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.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
China leads.....India follows
India is the third biggest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world, with the state-owned NTPC topping the list of companies belching the deadly gas.
The Center for Global Development (CGD) said India figures third in the list of biggest Co2 emitters through power generation after China and the US.
Out of 638, 000,000 tonnes of Co2 emitted by India every year, NTPC accounts for 186, 000,000 tonnes, about 30% of the total gas release. The Talcher power plant in Orissa operated by the company has the notoriety of emitting the highest quantity of Co2.
As many as 16 power plants operated by NTPC, one of the Navaratna companies of Indian ore in CGD's 'red alert' category for spewing out the deadly gas. The findings part of a recent report on "China surpassing the US as the world's biggest emitter of CO2 from power generation' also name Russia, Germany, Japan, UK, Australia, South Africa and South Korea among the world's top-team power sector emitters in absolute terms.
The CGD said climate scientists warn that the amount of CO2 and other green- house gases in the atmosphere must be quickly stabilized to avert climate catastrophe.
The Center for Global Development (CGD) said India figures third in the list of biggest Co2 emitters through power generation after China and the US.
Out of 638, 000,000 tonnes of Co2 emitted by India every year, NTPC accounts for 186, 000,000 tonnes, about 30% of the total gas release. The Talcher power plant in Orissa operated by the company has the notoriety of emitting the highest quantity of Co2.
As many as 16 power plants operated by NTPC, one of the Navaratna companies of Indian ore in CGD's 'red alert' category for spewing out the deadly gas. The findings part of a recent report on "China surpassing the US as the world's biggest emitter of CO2 from power generation' also name Russia, Germany, Japan, UK, Australia, South Africa and South Korea among the world's top-team power sector emitters in absolute terms.
The CGD said climate scientists warn that the amount of CO2 and other green- house gases in the atmosphere must be quickly stabilized to avert climate catastrophe.
A case of a husband ascending the throne
It came as no surprise when Bilawal Bhutto was named 'heir- apparent' to the PPP in Pakistan. Dynastic politics largely prevails in the sub-continent.
But to punch the whole issue, now Asif Ali Zardari, husband of slain leader Benazir Bhutto has now announced his candidacy for the presidential race in Pakistan. This turn of events has a humerous tinge. One marvels at politicians' skull-and -duggery tactics. It only shows the low depths to which Pakistani politics has sunk. The swathe of corruption charges that has surrounded him ever since his link-up with Madame Bhutto, not- withstanding and the label of Mr.10 percent has earned by his actions, long stints in jail for corruption well-known; a person like him now seeking to become President of the country. One can only laugh hollowly by this news.
Pakistan has no great leaders to speak of. It's institutions are crumbling.
But to punch the whole issue, now Asif Ali Zardari, husband of slain leader Benazir Bhutto has now announced his candidacy for the presidential race in Pakistan. This turn of events has a humerous tinge. One marvels at politicians' skull-and -duggery tactics. It only shows the low depths to which Pakistani politics has sunk. The swathe of corruption charges that has surrounded him ever since his link-up with Madame Bhutto, not- withstanding and the label of Mr.10 percent has earned by his actions, long stints in jail for corruption well-known; a person like him now seeking to become President of the country. One can only laugh hollowly by this news.
Pakistan has no great leaders to speak of. It's institutions are crumbling.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Turn of the new vanguard
Exit Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, V.V.S.Laxman and Anil Kumble and Ishant Sharma. Quote Kumble ''We are confident of bouncing back' after a series loss by the Indians. But it doesn't always happen that way. It is now the turn of the leader of the pack with the likes of Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, Harbhajan Singh and S.Badrinath. They can do without the seniors.
It is now a attested belief that fresh blood should be inducted into Indian cricket. Gone are the days when a few sounght- after figures were the mainstay of the game. As Greg Chappell. time and again extolled to the Cricket Board to groom 'youngsters'. This is the new writing on the board. The game should be constantly evolving. We cannot live in the past.
Cricket academies, spotting new talent should encourage youngsters to scale new vistas in domestic and international cricket.
M.S. Dhoni has proved, he has what it takes. Not just as a mighty fine cricketer but also as a captain. He is a leader who 'mingles with the crowd'. He has the ability to get the best out of his 'men'. At 27, he doesn't sit on his laurels but advances forward always to scale new heights for his country.
It is now a attested belief that fresh blood should be inducted into Indian cricket. Gone are the days when a few sounght- after figures were the mainstay of the game. As Greg Chappell. time and again extolled to the Cricket Board to groom 'youngsters'. This is the new writing on the board. The game should be constantly evolving. We cannot live in the past.
Cricket academies, spotting new talent should encourage youngsters to scale new vistas in domestic and international cricket.
M.S. Dhoni has proved, he has what it takes. Not just as a mighty fine cricketer but also as a captain. He is a leader who 'mingles with the crowd'. He has the ability to get the best out of his 'men'. At 27, he doesn't sit on his laurels but advances forward always to scale new heights for his country.
Athlete complains of neglect by government
M.R. Poovamma, an Olympian from Mangalore represented India in the 4x400 relay team that participated in the Beijing Olympics.
'It goes without saying' said Prof. Mathew C.Ninan, Principal of Little Rock Indian School, that 'India should scout for athletic and sports talents all through the country and not just the cities'. As usual, politics has made its way in all the fields, including sports and games.
According to him, 'Study and athletics/ games can go well together. Students who do well in athletics will be more disciplined.
Now, getting into the finals of women's 4x400 metre relay at the 2012 London Olympics is the target set by Manglorean Olympian M.R. Poovamma. She is a first year BBM student at SDM college in Mangalore.
Presently she practices for over two hours in the morning and three hours in the evening everyday. So far she has participated in over 8 international- level athletic meets and won several medals.
But, the government has been lackadaisacal in its support. 'Forget about support we don't even have synthetic track at our Mangala Stadium in Mangalore. It is difficult for an athlete to practice in such places. But, I am happy for the support extended by my alma maters-Primary School in Bajpe, Canara High School and St. Mary's PU college and SDM college in Mangalore.
Further, she called upon the private sector or Corporate entities to support in order to pursue their dream for the country.
Currently her coach Dinesh Kundar along with two other coaches have been training over 35 budding athletes in and around Mangalore. They have set a target of 51 seconds to her to finish 400 metres and expressed hope that she would meet that by this December.
'It goes without saying' said Prof. Mathew C.Ninan, Principal of Little Rock Indian School, that 'India should scout for athletic and sports talents all through the country and not just the cities'. As usual, politics has made its way in all the fields, including sports and games.
According to him, 'Study and athletics/ games can go well together. Students who do well in athletics will be more disciplined.
Now, getting into the finals of women's 4x400 metre relay at the 2012 London Olympics is the target set by Manglorean Olympian M.R. Poovamma. She is a first year BBM student at SDM college in Mangalore.
Presently she practices for over two hours in the morning and three hours in the evening everyday. So far she has participated in over 8 international- level athletic meets and won several medals.
But, the government has been lackadaisacal in its support. 'Forget about support we don't even have synthetic track at our Mangala Stadium in Mangalore. It is difficult for an athlete to practice in such places. But, I am happy for the support extended by my alma maters-Primary School in Bajpe, Canara High School and St. Mary's PU college and SDM college in Mangalore.
Further, she called upon the private sector or Corporate entities to support in order to pursue their dream for the country.
Currently her coach Dinesh Kundar along with two other coaches have been training over 35 budding athletes in and around Mangalore. They have set a target of 51 seconds to her to finish 400 metres and expressed hope that she would meet that by this December.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Galactic clash sheds new findings
Space telescopes have captured images of a mammoth collsion between two galaxy clusters that have shed some light into the Universe's mysteries dark matter, NASA has said.
The images taken by the Hubble Space Telescope and Chandra x-ray Observatory show a clear separation between dark and ordinary matter during the clash 5.7 billion light years from earth, the U.S. space agency said.
As the two clusters merged at speeds of millions of miles an hour, the hot gas in each cluster collided and slowed down, the astronomers said. The dark matter did not.
'It is in our view an important step forward to understanding the properties of the mysterious dark matter' said a source of the University of California, Santa Barbara. 'Dark matter makes up five times more matter in the Universe than ordinary matter. This study confirms that we are dealing with a very different kind of matter. And were able to study it in a very powerful collision of two clusters of galaxies'.
The discovery confirms the findings in 2006 of another collision known as the Bullet Cluster, which also showed a clear separation between dark and ordinary matter.
Around a fifth of the Universe is believed to consist of dark matter, spreading out in mysterious filaments, sheets and clusters. But, with present technology it cannot be seen directly. Its existence is percieved indirectly, through the gravitational pull it exerts on light.
The images taken by the Hubble Space Telescope and Chandra x-ray Observatory show a clear separation between dark and ordinary matter during the clash 5.7 billion light years from earth, the U.S. space agency said.
As the two clusters merged at speeds of millions of miles an hour, the hot gas in each cluster collided and slowed down, the astronomers said. The dark matter did not.
'It is in our view an important step forward to understanding the properties of the mysterious dark matter' said a source of the University of California, Santa Barbara. 'Dark matter makes up five times more matter in the Universe than ordinary matter. This study confirms that we are dealing with a very different kind of matter. And were able to study it in a very powerful collision of two clusters of galaxies'.
The discovery confirms the findings in 2006 of another collision known as the Bullet Cluster, which also showed a clear separation between dark and ordinary matter.
Around a fifth of the Universe is believed to consist of dark matter, spreading out in mysterious filaments, sheets and clusters. But, with present technology it cannot be seen directly. Its existence is percieved indirectly, through the gravitational pull it exerts on light.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Sweet melodies
Youth are forever exhorted to excel in any nation. This is true of the young in our country as well.
The inter-pre-University College level music competition drew 300 students from 30 PU colleges in Dakshina Kannada.
The participants had to showcase their talents in devotional songs, light songs, folk songs, group songs, film songs and solo.
Madhava Pai hailing from a college in Manipal held the audience spellbound with his rendition of "Mungaru Mannige', a Kannada song. Yeshawasni of Canara College, Mangalore gave voice to Koo-hoo Kogili. Sri Latha from S.D.M. Ujire sang a devotional song. Pavithra from Govinddasa College, Surathkal sang a Janapada song. Another Janapada song delighted the audience by Akshaya, Alva's College, Moodabidri.
The competition which started in the morning was a fruitful day for budding singers of Mangalore.
The inter-pre-University College level music competition drew 300 students from 30 PU colleges in Dakshina Kannada.
The participants had to showcase their talents in devotional songs, light songs, folk songs, group songs, film songs and solo.
Madhava Pai hailing from a college in Manipal held the audience spellbound with his rendition of "Mungaru Mannige', a Kannada song. Yeshawasni of Canara College, Mangalore gave voice to Koo-hoo Kogili. Sri Latha from S.D.M. Ujire sang a devotional song. Pavithra from Govinddasa College, Surathkal sang a Janapada song. Another Janapada song delighted the audience by Akshaya, Alva's College, Moodabidri.
The competition which started in the morning was a fruitful day for budding singers of Mangalore.
Defeat with grace
Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton deferred her own dreams on Tuesday night and delivered an emphatic plea at the Democratic National Convention to unite behind her rival, Barack Obama no matter what ill will lingered.
Declaring herself to be 'a proud supporter of Barack Obama' Mrs. Clinton urged Democrats to put aside their loyalty to her and unite behind Mr. Obama- or risk continuing Bush administrative policies under the presumptive Republican nominee, Senator John McCain.
With delegates waving banners that read 'Hillary' or 'Obama' on one side and 'Unity' on the other, Mrs. Clinton encouraged supporters to rally behind Mr. Obama for the sake of struggling Americans.
It's not just about politics' she said, referring to the distinctive struggles women face as candidates. Her tone broke from its determined cadence and became for a second, slower and almost hushed. 'It's really personal' she said.
Hillary Clinton, however kept the door open to a future bid for the Presidency. This time, she has been gracious in defeat.
Declaring herself to be 'a proud supporter of Barack Obama' Mrs. Clinton urged Democrats to put aside their loyalty to her and unite behind Mr. Obama- or risk continuing Bush administrative policies under the presumptive Republican nominee, Senator John McCain.
With delegates waving banners that read 'Hillary' or 'Obama' on one side and 'Unity' on the other, Mrs. Clinton encouraged supporters to rally behind Mr. Obama for the sake of struggling Americans.
It's not just about politics' she said, referring to the distinctive struggles women face as candidates. Her tone broke from its determined cadence and became for a second, slower and almost hushed. 'It's really personal' she said.
Hillary Clinton, however kept the door open to a future bid for the Presidency. This time, she has been gracious in defeat.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Defeat with grace
Senator Hllary Rodham Clinton deferred her own dreams on Tuesday night and delivered an emphatic plea at the Democratic National Convention to unite behind her rival, Barack Obama no matter what ill-will lingered.
Declaring herself to be 'a proud supporter of Barack Obama' Mrs. Clinton urged Democrats to put aside their loyalty to her and unite behind Mr.Obama or risk continuing Bush administrative policies under the presumptive Republican nominee, Senator John McCain.
With delegates waving banners that read 'Hillary' or 'Obama' on one side and 'Unity' on the other, Mrs. Clinton encouraged supporters to rally behind Mr. Obama for the sake of struggling Americans.
'It's not just about politics' she said, referring to the distinctive struggles women face as candidates. Her tone broke from its determined cadence and became for a second, slower and almost hushed. 'It's really personal' she said.
Hillary Clinton, however kept the door open to a future bid for the presidency. This time, she has been gracious in defeat.
Declaring herself to be 'a proud supporter of Barack Obama' Mrs. Clinton urged Democrats to put aside their loyalty to her and unite behind Mr.Obama or risk continuing Bush administrative policies under the presumptive Republican nominee, Senator John McCain.
