Preparations for establishing a world-class national early tsunami warning system are apace, it will be ready for operation, as per plan, in September 2007, Union Science, and technology Minister Kapil Sibal said on Tuesday. Presenting a progress report on the occasion of the second anniversary of the December 26,2004 tsunami, he told a press conference here that work on strengthening the seismic network, deployment of bottom pressure recorded to monitor the propagation of sea waves and subsequent sea level changes and establishment of a network of tide gauges was proceeding on an even keel. So far, one bottom pressure recorder was deployed and by July-end, the remaining 11 would be in place. Likewise, 17 tide gauges out of the 50 planned had been installed along the coastline, including on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and work was on to strengthen a network of 17 seismic stations. High-resolution topography of the coastal belt and bathymetry of shallow water had been initiated. An end-to-end communication plan was worked out in collaboration with the Indian Space research Organization to ensure communication of real-time data from seismic stations, tide gauges and bottom pressure recorders to the warning center.
(The Hindu, 27/12/06)
Friday, December 29, 2006
Tsunami warning system by September
Giant animals driven to extinction by humans
Australia's giant prehistoric animals, including the three-metre tall(10-foot) kangaroos, were likely wiped out by aboriginal settlers and not climate change, a researcher said on Tuesday. The most popular theories are that climate change drove the giants to extinction more than 40,000 years ago or that the Aborigines who arrived in Australia as far back as 60,000 years ago, were responsible because of over hunting or burning the vegetation upon which the creatures fed. But new fossil evidence from the Naracoorte Caves region of South Australia state ruled out climate change as the cause, according an article published in the latest edition of the Geological Society of America's monthly journal, Geology. The research team worked in the caves indicated humans gad a hand in the animals extinction. Fossilized remains of animals that had fallen into the limestone cave system over that time were dated using two methods: optically stimulated luminescence at Australia's University of Wollongong and uranium series dating at the University of Melbourne.
(The Hindu, 27/12/06)
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Turn back the clock for turnaround performance
Professors at National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) – a Bangalore based think-tank, D.P. Sengupta and Dilip Ahuja suggest that India should advance its clocks by a full half an hour. The proposal was made in a conference on 'Energy, Environment and Development' organized recently in Bangalore.
They propose a shift in Indian Standard Time (IST) from 82.5 degree East to 90 degree East. This would put as six hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), instead of five and a half. By this it will provide us with an extra half hour of daylight in the evening, which would save electricity (1.7 billion units of electricity annually), increase productivity; reduce traffic accidents and street crime. They support their arguments with evidence from studies conducted in the US and UK where Daylight Saving Time (DST) is used.The estimated savings is more than Rs. 850 crore per year..
(The New Indian Express, 25.12.2006)
Eco-tourism project to be commissioned today
Forest Minister Benoy Viswom on Tuesday will commission the eco-tourism project conceived to tap the tourism potential of the Idinjar-Mankayam regions and to preserve their natural beauty. The Thiruvananthapuram Forest Development Agency has joined hands with the Kerala Tourism and the Forest Department to set up the project in Nedumangadu Taluk. The project will also ensure the safety of hundreds who flock to the cascading waterfalls on the Chittar river. It is expected to provide employment to the local people, help visitors get to know nature and kindle interest among the younger generation in the history of the region. The entry fee collected from visitors arriving at the project site would be deposited in a fund and used to protect the forest and banks of the river. The project is being implemented as part of the Union Government's Participatory Forest Management Programme. Vana Samrakshana Samithis (VSSs) with involvement of those who depend on the forests for their livelihood were set up as part of the programme. This is the second eco-tourism project being implemented by the agency in the district. The first project was inaugurated at Kallar en route to the hill resort of Ponmudi in 2003-2004. Official sources said the eco-tourism project at Ponmudi would be commissioned on January 1.
(Hindu, 26 Dec 2006)
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Studies held to harness wind energy potential
The Centre for Wind Energy Technology, Chennai, functioning under the Ministry of New and renewable Energy, has set up wind monitoring stations at more than 20 locations in Kerala. This is part of a study being conducted by the CWET to exploit wind energy in the State. The equipment to measure wind speed and availability at various seasons have been set up mostly in Idukki, Palakkad and other northern districts of Kerala .Gopalapuram, Kadampuzha, Kanjikode, Kotamala and Kuttikanam are among the places where the studies are being held. Ramakkalmedu in Idukki has been identified as one of the high potential areas in the State. Places like Vizhinjam and Ponmudi have also been included in the list of centers chosen for conducting studies, according to sources at the CWET.
Logistics land availability and grid availability are some of the key factors to be examined before starting wing energy projects. It will be ideal if the Government embarks on infrastructure development prior to venturing into wind power projects in some of the identified places, according to experts. Renewable energy can contribute significantly to Kerala's power needs. As per current estimates, wind power can add 800MW. In the next five years, Kerala can add at least 500MW, according to G.M.Pillai, a former State Government official, who is associated with the energy management projects in the Sate.
(The Hindu 22/12/06)
Logistics land availability and grid availability are some of the key factors to be examined before starting wing energy projects. It will be ideal if the Government embarks on infrastructure development prior to venturing into wind power projects in some of the identified places, according to experts. Renewable energy can contribute significantly to Kerala's power needs. As per current estimates, wind power can add 800MW. In the next five years, Kerala can add at least 500MW, according to G.M.Pillai, a former State Government official, who is associated with the energy management projects in the Sate.
(The Hindu 22/12/06)
State likely to have tsunami museum
Kerala may soon have a tsunami museum. The museum will conserve the forbidding reminded and artifacts of the disaster occur during the tsunami of 26,2004 and will serve as an information and guidance center, which could educate the masses on tsunami.
The Pacific Tsunami Museum in Hawaii will lend support for the Kerala museum. The Pacific museum authorities plan to include first hand accounts of survivors of Kerala and those who helplessly watched their dear ones and belonging being washed away by the giant waves and photographs of the tragedy that hit the State in its gallery.
Walter.C.Dudley,Chairman, scientific advisory council of the Pacific Tsunami Museum, and Jeanne Branch Johnston, earthquake and tsunami programme planner of the State of Hawaii-Civil Defence Division, had toured the tsunami-hit areas of the State last week and recorded the accounts of the victims.
(The Hindu22/12/06)
The Pacific Tsunami Museum in Hawaii will lend support for the Kerala museum. The Pacific museum authorities plan to include first hand accounts of survivors of Kerala and those who helplessly watched their dear ones and belonging being washed away by the giant waves and photographs of the tragedy that hit the State in its gallery.
