Free software comes to schools
Express News Service Kochi
KOCHI: In an effort to promote free and open source software among students, a new initiative called Swathanthra Software Koottayma (SSK) has been formed at Vocational Higher Secondary School, Irumpanam, near here.
The SSK is a free software user group for students, and is the first of its kind in the State.
The first meeting of SSK was convened at the school. A number of teachers, students, free software activists and members of the Indian Libre Users Group (ILUG), Kochi chapter, attended the meeting.
The vision of SSK is to create a free thinking group which incorporates the core values of free software and use it through gaining knowledge, sharing and collaborating. There will be discussions on curriculum, syllabus and technology.
The activities of SSK include organising discussions on free software technologies, screening of movies, collaborative studies, presentations and workshops by the free software community group, bringing out free software-based newsletters and generating free software-based concepts for simple applications for the school and society.
There were discussions on the history of GNU project, GNU/Linux operating system and introduction to software licenses during the introductory session. The session on Malayalam computing dealt with the history of Malayalam computing, Swathanthra Malayalam computing project, introduction to applications like English-Malayalam dictionary and making a poster using GNU Image Manipulation Programme (GIMP).
Sameer Mohammed Thahir and Venkat of ILUG Kochi, Sanal Kumar and Thomas Yoyaku, teachers at VHSS Irumpanam, and Rimal, Geegu and Abhinav Thomas, students of the school, spoke at the meeting.
Wednesday, 15 July 2009
Sunday, 12 July 2009
IGNOU inks pact with ACIIL, IBM
IGNOU inks pact with ACIIL, IBM
New Delhi, July 11: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), The Advanced Center for Informatics and Innovative Learning (ACIIL) and IBM India today signed an MoU at Bangalore that they claimed would reinvent IT education in the country.
The collaboration, co-operation and joint working of IBM, with IGNOU, will what they say bridge the gap that existed till now on education, skills and national development, a varsity statement said.
As part of the MoU, IGNOU and IBM India would partner to skill students on the IT standards in the emerging verticals like healthcare, financial services and retail that have a significant growth potential, in addition to the skills demand of Open Source software and Open Standards, with live projects.
The three programs that will be offered in the first phase under this MoU would include -- a Certificate in Open Source Software, diploma in Open Source Software and Industry Vertical Domain Open Standards and Advanced Diploma in Industry Vertical Domain Open Standards (Healthcare/ Retail/ Insurance).
The Innovation Centre for Open Standards (iCos), an online platform, will be the underlying framework for the engagement between IBM and IGNOU for the execution of the courses. The IBM iCos platform links students' project based learning with IT industry and mentors.
New Delhi, July 11: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), The Advanced Center for Informatics and Innovative Learning (ACIIL) and IBM India today signed an MoU at Bangalore that they claimed would reinvent IT education in the country.
The collaboration, co-operation and joint working of IBM, with IGNOU, will what they say bridge the gap that existed till now on education, skills and national development, a varsity statement said.
As part of the MoU, IGNOU and IBM India would partner to skill students on the IT standards in the emerging verticals like healthcare, financial services and retail that have a significant growth potential, in addition to the skills demand of Open Source software and Open Standards, with live projects.
The three programs that will be offered in the first phase under this MoU would include -- a Certificate in Open Source Software, diploma in Open Source Software and Industry Vertical Domain Open Standards and Advanced Diploma in Industry Vertical Domain Open Standards (Healthcare/ Retail/ Insurance).
The Innovation Centre for Open Standards (iCos), an online platform, will be the underlying framework for the engagement between IBM and IGNOU for the execution of the courses. The IBM iCos platform links students' project based learning with IT industry and mentors.
Delhi govt to set up Knowledge City
Delhi govt to set up Knowledge City
PTI 12 July 2009, 10:56am IST
NEW DELHI: In a unique initiative to promote advanced research and encourage higher education, the Delhi government will set up a Knowledge City in
the national capital, providing best possible infrastructure to institutions offering job-oriented courses.
The Knowledge City, to be set up on public-private partnership (PPP) basis, would offer modern infrastructure and services to self-financed institutions that offer professional courses, officials said.
They said the government has decided to develop the city to overcome the constraint of land availability by the self-financed institutions.
"The Knowledge City would offer best infrastructure and services to a number of self-financed institutions so that growth of these institutions is not affected by constraints of land availability," the Action Plan of the Delhi Government for implementation of the National Knowledge Commission (NKC) recommendations said.
The decision to establish the Knowledge City was taken as per the recommendations of NKC which was set up by prime minister Manmohan Singh in 2005 to prepare a roadmap for transforming India into a knowledge society, officials said.
The project has been already cleared by the Planning Commission and land earmarked, they added.
PTI 12 July 2009, 10:56am IST
NEW DELHI: In a unique initiative to promote advanced research and encourage higher education, the Delhi government will set up a Knowledge City in
the national capital, providing best possible infrastructure to institutions offering job-oriented courses.
The Knowledge City, to be set up on public-private partnership (PPP) basis, would offer modern infrastructure and services to self-financed institutions that offer professional courses, officials said.
They said the government has decided to develop the city to overcome the constraint of land availability by the self-financed institutions.
"The Knowledge City would offer best infrastructure and services to a number of self-financed institutions so that growth of these institutions is not affected by constraints of land availability," the Action Plan of the Delhi Government for implementation of the National Knowledge Commission (NKC) recommendations said.
The decision to establish the Knowledge City was taken as per the recommendations of NKC which was set up by prime minister Manmohan Singh in 2005 to prepare a roadmap for transforming India into a knowledge society, officials said.
The project has been already cleared by the Planning Commission and land earmarked, they added.
Tuesday, 7 July 2009
Red light cameras now check for insurance, too
Red light cameras now check for insurance, too
Tom Barlow Jun 29th 2009 at 4:30PM
Drive without insurance? Then you'd better stay out of Ohio, where the state is considering a program that uses red-light cameras and insurance company databases to check passing traffic for uninsured motorists. The system would use license plate numbers to verify driver insurance. According to the Columbus Dispatch, officials in Chicago, who are considering the same system, from InsureNet of Novi, Michigan, think that such a program could generate $200 million in additional revenue for the Windy City.
