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	                        <title>Blog from KeralaIt</title>

	                        <link>http://www.keralait.orgrss_feed.php</link>

	                        <description>Blog from KeralaIt</description>

	                        <language>en-us</language><item> 

	                <title>More ThiruKochi Buses Likely</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5264</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Realising the potential within Cochin city ,  the KSRTC   has taken note of the patronage by the travelling public  for the 50 Thirukochi series of buses  which  were introduced  recently into cochin and its  suburbs.
 
The average daily collection of each Thirukochi bus is said  to have increased  to over Rs 4,000. This  is expected  to  increase  further to  Rs. 6,000  as  passengers attune their schedule in keeping with the bus timings. Many commuters who were so far dependant on private buses have begun opting for the RTC services  as  they are punctual, comfortable and safer to travel.
 
The RTC is keeping all options open, including operating more  Thirukochi services in routes where there is  inadequate public transport. Ten more non-AC buses purchased under the JNNURM scheme would soon begin service in Kochi.
 
Apart  from overcrowding in private buses the introduction of these  buses  will help partly overcome  traffic congestion created by cars and two-wheelers , clearly showing the crying  need for better  public transport in this  ever growing  city.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala University Now Fully Wired</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5262</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The University of Kerala  has  introduced web-casting and video conferencing facilities , which would allow the Vice-Chancellor to  interact live with academics and officials on the  campus from his chambers.
 
A special room capable of seating up to 20 persons has been readied at the office of the credit and semester system at Karyavattom for this.The videoconferencing units at Palayam and Karyavattom are mobile devices which can be taken to any point on the campuses.
 
The webcasting facility will allow the campus-wide broadcast live or otherwise of events being held.  The webcasting would be done through the new website of the university —www.keralauniversity.ac.in — by making use of the Local Area Network at Karyavattom.
 
The webcasting of lectures given by academics of international repute  and  seminars which had inter-departmental relevance would  enhance  qualitative  teaching  and  learning in the university, and is an indication of the steps  taken in this technology driven era.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cochin Waterfront Promenade Awaits Sanction</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5261</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The   envisaged  2.5-km-long scenic walkway proposed along the waterfront  from the Kundanoor bridge to Willingdon Island  is awaiting administrative sanction  at Cochin.
 
The project  which will provide an  open space for walkers and the health conscious,  would allow  people  to get away  from the hustle and bustle of the city and  help  to unwind.
 
The District Tourism Promotion Council  will be  the implementing agency for the project which  would be executed by KITCO, with  assistance from  the  Kumar Group of Architects.
 
The Rs 9-crore walkway would have an innovative design, with seating spaces and  play areas. When complete  there  would also be space for  open air exercises, amidst  a lush greenery  of  trees and shrubs alongwith  flowering  plants. A portion of the lawns  wll be  landscaped  into  hillocks. 
 
Aimed at providing  Kochinites  and visitors to the  city with  a walkway within reachable  distance  on  the southern part of the city, the project will  fill the need for more open  public  space.   Sadly  many  trees which  were planted  on  either side of the Kundanoor bridge-Mattancherry BOT bridge have withered away with poor  upkeep. The stretch  is  very dark at night as it is  ill lit .
 
Some  financial assistance from BPCL has already been forthcoming, and  one  wishes the project is  speedily  implemented.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Edapally Overbridge Work Finally to be Taken Up</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5259</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Edapally  railway overbridge  which has remained unfinished for some time now is  finally getting  the nod. Construction activities on the bridge  was  indefinitely  delayed  after the contractor engaged by the  PWD (NH wing)  abandoned the work midway  nearly  two years ago.
 
The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has sanctioned a total of Rs 36 crores for the Edapally railway overbridge. 
 
The  project would have been over for Rs 18 crore had the first contractor completed it on time. The incomplete bridge has  caused  immense  problems   to  motorists in either direction, as they  were  forced to wait each time  the  narrow level crossing was  closed  for trains to pass.
 
The  much-delayed bridge would   hopefully  open to traffic within a year .
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopark Celebrates 20 Years of Success</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5257</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Technopark Phase III
 
 Trivandrum-based Technopark  has completed  20 years of   IT promotion in Kerala.  Currently TECHNOPARK  is the single largest IT Park in the country with 4.5 million sq. ft. built-up area with 180 companies and 28,000 IT/ITES professionals.
 
Technopark's  efforts at  building  world-class  infrastructure   and  fine human talent with  support from the State Government  has enabled  Kerala  to become  a  leading IT/ITES  player in India .
 
Conceptualised in 1990 as a  facilty to foster  development   of high Technology industries, under the  auspices of  Electronics Technology Park, Kerala—an autonomous body under the Department of Information Technology of  the government of Kerala, it is an outstanding  example  of  the  major  role  played in the public  sector, by an organisation  in shaping  industry and  employment in Kerala.
 
The park also houses one of the fast growing technology and business schools like the Indian Institute of Information Technology  (IIITM-K), The Asian School of Business, and finishing schools  like Afras Academy for Business  Communications and Faith Infotech. As part of  its expansion plan  TECHNOPARK  has acquired 92 acres of land for its 3rd phase expansion and 450 acres of land for setting up an integrated township in the fourth phase - Technocity.
 
Source: Manoramaonline
.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>INSPIRE 4th Session on Opportunities in Denmark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5238</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The fourth session of INSPIRE  -  the Network   Support Programme for Idea Review and Enrichment of the Incubation Companies and  SMEs  in  the Technopark Technology Business Incubator rcecently  had  deliberations on the market opportunities in Denmark.
 
Shanker Subramaniam, Senior Investment Manager, Danish Trade Commission, made a presentation on market opportunities, Visas, Work and Residence Permits in Denmark.
 
CEOs  of  emerging companies inside the Technopark campus held useful  discussions with him on the various funding avenues available in Denmark.
 
The session which  was held at Cochin Hall, Park Centre, Technopark was organised by the Group of  Technology Companies  (GTECH)  and Technopark  TBI.
 
Among the  eminent persons  who attended  were  Mervin Alexander -  CEO-Technopark,  K. C. Chandrasekharan Nair - Secretary and Registrar  T-TBI, Mr.Syed Ibrahim - MD, Palnar Transmedia,  Anoop P Ambika - Secretary , GTECH &amp;  Managing Director, Kreara Solutions and Binu Sankar - CEO, GTECH.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Ration Card Backlog being Cleared</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5237</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Food and Civil Supplies Minister C. Divakar announced  in Trivandrum  that Ration cards for all new applicants would be issued by August 31.
 
Currently  the government has received  6.85 lakh applications for fresh ration cards. The applications are being processed at taluk supply offices with technical support from the Centre for Development Imaging Technology (C-DIT) so that all the applications can be cleared by August 31.
 
New applications for ration cards are  not being accepted at this stage  as an effort was being  made to clear the backlog.  However, by this month end  the civil supplies  department expects to recommence  accepting fresh applications.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>News Norms may Force Azim Premji to Dilute Wipro Holdings</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5243</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Following  various   issues  raised  by  Public Sector Units  with regard  to the  the  issue  of 25 per cent  public  holding  for listed  companies,  the market is expecting  changes . According to the new rules, listed companies have to have at least  25 percent public holding . In order to  achieve  this,  the  companies  can raise the public holding by 5 percent each year to reach the threshold.
 
Wipro  Chairman Azim Premji's  is currently holding  over 75 %  in the   company, and  together with  the  promoters their combined holding  in the IT  blue chip company would be over 80%.
 
The  country's third biggest software exporter Wipro is part of the benchmark 30-share index Sensex of the Bombay Stock Exchange. Wipro shares on Friday closed  at 412.10 on the  Exchange .
 

Source: Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Largest Services Event in October at Las Vegas</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5239</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

                                                                                                                                                                     
Technology Services World hosted by TSIA has become world-renowned as the preeminent source of learning and peer networking for services professionals. TSW conferences deliver insight into the strategies and best practices for improving services efficiencies in the following vertical markets:
 

	Computer Hardware and Software—B2B and B2C
	Industrial Automation
	IT Services—Third Party Maintenance and Systems Integration
	Medical Devices
	Networking
	Office Automation
	Specialty Computing
	Storage
	Telecommunications
	Test and Measurement
 
This  is an opportunity  to learn what trends are impacting the growth and performance of the technology services industry.
 
More details at : http://www.technologyservicesworld.com]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 25 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Biometrics for Safest Data Storage</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5218</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Experts are of the opinion that  with the growing  economy and the vast numbers to be handled in  a country  like India, Biometrics is the best solution to  store data.
 
There is a necessity for some kind of a system through which information about an individual can be known and the unique identity  number being introduced  is expected to provide just that.
 
Biometrics is the surest way to ensure that there is  no duplication of  information, and is  an indispensible way to  store data. It has been suggested that wider  use of Biometrics should be made by the government of India.
 
Source: Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cutchsoft with New Software</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5216</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Cutchsoft Private Ltd (Cutchsoft), the technology arm of Cutch Group, has unveiled its new Windows-based cheque management application, Cheque Strategic Office Software (Cheque SOS) in Kochi .
 
CutchSoft was started in  2009 by three enterpreuners - Yasser Rahman, Zaheer Rafiq and Azam Dawood. With experience in diverse  fields, they saw the huge need and gap in supply for specialized technologies to simplify the business processes faced by most medium and small businesses. 
 
 With the backing of the Cutch group of companies and technical support from some of the best software programmers in the country, CutchSoft completed the R&amp;D on its software packages. The introduction of the much awaited Cheque SOS program, provides a strategic solution to every business' most fundamental process – the printing and management of cheque payments.
 
The  unique features of the software is that it automatically converts the amount entered in numbers to words thereby eliminating the possibility of making any mistake. The software allows the user to track all the cheques issued and supports different types of printers Laser, Inkjet and Dot-Matrix printers.
 
Source : Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Spatial Data Centre for Kerala</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5221</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Realising  the  importance of geographical information  for decision making  in case  of  natural disasters, industrial accidents, environmental crises or terrorist attacks , a spatial data centre is  be set up.
 
This is expected to allow for quick response from rescue services and security agencies.  Also,  planners, scientists, resource managers and infrastructure sector companies will benefit  from being able to  make speedy decisions on development needs.
 
Kerala will  be the third State in India to have a spatial data infrastructure in place, making it easy for users to share geospatial information .
 
The Kerala Spatial Data Infrastructure (KSDI) is being set up on the Technopark campus in Trivandrum.  The facility is based on a joint proposal by the Centre for Earth Science Studies (CESS), Kerala State Remote Sensing and Environment Centre, National Informatics Centre and Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IBM and Oracle may Set Up Shop at Technopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5212</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Indications are that global IT majors IBM and Oracle are planning to set up units at the  Technopark  in Trivandrum.
 
An official of the state IT department said the two companies had begun exploratory talks to set up shop at the technology park. This is part of their strategy  to  move into smaller tier II  cities in the country.
 
The Technopark   which   commenced   operations in the late  1990's  is now home to 185 IT companies, including  Infosys and TCS, which employ more than 30,000 people.
 
IBM and Oracle are looking  to having  units which would employ more than 4,000  persons.  Their entry  would  greatly boost  Kerala IT Mission's efforts  to promote  Kerala as the fastest growing IT destination in the country.
 
Source: Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Azinova Opens at Technopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5156</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 Azinova Technologies Pvt Ltd, a  software development company that creates customized software has commenced their operations from Technopark’s Smart Business Centre at Thejaswini building.
 
Azinova undertakes  turn-key projects and development operations and expand its activities by introducing new and innovative products,  with their main thrust on Web applications, Mobile phone application development, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), development of embedded software/hardware products etc.
 
The company is currently also developing products and Services for Online vehicle tracking/security software - The TraceWheels, Web based products, and Gaming products.
 
With the commencement of Azinova, the total count of Technopark companies has gone up to 185.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
 

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Bekal to have Air Linkage</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5134</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Bekal Fort
 
The  Kerala Government has decided to construct an airstrip that can receive 50-seater aircraft at Bekal as part of its efforts to develop the North Malabar area into a planned tourist destination.
 
Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said  that  the proposed airstrip would be located at Kariyamkundu in Periya village of Kasaragod district. The Revenue authorities had surveyed the land and steps for land acquisition would  begin shortly.
 
In the meantime, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) has decided to set up a hotel in the Bekal resort area. When  all the hotel projects are completed, Bekal would have around 1,000 rooms for tourists.
 
The Bekal Fort has been a source of attraction for historians, tourists and nature - lovers for centuries since it embodies memories of a glorious past. It is the  biggest fort in kerala  and is uniquely poistioned with a breathtaking view .
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT- Enabled Air Cargo Clearance at Cochin</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5133</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
In a big  step become a major hub of international cargo transhipment, the department of customs in Cochin has installed an electronic data interchange system at the CIAL air cargo complex.
 
This is expected to boost  the efforts of the Cochin airport to grow as a cargo complex. With the introduction of this  system ,  CIAL has become  the first airport in the country to receive the most upgraded version of the facility on a pilot basis, and its successful operation would pave the way for its installation in other airports.
 
The new system ICES- 1.5, owned and operated by the customs would enforce an IT-enabled customs clearance system for all air cargo.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>TCS is Most Valued Indian IT Company</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5140</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The  country's top software exporter Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)  has overtaken  its main Indian  rival Infosys as the most valued IT company in the country.
 
Shares of Tata Consultancy Services  (TCS) rallied over 6 per cent on the Bombay Stock Exchange, taking its market capitalisation to Rs 1.62 lakh crore, higher by Rs 3,470 crore than Infosys' Rs 1.59 lakh crore valuation.
 
TCS is now the fourth most valued company in the country with the  Mukesh Ambani -  Reliance Industries  as  the most valued firm with market valuation of Rs 3.47 lakh crore as of today. The  state owned  ONGC and NTPC  are placed second and third . Infosys is currently at  fifth place .
 
Source:  Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>KSRTC Launches ThiruKochi Buses</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5136</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
 

 
Transport Minister Jose Thettayil  launched  fifty  "ThiruKochi"  buses  in Cochin City this week.
 
The  KSRTC  city buses are being introduced following  public outcry over frequent private bus strikes and complaints of high-handedness by private-bus crew.
 
The RTC   was  currently  unable to operate 20 buses from the city to the Goshree islands, as  private-bus owners had challenged the introduction of these services before the High Court. The new  bus  service  would ply a total of 233 trips daily, of which 123 would be in the Ernakulam-Aluva route.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Sify to Set Up State Data Centre</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5131</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Sify Technologies will set up the new State Data Centre (SDC) at Technopark in Kerala. The SDC at Technopark would be the second of its kind in the state. The first data centre in the state  was set up in  2005 at Co-Bank Towers in Thiruvananthapuram.
 
The contract worth Rs 22.5 crores is to be set up at the Tejaswani building  in the park. The  data canters are part of the e-governance plan  to ensure prompt electronic delivery of government-to-government, government-to-consumer and government-to-business services.
 
Once integrated with the other infrastructure projects such as State Wide Area Network (SWAN) and Common Service Centres , SDCs would form the framework for roll out of various e-government services.Kerala is the first state in the country to have a data centre exclusively dedicated for the state sponsored e-governance applications.
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT@School Learning Resource CD Launched</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5114</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
An  ICT learning resources CD put together by the  IT@School  was released  by Chief Minister Achutanandan  this week.  He emphasised that  each teacher should be able to develop learning resources based on the teaching-learning situation in a school.  He  wanted that  the  IT@School should take the initiative in reaching such learning resources developed by teachers to every institution.
 
The 8 GB-CD packs has  information that is normally contained in eight CDs. It  contains, among other things, resources for training in drawing and painting, for preparing a newspaper in class, an introduction to the Internet and resources for using the spreadsheet software.
 
Source : The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Water Bill Payments through Automatic Machines</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5112</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

 
Water Resources Minister Premachandran said  that the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) would introduce automatic cash payment machines for consumers to remit their water bills.
 
Modelled on the lines of Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs), the machines would enable consumers  to pay their bills at any time.  The  new  system would  also do away  with the  the need for a credit card or a net banking account required for the e-payment system. The new facility  is likely to be operative  within three months.
 
The  improved e-tendering system  is expected to help  eliminate corruption and speed up drinking water projects taken up by the KWA.   As  the   e-tendering  system  will have  online  payment facility for earnest money deposits,  it is expected  to  ensure confidentiality of the tender process.
 
The computerisation of the KWA  is expected  to be  completed within in a year, and  would  be extended to the irrigation department.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infopark CEO Highlights Job Creation Potential</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5101</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Infopark CEO Siddhartha Bhattacharya said that there was no doubting the State's potential to  create  one lakh  job opportunities in the second phase expansion of Infopark,  which  had gained momentum with  the approval of the Union Commerce Ministry granting Special Economic Zone status for expansion.
 
Quoting  industry projections, Mr Bhattachraya  said that the increment in the non-tier locations in the coming years was put at  high levels, and  if Kerala  was able to  maintain the leadership position among the non-tier 1 locations,  it had  the potential to grow from the existing  level  of  about 40,000 jobs to nearer 3 million jobs.
 
He  felt  that  the State needs to look outside software exports to maintain good  growth rates  and  that  high end services like knowledge processes, legal processes, clever computing, engineering services, training, data centres  are  areas  of  relevance.  Kerala is currently exporting five times  the talent it is  currently  absorbing, and  many  who have gone outside the State for whatever reasons,  now want to come back and contribute to  Kerala's  growth provided they are given the right opportunities. 
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Indian Rupee Gets a New Symbol</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5102</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
India  now has a symbol for the Rupee , denoting the strength of its economy, and has joined a select club of countries whose currencies have a unique identity.  An amalgam of the Devnagiri 'Ra' and the Roman capital 'R', the new symbol is an "R" without the stem and with two parallel lines running at the top,  symbolising the 'equal to' sign.
 
The symbol  has become a necessity with the Indian economy's rapid growth, which has  propelled it to become one of the largest economies of the world.
 
With the gaining of the symbol, the Indian rupee joins the elite club of  the US dollar, British Pound, Euro and Japanese Yen .The  symbol  was designed  by  D.Uday Kumar , Assistant Professor at  the  Mumbai Indian Institute of Technology.
 
Source:  Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Animation Degree Course from Toonz</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5096</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Toonz Academy Trivandrum, a  division of the award winning Toonz Animation studio based in Technopark in Kerala, has entered into  an agreement with Bharathiar University, Coimbatore for conducting  BSc (Animation) degree  course of  the University from the academic  year  2010-11.
 
Apart from  this , other   courses  covering  Post Graduate Diploma in Digital Arts and Animation and  Diploma in Digital Arts and Animation and other certificate programs, will also be available.
 
Toonz Academy will  commence  admissions for the BSc (Animation) degree course for the academic year 2010-11 from 19th July 2010. Students who have passed +2 under any stream  are eligible  and  interested  students  can  contact Toonz Academy on 0471- 6451415 or email to enquiry@toonzacademy.com.
 
Source: manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>More Higher Education Institutions Needed</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5072</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The  Vice-Chancellor of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) V. N. Rajasekharan Pillai,   has  stated  that  the country  needs  to urgently think and support unconventional ways of building higher educational institutions to meet the target of training 50o  million  youth by the  year 2020.
 
Pointing out that the youth in the country should be trained effectively to meet the emerging challenges  with  quality education combined with skill enhancement,  he  said that this alone  would equip them and help them take up jobs both  within the country and abroad.
 
He  suggested that  the training pattern of  teachers in Kerala  needs change in tune with  modern times.  There should be  focus  on providing continuous learning, as  this  would help them keep updated on the advancements in various fields.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>TV and Internet on Flights</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5062</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
If you were on a flight and  could not  watch your favourite game live, or  could not access your internet -  think again , as  it is soon to  become  available .
 
Cathay Pacific, the flag carrier of Hong Kong, has announced plans to fit its entire fleet with internet broadband service, a mobile telephone network and even televisions that would broadcast live shows. The airline has entered into a deal with Panasonic Avionics, a broadband system that will have speeds of up to 50 megabytes on its aircrafts by early 2012. Flights will also have a service for mobile phones.
 
Cathay has claimed it is the first airline in Asia to announce its plans to use the broadband system and the first airline in the world to announce its use in its full fleet.  Several other airlines are to follow suit.
 

Source:  Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Railway Inefficiency - Who is to Blame ?</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5068</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Those familiar with the Ernakulam Junction Station would have noticed that the  new sixth platform  still remains unutilised.
 
Though the track was laid alongside the platform located at the station's eastern entry, it has not been linked with the other tracks.  Trains can begin using the platform only if signals are installed on the track and interlinked with signals on the other tracks. As of now, many trains are detained at the outer of the station for  long periods  of  time,  for want of sufficient number of platforms.
 
The platform and foot overbridge were built over five years ago, with the promise that the platform and track would be commissioned in a year.  many announcements  made in the past two Railway budgets to upgrade the Junction station into a world-class station and to increase amenities at the Town station, too are hanging fire. This is inspite of Kerala having ministerial representation at the Centre.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Takes Away Talent in Other Areas</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5064</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
According to Infosys Technologies Chief Mentor Narayana Murthy,  the  IT sector  has been absorbing the  majority of the engineering graduates that  come even  from non-computer science backgrounds, including  electrical , mechanical and civil engineers.
 
With India  on a high economic growth path, he felt  that a  stage had come  when the IT &amp; ITES  industry  should  take only computer science people, and  don’t take away engineers who can build factories, dams and power plants.
 
Speaking about this  problem, Mr Naryanamurthy felt the time had  come  to sit down and plan and provide opportunities for state governments, the central government, inter-state institutes to start more institutes such as IIIT-B to focus on technology education.
 
He said infosys had last year recruited 20/22,000 persons who were from the non-computer sciences background.
 

Source: The Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Visually Challenged Complete IT Course</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5066</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Chief Minister  Achuthanandan felicitated  45 visually  challenged students  who completed a computer training course offered by the Indira Gandhi Open University (IGNOU),  at Trivandrum.
 
The  CM also launched the fourth phase of activities of the Kerala State IT Mission under the INSIGHT project aimed at taking the benefits of IT training to differently abled persons,  especially  those who are visually, physically and mentally challenged. The project is  to be  implemented in the State with the active involvement of the Akshaya centres.  These courses  help  the  aspirants get placements after the training. Most of  the trained candidates  have already been placed in various IT and software firms. 
 
The  INSIGHT  Resource Centre at Vellayambalam has been providing training in IT skills to the differently abled, mainly the visual challenged, on open source computing. The students are trained to navigate the computer and to use it for communication.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Inforparks Get SEZ Approval</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5073</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Amid doubts over continuation of tax sops to new Special Economic Zones (SEZs),  the Board of Approvals (BoA), Government of India has granted formal approval to a 12.6-hectare IT/ITeS SEZ by Infoparks in Kerala. It also gave extensions to 24 developers which included Unitech Kochi SEZ Ltd.
 
The Board of Approvals however deferred decisions on guidelines for giving a waiver on a clause in the Rules which require that SEZ should be built on a  single  piece of land. The decision on a proposal to tighten environment norms for plastic units in SEZs was also deferred.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Metro Rail Still under Centre's Consideration</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5054</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The MD of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, Mr.E.Sreedharan stated this week that the execution of the Cochin Metro Rail project is still very much under the Centre's consideration.
 
His statement comes in the wake of Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commisssion Ahuliwala's statement that the Centre would be unable to pool in funds. Sreedharan made it clear that the statement was incorrect and that it was probably Ahuliwala's personal opinion.
 
According to him all the Centre needed to do was approve Rs 600 crores to be spent over the next four years, at a time when Union Budgetary allocations for different projects was over Rupees 2 lakh crores.
 
Referring to the fast pace at which Metro Rail was coming up at other  places, he said that the Centre gave its nod for the Chennai project within a month of the Tamilnadu chief Minister taking up the matter, whereas in the case of Kerala, the matter was still in abeyance. He felt that the  project would eventually get sanctioned.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Pay Water Bills Online from July 15</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5053</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The Water Resources Minister  Premachandran  has announced that all consumers who have  access to internet  can make pay their water Bills online from 15th July 2010.
 
The Kerala Water Authority has made arrangements with nearly 25 banks in this regard,  and this e-payment facility will initially be  available only to Trivandrum users and will eventually be  introduced to other parts of the state.
 
KWA has already introduced e-tendering facility in an effort to bring more transparency in its working. The introduction of  the e-payment  facility will hopefully bring in an efficient and hassle free time in the days ahead to consumers in Kerala.
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>e-Learning Classes Launched</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5051</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 

 
National Centre for Innovation Incubation &amp; Entrepreneurship (NCIIE) and the training arm of Technopark Technology Business Incubation Centre (T-TBIC) in association with  SmartGuruji Learning Systems (SLS) has launched  e-learning courses in entrepreneurship development and software engineering.
 
Smartguruji is a holistic platform that empowers students to succeed in their careers, by offering  the complete talent lifecycle ecosystem of assessment, skill enhancement and industry partnership for talent absorption.The students become workplace  ready and meet industry requirements more easily.
 
The NCIIE,  a learning platform for the innovators and entrepreneurs, was started in 2005 in association with EDII,  Ahmedabad and IIITM Kerala as partnering Institutions with Technopark. The NCIIE is part of the Technopark Technology Business Incubator, and is conducting Courses and seminars on Entrepreneurship Development. Technopark is networked with all the Engineering Colleges (84) and Technical Institutions and Management Institutions  in the State .
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Metro Rail on Backburner Again</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5040</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The Kochi  Metro  Rail  Project appears to be a  still born, the way  things are  going.
 
The  latest news  available  suggests that the   Centre-State  tussle is continuing.  M. Vijayakumar, the Minister for Law, Parliamentary Affairs and Railways  has  stated  that  the Central Government has  refused to provide financial support to the project and suggested a state project with private funding.
 
With the  Kerala  State government's  hard line stand on making  the Kochi metro-rail project as a joint venture between the State and Central Governments, the project appears to be still born. Kerala  has  cited  the fate of the Hyderabad  Metro-rail project,  which suffered inordinate delays because the private firm which was given a stake in the project ran into trouble.  The  argument has cut no ice with the Centre.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Internet Edge Seminar at Infopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5038</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Alibaba.com Limited,   a leading small business e-commerce company in association with Kerala Small Scale Industries Association (KSSIA) is organizing a seminar named  “Internet Edge – Online Opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises”  at  Infopark  Kochi, Kakkanad on 6th July.
 
The growing prominence of e-commerce  and its ability to cover  a diverse customer base and thereby  providing access to a  large number of buyers and suppliers,  is highlighted  with the organisation of this workshop.
 
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can benefit immensely from the  use of online  B2B  platform,  which can  help  accelerate  business processes by identifying and communicating with global partners faster via real-time communication.  This helps  reduce the time it takes to negotiate deals and provide superior customer service and after sales service using  online tools.
 
With eminent speakers the  workshop will present cases of companies who have tasted success using e-commerce.
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>TCS Ranked 9th Largest Software Company</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5025</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 
At the  Company's annual general meeting,  Ratan Tata announced that Tata Consultancy Services Ltd(TCS) has become the ninth  largest  software  company in the  world  with a  turnover of  $ 6.3 bn. Heading  the list are  IBM with revenues of $ 96 bn  followed by Microsoft at  $ 58 bn  and Accenture with $ 22 bn.
 
TCS  is to make  a bid to climb the value chain so as  to differentiate its  services  from the competition. In its  effort to be part of the top league, the company has been bagging clients across geographies, building domain expertise, besides  adding onto  its employee strength.
 
Started  as a division of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata group,   TCS  began its  services in  1968 to service the in-house electronic data processing needs. The company has  today grown into being  the largest software services firm in  India.
 

Source: Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>National Livestock Show and Food Festival 2010 Goes Online</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5019</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 



 
The National Livestock Show and Food Festival organised by the Kerala Government has   gone on line.   The web site of the festival was inaugurated at Thiruvananthapuram by  District Panchayat President Anavoor Nagappan in the presence of Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Animal Husbandry,  C. Divakaran .
 
Participation from twenty two states  in addition to overseas  participation is expected at the five day festival  being held 23-27th July 2010,  at Kanakakkunnu Palace grounds.
 
The festival is  being jointly hosted by the  Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development , Food and Civil Supplies, legal Metrology, and other allied  public sector undertakings,  which would  hold  exhibitions of various Indian and exotic breeds of livestock, pet animals and birds, and also have sales counter for live animals, animal products.  The event will host  cultural events and also an ethnic  food festival.
 
Source: Manoramaonline




 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Government to Spend Rs 1000 Crore on Cochin Road Infrastructure</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5020</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
After a stakeholders'  meeting convened to discuss the Kochi City Road Improvement Project , Mr Thomas  Isaac  who currently holds the additional portfolio of  Public Works  said that the Kerala Road Fund Board would act as the nodal agency for  the purpose of addressing  the  problems of  roads, bridges and  flyover projects in Cochin, in  addition to  addressing the problems faced by  pedestrians.
 
The Minister said  that the State government  would  spend Rs.1,000 crore for these projects.  The  statement  however  coming at the tail end of the current  ministry's term,  brings  forth  much larger  questions that  need an answer to every citizen  of  Cochin city  -  What has been happening for the last  four  years, and  why was something not done  earlier ?
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Free Software Public Workshops</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5016</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
In a  bid  to  broaden the reach of  free software among the public,  workshops  are being  jointly organised by Zyxware Technologies, Free Learning Institute and Indian Libre User Group (ILUG)-Cochin.


 
The first of these   is  a day-long intermediate level programme aimed at  initiating ab initio software users to various tools and applications of Gimp, a highly versatile programme akin to Photoshop and used for performing photo retouching, image composition and image authoring. Currently the  awareness about the potential and customisation possibilities of Gimp is  low and the workshop aims at  remedying  this.


 
Free software expert Rajeesh will lead the workshop. A  registration  fee of Rs 200 would be charged from the participants.


 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Sleepy Towns Come Awake</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5008</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
A Technolodge
 
The Technolodge initiative is the result of Kerala government's ambitious vision to take software exports business to small towns and villages and encourage BPO companies to operate from low-cost rural centres and thereby create employment in rural areas. Accentia was the first company that came forward to set up a BPO in Kadakkal and Perinad  according  to  Technopark CEO Mervin Alexander.


 
Accentia Technologies, a Technopark-based company specialising in IT solutions for health care, financial and insurance sectors, has set up satellite centres at the two Technolodges. When fully operational , it will provide employment to about 300 employees , who will work  across three shifts at the two centres.
 
Technolodges are set up in small towns and villages where underutilized land or buildings are available with the government or local self-government institutions.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Accentia Takes Business to TechnoLodges</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=5006</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 
 



 
Accentia Technologies has taken its Technopark based  business  to Technolodges based in Kadakkal and Peringad , both in Kollam district.


 
These Technolodges  which were opened as  spokes to the Technopark has  found   suitors, who realize the importance  of spreading operations to Tier II  &amp; III destinations, as a means of  cost saving, as  well as  employment generation.


 
Accentia Technologies is a leading Healthcare Receivables Cycle Management (HRCM) Company. Apart from  HRCM, the company is also involved in   e-publishing , Data processing and  warehousing. It has started  its operations at the  Technolodges with  50 persons, but is on a recruitment  drive for persons within Kollam district.


 
The Kerala Government has a  plan of establishing around 100 Technolodges across the State and over 60 Panchayats have come forward offering facilities to set up Technolodges. The Kerala State IT Infrastructure Ltd. (KSITIL) is implementing this project and KSITIL had requested Technopark to undertake the pilot Technolodge project. Technopark made this project a reality within a short span of 4 months.


 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 03 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>On-line Passports Hit Roadblocks</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4995</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The e-governance plan of the Government of  India to simplify  passport processing is reportedly  facing resistance and inertia from certain MEA  staff  and negative proganda  by travel agents.
 
Some MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) staff attend work wearing black badges, to show their protest against involving a  third party company (TCS) in record processing and passport issue, a job which was solely done by the government till now.The lack of cooperation is clear and loud on the ground, where  the  pilot project is  currently on in places like Bangalore, Mangalore and Hubli.  This  is  to be a prelude  expected to be completed in 12 weeks ,  after which a  country wide roll out across 77 Passport Seva Kendras (PSK) will happen in six months.
 
Changes to the system which is as old as Independent  India  being opposed was only to be  expected.  As  systems  get institutionalized , citizens  will see the advantages  and the value of the change,  and hopefully the negatives will fade away.
 

Source: India Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>All Government Services through Internet Soon</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4989</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

e-governance Dept

 
People all over India covering the  28 states  are expected to be  able to avail of all government services, including payment of utility bills, applying for a driving license, etc through a common internet portal being  developed as  part of a Rs 2000 crore project. 
 
 5 IT companies including  Accenture, Infosys, HP, Wipro, and 3i Infotech   have been empanelled as agencies for implementation of the project at the state level. KPMG, Ernst &amp; Young, PWC, IL&amp;FS  and  UTITSL have been empanelled as the consulting firms.  States  may pick any of these agencies for implementation of the project.
 
 The government plans to develop portals for at least 10 states by October 2010, and the rest will follow. These state portals’ services will have a range of services , right from getting a birth or death registration certificate  to applications for pensions, getting a domicile or residence certificate all online. The forms will be available electronically.
 
 The  Ministry of IT &amp; Communications, which is initiating these changes, expects  that these  measures which  are  expected  to go live within six months, in  many states, will  help  reduce red-tapism and make delivery of services hasslefree . 
 
Expected to  cost each state about  Rs 60 crores , the  e-service delivery will have three main steps — selecting the eform, filling it and submitting it electronically, which  would generate  a unique ID , allowing   follow-up  of status via email or SMS. The portals would be available in local languages and English.
 
Source : Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infosys Turns 30</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4991</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

The founders of Infosys

 
Infosys Technologies, one of the first Indian companies to grant stock option to its employees way back in 1993,   has  offered  its  staff atleast  five equity  shares to mark  its  30 years of operation.
 
This offer is being made  to its  staff who were on the rolls on 31st March 2010, and are  still in service  during the second week of  August when the shares will be distributed. Under the  scheme every employee will get five  shares and  an additional share for every year of completed service.
 
It’s a goodwill gesture  that is  meant  to give  a feeling of ownership and being part of 30-year Infosys history.
 
Source:  Economic Times




 

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Web Technology Meet in August</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4984</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[




 
The  Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the Institution of Engineers (India), the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers (IETE), and the Computer Society of India are  combining to host  a national seminar in Cochin on Web Technologies, on 30th August.




 
The national seminar on the theme " Emerging Trends and Social Impact"  will  seek to help researchers  who want to know more about emerging trends in web intelligence and technology in related areas, such as  the current tendency to misuse Internet facilities and the programmes available and under development to prevent such web-related crimes. The  target group  is students, teachers and parents.
 
Sub-themes include web application development, patterns for web application development and pattern mining, design models and methods, web security, privacy and trust, cyberlaws and cyber crime, and e-governance.




 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 30 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Indian IT and Philanthropy</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4976</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Most of us know that the Bill  Gates  foundation operates on the world  stage. However, a number of  first  generation IT  professionals have also made huge  philanthriophic  contributions in  India.
 
The godfather of IT industry Infosys Naryanamuthry  is  one of the finest examples of persons from the IT industry who has given millions  for charitable causes.  The Azim Premji  foundation has its  own charitable organisation  working in the  area of primary education.  Tech  Mahindra's Managing Director  Vineet  Nayyar is also known to have personally  sold one third of his shares  and donated over Rs 30 crores to a  Delhi based charitable organisation.
 
Now  comes the  biggest  news!! Shiv Nadar,  founder Chairman of  HCL,  has  sold part of  his shares, and contributed over Rs 580 crores to be used in education moves through the Shiv Nadar foundation. This is one of the biggest  philanthrophic initiatives even  within the IT industry.
 
Source: NDTV Profit]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Leadership Lessons through HUL Portal</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4973</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Hindustan Unilever Limited has  launched  a unique portal  www.coulditbeu.in  as a one stop shop  on leadership lessons.
 