Walter.C.Dudley,Chairman, scientific advisory council of the Pacific Tsunami Museum, and Jeanne Branch Johnston, earthquake and tsunami programme planner of the State of Hawaii-Civil Defence Division, had toured the tsunami-hit areas of the State last week and recorded the accounts of the victims.
(The Hindu22/12/06)
Stress on need to setup rainwater harvesting units
The Govt. plans to create awareness of the need for rainwater harvesting in the State by setting up such units at educational institutions,Minister for Water Resources N.K.Premachandran said here on Wednesday.
He was speaking after inaugurating a rain water harvesting unit set up by the Jalanidhi programme at University College. Rainwater harvesting units will also be set up at other educational institutions in the State,he said. Only rain water harvesting and ground water recharge can help the State stave off a crisis on the drinking water front. The conservation of the State's water resources in a major focus area of the State's water policy. Though the State has 44 rivers, the volume of water in all the rivers put together would only be a fraction of the volume of the water carried by other major rivers in India.
If there is any diversion of rivers that flow through the State it will have serious consequences on Kerala's ecology. The three rain water harvesting tanks set up the college have a combined storage capacity of 1.5 lakh litres.
(The Hindu,21/12/06)
He was speaking after inaugurating a rain water harvesting unit set up by the Jalanidhi programme at University College. Rainwater harvesting units will also be set up at other educational institutions in the State,he said. Only rain water harvesting and ground water recharge can help the State stave off a crisis on the drinking water front. The conservation of the State's water resources in a major focus area of the State's water policy. Though the State has 44 rivers, the volume of water in all the rivers put together would only be a fraction of the volume of the water carried by other major rivers in India.
If there is any diversion of rivers that flow through the State it will have serious consequences on Kerala's ecology. The three rain water harvesting tanks set up the college have a combined storage capacity of 1.5 lakh litres.
(The Hindu,21/12/06)
A formula to grew organic paddy profitably
Organic Paddy growers in the delta region of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu have found suggest some easy alternatives to grow the crop. They have developed a formula for making rice farming profitable, while at the same time causing little damage to the environment, soil and ground water.
According to Mr.Balaji Shankar,an organic paddy farmer in Majiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu farmers should grow crops, which will suit their soil type. If the land is well drained, they may be able to implement systematic Rice Implementation(SRI) successfully. If it is lowying, they may need 3-4 seedlings. Planting only during August-January and rice fallow gram they should forego the summer crop totally.
In the interval from April-August, they get some tome for allowing the land remain fallow for about two months after a dry fill, and also 45 days for Daicha which can be grown for in situ plonghing.
(Business line 20/12/06)
According to Mr.Balaji Shankar,an organic paddy farmer in Majiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu farmers should grow crops, which will suit their soil type. If the land is well drained, they may be able to implement systematic Rice Implementation(SRI) successfully. If it is lowying, they may need 3-4 seedlings. Planting only during August-January and rice fallow gram they should forego the summer crop totally.
In the interval from April-August, they get some tome for allowing the land remain fallow for about two months after a dry fill, and also 45 days for Daicha which can be grown for in situ plonghing.
(Business line 20/12/06)
A species bonanza from Borneo
Scientist have discovered at least 52 new species of animals and plants on the Southest Asian Island of Borneo. WWF International said on Tuesday that the new discoveries made between July 2005 and September 2006,include 30 fish species two tree frogs and plants species. One of the fish species is a miniature, the world's second-smallest vertebrate.
Among the creatures that were new to science were six Siemense fighting fish, whose unique colours and markings distinguish them from close relatives, and a catfish with protruding teeth and an adhesive belly with miniature suction caps enabling it to stick to smooth stones and maintain its position facing into the current of Indonesia's turbulent Kapus river system. The catifish, which can be identified by its colour pattern is named-a reference to the teeth that can be seen ever when its mouth is closed.
While those species where spotted in Indonesian waters, the 8.8mm-long Paedocypris micromegethes was discovered in Malaysia's back water streams and peat swamp forests. The creature, which gets it name from the Greek words for children and small in size, is tiner than all other vertebrae species except for its slightly more minuscule cousin, a 7.9mm fish found on the Indonesian island of Sumatra,according to WWF.
(The Hindu 20/12/06)
Among the creatures that were new to science were six Siemense fighting fish, whose unique colours and markings distinguish them from close relatives, and a catfish with protruding teeth and an adhesive belly with miniature suction caps enabling it to stick to smooth stones and maintain its position facing into the current of Indonesia's turbulent Kapus river system. The catifish, which can be identified by its colour pattern is named-a reference to the teeth that can be seen ever when its mouth is closed.
While those species where spotted in Indonesian waters, the 8.8mm-long Paedocypris micromegethes was discovered in Malaysia's back water streams and peat swamp forests. The creature, which gets it name from the Greek words for children and small in size, is tiner than all other vertebrae species except for its slightly more minuscule cousin, a 7.9mm fish found on the Indonesian island of Sumatra,according to WWF.
(The Hindu 20/12/06)
Saturday, December 16, 2006
New farm policy aims at doubling output in 10 years
The Karnataka Government on Thursday unveiled a 'farmer-centric' agricultural policy aimed at doubling farm production in 10 years by setting he target at 4.5 percent a year during the next decade.
It seeks to reverse the declining growth rate in agriculture, which was 1.5 percentage of the State Gross Domestic produce at close of the 10th five year plan.
The policy envisages renaming of the Agriculture Department as Department of Agriculture and farmer's welfare and fixing the budgetary expenditure on agriculture at 10 percent of the development expenditure. It also proposes to extend the minimum support price scheme to all crops in the State, specially turned to cover small and marginal farmers.
(The Hindu,15/12/06)
Friday, December 15, 2006
North Korea’s claim on bird flu vaccine
North Korea has claimed it developed a poultry vaccine against the deadly H5N1 type of bird flu and is inoculating chicken as part of stepped-up efforts a to prevent the disease following outbreaks in South Korea. "The production of H5N1 vaccine locally developed recently in our country is increased and the compulsory vaccination of it to whole poultry flocks is being alone", said Rickyong Gun, Director of the North's veterinary and Anti-Epidemic Department, in an interview with AP Television News in Pyongyang. Bird flu hit North Korea early last year, prompting the slaughter of about 210,000 chickens and other poultry. No new cases of bird flu have since been reported. Across the tightly sealed border with the south three cases of bird flu have broken out since last month, forcing the Government to call more than 1.13 million poultry". Because of the bird flu out breaks in South Korea recently we are further strengthening quarantive efforts", Mr.Rickyong said.
