FOOT PATHS AND PEDESTRIANS

FOOT PATHS AND PEDESTRIANS

The ordeal of a woman who had to be rescued by firemen after her leg was caught in a broken slab at Thampanoor in Thiruvananthapuram has exposed the plight of pedestrians on our roads. Footpaths are exclusively for pedestrains. Shops, mobile or stationary, should not be allowed on the foot paths.unloading of building material on them should be strictly prohibited. The police should be authorized to take action against any such activity. Many slabs are damaged because vehicles are parked on them. In our state most of cities and towns were lack of proper facilities signals and paths for pedestrians. Broken and damaged slabs of Foot paths should be replaced with new ones and their maintence ensured at regular intervals. Pedestrian safety should be monitored by the police Some time Foot paths are encroached on by arches. Traffic regulations should be made more strignt with the help of state of the art & technologies.
John Kurakar

FOOT PATHS AND PEDESTRIANS

FOOT PATHS AND PEDESTRIANS

The ordeal of a woman who had to be rescued by firemen after her leg was caught in a broken slab at Thampanoor in Thiruvananthapuram has exposed the plight of pedestrians on our roads. Footpaths are exclusively for pedestrains. Shops, mobile or stationary, should not be allowed on the foot paths.unloading of building material on them should be strictly prohibited. The police should be authorized to take action against any such activity. Many slabs are damaged because vehicles are parked on them. In our state most of cities and towns were lack of proper facilities signals and paths for pedestrians. Broken and damaged slabs of Foot paths should be replaced with new ones and their maintence ensured at regular intervals. Pedestrian safety should be monitored by the police Some time Foot paths are encroached on by arches. Traffic regulations should be made more strignt with the help of state of the art & technologies.
John Kurakar

R VENKATARAMAN PASSES AWAY

The Former president, R. Venkataraman died on 27th Jauary 2009 following multiple organ failure. He was 98. Mr Venkatareman was admitted to the Army's Reserach & Referal Hospital on January 12. He is survived by his wife, Jaanaki and three daughters.

Mr Venkataraman who was elevated from vice presidency assumed the office of president on July 25 1987 and his term lasted till july 25 th 1992. Earlier as Minister in the union cabinet, he held the key portfolios of Defence and Finance. He was also Deputy chairman of the planning commission. He was a member of the constituent assembly that drafted the constitution. The Government declared a seven day state mourning in the country as a mark of respect to the former president.

He had work with four Prime Ministers-RaivGandhi, V.P Singh. Chandrashekar& P.V Narasimha Rao. Venkataraman born on December 4th 1910 in Thanhavour district in TamilNadu. His earlyEducation was accomplished locally and later in Madras from where he obtained his master degree in Ecnomics. He later qualified in Law from the Law College Madras and enrolled in the High court, Madras in 1935 and in the supreme court 1951.

It was during his Law practice that he was drawn in to the country's freedom movement and he actively participated in the Quit India Movement of 1942 resulting in a two year detention. In 1946 when the trasfer of power from British to Indian hands looked imminent, he was sent by the government of India in a panel of Lawyers to Malaya and Singapore to defend Indian nationals facing the Japanese occupation of those two places between 1947 and 1950 .Mr Venkataraman served as secretary of the Madras provincial Bar Federation. He was elected in 1950 to the provisional parliament and again in 1952 to the first Loksabha. Though re- elected in 1957. He resigned his Lok sabha seat to join the state government of Madras as Minister. He held the portfolios of Industries, Labour co-operation, power, transport and commercial taxes from 1957 to 1967.

Mr Venkataraman was appointed a member of the Planning Commission in 1967. In the 1977 General Election when Janatha Party swept the polls, he was elected to the Loksabha from Madras Constituency and served as chairman of the public accounts committee. In nhis long and distinguised political carrer spanning more than four decades, he served in key capacities with the international monetary Fund and Asian Development Bank. He was a deligate to the U.N GeneralAssembly in 1953, 1955,1956,1958,1960 and 1961. He led Indian delegation to the 42 nd session of the International Labour Conferencein Geneva in1958 and represented India in the Inter Parliamentary Conferenmce in Vienna in 1978. In 1980 Mr Venkataraman was re- elected to the Loksabha and held the Fianance and Defence porfolios in the congress government of IndiraGandhi. A true believer in the Gandhi- Nehru tradition. He published his biography " My presidencial Years after his Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Prof: John Kurakar

