Kerala News Archive: June 2005

Nayanthara too busy in tamil
Thursday, June 30, 2005 | AY

Nayantara at the preview of the "Raapakal" said it was the best performance of her till date and she have to thank Kamal sir for making her look so convincing as a servant girl. She too added that Raapakal will be her last malayalam release for some time. She is too busy in Tamil with four films and will only take up films in Malayalam if they are exciting.

Kochi airport - Busiest airport
Thursday, June 30, 2005 | AY

Kochi International Airport has become the second major airport in South India after Chennai, going by its growing traffic. The six-year-old airport had registered a traffic of 900,000 passengers during 2004-05, overtaking even Bangalore airport. Customs checks had been made selective and largely based on intelligence reports, as against random verification in vogue in the past. As a result, passengers arriving by international flights could walk away with their luggage without loss of time. Kochi being a major port, tourist arrivals by cruise vessels has also started picking up with nine such cruise vessels calling at the port last year.

Chandy not in good terms with the churches
Wednesday, June 29, 2005 | AY

The Chief Minister, Mr Oommen Chandy doesn’t seem to be hitting it off with Christian leaders in Kerala, with the supreme head of Jacobite Syrians being the latest to criticise his government. Following a long dragging dispute between Jacobite Syrians and the Orthodox faction over the ownership of a church near the Thrikunnath Seminary near Aluva, when the police allegedly baton-charged them, prompting angry reactions from the supreme head of the church. The supreme head of the faction Baselios Thomas I said that ever since UDF has come into power their church has been having a bad time. Traditionally, Christians in Kerala have always had a soft corner for the UDF and have been a sizeable vote bank for the Congress.

Ayurveda posing a threat to the state
Wednesday, June 29, 2005 | AY

Ayurveda which was the main attraction to grab tourists from all over the world is now facing major problems due to quacks and amateurs who are trying to make a quick money. It is losing its respect since there is no mechanism for checking whether the massage and ayurvedic centers mushrooming all over Kerala are bona fide or not. The situation has come to such a high that many international tour agencies have written to Kerala Government to remove ayurveda packages from their tour packages. The state government has also taken note of this issue and the threat it poses to the state's tourism industry and its reputation at large.

Monsoon tourism gaining momentum
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | APA

KALPETTA: After the cool summer it is the lashing monsoon rains with their exotic rhythms that attract tourists to the tourism spots of the district.Situated at an altitude between 700 and 2000 metres above sea level on the Western Ghats, the mist clad hilly terrain of Wayanad offers a right get-away spot for those looking for a quite holiday, accompanied by the musical rain showers.Gone are the days when tourists used to keep off during monsoon season. ‘‘There are tourists who opt to come down exclusively to enjoy the rains,’’ says Vancheeswar of Wynberg Resorts (04936-247823).The concept of monsoon tourism is slowing picking up among the new generation, particularly the bachelor backpackers who land in from metros like Bangalore and Chennai.The exact spot to enjoy the varied facets of rain is Lakkidi, once known as the Chirapunchi of the South. To cater to the rain lovers are the umpteen number of resorts like Vythiri Resorts (04936-255366), Rain Country Resorts (04936-255286 to 88) and Jungle Park.At Ambalavayal on the Ambukuthi mountain ranges, is the Edakkal Hermitage Resort (04936-221860) close to the well-known Edakkal Caves and in the valley of the hills there is the Tranquil Resort.To tap the mounting potential of health tourism sector, many resorts offer monsoon tour packages including ayurveda treatment modules, with a slashed room tariff rates.

Distribution of birth and death certificates Computerised kiosks soon in 182 hospitals
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | APA

KOCHI: The project to set up computerised kiosks in 182 hospitals in the state to distribute birth and death certificates will be launched formally next month. Jointly planned by the Information Kerala Mission and the five corporations, the project will change the system of issuing of certificates. The process will be more people-friendly as the kiosks will ensure timely and error-free issuing of certificates to the public. Corporations have started signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the hospitals. And a meeting of the representatives of the hospitals will be held in the last week of this month to discuss various aspects of this project. A total of 50 hospitals in Thiruvananthapuram, 16 in Kollam, 45 in Kochi, 30 in Thrissur and 41 hospitals in Kozhikode will come under this project. SAT Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram registers the highest number of deliveries in the state followed by Kozhikode Medical College. In Kochi, Medical Trust Hospital has the highest number of deaths while the Women and Child Hospital in Mattancherry records the maximum number of deliveries. All these hospitals will be included in the project to ease the certification process. ‘‘We were planning to begin the project this month itself, but a few things came up, so we have postponed it to next month,’’ says P. V. Unnikrishnan, Executive Director of Information Kerala Mission. The project met with some hiccups in Kochi as hospitals and corporation locked horns over the issue of waste management. State government had allotted Rs 2.5 crore for implementing the project in these five corporations. The Information Kerala Mission is entrusted with the overall project management, finalisation of software applications, devising strategies for secure data transfer, data validation and professional database management and training four staff each from the hospitals. And the corporations have to position personnel for the corporation counter, meet the running costs for the project from user charges fixed for the project, signing MoU with the private hospitals in their jurisdiction and clearing the backlog through a campaign. Hospitals will have to provide a 25 sq ft space to install the equipment and also a computer. The certificates will be issued free of charge. The project is expected to clear the entire backlog of certificates relating to the last five years.

Automated blood culture system at MIMS
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | APA

KOZHIKODE: To speed up diagnostic procedures in its microbiology laboratory, the Malabar Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS) has introduced an automated blood culture system. The system will help the doctors to diagnose the disease even during the primary growth stage of the bacteria. This hi-tech machine is claimed to be the first such facility in Malabar. This will help faster diagnosis and quicker treatment. In connection with the installation of the new machine, the MIMS in association Biomerieux, the French manufacturer of the blood culture system, organised a one-day continuing medical education programme for doctors on the ‘Updates to clinicians on advances in microbiology techniques’ at MIMS auditorium on Sunday. MIMS Academy chairman Dr. C.K. Jayaram Panicker said that the doctors should be aware of the changing technological trends in the laboratory systems and in medicine. Kozhikode Medical College microbiology professor Dr. Lathi Nair explained how useful were the laboratory reports in detecting diseases such as dengue fever, typhoid and paratyphoid.

Allow private airlines to operate in Kerala-Gulf sector’ -Hassan
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | APA

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: NORKA-Roots Chairman and former Minister M. M. Hassan has urged the Centre to allow private airlines to operate services in the Kerala-Gulf sector.

Hassan told reporters here on Monday that the entry of private airlines in the sector would force the Air-India to reduce the tariff and provide more facilities to passengers.

He said that despite a high tariff, there were widespread complaints about the facilities being provided by the Air-India. There were several instances of flight cancellation by the Air-India owing to technical reasons and of passengers getting off-loaded in the last minute.

He said that the Air-India should operate more flights during the peak season. A memorandum in this regard had been submitted to the authorities, he said. ‘‘Unless the Air-India initiated measures to resolve these issues, the growing resentment among the passengers towards the national career will explode,’’ he said.

Strike turns violent; SFI, AISF activists hurt in police lathicharge
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | APA

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Several activists of the SFI and the AISF were injured in police lathicharge in Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts in connection with the state-wide strike called by the pro-Left student organisations on Monday.

The strike was called in protest against the police action on student activists who tried to disrupt the entrance examination for admission to management quota seats in the private self-financing professional colleges on Sunday.

In Pathanamthitta, nearly 20 SFI activists were injured when police resorted to lathicharge on a march to the Mini Civil Station. Those injured include SFI district secretary Roshan Roy Mathew and joint secretary D.Janishkumar. Both of them, who suffered fractures, were later subjected to surgery at the Pathanamthitta General Hospital.

The pro-Left student and youth organisations later took out a protest march and staged a dharna at the Collectorate Junction. Deshabhimani reporter Dileep Malayalappuzha was allegedly assaulted and abused by the police during the melee.

