VODAFONE ESSAR TO LAUNCH
3G BY EARLY 2011
Third largest mobile carrier Vodafone Essar will launch third generation (3.G) service in the January-march quarter of 2011 and plans to spend up to$500 million over the next few years on its 3 G network.
Vodafone is the second mobile operator to announce specific plans to --3 G after Tata Tele service, which earlier announced plans to launch the service on November 5. Vodafone’s approach is to give customers a world class experience and facility.
Prof.John Kurakar
Saturday, October 30, 2010
TSUNAMI IN INDONESIA-2010
A powerful earthquake triggered a three meter tsunami that pounded remote Island villages in western Indonesia, killinng at least 113 people and more than 500 people missing on Tuesday 26th October, 2010.
Indonesia the world’s largest archipelago is prone to earthquake and volcanic activity due to its location on the pacific Ring of Fire- Indonesia mount merap erupted three times on Tuesday 26th October, 2010, causing the life of a three month old baby girl as it emitted searing clouds and volcanic ash. The baby had severe berating difficulties from inhaling volcanic materials.
Prof.John Kurakar
Friday, October 29, 2010
TRIBUTE TO POET AYYAPPAN
Poet A Ayyappan was found unconscious by the wayside close to the Thiruvananthapuram central railway station late Thursday evening on 22nd October,2010 and died at the General Hospital Thiruvananthpuram with out any body recognized. He was identified only after his body was shifted to the mortuary. For the record, he would have turned 61 on Wednesday, October,2010.
A Ayyappan, winner of this year’s (2010) Kumaranasan Puraskaram and the 1999 Kerala Sahithya Akademi Award. He was to have received the Asan Puraskaram instituted by the Asan Memorial Association at Chennai on Saturday,23rd October 2010 and had booked the ticket for the journey.
Born on October 27,1949 as the son of Arumukham and Muthammal at Balaramapuram,Thiruvananthapuram. Ayyappan lost both his parents at a very young age.
After working as proof reader and copy editor at Prabhath Book House,run by the state unit of the CPI. Ayyappan launched his own publication’Aksharam’ in the 70’s which was noted for its modernist orientation.
His collections include Balikkurippukal,Chitarogaasupathriyile Dinangal, Pravaasiyude Geetham, Buddhanum Aatinkuttiyum,Maalamillathu paamb, Karpp, Veyil Thinnunna Pakshi, Jail muttathe pookal. He has some 2000 poems collected in about 20 volums to his credit.And,when he was found unconcious by the way side, he had in his pocket a poem replate with his hall mark acidic imagery written on a scrap of paper.
Kerala bid a touching farewell to poet A Ayyappan on Tuesday 26th October, 2010.The Poets body was taken to his sister’s home at Nemom in the suburbs in the morning and kept at the VJP Hall for the better part of the day to allow his friends and admires to pay their last respects before being cremated with police honours at the electric crematorium.
Ministers and leaders of various political parties and organizations arrived at the VJT Hall to pay homage to the late poet. A dozen young poets gathered in one corner of the VJT Hall to pay homage to Ayyappan reciting poems.
In a condolence message Chief minister said ‘Ayyappan had created revolutionary alternatives in Malayalam poetry and added that his death was a major loss for Malayalam cultural scene.
The Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi has condoled the death of poet A. Ayyappan. Kerala Kavya Kala Sahithy arranched a condolence meeting at Kurakar Centre,Kottarakara on 27th October at 4 p.m. Prof John Kurakar, president KKKS presided over the condolence meeting.
Kerala kavya kala sahithy
PARUMALA FESTIVAL-2010
The week long annual festival at the famous St. Pauls and St. Peter’s church at Parumala, popularly known as Parumala church, began with a kodiyettu ceremony on Tuesday 226th October,2010.
The annual pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Gregorios the first Indian canonized saint-at the Parumala church also began on Tuesday. The catholicos-designate inaugurated the pilgrim week celebrations at a public meeting held on the parumala seminary premises.
Mar Policarpus inaugurated the 144 hour long prayer, organized by Malankara Orthodox Christian Youth Movement at the church auditorium at 5 p.m.
Panakkad Syned Hyderali Shihab Thangal will inaugurate a felicitation meet in connection with the Navathy celebration of the Catholicos of the East, Moran Mor Baselios Marthoma Didymus-I on October29.
The Holy Trimass, to be held at 7.30 am on October 31 and November I. Pilgrimage processions coming from different parts of the state will be accorded a rousing reception on the seminary premises on October.
The 108th feast of St.Gregorios will be celebrated on October 31.Geevarghese Mar Coorilos Metropolitan will inaugurate the Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Students Movement on 2nd November,2010. The festival will come to close with the customary holy raasa.
Prof. John Kurakar
KERALA LOCAL BODY ELECTION-2010
The first stage of polling for the local body elections in the state (The seven districts) going to the polls on Saturday 23rd October, 2010. The districts that go to the first stage are Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.
The highest number of votes among the seven districts is in Thiruvananthapuram 26.68 Lakhs and the lowest number is in Wayanad 5.39 Lakh voters. As many as 16,390 booths have been set up in these districts.
Electronics voting machines are being used in municipalities and corporations. In the three-tier local bodies, white ballot papers are used for Granma panchayat wards and pink ballots for block panchayat wards and blue ballots for district panchayat divisions.
As much as 75.72 percent of the voters exercised their franchise in the first stage of the local body elections held in seven districts. Barring stray incidents of violence and booth capturing in Kannur district, the polling passed off peacefully. According to available estimates Waynad recorded the highest polling 81.1 percent, and Thiruvananthapuram the lowest 67.35 percent.
