The Great White Pelican, not usually seen in southern India has joined the list of waterfowl that have made the waterbody their feeding ground. The bird roost in the Great Rann of Kutch and fly to different wetlands in North India as a winter visitor.
The waterfowl population here that had hit a low of 1,056 crossed 75, 000 this year.
Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest A.V. Joseph said that recently about 50 Great White Pelicans were sighted and photographed on the West Godavari side of the lake.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
French diva
Carla Bruni -Sarkozy made her debut on British television, performing a live song from her new album. The super-model- turned singer, who married Sarkozy in February appeared on BBC's Later with Jools Holland alongside Mettalica singing Tu es ma come, a love song that has provided controversy because of its references to cocaine.
She told the small studio audience that Tu es ma came, a song from her third album Comme si de rien n'etat (Simply) was about a love addition.... being addicted to someone in a toxic way'.
She told the small studio audience that Tu es ma came, a song from her third album Comme si de rien n'etat (Simply) was about a love addition.... being addicted to someone in a toxic way'.
ISRO having to contend with storm
In countdown mode to launch its prestigious Chandrayaan-I, the Indian Space Research Organisation seems to be more worried about the vagaries of nature than about scientific challenges as the Sriharikota coast is prone to cyclones towards October end.
The window fixed for the Chandrayaan launch falls in the third week with ISRO scientists expecting it to take place between October 22 and 25. That this coincides with the cyclone phase has put the ISRO in a launch -or-not to- launch situation.
ISRO is planning to launch the PSLV carrying Chandrayaan from the second launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Center.
ISRO,s concern stems from a past incident when a major cyclone whacked Sriharikota two Octobers ago.
Will nature have the last word again?
The window fixed for the Chandrayaan launch falls in the third week with ISRO scientists expecting it to take place between October 22 and 25. That this coincides with the cyclone phase has put the ISRO in a launch -or-not to- launch situation.
ISRO is planning to launch the PSLV carrying Chandrayaan from the second launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Center.
ISRO,s concern stems from a past incident when a major cyclone whacked Sriharikota two Octobers ago.
Will nature have the last word again?
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Discovery of a new planet
Scientists have snapped the first images of a planet outside our solar system that is orbiting a star very much like the sun.
University of Toronto scientists said they used the Gemini North telescope on Mama Kea in Hawaii to take direct pictures of the planet, which is about the size of Jupiter but with eight times the mass. It is also much hotter than Jupiter.
This planet and the star it seems to orbit are located in our Milky Way galaxy about 500 light years from Earth the scientists said.
Of all known extra-solar planets, this one is orbiting the farthest from its star. It is located roughly 11 times farther from its star than Neptune- the outermost planet in our solar system- is located from the sun, the scientists said.
University of Toronto scientists said they used the Gemini North telescope on Mama Kea in Hawaii to take direct pictures of the planet, which is about the size of Jupiter but with eight times the mass. It is also much hotter than Jupiter.
This planet and the star it seems to orbit are located in our Milky Way galaxy about 500 light years from Earth the scientists said.
Of all known extra-solar planets, this one is orbiting the farthest from its star. It is located roughly 11 times farther from its star than Neptune- the outermost planet in our solar system- is located from the sun, the scientists said.
"Bandh" for 2nd successive day.
The city came to a standstill as buses remained off the roads for the second day following a strike call by protesting Christains.
Things took a violent turn as Christains lashed back for vandalised prayer halls. Shops and other establishments pulled down their shutters and en eerie calm has descended over the city.
Cattle can be seen tripping over roads when on normal days, only vehicles passed.
Autorickshaws took the day off as well and the roads were empty. Private vehicles though could be spotted as car-owners went about their business through the day.
The city experienced violence in some areas. Total 'bandh' was observed for two days. It promises to continue for the third day.
Things took a violent turn as Christains lashed back for vandalised prayer halls. Shops and other establishments pulled down their shutters and en eerie calm has descended over the city.
Cattle can be seen tripping over roads when on normal days, only vehicles passed.
Autorickshaws took the day off as well and the roads were empty. Private vehicles though could be spotted as car-owners went about their business through the day.
The city experienced violence in some areas. Total 'bandh' was observed for two days. It promises to continue for the third day.
Monday, September 15, 2008
'Bandh' call in Mangalore
The 'unofficial' bandh call given by Christian organizations on Monday brought the city to a standstill after 11.a.m.
The situation is likely to be the same on Tuesday. Section 144, which was clamped in Mangalore taluk will now be extended for two more days. Schools and colleges will remain closed on Tuesday as a precautionary measure. From the looks of it, normal life too is paralysed due to the bandh call.