In Kollam, a march taken out by the AISF to the Office of the Deputy Director of Education turned violent. Nearly 19 student activists were injured in police lathicharge following an attempt by a section of the activists to barge into the office. The injured were admitted to the District Hospital.

In Thiruvananthapuram, the pro-Left student organisations and the KSU (Indira) took out protest marches to the Secretariat. Many educational institutions remained closed.

EDUCATION BANDH: The AISF and the SFI have called an education bandh in Kollam and Pathanamthitta respectively on Tuesday in protest against the police action on Monday.

Kerala varsity exams postponed
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | APA

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala University has postponed all examinations scheduled to be held on Tuesday. The new dates will be announced later. MA PHILOSOPHY VIVA VOCE: The viva voce of the fourth semester MA Philosophy of the university will be held at the University College here on July 4 and the Government Women’s College here on July 5. The viva voce will be held from 10 am. MPHIL TAMIL: The entrance examination for admission to the MPhil Tamil course of the university will be held on June 29. The interview for the same will be held on June 30. PGDCJ: The last date for submitting the applications for the Postgraduate Diploma in Communication and Journalism examination of the university without fine is July 11. The applications can be submitted with a fine of Rs 50 till July 14.

BSc MLT RESULTS: The results of the supplementary examinations of the first year BSc MLT of the university have been published.

MDS RESULTS: The results of the MDS (part-I) of the university have been published.

BSc INSTRUMENTATION: The results of the sixth semester BSc Instrumentation examination of the university have been published.

The last date for applying for revaluation and scrutiny is July 23.

MA SANSKRIT: The results of the MA Sanskrit (credit and semester) general examinations of the university have been published. S.R.Divya won the first rank.

Kerala not to join stir today
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | APA

Thiruvananthapuram, June 28. (PTI): Kerala would not join the Left parties'-sponsored nationwide protest over the oil price hike issue today, CPI (M) sources said here. Kerala would not join the stir as the state witnessed a day's motor strike over the issue on June 22, besides a BJP-led 'hartal', they said. However, picketing of government offices in district headquarters and some other places has been planned, they added. CPI(M), CPI, RSP and Forward Bloc are observing this day as an 'Action Day', demanding a rollback of the oil price hike.

Kerala govt invests in TV production
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | AY

The Kerala Venture Capital Fund, a company promoted by the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation, the Kerala Financial Corporation and the Small Industries Development Bank of India, has acquired 40 percent equity in the production house Symphony Entertainment Private Ltd. This is going to provide television software to all existing television channels in Kerala. The new company, with an initial capital of Rs.10 million, would be headed by veteran Malayalam television personality V. Krishna Kumar, who was formerly with Asianet and Kairali TV channels. It also has on board superstar Mohanlal, media personality Sashi Kumar and author Paul Zacharia. Since, the monthly requirement of programmes for all Malayalam TV channels which is around 2,500 programmes is not met, it is in this field that they will shine and prove their capacity.

Kerala not joining the protest
Tuesday, June 28, 2005 | AY

Kerala would not join the Left parties sponsored nationwide protest over the oil price hike issue, CPI (M) sources said here. Kerala would not join the stir as the state witnessed a day's motor strike over the issue on June 22, besides a BJP-led 'hartal'. CPI(M), CPI, RSP and Forward Bloc are observing this day as an 'Action Day', demanding a rollback of the oil price hike.

Rapakkal inspired from an old hindi movie
Monday, June 27, 2005 | AY

The buzz among scriptwriters in Malayalam is that Mammootty’s latest film "Rapakkal" has lifted plots of Hindi films of 60’s and 70’s, given them Kerala nativity to suit the taste of Malayalee audience. Rajesh Khanna classic of 1975 "Bawarchi", directed by late Hrishikesh Mukherjee has the same story line of a happy-go-lucky cook in a large household who is adored by everyone. The mistress of the house adores him as he tries and solves various problems in the house. Similarly in Rapakkal Mamootty plays Krishnan, a cook in Krishnamangalam Kovilakam, where he is the pet of Saraswathi Amma (Sarada). T.A.Razak has written the story and Mohan Sitara has tuned some melodious music.

Lohitdas and Sathyan Andhikaad join hands
Monday, June 27, 2005 | AY

Lohithadas is going to work with director Sathyan Andhikaad again after a long break. Lohithadas and Sathyan Andhikaat had previously worked together in the film ‘Veendum Chila Veetukaryangal’. Jayaram and Thilagan gave sterling performance in the film. As soon as Sathyan Andhikaat and Lohithadas complete their present projects, the two will start discussing their new film together. Lohithadas will write the story and screenplay and Sathyan Andhikaat will direct it.

Enterance exams disrupted
Sunday, June 26, 2005 | AY

The SFI and AISF activists also tried to disrupt the entrance exams in Malappuram and Kozhikode. The police had to lathicharge the activists who tried to interrupt the exams in MEA College in Malappuram. In the scuffle, five suffered injuries. In Payannur also, the police had to lathicharge the activists of the SFI and AISF who tried to disrupt the entrance exams to be held at the SNG College here.

Cell phones , fashion shows not permitted in schools
Sunday, June 26, 2005 | AY

The State Government on Saturday issued an order banning the use of mobile phones, holding of fashion shows and cinematic dance in educational institutions. Traditional cultural programmes could be conducted in educational institutions after the ethics committees of the respective institutions accepted them. The heads of the institutions and ethics committees have been given the power to take action against the teachers and students who violate the rule. The education department will have the power to derecognise the institutions, which fail to implement the order.

Mayuri committed Suicide
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

Tamil actress Mayuri ended her life at her residence in Chennai on Wednesday, police sources say. She was dear for malayalees through her performance in the TV serial Sthree. She also acted in Arayannangalude Veedu with Mammootty. The 22-year-old actress was found hanging from the ceiling fan of a room of her house yesterday. Police believe that the incident happened on Wednesday when her family members were not at home. According to the police, a suicide note found in the room says that nobody was responsible for her death. “I have lost faith in life,” the note said. Mayuri (also known as Shalini) has acted in Tamil films like 7G Rainbow Colony , Manmadhan and Kana Kandein. She has also acted in some Malayalam and Kannada films.

Strict action against fake agencies: Chief Minister
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

Strict action would be taken against fake recruitment agencies that cheat overseas jobseekers, said the Chief Minister, Mr. Oommen Chandy. He was speaking after inaugurating the 'Information Counter' opened jointly by the NORKA- ROOTS and United India Insurance at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. The Chief Minister said that in his recent visit to the Gulf, several problems faced by the Malayalees were brought to his notice. A team of legislators led by the Minister for Labour, Mr. Babu Divakaran and Minister for Power, Mr. Aryadan Mohammed would soon visit the Gulf countries and based on their report the Government would take more actions. The Chief Minister opined that the 'Information Counter' could provide help and guidance to fresh overseas job seekers. The functioning of the counter would be evaluated periodically and necessary changes will be made. The Chairman of NORKA- ROOTS, Mr. M. M. Hassan said that similar counters would be opened at the Airports at Kochi and Kozhikode. The counter would also provide information regarding the procedures while disembarking at foreign airports. The Chief Minister inaugurated the counter by giving the flight coupon to Mr. Jacob Chacko bound to Saudi Arabia. Mr. Jiji Thomson, Principal Secretary, NORKA, Dr. P. T. Nandakumar, Chief Executive Officer of NORKA- ROOTS; Mr. Sanatkumar, Regional Manager, United India Insurance; Mr. Francis Joseph, Senior Divisional Manager were also present on the occasion

NORKA-ROOTS to issue Smart cards for NRKs
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The NORKA-ROOTS would soon issue multipurpose Smart Cards to Non- Resident Keralites. This was stated recently by the NORKA-ROOTS Chairman, Mr. M. M. Hassan. The cards would enable the Non- Resident Keralites to get priority in Government offices in the state among other facilities. All members of Keralite families staying outside the state can get the card. It would carry necessary details of the holder including residential address in the state, details of passport and visa, expiry date of visa, country or state where the holder is employed and nature and details of job. All cards will have holograms and can also be used for the renewal of visas. The cards would be issued through the offices of NORKA- ROOTS and if possible would also be distributed through the embassies.