Recognising that there are certain  characteristics unique to the present generation, the company attempts  to expose today's youth  to some real-life challenges and constraints, and provide them with an opportunity to experience how individuality can and must coexist within frameworks.
 
With the India growth story where younger people are increasingly taking on bigger responsibilities, such an initiative has been considered critical. This  also considered as a great way for HUL to select from a large talent pool.  The 14 campuses where the portal has been launched include the six IIMs, Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, and SP Jain Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai. This is to be expanded to other B-schools and some graduate colleges.
 
Source: Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Inauguration of Athulya and Expressway Rescheduled for Sunday, June 27</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4935</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The inauguration of the Athulya building in Infopark and the Infopark Expressway earlier scheduled for Saturday (June 26) has been rescheduled for Sunday, June 27.
 

 
The Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri V S Achuthanandan will inaugurate Athulya and the Expressway at 4 pm on Sunday the 27th day of June 2010.
 
Athulya has been touted as KeralaIT's latest smart space and is already a long way into attracting a number of companies wishing to open shop in Infopark. Click here to see the video on Athulya’s infrastructure.
 
On the other hand, the Expressway, linking the Infopark with the Seaport-Airport Road, will  reduce the time to commute to the Nedumbassery International Airport and the city and ease the traffic during peak hours.The road will be highly beneficial not only for Infopark but also other industrial and educational institutions situated in the region]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>KSEB Ties Up with Korean Electric Power Data</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4948</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
 
 
The  Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is to enter into an  agreement  with  the Korea Electric Power Data Company in mid-July.
 
Aimed  at  providing  better service to consumers and  enhancing  the power utilities, work on the Restructured Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Programme is being  made with technical help from the Korean company.
 
Apart from  reducing the aggregated technical and commercial loss to the minimum level, e-payment of electricity bills, online registration and status evaluation of complaints, submission of applications for new service connection and tariff change, accelerated fault recovery and complaint rectification using GIS-based consumer indexing and asset mapping are some of the highlights of the new system proposed to be implemented.
 
To be  completed in two parts ,  the project  will on completion  allow metering, billing and collection of  low tension and high tension consumers, supply chain management system and energy auditing, all of  which will be fully automated. The  Korean company has been selected for implementing the first part of the programme at a cost of Rs.240 crores.
 
Source:   The Hindu ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Express Train to Promote Technology</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4933</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
A special express train  named  TECHNOLOGY EXPRESS  will  be launched from Kharagpur ( West Bengal) by the Indian Railways  in an effort to promote Information Technology.
 
Expected to start immediately after the  Commonwealth Games scheduled for October this  year,  the train is intended to bring  IT  awareness to remote areas and small towns.
 
This was announced by the Railways Minister Mamta Banerjee  while inaugarating  The Commonwealth Express which has 14 coaches, including five dedicated to Sports and October 3-14 Games and six to IT.
 
Source: Times of  India ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infopark to Set Up Modern BPO Complex</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4931</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
As part of its Phase II expansion, Infopark will set up a  state of the art  BPO complex  with an investment of Rs 200 crores over the next three years.
 
The Chief Executive Officer of Infopark Siddhartha  Bhattachraya said that the work on this would commence later this year . Of the 160 acres earmarked  for this expansion, 90 acres have already been acquired and the balance would be  acquired soon. The total investment on the phase II  would  be in the region of Rs 2500 crores of which, the Infopark would  invest a  total of Rs 450 crores including the  Rs 200 crore earmarked for the BPO  complex.
 
The   Phase II completed would provide a built-up space of 8 million sq.ft.  and  would take the total built-up space provided by Infopark to about 15 million sq.ft taking into account the 5 million sq.ft to be developed on the completion of the first phase,  and the combined space provided by the IT parks at Koratty, Cherthala, and Ambalappuzha.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>FRIENDS and Akshaya Centers to be Linked</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4941</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The  Akshaya Centres  spread across Kerala would soon be linked to FRIENDS   Janasevana Kendram Networks  which  would enable the public to remit taxes and bills issued by various government departments and agencies.
 
The 'Friends' centers in the State were a role model for the IT enabled service to the public, as over 2000 persons were daily using the facility ,  and transactions around Rs 10 crores were being  made every month.
 
It is  expected that  FREES, an open source software developed by National Informatics Centre (NIC) for  the  FRIENDS network would soon go online and the customers of the State Bank of Travancore will be the first beneficiaries of this  development. In  about  two  months, SBT customers would be able to make direct transfer of utilities’ payments through Net Banking. The payment gateway for other banks and credit cards/ debit cards would be also open  in the coming months.
 

Source:  Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CM to Inaugurate ATHULYA and INFOPARK EXPRESSWAY on June 26</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4922</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The Hon'ble Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri V S Achuthanandan will inaugurate the Athulya building in Infopark, touted as Kerala IT's latest smart space on Saturday the 26th of June, 2010. The CM will also inaugurate the Infopark Expressway linking the Infopark with the Seaport-Airport Road on the same day.
 

 
Situated on 7.1 acres of land in Infopark SEZ, Athulya is a perfect blend of intelligent workspaces, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and 360 degree support facilities and lifestyle amenities, seamlessly integrated within one complex to create a singular business environment of hi-technology companies. It has a total built-up area of 5.5 lakh square feet and can house a software development block (with an area of 3.5 lakh square feet), a cafeteria building (with an area of 0.50 lakh square feet), and multi-level car parking facility (300 cars). With a total seating capacity of 4000, Athulya will have a total of 10 elevators (8 for the software development blocks and 2 for the cafeteria). With an average floor plate size of 50000 sq. ft. Athulya also boasts of facilities such as incubation centers; training rooms; direct four-lane connectivity road; and 25, 50 and 100-seater module with P&amp;P facility. Click here to see the video on Athulya's infrastructure.
 
The Infopark Expressway, constructed at a cost of Rs. 30 crore and connecting the Infopark to the Airport-Seaport road, will now reduce the time to commute to the Nedumbassery International Airport and the city and ease the traffic during peak hours. A total of 15.3 acres of land was transferred for the road widening and construction based on the administrative sanction received from the State Government. The road will be highly beneficial not only for Infopark but also other industrial and educational institutions situated in the region.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Money for Innovative Ideas</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4902</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
In a  move to promote  innovative business ideas  from people and helping  them connect  with mentors and  investors,  the Department of Science and Technology ( DST)  will offer guaranteed funds of  Rs 5 crores for the  "Power of ideas"  initiative  ideas  which is a public-private partnership.
 
The  Centre for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE)  and the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, will evaluate every  business summary that comes to the  POWER OF IDEAS 2010.
 
The initiative  will allow  those  who make it to the final cut off list of the POWER OF IDEAS , to get to meet investors  during a  unique ten day incubation programme  which will be held at the IIMA  campus.
 
Source:  Cybermedia]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Tourism Website Goes Multilingual</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4909</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The Chinese version of the Kerala tourism website
 
Kerala Tourism which released a Chinese version of  its official website, is now all set to be branded  with a  contemporary look to cater to the changing profile of tourists from across the globe.
 
With these two new versions, the official website will now be available in 7 international languages, apart from English, Malayalam and Hindi. The French, German, Italian, Spanish and Chinese versions  will  prove   immensely  helpful  to tourists , and  the website will shortly be  available in Russian and Arabic  also.
 
Additional information  about Varkala, Kumarakom, Kochi, Bekal, Munnar, Periyar, Wayanad and Malabar,  is being  made available to browsers .
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Innoz Nominated for Alexander Graham Bell Award</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4905</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Innoz Technologies which is a Technopark-based  company has been nominated for the  Alexander Graham Bell  Award  instituted by the Aegis School  of Business and Telecommunication.
 
The  award and scholarships were constituted  as a tribute to the father of  telephonic communication, Sir Alexander Graham Bell.  Intended  to promote innovations  in telecommunication, the  award  seeks to  recognise  outstanding contributions in the  field.
 
Innoz will be presenting the topic - "Rich Mobile and Web Applications"on 26th July 2010 at the Event Venue- Hotel Fortune Select Exotica, Vashi, Navi-Mumbai. Among the nominees for the  award are   Amdocs, Ericsson, Cisco, Microsoft, Techmahindra, Telcordia, Wipro, MTS, IBM, TCS, Infosys, Elite Core, CanvasM, etc.
 
Aegis School of Business and Telecommunication is among the top schools in India, started with support from Bharti Airtel for developing the next generation cross functional leaders for telecom industry. It is  the first school to start Executive Telecom Management in India for working executives in Telecom and IT.
 

Source: 
 



Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT-enabled Education from July in Thrissur Schools</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4892</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 


 
All schools in Thrissur district  that  follow the state syllabus whether  they are  government schools, and  aided or unaided, will begin to  implement IT  enabled  education system from the  eigth  standard from  next month.
 
Under  the  IT@school programme , all government and aided schools have been provided with computers, internet connectivity and related facilities. The learning  will be extended to higher classes in the coming years.
 
Computer workshops have been conducted for teachers and students, and the  content of the programmes have  been developed, and are expected to be kept  updated on a coninuing basis.
 
Set up to empower students by imparting ICT-enabled education. The IT@school project has completed its tenth year in the State.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kannur Airport Gets Closer to being a Reality</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4888</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

The scenic wonder of North Kerala 
 
The  Kannur  airport project is edging towards being a reality, with  its  estimated  Rs.1,000 crore investment . The  Kerala Government  with  26 percent, the public sector 23 per cent and government-controlled organisations with  2 per cent shares will have majority control,  and  the intention is  to have the remaining 49 per cent offered as shares to the  cooperative and private sector.
 
The government has so far acquired 916 acres of land  and a further  368 acres will be acquired by  July,  towards the project,  which is  to be  managed  by a  nine member company Board with the Chief Minister  heading it.
 
The Public Works Department has already  been entrusted with the development work  on approach roads relating to the project,  and thereabouts.
 
It is expected that the foundation stone for the  construction  work would be laid by early November.  The  airport is expected to boost the economy  of the north kerala region and help  promote  tourism in the state.
 
Inputs  source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>A Respite to Processions in Cochin</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4886</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Kerala High Court has this week  directed the Police  to ensure that restrictions are imposed on processions disrupting normal  life being taken out in Cochin City  . 
 
The order requires the Police to  assess the  number of persons to be permitted , and to ensure  that only such numbers are allowed to assemble.
 
The Institute of Social Welfare, which had petitioned the High Court  sought to invoke the powers under Sec.144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure 1973   to restrain any processions or demonstrations which would violate the guidelines imposed by the Full Court . It was  pointed out that a series of demonstrations and processions  had  been  taken out in the city in the recent past  in  blatant  violation of  the directions of the High Court.
 
Considering the narrow roads in Kochi, even  small processions can cause  traffic blocks. The fact is no effective steps have  been taken so far , resulting in violation of the freedom of movement of  the common man.
 
Let's hope that with this latest development, something will be done to  set this right, and to  allieviate traffic problems on days of processions and meetings.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technical Workshop Marathon </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4890</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The  month-long ‘Technical Workshop Marathon'  ended this week. Organised by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) student branch of the Model Engineering College (MEC), Thrikkakara  alongwith with Mixed Signals, MEC's electronics association, the  event was organised  with  the idea  of sensitising  the student community to newer technologies . 
 
Workshops covered  important fields in the emerging electronics industry. The workshop on ‘Embedded Linux and ARM processors' drew interest  as it is closely related to the latest mobile technologies.
 
Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) — the new synonym for reconfigurable computing and VHDL (Very High-Speed IC Hardware Description Language) , and embedded controllers  were  given exposure through workshops.
 
The importance of  such exposure and interaction  among the  student  community is essential,  if Kerala as a state is  to develop  excellence in the  field  of engineering and electronics.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Jet-Blue Airways Ties Up with IBS Solutions</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4864</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
                                             
Jet-Blue Airways ,  a New York based airline has  tied up with  IBS, a Kerala-based company  specialised in the aviation sector  solutions.
 
Under the contract, the airlines will migrate from its legacy system to the iCargo platform developed by IBS to manage its cargo operations. JetBlue is one of the leading carriers in the US, connecting 61 cities with over 600 flights every day.
 
The  new-generation technology  solution  icargo  has been  designed to handle the cargo-movement requirements of full freighter carriers, passenger-and- cargo combination carriers and assist ground-handling agents and airports.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 23 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IBM to Open Additional 75 COEs in Engineering Colleges</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4878</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
IBM  which  set up 75  Centres of Excellence (CoE)  at various engineering colleges acros 60 cities in India, is to open an additional 75 centres  before this year yend. Expected  to cover  the top  300 engineering colleges in the country, these CoEs will be spread over 20 states .
 
In addition to extending high-quality education on emerging technologies,  the  initiative helps start-ups capture new business opportunities by providing them access to technology resources from IBM.  The company aims at working towards creating a bridge between the industry and academia, by creating a programme where industry can use the CoE set up and the certified resources in the college to create innovative software projects and proof of concepts.
 
Source:  The Times of India]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Controversy Rages over NH Width</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4860</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

A four lane highway
 
For those who have been  following the recent  controvery  over the width of the National Highays which were set at 45 metres, and  an all party delegation going to NewDelhi asking for it to be restricted to 30 metres in Kerala  -   there is fresh fuel being added to the fire with the Association of  Engineers in Kerala  who have come out strongly  against  the move to confine the width of national highways (NHs) in the State to 30 metres during the next phase of highway development.
 
The  association has  described  the  all-party delegation's plea for confining the width to 30 metres as a narrow political decision,  which   had brought to a halt the steps which were being taken by the Centre to keep the width at 45 metres. The organisation was of the firm opinion that the highway development in the State should be according to the Indian Roads Congress norms,  being  followed all over  India.
 
It questions  the contention that the proponents of 45-metre highways were pro-affluent sections. The majority of those who died or were maimed in road accidents were ordinary people.  A  rethinking on the issue among Ministers, leaders of political parties and leading organisations  has been sought.
 
The proponents of less  width  need to understand that if the growth of vehicle population was considered, six-lane roads would become inevitable in the near future.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>No New Ration Cards until Next Year</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4845</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Unable to cope  with the  rush for new ration cards, the Civil Supplies Department has  stopped  accepting applications, and is unlikely to do so until  next  February , ie,  a  gap of nearly eight months. The reason cited includes lack of personnel and  adequate   computers and other equipment at the  various offices.
 
In Ernakulam, those who have  tried to get their ration cards  know very  well the terrible manner in which things are being  handled by the rationing office situated near north railway station.  People begin queueing from 7 am  almost three hours before the office opens. Even then, you have to be in luck as  just about 300  tokens are issued and that too, only on Wednesdays. Those who are among  the  lucky  few  can submit their applications  and have their photographs taken, only to be issued a slip  which shows they will be issued  their ration cards  six months after.
 
In this day of  Information Technology and outsourcing, all it requires is a bit of imagination , and innovativeness to solve this simple  problem. Special counters to handle  the applications  with a nominal fee, which most people standing in the  queue  would willingly  pay, considering the  difficulty they are being put to , would provide the resources  needed  to outsource the work. The  personnel from the civil supplies department  could then  act as supervisors and oversee the operation, and this  would  allow  for these cards to be issued within days of  application.
 
There is a chance that with socialist thinking prevailing, the argument of levying a fee from the poorer sections of society will be opposed. By making this an optional scheme, similar to  Tatkal, efficiency can be brought in. Moreover, it will be seen that in Kerala  almost everyone, including the poor  would be willingly to  pay if efficiency is ushered in.
 
As  the ration card is now used as a basic document of identification for an entire family, which needs to be presented for contacts with the official machinery for a variety of purposes, the delay is  causing  hardship to  the public at large.
 
This an ideal case  for the Kerala IT Mission to look into and extend the necessary support to the Civil Supplies Department.
 
With inputs from : The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cloud Computing Tests by Kerala State</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4848</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Steps have been initiated to begin cloud computing solutions tests by the Kerala  state government.  The Kerala State IT Mission will  work along with  the  Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management-Kerala (IIITM-K), and   Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).  
 
Cloud computing infrastructure allows enterprises to achieve more efficient use of IT hardware and software investments by pooling resources  thereby driving down costs and increasing utilisation.
 
It allows  individuals, teams and organisations to streamline procurement processes and eliminate the need to duplicate certain computer  skills.
 
The successful testing of cloud-computing solutions will enable optimum use of resources in vital backbone infrastructure such as State data centres which involves Internet-based computing to provide shared resources, software and information to computers and other devices on demand, similar to the electricity grid.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Government Web Sites to be Tested</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4847</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
At a workshop organised recently by the Kerala IT Mission  in association with the  Standardisation, Testing  &amp; Quality certfication  Directorate (STQC), it was decided to  set up a laboratory for testing government web sites.
 
The facility  will  be established in association with the Centre for Development of Imaging Technology (C-DIT), the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), the National Informatics Centre (NIC) and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).
 
Laying emphasis on the fact that  government  web sites are  important sources of giving information and service  to the public, the intention is  to ensure that  the web sites developed for government use  meet all the standards set forth for  efficiency and security with  delivery of services.
 
The increase in the number of web sites, has also meant that there was  increasing instances of web sites being exploited and polluted with malicious codes. As such, maintaining standards of quality, accessibility and security of websites was of paramount importance.The setting up of the lab would be a  step  in improving e-governance applications in Kerala as most of them have web interfaces. 
 
e-governance being a priority sector in Kerala, improving quality, accessibility and user-friendliness is important. 
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>ITIs are to be Centres of Excellence</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4846</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
A two-day zonal meeting of the Industrial Training Department will  assess the  upgradation of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into centres of excellence with public-private participation and the Skill Development Initiatives  being  implemented since 2007 .
 
The  Principals of ITIs and Institute Management Committee chairmen from Kerala and Karnataka will attend the meeting, being organised by the Director of  Employment and Training.
 
The  representatives of  the  Confederation of Indian Industry, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India will also participate and help with inputs. The importance of constantly reviewing  and upgrading these technical institutes is a necessary  step and one  in the right direction.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>New Expressway will Improve Infopark Road Connectivity</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4837</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Infopark-Cochin
 
The new four lane  expressway linking Infopark with the seaport-airport road which will be opened by the Chief minister later this week will provide better  road connectivity. 
 
Built at a cost of  Rs 30 crore , the new link road was an absolute necessity  as the Infopark which has grown immensely,  was suffering from the increased  traffic and congestion.  The park has grown with new companies now  locating  its operations to it. The road will  benefit  not only those at  InfoPark but also  other industrial and educational institutions situated in the area . Linkage to the  Cochin  Nedumbaserry airport located 22 Kms away will  improve  vastly.
 
Continous  improvement  of   infra structure is necessary for the  proper growth of a  city . The  link road  assumes importance as  new smart space ‘Athulya'  which is  located  on a  7.1-acre plot with  a built-up area of 5.5 lakh sqft  is opening its  doors for operation in Infopark.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Indian Companies Create Jobs in USA</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4839</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
A  study " How America benefits  from Economic  Engagement with India"  released by US congressman  Jim McDermott  this week , says that  Indian companies have created as much as  60,000 jobs in the US between 2004 and 2009  through  nearly 500 investment  and acquisition deals  worth $26.5bn.
 
The report comes in the wake of  President Obama ending tax incentives  to US companies that move jobs outside the  country. The report investigates a specific aspect of globalisation of the American economy, namely  the United States-India business relationship.
 

During 2004-09, it was reported that 239 Indian companies made 372 acquisitions in the United States. The five US industrial sectors that received the most greenfield investment were Metals; Software &amp; IT Services; Leisure &amp; Entertainment; industrial machinery, equipment &amp; tools; and financial services.

Source:  Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Engineering Research Study Gets Support</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4828</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Chief Minister Achutanandan inaugurates CERD
 
Chief Minister Achutanandan while  inaugurating the Centre for Engineering  Research and Development (CERD)  at Thiruvananthapuram has laid emphasis  on  engineering research  which helps  produce things  whch are of use to mankind.
 
In order to tap in fully to the   boom that is expected  to show about  ten fold  increase   in  engineering research  investment,  Kerala  is to give its  engineering colleges  financial support in funding research through the CERD.
 
Recognising that  IT and IT-enabled services are  major fields of economic activity, the government has put in place the  SpeedIT programme  for students of post graduate and doctoral programmes.
 
Under this scheme  scholarship funding  of Rs. 8,000  is available  for  PG students  and   Rs. 14,000- Rs. 18,000 to  research scholars.  Expected to reach  200 PG scholars and 15 research scholars during the current year, the scheme comes as a mjor boost to promote research activity in the state.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Admissions Open for Kochi Model Finishing School</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4815</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Model Finishing School, Kochi, will conduct an employability enhancement course for computer science, information technology and engineering graduates so as to bridge the gaps between their professional qualifications and employability . The 40-day long course which will begin on June 25 is a joint initiative of the IT Department of Kerala and Institute of Human Resources Development (IHRD).
 
The course fee is Rs. 10,000. Applications can be made online also before June 23.  
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IIM-K to Set Up Centre at Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4812</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 


 
The Indian Institute of Management,Kozhikode is about to set a centre in Kochi and is currently on the look out for a suitable location.  he Kochi centre will provide short-term leadership programmes for CEOs and prospective heads of companies and will be a centre of excellence where special year-long management training courses can also be conducted.
 
The Kochi  centre is expected to commence this year itself.  IIM-K plans  to become a centre of differentiated learning and is expanding  through management development programmes and interactive distance learning to overseas destinations as well.  Its programmes shape the thinking ability, attitudes and skills that reflect the  needs of a globalising economy.
 
Source:  The Hindu ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>K-MUG Developers Conference in July</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4810</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The  Kerala Microsoft Users Group (K-MUG), is organizing a two day  developers’ conference on July 3 and 4th   at Technopark to  help sharpen the skills and provide cutting-edge insights and expertise that would make life easier for the techies.
 
Renowned technology experts will take questions from the participants and give their answers.  The  participants will have  an  opportunity to engage and collaborate with Microsoft  MVPs and thousands of peer group personalities in the  IT sector.
 
In technical sessions, talks will be held on topics like Windows Phone 7, Visual Studio 2010 and Office 2010, Windows Azure, etc.  by experts like Ramaprasanna Chellamuthu  and  Manu Zacharia.
 
Source:  Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Satyam Team Driving IT Systems at FIFA World Cup</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4806</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
130 employees of Mahindra Satyam are working at FIFA  games'  command centre in  Johannesburg to ensure hassle-free functioning of IT systems and let the world see the games.
 
Across $1 billion worth of technology assets, one million hours of development work, three million tickets,  130,000 volunteers,  1000 vehicles, 64 matches and 10 stadiums in South Africa , Mahindra Satyam is responsible  for  seamlessly integrating IT systems for the world to enjoy the game,  according to  Mr Hari T, Chief People's Officer of Mahindra Satyam.
 
Stating that  business prospects were improving, he said the company had won additional  contracts from an auto major in Japan, a Government project in Singapore, a global energy drink giant in Australia, a retail chain major in South Africa and an electricity and water management authority in the Gulf.
 
Source:  BusinessLine]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Fast Track System in RTO Offices</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4787</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 


 

 
The  Transport Minister Transport  Jose Thettayil said  that  all  RTO and sub-RTO offices in the State, would henceforth have fast-track counters where people can avail over 15 different services by spending minimal time in the queue.  These services would  start from  June 23.
 
Intended to increase the efficiency  of the Motor Vehicles' Department, the public  would be able to register their vehicles, renew licences, execute paper work for selling vehicles, get duplicates of documents, change their address, renew permits etc., through these  counters. They can apply online and take a print out, which can be taken to fast-track counters. This would  also help  ensure  correct data entry .  The counters would funtion  from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in RTO offices, and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in sub-RTO offices.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Udyog Rattan Award for Accentia Technologies</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4783</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Accentia Technologies , a leading health care service management company has been selected for the prestigious Udyog Rattan Award 2010,  instituted by Institute of Economic Studies (IES). 
 
Accentia is owned by Keralite entrepreneur Pradeep Viswambharan. The award credits both  him and and his company for the commendable contribution for the growth of IT/ITES industry in the country.  The award recognises the  insight  and energetic leadership  of the  small  medical transcription company, which started operations  at Technopark , to one of the world’s Healthcare Receivable Cycle Management (HRCM) companies in a short span of time.
 
Today,  Accentia has expanded from a single unit in Thiruvananthapuram to over a dozen large scale units in cities across the world, including London, Florida (USA), Portland (USA), UAE, and also to cities in India  like Mumbai, Kochi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Calcutta, Chandigarh and Bhuvaneswar.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Significant Growth for Indian BPOs in the Last Decade</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4760</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
In this last decade, India's back-office outsourcing business has grown from from  $1.6 billion  to  $14.7 dollars  , and would post a growth of 15 to 16 per cent in 2010/2011  on growing demands from overseas clients.
 
Som Mittal, President of National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) has said that in  the outsourcing business in India there  is a growth in the employment sector as well, as far as the BPO industry is concerned.  He pointed out that even two-tier cities have become the hub of IT industry and software development , and is  in 50 cities and towns, and thats  very significant,  even if  a large part of the business did come from top six-seven cities.
 
This is good news for Kerala IT Mission, which has promoted the Hub-and-Spoke  method of development in the State.
 
Source: Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Joint Cloud Services from Sify and HP</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4767</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
                                                   

 
 
 
 
HP will allow Sify to leverage its channel network to promote its newly-launched cloud computing service in the SMB market. The cloud computing service jointly launched by the two companies is based on HP’s Converged Infrastructure, and offers IaaS, PaaS and SaaS on an on-demand basis to customers.
 
This is   a bid to gain a foothold in the nascent but potentially vast cloud computing market.
 
Sify’s cloud computing service is based on HP’s Blade System Matrix which pools together Sify’s IT resources into a highly automated and virtualized resource pool. Specific application templates automatically provision resources for every new business requirement. Business users can request IT services on the fly by using a self-service portal powered by the HP Insight Orchestration tool within the Blade System Matrix. 
 
Source:  CRN]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Intelenet Bags UID Call Centre Deal</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4763</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Back office firm Intelenet Global Services has outbid bigger rivals such as Genpact and Wipro BPO to win the tender for providing outsourced call centre  services for the prestigious Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) project .
 
 The UID project is being watched globally by governments, service providers and vendors because of the scale and complexity involved in providing a unique, verifiable identity to over a billion Indians.Vendors from around the  world  are vying for different parts of this huge project, the largest undertaken by any government. The first tender for software application development was awarded to Mindtree.
 
Source: Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 13 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Rural Houses to have Internet Libraries</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4761</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
About  2,000 houses in villages across the State will soon be key players in the knowledge economy, by assuming the role  as Internet libraries under a project taken up by the Government of India in association with the P.N.Panicker Foundation and the Confederation of NGOs in Rural India (CNRI).
 
While the Central government will provide a subsidy of Rs.4,500 to equip the houses with computers, the BSNL will provide broadband connectivity. The computers will be supplied on a monthly instalment scheme under an agreement signed by the government with HCL computers and Novatium Solutions. Apart from the subsidy of Rs.4,500, the beneficiary will also get a five-year maintenance guarantee. The loan taken for purchasing the computer can be repaid every month along with the telephone bill.
 
Under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) of the government, the BSNL will help the beneficiaries get new telephone connections and computers with broadband connectivity.
 
Empowerment through knowledge is the ultimate objective of the scheme.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 12 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cyberpark Granted SEZ Status</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4752</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Cyberpark at Kozhikode, the foundation stone of which was recently inaugurated by the Kerala CM, has been granted SEZ status by the Union Commercial Ministry. The SEZ allotment board has given the status of Special Economic Zone to 25.5 acres of land under Cyberpark. The notification in this regard will be issued shortly.
 
The plan for the building is under progress and would be constructed on 1.5 lakh square feet of land, at an estimated cost of  Rs 100 crore  funded  by the state government upto  Rs 20 crore and  the balance as loan from NABARD and other nationalised banks.
 

Source: manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IBS’ Solution to Manage Qantas Freight Movement </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4746</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 
One of the world's leading airlines, Australia's national carrier Qantas has implemented IBS’ Cargo Management Solution in Qantas Freight , its international air freight division. IBS’ new generation, state-of-the-art solution will manage the entire freight movements of one of the most prestigious carriers in the world with the completion of cargo terminal operations. Through this deployment, the airline has successfully migrated its global cargo sales, reservations and capacity management functions to IBS’ iCargo platform. iCargo has replaced the legacy system which was being used by the airline, the transition of which involved operations in thirteen countries. Qantas operates nearly 750 flights a week, offering services to 86 international destinations in 40 countries. 21 global customers – airlines and airports - have signed up for IBS’ iCargo since its launch five years ago.
 
iCargo is designed to meet the requirements of full freighter carriers, passenger &amp; cargo combination carriers, ground handling agents and customs authorities. The product has an architecture that is modular and yet can be tailored to meet the scope and scale of the customer’s requirement, however high the volume of cargo. The fully web-based solution is built from the ground up on a new generation technology platform and is compliant with IATA initiatives such as Cargo 2000 and e-Freight. The migration to iCargo is a key milestone for Qantas in its multi-million dollar Freight Futures business transformation program, aimed at differentiating itself from other cargo carriers by delivering improved services to its customers.
 
“To have a project of this size and complexity completed on time, within budget and with no interruption to our operations is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our business experts and IBS.” said Mr Stephen Cleary, Executive Manager Qantas Freight.
 
“Having partnered with us during the building of the solution, Qantas’ choice of iCargo for Freight Futures - its business transformation program - is an endorsement of our joint vision to create the most definitive Cargo Management System for the air transport industry.” said Mr. V K Mathews, Chairman &amp; CEO, IBS Group 
 
More information on IBS is available at www.ibsplc.com.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Competes for M Billionth Award </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4742</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Two of  Kerala’s  M-Governance Projects, 'Dr SMS' and  'Dam Information System to Farmers via SMS'  have been short listed for the MBillionth South Asia Award 2010. The award will be announced at the South Asia Mobile Conference being held in Colombo, Sri Lanka from June 10 to 13.
 
The  'Dr SMS'  project is to enable people to use their mobile phones to receive information on health resources and to provide users  with a comprehensive list of medical facilities available in that locality, like hospitals having expertise in various medical specialties , Doctors in the locality , etc.
 
The scope of Dam Information System project is to develop an integrated system as information delivery tool to the citizen, particularly farmers  and decision-making body of the department.
 
The MBillionth Award launched by the Digital Empowerment Foundation is a dedicated platform to explore the latent potential of mobile sector across South Asia. It is the first of its kind in the region to recognize and facilitate mobile innovations, applications and content services delivery. The  awardees are being  chosen  from 160 “Successful Quality Nominations” received from countries like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Maldives.
 
The Kerala State IT Mission, has been the  nodal agency behind the  implementation of IT initiatives under the Government of Kerala for  the projects
 

Source:  Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>World Bank Shows Interest in Kerala's m-Governance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4735</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The World Bank has requested the Government of Kerala to share with it the details of  m-governance launched  by its IT  department so that similar programmes could be launched in other countries of the Southeast region.
 
Kerala was the first state in the country that took  steps to use mobile phones as an effective platform for information dissemination on government programmes. Though the project is not fully complete , the  idea has got wide appreciation from both within and outside the country.
 
The m-governance project uses a single number platform  to support customized solutions on SMS, voice for multiple departments. With India's mobile penetration over  500 million and expected to reach  800 million by 2012, m-governance offers a huge opportunity for governments  to offer services on mobilephones.
 
Source:Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 08 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Scope for BioTechnology in Kerala</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4731</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Over the last few years, the Indian biotech industry has been growing into the role of being a strategic partner in research programs rather than just a service provider. Indian biotech industry has been able to register an impressive growth rate which has occasionally reached as high as 30%. India is currently ranked among the top 12 biotech destinations in the world. India is set to become one of the top five biotechnology players in the world within a couple of years. Indian biotech industry is expected to touch $ 5 billion this year. Of the close to 400 biotech companies in India, half are located in Bangalore.
 
A feasibility study was carried out recently by the School of Management, NIT Calicut on the opportunities available for the development of Biotechnology in the state of Kerala. The study  aimed at assisting  Cyber Park Kozhikode  assess the feasibility of projecting itself as a go-to place for Biotechnology companies, and developing the Malabar region as a Biotechnology hub in Kerala.
 
The study reveals that almost all the states in India are geared up for the challenge by coming out with Biotech specific industrial policies and setting up Biotech parks. Kerala has also announced a Biotech policy in the recent past and has also initiated plans to build and operate Biotech parks in Kerala. Since  the Biotech industry in India is still in a nascent stage, especially in Kerala, an  appropriate support and guidance from the state government would be essential to encourage entrepreneurship and industrial growth in this segment.
 
Kerala’s rich bio-diversity and the availability of skilled labour make it one of the most prospective locations for Biotechnology. Its advantages include being one of the most health conscious states with high literacy, and a rich exposure to traditional medicines and healing. Additionally, the presence of established research institutions like Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Biotechnology, Indian Institute for Spices Research, Kerala Agricultural University, etc ensures adequately trained human resources required in Biotechnology.
 
Typically, biotech companies expect an industrial park to provide centralized lab facilities and a hassle free research environment with animal houses and custom clearance facilities. The survey indicates that upcoming Biotech companies would look for incentives and a suitable eco system available in the region, while taking  investment decision on  location.
 
Kerala lacks both these and this can be a major challenge for the Cyber Park. The study states that the scope exists for a Biotechnology park in Kerala with state-of the-art office space, centralized lab facility, incubation center &amp; ready to occupy lab modules. The centralized lab should be well equipped with all the typical molecular biology instruments and testing facilities.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CM to Open Cochin Pullepaddy Overbridge</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4725</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Chief Minister V.S. Achutanandan will declare open the Pullepady railway overbridge this week.  The approach roads on either side — up to Padma Junction and  Thammanam have not  yet  been  fully widened,  the new bridge will provide fresh road connectivity from MG Road to Palarivattom and Vytilla.  Hopefully it will  lessen congestion on the North overbridge and Banerjee Road.
 
The Thammanam-Pullepady road being widened by the Corporation of Cochin will run parallel to SA Road.  Current plans  are  to extend it  up to Chakkaraparambu Junction on the Palarivattom-Vytilla bypass and further  to the Seaport-Airport Road. This will ultimately decongest the Palarivattom-Kakkanad and Vytilla-Thripunithura roads .
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Piracy Stifling Asian Software Industry</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4723</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
While global giants such as Microsoft and computer security firm  McAfee are prominent targets of copyright thieves, what is less known is that start-up Asian software companies are notable victims . Unlike the cash-rich industry big boys, these fledgling Asian companies are finding it harder to cope with losses resulting from copyright violations.
 
Business Software Alliance (BSA)  in a report released in May  says  that software piracy losses reached 51.4 billion dollars in 2009, of which 16.5 billion dollars was incurred in the Asia-Pacific region. On average, 59 per cent of the 900 million pieces of software installed in the Asia-Pacific region were unlicensed  says the study carried out with industry research firm IDC.
 
Bangladesh had the highest software piracy rate in Asia, followed by Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Vietnam, with China and India also among the top culprits.
 
The bigger impact is that piracy prevents Asia from producing software giants such as Microsoft's Bill Gates.  Yet in the United States, where the laws are very strong and the piracy rate is very low,  idea, after idea is taking over the whole world , whether it  be  Yahoo,  Facebook, or a  Microsoft operating system.
 
Source: Economic Times

 

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Mind Your Manners when You Use Technological Devices</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4703</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
As  technological devices  become more portable and  popular, they  enhance  our connectivity at work , but  also lead  to a greater degree of incivility , which is a trend that is damaging our workplace relationships. 
 
Behaviour that seems  inconsequential to the doer can be  perceived by others  around  as inconsiderate.  Electronic devices  have a powerful ability to claim our attention — no matter where we are or what we’re doing.
 