Though some buses plied in the morning, stone-pelting incidents caused private buses to withdraw services. Most business establishments in the city had to close, with no customers due to the halt in bus service. Passengers who came from outside had a torrid time as those were only a handful of autorickshaws plying in the city.
Police had beefed up security at most places, but it fell short after incidents of sporadic violence were reported from parts of the taluk. Most schools and colleges remained shut on Monday. Christain institutions as a mark of protest. Others due to non-availability of transport.
The situation is likely to be the same on Tuesday. Section 144, which was clamped in Mangalore taluk will now be extended for two more days. Schools and colleges will remain closed on Tuesday as a precautionary measure. From the looks of it, normal life too is paralysed due to the bandh call.
Though some buses plied in the morning, stone-pelting incidents caused private buses to withdraw services. Most business establishments in the city had to close, with no customers due to the halt in bus service. Passengers who came from outside had a torrid time as those were only a handful of autorickshaws plying in the city.
Police had beefed up security at most places, but it fell short after incidents of sporadic violence were reported from parts of the taluk. Most schools and colleges remained shut on Monday. Christain institutions as a mark of protest. Others due to non-availability of transport.
Adorning the head
From father to son, from son to grandson..... such is the tradition of 'peta'making that Paramesh, a descendant of "Peta' Devayya has specialised in.
Mr. Paramesh, who has learnt the art of making 54 different 'petas' from his father, also makes 'zari' petas for the scion Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodiyar and other royal family members. 'Our job is to make 150 petas for private Dasara celebrations.
Rachavara, Kattige Peta and Pagu are a few types of 'peta' made for the palace staff depending on the job they performed at the palace.
Inside information about the petas reveal:The size and shape of petas differ from people to people depending on their post and the work entrusted to them during the private Dasara celebrations' he says.
On all days of the Dasara celebrations, the traditional rituals are observed at the palace.
Mr. Paramesh, who has learnt the art of making 54 different 'petas' from his father, also makes 'zari' petas for the scion Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodiyar and other royal family members. 'Our job is to make 150 petas for private Dasara celebrations.
Rachavara, Kattige Peta and Pagu are a few types of 'peta' made for the palace staff depending on the job they performed at the palace.
Inside information about the petas reveal:The size and shape of petas differ from people to people depending on their post and the work entrusted to them during the private Dasara celebrations' he says.
On all days of the Dasara celebrations, the traditional rituals are observed at the palace.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Politician swears by the common man
Chief Minister of Karnataka B.S. Yeddyurappa has declared that he will not contest elections again if he fails to bring about development in the state in general and Bangalore in particualar in the next five years.
Speaking in the presence of party leaders L.K.Advani and Rajnath Singh and the Chief Ministers of BJP-ruled states, Mr.Yeddyurappa listed the development works taken up by him in Karnataka.
He said he would take steps to appoint a special committee to monitor the implementation of Nanjadappa Committee's recommendations on removing regional imbalances.
The first Metro rail would commence operations from 2010 while the complete work on the first phase of Metro would be completed by 2012.
Massive investment would be made on upgrading the roads in Bangalore and other parts of the state.
Taking a righteous stand, he challenged the Opposition Congress and the Janata Dal (S) who have changed his government with failure on all fronts to come to a public debate on the achievements of the Government.
Party General Secretary H.N.Ananth Kumar further asserted that the Congress and the Janata Dal (S) had not contributed to the development of Bangalore's infrastructure.
Speaking in the presence of party leaders L.K.Advani and Rajnath Singh and the Chief Ministers of BJP-ruled states, Mr.Yeddyurappa listed the development works taken up by him in Karnataka.
He said he would take steps to appoint a special committee to monitor the implementation of Nanjadappa Committee's recommendations on removing regional imbalances.
The first Metro rail would commence operations from 2010 while the complete work on the first phase of Metro would be completed by 2012.
Massive investment would be made on upgrading the roads in Bangalore and other parts of the state.
Taking a righteous stand, he challenged the Opposition Congress and the Janata Dal (S) who have changed his government with failure on all fronts to come to a public debate on the achievements of the Government.
Party General Secretary H.N.Ananth Kumar further asserted that the Congress and the Janata Dal (S) had not contributed to the development of Bangalore's infrastructure.
Blasts in Delhi- the mode than the usual
News of blasts doesn't surprise us any more. 25 people died as 5 blasts rocked Delhi. 70 were injured in five serial blasts in a span of 45 minutes when terrorists targeted three crowded market areas in the heart of the Capital on Saturday evening.
