Feel helpless, totally ridiculed by the prevailing system and government policies.
I believe that all great achievements and success in life, and all changes for the better, have one powerful characteristic in common: The First Step. Take the first step, and the journey has a way of taking care of itself.”
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Double Disaster for India
Double Disaster for common man in India... Falling rupee and a huge hike in petrol price..Really feel scared about the middle class / lower class citizen of India and of course the poor NRIs. The Art of Living in India is going to be the Management act of year 2012.
Krishnaa
A simple line and shape drawing of of Krishna using Power Point tools...It is not difficult, try it out.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
അപകടം - a short story on road safety
എന്നത്തേയും പോലെ അന്നും ഓഫീസില് നിന്ന് വൈകി ആണ് ഇറങ്ങിയത്. മൊബൈല് ഫോണില് ഒരു പാട് ഫോണ് വന്നതിന്റെ ലക്ഷണം അറിയിപ്പുകളായി കിടക്കുന്നു. സഹധര്മിണി ഫോണ് ചെയ്തതാണ്. വാരാന്ത്യം ആണ്. സിനിമക്ക് മകനെയും കൂട്ടി പോകാം ഇന്ന് വൈകുന്നേരം എന്ന് വാക്ക് കൊടുത്തിട്ടാണ് കാലത്ത് വീട്ടില് നിന്ന് ഇറങ്ങിയത്... പക്ഷെ എന്ത് ചെയ്യാം. ഓഫീസില് മാസം അവസ്സനിക്കുന്നതിനാല് ഒരുപാട് കാര്യങ്ങള് ചെയ്തു കൂട്ടാനുണ്ട്. മാനേജര് ആണെങ്കില് ഈ മാസ്സത്തിലെ സാമ്പത്തിക ലക്ഷ്യങ്ങള് എത്തിപ്പിടിച്ചുവോ എന്ന് ഉള്ള അന്വേഷണത്തിലാണ് . ആരാണ് കുറവ് നില്ക്കുന്നത്, എവിടെയാണ് പോരായ്മകള് അങ്ങനെ പല ചോദ്യങ്ങള് ഉത്തരങ്ങള് സംവാദങ്ങള്. നേരം പോയത് അറിഞ്ഞില്ല. ഫോണ് സൌണ്ട് ഓഫ് ചെയ്തു ഇട്ടിരുന്നതിനാല് ആ വിളികള് ഒന്നും അറിഞ്ഞില്ല. മീറ്റിംഗ് റൂമില് നിന്ന് സീറ്റില് വന്നപ്പോള് കണ്ടു ഫോണില് പത്തു തവണ വിളിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു.
ഇന്നത്തെ വൈകുന്നേരം എന്തായാലും കുളം ആയി. സാരമില്ല ഇറങ്ങുന്നതിനു മുന്പ് ഒന്ന് വിളിക്കാം. ഫോണ് വിളിച്ചതും അപ്പുറത്ത് മറുപടി. നിങ്ങള്ക്ക് ഒരിക്കലും എന്നെയും മോനെയും ഒരു വിലയും ഇല്ല... ഇപ്പോഴും ഓഫീസ് ഓഫീസ് എന്ന മന്ത്രം മാത്രം... ഇന്ന് പുറത്തു പോകാം എന്ന് പറഞ്ഞതല്ലേ. ഞാന് എത്ര നേരമായി തയ്യാറായി ഇരിക്കുന്നു. മോനും പുറപ്പെട്ടു ഒരുങ്ങി ഇരിക്കുന്നു. അവനെയെങ്കിലും ഓര്ക്കണ്ടേ.... ആ പരിദേവനങ്ങള് തുടര്ന്ന് കൊണ്ടേ ഇരുന്നു...
അപ്പോള് ഞാന് പറഞ്ഞു.... കുട്ടാ, ഞാന് ഇതാ എത്തി... നമുക്ക് ഉടനെ ഇന്ന് ഷോപ്പിങ്ങിനു പോയി പിന്നെ സിനിമ കാണാന് പോകാം. മോഹന്ലാലിന്റെ പടം വന്നിട്ടുണ്ട്. ആള് അല്പ്പം തണുത്തു എന്ന് തോന്നുന്നു. വേഗം ഫോണ് വച്ച്. ശുഭ വാരാന്ത്യം സഹപ്രവര്ത്തകരോട് പറഞ്ഞു ഇറങ്ങി. നോക്കിയപ്പോള്, ശ്രദ്ധിച്ചപ്പോള് അവരും എന്റെ വഞ്ചിയില് തന്നെ... അവരുടെ ഭാഷയില് വീടുകളിലേക്ക് വിളിച്ചു വരാന് വൈകിയതില് ഉള്ള ക്ഷമാപണം നടക്കുന്നു. ഒന്ന് ചിരിച്ചു കൊണ്ട് ഓഫീസില് നിന്നിറങ്ങി. ഈശ്വര അവരുടെ പോലെ ചീത്ത വിളി കേള്ക്കേണ്ടി വരുന്നില്ല. എത്രയായാലും തന്റെ സഹധര്മിണി ഒരിക്കലും തന്നെ ശപിക്കുകയില്ല ചീത്ത പറയുകയില്ല...
കാര് സ്റ്റാര്ട്ട് ചെയ്തു പ്രധാന വഴിയിലേക്ക് കടന്നു... മനസ്സില് അപ്പോഴും അന്ന് ഓഫീസില് നടന്ന കാര്യങ്ങള് ഓടി കൊണ്ടിരിക്കുന്നു. ആദ്യത്തെ പ്രധാന സിഗ്നല് എത്തി. യാന്ത്രികമായി കാര് നിറുത്തി. ഓര്മ്മകള് അപ്പോഴേക്കും തന്നെ എവിടെയോ കൊണ്ട് ചെന്നിരിക്കുന്നു. എങ്ങനെ മാനേജര് പറഞ്ഞ ബിസിനസ് ലക്ഷ്യം അടുത്ത മാസം എത്തിക്കും. ഒരു പിടിയും ഇല്ല. എത്തിച്ചില്ലെങ്കില് കമ്മീഷന് ഒന്നും കിട്ടില്ല. ജൂണില് നാട്ടില് പോകേണ്ടതാണ്. അവര് എല്ലാവരും നോക്കിയിരിക്കുന്നു.
സിഗ്നല് ചുവപ്പ് ആയതിനാല് വണ്ടി നിറുത്തി ..ചക്രത്തില് കൈ താളം പിടിച്ചു കൊണ്ട് ഒന്ന് വിശ്രമിച്ചു. റേഡിയോവില് നല്ല പാട്ട് കേള്ക്കുന്നു. തന്റെ ഇഷ്ട റേഡിയോയും ഇഷ്ട ഗായകനും ആണല്ലോ. രതീഷ് കുമാര് - വളരെ ഭാവിയുള്ള ഒരു ഭാവ ഗായകന്... നല്ല പാട്ട്. അറിയാതെ ഒന്ന് ഉറങ്ങി പോയ്യോ എന്ന് സംശയം. പുറകില് നിന്നുള്ള വണ്ടികളുടെ ഹോണ് അടിക്കുന്ന ശബ്ദം കേട്ട് കണ്ണ് തുറന്നു. ഈശ്വര പച്ച സിഗ്നല് ആയി കുറച്ചു സെക്കന്റ് ആയിരിക്കുന്നു. മുന്നോട്ടു കുതിക്കുന്ന സമീപത്തുള്ള വരിയിലെ ടാക്സിയും അതിലെ ഡ്രൈവറും തന്നെ നോക്കി ചിരിക്കുന്നു. ഹേ എന്താ ഉറക്കമാണോ എന്ന വിധത്തില്. അയാള് കുതിച്ചു... തന്റെ വാഹനം സിഗ്നല് ആയി ഒരു മുപതു സെക്കന്റ് വൈകിയിട്ടുണ്ടാവം. അത്രയേ ഉള്ളു. കണ്ണ് ഒക്കെ ശരിയാക്കി വാഹനം മുന്നോട്റെടുക്കാന് തുനിച്ചു. മുന്നേ കുതിക്കുന്ന ടാക്സി വ്യക്തമായി കാണാമായിരുന്നു.... കണ്പോളകള് അടച്ചു തുറക്കുന്നതിനു മുന്പ് ഒരു ഭയങ്കര ശബ്ദം കേട്ടു നോക്കിയപ്പോള് വിശ്വസിക്കാന് കഴിഞ്ഞില്ലാ... ഈശ്വരാ താന് കാണുന്നത് യാഥാര്ത്ഥ്യം ആണോ..?