The State Bank of Travancore has agreed in principle to provide ATM access to the cardholders. Mr. Jiji Thomson, Principal Secretary, NORKA had held talks with the bank officials in this regard. Mr. Hassan said that the cards would be priced reasonably. Mr. P. T. Nandakumar, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NORKA- ROOTS said that since details including those of passport and visa are recorded, the card would be useful in the event of passports being detained by the employer. Mr. Hassan also said that the State Government has requested the Air India to charge the same fare during both peak and off- seasons. Mr. V. J. Kurian, Managing Director of Cochin International Airport has submitted a project report for the proposed Airline service to be started with the support of NRIs. On the issue of NRI voting rights, Mr. Hassan said that a draft proposal for amendments in the People's Representation Act has been forwarded to the Union Government.

'Kerala Airlines' would soon be a reality
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) would launch Kerala Airlines, a budget airline service based in Kochi. The proposed airline would function under a company formed under the CIAL and services would be made to Gulf countries and south Indian states including Bangalore, Madras, Trichi, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram. The Managing Director of CIAL, Mr. V. J. Kurian has submitted a detailed project report in this regard to the State Government. A formal approval by the ministry for the project is expected soon. 74 percent shares of the proposed company would be with the public and 26 percent with the State Government and CIAL. The airline service is estimated to cost around Rs.100 crore. The public will be given discount coupons for travel for the equal amount of shares. This offer is expected to woo the major beneficiaries of the project, the Non- Resident Keralites and businessmen.

Project for effective utilisation of expatriate investments
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Union Minister for NRI Affairs Mr. Jagdish Tytler said that projects would be envisaged for the effective utilisation of expatriate investments. The Minister revealed this in his address at the seminar on 'Expatriates and Developmentconducted by the Information and Public Relations Department in Kozhikode. Investment and entrepreneurship possibilities would be explored in co- operation with other countries, the Minister said. It is learnt that over 50,000 job opportunities would be available in Malaysia soon. Malaysia has evinced interest in co- operating with India for human resources, according to the Minister. The proposed airline service mooted by the State Government can play an effective role in the relations between the two countries, the Minister said.

The Minister said that electronic Smart Cards would be made compulsory for all Indians bound to the Gulf countries from August 1st. The Smart Card would provide details like the holder's job, employer and this is expected to prevent exploitation of expatriates. The Card comes with insurance coverage and the nominee of the amount will be recorded on the card. Mr. A Sujanapal, MLA; Mr. Binoy Viswam MLA; Mr. V. K. C. Mammed Koya M.L.A.; Mr. P. T. Abdul Latheef, Deputy Mayor of Kozhikode Corporation and Ms. Rachna Shah, District Collector spoke on the occasion. Mr. Jiji Thomson, Principal Secretary, NORKA, said that more training classes would be conducted for candidates going for overseas jobs. A training programme in association with the Kudumbasree has been envisaged. Seminars on NRI investment possibilities in Kerala would be held in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. NORKA would also consider the idea of opening 'Students Cell' to give information about overseas job opportunities.

Legislators visit jailed Keralite women
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

A team of legislators from Kerala including Adv. A. N. Rajan Babu, Mr. K. P. Rajendran and Mr. K. Radhakrishnan during their recent visit to Dubai collected first hand information about the plight of some jailed Keralite women. The MLAs visited 33 Indian women of which 17 are Keralites jailed in the Central prison at Jumera. The women hailing from different places in the State were brought to Dubai by illegal agencies and were forced to flesh trade. Though many of them have completed their sentence, since they don't have passports and other necessary travel documents they are detained in the jail. The MLAs would submit a report to the Chief Minister of Kerala detailing the steps required to prevent such happenings in the future. Measures to curb illegal recruitment agencies would also be proposed in the report. The Non- Resident Keralites' Affairs Department had earlier rescued some women who faced difficulties in the Gulf.

NORKA assists jobless women
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The unique initiative of NORKA-ROOTS to provide self-employment opportunities to jobless women was inaugurated by the Chief Minister, Mr. Oommen Chandy in Thiruvananthapuram. In this scheme, NORKA- ROOTS gives a financial assistance of Rs.10,000 to 58 beneficiaries for buying wet grinders. The Chief Minister distributed the amount to the beneficiaries from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha districts.

Kudumbasree volunteers to get NORKA training for overseas jobs
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Non- Resident Keralites' Affairs Department and the Kudumbasree would join hands to provide training to Kudumbasree volunteers for overseas jobs. The beneficiaries selected by the Kudumbasree would be given two- week training at the NORKA- SCMS institute at Kalamassery in Kochi. The basic qualification for selection will be SSLC. The course is expected to give the candidates awareness about the culture, language and tradition in the Gulf countries. It also includes basic coaching in English and Arabic, table manners and handling of home appliances. Training for the first batch would start on June 16th. The participants will be issued certificates.

Pravasi Sahitya Award for 'Nizhal Nilangal'
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

Mr. A. M. Mohammed from Abu Dhabi won the first Pravasi Sahitya Award for his novel 'Nizhal Nilangal'.. The award instituted by the State Government include citation, memento and a cash prize of Rs. 25,000 said Mr. M. M. Hassan Chairman of NORKA- ROOTS. The award committee included Mr. T. Padmanabhan, Perumbadavam Sreedharan, Mrs. Sugathakumari and Mr. M. R. Thampan. The award will be presented at the forthcoming 'Samawayam'.

High level committee formed in Saudi Arabia for recruitment
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Labour ministry of Saudi Arabia has formed a high level committee to inquire on the complaints of companies on the issue of recruitment of more foreign employees and legalising the appointments.The Labour Minister, Dr. Gauzy Al-Qusiby said that the applications would be considered and permissions will be given to recruit adequate staff from foreign countries. The committee is expected to devise solutions for the problems faced by the foreign investors due to shortage of staff.

Five Kendriya Vidyalayas to be opened in the Gulf
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Union Minister of State for Human Resource Development, Mr. Ali Ashraf Fatmi said that five Kendriya Vidyalayas would be opened in the Gulf region. Three of them would be opened in Saudi Arabia and one each at UAE and Muscat. The Minister also held discussions with Indian community in Jeddah regarding issues related to the education of Indians there. Currently three Kendriya Vidyalayas function outside India. The Minister had earlier held discussions with authorities of several universities and other educational institutions to chart out a solution to resolve the educational problems of Indians in Saudi Arabia. Many renowned educational institutions from India are planning to open centres in various Gulf countries, the Minister said. Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Indian Consul General, informed that sanction has been given to three Indian Universities to open examination centres in Jeddah. Examinations for degree and Post- Graduate degree courses in Arts and Commerce would be conducted at these centres. The Indian Consul General would supervise the centres.

Calicut University to open study centres abroad
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The University of Calicut would open study centres abroad, according to a recent decision taken by the University Syndicate. The first centre will be opened in Bahrain. More centres would be opened in different countries in the next stage. The decision is expected to be of great help to Keralites in the Gulf, especially those from the northern part of the state. The Syndicate in a communiqué ¨oped that the decision to provide quality higher education would help the expatriates to earn more which in turn would boost the State's economy.

High level committee formed in Saudi Arabia
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

Inspired by the encouraging response to Air India Express services, more aircrafts would be added to the fleet, said Mr. D. I. Chibbar, Co-ordination Commercial Manager. Four aircrafts would be bought next year and more aircrafts would be hired this year. Mr. Chibbar clarified that the ticket rates for Air India Express starts from Rs.3250. When these tickets are fully booked tickets will only be available in the second slab of Rs.3500. Low rate tickets are sold out very quickly, he said.