The blasts rocked Connaught Place, about a km. from Parliament, Ghaffer market in Karol Bagh in Central Delhi and the M.Block market in posh Greater Kailash in South Delhi. Soon after the blasts the Indian Mujahideen- the breakaway faction of the banned militant outfit Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) claimed responsibility.
Prelimnary examination of the blast sites stressed that low intensity ammonium nitrate tied to integrated circuits had caused the blast.
The first blast took place at Ghaffer Market- a popular shopping centre in Karol Bagh selling a wide range of Chinese consumer goods.
Immediately after that two explosions took place at Connaught Place in the heart of Delhi. Then another explosion rocked A-Block market in Greater Kailash-I. The impact of the blast in Karol Bagh was such that an auto was thrown up and it got entangled in the overhead electricity cables.
As usual the political big wigs of the country issued customary sympathetic statements after the incident.
President Pratibha Patil led the country in condemning the blasts terming them a 'mindless act of violence ' and appealed to the people to maintain peace.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also strongly condemned the blasts.
The blasts rocked Connaught Place, about a km. from Parliament, Ghaffer market in Karol Bagh in Central Delhi and the M.Block market in posh Greater Kailash in South Delhi. Soon after the blasts the Indian Mujahideen- the breakaway faction of the banned militant outfit Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) claimed responsibility.
Prelimnary examination of the blast sites stressed that low intensity ammonium nitrate tied to integrated circuits had caused the blast.
The first blast took place at Ghaffer Market- a popular shopping centre in Karol Bagh selling a wide range of Chinese consumer goods.
Immediately after that two explosions took place at Connaught Place in the heart of Delhi. Then another explosion rocked A-Block market in Greater Kailash-I. The impact of the blast in Karol Bagh was such that an auto was thrown up and it got entangled in the overhead electricity cables.
As usual the political big wigs of the country issued customary sympathetic statements after the incident.
President Pratibha Patil led the country in condemning the blasts terming them a 'mindless act of violence ' and appealed to the people to maintain peace.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also strongly condemned the blasts.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Chain-reaction in Mangalore
A tremor was felt in many parts of Bangalore,particularly Kenger,Uttarahalli,Kumaraswamy Layout,ISRO Layhout, Vasanthapura, Talghattan,Jayanagar,HBLLayout and alsoBTM Layout, residents of J.P.Nagar felt it quite strongly.
It took place at about 8.45a.m..People in the locality heard a loud noise, more like an explosion, that lasted nearly 10 seconds.
Another resident of J.P.Nagar at J.P.Nagar too had a similar experience. "The sound was unbearable and I felt giddy. It took at least five minutes to return to my normal self' he said.
Some geologists, however agreed that was a tremor but of a very low intensity.
It took place at about 8.45a.m..People in the locality heard a loud noise, more like an explosion, that lasted nearly 10 seconds.
Another resident of J.P.Nagar at J.P.Nagar too had a similar experience. "The sound was unbearable and I felt giddy. It took at least five minutes to return to my normal self' he said.
Some geologists, however agreed that was a tremor but of a very low intensity.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Film Review
The storyline of 'Mamma Mia' traces a young girl's uncertain steps towards maturity. A daughter who is all set to marry feels she is missing a very important person in her life- a father who will give her away on her big day.
So, she sends an invite to three of her mother's ex- partners with the hope of finding her real father.
Will she get to know her true father? How will her mother react when she meets her former beaus-of the ABBA era? Will she get her Greek fat wedding? All there questions will be answered in Mamma Mia.
The screenplay sets an era of a desirable fantasy world.
As far as the musical part of this film is concerned you just can't prevent your feet from tapping or hum along with Swedish band ABBA's evergreen songs like Mamma Mia, Money Money, Super Duper, I have a Dream etc.
The film is truly a entertainer for you and your friends.
So, she sends an invite to three of her mother's ex- partners with the hope of finding her real father.
Will she get to know her true father? How will her mother react when she meets her former beaus-of the ABBA era? Will she get her Greek fat wedding? All there questions will be answered in Mamma Mia.
The screenplay sets an era of a desirable fantasy world.
As far as the musical part of this film is concerned you just can't prevent your feet from tapping or hum along with Swedish band ABBA's evergreen songs like Mamma Mia, Money Money, Super Duper, I have a Dream etc.
The film is truly a entertainer for you and your friends.
Film Review
Journey to the center of the earth
A fall 134 feet below the earth's crust. We are not referring to Spiderman's adventures but a scientific expedition led by scientist Trevor, his son Shaun and co-worker Anna. Their adventures as they hurtle down to a brand new world and accost exotic underworld species swearing never to do field work again.
