Logic behind pension age hike

Things are already set to increase pension age of government employees in Kerala. Government is planning to raise pension age from 56 to 58. The same has been announced in the house by the honorable finance minister Shri. K.M. Mani. It was four months ago that the pension age was upped from 55 to 56. As per the reports, existing scenario is very alarming; "Today, there are 5.34 lakh state government employees and 5.50 lakh state government pensioners. Also, an average, a state government employee works in the government for 25 to 30 years, while a pensioner has to be paid pension for around 25 to 30 years. Every year, Rs.7,731 crore goes to pay pension and this situation cannot go on for long," said Chandy. Government was hugely burdened with 75 percent of the state revenue going to pay salaries, pensions and interest on borrowings. Amidst financial crisis and increased expenditure, pensioners are becoming a huge liability to the exchequer. In order to reduce government spending and to utilize the expertise of experienced hands, government finds such a way in this impasse. If they are given another two years, the cash-strapped state government would save around Rs 375 crore this fiscal.  Even though the decision was warmly welcomed by the working class, youth movements and students federations vehemently opposed this move.  

Normally around 20000 people retires every year and any decision to increase pension age may badly affect around 30 lakh (45 lakh as per Employment Exchange) unemployed youth of Kerala. In these circumstances, this plan will almost freeze new recruitments and make the unemployment crisis more severe in coming two years. In the wake of the validity of the PSC list is one year, this will also affect the shortlisted candidates. Additionally, this move only has a temporary advantage and the same issue will emerge after two years with much vigor. In short, plan to raise pensions age do not have any long term significance and assumes bad effect to the society.  When opposition runs over their political survival, ruling party finds it as a chance to pass the decision. The silence of mere political fronts may favor this move and the hidden agenda to raise pension age to 60 might also happen.   

Albeit the finance minister proposed to reduce the age limit for PSC applicants - to console the youth population, the logic behind is totally unknown. The real fact is that, the decision to increase pension age is an act of adding oil to the fire. Instead of maintaining exiting staffs, government can curtail its expenditure by sourcing new candidates. It is true that, new generation can play a level playing role with current man power and the wage expense towards fresh candidates will be very low compared with their predecessors. The techno savvy youths can learn and contribute a large rather than any other and they also can contribute innovative ideas to ensure transparency, accountability and good governance.  What government should do is, curtail cost by adapting strategies like gradual reduction of pension, innovative incentive plans, early retirement opportunities and creating job opportunities for pensioners through outsourcing, contract/private jobs etc. instead of meager and politically motivated proposals.

Don't let ourselves in dark

(Excerpts from "Purappurath Veezhunna OOrjatthe KSEB yil thedunnavar" Rev. Dr. Abraham Mulamoottil)

In the wake of Fukushima nuclear accident that questioned the safety of atomic power, solar power is emerged as the most viable option for power generation. Rightly say, now people can directly access solar power rather than run before KSEB. While different obstacles like global warming, climate change and energy crisis looming, this green energy opens a novel window to sustainable future. There is no dual opinion to supporting action against energy wastage, but forcing us to observe or practice 'switch off' is not an equally acceptable practice in a democratic country. Whilst striving to sustain the loss making KSEB, we should adapt most modern strategies in power generation. KSEB can play a crucial role in the promotion of renewable sources in hand with ANERT that may possibly add a golden chapter in this scenario of Kerala State Electricity Board. By developing such unique strategies, KSEB can even buy electricity from people through grid system rather than clamoring to invest tons for maintaining and constructing gigantic dams. Whereas finding a solution for power shortage, this will also act as a source of income for lakhs of people. Government also needs to do a lot through strengthening promotional mechanism to propagate the viability and feasibility of solar power. Enhancing subsidy, loan facility with lower interest rates, tax exemption, green certification etc. may attract large number people to alternate sources of energy.

  

Development implies the identification and utilization of opportunities and any restriction to give eye and ear to this notion is the real reason behind the lagging of development. Albeit issues are amounting, we shouldn't succumbs ourselves before these hurdles. Let's arise and create a new revolution for a cause. While our geographical as well as climatic conditions most suits for power generation, any reluctance to tap this boon is unpardonable. We are obliged to preserve our environment and the duty bestowed up on is to keep our ecosystem and resources away from depletion. People, politicians, policy makers, technicians, service providers and administrators shall join hands to push this movement. Not the dark which crumbles us in nights but the stag which arrest our growth and production in the day light is a serious concern, while power forces to ‘turn off’.  Rather than the dimming of luxuries, stagnation of growth due to power crisis will be a looming catastrophe in the future.   Don't let the sun rays to simply spring and go, catalyze our efforts to grab this abundant resource.

Come on Youth

Today, I am trying to bring your attention to an important matter; As mentioned earlier - What role we can play to revive our India? - Simply Clamoring?, triggering strikes? shouting slogans? - We want to think it again and again. I also thought about the same.While corruption, policy paralysis and maladministration clutching my country, what is the other and better option left for us?.