With delegates waving banners that read 'Hillary' or 'Obama' on one side and 'Unity' on the other, Mrs. Clinton encouraged supporters to rally behind Mr. Obama for the sake of struggling Americans.
'It's not just about politics' she said, referring to the distinctive struggles women face as candidates. Her tone broke from its determined cadence and became for a second, slower and almost hushed. 'It's really personal' she said.
Hillary Clinton, however kept the door open to a future bid for the presidency. This time, she has been gracious in defeat.
Commercialist tinge in sports
Nothing escapes the gargantuan clutch of Big Money. Not even sports. This is apparent in the way the IPL was orchestrated and in the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. In both cases, the stakes were high and nothing was left to chance and the production began.
Out came the franchises, the sponsors, the performers, the players or athletes and the stage was set with creative directors, music directors, light and sound technicians, set designers, event managers all involved in pre-production details and rehearsal, marketing strategy, media management, advertising, logos, slogans, jingles and brand ambassadors.
The Olympics are even bigger with the whole world both in the performance arena and the audience gallery. Like a perfect play, the script for the Olympics is well written.
The show is well produced, well directed, well promoted .... and well attended and appreciated!.
IPL and Olympics are designed with a simple logic-play hard, play well and play to entertain.
In today's world, there's no place for the mediocre, for the struggling and commonplace.
Out came the franchises, the sponsors, the performers, the players or athletes and the stage was set with creative directors, music directors, light and sound technicians, set designers, event managers all involved in pre-production details and rehearsal, marketing strategy, media management, advertising, logos, slogans, jingles and brand ambassadors.
The Olympics are even bigger with the whole world both in the performance arena and the audience gallery. Like a perfect play, the script for the Olympics is well written.
The show is well produced, well directed, well promoted .... and well attended and appreciated!.
IPL and Olympics are designed with a simple logic-play hard, play well and play to entertain.
In today's world, there's no place for the mediocre, for the struggling and commonplace.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Animals too are weight- conscious
The jumbos, part of the world famous Dasara festivities in Mysore are under scrutiny.
Six dasara elephants that arrived in Mysore underwent a weight check on jumbo weighing machines meant to weigh heavy duty trucks.
Balarama, the leader who will carry the 750-kg.golden howdah also got to know his worth.
The aim of the exercise is to decide on a high-nutrition diet to enable them withstand the rigors of the Dasara extravaganza. The pachyderm will be monitored to see if they have gained or lost weight after arrival. The final weight check will be just 2-3 days before the grand finale - the 'jumbo savari'.
He said some 'fussy' elephants are weighed along with their mahouts as they refuse to oblige without their masters in tow. The weight of the mahout and the iron chain binding the animal are deducted to know the exact weight of each animal. Balarama weighed 5, 125 kg., Arjuna 5,075kg, Gajendra 5, 015 ,Sarala 2, 930 kg., Vijaya3, 351kg. and Abhimanyu 4, 710 kg.
Six dasara elephants that arrived in Mysore underwent a weight check on jumbo weighing machines meant to weigh heavy duty trucks.
Balarama, the leader who will carry the 750-kg.golden howdah also got to know his worth.
The aim of the exercise is to decide on a high-nutrition diet to enable them withstand the rigors of the Dasara extravaganza. The pachyderm will be monitored to see if they have gained or lost weight after arrival. The final weight check will be just 2-3 days before the grand finale - the 'jumbo savari'.
He said some 'fussy' elephants are weighed along with their mahouts as they refuse to oblige without their masters in tow. The weight of the mahout and the iron chain binding the animal are deducted to know the exact weight of each animal. Balarama weighed 5, 125 kg., Arjuna 5,075kg, Gajendra 5, 015 ,Sarala 2, 930 kg., Vijaya3, 351kg. and Abhimanyu 4, 710 kg.
Reviewing the idiot-box
An interesting programme on TV caught my eye some days back. 'Dus kadam'- I had brushed it aside as a bore. But as the programme continued on its monotonous roll week after week, the questions penetrated into my brain as 'interesting'.
It questions 'Indian' ways. Contestants have to answer queries like 'How many Indian men think a woman's place is in the kitchen'? How many Indian men know how to sew their buttons on the shirt they are wearing? Do women think they are solely responsible for eve-teasing due to the apparel they are wearing?
On the lines of 'Panchvi Pass se tez hai?' Dus Kadam however deals with adults only. Film stars are roped in to anchor such programmes for their star value.
The programme poses interesting queries and makes the contestants and audience think. Such programmes are surely educational.
Aamir khan's Taare Zameen Par is another movie which throws light on the educational system of our country. The film has been widely acclaimed for the way it highlights the young children's plight as they muddle their way through exams.
Filmstars are pitching in, doing good work for our country.
It questions 'Indian' ways. Contestants have to answer queries like 'How many Indian men think a woman's place is in the kitchen'? How many Indian men know how to sew their buttons on the shirt they are wearing? Do women think they are solely responsible for eve-teasing due to the apparel they are wearing?
On the lines of 'Panchvi Pass se tez hai?' Dus Kadam however deals with adults only. Film stars are roped in to anchor such programmes for their star value.
The programme poses interesting queries and makes the contestants and audience think. Such programmes are surely educational.
Aamir khan's Taare Zameen Par is another movie which throws light on the educational system of our country. The film has been widely acclaimed for the way it highlights the young children's plight as they muddle their way through exams.
Filmstars are pitching in, doing good work for our country.
Monday, August 25, 2008
World's largest telescope at Leh
A pristine lake in the cold desert region of Ladakh has been targetted by astro-physicists from Bangalore to find out if it is an apt place to set up one of the world's largest telescopes for studying the sun.
At an altitude of 14, 000 ft. areas close to Pangong lake, 160 km. from Leh, is one of the potential sites identified by Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore for its proposal to come up with Rs.150-crore National Large Solar Telescope.
Hanle in Leh where IIA already has a two- metre telescope for night sky observation and Devasthal,50 km from the picturesque Nainital are the other probable sites.
According to reliable sources, the NSLT will be a telescope of two-metre diameter.
They plan to instal the telescope by 2012. If realised, the NSLT will be one of the two major solar observation facilities coming up in India after almost half a century. The 38-cm telescope at IIA's Kodiakanal observatory was the last dedicated solar facility which came up in the 1960s.
The second new solar telescope will be a 50-cm aperture instrument for the Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO)which currently houses several smaller telescopes.
At an altitude of 14, 000 ft. areas close to Pangong lake, 160 km. from Leh, is one of the potential sites identified by Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore for its proposal to come up with Rs.150-crore National Large Solar Telescope.
Hanle in Leh where IIA already has a two- metre telescope for night sky observation and Devasthal,50 km from the picturesque Nainital are the other probable sites.
According to reliable sources, the NSLT will be a telescope of two-metre diameter.
They plan to instal the telescope by 2012. If realised, the NSLT will be one of the two major solar observation facilities coming up in India after almost half a century. The 38-cm telescope at IIA's Kodiakanal observatory was the last dedicated solar facility which came up in the 1960s.
The second new solar telescope will be a 50-cm aperture instrument for the Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO)which currently houses several smaller telescopes.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Jaycee week in the offing
Junior Chamber International, Mangalore is organizing various competitions as part of Jaycee Week 2008 in Mangalore from September 9. The competitions include classical and folk dance competition for primary and high school students on September 9.
An elocution competition will be held for high school students at Hotel Nalapad Residency on September 11 at 2 p.m. followed by presentation of the outstanding young person award at 5 p.m. Namaste India, a variety show on national integration will be held for high school and college students at Town Hall on September 12 at 4p.m. Finals of Meri Awaz Suno will be held at Town Hall on September 13 at 5p.m.
Flower arrangement, rangoli and mehndi competitions will be held at the same venue from 9.30 a.m.on September 14.
The Prince and Princess modelling contest for children will be held at Town Hall at 10 a.m. on September 14. JCI will distribute fruits to orphanages and conduct blood donation camp on September15.
The Jaycee Week celebration will conclude with treasure hunt event which will commence from Karnataka Agencies at Kottara on September 21 at 9.30 a.m.
Manjunath said details on the competitions can be held from the JC Week 2008 officer M.G.Road, Mangalore or over phone 4259663.
An elocution competition will be held for high school students at Hotel Nalapad Residency on September 11 at 2 p.m. followed by presentation of the outstanding young person award at 5 p.m. Namaste India, a variety show on national integration will be held for high school and college students at Town Hall on September 12 at 4p.m. Finals of Meri Awaz Suno will be held at Town Hall on September 13 at 5p.m.
Flower arrangement, rangoli and mehndi competitions will be held at the same venue from 9.30 a.m.on September 14.
The Prince and Princess modelling contest for children will be held at Town Hall at 10 a.m. on September 14. JCI will distribute fruits to orphanages and conduct blood donation camp on September15.
The Jaycee Week celebration will conclude with treasure hunt event which will commence from Karnataka Agencies at Kottara on September 21 at 9.30 a.m.
Manjunath said details on the competitions can be held from the JC Week 2008 officer M.G.Road, Mangalore or over phone 4259663.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
The playful God
Baby Krishna grabbing at a pot of curds or youthful Krishna playing with pretty damsels at the river-side or have your pick of the grown-up valiant Krishna preaching to Arjuna of the virtues of duty-bound princes.
Sri Krishna Janmashtami has dawned in Mangalore on August 23rd with religious gaiety and fervour.
ISCKON has plans to celebrate the festival in a big way. Bhajans and kirtans are in order.
Kadri Sri Manjunatha temple is the centre of all attraction on this big day. An atmosphere akin to that of a fair prevails in the vicinity of the temple. Stalls have been set up and people young and old enjoy the afternoon, welcoming one of India's most ardent figure of worship.
The festivities at the temple revolve around children. In various categories, children of all age-groups participate in the Krishna- vesha competition. Parents derive great joy watching their little ones in the guise of India's most lovable god.
Banners, buntings and graffiti proclaim to the world the onset of this festival. And, as the day comes to a close scores of teens form a human pyramid and break the pot of milk hung atop a wire at the reach of the topmost lucky person.
Sri Krishna Janmashtami has dawned in Mangalore on August 23rd with religious gaiety and fervour.
ISCKON has plans to celebrate the festival in a big way. Bhajans and kirtans are in order.
Kadri Sri Manjunatha temple is the centre of all attraction on this big day. An atmosphere akin to that of a fair prevails in the vicinity of the temple. Stalls have been set up and people young and old enjoy the afternoon, welcoming one of India's most ardent figure of worship.
The festivities at the temple revolve around children. In various categories, children of all age-groups participate in the Krishna- vesha competition. Parents derive great joy watching their little ones in the guise of India's most lovable god.
Banners, buntings and graffiti proclaim to the world the onset of this festival. And, as the day comes to a close scores of teens form a human pyramid and break the pot of milk hung atop a wire at the reach of the topmost lucky person.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Modernization plans for Mangalore
The City Corporation of Mangalore has ambitious plans for making the city a beautiful place to live in.
Many parts of the city roads have been concretized. Plans are afoot to concretize the whole city, part by part. Even though the monsoons are around, the Corporation reasons that the heavy downpour is past us and it is reasonably wise to go ahead with change of surface on the roads of Mangalore.
What has prompted this decision? It is seen that tar withers away. Come rains and the roads wear away every year with the story repeating itself annually. Potholes on the road are all too common a sight. This can be avoided. Concrete is the answer. It has proven itself to be able to withstand the pressure of heavy traffic.
Dividers have also been planted along the main arteries of the city's roadway. This is to regularise traffic. Some order will prevail. These also will feature along all of Mangalore's main roads.
Heavy traffic jams are now a common scene in Mangalore. It seems to be following the scenario of the metros of India.
The small town of Mangalore of yore is now becoming a big city.
Many parts of the city roads have been concretized. Plans are afoot to concretize the whole city, part by part. Even though the monsoons are around, the Corporation reasons that the heavy downpour is past us and it is reasonably wise to go ahead with change of surface on the roads of Mangalore.
What has prompted this decision? It is seen that tar withers away. Come rains and the roads wear away every year with the story repeating itself annually. Potholes on the road are all too common a sight. This can be avoided. Concrete is the answer. It has proven itself to be able to withstand the pressure of heavy traffic.
Dividers have also been planted along the main arteries of the city's roadway. This is to regularise traffic. Some order will prevail. These also will feature along all of Mangalore's main roads.
Heavy traffic jams are now a common scene in Mangalore. It seems to be following the scenario of the metros of India.
The small town of Mangalore of yore is now becoming a big city.
Indo-US joint venture
India and the US are readying to hold joint naval and air exercises in the Arabian Sea from October 15-24.
The US navy will come with nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier strike group.
Apart from other ships, the US team will have a strong air element with at least two P3C long-range maritime patrol aircraft and F-18 Super Hornets.
All the top of the line warships from INS Mysore to INS Rajput would take part in the exercise. The air support would be provided by TU-142 reconnaisance aircraft, Jaguars maritime deep penetration strike aircraft of the Indian Air Force and Sea Harriers.
The officials said the Sea Harriers would operate from the shore base. The Navy's German HDW 209 conventional submarine would also be deployed. Then there will be all the three versions -25, 28 and 31-of Kamav helicopters along with Sea Kings.
The officials said, Goa is the only part in India where a nuclear-powered vessel can be berthed. They further assured that it is safe to operate such a vessel and all the necessary safeguards have been taken.
The US navy will come with nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier strike group.
Apart from other ships, the US team will have a strong air element with at least two P3C long-range maritime patrol aircraft and F-18 Super Hornets.
All the top of the line warships from INS Mysore to INS Rajput would take part in the exercise. The air support would be provided by TU-142 reconnaisance aircraft, Jaguars maritime deep penetration strike aircraft of the Indian Air Force and Sea Harriers.
The officials said the Sea Harriers would operate from the shore base. The Navy's German HDW 209 conventional submarine would also be deployed. Then there will be all the three versions -25, 28 and 31-of Kamav helicopters along with Sea Kings.
