IMPACT OF EARTH QUAKE ON CRISIL RATED ENTITIES 

CRISIL’s outstanding ratings in the earthquake affected areas include sub-sovereigns  (state government and municipalities), manufacturing sector and financial sector entities. While it is still somewhat premature to arrive at definitive conclusions on the impact on individual ratings, CRISIL has carried out a preliminary assessment. 

As far as State Governments and municipalities are concerned, the impact on ratings would depend on the financial burden posed by the relief and rehabilitation measures, fiscal measures adopted by these entities in response to the earthquake, as well as the extent of financial support available from the Central Government.

 CRISIL has initiated dialogues with rated  corporates having manufacturing units in the earth quake affected areas. Based on the initial response, there have been no reports of serious physical damage. However, a clearer picture  of the impact on operations is expected to emerge over the ensuing weeks.

 Of the entities in the financial sector, certain housing finance companies have sizeable exposures to quake affected areas and are in the process of assessing the likely impact on their loan portfolio. In the case of CRISIL rated Mortgage Backed Securities issued by housing finance companies, even stressing for the exposure to Gujarat, the credit enhancement levels provide adequate cushion to maintain the outstanding  ratings. CRISIL will continue to closely monitor developments in the earth quake affected areas  with a view to assessing their impact on its outstanding credit ratings.

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INDIA INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPERS IN RATING WATCH LIST

 Rs. 3730 Million Non Convertible Debenture Issue   AA- (so) Developing Implications)

The outstanding rating of Rs.3730 million non convertible debenture issue of India Infrastructure Developers Limited (IIDL) has been placed on ‘rating watch with developing implications’.

 The rating action is a result of placement of Indian Petrochemicals Corporation Limited’s (IPCL) long term rating of ‘AA-’ on rating watch with developing implications by CRISIL. The rating of the debenture issue is based on the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) status of IIDL and on the strength of IIDL’s cash flows, comprising primarily lease rentals payable by IPCL and rentals of certain leased assets that are guaranteed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) (rated “AAA” by CRISIL). The rating is also based on the transaction structure, accompanying legal documentation and associated partial L&T support during the (pre-operating phase.

 IIDL, a wholly owned SPV floated by L&T, has set up a 90 MW captive co-generation power plant for Gandhar complex expansion undertaken by IPCL. The plant has been leased to IPCL. IPCL has decided to sell one of its integrated petrochemical manufacturing units located at Vadodara to Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) on a nomination basis. CRISIL expects the sale to be concluded over the next 2-3 months and a significant part of the sale proceeds to be utilised towards reduction of debt for improving the capital structure of the company. In view of this development, IPCL’s rating has been placed on ‘rating watch with developing implications’. The Vadodara complex has an installed ethylene capacity of 1.3 lakh MT per annum based on naphtha as feedstock together with 18 plants for the manufacture of various downstream petrochemicals products.

Dubai’s First International E-Government Conference  

Internet Security Systems Middle East (ISS ME) underlines the importance of security in e-government plans.

1 February 2001– Dubai, UAE -- Internet Security Systems Middle East (ISS ME), a leading global provider of security management solutions and services for the Internet, Intranet and Extranet, called for Arab governments to take strategic approach to network security as they plan for e-government. ISS ME is participating in the first International e-government conference and exhibition held at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry on 29-31 January 2001, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defense.

“E-government, e-commerce and e-education offer enormous opportunity for Middle East countries to match and even exceed Western economies by fully embracing the new technology and its benefits,” said Moustapha Sarhank, president of ISS ME. According to latest Computer Security Institute/FBI Computer Crime and Security Survey, the threat of Internet attack has increased rapidly from 38% in 1996 to around 70% in 2001. “However, in the case of e-government, network security should now be considered a national, not an organisation success factor -- in which IT managers are expected to play the leading role.”

“Since its inception ISS ME has built relationships with a number of government, public, private and highly influential financial institutions in the region covering the different sectors. Our participation in the e-government conference and exhibitions highlights the important role that ISS ME plays in helping organisations in the region prepare for e-commerce and e-government,” Sarhank added.

ISS ME is the leading provider of total Internet and Network security solutions in the region offering governments an essential tool for building the e-government capabilities and security from internal or external intrusions and penetrations. ISS ME already has customers in Bahrain, Egypt, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates, with future plans to expand into North Africa. 

 ISS, the leading provider of total information security management solutions for networks, servers, applications and desktops, was recently named the fifth fastest growing technology company in North America by consultancy firm Deloitte & Touche.  ISS security management solutions protect more than 6,000 customers worldwide including 21 of the 25 largest U.S. commercial banks, the top 10 telecommunications companies and more than 35 government agencies, supported by ISS offices throughout North America, Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.