SilkAir announces special package
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Singapore based airline service; SilkAir has announced special packages in the Thiruvananthapuram- Singapore route for the ' Great Singapore Sale 2005'. The first package includes an economy class ticket, three nights hotel accommodation on twin share basis, breakfast, airport and hotel transfers, half-day city tour and a free baggage allowance of additional 20 kg from Singapore. The package costs Rs.19,399 and is valid till July 24. The second package offers business class travel in one sector in addition to other offers of the first scheme and costs Rs.27,777 per person.

Major breakthrough for Twin City project
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Twin City project signed between the corporations of Thiruvananthapuram and Newham in London is progressing successfully, reports say. The latest development is a financial aid of Rs.£ 40,000 from the Newham Corporation for a ward level digital mapping project of Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. The mapping program would help the corporation to evolve long term development strategies based on specific needs. The first phase of the project is to develop GIS maps from the physical maps available with the Survey Department. Preparation of ward level maps with the help of trained volunteers includes the second step. Plot- level precision maps would be prepared in the next phase and in the final stage proper scale maps would be developed. Once completed, the new tool would immensely help the corporation to solve many problems scientifically. Easy detection of zonal violations and issuance of building permits are some among them. Officials from the Newham Council would provide necessary training for the project.

Government to conduct road shows to promote B2B Meet
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The State Government in an effort to boost the participation of leading small and medium industries in the upcoming B2B meet to be held in Kochi would conduct Road Shows in foreign countries, according to the State Minister for Industries, Mr. V. K. Ebrahim Kunju. The Kerala State Industries Development Corporation would conduct the Road Shows. This year's meet is based on ten sectors; handicrafts, food and spices, herbal products, Ayurveda, Pharmaceuticals, coir, wood based industries, rubber and plastics, electrical and electronics and chemicals. The Minister said that the Road Shows would help to give a global outlook for the meet.

Sanction for Haj House in Karipur
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | APA

The Central Haj Committee has given sanction to start a Kerala Haj house at Karipur. The Haj house would provide accommodation and prayer facilities to around 800 persons. An audio- video theatre with a capacity of 300 would also be set up. Of the total 4.5 crore needed for the construction, 1.35 would be given by the Central Committee, 1 crore by State government and the rest of the amount will be collected from well wishers. The State Industries Minister who is also in charge of Haj, Mr. V. K. Ebrahim Kunju said that necessary sanctions would be given to the construction. The minister in his representation to the Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. E. Ahammed requested to allot quotas for Haj on the basis of the Muslim population in the respective States. The Minister also requested to operate three jumbo jet services from Karipur during the Haj season.

Pouran
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | AY

Sundar Das directs his new movie "Pouran" which casts Jayaram, Geetu Mohandas, Kalabhavan Mani, Vijayaraghavan, KPAC Lalitha. Divakaran (Jayaram) is an MLA who works for the people. Despite opposition from the corrupt in the party, Divakaran, manages to win the elections and become an MLA. Diwakaran is loved and respected by everyone but he also has to face some powerful enemies inside his party. Geetu Mohandas as Jayaram's wife has given a powerful performance, but the story of communist bashing and honest politician has come too often and fails to excite the public. Music by Raghu Kumar is average. Shanki Mahendran, son of noted cameraman Balu Mahendra in his debut as cinematographer shows promise.

Air sahara introduces new packages
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | AY

Air Sahara has announced new packages for its passengers providing free food, vehicle and accommodation in Delhi and Hyderabad. The passengers who purchase to and fro flight tickets for the journey on Kochi - Delhi route will be eligible to avail free accommodation with breakfast for four days in the five-star deluxe hotel, Asoka in Delhi. The package also includes free transportation facility from the airport to the hotel and back to the airport. Fruit basket, mineral water etc too will be available to the passengers who have taken Kochi-Delhi-Kochi tickets for Air Sahara flights.

New KPCC president nominated by Sonia
Saturday, June 18, 2005 | AY

Congress president Sonia Gandhi was today authorised to nominate the new president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC). Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala has emerged as the clear winner in the race for the post of president. There was a strong demand from several leaders that elections should be held so as to give a befitting reply to veteran leader K Karunakaran, who quit the party alleging that it could not conduct free and fair organisational poll. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, outgoing KPCC president Thennala Balakrishna Pillai, former Chief Minister A K Antony and United Democratic Front(UDF) Convener P P Thanakachan were among the prominent leaders, who attended the meeting.

Mammooty in hindi movie
Friday, June 17, 2005 | AY

Mega star Mammooty, after a long gap of 8 years is doing a hindi film called Sau Jhooth Ek Sach. Mammootty's first debut in Hindi was Dharthiputra and later he acted in Triyatri and Baba Saheb Ambedkar. Vikram Gokhale, Lillette Dubey, Neha Dupia and Joy Sengupta are in the cast.The film is produced under the banner of Thing 16,directed by Bappaditya Roy.

Malayalam flm magazine launched from gulf
Friday, June 17, 2005 | AY

Dubai-based leading publishers Corporate Publishing International (CPI) would launch a Malayalam cinema magazine, titled as ''Take one''for the benefit of the the keralite community. Malayalam superstar Mammootty, unveiled the idea at a function attended by a large number of cine artistes. The style magazine will be focusing on film industry and celebrity life and would be available free on the internet in `digital publishing' format with video clippings.

Kerala trying hard to woo tourists
Friday, June 17, 2005 | AY

Due to the tremendous fall in tourist arrivals, both international and domestic, State Tourism Minister K C Venugopal and Tourism Secretary E K Bharat Bhooshan swung into action and held discussions on ways to package Kerala more attractively to the tourists. With several international airlines cutting their fares and packaging their countries well, Kerala seems to have been hit the hardest. Kerala has always been packaged as a destination for backwater tourism, wildlife tourism, beach tourism and ayurveda. Now efforts are made to market the state as a `romantic" destination with a "Kerala wedding package" to include traditional marriage festivities, including girls with oil lamps to greet the bride and groom, arrangement of rituals and a week long honeymoon trip at an exotic locale.

Chennithala to head KPCC ?
Thursday, June 16, 2005 | AY

As the state Congress is getting ready to bolster its broken image in time for the assembly elections next year, the rumour mills are churning out lots of assumptions and stories. After the much published assumption that A. K. Antony will be the next Cabinet Minister from Kerala, its time for Ramesh Chennithala, who has been widely pitted as the next PCC cheif of the state. The election for the PCC cheif and others are slated for 18 th of this month and inside sources say, it will be a mere selection by the Congress supremo, Mrs Gandhi and young and energetic Chennithala, who was the youngest state minister and a hand picked leader by Rajiv Gandhi himself, will be the ideal candidate who has the backing of both Antony and Chandy. The age factor and religion also backs his claim.

Trawling ban on
Thursday, June 16, 2005 | AY

The Kerala government has decided to strictly adhere to the annual 'Trawling Ban' during the monsoon season. The ban came to force yesterday and will be for one and half months. The ban, a routine for the last 17 years is meant to preserve the fish wealth. Monsoon is the is the breeding season for most fish and deep-sea trawling causes massive destruction to eggs and young fish, trawling ban is the only way to salvage fish wealth. Although, the fishing community at large is sad since they had suffered a major blow during the Dec 26 th tsunami, they are well determined to make the ban work even for the deep sea trawling boats by the foriegn companies.

AVG to buy Cheruvally estate from Harrisons
Thursday, June 16, 2005 | AY

It has been reported that A.V.George and Company is all set to buy the famous Cheruvally rubber estate in the outskirts of Kottayam district from Harrisons Malayalam for a total price tag of Rupees 63 Crores. The Harrisons Malayalam is a part of the larger R.P.Goenka and group. According to sources, the move appears to be part of the RPG group’s overall plan to sell off some of its plantations to help reduce its total debt burden. As of March 31,2005, Harrisons Malayalam had a total debt of approximately Rs 110 crore. As per the understanding between the two parties, the estate will be transferred as a functioning entity with its employees. It is spread over 2,263 acres and employs 445 people.