Way back to BC 1700, India was the second largest contributor to the global economy in terms of GDP. Whilst China contributed 27% of GDP, India posted around 23%. Our country was blessed with abundant resources and bio diversity. Albeit, we were rich in resources, lack technology and low range of intellectual expansion made us one of the poor countries in some times. Globally renowned war veterans and scientists like Guptas, Asoka, Chanakya, Charaka, Varahamira were lived in India, that was enough to propagate the glory of India all over the world. The same has been attracted large number of foreign travelers and invaders to India. Turks, Arabs and the gigantic Europeans ploughed and plundered lion part our resources.  This was in the wake of resource drainage, Dadabhai Navaroji incarnated and unraveled the real story behind poverty and plight of Indians.This phenomenon resulted the high ended growth of Europeans.

Just compare the past scenario with the present. USA is the largest contributor towards Global GDP. China also posting a fare portion. Even though India shows consistent growth among world countries, its contribution towards world GDP is negligible. Although China still maintains above 10% growth, India strives to survive. It is understood that, India is a global soft power, but what we need is the high enhancement of hard power particles. This is why Sir Sayyed Ahammed Khan,a prominent liberator motivated people to educate rather than participate in Indian National Movements. Now let me come to the point. What is really required to us rather than mere crowds and loud?

Anna Hassare now fasting at Janatar Mantir. Forgetting food and feeble crowds, Teama Anna and India Agaiandst Corruption (IAC) members leading a fight against corruption. Prominent and profound leaders Kiran Bedi IPS, Aravind Kegrival, the White Tiger and Prasanth Bhusahan (Fortunately  the real Baba now away from the site) trying to amount the displeasure of people against corruption and UPA. I am not sure what is going to happen and like to call it as vain effort. It is true that spectrum of corruption widens, like 2G, Adarsh, CMG, KG Basin, Tetra, S band etc, etc. According to Transparency International Report,  India is on of the corrupted countries and The Week called our Prime Minister Manmohan Singh - an Under Achiever. 

Let me type few words in favor of Singhji. The reformer in late nineteens triggered liberalization, doubtless to say - an instrument behind the economic reformation and revival of India. Now the under achiever crushed under the iron roads of corruption. Even though he is a man of integrity, he is now a tiger without teeth. He can intend, evolve and suggest, but cant act. Some called him as 'Soni's puppet'. Obviously, he is a prominent policy maker but not at all a good administrator. Deliberately, he needs a supporter like Rao.

While moving, we need smart Managers, loyal policy makers and honest administrators. Unfortunately we can't expect a good yield by feeding already fruit beard trees. The question is what we can do and what we can gift to the coming generation. Possible or impossible - it is good to consider others, cultivate loyalty and integrity, practice honesty and stand for truth. Bowed before the great man in the history - Mahatma Gandhi, he suggested to disperse Congress after the independence, but nothing was happened. Now we cry over this burden and it sisters/brothers. Irrespective of party and politics, corruption and malpractices are clutching everyone. A complete reformation is a need of this hour. (Let me suggest you to re read Swami Vivekananda.)

The only possibility I see is the emergence of right youth in all key positions including political powers. With self reliance and self respect, let's rule and revive our country with an integrity. Smart and dynamic people can strive to achieve the same - a glorious future. "The youth of India will not just make a difference to the Nation, but to the world. 47% of Indians is under the age of 20 and 10% of the world population is an Indian under 25 is a common assessment of India by all countries now. It’s the youth of this country that needs to make things happen and make the dreams of the earlier generation a reality. After all, this is the generation that is reaping the benefits of the struggle of its forefathers who fought for the freedom of this nation and this is the same generation that will reap the benefits of its work, determination and attitude.

"If not me, then who? If not now, then when?" are lines that can describe the nature of the youth in India, who surely will pave the direction of the nation in the years to come, a direction that will make every Indian proud of their nation!!!"  

  

Solar Man smiles again

Solar Man: Instrument behind Solar Revolution in Kerala

Exploring the endless opportunities of solar power now a matter of concern for large number of people and fast becoming a point of discussion - even among ordinary citizens. Amid energy crisis, deficit in rainfall and hike in electricity charge, the subject picked the attention of administrators too. Search for alternative sources of energy and efficient mechanisms are the prime priorities.   

Whilst mentioning about this non – ubiquitous technology, let me memorize a glittering glory in this saga. I don't know how many of you are still remembering that historic step by a great visionary - a year ago. I posted an article about this novel venture. It is about the installation of the largest solar power plant in Kerala (State’s first solar-powered campus, perhaps the first one of its kind in the whole country, is coming up in Thiruvalla). Yes, the man behind this experiment was Rev. Fr. Abraham Mulamoottil, Founder and then Principal of MACFAST (known as Mulamoottil Achan). Innovation has always been hallmark of Achan and he lives with visions and missions. While reading myriad articles on 'solar power' - I remember him - an ‘Acharyan of Sustainable Development’. His strong commitment towards society and the urge for sustainability are very apparent from his noble ventures like Radio MACFAST, Clean and Green City, CAN I and Health O Million. He is a real instrument behind the silent revolution of solar power in Kerala. Albeit, he invested huge amount of money, he had a clear aim and purpose in his mind. He opined about this mega project - this project is significant not only in terms of its size and technical attributes, but also in terms of its demonstration to the community the ease with which solar generated power can be installed by small and medium enterprises for their financial and operational benefit, and for the wider ecological benefits to society.