FIreflies, electrically-charged birds, beautiful vista of nature unspoilt surround them. Vicious huge plants that are obstacles to their path, huge animals resembling dinosaurs and man-eating sharks are all bravely done away with by the threesome.
There is danger of them falling into burning lava but ingenuity provides an escape.
After narrowly escaping the clutches of death the three plan to publish their findings in Scientific- America. A Happy Ending!
A fall 134 feet below the earth's crust. We are not referring to Spiderman's adventures but a scientific expedition led by scientist Trevor, his son Shaun and co-worker Anna. Their adventures as they hurtle down to a brand new world and accost exotic underworld species swearing never to do field work again.
FIreflies, electrically-charged birds, beautiful vista of nature unspoilt surround them. Vicious huge plants that are obstacles to their path, huge animals resembling dinosaurs and man-eating sharks are all bravely done away with by the threesome.
There is danger of them falling into burning lava but ingenuity provides an escape.
After narrowly escaping the clutches of death the three plan to publish their findings in Scientific- America. A Happy Ending!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
The long and the short of it
In Les Miserables by Victor Hugo is one of the longest sentences that can be spotted. It had eight hundred and twenty-three words, ninety-three commas,fifty-one semi-colonsand four dashes. Presently, William Faulkner's novel Absalam holds the Guinness Book of World for the longest sentence. It has one thousand, two hundred and eighty-seven words.
Want to know which is the longest and shortest name of a railway station in India? The longest one is called 'Venkatanarasimharajuvaripeta' and the shortest is "Ib".
If you suffer from the following phobia 'Hippolomonstrotesquipedaliophobia' halt and read no more, because it describes the fear for long words. The longest word is a forty-five lettered word known as 'pneumonoultramicroscopiicsilicovolcanocaniosis'. It describes a lung disease caused by tiny parts of volcanic dust. Quari-hemi:demisemiquaver is a hundred twenty-eighth note in music.
Barbarygenus is the noise our tummy makes when it rumbles and stermutation is the act of sneezing.
In the English language, there is still a lot of room for learning.
Want to know which is the longest and shortest name of a railway station in India? The longest one is called 'Venkatanarasimharajuvaripeta' and the shortest is "Ib".
If you suffer from the following phobia 'Hippolomonstrotesquipedaliophobia' halt and read no more, because it describes the fear for long words. The longest word is a forty-five lettered word known as 'pneumonoultramicroscopiicsilicovolcanocaniosis'. It describes a lung disease caused by tiny parts of volcanic dust. Quari-hemi:demisemiquaver is a hundred twenty-eighth note in music.
Barbarygenus is the noise our tummy makes when it rumbles and stermutation is the act of sneezing.
In the English language, there is still a lot of room for learning.
Going back in time
The Big Bang? What, surely is it? About 13.7 billion years ago, there was nothing. And then, the Universe was born. The Big Bang theory is an effort to explain how it happened.
Located in Geneva on the France- Swiss border is the world's longest particle- physics laboratory. The 1954 founded CERN, the French acronym for the European Organisation for Nuclear Research possesses the collidor. The LHC as the collidor is known, will take scientists to within a split second of a laboratory recreation of the Big Bang, which they theorize was the massive explosion that created the Universe.
Scientists fired the first beam of protons around a 27, 36 kilometre- long tunnel on Wednesday in science's next great step to understand the makeup of the Universe. The Large Hadron Collider- built since 2003 at a cost of $3.8 billion provides scientists with much greater power than ever before to smash the components of atoms in a bid to see how they are made. The protons were fired into the accelerator below the Swiss-French border at 0732GMT.
The organisation, known by its French acronym CERN, is firing the protons- a type of sub-atomic particle- around the tunnel in stages, several kilometres at a time. Once the beam has successfully been tested in clockwise direction, CERN will send it counterclockwise. Eventually the two beams will be fired in opposite directions with the aim of smashing together protons to see how they are made.
The experiment is an attempt to unlock the secrets of the Universe.
Located in Geneva on the France- Swiss border is the world's longest particle- physics laboratory. The 1954 founded CERN, the French acronym for the European Organisation for Nuclear Research possesses the collidor. The LHC as the collidor is known, will take scientists to within a split second of a laboratory recreation of the Big Bang, which they theorize was the massive explosion that created the Universe.
Scientists fired the first beam of protons around a 27, 36 kilometre- long tunnel on Wednesday in science's next great step to understand the makeup of the Universe. The Large Hadron Collider- built since 2003 at a cost of $3.8 billion provides scientists with much greater power than ever before to smash the components of atoms in a bid to see how they are made. The protons were fired into the accelerator below the Swiss-French border at 0732GMT.