GOD'S OWN COUNTRY NEEDS TO PROTECT ITS TOURISTS

Sexual attack on a foreign visitor to kerala has created fresh concerns about the state's image in the international tourism circuit. Foreign women have been sexually attacked in kochi during new year day and New year evening on many occasions.
Our ancestors used to swear by' Adithi devo bhava' and look at the way we treat our foreign guests now, The recent instance molestation of a tourist by a drunken person can do a lot of harm to the Tourism industry. Foreigners are attracted towards this nation not just because of its natural beauty, its culture too matters let every indian remember that this is the land of swami vivekanda who addressed foreigners as " my dear brothers and sisters'
Tourism is a good source of income as well as an instrument for earning the good will of people abroad. so it must be ensured that tourists feed secure in our country.
The European women visiting the state wear short cloths. This some times provokes anti-social elements to sexually attack them. while our country is attractive to tourists, we have respect and protect the tourists if we want improve tourism. The Government should take action against those anti social elements who sully the image of the state though their crimanl behaviour. The main reason for this kind of shameful be haviour is the easly availability of pornographic material through the internet and other sources. Alcholosm in kerala is yet another factor for lowering the moral standards amoung the youth
Prof: John Kurakar

INDIAN AMERICAN TO MEET OBAMA

A group of prominent Indian American will meet the members of the U.S Administration and top Congressmen to demand that they step up pressure on Pakistan to take action against those responsible for the Mumbai carnage. Around 150 Indian American leaders from various parts of the country will meet the members of the Obama administration and top congressmen to impress upon them the need for Pakistan to bring the perpetrators of the crime to justice. These leaders represent” Indian American Task Force” The terror attacks that killed at least 173 people including several foreign nationals. Six of them were American citizens The Task Force explained that “ we are here not simply to highlight terrorism directed against innocent civilians in India, but also because we believe that these developments in India represent a clear security challemge to the united states of America itself” Indian American Task Force believes that it is in America’s own national security interest to ensure the elimination of terrorist training camps in Pakistan.

Prof: John Kurakar

MR OBAMA STEPPED FORWARD ON THE WEST FRONT OF THE U.S CAPITOL

Barack Obama on 20th January 2009 taking oath as the 44 th U.S President and shattering racial barriers as the first black leader of a country gripped by profound economic trouble and at war in two distant lands. Mr Obama stepped forward on the west front of U.S Capitol to take oath of office from supreme court chief Justice John Roberts. The inaugural address, president Obama said he was taking the helm of a nation that was in the midest of crisis” He said the ‘ challenges we face are real, and will not met easily of in a short span of time’ but he said’ they will be met’ Joe Biden was sworn in the 47 th vice president.
Mr Obama took over a nation longing for change after president George W. Bush’s eight divisive years in the white house, an era that witnessed the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the beginning of wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and an economic collapse not seen since the 1930 great depression.
Mr Obama and Mr Bush arrived at the U.S Capitol at 11 am on 20 th January 2009 accompanied by their wives, Michelle and Laura. The ceremony was the culmination of a remarkable ascent for the 47- year old democrat, who moves in to the oval office the nations fourth youngest president.
Prof: John Kurakar

SILENT VALLEY- HOW TO REACH

By Road: 43 Km from Mannarkkad Bus Station, By Rail : 80 Km from Palakkad Railway Station By Air : 90 Km from Coimbatore: 120 Km from Calicut-------------- Before Visit Permit slips in advance from the Asst. Wildlife Warden"s Office Mukkali Accomodation can be arranged at Wildlife Warden's Office at Mannarkkad

12 types of forests are seen in silent valley. They are following Southern Hill Top Tropical Evergreen Forests 2- West Coast Tropical Evergreen Forests 3- Cane Breaks 4- West Bamboo Breaks. 5- West Coast Semi Evergreen Forests 6- West Coast Secondary Evergreen Forests 7- Nilgiri Sub Tropical hill Forests 8- Reed Breaks 9- South Indian Tropical Hill Savannah Wood Land 10- Southern Montane Wet Temperate Forests 11-Southern Montane Wet Shrub 12- Southern Montane Wet Grass land

SILENT VALLEY-RIVER BHAVANI

The Bhavani River flows almost along the eastern boundary o0f Bhavani Range and parallel to kunthi puzha River. Either banks of this river hilly, supporting forests with grasslands and unclothed rocks. The river takes a sharp turn eastwards at mukkali, where panthamthode joins Bhavani and flows to Coimbatore District joining Cauvery

SILENT VALLEY- KUNTHI & BHAVANI

Kunthi is one of the most loved and cherised rivers of kerala. Originates from the northern side of the Park at an altitude of 2200 meters, the river tumbles down a deep gorge and flows through the entire length of valley to south direction and finally merging in to bhavanipuzha. from a gurgling stream in the hills to a swirling cascade at pathrakadavu, to a still pool at poonchola, to the languid river at sairandhri, Kunthi reveals herself in many moods in her journey across the valley. Her cool, cascading waters ever express the beauty and bountry of the landscape. The river Kunthi and the belief that the pandavas had stayed in sairandri vanam adds mythological significance.

