Kerala News Archive: September 2005

Kingfisher connects Kochi to 3 destinations
Friday, September 30, 2005 | JJ

Kingfisher Airlines connects Kochi to 3 destinations Bangalore, Delhi and Mumbai taking the number of daily flights being offered by Kingfisher Airlines will go up to 44. Kingfisher Airlines will induct 11 new Airbus A320 aircraft to its fleet by January 2006. Regarding the hike in crude oil and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices Chairman and Managing Director Mr Mallya said: "Any cost input will affect prices. But we are not in any state of panic. We will see what the others a re doing and depending on what they do we will devise our own strategy."

Left called Nation-wide strike affects normal life
Thursday, September 29, 2005 | JJ

Left trade unions called nation-wide strike affects normal life in the state also. Most of the business establishments and educational institutions remained closed Essential services like water and power supplies and train services were not affected by the strike. State transport KSRTC, taxis and other public transport are off the road. The strike is to protest the economic reform policies of the UPA government. Indian National Trade Union Congress and the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, are not supporting the strike.

Srinivasan's Vadakkunoki Yandram in Tamil
Wednesday, September 28, 2005 | JJ

Srinivasan's Vadakkunoki Yandram is to be remade in Tamil. Srinivasan will direct Vadakkunoki Yandram in Tamil. This will be his directorial debut in the Tamil movies. Tamil director Cheran and Jyothika will be the main cast in Tamil. Malayalam Vadakkunoki Yandram was the first movie directed by Srinivasan in Malayalam. The movie tells the story of a very suspicious husband who drives his wife crazy. Srinivasan played the suspicious husband role and Parvathy played the role of his wife.

Chaandupottu
Wednesday, September 28, 2005 | JJ

Dileep's Onam hit Chaandupottu has a strong story backed up by an effective screenplay. Chaandupottu is the first hit of Dileep after the success of CID Moosa. Radhakrishnan (Dileep) who loves to paint his nails and use makeup grows up with female friends, as his grandmother (Sukumari) had brought up him like a girl. Radha falls in love with a childhood friend Malu (Gopika) that becomes the conflict for the villain Kumaran (Indrajeet). Kumaran with the help of Malu’s father (Rajan P.Dev) hatches a conspiracy and beats Radha and thrown into the sea. Freddy (Biju Menon) and his sister Rosa (Bhavana) save Radha from the sea and take him to Goa where he becomes a part of the Christian family. In the meantime Kumaran eliminates Radhakrishnan’s parents also. Radhakrishnan returns to his native and takes the revenge with Kumaran. The excellent Performance of Dileep and the good direction has made the film a hit.

Dileep's Chaandupottu remake in Tamil
Wednesday, September 28, 2005 | JJ

Dileep's Onam hit Chaandupottu is being remade in Tamil under Rajakaliamman Films banner. Lal Jose himself to make his entry in Tamil films by directing the movie. Vikram is starring the movie. Dileep plays Radhakrishnan alias Radha! Kohl eyes, painted lips, girlish haircut, a pearl chain and a prominent red bindi on his forehead, Gopika is the heroine of chandupotu , music by Vidyasagar.

Santhosh Trophy to be played in Kerala
Wednesday, September 28, 2005 | JJ

Santhosh Trophy will be played in Kerala this year in which 35 teams are expected to participate from November 4 to 20. The final will take place in the floodlit Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium at Kochi. Kerala, Manipur, Punjab and Services shall enter directly into quarterfinals, as they are the defending champions. KFA president K M I Mehtar said the fixtures and the venues of the preliminary rounds would be announced in a week and the coaching camp for Kerala team will begin from October 10 at Kochi.

LDF bags massive victory in the civic elections
Wednesday, September 28, 2005 | JJ

LDF bags massive victory in the civic elections of the state. CPI (M)-led Left Democratic Front in a tie-up with Democratic Indira Congress (Karunakaran) led by former Congressman K Karunakaran bagged all the five corporations and 30 of the 52 municipalities. M A Baby, Central Committee member, CPI (M) said "If the Congress has any political morality, Oomen Chandy should resign." Ramesh Chennithala, President, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee said, "I took charge just 70 days back. We tried our best to streamline the organization and make it more vibrant and accountable." He added, "In another six-eight months we will try to regain the lost ground." Karunakaran said, "We have achieved what we really wanted. We are not fighting for a number of seats. Our idea was to establish supremacy over the UDF, which we have achieved."

Investment sought for third phase of Technopark
Tuesday, September 27, 2005 | JJ

Investment is sought for development of 100-acre facility third phase of Technopark. The officials who are participating in the ongoing IT expo Gitex's 25th edition are expecting 500-million Dirham investment for the expansion. V.J. Jayakumar Technopark Chief Executive Officer In-charge said that Technocity a 500 to 600 acres facility is also coming up 4 KM near to the existing facility.

LDF establishes lead in local body election
Tuesday, September 27, 2005 | JJ

LDF has established lead in the local body election held for panchayats, municipalities and city corporations. As per the result published at 12, LDF secures three district panchayaths and UDF two. LDF bags 39 municipalities, UDF 14 and one for BJP. In the block Panchayaths LDF bags three and one for UDF. And for the grama panchayaths LDF bags 60, seven for UDF and one for BJP. All the 5 corporation goes to LDF.

Six districts goes for Second phase of voting
Monday, September 26, 2005 | JJ

Six northern districts Palakkad, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kasargode Kannur and Malappuram districts go for second phase of civic voting on Monday. Security arrangements for a large number of sensitive booths in Kannur and Kozhikode districts have been increased. Counting will take place on Tuesday. Arrangement for counting of votes has already finished for the first phase of polling in eight districts took place on Saturday.

AI Express to increases Dubai-Trivandrum flights
Sunday, September 25, 2005 | JJ

Air India Express will increases Dubai-Trivandrum flights from October. The new flight will replace the Air India’s five direct flights they are now operating in the sector. As per the new winter schedule Air India Express will operate flight to Dubai on all days except Monday. Air India will operate five cargo flights a week from Trivandrum to Dubai to carry 15 tonnes of cargo daily.

Kochi gets Le Passage To India Office
Sunday, September 25, 2005 | JJ

Kochi gets Le Passage To India tours & travels Pvt. ltd. Office, which is the seventh in India. Two more offices shall be opened in Bangalore and Chennai soon. Ranjan Chatterjee has been appointed as General Manager, of Le Passage To India - South India. G Naqshband, Director, Le Passage to India Tours and Travels hosted a reception at the Taj Malabar hotel to celebrate the opening of the Kochi office. Malaysia Airlines (MAS) have appointed Le Passage to India Tours and Travels as their ground operator for their Golden Holidays in India.

Average age for heart attack is 45 in Kerala
Sunday, September 25, 2005 | JJ

Average age for heart attack is 45 in Kerala as per the study, which also says that the average age in India for a person likely to have a heart attack is 55. According to Deepak Dennison a cardiologist Keralites are considered highly ambitious and "Because of this, people here are tense. Another reason, which has been discussed several times in the past, is the use of excessive coconut in the daily menu. Another factor is the genetic makeup of Keralites,"

Prof courses 2nd re allotment list published
Sunday, September 25, 2005 | JJ

Professional degree courses second re allotment list has been published. Commissioner for Entrance Examinations informed that all candidates should get themselves admitted to newly allotted colleges according to the re-allotment list before September 30. The list is also published on the website http://cee.kerala.nic.in/index.php Sri Gokulam Medical College, St Gregorios Dental College and Azizia Dental College admission also appears in the new list.