Kerala in ayurveda season
Wednesday, June 15, 2005 | APA

With the rains lashing Kerala, ayurveda clinics are having a boom time. Be they big or small, tourist resorts across the state are getting Indian and foreign visitors seeking ayurvedic treatment in large numbers. Ayurveda is India's ancient medical science that claims to cure a wide variety of ailments, ranging from the simple cold to even mental diseases. Ayurvedic healing, it is said, is more effective during monsoon when the lack of perspiration helps the body absorb the medicinal oil. The rains also help the body to relax, it is said. Ayurveda clinics and resorts offer a simple rejuvenating body massage for as low as Rs.250 and charge up to Rs.350,000 for an intensive four-week package. "We are expecting a much better monsoon season compared to previous years. Bookings are on at our six premium properties for ayurvedic packages," said Jose Dominic, chief of CGH Earth, one of Kerala's best-known resorts. "We are getting innumerable inquires and we hope to have an extended monsoon season until August," he said. The ayurvedic package includes a simple body massage as well as treatment for the upkeep of the nose, mouth and throat. The owner of country's first floating resort at Poovar near Kovalam, M.R. Narayanan said that business was increasing every year and more and more women were flying in from Europe for rejuvenation, slimming and beauty care. "Work is fast progressing at our Rs.10 million ayurveda spa. We will open it in October," he said. The most sought after ayurveda healing system is the simple body massage, which is done by trained masseurs using a variety of herbal oils and powders. Here too tourists can have a variety. Many go for a soothing massage in the moving ayurveda houseboat of Tomy Pulikattil, who owns a fleet of boats in the Alappuzha river. "We have a one-day package and can cater to six people on the ayurveda houseboat. The price ranges from Rs.750-Rs.1,600 for a day depending on the treatment protocol," said Pulikattil. During treatment, vegetarian food is recommended. Most resorts do have a full-fledged ayurvedic kitchen. While ayurveda is becoming popular, the government is doing its best to see that no one takes tourists for a ride. Said E.K. Bharat Bhushan, the principal secretary in the tourism ministry: "We plan a foolproof system to eliminate all fly-by-night operators. Ayurveda should prosper in the right direction."

Kerala imposes ban on fishing trawlers
Wednesday, June 15, 2005 | APA

Kerala on Wednesday imposed a 45-day seasonal ban on fishing trawlers to arrest the drop in the fast-depleting stock of fish, despite protests from the state's fishing community.

Under the ban, the mechainsed trawlers would not be allowed to venture out to sea for fishing. However, the ban does not apply to traditional fishermen owning small boats.

Last week, State Fisheries Minister, Dominic Presentation had said that the ban would be for 45 days as in previous years. He ruled out the possibility of the State Government giving in to pressure from boat owners to deviate from its practice of imposing the ban.

"No mechanised boat will be allowed to go into the sea during the ban period. The ban does apply to traditional fishing craft and canoes fitted with motors. Mechanised boats from other States too will not be permitted to enter the territorial waters," Mr. Presentation said.

During the rainy monsoon season, fishing in shallow waters along the country's coastline is banned as boats with outboard engines damage the marine environs during the breeding season.

Studies reveal that the ban, imposed in Kerala since 1989, has shown an improvement in fish stock.

Trawler owners have, however, complained that the monsoon season is the peak period for fishing as 70 per cent of the annual catch is available during this season. The ban, which will be lifted on July 30, has made them to lose this precious catch.

"There are about 24,000 boats along the Kerala coast, both small and big sized. Besides some thousand boats from other states come to the Kerala shore for fishing. The government has no objection to these boats. There is no sense in banning only the trawlers. Besides there are some 240 big ships which have been given license to fish in the deep sea along Kerala," said P. James, Vice President Kerala State Boat Owners' Association.

"It is during the monsoon period that the fish from the sea bed come up. We do not fish from the top layer as the traditional fishermen allege. The government is also silent about damage of sea bed by traditional fishermen," he said.

The ban leads to large scale unemployment during their prime season, Peter Thomas, a fisherman, said.

"It is during the monsoon period that the fish from the sea bed come up. We do not fish from the top layer as the traditional fishermen allege. The government is also silent about damage of sea bed by traditional fishermen," added the fisherman. (ANI)

Samagamam 2005
Wednesday, June 15, 2005 | APA

Samagamam 2005
Trivandrum, August 8, 2005
(For NRKs within Kerala)

On August 8, 2005, 'Aswathy Gardens' Trivandrum will host 'Samagamam 2005' an event looked up on by Non-resident Keralite organizations and individuals within Kerala to share their concerns, to address and reach consensus on important issues, to identify new areas for joint efforts and to express solidarity.

On behalf of the Government of Kerala, the Department of Non-resident Keralites' Affairs (NORKA) welcome all non-resident keralites; both individuals and organizations within Kerala to make sure of their presence at 'Samagamam 2005.' We would like to see you there with your families to make it a nice get together with interesting cultural programmes to keep them entertained.

For online registration of 'Samagamam 2005' click here. Application for registration can be send by post, for which a printable registration form is provided in the website. In either case, the participant needs to send the registration fee of Rs.100 (per person) as Demand Draft, which is to be accompanied by a passport size photograph of the participant, with name written on the reverse. Registration will be confirmed on receipt of the demand draft, which will be followed by the dispatch of identity cards to all registered participants.

The last date for registration is June 30, 2005.

Looking forward to your presence at 'Samawayam, Samanwayam and Samagamam 2005'.

Warm regards

Jiji Thomson I.A.S.
Principal Secretary
Department of Non-resident Keralites' Affairs
Government of Kerala

NORKA-ROOTS, 4th Floor, Centre Plaza, Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram - 695014
Phone: 91- 471-2332416/2332452 Fax: 2326263

Samanwayam 2005
Wednesday, June 15, 2005 | APA

Samanwayam 2005
Trivandrum, August 7, 2005
(For NRKs outside Kerala within India)

'Samanwayam 2005' eagerly looks forward to have an enthusiastic participation by Non-resident Keralite organizations and individuals based outside Kerala but within India. The event will be held on the 7th of August, 2005 at 'Aswathy Gardens', Trivandrum.

On behalf of the Government of Kerala, the Department of Non-resident Keralites' Affairs (NORKA) welcome all non-resident keralites; both individuals and organizations outside Kerala but within India to make sure of their presence at 'Samanwayam 2005.' The event is not just an occasion for serious deliberations, but will also be an opportunity for a home coming to families.

Those interested to participate in 'Samanwayam 2005' may click here to register online or may send the application for registration by post, for which a printable registration form is provided in the website. In either case, the participant needs to send the registration fee of Rs.250 (per person) as Demand Draft, which is to be accompanied by a passport size photograph of the participant, with name written on the reverse. Registration will be confirmed on receipt of the demand draft, which will be followed by the dispatch of identity cards to all registered participants.

Samawayam 2005
Wednesday, June 15, 2005 | APA

Welcome to Samawayam 2005
Trivandrum, August 5-6, 2005
(For NRKs outside India)

The third edition of 'Samawayam 2005' is yet another occasion for Non-resident Keralites to share a single platform. The event would enable them to feel the warmth of togetherness and also to make their views; opinions, concerns and initiatives heard and responded in a manner that would benefit them in the long run.

On behalf of the Government of Kerala, the Department of Non-resident Keralites' Affairs (NORKA) welcome all non-resident keralites; both individuals and organizations outside India to make sure of their presence at 'Samawayam 2005.' The event will be held on the 5th and 6th of August at 'Aswathy Gardens', Trivandrum. Participants are encouraged to bring their family members, as the two-day event is also an ideal occasion for a get together, with its own share of exuberance.

Those interested to participate in 'Samawayam 2005' may click here and register online. Application for registration may also be send by post, for which a printable registration form is provided in the website. In either case, the participant needs to send the registration fee of Rs.500 (per person) as Demand Draft, which is to be accompanied by a passport size photograph of the participant, with name written on the reverse. Registration will be confirmed on receipt of the demand draft, which will be followed by the dispatch of identity cards to all registered participants.