(Business Line 15/12/06)
(Business Line 15/12/06)
Thursday, December 14, 2006
The flying mammal
Mammals took to the skies around to million years earlier than thought until now, according to scientists analyzing the remains of a smalt squirrel-sized creature that glided in forests in the Mesozoic era in what is now inner Mongolia.
The specimen found in Dauhugou in Inner Mongolia's ningcheng country has been dated to be at least 125 million years old. This suggest it may here taken flight at the same time as-and possibly even earlier that-the first birds.
The creature has been named volaticotherium antiquus,a composite of Latin and Greek that means "ancient flying beast".
Its fussilised bones suggest a small squirrel-sized mammal quite unlike any other species from the Mesozoic, an era that stretched from 251 to 65 million years ago and cretaceous periods. It had sharp teeth,long,skinny limbs and fur covered flap of skin,called a patagium, that probably gave it gliding flight.
The manner of flight is rather like what the flying squirrels do today: that can glide from tree to tree by stretching out a furry cape.
Put together, this suggests it lived in trees and probably fed on insects at nights. It may have been a good glider, but it was unlikely to have had the ability to twist and turn to catch prey in flight, as bats can.
Previously, the earliest known flying mammal was a bat from the early Eocene era, about 51 million years ago.
The scientific paper appears on Thursday in the British Scientific journal Nature. The lead author is Jin Meny of the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
(The Hindu 14/12/06)
The specimen found in Dauhugou in Inner Mongolia's ningcheng country has been dated to be at least 125 million years old. This suggest it may here taken flight at the same time as-and possibly even earlier that-the first birds.
The creature has been named volaticotherium antiquus,a composite of Latin and Greek that means "ancient flying beast".
Its fussilised bones suggest a small squirrel-sized mammal quite unlike any other species from the Mesozoic, an era that stretched from 251 to 65 million years ago and cretaceous periods. It had sharp teeth,long,skinny limbs and fur covered flap of skin,called a patagium, that probably gave it gliding flight.
The manner of flight is rather like what the flying squirrels do today: that can glide from tree to tree by stretching out a furry cape.
Put together, this suggests it lived in trees and probably fed on insects at nights. It may have been a good glider, but it was unlikely to have had the ability to twist and turn to catch prey in flight, as bats can.
Previously, the earliest known flying mammal was a bat from the early Eocene era, about 51 million years ago.
The scientific paper appears on Thursday in the British Scientific journal Nature. The lead author is Jin Meny of the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
(The Hindu 14/12/06)
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Agri. ministers meet on draft policy for farmers
National Commission on farmers Cahirman Dr.M.S.Swaminathan on Tuesday said a national policy for farmers might soon become a reality. Talking to reporters at a press conference he said "Union agriculture Minister Sharad pawar is expected to take a decision on our draft report at a meet on December 22. The meet will be attended by State agriculture ministers as well".
The commission submitted its draft report on October 2. The Centre is also planning to implement the scientists reports on "more crop and more income per drop of water", from June 1 onwards . "The programme will cover 6,000 villages in the country. The Ministry of water resources had decided to allocate Rs.50,000 for each villages", he said.
The key recommendations of the committee, constituted under the Chairmanship of Dr.M.S.Swaminathan includes micro irrigation technology to increase productivity of crops with less water, crop diversification with high value but less water requiring crops, adequate support to farmers for making and access to market information and introduction of weather-based crop insurance protection for minimizing losses. The commission,he said, he also recommended setting up a price monitoring committee at the State-level for ensuring assured returns to farmers under contract farming system.
According to him, food and water banks were needed in each, village to expand the food basket. "We also need to introduce a universal public distribution system covering the entire population".
(The Economic Times,13/12/06)
The commission submitted its draft report on October 2. The Centre is also planning to implement the scientists reports on "more crop and more income per drop of water", from June 1 onwards . "The programme will cover 6,000 villages in the country. The Ministry of water resources had decided to allocate Rs.50,000 for each villages", he said.
The key recommendations of the committee, constituted under the Chairmanship of Dr.M.S.Swaminathan includes micro irrigation technology to increase productivity of crops with less water, crop diversification with high value but less water requiring crops, adequate support to farmers for making and access to market information and introduction of weather-based crop insurance protection for minimizing losses. The commission,he said, he also recommended setting up a price monitoring committee at the State-level for ensuring assured returns to farmers under contract farming system.
According to him, food and water banks were needed in each, village to expand the food basket. "We also need to introduce a universal public distribution system covering the entire population".
(The Economic Times,13/12/06)
Monday, December 11, 2006
Sethusamudram Project dredging
The dredging of Adam's bridge, the Southern end of the Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project (SSCP), is to start from today in the presence of the Union Shipping Minister, Mr.T.R. Baalu. An estimated 48 million cubic metres of silt will be removed over the next two years to achieve a depth of 12 metres by the end 2008. The State owned Dredging Corporation of India, which has been entrusted with the job, would deploy three of its own dredgers immediately. Dredging Corporation of India has also been engaged in dredging the northern end of the channel for more than a year now, it may be noted that the cost of dredging for the entire project has been revised upwards from the original INR 17,200 to 21,700 million to take into account the impact of service charge which became effective from April 2005.
A news item that appeared on 'The Hindu', dated 10-07-2004, reported that Union Shipping Minister Thiru. T.R.Baalu ensuring that due precautionary measures were taken and there will be no damage to the Gulf of Mannar [GOM]'s biosphere while implementing the 144 year project SSCP.
SSCP : The Background
SSCP is a 144 year dream of Tamils. Commander A D Taylor from Indian Marine planned this SSCP project in the year 1860. In 1952 Sir A Ramasamy [Mudaliar] submitted a proposal and major feasibility report.
As per the present plan, the total length of SSCP would be about 260 km - about 120 km from Tuticorin Port to Adam's Bridge (in Gulf of Mannar), and about 140 km north of Rameswaram from Adam's Bridge to Bay of Bengal channel (in Palk Bay). Overall GOM and Palk Strait [PS] cover an area of 10,500 kms. The canal is being investigated for different drafts (for 9.15 m, 10.7 m and 12.8 m). In general, the canal will have a depth of 12 metres enabling 10,000 to 12,000 GRT vessels to pass through. The Government of India is proposing to dredge a width of 300 meter through 44 nautical miles long stretch. It is estimated that 32.5 million cubic meter sand will be dredged in the Adam's bridge area and around 52 million cubic meters in Palk Strait. [Read more at http://www.tamilinfoservice.com/manitham/environment/sscp/ir.htm]
SS project: Who looks after Lanka's interests?