Thiruvananthapuram 67.35
Kollam 73.65
Pathanamthitta 71.00
Kozhikodu 80.00
Wayanad 81.10
Kannur 80.00
Kasaragod 77.00
1.23 crore voters in seven districts to cast their votes in Local body polls in the second stage on 25th October,2010. Voting percentage in the second phase.
Alappuzha 77.75
Kottayam 75.64
Idukki 73.00
Ernakulam 75.00
Trissur 73.00
Palakkad 75.00
Malappuram 75.60
Prof. John Kurakar
KAWASAKI SYNDROME-2
KAWASAKI SYNDROME-2
Dr Saji Philip said Kawasaki syndrome was first described by Tomesaku Kawasaki in Japan in 1967. According to him, the disease is more prevalent in the Asia-Pacific region. Kawasaki syndrome is reported to be the most common cause of acquired heart disease in the U.S and Japan.
There was a general consensus among physicians that the number of diagnosed cases of Kawasaki syndrome was on the rise in India.
Many physicians were of the opinion that increased awareness on the syndrome had led to reporting of more cases, which other wise had been misclassified a drug reactions or viral and bacterial toxin-related illness. Often the overlapping picture of measles is found to have misguided the physicians and padediatricians in the diagnosis of Kawasaki syndrome.
Males are more affected and 80 percent of the of the affected persons were found to be less than five years of age. Morbidity and Mortality from Kawasaki syndrome was often found to have been due to cardiac sequelae.
Official website of Kawasaki disease www.kawasakidiseaseindia.org
Prof. John Kurakar
KAWASAKI DISEASE
St.Gregorios Cardio-Vascular Centre (SGCVC) at Parumala, attached to Chennai based K.M Cherian Heart Foundation will organise Kerala’s first Summit on Kawasaki disease at Mannar on October 24.The Summit was part of an initiative by S.GC.V.C for Kawasaki- affected children, especially those with coronary artery disease. Dr Philip said Kawasaki disease was belived to be the most common vasculitic disorder ( in which blood cells develop inflammation) found in children. Its incidence rate reported in Japan is as high as 60-150 per every 1,00,000 children below the age of five years.A majority of cases with Kawasaki disease remain un diagnosed in India. Its features can be confused with other common conditions like measkes, scarlet fever and the stevens johnson syndrome, if the physican is not careful.
Kawasaki disease was an acute vasculitis affecting infants and children with unknown etiology Development of coronary artery aneurysm is one of the most damaging sonsequences of the disease. The summit would be useful for cardiologists, padiatricians. Dr Philip said parents of affected children too would be permitted to attend the conference.
Development of coronary artery abnorlities (CAA) is the halmark of Kawasaki disease andit accounts for most of the morbidity and mortality associated with disease.
Prompt diagnosis and early treatment with intravenous immunoglobalin (IVIG) can reduce the occurrence of CAA significantly.
Prof. John Kurakar
Thursday, October 28, 2010
ENDOSULFAN MISERY
Nearly 2000 people leading a life trauma and misery attributed to Endosulfan. The recent death of Rabiya 22, from a mysterious undiagnosed ailment blamed on the pesticide, has been a shock coming as it did soon after India had opposed a ban on the pesticide at the sixth meeting of the persistent organic pollutants review Committee of the Stockholm Convention in Geneva.
Nearly 500 people had died from similar diseases in areas surrounding 5000 hectares of the cashew estates on the plantation corporation of Kerala in the district where. Endosulfan had been aerially sprayed for over two decades.
The Committee, which has been leading struggles for the cause of the unfortunate people in 11 panchayats, will submit detailed memorandums to the minister K.V Thomas seeking his urgent inter –venation to get the decision opposing the ban reconsidered. The pesticides have not been in use in the state since December 2005 following the intervention of the Kerala High court.
Endosulfan has spoiled the environment of the district, blessed with 12 rivers virgin lands and abundant natural resources in the lap of the westerns Ghats, people say wells, rivers and more water bodies and other natural resources have been contaminated. Even breast milk has not been spared, not to mention congenital ailments and physical and mental retardation. The relatives of only 175 of the dead had got Rs 50000 each as relief from the chief minister.
Prof. JohnKurakar
CASH SCHEME FOR PREGNANT WOMEN AND LACTATING MOTHERS
PREGNANT WOMEN & LACTATING MOTHERS
To improve maternal and child health, the cabinet committee of economic affairs on Wednesday 20th October,2010 approved the Indira Gandhi Matritva sahyog yojana (IGMSY) a monetary scheme for pregnant women and lactating mothers.
Each pregnant and lactating woman will receive Rs 4000 in three installments between the second trimesters of pregnancy until the child is six months old. Each beneficiary has to open an individual account in the nearest bank or the post office for cash transfer.
The scheme, to be implemented through the integrated child development services (ICDS). Scheme infrastructure and personnel, will cost Rs 1000 crore.
The scheme will be fully funded by the centre and 30 crore and Rs 610 crore have been allocated for 2010-11 and 2011-12 respectively.
It is expected that in the initial years, about 138 lakh pregnant and lactating women in 52 districts could avail themselves of the benefit. The beneficiaries will be pregnant women of 19 years and above and for the first two live births will be as per the norms of the scheme.
There will be steering and monitoring committees at all levels to over see the scheme.
Prof. John Kurakar
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
A HELP-DESK CUM COUNSELLING SYSTEM
To help children deal with various emotional issues. Children often find it difficult to face and deal with emotional issues. The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan in association with Kerala Mahila Samukhya Society is launching a help-desk-cum Counseling system in Schools titled”Thangu” the programme will emphasize equipping and providing orientation for class teacher to help students deal with these emotional and psychological problems that they face at Schools or even at homes. The adolescents face problems at School and elsewhere, which they find difficult to discuss with their parents or immediate relatives. Teachers can play an important role by providing a support system at their school itself, which is why this programme is focusing on equipping teachers.