Vinayan in his next venture
Tuesday, June 14, 2005 | AY

Director Vinayan who has made many good movies,is now on a look out for new face to do the lead role in his forthcoming film which will be pitted against the Kerala Superstars and plans to be released on Onam. His latest film Albhuthadweep had dwarfs as the selling point and it turned out to be a hit.

Jayaram's new releases
Tuesday, June 14, 2005 | AY

Jayaram has three films completed and waiting for release. "Pouran" has just got released. Shankar's "Sarkar Dada", "Magic Lamp" and "Winter" have been completed and waiting for buyers. Alice in Wonderland and Finger Print of Jayaram were released this year and both were duds at the box office.

KPCC begins enquiry
Tuesday, June 14, 2005 | AY

A three-member fact finding committee comprising of former Tourism Minister K V Thomas, G Balachandran and former KPCC General Secretary N P Moideen, appointed by the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), today began its inquiry into the circumstances leading to the defeat of UDF candidates in the recently held by-elections to the Koothuparamba and Azhikode Assembly constituencies in the district. The committee members held discussions with the district Congress office bearers and leaders and would visit both the constituencies and meet party workers from the grassroot level to ascertain their views during their two-day stay in the district.

Businessman to start an airline
Monday, June 13, 2005 | AY

A Dubai-based non-resident keralite (NRI) businessman, Aniyan Kutty, managing director of Dubai-based Clarion Shipping Services, is planning to start a new airline in India. To be called City Air, the new airline initially will connect smaller cities, to be followed by operations all over India. A private company has already been registered in Kerala for running the airline which will be a budget carrier and will have its operational headquarter in Chennai. Kutty said negotiations were going on in the US for leasing aircraft. He added that the company intended to complete all formalities and have the launch of the airline before the end of this year.

Private colleges get the NRI quota back
Monday, June 13, 2005 | AY

The Kerala government decided to restore the NRI quota in self-financing professional colleges, following strong demand from Keralites in the Gulf countries. The quota of 15 per cent will be included in the 50 per cent management quota available under the disposal of the respective college managements. There was also confusion about the fees for the NRI quota seats, but government maintained that the fees would be as per the Thomas Commission recommendations.

Coke's application rejected
Monday, June 13, 2005 | AY

A village council in the Palakkad town on Monday, rejected Coca-Cola's application for a two-year license for the Plaachimada plant. A Krishnan, president of the Perumatty Panchayat, which took up the license application, said that on June 6 following the Kerala High Court direction, they gave it a license for three months subject to certain conditions that they should adhere to. But they got an application for license for two years, which they rejected.

Shaktimaan
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

Jackie Shroff who was one of the leading young heroes in Bollywood in the 80's, will be soon seen in malayalam films too. Johnny Anthony is going to direct a new film with Jayaram in the lead. 'Shaktimaan' is the name of the film. Varnachitra is producing it. Kavya Madhavan is playing the female lead. Jackie Shroff is going to play an important role in the film. He will be accompanied by Ashish Vidhyarthi.

Daivanamathil
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

Jayaraj who has won critical acclaim and national award for best direction, has proved himself by treating a delicate subject with maturity. Daivanamathil is the title of the book written by Sahib, a true secularist, who distances himself from his grandson Anwar (played by Prithviraj) who takes up the extremist path. Anwar's transition into a 'jehadi' takes place after an encounter in a train with 'Karsevaks' headed to demolish the Babri Masjid in Uttar Pradesh. Anwar convinces himself that as the community has a powerful enemy, revenge can be cruel. He believes innocents getting killed should not divert the true jehadi from his path. Samira(Bhavana), the girl who tries to change her husband ends up in jail for his extremist activities. She wants her old Anwar back from the prison of his newfound beliefs. This film is probably the best film in Prithviraj's career and he bowls you over with his mind blowing intense performance. Bhawana too matches up to Prithiviraj. The director has lavishly portrayed the colourful celebrations which are part of Muslim marriages as they provide an effective contrast to the changes in Anwar's life. Sunny's camerawork sets the mood of the film.

Bungalowil Oudha
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

Santhivila Dinesh who has directed movie "Bungalowil Oudha" has a cast of Lal, Bhawana, Rajan P Dev, Sarath. Lal is Oudha, an aged fun loving man who lives alone in his sprawling ancestral house accompanied by young girl (Bhawana) and Krishnankutty (Sarath) for company. His arch rival is Pappikunju (Rajan P Dev) who is out to oppose any move of the old man. Oudha's two daughters are abroad and whereabouts of his son are not known. Oudha sees the necessity for a mortuary in the village and sets up one but unfortunately the first body to be placed in the mortuary was Oudha’s. Film has many twists and turns when a guy claiming to be oudha's son arrive on screen. The film's weakness is when Lal's Oudha character comes to an end. Music wise and technically the film has nothing much to offer.

Godfather
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

Nadia Moidu is soon going to star in director KS Ravikumar's film 'Godfather'. Ajith plays three roles in the film- father, son and a eunuch. Asin is the heroine for the son-Ajith. Nadia is going to be the heroine of the father-Ajith. Nadia sure made a very successful comeback with the film 'M Kumaram s/o Mahalakshmi'.

Neru Ariyan CBI
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

After the huge success of CBI stories played by Mamooty for three parts, the shooting of 'Neru Ariyan CBI'; started in Kochi from June 2. Mammootty is once again plays Sethurama Iyer. This time Sethurama Iyer is after ghosts and spirits who are behind the murder of a young girl Mythili. How Iyer along with his trusted aides Chacko (Mukesh) and Vikram (Jagathy) solves the crime forms the crux of the story. Gopika and Suja Karthika play friends of the murdered girl who help Iyer in his mission. S.N.Swamy the scriptwriter and director K.Madhu says that there are no songs, fights, romance, item numbers or glamour. The background score is by Shyaam and camera is by Salu George. It will be Mammootty’s Onam release and is distributed by ‘Swargachitra’ Appachan.

Taskaraveeran is a hit
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

Mammootty has hit the bulls eye again with Taskaraveeran, proving to be a hit. The film has grossed Rs 1.40 crore in six days from 39 screens in Kerala inspite of the rains. Taskaraveeran, is Mammootty's hat-trick of hits after 'Vesham' and 'Thommanum Makkalum'. He has proved that he can make the film financially viable in two weeks. The critics and a section of the industry people who were shouting that he was too old to romance will have to review their statement.

Demand for Krishna idols increased
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

A sudden increase has been recorded abroad mainly in Germany, Italy and France, in the demand for Lord Krishna idols manufactured in Kochi. One of the major manufacturers of the idols - Sree Krishna Handicrafts - a government-owned establishment and handicraft-training centre in Cheethala, is happy with the rise in the demand. Initially, Sree Krishna Handicrafts was set to generate employment for women in the handicraft sector. Presently, there are around 50 women who are being trained and along with that they are provided with accommodation and food. According to the company's chairman KS Soman, meeting the demand for these idols becomes hard for them during festival seasons.

Automatic pictures of wildlife species
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

Wildlife authorities in Kerala are setting up special cameras equipped with infrared triggers called camera traps in the Periyar Tiger Reserve to provide an estimate of tigers in the reserve and also determine whether there is enough prey for the tigers. The camera trap consists of an infrared motion detector, a control circuit and a fixed focus camera. When activated it automatically takes pictures of any moving "hot body" with in its detection range. The whole unit is housed in a splash proof enclosure, designed to be fixed on a tree using a holding belt, and secured with a chain and lock. Trapping images has proved a more reliable method to estimate the number of wild animals in comparison with the traditional track mark count used in India. This method is also being used for the forest protection since the camera will identify the person who has come for illegal purpose to the forest.

Certification on food products compulsory
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Adoor Prakash said that a Rs.950 million food research institute is to be set up in Kerala to give a boost to agro and food processing units. The institute would act as a certifying agency for the many ready-to-eat products like Kerala biryani, fish curry, and other curries. Certification on ready-to-eat food products has become mandatory in many countries. The state government would contribute 100 acres of land for the research institute, to be set up at Konni in Pathanamthitta district,which would be funded by the central government.