Younger  persons  may not be as concerned, as they’re already more likely to communicate electronically. Indeed, if everyone is texting at once, it may seem like  it does not matter.  However,  if you ignore others  while on your cellphone, or  keep others waiting  while  checking  your e-mail ,  some people will see you as inconsiderate,  disruptive  and insulting. 
 
Clearly, many of us recognise the problem, but excuse ourselves thinking its  a way to multitask and increase efficiency.
 
However  neuroscientists tell us that dividing our attention between competing stimuli, instead of handling tasks one at a time, actually makes us less efficient. Still, the illusion that multitasking can aid productivity is powerful, as research shows that  it produces  a kind of neural intoxication. Everyone  reaches a threshold beyond which working with others is irritating, even unendurable. Finding a mental escape can help us deal with the problem. But electronic devices have led to a serious overuse of this strategy to the detriment of everyone.
 
When people disappear from formal or informal meetings via their electronic devices, their colleagues interpret it  as  indicating things are less important that the electronic device. Consequential response  retribution by  colleagues may be  by withholding  information or refusal to work with that  person again.
 
-Based on an article in the  Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Toonz Collaborates to Produce Santa Claus Movie</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4699</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Technopark  based animation studio  Toonz Animation India Pvt.Ltd,  Gang of 7 Animation USA , and Hyde Park Entertainment USA have entered into an agreement to produce a Computer Graphic Imagery  animated feature film ‘The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus’.
 
Based on the classic book by L. Frank Baum, the creator of “The Wizard of Oz”, the movie chronicles the life of Santa Claus from an  infant to an adult.
 
The film will be directed by Tom Tataranowicz, Rich Arons and Dick Sebast, who have supervised noted Disney, Marvel and Hanna Barbera features, and boasts a supporting team of artists who have worked on pictures such as Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and Iron Giant.
 
The  project is currently in pre-production, with production set to commence in November at the Toonz Animation Studio in India. The movie is expected to be released in time for Christmas, 2010. 
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Chief Minister to Inaugurate Model Finishing School @ Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4680</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 
The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, Sri. V. S Achuthanandan will inaugurate the new Model Finishing School in Kochi on June 7. The Model Finishing School is a pioneering venture of the Government of  Kerala, with the purpose of enhancing employability of qualified youths from the State of Kerala. It is a joint initiative of the IT Department, GoK and the Institute of Human Resources Development (IHRD), with the support of industry-major Infosys. The IHRD is responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the institution.
 
Kerala has always led from the front in literacy, whether it is in the form of nearly 100% literacy (Kerala's literacy rate is 90.92%) or women’s education. With a higher quality of life index and lower cost of living, IT/ITES businesses are slowly recognizing the inherent strength of the Human Resources the state offers. With innovative programs like mandatory IT audits in all schools, the IT@School programme which will train 2 lakh personnel over the next one year, or using Open Software for ICT enabled education in school, the State is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that its youth have the right skills to attract IT/ITES companies.
 
The first Model Finishing School, set up in  Trivandrum is the result of such initiatives. Recognizing a mismatch between the highly educated youth in Kerala and the needs of the IT industry, the Government of Kerala set up this pioneering venture with the purpose of enhancing employability of qualified youths from the State of Kerala, with special emphasis on communication and articulation skills. The main objective is to equip the youth of Kerala with technical and soft skills that employers look for.
 
Now with the new finishing school being opened in Kochi, the companies in Kochi can also reach out to talented and educated youth in Kerala through in its own city  For more details, email info@infoparkkochi.com]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Global IT Spend Expected to Increase by 9.3%</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4678</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
  
                                                                                                                                                    
Technology research firm Forrester has raised the growth  forecast for the global IT market, pegging it at a  healthy 9.3%  nearly four percentage points higher than the last technology forecast put out by another analyst firm Gartner.
 
The recovery is expected to  be led by spending on computer equipment and software and  last well beyond 2010 .  Forrester’s research is based on economic data such as GDP growth and business profits, technology  cycles of  innovation, growth and  digestion, and exchange rates.
 
Their  forecasts are not driven by surveys because  this believe  that this methodology  has been found to be  backward looking .
 
US  IT  outsourcing services consisting of applications, mainframe, network, desktop and other  outsourcing is estimated to grow to $ 91 billion in 2010 and by a further 6.4% to  $97 billion in 2011.
 

Source: Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Calicut, Kochi and Trivandrum to be the &quot;Happening Places&quot; for IT</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4683</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
According to Dr. Ajay Kumar, Principal Secretary, IT, Kerala, “Distributed Townships are the way to go for Kerala IT. Major IT centers like Chennai, Bangalore, Gurgaon have grown beyond a level of sustainability.” This is the main reason Kerala IT is promoting the hub and spoke model for development of IT infrastructure.
 
According to Dr. Kumar, tier 2 and tier 3 cities like Calicut, Kochi and Trivandrum will be the most happening place for IT in the coming years. Though Tier 1 cities control 90% of the IT market today, Tier 2 and 3 cities may attract up to 80% of the new businesses (projected to grow from $20 billion to $60 billion over the next decade) coming India’s way over the next 10 years, as predicted by National Association for Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM).
 
On the other hand, money (or access to new customers and investment) is no longer a hurdle for IT companies – getting the right talent is. This is where Kerala stands to score, given the quality of life index, human resources, and service related industries. “Be it road, connectivity, water, electricity, education, there is an opportunity for Kerala to leverage these and be counted”, Dr. Kumar concluded.
 
However, the Government of Kerala still recognizes a mismatch between the highly educated youth in Kerala and the needs of the IT industry – lack of communication and articulation skills. The Model Finishing School is a pioneering venture of the Government of  Kerala, set up with the purpose of enhancing employability of qualified youths from the State of Kerala. A Government of Kerala (GoK) undertaking, the Model Finishing School is a joint initiative of the IT Department, GoK and the Institute of Human Resources Development (IHRD), with the support of industry-major Infosys. The IHRD is responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the institution.
 
Now IT companies in Kochi can also reach out to talented and educated youth in Kerala through the Model Finishing School in its own city. Honorable Chief Minister Shri VS Achuthanandan will inaugurate the Kochi Model Finishing School on 7th June at the School premises in Kaloor.
 
For more details, email info@infoparkkochi.com.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Neon New Version Launched by Flytxt</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4673</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

                                
Flytxt , one of the pioneering companies  in mobile marketing ,  based in Kerala,  launched  its  advanced version of its mobile marketing platform Neon.
 
Neon is touted to be used as a powerful tool for mobile operators to launch high volume marketing programmes  that will  generate incremental revenue from existing subscribers.
 
The entire marketing loop, comprising of behavioural analytics, segmentation, campaign execution, ROI tracking, reward fulfilment and reward confirmation, is automated in real time in a single integrated platform.
 

Source: manoramaonline
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Visa Norms for IT Companies Relaxed</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4646</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The  government has relaxed employment visa norms for the  IT sector allowing companies to hire foreign nationals as per their requirements. This effectively removes the ceiling of 20 such employees per company.
 
The ministry of external affairs has circulated new guidelines to all missions abroad informing them of the relaxation in procedures for IT and ITeS companies.
 
Technology companies that sponsor foreigners to work here will need to give a declaration that the skilled worker has been hired for and IT or ITeS company or to work in a Software Park of India or and special economic zone dedicated to information technology or an IT unit in a multi-product zone.
 
On the other hand, the foreign worker being sponsored will have to give a declaration to the effect that his annual salary is in excess of $25,000 per annum. The salary cap is being introduced to ensure only highly skilled workforce comes into the country.
 

Source: Times of India

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>HCL Infosystems R&amp;D Unit at Technopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4641</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Technopark Chief Executive Mervin Alexander   informed the media that HCL will set up a R&amp;D unit on a two-acre plot in the Technopark campus. This will be HCL info  systems  first unit in Kerala.
 
The third phase of the Technopark, dedicated to IT ventures, is coming up in an area of 92 acres, of which 22 acres would be given out to those who need their own campuses.   IBM officials have also shown  interest  and  have had a  round of talks with  Technopark officials.
 

Source: EconomicTimes
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Chief Minister to Launch Technocity on 4th June</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4643</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

Technocity perspective
 
Technocity,  Kerala's biggest IT/ITES project, will be launched by Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan on June 4.  The 450-acre facility will come up at Pallippuram,  near the Technopark .
 
Technocity will be developed as an integrated township encompassing IT/ITES infrastructure, residential apartments, shopping malls, hospitals, hotels, educational institutions and other support facilities. On completion, the latest IT Park would generate one lakh direct and four lakh indirect employment opportunities.
 
Acquisition of land for the project was completed earlier this year at a cost of Rs.340 crore.  An investment of over Rs.6,000 crore is expected in the mega-project which will be developed on public private partnership (PPP) basis.  The project is to be  developed in a phased manner over  seven years of which the first major phase will be completed in a period of three years, to enable the parks to commence functioning by July 2012.
 
The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is preparing a detailed project report for an exclusive water supply system for Technocity.  The  improvement and maintenance of approach roads to Technocity will be taken up with the Public Works Department (PWD).
 
Technopark had applied for funding of  Rs.170 crore to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for development of infrastructure at Technocity.  Kerala State IT Infrastructure Ltd. (KSITIL) is the developer of the project .
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Google is Preferred Search Engine</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4635</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The total intensity of Google usage in India has increased by 70 per cent this April over the year-ago period, according  to  Google India Business Head,  Narasimha Jayakumar .
 
According to Google's  'Brand Zeitgeist'  which highlights the most searched brands, mobile phone maker Nokia emerged as the most searched brand  in India followed by State Bank of India, Samsung, Sony and BSNL .
 
Financial sector has recorded a 73 per cent growth in terms of searches and it is a mature category with 80 per cent queries containing specific brands, Jayakumar said.
 
About  33 %  of the queries from the financial sector were about banking and net banking was  the top activity.  In insurance, LIC is the top searched brand followed by ICICI Prudential and Bajaj Allianz.
 
Source:  Economic Times

 

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>New ICT-based Education Policy for Kerala</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4633</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Education Minister M.A. Baby has said that an education policy based on information and communication technology (ICT) will be unveiled for the State this year.
 
He felt that in an ICT-based education system, teachers of every subject should be equipped to employ the technology in teaching. The State's experience showed that a separate IT faculty would not help. Hence, all teachers were being trained in ICT-enabled teaching methods.
 
The  IT@School project was in its 10th year in the State,  and  the project had given about a-lakh-and-a-half teachers practical knowledge in the use of IT, laying the foundation for ICT-based education in the State. The students were helped to use IT as a tool for studying various subjects after it was made a mandatory subject in 2003.
 
Mr. Baby said complete ICT-based education would be possible when all classrooms in the State were electrified by 2012. This year, 20,000 more classrooms would be electrified and as many smart classrooms introduced.
 
Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>ICON Opens Development Centre at Infopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4651</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

ICON Clinical Research Executive Vice President Malcolm Burgess inaugurated the 20,000 sq.ft new office of ICON plc. the global provider of outsourced development services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries ,  at the Leela Infopark building in Technopark campus in Trivandrum.
 
This area will house its new development centre. ICON specializes in strategic development, management and analysis of programs that support clinical development from compound selection to PhaseI-IV clinical studies. Headquartered from Dublin, Ireland, the company has presence in   14 countries in  the Asia Pacific region.  In India Trivandrum is the third centre after Bangalore and Chennai.  Globally, the company is operating  at 70 locations in 38 countries and has over  7000  employees.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Microsoft Sees India as Hub for Cloud Computing</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4637</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Cloud Computing is the operating system of the future
 
The world’s biggest software maker  Microsoft  is among a handful of companies betting big on cloud services, aiming to convince enterprises to give up building and managing data centres and switch to their computer capacity instead . The  others  are  rivals such as Amazon, Google  and  AT&amp;T as  well as smaller firms like  Rackspace  and  Terremark.
 
Microsoft believes India will move directly to the cloud, much like it bypassed the landline revolution that never happened and leapt to mobile phones.
 
Microsoft  CEO  Ballmer who is in India to underline the importance of the company’s cloud services platform Azure, wherein people can use applications from email to payroll systems hosted online.
 
The concept of renting computing power that has taken the technology world by storm. The transition that India will champion will seed 3 lakh jobs in five years, during which the business is estimated to grow to $70 billion.  Jobs will be generated in areas like cloud consulting, enabling software as a service, integrating offerings like Azure with IBM’s Blue Cloud or salesforce.com’s customer applications on cloud  and creating new applications.
 

Source:  Times of India
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 29 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Light Logics Wins Invention Award</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4630</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Technopark incubated Light Logics has  won the award for its innovative invention, which will be an aid to the armed forces and military to achieve sharp shooting in a ‘tactical engagement area’.
 
A  Technopark incubated company  - Light Logics is an export oriented ISO 9001- 2000 Company functioning in techno-intensive areas of Holographic Imaging, Photonics and Optics. In sharp contrast to  routine  security hologram production companies, Light Logics function in core technology areas of holographic imaging. Light Logics is directed and managed by a group of scientists, engineers and professionals of proven track record with international stature and more than twenty years of tradition in holography. Apart from production, the Company has a strong Research and Development wing that optimises new generation holographic products and solutions.
 
The company won the  gold media award  at India Innovation Growth Programme (IIGP) for its ‘Next generation Holographic Weapon Sight’.
 
Till now the conventional Red-dot Sights and Laser Sights  are  being used which have a very limited field of view due to its tubular vision. With the invention, of a Holographic Weapon Sight (HWS),   the company has  revolutionised the whole concept of sharp shooting.
 
Testing of the holographic weapon sights developed by Light Logics was done by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Government of India at the Instrument Research and Development Establishment (IRDE), Dehra Dun and the optimization was done over a period of two years. Field level testing was jointly done by the DRDO and the Indian Army and the tests were successful.
 

Source: manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 28 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Software Conference for Public Sector</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4619</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
An  international Conference on "Software for the Public Sector, with special focus on Public Education"  , is being organized jointly by  UNESCO,  Solution Exchange ICTD Community and IT@School Project of Government of Kerala.
 
The three day event will be held  at Le Meridian Hotel in Kochi from 27th May 2010.
 
Organised  to meet the need to involve the countries of this region to take the  current  practices of  government software policy and ICT in education  forward, the  conference will bring  together members  from  State Governments, civil society,  NGOs and academia.
 
Just as  ICTs have transformed the working of the business sector, the event  has the potential to transform public sector working and  effectiveness. Education is a key sector that could be used for  adopting  and  promoting Free and Open Source ( FOSS)  softwares and open standards.
 
The conference will include participants from South Asian countries as well, aims to have three  workshops in which the participants will be expected to provide inputs for the 'Guiding principles for public sector software'  and review of resource material for OSS in education.
 

Source: manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Ten Tips to be Safe Online</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4621</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
On the occasion of World Information Society Day, Kaspersky Lab provides 10 simple tips for a safe online experience.
 
- Keep Windows and third party  applications up-to-date
 - Back up your data regularly to a CD, DVD or  external USB drive
- Do not respond to e-mails or social media messages if you don't know the sender
- Do not click on e-mail attachments or objects via social media if you dont know the sender
- Do not click on links in  e-mails or IM messages.Type the address directly into your web browser
- Do not give out personal information in response to an e-mail
- Shop or bank only at secure  sites. Their URL starts with ' https://' and you will find a gold padlock on the right hand corner of your browser
- Use a different password for each website or service you use and make sure it consists of more than five  charcaters or numerals
- Make sure you  share your  child's  online experience and install parental control software  to block inappropriate  content
- Install internet security software and  keep it updated.
 
Source: Times of India

 

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Birla Group to Set Up IT and BioTech Park at Kozhikode</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4593</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The  State government has given in-principal clearance to the Aditya Birla Group for setting up a Rs 4,000-crore IT and Biotech Knowledge Park and a branch of Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences (BITS) at Kozhikode.
 
The Knowledge Park, planned as one of the largest of its kind in India  will house non-polluting projects related to nano-technology, biotechnology and related cutting-edge research and development (R&amp;D), knowledge process management, besides advanced information technology (IT) services.
 
The project is expected to create direct employment for over 100,000 professionals and indirect employment for 300,000 people.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 26 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala is Role Model for Using Open Software in Education</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4595</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Kerala is a role model for other States in implementing  Information-and- Communication-Technology-enabled  education in schools , using Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS), according to Rajen Vareda, moderator of U.N. Solution Exchange ICTD Community.
 
Kerala's success in the field was due a host of factors  like the  government's resolve, teachers unions' commitment, involvement of civil society and the general political consciousness.
 
A conference on ‘Software for the public sector, with focus on public education,' is being organised by United National Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Solution Exchange ICTD Community, and Kerala Government's IT@School.
 
This will be attended by senior policymakers, educationists and software specialists from half a dozen South Asian countries as well as from across India, it will formulate a set of guidelines for the public-sector software (software developed for public service, especially for government, using FOSS).
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 26 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Next in Communications: Quantum Messaging</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4591</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Quantum Computers
 
Never heard of it ?  Don't worry; only scientists do really know it yet.
 
Researchers transmitted particles of light or photons  about  90 miles  while keeping intact a strange invisible tie between the particles known as entanglement. 
 
The   transmission was ten times farther than anyone has been able to send entangled photons through the air . When two particles become entangled, manipulating one instantly affects the other .
 
These   unique and complex properties of entanglement,  virtually  ensures  that there  is no chance that such messages could ever be successfully intercepted and decoded.  The  techniques used  could also be useful in creating  quantum computers, which could exploit quantum physics to solve problems in seconds that would take today's  machines years of work.
 
You cannot buy them yet, but bet they will be on the market oneday .
 
Source: National Geographic
.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 26 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>PC Sales Move Up the Ramp</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4581</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
India's IDC, a leading technology consultancy  company says that personal computer sales in the first quarter of this year have touched 2.2 million. This is   about  33% higher than last year, and shows that demand is picking up as the economy improves.
 
Among the various segments, desktop computers accounted for nearly two-thirds of the total sales at 1.44 million units, representing an 18 percent growth, while notebook sales were up 72 percent with 803,000 .
 
The commercial segment, especially large and very large businesses, also saw a demand growth. This performance underscores a more broad based recovery in the India personal computer market.
 
Topping sales  in  the  personal computer segment,  including notebooks and desktops, Hewlett Packard retained the top spot with a market share of 16.5 percent, followed by Dell (13.6 percent) and Acer (13 percent).
 
In desktops  also  HP was the top player with a market share of 11.2 percent, followed by Acer and HCL. In notebooks, HP reclaimed the top spot with a market share of 25.9 percent, followed by Dell and Acer.
 

Source  : EconomicTimes
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 25 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>India's Top Executive Bloggers are from IT Industry</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4575</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

A recent study conducted by the Ahmedabad Indian Institute of Management  (IIM-A)  shows that  most  of the Indian-origin CEOs and top executives, who  have taken up blogging, are  associated with  Information  Technology and internet  sectors.
 
The trend of few Indian executives blogging is in keeping with the worldwide trend of  unpopularity of  blogging  among  top  executives.  Worse still, only two of the executive bloggers in the  study  sample were  women .
 
The study done using internet as a medium, could identify 35 individual blogs by Indian origin CEO and executives as a sample size, where they have excluded company blogs in which some of the top businessmen may be contributing.  When blogging is gaining popularity among political leadership, bollywood personalities and even sportsperson, Indian business leaders  are not exploiting its power.
 

Source: Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 24 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kasargod Cyber Park Work Begins</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4549</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 The  foundation  stone for  Malabar's  second IT destination – Cyberpark Kasargod at  Cheemeni in  Kasargod district  was laid by  the  Chief  Minister V.S. Achuthanandan  last week.
 
Established  to act as the hub for development of IT/ITeS sector in the Northern Region , the  park will be developed  on  100 acres of land of which 25 acres will be  an IT/ITES specific Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The  first phase is expected  to provide  employment  for  over 2000 persons, and when fully on stream  closer to  20,000 persons.
 
The  Kasargode  Cyberpark   will be  able  to  tap into the large pool of locally available skilled resources  from  reputed educational institutions not just in North Malabar but also from Dakshina Kannada.
 
It is expected  to  provide a friendly, cost effective and top of the line infrastructure to the IT/ITES investors,  and act as  a catalyst for the social and infrastructure development of the region. The  employment opportunities and  economical development of the state  in the  Malabar Region will get a tremendous boost.
 
Source:  Manoramaonline.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 24 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Police  Awareness of New IT Act being Increased</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4540</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Realising  the increase in cybercrimes, the Police Department  is into  sensitising  its officers on the amended version of the  Information Technology ( Amendment ) Act  2008  which came into force on  27th October 2009.
 
Only a police officer above the rank of a Circle Inspector has the power to investigate  offences under the Act. The Rules pertaining to section 52 (Salary, Allowances and Other Terms and Conditions of Service of Chairperson and Members),  section 54 (Procedure for Investigation of Misbehaviour or Incapacity of Chairperson and Members), section 69 (Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information), section 69A (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public), section 69B (Procedure and safeguard for Monitoring and Collecting Traffic Data or Information) and notification under section 70B  for appointment of the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team have all  been notified.
 
While Police personnel are aware of some of the crimes associated with the Internet, many of them are unacquainted with the new provisions. The new Act has provisions to deal with offences like destroying, deleting and altering  information in a computer resource.  Punishment has been prescribed  for  stealing,  concealing,  destroying or  altering  computer source  code. The  penalty  for cyber  terrorism is  imprisonment  for  life.
 
Source : THE HINDU
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 24 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Poised for IT Leap: Says CM</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4551</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Kerala Chief Minister of Kerala  V. S. Achuthanandan says that the State is poised for a leap in information technology sector. The growth rate in the sector now is higher than in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.
 
The infrastructure  developed by the government had increased by 81 per cent during the past four years , and   developed space grew to 105 lakh square feet against 19 lakh square feet in 2006.  Investments  in the last two years  had  exceeded Rs.10,000 crore.
 
The government's  policy of decentralised IT development with three IT hubs and IT parks around them , had  helped to prevent the negative environmental impact of large parks.
 
The government had also been able to change the impression that IT was for getting outsourcing contracts. The IT policy now focussed on building a knowledge society.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 24 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>ESIC Medical Help to be More Accessible</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4544</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
For those who  use state insurance, here is good news.
 
The Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)  is  revamping its systems with a  Rs.1,800-crore computerisation programme that will bring all its offices, hospitals,  dispensaries  and  other  facilities into a  single  online network. This will make the ESIC services far more easily accessible to the insured worker.
 
An insured person working in any part of the country can get medical treatment and other ESIC benefits anywhere in India , under  the new system , which aims  at  professionalising   the functioning of one of the world's largest public-sector worker insurers . 
 
As part of the  new  system  "Panchdeep",  smart cards with biometric data would be issued to the insured persons, and his family. The card would  give all the insurance and contribution details,  to enable finding out if  the employer had  defaulted on contributions.
 
ESIC  has  recently raised the wage ceiling from Rs.10,000 a month to Rs.15,000, thus enabling some five lakh  additional  workers to be insured.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 22 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Wipro will Expand Kerala Operations</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4533</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Wipro's  Chairman Azim Premji  met and assured  Kerala  Chief Minister  Achuthanandan that his company  would  expand its  operations  in the state.
 
Wipro currently operates at  its 25 acre  Infopark  campus and employs over 1900 professionals.  Wipro is exxpected to give priority to BPO  initiatives related to Law and finance  in the state, as part of its  expansion in the state.
 
Premji who was in Trivandrum to attend an RBI Board meeting has also suggested that the Government open a Police outpost at Infopark in Kochi. This would help instill a sense of security  to foreign investors.
 
Source:  Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Needs New Approach with Vocabulary</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4518</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Nasscom President  Som Mittal   feels that the usage of words  offshoring and outsourcing  should be removed from the vocabulary.
 
India needs a strategy change  with its   Engineering and  R&amp;D services market  projected to  reach $40-45 billion by 2020 . The usage  of  the  term "outsourcing"  has  hurt  India's software industry overseas.
 
Mittal argues  that offshoring is also a business, noting that Nokia is  designing products in India, which is also a market for the telecom company.
 
 The  President of  Honeywell Technologies, Krishna Mikkilineni goes  even further  and says  that the  term  'services'  should also be removed from the vocabulary, in addition to  "offshoring" and "outsourcing".  This is engineering and there is no need to add services.
 
Source : EconomicTimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT  Audits in All Kerala Schools </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4517</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The government has decided to conduct IT audits in all schools in  Kerala  state. This is to ensure  the effective functioning of the ICT education scheme.

 
The IT audit will check whether Information Communication Technology (ICT) education using internet, computer labs and projectors are being utilised effectively. This has been included in the guidelines for ICT education in high schools issued by the government recently.
 
The ICT textbooks in Standard VIII has been revised by enabling the use of IT tools in teaching all subjects. A strict monitoring mechanism would now be in place for the  evaluation of the  infrastructure  facilities   in IT class rooms.  As per current   guidelines, teachers who have received training from IT@School alone  can  teach IT in schools. A four day training programme for 60,000 teachers in ICT  at  school level currently in progress would end this  week.
 
Source:  Manorama online]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Video Security Monitoring for Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4520</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

Kochi city will soon have state of the art facility to monitor  security and traffic movement  in the main junctions.


 

The main feature of the facility is real-time monitoring of visuals recorded through 36 cameras placed in  strategic points.  The visuals from these cameras will be recorded and kept in digital format . A video wall has been set up at the control room, where personnel will be monitoring the visuals.

 

The system, believed to be the first of its kind used by police in South India, will have facilities to zoom any camera or to make public address at junctions during emergency situations.

 

Given the high volume of traffic in the city, it was  difficult to pin down vehicles based on mere description of models , and  to trace vehicles involved in ‘hit-and-run' cases unless they are detected immediately. The Director General of Police had suggested the use of data stored in surveillance  or speed detection cameras to trace vehicles involved in such cases. These  kind of cases are to receive more attention from the police.

 
Source:  THE HINDU

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CM to Lay Foundation Stone for the Cyberpark at Cheemeni, Kasaragod on 21/5</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4506</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 


 
The Hon. CM of Kerala Sri. V S Achuthanandan will lay the foundation stone  for the Cyberpark at Cheemeni in Kasaragod at 5 pm on 21st May 2010.  The park at Cheemeni will be developed as a spoke to the Cyberpark at Calicut. The parks is estimated to cost Rs 150 crore, spread over a five-year period. For more details, click here.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 20 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Europe Crisis will Fade; Feels NASSCOM</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4499</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Amidst concerns that the crisis in Europe may force companies to cut their spending on IT, NASSCOM said that the current European uncertainties are short-term in nature.
 
At present, US is the largest market for the export- driven Indian IT industry. However, NASSCOM is  confident that the European bloc  as a whole, will continue to be one of the largest markets for the Indian IT-BPO industry.
 
The report comes at a time when the lingering debt crisis in Europe is rattling global markets, raising fears of project cancellations among Indian IT firms.
 
Indian companies currently earn less than $2.6 billion from the Germanic region against the addressable market size of over $53 billion. Business from this region, which is the largest market in Europe, has the potential to grow to $10 billion by 2020. Germany and Austria each spend close to 2.5 per cent of the GDP on IT, whereas Switzerland leads the norm by spending over 5 per cent.
 

Source :  Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Euro Crash May Affect  Indian IT</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4466</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
                
 
The euro has slid to its lowest in recent history ,  and while the dollar has strengthened against the euro, it has not strengthened against the rupee to the same extent. 
 
Currently facing  economic uncertainty  and  now coupled  with the  weakening currency in Europe , India’s export-focused IT sector  is  concerned, as  it  has only just recovered  from  the  fallout of the US slowdown.
 
Europe is the second largest market for the Indian IT industry, accounting for approximately $15 billion worth of exports. Last week  the  euro's crash brought  the currency  to a low of 1.24 against the dollar.  Since the beginning of this year, the euro has lost around 13.5%  value against the dollar.  Even the pound has not been doing very well .  For most IT firms, approximately half their Europe region revenue is from the UK, where the billings are in  Pound Sterling.
 
Whilst hedging their net  exposure  does give some extent of protection, the  revenue realisation would be lower with the weak euro and pound sterling, and it would affect profitability.
 

Source: Times of India
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>KSRTC Kochi City Service Soon</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4474</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Transport Minister Jose Thettayil has said that the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) would launch city services in Kochi soon.
 
The problem that  the Goshree Islanders  were facing would also be resolved soon,  as KSRTC would deploy 20 buses for operation through the Goshree Bridges. A  Kerala High Court order in this regard was being awaited by the Transport Corporation.
 
The minister said that the introduction of low floor buses was the first step in resolving the traffic problems of the city.
 
Source:  THE HINDU
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>5 Top Paying Jobs for Women in Tech </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4470</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Have you ever wondered  which are the best paying positions for women in the  Tech industy ?  Forbes recently published a report titled 'Best-Paying Jobs For Women'  . Here are  five Tech jobs that made the list:
 
Number One  is  of course  the CEO  with  24%  women  (Yahoo's  Carol Bartz  &amp;  Xerox's Ursula Burns are  fine examples)
 
The next best-paying job is that of Computer and Information Systems Manager which stands at No 4 in the total ranking  with  28%  women. The job involves implementing technology into an organisation and also overseeing network security and IT operations.
 
At No. 5 on the list of best paying jobs for women techies is computer software engineer with 21 % women.
 
Appearing for the first time in Forbes list of Best-paying Jobs for Women is computer programmer at No 7 also with 21 % women.
 
Next good-paying position for females in the technology industry is that of   computer scientists  and systems analysts which has 28% women.
 
Source: The Times of India
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 18 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CM Lays Foundation Stone for Cyberpark Kozhikode</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4462</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan on Monday laid the foundation stone for the Cyberpark at Nellikkode in Kozhikode.  He also inaugurated the launch of the UL Cyberpark (owned by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society ) project on the adjoining campus.
 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
The CM said that the Cyberparks were “a long cherished dream of the people of North Kerala,” and added that the work on the Cyberparks  in Kannur and Kasaragod would start next week. He expressed hope that the Cyberparks  would facilitate major IT investments in North Kerala.
 
Minister for Industries, Elamaram Kareem presided over the function. The Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Mullappally Ramachandran laid the foundation stone for the first IT building of the Cyberpark .
 
News Source: The Hindu ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 18 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cyberpark Kozhikode Goes Live!!</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4451</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
 
And today, the Hon. Chief Minister of Kerala, Sri. V. S Achuthanandan will mark the inauguration of the Cyberpark at Kozhikode by laying the  foundation stone of the park.
 
Sri. Mullappally Ramachandran, The Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs, Government of India will lay the foundation stone of the first IT buildings of Cyberpark Kozhikode at the function.
 
Watch the inaugural ceremony of what is going to be one of the most important turning points in the history of Malabar LIVE!!! Today from 3 pm!! Click here to watch it live!!
 
To know more on the details regarding the inaugural ceremony, read
 
1. IT Enters Kozhikode
 
2. Cyberpark to be Inaugurated by Chief Minister on 17th May 2010]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 17 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Calicut Dream becomes Reality</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4416</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

An artist's view of the proposed Cyberpark
 
While the Technopark and the capital city of Kerala has already found their place  in the IT map of the world with Rediff  ranking Thiruvananthapuram as the 4th most conducive destination for IT in country, Jones Lang LaSalle's World Winning Cities Program has identified Kochi, the State's commercial capital as a stand out for investment and one amongst Tier III cities with the most favorable prospects in India- a lot of which has to do with the Infopark.
 
And now, with the coming up of  the Cyberpark at Kozhikode, Malabar is all set to be the world's next IT destination.
 
In March 2008  the Government agreed to acquire 68 acres of land at Nellikode village. The land for the Cyberpark was acquired under the fast track system.  When the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society decided to come up with the UL Cyberpark at the proposed site, the Government was also prompted to develop the area into a similar project. Of  this, 26 acres was handed over to Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society for setting up their UL Cyberpark.
 
The proposal for  converting the Park into a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has already  been  cleared. On completion of registration of the remaining land acquired, the application for SEZ will be sent to the Central Government. Kozhikode meets all the requirements for the setting up of a Cyberpark.
 
The  site is located at a distance of 15 minutes drive from the city and 20 minutes drive from the airport.The Cyberpark on completion would directly provide job opportunities for 1500 personnel and to more than 6000 people indirectly. The maiden tower is expected to be completed by 2011.
 
There is a huge potential for IT in Malabar considering its proximity to Mangalore, the large pool of skilled and English-speaking resources and  low cost of living. Also, the Livability Report 2010 , brought out by the Confederation of Indian Industry  and Institute for Competitiveness has shown Kozhikode as India's best city to live in and as the best in health and medical standards. For more details, read: 1. Liveability Index 2010: Kerala Top in Health and Medical Standards and 2. Kozhikode is the Best City to Live In.
 
To know more on Cyberpark , read the Kerala IT blogs on Cyberpark or check out the Cyberpark wikipage.


 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 17 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Greencraft IT Solutions Opens at Technopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4400</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Mr. S. Sarma , Minister for Registration and Fisheries  launched  Greencraft IT Solutions Private Ltd at the  Technopark  this week. Speaking  on the occasion he  assured investors that the Government would provide  investors all facilities  to set up IT  ventures in the state.
 
Greencraft IT  Solutions Private Limited , the software wing of United Business Group  with headquarters in Kuwait, provides superior consulting services for managing the implementation of Software Application and Development in the IT industry, serving both the  domestic and international sectors. The company  brings a fresh and innovative approach to consulting services, acting as liaison between the end-user and the software applications.
 
As experts in the field , the company  is involved in every stage  of  Software Development  from implementation to completion offering continuous functional and technical support.
 

News source: The Hindu
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 17 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>KSRTC's  Modernisation Moves</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4402</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan  said that reviving the  Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), which was a white elephant, was one of the many achievements of  his government.
 
Inaugurating the first commercial complex of the KSRTC at Kottarakara,    Mr. Achuthanandan said the KSRTC was fast becoming self-reliant and would soon carry on without financial support from the government.
 
Under a  revival package , KSRTC  had bought 2,023 buses in the past four years and  introduced  1,014 new schedules . Construction of terminal-cum-commercial complexes at Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode and an eight-storey commercial complex at Angamali are under way.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 17 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>M and A Strategy for Indian IT Majors </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4412</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Growth through mergers and acquisitions  may become the next big  thing  in the Indian IT sector with some of   big  IT exporters including Wipro and HCL Technologies  having  aggressively pursued this  strategy for the past few years. Their  financials  indicate  that this strategy has paid huge dividends.
 
The  biggest two companies TCS and Infosys are  not completely alien to  the route of acquisitions, though  certainly a less  used one by them.  Apart from three acquisitions between the two of them in the past two years, their  growth has largely been organic. It may be  noted that even though both TCS and Infosys have reported slower revenue growth, they have been able to increase operating efficiencies. This is evident,  as they have retained their margins by observing a strict control on costs. 
 
However  for the next leap of growth, a robust inorganic  growth strategy may be critical.  This  could  also influence the stock market valuations of the top IT  companies, in the days ahead.
 
Source:  The Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 16 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Digital Mapping of All Kerala Schools</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4407</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The General Education Department has undertaken  digital mapping of  all schools in the State as part of the implementation of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act. 
 
The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), which coordinates the project, has shortlisted  a  Palakkad-based non-profit organisation Maithri to do the  field works and prepare  the digital school map of every educational sub-district. About 15,000 schools   including unaided and unrecognised institutions  will be covered.
 
The prime objective  of  undertaking such a project  is to create a  database of schools for determining the distance between schools and locating areas that do not have neighbourhood schools,  within the minimum distance prescribed under the Free and Compulsory Education  Act.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 16 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Enters Kozhikode</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4391</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
IT is finally all set to enter Kozhikode with the impending foundation stone laying ceremony of the Cyberpark Kozhikode at 3 pm on Monday the 17th of May 2010 by Sri. V. S Achuthanandan, the Hon. Chief Minister of Kerala. The CM will also inaugurate the launch of the UL Cyberpark Project.
 