Unfortunately, since then, no one mentioned about his courageous endeavor. Even our Minister for Power, Sri Aryadan Mohammed also inspired from this unique initiative. (MACFAST Solar Power Plant has been inaugurated by the Honorable Minister). Motivated by this giant leap of Achan, Minister dared to frame a legislation to ensure solar plants are installed in all high-rise buildings including residential apartments. I was working as the Project Officer of MACFAST then and handled different queries from various parts of Kerala. In the wake of these developments, so many institutions came forward to install solar power plant - like Rubber Board, Amritha Institute, CIAL, Malankara Plantations, Science Planetarium etc. 

Now he aims to trigger a bigger revolution - 'Light and Life' - a 100 KW solar power plant in Pushpagiri Medical College. (He is the Chairman and Chief Executive of Pushchair Group of Institutions). The vision he envisioned is pure and free water for all. The proposed project envisages construction of pond, purification of water using UV Technology and supply of pure water for local community. Solar power will be utilized for the purification and pumping of water. A Narmada Canal model solar roof top over the pond and paths make this project more attractive. In comply with eco friendly concepts he constructed a state of the art corporate office in the Pushpagiri Campus – probably the first Eco Office in Kerala. The well renowned Cathedral in Tiruvalla is also the marvelous creation of Achan which strictly followed all the most modern eco friendly notions. He is now brain storming about Social forest, Community Park, Kids Village, Comfort and Care Residents and so many similar philanthropic initiatives.  Beyond words and mere promises, he practices what he preaches. Irrespective of cast and creed/young and aged he acts as a mentor and motivator. Even his presence and smile unleash the hidden talents of millions and I dare to say he is a rare among the real.  Let his glorious missions and awe-inspiring visions live long.    

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Fear to become fearless

Amid maladministration, policy paralysis, corruption and absurd logic, another man became the victim of black hands. Narendra Kumar - and young IPS Officer, 30 years - 2009 Cadre jeopardized his life to represent honest and courageous officers. He should be remembered, may be an young officer; but the fact apparent is the culmination of evil hands. Evoking strong reactions across the country, Some people astonished at this sad incident, but it couldn't discussed by any elite class of politicians and not became a hot news in forth estate.Adding more salt to the wound, chief minister of MP called it as an accident. It is sure - politico is not at all bothered about the victims/whistle bowlers.While a group competing to become civil servants - what is the real mirror?. I found two option - Do or Die.... Earn and woo.

Hands of mafia is rampant and increasingly become dominant. While clutching demon hands in the society, it really piercing in to the flesh and heart of holy bureaucrats. Albeit politico - bureaucrats nexus prevails, some people striving to curb corruption and unravel undercurrents. Recent murders of whistle bowlers was not an exception. Mighty and revolving knives of anti social elements closely watching, listening and curtail real heroes.  Unveil the persona of real culprits is a need of this hour and more young minds should revive for a novel reformation.

It was Rajaram and Vivekanada brought the initial revolution and I am not sure , the tools of Anna - new Gandhian is powerful to stop this maladministration. Extremely mind blogging,  with excruciating  pain and with a little tension, I should think again - should I become an IAS Officer? Limited experience with the the secretary of Tiruvalla - Sudheer, his overdecorated diplomacy and trials to deteriorate democracy was sufficient to demotivate. Only because of his ability, it started to bloom and only because of his crookedness, it drawn to hell.

Sometimes I prefer to work with private players, but the other side is different. Better span of control and power may help me to cherish. At least, I can ensure right for the reserved community. Let me forget my self for the betterment of my people.

Deep Condolence to Narenra Kumar. 

"I profoundly condemn the inhumane statement of the home minister calling it an accident and not a deliberate murder."

എന്റിക ലെക്‌സി

കപ്പലില്‍ നാടകീയരംഗങ്ങളുടെ രാത്രി

Posted on: 27 Feb 2012

കൊച്ചി: ഞായറാഴ്ച പുലര്‍ച്ചെ 12.10.മറൈന്‍ഡ്രവിലെ ബോട്ട്‌ജെട്ടിയിലുള്ള ഹൗസ് ബോട്ടില്‍ മാധ്യമ പ്രവര്‍ത്തകരുടെ വന്‍തിരക്ക്. കടല്‍ ശാന്തമാണ്. നേരിയ കാറ്റ് വീശുന്നുണ്ട്. എല്ലാവരുടെയും മുഖത്ത്, വാക്കുകളില്‍ ആകാംക്ഷമാത്രം. ലോകം മുഴുവനും ഉറ്റുനോക്കുന്ന അത്യന്തം അപൂര്‍വമായൊരു സംഭവത്തിന് സാക്ഷ്യം വഹിക്കാന്‍ പോകുന്നതിന്റെ ഉദ്വേഗം അവരുടെ മുഖങ്ങളില്‍. ബോട്ട് മെല്ലെ നീങ്ങി.