The officials said, Goa is the only part in India where a nuclear-powered vessel can be berthed. They further assured that it is safe to operate such a vessel and all the necessary safeguards have been taken.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Coins of bygone eras
An exhibition of coins circulated during the reign of Tipu Sultan held numistatists in thrall.
The show featured gold, silver, and copper coins minted from as far as Dharwad in North Karnataka to Dindigul in Tamil Nadu.
S.Manjunath from Mangalore, displayed his collection of gold coins which were in use at the then prevalent Pagodo and Fanam's system of currency. This apart, Ahmadi coin, valued at four pagodas a Sidiqui at two pagodas and a Faroqi at 10 Fanams were on display.
The centre of attraction was Hyder Ali's Gold Fanam depicting Shiva and Parvati. On the reverse of the coin is the image of Shiva with Parvathi seated on his left knee, with a trishul in his right hand and a deer to his left.
Sohanlal Sishodi, whose coins were on display said the "Mysore Tiger' was a symbol of harmony. His coins depicted Shiva, Parvati and Krishna.
The exhibition was held in memory of Tipu Sultan and organised by the Department of Archaeology and Museums at Venkatappa Art Gallery in Bangalore on Tuesday.
The show featured gold, silver, and copper coins minted from as far as Dharwad in North Karnataka to Dindigul in Tamil Nadu.
S.Manjunath from Mangalore, displayed his collection of gold coins which were in use at the then prevalent Pagodo and Fanam's system of currency. This apart, Ahmadi coin, valued at four pagodas a Sidiqui at two pagodas and a Faroqi at 10 Fanams were on display.
The centre of attraction was Hyder Ali's Gold Fanam depicting Shiva and Parvati. On the reverse of the coin is the image of Shiva with Parvathi seated on his left knee, with a trishul in his right hand and a deer to his left.
Sohanlal Sishodi, whose coins were on display said the "Mysore Tiger' was a symbol of harmony. His coins depicted Shiva, Parvati and Krishna.
The exhibition was held in memory of Tipu Sultan and organised by the Department of Archaeology and Museums at Venkatappa Art Gallery in Bangalore on Tuesday.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Magic out of stone
The very word 'jewellery' conjures up images of gaudily-clad women making their way to to-do's with a lot of splash. Birthday parties, weddings or naming-ceremonies.
A jewellery exhibition-cum-sale beckons those with a large purse. The on-going Phorum Jewellery exhibition-cum-sale at hotel Moti Mahal (Heera hall) displays diamond studded jewellery which have designs with interesting geometric motifs and floral patterns. Thoungh each piece of jewellery is contemporary, it retains an element of timeless chic, which can be worn with ethnic, western and indo-western outfits.
With this exhibition Phorum Jewels is delighted to introduce themselves as a leading manufacturer and retailer of real diamond studded jewelry with experience in this field of more than a decade.
It manufactures rings, earrings, pendant, necklaces, bangles, bracelets and nose-pin. The starting range of jewelry is Rs. 10,000 ranging to Rs. 4 lakhs.
Phorum has visited various cities like Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Chennai, Bangalore and Mangalore.
The timings of the exhibition are 11.a.m. to 8.00p.m. on Wednesday August 20 2008 and Thursday August 21st 2008.
The bonus is, there is an offer of a free gold coin on every purchase of diamond studded jewelry.
A jewellery exhibition-cum-sale beckons those with a large purse. The on-going Phorum Jewellery exhibition-cum-sale at hotel Moti Mahal (Heera hall) displays diamond studded jewellery which have designs with interesting geometric motifs and floral patterns. Thoungh each piece of jewellery is contemporary, it retains an element of timeless chic, which can be worn with ethnic, western and indo-western outfits.
With this exhibition Phorum Jewels is delighted to introduce themselves as a leading manufacturer and retailer of real diamond studded jewelry with experience in this field of more than a decade.
It manufactures rings, earrings, pendant, necklaces, bangles, bracelets and nose-pin. The starting range of jewelry is Rs. 10,000 ranging to Rs. 4 lakhs.
Phorum has visited various cities like Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Chennai, Bangalore and Mangalore.
The timings of the exhibition are 11.a.m. to 8.00p.m. on Wednesday August 20 2008 and Thursday August 21st 2008.
The bonus is, there is an offer of a free gold coin on every purchase of diamond studded jewelry.
Krishna Vesha
The annual Krishna Vesha competitions organised by Kalkura Foundation will be held with cultural zeal and traditional gaiety at the historic Kadri Sri Manjunatha temple premises on August 23.
Apart from the usual nine categories of competitions, the organisers have added new ones: 'Kanda Krishna' for the teeny-weeny lot and 'Shankanada' (conch blowing) in traditional costumes.
Foundation President S.Pradeep Kumar Kalkura told reporters that Kanda Krishna was exclusively for little ones below one year and parents could lead their children on stage.
The Shankanada in traditional costumes would be a special attraction where contestants have to blow the conch. It will be held in two sections- the first for children upto std.7 and the second for all including children above std.7. Girls and women too can take part.
There will also be a Krishna quiz programme for children where the questionnaire is released on the spot.
Apart from the usual nine categories of competitions, the organisers have added new ones: 'Kanda Krishna' for the teeny-weeny lot and 'Shankanada' (conch blowing) in traditional costumes.
Foundation President S.Pradeep Kumar Kalkura told reporters that Kanda Krishna was exclusively for little ones below one year and parents could lead their children on stage.
The Shankanada in traditional costumes would be a special attraction where contestants have to blow the conch. It will be held in two sections- the first for children upto std.7 and the second for all including children above std.7. Girls and women too can take part.
There will also be a Krishna quiz programme for children where the questionnaire is released on the spot.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
As gold prices drop,demand increases
Gold prices dipped and retail consumers have started their festival and marriage shopping for the precious metal months in advance.
The gold prices on Tuesday dipped as low as Rs. 11,000 per 10gram , down nearly one in nearly a month ago on July 15.
Gold prices plunged by Rs. 945 to Rs.11,000 per 10 gram in early trade on Tuesday on heavy selling by stockists sparked by weak global ones. The market witnessed an all-round selling immediately after the opening and gold tumbled to its weakest in almost eight months in volatile trade, losing its safe haven upped as investors shifted some of their money back into the US dollar and oil further retreated from record higher.
Globally, gold hit an intra-day high of $825.85 before falling to 801.90 US dollar an ounce, its lowest level since late December last year as the euro struck a six-month low against the dollar. The metal traded out $863.50 an ounce in New York, at the time Indian bullion markets were closed for the day.
The gold prices on Tuesday dipped as low as Rs. 11,000 per 10gram , down nearly one in nearly a month ago on July 15.
Gold prices plunged by Rs. 945 to Rs.11,000 per 10 gram in early trade on Tuesday on heavy selling by stockists sparked by weak global ones. The market witnessed an all-round selling immediately after the opening and gold tumbled to its weakest in almost eight months in volatile trade, losing its safe haven upped as investors shifted some of their money back into the US dollar and oil further retreated from record higher.
Globally, gold hit an intra-day high of $825.85 before falling to 801.90 US dollar an ounce, its lowest level since late December last year as the euro struck a six-month low against the dollar. The metal traded out $863.50 an ounce in New York, at the time Indian bullion markets were closed for the day.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Mysore Dasara : the cynosure of all eyes.
The Mysore Dasara, yearly presents a colorful spectacle. With the caparisoned elephants, the grand procession of the Goddess and a glimpse of the royal grandeur of the yore, it is the greatest show. The state government has allocated Rs.10 crore for the nada-habba this year.
A total of 19 committees have been formed in Mysore to organise the event.
The extravaganza planned in front of the majestic Mysore Palace will have performances by national- level artistes while various venues like Veene Seshanna Bhavan, Rangacharla Bhavan and Jaganmohan Palace will showcase performances by artistes from within the state.
Meanwhile the pachyderms, the main attraction at the festival will be given a grand send-off on August 18 at Veeranahosahalli near Husur. The elephant that will carry the 'howdah' and accompanying elephants will be accorded a traditional reception at Mysore Palace on the 21st.
The innovation this year is the concept of a 'Mahila Mathu Makkala Dasara' and a 'Raitha Dasara' with programmes specifically meant for women, children and farmers.
A total of 19 committees have been formed in Mysore to organise the event.
The extravaganza planned in front of the majestic Mysore Palace will have performances by national- level artistes while various venues like Veene Seshanna Bhavan, Rangacharla Bhavan and Jaganmohan Palace will showcase performances by artistes from within the state.
Meanwhile the pachyderms, the main attraction at the festival will be given a grand send-off on August 18 at Veeranahosahalli near Husur. The elephant that will carry the 'howdah' and accompanying elephants will be accorded a traditional reception at Mysore Palace on the 21st.
The innovation this year is the concept of a 'Mahila Mathu Makkala Dasara' and a 'Raitha Dasara' with programmes specifically meant for women, children and farmers.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Faith in Boeing
On August 1, a Qantas Boeing 747, flying to Melbourne from Hong Kong, made an emergency landing in Manila after having plunged several thousand feet following a freak accident on board.
A burst oxygen tank had damaged the plane's fuselage, leading to air from the pressurised cabin rushing into the cargo area. The drop in cabin pressure forced the pilots to plunge immediately to 6,000 metres where the atmospheric pressure was more conducive.
India has reason enough to worry, with an increasing number of people now flying, and with the national carrier Air India's fleet being full of Boeings. Ironically, the Qantas incident has only succeeded in reassuring flyers of the airworthiness of the 747s, which have a reputation of being the safest aircraft with only two crashes to date since they were launched in the 1970s.
The reaction among aviation experts is that one freak accident isn't enough to shake the faith in a line of aircraft that has proved its reliability for decades.
A burst oxygen tank had damaged the plane's fuselage, leading to air from the pressurised cabin rushing into the cargo area. The drop in cabin pressure forced the pilots to plunge immediately to 6,000 metres where the atmospheric pressure was more conducive.
India has reason enough to worry, with an increasing number of people now flying, and with the national carrier Air India's fleet being full of Boeings. Ironically, the Qantas incident has only succeeded in reassuring flyers of the airworthiness of the 747s, which have a reputation of being the safest aircraft with only two crashes to date since they were launched in the 1970s.
The reaction among aviation experts is that one freak accident isn't enough to shake the faith in a line of aircraft that has proved its reliability for decades.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Swiss products
What comes to mind when you think of Switzerland? The Alps, the Swiss chocolates, watches and knives?
Showcased at an exhibition 'Criss+Cross, Designs from Switzerland 1860-2007' are products that reflect how engineers and designers collaborate in the world of design, in fashion or in the creation of common utility products. Criss+Cross links the variety of today's products with the rich tradition of Swiss design.
Some of the interesting exhibits include a camera that fits in your palm, various types of ski boots, an onion chopper designed in 1953, a toaster designed in 1930 and of course the famous Toblerone chocolate that is in its 100th year. Paisley cloth from Glaus manufactured in 1860 is also on display.
Incidentally, the exhibition coincides with 60th year of the Ind0-Swiss Friendship Treaty.
The exhibits are categorised into sequels such as Small and Beautiful, The Tiny Helpers, Up to the Mountains, A Visual Statement and Library.
Showcased at an exhibition 'Criss+Cross, Designs from Switzerland 1860-2007' are products that reflect how engineers and designers collaborate in the world of design, in fashion or in the creation of common utility products. Criss+Cross links the variety of today's products with the rich tradition of Swiss design.
Some of the interesting exhibits include a camera that fits in your palm, various types of ski boots, an onion chopper designed in 1953, a toaster designed in 1930 and of course the famous Toblerone chocolate that is in its 100th year. Paisley cloth from Glaus manufactured in 1860 is also on display.
Incidentally, the exhibition coincides with 60th year of the Ind0-Swiss Friendship Treaty.
The exhibits are categorised into sequels such as Small and Beautiful, The Tiny Helpers, Up to the Mountains, A Visual Statement and Library.
Freedom Day
Independence Day dawned on us once again heralding new hopes and sundry wishes. We place our expectations on the government.
August 15th was celebrated by many public institutions across the country. It is a public holiday in India. The roads wore a deserted look but the national flag was seen fluttering atop private vehicles, buses and cars. Shops too could be seen displaying the national flag.
In Mangalore, Nehru Maidan was the scene of national pride. The flag flew at half- mast and citizens paid homage to the leaders of the country. Mahila Sabha, Ladies Club, Lions Club etc. celebrated Independence Day at their leisure.
A number of shops remained closed. Schools, colleges too gave a holiday to their students.
August 15th was celebrated by many public institutions across the country. It is a public holiday in India. The roads wore a deserted look but the national flag was seen fluttering atop private vehicles, buses and cars. Shops too could be seen displaying the national flag.
In Mangalore, Nehru Maidan was the scene of national pride. The flag flew at half- mast and citizens paid homage to the leaders of the country. Mahila Sabha, Ladies Club, Lions Club etc. celebrated Independence Day at their leisure.
A number of shops remained closed. Schools, colleges too gave a holiday to their students.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
The city on a rainy day
What look does Mangalore city wear on a rainy day? This writer set out to look.
It is just another day except for the drizzle. School children are going about their business as usual, office-goers are busy boarding buses on their way to work.
M.G.Road, the area which houses the maximum number of college-students sees the usual bevy of the eager-beaver college crowd.
Monsoon sales are announced brazenly with shops in Hampankatta giving flat sales at around 30% or 50% off. And, house-wives and other shoppers are making the most of the offer.
Shops selling rainy gear seem to be having a full day. With rains for another six months around the corner, the people want to be well-prepared for the eventuality. Rain-coats, wind-cheaters, umbrellas are inevitably in everyone's hands.
Rain or shine, people are not taking the day off. Hampankatta circle wears the usual crowded look. The hustle and bustle of city life goes on. Janmashtami, the festival which falls in the rainy season is awaited by Hindus all over India. The human pyramid breaks the pot at the top. Mangloreans too revel in Ashtami celebrations.