When the system identifies an uninsured motorist, the driver would be sent a letter instructing him to take care of the problem. If he doesn't, a fine will soon follow. In Ohio, that fine is $125 for a first offense, $300 for a second and $550 for a third.
The system is already being provided to law enforcement, free of charge, so even those uninsured drivers who managed to dodge the cameras can be busted if they catch the attention of a local gendarme. The system can also provide them lien reports in real time.
I'm all for requiring drivers to carry insurance, but I'm not pleased by the prospect of insurance company databases being opened for InsureNet's searches. I can see how this would be a good deal for the insurance companies, because it will drive business their way. For the general public, however, this feels like another step toward a Big Brother future.
To read the original article, click here
Tom Barlow Jun 29th 2009 at 4:30PM
Drive without insurance? Then you'd better stay out of Ohio, where the state is considering a program that uses red-light cameras and insurance company databases to check passing traffic for uninsured motorists. The system would use license plate numbers to verify driver insurance. According to the Columbus Dispatch, officials in Chicago, who are considering the same system, from InsureNet of Novi, Michigan, think that such a program could generate $200 million in additional revenue for the Windy City.
When the system identifies an uninsured motorist, the driver would be sent a letter instructing him to take care of the problem. If he doesn't, a fine will soon follow. In Ohio, that fine is $125 for a first offense, $300 for a second and $550 for a third.
The system is already being provided to law enforcement, free of charge, so even those uninsured drivers who managed to dodge the cameras can be busted if they catch the attention of a local gendarme. The system can also provide them lien reports in real time.
I'm all for requiring drivers to carry insurance, but I'm not pleased by the prospect of insurance company databases being opened for InsureNet's searches. I can see how this would be a good deal for the insurance companies, because it will drive business their way. For the general public, however, this feels like another step toward a Big Brother future.
To read the original article, click here
Saturday, 4 July 2009
Photo Speaks - Thoughts, moods and poses on a Saturday morning
Photo Speaks - Thoughts, moods and poses on a Saturday morning
Scene from the Madinat Zayed Shopping complex area on a Saturday morning. I was surprised to see many people lost in thoughts or problems at that time of the morning. Have to explore more on this some other times.
Scene from the Madinat Zayed Shopping complex area on a Saturday morning. I was surprised to see many people lost in thoughts or problems at that time of the morning. Have to explore more on this some other times.
Thursday, 2 July 2009
Wednesday, 1 July 2009
Towards more responsible days.....
Dear Friends,
Towards more responsible days.....
Sharing with you an achievement that happened today.
Please do visit http://www.hit967.com/
http://www.hit967.com/English/Music/Pages/LatestOnHitDetails.aspx?eventId=189
Please pray for more creative thoughts and willingness to work with social consciousness without inhibition.
Regards,
Ramesh Menon
Towards more responsible days.....
Sharing with you an achievement that happened today.
Please do visit http://www.hit967.com/
http://www.hit967.com/English/Music/Pages/LatestOnHitDetails.aspx?eventId=189
Please pray for more creative thoughts and willingness to work with social consciousness without inhibition.
Regards,
Ramesh Menon
Monday, 29 June 2009
Thursday, 25 June 2009
India Taking Steps to Rehabilitate Returning Gulf Expats: Tharoor
India Taking Steps to Rehabilitate Returning Gulf Expats: Tharoor
Sajila Saseendran 25 June 2009
DUBAI — The Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Dr Shashi Tharoor, has said the new government in New Delhi would take adequate measures to rehabilitate Indians returning home from the Gulf and other foreign countries due to the impact of the global financial downturn.
During his first visit to the UAE as a minister, Tharoor, who assumed office last month, also assured that the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was taking measures to penalise illegal recruiting agencies that dupe workers by making false promises.
Tharoor, who had earlier made various suggestions to the government for providing financial assistance for the rehabilitation of Gulf returnees, said the Central Government would extend all support to the non-resident Indians (NRIs) returning after losing jobs due to recession, though it had not announced any special welfare package to rehabilitate them.
“The government is cautious…both about losing their valuable contribution (from abroad) and the potential problems they face. India won’t lose interest in them and the government will not be indifferent to them,” Tharoor told reporters at a press meet organised by the Indian Consulate in Dubai on Tuesday evening.
He was in Dubai for a stopover during his trip to Yemen for attending an international conference organised by the Indian Ocean Rim Association Countries. Answering questions about the actions being taken against unscrupulous recruitment agencies, he said the Indian government was taking various steps, including amendments to the Immigration Act to ensure stringent punishment for illegal agents.
“The government cannot solve every problem... but we are trying to crack down on this...We are extremely concerned that innocent working men and women are being duped by unscrupulous agents.” Though it had been difficult for the government to tackle the unregulated agents functioning outside the regulatory network of authorities, Tharoor said, both the countries — Indian and the UAE — have had constructive dialogues to solve many issues related to labourers. Consul-General of India Venu Rajamony said the government had already started cancelling the registration of agents found guilty and some had been prosecuted in criminal cases.
He said the Indian government had also launched a media campaign in different languages to make the public aware of such agents.
Click here to read the oringal report.
Sajila Saseendran 25 June 2009
DUBAI — The Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Dr Shashi Tharoor, has said the new government in New Delhi would take adequate measures to rehabilitate Indians returning home from the Gulf and other foreign countries due to the impact of the global financial downturn.
During his first visit to the UAE as a minister, Tharoor, who assumed office last month, also assured that the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was taking measures to penalise illegal recruiting agencies that dupe workers by making false promises.
Tharoor, who had earlier made various suggestions to the government for providing financial assistance for the rehabilitation of Gulf returnees, said the Central Government would extend all support to the non-resident Indians (NRIs) returning after losing jobs due to recession, though it had not announced any special welfare package to rehabilitate them.