അര മിനിട്ട് മുന്പ് തന്നെ കളിയാകി ചിരിച്ച മുന്നോട്ടു പോയ ടാക്സി കാറും ഡ്രൈവറും പപ്പടം പൊടിഞ്ഞ പോലെ തന്റെ മുന്നില്... അതിലെ യാത്രക്കാരനും തദൈവ .... ഏതോ ഒരു ജീപ്പ് സിഗ്നല് നോക്കാതെ അതി വേഗത്തില് വന്നു ആ വാഹനത്തെ ഇടിച്ചു തകര്ത്തിരിക്കുന്നു....അതിലെ ഡ്രൈവറും ആ വാഹനത്തിന്റെ സ്ഥിതിയും എല്ലാം കഴിഞ്ഞു കൊഴിഞ്ഞ അവസ്ഥ..
ഞാന് തരിച്ചിരുന്നു പോയി.. ഈശ്വരാ.... എന്തായിരിന്നിരിക്കും സ്ഥിതി... ഞാന് ആ സിഗ്നല് തുറന്നതും വണ്ടി എടുത്തിരുന്നെങ്കില്...ഞാന് ആ മാന്ത്രിക സ്വരമാധുരി കേട്ടു ഒരു നിമിഷം മയങ്ങിയില്ലായിരുന്നെങ്കില് എന്റെ സ്ഥിതി എന്തായിരിക്കും.... ഈശ്വരാ.
ഈശ്വരന് നന്ദി പറഞ്ഞു കൊണ്ട് ഞാന് വാഹനം മുന്നോട്ടു പതുക്കെ എടുത്തു.... ഇന്ന് നമ്മള് ശ്രദ്ധിച്ചാലും നമ്മുടെ അതെ സമയം റോഡില് ഉള്ളവര് ശ്രദ്ധിച്ചാല് മാത്രമേ നമ്മുടെ ലക്ഷ്യത് നമുക്ക് എത്തി ചേരാന് കഴിയുകയുള്ളൂ എന്ന വസ്തുത എന്നെ വീണ്ടും വീണ്ടും ആ അപകടം ഓര്മിപ്പിച്ചു...
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Why This KOLAveri in KERALA
Oh my good god and lord of all things happening in this world, I just cannot believe. Maximum number of suicides by Keralites, maximum number of political killings by Keralites..... Why this KOLA vari KOLA VERI in Kerala...... We are supposed to be one of the most educated and progressive state in India... Keralam oru brandhaalayam... Definitely....
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
More bus shelters needed - My letters
More bus shelters needed
People either stand near a wall or a hotel close by to
protect themselves from the sun
By Shahnawas Latiff, Gulf News ReaderPublished: 00:00 May 9,
2012
Image Credit: VIRENDRA SAKLANI/Gulf News
Passengers are forced to cover themselves with pieces of
cloth as they wait for the bus at an open bus stop because there are no
shelters nearby.
I would like to draw attention to a request that people need
most while commuting.
This is with regard to bus stops without proper shelter from
the sun, such as the one in Al Quoz. I'm not sure how many more similar
situations are happening across the UAE.
Al Quoz bus station is one of the stops that has a good
frequency of operation, but what it lacks the most is shelter. I have been to
this bus stop a couple of times and everything was fine, except the bus stop
itself. I saw people either taking shelter near a wall or a hotel close by to
protect themselves from the scorching sun.
I would like to appeal to the authorities concerned to
provide at least a temporary arrangement before the peak of summer in order to
protect commuters.
There could be many more bus stops that might require this
urgent attention.
— This reader is a market analyst
Be a community reporter. Tell us what is happening in your
community. Send us your videos and pictures at readers@gulfnews.com
My comments as
follows:
Very timely report. With the sun at it's best today with
strong wind, even sitting in the comfort of my cars aircondition, I felt it
extremely hot. I hope the authorities take note of this summer scenario and
re-prioritise the renovation, installation of waiting sheds in all the
emirates. It is all the more important as the taxi charges are on the rise, and
recommendation to use more public transports to avoid traffic congestion on the
road.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Swiss company to launch multi IMSI SIM cards for cell phones in India
Swiss company to launch multi IMSI SIM cards for cell phones
in India.
AMRITSAR: With the introduction of multi International
Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI ) SIM cards, frequent travellers across
several countries wouldn't have to pay hefty roaming charges and change their
SIM cards in every country.
Multi IMSI SIM cards allow cell phone users to have multiple
mobile numbers from different operators on a single SIM card.
"The technology will be a boon for devotees who
frequently visit Pakistan on pilgrimage, businessmen travelling between
different countries , international sportspersons , politicians students,
leisure travellers and others, " said the visiting president of
Switzerland based Geo Communications AG , Naveen Singh Suhag, while talking to
TOI on Wednesday .
Source: Times of India
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Quintuplets beat odds to clear Grade 10 exams - My letters
Quintuplets beat odds to clear Grade 10 exams
After father's death, mother raised them single-handedly
By K. Jayaprakash, CorrespondentPublished: 00:00 April 29,
2012
Thiruvananthapuram:
The quintuplets of Kerala are in the news again. They — Uthara, Uthraja,
Uthrajan, Utthara and Uthama — have scored exceptionally well in the Grade 10
examination, results of which were announced on Thursday.
Thus,
the four sisters and the lone brother fulfilled their promise to their mother
Remadevi, who works as a peon at the Pothencode branch of the District
Cooperative Bank in Thiruvananthapuram.
She
single-handedly takes care of her five children since the demise of her husband
Premkumar seven years ago.
The
couple was happy at the birth of five children, though they had wished for one.
But their happiness was short-lived.
"They
were not healthy. They fell sick frequently. We took them to hospital regularly
and it was unimaginable to take care of the five together," Remadavi
recalled.
Adding
to the couple's woes, Premkumar's business (a stationery shop and bakery) ran
into trouble. As losses mounted, he committed suicide.
"Some
newspaper carried my ordeal. Thus, the government offered me the current job.
Several people came to help. I had decided that I would not follow the path of
my husband. I decided to bring up my kids by doing any job at any cost.
"I
don't know how the money will be raised for their education. Some organisations
have come forward," Remadevi said.
The
five are on cloud nine as wishes and blessings are pouring in from near and far
to their home at Venjaranmood.
"I
want to be a doctor," Uthraja said. Uthara dreams of being a journalist.
Their brother Uthrajan aims to be a computer engineer. Utthara and Uthama are
confused about what course to pursue. While Uthraja has scored six A+ (for
Grade 10 exams, grades are given, not marks — A+ is top scoring), her sisters
and brother have fared equally well.
Uthrajan
and Uthara prefer the computer science group for Grade 11 and 12 while the rest
have decided to pursue the science stream. They plan to continue their studies
at Lourde Mount Higher Secondary School, Vattapara.
"The
school authorities have offered them seats," Remadevi told Gulf News.
They
were born through a Caesarean section at the SUT hospital in Thiruvanathapuram
in 1995.
My comments as follows:
Congratulations to these 5 children and their mother to take harsh life realities head on and reach this far with a winning smile. It is commendable in all aspects on this mother as we all know how demanding educational expenses are and for the children with limited resources to keep aiming on an objective oriented academics to progress in life. Gulf News too deserve special praise to highlight this story with prominence as it will be inspiring to all students from the region and keep reminding them that difficulties if any, are momentary and they have to aim high and stay focused on their goal. Another sense of this particular news coverage was it’s meaningfulness to readers than reading mundane news like some person marrying two sisters at the same time. Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS online.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Family of five survive on leftovers from weddings
Family of five survive on leftovers from weddings
Father says he contemplated suicide several times
- By Rayeesa Absal, Staff Reporter
- Published: 00:00 April 25, 2012
Al Ain: A family, including three young children, the youngest just two years
old, has been surviving mostly on leftover food they salvage from a wedding hall
near their home, for over 18 months now.