65% polling for first phase of local body election
Sunday, September 25, 2005 | JJ

65% polling was recorded for first phase of local body elections. The first phase of election was held for 583 village panchayats, 93 block panchayats, eight district panchayats, 33 municipalities and four city corporations of 8 districts from Thiruvananthapuram to Thrissur. The second and final phase of election for the remaining six districts in north Kerala will be held on September 26 counting will be held the next day.

Joby Joseph selected for Jimmy George award
Wednesday, September 21, 2005 | JJ

Joby Joseph Volleyball player has been selected for Jimmy George award –2005 carrying a cash prize of Rs 10,000 and a plaque, which will be presented to him Peravoor in Kannur district on November 30. Award Committee Chairman M K Joseph and Foundation Managing Trustee Sebastian announced the selection of Joby for the award. Joby has lead the country in Senior Asian Volleyball Championship at Doha in 1997 and has also played in Rasheed International Volleyball tournaments in Dubai, SAF Games, Central Asian Championship in Iran and the preliminary round match for the world cup at Doha in 2002.

Edayaranmula won Aranmula Snake Boat race
Wednesday, September 21, 2005 | JJ

Edayaranmula won the Aranmula Snake Boat race this year organised by Palliyoda Seva Sangham at Aranmula Sree Parthasarathy temple on September 19. Bhiron Singh Sekhavat Vice President of India inaugurated the boat race. Adv.K.Sivadasan Nair, President of Organising Committee said “This is the first time in the last three decades that such a huge and varied number of snake boats are participating and that’s the specialty of this year’s boat race. This type of artistically built snake boats cannot be seen anywhere and the shape itself is a unique one. Oarsmen are singing Vanchipattu, a song, to praise the lord Parthasarthy,” Melukara and Poovathoor Padinjaru came second and third position in the race.

SC ordered committee to study campus polls
Tuesday, September 20, 2005 | JJ

Justices G P Mathur and Arijit Pasayat of Supreme Court ordered high-level committee comprising a retired Supreme Court judge, an academician, and a former election commissioner to study campus elections while hearing a petition filed by Kerala University and various student unions. The hearing before the apex court was questioned Kerala High Court’s verdict allowing the respective college managements to decide on the mode of elections. The judges said, "From day one after winning the elections the student leaders unleash unrest in the campus". "Students go on to stay in the same institution taking up different courses. There should be eligibility condition for the candidates and limitation on money spending. We have to curb the menace," they added.

Actor & mimicry artiste Sajan passed away
Tuesday, September 20, 2005 | JJ

Actor and mimicry artiste Sajan Sagara passed away on Monday at the age of 29 at Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology at Trivandrum. Sajan succumbed to injuries suffered during a rehearsal of a stage programme on September 6. Cremation will take place at his residence at Dhanuvachapuram on Tuesday. Sajan, became famous through his role in Malayalam film ‘Albhuthadweep’. Sajan was a member of Sagara mimicry troupe who has also acted in many TV serials.

Vinod and Valsala lead Kerala in Arm wrestling
Tuesday, September 20, 2005 | JJ

Vinod Kumar and K Valsala will be leading Kerala in the 29th National Men and Women Arm wrestling Championship to be held in Chhattisgarh from September 22. Kerala are the defending champions. Players entering the final will get the chance to represent India in the 27th World Armwrestling Championship in Japan in November 2005. Kerala teams includes Men: V S Kannan, P V Vijeesh, P V Sajees, Jeeson Joseph, Rins Vijayan, K F Noby, Mukesh P R, Naveen M, T P Ajit Kumar, Febinson, Sunny George, K V Vinod, P R Vivan, Biju Lucose, Vinod Kumar M (Capt) Suresh Kumar T K, B P Reny, Jeens Vijayan, Prasad S Ranjit Mathew and Thomas Jacob and for Women: K Valsala, K Ramya, M Sulekha, P Shemina, K Malini, R Hyda and P Shalini.

S.L.Puram Sadanandan in memories
Sunday, September 18, 2005 | JJ

Body of Leading Malayalam playwrights and scenarist S L Puram Sadanandan who passed away at KVM Hospital, Cherthala on 16th September 2005 was consigned to flames by his younger son Jayasoma at his ancestral house ‘Yavanika’ at S L Puram in Mararikulam on yesterday evening. Political leaders and film and theatre personalities queued up before his house ‘Yavanika’ to pay homage to S L Puram.

Indigenous Food Research Institute at Konni
Sunday, September 18, 2005 | JJ

Indigenous Food Research Institute is to be set at Konni. Minister for food and civil supplies, Adoor Prakash and the MLA of Konni informed that the proposed Rs100m Institute was likely to receive federal sanction shortly. He said, “The 100-acre compound where the institute is to be set up has been identified in the jurisdiction of Konni assembly segment in Pathanamthitta district.” He added, “Already some resourceful non-resident Indians (NRIs), apart from the local industrialists have evinced interest in the project and the government is exploring the possibility of roping in more NRIs to make the project economically feasible.”

600 MW Power to be tapped from Wind Energy
Sunday, September 18, 2005 | JJ

600 MW Power will be generated from Wind Energy from 16 stations already identified. The proposed project will come up in collaboration with private partners. The first project for 4 MW worth Rs 21-crore will be set up at Ramakkalmedu in Idukki district by the Agency for Non-Conventional Energy and Rural Technology (ANERT) in association with the State Electricity Board. ANERT Director S Girajathmajan said “the agency would set up a 2-MW wind farm as a demonstration project while the KSEB will have another such project. Both the projects would be set up together at the same plot.'' He added ''The studies are over. The project would be ready in the next year as modalities are being worked out between the KSEB and the ANERT.''

Special packages to attract Gulf tourist
Sunday, September 18, 2005 | JJ

Special packages to attract Gulf tourists are being prepared by Kerala government. Kerala Tourism Minister K C Venugopal who was in Bahrain on a two-day visit at the invitation of the Indian Overseas Cultural Congress (IOCC) said "We want more Gulf nationals to visit Kerala, which is known for the beauty of its beaches, rivers, mountains, culture and cuisine." Regarding health tourism he said, "We have drawn up special health tourism packages because of the popularity of our Ayurvedic therapy, one of the ancient Indian systems of medicine." Bahrain Information Ministry Under-Secretary Mahmood Al Mahmood who is visiting Kerala as a guest of the state government next week said "We hope to work out details of strengthening tourism ties between our places during my meeting with officials in Trivandrum."

Kerala Govt’s Airline Company to be reality
Sunday, September 18, 2005 | JJ

Kerala Government’s proposed Airline Company to be reality soon. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy speaking at a function to present the B V Foundation award said that the airline would provide to and fro journey to lower income group employees working in West Asia. CM said the airlines would be launched as soon as Centre approves the proposal. He added that the state government would request Centre to wavier off the existing condition of allowing the airlines, which had three years domestic service to undertake international operations.

Ayyankali’s 143rd birth anniversary celebration
Friday, September 16, 2005 | JJ

Ayyankali’s 143rd birth anniversary celebrations are being conducted at different parts of the state. Ayyankali was born on 14th Chingam, ME 1039 at Perunkattuvila in Venganoor in Trivandrum District. One among the seven children of a Pulaya family, he was illiterate. He married Chellamma of Manjamkuzhy Kottukal . Neyyattinkara. They had six sons and one daughter. Scheduled caste welfare Minister A. P. Anil Kumar in the presence of Kodikunnil Suresh and Ayyankali's grandson Sasidharan paid floral tribute at Ayyankali Square in Vellayambalam in Thiruvananthapuram. DIC State president K Muralidharan inaugurated the function at the statue of Ayyankali at Vellayambalam.

