A Career in Energy Management!

It is known to almost all of us that the energy sector of a country has great impacts on the growth and development of the country. The availability of different resources of energy and the proper use of the resources for the progress of any country, serves as the key factor towards the economic growth and development of the nation.

The energy crisis of the seventies that took place all across the globe cautioned human beings about the proper utilization of the different energy resources available on the earth’s surface, for a sustainable growth. The crisis also resulted in the initiation of various innovations along with diverse developmental and research programs in the filed of energy management. With issues related to the change of climate globally, taking an important place in the field of technology and science, international relations and industries, the job of energy management renewable energy and energy conservation has in recent years being focused hugely.

In India, the unexpected and rapid augment in the price of oil along with the uncertainties regarding the supply of oil resulted in the creation of the Commission for Additional Sources of Energy in the Department of Science and Technology in the year 1981. The body was responsible for the formulation of different policies along with their appropriate utilization and programs for the development of novel and renewable sources of energy.

The conservation of energy and the utilization of renewable energy comes with remarkable prospective for employment generation as well as social entrepreneurship. Many self-employment job scopes in renewable energy and other sectors of energy efficiency for trained and efficient professionals exist in almost all corners of India.

A Career in Energy Management that is Energy Studies consists of such courses that train the students to make the maximum use of the present and future resources of energy. The objective behind the courses is to make the students capable of dealing with crucial economic and environmental issues that take place as a result of excessive energy consumption.

Energy Management Programs

Diverse variety of graduate, postgraduate, diploma and certificate courses are available in energy management. You can have a glance at the popular programs in Energy Management:

• Bachelor Degree in Alternative and Renewable Energy Management
• M Tech in Energy Technology
• M Sc in Physics, Energy Studies
• M Tech in Energy Technology and Environment Management
• M Tech in Energy Management
• M Tech in Energy Engineering
• M Tech in Energy Science and Technology
• M E in Energy Engineering
• PG Diploma in Renewable Energy
• M Phil in Energy
• Diploma in Energy Management
• Certificate Course in Green Energy Management
• PG Diploma in Energy Management
• Online Hydraulic Power Systems
• Online Going Green at the Workplace
• Online Burner Management System
• Online the Clean Water Act

Eligibility

One can go for graduation in energy management after the completion of their 10+2. For higher and advanced studies in Energy Management, one needs to have a graduation degree preferably in engineering, science or commerce subjects.

Personal Attributes

If you want to build up a successful energy management career for yourself, then the presence of the following attributes will definitely make your job easier:

• Good communication skills both oral and written
• Good presentation skills
• The capability to produce concise and clear reports that would cover all the aspects
• Should be able to work in a team and also as a team leader
• Organization and Leadership capabilities

Career Prospects and Job opportunities

A Career in Energy Management comes with immense scope nd possibilities. Professionals in energy management have a lucrative career and a prosperous future waiting for them. With infinite potentials and scope both in terms of employment opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures, there is no looking back for the energy management personnel once they are in this sector.  As a result of the immense potential in this field, private equity funds and venture capital are investing huge amount of money even in case of new ventures in this field.

As far as employment prospects are concerned, there is the need for energy management personnel in almost all fields of economic activities such as Refinery & petrochemicals, Housing, Real Estate & Construction, Cement, Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Chemicals, Hospitality, Automobile, Mining, Food Processing, Iron & Steel and many more. The energy management courses have opened up numerous employment avenues in various sectors, for the students.

Institutes in India

Annamalai University – Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu

Banaras Hindu University – Varanasi-221005, UP

Bharathidasan University Tiruchirapali, Tamil Nadu 624024 TN

College of Engineering Anna University – Guindy, Chennai 600025 TN

Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya , Nalanda Parisar, R.N.T Marg, Indore 452001, MP

Indian Institute of Social Welfare and Business Management, Kolkata-700073

Indian Institute of Technology, (IIT-Delhi) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110016

Jadavpur University, Mullick Road, Kolkata 700 032 WB

Kumaraguru College of Technology, Chinnavedampatti-(Po), Coimbatore-641 006 TN

JNTU College of Technology, Hyderabad- 500 028, A.P

National Institute of Technology, Calicut (Formerly Regional Engineering College Calicut)

Punjab University Chandigarh 160 014

Rajiv Gandhi Prodyogiki Viswavidyalaya Airport Bypass Road, Gandhi Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462036, MP

Maulana Azad College of Technology, (Regional Engineering College), Bhopal 462 007 MP

National Institute of Technology Tiruchirapalli, Formerly Regional Engineering College Tiruchirapali 620015, TN

Tezpur (Central) University, Napam, Tezpur, Assam-784028, Assam

School of Energy Studies Department, University of Pune, Ganeshkhind, Pune-411007

Vellore Engineering College, Katpadi-Tiruvalam Road, Vellore North Arcot-Ambedkar dist 632 007, TN

Related organizations to Energy Management

• Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India
• Petroleum Conservation and Research Association (PCRA)
• Bureau of Energy Efficiency
• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)
• Indian Green Building Council
• National Productivity Council
• Energy Resource Institute

Cabinet Reshuffle: Old players in a New Game!

An informal term, Cabinet reshuffle or shuffle is an event that takes place at the Parliament whereby the head of the Government changes or rotates or rather shuffles the composition of the existing ministers in the cabinet and their responsibilities.

Generally, a cabinet reshuffle refers to that where few ministers from the cabinet are shifted from the existing portfolio to some other. The cabinet shuffle may take place periodically depending on whether there arises the need to replace the ministers who have retired or might have resigned. Forming the cabinets or reshuffling of cabinets also serves as a major way for the Government to punish or reward any supporter. It is a practice leading to shuffling of ministers when a new section or group in a party happens to takes over. Cabinet reshuffles are less common in those systems where the members of the Cabinet are not selected from the legislative branch.

Speculations on Cabinet Reshuffle, 2011

The Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh’s comments regarding the reshuffling of the cabinet prior to the winter months, triggered lot of speculations on the cabinet reshuffle of 2011. Several theories were being put forward behind the reasons for such a move by the Government.

Although Manmohan Singh expressed the desire to pull down the age of the Cabinet, yet the Congress was of the opinion that this would require a major and big shake-up. Many in the party also felt that the Prime Minster should wait for the coming year in order to undertake a proper and meaningful reshuffle, thereby providing the people with a strong and good political message!

To quote one of the Congress leaders:

“He may be able to do some cosmetic changes like induction of two or three ministers, but a major exercise appears very difficult,”.

In a question as to why did the Prime Minister at all give indications for reshuffling, it was believed that may be Manmohan Singh wanted to fill up the 4 vacancies created by resignation of Shashi Tharoor and Meira Kumar’s election as the speaker  of the Lok Sabha.

According to some other source, reshuffling was needed in order to address certain situations in few states. Another possible reason, sources said, could be the need to address the situation in certain states.

Speculations were on high and it is being believed that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh would induct several new faces while some of the ministers from Congress would be sent for the party work. Speculations were also that owing to his deteriorating health, the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, K. Rosaiah would be replaced by Jaipal Reddy, Union urban development minister. It was also speculated that Sheila Dikshit, the Delhi Chief Minister would be moved to the Union Cabinet, post the Commonwealth Games, 2010.

Finally the Cabinet Reshuffle Happened!

The 1^st ever cabinet reshuffle for the nineteenth months of United Progressive Alliance (UPA)-II government, finally happened on Wednesday 19^th 2011 at New Delhi thereby offering an end to the many speculations that cropped in prior the reshuffle.

Sonia Gandhi, the Congress president was seen meeting Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday 18^th 2011 for about two hours in order to finalize and decide on the cabinet shuffle for the union council of ministers.

Although several speculations were there prior the reshuffle regarding the nature of reshuffle and different versions were also being put up for the same, yet it was very clear for all that the “big four” at the cabinet ministry – Defence Minister A.K. Antony, Home Minister P. Chidmabaram, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna – will surely retain their responsibilities and portfolios.

Three new ministers from the cabinet were elevated from their rank of minister of state while 3 new ministers of state were inducted in the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) II government, which is about 19 months old. The reshuffle is being looked up as an exercise by the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to better the image of his ministry and free it up from the charges of corruption scandals and non-performance. The new ministers took the oaths of office and secrecy at the Ashoka Hall in Rastrapati Bhavan in the presence of President of India, Pratibha Patil who administered the whole process. Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Cabinet ministers and several dignitaries were also present at the oath ceremony.

The first cabinet reshuffle of 2011 saw the promotion of Praful Patel, Salman Khursheed and Shriprakash Jaiswal to the cabinet ministry. K.C. Venugopal, Ashwani Kumar and Beni Prasad Berma were sworn in as new ministers of state.

Following this large-scale reshuffle, the responsibility of water resources was given to Khursheed along with the additional charge of minority affairs. Patel took over the charge of heavy industries and public enterprises while though getting promotion for the good work done, Jaiswal retained his portfolio.

The overseas Indian affairs minister, Vayalar Ravi, got the additional charge of aviation.

Surprisingly, S Jaipal Reddy was given the charge of petroleum and natural gas in the cabinet shuffle.

Beni Prasad Verma, who had been Cabinet minister in the 1996 United Front government, got the MoS Independent Charge at the reshuffle. He got the portfolio of steel.

Murli Deora was shifted from the portfolio of petroleum and natural gas to corporate affairs.

Reddy has been changed from the urban development ministry that now lies with Kamal Nath. Kamal Nath’s existing portfolio of road transport and highways has now been given to C P Joshi.

Praful Patel, NCP, was elevated to the Cabinet Ministry with a shift from the civil aviation to heavy industries and public enterprises and Khursheed has been shifted from corporate affairs portfolio to water resources.