Sri. Mullappally Ramachandran, The Hon'ble Minister of State for Home Affairs, Government of India will lay the foundation stone of the first IT buildings of Cyberpark Kozhikode at the function.The Cyberpark project, which forms the centerpiece of the State Government’s initiative to promote IT industries in Malabar has a very ambitious goal of having the first IT Building ready for commercial launch by early 2011.
 
The Hon. Minister for Industries, Sri. Elamaram Kareem will deliver the presidential address and Sri. Binoy Viswam, the Hon'ble Minister for Forest and Housing, Kerala will be the key note speaker.
 
Cyberpark Kozhikode will be developed as a township where 30% space will be planned for Villas, Apartments, schools, Shopping Complexes, Movie Theaters, fitness clubs, day care facilities while 70% will be dedicated for the IT/ITES based investments.
 
For more details, read Kerala IT Blogs on Cyberpark.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 14 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Adventity Global Acquired by Sutherland</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4372</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

Dilip Vellodi of Sutherland
 
Sutherland Global Services  has acquired  Adventity Global Services which  employs  over 2500 persons and has  operations in New York, Houston, Mumbai, Chennai and Dubai.
 
Adventity  is a premier provider of business  and  financial research and analytical services, which focus on providing platform-based BPO services to Banks, Financial Services , Airline &amp; Travel Industry companies.
 
Sutherland  is a leading  Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Technology Enabled services company , set up by Malayalee entrepreneur Dilip Vellodi .
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 14 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cabinet Approves e-Visa Project</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4369</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The Cabinet at a meeting chaired by the Prime Minister this week, approved an  over  Rs 1000 crore e-project to streamline and integrate  the visa, immigration and foreigners'  registration and tracking process to enable information sharing across agencies.
 
The project undertaken by the Home Ministry  under the National e-Governance Plan  (NeGP) is to develop and implement  a secure and integrated service delivery framework that facilitates  legitimate travellers  while at the same strenthens security. The project will have  a global outreach,  since it  includes 169 missions, 78 Immigration Check Posts, seven Foreigners Regional Registration Offices, and Foreigners Registration Offices in state and district headquarters across the country.
 
e-visas, which are applied for and issued online,  facilitates clearing immigration for entry into  countries which issues  visa  on arrival.  The introduction of e-visa will help  tourism  as it facilitates  the  visa-on-arrival regime as and when  India expands it.
 

Source: Sifynews
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 13 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cyberpark to be Inaugurated by Chief Minister on 17th May 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4356</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 And now, IT arrives at Kozhikode...
 

 
In what is going to be a major milestone in the development of Malabar as a major IT destination, Chief Minister Sri. V S Achuthanandan will mark the inauguration of the Cyberpark Kozhikode by laying the foundation stone on the 17th of May 2010 at 3:00 pm. He will also inaugurate the launch of the UL Cyberpark project.
 
The Cyberpark project, which forms the centerpiece of the State Government’s initiative to promote IT industries in Malabar has a very ambitious goal of having the first IT Building ready for commercial launch by early 2011.
 
To know more on Cyberpark,  check out the Cyberpark wikipage or read the Kerala IT blogs on Cyberpark.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 13 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>INSPIRE Launched at Technopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4348</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Technopark CEO Mervin Alexander  formally  launched ‘ INSPIRE ’ – the Network Support Programme for Idea Review and Enrichment of the Incubation  Companies and SMEs  at  the Technopark  in Trivandrum.
 
This  networking  forum  aims  at building competitiveness among the Micro, and  Small &amp; Medium enterprises operating from TBIs, Technopark and other government owned parks in the state. The small and medium companies that were incubated  in Kerala have played a critical role in bringing the attention of the world to the  state .  These companies  have  provided unique business models and insights on creating new jobs and businesses in the State.
 
The  INSPIRE  Forum will add value to the start ups and small and medium companies by providing new business opportunities across Industries, networking with the leading strategic-business and policy experts, and through peer-to-peer collaboration with  experience  sharing , both  industry specific  and also from cross industry.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 13 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>HP Solutions to Cut IT Maintainence Costs</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4349</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
IT major Hewlett-Packard  has  launched a new set of solutions to help companies reduce costs on maintenance of existing IT infrastructure and  also facilitate a transition to cloud computing.
 
Reducing  operational costs that go into maintenance  can help companies  improve efficiency, free up resources and lower the risks associated with the adoption and management of cloud services.
 
 This is part of the  HP's  initiative to combine its software portfolio with consulting expertise to help clients successfully adopt and manage the entire life cycle of cloud services.
 
Source: EconomicTimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 13 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Toonz Academy Ties Up with CMC Training</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4314</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
                   
 
Toonz Academy, the training division of Trivandrum-based animation major, Toonz Animation India Pvt. Ltd   entered into a strategic alliance with CMC Limited, the education consulting division of  Tata Consultancy Services Limited to provide training in the field of animation, digital arts and multimedia through CMC’s  network of training centres in the East and South regions of India.

 
CMC education centres will now offer various  career  oriented  industry relevant diploma and short term courses in animation and multimedia designed and developed by Toonz. Starting  with 15 centres, the courses will be extended to all CMC centres in  East and south India.
 
Students completing the courses will find job opportunities in the emerging animation industry and film, television, multimedia, web, graphics and digital arts industries.
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 12 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Delhi Helps Satyam Temper US Fine</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4324</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 
The  US  government has assured India that the change of management in Satyam Computer Services as well as New Delhi’s swift response will guide its action  on a $ 50 million  penalty imposed  by the American market regulator on the  scandal -tainted IT company.
 
The US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner has clarified that  the Securities &amp; Exchange Commission (SEC)  action can and often does take into consideration any remedial action undertaken by local governments. The treasury department is monitoring developments very closely because it is aware of the high-profile nature of the case.
 
New Delhi had taken up the matter on behalf of  Satyam, rechristened Mahindra Satyam after it was acquired by Tech Mahindra last April.  The  Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)  had written to the SEC, explaining why a steep fine will be detrimental to  Satyam’s  Indian and American investors.
 

Source: EconomicTimes

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 12 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Use of Pirated Software Declining in India</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4318</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
A  study conducted by the Business Software Alliance (BSA) and International Data Corporation (IDC) states that more people are now opting for licensed software, and that pirated software is down  by over three percent  to 65%.  The report, in its seventh edition, tracks PC software piracy rates in more than 100 economies worldwide.
 
The IDC study found that even though piracy levels remain high, anti-piracy education and enforcement campaigns spearheaded by the software industry, governments and law enforcement agencies have made commendable progress in bringing down piracy rates.
 
BSA has  initiatived various steps  with the state governments of Karnataka and Maharashtra, as well as with FICCI, and the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Ministry of Small and Micro Enterprises toward increasing awareness about benefits of using  licensed  software and protecting  indigenous IT  innovation opportunity.
 
Source: EconomicTimes
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Clean Energy Award for Artin Dynamics</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4283</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[                                   
 
A Technopark-based  company   Artin Dynamics  was awarded  the  Sankalp 2010 for the best clean energy in the emerging  enterprise category  at the finals held in Mumbai recently.
 
The Sankalp awards  are conferred upon  innovative, dynamic and sustainable social enterprises and recognises the level of impact brought about by change.
 
Artin Dynamics  won the award for the application of atificial intelligence principles towards  curbing power loss.  The  competitors for the award  included a solar lighting company and a bio fuel based power generation company in the final stages. 
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Facilities to Help with Income Tax Filing</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4288</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
In a bid to reach out and help Keralites  file their income tax returns in time and to ensure  that they get an opportunity to verify tax credit statements,  the Income Tax department in Kerala  has begun adopting online methods.
 
As part of the move, the IT Department has asked  tax payers to register themselves for the online login IDs. Once a tax payer submits his e-mail ID to the IT Department, it will send a mail requesting the user to register themselves for viewing the tax credit statements online. On registration, the tax payer will be provided with a user ID and a password. This will ensure that others will not be able to view the details of the income statement.
 
Using this method the user can login at the National Securities Depository Limited - Tax Information Network (NSDL-TIN) website - www.tin.nsdl.com - with the user ID and password.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT@ School Programme will Train 2 Lakh this Year</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4277</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

The IT@School   functioning in the Education department  will impart ICT training  to two lakh personnel this year.
 
There would be 17 types of training programmes  targeted at  lower primary, upper primary, high school and  higher secondary teachers, head masters, Principals, Deputy Directors , District Education Officers, Assistant Education Officers, and ministerial staff  within the Education department  apart from students.
 
The IT@School project  has already  put in place  5600   School IT Coordinators  (SITC)  and   Joint School  IT coordinators(JSITC).  The programme  also intends tobuild a minimum of ten School Student IT Co-ordinators (SSITCs) in all the institutions, thereby creating  a network of around 28000 SSITCs  this  year.  The project is being handled by Director Anwar  Sadat.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>HP India Refutes Tax Claim</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4250</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Hewkett- Packard, the world's largest technology company by revenue, said it would challenge and refute tax claims made on it by Indian tax authorities.
 
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence  had slapped a  tax notice of  Rs 14.5 bn ( $ 318.4 million) on the company for allegedly evading customs duty on undervalued components and spare parts imported from countries like Singapore and the US.
 
The tax demand pertained to duty evasion for the past five years and was raised after an investigation initiated in September 2008 by tax authorities in Delhi and Bangalore. It is  to be  challenged  by the company  through the judicial process.
 
Source: THE  ECONOMIC  TIMES]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Job Boom in the IT Sector</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4248</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Jobs galore in the IT sector
 
And an estimated 350,000 new jobs are expected to be created as a result of the UID project, according to a report analysing its impact.
 
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)   project will not only provide an identity to over one billion Indians, but also create jobs for them.
 
 The mega project is estimated to result in a commercial opportunity of $20 billion in the first five years, and from the sixth year onwards, $10 billion annually, making it one of the largest projects not only in terms of scale, but also in revenue potential. 
 
 Other than software and hardware providers, who stand to gain by providing systems and services to implement the project, telcos and banks will be big beneficiaries, according to the report by brokerage firm CLSA.
 
Source: Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CLINCK Cyber Caf&eacute; Manager for Law Enforcement</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4246</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The software, CLINCK Cyber Café Manager provided free by Ideacts Innovations, which helps  check misuse of the Internet, is being pushed by the  Kerala  Police.
 
The software will help cybercafe owners maintain a database of those visiting them.  Currently people have a tendency to visit cyber cafés that donot insist on identity proof. This is the reason for the police to seek the help of a private firm to act as a facilitator to curb misuse of cyber space . However, the police are not compelling the cafe owners  to install the software, but they would still have to maintain a register of visitors and users.
 
Café owners will also be able to provide information to law enforcing agencies, including critical photo capture. A registered user can use the user name across all partner cafes without repeatedly providing the information. The software has already  been installed in 6,780 cafes in major cities, including Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Multi-modal Hub Proposal for Trivandrum Terminal</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4233</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Minister Vijayakumar at the new Terminal
 
Even as the new world class international terminal at Trivandrum gets ready for its opening later this month, the visit of law minister  M Vijaykumar to inspect the terminal  highlights  the importance being given to infra structure development in Kerala.
 
The Airports Authority of  India (AAI) has in view of the new terminal's proximity to the Parvathi Puthanar, proposed  the development  of the terminal as a multi-modal hub in the transport system. The airport is already  connected by  road and rail , and recently  a six-lane bridge has improved  the  approach road  connectivity to the terminal. The construction of a boat terminal nearby  would provide access to people travelling by inland waterways.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Fourteen More Companies at Koratty Infopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4231</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Koratty Infopark  will  have  fourteen companies begin their operations  this month. With this the 42,000 sqft area of  Phase I  will be complete, and even as Phase II gets ready,  allocations have already been made to an additional  ten companies.
 
The  14 companies that will begin their operations this month are:


	- Bluelabs Technology Solutions

 


	- Braddock Infotech

 


	- Cent Technologies

 


	- Infoprism Solutions

 


	- Sahradaya Tech

 


	- Glitz IT Solutions

 


	- Sands Lab

 


	- Exar Software Research

 


	- Strands Energy Private Limited

 


	- Greened Multimedia

 


	- Storybox

 


	- Igooz Technologies Private Limited

 


	- Finelab Webservices Private Limited

 


	- Abyss Technologies

 
Strategically  located  close to the Cochin International Airport (CIAL)  at Nedumbassery with  easy accessibility  from Kochi and Thrissur and  excellent data connectivity together with  green working environment the park is fast becoming a much desired IT destination.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Data Theft! BEWARE!!!</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4242</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Data theft is a reality and will only keep on  increasing  with time.  Nowadays  banks are  opting for more and more net transactions , because it is less expensive . In the USA  you could  get a loan without anybody ever  seeing you and this  trend is starting in India.
 
Today  hackers have moved beyond phishing — where a bogus site or email masquerades as the original to make you part with sensitive information. Whilst  banks have mostly foolproof security systems in place with digital signatures and cryptic keys, hackers always manage to stay ahead of technology  by sourcing passwords. The other preferred hacker method involves the use of tickers that popup at various websites. If you click on it,  you may reach an innocent looking site which in turn may tempt you to download, say, a simple e-greeting card. This action may release a self -executable  file into your computer, which  will keep  track  of  all the keywords you type in, including usernames and passwords . These trojan programmes can also sneak into your system when you download music or movies at peer-to peer sites (where you share data between individuals). 
 
Some precautions you can take are:

 

	- Exercise restraint in the amount of personal information you upload on the web to minimise misuse

 


	- Always  ensure  a web address begins with ‘http’ or ‘https’ before executing any transaction

 


	- Ensure there is a ‘lock’ symbol at the bottom of the browser - Only then key in your user name

 


	- Never click on a link, always key in the site name

 


	- Ideally, delete all emails from an unknown source

 


	- Think twice before giving out personal information online 

 
Source: Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 09 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>New Fibre Optics could Increase Internet Speed by a 100 Times</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4235</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
    

Dr Kobys plastic switch for use in fibre optic cables
 
A new technology that could  come into use five years from now  is being designed by Koby Scheuer of Tel Aviv University's  (TAU) School of Electrical Engineering. 
 
Scheuer has developed a new plastic-based technology for the nano-photonics market, which  manufactures  optical  devices  and components. His plastic-based "filter" is made from nanometre (a billionth of a metre)-sized  grooves embedded into the plastic. When used in fibre optics cable switches, this new device will make our communication devices smaller, more flexible and more powerful.
 
In order to handle  massive amounts of communication data, we need filters to make sense of the incoming information. The new fibre optics  uses a plastic-based switch, replacing hard-to-fabricate and expensive semi-conductors.
 
Source: Communications of the ACM]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 09 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Fasten your Seat-belts, Cyber Parks in Malabar are Ready to Take-off!  </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4340</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
 

 
With the Cyberpark Draft Declaration approved by the Land Revenue Commissioner, the pace of the land acquisition has picked up more momentum and the acquisition of the entire 43 acres of land is expected to be complete by June, 2010. SEZ Application for the park has already been approved by the State and will be presented before the Board of Approval in Delhi by June, 2010.
 
The Hon. Chief Minister of Kerala Shri. V. S Achuthanandan is expected to mark the inauguration of the park by laying the foundation stone for the Cyberparks at Kozhikode and Kasaragode this month. This will be a major milestone towards the development of the IT Parks in the Malabar region.
 
The Cyberpark project, which forms the centerpiece of the State Government’s initiative to promote IT industries in Malabar has a very ambitious goal of having the first IT Building ready for commercial launch by early 2011.
 
From a panel of very reputed Architects from around the nation, M/S Salim &amp; Associates has been selected as the Architect for the Master Planning and detailed architectural services for Cyber Parks in Kozhikode.
 
M/S Cannon Design International Private Limited, an international firm with vast experience has won the bid for the preparing the master plan and providing detailed architectural services for the Cyberparks at Kannur and Kasaragod. 100 Acres of land has been transferred to the KSITIL by the Plantation Board towards the development of the Cyber Parks in Kasaragod.
 
There is a huge potential for IT in this region considering the closeness to Mangalore, the large pool of skilled and English-speaking resources and the very low cost of living. This park will be developed as a township where there 30% space will be planned for Villas, Apartments, schools, Shopping Complexes, Movie Theaters, fitness clubs, day care facilities while 70% will be dedicated for the IT/ITES based investments.
 
Construction work of the parks are expected to start by July 2010.
 
Also read:


	
Cyberpark – Draft Declaration Awarded 

	
Cannon Design International to Prepare Master Plan for Cyberpark Kannur and Kasaragod

	
Technolodge to Come Up in Mayyil, Kannur


 
For further information, check out the Cyberpark wikipage or read the KeralaIT blogs on Cyberpark.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 08 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>World class Trivandrum Airport Complex to be Commissioned this Month</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4220</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The much awaited  Airports Authority of India's (AAI) Rs.300-crore world class  terminal complex of  Trivandrum  International Airport  will be  formally commissioned  on May 20. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Praful Patel will dedicate the building and Chief Minister V. S Achuthanandan will be the chief guest at the function.
 
The three-storey terminal building, has  a tubular structure of elliptical geometry, that has come up facing the Parvathi Puthanar on Chakka side.
 
The building has been completed using eco-friendly concepts. With aero-bridges and modern facilities, the terminal complex has a floor area exceeding 23,000 sq metres.
 
The ground floor  has the  Arrival and Departure  and VIP lounge. As many as 30 check-in counters have  been provided. Two escalators and a panoramic lift provides access to the first floor in addition to  the staircase.The first floor  houses  fourteen   immigration counters, the security area, passenger amenities, duty free shops and an  elevated  VIP room. The mezzanine floor  houses  the offices of the operating airlines, AAI, Customs and other utilities.
 
More information at:  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 07 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Leaders Want Moratorium on Bandhs/Hartals</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4217</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The  IT industry in Kerala has sought an exemption from  stirs like hartal and bandhs  for the next three years, which  they  feel  is needed  to  send positive signals to investors about Kerala.
 
Leaders of the Group of  Technopark Companies (GTech), rechristened Group of  Technology Companies want such changes  to undo  the  wrong perception about Kerala as being the least investor-friendly among Indian States.
 
Though  Kerala was the first in the country to set up the  Technopark  in Thiruvananthapuram, the State’s total annual IT exports were only about    Rs 2,500 crore whereas Karnataka  was close  to Rs 75,000 crore with  Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh at  over  Rs 30,000 crore each.
 
The reason for the huge lag was that very few IT majors had set up shop in the State, owing to the  perception that doing business in Kerala was risky.
 
This needs to be changed, and as part of this effort GTech intends to lead delegations to meet the ruling Left Democratic Front and the Opposition United Democratic Front with the hartal-free demand and apprise them of  the steps needed to push Kerala into the big league.
 

Source:  Malayalamanorama
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 07 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Google to Launch TV Software</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4197</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Google is now  about to introduce  Android-based television software this month,  which will allow users  to watch television through the internet.
 
The new software, designed to open set-top boxes, TVs and other devices to more content from the internet, is attracting interest from partners that include Sony Corp., Intel Corp. and Logitech International SA.  
 
The service  uses the new Google technology, and will allow users to  search across programming from the internet as well as Dish’s conventional programming.
 
Source: The Manorama]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 06 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cyberpark - Draft Declaration Awarded</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4130</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
In what can be called a major milestone in the growth of the Cyberpark , it was awarded the Draft Declaration by the Land Revenue Commissioner to acquire the balance land needed for its development at Kozhikode.  For more details on the land acquisition process for Cyberpark, read Cyberpark: Land Acquisition Begins.
 
 The Cyberpark project, which forms the centerpiece of the State Government’s initiative to promote IT industries in Malabar, is expected to be inaugurated around the first week of June 2010, and has a very ambitious goal of having the first IT Building ready for launch by early 2011.
 
Out of a panel of very reputed architects, M/S Salim and Associates from Kozhikode  was awarded the work for preparing the Master Plan and performing detailed architectural consulting services for the proposed IT Park in Kozhikode. 
 
Meanwhile, the park is expected to attain the SEZ status by June 2010. The first project of the park would be to build a 4 lakh square feet building with approximately 1.5 lakh ready for commercial launch by early 2011. The park will have all the facilities like uninterrupted power supply, drinking water, internal roads, data connectivity, restaurants and food courts, guest house and health clubs. It is hoped that the park would generate about 1500 direct employment opportunities by early 2011. 
 
To know more on Cyberpark, visit the Cyberpark wikipage or read the KeralaIT blogs on Cyberpark.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 05 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cannon Design International to Prepare Master Plan for Cyberpark Kannur and Kasaragod</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4136</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

 

M/S Cannon Design International Private Limited won the bid for the work to prepare the master plan and provide detailed architectural services for the Cyberparks at Kannur and Kasaragod. 
 
A major international firm with a worldwide practice that includes projects throughout North America, India, Europe, the Far and Middle East, Cannon has long since been recognized as one of the top ten architectural/ engineering firms in the US, and one of the top five in each of its specialty practice areas.
 
 The plan is to build a 1.5 lakh square feet building at each of these parks of which around fifty thousand sq ft will be ready for commercial launch by early 2011. 
 
To know more on Cyberpark, visit the Cyberpark wikipage or read the KeralaIT blogs on Cyberpark. ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 05 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technolodge to Come Up in Mayyil, Kannur</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4139</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
A Technoldge will be set up at Mayyil, a village 8 Km away from Kannur town following the approval that has been provided to the Kerala State IT Department by the Kannur District Panchayath President. 
 
Originally built for the Chattukappara Women's Industrial Estate, Mayyil already has 15 buildings ranging from 800 to 1000 sq ft which were left usused for a while and which can be converted into suitable spaces for the Technolodge. The Technolodge is expected to be ready by early 2011 and would generate business/job opportunities for upto 100 IT/ITES entrepreneurs/professionals. 
 
The site for the Technolodge is located close to the Kannur town, railway station and the proposed airport, and would be ideal for start ups and entrepreneurs to set up and establish new ventures. 
 

 
To know more on Cyberpark, visit the Cyberpark wikipage or read the Kerala IT blogs on Cyberpark.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 05 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>GTECH Rescinds Poaching Ban</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4159</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Group of Technology Companies (GTECH), a common platform for IT companies in Kerala, has decided to lift the self- imposed restriction on poaching each other's resources.
 
The decision was influenced by the need  to allow technology professionals  to further their career prospects , and to prevent their migration to IT destinations outside the  state.  The scenario for the number of people employed in the IT industry had  undergone a sea  change and there was a much larger number of IT  professionals now against the backdrop  of the decision imposing a ban taken  years ago.
 
Source:  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 05 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>GTECH Announces Initiatives to Improve Kerala's IT Growth</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4155</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
The Group of Technology Companies (GTECH)  has announced  initiatives aimed at  accelerating  the  growth of the IT sector in Kerala.
 
The  initiative  will  aim  at  four objectives during the year  which will include ensuring physical security of IT parks in view of recent threats,  containing costs,  expanding reach  by collaborating with external institutions,  and increasing  collaboration among members to improve the competence  of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
 
GTECH  will collaborate with the government on strategic campaigns and take part in consultations on policy matters and offer support in the State's e-governance projects, besides working  with the Labour Department for reforms in labour laws. It will also work closely with the State Government in promoting Kerala as an IT destination.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 05 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Vytilla Hub Details Finalized</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4131</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The details of the Vytilla Hub on 25 acres  of land were discussed and  finalized at a meeting attended by District Collector M. Beena , who is the Managing Director and nodal officer of the project.
 
Attended by the nodal officer for city-development projects T. K Jose, officials of the PWD and NHAI, the meeting reviewed different  models and arrived at one in which a few modifications are to be made by KITCO.  The scheme is being routed through the Corporation of Cochin to obtain funds through the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission.
 
The project aims at optimum utilization of the  25 acres, and would be integrated  with the metro-rail, railway and  water transport systems,  so that the public could choose their mode of transport with Vytilla as the hub. Expected to have 125 bus  bays, the  skywalk planned could connect the terminal with a railway halt that could come up on the Ernakulam-Kottayam rail line.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Phase II of Capital City - Clean City Project Launched</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4126</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Minister Binoy Viswam
 
Speaking at the Phase II launch of the Capital City- Clean City Project at Thiruvananthapuram, Forest Minister Binoy Viswam said that over 100 tree saplings  would be planted in each ward of the Corporation.
 
He exhorted the public to reduce the use of plastics  and to help with the segregation of  waste into  bio-degradable , non-biodegradable and hazardous waste as this would help the Kudumbasree workers with the disposal.
 
As responsible  citizens , we all need to understand  that the  success of  any scheme depends on public participation, and that every citizen has a duty to work towards the  objective of a clean and pollution-free environment.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Medical Information Online</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4108</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Med.Le  Online Information Services has launched  a website  www.medicaladvisers.in , which will serve as a complete online directory with information on doctors, hospitals  and  important medical treatments.
 
Details  about doctors in Modern Medicine, Homoeopathy, Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Naturopathy, hospitals, laboratories and diagnostic centres will be available through this medical directory, and provide a much needed gap  in information  on the medical  field in the state of kerala.
 
You may like to save this address to help your search in the future.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 03 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Typosquatters have a Field Day in India</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4112</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
When you type even a  letter wrong on the internet , you are taken to  a totally different website.  For example insted  of  google.com , if you were to type gogle.com, you will be taken to  a proxy site,  which makes its  revenue with advertisement links.  This type of cybersquatting is more commonly known as  typosquatting. It is estimated that every well  known website  has a proxy in operation.
 
In the US,  Typosquatting is declared an offence  under the Anti-Cybersquatting  Consumer Protection Act  (ACPA) which prohibits  anyone from registering or using domains misleadingly similar to a trademark or famous name.
 
In  India, the  law does not deal with typosquatting, as  the  Indian Information Technology Act  2000 is the  only legislation pertaining to use of computers, computer systems, computer networks, computer resources and communication devices,  and  this  does not deal with domain name issues.
 
Source:  The Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 03 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopark Programme for Singapore Interns</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4102</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
                          
 
The  Group of   Technopark  Companies  (GTech)   have in partnership with Singapore Management University, drawn up an internship programme for management  students from Singapore.
 
The prime intention is to establish global links for the Kerala IT industry, and to look for opportunities in South-East  Asian markets.  Mooted  last year, the  internship is the outcome of  discussions  betwwen GTech and the Singapore Chamber of  Commerce.  Meant to provide  a framework for graduate and post -graduate students with diverse  backgrounds from Singapore, it is aimed at providing practical experience  about the IT industry.
 
GTech feels that such interaction  with different nationalities  in the ASEAN countries , would help with these interns acting  as brand ambassadors for the state's  IT Industry .
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 03 May 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>ICON Opens Operations at  Technopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4092</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
ICON  has opened a development centre at the Leela Infopark, which is amongst the tallest buildings in Technopark  Trivandrum.
 
ICON is a global provider of outsourced development services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical devices industries.  The company specializes in strategic development, management and analysis of programs that support clinical developments from compound selection to PhaseI-IV clinical studies. With laboratories located in key global regions, including the US, UK, Singapore, Ireland and India, all ICON laboratories are state of the art and are GCP or GLP as well as CAP credited.
 
News source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 30 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>UID Throws Up Opportunity for Training Companies</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4089</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The  UIDAI is to train over one lakh  agents to meet their  needs which  will be spread in over 430 centres all over the country, for the purpose of which, an IT biometric training  tender is being issued.
 
This  has thrown up a huge opportunity for Training companies like  NIIT, Aptech and  Jetking all over the country.
 
Source:  Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 29 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Two Kerala Teams for IMAGINE Cup 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4083</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The IMAGINE CUP  2010  is an annual  technology competition promoted by Microsoft for young people to  compete and showcase their talent in technology  innovations.
 
The contest which begins with local on-line contests, followed by screening the best projects  in each country, moves to a global final  which is held at a neutral  location.
 
This year's  contest will see two teams from Kerala  - TEAM MAVERICKS  and TEAM  PHOENIX  represented at the India finals being held at Bangalore this weekend. The other teams in the fray include Punjab, Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The winning team in the software design category will get the opportunity to represent the country at the world finals in Warsaw, Poland, in July.
 
Source: Manorama online]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 29 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Koratty Infopark Attracts New Companies</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4049</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The   Infopark located on 30 acres  of  land at Koratty is  located approximately  20 Km from the  Cochin International Airport  at Nedumbassery. Phase I  of the  project with 40,000 sq ft  of plug and play facilities was  completed towards the end of last year. Phase II  adds another additional 30,000 sqft.
 
The park now has over 200 people working  in 10 companies and it is expected to be home to 8 more companies by the end of May.
 
Lately, three new companies have started their operation there. They are:
 
- Inforprism  Solutions  -an animation and multimedia company
 

- iGooz Technologies - a medical transcription BPO
 

- Glitz IT Solutions- a   health care solutions company
 
Set up as a spoke to  the Cochin Infopark which will act as a hub, the  Koratty Infopark   will have  the  support and assistance  from  it. The advantages of these parks with ready facilities  are allowing companies to  get  their operations  up and going virtually with no  gestation  period.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 29 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Leads Indian States in Teledensity</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4042</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Giving a definite boost to its image as the State that stays 'connected', Kerala has achieved the highest teledensity rate among the states in India with an overall teledensity of 74.80 per cent as against the national average of 47.88. Kerala rural teledensity is 42.05 per cent and in urban areas, it is 169.96 per cent.
 
Following closely behind are Himachal Pradesh (71. 94 per cent) and Punjab (69.87 per cent). The States with the lowest teledensity are Assam (26.91 per cent ) and Bihar (26.09 per cent).
 
Among the metros in India, Delhi has the highest teledensity (164.58 per cent), followed by Chennai (148.78), Mumbai (133.62) and then Kolkkatta (111.65).
 
To see the Circle-wise Teledensity as on December 31, 2009, click here.
 
For more details, click here

 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>NASSCOM Outlines Best Practices in IT/BPO Sector</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4004</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Governance  and Ethics Committee of the National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM)  has released guidelines  to further strengthen the corporate governance practises within the Indian IT/BPO  industry.
 
The report released by a committee chaired by Infosys mentor Narayanmurthy,  details  recommendations covering ethical practises  for contracts,  clear accountability, compliance with legal issues, data security,  privacy as well as  emphasis  on customer satisfaction.
 
The report also deals with vendor partners, fair and transparent  procurement processes  and clear guidelines  on related party transactions, gifts/donations etc to build a framework for ethical practises.
 
For more details, click here.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>TePP Funding for Four Kerala Entrepreneurs</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4002</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

The screening committee of the Union Government  has approved  four projects of  entrepreneurs  from Kerala for  phase I funding , under  the Technopreneur  Promotion Programme (TePP).
 
The four who have been approved are:

 

	Multi-stage Reed Silvering Machine (Rs  7.65 lakh to Anil Kumar )
	Six Stroke Engine ( Rs 12 lakhs to  Anil.C.C.)
	Development of First Indian Reengineered Stabilizer  (Rs  15 lakhs to Dr.Murali Vettah )
	Electromagnetic Device  for Controlling Moisture Content in Closed Chamber (Rs 10.62 lakhs  C.J.Jobichen)

 
TePP is a novel support mechanism - initiated jointly by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) to tap the innovative potential of entrepreneurial citizens of India. The objective is to promote individual innovators through support mechanism at various stages to become technology based entrepreneurs .
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>L and T Signature Tower to be Ready by September</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3997</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

 
The  Signature Tower of 0.5 Million Sq.ft  is the second phase of   L &amp; T Techpark  located within the scenic backdrop of the Infopark  at Cochin.
 
Its  Tower 'A'  with 350,000 sqft  built  up space  is scheduled to be fully ready for occupation by September.
 
The building  with its well balanced ambience will have outstanding infrastructure  and work style to suit the requirements of IT  companies lookng to relocate  or  scale up operations.
 
L &amp; T Techpark Limited is the subsidiary company of  Larsen and Toubro  Urban Infrastructure  Limited. It  will operate and maintain the facilities and provide its customers  complete infrastructure ad e-connectivity.
 
For more details, click here.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Brigade Group Builds 7.5 Lakh Square Feet of IT Work Space in Infopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3995</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Brigade  is a well known  multi-domain group in the areas of property development, hospitality and education. As award-winning property developers,  they  have an impressive record of projects: luxury apartments, integrated enclaves, office and  software facilities, malls and  multiplex, hospitality projects, schools and a hospital.
 
Brigade  is now building   a  750,000 sqft  IT  building  at Infopark .  A co-developer of infrastructure with Infopark, Brigade's buildings are well known for software development and business purposes , and have state of the art and  are ready to occupy facilities. Their  buildings  in Bangalore  are prime examples.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>UID Number with Logo and Brand Name</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=4008</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 


 
The 16-digit Unique Identification number to be assigned to each Indian citien by the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) will now come under the new name ‘AADHAR' and will also bear a logo. The logo and the brand name was unveiled in New Delhi on Monday, April 26 at a meeting held at Viyan Bhavan and chaired by UIDAI chairman Nandan Nilekani, who said these two symbols were necessary to make the scheme and the number recognisable and communicate the spirit and essence of the mandate to the people and win their confidence.
 
The UID number will be the aadhar (foundation) through which the citizen can claim his/her rights and entitlements when assured of equal opportunities, as symbolised by the logo, which has the halo of the Sun on the imprint of a thumb.
 
Source: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kochi's New Marina</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3937</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Kochi's  strategic  position on the sea route  has given it a prominent place in history. Even today, Kochi is considered one of the most strategic points in the country and continues to be a  major  tourist  centre. Last year, it attracted about  50 luxury liners carrying tourists in addition to the fact that the world famous  Volve   Ocean race touched  Kochi.
 
The Kochi International  Marina is  the  Kerala Tourism Development Corporation's  (KTDC) response to all these developments.  Located  on the eastern  side  of Bolghatty  Island next to the Bolghatty Palace the  Marina has  been built at a cost of  Rs 8.2  crore , and  will offer world-class pleasure boating and cruising facilities and services never before available on the  Indian Sub-Continent. This fully engineered marina will accommodate over 50 boats including extra wide berths for multi-hulled sailboats.
 
Over 10,000 square feet of  commercial and retail facilities will include a fuel pier, boat repair, covered berths (Dry and open), essential GRP Production facilities, telecommunications, grocery and restaurants, when fully operational. 
 
The Marina will also offer a full range of vacation cruises, adventure cruises, backwater cruises, cocktail sunset cruises, charters for filming marine life, sport fishing charters and  scuba classes.
 
Source: The Hindu &amp; others]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>New Regulations on e-Waste Disposal</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3941</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Jairam Ramesh
 
The Minister  of state for Environment and  Forests  Jairam Ramesh has said in the Rajya  Sabha , that the Government will come out with a new set of rules for  disposal of  e-waste  by 15th May.
 
He said that the  disposal of  e-waste was currently  governed by the rules relating to the disposal of hazardous waste. More importantly, some 85-90 per cent of e-waste disposal was done in the unorganised sector, and in some cities  the  Central  Pollution Control Board had no control.  He felt that the solution lay in bringing the unorganised sector into the formal sector, as  illegal recycling of used electronic goods such as mobile phone and computers  posed environmental and health hazards
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>US Healthcare Bill Benefits Indian IT Sector</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3943</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The US  Healthcare Reform Bill that was passed last month, could benefit  a large section of  IT/BPO sector in India.
 
The  Healthcare bill seeks to provide cover for  some 32 million additional Americans over the next ten years. It requires all  Americans to  buy health  insurance , which means  more business for outsourcing companies, as  hospitals and insurance coverage agents  will seek ways to minimise expenses.  The  bulk  of this  business  is  expected from customer enrolments, customer service, and claim processing.
 