Commonwealth Handball Championship at Kochi
Friday, September 16, 2005 | JJ

Commonwealth Handball Championship at Kochi will be organised from January 15 - 24, 2006 in which 18 international teams is expected to participate. This is the first time India is organizing the event which would be played at the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium here, according to the Kerala Handball Association President (KHA) B Rajan.

49 members nominated from Kerala to AICC
Friday, September 16, 2005 | JJ

49 members are nominated from Kerala to All lndia Congress Committee (AICC). The nominees are Ramesh Chennithala, Oommen Chandy, A K Antony, Thennala Balakrishna Pillai,MP, Vayalar Ravi, MP, Aryadan Mohammed, G Karthikeyan, M M Hassan, Vakkom Purushothaman, P P Thankachan, C V Padmarajan, V M Sudheeran, K Sankaranarayanan, Prof P J Kurien, Prof K V Thomas, P C Chacko, A C Jose, Savithri Lakshmanan, K C Venugopal, A Charles, K K Unnikrishnan, K P Unnikrishnan, Tom Vadakkan, Ranji Kuriakose, Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, A Sujanapal, Kadavoor Sivadasan, Nafeesath Beevi, K P Viswanathan, K Mohammed Ali, Mercy Ravi, P T Mohanakrishnan, P Anil Kumar, K C Joseph, Prof (Mrs) Tulasi, K Suresh Babu, Prof G Balachandran, M Murali, Thampanur Ravi, Vijayakumar, Dr Henry Austin, P V Gangadharan, V D Satheesan, Ms Jameela Ibrahim, Dominc Presentation, N Sakthan, Adoor Prakash, Pandalam Sudhakaran, Phlipose Thomas.

Traditional Thiruvonathoni sets sail
Thursday, September 15, 2005 | AA

Tradition and legend together set its course once again on Onam eve, as the Thiruvonathoni left from the river bank of Mangatt Illam at Kumaranaloor on Monday morning. Narayana Bhattathiri, the Karanavar of the Illam, along with two rowers in a 'Churulan' boat began his journey to the abode of Lord Parthasarathy at Aranmula, as family members and locals witnessed it in a piteous atmosphere. Narayana Bhattathiri is undertaking the journey for the seventh time in a stretch. Legend has it that the descendants of Mangatt Illam were gifted with the rare privilege to offer items for the feast of Aranmulayappan on Thiruvonam day. These offerings are made to the Lord in lieu of residents of the Mangatt Illam and indicates the surrendering at his abode as they left from Kattoor, near Kozencherry in Pathanamthitta district, to settle down at Kumaranaloor centuries ago. Before commencing this year's journey, special poojas were performed as usual at the Kumaranalloor Devi temple. The tiny boat will take a course through the Meenachil river via Chungam and Thazhathangadi and reach the Kattoor river to land in the Vembanad backwaters. It will reach Kavalam and cross Cherukara and halt at Kidangara today. It will move to Tiruvalla Moovadathum Madom the next day and will reach Aranmula the following day. Bhattathiri will not enter the Aranmula temple on that day. On Uthradom day, the boat will reach Melukara and later at Kattoor Sreekrishnaswamy temple, where Bhattathiri will be offered a warm welcome. The boat will leave the temple with a flame lighted from the sanctum sanctorum and will move to the Aranmula temple. Onam offerings will be stacked in the boat. After receiving the offerings, the temple authorities will give a 'panakkizhi'. Bhattathiri will offer the same at the hundi of the temple. The Illam Karanavar will return by land after the end of the ceremonies.

Kerala celebrates Thiruvonam
Thursday, September 15, 2005 | AA

All over the Malayalees are today celebrating Onam festival with traditional religious fervour and gaiety. A heavy rush of devotees was reported from various famous temples including Sree Padmanabaswamy, Sreekanteswara and Attukal Baghavati here, as well as the Sree Krishna temple at Guruvayur and Baghavati temple at Chottanikara. Traditional sports like "Ona Pathukali", small boat races, organised by various cultural organisations, were held in different parts of the State. Houses were decorated with flower carpets and "Onathappan" to welcome King Mahabali, who is supposed to visit the people of his erstwhile kingdom during the Onam day. The week-long Onam celebrations organised by the State Tourism and Cultural departments were also held at all important cities of the State.

Emergency: Pinarayi blasts Congress party
Thursday, September 15, 2005 | AA

CPM State secretary Pinarayi Vijayan today blasted Democratic Indira Congress leader K Karunakaran by saying that the he is the main architect of excesses committed by the Congress during the Emergency period in the State. "Karunakaran, who was the State Home Minister during the period of emergency could not absolve of the excesses committed by the Congress in the state during that period, " he said. ''It is shameful that the Congress, which never deplored the emergency now talks of excesses committed him,'' and the move was clearly aimed at taking political mileage out of it, he said. Reiterating the party's stance not to share platform with the DIC leaders, he said ''it is only a stop-gap arrangement while considering the prevailing political situation'' as in the case of the Left support, unmindful of the emergency excesses by the Congress, to the UPA at the Centre.

"May this festival usher in prosperity and happiness in our lives" -Shekhawat
Thursday, September 15, 2005 | AA

Vice President of India, Bhairon Singh Shekhawat on Wednesday greeted the people of Kerala on the occasion of Onam, saying the festival reflected the common brotherhood of Indians. "The mood of jubilation is vividly reflected in the rituals and festivities associated with the festival, transcending all barriers, uniting us all in a common brotherhood," Shekhawat said in a message. "Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala, is celebrated with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm. "May this festival usher in prosperity and happiness in our lives,"Shekhawat said.

International Film Festival of Kerala in December
Thursday, September 15, 2005 | AA

The 10th International Film Festival of Kerala, organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, will be held at Thiruvananthapuram from December 9-16. Films produced after september 1, 2004, are eligible for entry. Entries will be accepted upto September 30, an Academy announcement said today.

First day of Onam celebrated with enthusiasm
Wednesday, September 14, 2005 | AY

Malayalees all over the world are celebrating their national festival Onam's first day-'Uthradam' today. The villages, cities and towns have dressed up to welcome Onam. Sabarimala today opened the Sanctum Sanctorum for the Onam festival. It is a time for sports, festivities, and ritual celebrations. The festival is celebrated in memory of the golden era of King Mahabali whose spirit is said to visit the state at the time of Onam. As per the positioning of the stars and the moon, the festival is held at the end of August or beginning of September, less than a fortnight after the Malayalam New Year, Chingam begins. Keralites aboard will celebrate the festival at their own houses and prefer to have the traditional Kerala cuisine, while several Malayali associations celebrate the festival without any caste barriers. The festival is celebrated with traditional cultural programmes including thiruvathira , Mohini Attam, Pookalam, Vangipatt and colourful lighting of the lamps, followed by the elaborate Onam sadhya comprising of several delicacies including the irresistable adapradhaman and palada .