The organisation, known by its French acronym CERN, is firing the protons- a type of sub-atomic particle- around the tunnel in stages, several kilometres at a time. Once the beam has successfully been tested in clockwise direction, CERN will send it counterclockwise. Eventually the two beams will be fired in opposite directions with the aim of smashing together protons to see how they are made.
The experiment is an attempt to unlock the secrets of the Universe.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
India to sign defence deal with U.S.
The U.S. on Wednesday announced the sale of two dozen Harpoon II anti-ship missiles to India.
The deal's worth over #170 million, was made public as Defence Minister A.K.Antony began a high-level visit to the U.S. This would be the first sale of American missiles to India. It would arm squadrons of the maritime -role version of Jaguar war planes of the India Air Force.
The deal's worth over #170 million, was made public as Defence Minister A.K.Antony began a high-level visit to the U.S. This would be the first sale of American missiles to India. It would arm squadrons of the maritime -role version of Jaguar war planes of the India Air Force.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
A second chance
Federer has proved he's down but not out. He may have slid down the rankings and lost his no.1 position to Rafa Nadal but he's not withdrawing without a fight.
Age might be catching up with him and the latest batch of tennis superstars snapping at his heels, but he's not throwing the towel down yet. Federer continues to play at the top rungs of the game.
His physical condition hasn't worn out with time. Nadia Comaneci produced her best results when she was in the peak of her form. So did other greats like Bjorn Borg, Boris Becker, Jimmy Connors and Martina Navratilova.
These names shine brilliantly in the sportstars' Hall of Fame. They came, performed and conquered. Their achievements have created records which the coming multitudes strive to emulate. The records they have set are lodestars in the shining firmament of international sports.
Age might be catching up with him and the latest batch of tennis superstars snapping at his heels, but he's not throwing the towel down yet. Federer continues to play at the top rungs of the game.
His physical condition hasn't worn out with time. Nadia Comaneci produced her best results when she was in the peak of her form. So did other greats like Bjorn Borg, Boris Becker, Jimmy Connors and Martina Navratilova.
These names shine brilliantly in the sportstars' Hall of Fame. They came, performed and conquered. Their achievements have created records which the coming multitudes strive to emulate. The records they have set are lodestars in the shining firmament of international sports.
Birthday girl
Asha Bhonsle, one of the legendary playback singers in the history of Hindi cinema, who mesmerised listeners for over six generations with her amazing voice, turned 75 on Monday.
Apart from spending the day with her family, she celebrated her birthday by interacting with fans for the Ga Ma India Ltd. launched her new album, 'Precious Platinum' to mark the occasion. Notwithstanding her age, the vivacious and versatile singer is still going strong and continues to be the reigning diva of Hindi film music, a living legend who remains a heartthrob of every generation.
Winner of several popular and national awards, Asha was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award in the country this year.
Initially, Asha had to struggle to get to sing for the lead roles. However during the 1980s, she sang several song, more than any other playback singer.
Apart from spending the day with her family, she celebrated her birthday by interacting with fans for the Ga Ma India Ltd. launched her new album, 'Precious Platinum' to mark the occasion. Notwithstanding her age, the vivacious and versatile singer is still going strong and continues to be the reigning diva of Hindi film music, a living legend who remains a heartthrob of every generation.
Winner of several popular and national awards, Asha was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award in the country this year.
Initially, Asha had to struggle to get to sing for the lead roles. However during the 1980s, she sang several song, more than any other playback singer.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Pakistan in an acquisition bid for PAF
Pakistan will acquire over 100 fighter jets from China and the US as well as airborne warning and air-to-air refuelling aircraft to maintain numerical parity with the Indian Air Force.
It is signing a contract with China for serial production of 42 JF-17 fighter jets. It would also acquire two squadrons or 36 of the FC-20 multi-role fighters from China and 18 new F-16s from the US.
The PAF has already recieved eight JF-17 jets, which are being used for testing and evaluation.
PAF has inked a contract with a UKranian firm for four air-to- air refuelling aircraft. It also expects to recieve the Saab 2000 Erieye airborne early warning and control system aircraft from Sweden in a year.
Pakistan has signed a deal for five Saab 2000 Erieye aircraft, the first of which was rolled out in Sweden in April. The aircraft is currently undergoing tests in Sweden.
PAF has also recieved 12 refurbished F-16s from the US and will get two more similar aircraft after they are upgraded by Lockheed Martin.
It is signing a contract with China for serial production of 42 JF-17 fighter jets. It would also acquire two squadrons or 36 of the FC-20 multi-role fighters from China and 18 new F-16s from the US.