More information at: Businessline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>C-DAC Software to Fend Off Cyber Attacks</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3945</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The increasing number of Cyber attacks on Indian companies has raised questions on the safety of virtual networks. Phishing mails, cybercrimes and malware have taken things to a new high that is forcing developers to improve product safety.
 
The  Centre for Development of Advanced Computing  (CDAC) at Hyderabad has developed the  new softwares  ‘NAYAN’, ‘ USB PRATIRODH’ and ‘ MALWARE RESIST ’   keeping the needs of end user in mind.
 
Each of these programmes controls the computers access to different network services, has a desktop firewall, and controls USB drive plug-in through  secure passwords. These programmes can ensure PC’s  are protected from malware and other rogue programmes.
 
Source: The Hindu, dated 25th April 2010, p.12., Cochin edition]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kochi Likely to Become an IT Hot Spot; Says Infopark CEO</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3919</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Siddharta Bhattacharya 

Speaking at a  roadshow organised by NASSCOM,  Mr. Siddhartha Bhattacharya the CEO  of  Infopark,  stated that  Kochi would emerge as a top IT  hotspot  in the country in the next  five to ten years.

 

He said that  Kochi's  infrastructure had grown tremendrously  and now accounted for  five million sqft of built up space  in the IT sector  with 100  or so companies employing  10,000 persons.

 
Citing a recent report of NASSCOM,  he said that both Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram  had been featured in the list of challenger cities to capture the imagination of the IT sector in the next ten years. The  turnover of Infopark,over the last three years was close   to 1000 crores.
 

Source:  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>InApp Ties Up with Rogers Software</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3916</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Kerala's leading software services company InApp has teamed up with the US-based  Rogers Software Development  Inc (RSDI)  to  bring `SuperSalon’, probably the world’s leading Salon Management Suite, to Indian Markets.
 
SuperSalon has over 11,000 licensed salons over North America and Europe, making it the largest Salon Point-of- Sales licensed software in the world.
 
A joint venture  named FirstPoS  Retail Softsolutions India Pvt. Ltd. has  its  offices in Trivandrum and Bangalore. The company will target South Asian and South East Asian markets, for software after consolidating its position on the Indian market.  InApp will  provide the  sales and technical support towards customization of  SuperSalon for both the Indian and global markets.
 

Source: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>KSITM, CDIT and High Tech Cell to Organize IT Awareness Mela for Children</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3935</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Kerala State IT Mission, alongwith the Centre for Development of Imaging Technology (C-DIT) and the Hi-tech Cell, Kerala, is organising an ‘IT Exposure Mela for Children' at the Jawahar Bal Bhavan in Trivandrum  from 25th April  to 15th   May.
 
The mela intends  to spread awareness of the various educational programs available in the IT sector. It  also seeks to  educate people about cyber crime particularly related to children.  It will have stalls  showing the current projects  of the IT Mission, the C-DIT and the Hi-tech Cell.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 25 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Ten Hottest IT Certifications </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3921</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

[caption id="attachment_3922" align="alignnone" width="130" caption="Certification of Expertise helps your career"][/caption]

 

With IT  jobs becoming more vendor and technology specific,  certification  is  becoming increasingly  important for IT  professionals  to get the  right  job and to seek  the  right  jump.
 
The  ten  most  important  certifications  that  will  keep  IT  pro's   in  demand and  keep  their  career  prospects  on  the  right  path   have  been  listed  as :
 


	VMware  Certified  Professional  Program
	Certified  Information  System  Auditor
	GIAC   Security  Audit   Essential ( GSAE)
	Certified  Information  Security Manager ( CISM)
	Check point  Certified  Security Expert ( CCSE) 
	Check point  Certified  Security Administrator ( CCSA) 
	Microsoft  Certified  Software Engineer  (MCSE)
	Certified Wireless  Security professional ( CWSP)
	GIAC  Certified  Intrusion Analyst ( GCIA)
	Cisco Certified  Network  Professional  (CCNP)

 
For more information use  source:  IndiaTimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 24 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>SARAS will Lighten KSEB Accounting Load</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3910</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
A Structural and Real-time Accounting System (SARAS)  developed  by  the KSEB 's  regional IT unit at Calicut, is soon to be installed and used  so that using the new system accounting would allow instantaneous tallying and bring in  efficiency.
 
Once SARAS is installed,  and a switch over to the  digital version of the ‘day books' system comes into effect , the issue and processing of imprest would get automated and so would the generation of all vouchers. All work bills and purchase bills would be processed by the software. SARAS also offers the facility to verify, pass, cancel or temporarily suspend any transaction.
 
Apart from the fact that the  KSEB would gain Rs.4 crore to Rs.5 crore through the use of a software developed in-house, the system will bring in efficiency in its  working and benefit  consumers immensely with being able to sort any isssues  without delay.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 23 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kochi- India’s Rising Urban Star</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3906</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Jones Lang LaSalle's World Winning Cities Program  is a multi year research initiative designed to assess future city competitiveness and to predict the rising urban stars amongst the world's emerging markets in India, China, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Latin America. The program  identified Kochi as a stand out for investment and one amongst Tier III cities with the most favorable prospects in India.
 
It noted  that Kochi is quickly transforming into a key IT/ITES hub in South India driven by a combination of factors, which include cheaper real estate costs compared to India’s larger and more mature metros; some of India’s best communications infrastructure, low labour costs and low attrition rates.
 
The report notes that the economy of Kochi continues to grow, with banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) sectors having a big presence. The business is driven not only by corporate clients and the growing population of the city, but also by Non-Resident Keralites.
 
Kochi’s excellent internet connectivity bodes well for the development of the city as an IT/ITES hub. The city is better connected than most cities in India, having both the SAFE and SEAME-WE3 optical submarine telecommunication cables land in Kochi.
 
Cochin International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India and ranks 4th in terms of international air passengers. No other airport within India’s Emerging Cities ranks as high.
 
The Government of Kerala has shown leadership in emphasizing development of vital infrastructure which has been critical in attracting some of India’s leading firms into Kochi.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>State Election Commission to Use edrop</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3877</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Considering the enormous task of organising panchayath elections ahead, the State Election Commission has decided to utilise e-drop (Electronically Deploying Randomly Officers for Polling) developed by the National Informatics Centre  for the efficient and speedy deployment of officials.
 
The number of officials to be deployed for the panchayat elections will  far  exceed  the number of  officials deployed for the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.
 
Besides, the service of the National Informatics Centre  would also  help  in the speedy declaration of results. 
 
The use of Information Technology in Government is being  slowly but surely bringing in more transparancy and effciency in  its working.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CERT Kerala to Prevent Cyber Terrorism</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3874</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Kerala Government has set up a  Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT- Kerala) to tackle cyber terrorism in the state. This is  in line with CERT-India, the Central Government's Computer Emergency Response Team  established by the Department of Information Technology, Government of India.
 
With over 200 websites  using over a 100  different software applications,  with  most of the websites not employing adequate  security standards, the intention of CERT is to help provide adequate security, and play a lead role in helping fight cyber terrorism and cyber attacks.
 
Source: Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Seminars on Careers in Animation and Multimedia</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3873</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The Training division of  Toonz Academy based at Technopark  has begun a series of seminars  named " Careers in Animation &amp; Multimedia"  for five  weeks starting  20th April.
 
The focus of these seminar series will be on career opportunities in Animation and Multimedia sectors,  both in the entertainment and non-entertainment fields, and will include telecommunications. These will be held  at Trivandrum, Marthandam, Nagercoil, Tirunelveli, Pathanamthita, Mavelikara,  Kottarakara, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur and Allepey.
 
For details and registration contact : Mob 09287670388  or Tel.0471- 6451415]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Terahertz Imaging might be the Ultimate Security System</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3870</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Today  when security concerns all of us and affect  the way we live, the  biggest challenge  is to produce a fail-safe security system.
 
Terahertz imaging might be the futuristic new tool against terrorism.  Security scanning using tetrahertz radiation will enable seeing through corrugated cardboard, walls, clothing, shoes, book bags, pill coatings etc. in order to probe for concealed or falsified materials. Once the rays penetrate those materials, they can also characterise what might be hidden based on a spectral fingerprint.
 
Currently, instruments using terahertz (THz) imaging are widely used in  labs and have shown some limited use in commercial applications . The  technical limitation in developing video-rate THz imaging is the cost of THz hardware components including detectors.
 
However, a THz imaging system for security screening  has not yet reached the market. Researchers say that such a system is at least five years away.
 
Source: Expressbuzz]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Caution Marks IT Majors' Overseas Acquisitions</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3868</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Opportunities aplenty with UID
 
India's major ITcompanies including TCS, Wipro and Infosys, appear to have shied  away from overseas acquisitions,  while their overseas global rivals  IBM  and HP  have gone for inorganic  growth.
 
These  cash rich Indian companies, sitting on huge reserves  are yet to negotiate  even a single  billion deal of their own that they appear definitely risk averse.
 
Until  a  year ago,  investment  banking  held hectic parleys with TCS, Infosys and Wipro proposing M&amp;A opportunities such as CapGemini, Atos Origin, and Logica, among others. Now, Indian tech firms are realising that such acquisitions would have been  too heavy to pull off, and also that they  bring complexities that could affect their profits and double-digit growth rates.  Large European servicefirms are finding it difficult to trim their high cost payroll and increase their  offshoring to more  economical  locations such as India. 
 
Obviously the Indian strategy seems right.  The UID scheme itself is throwing open a lot of opportunities. 
 

Source: EconomicTimes 
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>US Pushing for ACTA</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3762</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Technology firms from internet service providers to social networking sites are bracing themselves  for the release of the draft of a trade  agreement  that they feel could undermine all sorts of on line activities.
 
The agreement, being negotiated by the United States and other  trading partners, is intended to create an international framework to stop counterfeiting, copyright violations and other intellectual property theft.
 
However, many feel that it could chill free speech and other online expressions by making technology companies liable for the misdeeds of the users. The  US  began negotiating the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement(ACTA) in  2007  in an effort to harmonize intellectual property protections across different nations. The far-reaching agreement would encompass everything from counterfeit pharmaceuticals to fake Prada bags to online piracy of music and movies. Once ratified, trade agreements take full effect and a country can face complaints for noncompliance.
 
At the moment the two countries which most resort to theft of intellectual property rights are China and Indonesia, who are not participating.
 
Nations taking part in the negotiations  include the European Union members , Japan, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland and Australia.
 
Source: EconomicTimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>TCS CEO Says Europe Still to Come On Line</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3760</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

 
US  is almost  back in shape, but Europe is  still to come on line, feels Mr. N.Chandrasekaran,  the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of  Tata  Consultancy Services, one of India's  IT majors. Recovery in  Continental Europe  is lagging both in deal closure  and ramp up. No explanation is forthcoming on why there is no traction either.Yet, business in the US that is almost back to normal .
  
India’s $60-billion technology sector is recovering after the global economic crisis triggered project cancellations, pricing cuts and consequent margin pressures from early 2008. Companies had forecast that the crisis will force European countries — that till then had been outsourcing-averse — to start offshoring in an effort to cut costs.
 

Source: Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala's Ecofriendly Moves </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3758</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 

 

 

 
Kerala's efforts at staying eco friendly continue with its latest move to protect  Iringole Kavu , the largest sacred grove in Kochi, which will become the stage for a unique biodiversity conservation movement in the State.
 
Forest Minister Benoy Viswam will inaugarate  a scheme supported by the central government, aimed at protecting and conserving sacred groves with people's  support.  The  Kerala Forest Department  has selected 28 groves for this purpose.The groves have great ecological significance as they provide a natural habitat to animals and birds, including snakes which feed on pests of agriculture fields.
 
More information at THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Proprietary Software Dangerous in e-Governance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3757</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The Chairman of the Free Software Foundation of India, Mr. G. Nagarjuna cautioned against e-governance using  proprietarysoftware and called it a dangerous practice during his talk  on free and open standards at the  Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) conference at the Federal Institute of Science and Technology (FISAT)at Angamaly, he said except for a few States like Kerala, public documents were mostly encoded in the proprietary format which meant the public did not enjoy freedom from the proprietary companies, as they ‘owned' the decoder.
 
He  said that  an expert committee report had been submitted to the Union Ministry of Information Technologylast year,  that there should be a single, open (royalty-free) standard, instead of multiple standards, for performing a single task on computers.  He cited ‘EMacs' invented by free software guru Richard Stallman as rendering a wide variety of operations using a single application.
 
More information at THE HINDU
 
For more details, read ICEFOSS 10 Meet from April 19th to 21st]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Pay Corporation Tax through Post Offices</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3753</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 



 
Good news is around the  corner. If you are settled at Trivandrum, you should be soon able to pay your Corporation Tax at the nearest post Office. No more tiring your legs standing in long queues at Corporation offices or at Janasevana Kendrams...
 
The Trivandrum City Corporation is joining hands  with the Department of Posts to collect  Corporation Taxes. The software for for the new  facility will be handled by  the Information Kerala Mission( IKM). All major Post offices in  Trivandrum city would be covered under the scheme, which will handle receipts of property tax.
 
The e-payment facility will mean  that those working at  Technopark or in an office away from the  city centre  will not have to travel to the main city to the pay taxes. The nearby post offices where internet facilities are installed would be enough.
 
One hopes that the Kochi Corporation also  follows suit.
 
More information  at Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>World Bank Lists Kerala High in Investment Climate</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3751</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 THE WORLD BANK
 
A Policy  Research  Working Paper  done in 2009 by the Finance  &amp; Private sector Development  Group  of the World Bank  titled The Investment Climate in 16 Indian States  shows Kerala as  the second  favourite destination in India for investors.
 
When deciding on investments, entrepreneurs look at a host of factors from cost of inputs and reliability of infrastructure to quality of institutions. Since it is impossible to meaningfully portray the investment climate in any country by examining a handful of indicators, the study constructed  a composite index to summarize and compare in one indicator the many different features of the investment climate.  It used   46 variables descriptive of the business environment in the 16 states which were grouped  in three categories as inputs, infrastructure and institutions.
 
The study  concluded that  the states with the best investment climate are Karnataka and Kerala, followed by Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Delhi. The worst investment climate  was  found in Bihar,Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
 
 A  closer examination of the data shows that Kerala consistently scores better than average on most objective and perception indicators .]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>6 Airconditioned Volvos through Infopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3702</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
KSRTC has started operating six more air-conditioned low-floor premium buses in Kochi , adding to its existing  fleet of  seven Volvos already servicing the city. These low floor buses will run daily services to and from the Infopark at Kakkanad and will take three different routes to different parts of the city.
 
Two of these Volvo buses will operate on the Poothotta-Aluva route through Menaka; two will service the Fort Kochi-Infopark-Aluva route through M.G. Road; and the remaining two will take the Willingdon Island-Infopark-Aluva route through Padma.
 
The schedule of these buses are as follows:
 




To Infopark 


Departure 
From
To
Arrival 


07.20 AM
Aluva
Infopark
07.55 AM


07.25 AM
Thevara
Infopark
08.00 AM


07.45 AM
Aluva
Infopark
08.10 AM


07.50 AM
Fort Cochin
Infopark
08.45 AM


09.05 AM
Fort Cochin
Infopark
10.00 AM


09.15 AM
Welligton Island
Infopark
10.00 AM


09.20 AM
Welligton Island
Infopark
10.05 AM


 
 
 
 


03.45 PM
Aluva
Infopark
04.20 PM


04.05 PM
Thevara
Infopark
04.40 PM


04.50 PM
Fort Cochin
Infopark
05.45 PM


05.15 PM
Welligton Island
Infopark
06.00 PM


05.20 PM
Aluva
Infopark
05.55 PM


  
 
 
 


From Infopark


Departure 
From
To
  Arrival 


07.55 AM
Infopark
Fort Cochin
08.50 AM


08.10 AM
Infopark
Wellington Island
09.05 AM


08.15 AM
Infopark
Wellington Island
09.00 AM


09.05 AM
Infopark
Fort Cochin
10.00 AM


10.00 AM
Infopark
Aluva
10.35 AM


10.05 AM
Infopark
Aluva
10.40 AM


10.30 AM
Infopark
Thevara
11.05 AM


 
 
 
 


04.20 PM
Infopark
Wellington Island
05.05 PM


04.55 PM
Infopark
Thevara
05.30 PM


05.55 PM
Infopark
Fort Cochin
06.50 PM


06.00 PM
Infopark
Aluva
06.35 PM


06.05 PM
Infopark
Fort Cochin
07.00 PM


 
In the meantime, nine low-floor non-AC Ashok Leyland buses meant for Kochi have arrived at Thiruvananthapuram and are awaiting permits. They will begin service by the end of April.
 
Three of them will ply on the  Chottanikkara-Aluva route; three from Panangad to Aluva and the other  three from Poothotta to Njarakkal. All these buses will pass through Menaka.
 
KSRTC  reports that  there has been an increase in the revenue from Volvo buses  that are now running the Aroor-Angamaly and Fort Kochi-International Airport routes  .This increase is compared to  the  January-February period when the service first started.
 
More information at THE HINDU
 

Also read:

 

1. 15 Additional Volvos on Cochin Roads

2. Kochi City Gets High-tech Buses

3. KSRTC with Infopark-Calicut Bus Service]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Trivandrum Ranked 4th Best IT Destination</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3699</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
Giving a major boost to Kerala's dreams and efforts to becoming one of  India's hottest destinations for IT and allied industries, Rediff.com has ranked Thiruvananthapuram, the State's capital  as the fourth most conducive IT destination in the country.
 
Rediff.com made the study  to discover the  cities  with the most  favorable atmosphere  to  industry and has  listed the  10 hottest IT destinations in India.
 
The city contributes 80 per cent of software exports from Kerala. Home to the Technopark since 1995, Thiruvananthapuram has steadily grown into one of the prominent IT hubs of India. It also hosts the  Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER).
 
Dr. Ajay Kumar, the State's Principal IT Secretary said that the report was indeed helpful to the IT activities of the State Government.
 

More information at: Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Boys Use Internet More than Girls</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3660</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Kerala has initiatiated  free and compulsory computer education to 1.6 million high school students every year  through its  IT @ School project. But a recent study done by Thiruvananthapuram-based Society for Promotion of Alternative Computing and Employment (SPACE) among 200 college students shows that there is marked gender disparity in Internet use and that this gap is notwithstanding the exposure they have received as part of their curriculum and various non-academic training programmes.
 
According to the syudy, only 58 per cent of the girls surveyed, as against 78 per cent boys, had used the Internet for gathering information and communication. While 59 per cent of these boys used Internet all by themselves, only 27 per cent of the girls did so. 51 per cent girls coming from an urban background used Internet without support as compared to girls from panchayat areas (25 per cent). But among boys, a large percentage (78 per cent) from a rural background accessed Internet by themselves.
 
More information at THE  HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Gas-based Power Generation at Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3662</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Kerala Minister for Registration S Sharma said that the State Government would soon provide 50 hectares of land  for a 1200-MW  gas-based power generation facility close to the proposed  LNG terminal on Puthuvype Island.
 
The proposed power generation facility should be outside the Coastal Zone Regulation area as requested by Petronet LNG (PLL), which is setting up the LNG receiving and re-gasification facility.
 
The Minister also emphasised on the need for speeding up the work on a permanent bridge by the Cochin Port Trust at Kalamukku, which would in turn help speed up the work on the LNG terminal.
 
More information at THE  HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>More Coordination on Kochi's Development</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3703</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The Ernakulam district administration is putting its best foot forward. In an effort to get things moving in the happening  city of Kochi,  steps are being taken to ensure that the services of various organisations are coordinated so that the development work in the city does not suffer.
 
District Collector M. Beena and Kerala Roads and Bridges Development Corporation (RBDCK) MD  T.K. Jose are the brains behind this project.
 
There are  a number of projects in the city including the metro rail, Vytilla mobility hub, road expansion and modernisation projects etc , all of  which need to be implemented without delay.
 
Among  long pending issues are demands  for water transport facilities from the western regions to various boat jetties in the city.
 
The current adhoc committee with CII representative Alex Thomas as secretary , will hopefully bring together the various organisations for the better  development of the city.
 
More information at  THE HINDU
 
Also read Coordination for Kochi's Development]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>ICEFOSS 10 Meet from April 19th to 21st</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3670</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
The Department of  Computer Science and Engineering of  Federal Institute of Science and Technology (FISAT), Kochi is organizing `ICEFOSS 10, a conference on free and open source software, from April 19 to 21.
 
ICEFOSS is a platform for the promotion of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS). The event will feature various programmes, including lectures on the philosophical and technical aspects of free software, workshops and open discussions.
 
More information at  Mamoramaonline ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Amakusa Airlines Implements IBS' iFly Res</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3623</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

 
IBS  SOFTWARE SERVICES has implemented its airline passenger reservation system, iFly Res, in the Japanese airline Amakusa.
 
 iFly Res affords total integration of airline reservation with complementary passenger services solutions like holiday &amp; tour management, CRM, inventory control etc.



Amakusa's President Director Toru Okushima expressed confidence that iFly Res would be a catalyst to achieving their business goals and vision for the future.



More information at Manoramaonline.



Recently, IBS  SOFTWARE had  been listed by NASSCOM (National Association of Software and Services Companies) as one of the top  IT innovators  in India for the year 2009.



Read more...]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Careers in Gaming and Infotainment Road Show</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3673</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 




 
Nasscom (National Association of Software &amp; Service Companies) in association with  Image Infotainment Limited and the  State Government's IT initiative is conducting a road show on career opportunities in animation and gaming.


 
The road show will be held at the Tagore Centenary Hall in Kozhikode on April 21,  Regional Theatre in Thrissur on April 22,  Town Hall in Ernakulam on April 23,  Mammen Mapilla Hall in Kottayam on April 24,  Jerome Nagar Hall in Kollam on April 25 and the Tagore Theatre in  Thiruvananthapuram on April 26.


 
It will be held from 9.30 am to 1 pm at all the centres.


 
The road show will target students and unemployed youth who wish to build a creative career in media and entertainment industry, which is one of the fastest growing segments in the country.


 
More information at THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 18 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>NHAI Approves the Proposal for New Elevated Highway in Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3627</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
And finally, Kochi has the much-awaited green signal from the  National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for the elevated highway on the Edapally-Palarivattom-Vytilla-Kundanoor stretch , which will help in decongesting the traffic. The NHAI would also take up the work of the elevated highway which is expected to be 6 to 7 km long.
 
This comes as welcome news for the city in which traffic congestion has been increasing , inspite of a four lane system in operation. The traffic density has  increased phenomenally over the past decade.
 
The  NHAI decision is the aftermath of the discussions the Kerala Minister for Public Works, P. J. Joseph and the PWD  Principal Secretary,  Tom Jose had with the Union Minister for Surface Transport, Kamalnath in New Delhi recently.
 
Earlier, the NHAI had rejected the proposal thrice.
 
Source: THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Malayalam Wiki Meet on April 17</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3621</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
 
People who work with Malayalam Wikis of the Wikimedia Foundation are coming together for the third Wiki Meet on April 17. This  is  part of the efforts to spread awareness on various Malayalam Wiki projects.
 
The meeting will be held at Kalamassery Rajagiri College of Social Sciences from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m on April 17. The Malayalam Wiki Meet is jointly organized by SPACE, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, and  IT @ School . For the first time ever, public participation will be allowed in the Wiki Meet.
 
Apart from introduction of Malayalam Wiki initiatives to freshers and a seminar on various aspects of Wiki projects, the get together will also witness the releasing of a CD comprising of 500 selected essays from Malayalam Wikipedia .
 

More information at Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>MoEF Gives Environmental Clearance to Technopark Phase III</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3640</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 
 





 
The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) , Government of India has given environmental clearance to the proposed Phase 3 expansion of Technopark at Trivandrum. The Phase 3 of the park is planned on the main NH by-pass between in between Technopark Phase I and II, and is only 9 km from the Trivandrum International Airport.




 
According to Dr Ajay Kumar (Technopark Chairman and the State's Principal IT Secretary),  the first building on the campus, with a built up area of 10 lakh sq ft,  would commence operations by the second half of 2011.



 
Technopark has already commissioned a 110 KV substation to supply power to the new campus as well as for the adjacent Phase II campus where Infosys and UST Global are situated.



 
Work on other infrastructure needs such as water supply and facilities for treatment and disposal of solid and liquid wastes and storage and disposal of electronic wastes are in progress and would be made ready on completion of the building.



 
A direct approach road solar-powered LED street lights from NH Bypass is also planned to reduce the traffic on existing roads.



 
On completion of the first stage of the park, parking facility for 1200 cars would be provided. Along with this construction, the remaining land within the 92 acre Phase III campus is planned will be allotted to selected private developers.



 
Source: Manoramaonline
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>US Revival will Boost Indian IT Companies</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3599</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The latest reports from global technology research firms hint at a strong rebound in IT spends in the US and other major economies in 2010.
 
The forecast is based  on the recovery in the December quarter demand for IT products and services, and anticipation of revival in the US economy and user industries.
 
This supports the market expectations of recovery of business fundamentals for the IT exporters. Top IT  companies are expected to  have achieved a  4-6%  volume  growth for the  quarter Match 2010. 
 
All these expectations are validated by the fact that global  research agencies like Gartner and Forrester research  have forecast a  5.3%  increase in global IT spends for 2010, compared with a drop of 4.5% the previous year.
 
More information at : Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 13 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Government Sets Up 4-Member Committee to Approve Private IT Park Proposals</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3597</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Government of Kerala  has set up a four member empowered committee of experts to evaluate and approve the applications of private park developers  within 45 days of receiving the applications. The empowered  committee of experts has been set up on the  recommendation of  a committee constituted to prepare  guidelines for setting up private parks in the state.
 
The members of the committee include the Technopark Chief Executive Officer, Kerala State IT Mission  Director,  KINFRA Managing Director and  the Chief Town Planner.
 
To see the guidelines for Private IT parks in the State, click here.
More information at : Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 13 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>5 New Highways to Improve Kerala Infrastructure</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3569</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

 
 
The Roads and Bridges Development  Corporation of Kerala Ltd has now set in motion efforts to begin work of five major Highways in Kerala during the first half of 2011.  
 
RBDCK's highway projects include:
-- A  66.90 Km four-lane west coast highway along the sea coast from Ponnani to Elathur, which will reduce the distance between Kochi and Kozhikode by 40 Km.
 
-- A 28.50 Km Chertala-Kottayam tourist highway that will increase the connectivity between Kochi and Kottayam and which will be extended to connect K.K. Road with Manarcadu.
 
-- Second phase (14.9 Km) of Ernakulam’s Airport-Seaport Road, linking Kalamassery with Kariyad on NH 47.
 
-- Four-laning of the existing Airport-Seaport Road which links Irumbanam with Kalamassery HMT Junction.
 
-- A  27 Km Thankalam-Kakkanad highway which will connect Kakkanad with areas lying further east in Ernakulam.
 
These projects  when complete  will not only provide alternate motor routes within Kerala but also reduce driving distances. RBDCK might also build multi-level car-parking facilities in cities where there are inadequate parking spaces. This is apart from 17 over-bridges that it will build within March 2011.
 
More information at  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 13 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Stronger Rupee can Affect Export Profits</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3563</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

Indian Rupee is getting Stronger
 
Strong currency movements , along with expansion related spending may  cause IT companies to show only average growth of net profits for the fourth quater of  31st March.
 
In rupee terms, TCS and Infosys may report average profit growth of 3.41 per cent and 1.58 per cent sequentially while Wipro is expected to register an average dip of 2.1 per cent, say research reports by brokerage firms.
 
However, on a year-on-year basis, these companies are expected to report an average 16.25 per cent  rise in net profit, thanks to  an  overall improvement in demand for IT services as compared with the same year-ago period.
 
During the quarter gone by, the Indian rupee appreciated against all leading currencies. It went up by 1.6 per cent against the dollar and 7.7 per cent and 5.9 per cent each against the Euro and Pound Sterling. This appreciation will result in lower realisations in rupee terms which will mute the growth in the reported currencies.
 
The following table shows how the Rupee has been strengthening recently against the US Dollar :
1/ January      Rs 46.56
1/February     Rs 46.37
1/March           Rs 46.14
1/April              Rs 44.70
9/April             Rs 44.25
( Only an indicative  conversion )
 
Whilst a stronger Rupee will make our imports cheaper and hopefully bring down internal prices through additional imports of  food items, the stronger  rupee can have an impact of reducing profitability on exports.
 
More information at: Hindu Businessline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>NASSCOM Lists IBS among India's Top IT Innovators</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3544</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 



                         

 
 
Leading IT  solutions  provider to the travel, transportation, and logistics industry,  IBS  SOFTWARE  has  been listed by NASSCOM (National Association of Software and Services Companies) as one of the top  IT innovators  in India for the year 2009.
 
Included in the  compilation of the top 50 innovators, IBS  SOFTWARE  was nominated in the category "Market Facing Innovation", for its product Road Safety Management System , a database   management system that redefines the way  road accident data is managed.
 
 "Road safety  is a critical concern to the society at large. There is a tremendous  opportunity for innovative technology solutions  to make road management  more efficient and safer. RSMS is one such solution.  The recognition by NASSCOM is a huge encouragement for us to pursue further initiatives that harness the power of IT for the common good," said Mr.V.K. Mathews, Chairman &amp; CEO, IBS Group.
 
IBS  SOFTWARE   is  a Trivandrum Technopark -based company with a presence at Infopark  in Cochin.
 
More information at :  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 09 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>International Design Consultants for  Infopark's Phase II</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3524</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The  master plan  for Phase  II  of  Infopark  has been tendered  and Iinternational design consultants will participate.
 
The  park , which is to be designed as an ecofriendly one with  high energy saving measures and low carbon emission levels , will be watched closely  by those in the  IT  industry , as well  as  those  from others.
 
Today, with global warming on the climb , there is an  effort to reduce  human activity  primarily from burning  of  fossil fuels . This  ec ofriendly  attitude  has become  essential  in industry.
 
Kerala has been relatively fortunate in that it has a number of hydro-electric projects, and it is  not a user of  coal  for power generation . However, as a buyer of power from the national grid, there is need to understand that high usage still indirectly contributes  to the emission levels.
 
Any measure  which promotes the use of less power and which retains  green surroundings  will be a welcome  step.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 08 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infopark Kochi - Phase II Starting Up</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3499</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 An artist's view the completed Phase II
 
Following the  requests of various  IT companies and developers for space and land, Infopark Kochi is expanding its  activities to the neighbouring Kunnathunad and Puthencruz  villages of Kunnathunad Taluk of Ernakulam District as its second phase  on  160 acres.
 
The  master plan  envisages infrastructure development for cost effective BPO complexes and  software development blocks in SEZ and non SEZ clusters.
 
The  Phase II  will  be  an  ecofriendly green park with high energy saving measures and least carbon emission. The existing ecosystem will be maintained at  the highest possible level.
 
The  park will also have a large business convention centre, budget hotels, shopping complexes, commercial centres, and recreation and entertainment centres.
 
Infrastructure development will be undertaken in a phased manner and will be completed by Sep 2011. Construction of the BPO complex will commence in the 2010-11 financial year. ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 07 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infopark Phase II to Create 1.1 Lakh Jobs: Says CM</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3477</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 


 
During his  visit  to the  Infopark  on Saturday, Chief  Minister V.S. Achuthanandan,  said that once completed, the second phase of the park will create 1.1 lakh direct job opportunities. He has also announced IT and infrastructure development activities worth Rs. 2500 crore for the  second phase.
 
The project will be globally tendered to identify a  competent international  consultancy for its implementation.  In the meantime, the Ernakulam district administration headed by Collector Dr. K. M Beena will oversee  the  basic infrastructural  development work for the project. 
 
Of the Rs 2,500 crore required for the development project, the State Government will provide Rs 475 crore as government support fund and internally generated fund within three years. Around 8 million square feet of built-in space will be constructed in 160 acres as part of the phase-II development.
 
The CM also announced that the work on Athulya, Infopark's latest smart space will be completed by  May 2010.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala GTUG Launching in April</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3468</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
The  Kerala chapter of  Google  Technology  Users  Group  (GTUG)  will  be  launched  from  Technopark on April 10.  
 
The focus will be on the following technology areas :


	Google Ajax APIs – maps, search, visualization, gadgets
	Google Friend Connect and Open Social
	Android – mobile development
	Google App Engine – scalable cloud computing
	Google Web Toolkit – web development platform
	Project Hosting
	Analytics and AdSense – advertising and web analytics
	Google Wave – real-time collaboration and communication

 
The Kerala chapter of the users' group aims to build a strong Google user community in the state.  Members of the GTUG are those who use Google technology and want to learn more about it.
 
More information at  Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 05 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Thinking the Kerala Way...</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3464</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Kerala’s educated workforce and state-of-the-art IT parks make good business sense for western companies to outsource their operations. The beautiful beaches and scenic backwaters attract tourists from all over the world. But what if you decided to stay in God’s Own Country and the state becomes your permanent base? Are there many differences compared to Europe and is it difficult for a non-local to participate in the daily business life of Kerala? No, it is not difficult, and although there are differences between Kerala and Europe, these are dwarfed by the familiarities you will encounter as an expat. Moreover, when a challenge presents itself to you, most of the time, you will find that the pragmatic nature of people will overcome the issue.
 
While it was easy to get frustrated with the bureaucratic nature of some Government organizations, it is safe to say that IT companies have limited exposure to them. Once you get over these bureaucratic hassles, and become part of the community, the upside is that Indians tend to value business relationships very highly. People are extremely loyal and most are happy to go that extra mile for you even outside business hours, even (or maybe especially) if you are a foreigner. This contrasts very much with Holland where business relations are more formal and transaction oriented.
 
Also there is a big difference in the common attitude towards doing business. I love the open way in which Keralites and most Indians approach other people.  It is very easy to meet and get introduced to people, and communicating is as easy as breathing for most (even though a proper follow-up is sometimes lacking!).
 
Finally one of the best things I like about staying in Kerala is that people have a good dose of introspection and don’t take themselves too seriously. You can joke around easily without fearing to offend someone–but do expect to get some back. I guess this is not a difference but a common trait between Holland and Kerala. But an important one since it will overcome all other differences.
 
This blog was contributed by Jasper Van Herwaarden.
 
Team@KeralaIT  welcomes more blogs from guests to our State. If you would like to add your insights and experiences, please sign up as a Contributor at Kerala IT and start blogging….]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 01 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala  IT Mission to Start 'WEBINARS'</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3451</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
Kerala State IT Mission,  the nodal agency for the implementation of Government -sponsored  IT projects in the state  is to introduce `Webinars’  to conduct live meetings, trainings, or presentations via the Internet.
 
Webinars  allow participants to  sit  at  their own computer , but be connected to other participants via the internet. Webinar  offers a real time communication tool that supports interactions over a network between participants across various geographic locations.
 
Additional features like data, voice &amp; video sharing and meeting tools such as common Whiteboard, Reference file sharing, Application sharing, text chatting etc , are alll  managed in a highly secured environment which allows only authentic  users.
 
A webinar is a cost-effective solution for conducting meetings and seminars. People also avoid travelling , resulting in time saving as well.
 
KSITM proposes to subscribe to a Webinar Solution which shall be useful in conducting meetings and training  for Government departments and other Government organizations]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 01 Apr 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IPL Comes to Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3404</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Lalit Modi- the brain behind IPL
 
Into  its  third  year  and going strong -  thats  the  IPL  story. 
 
Even as  the third  tournamemt  is on, IPL  has grown into the biggest Indian global brand  worth  an  estimated  mind boggling  $4.5 billion.
 
Two new teams will join next year , and they have been sold at staggering sums which are five to six  times the price paid for the earlier teams. Along with  Pune which has been purchased by the  Sahara Group, the  good news to  Keralites  is that Kochi now enters the  international sports scene , having been purchased  by  Rendezvous  Sports  World Ltd, which is a five member consortium, including one from Kerala.  The bid price on the Kochi Team was   $333.33 million.
 