Yesudas honoured in UAE
Wednesday, September 14, 2005 | AY

Eenam International, a United Arab Emirates-based music-lovers' group, on Tuesday announced awards for four Kerala artistes - including noted playback singer K J Yesudas. The others named are music director Jayachandran, playback singer Sujatha, and lyricist Kaithapuram Damodaran Nampoothiri. The awards will be given away at the launch programme of the Eenam International in Dubai on Sep 29. Each of the awardees will be given a cash prize of Rs.50,000 and a citation. Swaralaya, the Kerala-based music promotion orgnisation with chapters around the country, will coordinate the event.

Missing bride suspected to be kidnapped for prostitution
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AY

The mystery surrounding the disappearance of a newly-married Indian woman, who joined her husband in Dubai early this month, deepened as the woman's relatives alleged that she might have been kidnapped for prostitution. Sabu Anthony, who works for a Dubai-based engineering company, had filed a complaint with the police and the Indian consulate that his wife, Smitha, 24, a master's degree holder in computer science, disappeared two days after her arrival here from Kerala. Doubts were raised about the authenticity of the note which she left saying that she has eloped with her lover because name of the writer was misspelt. The missing woman's uncle, Joseph Nazreth, a long-time resident of the UAE, suspected that Sabu had a hand in the disappearance of his niece and she might have been kidnapped by people running a prostitution ring.

Idukki dam nearing capacity level
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AY

The civil administration is in alert mode, with Kerala's largest reservoir Idukki brimming to capacity water level,precautionary. As steady flow of water continued and with likely opening of shutters by September 17, given the present momentum of water flow, steps were being taken to shift hundreds of families to safety. Though there was respite in persistent heavy rains in catchment areas, substantial quantity of water reached the dam, taking water level to 2397.8 ft, against the capacity of 2,403 ft. Officials from the Revenue, PWD, Forest and Electricity departments attended the high-level meeting that chalked out steps to evacuate the people from the banks of the river flowing from the dam mouth and the Periyar, where water could swell considerably.

CM's Meeting: Airlines agree to operate more services to Gulf
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

Major airlines operating services to Kerala have agreed to operate more services during the peak season in the Gulf route. Representatives of airlines disclosed this in a meeting with the Chief Minister, Mr. Oommen Chandy. The Chief Minister called the special meeting to discuss the solutions for heavy rush in the sector and the hike in fares. Mr. M. M. Hassan, Chairman, NORKA-ROOTS, said that the airlines have agreed to operate more services to handle the situation. The Indian Airlines would operate six more services thereby making the total number of services sixteen. The Oman Airlines has agreed to operate more flights from Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram by September. The Qatar Airways and Kuwait Airways have agreed to increase the number of seats by 667 and 100 respectively per week. However, with regard to the issue of fares the representatives informed that it is not under the control of airlines. Mr. Hassan said that the Chief Minister would meet the Prime Minister and Civil Aviation Minister to find a solution. Issues related with the 'Open Sky' policy will also be taken up, Mr. Hassan said.

State's airline project: DPR to be submitted in November
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the budget airline project proposed by the State Government would be submitted to the Government in November, Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister said. The preliminary studies were favourable for the project. The Government has appointed the UK based consultancy firm, 'Ernst and Young' to work out the report. The Government is keen on the project and is ready to act once the report is submitted, the Chief Minister said. A sub- committee set up by the Cochin International Airport Ltd, a partner in the project would monitor the progress of the project. The Kannur Airport project has got the clearance from the Union Government. The Centre had agreed to relax the stipulation making it mandatory that the new airports should acquire land for at least two runways. Paper works for the project are in progress, the Chief Minister said.

Air India announces additional seats
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

Air India has announced an increase of 2,300 seats in the Kerala- Gulf route to cope up with the peak season rush. Disclosing this in Kochi, Mr. K. M. Kurian, Commercial Manager, Kerala, Air India, said that this includes both Air India and Air India Express flights. The additional seats were availed in no time by passengers. Already five additional services had been operated from Kerala to Dubai. Additional services will be operated on September 1st from Kozhikode and on 3rd and 5th September from Thiruvananthapuram to Dubai. The departure time from Kozhikode on September 1st is 12.15 PM. The departure time from Thiruvananthapuram on 3rd and 5th is 11.45 AM. Additional service will also be operated from Kozhikode via Thiruvananthapuram to Riyadh. The departure time from Kozhikode is 5.30 PM and the take off time from Thiruvananthapuram is 7.20 PM. The Chief Minister, Mr. Oommen Chandy had convened a meeting with the representatives of major airlines to sort out the issue of the shortage of flights.

Govt. to extend help for Air Arabia: Chief Minister
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

The Government would take necessary steps to start Air Arabia's services from Kerala to the Gulf, Mr. Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister said in the State Legislative Assembly. The Government will extend help to the airline to obtain license for the purpose. The State government is taking steps to start a Budget Airline Company, the Chief Minister also said.

NORKA Department's warning
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

The Non resident Keralites' Affairs Department has made it clear that it has not entrusted any person or agency to collect money for any schemes. The alert comes in the wake of complaints with regard to the money being collected illegally by some expatriate organisations in the name of NORKA's welfare programmes like insurance schemes.

Immigration Cards soon
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

The Union Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs informed that the electronic immigration clearance card for NRIs would be distributed soon. The dual citizenship for Persons of Indian origin (PIOs) will be distributed in the months of September and October. Immigration cards to be distributed among people working in certain sectors can be used for authorisation and insurance purposes, according to the ministry. To avoid delay in airports, machines will be installed in international airports for checking the cards.

UAE: New system for certificate attestation
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

UAE: New system for certificate attestation

The single window system for authentication of certificates will come into effect in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 3rd September. An international agency, 'Integra Screen' has been entrusted with the job. The agency will function under the control of the Government. Here onwards candidates can pay a sum of 500 dirhams in the emirates post office. Copies of degree certificate, mark list and passport should be submitted along with the application. Application forms for authentication would be available in all emirates post offices. The token number given to the candidate would help him to find the status of his/ her application. After due checking by the universities concerned, the certificate will be returned to the applicant by emirates post. The entire process would take a time of about 40 days. If the certificates are found to be fake the applicant will have to face legal procedures. In such instance the employer will have to close the institution till the end of the case. The new decision is due to complaints of delay and exorbitant rates charged by various agencies.

UAE: Labour Ministry to allow workers above 60 yrs
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

The Labour Ministry of UAE has declared that employees can continue in job after sixty years of age. For the renewal of labour cards of such persons, the employer has to pay an amount of 5000 UAE dirhams. The ministry's decision would help employers to get the service of experienced hands.

Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas 2006 to be conducted in a big way
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

The Union Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs plans to conduct the fourth edition of the 'Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas' (PBD) in a big way. Hyderabad has been chosen as the venue for the event to be held from 7-9 January 2006. Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister, will inaugurate the function. Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, Hon'ble President, would present the 'Pravasi Bhartiya Sammans'. The inaugural session will be held at the Cyberabad Convention Centre, while the Shilpakala Vedika at nearby Madhapur will be the main venue for plenary and other sessions. The Shilparamam Art Complex will be the location for cultural programs and art and craft displays from different states of India. The HITEX Complex or the Shilpakala Vedika Complex will host the trade, business, banking and investment stalls and pavilions put up by various states depicting their developments. The states would showcase leading projects inviting Overseas Indian participation.There will be a plenary session with Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and a special session on a selected topic. Thematic sessions on investment, education, healthcare, rural development etc. will also be held. An interactive session involving four state Governments is also planned. Cultural evenings would be held where various programmes by the Indian Diaspora, a show based on cinema and a sound and light show would be presented.The Government has decided to change the venue from state to state every year. The event conducted by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs provides an opportunity to the Government to reiterate its continued commitment to build strong and sustainable partnerships with the overseas Indian community.