In a place where food wastage is come across too often, the Indian family of five is determined to fight against the odds to survive, they said, but they don't deny having had second thoughts. The father, Mohammad (full name withheld to protect privacy), confesses that the thought of suicide has crossed his mind several times.
Crying inconsolably, covering his face tightly with his hands, he said that his little one, who is always clinging on to him, is probably the reason he hasn't gone that far.
"My three daughters, aged nine, seven and two push me to keep trying my best to survive," he said.
Whenever kind-hearted neighbours, some of whom are working at the wedding hall itself, inform them about a wedding taking place, the entire family waits until about 11pm or midnight — when the celebrations usually come to an end — and then go to the hall to collect leftover food, with the permission of the workers.
"Mostly it is camel meat and rice and other food items we get. We freeze the food in plastic bags, write the date on the bags and ration it out over the week, until there is another wedding," said Mohammad, 41, who hails from Kerala in India.
"It felt a better option than letting the kids starve," his wife, added.
Speaking to Gulf News at their home in Al Ain, the family said that they have been struggling financially for some time now. Mohammad has been in the UAE for 16 years, doing interior decoration jobs in households while his family used to live in India.
Like many expatriate workers he missed his family, but could not afford to bring them here. Then some tormenting family issues back home, forced his wife to attempt suicide as she slashed her wrist. Fortunately, she did not succeed, but Mohammad knew he had to bring his family to stay with him to avoid such situations from recurring, he said.
But problems for him began when he decided to be part of a plan of his ‘trusted friend' to set up a small business. The so-called friend took off with the money, leaving Mohammad indebted to the loan shark. He ended up in prison but his Emirati sponsor managed to get him out of jail after reaching a compromise with the loan shark.
"Now I pay him [the loan shark] Dh1,000 every month out of the Dh1,300 I earn monthly from my sponsor. The remaining is hardly enough to pay even the school fees, let alone grocery," he said.
Their house, an almost dilapidated extension of a villa, belonging to their house owner, reflects their plight. The only room of the house has a bed with no mattress on one side, a broken air conditioner and a wardrobe with no doors. Torn uniforms and schools bags are tucked away under the bed.
"It is hardest for the children," Mohammad's wife said. "Their friends make fun of them at school, about the shabby clothes their father wears. They feel very ashamed."
A worker from a nearby home, provides them with goat milk and eggs occasionally, she said.
Sigh of relief
The family can now heave a sigh of relief as a charity organisation, Valley of Love (VOL), has taken up their case. The volunteers are helping us sort out our issue — one at a time. They spoke to the school, who then donated [a] few uniforms. We are hopeful of things taking a turn for the better," Mohammad said.
VOL volunteer Joseph Bobby said that the plight of the family is probably the worst one he has seen in years of working as a volunteer. "There is no use of sympathising after a person commits suicide, rather the community should help when there is still time." The recent spate of suicides are what prompted VOL to focus on such cases, he said. Most would have given up long before, but they are brave enough to fight it out, added Bobby
In a place where food wastage is come across too often, the Indian family of five is determined to fight against the odds to survive, they said, but they don't deny having had second thoughts. The father, Mohammad (full name withheld to protect privacy), confesses that the thought of suicide has crossed his mind several times.
Crying inconsolably, covering his face tightly with his hands, he said that his little one, who is always clinging on to him, is probably the reason he hasn't gone that far.
"My three daughters, aged nine, seven and two push me to keep trying my best to survive," he said.
Whenever kind-hearted neighbours, some of whom are working at the wedding hall itself, inform them about a wedding taking place, the entire family waits until about 11pm or midnight — when the celebrations usually come to an end — and then go to the hall to collect leftover food, with the permission of the workers.
"Mostly it is camel meat and rice and other food items we get. We freeze the food in plastic bags, write the date on the bags and ration it out over the week, until there is another wedding," said Mohammad, 41, who hails from Kerala in India.
"It felt a better option than letting the kids starve," his wife, added.
Speaking to Gulf News at their home in Al Ain, the family said that they have been struggling financially for some time now. Mohammad has been in the UAE for 16 years, doing interior decoration jobs in households while his family used to live in India.
Like many expatriate workers he missed his family, but could not afford to bring them here. Then some tormenting family issues back home, forced his wife to attempt suicide as she slashed her wrist. Fortunately, she did not succeed, but Mohammad knew he had to bring his family to stay with him to avoid such situations from recurring, he said.
But problems for him began when he decided to be part of a plan of his ‘trusted friend' to set up a small business. The so-called friend took off with the money, leaving Mohammad indebted to the loan shark. He ended up in prison but his Emirati sponsor managed to get him out of jail after reaching a compromise with the loan shark.
"Now I pay him [the loan shark] Dh1,000 every month out of the Dh1,300 I earn monthly from my sponsor. The remaining is hardly enough to pay even the school fees, let alone grocery," he said.
Their house, an almost dilapidated extension of a villa, belonging to their house owner, reflects their plight. The only room of the house has a bed with no mattress on one side, a broken air conditioner and a wardrobe with no doors. Torn uniforms and schools bags are tucked away under the bed.
"It is hardest for the children," Mohammad's wife said. "Their friends make fun of them at school, about the shabby clothes their father wears. They feel very ashamed."
A worker from a nearby home, provides them with goat milk and eggs occasionally, she said.
Sigh of relief
The family can now heave a sigh of relief as a charity organisation, Valley of Love (VOL), has taken up their case. The volunteers are helping us sort out our issue — one at a time. They spoke to the school, who then donated [a] few uniforms. We are hopeful of things taking a turn for the better," Mohammad said.
VOL volunteer Joseph Bobby said that the plight of the family is probably the worst one he has seen in years of working as a volunteer. "There is no use of sympathising after a person commits suicide, rather the community should help when there is still time." The recent spate of suicides are what prompted VOL to focus on such cases, he said. Most would have given up long before, but they are brave enough to fight it out, added Bobby
To help Mohammad and his family, please contact Joseph Bobby, volunteer of the Valley of Love, on 055 3370044.
My comments as follows:
Very timely news for this family, which I hope will assist
them to recover and us to not see a repeat of the recent Ras Al Khaimah family
tragedy of a similar kind. God bless all those who assisted them with helping
hand before this news came out and now and on till they are safe and settled.
Special appreciation and praise also goes to his local sponsor for helping him
when in need.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Photo speaks - Don't hit me from the back
Caution - don't hit me from the back. A caparisoned elephant and the deity (Kaduppassery Bhagavathy) on way to the famous Arattuppuzha Pooram. A road side scene I saw during the first week of April 2012 at Irinjalakuda. Take a closer look and note the way the reflective stickers have been wrapped on the elephants tail. Safety of elephants used for temple festivals are really a matter of concern. Each time an elephant goes wild, there will be talks, but then as usual, the public and the festival committees and elephant owners association, not to forget about the authorities, forget what happened and close their eyes.
It's definitely a busy world if you happened to be an elephant in Kerala.
Photo Speaks - View from far and high
I felt, what a good idea, have to try learning doing it.
Photo speaks - Train travel
A train arriving at Irinjalakuda railway station. It is really a special feeling to wait for the train, listen to the bell signalling the arrival of the train, then the special bell followed by the closing of the railway gate. The rush of passengers running for tickets just before the arrival of the train. The anxiety of finding the compartment position. Then here it comes with continuous honking of its loud horn. And there jumps the tea wallas, the passengers, the porters in and out. All happens within minutes and once again, it departs with loud horn and curious passengers looking outside to see the scenary or random beauty around, while those in trying to get a seat or settle themseleves in for the rest of the journey.