The PAF has already recieved eight JF-17 jets, which are being used for testing and evaluation.
PAF has inked a contract with a UKranian firm for four air-to- air refuelling aircraft. It also expects to recieve the Saab 2000 Erieye airborne early warning and control system aircraft from Sweden in a year.
Pakistan has signed a deal for five Saab 2000 Erieye aircraft, the first of which was rolled out in Sweden in April. The aircraft is currently undergoing tests in Sweden.
PAF has also recieved 12 refurbished F-16s from the US and will get two more similar aircraft after they are upgraded by Lockheed Martin.
All in the family........in Pakistan too.
Families hogging the limelight through politics is nothing new. The kennedy family can be cited, the Nehru family and now the Bhutto family.
Asif Zardari known for shuttling between jails in Pakistan for a long time for corruption has now vaulted himself to the top post in Pakistan.
It is quite apparent that Pakistani politics have sunk to an all-time low.
Instability rules the country. Democracy has struck weak roots in Pakistan. Army rule is the commonest sought-after regime.
Wherein lies the future of the country? Bilawal Bhutto a novice in politics has been named 'heir-apparent' to the throne. Politicians, even if their lives are at risk are eager to grab at the spoils of their profession. Asif Zardari's only plus point is that he is the husband of the slain leader Benazir Bhutto. He is the President of Pakistan now. How long will he last? What will his tenure be like, as President? These are the questions which haunt us as we digest the latest bit of news on Pakistan.
Asif Zardari known for shuttling between jails in Pakistan for a long time for corruption has now vaulted himself to the top post in Pakistan.
It is quite apparent that Pakistani politics have sunk to an all-time low.
Instability rules the country. Democracy has struck weak roots in Pakistan. Army rule is the commonest sought-after regime.
Wherein lies the future of the country? Bilawal Bhutto a novice in politics has been named 'heir-apparent' to the throne. Politicians, even if their lives are at risk are eager to grab at the spoils of their profession. Asif Zardari's only plus point is that he is the husband of the slain leader Benazir Bhutto. He is the President of Pakistan now. How long will he last? What will his tenure be like, as President? These are the questions which haunt us as we digest the latest bit of news on Pakistan.
Foodie delights
"Eating out" is indeed a pleasurable pastime. In Mangalore, however there ara not many eating joints.
The latest attraction, Big Bazaar, the huge multi-plex offers in one of its' restaurants 'Pizza Hut' mouth-watering pasta.
Cast in the category of 'junk food' to health, however is a favorite among youngsters and old alike. Burgers and pizzas are cornered by youngsters but pasta has no age barrier.
Filled to the brim in a large plate, pasta is spread out with garlic bread in tow. Swimming in the gravy are also mushrooms which adds flavor to the dish.
Generally one gulps down cola along with a plate of pasta. 'Pizza Hut' may be expensive but its excellent cuisine combined with a winning ambience and good service makes it an attractive place for eating out.
'Cafe Coffee Day' has biryani on its' menu. Exorbitantly expensive, one wonders at the price. A venue for the wealthy.
The latest attraction, Big Bazaar, the huge multi-plex offers in one of its' restaurants 'Pizza Hut' mouth-watering pasta.
Cast in the category of 'junk food' to health, however is a favorite among youngsters and old alike. Burgers and pizzas are cornered by youngsters but pasta has no age barrier.
Filled to the brim in a large plate, pasta is spread out with garlic bread in tow. Swimming in the gravy are also mushrooms which adds flavor to the dish.
Generally one gulps down cola along with a plate of pasta. 'Pizza Hut' may be expensive but its excellent cuisine combined with a winning ambience and good service makes it an attractive place for eating out.
'Cafe Coffee Day' has biryani on its' menu. Exorbitantly expensive, one wonders at the price. A venue for the wealthy.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Scientific models
E-Skool is holding 'Brain Quest', the fifth annual Science and Technology exhibition, in Udupi from September 6 to 7.
The event would help children apply their scientific knowledge to start a business in Soap Quest. Apart from E-Skool collections, over 75 science models in Physical Science and Life Science category, prepared by the students demonstrated at the Science Quest.
I-Quest would make the teams count the hidden spheres among 3-D shapes and figure out the total, make them solve problems, puzzles that utilise their strategic, analytical and co-ordination skills.
At the Soap Quest, teams present the soaps they prepared with a slogan not exceeding 10 words. Soaps would be tested against common stains. The team with the best quality soap and great marketing skills would be the winner.