The trained teachers will set up help-desk at their school where students can approach for help. Teachers and students will be provided with the phone numbers of a 15- member panel of experts including counselors, doctors and psychologists.
More than 14,700 class teachers from around 200 High School and 100 Upper Primary Schools in the State will be trained as part of the project. Provided 10 day training on Child psychology, counseling techniques, life skills and strength based pedagogy. The training programme includes a five day face to face training camp followed by a five day online training for teachers from eight northern districts from the state will begin on November 2. The State level inauguration of the project is slated to help on November14.
Prof.John Kurakar
A GIANT AFRICAN SNAIL
The Asia-pacific forest inasive species network (APFISN) of the food and Agriculture organization based at the Kerala Forest Research Institute has asked the public to report Giant African Snail infestation.
The public may pass on information about the infestation to 0487-2690390. The information will help manage the alien invasive species. The African snails have been seen in a few parts of the state. It is now invading new locals. A native of East Africa, the Giant African Snail can feed on about 500 crops and cause health hazard to human beings by acting as a vector.
The APFISN warned against human consumption of African snail
Prof. John Kurakar
Thursday, October 21, 2010
OXFORD CENTRE FOR STUDY OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE OF ASIA
The University said that although Asia had some of the world’s richest archaeological and artistic form of heritage, little was known or taught about this period in Britain.
Asia celebrates a huge diversity of culture but less research has been conducted in to how the different cultures are related. The new centre will look at how the cultural influences, both within the region and in the wider world beyond, might be connected. The research will not only draw on archaeology but also other disciplines such as anthropology, art history, linguistic, molecular genetics, the earth science and geography.
The Centre, to be based in the school of Archaeology, will offer a new Asia-specific Master’s degree and new courses in the Archaeology of Asia, Chinese Archaeology and the Palaeolithic Archaeology of Asia.
Prof: John Kurakar
EQUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS FOR SYRIAN CHRISTIAN WOMEN
SYRIAN CHRISTIAN WOMEN
More than 25 year after Mary Roy began her legal battle for equality in property rights for Syrian Christian Women with their male siblings of the family.
It has been 26 years since Mary Roy had started her fight for justice. Now (20thOctober, 2010) she is happy that her share of the property has finally come in to her hands.
It was 1986 that Mrs Mary Roy had obtained a land mark judgement from the supreme court entitling Syrian Christian Woman to an equal share in their fathers property. Till then, the Syrian Christian Community followed the provision of the Travancore Succession Act, and Cochin Succession Act.
Prof: John Kurakar
CENSUS OF MARINE LIFE (CoML)
The first –ever Census of Marine Life(CoML), involving more than 2,700 scientists from over 80 countries, has been successfully completed. The painstaking research has unearthed nearly 250,000. Marine species of an estimated one million. About 6,000 new species have also been discovered. Ten marine hotspots were identified, including one in Indian Ocean; many biodiversity hotspots await detailed investigation. The scope of the study is undefined. Thus the CoML provides an ideal platform for incorporating diverse inputs from future studies to help us understand the big picture. It will also serve as the baseline for evaluation the future impact of human intervention on sea animals.
One finding of the study which is a cause for concern is that large fishes and marine mammals like sea turtles and tuna have declined by 90 percent on an average due to over fishing and or pollution.
Prof. John Kurakar
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
WORLD FOOD DAY(OCTOBER-16)
World Food day on October 16. Earmarking a day was to raise awareness about the major food problem and also to motivate people to stand together and fight against hunger mal nutrition and poverty.
World Food day was proclaimed in 1929 by the conference of the Food and Agriculture – organisation of the United Nations (FAO).In 1980, the general Assembly endorsed the day because they realised survival and well being and a fundamental human necessity’. 2010- This year the theme for world Food Day is “United against Hunger”. This becomes a reality when everyone joins to fight hunger, poverty and mal nutrition at every level.105 million hungry people in 2009, 1.02 billion mal nourished individuals across the world.
2006- Theme was “Invest in Agriculture and Food Security
2007-Theme was” Right to Food.”
2008- World Food Security-The challenges of Climate change and Bio energy”
2009- Achieving Food Security in times of Crisis
2010- United Against Hunger”
Prof: John Kurakar
WORLD ANIMATION DAY (October 27)
Toonz Academy is organising a workshop on Animation for school students on October 27, the world Animation Day at Thiruvananthapuram. The students will get training and chance to make an animation film and understand the creativity behind what they see and enjoy in movies and T.V. These will also sensitise them to alternate career options for the creative minded.
Prof: John Kurakar
ENDOSULFAN- INDIA’S STAND WRONG
ENDOSULFAN- INDIA’S STAND WRONG
Forest minister Benoy Viswom has criticised the stand taken by India against global ban on Endosulfan at the sixth meeting of persistent organic pollutants Review Committee to the Stockholm Convention.
India’s stand was not right. Mr Viswom said that the Indian government should not have become the spokesman of the pesticides lobby at the meeting.” If you go to Kasaragod, you can see the effect of Endosulfan on the people. Many affected were in such a condition that they could be described as the living dead. The corporate companies were marketing Endosulfan for profit at the cost of lives.
The Committee meeting attended by 29 member countries recommended ban on manufacture, use, import and export of endosulfan with certain exemption to the conference of parties of the Stockholm convention. India dropped out of the discussion towards the end and did not participate in voting
Prof: John Kurakar
Forest minister Benoy Viswom has criticised the stand taken by India against global ban on Endosulfan at the sixth meeting of persistent organic pollutants Review Committee to the Stockholm Convention.
India’s stand was not right. Mr Viswom said that the Indian government should not have become the spokesman of the pesticides lobby at the meeting.” If you go to Kasaragod, you can see the effect of Endosulfan on the people. Many affected were in such a condition that they could be described as the living dead. The corporate companies were marketing Endosulfan for profit at the cost of lives.