“The government is cautious…both about losing their valuable contribution (from abroad) and the potential problems they face. India won’t lose interest in them and the government will not be indifferent to them,” Tharoor told reporters at a press meet organised by the Indian Consulate in Dubai on Tuesday evening.
He was in Dubai for a stopover during his trip to Yemen for attending an international conference organised by the Indian Ocean Rim Association Countries. Answering questions about the actions being taken against unscrupulous recruitment agencies, he said the Indian government was taking various steps, including amendments to the Immigration Act to ensure stringent punishment for illegal agents.
“The government cannot solve every problem... but we are trying to crack down on this...We are extremely concerned that innocent working men and women are being duped by unscrupulous agents.” Though it had been difficult for the government to tackle the unregulated agents functioning outside the regulatory network of authorities, Tharoor said, both the countries — Indian and the UAE — have had constructive dialogues to solve many issues related to labourers. Consul-General of India Venu Rajamony said the government had already started cancelling the registration of agents found guilty and some had been prosecuted in criminal cases.
He said the Indian government had also launched a media campaign in different languages to make the public aware of such agents.
Click here to read the oringal report.
New tech university for state's premier colleges
New tech university for state's premier colleges
25 Jun 2009, 0506 hrs IST, TNN
CHENNAI: In a move aimed at promoting research, the government has decided to create a dedicated unitary technical university comprising the four
premier colleges of Anna University (Chennai) and thus insulate their faculty from administrative chores relating to the running of other affiliated institutions. The technical university, which will begin functioning from this academic year, will consist of Guindy College of Engineering, Madras Institute of Technology, A C College of Technology, and School of Architecture and Planning.
Higher education minister K Ponmudy told the state assembly on Wednesday that 136 engineering colleges were affiliated to Anna University (Chennai), and hence the faculty was spending most of its time in managing affiliated colleges. Since professors were entrusted with duties of admission, conduct of examinations and inspection of infrastructure in affiliated colleges, they had little time to spend on research, he noted. Experts in technical education had recommended the creation of a unitary university to offer world-class master's programmes and research facilities. The government would float the new university this year itself, Ponmudy said.
The move, in a way, reverses the government's own decision some years back. Anna University had functioned as a premier unitary technical university till 2001 when the AIADMK government brought all engineering colleges under its purview in an effort to streamline and manage engineering education in the state.
When contacted, Anna University (Chennai) vice-chancellor P Mannar Jawahar said the creation of a unitary university would fuel high quality research. "The university's constituent colleges have highly qualified faculty with rich experience in research work, industrial consultancy and collaboration with funding agencies. We have research facilities, including sophisticated equipment which can be put to optimum use now. The faculty can focus full time on research, postgraduate technical education and industrial collaboration," he told The Times of India.
In the current academic year, Ponmudy said, the government would create more than 1,000 posts of lecturers in arts and science colleges and get them filled; in the process, guest lecturers teaching self-financing courses, which were later changed to general courses, would be phased out. The Teachers Recruitment Board would soon release the list of 1,195 lecturers, who were recruited recently. In government engineering colleges, 100 teaching posts would be filled.
Most students pursuing engineering courses in government colleges come from poor backgrounds and need accommodation to pursue their education. Because of this, Ponmudy said, the government was also planning to build new hostels or expand facilities in existing ones. New polytechnics would be opened in Theni, Madurai, Perambalur, Tiruvannamalai, Dharmapuri, Villupuram and Thiruvarur at a cost of Rs 12.3 crore each. The proposal had been forwarded to the Centre, and admissions would begin from the next academic year, he said.
25 Jun 2009, 0506 hrs IST, TNN
CHENNAI: In a move aimed at promoting research, the government has decided to create a dedicated unitary technical university comprising the four
premier colleges of Anna University (Chennai) and thus insulate their faculty from administrative chores relating to the running of other affiliated institutions. The technical university, which will begin functioning from this academic year, will consist of Guindy College of Engineering, Madras Institute of Technology, A C College of Technology, and School of Architecture and Planning.
Higher education minister K Ponmudy told the state assembly on Wednesday that 136 engineering colleges were affiliated to Anna University (Chennai), and hence the faculty was spending most of its time in managing affiliated colleges. Since professors were entrusted with duties of admission, conduct of examinations and inspection of infrastructure in affiliated colleges, they had little time to spend on research, he noted. Experts in technical education had recommended the creation of a unitary university to offer world-class master's programmes and research facilities. The government would float the new university this year itself, Ponmudy said.
The move, in a way, reverses the government's own decision some years back. Anna University had functioned as a premier unitary technical university till 2001 when the AIADMK government brought all engineering colleges under its purview in an effort to streamline and manage engineering education in the state.
When contacted, Anna University (Chennai) vice-chancellor P Mannar Jawahar said the creation of a unitary university would fuel high quality research. "The university's constituent colleges have highly qualified faculty with rich experience in research work, industrial consultancy and collaboration with funding agencies. We have research facilities, including sophisticated equipment which can be put to optimum use now. The faculty can focus full time on research, postgraduate technical education and industrial collaboration," he told The Times of India.
In the current academic year, Ponmudy said, the government would create more than 1,000 posts of lecturers in arts and science colleges and get them filled; in the process, guest lecturers teaching self-financing courses, which were later changed to general courses, would be phased out. The Teachers Recruitment Board would soon release the list of 1,195 lecturers, who were recruited recently. In government engineering colleges, 100 teaching posts would be filled.
Most students pursuing engineering courses in government colleges come from poor backgrounds and need accommodation to pursue their education. Because of this, Ponmudy said, the government was also planning to build new hostels or expand facilities in existing ones. New polytechnics would be opened in Theni, Madurai, Perambalur, Tiruvannamalai, Dharmapuri, Villupuram and Thiruvarur at a cost of Rs 12.3 crore each. The proposal had been forwarded to the Centre, and admissions would begin from the next academic year, he said.