SILENT VALLEY- MAMMELS & REPTILES

Silent Valley isrich in faunal diversity. Species like Elephant, Lion Tailed Macaqque, Nilgiri Langur, Comon Langur, Nilgiri Tahr, Tiger, Leapard, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Wild Dog, etc. Silent Valley also has a considerable population of small mammals like Civets and Nilgiri Marten.

The most famous resident of the park is Lion Tailed Macaque whose name has become almost synoymous with that of the valley. A shy dweller of the canopy, this primate can be seen singly or in groups. The gracious macaque depend mainly on Cullenia exarillata fruits for their food. As Silent Valley has a arge number of these trees; likily the survival of this highly endangered species is ensured. The major reptile seen here are King Cobra, Cobra, Viper, Krait, Rat Snake, Tree frog,Bronze frog, Rufescent Frog, Indian Chameleon, etc

SILENT VALLEY- THE GLORIOUS YEARS

1847- The title to the Silent valley was given 1914:- The forest of the Silent Valley area was notified as reserved forest 1928-29: The location at Sairndhri on Kunthi puzha was identified for power generation 1958 KSEB proposed a 120 MW hydel power project costing INR 17 crore 1979: Government of Kerala passed an enactment viz Silent valley protection area 1984: on 15 th November, the Silent Valley forests were declared as a National Park 1985: On 7 th September, the Silent Valley National Park was formally inaugrated by sri Rajiv Gandhi, then Prime Minister of India 1988: On 16 th May The Silent Valley National Park was constituted as a seprate Division 2007: On 11th June a Buffer zone of 148 Sq KM added to Silent Valley National Park
Prof: John Kurakar

KPCTA STUDY TOUR AT SILENT VALLEY

KPCTA Kottarakara St: Gregorios Cpllege unit conducted a two day study tour on 25th& 26th January 2009 at Silent Valley in conection with Retirement of Prof Varghese John, dept of Botany. Prof John Kurakar, Prof G. Jacob, Prof: Varghese Panicker, Prof P.K Varghese, Prof Rahu Thomas , Prof Varghese John & Prof Joy were embers of Team.

ABOUT THE SILENT VALLEY

The Silent valley National Park is a unique preserve of natural Rain forests with a core area of 89.52 sq km & a buffer zone of 148 sq. km. Silent Valley houses a rich mosaic of varied habitats, that support an amazing variety of life forms, some are endemic to the Western Ghata. About 75-80% of the Land is covered with thick woody vegetation and about 20 % of the area is covered by grasslands. silent Valley falls within the Revenue District of Palakkad and Malappuram within the latitude 1103'N and11013 N and lonngtide 76024,E and 760 32,E Elevation ranges from 900 m to 2300 m( Highest peak Anguinda-2383 m)

SILENT VALLEY, MANNARKKAD, PALAKKAD

SILENT VALLEY- NATIONAL PARK

http://www.silentvalley.gov.in/, Mannarkkad P.O

Palakkad, Kerala. Pin- 678582

Tel: 91-4924-222056. E- mail: mail@silentvalleynationalpark.com

The Asst. Wildlife Warden, Silent Vally National Park, Mukkali P.O Mannarkkad, Kerala

Tel:91-4924-253225

MARAD MASSACRE CASE- RIGOROUS LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR 62

The Special additional District Sessions Court ( Marad Cases) on 15 th December 2009 awardfed rigorous life imprisonment to 62 accused and a fine of Rs 25000 each in the case relating to the massacre of eight fishermen at the coastal village of Marad on 2 nd may 2003.
The court had on december 27 2008 held 63 persons guilty and acquitted 76 persons in the case. The 62 accused were found guilty under section 302(murder) and section 307(attempt ot murder) and section 153A(Promoting enmity between differernt groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence and doing acts perjudicial to the maintainance of harmony) of Indian Penal Code.
One of the accused, LAtheef Assainar manager of the Juma Masjid at marad, who had been found guilty under section 7 and 9 of the religious institution(prevention of misuse act)1988 was sentenced to under go simple imprisonment for a period of five year and one month and a fine Rs. 2000.
The crime Branch- Criminal Investigation Departnemt probed the case and charge sheeted 150 persons including five juvenils.
The speial public prosecuteor argued the Marad massacre case one of the rarest of the rare case and prayed for imposing death sentence on 14 accused for offence punishable under section 302(murder) of the IPC.