Sharjah YMCA wins award
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

The first YMCA in the Gulf sector, the Sharjah YMCA has been selected for the K. M. Philip Award for Hope Generating Efforts. Mr. M. A. Yousuf Ali, Director of NORKA-ROOTS and Managing Director of M. K. Group won the 'Man of Excellence – 2005' award. Mr. Yousuf Ali's exceptional achievements in various fields including social service, communal harmony, and industry were considered for the award, said Mr. T. Thomas, National General Secretary, YMCA. The awards will be presented at the 150th annual celebrations to be held in Mumbai.

Amazing increase in new companies
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

With the state being identified as a potential destination to invest in the tourism, IT and construction sectors, the number of companies registering in Kerala is on the rise, according to the statistics with the Registrar of Companies. Mr. S. M. Ameerul Millith, Registrar of Companies informed that in the last economic year over thousand companies were registered. Last month alone around hundred companies were registered. New registrations are mostly in the tourism related sectors like hotels and restaurants. Such an increase is being witnessed after seven years. The Vallarpadom International Container Transhipment Terminal Project, LNG Terminal and Smart City Project would encourage more companies to come up, especially in Kochi. Software development and BPO companies are next in line.

Two bids submitted for Vizhinjam terminal project
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

One Indian company and a consortium of an Indian firm and two Chinese groups have submitted bids for the International Container Transhipment Terminal project at Vizhinjam. An evaluation committee would be formed for the selection procedure, said Mr. M. V. Raghavan, Minister for Ports. The project would be a public- private partnership venture and the State Government will have a share of 24 percent with the involvement of NRIs and Government institutions. The first phase of the project is estimated to cost Rs. 1,850 crores and would be completed by 2006. Of this Rs. 1,050 crores has to be mobilised in the form of loans and equity component. The much-awaited Vizhinjam project when completed is expected to boost the development of the State. The major potential of the project is its strategic location in the international shipping route. Another advantage is that the natural depth within one nautical mile from the shore is 16 to 20 metres, which is rare and ideal. The total cost for the project is estimated at Rs. 4,200 crores. The Port is expected to be operational by 2009.

Jobs in Gulf: No need for concern, says Mr. E. Ahamed
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

There exists no immediate threat to the job prospects for Indians in the Gulf countries, the Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. E. Ahamed said. The minister was addressing media persons in Kollam recently. The demand for opportunities for 'Sons of the soil' has forced some countries to discourage the import of human resources. The unusual increase in the number of immigrants is another factor. However, this will not have any immediate effect on the job prospects of Indians in those countries. The Government of India is keen that the opportunities for Indian nationals should not be reduced, the minister said.

Online Registration of Passport Applications
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

Online Internet registration is not mandatory for submission of passport applications in all passport offices in India, except in Mumbai, said Mr. E. Ahamed, Minister of State for External Affairs. In Mumbai it has been started on an experimental basis from March 2005. However, in the Regional Passport Office, Mumbai, even after Internet registration, applicants do have the choice to submit their applications on a day other than the specified date. Online Internet registration is also not necessary if application is submitted through any of the District Passport Centres in Mumbai.

Airline services: FDI policy favours 100% NRI investments
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

As per the existing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy, NRIs are eligible to invest upto 100% in Air Transport Services (Domestic Airlines) under the automatic route said the Minister of State in Prime Minister's office, Mr. Prithviraj Chavan. The Ministry of Civil Aviation stipulates that a scheduled or non-scheduled air transport operator's permit can be granted only to a citizen of India or to a company/body corporate provided, inter-alia, that substantial ownership and effective control is vested in Indian nationals. Hence Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) cannot avail this facility. Parity of PIO Card Holders with NRIs in regard to investments in the Civil Aviation sector is under consideration of the Ministries concerned, the minister also said.

Assistance for Indian prisoners in foreign jails
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

Indian Missions and Posts abroad have standing instructions to immediately take up with the relevant local authorities any case concerning the detention or imprisonment of an Indian national abroad, said Mr. E. Ahamed, Minister of State for External Affairs. On receipt of such information, Indian Missions and Posts abroad would render all possible assistance within the rules to the detained Indian nationals and try to get them released, if possible. In countries with large concentration of Indian workers like the Gulf Countries, Indian Missions and Posts have separate wings exclusively looking after the welfare of Indian nationals. Officials of these Wings regularly visit the prisons to find out if there are any detained Indian nationals and to render permissible assistance. The minister was replying to a question by Prof. P.J. Kurian, MP in Rajya Sabha.

High utilisation rates for Air India Express: Mr. V. Thulasidas
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 | AA

Air India Express, the budget airline service of Air India is in much demand among passengers, Mr. V. Thulasidas, Chairman and Managing Director, Air India, said. Air India Express offers tickets at 20 to 25 percent less than the market rates. The minimum peak season rates were 53 percent less when compared to other players. The capacity utilisation of Air India Express in the routes to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from Thiruvananthapuram during the May 10- August 25 period was 100 percent. And it was 99 percent from Kozhikode. Capacity utilisation in the Dubai and Abu Dhabi routes from Kochi was 100 percent and 99 percent respectively. Flights to Muscat from Kochi and Kozhikode recorded an utilisation of 94 percent and 95 percent respectively.

Dileep's new movie on the line
Monday, September 12, 2005 | AY

Gajala the Tamil- Telugu actress will play the female lead opposite Dilip for the untitled film which is being directed and produced by Jayasurya. The film was first titled Speed and later was changed to Rush. Now both the titles have been dropped. The new title will soon be announced. Dilip plays the role of Ajit, a youth from a middle class family who excels in sports. He dreams of being a good sportsman but his father’s death shatters his dreams. He somehow manages to get a seat in the sports college but again tragedy strikes him. Shooting of the film is in progress at Pollachi. Music is by Deepak Dev and Cinematography is by P. Sukumaran. The film is produced under the banner Varnachitra.

Six held in Kerala bus torching case
Monday, September 12, 2005 | AY

In connection with the torching of a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation at Cochin in Kerala on Friday, police yesterday detained six more persons. The detained are closely linked to People's Democratic Party and the National Development Front. The police had earlier detained 10 suspected PDP workers in connection with the incident. The police have been pointing the needle of suspicion towards the PDP.

I never work under pressure: Adoor
Sunday, September 11, 2005 | AY

Renowned film-maker Adoor Gopalakrishnan, who won the Dada Saheb Phalke award for 2004, said it was important to see that awards did not affect a creative person. "Awards do not put extra pressure on me and I never work under pressure. You cannot do anything creative under duress," he told a meet-the-press programme here. The Phalke award was a recognition for Kerala and Malayalam films. "If a recognition of this kind emboldens young enterprising film-makers to affirm their faith in what they are doing, I will be happy," he said. Asked whether he would venture making films in other languages, Adoor said Malayalam was the only language he knew at least "a little bit" though he did not claim to be an expert of the language. "You use other languages only to survive." Adoor said he would continue making films as a lifetime achievement award was not a 'full stop' to anything. Adoor said labelling of films as `art' and `commercial' was a dangerous trend. "Style in my films is not deliberate. Each one of my film was the best I could do at the particular point of time."