ISS provides both market-leading, best of breed security management systems for security assessment, policy enforcement and intrusion detection - all built on the company's SAFEsuite™ security management platform - and superior customer service, consulting and education offerings which can significantly reduce the complexity and expense inherent in protecting online assets.

ISS offers the government, financial institutions, private companies online business, and the e-commerce sector pioneering security management systems, policy enforcement and intrusion detection that fortifies national infrastructure for a healthy and secure electronic government. “ISS and its partners are uniquely positioned to help governments around the region plan and implement total information security management solutions for even the most advanced e-government platforms,” concluded Sarhank.

Internet Security Systems (ISS) is a leading global provider of security management solutions for the Internet. By providing industry-leading SAFEsuite® security software, remote managed security services, and strategic consulting and education offerings, ISS is a trusted security provider to its customers, protecting digital assets and ensuring safe and uninterrupted e- business. ISS’ security management solutions protect more than 6,000 customers worldwide including 21 of the 25 largest U.S.commercial banks, the top 10 telecommunications companies and more than 35 government agencies. Founded in 1994, ISS is headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with additional offices throughout North America and international operations in Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. ISS Middle East was formed in February 2000 as a partnership with the Sarhank Group for Investment.

INTEL DELIVERS LOW POWER MOBILE PC MICROPROCESSOR  

DUBAI, 31 January 2001: Intel Corporation yesterday introduced two new ultra-low-power mobile PC microprocessors, including the industry’s first to operate under 1 volt while consuming less than half a watt of power.

Enabled by Intel’s advanced processor design and power-reduction technologies, the new processors are designed to deliver high performance, minimal power consumption and extended battery life for the smallest mobile PCs.

The new Ultra Low Voltage mobile Pentium III processor 500 MHz featuring Intel SpeedStep technology brings high performance to mobile PCs weighing less than three pounds and measuring one inch in height. This processor operates at less than 1 volt and consumes less than half a watt of power in Battery Optimized Mode at 300 MHz.

Intel also introduced the Ultra Low Voltage mobile Celeron processor 500 MHz, delivering the industry’s highest performance for the value sub-notebook segment. 

“Breakthrough technologies to improve mobile computing continue to drive our business,” said Gilbert Lacroix, Intel’s general manager for the Middle East and North Africa. “Last year Intel led with SpeedStep technology and the first sub 1 watt PC processor.  Today we lower power below half a watt.”

“Every category of laptop will see world-class performance, compatibility and optimal battery life with Intel Pentium III mobile processors,” he added.

Intel Low-Power Technologies

All of Intel’s mobile processors are specially engineered to meet the performance, power, cooling and size requirements of mobile PCs. Intel’s 0.18-micron process technology enables processors running below 1 volt.

Intel SpeedStep technology, featured in mobile Pentium III processors, automatically detects if AC power is available and scales the clock frequency and voltage to help users achieve the optimum balance between performance and battery savings.

In addition, Intel’s QuickStart technology can power down the processor to the lowest levels, regardless of the application being used - even between keystrokes. Intel’s advanced cooling and packaging technology enables high performance in the smallest and lightest notebook PC designs.

Intel Mobile Processor Family

By designing industry-leading mobile processors for every type of mobile PC, Intel enables manufacturers to design systems that offer the best performance, low power consumption and extended battery life for all mobile PC segments.The previously introduced mobile Pentium III processor at speeds up to 850 MHz is for full-sized as well as thin-and-light designs, the most popular categories for mobile PCs. Intel’s Low Voltage mobile Pentium III processor at 600 MHz targets mini-notebooks, while the new Ultra Low Voltage mobile Pentium III processor 500 MHz is optimized for the emerging sub-notebook category. 

Specifications and Pricing

All mobile Pentium III processors feature a 100 MHz system bus; 256 Kilobyte full-speed Advanced Transfer Cache; Advanced System Buffering; and Streaming SIMD extensions.  These features combine to enable the highest-performing mobile PCs available in the marketplace.

In 1,000-unit quantities in Ball Grid Array packaging, the Ultra Low Voltage Mobile Pentium III and Celeron processors at 500 MHz are priced at $208 and $118 respectively.  

CompuMe Opens Third Regional Megastore in Jeddah

Dubai, January 30, 2001: CompuMe, a  Middle EastIT megastore and online shopping supplier, has opened its third regional location in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

  “Our aim is to be the region’s one-stop shop for all computing needs,” said Dikran Tchablakian, CompuMe Chief Executive Officer. “CompuMe megastores are designed to provide the widest choice of complete IT solutions, including IT facility setups, training and technical support services, web page design services, Intranet and Internet solutions.”