Photo Speaks - A bee sucking honey
A honey bee at work. What attracted me is the combination of colors including those of the flower and the bee. Nature has its own way of protecting those around with deceptiveness of unknown kind and character.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
സൂക്ഷിക്കുക - ഇവര് തിരക്കിലാണ്, ഇവരെ കൊണ്ട് നടക്കുന്നവര് അതിലേറെ
സൂക്ഷിക്കുക - ഇവര് തിരക്കിലാണ്, ഇവരെ കൊണ്ട് നടക്കുന്നവര് അതിലേറെ
ഏപ്രില് ആദ്യ വാരം തൃശ്ശൂരില് പോകാന് ഇടയായത് കൊണ്ട് ഈ കാഴ്ചകള് കാണാന് പറ്റി. ആറാട്ടുപ്പുഴ, പെരുവനം ഊരകം പൂരങ്ങള് നടക്കുന്ന സമയം. ഇതു റോഡുകളിലും ഒരു ആനയെ എങ്കിലും കാണാന് പറ്റുമെന്ന സന്തോഷം മനസ്സില് ഉറപ്പിച്ചു കൊണ്ട് കാര് ഓടിച്ചു. പക്ഷെ കണ്ട കാഴ്ചകള് എന്നെ അങ്ങനെ ഒരു കാഴ്ച കാണേണ്ടി വന്നുവല്ലോ എന്ന് വേദനിപ്പിച്ചു. ആറാട്ടുപ്പുഴ പൂരത്തിന്റെ അന്ന് ഇരിങ്ങാലക്കുട ടാണ കവലയില് കാര് എത്തിയപ്പോള് അതാ പോകുന്നു. ഒട്ടും വേഗത കുറക്കാതെ ഒരു ലോറി. അതില് ഒരു ഒത്ത ആനയും. സമയം ഒരു നാല് മണി കഴിഞ്ഞിരിക്കും. തീര്ച്ചയായും അത് പൂരത്തിന് കൊണ്ട് പോകുന്ന ഏതോ ഒരു ആന, സമയത്ത് ഒരു സ്ഥലത്തെ ജോലി കഴിഞ്ഞു മറ്റേ സ്ഥലത്ത് എത്തിക്കാന് വേണ്ടി കരാര്കാരന് പെടുന്ന പെടാപ്പാടു
ആയിരിക്കും അത്.
ഞാന് ആലോചിച്ചു. ആ ആനയുടെ അവസ്ഥ എന്തായിരിക്കും. ഉത്സവ പറമ്പില് എത്തിയാല് ഒരു മിനിട്ട് പോലും ഒന്ന് വിശ്രമിക്കാന് സമയം ഇല്ലാതെ പുതിയ ജോലിയില് പ്രവേശിക്കണം. പുതിയ സ്ഥലം. പുതിയ കാലാവസ്ഥ, പുതിയ ഭക്ഷണം, വലിയ ജനക്കൂട്ടം, തീ പന്തങ്ങള്, മേളക്കാര്, പൂരവും ആന ഭ്രാന്തും പിടിച്ച കാണികള്.
ഇവന് ഇടഞ്ഞിലെന്കിലെ അത്ഭുതം ഉള്ളു.
അധികാരികളും, ഉത്സവ നടത്തിപ്പുകാരും തീര്ത്തും ആലോചിക്കേണ്ട സമയം കഴിഞ്ഞിരിക്കുന്നു.
എന്നെ ഏറ്റവും അമ്പരിപ്പിക്കുന്ന വസ്തുത, ഈ പരക്കം പാച്ചില് കണ്ടിട്ടും അതിനെതിരെ ശബ്ദം ഉയര്ത്താതിരിക്കുന്ന ആന പ്രേമികളും നാട്ടുക്കാരും എന്താണ് മൌനം പാലിക്കുന്നത് എന്ന വസ്തുതയാണ് ?
ഒരു ആനയെ ഒരു സ്ഥലത്ത് നിന്ന് മറ്റൊരു സ്ഥലത്തേക്ക് കൊണ്ട് വന്നാല്, അതിനു വേണ്ട വിശ്രമം കൊടുത്തെ തീരു.
കൂടാതെ പ്രധാനമായും അവരെ കൊണ്ട് പോകുന്ന വാഹനങ്ങള് അമിത വേഗത ഒരിക്കലും പാടില്ല.
സാവധാനം, ശ്രദ്ധയോട് കൂടി ആ വാഹനങ്ങള് ഓടിക്കണം. ഉത്തരവാദപ്പെട്ടവര് കൂടെ മുന്നിലോ പിന്നിലോ മറ്റൊരു വാഹനത്തില് അനുഗമിച്ചു അവരുടെ പോക്ക് ശ്രദ്ധിക്കണം.
ഈ മിണ്ടാപ്രാണികള് ഇടഞ്ഞാല് നമ്മള് തന്നെ അല്ലെ കുറ്റക്കാര്.നിങ്ങള് പറയൂ.
ഇനിയും ചില പ്രധാന പൂരങ്ങളും ഉത്സവങ്ങളും ഇക്കൊല്ലം ഭാക്കിയുണ്ട്.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Need to clean up - Gulf News Community Report Dt. 5 April 2012
Need to clean up
Image Credit: Gulf News reader Ramesh Menon
Gulf News reader Ramesh Menon is displeased with the way a transformer station in Abu Dhabi’s Tourist Club area was made into a dump.
While on a walk in the prominent Tourist Club Area in Abu Dhabi, I was astonished to see this site of a transformer station being callously transformed into a waste disposal ground.
What made me more worried was the fact that this accumulated waste would not have happened within a day or two. This calls out the careless attitude of several parties. First and foremost, those who take away tea and other drinks from numerous restaurants and groceries throw away paper cups in this area.
Secondly, to the Abu Dhabi authorities responsible for maintaining this station, and other such stations to keep it safe. Thirdly, to the Abu Dhabi municipality cleaning staff and supervisors responsible for cleaning and clearing such waste. Considering the fact that this station in in a heavily populated location, what would happen if a careless smoker throws a lighted cigarette in that area?
Apart from fire hazards and hygiene issues, due to heavy wind, these waste items are likely to get stuck in the ducts of the transformer, reducing its performance capabilities.
I hope such a thing does not happen.
Authorities, kindly take necessary initiatives to keep the transformer areas safe by way of high wire meshes protecting it so that no inflammable waste material could be thrown into the open spaces surrounding transformers. Secondly, please fine those who litter and make such volatile areas more dangerous.
— The reader is a technical officer and resident of Abu Dhabi
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS Online
Gulf News reader raises concern over facility
- By Ramesh Menon, Gulf News Reader
- Published: 00:00 April 5, 2012
While on a walk in the prominent Tourist Club Area in Abu Dhabi, I was astonished to see this site of a transformer station being callously transformed into a waste disposal ground.
What made me more worried was the fact that this accumulated waste would not have happened within a day or two. This calls out the careless attitude of several parties. First and foremost, those who take away tea and other drinks from numerous restaurants and groceries throw away paper cups in this area.
Secondly, to the Abu Dhabi authorities responsible for maintaining this station, and other such stations to keep it safe. Thirdly, to the Abu Dhabi municipality cleaning staff and supervisors responsible for cleaning and clearing such waste. Considering the fact that this station in in a heavily populated location, what would happen if a careless smoker throws a lighted cigarette in that area?
Apart from fire hazards and hygiene issues, due to heavy wind, these waste items are likely to get stuck in the ducts of the transformer, reducing its performance capabilities.
I hope such a thing does not happen.
Authorities, kindly take necessary initiatives to keep the transformer areas safe by way of high wire meshes protecting it so that no inflammable waste material could be thrown into the open spaces surrounding transformers. Secondly, please fine those who litter and make such volatile areas more dangerous.
— The reader is a technical officer and resident of Abu Dhabi
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS Online
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Koodalmanikyam Megharjun - Take care of him kindly please or else !!!
Breaking news .....Koodalmanikyam megharjun killed his mahout this evening....too sad... too much cruelty on this elephant and one more victim.. This poor elephant is the most ill treated one in the recent times.