The Tech Quest would display over 40 exhibits, including singing Elvis Presley, Dragon-Fly Robot, Water detecting robot, Lifelike Dinosaur baby Peio, working mechanism models of pinball game board, disappearing coins and fortune telling fish.
The fair will open to the public from 2p.m. to 5p.m. on Saturday and also on Sunday.
Participants can happily display their scientific talents at the exhibition.
The event would help children apply their scientific knowledge to start a business in Soap Quest. Apart from E-Skool collections, over 75 science models in Physical Science and Life Science category, prepared by the students demonstrated at the Science Quest.
I-Quest would make the teams count the hidden spheres among 3-D shapes and figure out the total, make them solve problems, puzzles that utilise their strategic, analytical and co-ordination skills.
At the Soap Quest, teams present the soaps they prepared with a slogan not exceeding 10 words. Soaps would be tested against common stains. The team with the best quality soap and great marketing skills would be the winner.
The Tech Quest would display over 40 exhibits, including singing Elvis Presley, Dragon-Fly Robot, Water detecting robot, Lifelike Dinosaur baby Peio, working mechanism models of pinball game board, disappearing coins and fortune telling fish.
The fair will open to the public from 2p.m. to 5p.m. on Saturday and also on Sunday.
Participants can happily display their scientific talents at the exhibition.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Sea Tigers use evasive tactics
Crippled by a series of daring deep sea operating by the Sri Lankan Navy, the Sea Tigers the naval wing of the LTTE, have been avoiding open confrontations, according to reliable sources.
The LTTE had about 25 large attack craft and 30 to 40 medium sized attack craft. But now, their large attack craft fleet has been reduced to six or seven vessels and the medium size attack craft to 10 or 12.
The number of sea Tiger cadres was around 2, 000 or 2, 500. Presently, their estimated strength is between 1500 and 750, which includes Sea Tigers who are fighting on land.
The Sea Tigers are keeping off the seas. As a result, the number of encounters came down from 21 in 2006 to 11 in 2007 and to 3 in 2008.
The LTTE had about 25 large attack craft and 30 to 40 medium sized attack craft. But now, their large attack craft fleet has been reduced to six or seven vessels and the medium size attack craft to 10 or 12.
The number of sea Tiger cadres was around 2, 000 or 2, 500. Presently, their estimated strength is between 1500 and 750, which includes Sea Tigers who are fighting on land.
The Sea Tigers are keeping off the seas. As a result, the number of encounters came down from 21 in 2006 to 11 in 2007 and to 3 in 2008.
Global warming;throwing up cyclonic storms
Meteorologists are predicting a more active hurricane season than usual this year, but there is no way to know whether global warming has caused an individual event such as a hurricane or whether it has made such storms worse. On the other hand, some scientists argue that storms such as Gustav are more likely in a warming world, because warmer seas make more powerful storms.
Last year's report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said it was 'likely' that global warming would make future cyclones more intense. Studies of hurricane records suggest this trend can already be seen.
Some scientists have linked an increasing number of hurricanes in the north Atlantic to global warming. Although, globally the number of tropical storms each year has hovered around 90 over the past century, in the north Atlantic there has been a clear increase. From 1850-1990, the overall average number of tropical storms in the north Atlantic was about 10, including about five hurricanes. Since 1995, the 10- year average has risen with the 1997-2006 average at about 14, including about eight hurricanes.
Global warming has certainly thrown a number of occurrences.
Last year's report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said it was 'likely' that global warming would make future cyclones more intense. Studies of hurricane records suggest this trend can already be seen.
Some scientists have linked an increasing number of hurricanes in the north Atlantic to global warming. Although, globally the number of tropical storms each year has hovered around 90 over the past century, in the north Atlantic there has been a clear increase. From 1850-1990, the overall average number of tropical storms in the north Atlantic was about 10, including about five hurricanes. Since 1995, the 10- year average has risen with the 1997-2006 average at about 14, including about eight hurricanes.
Global warming has certainly thrown a number of occurrences.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Monsoons affect Kaziranga Park
A rhino calf and a hog deer were drowned in floodwaters inside the Kaziranga National Park(KNP) while another hog deer was run over by a vehicle on National Highway 37. The world heritage site was inundated by the Brahmaputra on Tuesday.
Over 60 percent of the national park is submerged.
Floodwaters have also submerged 90 percent of the Sanctuary in central Assam's Morigaon district, forcing rhinos and other wild animals to shelter in the woodland of the park located at a higher altitude.
Apparently, this isn't the first time the flooding has occurred. They are a regualar phenomenon in Kasiranga.
Speeding vehicles on the national highway particularly during night were also a menace.