The Construction of Sethusamudram, Ship Canal by the Indian government has become a controversial issue among the environmental groups in India and Sri Lanka. Unfortunately the Sri Lankan Government's position has not been made clear to the public yet. It was reported that the Indian government has suggested to the Sri Lankan Government that this canal could be used as a barrier to the terrorist movements. That could be a reason for the silence of the Sri Lankan Government. [Read more at http://iri.columbia.edu/~mahaweli/climate.lk_mirror/sethu/docs/hw.html]
Check out few documents
1. Is the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project Technically Feasible?[http://iri.columbia.edu/~mahaweli/climate.lk_mirror/sethu/docs/ram/r_ramesh.pdf]
2. Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project[http://www.ias.ac.in/currsci/feb252005/536.pdf]
3. Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project: oceanographic/geological and...[http://www.ias.ac.in/currsci/oct102005/1082.pdf]
A news item that appeared on 'The Hindu', dated 10-07-2004, reported that Union Shipping Minister Thiru. T.R.Baalu ensuring that due precautionary measures were taken and there will be no damage to the Gulf of Mannar [GOM]'s biosphere while implementing the 144 year project SSCP.
SSCP : The Background
SSCP is a 144 year dream of Tamils. Commander A D Taylor from Indian Marine planned this SSCP project in the year 1860. In 1952 Sir A Ramasamy [Mudaliar] submitted a proposal and major feasibility report.
As per the present plan, the total length of SSCP would be about 260 km - about 120 km from Tuticorin Port to Adam's Bridge (in Gulf of Mannar), and about 140 km north of Rameswaram from Adam's Bridge to Bay of Bengal channel (in Palk Bay). Overall GOM and Palk Strait [PS] cover an area of 10,500 kms. The canal is being investigated for different drafts (for 9.15 m, 10.7 m and 12.8 m). In general, the canal will have a depth of 12 metres enabling 10,000 to 12,000 GRT vessels to pass through. The Government of India is proposing to dredge a width of 300 meter through 44 nautical miles long stretch. It is estimated that 32.5 million cubic meter sand will be dredged in the Adam's bridge area and around 52 million cubic meters in Palk Strait. [Read more at http://www.tamilinfoservice.com/manitham/environment/sscp/ir.htm]
SS project: Who looks after Lanka's interests?
The Construction of Sethusamudram, Ship Canal by the Indian government has become a controversial issue among the environmental groups in India and Sri Lanka. Unfortunately the Sri Lankan Government's position has not been made clear to the public yet. It was reported that the Indian government has suggested to the Sri Lankan Government that this canal could be used as a barrier to the terrorist movements. That could be a reason for the silence of the Sri Lankan Government. [Read more at http://iri.columbia.edu/~mahaweli/climate.lk_mirror/sethu/docs/hw.html]
Check out few documents
1. Is the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project Technically Feasible?[http://iri.columbia.edu/~mahaweli/climate.lk_mirror/sethu/docs/ram/r_ramesh.pdf]
2. Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project[http://www.ias.ac.in/currsci/feb252005/536.pdf]
3. Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project: oceanographic/geological and...[http://www.ias.ac.in/currsci/oct102005/1082.pdf]
Nobel laureate urges world to fight against poverty
Bangladeshi economist Muhammed Yunus recorded the Nobel Peace Prize on Sunday, 2nd week of December 2006 and urged world's leaders to get involved in the fight against poverty and stop spending money on wars like the one in Iraq.Yunus, named the banker to the poor, and the Gramen (microcredit) Bank that he founded won the peace prize for their work to lift millions out of poverty by granting loans to the poorest of the poor, especially women in rural Bangladesh.
(The New Indian Express, 11 December 2006)
Economist Muhammad Yunus did what others who are in a comfortable financial position do from time to time: Give to those in need. His first notable donation was $27 US for villagers in his native Bangladesh that could help "liberate" them from debt. But then, he turned his sights on turning convention — about banking, about fighting poverty, about helping the poor — on its head. Some 30 years later, after creating a bank that has loaned more than $5 billion to the poorest, he and his Grameen Bank won the $1.4 million Nobel Peace Prize in October 2006 for championing "economic and social development from below."
(CBC News; http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/nobel/yunus-microcreditbank.html)
Excerpt from peace prize citation
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided to award the Nobel Peace Prize for 2006, divided into two equal parts, to Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank for their efforts to create economic and social development from below. Lasting peace can not be achieved unless large population groups find ways in which to break out of poverty. Micro-credit is one such means. Development from below also serves to advance democracy and human rights. Muhammad Yunus has shown himself to be a leader who has managed to translate visions into practical action for the benefit of millions of people, not only in Bangladesh, but also in many other countries. Loans to poor people without any financial security had appeared to be an impossible idea. From modest beginnings three decades ago, Yunus has, first and foremost through Grameen Bank, developed micro-credit into an ever more important instrument in the struggle against poverty. Grameen Bank has been a source of ideas and models for the many institutions in the field of micro-credit that have sprung up around the world. Every single individual on Earth has both the potential and the right to live a decent life. Across cultures and civilizations, Yunus and Grameen Bank have shown that even the poorest of the poor can work to bring about their own development.
(The New Indian Express, 11 December 2006)
Economist Muhammad Yunus did what others who are in a comfortable financial position do from time to time: Give to those in need. His first notable donation was $27 US for villagers in his native Bangladesh that could help "liberate" them from debt. But then, he turned his sights on turning convention — about banking, about fighting poverty, about helping the poor — on its head. Some 30 years later, after creating a bank that has loaned more than $5 billion to the poorest, he and his Grameen Bank won the $1.4 million Nobel Peace Prize in October 2006 for championing "economic and social development from below."
(CBC News; http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/nobel/yunus-microcreditbank.html)
Excerpt from peace prize citation
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided to award the Nobel Peace Prize for 2006, divided into two equal parts, to Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank for their efforts to create economic and social development from below. Lasting peace can not be achieved unless large population groups find ways in which to break out of poverty. Micro-credit is one such means. Development from below also serves to advance democracy and human rights. Muhammad Yunus has shown himself to be a leader who has managed to translate visions into practical action for the benefit of millions of people, not only in Bangladesh, but also in many other countries. Loans to poor people without any financial security had appeared to be an impossible idea. From modest beginnings three decades ago, Yunus has, first and foremost through Grameen Bank, developed micro-credit into an ever more important instrument in the struggle against poverty. Grameen Bank has been a source of ideas and models for the many institutions in the field of micro-credit that have sprung up around the world. Every single individual on Earth has both the potential and the right to live a decent life. Across cultures and civilizations, Yunus and Grameen Bank have shown that even the poorest of the poor can work to bring about their own development.