WATER AND PEOPLE

Prof John Kurakar

Human cannot live with out water. Human has water in the body. Human fights for water. Huaman prays for water. In a global map. water resources are found almost universal yet their availability is varied according to the season, year and area. water quality is also different.

Water and fluid exists in human body as blood, glands and biochemical fluids, these are excreted to the outer world as blood, tears, sweat and others. Population growth and expanding human activities on the earth during the past few decades challenge us to new global environmental issue. how we manage to use water resources at sustainable basis in this 21 st century. water resource are not exesting at one place, but constantly circulating through multiple channels and passes in the earth, also, water is not uniform in terms of quantitiy and quality, but localized. such a diversity of water must be examined with reference to natural and cultured diversities as an integrated approch to water and people.

In the fresh water enviornment, there grow various kinds of plants that have unique relations with the human being. Rice,Lotus are the exambles. In the pre-modern period water landscape was much more familar to and deeply affected peoples mind and

PREM- NAZIR- THE EVERGREEN HERO; 20th DEATH ANNIVERSARY ( 16th JANUARY- 2009)

Memories of Prem- Nazir remain ever green. with over 600 films as hero to his credit and that too with more than 100 films opposite the same heroine, starring with over so heroines and an average of 39 releases a year, it might be tempting to limit Nazir's remarkable career to world records and statistics.

Nazir may not have won too many awards, but he conquered malayali hearts like no actor did, before or after. He was quite simply, their first super star. the first romantic hero. His powerful performances in films such' Iruttinte Athmavu, Kallichellama. Dhwani, Murappennu, Anubhavangal Palichakal, Padayottam, Vida Parayum munpe, Azakulla Saleena and Nadi were appreciable.

The man who made his debut in Malayalam Cinema with Maumakal in 1952 ended his career, rather unexpectely, with Dhwani in 1989.

RESIDENCY SYSTEM FOR P.G MEDICOS

The Government has decided to implement the residency system for postgraduate Medical training with immediate effect in all five government Medical Colleges in the state

The residency system could mark a new chapter in the nedical Education Scenario, paving the way for better medical Education training and research. Regulated by the medical Council of India. It is considered patient- centric and responsibility-based. A resident is a temporary employee of the institution and will be eligible for all benefits of temporary government employyes. All Post graduate students doinf MD/MS / Diploma/ DNB courses will hence forth be junior Residentts who will be paid an enhanced stipend of Rs 18,500 insted of current Rs 10,000. The Government should give enhanced stipend and other facilites to the MDS students also .

Prof John Kurakar

UNION GOVERNMENT ORDERS SFIO PROBE IN TO SATYAM FRAUD

The Union Government on 13 th December 2009 ordered the Serios Fraud Investgation Office (SFIO) to probe the scam in Satyam Computer Service in view of grave nature of the economic offences committed by the Hydrabad based IT major. The SFIO will submit its report in three months. The SFIO will look in to entire gamut of irregularities and other related anomalies in books of accounts and other acts of commission and omissions. The Agency also investigate all the aspects and role of directors, auditors and all

SATYAM COMPUTER SERVICE

The Union Governemnt should provide financial support to Satyam Computer Service. The Satyam episode clearly cautions us against the evil effects of the capitalist economy and the influence on an individual's greed for fame and money. All that glitters in the IT Industry may not actually be gold. The story of Satyam Computer Service is the story of many business houses in our country. any way it is unfortunate that the World Bank has decided to de bar Indian software vendors Wipro and Megasoft from doing busines with the bank group under its corporate procurement programme.

BATSMAN MATHEW HAYDEN

One of Australia's greatest opening batsman Mathew Hayden retired from crickets on 13 th December 2009. The 37 year old batsman will be remembered as one of the modern-day cricketing titans, amassing 8625 runs in 103 Tests an impressive average of 50.73" Mathew Haayden told" To day I am announcing my retirement from representative cricket effective immediately"

Hayden's 380 scored against Zimbabave in perth in october 2003 stands seconds only west Indian Brian Laras world record 400 not out as the highst individual innings in Test cricket. Hayden said he had many things he wanted to focus on life after cricket" importantly for me, to day I am retiring from cricket not from life" he said " There is still so much that I want to achive and contribute to the country. He played in two world cups in south Africa in 2003 and in the west indies in 2007.

INDIA- AFGHANISTAN CALL FOR CLAMPDOWN ON TERRORISM

India and Afghanistan, both victims of cross border terrorism. A joint statement after a meeting on 12 th January 2009 between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Afghan president Hamid Karsai pointed out that it was necessary for countries to look after their backyards since'" terrorism emantes from the sancturies and training camps and the sustenance and support received by the terrorist groups. The leaders called for the full compliance with bilateral, multilateral and international obligations of states to prevent terrorism in any manner originating from territories under their control. Dr Manmohan singh announced that india would gift 2,50,ooo metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan.