Jaiswal retained his portfolio of coal while moving up to the Cabinet Ministry.

Maken, was shifted from his portfolio of MoS home affairs to youth affairs and sports as MoS Independent charge.

Prof K V Thomas, who was responsible for MoS consumer affairs, food and public distribution before the reshuffle, was elevated as MoS with Independent charge in the same section.

This cabinet reshuffle saw some induction of new faces and the coming back of some after a long gap. Ashwani Kumar came back to the government as the minister of state for the portfolio of parliamentary affairs, planning, science and technology and earth sciences.

K C Venugopal is among the new entrant who got the portfolio of Power as MoS.

M S Gill was moved from sports and youth affairs to the portfolio of statistics and program implementation.

The Congress veteran from Himachal Pradesh, Virbhadra Singh was changed from the portfolio of steel to micro, small and medium Enterprises. Vilasrao Deshmukh was changed ferom heavy industries and public enterprises to rural development. Vilasrao Deshmukh was also given the additional charge of Panchayati Raj.

The portfolio of Kamal Nath was changed from road and transport to urban development. The overseas Indian affairs minister Vayalar Ravi was given the additional charge of civil aviation.

Kapil Sibal, who was earlier responsible for telecom following the exit of A Raja, retained both HRD and telecom after the reshuffle. Pawan Kumar Bansal, who retained the parliamentary affairs, got science and technology and earth sciences.

B K Handique was changed from the mines portfolio and was given the responsibility of development of northeastern region. C P Joshi was shifted from rural development to road transport and highways.

Selja was moved from Tourism portfolio and was given the additional charge of culture ministry whilst keeping the housing and urban poverty alleviation.

Subodh Kant Sahay at the reshuffle has been shifted from food processing industries to tourism.

The minister of state with independent charge, Dinsha Patel, has been shifted from micro, small and medium enterprises to the portfolio of mines.

With this reshuffle Union Council of Ministers stands at a total of 81 ministers consisting of 35 Cabinet ministers, six MoS with Independent charges while the remaining are ministers of state.

In this cabinet reshuffle of 19^th January 2011, no minister has been dropped. This has been described by the Prime Minister Manmohan Sing as “minor”. He also said that a “more expansive exercise” will be undertaken following the Budget Session of Parliament.

Major Highlights

Coming Back of Ashwani Kumar as Minister

Ashwani Kumar had been a MP of Punjab MP, a Minister of the State, Science and Technology and Parliamentary Affairs. 50 year old, Fifty eight-year-old Ashwani Kumar, who joined UPA-II Cabinet list of lawyer-turned ministers, saw a major come back in the Union government following the recent cabinet reshuffle, after a long gap.

Ashwani Kumar happens to practice as a senior lawyer in the Supreme Court and has a political family back ground. Earlier one of the national spokes person for the Congress, Ashwani Kumar is the son of the former Punjab assembly Speaker, Prabodh Chandra. Born in the capital city of Delhi, Kumar has written many articles on economic reforms, law, democracy and international affairs and elections. Kumar was also India’s additional ex- solicitor general and got elected at the Rajya Sabha in the year 2002. He was then the minister of state of industries in the UPA-I. Apart from being an active parliamentarian Ashwani Kumar was also a renowned member of the committee on public accounts and external affairs.

Is Beni Prasad Verma Happy?

Beni Prasad Verma, a member of the Parliament from Uttar Pradesh, was given the charge of Minister of State, Steel (Independent Charge). For most part of his political career, Verma engaged in anti-Congress activism and after a long gap of about a decade, got back to the Union Council of Ministers. This 70 year old Beni Prasad Verma, a prominent leader from the state of Uttar Pradesh served as the Union minister for Communications in between the years 1996 and 1998, in the time of the United Front regime. Although entrusted with a new portfolio and new responsibilities, yet owing certain circumstances made people think as to whether Beni Prasad Verma is happy with his current role, following the recent cabinet reshuffle of 2011. Post the cabinet reshuffle process, it appeared like Verma was unhappy for not being made the Cabinet Minster. Just after the reshuffle, Beni Prasad Verma was found closeted with his close supporters at his home, following the swearing-in ceremony. He did not even come to receive the greetings from his followers who were present there with bouquets and sweets.

Later on however, he was found expressing to the media about his faith on Sonia Gandhi, the Congress president. To quote him- “I am a soldier of Congress party.” When questioned about his becoming the cabinet minister, he said- “May be. I will keep it as a suspense, I will not tell you what it is.”

He added further that “I have got more respect in Congress than in Samajwadi party,”.

Venugopal: The Young Face!

The single new minister to join the ministry of Manmohan Singh is K C Venugopal, the 1^st time Lok Sabha MP from the state of Kerala. With his ministerial appearance for the first time at the Centre, this young face at the Union government is an MP from Alapuzha. Forty Seven year old K C Venugopal was lucky enough to have got power very quickly by catching hold of the slot of minister of state in the power ministry.

Ashwani Kumar and Beni Prasad Verma, the new ministers at the UPA following the reshuffle and minor expansion on Wednesday 19^th, 2011, along with K C Venugopal, earlier have been Union Ministers.

A volleyball player at the university level and an ardent sports lover, K C Venugopal came in owing Shashi Tharoor’s exit from the ministry because of the IPL controversy. The entry of Venugopal into the ministry is being believed to be move to influence and persuade the Nair Community prior to the Kerala Assembly Elections in the month of May.

Cabinet Reshuffle: Old players in a New Game!

NEW DELHI: In the first major revamp of his Council of Ministers, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday inducted three new ministers of state and promoted three to Cabinet rank while reshuffling some portfolios. Here is the list of the changes:

Cabinet Ministers

• Praful Patel: Heavy industries and public enterprises
• Salman Khursheed: Water resources and additional charge of minority affairs
• Sriprakash Jaiswal: Coal

Ministers of State

• KC Venugopal: Power
• Ashwani Kumar: Planning and parliamentary affairs, science and technology, and earth sciences

Minister of State (Independent Charge)

• Ajay Maken: Youth affairs and sports
• KV Thomas: Consumer affairs, food and public distribution
• Beni Prasad Verma: steel

The portfolios of the following ministers have also been changed:

Cabinet Ministers

• Sharad Pawar: Agriculture and food processing industries
• Vilasrao Deshmukh: Rural development and additional charge of Panchayati Raj
• Virbhadra Singh: Micro, small and medium enterprises
• S Jaipal Reddy: Petroleum and natural gas
• Vayalar Ravi: Overseas Indian affairs and additional charge of civil aviation
• Kamal Nath: Urban development
• Murli Deora: Corporate affairs
• BK Handique: Development of north-eastern region
• Kapil Sibal: Human resource development and additional charge of communications and information technology
• CP Joshi: Road transport and highways
• Subodh Kant Sahay: Tourism
• Kumari Selja: Housing and urban poverty alleviation and additional charge of culture
• M.S. Gill: Statistics and programme implementation
• Pawan Kumar Bansal: Parliamentary affairs and additional charge of science and technology and earth sciences

Ministers of State

• Harish Rawat: Agriculture and food processing industries
• E Ahamed: External affairs
• V Narayanasamy: Parliamentary affairs and personnel, public grievances and pensions and Prime Minister’s Office
• Sai Prathap: Heavy industries and public enterprises
• Gurudas Kamat: Home affairs
• Bharatsinh Solanki: Railways
• Mahadev S Khandela : Tribal affairs
• Jitin Prasada: Road transport and highways
• RPN Singh: Petroleum and natural gas and corporate affairs
• Arun Yadav: Agriculture and food processing industries
• Tusharbhai Chaudhary: Road transport and highways
• Pratik Prakashbapu Patil: coal
• Vincent Pala: Water resources and minority affairs

Minister of State (Independent Charge)

• Dinsha Patel: Mines

Tsunami: A Disaster to be remembered for ever!

 

The word ‘Tsunami’ originates from a Japanese word that means, “Harbor wave”. Tsunami are huge waves generated by the deformation of the see floor by several seismic activities that leads in the vertical displacement of the water in the oceans. When traveling over the deep ocean, Tsunami happens to have a low height but on reaching the shallow waters, they transform into huge and high waves. This generally happens near the coasts. One of the deadliest natural calamities ever, caused by tsunami on 26^th of December 2004, and generated from an earthquake under the sea, in the Indian Ocean, shook the entire world. The tsunami fathered waves with a height of almost 15 meters in height.

Occurring at about 00:58:53 UTC (07:58:53 local time), the 2004 Tsunami sprang up in the Indian Ocean, in the north of Simeulue island and off the west coast of northern Sumatra in Indonesia. The tsunami ravaged the shores of Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and several other nations. According to the records of United States Geological Survey, the magnitude of the earthquake at Sumatra was about 8.9 on the Richter Scale while the epicenter was 10km beneath the seabed. An interesting feature of the seismic tidal waves that was found in different regions of the globe was that the sea water was seen disappearing from the beaches just few minutes prior the huge wave slashed back with immense fury, taking on a huge toll of life.

Almost all the nations located in proximity to the Bay of Bengal were badly affected by Tsunami and India was no exception. The first tsunami that took place in India is recorded to date back to 31^st of December, 1881. The magnitude of the earthquake was recorded to be 7.5 on the Richter scale while the epicenter was below the sea, off the Coast of Car Nicobar Island. The last tsunami that took place in India was on 26^th June 1941. It was caused by an earthquake having magnitude over 8.5.