Kerala not ready to leave the Kovalam beach properties
Sunday, September 11, 2005 | AY

Kerala govt said it would not let go of properties of the disinvested India Tourism Development Corporation's (ITDC) hotel at Kovalam beach that are under dispute. Tourism Minister K.C. Venugopal told reporters here that the revenue authorities are preparing a list of the properties that belong to the state government. The controversy began when the MFar Group headed by Oman-based Kerala businessman Mohammed Ali bought the Kovalam Hotel from ITDC three years ago as part of a disinvestment programme by the former Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the centre. Ali claimed that the Halcyon Palace and the 4.13-hectare land situated within the campus of the Kovalam Hotel was part of the deal. When Ali persisted, Kerala witnessed a bitter political upheaval with almost all political parties asking the government to take over the heritage property. After the government tried to take over the property through an order, Ali approached the high court. But things changed again when Leela Group of Hotels promoted by C.P. Krishnan Nair took over the controversial Kovalam Hotels from MFar in July. Nair while announcing the takeover had clearly indicated that he would not stake claim to the palace and the disputed properties and would not go ahead with the case that was filed by his predecessor. The sprawling beach resort believed to be one of the best in the world has 194 rooms - all overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Kerala turns barren hills into blooming meadows
Saturday, September 10, 2005 | AY

Officials of the state forest department says that nearly 1,000 acres of mountainous terrain in the Kothamangalam area of India's beautiful southern state of Kerala could be turned into flourishing meadows by providing some technical inputs to the programme. The drive to give a green cover to the vast stretch of land is supported by a local non-government association, Green Circle, with the aim to prove that afforestation is possible on a rocky terrain. Work on the project started on Tuesday after a tree plantation ceremony. Mounds of earth are being brought to the area to begin planting saplings of the ficus plant, a species most suited to the rocky terrain. Green Circle members say they hope to realize the fruits of their labour within five years of planting shrubs and bushes and in another twenty-five years with trees. The success of this project certainly depends on the determination of the volunteers and the employment of scientific inputs towards tree plantation. The state forest department has donated the land for the project and around2,000 saplings have already been planted on the mountain. Members of Green Circle say they would like to make their drive enter the Guinness Book of World Records once their dreams are realized.

Smart city project MoU signed
Saturday, September 10, 2005 | AY

With the state government signing a pact with a Dubai government body, Kerala's ambitious Smart City project crossed the first major hurdle. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Kerala Chief Secretary P. Mohandas and Ahmed Bin-Bayathu, director general of the Dubai Technology, Electronics, Commerce, and Media Zone Authority (Tecom), a body of the Dubai government. The project has seen criticised by the opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF), especially by the leader of the opposition V.S. Achuthanandan, and also by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Chandy, however, said that he was not going to be cowed down by these baseless allegations. As part of the deal, the state government will hand over the existing Infopark at a cost of Rs.1.09 billion ($22.83 million), 136 acres of land at Rs.2.64 million ($602,189) per acre and another 100 acres of land on a 99-year lease free of cost. The leased land will be taken back in case the Dubai based agency fails to create 33,000 jobs.

Naran
Friday, September 9, 2005 | AY

Mohanlal’s Naran was released on 6th September 05 all over Kerala. Joshi is the director of the film with Devayani as the heroine. The film was supposed to be released on Onam but it was released today. 65 prints were made and distributed today. The censor certification for this film was complete yesterday and prints were made and released at jet speed.
Click here for more on the Movie Naran

Bus Conductor
Friday, September 9, 2005 | AY

Mammooty will play the title role in the film 'Bus Conductor'. T.A. Rasak who wrote the story had initially planned to have it directed by Kamal. Later it was shelved and Rasak wrote the story of Raapakal, which was a hit. Now Rasak’s story will be directed by Vinu for Vishaka movies. Jaisurya who played a comic hero now shifts to playing the second lead.

Remnants of illiteracy in the state
Friday, September 9, 2005 | AY

The state, which boasts of cent per cent literacy, still has about 20 per cent illiterates with 60 per cent of them being women. It was in 1991 that Chelakkadan Ayesha, a neo-literate from the remote Kavnnur village in Malappuram district, declared the state as totally literate. Many experts who were and are part of the literacy movement feel that the campaign had lost some of its glory with many of the neo-literates finding it hard to even write their own names. Kerala State Literacy Mission (KSLM) director Konni Gopakumar, while attributing the present situation to the failure of the Post Literacy Programme which began in 1991, said lack of funds was a major stumbling block today. The funds are being given only for running the Continuing Education Centres (CEC). But there is no financial assistance for the Mission's four major projects -- Rapid Literacy, Equivalency, Income Generating and Quality of Life Improvement programmes.

Karunakaran launchs election campaign
Friday, September 9, 2005 | AY

K Karunakaran's official launch of the party's election campaign began here today from Attingal. His electoral wagon will take him to Alappuzha on September 11, Ernakulam on September 12, Thrissur on September 13, Kannur and Kasaragod on September 18, Kozhikode on September 19, and Pathanamthitta-Chengannur on September 22. DIC president K. Muralidharan will begin his electoral campaign on September 12 from Thrissur. He will address meetings in Thiruvananthapuram, Kasaragod-Kannur districts on September 16, Idukki on September 17, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta on September 18, Ernakulam on September 19, Alappuzha on September 20, Kollam on September 21, Palakkad on September 22, and Malappuram on September 23.

Neru Ariyan CBI
Friday, September 9, 2005 | AA

The complete coverage of Neru Ariyan CBI (Nerariyan CBI) movie page is here:
http://www.my-kerala.com/p/m/films/neruariyancbi/

Bharath Chandran IPS
Friday, September 9, 2005 | AA

The complete review of Bharath Chandran IPS is here:
http://www.my-kerala.com/p/m/films/bharathchandran/

Test centre for medical devices coming up
Wednesday, September 7, 2005 | AY

The country's first national test centre for medical devices is to come up in the Kerala. The test centre, being funded by the central government, is to be set up at the premier Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST). The test centre would be a major step towards attaining self sufficiency in medical device testing and cater to the larger volume needs of the Indian medical device industry to attain global competence. Currently the testing of imported or domestic medical equipment does not take place in the country because it is not mandatory.

Nomination for candidates ends today
Wednesday, September 7, 2005 | AY

Around one lakh candidates have filed their nomination papers for the elections to the three-tier local bodies in Kerala. The scrutiny of the papers would take place tomorrow and the last date for withdrawal is September 9. Elections will be held on Sept 24 in the southern districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Thrissur, while polls in Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts would be on Sept 26. Elections will be held to 16,139 grama panchayats, 2004 block panchayats and 339 district panchayats, 1756 municipalities, and 316 municipal corporation wards. Electronic voting machines would be used in all corporations. The newly floated Democratic Indira Congress (K) has entered into local-level understanding with LDF, while BJP has decided to go it alone. Meanwhile, the State Election Commission today dismissed a petition filed against Chief Minister Oommen Chandy complaining that he had violated model code of conduct by making an announcement about Vizhinjam and Kochi metro schemes during cabinet briefing on August 31.

Balaram Vs Taradas
Tuesday, September 6, 2005 | AY

IV Sashi was planning to come up with a new film- a combination of two hit characters- Taradas and Balaram. Well, the film's screenplay is ready. Liberty Films is producing it and Mammooty is playing the lead role. The film is expected to cost about Rs 4 Crores. They still haven't decided the heroine. 'Balaram Vs Taradas' is going to be shot in London, Dubai and Kochi. Shooting begins on the 28th of October.