ഇരിങ്ങാലക്കുട: വരണമാല്യം അണിയാന് ദിവസങ്ങള് ബാക്കിനില്ക്കെ ദേവദാസ് നടന്നു കയറിയത് മരണത്തിലേക്ക്. 12ദിവസം ദേവദാസിന്റെ വിവാഹദിനമായിരുന്നു. നിരന്തരം പ്രശ്നങ്ങളുണ്ടാക്കുന്ന മേഘാര്ജ്ജുനന്റെ പാപ്പാനായി ഏഴുമാസം മുന്പാണ് ചുമതലയേറ്റത്. 18 വയസ്സ് പ്രായമുണ്ടെങ്കിലും ആനക്ക് നീര് ഒലിച്ചിരുന്നില്ല. ദേവദാസിന്റെ പരിചരണമൂലം നീര് ഒലിച്ചുവെന്നും ആനയെ നല്ല രീതയിലാണ് ദേവദാസ് ആനയെ പരിചരിക്കുന്നതെന്നും ദേവസ്വം അധികൃതര് പറയുന്നു. നീരിനുശേഷം കഴിഞ്ഞ 1ന് ആനയെ അഴിച്ചപ്പോള് ഇടഞ്ഞിരുന്നുവെങ്കിലും തുടര്ന്നും ആനയെ ക്ഷേത്രത്തിന്റെ വിവിധ ഭാഗങ്ങളിലേക്ക് മാറ്റി മാറ്റി കെട്ടി ഒരുവിധത്തില് ആനയെ അനുസരണയിലാക്കിവരികയായിരുന്നുവെന്നും പറയുന്നു. ആനയുടെ പുറകില് നടന്നിരുന്ന ദേവദാസിനോട് രണ്ടാംപാപ്പാന് മുന്നിലേക്ക് കയറി നടക്കാന് ആവശ്യപ്പെട്ടതിനെ തുടര്ന്നായിരുന്നു ദേവദാസ് വിശ്വാസപൂര്വ്വം ആനയുടെ അരികുചേര്ന്ന് മുന്നിലേക്ക് നടന്നു കയറിയത്. എന്നാല് ആന യാതൊരു പ്രകോപനവുമില്ലാതെ ആന കൊമ്പുകൊണ്ട് മതിലിനോട് ചേര്ത്ത് കുത്തി കോര്ത്തെടുത്ത് ഉയര്ത്തുന്നതിനിടെ ഊര്ന്നു വീണ ദേവദാസ് വിശ്വസിച്ച് ഊട്ടിയ ആനയോട് എന്താ ആനെ കാണിക്കുന്നതെന്ന ചോദ്യത്തോടെയായിരുന്നു ജീവിതത്തോട് വിടപറഞ്ഞത്.
ഇരിങ്ങാലക്കുട: വരണമാല്യം അണിയാന് ദിവസങ്ങള് ബാക്കിനില്ക്കെ ദേവദാസ് നടന്നു കയറിയത് മരണത്തിലേക്ക്. 12ദിവസം ദേവദാസിന്റെ വിവാഹദിനമായിരുന്നു. നിരന്തരം പ്രശ്നങ്ങളുണ്ടാക്കുന്ന മേഘാര്ജ്ജുനന്റെ പാപ്പാനായി ഏഴുമാസം മുന്പാണ് ചുമതലയേറ്റത്. 18 വയസ്സ് പ്രായമുണ്ടെങ്കിലും ആനക്ക് നീര് ഒലിച്ചിരുന്നില്ല. ദേവദാസിന്റെ പരിചരണമൂലം നീര് ഒലിച്ചുവെന്നും ആനയെ നല്ല രീതയിലാണ് ദേവദാസ് ആനയെ പരിചരിക്കുന്നതെന്നും ദേവസ്വം അധികൃതര് പറയുന്നു. നീരിനുശേഷം കഴിഞ്ഞ 1ന് ആനയെ അഴിച്ചപ്പോള് ഇടഞ്ഞിരുന്നുവെങ്കിലും തുടര്ന്നും ആനയെ ക്ഷേത്രത്തിന്റെ വിവിധ ഭാഗങ്ങളിലേക്ക് മാറ്റി മാറ്റി കെട്ടി ഒരുവിധത്തില് ആനയെ അനുസരണയിലാക്കിവരികയായിരുന്നുവെ
This photo of him was taken some time ago when I visited the temple and got time to visit his place and see him enjoy on his own.
I don't think he can be as cruel as he became today. There is something definitely wrong. Do not label him a killer elephant. I have been with him for some time and difficult for me to think so. May be he will have a bigger story to tell.
This elephant has been badly treated from the time it was brought. How many mahouts changed - how badly treated, no count.In fact, a few months ago, after reading a news of ill treatment, i filed a petition to forest department and devaswom board and they did an inquiry. However, all died down, after some time. I thought, he was ok and since then being take care well, and was getting information regularly from press club team IJK, but they too did not suspsect anything wrong. There is definitely something wrong with the way they take care of it. I do not blame it from what I understand.
Of course, my sympathies to this young man's family and friends, may his soul rest in peace and and another sad fact that it is the 4th death near Irinjalakuda Koodalmanikyam temple in such a manner in the recent times.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Distracted on the road - My Letters - GULF NEWS - Dt 26.03.2012
Distracted on the road - My Letters - GULF NEWS - Dt 26.03.2012
Distracted on the road
During one of my drives from Abu Dhabi to Dubai I noticed many drivers using their mobile phones to talk or send text messages. I also noticed that many of them drive luxury cars and many are female drivers. In one case, I saw a woman driving with a small child sitting between her and the door, while talking on the phone to someone. I have a feeling that the number of middle class residents using their phones while driving has decreased due to heavy fines. So why don’t the authorities implement a pro rata-based percentage surcharge on top of the regular fine that is based on the type of car the motorist drives, his or her employment or salary? Those who drive such expensive cars are supposed to be educated and should project themselves to the society as an example in terms of being safe on the roads. I am writing this after seeing many drivers either talking or sending text messages while driving.
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS online.
From Mr Ramesh Menon
Abu Dhabi
Distracted on the road
During one of my drives from Abu Dhabi to Dubai I noticed many drivers using their mobile phones to talk or send text messages. I also noticed that many of them drive luxury cars and many are female drivers. In one case, I saw a woman driving with a small child sitting between her and the door, while talking on the phone to someone. I have a feeling that the number of middle class residents using their phones while driving has decreased due to heavy fines. So why don’t the authorities implement a pro rata-based percentage surcharge on top of the regular fine that is based on the type of car the motorist drives, his or her employment or salary? Those who drive such expensive cars are supposed to be educated and should project themselves to the society as an example in terms of being safe on the roads. I am writing this after seeing many drivers either talking or sending text messages while driving.
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS online.
From Mr Ramesh Menon
Abu Dhabi
Wish to know this mysterious reader (s) ?!!!
Dear Reader(s) from Mountain View, California,
I am curious, when I see every day, the following message.
I am curious, when I see every day, the following message.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Confusing crossing - GULF NEWS - Community Report Dt 25.03.2012
Confusing crossing - GULF NEWS - Community Report Dt 25.03.2012
Image Credit: Ramesh Menon/Gulf News Reader
Left: The traffic signal in front of Abu Dhabi Mall.
Right: The pedestrian crossing is for handicapped only but the sign escapes the attention of residents who are at risk of being fined.
The area around Abu Dhabi Mall is one of the busiest places in the emirate, especially during the early mornings and evenings. There is always a constant flow of visitors to the numerous embassies, shops and offices situated there.
Confusing crossing
Steps needed at Abu Dhabi Mall for people to have easy passage without being fined
- By Ramesh Menon, Gulf News Reader
- Published: 00:00 March 25, 2012
Right: The pedestrian crossing is for handicapped only but the sign escapes the attention of residents who are at risk of being fined.
The area around Abu Dhabi Mall is one of the busiest places in the emirate, especially during the early mornings and evenings. There is always a constant flow of visitors to the numerous embassies, shops and offices situated there.
There is a pedestrian bridge in front of the mall for the public to cross the road. However, there is also a pedestrian crossing and traffic signal with a sign that reads, ‘Handicapped only'.
People are confused many a times, as the signal is operational. So they tend to cross the road using the pedestrian crossing and ignore the bridge.
We regularly witness a cat and mouse game played out between a team of dedicated officers from Abu Dhabi Police and the general public visiting the shopping mall. Whenever the team from Abu Dhabi Police is there, a police barricade is put in place and officers stop and fine jaywalkers. Many people get fined in the process.
However, as soon as the police team departs, people start crossing the road from any point they feel like.
The traffic signals are temporary and are placed in a manner that results in some drivers not noticing them. Additionally, many members of the public cross the road without even caring to check for oncoming traffic as they are busy speaking on their mobile phones.
A well-planned traffic strategy has to be developed for this particular point that witnesses heavy pedestrian movement, especially until the road works are completed.
Measures should be adopted so that the public are accorded easy passage without being troubled and fined.