It was a quiet Sunday morning after the Christmas celebrations in the year 2004. In different regions like Marina Beach in Chennai, at Kanyakumari, Kerala coast and the Andaman Nicober Islands, people were busy in their work; while women and men were taking a morning walk, the children were busy playing; fishermen were preparing for the day’s catch. Suddenly the waves took it over and everything finished in just a single blow!

The 1st and the strongest earthquake took place at 6.29 AM (Indian Standard Time) just off the west coast of northern Sumatra in Indonesia. The intensity was about 9.0 USGS. This was followed by another one, after 3 hours, at a distance of 81 kilometers (km) in the west of Pulo Kunji Great Nicobar in India. The intensity was recorded to be 7.3 USGS. There were about 115 aftershocks among which about 103 tremors had a magnitude between 5.0 and 6.0 USGS while 12 tremors had a magnitude of more than 6.0 on the Richter scale. The earthquakes resulted in giant tsunami waves of with a height of about 3 to 10 meters that hit the eastern and southern coastal regions in India and also penetrated the inland for up to 3 km, thereby resulting in severe damage at the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, districts of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Pondicherry.

In the tsunami of 2004, India happened to be the 3^rd nation that was extensively clobbered along with Indonesia and Srilanka. The states in India that got affected severely were Pondicheri, Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu, Kerala and Andaman and Nicober Island.

Tsunami and India

Tamil Nadu

The worst affected state in India was Tamil Nadu. About 7,793 people lost their lives. In the Nagapattinam district 5,525 people died; in Kanyakumari there were 808 deaths; Cuddalore district had a death toll of 599; the capital city of Chennai had 206 people dead while Kancheepuram district saw the death of about 124 people. The number of deaths in other districts of Tamil Nadu was Pudukkottai (15), Tirunelveli (4), Ramanathapuram (6), Tiruvallur (28), Thoothukudi (3), Tiruvarur (10), Thanjavur (22), and Viluppuram (47).

In Kanyakumari, mostly the pilgrims died, who were taking a sacred dip in the sea. In Chennai, those near the Marina beach were killed; at Velankanni in the district of Nagapattinam 1,500 people were washed away.

Pondicherry

In the Union territory of Pondicherry, about 30,000 people were rendered homeless. The districts that were badly affected were Pondicherry (107 dead), and Karaikal (453 dead). In Pondicherry, Kariakal saw the most devastating affects and maximum number of deaths. Mostly fishermen in this region lost their lives and many were missing.

Andhra Pradesh

In the state of Andhra Pradesh, the districts that were affected were Prakasam (35 dead), West Godavari (8 dead), Nellore (20 dead), Krishna (35 dead), Guntur (4 dead), and East Godavari (3 dead).

Kerala

In the state of Kerala, the districts that got affected were Alappuzha (32 dead), Kollam (131 dead), Ernakulam (5 dead). About 187 villages and 24.70 lakh people were severely affected. About 6,280 dwelling units were damaged.

Andaman and Nicobar:

The Andaman and Nicobar islands was the worst hit owing to its proximity to the ocean. About 7000 people were badly affected. Aftershocks continue to rock the area. About 1/5^th of the population in the islands were dead, injured or missing. The Chowra Island lost 2/3^rd of the population. 100 personnel of the Indian Air Force along with their family members were completely washed away at the air base. The base got severely damaged. The St. Thomas Cathedral was also washed away entirely, along with one of the cricket stadiums, named after John Richardson.

Were the Relief Measures Enough?

Even though the Government of India and the State Governments of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and the administration of Pondicherry, were initially unaware, by the Tsunami attack, yet they then responded quickly.

• State and UT Governments

The Chief Ministers of the different affected states and union territories in India directed the officials of the Revenue Department led by the Relief Commissioner to undertake and organize a search, recovery and relief measures through district collectors with the help of the police, rescue and fire departments and services, health and medical services and the linked departments. Control rooms were opened by the State Relief Commissioners for the proper dissemination of information to the state government as well as the public. Websites related to relief operations and tsunami prevention was opened. With the assistance from the navy, air force, army and coast guard and the senior civil servants placed at the affected areas, the dead bodies were identified at the affected regions, by the district administration and measure were taken for their proper disposal. Further obstacles were removed, people were rescued to safer areas, measures was taken towards stopping the outbreak of epidemics and restoration of the basic services such as supply of water and power.  Relief camps at various places were opened. In the state of Tamil Nadu about 44,207 persons were taken to about 58 relief camps. In Pondicherry, 48 relief camps were opened. In Kerala about 24,978 people were kept in 29 relief camps. The state of Andhra Pradesh undertook the opening of 65 relief camps. The Union Territory administration and the State governments also offered relief material and financial assistance to the affected families and also declared several repair subsidies for the house damage.

• Government of India

Several steps were taken at the national level, by the Government of India. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) under the Government of India was deputed as the nodal body that was responsible for coordinating and offering relief measures in the different areas of the states and union territories in India that were affected by the Tsunami of 2004. The body also created a control room along with a public help line. Under the Cabinet Secretary, a National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) was created in order to make an emergency relief plan and also reviewing the different efforts undertaken, with the secretaries of important departments or ministries and the chiefs of the armed forces. Further, under the chairmanship of the Secretary of Border Management, MHA, along with the representatives of different ministries, under a joint secretary, a National Crisis Management Group was created that was entrusted the responsibility of visiting the states affected by Tsunami. The individual ministries undertook efforts that were ministry. A fund of about Rs. 2,731 crore ($627.81 million) was allocated from the National Calamity Contingency Fund (NCCF), for the impacted states and union territories in India. There were several other funds that were declared.

Response from the Civil Societies and the NGOs

Private individuals, community members, and many non governmental organizations (NGOs) all across India responded brilliantly to the requirements of the states and Union Territories in India under the Tsunami reel. The Bilateral donor agencies supported the NGOs. The various agencies that functioned in different sectors ranging from psycho social counseling, health, shelter, water, education, sanitation, to livelihood and environment consisted of organizations like the CARE (India), Tamil Nadu Voluntary Health Association, World Vision India, Project Concern International, Catholic Relief Services (India), Echo, Dhan Foundation, Oxfam, League for Education and Development, and Jesuits in Social Action.

Response from the Private sector

Relief material and corporate donations on large scale were offered to the states and Union Territories in India affected by the Tsunami. As per the estimations of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the corporate sector in India contributed over $8 million of cash donations, medicine, food, relief supplies and other services. Different Indian companies, banks, insurance, business houses, medical and information technology companies as well as the public sector organizations, contributed more than Rs. 40.0 crore ($9.2 million) of money to the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. Donations were also offered by these bodies to established NGOs such as CARE, Oxfam and Dhan Foundation. Fund raising measures were also undertaken by the media and sports personalities and other celebrities.

International Community response

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) was deputed by the United Nations Disaster Management Team as the main point for all relief activities. UNICEF with the help of its rapid action teams sent the reports of this disaster within seventy two hours of its taking place. Many UN agencies backed the UNICEF in carrying out the relief activities. Moreover, the UNDP assisted in coordinating UN system measures for recovery and rehabilitation. The other UN agencies that participated in the Tsunami Relief Process consisted of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), International Labor Organization (ILO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), World Health Organization (WHO), Social and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and United Nations Education. One UN Team was formed in Chennai for the Recovery Support.

Impacts of Tsunami: A Disaster to be remembered for ever!

• Environmental Impact

Almost 2,260 km of coastline was immensely affected by the tsunami, thereby causing huge damages in the coastal regions of the state of Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Pondicherry, coasts of Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. The tsunami had several primary impacts on the environment. Huge amount of rubble and debris were generated thereby leading to environment pollution. There has been accretion or erosion and sedimentation of waterways and lagoons in several places alongside the coast. There has been pollution of the agricultural lands, surface and ground water resources, and also the deposition of organic deposits of the sea-bed on land. Coconut plantations and Fishery resources have been badly affected. Some of the secondary impacts of Tsunami included destructions created by temporary shelters, relief camps, and temporary structures, poor sanitation practices, changes in the land use resulting from the loss of many agricultural lands etc, increase the usage of water and chemicals during the  in water and chemical usage during reconditioning and reclamation of the agricultural lands that were affected. Large amount of coastal regions were affected, through the inflow of silt and salt water. Besides, aquatic and terrestrial pollution also took place, in terms of sewage, chemical effluents and physical debris.

• Social Impact

Tsunami, the biggest natural disaster, of its kind has destroyed many communities taking a high toll of lives, causing injuries, adversely affecting families, livelihoods and homes. There have been long term problems and consequences for the affected families torn apart by injuries, disability or death, for the single parents, widows, children, orphans, etc. one of the surprising fact was that in the states and the Union territories affected by tsunami, in comparison to men, more children and women lost their lives. Most of them who were affected near the coastline were the fishermen who faced the maximum damage in case of livelihood, housing, household assets, dwelling units, and productive assets such as nets and boats. Disturbed Minds, societal problems in certain social groups, bad habits such as like drinking, psychological problems among the students, fear for sea among the children are among the post Tsunami impacts on the people and their social life.

• Economic problems

Tsunami of 2004 also resulted in some major economic issues and problems. Many people who were badly hit by this disastrous calamity never had a savings account or rather a bank account for that matter. Some people lost their main source of livelihood, their business. The fishermen lost their boats and nets. Some of the boats and other important materials were damaged. People, who were in the habit of keeping money in their houses, lost it all by the Tsunami waves.  Money was required to restart the business and there lives. Basic infrastructure needed to be developed. Government aids and assistance at various levels such as finance and subsides were necessary. Most importantly, long term rehabilitation of those people affected by the Tsunami was required.