 “Jeddah is the latest in a string of CompuMe megastores that will roll out across the region over the next few years,” he added.  CompuMe megastores offer a full range of off-the-shelf computers, printers and other IT and mobile telecommunications products from the world’s leading suppliers to retail and corporate clients across the Middle East. In addition, customers have the option of ordering customized CompuMe computers, assembled from a number of brands under ISO 9002 quality standards and delivered within 48 hours.

CompuMe products are also accessible online at www.compume.com, a site that  incorporates the latest search and ordering technology and aims to become one of the region’s leading e-business engines. It won Microsoft’s “Best Internet Solution” award in Saudi Arabia this year.

CompuMe megastores are also currently open in Dubai and Riyadh. The CompuMe network is slated to encompass 25 megastores by 2003 in locations that will include Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Turkey, Oman, Syria, Libya and Greece.

ACTION PLAN FOR  HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE RECONSTRUCTION IN  GUJARAT

New Delhi: January 29: 

    A major comprehensive Action Plan entailing rapid assessment of the extent of damages to houses and buildings, financial assistance, dissemination of appropriate technology, establishment of building and community centres to demonstrate the use of disaster including earthquake resistant technologies, adoption of villages and bastis for comprehensive development and setting up of HUDCO offices in Bhuj and Anjaar was drawn up to provide techno-financial assistance for a massive rehabilitation and reconstruction programme for the earthquake ravaged areas of Gujarat. This was decided here today in a meeting chaired by the Minister for Urban Development & Poverty Alleviation Shri Jagmohan, which was attended by senior officers of the Ministry and the chief executives of public sector undertakings/ agencies like Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO), Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council (BMTPC), National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC), Central Public Works Department (CPWD), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and the Town and Country Planning Organisation (TCPO).

    As part of the Action Plan, HUDCO and BMTPC in collaboration with the State Governments would carry out, in the shortest possible time a rapid assessment of the extent of damages both qualitatively and quantitatively for reconstruction of fully damaged houses, repairs and renewal of partially damaged houses and retrofitting of existing vulnerable stock.

    Based on the over all assessment, the programme for reconstruction of houses for various income categories in rural, semi-urban and urban areas as well as for redevelopment of infrastructure such as damaged roads and water supply, toilets and other civic amenities, would be decided by the State Government and financial assistance will be provided by HUDCO. The total extent of assistance could be in the range of Rs.1000 crores to Rs.1500 crores depending upon the extent of support needed by the State Government and its various agencies.

    The financial assistance from HUDCO would be backed up with an appropriate technology package needed for re-building earthquake resistant houses, using local building materials like mud, stone, bricks, concrete etc. and this will be widely disseminated through use of instructive guidelines in the form of simple and user friendly "Dos and Don’ts".

    Further with a view to propagate earthquake resistant technologies in the cities and towns and villages, HUDCO and BMTPC would extend support for the establishment of building centres, construct demonstration houses and community buildings in all the disaster affected districts for technology transfer, training of local artisans, production of building materials and components, construction assistance and for guidance and information of the people.

    HUDCO would also adopt a few model villages and bastis for comprehensive development of fully damaged villages and bastis, In addition, HUDCO will immediately set up its Field Project Management offices in Bhuj and Anjar, the worst affected areas. It was also decided that assistance from HUDCO would be made available for the construction of temporary shelters.

    Shri Jagmohan also suggested that where the villages or towns are extensively damaged, it would be desirable to redesign the entire village not only in respect of housing and other community facilities but also with a view to provide wider roads instead of existing narrow alleys and incorporating other disaster resistant safety features.

    The field experience of CPWD and its units in the border areas in respect of buildings that have been built earlier and which have with-stood the earthquake would be documented for replication in the massive reconstruction programme.

 Another major area that was considered at the meeting were the existing building regulations in the country and lack of an effective regulatory system to ensure structural adequacy to withstand calamities such as earthquakes. In this connection it was noted that the Ministry of Urban Development & Poverty Alleviation had way back in 1998 circulated to all the State Governments not only the Vulnerability Atlas brought out by the Ministry and BMTPC but had also suggested incorporation of its provisions in the building bye-laws for ensuring that the buildings are planned, designed and constructed in line with the provisions of the National Building Code and Indian Standards to ensure earthquake and calamity resistant construction. The need for making the owners, architects, structural engineers and builders, responsible for ensuring compliance of these provisions had also been communicated earlier.

    It was decided in the meeting that these recommendations will be re-iterated through the State Governments to ensure that the existing building bye-laws incorporate the same and are included as part of the building permission and occupancy certificate procedures. With a view to taking preemptive measures in Delhi, it was decided that the requirements for compliance of earthquake safety requirements would now be incorporated in the Unified Building Bye-laws of Delhi for future compliance at the earliest. Further provisions for fixing responsibility on architects, structural engineers, and house owners / builders would also be incorporated. It was also decided that safety aspects of existing buildings in Delhi would be looked into expeditiously by the three local bodies.     Jagmohan also announced a contribution of Rs. 2 crores rom HUDCO for the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.