SATYAM COMPUTER SERVICE

The Satyam Scam is no doubt . the worst in the indian corporate history. We need to deal with the scam's fallout. The government should compleate the investigation as soon as possible. so that our reputation as responsible nation does not suffer. Satyams employees were doing their best for the company. But the auditors have failed in their duty. The auiters were in company side, not the share holders.

A.R RAHMAN BECOMES THE FIRST INDIAN TO WIN THE GOLDENGLOBES AWARD

Composer A. R Rahnan becomes the first Indian to win the Golden Globes Award (66th) slumdog millionare has ended as the top dog at the Golden Globe Awards with the film winning all four awards it was nominated for popular Composer A. R Rahman become the first Indian to get the Golden Globe for the Best originaal score. Director Danny Boyle's film that relates the tale of an orphan from mumbai winning a game show, also won Golden Globe for the Best director, Best Drama and Best adapted screenplay. Rehman said that " I am so happ-y to have won this award not because i needed it but because I have fulfilled a wish of all the music lovers in India to bring home a Golden Globe. I want to thank the Almighty for making this possible am Iam greatfull all the love and prayers from all my fans, friends and family.

STATE SCHOOL KALOTSAVAM- 2008

Kozhikode district continued to maintain its lead for the overall trophy of the school youth festivel, in both High School and Higher Secondary Categories at the end of 145 events.
Points Tally
High Scholl Higher Secondary
Kozhikode 332 Kozhikode 385
Thrissur 325 Palakkad 364
Kannur 313 Ernakulam 363
Plakkad 304 Thtissur 362
Kottayam 303 Alappuzha 361
ERnakulam 303 Malappuram 354
Trivandrum 300 Kannur 353
Kasargod 292 Kottayam 349
Malappuram 291 Kasargod 344
Kollam 277 Trivandrum 343
Alappuzha 277 Kollam 329
Wayanad 254 Pathanamthitta 323
Pathnamthitta 250 Wayanade 312
Idukki 241 Idukki 256
First: Kozhikode Second: Kannur Third: Palakkad
Kozhikode district hosts of the next dtate School kalotsavam. Kozhikode district bagged the overall trophy by emerging winners in both the High School and Higher Secondary School.
49 th youth Festivel closing cremony was inaugrated by the well known singer K.J Yesudas. Mr Yesudas said that the tred of challenging the decisions of judges at the youth Festivel should be discouraged. Mr Yesedas remembered his own experience at 1958 school youth festivel in which he bagged first prize for singing competitioon. 50 th Keral School Kaltsavam would be held from January 4 to 10 2010. The Kalotsavam flag will be handed over to the Kozhiki\ode mayor Prof John Kurakar

ALUMNI STUDY TOUR

St Gregorios College Alumni Team reached Mitra Nikethan at 1.30p.m. The Lunch was in Mitranikathen . after the lunch the Association conducted a Eco- Friendly Seminar ar Mitranikathen open auditorium. The Managing Director Sri K. Viswanathen Inaugrated the Semianr. Prof John Kurakar presided over the function. Prof P. John Kutty, Dr Abraham Karickom. Sri G. Balakrishnan Nair , Sri Kunjachan Paruthiyara Sri S.A Kareem, Sri Abdul Azeess, Sri G. Mathew Kutty, Mr Deellep, Sri Monachan were spoke on the occassion. 3.p.m onwards the team visit to the different units of Mitranikathen. Small scale industries unit Food processing unit Peoples college Krishi vikjan Kenra were some of the important units of the mitraNikathen. 5. 30 p.m the team return to Kottarakara

ST.GREGORIOS COLLEGE ALUMNI TOUR

St. Gregorios college Alumni Association conducted a study tour on 20th December 2008. The Team visited Trophical Botanical Garden at palod and Vellanad MitraNikethan 52 members participated in the study tour. The Journey started from Kottarakara at 7 a.m on 20th December. The Team reached palode at 9 a.m. Break fast was in palode Botanical Garden. After the break fast there was seminar at Biological Seminar Hall and arranged a Documentry Flim show about various plants in Botanical Garden. Sr scientist Mr Cheriyan P. Koshy was the leader of the Fornoon session and journey. 12.10p.m the team go to the Mitra Nikathen, the Rural University and peoples college of the state. We reached mitranikethan at 1.30 p.m