The Committee meeting attended by 29 member countries recommended ban on manufacture, use, import and export of endosulfan with certain exemption to the conference of parties of the Stockholm convention. India dropped out of the discussion towards the end and did not participate in voting
Prof: John Kurakar
COMMONWEALTH GAMES-CORRUPTION
Corruption is not new to us. Only its degree varies. Corruption has become an accepted syndrome in daily life. Nothing can be achieved or done in India without corruption.
The India government has rightly ordered a probe in to the alleged corruption and irregularities in the conduct of the Commonwealth Games. The CWG was a platform for India to prove to the world that it can organise a big event. But the way it was conducted- with a lot of controversy and mismanagement showcased our incapability to organise a big event and exposed rampant corruption, poor infrastructure and mismanaged hospitality.
There is second opinion that corruption dominates every field and has almost became of the organisers of the Games is premature.
Prof: John Kurakar
Monday, October 18, 2010
VIDYARAMBHOM(EZHUTHINIRUTHU)2010
VIDYARAMBHOM(EZHUTHINIRUTHU)2010
As many as 4,500 children were initiated in to the world of letters at a massive’ Ezhuthiniruthu’ ceremony held at Tirur Thunchan parambu,Malappuram on Sunday 17th Ocober,2010.
The ceremony marked the culmination of the Vidhyarambhom festivites organised by the Thunchan memorial Trust. Writer M.T Vasudevan Nair led a group of Malayalam writers in initiating children in to the world of letters at the saraswati mandapam. Long queues formed outside the Thunchan parambu much before the cremony began at 4.30 am.The ceremony continued till after noon.
Houndreds of children were initiated in to the world of letters at the vidyarambhom ceremony at places of worship, cultural centres, educational institutions and houses. Malayala Manorama organised vidhyarambhom ceremony. As many as 6,500 children were initiated in to the world of letters. Philipose Mar Chrysostum, senior metrapolitan of Marthoma church,performed the ritual for 50 children letters at the Marthoma Lower Primary School at kozhencherry.
Prof. John Kurakar
As many as 4,500 children were initiated in to the world of letters at a massive’ Ezhuthiniruthu’ ceremony held at Tirur Thunchan parambu,Malappuram on Sunday 17th Ocober,2010.
The ceremony marked the culmination of the Vidhyarambhom festivites organised by the Thunchan memorial Trust. Writer M.T Vasudevan Nair led a group of Malayalam writers in initiating children in to the world of letters at the saraswati mandapam. Long queues formed outside the Thunchan parambu much before the cremony began at 4.30 am.The ceremony continued till after noon.
Houndreds of children were initiated in to the world of letters at the vidyarambhom ceremony at places of worship, cultural centres, educational institutions and houses. Malayala Manorama organised vidhyarambhom ceremony. As many as 6,500 children were initiated in to the world of letters. Philipose Mar Chrysostum, senior metrapolitan of Marthoma church,performed the ritual for 50 children letters at the Marthoma Lower Primary School at kozhencherry.
Prof. John Kurakar
TRIBUTE PAID TO TAMIL POET SOUNDRA KAILASAM
SOUNDRA KAILASAM
Eminent Tamil poet and writer Sounara Kailasam who is the mother in-law of union Home minister P.Chidambaram died on Saturday,16th October,2010.She was 83.
Mrs Soundra Kailasam,wife o retired judge of the supreem court P.S Kailasam. She published poetry collections,essays and short stories. Mrs Kailasam was also a speaker on religious and spiritual subjects. She was awarded the Asan prize for poetry in1989 for the poetry collection. She was also the recipient of several honours bestowed by the state government, including Bharathiyar award.
Several political party leaders and members of the Tamil Literary Community paid tributes.
Prof. John Kurakar
Sunday, October 17, 2010
SALUTE TO THE CHILEAN GOVERNMENT
The rescue of the 33 miners trapped in the sanjose mine,Chile,has brought immense joy and relief to the whole world.One of the worst mine accidents in the world’s history has become one of the best executed rescue efforts ever mounted in the mine idustry across the world. The willpower and determination of the trapped miners,the chilean governments resolve to mount the rescue at any cost,and the prayers of near and dear ones are something to be admired.Chile deserves praise.The rescue process involved meticulous planning-drilling through hard rock, using space technology,examining the medical parameters and the psychology of the miners isolated for long under extreme conditions,and so on.
Chile’s success story should serve as a lesson in crisis management.The spirit of he miners was evident when they sent fellow workers to rescue with cheers.The best of humanity and brotherhood was there for all see.Chile caught the whole world’s attention when it rescued all 33 miners trapped under a half-mile of rock for over 60 days. The rescue team deserves all praise and commendation for its extraordinary courages and fortitude.
The rescue of 33 miners trapped under half mile of rock in the San jose mine,chile,is the epic story of hope in which the lives of a few became an inspiration for the hopeless around world. I wish every nation learns from Chile. It disturbs our conscience when we see so many deaths caused by hunger, floods, drought and crimes as many of them are avoidable. Chile has spent millions of dollars to gave the miners.The tremendous efforts taken by the Chilean government with the aid of other agencies in liberating the 33 trapped miners. Chilean president Sebastian Pinera will be remembered as the quintessential peoples representatives.
The Chilean rescue operation saw humanity at its best. The finest act of unselfishness, bravery and brotherhood. The government of Chile and NASA should be congratulated on their continuous and bold efforts.
Our leaders have to learn a lot from the Chilean government and president.Let us alute the entire rescue team and people of chile.The concerted effort of the chilean government involving geologists, scientists from NASA and psychologists, among others, in the colossal rescue effort surely deserves to be applauded.