New International Media Institute to Launch in India;
New International Media Institute to Launch in India
Supported by Knight and MacArthur Foundations, the Delhi-Based Multimedia Journalism Center
By The Associated PressWednesday, June 24,
WASHINGTON, June 24 (AScribe Newswire) -- The International Center for Journalists has announced the launch of the International Media Institute of India (IMII) in New Delhi, a non-profit educational center that will marry cutting-edge, hands-on journalism instruction with the highest international standards.
The institute will be run by ICFJ in collaboration with leading Indian editors, who conceived the idea for the school when they experienced difficulty in finding skilled entry-level journalists to hire. ICFJ's partner is the Society for Policy Studies (SPS), a non-profit Indian think tank that promotes debate on contemporary issues among journalists and concerned citizens and encourages quality journalism training.
Expected to open this fall, the one-year postgraduate program will give entry-level journalists the professional and technical expertise to work across media platforms. The classroom environment will mimic a newsroom with students constantly reporting and publishing stories. Top-tier international and Indian faculty will instruct the students on how to produce quality journalism for print, interactive and broadcast
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
UAE investors keen on Karnataka, says CM of Karnataka
UAE investors keen on Karnataka, says CM of Karnataka
24 June 2009
Members of the royal family of the United Arab Emirates and UAE-based non-resident Indian Kannadiga B R Shetty have evinced interest to invest in Karnataka, chief minister B S Yeddyurappa said in Bangalore on Tuesday.
They have expressed a desire to invest in the areas of hotel, housing complexes, development of infrastructure facilities, energy, supply of drinking water in cities, urban development and waste management, among others, he said.
Addressing a meeting of the Karnataka NRI Forum, Yeddyurappa, however, did not talk about the extent of the proposed investment they were planning.
He said an NRI, in collaboration with Canadian firm CSQR Inc, had come forward to set up an Advanced Technology and Management Institute in Karnataka.
The chief minister said a data base of 701 NRI-Kannadigas had so far been created.
He said there was a need for active cooperation by the forum for government's aim of attracting investment of Rs300,000 crore after the proposed Global Investors' Meet.
"There is an intention to host 'Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas' in Bangalore. It's the responsibility of this forum to make it possible", the chief minister said.
Click here to read the original article
24 June 2009
Members of the royal family of the United Arab Emirates and UAE-based non-resident Indian Kannadiga B R Shetty have evinced interest to invest in Karnataka, chief minister B S Yeddyurappa said in Bangalore on Tuesday.
They have expressed a desire to invest in the areas of hotel, housing complexes, development of infrastructure facilities, energy, supply of drinking water in cities, urban development and waste management, among others, he said.
Addressing a meeting of the Karnataka NRI Forum, Yeddyurappa, however, did not talk about the extent of the proposed investment they were planning.
He said an NRI, in collaboration with Canadian firm CSQR Inc, had come forward to set up an Advanced Technology and Management Institute in Karnataka.
The chief minister said a data base of 701 NRI-Kannadigas had so far been created.
He said there was a need for active cooperation by the forum for government's aim of attracting investment of Rs300,000 crore after the proposed Global Investors' Meet.
"There is an intention to host 'Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas' in Bangalore. It's the responsibility of this forum to make it possible", the chief minister said.
Click here to read the original article
Bengaluru - State woos NRI investments
State woos NRI investments
24 Jun 2009, 0457 hrs IST, TNN
BANGALORE: ‘Knowledge City’ holds a tremendous allure to prospective investors in Karnataka, given its hi-tech image. Though ambitious proposals bit
the dust a couple of years ago, a group of NRIs led by US-based Dr Girish has coming forward to set up a Knowledge City at an investment of nearly Rs 10,000 crore in Bangalore.
Chief minister B S Yeddyurappa during a meeting of the NRI committee, which he heads, expressed interest in the venture. It is likely that the government might underwrite the project to the tune of 20% of the cost. The proposed Knowledge City will consist of a hospital, education institutions, university and other facilities.
Besides, General Electric, the $200-billion American MNC, may enter into an agreement with the state government in health, energy, renewable energy and bio-mass. The company already has a considerable presence in the city with its medical systems business as well as its global research centre here. GE will invest in energy sector, renewable energy and impart knowledge in enhancing power production.
“A large amount of power is wasted during transmission. GE has expertise in reducing transmission losses. To have a first-hand insight into the functioning of the company, Yeddyurappa has agreed to visit GE’s facilities here,’’ Ganesh Karnik, vice-chairman of the NRI Cell, told reporters here on Tuesday. In addition, CSQR, a Canadian company has also shown interest in setting up a technology and management institute.
Spelling out the objectives of the cell, Karnik said the cell has created a database of 700 NRIs having roots in Karnataka, with many of them coming forward to invest in knowledge and technology-based units here. “This cell acts as a facilitator for the investors. As a part of our efforts, the CM has directed all departments to appoint a nodal officer for speeding up investments. Let investors come to us; we will do the leg work,’’ Karnik said.
Suresh Srinivasaiah of S J Experts, based in New Jersey, will set up a large solar energy unit here. The government has nominated three coordinators to seek investment — industrialist BR Shetty for the Gulf, Neeraj Patil for the UK and other European countries, and Mahesh Nagarajaiah for the US.
24 Jun 2009, 0457 hrs IST, TNN
BANGALORE: ‘Knowledge City’ holds a tremendous allure to prospective investors in Karnataka, given its hi-tech image. Though ambitious proposals bit
the dust a couple of years ago, a group of NRIs led by US-based Dr Girish has coming forward to set up a Knowledge City at an investment of nearly Rs 10,000 crore in Bangalore.
Chief minister B S Yeddyurappa during a meeting of the NRI committee, which he heads, expressed interest in the venture. It is likely that the government might underwrite the project to the tune of 20% of the cost. The proposed Knowledge City will consist of a hospital, education institutions, university and other facilities.
Besides, General Electric, the $200-billion American MNC, may enter into an agreement with the state government in health, energy, renewable energy and bio-mass. The company already has a considerable presence in the city with its medical systems business as well as its global research centre here. GE will invest in energy sector, renewable energy and impart knowledge in enhancing power production.