No more child labour
Sunday, June 12, 2005 | AY

The Kerala Government is planning to introduce a legislation to ban child labour in the State. The Labour Minister, Babu Divakaran said that the proposed Act seeks to ban engaging children below the age of 14 in any job. According to the guidelines of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), children below 14 years are not to be engaged in hazardous jobs. However, such instances had not been reported so far in the State, he noted. The minister said there were several labourers from other States working in Kerala. The Government will introduce a housing scheme for plantation workers with the help of the local bodies.

Kerala girls are a fine opener
Friday, June 10, 2005 | AY

Kerala girls started their campaign with an impressive 29-3, 29-10 triumph over Orissa in their pool A opening fixture of the 25th Sub-Junior National Ball Badminton Championships which began in chandigarh today. In a pool B match, Rajasthan girls defeated Punjab by 29-14, 29-4.

New scheme to modernize the government hospitals
Friday, June 10, 2005 | AY

The government has decided to improve the the quality of medical care in government hospitals by futher investing Rs 168 crore. A loan of Rs 44 crore would be taken from the HUDCO for developmental works at Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode Medical College Hospitals. In the case of Medical College Hospitals at Alappuzha, Kottayam and Thrissur, a Rs 124 crore scheme would be submitted to the NABARD for financial assistance.

Growth in Foreign Exchange
Wednesday, June 8, 2005 | AY

The Tourism Industry in Kerala, despite affected by tsunami, reported over 25 per cent growth in profits during 2004-05. As per CII, southern region, which carried out the business outlook survey of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu, tourism industry in Kerala posted 20 per cent growth in foreign exchange earnings and was optimistic of earning more foreign exchange in 2005-06. However, the shortage of luxury hotel rooms in major tourist destinations was restraining growth.

Another By-election coming up
Wednesday, June 8, 2005 | AY

The Congress is on to the idea of another by-election in Kerala, hoping to offset the damage caused by its ignominious defeat in the recent by-elections. The by-election possibility gained ground with reports from New Delhi that the Federal Election Commission may not leave the Cherthala Assembly seat, which former Chief Minister A K Antony is resigning tomorrow, vacant until the Assembly elections nearly a year away. Sandwiched between Ernakulam and Alappuzha, Cherthala is not a Marxist ground like Koothuparampa and Azheekode in Kannur district. Second, the electorate is almost evenly matched between the two main coalitions, though with a slight advantage to the Congress. For the Opposition Left combine, the constituency gives ample scope for taking on the Government. Several PSUs and traditional industries are on the brink. Besides, Cherthala has a rich past of revolutionary campaigns against repressive regimes.

Taskaraveeran
Tuesday, June 7, 2005 | AY

Pramod and Pappan's ‘Taskaraveeran’ starring Mammooty, Nayantara, Sheela, Madhu, Innocent, Rajan P Dev and others is an entertainer and it does manage to entertain. Mammooty is Arakulam Bhai, also known as Kochu Baby, an underworld don in Mumbai. But he decides to return to Kerala to seek revenge from a local businessman Eapen played by Innocent. Before he starts settling scores, he does fall in love with Thangamani, played by Nayantara. After returning from their honeymoon, the two, along with Sheela, start planning an elaborate scheme to destroy Innocent.

Coke back in Kerala
Tuesday, June 7, 2005 | AY

The Coca-Cola plant in Kerala's Palakkad district is set to resume production after an almost 15-month shutdown caused by protests over its reported over-utilisation of water resources and the presence of lead and cadmium in the sludge generated at the plant. The court had June 1 asked the village council (Perumatty Panchayat) to renew the licence within a week's time. Ever since the company had closed down, the sales of Coca-Cola in Kerala had dropped by 50 percent. With the clearance received, the company is expected to launch a vigorous marketing strategy to get back its customers.

Ship service to Colombo and Middle east
Tuesday, June 7, 2005 | AY

Kerala is waiting for a clearance from the central government to launch passenger ship services to the Middle East and Colombo. The Colombo service is unlikely to be granted permission on account of (a security threat from) the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam), state Transport Minister N. Sakthan told reporters. With the launch of the Air-India Express budget flights, the Middle East service too is not expected to have an immediate impact. A ship service launched almost two years ago to Muscat had to be abandoned after two trips following operational problems.

Lal Jose teams up with Mohanlal
Monday, June 6, 2005 | AY

Lal Jose who is right now working with dileep in "Chaaandpottu", has planned his next venture with producer Aroma Mani. Mohanlal is likely to be the hero of the film. Lal Jose is also going to direct a film for Swargachitra. Discussions are on right now.

Kochi -Destination for semiconductor foundry
Monday, June 6, 2005 | AY

A semiconductor foundry to make memory chips for mobile handsets and consumer electronics products is set to be built in Kochi, in 2008, according to the chairman of the locally-based Nest Group. The first phase of the foundry project is set to involve the setting up a VLSI design center in a pact with an undisclosed Japanese company. Group chairman Javed Hassan said that the design center, which is forecast to employ about 200 people, would be up and running by January 2005 and would be followed by the opening of a test facility in mid-2007. The foundry would be constructed next and would be ready by the end of 2008. The memory chips from the plant could be used to meet local demand caused by India's exploding market for wireless handsets, many of which would eventually be handheld computers. The group also plans to make optical chips for broadband communications for the fiber-to-the-home market.

Monsoon hits the state
Monday, June 6, 2005 | AY

The southwest monsoon hit India's southern Kerala coast on Sunday, about four days later than normal. Almost two-thirds of farmland rely on the monsoon for water. significant delay in the monsoon affects sowing of crops such as rice, oilseeds and cotton -- planted in June and July and harvested in October and November. A bad monsoon also hits rural incomes, crucial to demand in Asia's fourth-largest economy. Last year's monsoon was 13 percent below normal, hitting output of oilseeds and sugar and shaving growth to 6.9 percent for the fiscal year just ended.

Mayookham
Sunday, June 5, 2005 | AY

Hariharan, the director of huge hits is now with a new film "Mayookham". It has an all-new star cast of Saiju Kurup and Mamta Mohandas in the lead along with veterans Nedumudi Venu, Sujatha, Jagathy Sreekumar and Indrans. The film tells the story of a girl who makes a difference in the life of a Brahmin boy who has turned a rebel owing to the drawbacks of the reservation system in Kerala's educational and government sectors. Saiju Kurup plays the fustrated Unni Kesavan and Mamta Mohandas, a Malayali model from Bangalore plays Indra. Cinematography by Ramachandra Babu, editing by V.T. Vijayan and music by Bombay Ravi are the other credits.

Two new vehicles launched
Sunday, June 5, 2005 | AY

PREMIER Automobiles Ltd, which is making a comeback to the Indian automobile scene after a few years' absence, on Saturday launched a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) and a light commercial vehicle (LPV) in the Kerala market. A MPV `Sigma' at Rs 3.95 lakh (for the base version) and the LCV `Roadstar' at Rs 3.25 lakh (ex-showroom Pune)is introduced. The Sigma is a seven-seater van that will take on the likes of Maruti's Versa. Roadstar is a two-tonner small truck that is suitable to manoeuvre through city lanes as well as for long hauls on highways.

LDF thrashes UDF once again
Sunday, June 5, 2005 | AY

LDF, led by CPM once again floored the UDF with thumping majorities in the two Assembly by-polls held on June 2nd. CPM candidates grabbed victory over UDF in the by-elections held for Kuthuparamba and Azhikode Assembly constituencies in Kannur district on June 2 by thumping majorities. In Koothuparamba, the main fight was between CPI(M) nominee P Jayarajan and Mr K Prabhakaran of the Congress and CPM nominee scored a record 45,000 plus majority which is the highest majority in any assembly seat in the state . At Azhikode, the main contest was between CPI(M) candidate M Prakasan and Mr C A Ajeer of the Communist Marxist Party (CMP), put up by the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF). Azhikode recorded 79.11 per cent polling while in Kuthuparamba 79.83 per cent of votes were polled in the by-elections.