Rare fresh water bryozoan found
Bringing out a surreptitious discovery, college professors in Belgaum have found a rarest freshwater hydra which was dwelling on earth 600 million years ago. Bryozoan, a minor phyla of invertebrates, which was earlier recorded only three times, two in United States of America and one in Europe is now found in Belgam.
Head of the Zoology Department of Govindram Seksaria Science College Prof. S.V. Prabhu, who reported these colonial forms, was initially surprised to see a coelenterate fresh water colony in an aquarium in the Department. Because they come rarely across fresh water coelenterate.
(The New Indian Express, 11 December 2006)
WEB LINKS
Bryozoan IntroductionBryozoans, sometimes referred to as moss animals or ectoprocts are tiny, ... Sketch of a colony of Electra, an encrusting type of bryozoan. ...www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/IntroBryozoa.htm
Bryozoa - Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaIn their aquatic habitats, bryozoans may be found on all types of hard substrates: ... Some bryozoan colonies, however, do not grow on solid substrates, ...en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bryozoa
Introduction to the BryozoaOthers, like the fossil bryozoans shown here, form lacy or fan-like colonies that ... Find more bryozoan links at the Bryozoa page of the Zoological Record. ...www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/bryozoa/bryozoa.html
Bryozoan Colour IllustrationsBryozoan Colour Illustrations. This listing is provided as a quick reference to colour underwater photographs of bryozoans ...www.civgeo.rmit.edu.au/bryozoa/photos.html
Indexes to Bryozoan TaxaIndexes to Bryozoan Taxa. The indexes of families and genera are nearly complete, but there are some remaining gaps ... Alphabetic Index of Bryozoan Genera ...www.civgeo.rmit.edu.au/bryozoa/indexes.html
Moss Animals Invade Lake Cochituate (enter the bryozoan ...An article by A. Richard Miller about the fresh-water bryozoan Pectinatella magnifica.www.millermicro.com/bryozoa.html
The Department of Environmental Quality often receives complaints ...File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat - View as HTMLBryozoan Colonies:. A Naturally-Occurring Phenomena ... about 5000 species of bryozoans. Colonies of freshwater bryozoans form ...www.deq.state.mi.us/documents/deq-ead-tas-bryozoan.pdf
NMITA BryozoansAll bryozoan SEM images are the property of the Smithsonian Institution (unless otherwise stated). Last updated on April 26, 2006 - tsa.eusmilia.geology.uiowa.edu/database/bryozoa/brymnsc.htm
MICROSCOPY UK / MICSCAPE - Article : Bryozoan - A Mystery From the ...They were found to be the first free-swimming bryozoan colonies ever recorded. ... Why is this type of bryozoan only found under Antarctic sea ice? ...www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/mag/articles/bryozoa.html
bryozoan - definition of bryozoan by the Free Online Dictionary ...Definition of bryozoan in the Online Dictionary. Meaning of bryozoan. What does bryozoan mean? bryozoan synonyms, bryozoan antonyms.www.thefreedictionary.com/bryozoan
Head of the Zoology Department of Govindram Seksaria Science College Prof. S.V. Prabhu, who reported these colonial forms, was initially surprised to see a coelenterate fresh water colony in an aquarium in the Department. Because they come rarely across fresh water coelenterate.
(The New Indian Express, 11 December 2006)
WEB LINKS
Bryozoan IntroductionBryozoans, sometimes referred to as moss animals or ectoprocts are tiny, ... Sketch of a colony of Electra, an encrusting type of bryozoan. ...www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/IntroBryozoa.htm
Bryozoa - Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaIn their aquatic habitats, bryozoans may be found on all types of hard substrates: ... Some bryozoan colonies, however, do not grow on solid substrates, ...en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bryozoa
Introduction to the BryozoaOthers, like the fossil bryozoans shown here, form lacy or fan-like colonies that ... Find more bryozoan links at the Bryozoa page of the Zoological Record. ...www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/bryozoa/bryozoa.html
Bryozoan Colour IllustrationsBryozoan Colour Illustrations. This listing is provided as a quick reference to colour underwater photographs of bryozoans ...www.civgeo.rmit.edu.au/bryozoa/photos.html
Indexes to Bryozoan TaxaIndexes to Bryozoan Taxa. The indexes of families and genera are nearly complete, but there are some remaining gaps ... Alphabetic Index of Bryozoan Genera ...www.civgeo.rmit.edu.au/bryozoa/indexes.html
Moss Animals Invade Lake Cochituate (enter the bryozoan ...An article by A. Richard Miller about the fresh-water bryozoan Pectinatella magnifica.www.millermicro.com/bryozoa.html
The Department of Environmental Quality often receives complaints ...File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat - View as HTMLBryozoan Colonies:. A Naturally-Occurring Phenomena ... about 5000 species of bryozoans. Colonies of freshwater bryozoans form ...www.deq.state.mi.us/documents/deq-ead-tas-bryozoan.pdf
NMITA BryozoansAll bryozoan SEM images are the property of the Smithsonian Institution (unless otherwise stated). Last updated on April 26, 2006 - tsa.eusmilia.geology.uiowa.edu/database/bryozoa/brymnsc.htm
MICROSCOPY UK / MICSCAPE - Article : Bryozoan - A Mystery From the ...They were found to be the first free-swimming bryozoan colonies ever recorded. ... Why is this type of bryozoan only found under Antarctic sea ice? ...www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/mag/articles/bryozoa.html
bryozoan - definition of bryozoan by the Free Online Dictionary ...Definition of bryozoan in the Online Dictionary. Meaning of bryozoan. What does bryozoan mean? bryozoan synonyms, bryozoan antonyms.www.thefreedictionary.com/bryozoan
Kerala’s First Bioresource Nature Park at Nilambur
The first Bioresource Nature Park in the State will come up at Nilambur in Malappuram district in December 2006. The final touches are being given to he park so that the formal inauguration will take place by the end of this month, said official sources.
Financed by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India and State Planning and Economic Affairs, the bio-resource park is being set up at the eight hectress at the subcentre of Kerala Forest research Institite (KFRI), adjacent to the teak museum in Nilambur.
Being set up with the aim of spreading the message of biodiversity conservation and management, the part will help in boosting ecotourism in Nilambur and its nearby areas.