The droves have been cautioned of the need to be careful and to adhere to the speed limit. Speed barricades were also erected.
Over 60 percent of the national park is submerged.
Floodwaters have also submerged 90 percent of the Sanctuary in central Assam's Morigaon district, forcing rhinos and other wild animals to shelter in the woodland of the park located at a higher altitude.
Apparently, this isn't the first time the flooding has occurred. They are a regualar phenomenon in Kasiranga.
Speeding vehicles on the national highway particularly during night were also a menace.
The droves have been cautioned of the need to be careful and to adhere to the speed limit. Speed barricades were also erected.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Invoking the Elephant-God
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated all around the country. Chikamagalur is no exception.
The entire city is all set to welcome Lord Ganesha. Business in M.G. Road was hectic on Monday. The enthusiastic are busy in installing pandals in various places bringing a festive mood altogether.
The public celebration of Ganeshotsav by Sri Ganapathi Seva Samithi, one of the main attractions of the city, has entered 61st year. The installation ceremony of the Ganesha idol will begin from 5 p.m. tomorrow. The idol will be brought from Basavanahalli Ranganatha Swamy temple to Bolaraneshwara Swamy temple premises in a grand procession.
The 21-day Ganesha festival will be celebrated with a variety of cultural, religious and entertainment programmes. Samiti President C.R. Keshavamurthy said the utsav included 4 orchestra, 5 harikatha,2 Bharatanatyam dances, 2 dramas, yakshagana and dance performances.
There will be Ganahoma at 10.30a.m on September 2. The 'Shobha-yatra' that begins in the morning on September 24 will reach Basavanahalli tank by 11 p.m. The immersion of the idol will take place there.
Government officials in charge have conveyed wishes of the Gowri-Ganesha festival to the members of the public. They include District-In- Charge Minister K.S. Eswarappan, MLAs D.N. Jeevaraj, G.T.Ravi, M.P. Kumaraswamy, D.S. Suresh and BJP President M.S. Bhojegowda.
The entire city is all set to welcome Lord Ganesha. Business in M.G. Road was hectic on Monday. The enthusiastic are busy in installing pandals in various places bringing a festive mood altogether.
The public celebration of Ganeshotsav by Sri Ganapathi Seva Samithi, one of the main attractions of the city, has entered 61st year. The installation ceremony of the Ganesha idol will begin from 5 p.m. tomorrow. The idol will be brought from Basavanahalli Ranganatha Swamy temple to Bolaraneshwara Swamy temple premises in a grand procession.
The 21-day Ganesha festival will be celebrated with a variety of cultural, religious and entertainment programmes. Samiti President C.R. Keshavamurthy said the utsav included 4 orchestra, 5 harikatha,2 Bharatanatyam dances, 2 dramas, yakshagana and dance performances.
There will be Ganahoma at 10.30a.m on September 2. The 'Shobha-yatra' that begins in the morning on September 24 will reach Basavanahalli tank by 11 p.m. The immersion of the idol will take place there.
Government officials in charge have conveyed wishes of the Gowri-Ganesha festival to the members of the public. They include District-In- Charge Minister K.S. Eswarappan, MLAs D.N. Jeevaraj, G.T.Ravi, M.P. Kumaraswamy, D.S. Suresh and BJP President M.S. Bhojegowda.
An elephantine skill
Elephants aren't big boors after all. Asian elephants can do mathematics, and have proved their skill at addition in an experiment with their favorite food, according to a Japanese researcher.
One elephant was 87 percent correct and the other 69 percent right in months of addition exercises involving single digits, says a source of the University of Tokyo.
In one test, researchers dropped three apples into one bucket and five into another bucket and then added two apples to each. Five times out of six, Ashya a 30 -year-old female elephant at Tokyo's Usno 200, chose the bucket with seven apples rather than five although she could not see or feel the inside of the containers.
The other elephant, 38-year-old Mito from Kyoto was also right five times in a test involving oranges.
They can compare numbers like six and five.
Each animal was tested using their favorite food. They were able to choose the bigger of two numbers.
One elephant was 87 percent correct and the other 69 percent right in months of addition exercises involving single digits, says a source of the University of Tokyo.
In one test, researchers dropped three apples into one bucket and five into another bucket and then added two apples to each. Five times out of six, Ashya a 30 -year-old female elephant at Tokyo's Usno 200, chose the bucket with seven apples rather than five although she could not see or feel the inside of the containers.
The other elephant, 38-year-old Mito from Kyoto was also right five times in a test involving oranges.
They can compare numbers like six and five.
Each animal was tested using their favorite food. They were able to choose the bigger of two numbers.
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