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EUROPEAN UNION OFFERS AID FOR QUAKE-HIT AREAS

   The Union Finance Minister, Shri Yashwant Sinha has said that immediate international aid for the earthquake victims could be in the form of medical relief, clothing and tents. Apart from immediate rescue operations, what is required in the short term is medical aid and housing for the affected, while in the long term, bilateral assistance would be needed for rebuilding of infrastructure like railways and roads, he said. Shri Sinha conveyed this to the visiting Commissioner for External Relations, European Commission (EC), Mr. Christopher F. Patten, in a meeting, here today.

    While offering his condolences on the enormous tragedy, Mr. Patten informed that EC would provide humanitarian assistance and a European Union (EU) team is already in Gujarat to work out immediate rehabilitation requirements. Mr. Patten indicated that the requirements would be conveyed to the member States of EU so that relief measures can be coordinated speedily and effectively. Shri Sinha recalled that after the Latur Earthquake in Maharashtra, houses were quickly built for the affected people with timely assistance from the World Bank.

    Mr. Patten indicated that EU was strongly committed to partnership with India in various sectors like education, science and technology and agriculture. Shri Sinha responded that development assistance would be most useful in areas like primary health, education, rural connectivity, irrigation and watershed management as private sector involvement in these sectors was minimal. Mr. Patten said that EU would continue to concentrate its assistance on poverty alleviation which would include projects on education and environment.

    The Finance Minister conveyed that Summit meetings between India and EU were important in terms of interaction and facilitating greater business opportunities between the two. He also indicated that most of the FDI coming to India is now through the automatic route. The Prime Minister had set up a Strategic Management Group in his office to monitor the progress of large infrastructure projects, he informed, while reiterating that there was a real need for investment in the power sector. Shri Sinha also suggested that a business delegation from India should visit EU next summer to generate awareness about the opportunities for FDI in India.

BROAD GAUGE LINK TO GANDHIDHAM RESTORED

    The Railway engineers achieved a major breakthrough today when they were able to open the broad gauge line to Gandhidham. A goods train was run on this route at 1 p.m. today. This will go even beyond Gandhidham upto Kukuma which approximately 10 km. before Bhuj. The passenger services are now being resumed on this section.

    As many as 14 special trains have been run by the Railways from different parts of the country from 27^th to 28^th January. Today, a special train will leave from Mumbai at 1700 hrs for Ahemedabad with free travel facilities to the relatives of the earthquake victims and the representatives of the NGOs going for relief work. In return direction also a special train will leave Ahemedabad for Mumbai at 2300 hrs today.

    The Railways are also running water specials from Ahemedabad to Gandhidham and Nalia. Another water special is under loading at Sabarmati for these two destinations.    In addition, Railways have also been running a number of labour and ballast special to carry the labourers and the necessary equipments and spares for the track restoration work...More about Railway Timetable

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Kerala News in 

CBI hands over Moulavi case accused to judicial custody 

The Central Bureau of Investigations (CBI) handed over Saifudheen, the third accused in the Chekannur PK Aboo Hassan Moulavi murder case, to the judicial custody. The Ernakulam Chief Judicial Magistrate P Ubaid remanded him in judicial custody for 15 days and sent to the sub-jail here.  The CBI officers informed the court that the accused need not be questioned further for the time being.

 Mammootty appeal for relief work

 KOCHI, January 29: Superstar Mammootty has appealed the people to generously donate to the relief funds for the victims of the devastating earthquake in Gujarat. "The unexpected tragedy is the grief of the nation. Every citizen should donate for the helpless victims even if it’s a single rupee. It’s least one can do in a situation like this," Mammootty said while inaugurating a commemorative function for the late finance minister MK Premachandran at Kayamkulam.

The legislators in Kerala will donate a month’s salary to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund, Speaker M Vijayakumar said.  The Congress party’s Kerala unit president Thennala Balakrishna Pillai said the party unit had decided to donate Rs 200,000. Various newspapers and television channels in Kerala have already launched massive fund-raising drive to help the victims.

Mahout trampled to death

 An elephant went berserk killing the mahout of another elephant and seriously wounding another person at the Channanakkudam festival at Manathala Chavakkad.  The pachyderm, Mankalamkunnu Kesavan, killed Ponnan alias Ponnappan (55) of Thirunellayi while it seriously wounded Muthalib (22), son of Thekkancherry Shamsudheen of Chavakkad during a Thabooth procession as part of the festival.