INDIA EXAMINING ALL OPTIONS

India reiterated that Pakistan should act against terrorists and dismandle terror outfits operating from its soil. That Islambad was making no serious attempt to do so. In Jammu and Kashmir even then militants are trying to Infiltrate in to India and troble. There is no serious attempt by pakistan to dismantle terror outfits. In Pakistan 30 terror outfits running there. Defence minister sri A.K Antony said that while India was examining seriously all posssible and available options.
The India Government handing over of a dossier linking elements in pakistan' to the november 26-28 mumbai attacks, the terrorists who killed more than 170 people'must have had the support some official agencies in Pakistan' The dossiers India has prepared for pakistan and the 14 countries which lost nationals in the mumbai attacks
Prof John Kurakar

SMT PRATIBHA PATIL- 12 TH PRESIDENT OF INDIA

Seventy- four year old Pratibha Devisingh Patil, who was sworn in on july 25, 2007, is a quite spoken head of state. A Lawyer by training, she has brought to her job deades of political, legistave and administrative experience, in Maharashtra and elsewhere,. She has observed the constitutional restraints to the point of being non- obtrusive in contrast to her charismatic predecessor. The surprise is that in terms of activity.
Rastrpati Nilayam
Rastrapati Nilayam,148 year old single storied heritage building that stands in the midst of 95 acres. The president focused the following activites.
The Eradication of social evils- need to overcome extreme poverty- Gender inequality
Child mal nutrition- Women's empowerment- Expansion of Education- Rural Development- National Security. The Social evil the president mentioned was child marriage. Girls were still being married at the age of 10, 11, 12, 13 in Rajasthan , madhyapradesh and Bihar. The Second social evil is Alcohol addiction. Prof Kurakar

EZHIMALA NAVAL ACADEMY

Prime Minister Manmohan singh to inaugurate the Ezhimala Naval Academy on January 8. The Academy developed at E$zhimala, 38 k.m from Kannur. The opening of the naval academy developed on a hilly terrain facing the coastline of Ezhimala at an estimated cost of Rs 720 crore is expected to give a face lift to the entire region. The Academy has taken shape on a landscape comprising the tract of hill facing the seas after a pace of hectic construction works on a massive scale for the past several years. The infrastructure developed at the academy includes the state of the art training and administrative facilites. Apart from the main academic block, the facilities include accommodation and mess complexes for trainees, staff, sailors and officers. the Academy also have flag mast which is the highest one in the country.
Ezhimala Naval Academy architect Smt Namita Singh. The Naval Academy retain the beauty of the site. The archtect said that' I decided that no man made intervention should mar the beauty of the place'
The Academy is located on picturesque hills and inland waters and flanked by the Arabian Sea. She said' It is a difficult proposition to design building complexes with out disturbng the environment. The flora and fauna has been kept intact. A large area is still left as forest reserve'. The site is spread over 2400 acres' It was an over grown jungle. The Academy has grown in to one of the largest naval academies in Asia

INDIA EVIDENCE HANDED OVER TO PAKISTAN

India on 5th January 2009 summoned Pakistan High Commissioner Shahid Malik to hand over 'material' about pakistani involvement in the mumbai terror attacks. The move is part of the diplomatic offensive by India to convince the international community and Islambad in to taking tangible action against the masterminds of the mumbai attacks.

External affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee has started writing to all his counterparts with details of the events in mumbai and describing the progress made in investigations so far union minister Mr P. Chidambaram will travel to U.S to share evidence on the mumbai attacks. India was expecting Islambad to promptly undertake further investigations. U.S Ambassador in India David muliord affirmed that the Federal Bureau of investigations (FBI) will pursue the evidence because under their law. Americans are killed, so U.S itself has a duty to pursue all avenues to the bottom of it

OMAR ABDULLA SWORN IN JAMMU & KASHMIR CHIEF MINISTER

National Conference president Omar Abdullah was sworn in the 11 th Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir on 5 th Monday 2009. Nine Ministers were also sworn. 38- year old Omar arrived at the venu with his father Frooq Abdulla, Mother Mollie, wife Payal and two children Zaahir and Zaamir. Omar took the Oath in English. The Congress has nominated Tara Chand as Deputy Chief Minister. The Congress has agreed that there would be no rotation of chief Minister ship, Among those present on the occasion were congress president Sonia Gandhi, the P.C.C Chief and former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, P.D.P President Mehbooba Mafti, senior B.J.P leader Chaman Lal Gupta.
Omar Abdulla successfully contested the 1998 Loksabha elections to become M.P at the age of 28, Union minister at the age 29 under the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He served as union minister of state commerce and Industry in NDA Government.
Prof John Kurakar