Cricket lovers are already  asking the owners of the IPL Kochi team to have a world class trendy logo/emblem.
 
Why  don't you also make suggestions as to whom we can  have in the  team, and who should be the  team Captain ?
 
Show your ability as  a  scout and selector  with  suggestions at  www. kerala.it.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Liveability Index 2010: Kerala Top in Health and Medical Standards</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3394</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 

 
When it comes to health and medicare, Kerala is behind no other state in the country. The Liveability Index 2010 (By CII and Institute for Competitiveness) further strengthens Kerala's image as a place that enjoys the best medical standards in India. Its health standards are comparable to that of the world's most advanced countries.  
 
 With over 2700 government medical institutions, not to mention those in the private sector, it is no wonder that the State's  3 cities- Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi had  the top ranks when it came to health and medical standards.  Kozhikode has the highest rank, followed by Thiruvananthapuram and then Kochi.
 
 It is also amazing to note that it is the Achilles' heel of some of India's major metros. Delhi, the nation's capital is 17th in health and medical standards, while Mumbai is 12th. Bangalore is 18 in the list.  
 
 The parameters that determine a city's health and medical standard include:
 1. The number of hospital beds available per person
2. The distance between a resident and the nearest health-care professional
3. The time required to reach a hospital
4. Life expectancy
5. Mortality rate
 
 The rapidly declining growth rate, highest mean age at marriage, a very high level of acceptance and awareness of family planning methods and fertility control, a moderate decline in the mortality rate etc are some of Kerala’s most commendable achievements in health standards. Low birth rate and death rate along with higher female life expectancy, low infant mortality with negligible gap between rural and urban and lower levels of disability are the special characteristics of Kerala’s Health Status.
 
The major factors contributing to such a unique situation in Kerala are a wide network of health infrastructure and manpower, policies of successive state governments and other social factors like women’s education, general health awareness and clean health habits of the people. No wonder Kerala's health and medical standards have been lauded even by the WHO (World Health Organisation).
 
Click here to read more on the unique health status of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>15 Additional Volvos on Cochin Roads</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3391</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
 

 
The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is all set  to increase the number of  its existing fleet of buses on Cochin roads.
 
The number of premium low-floor buses operating in the city will go up to 22, with six more air-conditioned Volvo buses and nine non-AC buses,  from the first week of April.
 
Routed through the  City hub,  the new buses would  ply through Menaka and M G Road, while all the non-AC buses have been routed via Menaka. Two of the new Volvo buses would ply on the  Willingdon Island-Infopark-Aluva route and  two on the Fort Kochi-Infopark-Aluva sector and two on the Poothotta-Aluva route. Three of the non-AC buses would ply through the Panangad–Aluva route; three from Chottanikkara to Aluva and the other  three on the Poothotta–Njarakkal route.
 
Currently, four Volvo buses operate on the Aroor-NH bypass-Angamaly route, while three ply on the Fort Kochi-NH bypass- Airport route.
 
KSRTC officials hope that the increase in the number of premium buses and the onset of summer would also see an increase in the number of passengers.
 
More information at  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala High on Environmental Liveability</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3385</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
The CII-Institute for Competitiveness Liveability Index 2010 places Kerala high on Environmental Liveability. According to the report, Kozhikode is 8th in environmental liveability, followed by Kochi (10th) and Thiruvananthapuram (11th).
 
 
Natural-built/Planned Environment crown goes to metros Mumbai,Chennai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata (6th). Attention is deserved  by Faridabad (34th), Jammu (35th), Dehradun (36th) and the 37th ranked Jamshedpur.
 
 
As the increase in population along with the availability, use and consumption of energy resources can impact our global environment, it is very important that we resort to developmental activities while taking all the necessary steps to sustain our environment. The Liveability Index 2010 uses the history of natural calamities and general climate conditions as a measure to track effectiveness at reducing pollution in general.
 
 
The Index attempts to raise the question: What are we doing on a daily basis in our communities to improve our environmental liveability?
 
 

 
 
 
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Openings at Suyati</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3359</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Suyati Technologies Private Limited situated in Infopark is on the lookout for qualified and experienced Software Engineers, SharePoint Developers and Part-time Marketing Specialists. Requirements for each of the posts are as follows:
 
1. Software Engineers
 


	IT graduate

 

	At least 3-4 years work experience

 

	At least 2+ years .Net experience (C#)

 

	Knowledge of Ajax &amp; REST based Web services

 

	Database experience (ideally SQL Server)

 

	Good communication skills

 

	Team player

 

	Adaptable and flexible

 
2. SharePoint Developers
 


	Candidate would possess experience with SharePoint Server 2003/ MOSS, with 3+ years Microsoft SharePoint experience, including WSS 3.0 and MOSS, web parts development, and workflow (business process design and automation)

 

	B Tech/MCA  plus 8-10 years of full life-cycle project development experience

 

	4-5 years of experience with Microsoft web development technologies, including .NET, C#, ASP.NET, Visual Studio

 

	3 + years of requirements gathering and solution definition related to information management / information taxonomies for business and technology audiences

 

	3+ years portal and/or enterprise content management

 

	Experience developing object-oriented applications

 

	Experience with implementation of complex logical database designs and relational database concepts

 

	2+ years of experience architecting, designing and developing distributed systems including demonstrated experience with .Net Framework, SQL, C#, ASP.NET, Windows Forms and web services

 
 
3. Marketing Specialists (Part-time)
 


	Graduate or a Post Graduate Student

 

	Career goal in marketing

 

	Innovative

 

	Team player

 

	Willingness to shoulder responsibility

 

	Strong intellectual and analytical ability

 

	Independent and adaptable

 

	Sense of urgency and initiative

 

	Excellent communication skills in English

 

	Basic understanding of the IT industry

 
 
If you think you would fit the slot, mail us your resume at  jobs@suyati.com ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kozhikode is the Best City to Live In</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3344</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

New growth possible at Kozhikode
 

 
That the Livability Report 2010 , brought out by the Confederation of Indian Industry, has shown Kozhikode topping the  entire  nation in two of the eight parameters, as the best city to live in and as the best in health and medical standards, though this may not come as an entire surprise to those  familiar with the city.
 
That Kozhikode is now set to receive funds from the centre  under the Jawaharlal Nehru  National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), and  will allow it to take on numerous  short, medium and long term projects  totalling  over Rupees 3700 crores, is probably the single biggest thing to happen  to the city.  Expected to cover Kozhikode and its immediate surroundings, these funds will be in addition to the Kerala sustainable urban development Programmes.
 
 A liveable city is not just an urbanized area, but a combination of certain components. The  quality of life experienced by citizens living in a city is tied to their ability to access infrastructure (transportation, communication, water, and sanitation),  food,  clean air,  affordable housing,  meaningful employment,  green space and parks, and medical facilities.
 
 There are external as well as internal dynamics that determine the performance towards achieving  these goals. Once the external factors of sanction and funding are ironed out, the internal dynamics which are subject to local controls  require efficiency to be amongst the best.  That Kozhikode now  has  this advantage  and chance  will be watched by industry and the  general  public.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Avoid  Summer Health  Risks </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3348</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[



 
 
Though summer is considered a great time to be outdoors, it must be realized that it brings with it  additional  health   risks. The  incidents  of   sun-stroke  and  burnt skin, particularly from Palaghat district in Kerala makes disturbing reading.
 
People who have  light skin or hair or are  over 50 years of age  should avoid  spending  time in  the  sun and getting  sun burnt, as it can lead to  skin  cancer. The trick is  to avoid  too much sunlight and use  sunscreen lotions.
 
Heat stroke is a serious medical condition, and the  symptoms  normally are  being confused, having a faster pulserate , not  sweating or even  short and rapid breathing. Such people  need  immediate medical attention, and while help arrives,  the person should be kept cool with occasional sips  of water.His feet should  be  placed at a  slight elevation.
 
Dehydration  can also happen very easily during  summer, and to avoid this  ensure you take  sips of fluids or just plain drinking water periodically. Children need particular attention, and ideally should  always wear a hat when they are  taken out in  the sun.
 
Summer also brings with it other problems  such as  food spoilage leading to food poisoning. Eyes  can be  damaged  through  U/V rays,  which  can be  avoided by wearing  dark glasses. Another  common problem in summer is  bug bites  which can be controlled by using suitable repellants.
 
A little precaution can go a long way in ensuring you avoid summer health risks.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Senior Java Engineers for Team Lead</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3325</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[UVJ Technologies ( A Calpine Group Company) is a company specialized in custom software development, web design, Internet /Intranet applications and consulting services. The company has potential and experience in development of complex solutions for its customers.

We have a current 'Team Lead' opening and we are looking for Engineers with Experience in leading and coordinating the activities of  software development teams - Knowledge of business processes and ability to document business requirements - Strong analytical skills and ability to develop detailed design documents for software solutions - Software architecture design skills - Ability to provide team members with technical guidance - Experience writing large Java applications - Experience with Microsoft technologies, including .NET - Familiarity with C++ - Proven organization, communication and follow-up skills - Ability to work efficiently both as a leader and a team player.

The selected individual will coordinate, facilitate, provide technical direction and participate in the development of CambridgeSoft's industry-leading ChemDraw product on a Java platform.

It requires excellent communication and documentation skills, and the ability to work independently and to manage multiple priorities.

If you think you have it in you then kindly forward your resumes to resume@calpinetech.com]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Scores Well on Liveability Index </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3333</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 
 

 
The  Confederation of  Indian  Industry (CII)  is an organisation which works to create and sustain an environment conducive to the growth of industry in India, through advisory and consultative processes.
 
 
As a non-government, not-for-profit, industry led and industry managed organization it plays  a proactive role in India’s development process. Founded over 115 years ago, it has  a direct membership of over 7800 organizations  from the private as well as public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs, and an indirect  membership of over 90,000 companies.
 
 

 
The  Institute  for  Competitiveness,  is the Indian  side  in the global network of the Institute for Strategy and Competitiveness at Harvard  Business School.
 
These two organisations have come out with their  report  LIVEABILITY  INDEX  2010:  THE  BEST CITIES OF INDIA.
 
The quality of life index is  basically an annual study of key factors  that determine the  degree of livability of cities in India. Meant to measure significant drivers of the health and wealth of the community, that reach beyond the monetary value which drives the economy.  Primarily an assessment  of the quality of life  which is being given more importance today, by both  residents and businesses, it acts as a search for alternate  option to cut costs.  Expense needs to be coupled with a good infrastructure and in the Indian cities especially, continued availability of the basic amenities like water, road and power are what Industries are probing for to keep business  cost down.
 
The study covering  37 cities in overall quality of life  has been done by identifying and grouping indicators  bearing in mind Indian conditions and requirements. The indicators have been selected and been given suitable weightage  and is based  on the impact that these would have on the liveability.  The eight primary indicators  include  demography, education, health and medical standards, safety, housing options, socio-cultural and political, economic, and natural/planned environments.
 
The  study covers both major  and Tier II and III  level cities .  As  can be expected the five major metro's  NewDelhi,  Mumbai, Chennai,  Bengaluru and  Kolkota occupy the first five places.
 
Kerala which boasts only  Tier II and III  level  metros has shown remarkable indicators  with the overall liveability Index  placing  Kochi in 12th,  Kozhikode in 15th,  and Trivandrum in  16th  place.
 
 
Kozhikode has been placed as the  number one place for Health and medical practise and  Housing in the whole of India. A factor that bodes  well for Cyberpark in Kozhikode, as it starts its journey to join Kochi and Trivandrum to attract IT /ITES  industry investors .]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infopark Glimpses</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3320</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
My friend Mr. Mukund Krishna invited me to visit his company Suyati Technologies Private Limited located in Infopark, Kakkanad, Kochi. I accepted his invitation and visited the park on February 9, 10 and 11. It turned out to be a great experience. Having lived in the United States for over 50 years, I had monitored the progress in India. However, this was my first visit to Kochi.
 
Infopark is a modern development accommodating Indian and International companies. The buildings are modern with all the facilities one can ask for to set up a business. The infrastructure within the campus is modern with security. The employees in the surrounding offices have shopping and eating facility in L &amp; T Building.
 
It is impressive to see such a facility in Kochi. It is synergic to those offered by Purdue University Research Park and Indiana University Technology Center in the State of Indiana in the United States. 
 
Ramesh Shah, Ph.D.
President &amp; CEO
DC Limited
3028 Lehigh Court
Indianapolis, IN 46268 USA
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>4G Identity Solutions Lands UIDAI Contract</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3312</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
4G Identity Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (4GID) announced that it has been awarded the contract for the world’s largest iris recognition identity management application and data de-duplication processing. The state government of Andhra Pradesh, India awarded the 90 million person ID management contract to 4G ID after a stringent technical evaluation process through global competitive bidding. The value of the base contract is in excess of US$6 million. 
 
Initially twenty  devices will be used in the UIDAI Proof of Concept (PoC) tests. The objective of the UIDAI  feasibility tests is to establish a definitive baseline for biometric data quality under Indian conditions.  Subsequent to those tests, the devices and the data collected in the PoC will be used in the UIDAIs  biometrics Centre of Competence.
 
If you would like to know more see FindBiometrics]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cochin Needs Modern Bus Shelters</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3292</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Pallarivattom's new Bus shelter
 
The Town Planning Standing Committee of the Kochi Corporation will  take a decision on the model of bus shelters and the passenger facilities that are to be provided .  The period for which the investor can own the project is still undecided.
 
The agency which qualifies for implementing the project will be allowed to set up shelters on build, operate and transfer mode. They are allowed to display advertisements  on the construction  for a fixed term . They had also suggested that the investors could approach the government for extension of term.  The management and maintenance of the shelters including the daily cleaning operations will be responsibility of the investors.  
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala IT to Participate in IndiaSoft 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3286</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
A team from the Department of Information Technology,  Government of Kerala, will  participate  in the 10th edition of   ‘IndiaSoft 2010' ,  which  is  India's  exclusive international IT event taking place in Jaipur, Rajasthan, from  10th to 12th March .
 
Organised  by the  Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) , INDIASOFT  have evolved and provided Indian IT enterprises,  particularly Tier II &amp; III  ones,  an opportunity to interact with IT buyers across the world. It provides  a platform which seamlessly integrated different verticals – software development, products and services.
 
This  year's  edition will have 120  hosted buyers from entire Latin America, Africa, CIS and ASEAN region and 45 buyers from France, Spain and Germany. The buyers, visitors across the globe can witness a world of IT innovations being displayed by Indian IT companies at INDIASOFT 2010.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cisco's New Super Fast Internet</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3280</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Cisco Systems has just announced  that it has developed  a new high speed routing system, which they claim will lay the foundation for the Next-gen Internet.
 
Its new CRS-3 system has 12 times the capacity of competitors' systems and will allow Internet service providers and telecommunications companies to deliver video and other content at three times the speed of its own earlier system.
 
Cisco's  new equipment has the capacity to deliver in 4 minutes every film ever made,  or to allow every person in China to make a video call simultaneously.  In practical terms, such heavy traffic could overload other components of existing networks, but Cisco said the equipment is a key element of upgrading those networks.
 
More information at EconomicTimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Trivandrum University Stadium being Renovated</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3288</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Synthetic track at University Stadium
 
The  renovation of the University Stadium, at a cost of  Rs.4 crore, for the 35th National Games   has started . The  work includes laying of vitrified tiles in the rooms, repair of the gallery, stadium pavilion, seats of the spectators, replacing of the waste water pipes and electrical works, which  would be completed within six months.
 
 
The  genesis of   National Games is in the Olympic movement, which gathered momentum in the country in the twenties of the last century. It aimed at promoting the Olympic Sports in the country.  The competitions was named as  NATIOAL GAMES  and is  held in every two years in one or other major cities  of the country ever since.
 
The games are being held in Kerala for the second time  -the first occasion was in 1987 when the 27th  Games were as held at Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, Kochi, Thrissur and Kollam.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Smart City Put on the Back Burner</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3282</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

 
 
The  Kerala  government has written to the promoters of the proposed SmartCity Project in Kochi declining their demand for freehold on a portion of  the  land  acquired by the government for the project.
 
Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan said  that the Dubai-based  promoter, TECOM,  has also been told that it could not keep on making demands outside the  agreement with the government. He  also  observed that TECOM was delaying the project because of  financial reasons.
 
The Kerala IT development would not suffer as a consequence of  this development as  there are many other projects taking  place under the KeralaIT Misssion.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Forest Tracks in Kerala Face Danger of Fire</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3276</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[A Forest Fire
 
 
Forest  tracks of  Kerala are facing the risk of fire as the mercury levels  soar.   The  State has  reportedly  lost about  700 hectares of   forest land to fire since  December 2009.  Increased atmospheric temperature and absence of summer rain have put the forest areas in a perilous state.
 
Extra caution  should  be exercised in forest areas with dried bamboo, including  the closure of such areas to visitors.
 
Persons planning  a  weekend break , would be well advised to choose their destination  carefully.  For  those not very familiar  with  Kerala, a word of caution would be that  THIS YEAR  IS  UNUSUALLY  HOT  .
 
Most years, we see temperature rise, but above a certain temperature, rain always fall - usually referred to as mango showers . Unusually this  has not been the case this year.  Perhaps , it would be advisable to visit water spots  like Kumarakom or Athirapally and put the game  sanctuaries off  till later in the year  ..... anyway its too hot !!!
 
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>An Expat in Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3268</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
There is no escaping the heat, it is everywhere. Even if you avoid direct sunlight and physical activity, you will sweat. It wears you out; it gets under your skin, and makes any trip outside a hellish endeavour. The only remedy is finding shelter under the cooling blanket of an AC. Every year the humidity in the air builds up in the months prior to the rainy season resulting in unbearable heat for any foreigner like me. Although the people from Kerala seem less affected by it, they too are bothered by the climate, they tell me. The only thing we can do is to wait for the rains of the monsoon usually unleashed in June to wash the heat away.
 
Although these are climatically not the most enjoyable months in Kerala, I would prefer it anytime over the alternative in Europe where around this time of the year it is usually cold, wet and most of all dark (though with the obvious exception of mosquitoes). Still, the weather is not the reason I live in Kerala, nor is it the scenic backwaters, the beautiful beaches or the tasty food. I am here because I work in Kerala. Two years ago I arrived in Kochi, expatriated by the company I worked for. Never been in Kerala (or in India for that matter), my first impression of it was the same as that of many foreigners: chaotic and noisy, especially in the cities. I didn’t know anybody at that time so it is safe to say that in those first weeks I felt a bit overwhelmed, even lost in that endless stream of people, vehicles, shops etc.
 
But soon I discovered that the chaos was merely the outer layer of Kerala. Like anywhere else, one has to interact with the people in order to fully understand the true nature of its culture. This was most easy since Keralites are very curious and eager to engage with anyone they meet, especially if you are a foreigner (how different from Western Europe). People enjoy conversations and even with the many cultural differences, they accept you and focus on the similarities rather than the differences. At the same time, they are very proud of their culture which values honesty, hard work and close personal ties.
 
These characteristics of openness and ethics, even more than the Technoparks and the very good educational system make Kerala an excellent environment to do business. True, there is room for improvement such as tackling the frequent power cuts and traffic jams that cripple your operations. Unfortunately these still drain unnecessary amounts of your time, money and energy and need urgent fixing. But the most important thing is that although things may not always go smoothly, in the end, everything always works out fine. Power will be back, traffic will move again and the hot season will be followed by some refreshing rain and a cool winter.
 
Kerala is not only a good place to work but also to live and make lasting friendships. And this may be the true USP of the state. Because although the number of foreigners living and working here is much smaller than say Bangalore or Mumbai, those who are here usually stay longer than planned or come back after some time (initially I planned to stay only for a period of one year). The exact reason, without doubt, will be different for each person but then, surely, to a large extent it has something sure to do with feeling welcome in a land where they were not born.  And a few beaches and green backwaters are not hurting either...
 
This blog was contributed by Jasper Van Herwaarden. 
 
The  Team@KeralaIT  welcomes more blogs from guests to our State. If you would like to add your insights and experiences, please sign up as a Contributor at Kerala IT and start blogging.... ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala IT is Now in LinkedIn</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3263</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[&nbsp;
&nbsp;

&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Kerala IT&nbsp; is now in LinkedIn...
&nbsp;
Are you an IT person? Do you have something to say about the IT events and affairs in Kerala?? Join Kerala IT in L inkedIN and make yourself a part of heated discussions! Make your voice heard and also listen to what others have to say about Information Technology in Kerala!
&nbsp;
Are you a registered with LinkedIn? If not, register today, become a member of the Kerala IT group, and update yourself on the latest events in Kerala IT!!
&nbsp;
Click here to join the KeralaIT group in LinkedIn.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Karamana- Kaliyikkavila to Become 4-lane Road</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3254</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 


Karamana,  a populated but green suburb of Trivandrum will see some changes  soon.  A high-level meeting  convened by Public  Works  Minister P.J. Joseph here on Tuesday approved a Rs.650-crore project to widen the stretch of  National Highway 47  from Karamana to Kaliyikkavila into a four-lane road.
The 39-km road will be widened to  30.2 metres  and have a 1.5-metres-wide median at the centre and footpaths and cable ducts on either side. The sanction for the project will be made within a week and  will be fast tracked.
 
More information at THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Tech Life 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3252</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Healthy Life
 
The Group of  Technopark  Companies  (GTech)  is joining hands with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to organise a series of  health  awareness programmes on the Technopark campus at Kazhakuttam from 5th to 9th april.
 
The campaign ‘Tech Life 2010' will focus on the importance of  leading a healthy life and creating a healthy environment. Each day of the programme will cover one ailment and there is a chance for  you to unwind  with cultural programmes.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Dream IT Jobs in 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3250</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
2010 Dream Jobs in IT
 
 
This  year is sure  to bring a lot of cheer for the country’s  seasoned  IT professionals.  Leading  IT companies like  Tata  Consultancy  Services  (TCS), Wipro,  Infosys, Mahindra Satyam and  Cognizant have once again  started  hiring  at the middle and senior level, which were largely on hold during the recession.
 
Headhunters estimate that some 3,000 senior professionals have been hired by the Indian IT sector in the October-December 2009 quarter. Since then, things are reportedly more encouraging with Seniors heading overseas to take up new responsibilities, the move is across the  whole industry.
 
Typically, the average cost-to-company  (CTC)  for lateral recruits starts at Rs 15 lakh per annum in the IT sector. Despite such high talent acquisition cost, the companies are not shying away from such recruitment.
 
More information at IndiaTimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Digital Libraries under IT@School </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3226</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Kerala state  would introduce free digital libraries in all schools under the  IT@school  programme.  The schools would have the freedom to copy, modify and redistribute the digital content being supplied to them.
 
The scheme  being implemented with the help of  KELTRON, would distribute  7,300 computers, 3740 laptops, 6510 UPS devices, 1291 printers, 785 scanners, 1160 multimedia projectors, 925 print-scan-copy-fax printers, 1500 handy-cams, 430 LCD televisions, 1830 TFT monitors, and 1500 external hard disks ,  before March 31.
 
IT@School would facilitate the sharing of digital material and video documentaries that are produced by students in various schools. All schools have already been equipped with broadband Internet, laptops and multimedia projectors.
 
More information at THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Hiring May See Upto 70% Increase</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3230</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
 
There  are benefits coming to those seeking jobs,  as  a hiring wave by India's outsourcing sector  is set to increase recruitment by nearly 70 percent in the next financial year, according to the National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom).
 
India's big three outsourcing companies -- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys and Wipro -- all have plans to boost hiring sharply in the coming financial year, and have already revealed their requirements.
 
IT professionals confirm that the 'feel good" factor is back, as big companies have returned to college campuses  to recruit in large numbers.
 
India's software and services exports are expected to grow by up to 15 percent to hit 57 billion dollars in the next fiscal year . The growth projected for next year is still far below the blistering 28 percent export revenue rise clocked in the financial year 2006/7.
 

More info at IndiaTimes
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>New Hydro-electric Projects Planned</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3228</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Three hydro-electric projects that would conform to the stringent norms for environmental preservation laid down by the United Nations are in the pipeline. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB)  is keen on ensuring that these projects meet the standards of the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change in its Kyoto Protocol.
 
The pilot projects are  at Chathankottunada, near Vadakara; Vilangad; and Kakkayam. The Chathankottunada-II project near Vadakara is proposed to have an installed capacity of 6 MW and an annual generation potential of 14.76 million units. The Vilangad small hydro-electric project will have an installed capacity of 7.5 MW to generate 22.63 million units annually.
 
More information at  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Houseboats Get Global Recognition</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3233</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Kerala Houseboat
 
Houseboats have become mascot of  Kerala Tourism.  Several accolades have been bestowed on the houseboats, which are unique  to the state. Now several other  States have evinced interest in replicating them and to introduce them in their water bodies.
 
The latest is the listing of the houseboats as one of the five  ‘ Enchanting Escapes'  from around the globe by ‘Asia Spa.'  The other enchanting escapes mentioned in the three-page article by Lorraine Rodrigues are Belgian town of Bruges,  Hua Hin in Thailand and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
 
The comfortably furnished houseboat with all modern facilities as in a room of a hotel is the holiday home for foreign and domestic tourists arriving in God's Own Country.  Modified to meet the novel concept of holidaying, the houseboat with conference hall is aimed at those who want to combine business and leisure.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Government Migrates from e-Governance to m-Governance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3147</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

Using mobiles to save paper!
 
 
The Kerala government has formally announced its move to migrate from e-governance to m-governance in the next fiscal year. Presenting the state budget for the year 2010-2011, Finance Minister T. M. Thomas Isaac announced an e-communication facility and  mobile-based complaint redressal system.
 


Under the e-Communication facility, every VAT dealer will be provided with an email ID which  would be used for service of notices and communication of circulars, and also to receive complaints.
 
The move is expected to result in saving tons of paper as nearly 173,000 dealers have to be communicated with every month.
 
More information at  Manoramaonline 
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Malabar IT Development Ideas from India's Young brains</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3172</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
At the recent  IIM-K  sponsored presentations on  the suitability of Malabar as an IT destination , 30 management Institutes from all over India made a bid for the top spot.
 

 
 The presentation by XLRI School of  Business and Human Resources,  Jamshedpur titled Battle for IT Xcellence  which was adjudged the best, has  highlighted that though the region was ranked as the best in India in terms of physical quality of life index  , there were  currently several shortcomings .  Emphasising that the  top Management of Companies looking  at  a new  IT destination are primarily focused on real estate prices and the land acquisition policies of the Government , the presentation  points  out that  inhibiting factors  included the lack of major  infra- structure  developers in the region, and the failure to develop Calicut properly  as the  hub .
 
             
   
 3 Good Men by the  Faculty of  Management  Studies - NewDelhi,  was placed second  and WE by    Xavier institute of Management, Bhubaneswar was placed third. Both analysed  Calicut  as a Tier II city against other potential  contending cities within  India.
 
FMS  Delhi  concluded  that for a successful  IT strategy with building Malabar as  a  sustainable IT destination, it should be both cost  and  value driven . They  saw  growth of  Tier II  &amp; Tier III cities  portition of the US$ 90 billion IT business by 2015.  Malabar could  hold close to 10-15% of this Tier II &amp; III business  if it  used  e-governance contracts acting as its driving force for  growth from the domestic  markets.
 

 
The  Xavier institute of Management, Bhubaneswar, also arrived arrived at somewhat similar results  of  Calicut being at an advantage among Tier II cities.  It used statistical data to a larger extent  using   SWOT techniques  to  analyze  the strengths and weakness of the area.
 
 Whilst  past  data is a useful  indicator , those familiar with the Black Swan Theory  will realize, that there is need to be aware that reasons not factored into these anlysis,  can also play a  determing role  in future happenings. The  emergence  of new destinations outside  India, such as  Phillipines and east Europe could be pointers  that needs to be  watched.
 
You can post comments at. www.keralait.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Tata Telecom with Internet through TV</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3145</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

Internet on TV
 
Telecom service provider Tata TeleServices Ltd. (TTSL) announced the launch of  DIALOG, a product that enables customers to connect to the internet on their television sets in Kokata and Chennai.
 
Customers can access the internet without a desktop or laptop, transforming the TV set into a multimedia device with the help of DIALOG.
 
On test for a period of  three months , the service is expected to be launched all over India in the first quarter of 2011. This may help with internet penetration which is less than 1% currently.
 
More information at http://www.mydigitalfc.com]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>China Moves into Software Development</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3176</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Faced with rising unemployment and  lower exports, China is now going India's  way of developing  software and other services sector industries.
 
It is  also opening up its social sectors like health and education to foreign investments. Automobile and appliance industries, which have been hit by the slide in exports are being offered state subsidy.
 
Both the moves on software exports and industrial subsidies, could be a cause of concern to the Indian industry.  Indian and other foreign companies have been complaining of unfair trade practices by chinese  firms who sell goods at cut throat prices on the strength of state subsidies.
 
More information at Economic Times.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Sector the Darling of Kerala Budget</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3167</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 The budget for 2010-11 presented by Finance Minister T.M. Thomas Isaac has shown that the Information Technology sector is the darling of the Kerala Government, considering the fact that the allocation for the IT Department has been increased by 77 per cent to Rs 156 crores.
 
He announced  that  the   "Athulya", the building complex at Infopark with a built-up area of 5.5 lakh square feet, Infopark at Cherthala, Technopark at Kottayam and the second phase of Infopark at Koratty would be  completed during the coming year.
 
The Kerala State Information Technology Mission has been allocated Rs. 29 crore while Rs.6.80 crore was earmarked for the Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management. Another Rs.1.50 crore was provided for the International Centre for Free and Open Source Software. The Information Technology Infrastructure Company would be given Rs. 20 crore for the acquisition of land for different parks in Kozhikode, Cherthala, Ambalapuzha, Kannur and Kasaragod. The budget earmarked Rs. 22 crore for the development of the State Data Centre and Network Operation Centres in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode.
 
The only failure in the IT sector is the Smart City project, which  appears in limbo, with a final agreement  in the terms being unacceptable to the Dubai promoter. It is becoming apparant  that this project will be a non-starter.
 
More information at  THE HINDU
.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Budget Provides More for Education</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3153</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Finance Minister Thomas Isaac
 
 
Finance  Minister  Thomas Isaac  has proposed an increase in the outlay for the education sector by 50 per cent from Rs.208 crore to Rs.316 crore in the State budget for 2010-11.
 
The Finance Ministerr  stated  that  40 per cent of the  amount of Rs 316 crores allocated to the  education sector would be earmarked for  school  education.
 
The prime intention would be to raise the  academic  standard of  school education  and providing scholarships. In addition  a sum of Rs 55 crores, including central Government  share was allocated  for Information technology education.
 
These proposals are supportive of  Kerala IT Mission's   endeavour  to upgrade the  quality of  English and soft skills of kerala's  school children , graduates and providing  support in information technology  based  subjects for higher studies.  Kerala needs to do this quickly, if it is to cash in on the growing requirements of the IT/ITES industry's  exacting requirements.
 
More information on the budget at  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Will Cochin Infrastructure Improve ?</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3165</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The Cochin metro rail project continues to be tossed back and forth between the Centre  and the State governments.
 
The  latest Kerala budget allocation towards this long debated project is  a mere Rs 5 crores.  Tossing it back to the Centre ,stating that he has  done what he could for it, the Finance Minister  has  clearly shown the apathy of the Kerala Government  to this important and prestigous project.
 
 The fact is  though some money has been budgeted in its name, things  have not moved in the matter of the metro rail . The project still requires the sanction from Delhi, but the proposals need  to  be  moved first from the State's side . This has not happened  as various issues at the state level remain unresolved and as a result the project stay in limbo.
 
It is interesting that an auspicious Rs 5 crores has  been allocated for  the Vytilla Hub and Bus terminal, where one hopes things will atleast start moving. If these proposals don't get implemented fast, the situation on Kochi roads will continue to get worse.
 
You can post comments at www.keralait.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>India to Issue e-Passports to its Ctizens</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3159</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Green indicates e-passport countries
 
India will soon begin issuing electronic passports to its citizens within three days of applying using biometrics and digital technology.
 
 
In the run-up to commissioning the high-tech service,  two e-Passport Seva Kendras (PSK) in Bangalore  will be operated by India’s IT bellwether Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), in addition to five other centers covering Hubli, Mangalore, Chandigarh, ludhiana and Ambala.
 
 
An e-passport uses bio-metrics to identify the identity of the traveler. It uses contactless smart card technology  using a computer chip embedded in the front or back cover or centre page of the passport. Using facial, fingerprint and iris recognition as biometric standards, the electronically stored data is virtually  impossible to forge.
 
 
The 37 passport offices in India, recently had their employees  expressing apprehensions on  outsourcing, but  have been assured that there would be no job losses.
 
 

More information at Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Tourism Wins 5 Awards</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3157</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Gods own Country
 

Kerala has bagged five national tourism awards in various spheres of the travel and tourism industry during  2008-2009.

 

The Responsible Tourism initiative introduced at Kumarakom as part of the four pilot projects taken up in Kovalam, Wayanad and Thekkady fetched Kerala the national award for the best Responsible Tourism (RT) project.

 

The website  (www.keralatourism.org) of  Kerala Tourism developed and maintained by Invis Multimedia  bagged the national award for the most innovative use of Information Technology/Website.

 

The Leela Kovalam Beach was conferred the national award for the best five star deluxe hotel.

 

Taj Group's  Gateway Hotel in Kozhikode won the award for the best five star hotel.

 

The award for the third best tourist transporter went to Jaysree Travels and Tour Company.

 

More information at   THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Green Kerala Coming with Energy Audit </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3155</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Energy audit can save money
 
This  year's   Kerala  budget has announced a clutch of  measures to promote energy conservation, and a Rs 1000 crore  "Green fund"  is  being  set up to cover the next five years.
 
Apart from rejuvenation and restoration of degraded forests, schemes for enhancement  and protection of tracts with mangroves, and planting of saplings are part of the horticultural mission.
 
All  industrial and commercial establishments  would have to submit themselves to a  mandatory  energy  audit. The Kerala Financial Corporation (KFC) and the Kerala  State  Industrial  Development  Corporation  (KSIDC) would provide loans at 5 per cent interest to install systems to reduce energy consumption.  Fines would be realised from those high tension and extra high tension consumers who don't  meet  the standards prescribed by the energy audit.
 
Building  complexes  constructed by the government would henceforth use green building technologie.Optimum consumption levels would be fixed for government offices and institutions through a process of energy audit , with the intention of  applying it universally in three years time.
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>FOKANA IT Mission (FITM) - A Group for Malayalee IT Professionals</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3104</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 Dear Friends,

 
 Federation of Kerala Associations in North America is happy to inform you the launch of FOKANA IT Mission (FITM). Please see our website for more details. Also join us in linkedin .
 
FITM is an agency under FOKANA and is headed by FOKANA President, FOKANA Executive committee and FOKANA IT Mission Chairman.
 
The group aims at bringing all Malayalee IT Professionals who have been in the IT industry for the last few decades to a common platform. It is established by the strong vision of bringing group of industry leaders from three core domains in Information Technology which includes Core Technologists/Engineers, IT managers and IT entrepreneurs /IT investors. We are committed to bridging these core group of people from IT industry together and pool their talents to make Kerala as the global hub for Information technology. We intent to build ties between these strategic groups by providing intra-domain insight, mentoring talents internally/laterally and providing channels for growth in respective domains .This initiative envision the enrichment of the socio-economic spectrum of Malayalees in Kerala &amp; all other parts of the world.
 
Please join with us in this team effort for our motherland and make it a grand success.

 FITM Mission:
Our Mission is to provide a common platform for Information Technology professionals from Kerala to come together, demonstrate, share and enhance their prowess in Information Technology.