ദൂരെ കൊച്ചി തുറമുഖ ട്രസ്‌ററിന്റെ ഓയില്‍ ടാങ്കര്‍ ബര്‍ത്തില്‍ ലോകത്തിന്റെയാകെ ശ്രദ്ധാ കേന്ദ്രമായ എന്റിക ലെക്‌സി എന്ന ഇറ്റാലിയന്‍ ചരക്ക് കപ്പല്‍. കറുപ്പും ചുവപ്പും ചായം പൂശിയ വമ്പന്‍ കപ്പലിന്റെ പകിട്ട് കാലം അല്പമൊന്ന് മങ്ങിപ്പിച്ചിട്ടുണ്ടെങ്കിലും വിളക്കുകളില്‍ നിന്നുള്ള കണ്ണഞ്ചിക്കുന്ന വെളിച്ചം എന്റിക ലെക്‌സിയില്‍ വീണു ചിതറുമ്പോള്‍ ഭംഗിയൊന്നു വേറെ, പക്ഷേ, ഈ കപ്പലില്‍ നിന്നുള്ള വെടിവെയ്പാണ് പാവപ്പെട്ട മത്സ്യത്തൊഴിലാളികളുടെ ജീവന്‍ അപഹരിച്ചതെന്ന സത്യം അലയായി ഉയരുമ്പോള്‍ മനസ്സ് അശാന്തം.

എറണാകുളം സിറ്റി പോലീസ് കമ്മീഷണര്‍ എം. ആര്‍. അജിത് കുമാറിന്റെ നേതൃത്വത്തിലുളള വന്‍ സംഘം കപ്പലില്‍ പരിശോധന നടത്തുകയാണ്. ശനിയാഴ്ച രാവിലെ 11 ന് തുടങ്ങിയ പരിശോധന ഞായറാഴ്ച പുലര്‍ന്നിട്ടും പൂര്‍ണതയിലെത്തിയിട്ടില്ല. പരിശോധനയുടെ പുരോഗതി അറിയാനുളള യാത്രയിലാണ് മാധ്യമപ്പട. മൈക്കും ക്യാമറയും ലാപ്‌ടോപ്പും വീഡിയോ ക്യാമറയും ഉള്‍പ്പടെയുള്ള സര്‍വസന്നാഹങ്ങളുമുണ്ട്. ഇറ്റാലിയന്‍ മാധ്യമ പ്രവര്‍ത്തക മറിയയും ദേശീയമാധ്യമപ്രതിനിധികളും ബോട്ടില്‍ സ്ഥാനം പിടിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു.

ഓയില്‍ ടാങ്കര്‍ ബര്‍ത്തില്‍: ബോട്ട് പോര്‍ട്ട്ട്രസ്റ്റിന്റെ ബര്‍ത്തിലേക്ക് അടുക്കുമ്പോള്‍ എന്റിക ലെക്‌സിയില്‍ എഴുതിയിരിക്കുന്നത് കണ്ണില്‍പെട്ടു. സേഫ്റ്റി ഫസ്റ്റ്. കപ്പലിലുള്ളവരുടെ സുരക്ഷിതത്വം പ്രതീക്ഷിച്ചായിരുന്നുവോ മീന്‍ തേടി പോയവരുടെ മാറിലേക്ക് നിറയൊഴിച്ചത്? പന്ത്രണ്ടരയോടെ ബോട്ട് ബര്‍ത്തിലെത്തി. ഇവിടെ പോലീസ് സേനാംഗങ്ങളുമായി ചെറുബോട്ടുകള്‍. കപ്പലിനടുത്തുനിന്നും ടെലിവിഷന്‍ ചാനല്‍ സംഘത്തിന്റെ ലൈവ് റിപ്പോര്‍ട്ടിങ്. ചാനലുകളില്‍ ബ്രേക്കിങ് ന്യൂസ്. ഇറ്റാലിയന്‍ കപ്പിലില്‍ നിന്ന് ആയുധങ്ങള്‍ പിടിച്ചെടുത്തു, പരിശോധന ഏറെക്കുറെ പൂര്‍ത്തിയായി. . . .

കപ്പലിലെ ഇററലിക്കാരെ കാണാന്‍ മറിയയ്ക്ക് തിടുക്കം. അവര്‍ കപ്പലിന് മുകളിലുള്ള ജീവനക്കാരെ നോക്കി ചിരിക്കുകയും കൈവീശിക്കാണിക്കുകയും ചെയ്യുന്നുണ്ടായിരുന്നു.

കപ്പലില്‍ ഇപ്പോള്‍ എന്താവും സംഭവിക്കുന്നത് ? വന്‍ ആയുധശേഖരം ഉണ്ടാവുമോ? വെടിവെപ്പിന് ഉപയോഗിച്ച തോക്ക് തിരിച്ചറിഞ്ഞിട്ടുണ്ടാവുമോ ? അഭ്യൂഹങ്ങള്‍, ചോദ്യങ്ങള്‍ നിരവധിയാണ്.

മാധ്യമസംഘത്തിലെ മൂന്നുപേര്‍ വീതം ഗോവണി കയറി കപ്പലിന്റെ ഡക്കിലെത്താനാണ് പോലീസ് അനുമതി. കപ്പലിലേക്ക് കയറാന്‍ വന്‍ തിരക്ക്. അവരെ നിയന്ത്രിക്കാന്‍ പോലീസിന് പെടാപ്പാട്. ഇതിനിടെ സ്ഥിരീകരിക്കാനാവാത്ത ഒരു വാര്‍ത്ത പിറന്നു: കപ്പലില്‍ നിന്നും നാല്‍പതോളം തോക്കുകള്‍ കണ്ടെടുത്തു. ഇതില്‍ അഞ്ച് റൈഫിളുകളും ഒരു മെഷീന്‍ഗണ്ണും ഉണ്ട്. വാര്‍ത്ത ശരിയെന്ന് ഉറപ്പുവരുത്താനാകാത്തതിനാല്‍ നേരേ മനസ്സിന്റെ ചവറ്റുകുട്ടയിലേക്ക്.