“A large amount of power is wasted during transmission. GE has expertise in reducing transmission losses. To have a first-hand insight into the functioning of the company, Yeddyurappa has agreed to visit GE’s facilities here,’’ Ganesh Karnik, vice-chairman of the NRI Cell, told reporters here on Tuesday. In addition, CSQR, a Canadian company has also shown interest in setting up a technology and management institute.
Spelling out the objectives of the cell, Karnik said the cell has created a database of 700 NRIs having roots in Karnataka, with many of them coming forward to invest in knowledge and technology-based units here. “This cell acts as a facilitator for the investors. As a part of our efforts, the CM has directed all departments to appoint a nodal officer for speeding up investments. Let investors come to us; we will do the leg work,’’ Karnik said.
Suresh Srinivasaiah of S J Experts, based in New Jersey, will set up a large solar energy unit here. The government has nominated three coordinators to seek investment — industrialist BR Shetty for the Gulf, Neeraj Patil for the UK and other European countries, and Mahesh Nagarajaiah for the US.
Monday, 22 June 2009
DoT takes another step towards parking fines
DoT takes another step towards parking fines
Daniel Bardsley /THE NATIONAL
Last Updated: June 21. 2009 11:38PM UAE / June 21. 2009 7:38PM GMT ABU DHABI // New parking fees and fines will be “introduced and enforced” in the capital from next month, the Department of Transport said yesterday.
The department said in a press release that it planned to roll out new parking policies, which would include metered parking in the city centre.
It warned there would be “rigorous enforcement” of its new rules, although it did not go into detail about when or where meters would be switched on, or when drivers would start being charged and fined.
Both private and public parking spaces will be more tightly regulated, with the aim of encouraging drivers to stay for only a short time in busy city centre parking spots.
The first solar-powered meters were installed on Hamdan Street nearly three years ago, but they have lain unused until recently.
Last month, DoT staff began testing the devices, inserting coins and swiping credit cards.
Drivers will be able to pay for parking by text message, with a credit card or by pre-paid smart card, although the cost has not been disclosed.
The British company NCP Services, now called NSL Services Group, was hired last year to set up and manage the parking programme for the city centre and part of Airport Road.
Paid parking will be introduced in 10 stages over two-and-a-half years, with a total of 2,500 meters to be switched on.
The first year will see the recruitment and training of enforcement officers, the issuing of residents’ permits and a media campaign.
A transition period, during which offenders will be warned but not fined, is expected, but beyond this, repeat offenders risk having their vehicles clamped, towed away or impounded.
A contact centre and parking shop where drivers can buy permits and pay fines is to be opened.
Paid parking will eventually apply from the Corniche to Hazza bin Zayed Street between Khaleej al Arabi Road and the road that runs in front of Abu Dhabi Mall, as well as the strip from Hazza bin Zayed to Al Saada Street between Al Karamah Street and Fourth Street.
Mr Najeeb al Zarooni, the DoT’s parking director, said the system should not be seen as “a silver bullet” that would immediately solve the capital’s parking headaches, which partly stem from a growing number of vehicles registered.
“But we believe that positive impacts of the programme will begin to be felt by both drivers and residents before the year end,” he added.
Longer term, the DoT said yesterday it was looking for city centre sites for public car parks, either above or below ground. Temporary car parks may be erected initially.
Click here to read the original article
Daniel Bardsley /THE NATIONAL
Last Updated: June 21. 2009 11:38PM UAE / June 21. 2009 7:38PM GMT ABU DHABI // New parking fees and fines will be “introduced and enforced” in the capital from next month, the Department of Transport said yesterday.
The department said in a press release that it planned to roll out new parking policies, which would include metered parking in the city centre.
It warned there would be “rigorous enforcement” of its new rules, although it did not go into detail about when or where meters would be switched on, or when drivers would start being charged and fined.
Both private and public parking spaces will be more tightly regulated, with the aim of encouraging drivers to stay for only a short time in busy city centre parking spots.
The first solar-powered meters were installed on Hamdan Street nearly three years ago, but they have lain unused until recently.
Last month, DoT staff began testing the devices, inserting coins and swiping credit cards.
Drivers will be able to pay for parking by text message, with a credit card or by pre-paid smart card, although the cost has not been disclosed.
The British company NCP Services, now called NSL Services Group, was hired last year to set up and manage the parking programme for the city centre and part of Airport Road.
Paid parking will be introduced in 10 stages over two-and-a-half years, with a total of 2,500 meters to be switched on.
The first year will see the recruitment and training of enforcement officers, the issuing of residents’ permits and a media campaign.
A transition period, during which offenders will be warned but not fined, is expected, but beyond this, repeat offenders risk having their vehicles clamped, towed away or impounded.
A contact centre and parking shop where drivers can buy permits and pay fines is to be opened.
Paid parking will eventually apply from the Corniche to Hazza bin Zayed Street between Khaleej al Arabi Road and the road that runs in front of Abu Dhabi Mall, as well as the strip from Hazza bin Zayed to Al Saada Street between Al Karamah Street and Fourth Street.
Mr Najeeb al Zarooni, the DoT’s parking director, said the system should not be seen as “a silver bullet” that would immediately solve the capital’s parking headaches, which partly stem from a growing number of vehicles registered.
“But we believe that positive impacts of the programme will begin to be felt by both drivers and residents before the year end,” he added.
Longer term, the DoT said yesterday it was looking for city centre sites for public car parks, either above or below ground. Temporary car parks may be erected initially.
Click here to read the original article
Bridge plan aimed at saving lives
Bridge plan aimed at saving lives
Haneen Dajani, THE NATIONAL
Last Updated: June 22. 2009 1:40PM UAE / June 22. 2009 9:40AM GMT
A labourer crosses the eight-lane Highway 11 in front of traffic near Al Raha Mall. Ryan Carter / The National
ABU DHABI // More pedestrian bridges could be added to roads both within and outside city limits to reduce the growing number of people who are struck by vehicles.