The giant tsunami that resulted in unprecedented destruction and death in the South and South-East Asia will be remembered in the pages of history as 1 among the greatest and deadliest natural disasters in the modern times. In minutes, millions of lives were put to death across the several nations worldwide; large numbers of people were rendered homeless; women became widows, children became orphans, while innumerable families were wiped out within few seconds. People affected by tsunami, till date is struggling to come out of the deadliest impacts of such a devastating natural calamity that not only affected the people but also left a long term impression on them, both physically and mentally.

 

 

Yet Another Petrol Price Hike for India!

States and Union Territories in India

 

Yet Another Petrol Price Hike for India! Once again the price of petrol has gone up! With the changing scenario, the Indian Economy is concentrating on new developments and evolutions for decontrolling the prices. There has been recent increase in the price of petrol. The news channels, newspapers, news portals, political parties are debating and discussing on the advantages and disadvantages of this price hike. There has been a shift from the democratic ideology, which was until now strongly influencing the policies of the Indian economic policies. So an important question that comes into picture is, has the definition of the ‘common people’ gone for a change or has common people gone more elite? Are common men prepared to face the decontrol or there is the need for India, to protect the people from freeing of prices?

In the war raged between inflation and the Indian Government, the former seemed to won on 15^th of January, 2011, as the price of petrol and fuel witnessed a rise. Following this, it has been decided by many oil companies in India, that the price of fuel would be increased by 2-4% since oil prices have soared up globally.

Although, the government of India is trying to battle out inflation in many sections, however, the state oil companies have decided to increase the price of petrol and aviation fuel by 4 and 2% respectively. Apart from this, the Aviation Turbine Fuel will also increase by about 2% that comes to Rs.48, 764 per kilolitre, since January 16^th 2011.

3 of the state oil companies, namely the Bharat Petroleum, Indian Oil and Hindustan Petroleum, will increase the petrol price from Rs.2.50 to Rs.2.54 per liter. The hike in price of petrol happened owing to the fact that the crude prices at the international level reached about the mark of $100 per barrel. This rose has been the highest in past 2 years.

Pranab Mukherjee, the Union Finance Minister stated on 15^th of January, 2011, that the state oil companies needed to increase the price of petrol owing to the rice of crude oil prices in the global market. To quote him-

“Petrol prices have been deregulated and it has been decided that when the prices of the petrol would increase in the international market, the oil companies would adjust the prices,”…..Now the price of petroleum crude has reached almost $90 per barrel (159 litres). So, prices have been increased (in India),”.

Just 2 days after the petrol price hike in India, Murli Deora, the Petroleum Minister said on January 17^th, that there was no other alternative but to go for the hike since the state oil companies were incurring huge losses.

If the price of petrol stands at Rs 58.90, the break up of cost as calculated by the Indian Government is as follows:

• Basic Price: Rs 28.93
• Education Tax: Rs 0.43
• Dealer commission: Rs 1.05
• Excise duty: Rs 14.35
• VAT: Rs 5.5
• Petrol Custom: Rs 1.54
• Crude Oil Custom duty: Rs 1.1
• Transportation Charge: Rs 6.00
• Total price: Rs 58.90

Political Parties and Leaders on Agitation: Will That Help?

In regard to the petrol and fuel price hike, India at present is witnessing agitation on the part of the Political Parties and Leaders. But will that help? The Left Front Parties said on 15^th of January, that if the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government allows a hike in the price of petrol, they would protest against this, intensely.

Biman Bose, politburo member of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) even asked the citizens to raise a voice against this decision of the Government, which is anti-people. To quote Biman Bose-

“We hear prices of diesel will go up. The petro price increase will raise the transportation cost of essentials like foodgrains and vegetables, thus making them dearer,”.

Debabrata Biswas, the general secretary of All India Forward Bloc (AIFB) stated that that hike was the result of wrong policies on behalf of the UPA government. To quote Debabrata Biswas, in front of the media-

“With the government having decontrolled petrol prices, the price of fuels is increasing by leaps and bounds. We will definitely agitate against it,”.

Kshiti Goswami, Minister of state Public Works Department and also the Senior Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) leader was heard saying that the issue of hike in petrol price is definitely a reason for concern. To quote Kshiti Goswami

“We have been protesting against the escalating price of essentials for long. People’s miseries will only increase. All left parties will sit together and decide on the nature of our agitation,”.

All the opposition parties, from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to the Left Front protested against the price hike. CPI-M, the Communist Party of India-Marxist referred to the decision of petrol price hike as a “cruel blow”.

To quote Prakash Karat, the CPI-M general secretary and politburo member

“They should immediately regulate the prices of petrol and diesel, reverse the policy of de-regulation because that is one of the prime reasons that is pushing up prices,”.

The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) today termed the decision to increase the price of petrol as a “cruel blow”.

Shahnawaz Hussain, spokesperson of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said that “No item of daily consumption – be it onions or tomatoes – is affordable today.”

Congress, heading the ruling UPA that is United Progressive Alliance government, too admitted that Government needs to take responsibility by stepping forward by limiting the price rise and lessening down the burden of the common citizen.

The Trinamool Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) New Delhi, said on January 17^th, that the ruling UPA (United Progressive Alliance) government should consult their allies before reaching any crucial decisions on the price hike.

D.P. Tripathi, NCP spokesperson, said to the media that “The allies should be consulted. There should be a coordination mechanism among alliance partners,”. He also stressed on the fact that allies must meet each other frequently that helps in dealing and sorting out different contentious issues, thereby ensuring better coordination. He said “The more you meet the better.” He added that special attention should be given to this issue, since the common man will be the one to face the daily problems.

The Trinamool Congress, another key ally, had also on Sunday expressed concern over the petrol price hike and complained that it was not consulted on the issue. The party had said that a meeting of allies should be held every three months to discuss the ideas of different political parties.

Sudip Bandopadhyay, MP of another important ally of the ruling party, Trinamool Congress commented that their party would protest against the price hike in petrol and the subsequent increase in prices of other items and commodities, in Kolkata and different parts of the state of West Bengal.

CITU also went for a 3 hour shutdown of transport from 12P.M to 3 P.M in the state of West Bengal.  This was held as a protest-against the rise in petrol prices.

Condemning the increase in petrol prices, J. Jayalalithaa, AIADMK chief said the increase in price happens to be one of the causes for inflation that the entire country is going through. To quote Jayalalithaa-

“In the last one month, petrol prices have been increased by Rs.2.55 per litre. The prices have gone up by Rs.15 per litre in the last one year.” “If the situation continues, people will have to travel on bullock carts and cycles. The central and the state governments are taking the country back to the stone age,”. She also added that the two-wheelers and auto rickshaw users along with the industries will suffer severely owing to this hike.

Is there Any Solution to This?

January 11, few days before the price hike in petrol, the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh held a meeting with the senior ministers and officials, in order to check on the rising price of fuels that has resulted in the food inflation of India to soar by more than 18%. However, even after the meeting, no measures were declared.

To quote one of the officials present at the meeting-

“A host of issues were discussed. Some inputs have been sought. There will be another meeting in a day or two,”.

The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Home Minister P. Chidambaram, Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, Cabinet Secretary K.M. Chandrasekhar and Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia.

Although the Central bank and the Government of India, have initiated many measures, to put a check on the inflation, yet the measures were of no use since the price of important items and commodities continued to rise without any indication to slip down. To add to the worries of the Government, Pakistan banned the export of onion through the land route.

According to the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the monetary policies to control the inflation rate have failed to work. There has been mismanagement in the supply of food, which has resulted in the creation of a wide gap between retail prices and the farm gate.

According to Amit Mitra, a well-known business economist, the secretary general of industry lobby- “Food prices have once again gone up and this shows that monetary policy has become an ineffective tool for containing food inflation,”.

Who Are the Sufferers?

The decision by the Government of India, to increase the cost of fuel and petrol, will result in high inflation, badly and heavily affect the working class, thereby provoking unrest. The higher cost of cooking, lighting and high transport rates will affect millions of common people, immediately and immensely. Nor only this, the cost of other important commodities and products will also increase.  No matter how much the media debates and discusses, no matter how the political parties agitate, yet it will be the common man who will be the sufferers. The ultimate victim would surely be the citizens. On one hand as the rice in price of petrol and the associated products, made them costlier for the common people, thereby taking a heavy toll on their monthly budget, on the other, it sparked off several impacts on the daily life.

 

 

 

 

Disaster Management as a Career Option!

 

Disasters are those dangerous events or situations that can strike one or many, unexpectedly, anytime, anywhere. Originating from the French word ‘desastre’, disaster happens to be the combination of two words, ‘des’ meaning bad and ‘aster’ meaning star. Hence disaster signifies bad star. Disasters can be classified into several types like man-made disaster, natural disasters, hybrid disaster etc, depending on the nature of threat. Man-made disasters such as blast, gas calamity, terrible accidents, etc are caused when human beings interact with the environment. Natural disasters are those resulting from various natural forces such as floods, tsunami, earthquakes, cyclones, volcanic eruption etc. Hybrid disasters like epidemics are the disasters resulting from a combination of natural as well as man made disasters. Deforestation, increasing population, industrial growth etc are the reasons behind the natural and man-made disasters. The September 11 attacks on US or the Bhopal gas tragedy in India can be cited as two massive cases of disasters.

Disaster management, sometimes also referred as Emergency Management deals with different types of disasters. The main objective is to decrease the dreadful effects of the disaster on the people and the community, thereby helping them to get back to normal flow of life. A multi-disciplinary field, disaster management includes issues such as evaluation, search and rescue, monitoring, reconstruction, relief and rehabilitation operations. This immensely responsible profession consist of suitable plans and actions to mange the disasters. It happens to be the combination of different mechanisms like alerts, fast response, timely warning, and efficient coordination.