Heavy rains in Kerala
Tuesday, September 6, 2005 | AY

The south west monsoon in its last spell was active in Kerala and Lakshwadeep with heavy to very heavy rainfall lashing many parts of the state and the Union Territory. Low pressure area formed along the Karnataka cost which had triggered the monsoon. Heavy rains are usually received during the last spell of the monsoon period, and this phenomenon could last till the September 10. Konni received 16 cm of rainfall followed by Agathy 15 cm. Kanjirapally and Pirvam received 14 cm rain, respectively. Chalakkudy and Thodupuzha received 13 cm of rain each. While 12 cm of rainfall was received at Perumbavoor, Kozha and Alawaye got 11 cm and 10 cm of rain, respectively. Kochi, Chertala and Kumarakam received nine cm of rain, Chengannur and Eringalakuda- 8 cm, Haripad, Paravur and Varkala -- 7 cm of rain. The Met office also forecast isolated heavy rain in many parts of Kerala and Lakshwadeep.

Anju bags gold in the 16th Asian Athletics Championship
Monday, September 5, 2005 | AY

Long jumper Anju Bobby George and the women's 4x400m relay team, with a new meet record, won two more gold medals as India finished fourth with a haul of 13 medals, including four gold, in the 16th Asian Athletics Championship that concluded in Incheon on Sunday. Anju, ranked ninth in the world, won the third gold for the country at the championship with her fourth leap of 6.65 metres. Anju, however, had to face stiff competition from silver medallist Marestella Torres of the Philippines, who ran her close with her final effort of 6.63m.

Newly wed bride elopes with her lover
Monday, September 5, 2005 | AY

A newly married couple’s honeymoon has ended abruptly. The young wife is missing from the sharing accommodation in Karama, a day after she landed in Dubai on a visit visa, and the husband claims she has fled to her lover in Abu Dhabi. Sabu, husband of 24 year old Divya (name changed) from Ernakulam, Kerala said that when he left for work at 5am morning, she was happy and smiling. She did not appear to have any problems. When he returned home at 7pm, she was missing. He was left with two page letter written in Malayalam saying she has married him only to reach Dubai. She wrote that she was in love with someone in Abu Dhabi and was going with her lover. Sabu said he had no knowledge about his wife having any friend in the UAE as he had spend 16 days with her after their marriage in India four months back. Sabu lodged complaint about his missing wife at the Al Rafa police station last night. However, parents of the missing bride alleged foul play.

Sequele to Manichitrathazhu planned
Sunday, September 4, 2005 | AY

The Rajinikanth starrer Chandramukhi which was inspired by Fazil’s Manichitrathazhu is one of the biggest hits in South India. Now Fazil has started a sequel to Manichitrathazhu. He has roped in Mohanlal, who played Dr Sunny Joseph, a psychiatrist in the original, to play the same role with a new set of actors. Fazil himself will produce the film. Manichitrathazhu was directed by Priyadarshan, Sibi Malayail and Lal-Sidiq under the supervision of their guru (Fazil). Shobana won the National award for her performance as a mentally afflicted woman. Suresh Gopi played her hubby.

Doctors to evaluate Thailand elephants fitness
Sunday, September 4, 2005 | AY

Dr Jacob Cheeran will appear as an elephant expert in a case involving the government of Australia and non-governmental organisations before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. Dr Jacob Cheeran, when contacted, confirmed that he would be leaving for Thailand next week to examine the eight elephants and evaluate their fitness. He said the eight elephants were calves aged between four and six years. Subsequently he would leave for Australia to appear before the tribunal, the hearing being scheduled to begin in the first week of next month. It may be recalled that Dr Jacob Cheeran, along with Dr Kaimal and Dr K C Panicker, had tranquillised 501 domestic elephants till date in Kerala and created a record. Dr Cheeran’s enviable track record of treating and taming elephants began in the late seventies and has made foreign governments and animal lovers sit up and take notice.

Maha veda vidyalayam soon to close
Saturday, September 3, 2005 | AY

Vadakke Madham Brahmaswam located in the heart of Thrissur town, established some 400 years ago, is on the verge of closure due to inadequate funds. This institution has been teaching rituals to Brahmins. Besides Vedas, the inmates are also given classes in Sanskrit and modern education. The Institution still follows the same old Gurukul tradition by giving students and teachers free food, boarding and lodging. The students are not given pen, pencil or paper to study the Vedas. They chant the Rig Veda and other prayers with the help of their fingers. There are 21 students studying Rig Veda at present. Students are also given private tution in languages and subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Natural Science, Social Studies and other subjects to enable them to appear privately for school examinations. Central Government discontinued its grant five years ago.

Prime minister praises kerala
Saturday, September 3, 2005 | AY

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday evening on a two-day visit to the State. The Prime Minister, who proceeded to the KPCC headquarters Indira Bhavan, addressed a meeting of the KPCC functionaries and district office-bearers. Later he drove to Raj Bhavan where he had a formal dinner with the Governor R L Bhatia, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, A K Antony MP, Vayalar Ravi MP and Kerala Pradesh Congress Commitee President Ramesh Chennithala. Prime Minister unveiled the statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and B R Ambedkar at the premises of the Kerala Assembly on Saturday. The Prime Minister said he considered the occasion historic as it was rare to have the statues of the three great leaders of the nation at the same place. Mahatma Gandhi was the architect and commander-in-chief of our freedom struggle and the Father of our Nation, Balasaheb Ambedkar was the architect of our Constitution and Jawaharlal Nehru the architect of modern India. He said Kerala was one of the earliest examples of pluralism and inclusiveness each one of these great patriots had aspired for the country. Describing Kerala as an inspiring example of unity in diversity, Dr Singh said the tradition of tolerance for a multi-cultural and multi-religious society, that was seen for long in Kerala, was what the three leaders wanted to establish in the country. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has promised that Kerala would benefit from the National Urban Renewable Programme (NURP), which will be implemented in a few months.

Muralidharan blasts Sonia Gandhi
Saturday, September 3, 2005 | AA

The Democratic Indira Congress (Karunakaran) president K Muralidharan blasted AICC president Sonia Gandhi by saying that she is trying to stop his party from being recognised by the Election Commission.
"It is rather sad that Sonia Gandhi and the All India Congress Committee together tried to get the recognition of our party stalled," he said. "Despite that we are delighted that we got Indira Gandhi's name as well as our party name as Congress. And Karunakaran's name added to that has come as a bonus" Muralidharan told reporters here today. Muralidharan also said DIC (K) would go to any extent, including the withdrawal of its candidates, to ensure the defeat of the United Democratic Front in the ensuing civic polls. ''We will withdraw our candidates in case of a triangular contest to avoid the victory of the UDF candidates,'' he told reporters here today. Regarding the electoral understanding with the Left Democratic Front Murali said both his party and the LDF had made it clear that there would not be any alliance in the State-level. Asserting that there would not be any kind of tie-ups either with the BJP or any of the UDF partners in the elections, he said the party would extend all support to those who help the DIC (K) at the Panchayat level.