 CPI-M activists held for murdering Congress worker

Twelve Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) workers were arrested by the police in connection with the cruel killing of the Congress party worker Devadas (26), son of Chalinkal Echithadath Kunhiraman.  Devadas, was allegedly pulled out of a bus, at Chalinkal at 7 pm on Saturday and hacked to death by the 12-member gang. Devadas is an accused in a similar case of attack again CPI-M worker V Kunhambu.  Devadas, a bachelor, leaves his mother and two sisters.  The Congress party-led opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) observed a shutdown in the Hosdurg taluk protesting the killing. The harthal was total with the shops, business establishments and educational institutions remaining closed for the day.

 RS. 100 CRORE AD-HOC ASSISTANCE SANCTIONED FOR GUJARAT ELECTRICITY BOARD

POWER SUPPLY PARTIALLY RESTORED IN BHUJ

    The Minister for Power Shri Suresh Prabhu left here for Bhuj today, to inspect the damage caused to the power infrastructure in Gujarat following the massive earthquake which hit the state on January 26^th. Shri Prabhu will be meeting the Gujarat Minister for Power during his visit.

    The Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) has sanctioned an ad-hoc assistance of Rs. 100 crore to the Gujarat Electricity Board (GEB) for replacement and repairs of the damaged power distribution infrastructure in the earthquake affected areas of the state. This amount will help the GEB in replacing the damaged transformers, electricity lines, cables and poles. The power supply in Bhuj has been partially restored, and efforts are one to restore power elsewhere in the Kutch district.

    The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has sent a team of engineers from its Vindhyachal (Madhya Pradesh) and Korba (Chhattisgarh) stations to Gujarat to assist the GEB for restoring the power stations. NTPC has two gas based power stations in Gujarat, namely, Kawas with a capacity of 645 MW and Gandhar with a capacity of 648 MW. One 106 MW gas turbine and one 110.5 MW steam turbine in Kawas and one steam turbine with a capacity of 255 MW Gandhar was tripped due to the earthquake and was brought back within two hours. The NTPC has also sent five DG sets two cranes and civil and electrical assistance for repairing badly damaged sub-stations. The NTPC is also organizing medical camps at various places at its project sites.

    The Power Grid Corporation has sent 50 engineers to help restore the sub-transmission facilities in Kutch district and especially in Bhuj. The Emergency Restoration Service (ERS) based in Jamnagar, Itarsi and Delhi is on standby to be rushed to the State whenever required to repair small transmission towers. The Power Grid Corporation has also sent nine DG sets. The Corporation has also despatched tenting material and ready-to-eat foodstuff for use by the survivors of the earthquake.

FREE TELEPHONE FACILITY  FROM PCOs 

  The Department of Telecommunications (DoT)) has mounted massive operations to restore and rectify telecommunication links in the earthquake hit State of Gujarat. A 140 Mbps system of Optical Fibre has been restored connecting Bhuj, Bhachau, Gandhidham and Rajkot to the National Network. At Gandhidham and Bhuj, many subscribers’ telephones have been made functional with the installation of the State-of-the-Art 2000 lines C-DOT exchange. People have also been allowed to make free calls from the Public Call Offices(PCOs) provided by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) at Bhuj and Gandhidham. The number of calls being made is over 5000 per day.

    Further, a 256 line exchange has been installed at Anjar, Bhachau, Rapar, Gagodar, Mandavi, Mundra, Nakhatrama. At Naliya, one thousand line C-DOT exchange has been installed. In addition, in these areas Optical Fibre Exchange connectivity is being provided. The work is likely to be completed for giving the transmission links to these areas by today.

    At Dayapar, Sumrasan and Khavda, where the damage to the telecommunication assets has been enormous, the installation of the telephone exchanges and the transmission link of Optical Fibre have been taken up on a priority basis and is likely to become functional shortly. Massive efforts are also being made to provide telephone exchanges as well as Optical Fibre Connectivity at Madapar, Adipur and Kandla. The Government has also provided Satellite phone terminals at the following places to enable telephone calls being made:

SETTLING INVESTORS COMPLAINTS

    The Investors Protection Cell in the Department of Company Affairs (DCA) settled 372 complaints of investors from all over the country in December 2000. Most of the complaints belonged to individual investors.

    During the month, the Regional Benches of the Company Law Board (CLB) passed orders for payment of deposits in 1075 applications under Section 58A of the Companies Act, 1956 and Section 45Q (2) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. The CLB also disposed of 287 applications of investors under other Sections of the Companies Act, during the month.

    The President gave his assent to the Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2000, which was passed in the Winter Session of Parliament. All Sections of the amended provisions except Sections 7 and 80 of the Act came into force at once with effect from December 14, 2000. It aims at providing good corporate governance and protecting the interest of the small investors. This is intended to ensure better corporate governance, accountability and transparency in working of companies. Sections 7 and 80 broadly deal with interpretation of person in accordance with whose directions or instructions directors are accustomed to act and the power to issue redeemable preference shares respectively. These two provisions will come into force on a date to be notified by the Central Government in the official gazette.