In India, the central and state government undertakes the disaster management responsibilities. The government has also included disaster management as a subject of study.

Eligibility & Courses

Those looking to build up a career in Disaster Management can select from a wide range of courses and programs available in India. Programs in this field range from undergraduate courses to post graduate programs, short term certificate courses to diploma programs. For undergraduate programs in Disaster the basic academic qualification needed is a Higher Secondary that is 10+2 Certificate. For post graduate programs such as MA or MBA in Disaster Management, candidates are required to possess a graduate degree in any discipline, from a recognized university, with at least 50% marks.

Disaster management programs aim at increasing the knowledge, abilities and skills, and outlook on disasters. Different areas are covered by the disaster management courses, such as managing emergency situations, respond to the requirements of the people, distribution of medicines and food to the injured people, evacuation process, etc. Some of the topics that are covered by the courses include approaches and planning for the disaster, data management and analysis, conflict and its analysis, legislative structures for controlling disasters, disaster risk reduction strategies, development planning, Basic Economics, Geographical Information System, disaster financing, and logistic management, psychological care and public health planning. Disaster management has been included as a subject by the Government of India, for the students under Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).

• Certificate Course in Disaster Management
• Diploma in Psychosocial Care and Support in Disaster Management
• Diploma in Disaster Management
• Disaster Mitigation and Consequence Management
• M.B.A. Disaster Management
• M.A. Disaster Management
• M.Phil. Disaster Management
• M.Sc. Disaster Management
• Ph.D. Disaster Management
• Post Graduate Diploma in Disaster Management (P.G.D.D.M)
• Post Graduate Certificate Course in Disaster Management
• PG Certificate Course in Disaster Management
• PG Diploma in Disaster Management (P.G.D.D.M)
• Certificate Course in Disaster Management
• Disaster Mitigation and Consequence Management

Personal skill

Professionals who desire to flourish and rise high in the filed of Disaster management must possess the following attributes:

• Should have Physical and Mental Fitness
• Should have the ability to handle all and any kind of situation and circumstance, at any point of time
• Should have ability to plan
• Must be alert
• Must have the capability to implement appropriate plans, for any type of situation, immediately
• Should be responsible enough for the well being of others
• Must be prepared to take up huge responsibilities
• Should have good communication skills
• Must possess good organizing abilities and should have a team spirit

Career Prospects

Protecting and managing the people from different types of hazards and problems is an essential duty that is to be taken care of with extreme caution. Disaster management is basically a kind of service offered to the people.

India is a country that is more prone to disasters and natural calamities. Hence the need for disaster management personnel is on the rise, in our country. There is large number of employment opportunities in the various disaster management departments like fire departments, law enforcement authorities, drought management departments, relief agencies etc. Several industries like Insurance companies, chemical industries, mining industry, petroleum industry etc have their individual disaster management cells. In this field, you can also work as an environment expert, social worker, rehabilitation worker etc.  Graduates in the field of disaster management can begin their own consultancies.

There are large numbers of non-government and government organizations that are in need of disaster management professionals. Disaster management as a Career comes with immense scope in NGOs, International organizations like World Bank, United Nations Organizations (UNO), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Red Cross, UNESCO etc. A career in Disaster Management will pay you good and at the same time offer you mental satisfaction.

Institutes in India

CEIT-IGNOU Community College
Main Market, Chanapora , Srinagar (Srinagar Dist.) – 190015

Jamsetji Tata Centre for Disaster Management (J.T.C.D.M)
Tata Institute of Social Science,
Malti and Jal A.D. Naoroji (New Campus),
Lala Jamnadas Gupta Marg, Off V.N.Purab Marg, P.O. Box 8313, Deonar , Mumbai (Mumbai Dist.) – 400088

Asian Fire Engineering College (A.F.E.C)
Mecosabagh Primary School Campus, Kadbi Chowk,
Nagpur (Nagpur Dist.) – 440004

National Institute of Disaster Management
I.P. Estate, Ring Road , New Delhi (Delhi) – 110002

North-Eastern Hill University: The School of Education
Shillong (Meghalaya)
NEHU, Permanent Campus, Mawkynroh-Umshing
Shillong (Khasi Hills Dist.) – 793022

Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya
Institute of Management Studies
Indore (Madhya Pradesh)
Takshashila Campus, Khandwa Road, Indore (Indore Dist.) – 452017

Archbishop Powathil Assumption Community College (APACC), Changanassery (Kerala)
Assumption College Campus, Changanassery (Kottayam Dist.) – 686101

All India Disaster Mitigation Institute
411, Sakar Five,
Near Nataraj Cinema, Ashram Road,
Ahmedabad – 380009, Gujarat, India
Phone: 91-79-26586234, 26583607,
Fax: 91-79-26582962
E-mail: dmi@icenet.co.in

NationalInformationCenter of Earthquake Engineering
Kanpur 208016, India
Phone: (0512) 259 7866
Fax: (0512) 259 7794
Email: nicee@iitk.ac.in

PRT Institute of Post Graduate Environmental Education & Research

Environment Protection Training and Research Institute,
91/4, Gachibowli, Hyderabad – 500 032
Andhra Pradesh – INDIA
Phone: +91-40-23000489, 23001241, 23001242,
Fax: +91-40-23000361
Email: info@eptri.com

Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority
Block No. 11,
5th Floor,Udyog Bhavan,Sector – 11,
Gandhinagar, Gujarat (INDIA) – 382 017
Phone: 91.79.2325 9220, 2325 9303
Fax: 91.79.2325 9275, 2325 9302
Email: info@gsdma.org

The Indian Institute of Public Administration’s National Centre for Disaster Management

Sikkim Manipal University of Health, Medical and Technological Sciences

International Centre of Madras University

Disaster Management Institute (DMI)

A Career in Clinical Research!

 

There are many graduates in medical science or life sciences, who are often confused regarding what to take up in their post graduation or how to shape up their future after they complete their graduation. There are also students who want to take up something challenging in their post graduation. In this scenario Clinical Research happens to be an emerging career option for the graduates in Medical Science, Dental Science or Life Science.

Clinical research is basically applied research. It involves the testing and examination of new medicines. The aim is to check if the medication is effective and safe, when used for a particular disease. Clinical research basically brings to the patients, the latest pharmaceuticals and therapies directly from the laboratory. It is the blend of two separate things, the clinic and the laboratory.  It is the translation of the basic discoveries to different treatments for the diseases of human beings.

Clinical research has witnessed immense popularity and worth in India. Following McKinsey & Company, India in 2010, generated around US $1.5 billion revenue in the field of clinical research, from locations such as Europe and U.S. This resulted in the creation of a demand for about 50,000 clinical research personnel and almost 10,000 investigators in clinical practice.

Clinical Research Courses

Numerous regular, online and correspondence courses in Clinical Research are available in India. Some of the courses in Clinical Research that you can check out are-

• B.Sc. Clinical Laboratory Technology
• B.Sc. Clinical Microbiology
• B.Sc. Clinical Nutrition, Dietetics and Catering Management
• Advanced Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Research & Regulatory Affairs (APGDCR (RA))
• Integrated Post Graduate Diploma In Clinical Research and Pharmacovigilance
• Certificate Program in Clinical Research (CPCR)
• M.Sc. Clinical Microbiology
• Diploma in Clinical Laboratory Technician
• PG Diploma in Clinical Trial Management
• PG Diploma in Clinical and Community psychology (CCP)
• PG Diploma in Clinical Nutrition
• PG Diploma in Clinical Laboratory Technology

Eligibility

After obtaining a B.Sc degree in Science, pharmacy and Medicine, one can go for a post graduate program in Clinical Research. The Clinical Research industry looks for graduates in Science, Pharmacy, life science, medicine, bioscience etc. Again in Bio Science, there are further divisions like Zoology, Botany, Genetics, and Biochemistry etc.  One who fulfils any of these criteria can go for post graduate programs in this industry.

Career Prospects

Clinical research personnel are among the sought after in India. A clinical research professional has number of options to start with, such as clinical research coordinator (CRC), Clinical Research Associate (CRA), Data management Validator (DMV), supervisor in hospitals or pharmaceutical firms, etc. The other options in the clinical research industry include medical writer, biostatistician, Safety reviewer, clinical research investigator and business development manager.

There are a number of job opportunities in the field of clinical research. However, to flourish in this filed, a degree in clinical research is not enough. One should be able to come out of his city and town; they should be able to meet the expectations of the employers. An active effort within the students of Clinical Research is an essential requisite that calls for a detailed understanding of the subject on the part of the student, besides improving one’s soft skills. A career in clinical research is surely satisfying and challenging and satisfying. One need to go for the right institute and a good program.