At the launch of a three-month campaign to tackle jaywalking yesterday, Col Hamad al Shamsi, director of the police’s traffic and patrols department, said the department was looking at adding pedestrian bridges in more areas, including Mussafah and Shahama.
The colonel said the bridges were expected to be built in the coming years, although he could not give an exact date. The department has also asked the municipality to place barriers on pavements where pedestrians tend to jaywalk.
The number of pedestrians hit by vehicles in Abu Dhabi grew to 663 last year, up from 583 in 2007.
Yesterday the traffic department revealed it had issued Dh802,000 (US$218,000) worth of tickets since the start of this year, with 4,010 jaywalkers fined Dh200 each. Last year the fine for jaywalking was increased from Dh50.
Col al Shamsi said the department’s studies covered areas that lacked pedestrian crossings and were considered hot spots for accidents involving pedestrians.
Meanwhile, traffic police are focusing on educating the public on the rules for crossing roads and the dangers of jaywalking by increasing campaigns to fine jaywalkers. Patrols will be carried out by both traffic control police officers and undercover traffic officers.
“We have to consider the culture and background of pedestrians and make sure we get our message across,” said Col al Shamsi. “After last year’s campaign the number of accidents involving pedestrians dropped rapidly.”
He said pedestrians involved in accidents who were found to be jaywalking were liable to be fined.
Lt Col Ahmad al Shehhi, director of capital traffic police, said patrols would focus on hot spots including Mussafah, Shahama, Al Dhafra Road, the Corniche and Al Salam Street. “It is not possible to have a policeman on every road in every corner, so we assess which areas are the most dangerous.”
In the coming three months more police patrols will be dedicated to catching jaywalkers.
“We asked the municipality to place barriers on the pavements, especially in front of shops and public parks, to prevent people from crossing in areas where they are not supposed to,” said Col al Shamsi.
Brochures outlining the rules in Arabic and English are to be handed to pedestrians and motorists. One reminds pedestrians to look for the nearest subway or bridge before crossing the road, and to wait for the green pedestrian light before crossing at traffic lights.
Another brochure explains to motorists that white stripes across the road are pedestrian crossings and that priority should be given to pedestrians to allow them to cross.
The fine for not giving priority to pedestrians to cross is Dh500 and six black points.
Click here to read the original article
Haneen Dajani, THE NATIONAL
Last Updated: June 22. 2009 1:40PM UAE / June 22. 2009 9:40AM GMT
A labourer crosses the eight-lane Highway 11 in front of traffic near Al Raha Mall. Ryan Carter / The National
ABU DHABI // More pedestrian bridges could be added to roads both within and outside city limits to reduce the growing number of people who are struck by vehicles.
At the launch of a three-month campaign to tackle jaywalking yesterday, Col Hamad al Shamsi, director of the police’s traffic and patrols department, said the department was looking at adding pedestrian bridges in more areas, including Mussafah and Shahama.
The colonel said the bridges were expected to be built in the coming years, although he could not give an exact date. The department has also asked the municipality to place barriers on pavements where pedestrians tend to jaywalk.
The number of pedestrians hit by vehicles in Abu Dhabi grew to 663 last year, up from 583 in 2007.
Yesterday the traffic department revealed it had issued Dh802,000 (US$218,000) worth of tickets since the start of this year, with 4,010 jaywalkers fined Dh200 each. Last year the fine for jaywalking was increased from Dh50.
Col al Shamsi said the department’s studies covered areas that lacked pedestrian crossings and were considered hot spots for accidents involving pedestrians.
Meanwhile, traffic police are focusing on educating the public on the rules for crossing roads and the dangers of jaywalking by increasing campaigns to fine jaywalkers. Patrols will be carried out by both traffic control police officers and undercover traffic officers.
“We have to consider the culture and background of pedestrians and make sure we get our message across,” said Col al Shamsi. “After last year’s campaign the number of accidents involving pedestrians dropped rapidly.”
He said pedestrians involved in accidents who were found to be jaywalking were liable to be fined.
Lt Col Ahmad al Shehhi, director of capital traffic police, said patrols would focus on hot spots including Mussafah, Shahama, Al Dhafra Road, the Corniche and Al Salam Street. “It is not possible to have a policeman on every road in every corner, so we assess which areas are the most dangerous.”
In the coming three months more police patrols will be dedicated to catching jaywalkers.
“We asked the municipality to place barriers on the pavements, especially in front of shops and public parks, to prevent people from crossing in areas where they are not supposed to,” said Col al Shamsi.
Brochures outlining the rules in Arabic and English are to be handed to pedestrians and motorists. One reminds pedestrians to look for the nearest subway or bridge before crossing the road, and to wait for the green pedestrian light before crossing at traffic lights.
Another brochure explains to motorists that white stripes across the road are pedestrian crossings and that priority should be given to pedestrians to allow them to cross.
The fine for not giving priority to pedestrians to cross is Dh500 and six black points.
Click here to read the original article
IGNOU invites applications
IGNOU invites applications
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has invited applications for entrance test for its management programmes including MBA, to be held on August 16, 2009.
Graduates in any disciplines with 50 per cent marks (45% for reserved category students) are eligible to apply.
Application form and prospectus can be downloaded from the web site www.ignou.ac.in.
The duly filled in application along with a demand draft for Rs.550 drawn in favour of IGNOU payable at New Delhi should be sent to the Registrar (SED), Block–12, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi–110068 by registered post so as to reach the addressee on or before July 15, 2009.
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has invited applications for entrance test for its management programmes including MBA, to be held on August 16, 2009.
Graduates in any disciplines with 50 per cent marks (45% for reserved category students) are eligible to apply.
Application form and prospectus can be downloaded from the web site www.ignou.ac.in.
The duly filled in application along with a demand draft for Rs.550 drawn in favour of IGNOU payable at New Delhi should be sent to the Registrar (SED), Block–12, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi–110068 by registered post so as to reach the addressee on or before July 15, 2009.
Courses in Nano-biotechnology
Courses in Nano-biotechnology
The International Centre for Nano-biotechnology of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University at Rajakkamangalam, Kanyakumari District, will offer a Master of Technology (M. Tech.) and a Master of Science (M. Sc.) in Nano-biotechnology.