KALLOOPARA ORTHODOX CHURCH

Renovation of the centuries old St. Mary's orthodox syrian church at kalloopara has been completed at a cost of 1 crore. The catholicos designate Paulose Mar Milithios would lead the Consecration ceremony on 7th January 2009. The union Minister Oscar Fernades will Inaugrate a public meeting to be held on the church premised in connection with the cremonay on 7th Jan 2009. The Catholicos would declare the church as a pilgrimage centre dedicated to Holy Mother. The church was constructed during reign of the EDapally royal dynasty and rulers of Edapally had donated the land for its construction

ST. GREGORIOS COLLEGE ALUMNI TOUR

St. Gregorios College Alumni Association conducted a study tour on 20th December 2008. The Team visited Trophical Botanickal Garden palode & Vellanad Mitra Nikethan. 52 members participated in the studt tour. The journey started from kottarakara at 7 a.m on 20th December. The Team reached Botanickal Garden at 9 a.m. Break fast was in Palode Botanical Canteen. After the Break fast there was seminar at Biological Seminar Hall and also arranched a Documentray Flim show about various Medicinal plants. Sr Scientist Mr Cheriyan P. Koshy was the leqder of the fore noon session and journey. 12.10p.m the team go the MitraNikethan, the rural University and peoples College of the state. we reached MitraNikethan at 1.30 p.m

The Lunch was in MitraNikethan. after the Lunch the association conducted a Eco- Friendly Seminar at Mitra Nikethan Open Auditorium. Thr Managing Director Mr K. Viswanathen Inaugurated the seminar Prof John Kurakar, Dr Abraham Karickom, Prof P. John Kutty, Mr G. Balakrishnan Nair, Prof Molly Kurakar, Mr Kunjachan Paruthiyara, Mr S.A Kareem, Mr Abdul Azees Sri G. Mathew Kutty, Mr Sabu , Mr MOnachen were spoke on the occassion 3p.m onwards the team visit to the different units of MitraNikethen. Small Scale Industries unit, Food processing Unit, Peoples College Krishi Vikcjan kendra were some important units of MitraNikethen. 5.30 p.m tthe team return to kottarakara Members remarked that the study tour was very useful and Educative.

SRI LANKA

Sri Lankan troops on friday 3rd January 2009 captured the northern town of killimocho which has been the tigers administrative and political head quarters. The Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa said that " this is truly an in comparable victory. their troops have achieved is not only the capture of the great fortress of the LTTe, but a major victory in the world's battle against terrorism. Sri Lankan who are opposed to separatism, racism and terrorism and strived for peace, freedom and democracy. Thge Sri Lankan Army had taken the Jaffna.

KURAKARAN KUDUMBA YOGAM- KALAMELA

Nidhun Jacob Kurakar, Nidhi Jacob, Binto Alex, Sinal Sabu , Rincy Raju were actively participated inthe Kala Mala.1.30 p.m was the Lunch Time. The Kudumba yogam Felicitated with ponnada to Mr Mathew Sasthri,, Smt Kunju kunjamma, Mr Kurikesu and Smt Chinnamma John. Award distribution was at 3.pm distributed 40 Awards including cultural awards, Education awards & Merit Awards.

OFFICE BEARER'S

President: Mr Kurakaran A.C Thomas Vice President: Mr Mathew P. Babu (Tvm)

Vice President: Sri P.A Alex, Secretary : Mr P.A Varghese Valiya veedu,

Joint Secretary: Alexander Mathew, Mr Abraham Cherukara

Treasurer : Mr Thomas Kurakar; Managing Editor & Auditor: K.C. George

4p.m annual function concluded.

KURAKARAN KUDUMBA YOGAM 2008

Mr Chacha Sivaraj ( Modern Gandhi), Mr G. Joy, Smt Chinnamma John were spoke on the occassion. Prof John Kurakar welcomed the gatherings. Sri PMG Kurakar presented the annual report. The Kurkar Women's association report presented by Prof Molly Kurakar The Unit reports preswented by smt Lissy Varghese and smt Manju George.

KURAKARAN KUDUMBA YOGAM- INAUGURATION

The Modern poet and Social worker Mr. Oommannoor Gopalakrishnan Inaugurated the annual Conference. Kudumba Yogam president Mr Kurakaran A.C. Thomas presided over the function. Mr. G. Balakrishnan Nair, the Psychological counsellor relessed the kudumba deepam, the official journal of kudumba yogam.