Institutes

Anovus Institute of Clinical Research
Sri Ram Tirath Cultural Centre
Plot No.:28-29,
Dakhshin Marg,
Opp. Batra Theatre,
Sector – 24C,
Chandigarh – 160036.
Ph No. : 0172-2726730

Altree Healthcare
Bldg No. 35/1986 B1
Opp. IMA House
Nehru Stadium Road
Palarivattom – Cochin 25
Kerala – India 682 025
Ph: +91 484 6561090 / 6561091

Apeejay Svran Institute for Biosciences & Clinical Research
Sector-32, Plot-26, Gurgaon, Haryana
Tel: +91124-4365376

Clinical Research Education and Management Academy (CREMA)
465/A,
22nd Cross Road,
3rd Block, Jayanagar,
Opp NMKRV College
Bengaluru 560 011
Phone: 080-4142 5578/79

Asian Institute of Health Sciences (AIOHS)
Ravi Hospital,
50, Anandnagar,
Vasai (West), Thane Dist-401 202, Maharashtra
Tel: 0250-2332684

Focus Institute of Pharms Skills
119/1,1st Floor, Srinidhi Complex,
11th Cross,Off Sampige Road
Malleswaram,
Bangalore-560003
Tel: +91 80 2334 5566

Institute of Clinical Research-ICRI
D 41, Ground Floor
Defence Colony
New Delhi -24
Tel: – +91-011-46638009

Cliniminds
C-55, 1st Floor, Preet Vihar,
Main Vikas Marg, Delhi 110092 (India)
Tel: +91-11-30287800 – 04

Lotus Clinical Research Academy Pvt. Ltd. (LCRA)
# 582, KCA Enclave, Opposite Bethany High School
8th Block, Koramangala, Bangalore 560 095
Tel: +91-80-2571 0822, 2570 4173/74/75

Oasis Institute of Health Sciences & Research Centre (OIHSRC)
2nd floor,Todkar Garden,
Above South Indian Bank,
Bibwewadi – kondhawa road,
Bibwewadi,
Pune – 411037
Ph: – +91-20-64002030

Medvarsity Online Limited
2nd floor, Life Sciences Building,
Apollo Hospitals Complex,
Film Nagar,
Hyderabad- 500 096, A.P, India
Tel: +040 – 23554000

Reliance Institute of Life Sciences
Dhirubhai Ambani Life Sciences Center
Thane- Belapur Road, Rabale
Navi Mumbai 400 701, India
Email : director@rils.ac.in

T. John Group of Institutions
SG-4, Manipal Centre,
Dickenson Road,
Bangalore 560 042
Email: info@tjohncollege.com
Phone: 91 80 25597817,
Fax: 91 80 25590952

Sharda Group of Institutions
Sharda University Campus, Greater Noida :
Plot No. 32-34, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida, UP. – 201306
Admission Cell: +91-120-3121001/2

Want to check out the art of make-up? Build Up Your Career as a Beautician!

 

Want to check out the art of make-up? Build Up Your Career as a Beautician! If you like interacting with various types of people and have an eye for beauty and fitness, then you can excel as a beautician. Although the beauty trends and tastes of people keep changing, yet the very basics of a beautician’s job remains unaltered, that is to make others look good and feel confident about themselves! Those people who create magic with their hands, whose aim is to make people look attractive and confident- Yes, they are the beauticians!

The process of looking good and presentable is no longer restricted to the famous and the privileged section of people. Look around and you would find many beauty conscious people in the towns and cities, waiting at the beauty parlors and fitness centers to get that perfect look! A huge money rolling industry, beauty care, offers employment opportunities to large number of people.

In today’s world when there is a growing interest for looking good and feeling fit as never before, a career in beauty care happens to be one of the sought after careers. As a result the industry is witnessing huge turnover for jobs. With beauty playing a major role in our life, a career as a beautician sounds fascinating and challenging as well!

Eligibility and Courses

If you are looking to open up your own beauty parlor, then you must possess the basic knowledge about the beauty therapies. Those who desire to build up a career as a beautician, have to go for exhaustive professional training. The expense of the beauty courses vary from institute to institute. A number of beauty programs are there, which focus on different aspects of beauty such as the skin that would include facials, bleaching, pedicure, manicure, make-up, massage and diet; or it might comprise of hair dressing features that consist of hair treatments, cuttings and styling.

Diploma programs in beauty culture or hair dressing are offered by many Polytechnics. Students having completed their plus two or equivalent can go for these courses. The duration of the course ranges from 6 months to 2 years. The comprehensiveness of the course depends on the duration of the course.

Beauty training programs are also conducted by famous beauticians of international and national fame.

The beautician courses can be divided into two parts; one comprise of the theory portion that includes physiology, hygiene, anatomy, chemistry, hair dressing, nature of hair, salon organization, electrical treatment and many more. The other part consists of the practical work. This comprises giving facials, different massages, make-up, tinting, bleaching of hair, to name some of them.

Among the many beauty courses, some of them are-

• Program in Beauty Culture & Hair Dressing
• Diploma Course in Beauty Culture & Hair Dressing
• Certificate Course in Beauty Culture & Hair Dressing
• Intensive Course on Hair Styling and Beauty
• Crash Course in Hair Styling
• Hair and Cosmetology Basic
• Special Course on Chemical Processes
• Diploma in Beauty Therapy
• Short-Term Vocational Courses
• Hair Styling Observation Course
• Post Graduate Diploma – Skin and Beauty Therapy
• Advanced Diploma in Hair Dressing
• Bodywork Technology
• Therapeutic Massage
• Cosmetology
• Nail Technology
• Aesthetics Skin care
• Esthetics
• Diploma in Medical Therapeutic Massage
• Skin Care Degree
• Clinical Skin Care – Diploma
• Associate in Medical Therapeutic Massage
• Electrology Laser training
• Barbering
• Permanent make-up
• Make-up artist training
• Massage therapy
• Hair design
• Spa therapy
• Manicure & Pedicure Degree

Personal Attributes

• Liking for the people
• Good humor
• Good health
• Stamina and a strong back
• Confident
• Tactful
• Helpful nature
• Friendliness
• Imagination
• Systematic approach
• Persuasive attitude
• Courtesy
• Dexterity and Gentleness
• Unruffled mannerism
• Dry hands
• Well-groomed and attractive appearance
• Artistic ability
• Knowledge of equipment and techniques
• An eye for fashion
• Readiness to work with hands
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene

Career Prospects and Opportunities

Want to check out the art of make-up? Build Up Your Career as a Beautician! The career is open for both boys as well as girls. The beauty business is witnessing a rapid growth. Beauty specialists in most cases start off by either being a part of larger establishments, as for examples serving some famous beauty parlor; the second option would be establishing their own beauty parlors or fitness centers and building up their own clientele.

Over the time, you have the opportunity to blossom as a beautician or beauty expert or may be a consultant. You can also come to be a beauty columnist for magazines or newspapers.

You can go for training the aspiring beauticians with relevant beauty methods and skills. You can work for fashion photographers, who create the portfolios of numerous models, actors, stars etc.

With immense dedication and hard work once you are able to gather some fame and repute for yourself, you can then try out your hand at Tollywood, Bollywood and even Hollywood.

Good grooming happens to be an essential aspect nowadays as a good, attractive or presentable personality is something that we all look for. The beauty specialists, at present comprise of the sought after class of professionals.  Lucrative offers, high monetary package and fame characterize the profession of a beautician.

Institutes in India

VLCC Institute of Beauty, Health & Management
A-18, Lajpat Nagar-II,
New Delhi – 110024
Tel: 29840631/32/33

Shahnaz Hussain’s Women’s World International,
B-40, Greater Kailash-1,
New Delhi

Habib’s Hair Academy,
M-3, South Extension, Part-2,
New Delhi

Eves Beauty and Hair Academy
194, B-Block,
Lajpat Nagar,
New Delhi,
Phone: (0) 9811536559
E-mail: info@evesbeauty.com

Smiles
A-160, Azad Nagar,
MIG Colony, Veera Desai Road,
Andheri (West),
Mumbai

Polytechnic for women
A-3, South Extension, Part-1
New Delhi,

Akbar Peerbhoy Girl’s Polytechnic
92, D N Road, Fort,
Mumbai

Blunt Academy
St John Baptist Road,
Bandra West,
Mumbai—400 050
Phone: (0) 9819725868

Schnell Hans Beauty School
111, Mistry Chambers,
Colaba,
Mumbai—400 005

International Polytechnic for Women
1860, Sector 34-D,
Chandigarh

Harish Big Boss Hair & Beauty Institute
Borivali (W),
Maharashtra

YWCA of Delhi,
Women’s training Institute,
Bangla Sahib Lane,
New delhi- 11 0001

Spratt—The Hair Studio
Ground floor, Marielle Apartments,
3, Magrath Road,
Bangalore—560 025
Phone: (080) 5091110

Pivot Point
32, De’Monte Colony,
T T K Road, Alwarpet,
Chennai—600 018
Phone: (044) 467 1752 / 53

Loyola Institute of Vocational Education,
Loyola College,
Chennai-34

 

Social Significance of the Festival of Lohri!

Right amid the freezing weather, with temperatures going down every moment, dense fog settled outside and everything going on for stagnancy, one can still feel a flagrant wave of activity underlying everything in the north of India. People in places like Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, seems busy preparing for the long awaited festival of Lohri.  On this occasion of the harvest festival, Lohri, people celebrate the harvest of the winter crop, Rabi, unwind and relax amidst the traditional folk songs and dances of the region, engage in praying and wishing their close ones! This year, Lohri has been celebrated on 13^th of January, 2011.

Origin and History of Lohri

The origin of the bonfire festival of Lohri dates back to the story of Dulla Bhatti. A Muslim robber, Dulla Bhat resided in Punjab in the reign of Mughal Emperor, Akbar. Apart from robbing the rich people, he also rescued those Hindu girls, who were taken to be sold out forcibly at the slave market in the Middle East. Not only this, Dulla Bhatti also arranged for the marriage of these girls to Hindu boys. Reasonably, although a crook, he however, became the hero of all the Punjabis. So the Lohri songs are meant to express gratefulness to Dulla Bhatti.

Since Lohri is pronounced in rural Punjab as “Lohi”, so according to some, it is believed that Lohri has got its name from Loi who was the wife of Sant Kabir. Others say that Lohri derives its meaning from the word ‘loh’ that is tawa of a thick iron sheet, used for making chapattis during community feasts. Still others say that Lohri and Holika were sisters. While Holika perished in the fire, Lohri survived. Eating of rorhi (jaggery) and til (sesame seeds) on the day of Lohri is though to be essential.  According to some, the words til and rorhi got merged and became tilorhi that eventually over the time got shortened into Lohri.