The eligibility for the M. Sc. course is a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, microbiology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, plant sciences, animal sciences, chemistry, physics, medical science, agricultural science or environmental science.
The eligibility for the M. Tech. course is a B.E. or B. Tech. in biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, pharmaceutical engineering, biomedical engineering or chemical engineering. Students who have completed a PG in any life science are eligible for M. Tech.
Details at www.msuniversity.org.in .
The International Centre for Nano-biotechnology of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University at Rajakkamangalam, Kanyakumari District, will offer a Master of Technology (M. Tech.) and a Master of Science (M. Sc.) in Nano-biotechnology.
The eligibility for the M. Sc. course is a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, microbiology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, plant sciences, animal sciences, chemistry, physics, medical science, agricultural science or environmental science.
The eligibility for the M. Tech. course is a B.E. or B. Tech. in biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, pharmaceutical engineering, biomedical engineering or chemical engineering. Students who have completed a PG in any life science are eligible for M. Tech.
Details at www.msuniversity.org.in .
Sunday, 21 June 2009
The world of book editing
The world of book editing
SHAKTHI MANICKAVASAGAM for THE HINDU
In an expanding publishing industry, book editors with an eye for detail are in great demand.
Does reading books for a living seem like a dream job? Then book editing may be the perfect profession for you. Book editors do primarily what their job title suggests, which is editing books. However, being an editor also involves many other activities.
According to Sandhya Rao, Chief Editor of publishing house Tulika, a typical day in the life of an editor would involve such tasks as “looking at manuscripts, working with production, interacting with authors and illustrators, and in the case of books in different languages, interacting with translators.”
Book editing has many subfields and specialisations, ranging from mystery novels to biographies. This is why Rakesh Khanna, co-founder of Blaft Publications, feels that it is wise to “obtain two skills.” As an example, he cited an editor of biology textbooks, who “should be really strong in English as well as biology.”
Also, while editors at small and independent publishing houses generally edit manuscripts as well as interact with authors, editors at multinational publishing houses usually focus on one of the two tasks. Copy editors correct grammatical and spelling errors, whilst ensuring that the book is cohesive and factually accurate. Acquisitions editors are responsible for obtaining manuscripts, selecting those which show promise and communicating with the author.
The Indian book publishing industry is flourishing, and was worth Rs. 8,000 crore in 2006. Since then it has been growing rapidly. Ms. Rao of Tulika believes that there are several reasons for this. “The industry is expanding because the market has grown,” she says, adding that “so many foreign players are coming into India because India is a huge potential market, due to the large English-speaking population.” In fact, India is the third largest producer of books in English, after the United States and Britain. However, as Ms. Rao points out, the best-selling books in India are probably textbooks; with the number of school-going children increasing every year, the demand for these books should not diminish in the near future.
Qualifications
The qualifications required to become an editor are not set in stone. Manjula Ramesh, Head of Production at Emerald Publishers, says that a degree in any field is sufficient, as long as you have “a very good knowledge and a good flow in English.” The same applies if you are interested in editing books in other languages. This was reiterated by Mr. Khanna of Blaft Publications, who says that “whatever language you are editing, it should be the language you’ve grown up with and the language you read a lot.” Mrs. Rao of Tulika believes that while it is better to have a “postgraduate degree in a language,” it is not an absolute necessity.
Being a book editor calls for certain practical skills and abilities. According to Mr. Khanna, the job requires an aptitude for “paying attention to various small details.” A talent for negotiating with other people, such as authors, is also beneficial. Mrs. Ramesh of Emerald Publishers adds that an editor should “be creative, should have the patience to peruse the book once or twice or even more and should have high concentration,” but above all else, they should have a passion for books.
You can prepare to enter the industry by reading books in every possible genre, editing a school or college magazine and working part-time as a freelance editor while still in college. Gaining experience is invaluable to a budding editor. Publishing houses generally provide a pleasant environment to work in. Alternatively, if you prefer working from home, freelance editing might be a good option. Ultimately, a book editor enjoys reading, is proficient in English or other languages and actively tries to discover new writing talent. If you thrive in the world of words, there’s a great career waiting for you!
To read the original post visit here
SHAKTHI MANICKAVASAGAM for THE HINDU
In an expanding publishing industry, book editors with an eye for detail are in great demand.
Does reading books for a living seem like a dream job? Then book editing may be the perfect profession for you. Book editors do primarily what their job title suggests, which is editing books. However, being an editor also involves many other activities.
According to Sandhya Rao, Chief Editor of publishing house Tulika, a typical day in the life of an editor would involve such tasks as “looking at manuscripts, working with production, interacting with authors and illustrators, and in the case of books in different languages, interacting with translators.”
Book editing has many subfields and specialisations, ranging from mystery novels to biographies. This is why Rakesh Khanna, co-founder of Blaft Publications, feels that it is wise to “obtain two skills.” As an example, he cited an editor of biology textbooks, who “should be really strong in English as well as biology.”
Also, while editors at small and independent publishing houses generally edit manuscripts as well as interact with authors, editors at multinational publishing houses usually focus on one of the two tasks. Copy editors correct grammatical and spelling errors, whilst ensuring that the book is cohesive and factually accurate. Acquisitions editors are responsible for obtaining manuscripts, selecting those which show promise and communicating with the author.
The Indian book publishing industry is flourishing, and was worth Rs. 8,000 crore in 2006. Since then it has been growing rapidly. Ms. Rao of Tulika believes that there are several reasons for this. “The industry is expanding because the market has grown,” she says, adding that “so many foreign players are coming into India because India is a huge potential market, due to the large English-speaking population.” In fact, India is the third largest producer of books in English, after the United States and Britain. However, as Ms. Rao points out, the best-selling books in India are probably textbooks; with the number of school-going children increasing every year, the demand for these books should not diminish in the near future.