August 15th or Independence Day is just another two days away. Flags in varying sizss are merchandise that shops display sure of plenty of customers. They wait for schools, colleges, banks, Lions' club, Rotary and Ladies' club members to book in their orders.
All in all, the rainy season ushers in its' brand of life-style amongst Mangloreans.
It is just another day except for the drizzle. School children are going about their business as usual, office-goers are busy boarding buses on their way to work.
M.G.Road, the area which houses the maximum number of college-students sees the usual bevy of the eager-beaver college crowd.
Monsoon sales are announced brazenly with shops in Hampankatta giving flat sales at around 30% or 50% off. And, house-wives and other shoppers are making the most of the offer.
Shops selling rainy gear seem to be having a full day. With rains for another six months around the corner, the people want to be well-prepared for the eventuality. Rain-coats, wind-cheaters, umbrellas are inevitably in everyone's hands.
Rain or shine, people are not taking the day off. Hampankatta circle wears the usual crowded look. The hustle and bustle of city life goes on. Janmashtami, the festival which falls in the rainy season is awaited by Hindus all over India. The human pyramid breaks the pot at the top. Mangloreans too revel in Ashtami celebrations.
August 15th or Independence Day is just another two days away. Flags in varying sizss are merchandise that shops display sure of plenty of customers. They wait for schools, colleges, banks, Lions' club, Rotary and Ladies' club members to book in their orders.
All in all, the rainy season ushers in its' brand of life-style amongst Mangloreans.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
A rare celestial occurrence
Come August 16, we can witness partial lunar eclipse, which will be visible from all parts of India. A lunar eclipse occurs when the moon passes through the umbral region of the earth's shadow and becomes imperceptible.
Lunar eclipse is discernible from a large part of the earth. A lunar eclipse occurs whenever the moon passes through some portion of the earth's shadow. This can occur only when the sun, earth and moon are aligned exactly or very closely so, with the earth in the middle. Hence, there is always a full moon on the night of the lunar eclipse. The type and length of an eclipse depend upon the moon's location relative to its orbital mode.
The partial lunar eclipse will be visible in the region, covering Antarctica, Australasia except New Zealand, Asia except northeasern part, Europe, Africa and South America.
The beginning of the central phase will be visible from the western part of the Pacific Ocean, the northern tip of Japan and the northeastern part of Russia. The ending of the umbral phase will be visible from the south-western part of the Pacific Ocean, north eastern part of South America and Greenland.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch. You don't need any kind of protective filters. It isn't even necessary to use a telescope. You can watch the lunar eclipse with nothing more than your own two eyes. If you have a pair of binocular, they will help magnify the view and will make the real coloration brighter and easier to see. A standard pair of binoculars works fine. Enjoy the spectacle.
Lunar eclipse is discernible from a large part of the earth. A lunar eclipse occurs whenever the moon passes through some portion of the earth's shadow. This can occur only when the sun, earth and moon are aligned exactly or very closely so, with the earth in the middle. Hence, there is always a full moon on the night of the lunar eclipse. The type and length of an eclipse depend upon the moon's location relative to its orbital mode.
The partial lunar eclipse will be visible in the region, covering Antarctica, Australasia except New Zealand, Asia except northeasern part, Europe, Africa and South America.
The beginning of the central phase will be visible from the western part of the Pacific Ocean, the northern tip of Japan and the northeastern part of Russia. The ending of the umbral phase will be visible from the south-western part of the Pacific Ocean, north eastern part of South America and Greenland.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch. You don't need any kind of protective filters. It isn't even necessary to use a telescope. You can watch the lunar eclipse with nothing more than your own two eyes. If you have a pair of binocular, they will help magnify the view and will make the real coloration brighter and easier to see. A standard pair of binoculars works fine. Enjoy the spectacle.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Pat comes the reply
The knowledge that one acquires in one's lifetime is 'but a drop in the ocean', so goes the saying. Proving their acumen in quick replies to test one's general knowledge, K.M. Rajath and Karthik Ramakrishnan were winners in the recently held 'Quiz Par Excellence 2008'. This was their first quiz together as a team. But, Rajath confesses to not being a novice in quizzing. Maggi Quizzes in Bangalore where he was studying, the Hindu Young World quiz and Geetanjali quiz in Mangalore have seen him gain experience.
An 8th standard student K.M. Rajath has been quizzing since the 5th standard.
Poring over Bournvita quiz books and general knowledge books he takes pride in setting the field alight in the audio-visual round with a score of 90 points. The quiz was meant exclusively for CBSE and ICSE schools in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
An excellent academic record of 89% combined with interest in debating and football K.M. Rajath's teachers were frontrunners in support and classmates overjoyed to see him win.
An 8th standard student K.M. Rajath has been quizzing since the 5th standard.
Poring over Bournvita quiz books and general knowledge books he takes pride in setting the field alight in the audio-visual round with a score of 90 points. The quiz was meant exclusively for CBSE and ICSE schools in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
An excellent academic record of 89% combined with interest in debating and football K.M. Rajath's teachers were frontrunners in support and classmates overjoyed to see him win.
Flowers bedeck Hampi Chariot
Among other attractions like the Cacti House, a breathtaking floral recreation of the historic Hampi stone chariot drew massive crowds at the Fourth National Flower show at Lalbagh in Bangalore,
The Hampi chariot complex with its famed stone chariot and temples and the statue of Ugranarasimha has been recreated in all its splendour using flowers with the Tungabhadra river made of floating jasmines providing a perfect backdrop.
An exhibition on organic farming, ikebana, bonsai and medicinal plants. As many as 300 flower and 400 cacti varieties are on show. Stalls with several varieties of plants for sale have also been put up at the different pavilions.
The organisers are expecting about 10 lakh visitors this year. The flower show is on till August 17 and will be open to the public every day between 9 a.m. and 6.p.m. at Lalbagh.
One visitor, Laxminarayan, 50 said that flower shows are absolute must for people. "Flower shows destress people. With hectic schedules and busy lifestyles, people do not get time to rejuvenate themselves. These shows are relaxing and it gives quality time for families'.
The Horticulture Ministry under the National Horticulture Mission has explicitly exhibited the importance of organic farming, Medicinal plants, flowering plants, bonsai and other varieties of plants have also been put up for sale.
The Hampi chariot complex with its famed stone chariot and temples and the statue of Ugranarasimha has been recreated in all its splendour using flowers with the Tungabhadra river made of floating jasmines providing a perfect backdrop.
An exhibition on organic farming, ikebana, bonsai and medicinal plants. As many as 300 flower and 400 cacti varieties are on show. Stalls with several varieties of plants for sale have also been put up at the different pavilions.
The organisers are expecting about 10 lakh visitors this year. The flower show is on till August 17 and will be open to the public every day between 9 a.m. and 6.p.m. at Lalbagh.
One visitor, Laxminarayan, 50 said that flower shows are absolute must for people. "Flower shows destress people. With hectic schedules and busy lifestyles, people do not get time to rejuvenate themselves. These shows are relaxing and it gives quality time for families'.
The Horticulture Ministry under the National Horticulture Mission has explicitly exhibited the importance of organic farming, Medicinal plants, flowering plants, bonsai and other varieties of plants have also been put up for sale.
Friday, August 8, 2008
The eagerly awaited Olympics
All eyes will be on Beijing at 8.08.08 on August 8, 2008(8/8/08) when the 2008 Olympics will be inaugurated. Everybody is likely to rush home early to watch the promised spectacle unfold on television.
Closer home, people from different walks of life are looking at the date with special interest and good-luck seekers are trying to etch the date into their personal lives in one way or the other. More so because it is a once-in-a -100-year occurrence.
The obsession has gripped the Chinese too. Websites are inundated with reports of over 9, 000 couples set to tie the knot in China where number eight symbolises infinite luck.
While couples seem to be taken in by the novelty of the day, philatelist Venkatesh S.Yalavigi has designed and distributed 150 envelopes.
Closer home, people from different walks of life are looking at the date with special interest and good-luck seekers are trying to etch the date into their personal lives in one way or the other. More so because it is a once-in-a -100-year occurrence.
The obsession has gripped the Chinese too. Websites are inundated with reports of over 9, 000 couples set to tie the knot in China where number eight symbolises infinite luck.
While couples seem to be taken in by the novelty of the day, philatelist Venkatesh S.Yalavigi has designed and distributed 150 envelopes.
Bengaluru airport - not so bad; after all.
The much-touted Bengaluru airport opened in the midst of incredible criticism. Impossible to reach. Takes forever to get there. Rs.2000 for a taxi. Two hour drive. No chairs to sit on. Only six toilets. Only one runway for landing and take off. Already inadequate as traffic has beaten phase 2 projections.
However surprise of all surprises. Frequent shuttle buses are available at very low prices- from Rs. 35 for a city bus and Rs.80 for a non-stop dedicated shuttle to an airconditioned coach for Rs.120. From the old airport to Indiranagar a measly 3-4kms. is over Rs.100 by auto and Rs. 250 by taxi. Several pick-up points and very frequent services.
The floors are constantly being polished with a sweeping vehicle and the operator appeared to take great pride in his work. Security is a breeze and I assume immigration is not painful. The airport I think it is an achievement to be proud of -a national first like the Vashi, New Bombay train station and Calcutta metro system.
A first for Bangalore, by all counts.
However surprise of all surprises. Frequent shuttle buses are available at very low prices- from Rs. 35 for a city bus and Rs.80 for a non-stop dedicated shuttle to an airconditioned coach for Rs.120. From the old airport to Indiranagar a measly 3-4kms. is over Rs.100 by auto and Rs. 250 by taxi. Several pick-up points and very frequent services.
The floors are constantly being polished with a sweeping vehicle and the operator appeared to take great pride in his work. Security is a breeze and I assume immigration is not painful. The airport I think it is an achievement to be proud of -a national first like the Vashi, New Bombay train station and Calcutta metro system.
A first for Bangalore, by all counts.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Worshipping the snake-god
With Naga occupying a distinct place in Tuluva culture, Nagara Panchami is celebrated as an important festival with great pomp and gaiety.
On Wednesday, as it was Nagara Panchami , large 'serpentine' queue of devotees gathered at various temples across the district to appease the snake-god seeking his blessings for well-being.
During the festival of 'Nagara Panchami', devotees offer fresh milk, tender coconut, honey, turmeric and flowers to the stone idols of Naga installed in several temples.
Kukke Shree Subramanya temple and Anantha Padmanabha temple at Manjeshwara are the two famous temples dedicated to Naga where Nagara Panchami is the biggest festival. Thousands of devotees on Wednesday thronged from far and wide places to these temples to offer their prayers and vows that they had visited to perform a fulfilment of their desires. Devotees offered milk to the god through the priests of these temples.
The markets in cities as well as villages wore a busy look as the people on the eve of Panchami were seen buying areca spatha, plantain leaves, turmeric leaves and flowers, some of the commodities needed during the celebrations.
On Panchami, a lavish meal is prepared at the household level with delicacies like 'manjal erethe gatti' being typical about the celebration along with payasam.
On Wednesday, as it was Nagara Panchami , large 'serpentine' queue of devotees gathered at various temples across the district to appease the snake-god seeking his blessings for well-being.
During the festival of 'Nagara Panchami', devotees offer fresh milk, tender coconut, honey, turmeric and flowers to the stone idols of Naga installed in several temples.
Kukke Shree Subramanya temple and Anantha Padmanabha temple at Manjeshwara are the two famous temples dedicated to Naga where Nagara Panchami is the biggest festival. Thousands of devotees on Wednesday thronged from far and wide places to these temples to offer their prayers and vows that they had visited to perform a fulfilment of their desires. Devotees offered milk to the god through the priests of these temples.
The markets in cities as well as villages wore a busy look as the people on the eve of Panchami were seen buying areca spatha, plantain leaves, turmeric leaves and flowers, some of the commodities needed during the celebrations.
On Panchami, a lavish meal is prepared at the household level with delicacies like 'manjal erethe gatti' being typical about the celebration along with payasam.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Snatching away lives
Life is cheap in our country. Murders, arson, rape ......so the list goes on.
Nothing comes as a surprise. A 2-year old girl loses her life due to her father slapping her ...... a 14-year old girl at the mercy of her father gets murdered.
Floods, fire, burns, accidents are all too rampant.
Unlike in advanced countries where safety measures are adequately provided to protect individual rights and liberties, in India we are sadly lacking.
Many are the lives and limbs broken in unanticipated occurrences over which we have no control. The government offers platitudes as consolation but it is no compensation for lives lost. Family and friends are the losers in the bargain.
Nothing comes as a surprise. A 2-year old girl loses her life due to her father slapping her ...... a 14-year old girl at the mercy of her father gets murdered.
Floods, fire, burns, accidents are all too rampant.
Unlike in advanced countries where safety measures are adequately provided to protect individual rights and liberties, in India we are sadly lacking.
Many are the lives and limbs broken in unanticipated occurrences over which we have no control. The government offers platitudes as consolation but it is no compensation for lives lost. Family and friends are the losers in the bargain.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Honoring an artiste
Kishore Kumar, Mohammad Rafi, Mukesh, Yesudas ........all these singing greats reel off one's tongue as they have etched their names firmly in the history of Indian cinema.
Many are the cultural organisations that pay homage to these singer from time to time.
Raash Cultural Forum is one such that has dedicated an evening of song and music in tribute to the legend that was Mohammad Rafi on his 28th anniversary.
Mohammad Rafi passed away on 31st July 1980. Thousands of people thronged the roads accompanying the funeral procession. The entire film industry mourned his death. Alongside the funeral cortege were Sunil Dutt, Raj Kapoor amongst other bigwigs of the film world. He had lent his voice to many leading men.
The video clipping at Town Hall, Mangalore revealed Mohammad Rafi in his youth attending a function where the glitterati of the film industry were present.