(The New Indian Express 11/12/06)
WEB LINKS
NatureNet:The National Park Service's Natural Resource Place on ...Links to information on the air, geology, water, wildlife and plants in the US National Park System.www.nature.nps.gov/ - 9 Dec 2006
ghanatourism.gov.gh - CENTRAL REGION,Kakum National ParkThe 357km2 national park is comprised of mostly undisturbed virgin rainforest. Excellent walking tours (and a canopy walkway) through the forest provide the ...www.ghanatourism.gov.gh/regions/highlight_detail.asp?id=1&rdid=65
National Park Neusiedler See - SeewinkelDetails of Austria's first IUCN approved National Park.www.tourist-net.co.at/natps_1e.htm
Parks in TurkeyThe national park forms steep rocky regions on the slopes of Spil Mountain which is separated ... The national park has areas for daily use and a museum. ...www.twarp.com/nature/park.htm
Nature Park Travel to the Heart of EuropeNature Park Travel from Strassburg, Frankfurt, Berlin to Prague. hotels in Prenzlauer Berg Berlin ... In Hainich National Park a forest grows naturally. ...www.natureparktravel.com/
Online Travel Guide for Hainich National ParkHainich National Park is part of Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Nature Park. The Nature Park aims at achieving a balance between nature, tourism and regional ...www.natureparktravel.com/hainich/hainich.htm
Panama's National ParksLas Cruces Trail National Park is a corridor of 4000 hectares that links the forested zones between the Metropolitan Nature Park and the Soberania National ...www.panamatravel.com/natparks.htm
national park: Definition and Much More from Answers.comnational park n. A tract of land declared public property by a national government with a view to its preservation and development for purposes of.www.answers.com/topic/national-park
Kenting National ParkSheding Nature Park (observe transit birds such as Chinese sparrowhawks and ... Kenting National Park Administration Office, Construction and Planning ...www.ktnp.gov.tw/eng/tour/Suggest.asp
National Park Vacation: Introducing Mesilau Nature Park, an ...National Park Vacation article that provides a brief introduction to Mesilau National Park in Sabah, Malaysia Borneo, a lesser known but equally perfect ...www.e-borneo.com/travel/articles/national-park-vacation-mesilau.html
Financed by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India and State Planning and Economic Affairs, the bio-resource park is being set up at the eight hectress at the subcentre of Kerala Forest research Institite (KFRI), adjacent to the teak museum in Nilambur.
Being set up with the aim of spreading the message of biodiversity conservation and management, the part will help in boosting ecotourism in Nilambur and its nearby areas.
(The New Indian Express 11/12/06)
WEB LINKS
NatureNet:The National Park Service's Natural Resource Place on ...Links to information on the air, geology, water, wildlife and plants in the US National Park System.www.nature.nps.gov/ - 9 Dec 2006
ghanatourism.gov.gh - CENTRAL REGION,Kakum National ParkThe 357km2 national park is comprised of mostly undisturbed virgin rainforest. Excellent walking tours (and a canopy walkway) through the forest provide the ...www.ghanatourism.gov.gh/regions/highlight_detail.asp?id=1&rdid=65
National Park Neusiedler See - SeewinkelDetails of Austria's first IUCN approved National Park.www.tourist-net.co.at/natps_1e.htm
Parks in TurkeyThe national park forms steep rocky regions on the slopes of Spil Mountain which is separated ... The national park has areas for daily use and a museum. ...www.twarp.com/nature/park.htm
Nature Park Travel to the Heart of EuropeNature Park Travel from Strassburg, Frankfurt, Berlin to Prague. hotels in Prenzlauer Berg Berlin ... In Hainich National Park a forest grows naturally. ...www.natureparktravel.com/
Online Travel Guide for Hainich National ParkHainich National Park is part of Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Nature Park. The Nature Park aims at achieving a balance between nature, tourism and regional ...www.natureparktravel.com/hainich/hainich.htm
Panama's National ParksLas Cruces Trail National Park is a corridor of 4000 hectares that links the forested zones between the Metropolitan Nature Park and the Soberania National ...www.panamatravel.com/natparks.htm
national park: Definition and Much More from Answers.comnational park n. A tract of land declared public property by a national government with a view to its preservation and development for purposes of.www.answers.com/topic/national-park
Kenting National ParkSheding Nature Park (observe transit birds such as Chinese sparrowhawks and ... Kenting National Park Administration Office, Construction and Planning ...www.ktnp.gov.tw/eng/tour/Suggest.asp
National Park Vacation: Introducing Mesilau Nature Park, an ...National Park Vacation article that provides a brief introduction to Mesilau National Park in Sabah, Malaysia Borneo, a lesser known but equally perfect ...www.e-borneo.com/travel/articles/national-park-vacation-mesilau.html
Thursday, December 7, 2006
Cloud covers India’s rice up growth
In findings that may have a significant resonance for India's agricultural economy, U.S. researchers have reported that pollution has stifled growth in the country's rice harvest.Since the mid 1980s, the stub-born brown cloud of pollution that shrouds much of India, coupled with increased concentrations of green house gases, together have limited both the yields and extent of rice farms in the nine states that account for most of the country's wet season harvest, University of California researchers report in a study.Had both farms of pollution been cut, India's rice harvest across those States would have increased more than 14% between 1985 and 1998, they report that it could have helped restore the rate of growth to that seen in the 1960s and 1970s in the immediate wake of the Green revolution that allowed India to become self sufficient in rice production.
(The Hindu, 7 December 2006)
(The Hindu, 7 December 2006)
International coconut summit
The Swadeshi Nalikera Mission in association with Peekay tree Crops Development foundation, will organise the International Coconut Summit 2007 from May 7 to 11.Delegates from major coconut growing countries and organizations such as the Asian and Pacific coconut genetic Resources network (COGENT), Malaysia, will participate in the summit. 'Coconut for Rural Prosperity' is the theme of summit. The Summit is being held at a time when the global coconut plantation is facing a crisis. Appropriate cropping and farming systems have to revive the Industry's productivity and importance.
(The Indian Express 7 December 06)
(The Indian Express 7 December 06)
Monday, December 4, 2006
Kerala's rice losing its aroma
The rice in paddy fields in Wayanad is not ordinary. They are exclusive to Kerala called the 'Gandhakasala'. And in the days of experiments in genetically modified crops, only a few families still sow this authentic variety.
A farmer in Kerala I S Rajagopalan says, "We have been sowing this variety for a long time now. We grow this crop for our own use. We do not want these seedlings to die out because they are available only in Wayanad."
The Gandhakasala rice is known specially for its rich aroma. Also called Kerala's basmati, this variety of rice is popular in the scientific community for its tolerance to drought, flood, pests and diseases. They can also survive the salinity and alkalinity of the soil in Kerala.
"It's conducive to nature here. It can't be grown anywhere in other regions. The high altitude of Wayanad suits the crop," Agricultural scientist K V Diwakaran says.
Higher yield and commercial viability are leading more and more farmers to opt for new versions of rice. Varieties like 'Navara', Mullanchana' and 'Chenellu' have already ceased to exist. And it's research organisations that are now jointly working towards bringing back these lost varieties.