പെട്ടികളുമായി ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥര്‍: സമയം 1. 45. കപ്പലില്‍ നിന്നും ഒരു സംഘം ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥര്‍ പരിശോധന കഴിഞ്ഞ് പെട്ടികളുമായി ബര്‍ത്തിലേക്കിറങ്ങി. ഗോവണി വഴി കയറുന്നതിലും പ്രയാസകരമാണ് ഇറങ്ങാനെന്നതിനാല്‍ ഏറെ സൂക്ഷിച്ചാണ് ഇറക്കം. രാവിലെ 11 മണിക്ക് പരിശോധനയ്ക്കായി കപ്പലില്‍ കയറിയതാണ്. ഇവരുടെ മുഖത്ത് പന്ത്രണ്ട് മണിക്കൂറിലേറെ അധ്വാനിച്ചതിന്റെ ക്ഷീണം വ്യക്തം. കാത്തുകിടന്ന ബോട്ടില്‍ കയറി അവര്‍ തിടുക്കത്തില്‍ കരയിലേക്ക്. തുടര്‍ന്ന് ബാലിസ്റ്റിക് , വിരലടയാള വിദഗ്ദ്ധരുടെ വരവ്.

2. 00 . ഒരു സംഘം ഇറ്റാലിയന്‍ ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥര്‍ പോലീസ് ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥരുടെ അകമ്പടിയോടെ പടിയിറങ്ങി ബോട്ടിലേക്ക്. പുറമെ അന്തരീക്ഷം ശാന്തമാണെങ്കിലും കപ്പലിനുള്ളിലും ബര്‍ത്തിലും തിരക്കിട്ട ജോലികള്‍. ഡെഡ് ലൈനിന് മുമ്പ് വാര്‍ത്ത നല്‍കാനാവുമോ? മാധ്യമപ്രവര്‍ത്തകരുടെ ആശങ്ക ഇരട്ടിക്കുകയാണ്. തുടര്‍ന്ന് വീണ്ടും ഇറ്റലിയില്‍ നിന്നുള്ള സംഘം ഗോവണികടന്ന് ബോട്ടിലേക്ക്. അവരുടെ മുഖത്ത് തികഞ്ഞ ഗൗരവം.

രണ്ടരയായതോടെ കൊല്ലം സിററി പോലീസ് കമ്മീഷണര്‍ ദേബേഷ് കുമാര്‍ ബഹ്‌റയും സംഘവും എത്തി. ഇതിനിടെ മാധ്യമ സംഘത്തിലെ മൂന്ന് പ്രതിനിധികള്‍ വീതം കപ്പലിന്റെ ഡക്കില്‍ കയറുകയും ചിത്രങ്ങള്‍ പകര്‍ത്തി താഴെയെത്തുകയും ചെയ്തു.

തോക്കുകള്‍ താഴേക്ക്: 2.40. ഏറെ നേരമായി കാത്തിരുന്ന ആ ദൃശ്യം കണ്‍മുന്‍പില്‍. കപ്പലില്‍ നിന്നും ക്രയിന്‍ ഉപയോഗിച്ച് സീല്‍ ചെയ്ത് നാലുപെട്ടികള്‍ നിലത്തിറക്കി. ആയുധങ്ങളും കണ്ടെടുത്ത വസ്തുക്കളുമാണിത്. എന്തെല്ലാം ആയുധങ്ങളാവും പെട്ടിയില്‍? വീണ്ടും ആശങ്ക. വലുതും ചെറുതുമായ രണ്ട് അലുമിനിയം പെട്ടികളും കറുത്ത നീളം കൂടിയ പെട്ടിയും ഒരു നീല പെട്ടിയും .

2.42. ബ്രേക്കിങ് ന്യൂസുമായി കമ്മീഷണര്‍ എം. ആര്‍. അജിത് കുമാര്‍ എത്തുമോ? ജീന്‍സും ടീ ഷര്‍ട്ടും ധരിച്ച് കമ്മീഷണര്‍ വേഗത്തില്‍ ഗോവണി ഇറങ്ങി അതാ വരുന്നു. പിടിച്ചെടുത്ത പെട്ടികള്‍ക്ക് പിന്നിലായി അദ്ദേഹം നിന്നു. ഒപ്പം കേസന്വേഷണത്തിന് നേതൃത്വം നല്‍കുന്ന ദേബേഷ് കുമാര്‍ ബഹ്‌റ ഉള്‍പ്പെടെയുള്ള ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥരും. പിന്നെ കപ്പലില്‍ നടന്ന പരിശോധനകളുടെ ബ്രീഫിങ്. കേസന്വേഷണത്തിനു വേണ്ട തെളിവുകളെല്ലാം ശേഖരിച്ചെന്നും എന്നാല്‍ കേസന്വേഷണത്തെ ബാധിക്കുമെന്നതിനാല്‍ കൂടുതല്‍ വിവരങ്ങള്‍ വ്യക്തമാക്കാന്‍ ആവില്ലെന്നും അദ്ദേഹം പറഞ്ഞു. ഒടുവിലത്തെ വാര്‍ത്തകള്‍ മൊബൈല്‍ ഫോണുകളില്‍ നിന്നും മൈക്കുകളില്‍ നിന്നും ലാപ് ടോപ്പില്‍ നിന്നും മാധ്യമസ്ഥാപനങ്ങളിലേക്ക് ഒഴുകി. ഡെഡ് ലൈന്‍ കഴിഞ്ഞവര്‍ക്ക് നിരാശ.