Shashi Kapoor , Helen, Mehmood, Shanker- Jaikishan, Nanda, Sadhana graced the occasion. Mohammad Rafi's vocal chords carved a unique place in the lyrical scenario of the Hindi film industry.
Many are the cultural organisations that pay homage to these singer from time to time.
Raash Cultural Forum is one such that has dedicated an evening of song and music in tribute to the legend that was Mohammad Rafi on his 28th anniversary.
Mohammad Rafi passed away on 31st July 1980. Thousands of people thronged the roads accompanying the funeral procession. The entire film industry mourned his death. Alongside the funeral cortege were Sunil Dutt, Raj Kapoor amongst other bigwigs of the film world. He had lent his voice to many leading men.
The video clipping at Town Hall, Mangalore revealed Mohammad Rafi in his youth attending a function where the glitterati of the film industry were present.
Shashi Kapoor , Helen, Mehmood, Shanker- Jaikishan, Nanda, Sadhana graced the occasion. Mohammad Rafi's vocal chords carved a unique place in the lyrical scenario of the Hindi film industry.
The Indian tri-color flying high
As Independence Day approaches, sales of the Indian flag in different shapes and sizes will be brisk and flying high. The Karnataka Khadi Gramadyog Samyuktha Sangha (KGSS-the authorised manufacturers and suppliers of the national flag for the entire country has reported a significant increase in the demand for the national flag this year.
The spurt in demand follows the government's declaration, allowing all citizens to hoist the national flag throughout the year, even in their homes.
Earlier, there used to be a high demand mostly for the larger flags mainly used in governement institutions. But, now a considerable number of medium- sized flags, used in schools, households, shops and the informal gatherings are enjoying a good demand.
There are nine standard sizes. There are also specifications concerning the type and size of flags, which are hoisted atop Rashtrapati Bhavan, Raj Bhavan, Vidhana Soudha and the headquarters of the defence forces and the police. The cloth is hand-spun and hand woven and produced by the Sangh's units in Garag and Bagalkot. The colors of flags have to be of the exact shade specified by KVIC and BIS with their length and width in the ratio 2:3.
The spurt in demand follows the government's declaration, allowing all citizens to hoist the national flag throughout the year, even in their homes.
Earlier, there used to be a high demand mostly for the larger flags mainly used in governement institutions. But, now a considerable number of medium- sized flags, used in schools, households, shops and the informal gatherings are enjoying a good demand.
There are nine standard sizes. There are also specifications concerning the type and size of flags, which are hoisted atop Rashtrapati Bhavan, Raj Bhavan, Vidhana Soudha and the headquarters of the defence forces and the police. The cloth is hand-spun and hand woven and produced by the Sangh's units in Garag and Bagalkot. The colors of flags have to be of the exact shade specified by KVIC and BIS with their length and width in the ratio 2:3.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Honoring an artiste
Kishore kumar, Mohammad Rafi, Mukesh, Yesudas......... all these singing greats reel off one's tongue as they have etched their names firmly in the history of Indian cinema.
Many are the cultural organisations that pay homage to these singers from time to time.
Raash Cultural Forum is one such that has dedicated an evening of song and music is tribute to the legend that was Mohammad Rafi on his 28th anniversary.
Mohammad Rafi passed away on 31st July 1980. Thousands of people thronged the roads accompanying the funeral procession. The entire film industry mourned his death. Alongside the funeral cortege were Sunil Dutt, Raj Kapoor amongst the bigwigs of the film industry. He had lent his voice to many leading men.
The video clipping at Town Hall, Mangalore revealed Mohammad Rafi in his youth attending a function where the glitterati of the film industry were present.
Shashi Kapoor, Helen, Mehmood,Shanker-Jaikishen, Nanda, Sadhana graced the occasion. Mohammad Rafi's vocal chords carved a unique place in the lyrical scenario of the Hindi film industry.
Many are the cultural organisations that pay homage to these singers from time to time.
Raash Cultural Forum is one such that has dedicated an evening of song and music is tribute to the legend that was Mohammad Rafi on his 28th anniversary.
Mohammad Rafi passed away on 31st July 1980. Thousands of people thronged the roads accompanying the funeral procession. The entire film industry mourned his death. Alongside the funeral cortege were Sunil Dutt, Raj Kapoor amongst the bigwigs of the film industry. He had lent his voice to many leading men.
The video clipping at Town Hall, Mangalore revealed Mohammad Rafi in his youth attending a function where the glitterati of the film industry were present.
Shashi Kapoor, Helen, Mehmood,Shanker-Jaikishen, Nanda, Sadhana graced the occasion. Mohammad Rafi's vocal chords carved a unique place in the lyrical scenario of the Hindi film industry.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Britons learn the 'Indian'way.
Classes are being launched to teach U.K. business people about Indian etiquette, of which knowledge the British executives lack.
The U.K. India Business Council will run the first of a series of classes offering tips on how to bow graciusly, smile politely and refrain from kissing women.
The lessons follow reports of business deals collapsing due to overly tactile sales people, patronising chief executives and British delegates offending their Indian counterparts by standing with their hands on their hips and calling Indian managers by their first names.
Business in India is all about trust. If you made a wrong move culturally you can throw away your chances.
The organisation has drawn up a list of dos and don'tsss which include meeting potential business partners with 'namaste' making small talk and bowing slightly with palms together. The organisation advises against shaking hands with women unless offered and they should never be kissed in greeting or goodbye.
It is reported, there are 32, 000 Britons in India.
The U.K. India Business Council will run the first of a series of classes offering tips on how to bow graciusly, smile politely and refrain from kissing women.
The lessons follow reports of business deals collapsing due to overly tactile sales people, patronising chief executives and British delegates offending their Indian counterparts by standing with their hands on their hips and calling Indian managers by their first names.
Business in India is all about trust. If you made a wrong move culturally you can throw away your chances.
The organisation has drawn up a list of dos and don'tsss which include meeting potential business partners with 'namaste' making small talk and bowing slightly with palms together. The organisation advises against shaking hands with women unless offered and they should never be kissed in greeting or goodbye.
It is reported, there are 32, 000 Britons in India.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
A fuel-efficient car
A product of two and a half years of hard work. A group of RVCE students of Bangalore proudly displayed 'Garuda' a fuel efficient car which promises a mileage of 200 kms a litre.
A dream come true of eight engineering students who wanted to just 'build a car'. Led by Nishant Sarawgi two and a half years ago, they wanted to take part in a super mileage competition.
Then, the focus changed to innovation. Nishant says 'There were a lot of changes, right from the engine, tires, chassis and body. We kept making constant improvements to the design of the car to make it more aerodynamic'.
The figure, they have set as a target for mileage is 500kms/litre. The miieage they achieved in three days of testing on NICE road was 180 kms/litre.
The finished product was unveiled by international car designer Dilip Chhabria.
More work will be done on the car to make it more fuel-efficient.
The team will take part in the Shell-Exo Marathon (UK) next year.
A dream come true of eight engineering students who wanted to just 'build a car'. Led by Nishant Sarawgi two and a half years ago, they wanted to take part in a super mileage competition.
Then, the focus changed to innovation. Nishant says 'There were a lot of changes, right from the engine, tires, chassis and body. We kept making constant improvements to the design of the car to make it more aerodynamic'.
The figure, they have set as a target for mileage is 500kms/litre. The miieage they achieved in three days of testing on NICE road was 180 kms/litre.
The finished product was unveiled by international car designer Dilip Chhabria.
More work will be done on the car to make it more fuel-efficient.
The team will take part in the Shell-Exo Marathon (UK) next year.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Sun-eating dragon appears
An enormous swath of western Siberia was submerged in darkness as the moon completely blocked the sun, enrapturing huge crowds of Russians and foreign tourists.
The peak of the eclipse occurred in Novosibirsk, Russia's third largest city. There, forecasts of cloudy skies proved wrong and tens of thousands of people who had flocked to the centre of the town were able to observe the rare total eclipse of the sun which lasted two minutes, 23 seconds in its full beauty.
Traffic stopped. Crowds cheered and whistled as the moon covered the sun, the wind died and the day became night. The eclipse began in Arctic Canada, then passed through Greenland, western Siberia, Mongolia and China.
According to NASA, the next total eclipse will occur on July 22, 2009 starting in India, and moving across Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, China and over the Pacific Ocean.
The peak of the eclipse occurred in Novosibirsk, Russia's third largest city. There, forecasts of cloudy skies proved wrong and tens of thousands of people who had flocked to the centre of the town were able to observe the rare total eclipse of the sun which lasted two minutes, 23 seconds in its full beauty.
Traffic stopped. Crowds cheered and whistled as the moon covered the sun, the wind died and the day became night. The eclipse began in Arctic Canada, then passed through Greenland, western Siberia, Mongolia and China.
According to NASA, the next total eclipse will occur on July 22, 2009 starting in India, and moving across Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, China and over the Pacific Ocean.
Nadia Comaneci- the heart-throb of millions
Nadia Comaneci, the youngest all-round champion at 14 and the first from her nation to win that title, Comaneci's four out of seven 10s came on the uneven bars.
Television beamed images of the 86-pound, long-haired, white leotard-clad coming up with amazing performances on the balance beam, considered one of the most difficult events.
The nervous energy waiting for the event to begin would dissipate once she swung her body into action, performing a ballet in the air.
The routines were riveting in every way, leaving an audience of sporting enthusiasts transfixed.
After she had twirled and arched her supple body on the uneven bars, the first event in women's gymastics and completed the act with a soft landing and a bow, the score-board flashed '1.00' to show the judges had given her '10' the first perfect score in gymnastics history.
Romania's little girl went through her routine with such technical and physical skill that the judges were dazzled into rewarding performance.
She recorded a total of seven perfect scores and won three gold medals in the all-round competition, uneven bars and balance beam.
The Romanian by now a living legend returned four years later at 1980 Moscow, winning two more Olympic golds at 18 years four inches taller and heavier.
Beijing 2008 will not see perfect 10s following a change in the scoring system by the International Gymnastics Federation from 2006.
A gymnast's total is now a combination of two parts -one for difficulty and one for execution of the routine.
Now scores are flexible. The 2007 World Championships ranged from 15.250 to 16. 350 for women in four events.
Nadia Comaneci remains the template for perfection.
Television beamed images of the 86-pound, long-haired, white leotard-clad coming up with amazing performances on the balance beam, considered one of the most difficult events.
The nervous energy waiting for the event to begin would dissipate once she swung her body into action, performing a ballet in the air.
The routines were riveting in every way, leaving an audience of sporting enthusiasts transfixed.
After she had twirled and arched her supple body on the uneven bars, the first event in women's gymastics and completed the act with a soft landing and a bow, the score-board flashed '1.00' to show the judges had given her '10' the first perfect score in gymnastics history.
Romania's little girl went through her routine with such technical and physical skill that the judges were dazzled into rewarding performance.
She recorded a total of seven perfect scores and won three gold medals in the all-round competition, uneven bars and balance beam.
The Romanian by now a living legend returned four years later at 1980 Moscow, winning two more Olympic golds at 18 years four inches taller and heavier.
Beijing 2008 will not see perfect 10s following a change in the scoring system by the International Gymnastics Federation from 2006.
A gymnast's total is now a combination of two parts -one for difficulty and one for execution of the routine.
Now scores are flexible. The 2007 World Championships ranged from 15.250 to 16. 350 for women in four events.
Nadia Comaneci remains the template for perfection.
Recognition for a child artiste
To come in the news for excellence in one's chosen vocation is not in the fate of every Tom, Dick and Harry. But Tanvi Rao, has created ripples of headlines over her mastery in the nuances of the art form, namely Bharatanatyam.
Apart from the scores of trophies won at various places in India, she recently bagged the 'Apoorva Balapratibhe' title crowned by none other than Shri Veerendra Heggade. She took to dance at the age of five and has given a number of performances in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. She's participated in various competitions at the state and National- level and emerged with flying colors.
What is unique about her dancing skills is that she choreographs her own steps. Her mother explains to her the meaning of songs and she would like to become a professional dance choreographer in future.
Her teachers at school, the St. Agnes English Primary School which she attends are proud of her and laud her achievements. They give her holidays and her classmates bask in her glory as they help her with when she is absent.
Apart from the scores of trophies won at various places in India, she recently bagged the 'Apoorva Balapratibhe' title crowned by none other than Shri Veerendra Heggade. She took to dance at the age of five and has given a number of performances in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. She's participated in various competitions at the state and National- level and emerged with flying colors.
What is unique about her dancing skills is that she choreographs her own steps. Her mother explains to her the meaning of songs and she would like to become a professional dance choreographer in future.
Her teachers at school, the St. Agnes English Primary School which she attends are proud of her and laud her achievements. They give her holidays and her classmates bask in her glory as they help her with when she is absent.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Booker longllist has 3 Indians
A first-time Indian novelist and two other Indian writers Salman Rushdie and Amitav Ghosh will compete for this year's #50, 000 prestigious Booker prize.
The White Tiger, a debut novel by Aravind Adiga, a software engineer from Karnataka has recieved considerable attention in western capitals for its clear-eyed view of India's economic coming of age.
As almost always the case with Rushdie, his Enchantress of Florence was immediately described as the favorite to win. The 40-year- old Booker Prize, which is technically called Man-Booker because it is sponsored by the alternative investment management-business the Man group, announced its B-strong long-list on Wednesday. The long-list was culled from 112 books of which nine interestingly were called in to read by the judges by special demand. The final shortlist will be announced in September just a month before the prize winner is feted at a gala dinner here.
This year's long-list is seen to have a marked sub-continental flavour, as it also features another first-time novelist, this time from Pakistan. It is Mohammad Hanif for his political satire A case of Exploding Mangoes, about the mysterious air crash that killed General Zia-ul-Huq. Former Conservative Cabinet Minister Michael Partillo, who chaired the Booker's panel of judges, said he was' pleased with the geographical balance of the longlist with writers from Pakistan, India, Australia, Ireland and UK.