— The reader is a technical officer, based in Abu Dhabi.
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS online.
Rhythmic treat - Short Take - Gulf Today Dt. 24.03.2012
Rhythmic treat
Recently, I had an opportunity to attend a scintillating two-hour music session by Anoushka Shankar and her team in Abu Dhabi.
The group of artistes were from different parts of the world and the performance was harmoniously blended with the artistes complementing each other on traditional Indian and Spanish musical instruments and melody.
The theme Traveller turned out to be perfect as the rhythm and mood created a “gypsy feeling” in the audience’s mind.
What made the concert more interesting was the way they took off from one style to another using musical instruments that were non-conventional to those styles they attempted.
Pin-drop silence was what we experienced at the huge auditorium of Emirates Palace, except for the magical sounds coming out from them.
It is true that music has no boundaries.
I could relate this pride of watching her perform live at Abu Dhabi when after the programme some guests leaving the auditorium mentioned, “I watched her dad perform 40 years ago in New York and now her in Abu Dhabi. Both bring the same sweet smile, calmness and ease of quality music out when they sit to perform.”
The group of artistes were from different parts of the world and the performance was harmoniously blended with the artistes complementing each other on traditional Indian and Spanish musical instruments and melody.
The theme Traveller turned out to be perfect as the rhythm and mood created a “gypsy feeling” in the audience’s mind.
What made the concert more interesting was the way they took off from one style to another using musical instruments that were non-conventional to those styles they attempted.
Pin-drop silence was what we experienced at the huge auditorium of Emirates Palace, except for the magical sounds coming out from them.
It is true that music has no boundaries.
I could relate this pride of watching her perform live at Abu Dhabi when after the programme some guests leaving the auditorium mentioned, “I watched her dad perform 40 years ago in New York and now her in Abu Dhabi. Both bring the same sweet smile, calmness and ease of quality music out when they sit to perform.”
Ramesh Menon
To read it in original, please visit GULF TODAY online.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Rousing start to Abu Dhabi Festival - My Letters - GULF NEWS Dt. 21 March 2012
Rousing start to Abu Dhabi Festival - My Letters - GULF NEWS Dt. 21 March 2012
Iraqi artist Hassan Massoudy's specially commissioned calligraphy exhibition ‘Gestures of Light' was the highlight of the evening's programme along with a performance by internationally renowned musician Anoushka Shankar, who is widely regarded as one of the world's leading sitar players, and the only artist to be trained exclusively by her father, the legendary Ravi Shankar.
"Every year we aim to showcase the diversity of the world's artists and genres by bringing a taste of global music and performances to the nation's capital. With Anoushka's involvement in this year's festival, we broke new ground with her mesmerising young talent renowned the world over and set a new bar for future performances," said Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, founder and artistic director of the Abu Dhabi Festival.
Students honoured
Additionally, outstanding Emirati students from the UAE University, Zayed University and the Higher Colleges of Technology were recognised for their participation in initiatives supported by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation.
They included the Young Media Leaders programme, which provides training for careers in the media and the Theatre-in-Education (Tie) programme, a series of workshops led by the City University of New York's creative arts team.
The festival also presented a lifetime achievement award posthumously to Dr Walid Gholmieh, a prominent conductor, composer, scholar and activist for western classical music in the Middle East, and a defining influence in Lebanon's classical landscape.
The 27-day event, which will end on April 6, includes 168 cultural and artistic events across the UAE.
My comments as follows:
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Anoushka Shankar's performance sets the tone for truly global celebration of art and culture
- Staff Report
- Published: 00:00 March 21, 2012
Iraqi artist Hassan Massoudy's specially commissioned calligraphy exhibition ‘Gestures of Light' was the highlight of the evening's programme along with a performance by internationally renowned musician Anoushka Shankar, who is widely regarded as one of the world's leading sitar players, and the only artist to be trained exclusively by her father, the legendary Ravi Shankar.
"Every year we aim to showcase the diversity of the world's artists and genres by bringing a taste of global music and performances to the nation's capital. With Anoushka's involvement in this year's festival, we broke new ground with her mesmerising young talent renowned the world over and set a new bar for future performances," said Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, founder and artistic director of the Abu Dhabi Festival.
Students honoured
Additionally, outstanding Emirati students from the UAE University, Zayed University and the Higher Colleges of Technology were recognised for their participation in initiatives supported by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation.
They included the Young Media Leaders programme, which provides training for careers in the media and the Theatre-in-Education (Tie) programme, a series of workshops led by the City University of New York's creative arts team.
The festival also presented a lifetime achievement award posthumously to Dr Walid Gholmieh, a prominent conductor, composer, scholar and activist for western classical music in the Middle East, and a defining influence in Lebanon's classical landscape.
The 27-day event, which will end on April 6, includes 168 cultural and artistic events across the UAE.
My comments as follows:
The opening ceremony of Abu Dhabi Festival along with Anoushka Shankar's performance created an everlasting memory. An impressive array of dignitaries joining HE Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan were present to recognise outstanding Emirati students from the UAE University, Zayed University and the Higher Colleges of Technology for their participation in initiatives supported by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation.
It was a moment of joy for all those who actively involved in the Young Media Leaders programme. Lifetime achievement awarded posthumously to Dr Walid Gholmieh created the perfect platform for a scintillating two hour two session of music by Anoushka Shankar and her team of musicians.
The performance was harmoniously blended with the artists complementing each other on traditional Indian and Spanish musical instruments and music.
The theme Traveller turned out to be perfect as the rhythm and mood created a gypsy feelings in audience mind. I could relate the proud sense of watching her perform live at Abu Dhabi when after the programmes some of the guests leaving the auditorium mentioned, I watched her dad perform 40 years ago in New York and now her here in Abu Dhabi. Both bring the same sweet smile, calmness and ease of quality music out when they sit to perform.
Wish the programme was made available for a wider range of audience for view outside the auditorium through giant screens placed at various points in Abu Dhabi Corniche. In addition, after each show photo session of the artists performed on stage should also be allowed.
Hope Abu Dhabi Festival organisers will consider this aspect for the future shows. The name and fame of Abu Dhabi Festival should reach a wider section of population.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
To see a similar performance held elsewhere, please watch this video. It was almost the same or better.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Mawaqif reaches Abu Dhabi mall area
We have now Mawaqif. I hope it will ease a lot of parking problems in Abu Dhabi mall area. Specifically, the middle parking. One more expense to take care.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Election experience - Short Take - Gulf Today Dt. 17.03.2012
Election experience
Participating in a recent associational election turned out to be an excellent management experience for me.
Contesting as a candidate for a literary post, I realised I had to be more socio-politically conscious along with my literary abilities if I have to venture again.
Although, the election was done by voting of members.
I realised that there were only very few who opted to utilise their voting rights. It made me think about our general cry for voting rights to be part of national constitutional formations.
What will happen, if majority refrain from their civic rights to elect a candidate by way of a vote.
My share of advice after this interesting event is, if given a choice to participate in such an activity, do not miss it and vote it right.
Also as a candidate, one should keep a winning attitude and strategy to see the race through with smiles.
Contesting as a candidate for a literary post, I realised I had to be more socio-politically conscious along with my literary abilities if I have to venture again.
Although, the election was done by voting of members.
I realised that there were only very few who opted to utilise their voting rights. It made me think about our general cry for voting rights to be part of national constitutional formations.
What will happen, if majority refrain from their civic rights to elect a candidate by way of a vote.
My share of advice after this interesting event is, if given a choice to participate in such an activity, do not miss it and vote it right.
Also as a candidate, one should keep a winning attitude and strategy to see the race through with smiles.
Ramesh Menon
To read it in original, please visit GULF TODAY online.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Indian federal budget fails to impress the majority - My letters - Gulf News 16 March 2012
Indian federal budget fails to impress the majority - My letters - Gulf News 16 March 2012
By Babu Das Augustine, Deputy Business Editor
Published: 10:53 March 16, 2012
Analysts said the budget did not make a serious effort to rein in subsidies. The Finance Minister announced that from 2012-13 while subsidies related to food and for administering the Food Security Act will be fully provided for, all other subsidies would be funded to the extent that they can be borne by the economy without any adverse implications. He said that the government will endeavour to restrict the expenditure on central subsidies under 2 per cent of GDP in 2012-13and over the next three years, it would be further brought down to 1.75 per cent of GDP.