മൂന്നുമണിയോടെ പിടിച്ചെടുത്ത പെട്ടികള്‍ ബോട്ടിലേക്ക് മാറ്റി. മാധ്യമസംഘവും കമ്മീഷണര്‍ അടക്കമുള്ള പോലീസ് സംഘവും ബര്‍ത്തില്‍ നിന്നും മറ്റു ബോട്ടുകളിലേക്ക്. മറൈന്‍ഡ്രൈവിലെ ബോട്ട്‌ജെട്ടിയിലെത്തുമ്പോള്‍ സമയം മൂന്നരയായി. വഴിയോര തട്ടുകടയില്‍ പതിവിലേറെ തിരക്ക് . ചായകുടിക്കാനെത്തിയവരുടെ കൈയില്‍ പത്രം. പ്രധാന വാര്‍ത്തയുടെ തലക്കെട്ട് ഇങ്ങിനെയായിരുന്നു: 'തോക്കുകള്‍ പിടിച്ചെടുത്തു'. ഒന്നര ദിവസത്തെ അധ്വാനം സാഫല്യമായതിന്റെ സംതൃപ്തി മാധ്യമസുഹ്യത്തുക്കളുടെ മനസ്സിനെ തഴുകി കടന്നുപോയി.

Endeavor for a Knowledge Society

Endeavor for a Knowledge Society

MACFAST steps to a new venture to actualize the dream knowledge society. MACFAST strongly believes the notion of knowledge revolution and it realizes that transfer of knowledge happens in both directions from the urban society to the rural one and vice versa.The emergence of a knowledge society is possible through focused work at the grass-root level.Radio MACFAST - a community radio of MACFSAT has made a big leap in this aspect. After two year of its successful broadcast, MACFAST now put forward a  revolutionary program - MACFAST Knowledge Scheme (MAKS). Envisioning the development of society, it aims to select, train and guide talented students especially neglected and marginalized. Rev. Fr. Pradeep Vazhatharamalyil, principal of the college talking about his new venture. "MACFAST, not only encourages the growth of the mind, but also the development of character, discipline, and ethical thinking. We strive to build worthy citizens for a ‘knowledge society’ where knowledge is shared freely, is powerful and used for the betterment of society and the individual. This knowledge society is the revolution happening in the world today. Its foundation is built on the wisdom that knowledge is never lost on sharing - it only multiplies. A definite step forward in this regard is the emphasis on using and supporting open source software and encouraging learning from the internet, in addition to textual study. MAKS opens a new world to knowledge revolution."

Plight of Indians

Prateek Jain

First Rank in State in Secondary School Examination
First Rank in University in Plus Two
First Rank in IIT Entrance Examination
First Rank in All India IIT Computer Science
First Rank in IAS Entrance Examination
First Rank in IAS Training Institute

On passing out from IIT Chennai Mr. Narayanaswamy was offered scholarship by the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology , USA .. He who came from a middle class family believed that he had a moral obligation to give something in return for the lakhs of rupees the government spent on him as an IIT student. He had the intelligence and conviction to realize that this money came also from the poorest of the poor - who pay up the excise duty on textiles when they buy cloth, who pay up customs, excise and sales tax on diesel when they travel in a bus, and in numerous other ways indirectly pay the government. So he decided to join IAS hoping he could do something for the people of this country. How many young men have the will power to resist such an offer from USA ? Narayanaswamy did never look at IAS as a black money spinner as his later life bears testimony to this fact.


After a decade of meritorious service in IAS, today, Narayanaswamy is being forced out of the IAS profession. Do you know why?

A real estate agent wanted to fill up a paddy field which is banned under law. An application came up before Narayanaswamy who was sub collector the, for an exemption from this rule for this plot of land. Upon visiting the site he found that the complaint from 60 poor families that they will face water logging due to the waste water from a nearby Government Medical College if this paddy field was filled up was correct. Narayanswamy came under intense political pressure but he did what was right - refused permission for filling up the paddy field. That was his first confrontation with politicians.

Soon after his marriage his father-in-law closed down a public road to build compound wall for his plot of land. People approached Narayanaswamy with complaint.

When talking with his own father-in-law did not help, he removed the obstructing wall with police help. The result, his marriage broke up.

As district Collector he raided the house of a liquor baron who had defaulted Rupees 11 crores payment to government and carried out revenue recovery. A Minister directly telephoned him and ordered to return the forfeited articles to the house of the liquor baron. Narayanswamy politely replied that it is difficult. The minister replied that Narayanaswamy will suffer.