The White Tiger, a debut novel by Aravind Adiga, a software engineer from Karnataka has recieved considerable attention in western capitals for its clear-eyed view of India's economic coming of age.
As almost always the case with Rushdie, his Enchantress of Florence was immediately described as the favorite to win. The 40-year- old Booker Prize, which is technically called Man-Booker because it is sponsored by the alternative investment management-business the Man group, announced its B-strong long-list on Wednesday. The long-list was culled from 112 books of which nine interestingly were called in to read by the judges by special demand. The final shortlist will be announced in September just a month before the prize winner is feted at a gala dinner here.
This year's long-list is seen to have a marked sub-continental flavour, as it also features another first-time novelist, this time from Pakistan. It is Mohammad Hanif for his political satire A case of Exploding Mangoes, about the mysterious air crash that killed General Zia-ul-Huq. Former Conservative Cabinet Minister Michael Partillo, who chaired the Booker's panel of judges, said he was' pleased with the geographical balance of the longlist with writers from Pakistan, India, Australia, Ireland and UK.
Tulunadu culture showcased
Facets of Tulunadu culture came alive at a prototype 'Guttina Mane' (a traditional house for a clan with an open courtyard) at Pilikula Nisargadhama.
The occasion was a programme titled 'aatitonji dino' ( a day in the Hindu lunar month of 'aashada') organised by Pilikula Nisargadhama Society.
People tasted 22 delicious delicacies of the coastal belt at the 'nadu mane' (sheltered area around courtyard) besides witnessing some of the ancient household articles, agriculture related articles , old bamboo baskets, wooden game articles, pottery items and articles used in 'bhoota worship' ( spirit worship). The special Aashada delicacies were made by enthusiastic women at their own places and brought to 'Guttina Mane' .
Shankari T.Alva had cooked 'neeruppad chutni' ( chutni prepared from mango pieces stuffed in salt water) . There were coastal specific dishes such as 'patrode', 'kuda chutni, 'timere chutni', ' pejakai chutni' ,'mude' " manjal ireta gatti'.
Students rendered folk songs. Some women shared the tricks of the trade of preparing dishes of the 'aati' month. Books on Tulu culture and literature were put on sale.
People enjoyed the serene atmosphere in the village. They felt free there.
The occasion was a programme titled 'aatitonji dino' ( a day in the Hindu lunar month of 'aashada') organised by Pilikula Nisargadhama Society.
People tasted 22 delicious delicacies of the coastal belt at the 'nadu mane' (sheltered area around courtyard) besides witnessing some of the ancient household articles, agriculture related articles , old bamboo baskets, wooden game articles, pottery items and articles used in 'bhoota worship' ( spirit worship). The special Aashada delicacies were made by enthusiastic women at their own places and brought to 'Guttina Mane' .
Shankari T.Alva had cooked 'neeruppad chutni' ( chutni prepared from mango pieces stuffed in salt water) . There were coastal specific dishes such as 'patrode', 'kuda chutni, 'timere chutni', ' pejakai chutni' ,'mude' " manjal ireta gatti'.
Students rendered folk songs. Some women shared the tricks of the trade of preparing dishes of the 'aati' month. Books on Tulu culture and literature were put on sale.
People enjoyed the serene atmosphere in the village. They felt free there.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
First solar eclipse around the corner
The Earth, the Sun and the Moon will align in a celestial ballet on Friday. The recipient will be China, where the first record of an eclipse was made more than 4,000 years ago, with a dazzling show.
Longingly awaited, the first total solar eclipse since March 2006, kicks off at 1453 IST, when the lunar shadow touches down on the fringes of Nunovet province in northern Canada.
The dark, narrow disc known as the umbra, then races across central Russia and Central Asia and head into Mongolia and north-western China. It then curves to the South-East before expiring near the city of Xin at 1650 IST, after a trek of some 10,200 kms.
Most of Asia, northern Europe and northern Canada will see a partial eclipse, according to NASA's eclipse expert. 'More than a billion people will be in the shadow of the Moon on August 1' says the US publication Sky & Telescope.
Eclipses of the Sun have long held a tenacious grip on the human mind. To ancient Chinese, it was a sun- eating dragon which had to be chased away with clashing of cymbals and pans. In Hindu mythology , demon Rahu takes a bite out of the Sun from time to time.
Longingly awaited, the first total solar eclipse since March 2006, kicks off at 1453 IST, when the lunar shadow touches down on the fringes of Nunovet province in northern Canada.
The dark, narrow disc known as the umbra, then races across central Russia and Central Asia and head into Mongolia and north-western China. It then curves to the South-East before expiring near the city of Xin at 1650 IST, after a trek of some 10,200 kms.
Most of Asia, northern Europe and northern Canada will see a partial eclipse, according to NASA's eclipse expert. 'More than a billion people will be in the shadow of the Moon on August 1' says the US publication Sky & Telescope.
Eclipses of the Sun have long held a tenacious grip on the human mind. To ancient Chinese, it was a sun- eating dragon which had to be chased away with clashing of cymbals and pans. In Hindu mythology , demon Rahu takes a bite out of the Sun from time to time.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Mishap on the streets
Two motorcycles collided with each other causing the riders to fall off their seats and collapse on the road. Minor injuries were sustained.
The accident created animosity between the two victims.
The incident occurred in the vicinity of the Bejai church. People gathered around the site of the accident. Traffic continued alongside the road as no serious injury was caused to either of the victims.
Accidents are common in our roads. With speeding buses, a notorious menace of this small city of Mangalore, two-wheelers and cars jostle amidst the hustle and bustle of daily traffic.
The traffic police should be cautioned. Auto drivers too should stick to regulations.
The accident created animosity between the two victims.
The incident occurred in the vicinity of the Bejai church. People gathered around the site of the accident. Traffic continued alongside the road as no serious injury was caused to either of the victims.
Accidents are common in our roads. With speeding buses, a notorious menace of this small city of Mangalore, two-wheelers and cars jostle amidst the hustle and bustle of daily traffic.
The traffic police should be cautioned. Auto drivers too should stick to regulations.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Global warming vis-a-vis shrinking glaciers
With rising global temperature, glaciers in the Himalayas are retreating at an alarming rate of 15-20 metres every year, which could adversely impact agriculture in the region.
Mapping of 400 glaciers done jointly by the Himachal Pradesh Science and Technology Council and the Space Research Station Ahmedabad since 1994 on rivers Chandra, Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Spiti has shown that the glaciers are retreating.
'There had been a retreat of 10-15 metres per year in 400 glaciers', A.B.Kulkarni head of the Glaciology wing of Space Research Station, Ahmedabad said.
The mapping of glaciers through satellite picture suggests that there are in total 334 glaciers in the entire Sutlej and Beas basins covering an area of 1515 sq.kms.
Officials stressed an field based study in Himachal Pradesh to collect true statistics which would help in drawing plans accordingly. The temperature of Shimla has risen by a degree Celsius in last 100 years reflecting impact of global warming in the hill state.
Mapping of 400 glaciers done jointly by the Himachal Pradesh Science and Technology Council and the Space Research Station Ahmedabad since 1994 on rivers Chandra, Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Spiti has shown that the glaciers are retreating.
'There had been a retreat of 10-15 metres per year in 400 glaciers', A.B.Kulkarni head of the Glaciology wing of Space Research Station, Ahmedabad said.
The mapping of glaciers through satellite picture suggests that there are in total 334 glaciers in the entire Sutlej and Beas basins covering an area of 1515 sq.kms.
Officials stressed an field based study in Himachal Pradesh to collect true statistics which would help in drawing plans accordingly. The temperature of Shimla has risen by a degree Celsius in last 100 years reflecting impact of global warming in the hill state.
Rathore features in Time magazine
Athens Olympics silver medallist shooter Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore finds a mention in the Time magazine's list of 100- most compelling athletes to watch out for in the Beijing Games.
Rathore is the lone Indian in the list of '100 Olympic athletes to watch' which features athletes from different participating countries including Australia, China, US and Zimbabwe.
Writing on Rathore, Time noted that the 38-year old double- trap shooter is among the country's best hopes for a medal.
He picked up the sport after training as an Army marksman and won a silver in Athens, but that feat didn't change India's long history of indifference to sports other than cricket', the magazine said.
On his preparation, Rathore said it has not been easy considering that shortage of ammunition has been one of the major problems in the run-up to the games.
A recent surge of corporate sponsors, including steel Lakshmi Mittal, have stepped up to offer their support for some of India's elite athletes, something Rathore calls' a positive change for the country'.
Rathore is the lone Indian in the list of '100 Olympic athletes to watch' which features athletes from different participating countries including Australia, China, US and Zimbabwe.
Writing on Rathore, Time noted that the 38-year old double- trap shooter is among the country's best hopes for a medal.
He picked up the sport after training as an Army marksman and won a silver in Athens, but that feat didn't change India's long history of indifference to sports other than cricket', the magazine said.
On his preparation, Rathore said it has not been easy considering that shortage of ammunition has been one of the major problems in the run-up to the games.
A recent surge of corporate sponsors, including steel Lakshmi Mittal, have stepped up to offer their support for some of India's elite athletes, something Rathore calls' a positive change for the country'.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
India to test 'interceptor' missile again
India will take another step towards developing a ballistic missile defence (BMD) system in the next few days when it tests an 'interceptor' against an 'incoming enemy' missile over the Bay of Bengal.
The fledgling two-tier BMD system being developed by DRDO, capable of tracking and destroying hostile missiles both inside (endo) and outside(exo) the earth's atmosphere has already been tested two times.
The impending third test from the Wheeler Island of Orissa's coast will be that of an 'exo-atmospheric' hypersonic interceptor missile, which will take on 'a longer range enemy' missile, in the 2,000 km class, at an altitude of around 80-km this time.
After the third test, DRDO plans to test both the 'exo' and 'endo' interceptor missiles together in an integrated mode by September -October.
With this development, India will gate-crash into a very exclusive club of only countries like U.S., Russia and Israel.
It's like stopping a bullet by hitting it with another bullet. Even the U.S. is still to master it completely' said a scientist.
The fledgling two-tier BMD system being developed by DRDO, capable of tracking and destroying hostile missiles both inside (endo) and outside(exo) the earth's atmosphere has already been tested two times.
The impending third test from the Wheeler Island of Orissa's coast will be that of an 'exo-atmospheric' hypersonic interceptor missile, which will take on 'a longer range enemy' missile, in the 2,000 km class, at an altitude of around 80-km this time.
After the third test, DRDO plans to test both the 'exo' and 'endo' interceptor missiles together in an integrated mode by September -October.
With this development, India will gate-crash into a very exclusive club of only countries like U.S., Russia and Israel.
It's like stopping a bullet by hitting it with another bullet. Even the U.S. is still to master it completely' said a scientist.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
A satellite in micro-size
The Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT-K) is all set to design a micro-satellite, whose applications will be used in the areas of disaster management and studying water resources.
The micro-satellite weighing seven kilograms will be designed by the IIT-k for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the next couple of years.
'We will be meeting the ISRO officials seeking license for the micro satellite for a launch during the Golden Jubilee celebrations, which is to be held in two years', IIT-K Director S.G. Dhonde said.
He was speaking to reporters at the International conference on Smart Materials, Structures and systems. He said that an ISRO technology cell had already been set up at the Institute, which would help students learn how to build the system. "The project may cost about Rs. five to seven crore and the satellite would be designed to carry limited applications to cut down its weight', he added.
Speaking on the possible tie-up with the IIT-K, ISRO Chairman G.Madhavan Nair said that the space agency was looking forward to work together with the Institute . 'We are holding discussions with the Institute to work together on a satellite, which will weigh less than 10 kilograms', he stated.
The micro-satellite weighing seven kilograms will be designed by the IIT-k for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the next couple of years.
'We will be meeting the ISRO officials seeking license for the micro satellite for a launch during the Golden Jubilee celebrations, which is to be held in two years', IIT-K Director S.G. Dhonde said.
He was speaking to reporters at the International conference on Smart Materials, Structures and systems. He said that an ISRO technology cell had already been set up at the Institute, which would help students learn how to build the system. "The project may cost about Rs. five to seven crore and the satellite would be designed to carry limited applications to cut down its weight', he added.
Speaking on the possible tie-up with the IIT-K, ISRO Chairman G.Madhavan Nair said that the space agency was looking forward to work together with the Institute . 'We are holding discussions with the Institute to work together on a satellite, which will weigh less than 10 kilograms', he stated.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
A 'human' explosion
As the world observed Population Day on Thursday, the question of survival in this highly demanding world is haunting every individual. At the same time, the knowledge that all the awareness campaigns to control population has yielding very few results is disturbing.
What better way to convey a message than put it through an understandable medium? Art has been a very convenient medium to convey relevant messages to humanity since time immemorial and the sand artists of Udupi were quick to seize their opportunity.
Sand Art, a troupe specialised in sand art, keeping their tradition of manifesting something new in their creation, in collaboration with city-based Radha developers, created a sand art portraying effects of population explosion.
The work was not just aesthetically appealing but was also a food for thought as every angle and every aspect of the art spoke eloquently about the effect of the population explosion on the future.
The work has two major parts. The upper part has a huge building structure while the lower part had a number of human faces that expressed a variety of emotions like hunger, pain, anguish, worry, anxiety and so on. The left side portrayed how the nature is being affected due to population explosion.
What better way to convey a message than put it through an understandable medium? Art has been a very convenient medium to convey relevant messages to humanity since time immemorial and the sand artists of Udupi were quick to seize their opportunity.
Sand Art, a troupe specialised in sand art, keeping their tradition of manifesting something new in their creation, in collaboration with city-based Radha developers, created a sand art portraying effects of population explosion.
The work was not just aesthetically appealing but was also a food for thought as every angle and every aspect of the art spoke eloquently about the effect of the population explosion on the future.