“The market was hoping for a lower deficit for the next financial year, so disappointing from that perspective. India continues to have the largest fiscal deficit within emerging Asia, hence expect this to weigh on the rupee,” said Jonathan Cavenagh, foreign exchange strategist, Westpack, Singapore.
In the budget estimates for 2012-13, the gross tax receipts are estimated at 10, 7.76 trillion which is an increase of 15.6 per cent over the Budget Estimates and 19.5 per cent over the revised estimates for 2011-12. After devolution to States, the net tax to the central government in 2012-13 is estimated at Rs 77 trillion. The Non Tax Revenue Receipts are estimated at Rs16.46 trillion and Non-debt Capital Receipts at Rs 4.16 trillion. The total expenditure for 2012-13 is budgeted at Rs149 trillion. Of this Rs52 trillion is the Plan Expenditure while Rs96.9 trillion is budgeted as Non Plan Expenditure.
Tax proposals
The tax proposals are guided by the need to move towards the Direct Tax Code (DTC) in the case of direct taxes and Goods & Services Tax (GST) in the case of indirect taxes. For now it appears that the DTC has been deferred from the planned implementation from April 1, 2012.
Individual income upto Rs200,000 will be free from income tax; income upto Rs 180,000 was exempt in 2011-12. Income above Rs500,000 and upto Rs 1 million now carries tax at the rate of 20 per cent; the 20 per cent tax slab was from Rs500,000 to Rs800,000 in 2011-12. A deduction of up to Rs10,000 is now available for interest from savings bank accounts.
The budget made an attempt to widen the service tax base. All services will now attract service tax, except those in the negative list. The negative list has 17 heads and includes specified services provided by the government or local authorities, and services in the fields of education, renting of residential dwellings, entertainment and amusement, public transportation, agriculture and animal husbandry. Service tax rate is being increased from 10 per cent to 12 per cent, with consequential change in rates for services that have individual tax rates. The standard rate of excise duty for non-petroleum goods is also being raised from 10 per cent to 12 per cent. No change is proposed in peak rate of customs duty of 10 per cent on non-agricultural goods.
The direct tax proposals in the budget will result in a net revenue loss of Rs 450 billion and the raising of indirect taxes will result in a net revenue gain of Rs 4.6 trillion resulting in a net gain of Rs 4.1 trillion.
"The finance minister is looking to collect large sums of money through indirect taxes, probably to mitigate the fiscal situation, but this could have an impact on consumption,” said Deven Choksey, managing director of K R Choksey shares & Securities, Mumbai.
My comments as follows:
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS online.
Indian federal budget fails to impress the majority
Finance minister makes a weak attempt to trim deficit
Dubai: Disappointing economists, business leaders and stock market, India’s finance minister Pranab Mukherjee on Friday presented the federal budget 2012-13, which made a feeble attempt, at best, in reducing India’s ballooning fiscal deficit.
The budget set a fiscal deficit target of 5.1 per cent of GDP for the fiscal year, down from an expected 5.9 per cent in the current year. This year's figure, however, ended up far above the 4.6 per cent it had originally targeted in its budget a year ago.
Mukherjee said he expected the Indian economy to grow by 7.6 per cent in the next fiscal year, up from an expected 6.9 per cent in the current year but below the 8.4 per cent growth of the previous fiscal year.
"We are disappointed with the budget because it assumes a relatively high, 5.1 per cent deficit in the 2012-13 fiscal year. We also think that growth target is a bit too optimistic while inflation may have hard time falling as much as they are assuming,” said Dariusz Kowalczyk, senior economist and strategist at Credit Agricole, Hong Kong.
“The market was hoping for a lower deficit for the next financial year, so disappointing from that perspective. India continues to have the largest fiscal deficit within emerging Asia, hence expect this to weigh on the rupee,” said Jonathan Cavenagh, foreign exchange strategist, Westpack, Singapore.
In the budget estimates for 2012-13, the gross tax receipts are estimated at 10, 7.76 trillion which is an increase of 15.6 per cent over the Budget Estimates and 19.5 per cent over the revised estimates for 2011-12. After devolution to States, the net tax to the central government in 2012-13 is estimated at Rs 77 trillion. The Non Tax Revenue Receipts are estimated at Rs16.46 trillion and Non-debt Capital Receipts at Rs 4.16 trillion. The total expenditure for 2012-13 is budgeted at Rs149 trillion. Of this Rs52 trillion is the Plan Expenditure while Rs96.9 trillion is budgeted as Non Plan Expenditure.
Tax proposals
The tax proposals are guided by the need to move towards the Direct Tax Code (DTC) in the case of direct taxes and Goods & Services Tax (GST) in the case of indirect taxes. For now it appears that the DTC has been deferred from the planned implementation from April 1, 2012.
Individual income upto Rs200,000 will be free from income tax; income upto Rs 180,000 was exempt in 2011-12. Income above Rs500,000 and upto Rs 1 million now carries tax at the rate of 20 per cent; the 20 per cent tax slab was from Rs500,000 to Rs800,000 in 2011-12. A deduction of up to Rs10,000 is now available for interest from savings bank accounts.
The budget made an attempt to widen the service tax base. All services will now attract service tax, except those in the negative list. The negative list has 17 heads and includes specified services provided by the government or local authorities, and services in the fields of education, renting of residential dwellings, entertainment and amusement, public transportation, agriculture and animal husbandry. Service tax rate is being increased from 10 per cent to 12 per cent, with consequential change in rates for services that have individual tax rates. The standard rate of excise duty for non-petroleum goods is also being raised from 10 per cent to 12 per cent. No change is proposed in peak rate of customs duty of 10 per cent on non-agricultural goods.
The direct tax proposals in the budget will result in a net revenue loss of Rs 450 billion and the raising of indirect taxes will result in a net revenue gain of Rs 4.6 trillion resulting in a net gain of Rs 4.1 trillion.
"The finance minister is looking to collect large sums of money through indirect taxes, probably to mitigate the fiscal situation, but this could have an impact on consumption,” said Deven Choksey, managing director of K R Choksey shares & Securities, Mumbai.
My comments as follows:
The presentation of budget 2012-13 by Finance Minister Pranab Mukharjee presents a feeling of let down to middle class citizen of India. He projected India’s GDP growth in 2012-13 to be 7.6 per cent, +/- 0.25 per cent when compared to global growth is impressive.
With increased cess on crude oil to Rs 4,500 per tonne from Rs 2,500 per tonne, Oil exploring companies will be burdened further and look for relaying it to the end users.
Ignoring the cry of indian companies manufacturing heavy power equipment to increase the customs duty on imports of such equipments will demotivate growth in this sector.
The budget did not give support to Indian engineering exporters like Larsen & Tubro, which accounts for about one-fourth of the country's total merchandise exports and instead proposed to raise excise duty to 12% from 10%.
Power utilities are likely to benefit with proposed two-year exemption on import duty for companies importing thermal coal.
A proposal to allow external commercial borrowing to part finance rupee debt of power projects will also help growth in this sector.
Low cost housing developers and financiers will benefit after the budget proposed allowing external commercial borrowings for low-cost housing projects below Rs 25 lakhs. Hope it brings more quality and genuine infrastructural offerings to common man.
Private Airlines will benefit after the budget proposed to allow external commercial borrowings of up to USD 1 billion to help meet immediate funding needs.
The proposal to allow foreign direct investment by airlines under "active consideration" may bring a smile on two on airline king Vijay Mallya.
The above two items looks as interesting options for Indian investors from abroad to move in with financial platters to stake more presence in the forthcoming years to barter important rights to NRIs.
Infrastructure finance companies such may tend to benefit after the proposal to double the issue of tax-free bonds for financing infrastructure projects.
India also announced an increase in import taxes for assembled SUVs and utility vehicles costing more than USD 40,000. On one hand the proposal mentioned on will see increased prices on luxury cars, we are yet to see any reforms being done on the registration of such cars at the point of purchase origin or rather a unified registration charges in all states, which is where the state exchequer and in turn centre being devoid of a major share on taxation. However, the move may turn out to be positive for indigenous car makers like Tata and Mahindra.