The technology and professional expertise that helped these people surface. The Chilean governments efforts is also a path- breaker in disaster management. Credit and gratitude should go in ample measure to the rescue personnel for showing ingenuity and skill in making the best use of modern technology and the great dedication behind this attempt. The world is thrilled at the rescue effort. Congratulations to the rescue team and the Chilean government.
Prof.John Kurakar
INDIAN RAILWAY’S SALUTE TO RABINDRANATH TAGORE
RABINDRANATH TAGORE
A special train of Indian Railways (Sanskriti Express) to commemorate 150 th birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore will arrive Thiruvananthapuram on Friday 15th October,2010 for a six day visit to the state.
The five-coach train that showcases the life and philosophy of the poet was flagged off from Rail Museum,Howrah,on may9,2010.The exhibition will be open for public between 10 am to 8 pm.Admission will be free.
The first coach named’Jibon Smriti’ depicts the life of Tagore through photographs,his reminiscences,about Shantiniketan and about Sriniketan.
The second coach’ Gitanjali’ exhibits his poems and songs. The third coach’Muktodhara’ has on display Rabindra Literature,prose,essays, novels,plays and dance dramas by Tagore.
‘Chitrarekha’ the fourth coach has paintings of Tagore. Works of other renowned artists like Nandalal Bose, Abanindranath Tagore,GaganendranathTagore,Binod Behari, Ramkinker Bej, Sanayani Devi and Sudhir Khastagir are also exhibited in this coach.
‘Seshkatha’ the fifth coach features photgraphs of Tagore’s last journey and the last days of his life and described by his near and dear ones and poems written during his last days.
This coach also has a section called’Smaranika’ which is an exibition and sale of handicrafts from santiniketan, photo print and hand writing of Tagore,ceramia pots and ornaments,gift cards printed by the committee on Hertitage and culture and books by Tagore. The train visit around 100 rail way stations in India.
Prof.John Kurakar
GLOBAL BAN ON ENDOSULFAN
GLOBAL BAN ON ENDOSULFAN
Stockholm Conventgion watching India’s sand on Endosulfan at the sixth meeting of the persistent organic pollutants Review Committee (POPRC) that began in Geneva,switzerland on Monday 11 th October,2010.
While most of the governments represented at the stockholm convention are taking stands in favour of a global ban on endosulfan. The Kerala government has demanded a ban on the pesticide.
It is an issue in the elections to the local self government institutions in Kasargod district, where at least a few hundred people have died of poisoning caused by the chemical. Many face a wide range of genetic abnormalities and other health problems.
The state government acknowledged that the health problems in 15 villages of Kasargod district were on account of the aerial spraying of Endosulfan for more than twwo decades.
The mayee committee had recommended the conduct of a comprehensive,well designed and detailed health and epidemiological study in the entire plantation area. How ever, nothing was done in that direction for the past five years.
In Kasargod district in Kerala, sustained exposure to Endosulfan resulted in congenital, reproductive, long term neurological damage and other symptoms. There were obsrvation of similar effects in animals. Cows giving birth to deformed calves, Cows and chickens dying inexplicably domestic animals with miscarriages, bleeding, infertility, stunting of growth and deformities, as well as fish kills and dwindling populations of honeybees frogs and birds’ it said quoting a study by India’s National Institute of occupational Health.
Prof.John Kurakar
Stockholm Conventgion watching India’s sand on Endosulfan at the sixth meeting of the persistent organic pollutants Review Committee (POPRC) that began in Geneva,switzerland on Monday 11 th October,2010.
While most of the governments represented at the stockholm convention are taking stands in favour of a global ban on endosulfan. The Kerala government has demanded a ban on the pesticide.
It is an issue in the elections to the local self government institutions in Kasargod district, where at least a few hundred people have died of poisoning caused by the chemical. Many face a wide range of genetic abnormalities and other health problems.
The state government acknowledged that the health problems in 15 villages of Kasargod district were on account of the aerial spraying of Endosulfan for more than twwo decades.
The mayee committee had recommended the conduct of a comprehensive,well designed and detailed health and epidemiological study in the entire plantation area. How ever, nothing was done in that direction for the past five years.
In Kasargod district in Kerala, sustained exposure to Endosulfan resulted in congenital, reproductive, long term neurological damage and other symptoms. There were obsrvation of similar effects in animals. Cows giving birth to deformed calves, Cows and chickens dying inexplicably domestic animals with miscarriages, bleeding, infertility, stunting of growth and deformities, as well as fish kills and dwindling populations of honeybees frogs and birds’ it said quoting a study by India’s National Institute of occupational Health.
Prof.John Kurakar
DIABETES AFFECTED 285 MILLION PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD
285 MILLION PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD
Diabetes is fast emergincy as the greatest threat to mankind. According to recent studies, diabetes has affected almost 285 million people across he world. With one person dying every 10 seconds, diabetes is growing at an alarming rate which is of prime concern. Every 14th Indian is a victim of diqbetes and the prevalence of diabetes in India is the highest in the world till date.
Diabetes,if left uncontrolled can result in severe long term complications like eye disease,kidney impairment,nerve damage, increased likelihood of heart disease and stroke.
Prof: John Kurakar
COMMON WEALTH GAMES 2010
India finished Second position in the medals tally. Australia finished at the top of the board with 74 gold,55 silver and 48 bronze medals for a total 177.
India ended the Commonwealth Games with a flourish with Saina Nehwal taking the badminton swingles title to carry the country ahead of England in the gold medal count (38 to37) England’s over all tally which stood at 142 medals as against India’s 101.