The work has two major parts. The upper part has a huge building structure while the lower part had a number of human faces that expressed a variety of emotions like hunger, pain, anguish, worry, anxiety and so on. The left side portrayed how the nature is being affected due to population explosion.
One life lost, due to rain
One person was feared washed away in the heavy rains that lashed Bangalore City from Sunday night till the early hours of Monday.
Several trees were uprooted in the City and cars were submerged in the low-lying areas of Cox town. Four houses at Lakshminarayapura collapsed in the downpour and the wall of a storm-water drain gave way. There are reports that a road caved in during the rains at Seshadripuram.
According to authorities, the City recorded this season's heaviest rainfall on a single day as it recieved around 80 mm rainfall in the intervening night of Sunday and Monday. The downpour began from around 8.30 p.m. on Sunday and continued till 5.30 a.m.
The man who was feared dead during the rains, has been identified as Barkath ( 34) of M.V. Garden in Halasur area. On Sunday night he was returning home with his friends. Despite the water overflowing the culvert, they decided to cross it. While three of his friends crossed the culvert braving the heavy flow, Barkat lost his balance and was reportedly swept away. The police are yet to trace his body even after a day's search.
Several trees were uprooted in the City and cars were submerged in the low-lying areas of Cox town. Four houses at Lakshminarayapura collapsed in the downpour and the wall of a storm-water drain gave way. There are reports that a road caved in during the rains at Seshadripuram.
According to authorities, the City recorded this season's heaviest rainfall on a single day as it recieved around 80 mm rainfall in the intervening night of Sunday and Monday. The downpour began from around 8.30 p.m. on Sunday and continued till 5.30 a.m.
The man who was feared dead during the rains, has been identified as Barkath ( 34) of M.V. Garden in Halasur area. On Sunday night he was returning home with his friends. Despite the water overflowing the culvert, they decided to cross it. While three of his friends crossed the culvert braving the heavy flow, Barkat lost his balance and was reportedly swept away. The police are yet to trace his body even after a day's search.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Going by riches..............
Kukke Subrahmanya temple in Subrahmanya with a annual gross income pegged at Rs. 66.29 crore is the richest temple in Dakshina Kannada district.
For the fiscal year ending on March 2008, the temple's gross income start at Rs. 66, 29, 13, 010.
Next is the list of districts richest temples are Kateel Durga Parameshwari temple on the city's outskirts with a gross income of Rs. 6, 25, 59, 394 and Rs. 3, 65, 13, 560 respectively. According to the income data of the temples, the other 'crorepati' temples in the district are Kadri Manjunatha temple ( Rs. 1, 61, 75, 002) , Bolara Mangaladevi temple ( 1, 19, 36, 231) and Polali Rajarajeshwari temple ( 1, 16, 76, 837).
Bappanadu Durga Parameshwari temple generated an income of Rs. 95, 01, 031. The Endowment Department had categorised temples based on their income as 'A', 'B' and 'C' temples.
Ten temples including Kukke -Subrahmanya, Bolara-Mangaladevi, Kadri- Manjunatha, Kateel- Durga Parameshwari, Kudupu Anantha Padmanabha Someshwara- Somanatha, Polali Rajarajeshwari Puttur Mahalingeshwari and Uppinangadi Sahasralingeshwara temples with income more than Rs. 10 lakh are recognised as 'A' temples.
However, Pananbooru Nandamaheshwara (Rs. 38 lakhs) Pavanje Mahalingeshwara (Rs. 11 lakh) temples with income more than Rs. 10 lakh have been categorised as 'B' temples due to various reasons.
A priest in Kukke Subrahmanya temple recieves a salary of Rs. 10, 000 per month.
Puttur Mahalingeshwara and Sahasra Lingeshwara temples in Puttur have failed to submit their income and expenditure details to the Endowment department.
For the fiscal year ending on March 2008, the temple's gross income start at Rs. 66, 29, 13, 010.
Next is the list of districts richest temples are Kateel Durga Parameshwari temple on the city's outskirts with a gross income of Rs. 6, 25, 59, 394 and Rs. 3, 65, 13, 560 respectively. According to the income data of the temples, the other 'crorepati' temples in the district are Kadri Manjunatha temple ( Rs. 1, 61, 75, 002) , Bolara Mangaladevi temple ( 1, 19, 36, 231) and Polali Rajarajeshwari temple ( 1, 16, 76, 837).
Bappanadu Durga Parameshwari temple generated an income of Rs. 95, 01, 031. The Endowment Department had categorised temples based on their income as 'A', 'B' and 'C' temples.
Ten temples including Kukke -Subrahmanya, Bolara-Mangaladevi, Kadri- Manjunatha, Kateel- Durga Parameshwari, Kudupu Anantha Padmanabha Someshwara- Somanatha, Polali Rajarajeshwari Puttur Mahalingeshwari and Uppinangadi Sahasralingeshwara temples with income more than Rs. 10 lakh are recognised as 'A' temples.
However, Pananbooru Nandamaheshwara (Rs. 38 lakhs) Pavanje Mahalingeshwara (Rs. 11 lakh) temples with income more than Rs. 10 lakh have been categorised as 'B' temples due to various reasons.
A priest in Kukke Subrahmanya temple recieves a salary of Rs. 10, 000 per month.
Puttur Mahalingeshwara and Sahasra Lingeshwara temples in Puttur have failed to submit their income and expenditure details to the Endowment department.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Life-saving drive for boab trees
Australian Aboriginals replanted an ancient boab tree, after it was driven thousands of kilometres with a police escort to save it from destruction.
A road widening scheme meant the tree, estimated to be 750 years old had to be uprooted from its home in Western Australia and moved 3, 200 km by truck to a park in state capital Perth.
'Everyone is hoping that the tree will live for another 750 years' said horticulturist and project coordinator Patrick Courtney . 'We are giving it the best chance it would ever have got'.
The bottle-shaped tree can live for up to 2, 000 years and is a native of the remote northern Kimberly district of Western Australia state. It weighs 36 tonnes stands 14 metres high and is 2.5 metres in diameter.
The tree played a significant role in the traditions of the local Gija people. As the tree was in its dormant stage in the tropical dry season, few special measures were needed to be taken to keep it alive during the journey. It will be in the company of another 14 young boab trees, which seem quite happy in the more temperate climate of the Perth region.
A road widening scheme meant the tree, estimated to be 750 years old had to be uprooted from its home in Western Australia and moved 3, 200 km by truck to a park in state capital Perth.
'Everyone is hoping that the tree will live for another 750 years' said horticulturist and project coordinator Patrick Courtney . 'We are giving it the best chance it would ever have got'.
The bottle-shaped tree can live for up to 2, 000 years and is a native of the remote northern Kimberly district of Western Australia state. It weighs 36 tonnes stands 14 metres high and is 2.5 metres in diameter.
The tree played a significant role in the traditions of the local Gija people. As the tree was in its dormant stage in the tropical dry season, few special measures were needed to be taken to keep it alive during the journey. It will be in the company of another 14 young boab trees, which seem quite happy in the more temperate climate of the Perth region.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
A 'human'explosion
As the world observed Population Day on Thursday, the question of survival in this highly demanding world is haunting every individual. At the same time, the knowledge that all the awareness campaigns to control population has yielding very few results is disturbing.
What better way to convey a message than put it through an understandable medium? Art has been a very convenient medium to convey relevant messages to humanity since time immemorial and the sand artists of Udupi were quick to seize their opportunity.
Sand Art, a troupe specialised in sand art, keeping their tradition of manifesting something new in their creation, in collaboration with city-based Radha developers, created a sand art portraying effects of population explosion.
The work was not just aesthetically appealing but was also a food for thought as every angle and every aspect of the art spoke eloquently about the effect of the population explosion on the future.
The work has two major parts. The upper part has a huge building structure while the lower part had a number of human faces that expressed a variety of emotions like hunger, pain, anguish, worry, anxiety and so on. The left side portrayed how the nature is being affected due to population explosion.
What better way to convey a message than put it through an understandable medium? Art has been a very convenient medium to convey relevant messages to humanity since time immemorial and the sand artists of Udupi were quick to seize their opportunity.
Sand Art, a troupe specialised in sand art, keeping their tradition of manifesting something new in their creation, in collaboration with city-based Radha developers, created a sand art portraying effects of population explosion.
The work was not just aesthetically appealing but was also a food for thought as every angle and every aspect of the art spoke eloquently about the effect of the population explosion on the future.
The work has two major parts. The upper part has a huge building structure while the lower part had a number of human faces that expressed a variety of emotions like hunger, pain, anguish, worry, anxiety and so on. The left side portrayed how the nature is being affected due to population explosion.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
The concept of multiple intelligence
Burdening children with lessons, projects, examinations may soon be replaced with children's interest of learning by exploring the Multiple Intelligence(MI) latent in them. MI theory instils in students the ability and conviction to realise their full potential to excel.
A team of four members from the MI school, key Learning Community, Indianapolis conducted the workshop at Inventure Academy in Bangalore where teachers were taught about concept of MI, which would be further taught in the class-rooms to enable children to learn with their individual styles. The MI theory identifies children's varied strengths among these intelligence, to stimulate and enhance learning according to their individual styles.
For example if a student is good in music and not in maths, MI helps the students to utilise the music skills to learn maths. In the same manner, utilising children's interests in learning the curriculum is what MI is all about. Various theories are applied to explore the children's MI.
One of the founder members of MI school said'MI is all about intrinsic intelligence which can be applied in the learning process and makes learning interesting to children'.
Children can now look forward to school where they wouldn't be overburdened by the curriculum.
A team of four members from the MI school, key Learning Community, Indianapolis conducted the workshop at Inventure Academy in Bangalore where teachers were taught about concept of MI, which would be further taught in the class-rooms to enable children to learn with their individual styles. The MI theory identifies children's varied strengths among these intelligence, to stimulate and enhance learning according to their individual styles.
For example if a student is good in music and not in maths, MI helps the students to utilise the music skills to learn maths. In the same manner, utilising children's interests in learning the curriculum is what MI is all about. Various theories are applied to explore the children's MI.
One of the founder members of MI school said'MI is all about intrinsic intelligence which can be applied in the learning process and makes learning interesting to children'.
Children can now look forward to school where they wouldn't be overburdened by the curriculum.
Friday, July 18, 2008
India's everyday ally, Russia ready to export fighter
Russia is ready to export state-of-the art SU-35 air superiority-cum-strike fighter to India.
The fourth generation plus(4+) fighter is rated next to the fifth generation American F-22 Raptor, which, however is not for export.
Su-35 has larger wings and more powerful engines than the Sukhoi-30 MRI, which is in service with the Indian Air Force.
India has tendered for 126 medium multi-role fighters worth #10.2 billion.
According to the company, the fighter is powered by engines that are much superior to those fitted on Su-30.
It is equipped with a 30-mm cannon with 150 rounds and can carry up to eight tonnes of combat payload.
If the offer is accepted, Russia will be prepared to export the fighters in 2011.
The fourth generation plus(4+) fighter is rated next to the fifth generation American F-22 Raptor, which, however is not for export.
Su-35 has larger wings and more powerful engines than the Sukhoi-30 MRI, which is in service with the Indian Air Force.
India has tendered for 126 medium multi-role fighters worth #10.2 billion.
According to the company, the fighter is powered by engines that are much superior to those fitted on Su-30.
It is equipped with a 30-mm cannon with 150 rounds and can carry up to eight tonnes of combat payload.
If the offer is accepted, Russia will be prepared to export the fighters in 2011.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
A short and sweet presentation
News at one's fingertips. This is what modern-day news media promises us. And, adapting himself perfectly to this genre, young lad Kirti Mohan, second-year student of S.D.M Law College, Mangalore, delved into news anchoring as a hobby starting off with news presentation for Daiji World, Mangalore.
What started off as a hobby, became a passion as soon as he was to know, he had won the award at 'Intel Centrino MTV on the Job-2'contest, a show on MJV which showcases off-beat careers like news-anchoring, radio-jingle composing, promo-producing etc.
Kirti was selected for this show through an audition.
He opted for the news anchoring job. He was then asked to come to Delhi for a task which was entrusted upon him by 'Headlines Today', a leading news channel.
He was asked to present news on the news channel and was made to face real-time problems which news anchors generally face( the teleprompter getting spoilt, breaking news for five news stories etc.) . On July 1 Kirti was declared winner of this job by Pritish Nadi, Gaurav Sarat( Headlines Today Editor) and Nikhil Chinapa (MJV VJ).
Kirti is the first person from the south to have made it to this show.
He has been awarded an internship with Headlines Today for this achievement.
Confessing, he hadn't expected to win the award, Kirti Mohan is elated at winning it and is looking forward to his internship with 'Headlines Today' which begins next year.
What started off as a hobby, became a passion as soon as he was to know, he had won the award at 'Intel Centrino MTV on the Job-2'contest, a show on MJV which showcases off-beat careers like news-anchoring, radio-jingle composing, promo-producing etc.
Kirti was selected for this show through an audition.
He opted for the news anchoring job. He was then asked to come to Delhi for a task which was entrusted upon him by 'Headlines Today', a leading news channel.
He was asked to present news on the news channel and was made to face real-time problems which news anchors generally face( the teleprompter getting spoilt, breaking news for five news stories etc.) . On July 1 Kirti was declared winner of this job by Pritish Nadi, Gaurav Sarat( Headlines Today Editor) and Nikhil Chinapa (MJV VJ).
Kirti is the first person from the south to have made it to this show.
He has been awarded an internship with Headlines Today for this achievement.
Confessing, he hadn't expected to win the award, Kirti Mohan is elated at winning it and is looking forward to his internship with 'Headlines Today' which begins next year.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Life-span of an athlete
Speculation abounded on whether the world no.1 in tennis would be dethroned. Federer, the greatest of all time tennis player couldn't muster enough strength against upstarts competing close at his heels in the closely-fought arena of top-class tennis.