FITM Vision:
Our vision envisages the amalgamation of techno, managerial and entrepreneurial talents to elevate our mother land Kerala to the fore front of the IT revolution

Our Web Site :
www.fokanaitmission.org

 

Regards,
Thomas Joseph Thandapral
http://www.linkedin.com/in/thandapraljt]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kochi Airport-Seaport Road Continues as a Dream</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3161</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 
For the Kochi Seaport-Airport road to be completed the Kerala budget has allocated  just Rs 10 crores, whereas the reality is that atleast Rs 300 crores will be required for it to be completed.
 
The  project has  suffered badly  due to the  fact that  budgetry allocations made during previous years have  lapsed through under  utilisation.

Planned as a main arterial four lane highway to meet the commercial requirements of cochin port and stretching from Angamali through areas which would benefit  industrial  units enroute, the non- completion will continue to severely affect traffic movement in this part of Kerala.
 
You can post comments at www.keralait.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 07 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>G-tech Hails Kerala Budget</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3149</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Isaac
 
The Group of Technopark Companies (GTech) have appreciated the State Government for presenting a Budget aimed at the Inclusive Growth of the economy.
 
GTech felt that the initiative to launch a Green fund would help in mitigating  Global Warming and  in preserving the Environment. It  appreciated the  Budget Proposals aimed at Infrastructure development, ensuring Food Security, providing health insurance and Urban Job creation.
 
More information at  Manaoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 06 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IIM-K Co-ordinates &quot;IT in Malabar &quot; Management School Presentations</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3116</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 

 
Under the initiative of the Indian Institute of  Management Kozhikode,  co-ordinated studies by various  Management schools from all over India on the  theme as to why think  Malabar in Kerala  is an attractive destination for the IT/ITES  industry, were done recently.
 
 
With over 30 presentations by the different management schools, there was much shortlisting done, before  five  were picked for the finals. 
 
 
The presentation "Battle for  IT  Xcellence"  by  XLRI in Jamshedpur was adjuded the best,  followed by " Battle for IT - WE "  from the Faculty of  Management Studies  New Delhi and "Analysis  of Malabar as a potential IT investment destination -3 Good men"  by the Xavier Institute of Management Bhubaneswar.
 
 
With the  Kerala IT Mission promoting Calicut as the third hub and as an alternative to Trivandrum and Cochin, these presentations assume importance.  These are the kind of inputs the industry and the Government of Kerala  need  from these  young and fresh thinking minds.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Top 5 Exercising Myths - health@KeralaIT</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3112</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
1. 
Myth:
If I am thin, I do not need to exercise
 Fact:
Thin or fat, everyone needs exercise.
There are four components of physical fitness – aerobic ability, muscular strength, body composition, and flexibility. A small or thin body frame could be genetic or may just mean lean muscle mass, but does not indicate cardiac or aerobic fitness or muscular endurance, which are critical for healthy living.
 
 
2. 
Myth :
I can't lose weight.
Fact:
You CAN lose weight but it usually happens much slower than you'd like it to. Believing that you CAN lose weight is critical to making it happen. Realize that if you are consistently doing the right things, it will happen. Don't get side-tracked by every new crazy diet or exercise gizmo. Keep plugging away at healthy eating habits and daily exercise - it will happen!
 
 
3.
Myth:
 It is enough if I walk for an hour everyday
Fact :
 That’s certainly better than not walking! For exercise to be effective, one of three things need to be constantly increased over time – frequency, duration and intensity. If you are doing the same exercise for the same duration at the same intensity, then the body adapts quickly and any increase in muscle, or aerobic capacity or flexibility will not happen.
 
 
4.
Myth:
 Exercising for 30 minutes two to three times per week is sufficient for weight loss.
Fact:

Again, that's better than doing nothing but it's not optimal. Our bodies are designed to be active daily. When we exercise daily we are healthier, leaner, and more energetic.
Also, daily exercise boosts your metabolism like nothing else can. If you don’t have the time to do both aerobics and weight training, it is recommended to do 30 to 60 minutes of daily aerobic exercise and three days of weight training per week.
 
 
5.
Myth:
 You can lose fat from a specific part of your body by doing an exercise for that part of your body. For example, abdominal crunches will remove fat from your abdominal area.
Fact :
You can't spot reduce! You cannot control where fat is removed from your body. Ab crunches will make your abdominal muscles stronger, but will not specifically remove fat from the stomach.
 
Facts compiled by Revathi Krishna. This blogger is an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor (2005). To comment on this blog, click on the link below. 
 
Source: www.acefitness.org (American Council on Exercise)
 
 
Kerala IT presents a series of blogs on health and lifestyle for IT professionals in Kerala. In an ongoing effort to tremendously increase the quality of life for the IT community in Kerala, we will be blogging on different aspects of health and lifestyle. If you would like to contribute, please sign up to become a Contributor @ Kerala IT.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Exciting Opportunities in IT Park Management in Trivandrum and Kollam </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3109</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Technopark Trivandrum has exciting opportunities for skilled and experienced candidates seeking careers in IT park management.
 
For more details, click here.
 
Interested candidates may e-mail their detailed resume and proforma (downloadable) duly filled to jobs@technopark.org within 10 days from the date of advertisement on the site. You are requested to mention the Job Code in the subject line of your e-mail.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>It's Official! IT Thriving in the Malabar Region</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3094</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[[gallery]
 

Yes, it is now official! IT is thriving in the Malabar region, according to the results of the 3 case studies from the Top Management Schools in India.

 

Under the coordination of IIM Kozhikode, top management schools all over India were invited to submit case studies on why they think Malabar is an attractive destination for IT/ITES investment. The results were astonishing! Of the 30 case studies submitted, 8 were shortlisted, and finally the top 3 were picked. The winners....

 

1. XLRI Jamshedpur - Battle for Xcellence

2. Xavier Institute of Management Bhubaneshwar - 3 Good Men

3. FMS Delhi - WE 

 

The report covered an exhaustive list of "must-haves" for a Tier 2 city to be hailed as a thriving IT Destination. The list included variables like Real Estate Availability at Lower Rates, Lower Operation Costs, Connectivity including Broadband Connectivity, Favorable Land Acquisition policies, International Airports and related infrastructure, Trained Personnel, Calibre of System Vendors etc.

 

As most of us already know, Kerala has already ranked best in India for its high Physical Quality of Life Index.

 

Want to read the Case Studies in full? Download , read  and let us know your thoughts...
1. XLRI Jamshedpur
2. XIM Bhubaneshwar
3. FMS Delhi]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Seaview Support Systems Helps Less Privileged</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3085</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 


[caption id="attachment_3086" align="alignnone" width="227" caption="Courtesy: manoramaonline/IT"][/caption]
 
Setting an example ,  Technopark  based  Seaview Support Systems Pvt. Ltd, one of the pioneer  ITES companies in the country, has constituted a Social Welfare Committee named `REACH’ to help the less privileged section of the society.
 
In an  inaugural function which was followed by a blood donation camp,  more than 30 SeaView employees donated blood .
 
Seaview  which  started its operations in 1995  is involved with  developing software for the Transcription Industry. Their  products include digital sound tools for file conversions and playing, tools that facilitate automatic ftp and data transfer Scheduling and Monitoring software that takes care of the entire needs of the global online tele-transcription industry.
 

More information at Manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Toonz Opens Los Angeles Distribution Division</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3028</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Matt Cooperstein
Indian animation major,  Toonz Animation India Pvt. Ltd has opened its new distribution  division based in Los Angeles under the  name of Toonz Entertainment, USA.
 
Matt Cooperstein has been appointed Executive Vice President of Toonz Entertainment USA .  Cooperstein who has over 20 years of experience in launching innovative programs and distributing them throughout the US and world-wide marketplace ,will  be overseeing the strategic and operational functions of the company.
 
 
He has worked with noted studios such as ITC Entertainment Group, Polygram Television, Universal Worldwide Television, IndieArts Entertainment and most recently, Liberation Entertainment.
 
More information at Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>RMESI on Recruitment Mode  </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3030</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
RM Educational Solutions India Private Limited , one of the leading providers of systems, software and solutions to schools across the UK, US and Australia, is conducting a walk-in-interview to find out talent  fit for the company that has its off-shore development centre in Technopark .
 
The interviews are being  held at Kochi on March 6 and 7 and the venue has been fixed as ICTA Santigram, Thomas Mount Consulting PVT Ltd, Changampuzha Nagar, Kalamassery.
 
Positions are vacant in senior management level, software development, and customer/ technical support and finance/HR/Admin departments. 
 
More information at Manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Robust Hiring in 2010 Expected</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3038</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The days of  fear surrounding  job markets appear to be a thing of the past.
 
It  is  about  two years  since the  economic crunch has begun to affect both big corporations and small companies with the first casualty being hiring, followed by a squeeze in training budgets.
 
The Ivy League  B-schools in the country,  IIMs,  XLRI,  XIMB,  all faced the heat and the famous  starting  salaries  showed a big drop. Smaller institutes across the country struggled to place their students. But finally,  companies now seem to have started hiring again.
 
Five  sectors which could seem the boom return are  banking finance &amp; insurance, BPO's and KPO's, Telecom, manufacturing engineering &amp; construction,  and ITeS.
 
More information at THE TIMES
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Wipro Non-IT Business Changes at the Top</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3045</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Wipro,  the third-largest IT services exporter from India, has brought about top management changes  in  its non-IT businesses.
 
Under the new structure, Wipro has created a separate business division for eco-energy, splitting it from the infrastructure engineering segment  and heading this new business division will be  T K Kurien who takes  over as President of Wipro Eco-Energy.
 
Pratik Kumar becomes President of Wipro Infrastructure Engineering that will include their  hydraulics and water businesses.
 
In the eco-energy segment, Wipro has been building multi-technology consulting and engineering practices for solutions to commercial, industrial and utility clients. Similarly, in the hydraulic cylinders space, Wipro is looking to expand  its market share. Wipro's  engineering and integrated solutions for water are  mainly for  industrial and commercial segments.
 
Wipro has identified eco-energy and water as potentially large businesses for the future to  make  very significant revenue generation.
 
More information at  EconomicTimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Government to Give Broadband an 18K Push</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3052</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Access  to  broadband  services in  India has been a failure in the otherwise high performing  telecom  sector. To overcome  this , the government is prepared to spend Rs 18,000 crore over three years  to reach every gramapanchayat in the country. 
 
A  Group of Ministers (GoM) to monitor and review the implementation of this broadband initiative may also need to look at the private sector to participate in the planning of this initiative and help  focus on wireless as a means of delivery.
 
The  infrastructure  companyto handle this being carved out of BSNL to  work with  PSUs like Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) and  RailTel.  The venture will be supported financially by the Universal Services Obligations Fund (USOF), which holds a large unutilized resources. The committee is tasked with creating a roadmap for extending affordable broadband connectivity to all villages by leveraging existing infrastructure and augmentation of optical fibre where  necessary.
 
 The two vital  parts that presently  seem missing are  private sector participation and using wireless broadband for such connectivity, as the  work  has been focused entirely on government, despite the fact that the telecom revolution is almost entirely led by the private sector. 
 

More information at Economic Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Twitter and Facebook Not for Everyone</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3032</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Twitter and  facebook are not everyone's cup of tea.
 
In today's  techno -centric world, having no interest  in such activity is  surprising.  You are sure  to raise many eyebrows if you owe no allegiance to  these-social networking  leagues. For many, that's  like exhibiting some kind of a primitive behaviour.
 
Yet, there exist  people  who take  pride in being able to stand out of the crowd -  the ones who actually care little about what the regular networking nerds relish. Some don't  feel comfortable revealing information about themselves  on a medium that's accessible to endless number of people.
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Taiwan Ambassador to India Visits Infopark</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3059</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
 
The Taiwan Ambassador to India, Wen-Chyi Ong, on his first visit to Kerala, will visit Infopark on Thursday as a result of Taiwan having identified the immense potential for a prosperous partnership with India in the area of information technology.
 
The Ambassador will also visit a major seafood export business here on Thursday. IT and sea foods are two areas which can enable a “win-win” partnership between the two countries.
 
For more information, see The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>India Ranked Third for Spam Mail</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3055</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
Yes,  that's right - India is now ranked by CISCO security  as the third most affected  country in the  world for  span mail attacks.
 
Spurious offers of lucky draw winners and inheritances are amongst the most commonly used tricks, making  even educated and persons with prior  knowledge of spam, being suckered and taken to the cleaners.
 
Our country has seen a 130 per cent increase in spam mail attacks as compared to last year. Most of these mails originate in the US. The volume of spam mails to India in 2009 has been a  stupendous  3.6 trillion compared to the  2008 figure of 1.6 trillion spam mails.
 

More information at  India Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Department Advertises Kerala as Preferred IT Destination</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2992</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
As part of its strategy to promote Kerala as an IT destination and to bring in more IT investments to the State , the Kerala IT department  is  launching two 15 second TV commercials in CNN- IBN and CNBC - TV 18.
 
These ad films target prospective IT companies and investors who would want to set up shop in the State. The aim is to spread awareness regarding Kerala's plus points like the easy availablity of talent, low cost, excellent infrastructure etc …..  These ads highlight the often overlooked facts like Kerala's quality of life and that in Kerala you can have a great career without having to compromise your family life!! 
 
 
[hana-flv-player video="http://www.suyati.com/keralait/VTS011.flv" width="400" height="330" description="KeralaIT Film" player="4" autoload="true" autoplay="false" loop="false" autorewind="true" clickurl="http://www.keralait.org" clicktarget="_blank" /]
 
The basic thoughts behind each film is :
 
Film -1
IT Professionals can Think Out of the Box
 
Let’s face it! When you’re confined to cubicles that cannot contain you, when you are bogged down by the sheer stress of navigating your way through the daily grind, imagination is the first casualty. Innovations, beyond-the-brief solutions never happen. Before you get stuck in a rut, head for greener pastures – in every sense of the term.
 
Film – 2:
IT Professionals can Reach Home on Time
 
Let’s cut to the chase! The quality of life in Kerala is outstanding, ensuring quality time with family – not just on weekends but every single day, which in turn will gift you with a better frame of mind to innovate at work. And make sure that there is a method and a meaning to the madness.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Govt Projects Might Boost PC Sales</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=3034</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 

 
 
Frontline PC vendors like Hewlett-Packard (HP), Acer, Lenovo and HCL are confident  that the focus on e-governance projects and announcements in this years budget will increase spending  for the education sector and will spur computer sales.
 
 They believe the PC market will increase from  July, when the big goverment deals will start.  Even corporates are expected to refresh their PC infrastructure. According to industry estimates, around 35% PC sales are triggered by the government, banking, financial services and insurance , and education sectors.   A further  35% comes from small-and-medium businesses and the balance 30%  from consumers.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Changed Banking in India</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2939</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Plastic money is a part of our daily life
 
 
If there is an industry which has changed radically over the past two decades, it has to be banking.  A huge part of this change is the advent of  information technology ( IT).
 
 It  wasn' t  very long back  that you spent hours in a queue to get cash or a draft.  Today  you can have cash 24 x 7  in your wallet, with ATMs every street corner. However, technology alone cannot make a difference. It needs strategic thinking on the part of top management of the Bank.
 
This is very evident as  banks like ICICI  or HDFC  took  advantage in their  early days as it coincided with the development of the IT industry. However with  more banks becoming tech savvy, there is a need for the new entrants to introduce innovative ways, as the basic the  systems and procedures  have been in place before the technical revolutionstarted.  The challenge for such banks  is  in the quality of service  and brand building.
 
More information  at  Indiatimes]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Internet Revolutionizes Literature</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2695</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 

Globalisation has made an impact not only on the distribution and access to a literary work but also its creation. The  nature of a writer's work is changing  as  they  perceive their ultimate audience changing and becoming  international rather than national or regional.

 

 

Probably the biggest change taking place is in the  field  of distribution, which has  accelerated considerably with the advent of the Internet and electronic text transmission. Writers  today are beginning to find an audience in ways that might not have been possible  through bookstores.   The new age technological advances like  ‘e-books'  and  ‘kindle'  have revolutionised  the way literature is read .

 

More information at The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Athulya: Infopark's New Wonderland</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2970</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Athulya  is a perfect blend of intelligent workspace, state-of-the-art infrastructure, 360 degree support facilities and life style amenities, seamlessly integrated within one complex to create a singular business environment of hi-tech companies. Athulya has been designed for flexibility with regard to floor utilisation patterns for multi-tenant floors and single occupancy floors too.
 

 
[hana-flv-player video="http://www.keralait.org/blogvideos/Athulya.flv" width="400" height="330" description="Athulya" player="4" autoload="true" autoplay="false" loop="false" autorewind="true" clickurl="www.keralait.org" clicktarget="_blank" /]]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>The INFOPARK Throw Ball Challenge: DON'T MISS IT</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2961</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 

 

 

 

 


 
 The 'Infopark Throwball Challenge' had over 300 participants on Day 1, which included both men and women. 
 



Day 1 top scorers in Men's category are:

1. Sreekanth S,TCS- 9 throws
2. Akshay,TCS- 8 throws
3. Yogesh.K, NHR Outsourcing- 7 throws
4. Elias Jacob,TCS-6 throws
5.Rishdi,NHR Outsourcing- 5 throws
6.Shijo Joy,Orion- 5 throws
Top scorers in Women's category are:

1.Vinitha,NHR Outsorcing- 4 throws
2. Deepa.V.S,Arbitron- 4 throws
3.Shamna Sasidharan, Wipro- 3 throws
4.Ashwathy, TCS- 3 throws
5.Mageshwari, TCS- 3 throws
6.Indu Shalini, TCS- 3 throws
7. Anjana, TCS- 3 throws
8. Safinaz, TCS- 3 throws
9.Veenu Agarwal, TCS- 3 throws
10.Deepa.P.K, TCS- 3 throws


 



 


Don't miss it.......................

 

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IBS Takes &quot;Tech-a-break&quot;</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2954</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Fashion show winners Allianz Cornhill
 
 
IBS  Software Solutions bagged the company-of-the- year title securing the highest number of points in the week-long ‘Tech-a-Break' celebrations  held at  Technopark campus  in Trivandrum.  Allianz Cornhill were the first runners -up and NeST the second runners-up.
 
In the fashion show, Allianz bagged the first prize, while NeST and Infosys bagged the second and third prizes, respectively.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Strike?? No, it was Bandh!!</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2948</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The  ridiculous  situation of bringing public life in Kerala to a stagnant still continues with the  dawn-to-dusk  State-wide strike by motor transport workers and taxi and autorickshaw drivers ,  in protest against the hike in the price of petrol and diesel.
 
Life  throughout the state was  paralysed  with  normal life  taking a back seat, after  a Government backed political party expressed  support .  The  Prime Minister  is   already  on record  that there will be no roll back in the prices for petrol but diesel could  be  reviewed later.
 
The  strike has inconvenienced numerous tourists and travellers who have suffered without any transport to get to their destination. Worse are reports of attacks on  vehicles carrying the sick to hospital.
 
The situation has become  standard practise, that any political party or group decides on a hartal and  everything in the state comes to a standstill. The Government has  a moral  obligation to esure that the public who do not want to participate are allowed to go about their normal life. Instead,  we have a  situation where the authorities themselves are abetting this nonsense.
 
Expressing rights  with out any discipline is not the way to go about, in a true democracy. It is a shame  to every literate person in this State that this sort of thing keeps happening only in Kerala.
 
You can write your views/comments at www.keralait.org]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopark Tries to Prevent Traffic Congestion</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2932</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Technopark has come out with many ways to prevent the traffic congestion there , including car pooling and installation of traffic lights near the main gate.

 

Carpooling encourages professionals to travel together, and  thereby save money, fuel and even prevent global warming. But the urgency is in reducing the traffic on the roads especially near the park front gate. The GTech even has a website on carpooling. Check out www.parkcarpool.in for more details on carpooling!!

 

But have these measures solved the real problems? Technopark guys and gals!! RESPOND!! IT IS TIME TO SHARE YOUR VIEWS!!]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 02 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Nasscom Estimates Growth at 15%</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2934</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Nasscom believes the country’s IT services exports will grow upto 15%  in 2010-11,  slower than the peak  years, but almost double the rate  the industry saw last year.
 
The industry body refused to confirm the latest estimates -- the third time it’s revising its figures in the last 12 months -- as an official announcement is due later this week. 
 
Nasscom also believes that demand for services is picking up and uncertainty has reduced in core sectors like banking and telecom and in core  markets like the US, which account for 60% of  the business.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 02 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Light Logics Selected for IIGP Program</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2921</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Light Logics, an incubatee of Technopark TBI, has been selected for the prestigious DST-Lockheed Martin India Innovation Growth Programme.
 
The program aims at  accelerating the new and innovative Indian technologies in the global marketplace. The program is a two-year, nation-wide project, created to enhance the growth and development of India's entrepreneurial economy.
 
Top contesters will also be eligible to receive professional business development support to assist them in entering global markets.
 

More information at  Manoramaonline


]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cheap Power in the future</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2909</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

[caption id="attachment_2911" align="alignnone" width="227" caption="Bloom energy CEO Sridhar"][/caption]


An India-born rocket scientist K R Sridhar lifted the veil off Bloom Box fuel cell, a revolutionary new technology that holds the promise to supply the world with abundant clean and  cheap energy.

A much-awaited energy venture, known as a  “power plant in a box,”  was unveiled by the  Indian-American initiator promising to provide clean electricity to homes, office buildings and even whole villages in the developing world.  Bloom Energy is  one of Silicon Valley’s most secretive start-ups .

[caption id="attachment_2912" align="alignnone" width="380" caption="Bloom Box Fuel Cell"][/caption]

The key to it  is the  “fuel cell device,” which consists of a stack of ceramic disks  coated with secret green and black  “inks.”  These disks are separated by cheap metal plates. The  Energy Server, a smooth metal box the size of a pickup truck, can generate electricity from multiple fuels while producing relatively few greenhouse gas emissions.

Already sceptics are questioning the invention , but the fact is that if something like this  becomes commercially viable, it will  change the way we live and work, and lead to considerable savings on fossil fuels.

More information at  THE HINDU

You can write your views and comments at www. keralit.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Chengdu in China Beckons Indian IT Firms</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2905</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Street scene in Chengdu
 
Chengdu in Sichuan  province of  southwest  China is  wooing  Indian  firms to set up  software  development centres there. Chengdu is said to be  an excellent gateway to China for Indian companies with its huge talent base, low operating cost, government support and presence of large multinational IT and outsourcing firms.
 
Chengdu is showcased as a centre of science, commerce, finance and as the hub of transportation and communication. Chengdu has 130 of Fortune 500 firms with businesses set up  there, making it the most favoured destination in central and western China.
 
A 50 member delegation visited Bangalore recently to meet Indian investors from IT  and Outsourcing .  Though the delegation has been unable to go to other indian IT centers, Kerala  based companies  can take the cue and investigate  expansion possibilities , as Indian IT firms  have been assured that they would not face language or cultural problems in Chengdu,  and  that visas to Indian IT professionals would not be an issue as they would be entitled to work permits and long-time stay.
 
More information at  INDIA TIMES]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Budget presents a mixed bag for IT industry</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2814</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

The  Budget appears  a mixed bag for the IT  industry. The increase of  MAT from 15 to 18%  on book profits would mean increased outflow for almost all corporates.  However it has been  partially cushioned by lowering the corporate  surcharge down to 7.5%  from 10%.

Probably the biggest incentive will be the weighted deduction  on in-house    R &amp; D  expenses which has been increased to 200% as it will provide an incentive to all companies to focus on innovation.

The  demand of the IT industey  for extension of Tax holiday under STPI scheme as per Section 10 (A) of Income Tax Act,  has not been addressed  and is a significant negative for the Industry. Maybe with  followup representation from the industry,  this will be aceded to outside the budget.

More information at The Economic Times]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Nilekani to Head Technology Advisory Group</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2834</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

The government today proposed the setting up of a technology advisory group to be headed by UIDAI chairman Nandan Nilekani for creating  reliable and  tamper-proof IT projects.

The  announcement made by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in his budget speech said that  certain IT projects such as the Tax Information Network, New Pension Scheme, National Treasury Management Agency, Expenditure Information Network and the ambitious  Goods  and Service Tax, will be looked  into  for the various technological and systemic issues.

More information at  India Times
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Ernakulam Junction Rail station to be upgraded</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2689</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

Passengers can expect better amenities at the Ernakulam Junction station as  the Railways proposes  to convert it into a world-class station. The station currently wears a dreary look , as the  concourse is very narrow, and many platforms  do not have even basic amenities and proper lighting.

The parking area available is too small.  The station does not have modern trolleys  and attenders to move luggage in bulk.The construction wing of the Railways has for long been demanding more funds for the upkeep of the station and to build a modern station building.

Commissioning the sixth platform and taking over the GCDA-owned building on the eastern side would give a new face to the most important station in the district.

More information at The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>US H1B Visa Quota Unfilled</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2854</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[


Last year  was  a controversial year  for H-1B visas to the  USA. However, for the first time ever, nearly  20,000  H-1B  visas went  abegging  even seven weeks after the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) started accepting applications for the year 2010.

With  H-1B visas  facing  blame  for the  job losses in the US,  the year saw numerous Bills being introduced for restricting the use of H-1B  visas  through  legislation. This made US Department of Labor (DOL) and other  US immigration  agencies  tougher in approving  H-1B visa  applications.

Some  companies were also disqualified from applying for H-1B visas  due to debarment  following visa  abuse under US laws. The penalty means that a company is disqualified from obtaining approvals of employment-based, permanent and temporary petitions.

More information at  INDIA TIMES
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Country's First Tourist Police Station</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2850</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[[caption id="attachment_2851" align="alignnone" width="345" caption="Tourists view exhibits at the new mattacherry police Station"][/caption]

The first tourist Police station and museum was opened at Mattancherry in Kochi.  Strategically  located  close to  Jewtown and the Dutch Palace, the  station would be  the  hub for providing information to tourists.

Public participation  is to encouraged  as part of the Janamaitri community policing scheme, to enhance the security of important tourist spots like the Jewish synagogue.

The police museum located at the  same premises ,  showcases the history of the police force in the State, with police uniforms, armoury and rank insignia in the force, right from the colonial period to  date.

More information at  THE HINDU]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Business Centre Opens at Nedumbaserry</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2842</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[[caption id="attachment_2843" align="alignnone" width="550" caption="A Business centre"][/caption]

Eyeing  the large number of  passengers and business  visitors to the airport, the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has  launched a business centre at the airport , which is located in front  of the domestic passenger terminal.

The centre has facilities for e-ticketing and related services along with a gaming station.  Operational  operate 24X7 , it  will enable passengers and people from outside to meet their business requirements  at the airport.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Toshiba at Oberon Mall</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2840</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[[caption id="attachment_2841" align="alignnone" width="316" caption="Toshiba Satellite p 500 laptop"][/caption]
Toshiba,   the world leader in mobile computing technology, has opened its second showroom  at Kochi Oberon  mall.

Toshiba Corporation, Japan, is a world-class innovator and global high technology product leader with 247 major subsidiaries and affiliates worldwide.  Since the  initial launch of the  notebook PC in 1985, Toshiba  has  past 25 years of notebook innovations and quality. Today it  has  recorded worldwide cumulative shipments  of more than 80 million notebook PCs as at  December 2009.

More information at The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Privacy Protection under UIDs</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2836</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[[caption id="attachment_2837" align="alignnone" width="350" caption="Nandan Nilekeni"][/caption]

Privacy will be protected under the Unique Identity (UID) project and personal data will not be  accessible to  everybody, insists Nandan Nilekani, chairperson of the Unique  Identification  Authority.

Adding that  the database can only be  used for authentication, the Authority will make every effort to see technically and legally that privacy is  protected.

Legal  experts  have been  sceptical about  the  protection of private  data once  the rollout of  UID  numbers  begins towards the latter half of the year as they fear the number, which will be issued based on personal  information given by a person, might be leaked out.

More information at  Sify.com]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 28 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kannur Airport Gets Cabinet Approval</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2829</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

The Kerala Government has appproved  and given clearance for  the project for Kannur airport which proposes funding on the pattern of  Cochin International  Airport  Limited.

Accordingly  26 per cent of the equity of the new airport would be directly held by the government with another  25 per cent of the equity allocated to institutions and cooperatives with government share-holding. The balance of 49 per cent would be offered to the public.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 27 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Gtech Feels Budget Balanced</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2823</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[



The Group of Technopark  Companies  (GTech) has lauded the Union government for presenting a  “focussed and balanced”  budget, aimed at putting the country back on the growth trajectory.

Hailing Finance Minster Pranab Mukerjee for fiscal prudence in containing the fiscal deficit to a new target of 5.5 per cent, GTech felt that this would send a positive signal to investors on India’s  economic  outlook.

GTech was  founded in 2000 and is  represented by the  CEOs  of  the  companies in Technopark, and is the apex organization of companies in Technopark. It was formed  with the objective of  promoting  the cause of the community of IT companies in Kerala, with specific emphasis on the overall development of the state.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 27 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>BSNL WiMax in Ernakulam</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2821</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[




Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will launch its mobile WiMax (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), a fourth-generation technology that enables high-speed wireless Internet access  in Ernakulam  this week.  This is the first launch of  BSNL  WiMax  service in South India.




The  WiMax-based solution is set up and deployed like cellular systems using base stations with coverage over a radius of  several kilometres. The customer premise equipment (CPE) will connect the base station to the customer. WiMax is available in both indoor and outdoor versions.
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 27 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Unique Identification Authority of India gets Budget Support</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2816</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
 
The Union budget  has recognised that  the  UIDAI  constituted last year, has been able to keep to its commitments  and be operational and issuing the first UID numbers in the coming financial year. A  sum of Rs 1900 crores has therefore been allocated for 2010-2011.

The setting up of  a  Technology Advisory Group for  the  project  along with   this  substantial outlay, will help in accelerated execution of  large  strategic Government IT projects, thereby benefiting  IT companies.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Nedumbaserry to Get RADAR</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2782</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
The Airport Authority of India (AAI)  and the  Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL)  are now actively considering the scope of installing a radar at the Cochin internaional airport.
 
Presently, aircraft navigation at the Cochin airport is regulated with the Doppler Very High Frequency Omni Range system and the installation of radar is expected to improve the precision of aircraft movements.
 
This is a much needed initiative in an airport  where  heavy  rainfall and poor visibility have often disrupted both take-off and landing.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>UVJ Technologies(Calpine Group) Hiring</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2741</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Calpine Group has job oppunities for BE/BTech/MCA graduates with 3-4 years experience in Software testing.
 
Candidates with good knowledge in Chemistry/Bio-Chemistry/Bio-informatics/ Biotechnology will be given preference to work on projects in Life Science domain.
 
Interested candidates can send in resumes to resume@calpinetech.com mentioning Software Testing-QA in the subject line.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Rail Budget Inadequate for Kerala</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2788</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

 
The rail budget  which has no proposals  for additional revenue mobilisation, has not followed the planning commission's advice to raise passenger fares and link freight rates to  fuel prices.
 
Keralites will be very disappointed  that though the allocation for Kerala in the Railway Budget has gone up to Rs.417 crore from  Rs.320  crore , the sum is meagre  and will not meet the development needs of the railway network in the State.
 
The Railways had  estimated that Rs.1,458 crore was  needed for completing the doubling work in the State aginst which  only Rs.106 crore has been allocated. A number of other projects  will now  stay in limbo or get delayed in the state inspite of the fact that the Railway has a Minister from Kerala.
 
More details available at The Hindu.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>UST Global Partners Virgin Racing</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2776</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
IT  services and solutions major UST Global will partner Virgin Racing for the 2010 Formula One season.  The  company would be Virgin Racing’s  IT services partner in a tie-up that will combine the firepower of a recognized racing team with the expertise of a global IT company.
 
Virgin Racing is a new team for the new era of Formula One.  UST Global would provide the support on advanced technical projects. It would  have a prominent presence of the new Virgin Racing VR-01 racecar, as well as the attire and equipment of F1 drivers .
 
More information at manoramaonline/IT.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala e-Governanace Gets Recognition</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2609</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
 

 
 



 



 
 


In a politically alert state like Kerala, greater public communication means "‘buying in"  support . This  is an accepted  part and parcel of life for reform implementation. 
 
 
Kerala distinguishes itself from other states in having a long and strong tradition of laying emphasis on providing free services to the public.  However, the state  has to deal with so-called "second generation"  problems of many public services.
 
As part of this endeavour , Sevana  a project under the Information Kerala Mission, has introduced a civil registration system , and located  kiosks at hospitals for issue of birth/death certificates within 24 hours of reporting the event from the hospitals. Marriage registration and certification is also covered under the project. 
 
The project recently won  the National "Bronze" Award for outstanding performance in "Citizen-centric Service Delivery" category.
 
Under Sevana, police portals for Community Interaction and associated services under the e-governance programme, and  information technology (IT) access points, called Akshaya Centers have been set up.  Introduced primarily  in Malappuram district to facilitate information exchanges between government and citizens and provide e-services, the programme will cover the whole state.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>KTDC Introduces Budget Travellers' Package</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2780</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
With the Easter break coming up,  you are  probably looking to get away from your work  station for  some relaxation. And KTDC  has something  that will be of interest to you.
 
The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC)  has come up with innovative budget holiday packages to take the discerning traveller to the unseen and lesser-known places in God's Own Country. ‘Discover Kerala' is aimed at encouraging travellers to explore the beauty and culture of the State.
 
Ranging  from 7 nights/8 days to 11 nights/12 days these  get-aways  are perfect family holiday packages that will fit the purse  of  the middle class.
 
More information at The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>e-Governance: Power and Water Bills Payment Online</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2779</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
In view of the stress on e-governance in the state  and the increase in the  number of internet users , Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and Kerala Water Authority are moving to  provide several of their consumer services through the  internet.
 
While Kerala Water Authorityis planning to develop a system that would enable consumers to pay their water bills online, KSEB has plans to capture its entire distribution network in Geographical Information System (GIS) and provide consumer services online.
 
More information at manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Athulya Space Allotment to Begin in April</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2766</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 
 
The Government of Kerala will begin the space allocation for Athulya- Infopark’s latest IT building in April.
 
Situated on 7.1 acres and a total built-up area of 550,000 square feet , Athulya can house a software development block,  cafeteria and a multi-level car parking facility. The total seating capacity of the building is 4,000. It  will also have facilities like incubation centers and training rooms, a direct four-lane connectivity road and 10 elevators. The multi-level parking can accommodate 111 cars.
 
Dr. Ajay Kumar, the Principal IT Secretary, said that Infopark has already received interests for Athulya  from well-known IT/ITeS companies.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IIITK-M to Commence e-Governance Course</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2726</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 IITM-K  is a premier institute of excellence in Science, Technology and Management, related to Information, that develops professionals and leaders of high calibre , imbued with values of entrepreneurship, ethics and social responsibility. The institute has been setup to actively promote higher education  through its IT facilitated education programmes.
 
Located in  Technopark  Trivandrum, the Institute along with the  Institute of  Management in Government, has  commenced a post-graduate diploma  course  in   e-governance. The course focuses  on  developing  foundations in IT, Management,  Government process, re-engineering  and change management. The  course  is  based on the  recommendations of the National Administrative Reforms Commission for promoting e-Governance.
 
The  students undergoing the course  are graduates  from any stream of study but who have  computer proficiency . On graduation they will  help to broaden the scope of  e-Governance in the state for effective implementation of projects.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>C-DIT is Backbone Support for Kerala e-Governance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2720</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 

 



 

The  e-Governance Team under the Information Systems Division  was set up  with the  aim of  providing  support for any initiative by the Government to simplify and expedite the process  of governance by infusing Information and Communication Technology.

 

The team now functioning  from C-DIT  centres , have  achieved tremendous growth  since its inception. Its  thrust  on providing technology inputs for local level development and in pragmatic implementation of e-governance projects in Kerala has produced good results.