The few acres of land in Wayanad are probably the last traces of cultivation of beautiful smelling rice in the area. In the midst of all the commercial agriculture, that has now taken centre stage, the question is – is India losing on its natural heritage?
http://www.ibnlive.com/news/keralas-rice-losing-its-aroma/27551-3.html
A farmer in Kerala I S Rajagopalan says, "We have been sowing this variety for a long time now. We grow this crop for our own use. We do not want these seedlings to die out because they are available only in Wayanad."
The Gandhakasala rice is known specially for its rich aroma. Also called Kerala's basmati, this variety of rice is popular in the scientific community for its tolerance to drought, flood, pests and diseases. They can also survive the salinity and alkalinity of the soil in Kerala.
"It's conducive to nature here. It can't be grown anywhere in other regions. The high altitude of Wayanad suits the crop," Agricultural scientist K V Diwakaran says.
Higher yield and commercial viability are leading more and more farmers to opt for new versions of rice. Varieties like 'Navara', Mullanchana' and 'Chenellu' have already ceased to exist. And it's research organisations that are now jointly working towards bringing back these lost varieties.
The few acres of land in Wayanad are probably the last traces of cultivation of beautiful smelling rice in the area. In the midst of all the commercial agriculture, that has now taken centre stage, the question is – is India losing on its natural heritage?
http://www.ibnlive.com/news/keralas-rice-losing-its-aroma/27551-3.html
Kerala's houseboats, lakes and backwaters
Kerala's houseboats, lakes and backwaters are once again posing to be the ultimate brand ambassadors of the state's tourism industry by generating huge foreign exchange and employment.
The popularity of houseboats has returned as major tourist attractions in the state. Many find these beautiful flotels as an ideal means of exploring the beauty of the Kerala backwaters.The number of houseboats in the Alleppey and Kottayam backwaters has increased drastically. In Alleppey alone it has increased from just 150 odd one to more than 350 in two to three years.
Houseboats or Kettu-vallams, which were once used in Kerala waterways for transporting goods from once place to another famous as rice boats, have now changed as the most wanted tourist attraction not only for domestic tourists but also for the foreigners who never miss a chance to take a 24-hour timeout in the backwaters of Kerala.
With these years tourist season remaining there from November till March, the houseboat operators and travel agents are well prepared and are looking forward for a good volume of tourists from various countries to book their houseboats and hope it will be much more than the last year.
Kerala tourism is aiming at a 20 percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals this season, while in the domestic tourists, an increase by five percent are expected this season. Tourism that has emerged as a major sector in the State provides employment to over one million people in Kerala, which is the fastest growing tourist destination in the world. The World Travel and Tourism Council has predicted 11.6 pc growth rate for Kerala's tourism sector by 2013.
The tourism sector here hopes to get Rs. 100000 million revenue while investments to the tune of Rs. 10000 million are also expected in this sector.
The Kerala Government recently put forward a multi-crore project to utilize the inland waterways for cargo and tourism purpose. The project to be completed in four years, which according to the officials, will ease the road traffic for a large extent and can reduce the level of pollution and also will be an economical mode of transportation for the state.
Officially, the inland waterways in Kerala stretch to a length of 1,687 km, corresponding to 11.6 percentage of a total of 14,544 km in the country. The major stretch is the West Coast Canal connecting Hosdurg in the north and Poovar, near Thrivananthapuram in the south, which has a length of 560 km.
Presently, this sector directly employs between 1.5 lakh and 2 lakh people in the operation and maintenance of boats, and for each person directly employed, at least two others are indirectly employed in allied activities such as boat building, servicing of boats, tourism and so on.
The operators of private boats, including houseboats, generated 17 lakh man-days in the last year, according to a recent study. Another 1.5 lakh man-days of employment were generated last year by boat manufacturers, with 311 man-days of employment per lakh of rupees invested.
However, despite these seemingly healthy figures, all is not well with the Inland waterways sector. The full potential for movement of people and goods has not been utilised.
The absence of navigational aids, and the lack of modern Inland craft terminals and cargo handling facilities are some of the infrastructural constraints.
Several blockages continue to exist, including the lack of depth, the absence of any maintenance of navigation system, poor protection for the banks, the use of outdated crafts and engines, which creates environment threats like water and air pollution.
Recently, to promote houseboat tourism, the local tourism department has come out with plans to implement single window clearance to the boat operators as earlier they had to wander three different government departments to get the canal, transportation and pollution clearance. It will also be taking stringent actions against the workers and operators who carry out any malpractices in this industry, said the Secretary S. Vinu Kumar of DTPC, Alleppey.
Proper dress to workers in the houseboats, number plates like road vehicles to identify them from far places to avoid accidents, proper licensing system and pollution control methods will be in action from this month, added the DTPC Secretary Kerala, with its 44 rivers, ranging in length from 15 kms to 245 kms, flow across this small stretch. With two monsoons, rainy water pours down every year, replenishing the rivers and watering the entire flora. These factors have created Kerala as the 'God's own garden country' and one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world. (ANI).
http://www.dailyindia.com/show/88742.php/Houseboats---backwaters--becoming--USP--of--Keralas---tourism-industry
The popularity of houseboats has returned as major tourist attractions in the state. Many find these beautiful flotels as an ideal means of exploring the beauty of the Kerala backwaters.The number of houseboats in the Alleppey and Kottayam backwaters has increased drastically. In Alleppey alone it has increased from just 150 odd one to more than 350 in two to three years.
Houseboats or Kettu-vallams, which were once used in Kerala waterways for transporting goods from once place to another famous as rice boats, have now changed as the most wanted tourist attraction not only for domestic tourists but also for the foreigners who never miss a chance to take a 24-hour timeout in the backwaters of Kerala.
With these years tourist season remaining there from November till March, the houseboat operators and travel agents are well prepared and are looking forward for a good volume of tourists from various countries to book their houseboats and hope it will be much more than the last year.
Kerala tourism is aiming at a 20 percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals this season, while in the domestic tourists, an increase by five percent are expected this season. Tourism that has emerged as a major sector in the State provides employment to over one million people in Kerala, which is the fastest growing tourist destination in the world. The World Travel and Tourism Council has predicted 11.6 pc growth rate for Kerala's tourism sector by 2013.
The tourism sector here hopes to get Rs. 100000 million revenue while investments to the tune of Rs. 10000 million are also expected in this sector.
The Kerala Government recently put forward a multi-crore project to utilize the inland waterways for cargo and tourism purpose. The project to be completed in four years, which according to the officials, will ease the road traffic for a large extent and can reduce the level of pollution and also will be an economical mode of transportation for the state.