KURAKARAN KUDUMBA YOGAM ANNUAL CONVENTION

The Annual Family Get together of Kurakaran Valiyaveettil Kudumba Yogam held at Ayppalloor Kurakar City Centre on 27 th December 2008. Registration begins at 9 a.m The function started with prayer by Mr. G. Joy and followed by a Prayer song by Rincy & Bincy

MEDICAL COLLEGE ALUMNI MEET

The third annual convention of the Trivandrum Medical College Alumni Association will be held at Medical college auditorium on January 4 2009. Union minister for parliamentary affairs Vayalar Ravi will inaugurate the convention. The College Auditorium which has been renovated with the help of the alumni, will be inaugurated by Health Minister P.K Sreemathy. Health Secretary Vishwas Mehta will inaugurate the burns unit at the hospital, which has been upgraded in to modern burns care facility by the association. The 30 scholarships for students instituted by the association will also be distributed on the occasion. The association has instituted on the two orations, in the names of two eminent teachers of the college in its formative years, K.N Pai and R. Kesavan Nair. M.S Valiathan a student of the first batch of Trivandrum Medical College and founder- director of Sree chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology will deliver the Kesavan Nair Lecturer
Prof John Kurakar

GUWAHATI SERIAL BLASTS

Five persons, including a boy and a woman were killed and about 50 injured as serial blasts in Guwahati city on New years day 2009. The police suspect the united Liberation Front of Asom ( ULFA) to be behind the blasts. The first blast occured at 2.55 p.m. this was followed by another blast occured at 5.30 p.m at vegetable market. A cycle bomb was used here. The third blast occurred at 5.55 p.m near the Bhangagarh flyover close to the shopping centre.
The Assom chief minister Tarun Gogi when asked if the government would initiate a dialoue with the two ULFA Companies which declared a unilateral ceasfire. The Prime Minister Manmohan singh condemning the blasts in Guwahati and said the Government would root out terrorism. He expressed deep Condolances to the families of those killed and sympathies to those injured.

WORLD GREETS 2009

The world celebrate new year in world wide on 1st January 2009. Up to one million people braved frigid temperatures in newyork city to witness the traditional mid night dropping of the time square. Crowds shouted out the last second sof the year as the huge Orb-glowing and glittering through 2668 crystals and more than 32000 red, blue, green and white bulbe sdecended on a special pillar.

Trajedy marred new year celebration in Tailand, where fire ripped through a trendy Babgok night club killing at least 58 revellers and injuring 243. Several arb states cencelled there palnned celebrations due to the Isralie bombing in palastine.

In south america, as m,any as 2 million prople squeezed on to the Brazils Copacavana beatc in Riodejaneiro. Across the atlantic, crowds braved cillie wheather in london to enjoy fire works along the river thames. While in paris, more than half an million thronged the champs Elysees to ring the new year. Nearly one million gathered at the barandenberg gate in berlin, which this year will mmark the 20 th annursary of the fall of the berlin wall. In Athens the greek youths celebrath\e ne wyear at syntagama square.

In mumbai, tight security was in palace with police keeping a close watch on tarditional water font boat parties. In Goa banned the famous beatch parties with extara para militiary troops deployed to ensure securty.

In congong th etime square the time square celebarted new year. in tokoya laid off workers wre company out int ht ecities hibiea parks during thte holidays.

In the phillipians twenty peoples were wounded by a granade lobbed in to a crowd of new year revellers at a park in the ciies.

Sydney was the first major cioty tim see the new yaer up to a recor\d 1.5 million. Australlina s and tourest scobnverged on the site surrounding sydnys world famous opera house for the citite sbiggest ever fire works display. china also celebrated the new year in the traditional way.

JAMMU & KASHMIR

Jammu and kashmir chief ministed designate Omar Abudulla will take office along with few ministers from the national conference and the congress before january 6th 2009. Also the governer has intigated that the state should be represented at the chief ministers meeting called by the centre on january 6th 2009 to discuss the internal security in the country. The jammu and kashmir constitution allows the state to have 24 minister. The two parties have to agree on port folio allocation and the number of mkinisters in each side will have. Both sides have decided to work as per a common minium program and have decided to leave the drafting for a later date. The congress also welcomed the national congress to join the UPA.

JAMMU & KASHMIR

It was heartening that the Jammu and Kashmir elections passed off peacefully and had a high vote turnout compared to 2002. But we should not forget that just a few months ago the state stood deeply divided during the Amarnath Shrine board Land issuee. The result of Jammu and Kashmir elections is the testimony to the victory of democracy and have vindicated the peoples wishes against the separatist forces. The National Conference- Congress Combine now has the important agenda of making sure that progressive steps are taken to see that a settlement is reached with in the frame work of the constitution. That will be the right way to honour Kashmiris mandate for peace.
The Chief Minister designate of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdulla emphasised that the new government was egar to adopt a two pronged approach of putting governance back on rails and heal the wounds follwing the Amarnath Shrine board turbulence that hit the state this summer. The government emphasised the development of the states. that is the basic issue of water , power and roads. The youth in Jammu and Kashmir would like to have the same facilities and opportunities as people in other parts of the country.
Prof John Kurakar