In his district it was a practice to collect crores of rupees for earthen bunds meant for poor farmers, but which were never constructed. A bill for rupees 8 crores came up before Narayanaswamy. He inspected the bund. He found it very weak and said that he will pass the bill after the rainy season to ensure that the bund served the purpose. As expected the earthen bund was too weak to stand the rain and it disappeared in the rain. But he created a lot of enemies for saving 8 crores public money. The net result of all such unholy activities was that he was asked to go on leave by the government. Later such an illustrious officer was posted as "State Co-Ordinator, Quality Improvement Programme for Schools". This is what the politician will do to a honest officer with backbone - post him in the most powerless position to teach him a lesson. Since he found that nothing can be achieved for the people if he continued with the State Service he opted for central service. But that too was denied on some technical ground.


What will you do when you have a brilliant computer career anywhere in the world you choose with the backing of several advanced technical papers too published in international journals to your credit?


When you are powerless to do anything for the people, why should you waste your life as the Co-Ordinator for a Schools Programme?


Mr. Narayanaswamy is on the verge of leaving IAS to go to Paris to take up a well paid United Nations assignment. The politicians can laugh thinking another obstacle has been removed. But it is the helpless people of this country who will lose - not Narayanaswamy. But you have the power to support capable and honest bureaucra ts like Narayaswamy, G.R.Khairnar and Alphons Kannamthanam who have suffered a lot under self seeking politicians who rule us. You have even the power to replace such politicians with these kind of people dedicated to the country. The question is will you do the little you can do NOW? At least a vote or word in support of such personalities?

Into the heart of India

Kasturi Ramanathan

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Life on a train. Photo Courtesy: Jagriti Yatra

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As 2011 ends the yatris onboard the Jagriti Express take time to introspect. Kasturi Ramanathan, a yatri, takes us through the first phase of the journery which ends on January 8.

In search of a new India, hailing from different backgrounds but with one goal, with knowledge trying to gain experience, networking for the future, learning forever and living the current beats, the Yatris aboard the train know the responsibility that their generation holds. Half way through their journey, merging the soils of Kashmir and Tamil Nadu, they yearn to know India in all its glory!

Motivational journey

The Jagriti Yatra 2011 intends to teach a person how to fish, not provide the fish. “Jagriti” means “kindle” and this is what the journey is all about. It kindles the entrepreneurial spirit. It aims at investing and including. It looks at the transformation from job seeking to job creating. It motivates the human dimensions!

As this train travels through 12 cities in 16 days covering 8000 km, 450 budding entrepreneurs (out of 15000 registrations) take this awakening call — 40 per cent are female and 60 per cent are non-urban! The 24 states of India and 23 countries are represented (50 international learners are on board)!

They travel into the heart of India to feel its pulse. They meet role models and mentors who will mould their mind and meld their heart to make a better India.

Norm, Storm and Form teams — be a part of the inner and outer journeys. Disseminate the sensory overload. Interact among the cohorts. Innovate. Collaborate. Transform! This really is not a pleasure trip, for one will remain a yatri for ever. Every yatri is here to use the Role Model's advices, interact with fellow passengers, absorb during the panel discussions and perform during the Biz Gyan Exercise.

Emotions are varied throughout the journey — you will see many sitting by some rocks writing their journals, a few sketching out the hues, a hundred capturing stills of colours that tell a different story, smiles that express the heart's joy, songs that speak of happiness, dances that show the carefree spirit and the intense conversations that convey seriousness — these scenes will remain etched in their memory. Documenting all that one has heard, learnt, unlearnt and absorbed when they remain fresh in the mind; blogging and networking; telling the outside world about the journey so far as they look forward to the rest.

Tips from mentors

The youngsters here bubble with enthusiasm and new ideas and burn with the desire to lead a free India! And during their journey, they had the privilege of listening to a dozen motivational speeches and stirring stories. Here are a few snippets:

Mr. Mashelkar, National Innovation Foundation: “An entrepreneur is one who does not know that it cannot be done. Innovate with compassion and passion”. His formula to creating a human force is simple – “when ‘n' people connect, the power so released is n(n-1)/2!. The parameter for progress is not statistics; instead it is the smile on every citizen's face! With speed, sustainability and scale, we will reach the pinnacle”.

Ms. Nandhini Vaidhyanathan, CARMa: “Make sure that the business is profitable – relying on charity just detaches the child from you. And necessarily, have a mentor – that is the best way to gain a new network and a lot of experience”.

Mr. Narayana Murthy, Infosys: “Build support around you - have a mutually exclusive and a collectively exhaustive team working with you. And when you have to step down, it is like letting go of one's daughter's hand during her marriage – the hope, anxiety, pride, momentary sadness and the joy that life will still continue – if fresh blood has to enter an organization, let it flow in”. “The market space inside India is unexplored – explore it for Ram Rajya! This eon will be known for its innovations – don't be left behind – move with the spirit of development and create opportunities. Just do it – our country has the reciprocating power”.

Ms Gowthami, Travel Another India: “Boundaries are varied – but, everywhere it is drawn by mankind. It is an invisible wall that could make or break our future. Man has made it, man has to destroy it”.

************

New Year Party

These Yatris improvised on the use of bathrooms, berths, communication, methods to eat and live life during the Yatra in general. Cleanliness and efficient usage of the limited resources were top priorities. The personal hygiene aspect of life here would seem weird to the outside world! Chair cars bacome make shift bathrooms. Innovators are aboard, after all.

An interesting aspect of the train The control room: It is home to the lost and found box, the suggestion box and the PA system. Most yatris love the PA system. Not only for the wake up calls, but for its booming music too – one can listen to Kolaveri at least 10 times a day. You can make dedications, share some interesting facts, explain your innovations and keep the crowd in splits!