SATELLITE PHONE TERMINALS SET UP AT GUJARAT

   The Government has provided Satellite phone terminals at the following places from where people can make calls free of cost. These telephones will be either working as Public Call Offices(PCOs) as well as far receiving in-coming calls to answer queries from the Callers. These telephones can be accessed from India and any part of the world by dialing the

Code 00873
Station	Tele.No.	Station	Tele.No.
Bhuj	761887199	Gagodar	761887193
Laltekri-2	761187190	Vithoon	761887210
Airport-1	761887196	Nakhatrana	761887198
Madhapar-1	761602892	Kotda/J	761887213
Nalia-1	762092816	Collectorate-2	761887213
Bhachau-1	761887194	Rapar	761887191
Mandvi	761887197	Mundra	761887211

 

 

 

 

 

 

Report on Dubai e-government seminar

Compume opens megastore in Saudi Arabia.

Quake phobia hits Kerala 

Cochin: January 30, 2001:

The series of major and minor earthquakes reported from different Parts of the country is causing serious panic among people. Especially for the people  of Kerala who have experienced tremors for the first time in their life. Gripped in an earthquake phobia people stayed out of the high-rises in the quake-prone areas of central Kerala on Sunday night following rumours that tremors may hit the state on Monday morning.

Panic gripped several parts of  Ernakulam and Kottayam districts since Monday morning with rumours going round that new tremors are likely to be felt. Many schools in the city, Fort kochi and Mattancherry areas declared holidays. “Parents are worried after they saw the fate of five hundred  odd students who are buried alive in their school complex in Gujarath,” says one mother. “I did not send my daughter to school as we are really worried about the imminent arrival of an earth quake.”

Microphone announcements from vehicles confused common folks of Kottayam district. According to the police it was the handiwork of some miscreants.  Some schools were given holiday while some conducted classes in the open air fearing outbreak of tremor. Attendance in the high-rising offices was also minimal. Those who reported for work stayed out of the building most of the time.   Scientists at Centre for Earth Sciences ruled out possibility of the aftershocks of the Gujarat tremors reaching the state and warned against the spreading of rumours.  

“We were told that there will be a major earthquake in Kerala after 2 P.M. Following minor tremors reported from Mysore, Banglore and Tamil Nadu. People are scared to sit in offices,” said an office going lady.  Classes were not held in many schools and children were made to stand outside fearing tremors. Many parents took their children away from the schools.  

People who have opted for high rise buildings in the metropolitan cities are more worried now. The flat culture, which is common in big cities like Bombay and Madras, started in all parts of Kerala. “Residents of high rise buildings in the city also came out the buildings in the morning (Monday). According to a report , unofficial reports from Idukki said tremors were felt in  some parts of Adimali region and a school in the area had developed some cracks.  According to police they had not received any reports of tremors in Idukki district. However, the school authorities had informed them about the crack, reported a leading news agency.  Normal life is affected for people from all walks of life and people are scared to sleep in their houses. 

Biju Menon, Samyukhtha Varma bag Critics Award

 Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 29 –  Upcoming cine artists Biju Menon and Samyuktha Varma have bagged the Kerala State Film Critics Association awards in the best actor and best actress categories for the year 2000.  While Biju Menon is rewarded with this award for his role in "Mazha". Samyuktha’ performance in "Madhura Nombara Kattu" helped her to bag the award.

 Announcing the awards, Manarkayam Baby, the general secretary of the association, said two films, "Susana" and "Mazha," have been jointly awarded the P. R. S. Pillai Memorial Gold Medal.   The Best Director award is given to director T. V. Chandran for his film, "Susana" that depicts story of a lady who lives with five elderly men

 Popular character artiste Sukumari has been awarded the Chalachitra Ratna award for having set a record of sorts by acting in more than 2,000 films in different Indian languages.

 The Special Jury award went to "Santham," a film in which former Indian soccer captain I. M. Vijayan made his debut in the film world. The film, directed by national award winner Jayaraj, has drawn rave reviews.  The Second Best Film award went to "Joker," directed by Lohithadas.. Noted character artiste Oduvil Unnikrishnan and T. S. Raju were declared joint winners for the Second Best Actor. Chippi was adjudged the Second Best Actress for her role in "Katu Vannu Villichappole."  These awards will be given at a function to be held in the capital city in April.

 Lenin Rajendran’s Mazha, based on a Kamala Surayya masterpiece, bagged most of this year’s awards of the Kerala Film Critics Association. The best film award was shared by Susanna and Mazha and the best director award went to Chandran. Lenin Rajendran gets a special prize.