Medals Tally
----------------------------------------------------------------
Country G S B T
Australia 74 55 48 177
India 38 27 36 101
England 37 59 46 142
Canada 26 17 32 75
South Africa 12 11 10 33
Kenya 12 11 9 32
Malaysia 12 10 13 35
Singapore 11 11 9 31
Nigeria 11 10 14 35
Scotland 9 10 07 26
New-Zea land 6 22 08 36
Cyprus 4 03 05 12
Northern Ireland 3 03 04 10
Samoa 3 00 01 04
Wales 2 07 10 19
Jamaica 2 04 01 07
Next Common wealth Games (2014) at Glasgow in Scotland.
The medal winning Indian athletes in the Commonwealth Games got congratulations from the Prime minister Manmohan singh when they met him at his residence on Friday 15th October 2010. Star shooter Gagan Narang got to spend a few moments with Prime minister.
Badminton star Siana Nehwal who won the gold that took India past England in the medals tally. She said’ it was one of the best days of her life’. Vijendra singh, Sushil kumar, Abhinav Bindra were won Gold medals. World champion wrestler Sushil Kumar, who won a freestyle gold in 66 kg category was thrilled at meeting the primeminister. He met and congratulated everyone.
A.C Ashwini,a ticket collector, Indian Railway, young athlete may not have realised her dream of winning a gold in the 4x400 relay at the Commonwealth Games. The Railway team clinched 25 of the 101 medals. Railway employees won 13 of the 38 gold medals, three of the 27 silver medals, and nine of the 36 bronze medals won bronze medals won by the country.92( of the total 495 Indian participants) at the CWG were Railway employees.
The peaceful conduct of the commonwealth Games 2010 deserves to be appreciated. We should salute our law-enforcing agencies and the center for the foolproof arrangements. The volunteers deserves praise. Saina Nehwal needs to be congratulated on helping us clinch the second spot. The opening and closing ceremonies showcased our ancient tradition with the added advantages of entertainment technology.
India’s performance at the Commonwealth Games filled with joy and pride. Congratulate the participants and volunteers and officials for making the show successful.
The tightest security ever experienced for a sports event in India might have caused some irritation among participants and spectators. But there could have been no compromise on this front.The nation’s unprecedented haul of 101 medals, including 38 gold. Saina Nehwal’s hard-fought win in the badminton final was memorable and so too were the medals sweep in women’s discus throw and triumph of the Indian women’s 4x400 m relay.These were India’s first gold medals in athletics since the legendary Milkha singh won the 440 yard race in Cardiff in 1958. The major disappointment on the final day was India’s debacle in the hockey final.
Prof.John Kurakar
BOOKER PRIZE-2010
BOOKER PRIZE-2010
British writer and journalist Howard Jacobson’s novel’The Finkler Question’ a semi-autobiographical book is the winner of this years man Booker prize.
Manchester-born Mr Jacobson,who lives in London.
“ The Finkler question is a marvellous book: very clever,very sad and very subtle.
Prof.John Kurakar
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
LIVE IN PEACE
LIVE IN PEACE
The Allahabad High Court verdict on Ayodhya has triggered a wide range of reactions across the nation. It is gratifying to note that the country has stood united. People have remained cool and calm. The judgement was historical, in as much as it recognised the myth and reality in the issue and did not trigger any serious consequence
Today the 21st century,the young people of India trying to cast away the evils of caste,creed and religion. We still have people around us who have such narrow thoughts. Let us try to make our nation the strongest with people from diverse back grounds living together peace fully. The court has divided the disputed site between muslims and Hindus. The best option for the litigents is to construct a mosque and temple on the land allotted to them and live in peace.
Prof. John Kurakar
The Allahabad High Court verdict on Ayodhya has triggered a wide range of reactions across the nation. It is gratifying to note that the country has stood united. People have remained cool and calm. The judgement was historical, in as much as it recognised the myth and reality in the issue and did not trigger any serious consequence
Today the 21st century,the young people of India trying to cast away the evils of caste,creed and religion. We still have people around us who have such narrow thoughts. Let us try to make our nation the strongest with people from diverse back grounds living together peace fully. The court has divided the disputed site between muslims and Hindus. The best option for the litigents is to construct a mosque and temple on the land allotted to them and live in peace.
Prof. John Kurakar
TEMPLE AND MOSQUE
So many newses had been dedicated to the Ayodhya verdict. Instead of Challenging the grounds on the basis of which was delivered, the Muslims and Hindus should their energies towards the uplift and social development of their communities.There are in need of more Education institutions,hospitals and industries than mosques and temples.
It was shocking to read Mr Subramanian swamy’s view that Mosques are not as sacred as temples (october 8,2010). It is the strong faith of muslim brethren that if one attends to his worship with dedication and sincerity in the mosque, he is certain to earn forgiveness for all his past misdeeds. Offering prayer in mosques is not only sacred but also eliminates in equality between persons.
There can be equal place for temple,mosque and churches. The sacredness of a place of worship in it,and also the sacredness of a place of worship is determined by the people based on their beliefs and perceptions. It does not differentiate between a mosque and a temple. Both are places of worship and equally important
Prof.John Kurakar
WORLD POSTAL DAY
OCTOBER-9
National Postal Week –October 9-15
Each day of this week is celebrated as world postal day, Savings Bank Day, Business Development Day,Mail Day, Philately Day and Postal Life Insurance Day.
The purpose is to create an awarness of the role the postal sector plays in our life and in business and its contribution to the social and economic development of the countries. A number of programmes like letter writing, seminars, exhibitions and so on are held during this week.
The postal day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the universal postal union(UPU) in 1874 in the swiss capital. Bern. It was declared’world post Day’ by the UPU Congress held in Tokyo, Japan in 1969. Its observance is to create an awarness of the role of the postal sector in our life and in business and its economic development of countries celebrate the day as working holiday. Introduce new products and services and even giveaway awards to staff.