Shakeela's autobiography
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

Ruling the world of soft-porn film industry in Malayalam, Shakeela has shocked everybody with her announcement that she is planning to write her autobiography. This is mainly going to be about how she ended up in the film industry and the troubles she underwent at the hands of some of the biggest names in both films and political circles. There was once a time when her films were more successful than those of superstars Mammooty and Mohanlal's. Her films were dubbed and released even in languages like Asamese. She claimed that even well-known mainstream film directors used to make films with her under assumed names.

Bharatchandran IPS
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

Shreya Reddy is casted in Malayalam with Ranji Pannikar featuring her in his Suresh Gopi action movie "Bharatchandran IPS". Shreya also plays a cop in the film, who has a sneaky admiration for the hero Bharatchandran and the way he administers justice. Ranji Panikkar the writer and director has given her more English dialogues than Malayalam as she plays a North Indian IPS officer posted in Kerala.

Ban on smoking in movies
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

A proposed ban on depiction of smoking in movies has elicited a mixed response from the Malayalam entertainment industry. Except for Devan and Urmilla Unni who believe that for some good practices to be brought about, certain restrictions have to be made all the rest disapproved the decision. Producer Kireedom Unni stating that it is a ridiculous move and that entertainment is an art form and requires full freedom, especially for certain characters that thrive on mannerisms. The grand old man of Malayalam films Madhu and even Mammooty believed that this will affect the artist's performance, and create problems for the director from extracting the best from an artist.

Antony retaliates saying he has the right to decide
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

Workers of the National Congress (Indira), floated by K Karunakaran, on Friday staged a protest demonstration against former Chief Minister A K Antony at his hometown Cherthala near here demanding that he immediately resign from the Assembly in view of his recent election to the Rajya Sabha. Later, Antony told reporters in Alappuzha that it was for him to decide when to quit the Assembly membership as he had time till he took oath as the Rajya Sabha member. Ever since his election to the Rajya Sabha unopposed last week, NC-I leaders had been alleging that Antony was delaying resignation of his Assembly membership to avoid a by-poll from Cherthala.

Kannur soon expecting an international airport
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

The Kerala government is awaiting the approval of the central government and the Airports Authority of India to the proposed international airport in Kannur, Minister for Airports Dominic Presentation told the state assembly. Kerala has three international airports, but legislators from Kannur and Kasaragod have been saying that Kannur had the potential for an international airport, getting traffic from the Mangalore and Coorg districts of Karnataka. The airport is also expected to help textile factories in exports.

PM announces a 7000 crore project in Kayamkulam
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

Stage-two of NTPC's Rajiv Gandhi Combined Cycle Power Project was inaugrated by Prime minister Manmohan Singh. While laying the foundation stone, the Prime Minister said that the proposed global scale plant would produce six lakh tons of ethylene and 1.50 lakh tons of propylene a year. Singh said that the Gas Authority of India Ltd (GAIL) was examining the possibility of setting up a Rs 7000 crore gas-cracker complex in Kayamkulam jointly with the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC). In addition of boosting the socio-economic development of the state, the complex would also provide direct employment to 500 people and generate thousands of jobs in small-scale ancillary industries based on polymers and plastics.

Venue of NRK meeting changed
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

The venue of the proposed Samavayam 2005, the annual get-together of NRKs, that was to be held in Dubai would now take place in Thiruvananthapuram in August this year. Norka-Roots is an autonomous body of the state government that looks after all the issues of NRKs, those who have returned to live in Kerala and those Keralites who live in India but outside the state. During the four day event, discussions relating to NRK investments like giving identity cards, which would give them priority in government offices and adding a health insurance scheme launched for those NRKs who return home and fall in the below poverty line (BPL) bracket. Another proposal to be discussed would be a Rs.5 billion Nano Techno Centre for which the government would provide up to 10 acres of land. Kerala has 1.6 million NRKs, with about 90 percent in the Middle East.

P.T Usha searching for new talents
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

P.T.Usha, one of the greatest of Indian women athletes now retired from the world of sports, has not dimmed. P.T.Usha is busy with searching for young sporting talent to take the country to an even higher pedestal in the sporting arena. Usha, who runs a sports academy in Kerala is currently on a tour of Western India, and has already selected 35 girls from a group of 350 in Pune. All of these girls were in the 10-16 age group. Usha said that her academy would provide scholarships for three years and lodging facilities to the selected athletes. P.T Usha missed bronze by 1/100th of a second in 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and created new Asian Games record in all the events participated the same year.

Air India maiden express creates displeasure among MP's
Saturday, June 4, 2005 | AY

MPs from Kerala have sought an explanation from Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel for not including them in the inaugural flight of India's first budget airlines, the Air-India Express to Abu Dhabi. The MPs said the ministry should have included the parliamentarians in the maiden flight, which had a huge contingent of legislators, businessmen and media in it. Three MPs from Kerala - Vayalar Ravi and Abdul Waheb apart from Premachandran - were members of the civil aviation consultative committee who fought with all the lobbies working against the budget airline but when came true, were ignored. Raising the issue in the Lok Sabha, Varkkala Radhakrishnan, an MP from Chirayinkil, alleged that the MPs were excluded because they belonged to the Left Democratic Front (LDF), the opposition coalition in Kerala.

Coffee award for Kerala based company
Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY

The Kerala-based Poabs Organic Estates has bagged a special award for arabica coffee at the `Flavour of India - The Fine Cup' cupping competition 2005. The estate has been bagging an award every year since 2003 proving the quality and the sustainability of practices at Seethargundu estate, where arabica has been grown for over a century

Cancer centre hoping for more monetary support
Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY

The Malabar Cancer Centre (MCC) in north Kerala is struggling for survival even as the controversy over its funding by Canadian company SNC Lavalin is raging. Cancer patients from the northern districts continue to go to distant places in Kerala and neighbouring states for treatment as MCC has been functioning without even a radiotherapy unit, which is the basic requirement for a cancer centre. SNC Lavalin had promised Rs983 million to the MCC as a reward to the contract awarded to them for renovating the Pallivasal, Cherkulam and Panniyar hydel power projects at an estimated cost of Rs2.83 billion. The work on the cancer centre was started after the Canadian company provided the first installment of Rs120 million after which they have remained silent. The MCC has now only 12 doctors and 65 beds as against the original plan of 276 beds.

Kerala chitties act not in power
Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY

The provision introduced in the Kerala Chitties Act in 2002 with a view to protecting the interests of subscribers by preventing chit companies from getting away with the subscribers' money was struck down by a Division Bench of the Kerala High Court on Tuesday. To ensure that the subscribers are not cheated, the Kerala Act requires the chit companies to deposit 20 percent of the chit amount, before starting chits. Such a provision is not there in the Central Act. To get over this provision, Keralites register chit companies in other states and conduct business in Kerala, purporting to operate from the registered office. The subscribers invariably used to be residents of Kerala. the Division Bench, comprising Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan and Justice M.N.Krishnan, declared the sub-section void and unconstitutional as it was discriminatory and violative of constitutional provisions and beyond the legislative competence of the State Legislature, and would not bind chitties started and conducted outside Kerala.

Cannabis forest into tourist park
Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY

Following the visit of Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Radhakrishnan and officials to the cannabis cultivation in the forest at Kamabakallu, Idukki district, last week, decision has been made to convert part of an 8,000-acre forest into a tourist adventure and herbal park. About 114,000 cannabis plants were destroyed.

State govt contains public debt by 11.37%
Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | AY

State Finance Minister Vakkom Purushothaman said that Kerala’s total debt at the end of March, 2005, stood at Rs 41,709 crore though the government was able to check the growth of public debt by 11.37%. The states debt was Rs 23,918 crore when CPI-M led Left Democratic Front (LDF) stepped down. During 2003-04, debt grew by 20.58 per cent and during last year it was contained by 11.37 per cent which was a record in the last one decade. He said as long as the major portion of the revenue go for salary and interest payment, public debt of the state would continue to grow.

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