MG Sreekumar (Poomakal Vaazhunna Kovilil Ninnoru—Kattu Vannu Vilichappol) is the best male playback singer while Asha Menon Aaradyam Parayum—Mazha) is the best female playback singer. Film star Jayaram’s son Kalidasan (Kochu Kochu Santhoshangal) receives
the award for the best child artiste. Poet Prabha Varma, who is the press secretary to Chief Minister EK Nayanar, is the best lyricist (Nagara Vadhu).

 Other awards are: Best storywriter CV Balakrishnan (Kochu Kochu Santhoshangal). Best scenarist Lenin Rajendran (Mazha) Second best actor Oduvil Unikrishnan (Oru Cheru Punchiri), TS Raju (Joker). Second best actress Chippy (Kattu Vannu Vilichappol). Music director:
Raveendran (Mazha). Cinematography: KG Jayan (Susanna, Kattu Vannu Vilichappol). Editor: Venugopal (Susanna). Art director: Suresh Kollam (Madhuranombarakkattu). Sound recording: Krishnanunni (Susanna).  Best children’s film: Thudikottu. Short film: Akkare Ninnu. Debut director: Sasidharan Pillai (Kattu Vannu Vilichappol). Debut artiste: Manya (Joker). Best entertainer: Narasimham (directed by Shaji Kailas).

 Vani Vishwanath, who portrayed the protagonist in Susanna, and Siddique (Sathyameva Jayathe) gets the special awards for acting.   Director PG Vishwambharan, musician BA Chithambharanath, actress Khadeeja, cinematographer C Ramachandra Menon and lyricist Mankombu Gopalakrishnan, will be honoured at the award distribution ceremony. 

RELIEF AND REHABILITATION MEASURES: AN UPDATE

    The confirmed figures of the dead in Gujarat Earthquake has been put at 6287 by Gujarat government as on date. The number of injured is 15481. The number of people who died in Bhuj, the worst-affected area, is 5065 and the injured 10925.

    The Government has been providing rescue and relief in the affected areas . A medical team of 871 persons have reached Gujarat and another 130 are on their way. This is in addition to the medical personnel already on duty from within the State. For rescue and relief operations 5563 people have already reached. Besides 8000 army personnel have been deployed for duty and will reach Gujarat by tomorrow. Demand for food is being met to a great extent. So far 92,000 blankets have been reached for distribution in the affected areas and another 57,000 are being sent. As far as material for tents are concerned, 8,210 have been sent and 2,450 are being sent. More ambulances have also been pressed into service. Food items including bread, biscuits, channa, gur etc. are also being sent.

    The Railways have achieved a major break-through today by opening the broadguage line to Gandhi Dham and beyond. A goods train was run on this route at 1 PM today reaching upto Kukuma which is approximately 10 kms from Bhuj. The Railways also ran a special train from Ahmedabad to Gandhi Dham and Nalia. Another water special is under loading at Sabarmati for these two destinations.

    Power supply is now available in Bhuj. The Rural Electrification Corporation has sanctioned an ad-hoc assistance of Rs.100 crore to Gujarat Electricity Board for replacement and repairs of damaged power distribution infrastructure in the affected areas of the State. The Kandla Airport situated 40 kms away from Bhuj has been made operational by Airports Authority of India to help expedite rescue and relief operations in Gujarat. A shuttle service is functioning between Ahmedabad and Kandla Airports.

    Maharashtra Government has provided facilities in some private hospitals in Mumbai for treating injured persons free of cost. Ten beds each at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital Safdarjung Hospital, LHMC and 15 beds in AIIMS have been earmarked for special treatment of earthquake victims. Ambulances of these hospitals have been kept on alert to transport the patients. A team of 37 doctors and four paramedicals from DGHS,Ram Manohar Lohia and Safdarjung hospitals Delhi along with medicines left for Bhuj early this morning.. Eight self-contained medical units from abroad including the foreign NGOs are already in Bhuj and are operative. There are similar units from India including Army and NGOs working in the areas. Voluntary Health Association of India has sent the mobile units to Gujarat. Ten more are expected to reach by tomorrow. Delhi Fire Service is sending three gas cutting equipment with 22 personnel to help in rescue operations

    The Shipping Corporation of India will send a vessel from Mumbai to Kandla Port carrying three cranes of 35 tonnes .

    Foreign countries like Italy, Russia, Japan, Turkey, Germany, Switzerland, Britain, Korea and Netherlands have offered to provide relief and rescue material and trained personnel. Britain has sent 69 specialists, 4 sniffer dogs and relief material. Turkey has sent 35 persons, 10 tonnes of rescue equipment and one tonne of medicines. 45 persons, a team of sniffer dogs have come from Switzerland. 70 Russians have reached Gujarat. Japan has donated US $ 2.5 lakh in kind and US $ 7.5 lakh to the Prime Minister's Relief Fund.