On October 9,1874,the Treaty of Bern, establishing the General Postal Union. Its name was changed to the Uni versal Postal Union in 1878.
India has the largest postal net work but which is not as mechanised as in the U.S. We have 1,55,333 post offices. China has 70,000 and the U.S has 40,000.
Prof.John Kurakar
URI -TPA TRAINING IN DHAKA,BANGLADESH
I write this from the house of Holy Cross Brothers in Dhaka. We are the guests of BrotherJarlath D’ Souza, a veteran in the field of interfaith dialogue. George and myself are on ourway to India after the successful completion of our TPA training. Here the group was a senior batch of NGO reps and they said in one voice that this was a training with a difference. We are happy that they have enjoyed it very much. We had two guests at the valedictory session—Dr. Kazi Nurul Islam, Head of the Department of World Religions, Dhaka University and Madam Valerie A. Taylor (UK), founder of the Centre for Rehabilitation of the Paralysed.
During one of our morning walks, we visited this Centre, which is rendering amazing serviceto hundreds of suffering people from all over Bangladesh. Madam Valerie was hearing about URI for the first time and she was so happy to know that URI has spread its wings over 80 countries in a short span of time. All participants received their certificates from these guests.
Prof.Abraham Karickom
KCC
KERALA COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
The Kerala Council of Churches is autonomous and interconfessional,comprising churches in Kerala and Christian organisations. It is a constituent member of the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI). It is established on the principle that the churches can fulfil their common task of witness and service best in a fellowship with one another for the extension of the Kingdom of God. The Council is the primary ecumenical expression in Kerala which embraces, promotes and co ordinates the various forms of the churches ministry to the society. As such, it brings together the Churches and other Christian organisations for mutual consultation, mutual assistance and co-operative action in all matters related to Christian endeavor
Mission
Holds the creativity and freedom bestowed on the humans by God which be nurtured and developed for the transformation of the whole creation in the vision of the Kingdom of God commenced in Jesus Christ.
Seeks to complement the process of transformation by offering a channel of communication of critique, discernment,discourse, re-reading etc. envisaging deeper understanding of the vision and witness and visualizing praxis in the realm of Church and the wider Community.
Commits to express solidarity with the oppressed, the poor,the marginalized and the alienated and ti initiate and promote action in the areas of their social,political, cultural and economic needs in the path of transformation.
Prof.John Kurakar
INDIA ELECTED TO U N SECURITY COUNCIL
U.N SECURITY COUNCIL
After 19 years,India was elected on Tuesday 12th October,2010 to the United Nations Security Council as anon permanent member.
India secured the backing of 187 of the 191 member states in the General Assembly. One member abstained from the vote. A founding member of the U.N, India has been on he security Council six times earlier, but not since 1992. External Affairs Minister S.M Krishna, who was in Newyork for 10 days and met leaders of 56 cou tries on the margins of the General Assembly’s annual session.
In February, India’s candidature was endorsed by the Asian group, but it still had to muster the support of 128 countries,two thirds of the 192 member General Assembly.
Prof. John Kurakar
E-WASTE
Recycling our waste electrical items is a dirty job, and those who do it are among the poorest and least educated in the world.
The Common practice of burning plastic cables to gain quick access to the valuable copper inside,for instance,gives off smoke that can cause chest and lung problems. Some of the chemicals released in to the environment are carcinogenic. Crude break up of electrical items can cause heavy metals as lead and mercury to teach in to the soil.
The developed countries to ship their toxic e-waste to other countries.And even when electronic equipments is certified as safe for re-use and exported legally, the thousands of manual workers who dismantle it are still unlikely to have had any training in how to safely handle it.
Nigeria embracing safer e-waste recycling. Nigeria government conducted e-learning courses. Face to face contact with experts. The sustainable wastes management,with an e-learning course that can be carried out thousands of miles away.
Prof. John Kurakar
A NEW WORLD RECORD-GUINNESS RECORD
A NEW WORLD RECORD
GUINNESS RECORD
50,300 SAPLINGS PLANTED IN AN HOUR
The cold desert of Leh on Sunday 10th October,2010 entered the Guinness Book of world Records after 53,300 saplings were planted at avillage in Leh less than an hour by 9,000 volunteers under a drive supported by Buddhist monks to mark the green Common wealth Games in Delhi.
The earlier record was held by peru,where 40,000 saplings were planted in 60 minutes by 8000 volunteers. Sundays programme was flagged off by chairman of the Live to Love’ initiative, at 10 am on 10th October,2010. The event was held in collaboration with the Commonwealth Games Delhi.
More than 15000 volunteers reached changa village, nearly 40 km from Leh town in the morning, but only 9,000 were allowed to participate. A team of three members from the Guinness world Records was in the village to monitor the event. The Guinness team announced that 9000 people had successfully planted.50,300 saplings in less than an hour.
Prof. John Kurakar
GUINNESS RECORD
The cold desert of Leh on Sunday 10th October,2010 entered the Guinness Book of world Records after 53,300 saplings were planted at avillage in Leh less than an hour by 9,000 volunteers under a drive supported by Buddhist monks to mark the green Common wealth Games in Delhi.
The earlier record was held by peru,where 40,000 saplings were planted in 60 minutes by 8000 volunteers. Sundays programme was flagged off by chairman of the Live to Love’ initiative, at 10 am on 10th October,2010. The event was held in collaboration with the Commonwealth Games Delhi.
More than 15000 volunteers reached changa village, nearly 40 km from Leh town in the morning, but only 9,000 were allowed to participate. A team of three members from the Guinness world Records was in the village to monitor the event. The Guinness team announced that 9000 people had successfully planted.50,300 saplings in less than an hour.