Qualifications
The qualifications required to become an editor are not set in stone. Manjula Ramesh, Head of Production at Emerald Publishers, says that a degree in any field is sufficient, as long as you have “a very good knowledge and a good flow in English.” The same applies if you are interested in editing books in other languages. This was reiterated by Mr. Khanna of Blaft Publications, who says that “whatever language you are editing, it should be the language you’ve grown up with and the language you read a lot.” Mrs. Rao of Tulika believes that while it is better to have a “postgraduate degree in a language,” it is not an absolute necessity.
Being a book editor calls for certain practical skills and abilities. According to Mr. Khanna, the job requires an aptitude for “paying attention to various small details.” A talent for negotiating with other people, such as authors, is also beneficial. Mrs. Ramesh of Emerald Publishers adds that an editor should “be creative, should have the patience to peruse the book once or twice or even more and should have high concentration,” but above all else, they should have a passion for books.
You can prepare to enter the industry by reading books in every possible genre, editing a school or college magazine and working part-time as a freelance editor while still in college. Gaining experience is invaluable to a budding editor. Publishing houses generally provide a pleasant environment to work in. Alternatively, if you prefer working from home, freelance editing might be a good option. Ultimately, a book editor enjoys reading, is proficient in English or other languages and actively tries to discover new writing talent. If you thrive in the world of words, there’s a great career waiting for you!
To read the original post visit here
Thursday, 18 June 2009
Documentary contest GREENS 09 on Manoramaonline
Documentary contest GREENS 09 on Manoramaonline
Kottayam: Manoramaonline is organising Greens-09, a documentary film competition as part of the first anniversary celebrations of its Environment channel which started on June 5, 2008.
Documentaries on the subject of environment, of 10 to 30 minutes duration can be sent.
A cash prize of Rs 25000, Rs 15000 and Rs 10,000 will be awarded to the films that are chosen first, second and third respectively. Only CD's or DVD's of the documentaries will be accepted. Entry is open till July 5, 2009.
Ten best documentaries selected by a judges' panel will be featured on the website for a period of two months. Three of them voted best by viewers will be adjudged as winners. The ten documentaries selected by the judges' panel to the final round will continue to remain on the website for free.
The producers of the documentaries are required to enclose a letter agreeing to the conditions applied along with their creative works. For documentaries made by schools, colleges or any other institutions, a letter ofrom the present head of the establishment is mandatory.
Documentaries should reach, on or before July 5, 2009:
Greens - 9,
Manorama Online
Malayala Manorama
Kottayam - 1
Kerala, India
Kottayam: Manoramaonline is organising Greens-09, a documentary film competition as part of the first anniversary celebrations of its Environment channel which started on June 5, 2008.
Documentaries on the subject of environment, of 10 to 30 minutes duration can be sent.
A cash prize of Rs 25000, Rs 15000 and Rs 10,000 will be awarded to the films that are chosen first, second and third respectively. Only CD's or DVD's of the documentaries will be accepted. Entry is open till July 5, 2009.
Ten best documentaries selected by a judges' panel will be featured on the website for a period of two months. Three of them voted best by viewers will be adjudged as winners. The ten documentaries selected by the judges' panel to the final round will continue to remain on the website for free.
The producers of the documentaries are required to enclose a letter agreeing to the conditions applied along with their creative works. For documentaries made by schools, colleges or any other institutions, a letter ofrom the present head of the establishment is mandatory.
Documentaries should reach, on or before July 5, 2009:
Greens - 9,
Manorama Online
Malayala Manorama
Kottayam - 1
Kerala, India
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Students gift Dhoni discarded products endorsed by him
Students gift Dhoni discarded products endorsed by him
Gangtok, June 15: Students from a government secondary school in remote Yuksom, West Sikkim have written 5-page letter to the Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni highlighting the effects of his brand endorsement on the fragile ecology of the Himalayan State.
To supplement their arguments for corporate responsibility towards environment, the students have gifted a discarded wrapper of ‘Lays’, a potato chips.
With the volume of such garbage increasing along with the increase in tourist footfalls in the area,the students decided to pay it back to the celebrity who endorses them.
Hence the letter to Dhoni and the attached wrapper as a sample on how the tentacles of plastic in guise of chip packets have reached the relative virgin high altitude areas of West Sikkim.
The students admit in their letter that this is not the best of gifts but expressed hope the gesture communicates the urgency of the matter to the cricket star.
Since the concerned students do not have the mailing address of Mahi, they have marked their letter to him and addressed it to a ‘reputed, eco friendly electronic media’ with copies marked to local newspapers of Sikkim.
They want their words and concerns to reach Mahi while adding the ‘stunt’ is neither to defame the Team India captain or the company manufacturing the product.
The students have even invited MSD to visit Yuksam and a get a guided tour of biodiversity hotspot from where the message has reached him.
The environment ball has been bowled to MSD and let's see how he tackles this googly.
Gangtok, June 15: Students from a government secondary school in remote Yuksom, West Sikkim have written 5-page letter to the Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni highlighting the effects of his brand endorsement on the fragile ecology of the Himalayan State.
To supplement their arguments for corporate responsibility towards environment, the students have gifted a discarded wrapper of ‘Lays’, a potato chips.
With the volume of such garbage increasing along with the increase in tourist footfalls in the area,the students decided to pay it back to the celebrity who endorses them.
Hence the letter to Dhoni and the attached wrapper as a sample on how the tentacles of plastic in guise of chip packets have reached the relative virgin high altitude areas of West Sikkim.
The students admit in their letter that this is not the best of gifts but expressed hope the gesture communicates the urgency of the matter to the cricket star.
Since the concerned students do not have the mailing address of Mahi, they have marked their letter to him and addressed it to a ‘reputed, eco friendly electronic media’ with copies marked to local newspapers of Sikkim.
They want their words and concerns to reach Mahi while adding the ‘stunt’ is neither to defame the Team India captain or the company manufacturing the product.
The students have even invited MSD to visit Yuksam and a get a guided tour of biodiversity hotspot from where the message has reached him.
The environment ball has been bowled to MSD and let's see how he tackles this googly.
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