This festival marks the beginning of the month of Magh (January as per the Gregorian calendar) and the end of winter months that is the final day of Paush.  During this time, the sun also tends to change its path or course. The worship of Fire and Sun is associated with the festival. Although Lohri happens to be the festival of the Punjabis, exclusively, yet it is observed in different parts of India and in different communities by different names. The Lohri in north India corresponds to Makar Sankranti in Bengal, Pongal in the state of Tamil Nadu, Tai Pongal in Kerala and Magha Bihu in Assam.

By mid January, boys in small groups visit houses and ring the doorbells along with the chants of Lohri songs associated with Dulla Bhatti. In return, the boys receive peanuts, crystal sugar, popcorn, sesame seeds (til) or gur and money, by the people. It is considered inauspicious to turn the boys back empty-handed.

The Legends of Lohri

Like all other festivals in India, there are some interesting legends linked to this historical festival of Lohri. Among these, the most significant happens to be the legend of Dullah Bhatti. Lohri is considered to be a very happy and pious occasion for the newly wedded couples and also for the new born babies.

• The Legend of Dullah Bhatti

The festival of Lohri is deeply associated with the legend of Dulla Bhatti. Most of the Lohri songs are based on him. It is believed by the people that Dullah Bhatti, the Muslim Robber, once rescued a girl from the cruel abductors and then adopted her. He also made all the necessary arrangement for the marriage of the girl, just the way he would do for his own daughter. This tale comes as a message to the youth, to come forward and protect the sisters or daughters and must punish them who try to dishonor the girls. Son on the day of Lohri, songs depicting Dulla Bhatti’s valor and heroism are sung all across Punjab.

• The Legend of the Sun God

Lohri marks the end of the winter season and is therefore celebrated on the final day of the month of Pans. It is believed that a sacred mantra was formulated the forefathers that would protect them from cold. This mantra was believed to be capable of invoking the Sun God to send the people on earth with so much heat that the cold won’t be able to affect them. So in thanks-giving to the Lord Surya or the Sun God, people chanted the mantra by circling round a fire on the final day of Pans. The Lohri fire thus serves as homage to the Sun God.

Just few days prior the festival of Lohri, the village maidens gather and visit every household for collecting cow-dung cake. After a veritable pile of cow-dung cake has been collected, the whole pile is deposited in one of the houses. This is a ritual performed by all the maidens before Lohri, with a valid reason for observing it.

In ancient times, people lit fire to keep the flesh-eating animals away, thereby protecting themselves and their habitations. Each contributed to the fire. The young kids gathered firewood from the nearby jungle. This is the reason why even today, people engage in burning cow-dung cakes, while the young kids go around gathering the cakes. The Lohri bonfire is both a method to protect oneself and also symbolizes the worship of fire.

Celebrations of Lohri Festival

The preparations for the beautiful festival of Lohri start much before the festival. The people in the villages start by gathering branches, twigs, and cow dung while those residing in the towns and cities, collect logs of wood for the bonfire to happen on Lohri. This is the best time to shower love and blessings to the newly married couples and new born babies, by the families, friends and close ones. Seasonal goodies such as dry fruits, patti, revri, peanuts and sugarcane happens to be an essential feature of the Lohri celebrations. While dancing and chanting around the bonfire, people throw the goodies in the fire while. A pudding made of spinach, lentils in sugarcane juice and mustard leaf is made by the women, on this day. It is believed that, this dish purifies and cleanses the body and the blood from inside.

Ceremonies during Lohri include making an image of the Lohri goddess using gobar (cattle dung), which is then decorated and kindled with fire below it. Praises are also chanted. A bonfire is also lighted during the sunset; sesame seeds, rewaries, gur and sugar-candy are tossed in that fire; people sit around the bonfire, chant, sing and dance as well. The dying embers of the bonfire are taken back home by the people. In the village homes of the Punjabis the fire is kept lighted all through out the day and night, by using cow-dung cakes.

On the auspicious occasion of Lohri, people take the opportunity to thank God for the provision, his creation and for offering a bountiful farming or harvest to the people. Men and women are seen keeping up the true spirit of their amazing Punjabi culture, thereby performing Giddha, Bhangra and other Punjabi dances. Children visit every household and sings in order to collect lohri that is eatables and money. Prasad made of til, rayveri, peanuts, puffed rice, gajak, popcorn, and sweets are also distributed. This is believed to be a symbol of prayer to Agni for bountiful harvest, abundant crops, happiness and prosperity.

As lohri comes to an end, people finish off the day by taking pleasure in a traditional feast comprising of makki di roti, sarson da saag and a dessert called rau di kheer (made of rice and sugarcane juice). A large quantity of lip-smacking food is prepared on this day. Some of the special recipes of the occasion are Ganee Ki Kheer, Dry Fruit Chikki, Coconut Chikki, Pinnie, Gajak, Shengdana Chikki etc.

Thus the elation at a bountiful and abundant harvest serves as the reason for celebrating the festival of Lohri. A popular festival in Punjab, Lohri is the time of fairs as well. Several fairs are held at different places. Everyone is greeted with good wishes on the occasion of Lohri.

The day following the festival of Lohri is known as ‘Maghi’. It signifies the commencing of the month of Magh and end of the winters. The Hindus believe that the Maghi day is an auspicious day to take a sacred dip in the rivers, thereby giving away charity. Sweet dishes are prepared on this day. Lohri besides communicating the message of thanksgiving also celebrates the spirit of togetherness, oneness and brotherhood.

Social Significance of the Festival of Lohri!

The Lohri festival bears immense social significance and is observed as a day for imparting social love to everyone. It is the festival to relieve the people from their daily routine, tensions and stress and bring a smile to everyone’s face. Peoples from all caste and creed come together on this day and engage in merry making, leaving behind all the grievances and differences. Every year, the festival of Lohri serves in bridging down the social gap existing among people. People come out of their place, meet people, exchange gifts, distribute sweets and wish each other.

Further, since Lohri happens to be the harvest festival and fertility and harvest bear a great importance for an agrarian nation like India, so Lohri is an important festival from this perspective as well. With Punjab being an agricultural state predominantly, it is no wonder that Lohri is among the significant and major festivals of the region. The festival therefore is symbolic of copious harvest and good crops. It instills within people, a sense of sensitivity for the nature that is the environment and the culture. It upholds the cultural legacy of Punjab. The time is ideal and auspicious for undertaking new ventures or marriage purposes. It is the opportunity for a social integration of the country, thereby bringing out the amity, unity and harmony underlying India and its people.

 

 

 

Coastal plains of India: An Amazing Geologic Feature!

Coastal plains in India

Coastal plains of India are the waved platforms and the raised beaches above the water mark. These are mainly the emerged floors from the seas that are adjacent to the land. The Peninsular India plateau is bordered by the narrow Coastal Plains. Following the surfacing of these lowlands, the sea level fluctuations have brought some important changes in the surface features of the sea shores. The Deccan plateau in India is also surrounded by the coastal plains in the west and the east.

The Coastal plains that surround the Palghat town in the southern region of Kerala are comparatively broad.  In some places the width of the plains get extended to about 96km. The off-shore bars are enclosed with lagoons running parallel to the coastal plains in the south of Kerala. Also referred as Kayals, the lagoons receive water from numerous rivers, to which these are linked through narrow openings. The coastal zone located in the western part alongside the Arabian Sea is known in the south of Goa, as Malabar, while in the north of Goa, it is called Konkan.

Further, there are numerous estuaries in the Indian Coastal Plains. Among these, the major ones are Narmada River and Tapi River in the state of Gujarat. The plain is also blessed with natural harbors such as Marmagao and Mumbai. In the south, the coastal plains get combined with the salt water lakes also known as lagoons. Spits and sand bars can be found at their mouths. The coast is popular for the serene backwaters. The coastal plains alongside the Bay of Bengal are very extensive and also differ from the plains in the western strip. Fast flowing, small rivers cut part the rocky coastal strip.

That what separates the coastal plains in India from the interior is a large land of mass characterized by unique features. Though having limited vegetation, yet the coastal plains in India significantly contributes to the geography of the country. Coastal plains of India: An Amazing Geologic Feature can be found both on the eastern as well the western coasts of the country. Hence the Coastal Plains in India can be divided into 2 basic types, namely, the Eastern Coastal Plains and the Western Coastal Plains.

The Eastern Coastal Plains

Nestled within the Bay of Bengal and the Eastern Ghats, is the eastern coastal plains, a wide stretch of land having a width of about 120km. The plains extend from the state of Tamil Nadu in the southern part to the state of West Bengal in the northern region of India. There are several rivers that drain the eastern coastal plains of India. There are few river deltas as well that occupy these valleys.

These plains experience a temperature of over 30 degrees Celsius, characterized by high humidity level. Abundant rainfall is received by this region that amounts in between 1000mm to 3000mm annually. The plains are subject to southwest as well as northeast monsoon rains.

The peninsulas of Kutch and Kathiawar, the Rann of Kutch, and the Gujarat Plain serve as the important physiographic regions. Lying north of the Kutch is presently a huge desolate plain that got formed by the deposition of silt. Kutch that lies on the southern side of the Rann of Kutch was previously an island. Now it happens to be a sandy terrain alongside the coastal plains. On the south of the Kutch is Kathiawar. It is a hilly, rolling plain having an elevation of 200m. Huge amount of sediments are deposited by the Narmada River, Tapti River, Sabarmati River and Mahi River into the Gulf of Cambay. This has resulted in the coming up of a fertile land in the north of Daman. This plain extending towards north up to the Aravalli Mountain Ranges is known as the Gujarat Plain.