This year, Nadal played high-quality tennis to dethrone five-time champion Swiss Roger Federer with a block-buster 6-4, 6-7(5/7), (6-7) (8/0), 9-7 win in what was easily one of the greatest Grand Slam finals of all time. Spain hasn't had it this good in sport for so long. Close on the heels of Euro Cup 2008 victory that came after 44 years, came the victory in Wimbledon, after 42 years.
Nadal became only the third man to win French Open and Wimbledon in the same season and the first since Bjorn Borg in 1980, while giving Spain its first men's Wimbledon champion since Manuel Santana of the grass-is -for-cows fame won it in 1966. Nadal added a Wimbledon title to his four of French Opens, shattering Federer's dreams of a historic sixth successive trophy. Nadal may not be the expert on grass as he is on clay but the 22-year-old Spaniard is widely seen as the top men's player.
This year, Nadal played high-quality tennis to dethrone five-time champion Swiss Roger Federer with a block-buster 6-4, 6-7(5/7), (6-7) (8/0), 9-7 win in what was easily one of the greatest Grand Slam finals of all time. Spain hasn't had it this good in sport for so long. Close on the heels of Euro Cup 2008 victory that came after 44 years, came the victory in Wimbledon, after 42 years.
Nadal became only the third man to win French Open and Wimbledon in the same season and the first since Bjorn Borg in 1980, while giving Spain its first men's Wimbledon champion since Manuel Santana of the grass-is -for-cows fame won it in 1966. Nadal added a Wimbledon title to his four of French Opens, shattering Federer's dreams of a historic sixth successive trophy. Nadal may not be the expert on grass as he is on clay but the 22-year-old Spaniard is widely seen as the top men's player.
New revealations on Moon
The ancient astronomers once deemed the Moon, like Earth to be awash with water.
The space age, revealed these oceans or More, to be desolate, bone-dry basalt plains and ever since the Moon has been saddled with the reputation as a hostile place forever lacking a key ingredient for life.
There is evidence that water has been a part of the Moon since its early existence. And it strengthens speculation that the precious stuff may be found at the lunar poles.
A leading theory is that the Moon was created when a Mars-sized object whacked into the infant Earth, some 4.5 billion years age, sending molten debris into orbit that coalesced and cooled to form our plant's satellite.
The violence of this collision have vapourised the proto-Moon's light elements, including those for water, in a flash.
But a close examination of glassy, pebble-like beads brought back by the Apollo missions has revealed a surprise.
Previous examination of these rocks, the result of a volcanic outpouring some 3.5 million years ago, had found no signs of water, a finding consistent with the 'waterless Moon' conception.
The space age, revealed these oceans or More, to be desolate, bone-dry basalt plains and ever since the Moon has been saddled with the reputation as a hostile place forever lacking a key ingredient for life.
There is evidence that water has been a part of the Moon since its early existence. And it strengthens speculation that the precious stuff may be found at the lunar poles.
A leading theory is that the Moon was created when a Mars-sized object whacked into the infant Earth, some 4.5 billion years age, sending molten debris into orbit that coalesced and cooled to form our plant's satellite.
The violence of this collision have vapourised the proto-Moon's light elements, including those for water, in a flash.
But a close examination of glassy, pebble-like beads brought back by the Apollo missions has revealed a surprise.
Previous examination of these rocks, the result of a volcanic outpouring some 3.5 million years ago, had found no signs of water, a finding consistent with the 'waterless Moon' conception.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
World heritage site in the north
The Kalka- Shimla Railway (KSR) considered an engineering marvel of the 19th century, has become a World Heritage Site with the UN approving it for inclusion in the World Heritage List .
The Committee of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)granted the inscription of the 96-km-long KSR as a World Heritage Site.
A special feature of this line is its multi-arch galleries which have been built instead of conventional bridges.
The decision is a boost for the Railways as well as tourism in the country.
With the KSR getting the UNESCO nod, Indian Railways, now have World Heritage Sites in all the four regions in the country with Darjeeling Himalaya Railway in the east, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal in the west and Nilgiri Mountain Railway in the south.
The Committee of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)granted the inscription of the 96-km-long KSR as a World Heritage Site.
A special feature of this line is its multi-arch galleries which have been built instead of conventional bridges.
The decision is a boost for the Railways as well as tourism in the country.
With the KSR getting the UNESCO nod, Indian Railways, now have World Heritage Sites in all the four regions in the country with Darjeeling Himalaya Railway in the east, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal in the west and Nilgiri Mountain Railway in the south.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Variety in purchase
After stately homes, the Mittals are now eyeing heritage hotels of Britain. They are considering investing in the company behind upmarket country hotels including Cliveden, near Heathrow and the Royal Crescent in Bath.
The Indian-born family's interest in high-end heritage hotels is a departure from their previous pursuit of expensive private homes. They already own three properties in kensington Palace Grounds, London's most expensive street. The hotels they are said to be interested in are seeped in British history. Cliveden House, set amid 376 acres of formal gardens, parkland and an idyllic bend in the Thames , has a past going back 300 years. Several prominent persons have called it their home over the years, the most famous being Nancy Astor, the first woman MP of Britain. Queen Victoria used to drop in for a quiet cup of tea, records show. The Royal Crescent in the town of Bath in Somerset is among the world's unique buildings.
The Indian-born family's interest in high-end heritage hotels is a departure from their previous pursuit of expensive private homes. They already own three properties in kensington Palace Grounds, London's most expensive street. The hotels they are said to be interested in are seeped in British history. Cliveden House, set amid 376 acres of formal gardens, parkland and an idyllic bend in the Thames , has a past going back 300 years. Several prominent persons have called it their home over the years, the most famous being Nancy Astor, the first woman MP of Britain. Queen Victoria used to drop in for a quiet cup of tea, records show. The Royal Crescent in the town of Bath in Somerset is among the world's unique buildings.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Festival of chariots commences
The Rath Yatra, festival of chariots of Lord Jagannath began with thousands of devotees of various faiths pulling the chariot.
The divine chariot carrying Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Devi Subhadra began its journey from the Shree Jagannath temple at Agra. It is considered very auspicious to touch the rope by which the colorful decorated chariots are drawn or even to have a glimpse of the deities.
A team of kirtan singers from ISCKON sang bhajans all along the procession. The Oriya Community in the city is at the forefront of the celebration. The Rath Yatra in Puri is attended by lakhs of devotees.
As per tradition, the Lord along with his brother and sister make an annual trip to their aunt Gundicha's house. After eight days, they return to their abode. The return journey is known as the Bahuda Yatra.
In Orissa and all over the world, Lord Jagannnath is revered as a symbol of egalitarianism and harmony between believers of different faiths.
The divine chariot carrying Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Devi Subhadra began its journey from the Shree Jagannath temple at Agra. It is considered very auspicious to touch the rope by which the colorful decorated chariots are drawn or even to have a glimpse of the deities.
A team of kirtan singers from ISCKON sang bhajans all along the procession. The Oriya Community in the city is at the forefront of the celebration. The Rath Yatra in Puri is attended by lakhs of devotees.
As per tradition, the Lord along with his brother and sister make an annual trip to their aunt Gundicha's house. After eight days, they return to their abode. The return journey is known as the Bahuda Yatra.
In Orissa and all over the world, Lord Jagannnath is revered as a symbol of egalitarianism and harmony between believers of different faiths.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
The cost one has to pay for looking beautiful.
It was the last week of April when an upcoming model went to the beauty salon of Lakme in Sahakarnagar on Bellary Road for a routine facial. After this, she was advised to go in for a hair treatment called 'Refresh Indulgence'.
This is basically a chemical treatment to soften the hair and costs Rs. 650. The effect was opposite to what was expected. Her once beautiful hair had turned into a knotty mess. She was forced to cut nearly 15 inches of her hair.
She has taken the matter to court. Attempts to contact Suma Radheshgame the Sahakarnagar outlet owner and Geetha the manager were in vain as their phones remained switched off.
This is basically a chemical treatment to soften the hair and costs Rs. 650. The effect was opposite to what was expected. Her once beautiful hair had turned into a knotty mess. She was forced to cut nearly 15 inches of her hair.
She has taken the matter to court. Attempts to contact Suma Radheshgame the Sahakarnagar outlet owner and Geetha the manager were in vain as their phones remained switched off.
Friday, July 4, 2008
DRDO links up with Embraer
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) inked an agreement with Brazil's Embraer to fix an indigenous air borne early warning and control system atop one of the Indian Air Force's Embraer jets, which are used for VIP flights.
After the integration -to be carried out at the company's workshop in Brazil- the first modified Embraer -145 is expected to reach India by 2011. The integrated system will be flight-tested by the IAF and DRDO in 2012.
Three EMB-145 aircraft will be integrated with the AEW &CS , the development of which was approved by the government in October 2004 at a project cost of Rs. 1800 crore.
The EMB-145 aircraft will carry DRDO's active array antenna unit on top of the aircraft's fuselage.
Pakistan had objected to the Indian purchase on the ground that the deal would ruin the strategic balance in the subcontinent as neither Pakistan nor China have Phalcons.
However, the deal went through, courtesy back door intervention by the U.S.A.
After the integration -to be carried out at the company's workshop in Brazil- the first modified Embraer -145 is expected to reach India by 2011. The integrated system will be flight-tested by the IAF and DRDO in 2012.
Three EMB-145 aircraft will be integrated with the AEW &CS , the development of which was approved by the government in October 2004 at a project cost of Rs. 1800 crore.
The EMB-145 aircraft will carry DRDO's active array antenna unit on top of the aircraft's fuselage.
Pakistan had objected to the Indian purchase on the ground that the deal would ruin the strategic balance in the subcontinent as neither Pakistan nor China have Phalcons.
However, the deal went through, courtesy back door intervention by the U.S.A.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
All life ........standstill.
The city came to a halt on Thursday as 'bandh' was observed throughout the length and breadth of Mangalore. Shops remained shut and buses were'off' the road with due'respect' towards the bandh 'call'.
However private vehicles, such as cars, vans , tempos and scooters were seen plying across the roads. The 'bandh' occurred after a long respite from any such 'call' for Mangloreans.
For the layman,it means a time spent indoors. Colleges and schools, but, of course remained shut. For the children and teens it means a 'holiday'. People who had planned to journey outstation have had to cancel their plans.
The housewife or the 'common man' who had planned to shop for groceries was, naturally disappointed. Only, curious onlooders were espied on the roads.
However private vehicles, such as cars, vans , tempos and scooters were seen plying across the roads. The 'bandh' occurred after a long respite from any such 'call' for Mangloreans.
For the layman,it means a time spent indoors. Colleges and schools, but, of course remained shut. For the children and teens it means a 'holiday'. People who had planned to journey outstation have had to cancel their plans.
The housewife or the 'common man' who had planned to shop for groceries was, naturally disappointed. Only, curious onlooders were espied on the roads.
Accidental deaths
One reads of road accidents, train mishaps and plane crashes. One never knows when one will die. It seems, in our country, death is round the corner. Floods, landslides, sun-kissed deaths, murders, suicides, frost-bites one hears of......
The latest accidental death springing to news is that of a young woman falling to meet her nemesis after attempting a ride on a Tora Tora in an amusement park. The lady, in question had sought some fun but ended up losing her life. This matter again, brings up the perennial argument of the lack of precautionary measures in the mechanical devices in our country. Be it the Giant Wheel, the Tora Tora or the roller-coaster. The rides are exciting, adventorous and dangerous. But they are fun. And, that's the reason people go for them. But, then if the personnel manning these mechanical agents are careless, then one's life is at risk.
In the recent case, the man in charge of the Tora Tora was arrested. But, then again it is an instance of belated action. If the rotating device had been in perfect form, the woman's life could have been saved. In all innocence the lady sought some amusement for her kid and the child is motherless now. An orphan in infancy itself.
The latest accidental death springing to news is that of a young woman falling to meet her nemesis after attempting a ride on a Tora Tora in an amusement park. The lady, in question had sought some fun but ended up losing her life. This matter again, brings up the perennial argument of the lack of precautionary measures in the mechanical devices in our country. Be it the Giant Wheel, the Tora Tora or the roller-coaster. The rides are exciting, adventorous and dangerous. But they are fun. And, that's the reason people go for them. But, then if the personnel manning these mechanical agents are careless, then one's life is at risk.
In the recent case, the man in charge of the Tora Tora was arrested. But, then again it is an instance of belated action. If the rotating device had been in perfect form, the woman's life could have been saved. In all innocence the lady sought some amusement for her kid and the child is motherless now. An orphan in infancy itself.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
India carves an anchor at North Pole
India commissioned its permanent research base at the North Pole which will enable scientists to carry out studies on a range of subjects, including climate change in one of the cleanest environments on earth.
The research station -Himadri, on the west coast of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago of Norway. Ny-Alesund is the northernmost international research station situated only 1,200km from the North Pole.
The research station was set up following expeditions by Indian scientists to Ny-Alesund in the last 11 months.
The research base in the North Pole comes three decades after India set up a permanent station Dakshin Gangothri in Antarctica.
Initially, Himadri will be manned by Indian scientists on a project- to -project basis and later on converted into a round-the -year station as is the case in Antarctica.
India has access to Svalbard because of a treaty with Norway, which has sovereign rights over the area.
India became the 11th country in the world to have a research station in Ny-Alesund.
The research station -Himadri, on the west coast of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago of Norway. Ny-Alesund is the northernmost international research station situated only 1,200km from the North Pole.
The research station was set up following expeditions by Indian scientists to Ny-Alesund in the last 11 months.
The research base in the North Pole comes three decades after India set up a permanent station Dakshin Gangothri in Antarctica.
Initially, Himadri will be manned by Indian scientists on a project- to -project basis and later on converted into a round-the -year station as is the case in Antarctica.
India has access to Svalbard because of a treaty with Norway, which has sovereign rights over the area.
India became the 11th country in the world to have a research station in Ny-Alesund.
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