Officially, the inland waterways in Kerala stretch to a length of 1,687 km, corresponding to 11.6 percentage of a total of 14,544 km in the country. The major stretch is the West Coast Canal connecting Hosdurg in the north and Poovar, near Thrivananthapuram in the south, which has a length of 560 km.
Presently, this sector directly employs between 1.5 lakh and 2 lakh people in the operation and maintenance of boats, and for each person directly employed, at least two others are indirectly employed in allied activities such as boat building, servicing of boats, tourism and so on.
The operators of private boats, including houseboats, generated 17 lakh man-days in the last year, according to a recent study. Another 1.5 lakh man-days of employment were generated last year by boat manufacturers, with 311 man-days of employment per lakh of rupees invested.
However, despite these seemingly healthy figures, all is not well with the Inland waterways sector. The full potential for movement of people and goods has not been utilised.
The absence of navigational aids, and the lack of modern Inland craft terminals and cargo handling facilities are some of the infrastructural constraints.
Several blockages continue to exist, including the lack of depth, the absence of any maintenance of navigation system, poor protection for the banks, the use of outdated crafts and engines, which creates environment threats like water and air pollution.
Recently, to promote houseboat tourism, the local tourism department has come out with plans to implement single window clearance to the boat operators as earlier they had to wander three different government departments to get the canal, transportation and pollution clearance. It will also be taking stringent actions against the workers and operators who carry out any malpractices in this industry, said the Secretary S. Vinu Kumar of DTPC, Alleppey.
Proper dress to workers in the houseboats, number plates like road vehicles to identify them from far places to avoid accidents, proper licensing system and pollution control methods will be in action from this month, added the DTPC Secretary Kerala, with its 44 rivers, ranging in length from 15 kms to 245 kms, flow across this small stretch. With two monsoons, rainy water pours down every year, replenishing the rivers and watering the entire flora. These factors have created Kerala as the 'God's own garden country' and one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world. (ANI).
http://www.dailyindia.com/show/88742.php/Houseboats---backwaters--becoming--USP--of--Keralas---tourism-industry
Microbial Inoculant Technology
Microbial Inoculant Technology, developed by the Kerala Agricultural University(KAU), will be transferred to Agri Bio Input Manufacturers Association of Kerala at a function to be held at the Vellayani Agriculturae college on December 4.
The technology to check the fungal and bacterial plant diseases using another bacteria, Psudomonal flourance, p-1, was developed by P. Sivaprasad of KAU,Arthur Jacob, Associate Director KAU Said.
This technology can be fruitfully used to check common diseases of pepper, ginger, paddy and vegetables.
This kind of biological control will help minimize the setbacks caused owing to the wide use of chemical manners.
(The New Indian Express, 4 December 06)
The technology to check the fungal and bacterial plant diseases using another bacteria, Psudomonal flourance, p-1, was developed by P. Sivaprasad of KAU,Arthur Jacob, Associate Director KAU Said.
This technology can be fruitfully used to check common diseases of pepper, ginger, paddy and vegetables.
This kind of biological control will help minimize the setbacks caused owing to the wide use of chemical manners.
(The New Indian Express, 4 December 06)
Sunday, December 3, 2006
Silent Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
The Silent Valley National Park is located in the Kundali Hills in Kerala, along the hill ranges known as the Western Ghats. The Silent Valley is considered to be the last pristine region of tropical evergreen forest in India and is an area rich in biodiversity. The lush tropical greenery, undulating slopes, hills and rivers make the Silent Valley National Park a beautiful wildlife tourism destination in Kerala, India. The park is also known for the rare and unique herbs and plants that grow here, as well as the wildlife found in the Silent Valley, which include elephants, tigers and lion-tailed macaques.
Situated in the Palakkad district of Kerala, the Silent Valley National Park is adjacent to the Attappadi Reserve Forests to the East, the Palghat and Nilambur forest divisions in the West and South and the Nilgiri Forests in the North. This biodiversity hot spot is a unique treasure trove of rare flora and fauna. The Silent Valley National Park was threatened by the construction of a Hydel Power Project during the 1970's. Protests by environmentalists led to the renotification of Silent Valley as a National Park in 1984. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve with the Silent Valley National Park as its core area, was created in 1986.
http://silentvally.blogspot.com/2006/12/silentvalley.html
Situated in the Palakkad district of Kerala, the Silent Valley National Park is adjacent to the Attappadi Reserve Forests to the East, the Palghat and Nilambur forest divisions in the West and South and the Nilgiri Forests in the North. This biodiversity hot spot is a unique treasure trove of rare flora and fauna. The Silent Valley National Park was threatened by the construction of a Hydel Power Project during the 1970's. Protests by environmentalists led to the renotification of Silent Valley as a National Park in 1984. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve with the Silent Valley National Park as its core area, was created in 1986.
http://silentvally.blogspot.com/2006/12/silentvalley.html
Tsunami News
Tsunami feared in Sumatra decadesJust two years after a tsunami devastated communities around the Indian Ocean, U.S. Scientists say another giant wave could strike off Sumatra within a few decades.The December 26, 2004 tsunami that originated near Sumatra claimed nearly a quarter-million lives in 12 countries including Indian. Researchers reported in Tuesday's issue of proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that they have found evidence that wave-causing earthquakes have occurred in the region regularly, and parts of Sumatra South of the 2004 event could be threatened within 30 days.
(The Hindu, 6 December 06)
Tsunami- Detection buoy
Thailand has launched the first of 22 U.S. made tsunami detection buoys to be positioned around the Indian Ocean as part of a regional warning system against giant waves ceased by earthquakes under the sea. The satellite linked deep-sea buoy, unveiled at a ceremony on the tsunami –hit island of Phuket, will float 1,000 km offshore, roughly midway to Thailand and Sri Lanka. "This will give us capability to provide one hour warning to most of the countries in the northern part of the basin", said Curtrs Barret of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
(The Hindu, 03 December 2006)
(The Hindu, 6 December 06)
Tsunami- Detection buoy
Thailand has launched the first of 22 U.S. made tsunami detection buoys to be positioned around the Indian Ocean as part of a regional warning system against giant waves ceased by earthquakes under the sea. The satellite linked deep-sea buoy, unveiled at a ceremony on the tsunami –hit island of Phuket, will float 1,000 km offshore, roughly midway to Thailand and Sri Lanka. "This will give us capability to provide one hour warning to most of the countries in the northern part of the basin", said Curtrs Barret of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
(The Hindu, 03 December 2006)
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