Prof. John Kurakar
2010 NOBEL PRIZE IN ECONOMICS
NOBEL PRIZE IN ECONOMICS
NOBEL PRIZE IN ECONOMICS
Peter Diamond and Dale Mortensen of the united states and British economist Christopher pissarides won the 2010 Nobel Economics prize on Monday 11th October,2010.
The prize highlights one aspect of a policy making problem, high unemployment which has risen even higher because of the global economic crisis. Mr Peter Diamond (70) is associated with the Massachusetts institute of technology. Mr Dale Mortensen(71) with north western university and Mr Christopher Pissarides(62) is at the London School of economics. Nobel honours work on explaining the demand supply gap in the labour market and elsewhere.
Prof.John Kurakar
Sunday, October 10, 2010
HEAVY RAIN
Heavy rain lashing the southern part of the Kerala State. The rivers of the region overflowing causing flooding and misery. The rivers Palliman, Ithikkara, Kundaman and Kallada were in spate. Many areas in the western part of Kollam district were inundated damajing nearly a 1000 houses. As many as 1,273 families had been shifted to relief camps. Kollam Collector Devendra kumar Dhudawat has declared a holiday for schools on Wednesday 6th September,2010.
In thiruvananthapuram, the worst affected areas were the taluks of Cherayinkeezh and Nedumangad. Five houses were destroyed and 385 houses damaged in the district. Five relief camps had been opened.
The district administration of Kollam asked people living oneither side of the Kallada river to move to safer places since the shutters of the Thenmala dam would have to be opened any moment. The water level in the reservoir touched a height of 114.92 metres by Tuesday 5th september,2010 evening against the full reservoir level of 115.82m.
The meteorology centre in Thiruvananthapuram said heavy rainfall exceeding 7 cm on the gauge was likely to occur at isolated places in the state till Thursday 7th September morning. An upper air cyclonic circulation was persisting over southeast Arabian sea on Tuesday 5th September. Also persisting since Monday was a low pressure system over west central and adjoining parts of south east and east-central Bay of Bengal promising the Continuation of the rain in the southern penisula.
Authorities say that many low-level areas are fully under water.In other areas, water stands at a height ranging from 3 feet to 8 feet.
Preliminary estimates of the loss in the Kollam district have been put at Rs 2.2 crore. The preliminary estimates of crop loss have been put at Rs 17 lakh. Eleven relief camps and 24 sheds have been opened to shelter families from the flood comprising 6000 persons have been sheltered in these camps.
Prof. John Kurakar
COMMONWEALTH GAMES-2010 REPORT-2
REPORT-2
Once every four years a major sports event takes place. Members of Commonwealth of Nations come together to participate in the Commonwealth Games. The first time this event took place was in 1930. It was then known the British Empire Games and 11 nations participated. It has been held regularly since then, with just one interruption in 1942, during world war II.
Commonwealth Games has given Indian sport its most rewarding plat form and fourth place finishes in the medals tally of the 2002 and 2006 events.
There are currently 54 members of the Commonwealth of Nations, and 71 team participate in the Games. The four Home Nations of the united Kingdom-England, Scotland, wales and Northern Ireland send separate teams to the commonwealth games.
Australia has been the highest achieving team for ten games. England for seven and Canada for one.
COMMONWEALTH GAMES
Year Place Nations Medal(India)
1930 Hamilton (Canada) 11 Nil-
1934 London 16 1
1938 Sidney 15 Nil
1950 Oakland 12 Nil
1954 Vencor 24 Nil
1958 Cardiff 35 3
1962 Perth 35 nil
1966 Kingston 34 9
1970 Edinburg 42 12
1974 Christchurch 39 14
1978 Edmonton 46 15
1982 Brisbane 46 16
1986 Edinburg 26 nil
1990 Oakland 57 32
1994 Victoria 64 24
1998 Qualampur 70 25
2002 Man jester 69 69
2006 Melbourne 71 50
Prof.John Kurakar
2010 NOBEL PRIZE IN LITERATURE FOR MARIO VARGAS LLOSA
NOBEL PRIZE IN LITERATURE FOR
MARIO VARGAS LLOSA
Mario Vargas Llosa (74) celebrated peruvian- spanish author and one of the most renowned novelist of his generation, has won the Nobel prize for literature.
Mr Llosa was one of the great Latin American story tellers, a master of dialogue who has been searching for the elusive concept known as the total novel,and who believes in the power of fiction to improve the world.
While Mr Llosa is known for his prolific writing that include comedies and murder mysteries, his most powerful novels have contained commentaryon historical and political conditions in his native peru and other parts of Lanin Ameerica. The”monumental” work that ‘Conversation in the Cathedral’(1969) represents for example, was deeply concerned with the ravaging of peruvian politics and government under the dictatership of manuel A odria in the 1950s.
His other profoundly influential novel was ‘The Feast of the Goat(200)and other works include Aunt Julia and the Script writer(1977)The war of the End of the World(1981) and Death in the Andes(1993).
Born in Arequip,peru, Mr Llosa grew up with his mother in Bolivia after his parents were divorced.
Prof. John Kurakar
VAYALAR AWARD-2010
Poet Vishnunarayanan Namboodiri has won the prestigious Vayalar Literary Award for this year (2010) for his collection of poems” Charulatha.
Vishnunarayanan Namboodiri , whose each poem is an extension of his spiritual journey’s was chosen for the 34th Vayalar Award by a three- member jury comprising critics Prof. M. Thomas Mathew, and K.S Ravi Kumar and short story writer S.V Venugopan Nair. The award carries cash prize of Rs 25000, a statuette designed by sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman and a citation.
The award would be presented to Vishunarayanan Namboodiri at a function to be held on October 27 to mark the death anniversary of Vayalar Ramavarma.
Charulatha’ was chosen from among 160 books published over the last three years proposed by around 150 select persons from within and outside Kerala.
Prof. John Kurakar
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