    Help is pouring in from various State Governments. Punjab Government has already sent one lakh blankets and has sent teams for running langars in the affected areas. Government of Rajasthan has sent three medical teams and relief equipment besides material for tentage, water tankers and mineral water. Rajasthan Government has also given Rs. 2 crore to Gujarat Government for relief work which is in addition to increased assistance of Rs. 50 lakhs from CM's Relief Fund. Government of Karnataka has sent medical/para-medical personnel by air to Gujarat in addition to truck loads of relief material including blankets. The public sector undertakings under the Ministry of Communications have decided to contribute nearly Rs. 21 crore towards Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the earthquake victims of Gujarat. All the officers and staff of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and PSUs under the Ministry are donating one day 's salary for the PM’s Relief Fund.

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MOBILE HOSPITAL FOR EARTH QUAKE VICTIMS

ONE THOUSAND BEDS OF ESI HOSPITALS MADE AVAILABLE

    The Labour Minister Dr. Satyanarayan Jatiya, flagged off a Mobile Hospital equipped with all facilities including X-ray machines and other operation theatre equipment alongwith a team of 25 Senior Doctors and other paramedical staff drawn from Employees’ State Insurance Hospitals located at Delhi for providing medical relief to the quake hit victims in Gujarat here today. The team comprises of senior specialists in surgery. medicine, orthopedics, and anesthesia. Essential life saving drugs and dressings were also dispatched.

    Dr. S.N. Jatiya convened an emergency meeting of senior officers of his Ministry and directed that the services of all the Employees State Insurance Hospitals may be made available to the quake victims of Gujarat. The services of all the 11 hospitals and 124 dispensaries comprising over 1000 beds have been made available to the State Government. In addition services of some additional doctors and paramedical staff are being made available in the worst affected areas, in Kutch, Bhuj and adjoining far flung areas.

    The Ministry also placed the services of doctors and paramedical units of all the 10 dispensaries and 5 mobile units of the Labour Welfare Organization in Gujarat at the disposal of the affected population. In addition, doctors from Rajasthan and Maharashtra have also been requisitioned alongwith ambulances equipped with X-ray facilities.

    The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is organizing special relief centers at Regional Office Ahmedabad and all Sub-Regional Offices and Sub-Accounts Offices in the state to provide advances to all the affected members of the EPFO. Mobile Service Centres are being provided in the affected places for settlement of claims within a week. Enforcement action against the quake affected industrial units has been stayed for the time being. Special drive is being launched to finalize pension cases both in death and permanent disability .

    The Ministry of Labour has targeted contribution of Rs.1 crore towards PM Relief Fund for quake affected victims in Gujarat.    In this connection Dr. Jatiya also talked to the Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Kesho Bhai Patel who informed the Minister that the quack hit, Anjar Bachao and Rapar villages require more attention.

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NGOs  PROVIDE RELIEF TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN GUJARAT  

    The Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, Smt. Maneka Gandhi has directed her Ministry to involve the Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) working in the field of old age, orphans and disabled for providing immediate relief to the earthquake victims in Gujarat.

    Smt. Gandhi asked the Ministry officials to coordinate their efforts with NGOs who have been asked to submit proposals for projects to be taken up in the affected areas. Teams from the National Institutes under the Ministry will be deputed to attend to persons with various disabilities.

  Helpage India, an NGO working for the old age persons has already been allocated on adhoc amount for starting services for the old age persons in Gujarat.

The Corporations under the Ministry viz. National Scheduled Castes & Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation, National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation, National Minorities Finance & Development Corporation and National Handicapped Finance & Development Corporation will also make a quick assessment of the needs of the affected persons to ensure their rehabilitation and speedy release of funds to them.   The officers and the staff of the Ministry have also decided to donate one day’s salary for the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.

MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS TO CONTRIBUTE RS. 21 CRORE TO THE PM’s NATIONAL  RELIEF FUND

OFFICERS AND STAFF  TO  DONATE ONE-DAY SALARY TOWARDS THE FUND

  The Minister of Communications, Shri Ram Vilas Paswan has announced that the Public Sector Undertakings(PSUs) under the Ministry of Communications have decided to contribute about Rs. 21 crore towards the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the earthquake victims of Gujarat. Besides, all the officers and staff of the Department of Telecommunications(DoT) and PSUs under the Ministry are donating one-day salary for the PM’s Relief Fund. The PSUs which have contributed to the Fund are: Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited(VSNL), Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited(MTNL), Telecommunications Consultants India Limited(TCIL), Indian Telephone Industries(ITI) and HTL.

 

 

 

 

 

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