As the New Year approached, a medley of songs from every language known was played. Yatris danced from between the berths and the aisles. Where is the party tonight? In every bogie and every heart!

Global recognition for Koraput hailed

Special Correspondent

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The Hindu Prime Minister Manmohan Singh honours a tribal of Koraput at the inaugural ceremony of the 99th Indian Science Congress at KIIT Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik; Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Vilasrao Deshmukh, Union Minister (State) for Planning, Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Ashwani Kumar, Governor Muralidhar Chandrakant Bhandare and Science Congress president Geetha Bali are present. Photo: Ashoke Chakrabarty

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday applauded the tribal community of Koraput for being chosen by the United Nation's Food and Agriculture Organisation for recognition under its Globally Important Agricultural Heritage sites programme.

In his inaugural speech at the 99th annual session of the Indian Science Congress, which opened here, Dr. Singh said: “I congratulate the tribal community of Koraput for the global recognition they have received [from FAO] for their contribution to conserving biodiversity and climate resilient farming systems.'

The Prime Minister also extolled the knowledge base available with the tribal communities of Kharia, Santhals, Gonds and Kolhas of Odisha on medicinal use of locally available plants.

Exhorting the scientific community to explore and rejuvenate traditional knowledge available in different parts of the country, he said, “one needs to go no further than the tribal communities of Kharia, Santhals, Gonds and Kolhas, who live in the deep forest areas of Mayurbhanj and have a reservoir of knowledge on medicinal use of locally available plants.''

He honoured two tribals from Koraput – Raita Manduli and Chandra Pradhan.

Dr. Singh paid rich tributes to the former Chief Minister, Biju Patnaik, for setting up the Unesco's Kalinga prize 60 years ago.

“Indian science owes much to the vision of our early nation builders, who gave science a prominent place in our development planning.''

The add-on advantage of NCC

Lavanya M.

The Indian army, civil services and the government sector offer immense career opportunities that students need to explore.

At crossroads and with dreams of pursuing a successful career, the tag of National Cadet Corps (NCC) on student's shoulders is an add-on. How can this be garnered to live your dreams? Experts spoke on the career opportunities for NCC Cadets at the third national seminar organised at the D.G. Vaishnav College recently. The cadets from all over the State learnt about opportunities in UPSC, TNPSC and the Indian army.

UPSC

Every year the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts Civil Services Exam to recruit candidates for the posts of IAS (Indian Administrative Service), IFS (Indian Foreign Service), IPS (Indian Police Service), IRS (Indian Revenue Service) and so on.

Senthil Kumar, centre director, T.I.M.E, discussed about the syllabus for the exam and various posts for which students are recruited.

A closer look at the syllabus and model questions of the examination reveals that as far as Paper I is concerned it is quite similar to the earlier General Studies paper, where besides the stock general knowledge the aspirants must have an in-depth knowledge of current economy and general current affairs but Paper II requires basic mathematics, reasoning and English skills at the secondary school level.

Paper I requires extensive reading, whereas Paper II requires practice of solving the questions. Paper I requires at least four hours of preparation per day, whereas Paper II requires anything from 1 hour to 3 to 4 hours per day, depending on the aspirants level of grasping ability and IQ level.

UPSC has already announced that by 2012 or later it will change the main exam pattern (i.e. common paper for everyone). The proper strategy to clear the civil services exam in a single attempt is to prepare for both the mains and prelims simultaneously.

The candidates can start preparation as soon as possible by reading newspapers and other periodicals to enrich their knowledge of current affairs. Questions on current affairs are likely to play a key role in scoring the required marks in the new pattern.

Since Paper II is the real test on aptitude skills of the aspirants as it has comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning and other similar topics, they have to undergo special training and practice.

Analysing the previous questions of examinations conducted by RBI and other Banks PO exams will help them to feel the paper-2 pattern. Students may even practice on CAT, GRE model questions, he said.

Group-I Exam

R Rajaboopathy, founder, Radian I.A.S. Academy spoke on the opportunities available in the government sector and how to prepare for the TNPSC examination. TNPSC Group-I exam is conducted to recruit candidates for the posts of deputy collector, deputy superintendent of police and assistant director of panchayats.

Exam Pattern:

Stage I: Preliminary Exam (Objective Type) Single General Knowledge paper for 300 marks.

Stage II: Mains Exam (Descriptive type) Two General Knowledge paper each 300 marks

Stage III: Oral Test for 80 marks.

“Earlier Group-I exam was similar to UPSC Civil Services preliminary exam. From 2008 onwards only General Knowledge paper is there for Mains, paving a level playing field for all aspirants,” he said.

Indian Army

M. Rajiv Menon, battalion commander, Officers Training Academy encouraged more students from the State to join the army. He spoke about the attractive pay package offered to students.

“At the entry level, a lieutenant earns up to Rs. 50,000 per month,” he said. Mr. Menon spoke about the five-day process in Service Selection Boards (SSBs) for selection to the officer category.

Students who qualify to attend the interview are told that the atmosphere throughout the interview will be relaxed and informal. The questions are generally based on everyday experience. Students should be interested and hardworking, otherwise they will not be able to even make it through the initial days of training, he said.

Keywords: NCC, UPSC, TNPSC