The eastern coastal plains are characterized by numerous rivers, large deltas, fertile and irrigated lands, lagoons, spits and off-shore bars. At places the plains are bordered with dunes. Mangrove forests also grow in this region. Following shallowness of the sea in the Eastern Coastal lowlands, there is no deep natural harbor in the region except Marmagao (Goa) and Mumbai. Locally the eastern coastal plain is known as the Northern Circars in the region between Krishna and Mahanadi rivers whereas in regions between the Kaveri and the Krishna River, it is known as Carnatic.

In the state of Tamil Nadu, the eastern coastal plain is much wider, stretching to about 100 to 120km of width. The three main divisions into which the eastern coastal plains can be divided are the Andhra Plains, Utkal Plains and Tamil Nadu Plains.

Utkal Plains: This is the coastal stretch of the state of Orissa and consists of the Mahanadi delta. The famous feature of the region is the Chilka Lake lying on the south of the Mahanadi Delta.

Tamil Nadu Plains: The plains extend from the Pulicat Lake to Kanyakumari. The prominent feature of the region is the Kaveri delta, the fertile soil and irrigational facilities of which makes it a granary in South India.

Andhra Plains: The plains extend from the Utkal Plains on the North to Pulicat Lake in the south. The delta formation by the River Kaveri and River Godavari happens to be the important feature of the region.

The expansive area of the eastern coastal plains that is the three broad divisions, mentioned above can be further divided into 6 regions:

1. Mahanadi Delta in Orissa
2. Southern Andhra Pradesh Plain
3. Krishna Godavari deltas
4. Kanyakumari Coast
5. Coromandel or Madras Coast in Tamil Nadu
6. Sandy Coastal regions

Western Coastal Plains

In contrast to the eastern coastal plains, the western coastal plain of India is situated on a thin strip of land. The plains are nestled with the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. Having a length of about 1,400 kilometer and a breadth of 10-80 kilometer, the western coastal plans cover an area of about 64,284 square kilometer. Extending from the state of Gujarat, in the northern side to the south in the state of Kerala, the western coastal plains are characterized by many rivers and backwaters and rivers that drain into this area. The rivers that flow through this region, results in the formation of many estuaries in the western coastal plains. The storm activity experienced by these plains is less in comparison to the eastern coastal plains. Most of the storm activity that takes place in the western coastal plains is in March. When compared with the eastern coastal plains, the western coastal plains are small and can be divided into 3 parts, namely

1. Konkan region that is the northern part of the coast
2. Kanara region, which forms a separate transitional zone in between the Malabar coast
3. Malabar Coast that is the southern part of the coast

The western coastal plains also consist of the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Goa. On the northern of the coast, there happens to be 2 gulfs namely the gulf of Khambat and the gulf of Kachch.

 

 

Let’s Celebrate an Environment Friendly Holi This Year!

Happy days are back again! Time has come when you can again yowl and scream your heart out and say ‘Holi Hai’ with complete sanction. It’s the time when you are allowed to play pranks on your relatives and buddies and for a change, also on your enemies. This year, Holi is all set to roll in on 20^th March, 2011. A festival popular for bringing out the very best of the Indians, Holi is one of the fun-filled festivals in India. So what are you waiting for? Fill in the water guns, join your friends and family and get going! Touch ‘Hearts’ lovingly and bring a smile on every face that you come to meet!

Apart from the joviality, joy and excitement, the festival of Holi also commemorates the season of spring in India. Holi is celebrated during the full moon, in the Phalgun month that corresponds with the month of February end or the beginning of March as per the Gregorian calendar. The festival also glorifies the harvest season. The festivals of colors, also known as ‘Vasant Mahotsava’ or ‘Kama Mahotsava’, is one occasion that brings with it immense joy, play, fun, music, mirth, dance and definitely bright, beautiful colors!

History of Holi

Originally called ‘Holika, Holi happens to be an ancient festival celebrated in India. The festival finds detailed mentions in the ancient religious works of Jaimini like Purvamimamsa-Sutras and Kathaka-Grhya-Sutras. It is believed by the Historians that the Aryans also celebrated mostly in the Eastern region of India.

It is believed that Holi was celebrated even before Christ was born, though over the years, the festival of Holi has assumed a different meaning. In the ancient times, the festival was observed by the married women who prayed for the well-being of their husbands and families. On this day, Raka, the full moon was also observed. Apart from finding mentions in the Ouranas and the Vedas like the Bhavishya Purana and the Narad Purana, mentions of Holi can be found in stone inscriptions, sculptures, temples and rocks.

Legends related to Holi

In different parts of India, different legends are associated with the festival of colors. In Orissa and Bengal, Holi Purnima is observed as the birthday of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The popular and most prominent legend related to Holi, is that of the demon king Hiranyakashyap.

Hiranyakashyap wanted that every one in his kingdom should worship him. His son Prahlad, however, became a devotee of Lord Narayana.  Hiranyakashyap therefore ordered Holika to take Prahlad in her lap and enter the fire. Holika whop had got a boon that fire wont cause any damage to her, was not aware of the fact that the boon worked only when Holika enetered the fire all alone. So when Holika entered the fire with Prahlad, she got burnt for her sins while Prahlad was saved by God because of his devotion. The festival of Holi thus, celebrates the triumph of the good over the evil.

The Legend of Lord Krishna is also linked to Holi where Krishna played with Radha and the Gopis, along with colors, which later on became a tradition. Some of the other legends associated with this festival are that of the legend of Shiva and Kaamadeva, Ogress Dhundhi and Pootana. The common factor underlying each of the legends is the fact that each legend depicted the victory of the good over the evil.

Rituals associated with Holi

People on this day gather wood and other materials for the bonfire, popularly known as the ‘Holika’. The eve of Holi sees the taking place of Holika Dahan. Effigy of Holika, the sinful sister of the demon King Hiranyakashyap is positioned in the wood and then burnt. This ritual symbolizes the triumph of the good over the evil and of course the victory of a true devotee. People take residue from the bonfire in order to rekindle the domestic fires in their houses. On the day of Holi, several celebrations fill the air. On this day, known as Dhuleti, from children to adults, everyone engages in playing with colors. The ritual of playing with colors is more rampant in the Northern part of India. In regions like Vrindavan and Mathura, the Holi celebrations are unmatched for! In the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat also Holi is celebrated with immense enthusiasm and happiness. In Bengal it is celebrated in one of the dignified ways. At the Vishwa Bharti University, Holi is celebrated as the ‘Basant Utsav’ or the ‘Spring Festival’. While the campus is decorated with beautiful rangolis, the students engage in merry making amidst the songs of Rabindranath Tagore. In other regions of the state of Bengal, Holi is observed as Dol Yatra whereby idols of Krishna and Radha are worshipped.

For the Sikhs, Holi is the festival of displaying their military prowess and physical strength. In the north east of India, the Manipuris celebrate Holi in a very colourful manner for about 6 continuous days. The Manipuri dance, ‘Thabal Chongba’, serves as the highlight of the festival.

People on the occasion of Holi, take great delight in spraying water colors on others. Singing and tapping the foot to the popular wood Holi numbers is a common practice. Various types of delicacies such as mathri, malpuas, gujiya etc are made while people are seen relishing these with utmost people.

One of the most interesting features on this occasion is the traditional practice of having a drink called thandai along with bhang. The drink surely enhances the spirit of the festival.

While people throw gulal and abeer on this day the atmosphere takes on a colorful look. The chants of “Holi hai” fill in your ear and mind! The festival brings the gloomy winter to an end and marks the beginning of the blooming Spring.

Let’s Celebrate an Environment Friendly Holi

Preferably, the cheerful festival of Holi is intended to celebrate the coming of the Spring whereas the colors that are used for playing Holi are supposed to reflect the many hues of the spring season. However, unfortunately, in the present time the festival of Holi like many other festivals is yet another major source for environmental pollution and degradation. To de-pollute the environment and make the festival of Holi sync with the nature, many environmental and social organizations are coming up with several natural ways for the celebration of Holi. We as individuals should therefore also involve in celebrating an environment friendly Holi, this year. We can make our own colors or buy the natural colors available. We can also go for playing a dry Holi, just with abeer and gulal in the present scenario, where there are acute water problems in almost every corner of India. It is indeed a relief to notice that these days people are becoming more aware about the environment and therefore adopting less wasteful means of celebrating Holi.

Significance of Holi

Holi in India goes beyond the barriers of creed, caste, and religion to paint down the entire atmosphere with vibrant and colorful faces. There are several aspects associated with the festival of Holi that makes it hold a very significant place in our lives. Ranging from religious to socio-cultural significance, we have every reason to celebrate and cherish the festival of Holi.

The festival brings us very close to our mythology and religion, since it is the celebration of the many legends associoated with itHoli gets us close to our religion and our mythology as it is essentially the celebration of various legends associated with the festival. The celebration of these legends makes the people aware of the fact that no matter what, the ultimate victory remains with the good and not the evil. So people should always follow the path of good and the truth.  This is extremely significant these days for it refrain people from taking up the evil path. Holi also brings in the society and its people together, thereby strengthening India’s secular fabric. The best part of this festival is that, on this day you could turn even your enemies to your friends. The spirit of brotherhood and bonhomie prevails everywhere, on this day. People gather with their friends and family, exchange gifts, take delight in sweets and other delicacies and thus strengthen the bonds of emotions and revitalize their relationships.