Fertilizer makers could see a fall in expenditure after the budget fully exempted basic customs duty on import of equipment for three years which when passed on to farmers could result in smiles on ordinary citizens.
On one hand it brought in measures to reduce the pricing on medicines for treating cancer and HIV, there was no mention on the facilitators to control the costlier trial and error methods they use to treat these patients. This therefore will remain a costlier option for common man in the year to come.
Full exemption on branded silver jewellery from excise duty may create interest in silver as first choice.
Duty-free allowance for eligible passengers of Indian origin from `25,000 to `35,000 and for children of up to 10 years from `12,000 to `15,000, which seems to be one among the few sugar candies thrown at NRIs in this overall exercise.
To read it in original, please visit GULF NEWS online.
Print media pushed inside
As part of city beautification process, authorities have instructed small groceries and outlets to push their newstands to inside of the shop rather than a display outside, which now require special permissions and extra charges.
At a time when reading from print media is reducing drastically due to several factors including cost, I believe this move will be another blow to the print media sector.
Hope both print media and authorities will come out with measures to protect growth of print media industry as well promote sales by giving more margin to vendors and reduced rate on charges for display of printed journals.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi
16 March 2012
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Parents of Sharjah road crash victims seek answers - My letters - Gulf News 15 March 2012
Parents of Sharjah road crash victims seek answers
Father speaks of the last conversation he had with his daughter over the university bus service before she was killed
Sharjah: The parents of two female university students who were killed on Buhairah Corniche in a traffic accident on Monday have said the incident could have been prevented if the bus driver had dropped the students close to their home.
Ahmad Farouq, the father of 19-year old Mariam who studied at Manipal University in Dubai, said the last conversation he had with his daughter was at 4:30pm after the bus driver refused to take her home after she failed to produce a transfer identification pass, which is the only possible means to be allowed on board the bus
.
"She was collected from home in the morning by the same bus driver who refused to drop her off later in the afternoon. She did not have her transport ID card with her for some time because she was very naive and did not know how to get it, so it was not the first time she went on the bus without one. We lived a very protected life in Saudi Arabia and Mariam was still not accustomed to living away from us," said Farouq.
So upset
The family lived in Saudi Arabia and when Mariam was accepted at the university to study Biotechnology in the summer of 2011, her parents decided to continue living in Riyadh while she went to live with her mother's sister and uncle in Sharjah.
Her parents arrived in the UAE on Tuesday morning and were awaiting an explanation from the university as to why their daughter was not dropped off at her home.
"Mariam called her mother in Saudi Arabia to complain how rude the bus driver was and how he embarrassed her in front of her classmates after she failed to produce a transport ID card on board the bus. She was so upset that she left the bus with her other friends, who also did not have their ID cards with them," explained Farouq.
Once Mariam got off the bus, another bus driver recognised her and her friends and agreed to drop them off near Al Majaz Park, which is about a 25-minute walk from her home.
"She used to say that she wanted to live in the dormitory of the university but I kept telling her that it, would happen next year," he remembered.
‘Running from the issue'
Devendra Singh, the father of 21-year-old Mitthi who was due to graduate in June in the media studies programme, said that his daughter accompanied Mariam in the other bus as she also did not have her transport ID pass with her.
"The bus dropped her far away from her home. They didn't take a taxi but decided to walk and that is when the horrible accident happened," he said.
"I met with the transport department from the university and when I asked who was the bus driver that dropped my daughter, they did not answer and I felt as if they were running away from the issue," said Singh.
Gulf News tried to contact Manipal University via email and telephone on several occasions but was unable to receive a comment.
The traffic accident occurred on Monday at 5.30pm as the two students crossed the road from an undesignated area as there was no zebra crossing close by. They were then suddenly hit by a speeding vehicle, which according to Sharjah Police, was travelling at speeds of more than 120 kilometres per hour through a road that had a 80km speed limit.
Mitthi Singh was killed on the spot while Mariam was transferred to Kuwaiti Hospital and died later in the night due to her severe injuries.
My comments as follows:
It is very sad to see that life of two young students looking forward to a bright future, which was very near to them, getting cruelly perished in a man-made road tragedy here in UAE.
The concerned transportation department of the university they studied definitely holds responsibility to answer many questions. As we can see, many times, travel of students to and back from classes are contracted to transportation companies. Some of them may not have sufficient trained resources to handle the students. Adding to it, if a temporary driver comes on board, it will create all confusion and absolutely there will be no co-ordination in this shifting. This scenario has to be controlled with strict regulations making mandatory requirements, color codes and training for all student transport irrespective of whether they are small children or university students. This is very important as we get to see several such shuttles daily between shorter routes and longer routes including Abu Dhabi and other emirates happening from these educational centres.
Point number two is two pronged and to control speeding and jay walking, and create more awareness amongst drivers to not use mobile phones while driving and also create amongst the pedestrians an all time self cautionary approach while crossing the road to hold on to 2 extra seconds and look carefully and cross, while they too do not use mobile phones and be a careless victim of any such tragedies on our roads.
My prayers to the peace of those two souls departed from this world in a crurel and untimely manner and words of solace to the families and friends involved.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
UAE is exemplary in unstable region - My Letters - The National Dt 14 March 2012
UAE is exemplary in unstable region - My Letters - The National Dt 14 March 2012
UAE is exemplary in unstable region
Reading today's news about the events happening in Syria, Afghanistan, Sudan, Palestine, one really has to praise the significance of the UAE's philosophy and tolerant way of living with respect to religious beliefs as highlighted by Peter Hellyer's article Tradition of tolerance is a model during turbulent times (March 13).
As residents of this country, we are blessed to be living in an open society that respects all those who live here while adhering to its laws and guidelines.
Let peace and prosperity continue to flourish and harmony prevail forever as the UAE flag fly high in the region.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi
To read it in original, please visit, The National online
UAE is exemplary in unstable region
Reading today's news about the events happening in Syria, Afghanistan, Sudan, Palestine, one really has to praise the significance of the UAE's philosophy and tolerant way of living with respect to religious beliefs as highlighted by Peter Hellyer's article Tradition of tolerance is a model during turbulent times (March 13).
As residents of this country, we are blessed to be living in an open society that respects all those who live here while adhering to its laws and guidelines.
Let peace and prosperity continue to flourish and harmony prevail forever as the UAE flag fly high in the region.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi
To read it in original, please visit, The National online
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
One more life - it's not the way we want to go.....
For several months, this long corriodor was the only out of home destination. Long and silent, I cannot forget even those small things towards this place, which we made it our beautiful destination, enjoying the trees and flowers around. The small refreshment outlet, the fresh juice vending machine, the packed food, and the food packets provided to those who visit this holy desintation. It is not that we didn't have any other place to go. But, it was out of choice.
My dear Amma, one more person joined you to the dream world, outside our world. I have done whatever I could do, to return the kindness showered to us by her and her colleagues, whenever we visited that only leisure destination of ours for a long time. I miss you a lot.
Sister Anila Thomas of Mafraq hospital, Abu Dhabi. She will be leaving Abu Dhabi tomorrow, Wednesday, 7th March 2012 night, for the final time. It is not the way, we want anyone of us to go from here.
Embalming and prayer ceremony is at Abu Dhabi Centre Hospital, tomorrow 7th March 2012 at 3:00 pm and funeral day after at her native place near Chengannur, Kerala, on 8th March.
My prayers for her soul to rest in peace.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi
06 March 2012
Friday, March 2, 2012
Creative Talent of Arab children at ISC Abu Dhabi Artist Nite and Toppers Award
Creative Talent of Arab children at ISC Abu Dhabi Artiset Nite and Toppers Award - 1st March 2012.
Creative Talent of Arab children at ISC Artist Nite and Toppers Award on 1st March 2012.
Abu Dhabi Community Police Captain Mr. Tamim's chiildren presenting two songs, expessing a special dedication and love from them towards Indian Community. An icing on the cake was the part of speech by Captain Mr. Tamim in Hindi.
Abu Dhabi Community Police Captain Mr. Tamim's chiildren presenting two songs, expessing a special dedication and love from them towards Indian Community. An icing on the cake was the part of speech by Captain Mr. Tamim in Hindi.
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