Kerala to get test centre for medical devices
Saturday, September 3, 2005 | AA

The country's first national test centre for medical devices is to come up in the Kerala State capital. The test centre, being funded by the central government, is to be set up at the premier Sree Chitra Thirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST). The foundation stone laying ceremony for the centre is expected to be held Friday. "Kapil Sibal, minister of state for science and technology and ocean development is expected here Friday" (for the stone-laying ceremony)," said K. Mohandas, director SCTIMST. However, there is speculation that the ceremony might not take place on account of the model code of conduct coming into effect with the local bodies poll fixed for later this month. "An 180,000-square feet building is to come up and we expect construction to be over next year. The test centre would begin functioning after that," Mohandas told. The test centre would be a major step towards attaining self sufficiency in medical device testing and cater to the larger volume needs of the Indian medical device industry to attain global competence. "A major chunk of the money would go for the test centre. We are also setting up a tissue and stem cell engineering centre and a patent library," added Mohandas. Currently the testing of imported or domestic medical equipment does not take place in the country because it is not mandatory. SCTIMST, set up under an act of parliament, is to get a staggering assistance of close to Rs.1 billion for its development activities from the centre. The institute is one among the 14 institutes of national importance and one among the three nationally recognised medical institutions alongside New Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Chandigarh's Post Graduate Institute for Medicine and Research. Mohandas recently became the first medical doctor to be elected president of the Association of Commonwealth Universities. He said the mechanical heart valve founded by them in the mid 1980s is now much sought after and presently research is in the final stages in the development of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible heart valve. Emphasizing the good work done by the institute, Mohandas said that they have till now registered 98 patents of which 33 have been exploited.{Agency]

Festival of colour and fragrance, Flower Show from Sept. 9th - 18th
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AA

Come September, it would be a festival of colour and fragrance for the Capital City of Thiruvananthapuram with a flower Show being held here from 9th to 18th. Announcing this, Mr. K. C. Venugopal, Minister for Tourism, said that the State Government would take every step for the success of the show. The minister inaugurated the office for the Show at the Museum Auditorium in Thiruvananthapuram. Flower Shows would boost the horticulture sector in the state, the minister said. Mr. A. P. Anilkumar, Minister for Culture inaugurated the media centre for the festival. Mr. B. Jayachandran, President, Press Club, Thiruvananthapuram, received the first press release from the Minister for Culture. Mr. T. Balakrishnan, Principal Secretary, Industries;Ms. Lida Jacob, Secretary, Public Works and Mr. S. Srinivasan, Labour Commissioner were present.

Akkulam Children's Park to get a facelift soon
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AA

The Children's park at Akkulam in Thiruvananthapuram will be renovated and more attractions would be added, said Mr. K. C. Venugopal, Minister for Tourism. Five new boats and more entertainment facilities would be added. The possibilities for implementing tourism projects in a 25-acre land near the Southern Air Command would also be studied, the minister said. A meeting convened for the purpose was attended by Mr. K. Mohankumar MLA;Mr. E. K. Bharat Bhushan, Principal Secretary, Tourism;Mr. Ashok Kumar Singh, Additional Director, Kerala Tourism;Secretary, D.T.P.C, Planning Officer, Kerala Tourism and officials of the irrigation department.

KTDC launches Health Tourism projects
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AA

The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) has announced a host of new initiatives and development programmes. Talking to media persons in Kochi, Mr. Pandalam Sudhakaran, Chairman, KTDC revealed the future programmes of the corporation. A joint programme has been launched with the Gujarat Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). Co- operation in promotional and marketing activities in a reciprocal basis is the thrust of the programme. The KTDC had recently held a road show in Gujarat. The tie up with the GTDC is expected to draw more tourists from Gujarat. A special health tourism programme has also been devised to place Kerala as a destination for health tourism. The corporation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Intersight Tours and Travels Private Limited. Holiday options provided by the KTDC will be supported with the AIMS' medical treatment facilities and Intersight's logistics support. As part of the programme a 'Health and Holiday Card' package has been envisaged for Non-resident Indians. Complete medical check-up along with attractive holiday options are offered in the package to be launched soon. The Ayurvedic Lake Resort opened by the KTDC at Thanneermukkam in Alappuzha is a full- fledged Ayurvedic resort, the Chairman said. Mr. M. N. Gunavardhanan, Managing Director, KTDC;Mr. Sudhakar Jayaram, General Manager, AIMS and Mr. J. Abraham George, Managing Director, Intersight were also present.

Kerala to set up tourism friendly Town Squares
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AA

Kerala Tourism would assist the development of town squares in towns of tourism importance in the state. This is part of the department's efforts to develop quality infrastructure at tourist centres. The squares would act as tourism nodes at various places in the state. The project will be implemented in phases with the support of local-self-government institutions and local community. Facilities including large open space for relaxation, meeting space, information and facilitation centres, parking area and toilet would be available in the Squares. The land required for developing Squares, a minimum of one acre should be provided by the local self-government institution. Additional facilities would be added according to the availability of land and importance of the town. The maximum assistance for a single project from the Kerala Tourism would be Rs. 5 million and the local-self-government should mobilise the rest of the amount, if it desires to add more facilities. The maximum cost is limited at Rs. 10 million. The responsibility of operation and maintenance would be entrusted with the local-self- government institutions. Twenty-five centres are expected to come up within the next two years.

Viral Thumbiloro
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AY

Yet another film is going to be added to the list of Onam releases. This one is the much-delayed 'Viral Thumbiloro'. 'Manasinakkarae' was the first comeback film for Sheela. But even before she worked in it, Sheela had signed up 'Viral Thumbiloro'. But the film kept running into one delay after the other. The film's story and screenplay were written by Lal Jose. Ismail Hasan is directing it. The film is finally ready. The cast includes Suja Karthik, Jagadi, Sai Kumar and others.

Thurupugulaan
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AY

"Thurupugulaan" starring Mammooty, Sneha, Innocent will be directed by Johnny Anthony. Innocent plays the role of the father and Mammooty is Kunhumon. After a long time, Sneha returns to Malayalam with this film. Story is of a family consisting of father and three sons, including Kunhumon. The four together run the fast food restaurants in the state. And, thanks to the blessings of Nala, the business starts to flourish. When the business starts to flourish, the number of enemies starts to increase too.

Lunch with Mohanlal Recipe Contest
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AY

Asianet, along with Mohanlal Taste Buds, has launched the ‘Lunch with Mohanlal Receipe Contest’ at a press conference held at Lulu Hypermarket. Set your culinary skills to the test as Asianet and Mohanlal Taste Buds jointly invite amateur cooks across the AGCC to stir up culinary delights to win the grandest prize of all — a chance to invite Mohanlal for lunch at their homes. Being highly passionate about food, the tastes and flavours of Kerala, especially the dishes cooked by his mother and grandmother is what gave birth to Mohanlal Taste Buds — a range of food products which are based on the age-old traditional techniques and spices of Kerala. Twelve Lucky winners would be selected across the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait & Saudi Arabia. The winners would then share the limelight with their favourite star on Asianet TV, which will run as a 13-episode programme.

CM opens Malabar tourism and travel mart
Friday, September 2, 2005 | AY

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy w inaugurated the Malabar Tourism and Travel Mart at Kadavu Resort here on Thursday. He said the industry was providing jobs to eight lakh people in the state. "Unlike other destinations like Singapore which is man-made, Kerala is God-made’’ the CM said, adding that it’s all the more important that we preserve the fragile balance of the environment. Calling upon everyone to join hands to reclaim Kerala’s lost glory, the CM said that the government was committed to tourism promotion. Tourism Minister K.C. Venugopal presided over the function. Cultural Minister A.P. Anil Kumar, MLAs Suganapal, T.P.M. Sahir, K.A.N. Sahir, Malappuram District Collector M.Sivasankaran and Kozhikode Collector Rachan Shah offered felicitations.

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