprises another company that has entered into an agreement would also set up resort units. The state Government is implementing development works in the destination to the tune of Rs. 150 million. Beautification of the Pallikkara beach, drinking water project by setting up storage facilities, joint road development with NABARD, tourist facilities near the fort, railway cross in Chithari, setting up boat terminals in Valiyaparamba backwaters and feasibility study on Valiyaparamba are various projects undertaken for the overall development of the destination. The State Government had formed the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation for the development of the destination.

Kerala emerges as prime destination in Asia- Pacific, says Mr. T. Damu
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

The State is emerging as a prime tourist destination in the Asia- Pacific region, said Mr. T. Damu, member National Tourism Advisory Council and Vice- President of Indian Hotels Company Ltd. In his presentation on ‘Focus on Tourism in Kerala' at the recently concluded International Congress on Kerala Studies, Mr. Damu said that registering a 26.68 percent increase in the tourist inflow in 2004, Kerala has proved that it is a fast growing destination in the country. According to the forecast by the World Travel and Tourism Council and Oxford Economic Forecasting Group, the state would witness a three- fold growth in employment in the travel and tourism sector from the present 6,93,000 to 20 lakh by 2012.

Beach tourism circuit development with central assistance
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | AA

Kerala Tourism has identified six major beaches, located in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Ernakulam and Kannur as part of the beach circuit project for development. The project would receive financial assistance from the Central Government. The beaches are Shanghumugham in Thiruvananthapuram, Cherai in Ernakulam; Nattika in Thrissur; and Muzhippilangad, Payyambalam and Meenkunnu beaches in Kannur District. The project would see setting up of paved walkways, parking areas, cloak rooms, kiosks, seating areas, toilets, open-air amphitheatres, children's parks, landscaped gardens, food courts etc. The project would be implemented through the Kerala Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation (KITCO) and the project is likely to be over in two years time from the date of commencement.

Thanmatra
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | MP

Blessy’s Thanmatra is a pure emotional family film with perfection at its best. The story is about a government employeed man living a happy family life with wife and chidren. But things take a turn when he is found diagnosed with Alzemier’s disease. The movie brings out some outstanding performances of Mohanlal. Actor Arjun who plays Mohanlal’s son has done a brilliant performance. Meera Vasudevan is yet to sharpen her skills. Nedumudi Venu in father role is moving. Songs are average. Sethu Sriram’s camera work is excellent. The story is well told with a simple theme. Blessy can take up all the credit for his superb work. However the movie cannot be counted as an entertainer and hence may fail to make its commercial prospects.


Go here for the full coverage of Thanmatra film

Explosives recovered from Kozhikode bus station
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | MP

A packet containing explosives were recovered from Kozhikode KSRTC bus stand on Mavoor Road. Highly explosive 45 gelignite sticks were found at the cloakroom of the bus stand which the police seized after receiving a bomb threat call from a public booth nearby. The sticks have been diffused. The label on the sticks indicates that they were made at Vellore in Tamil Nadu. More investigations are underway.

‘Kerala March’ starts out at Mangeswaram
Tuesday, January 3, 2006 | MP

The CPM’s ‘Kerala March’ inaugurated by Opposition Leader V S Achuthanandan has set off at Mangeswaram amidst of packed party workers. The march would highlight the slogans of social justice and comprehensive development of Kerala. The leader also alleged that the march would bring out the drawbacks of the UDF government. The march being led by State secretary Pinarayi Vijayan would conclude at Thiruvananthapuram on Jan 25.

Makaravilakku festival starts
Sunday, January 1, 2006 | MP

The yearly Makaravilakku festival at Sabarimarimala has started on Saturday with the chief tanthri conducting the Ganapati homom. The Pettathullal at Erumely will be held on January 11 while the ‘thiruvabharanam’ will set off on January 12th . With the festival season on the mood, lakhs of devotes are expected to visit the pilgrimage at Sabarimala. Special arrangements are being made at Sabarimala to clear the rush during the season.

Ramba to pair with Kalabhavan Mani
Sunday, January 1, 2006 | MP

Actress Rambha will play the leading female role opposite Kalabhavan Mani in Haridas’s new project ‘Red’. The two are pairing together for the first time. The movie casts Mani and Ramba in action roles. There are also rumours that this glamour girl is soon to get married.

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