 

Its  on-going projects include  FRIENDS project (TSP) , Akshaya e-Pay project (TSP) ,  Legal Metrology Computerization and   Social Security Mission Computerization  among others.

 

C-DIT   looks after all  work of maintenance and management of video conferencing   and the  network/link  connectivity between  all District Collectorates, Kerala House in New Delhi, The  Secretariat and many other  State Government  offices .]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Government Plans $10bn Spending on National e-Governance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2709</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The  Government of  India  plans to spend  USD 10-billion on the National e-Governance  Program, of which  some investment  is coming from private partners and also from the State Governments.
 

e-Governance
 
In 2006, the Government approved the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) comprising of 27 Mission Mode Projects (MMPs) and eight components.  e-Governance is being promoted as a centralised initiative , to ensure citizen service orientation,  realisation of  the objective of inter-operability of various e-Governance applications and to ensure optimal utilisation of  ICT infrastructure and  resources.
 
This year, the Government will offer tenders of over  Rs 5,000-crore for three major projects in the National Urban Renewal Mission (NURM), for integrated development of urban infrastructure services, Crime and Criminal Tracking System (a citizen-centric project) and  six  pilot  projects  with the Ministry of Agriculture.
 
More information at  Economic Times




 

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala IT @ CeBIT 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2701</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Kerala IT is going to be there at CeBIT 2010, which is the world's  largest marketplace, conference and exhibition for digital business solutions, trends and innovations in the international information and communications technology industry.
 
A  place where participants can display their newest products , the fair is  becoming  increasingly  recognized as  important with  web 2.0 technologies: customers, suppliers and employees interacting with others  from around the world. Besides exhibitions, there will be presentations by experts on the latest  developments.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infopark CEO Expresses Views on the US Policy on Outsourcing</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2681</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The  Chief  Executive Officer of Infopark,  Siddhartha Bhattacharya in a recent e-mail interview to The Hindu outlined his views  on the US policy to cut tax sops to companies.
 
Bhattacharya  who had his  education from Northwest University- Kellogg school of  Management is a  specialist in Demand generation and Territory coverage among  other things. With his vast sales and marketing experience, his views  are read and listened with interest.
 
According to him, already  a number of firms have  started following  global  demand outside the US to hedge  localised risks and  currency fluctuations. Kerala's  outsourcing industry would be affected by the US Government move, but it can successfully  woo potential clients from outside the US by effectively portraying the  advantages of  the  State - viz. talent, infrastructure, connectivity,  excellent basic facilities and  single window clearances . These are factors that far exceeded normal customer  expectations.
 
More information at The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>WebGis gives easy info on Kerala</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2646</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Integrated Govt Service Gateway (IGSG) is a FOSS based geographical information portal, which serves  as a ready reckoner of all the Government offices, tourist destinations, and other places of historical significance in Kerala.
 
It provides  details of location, how to reach and the services offered, etc. to the citizens. It helps the public to easily gather information through this WebGIS Application without any time delay. As a pilot implementation, the geographical details of the Trivandrum District has been digitized and is made available right now and is in the process of updating this WebGIS with relevant information about the state of Kerala as a Wiki-model.
 
More information at manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>High-rise Buildings Need to be Fire Alert</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2668</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[For those of us  who live and work in high rise buildings, the news of the fire at a high rise building in Bangalore is a stark reminder of the dangers of modern living.
 
In Kerala, more and more high rise buildings are coming up and the new generation companies are all located in  such buildings. The IT/ITES industry is one such  example.
 
A cursory visit in Ernakulam to any  high building which is over ten years old, will show  how ill- equipped they are to handle a fire. Deteriorating water hoses and unused rusting fire  hydrants  which will be  difficult to operate when needed are only some of the things that that High rise Management  needs to pay attention to.
 
New high rise buildings have to mandatorily install fire fighting equipment, but here again, many builders are just going through the  routine to get sanctions and approvals from the authorities. Many buildings have installed poor and sub standard equipment to save costs - fire  safety does not seem a priority.
 
More importantly people living and  working in High rise buildings must periodically be  given fire instructions and put through mock fire  drills.
 
What needs to be done is that the district authorities need to examine the issue afresh and  the Fire department should  run surprise checks on a continous basis.   How much ever the authorities do all this, the ultimate responsibility must rest equally with those in these  buildings, who must realise that they have to assist in these endeavours as  responsible citizens.
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Trivandrum Bakery Junction Flyover by April</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2652</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 



 

The  bakery Junction  flyover in Trivandrum is expected to be complete by the end of April, according to the Public Works Minister. The work has been on for a year now.

 

Many roads  in the city under the  City Road Improvement Project are expected to be retarred and ready by May end. These  include  Kowdiar-Kuravankonam stretch, the Kowdiar-Narmada road and  the Ambalamukku-Peroorkada road.

 

 

Most of the  streamling  and  road improvement and pipe laying is  under the Japan  International  Cooperation  Agency  (JICA)  Project.

 

More information at  The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Rain Concert Tech with social relevance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2637</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

[caption id="attachment_2640" align="alignnone" width="227" caption="Rain Concert Technologies CEO Abhilash"][/caption]


 
Started in 2006,  Rain Concert Technologies  is  a  Technopark  based start-up  that  has  grown into a Rs 8 crore  company, which is further  expected to grow its turnover to Rs 25 crores next year.
 

 
Aartthika Technologies  , the outsourcing division of  Rain Concert Technologies  is active in various niche verticals from mobile technology solutions  to interactive CD-roam production.
 
Their solutions  have  greater social relevance, primarily because the company has  looked at  the society and tried to identify its needs.  The company considers itself more specialised in the convergence of various technologies for diverse needs of the society.
The company's phased expansion plans are  in terms of increasing  resource strength, specifically in the Research and Development Domains of Mobile, Web and Electronics Engineering Domain. Their immediate focus would be towards Security, Energy, Health and Education  to deliver cost effective solutions.
 

More information at:  www.manoramaonline.com
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Education Department Wins Laurels</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2567</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[



The  Kerala Government Department of Education has introduced e-governance as part of the Kerala State IT mission,  working  with the  National Informatics Centre 


The effort has paid rich dividends with the winning of the National "Silver" Award for e-goverance in the Special  focus sector of  Education.  The Departmet of Education  won the award for its  "Higher  Secondary Centralised Allotment Processing"  programme , introduced as part of streamling the departments functioning. It has now its own  Education portal  for Higher Secondary. 

The department has moved well with  the  IT  programme which is  helping the studnt community in the State. The  latest  IT@school  initiative  is a fine example of taking modern learning methods to the rural areas and reaching the  poorer  sections of society.

More information at  KeralaITMission]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Information Kerala Mission Wins Accolade</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2559</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Information Kerala Mission (IKM),  of the Government of Kerala, has been started  to strengthen local self-governance through ICT (Information Communication Technologies) applications. 
 
The computerising and networking of the 1215  local self government institutions in Kerala has made it the largest and most comprehensive local body computerisation project in the country, winning for it the National "Gold " award  for  e-governance . 
 
The  Award for excellence in Government process re-engineering , was awarded to its  program SULEKHA . This  plan monitoring system, addresses  the entire gamut of issues covering  local body governance, decentralised planning, and local economic development. 
 
Application packages  in an advanced stage are SEVANA (service administration), SOOCHIKA( workflow system), SAAPHALYA (employment information system), SAHATHA (revenue collection)  and SANCHAYA  (revenue).
 
With additional Data products, training programmes, support and hand holding from professional IT  personnel, Kerala could show the nation a new way of  state administration.
 

More information at  infokerala.org

]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Online Video Piracy of Malayalam Films</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2541</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
 
The Malayalam film industry  continues  to face problems  with  online video piracy taking a new line. Two  recently released Malayalam movies   ‘Bhramaram’ and ‘Happy Husbands’   were illegally distributed through the Internet.
 
R. Srilekha, Crime Branch Inspector-General , the  officer-in-charge of anti-piracy operations in Kerala, said the high quality films were being circulated through websites which allowed download of the movies freely , as they thrived on advertisements.  The police has subsequently blocked access to the pirated versions.
 
Investigators  say  Gulf-based pirates use  the latest ‘Telecine machines’ for converting  the motion picture films into electronic form. Film industry sources said that producers have  no control over the theatrical prints of movies released in the Gulf.
 
More information at The Hindu
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Outsource Partners International Hiring 1000 Professionals</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2535</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Outsourcing industry leaders and winners of many recognitions internationally,  OPI - a well known professional services  firm dedicated to Finance,  Accounting and Analytics business processes,  has announced its plans to recruit 1000  finance and accounting professionals.
 
With its  service centres  located throughout North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific ,  OPI's  highly skilled professionals  have drawn  upon best-in-class practises , off shore talent, and enabling techniques to optimize its clients finance functions  and transform benefits beyond  just cost savings to  achieving  improved efficiency  and effectiveness
 
With this planned expansion expansion, OPI's  India based employees  count will exceed 4000. The hiring of professional will be at Bangalore, Kochi and Delhi locations. 
 
More information at. www.opiglobal.com]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CUSAT to Join Digital Mission</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2459</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

 
The Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) has decided to join the Digital National Mission aimed at exploring the advantages  of information technology for ensuring the quality of higher education.
 
CUSAT  can access connectivity up to one gigabyte from BSNL for the next 10 years. The university will also upgrade its 400 computers under its local area network, as part of the project.
 
News Courtesy: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Mobile Computer Labs Launched</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2465</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 

Two buses have been converted into computer labs,  each having facilities to teach a group of 32 people at a time about computer applications, operating systems and internet-based applications. These were launched from Trichur.

 

A basic course has been formulated in the programme, which is being implemented by the MP's Computer Literacy Programme Trust, as the level of computer lieracy in India is only 6.12%. The program will cover the entire Trichur district and will be free.

 

News Courtesy: The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Monorail Proposed for Kerala </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2479</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The  "vision 2025" document prepared by the Railways has  proposed a monorail along the proposed north  south expressway and development of five major stations in  Kerala.
 
The mono rail mounted on pillars along the median of the proposed Kasargod- Thiruvananthapuram expressway has been mooted as land acquisition  is a long litigation ridden process.
 
Although long term plans will figure in the vision document, the state Government should take the initiative for the project, as the document has clearly listed out what needs to be done by the State Government over the next three years.
 
The  capacity to handle  the needs of the travelling public can only be met, if such initiatives are carried through.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Power Situation Grim</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2453</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The power situation in the State is  grim  and calls  for stringent conservation efforts on the part of consumers to avoid a power crisis this year.
 
The Kerala Minister for Electricity, Shri. A K Balan has stated  that  the State’s  power consumption was at an all-time high of 52 million units . The situation would worsen in the coming days as  KSEB is drawing 22.5 million units of power from its hydroelectric projects  against the 19 million units that could be drawn under the power management plan per day uptil 31st May, when hopefully the monsoon will set in.
 
Currently the state is buying the deficit power at an exorbitant rate. KSEB has so far bought 475 million units from outside , and unless stringent power conservation efforts were made, the situation could get out of hand.
 
For more information, visit The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Sets a Model for PSU Revival</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2403</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Kerala State now has  a new model for the whole country, in rejuvenating public  sector  undertakings  to  spearhead  economic progress.
 
Manufacturing units  had transformed from a group that had been running up losses each year, to ones  that could bring in profits to the  State. During 2005/6  these units which had incurred a loss of Rs.69.65 crore , had turned around  and earned  a profit of Rs 169.45 crore in 2008-09. The number of profit-making enterprises has also increased from 12 to 28 during this period.
 
The earlier tendency was to see public sector undertakings (PSUs) as a liability, best closed down and, if possible, sold off to private sector. This view had changed and  the PSUs were now accepted as assets.
 
For more details, visit The Hindu
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Calicut City Police Website to be Activated</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2415</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
For the past 2 years, people who have wanted to vist the website of Calicut City Police had found themselves at www.kozhikodecitypolice.org  and  greeted with a message stating that the website is under construction.
 

 
All that is set to change with the city police  having  finally managed to get the services of the city-based Vedhya Technologies to develop their  website. The company, owned by four youngsters , will develop the web site free of cost, and have it up and going by March.
 
The web site will have features incorporating elements from the web sites of the Thiruvananthapuram city police and the Kochi city police. These web sites are user-friendly with interactive features.
 
For more details, visit The Hindu.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Athulya Smartspace Allotments from April</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2427</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 


 

The latest smart space of Kerala IT at Infopark Kochi,  "Athulya" will commence allocation of space from  April 2010-  perfect blend of intelligent workspaces, state-of-the-art infrastructure and  support facilities with  lifestyle amenities.

 

Touted  as an integrated complex, it  is situated  seven acres of land in  the  park . Athulya has a total built up area of  550,000 square feet and will   house the  software development block ,  cafeteria  and multi-level car parking.

 

The building has been designed as an energy efficient one  to make  considerable  saving  in power and the air-conditioning systems.

 

 For more information, visit manoramaonline]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>3 National Awards for Kerala e-Governance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2216</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Kerala has bagged three National Awards at the 13th National Conference on e-Governance in 2009-10. The awards are  jointly constituted by the Department of Administrative Reforms &amp; Public Grievances, Government of Indiaand Department of Information Technology, Government of India.
 
The project 'Sulekha' (Plan Formulation and Monitoring System for Decentralized Planning of Local Governments) of the Information Kerala Mission has won the 'Gold' Award in the category 'Excellence in Government Process Re-Engineering'.
 
'Higher Secondary Centralized Allotment Processing' by the Department of Education, Kerala State IT Mission and NIC has been recognised with a  'Silver' Award in the category  'Special Sectoral Award- Focus sector – Education'.
 
The project  Sevena  ( Civil Registration System and Hospital Kiosks) of Local Self Government Department, Government of Kerala has won the 'Bronze' Award in the category 'outstanding performance in Citizen-Centric Service Delivery'.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Passports Online Now</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2363</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
 
The passport authority has stated that only online applications will be accepted for passport issue and renewal from March  2010. This  is applicable in cases of submission of passport applications through District Passport Cells and other authorised speed post centres.
 
You can submit your applications at www.passport.gov.in .  The applicants have the option to avail the online registration facility from the facilitation counter at the passport office premises on payment of Rs. 50.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Obama Administration Faces Fight on Tax Cuts</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2369</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
 
Microsoft is being joined by other software and computer companies like Hewlett-Packard, and Dell, who are now gearing upto fight  the Obama administration's plan to curb offshore tax avoidance.
 
The $15.5 billion proposal in President Barack Obama's  2011 budget targets what the Internal Revenue Service labels the growing problem of so-called transfer pricing. The technique allows companies to reduce their tax bills by transferring intangible property such as patents, trademarks and licenses to offshore subsidiaries.
 
The Business Software Alliance, a Washington-based trade group that represents technology companies, said it would "educate policy makers" on how the proposal would hurt US companies, jobs and the economy.
 
Corporations engage in transfer pricing when they sell goods or services between subsidiaries. A globally accepted set of practices is meant to ensure that goods are priced so companies don’t inflate deductible expenses in high-tax countries and taxable income in low-tax ones.
 
For more details, visit indiatimes.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>The Budget and the IT industry</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2489</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 

 
Even as the Finance Minister gets ready with the final touches for presentation of the budget. the  IT industry  is also wondering what's  in store for them, as they have  sought an extension  of a key tax benefit scheme to beyond its 2011 deadline .
 
The software industry wants units in software technology parks or STPIs to be treated at par with special economic zones or SEZs, which are duty-free economic enclaves where units can claim tax breaks for longer than 10 years, besides other perks. This decision will impact mainly small and medium enterprises. Large companies are already in the 21-22 per cent tax bracket and will  not be affected .
 
For more information, visit indiatimes.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>e-Learning Website SKOOL-KERALA Launched</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2443</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[        
 
 
An e-learning web site  ‘skoool-Kerala,’ a local version of Intel’s  educational package  ‘skoool Learning and Teaching Technologies’  that provides an online platform for teaching and learning key concepts of Mathematics and Science has been launched.
 
Jointly launched by Intel and IT at School , the project includes interactive tools and multimedia kits to explain concepts and provide free resources on these subjects through the web site kerala.skool.in
 
Students studying in classes V to X can benefit from the web site which is available in both English and Malayalam.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 21 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>OPI to Commence Hiring Additional Hands</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2437</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
Outsource Partners International,  a professional services firm specialised in  outsourcing of finance, accounting, and analytics business processes will be hiring  1,000 finance &amp; accounting professionals for its Bangalore, Kochi, and Delhi offices.
 
To accomodate this growth, they plan to build additional  space in their  existing offices at  Bangalore and Kochi. The company is reportedly one of the few outsourcing providers where  a majority of employees  hold an advanced business or accounting degree,  or are  Certfied Public Accountants or Chartered Accountants.
 
For more information, visit manoramaonline/IT
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 21 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Workers Try Flash Strike at Nedumbaserry</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2421</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Cochin's Nedumbaserry Airport
 
A group of  labourers  working as baggage loaders for an aircraft ground handling agency at the Cochin International Airport  resorted to a flash strike demanding a wage hike on Thursday night, putting airline companies in a spot.  However,the baggage handling operations remained unaffected as the agency deployed its counter staff to make up for the shortage in labour.
 
It i s time that the Government took stern measures against strikes of this nature. Action to enforce discipline in vital areas are of paramount importance, and this incident will be watched by many, who have always been skeptical of statemets by  Ministers that Kerala was free of strikes.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 20 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Plastic Problems at Calicut</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2357</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
With Kudumbasree workers not collecting plastic materials  and the ban on plastic bags coming into effect , the problem of plastic waste dumping  has become a problem in Calicut. Officials are firm that plastic will not be collected and have been urging citizens to curtail its use.
 
However city residents complain that several essential food products like milk and perishable and processed foods come in plastic sachets, bags and bottles. These are piling up at homes due to the directions given to Kudumbasree not to collect them and this will soon become a health hazard.
 
Obviously, rational thinking is missing. The problem arises, because plastics are now part of our daily life and we cannot wish it away. The authorities in calicut need to take a leaf out of what is being  done in Cochin, which faced a similar problem.
 
Under the Clean Kochi movement , plastic wate was collected separately and shredded and is now being used for  road surface tarring. It is necesaary that the district administration follow suit. This is important when the Kerala Government is trying to promote Calicut and the surrounding  Malabar regions as the new areas for IT development. A failure on such basic issues will create untold  damage to development measures.
 
For more details, visit The Hindu
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Infosys Amongst Top 20 Leadership Companies</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2345</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
Indian IT company INFOSYS  has been named amongst the top 20 companies for leadership. evident from its continued employee focus even during the economic  slowdown.
 
The annual study by human resources consultancy  Hay Group, in partnership with Bloomberg BusinessWeek.Com, ranked the best companies for leadership globally and examined how those companies develop leaders.  The top 20 Best Companies for Leadership not only entered recession with strong leadership in place, they maintained their commitment to prepare and retain leaders and are highly committed to developing leaders.
 
General Electric, which was ranked number one in the list, spends around $400 million annually on leadership development. Infosys was placed tenth in the list, ahead of IBM  which was placed  eleventh.
 
For more details, visit Indiatimes
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Sixth national IT aptitude Test</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2339</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 



 

NIIT, a leading  ‘global talent development corporation' and IT trainer, will conduct the  6th National IT Aptitude Test (NITAT)  on 21st February ,  in over 120 cities.

 

The test will enable students and graduates to calibrate their potential and aptitude for careers in the IT industry.  As per latest industry figures published by NASSCOM, the IT BPO exports market is expected to grow by 13-15 percent and the domestic market by   15-17 percent.  This will create an additional 1,50,000 jobs .]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>6 New Technolodges to Come Up in Kerala</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2301</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The concept of Technolodges promoted by Kerala IT mission seems to be gaining popularity.  The State IT department has given clearance for setting up six more Technolodges across the state.
 
The new Technolodges would come up in Kollam, Ernakulam, Trissur and Kannur districts as some of the local self government institutions in these districts have evinced their interest in setting apart infrastructure facilities that are already available with them.
 
Companies operating from Technolodges will not only have a better edge to explore local talent pool, but also can operate at a comparatively lesser cost.
 
The Government intends to promote and eventually have  upto 100 technolodges in a phased manner.
 
For more details, visit manoramaonline/IT]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Palakkad the First Fully Electrified District in India</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2276</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 

 
Palakkad has become  the first totally electrified district in the country. Another feather in Kerala's cap.
 
The Union Power Minister said  that 68,000 villages had been electrified so far.  It is hoped that all the 112,000 villages in the country would be electrified by the year 2012.  During the Eighth, Ninth and Tenth Five-Year Plans, the country could produce only 56,000 MW of power. The target for the 11th Plan is 78,000 MW.  Rs 5000 crore has been allocated for rural development.
 
India is expected to achieve self sufficiency in the production of machinery for power generation in another one and a half years. Apart from the public sector Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), four more companies have started production in the joint sector. India will not need to import power generation equipment in future.
 
However, laudable  all these effort of providing electricity to every house is, unless the problem of  interrupted power supply is tackled, the larger issue will remains unresolved.
 
You can post your comments at www.keralait.org  
Post your]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>SunTec billing solution for Myway IPTV</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2336</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 

 
SunTec Business Solutions,  specialising in IT solutions for the communication, media and entertainment (CME) industry, will deploy  its  billing solution  for the MyWay IPTV service in 54 cities across India
 
The service by Smart Digivision is available on Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. (MTNL) broadband networks and is expected to reach three million subscribers over the next five years
 
SunTec's convergent billing solution will enable the company to handle complex revenue sharing business rules and settlement with IPTV service carriers and content providers. It will allow the service provider to design innovative services and programmes to attract more usage and consumers.
 
For more information, visit The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>KSRTC with Infopark-Calicut Bus Service</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2303</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Thanks to the initiatives taken by the people in Infopark Kochiand the quick action by the Hon Minister for Transportation, Shri. Jose Thettayil, the park employees now get a KSRTC bus from Infopark to Calicut.
 

 
The Infopark-Calicut bus will run every Friday at 5.30 PM via Seaport-Airport Road from 19-Feb-2010.
 
Tickets can be booked onsite at keralartc.com
 
Boarding Points are in front of the Leela and the Infopark main gate.
 
But this is nowhere close in  solving  the transportation problems of Infopark employees who use public modes of transportation. While bus service to the park is painfully limited, most of the employees are left with no other option than to rely on autorickshaws, and as a result, pay outrageously high fares. None of the autorickshaws seems to have a functional fare meter, and the people have to pay the fares that the drivers choose to ask.
 
It is not easy to understand why, with so many daily commuters to and from the Infopark, that the Government of Kerala or KSRTC for that matter, has not thought of providing more facilities for conveyance, at least in the morning and evenings.
 
While cities like Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode have made strict regulations to install Fare-Meters in auto rickshaws, Ernakulam does not seem to have moved an inch in the same direction. Every new auto entering the streets should have a digital fare meter installed to avoid manipulations in the fares. Otherwise, it is and will continue to be daylight robbery.
 
Post your comments at www.keralait.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Engineers Discuss Technology for Humanitarian Needs</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2308</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers  organised an international  meet to discuss " Humanitarian and Technology Challenges for the 21st Century"  on 20/21 st  February at Trivandrum
 
The conference deliberated on natural disasters which clearly need Technology for addressing the humanitarian response to them. In addition,  a number of issues confronting the world today like global warming and climate change, poverty, lack of education, HIV/AIDS  and other diseases, civil strife, lack of drinking water and basic infrastructure, human-rights violations, sea-level rise, terrorism, and extreme weather, require technological solutions. However, there has been little  interaction so far between the engineering and technology fraternity and other stakeholders such as civil society organisations,  governments and communities.
 
The programme  closed with  panel discussions  which  examined  the deliberations of the conference, and proposed a follow-up mechanism, through  an outcome document.

Fore more information, visit The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Law Enforcement against Cyber Crimes</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2291</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

Kerala continues its progress with e-goverance, and the state's Information Technology department is planning to impart systematic lessons  to judges,  public prosecutors, police officers and other top officials on the use and abuse of internet use.
The project aims at prosecuting pople using the internet for fraud and other cimes and enforcement of the IT  Act. The training is aimed at creating a safe and secure online environment for Internet users, and e-governance projects of the government, by ensuring that  law enforcers have the tools to deal effectively with online crime.
More information at manoramaonline
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopark Gets Ready for TECH-A-BREAK 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2263</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Rejoice all ye Technopark techies!!!  Tech-a-Break is back!!!
 

 
Tech-a-Break 2010 is perhaps the best news of the year for those techies out there in Technopark who missed the cultural fest last year.  After its recession-induced break in 2009, this year's Tech-A-Break will begin on February 19, 2010.
 

 
It is 6 days of celebrations and competitions culminating in a mega entertainment event on February 26. Celebrations include inter-company music and dance competitions, fashion show contest and sports. The festivities with begin with a colourful pageantry on the sprawling Technopark campus, as in the previous years.
 
Tech-a-Break is the time for about 25,000 techies working in about 175 companies in Technopark to chill out. In 2008, the fest was held during the last week of April.
 
Click here for the complete schedule of events.
 
For more information, visit keralaITnews.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Scareware Menace is Increasing</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2232</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
While rogue softwares have been there for a while, experts say the menace is rising.  Security solutions firm Symantec  points to rising vulnerability as more people, not necessarily regular computer users, are logging onto the digital economy.
 
As you start browsing, a window pops up trying to grab your attention by identifying an ‘infection’ in your system, and coaxing you to install a program  —and even pay for it — to fix the security breach. Only that the program that claims to fix your PC’s security woes is a fake . Rogue security software or ‘scareware’ pretends to be a legitimate one,and  provide little or no value and may even install malicious code.
Growth in broadband penetration is making  scareware a big concern that would affect consumers and enterprises alike.
 
For more information, visit Economic Times.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Airport Authority to Widen Perimeter Road of Trivandrum Airport</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2224</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Airport terminal
The Airports Authority of India  is to  widen and strengthen the perimeter road of air-cargo complex to the tarmac,  of the new Rs 245 crore  complex at the Trivandrum airport. The apprehensions raised by some quarters over the fate of  export of perishables from the capital city on account of the lack of direct access from the cargo complex to the tarmac of the new terminal complex will not arise as a result of this measure. The perimeter road would be prepared and be ready on the day the new apron was commissioned.
 
However, it has been pointed out that it is the  concerned airlines who shift the customs-cleared export loaded in containers, pallets and trolleys to the tarmac for loading and unloading  onto the  aircraft.  Incoming baggage and import cargo could  move through a  public road only with the approval of the Customs. In that case, the cargo would have to be transported as bonded cargo with the seal of the Customs Inspector and under  escort of the Customs personnel.  The clearance of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security would also be needed.
 
For more details, visit The Hindu
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Athulya- Infopark's Next Marvel</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2242</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
Infopark Kochi is now constructing its own  new IT Building complex of 5.5 lakhs sq ft. built up space, viz. Athulya in a verdant  location  of  the SEZ area of the park, which will facilitate employment of around 5000  IT professionals.  The facility will have a Multi Level Car Parking to accommodate around 304 cars . The complex will also have its own  training centres, conference hall ,food courts, substation, STP etc .
 

 
The construction  activities  are progressing  in a fast phase . The building will be offered for fit out to those who require warm shell by April 2010
 
 You can post your comments at www.keralait.org
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Trust in Indian IT Highest</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2208</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 



 

India continues to bask as a shining example, and leading from the front is the IT industry.  India based companies  have emerged as the most trusted companies, with the Technology sector being ranked the highest in terms of transparancy and credibility.

 

The annual trust and credibility survey sampled 4,875 informed people in two age groups (25-34 and 35-64) in 22 countries. In India, trust in banks  is at a high of 82 per cent, and nearly eight in ten believe governments  has  a lot of  influence over banks and financial institutions. Technology is the most trusted sector in India at 88 per cent, followed by banks, automotive (79 per cent), pharma (75 percent), healthcare (73 percent), entertainment (70 percent).  

 

Trust is now an essential line of business to be developed and delivered. The companies  that  embrace this new line of business called trust have seen their credibility rise

 

You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Indian IT Hiring to Further Increase</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2200</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 

 
In the wake of  news that Infosys  and Wipro are resuming their recruitments with a huge  intake, comes the news  that  Tata Consultancy Services  (TCS) are also in the market for additional  hands  over the next few months. They have  announced that currently they estimate 30,000 persons to be hired for the next fiscal year -  by  far the largest announced by any Indian company this time around.
 
Switching over to robust recruitment mode, after a forgettable 2009  full of lay offs and salary cuts, comes the news that the Indian IT industry will recruit close to 100,000 persons  over the coming months.  This recruitment drive now appears to be spread across the board to almost all companies, and is a sign of  better times ahead.
 
According to analysts, increased spending on IT infrastructure and improving overseas markets for outsourcers, are among the main factors for the upbeat hiring prospects.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>The Government may Relax Foreigners' Work Permit Rules</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2058</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Specimen India Visa
 
The Government of India is considering relaxing the rules that prohibits foreigners  on business visas  from working in India.  The demand to relax these rules ahve been made by  the $60 bn  IT industry that need foreign expertise to run its businesses smoothly.
 
A list of activities in the IT sector for which these rules may be relaxed to allow them to work for limited period is now under consideration.  The  IT industry has also asked for relaxation of the rule which restricts the number of business visas.
 
Last year rules were  tightened  following discovery that thousands of low skilled chinese workers were employed in power and steel projects which had chinese participation. The rule  change effectively reduced  reduced 42,000 chinese workers to 3000. The rule of maximum 20 persons per project  had  corrected  the situation.
 
Nasscom feel that as the IT industry is a people's  business and companies are globally integrated, restricting numbers in indivual companies will hamper  activities. Besides, the IT industry is thinking of high skilled individuals.
 
For more details, click here ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Companies Stepping Up Recruitment</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2068</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
IT industry needs are growing
 
Engineering students in Kerala  are getting upbeat as they receive call letters from leading IT companies based in  Technopark  and other places.
 
Youngsters are now hearing from companies  after a long  gap, after  recruitments had slowed down due to the impact of the global financial meltdown. A  revival in hiring  appears to be on the cards following the double-digit growth projection in the Indian IT industry for the next financial year.
 
Infosys  and  Wipro  have both announced huge recruitments of  freshers over  the next two months. All these  will not come to Kerala, but students in the state who have graduated and are looking for jobs are certain to find the job market suddenly more attractive.
 
For  more details, visit The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT@ School Project to Distribute Computers</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2040</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
                              
      
 
The  IT@School  project will start distributing computers and associated hardware to more than 4000 schools in Kerala.
 
It is expected that 1,052 government high schools, 1,307 government-aided high schools, 1,621 government-aided higher secondary and vocational higher secondary schools and 91 upper primary schools would receive computers and other equipment by March 2010.
 
The project is handled by KELTRON  who were entrusted with the procurement made on a nationwide  tender basis, alongwith the free software that the Government had procured.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>English Language Teaching Institute for Thrissur</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2022</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
ELTI   (English Language Teaching Institute),  a state-level organisation for coordinating research and training activities in English language teaching  is likely to be located in Thrissur.
 
Talks are reported on with the English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and the Union Ministry for Human Resource Development for setting up the ELTI. The prime objective of the institute  would be to improve English language teaching  in Kerala .  The ELTI could work in tandem with the District centre for English  which has branches in Neyyattinkara, Kollam, Thrissur and Kozhikode.
 
Abroad English is taught using  all free tools available such as Skype, Facebook, Twitter, Google Docs,  Gmail, blogs and Personal Learning Networks. Teaching material is  available online as lessons, worksheets and videos, with language teachers  willing to help.
 
The IT/ITES industry should welcome any moves in this direction.
 
 For more details, visit The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>HDIL Cybercity Gets SEZ Status</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1996</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
The Government of India  has granted SEZ  status to the  HDIL  Cybercity project at  Kalammaserry.  It is touted as  Kerala’s  first integrated IT township with residential apartments, villas, schools, shopping malls, multiplex, club house, service apartments and a star hotel, besides the finest infrastructure facilities for IT and ITES companies.
 
Cochin has already  been ranked as the second most favored destination in India by NASSCOM. This should give even more credibility.
 
For more information visit manoramaonline/it
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Google Plans Faster Internet</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2115</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Google plans to build a fibre optic broadband  network that will connect customers to the internet at speeds 100 faster than most existing broadband connections. planning to test the new network in the US  later this year. It is expected that  3-dimensional medical imaging and quick, high-definition film downloads  will be  among the applications of such high-speed internet access.
 
The  new broadband is expected to create  big opportunities, as this  significant development  will provide an opening  for the next generation of innovative, high-speed internet apps, devices and services.
 
For more information, visit Indiatimes Infotech]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopark Based INNOZ Wins More Laurels</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2109</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
Technopark based company  INNOZ Technologies  has won the  "Star Entrepreneurship Award" at the third International India Innovation Summit.  The summit  is aimed at developing an insight into creating a mindset for Innovation. 
 
Specialised in rich mobile and web applications, the company  has been successfully blazing a new trail initially with its  SMSGYAN and now TRANZ which uses 3G technology.
 
The International India Innovation Summit is governed by the Global Advisory Council which guides the strategic intent of the congress to its logical success.
 
For more information, visit manoramaonline/it]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Unique Identification Numbers by August 2010</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2100</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

Nandan Nilekani
 
The much awaited Unique Identification number ( UID) is likely to roll out its projects by August 2010.  Mr Nandan Nilekani who has been awarded the  "Citizen Extraordinaire " award for 2010 by Rotary Bangalore , is the chairperson of the  Unique Identification Authority of  India.
 
The  first part of the UID project involves enrolling everyone at stations where people can give thumb impressions, get their eyes iris scanned, and photograph taken. In the next five years, around 600 million people are likely to be covered. It is hoped that the system would help the Government reach a  host of benefits to the poor and needy of this country. India's  social programmes targeted at this sector will only  increase, and a  check on ensuring that these benefits actually go to the needy is long overdue.
 
You can post your views and comments at www.keralait.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 14 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Troubled Times Possible for IT Animation</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2090</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Graphic art
 
 
Animation in India was touted as a high-growth industry, with Nasscom once projecting revenues of $1.16 billion by 2012. Last year however  not a single film made it to the  theatre screen.
 
Nasscom itself  has now revised downwards its projection of growth by 2012 to $ 1 bn. All pure animation films announced for release in 2009 have been shelved, or put on hold. Soundarya Rajnikant’s  "Sultan"  is the only film currently slated for release sometime in April.  Unlike mature markets abroad, where animation is seen by everyone, Indians still have the animation-is-for-kids mindset.
 
Movies are the biggest money spinners  currenly in the IT animation field. To beat the blues companies need to look at newer usage and  ideas to survive.
 
 For more details, visit Indiatimes Infotech]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 14 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Sound Pollution to Be Checked</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2076</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
 The Trivandrum City Police  have announced the procurement of hand held  decibel meters to accurately guage  the decibel level of sound emanating from loudspeakers and determine whether it was within permissible limits sanctioned by law.
 
Amplified sound transmitted through loudspeakers should not be more than 55 decibels during day and 45 decibels during night. Loudspeakers should not be used between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. However, the laws are observed more in the breach.
 
This law needs to be actively enforced in Cochin as well, where there is total disregard for others. Traffic noise pollution also need attention. The noise levels  in hospital areas are not checked, even though the use of horns are prohibited in such areas.  This  culture  of  liberally using the horn needs change, so that it  comes in line  with western standards where honking is the last resort  to avoid accidents. Cochin's  speeding  buses are the worst offenders as they traverse the city roads with their horns  blaring endlessly.
 
If  norms are followed  society will  benefit. Office goers will arrive for work without headaches  and  show better productivity at work.
 
For more details, visit The Hindu]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 14 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Tops the List in Net Speed</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1984</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[



courtesy:IndiaTechOnline





It is well-connected Kerala!! Kerala has pipped Haryana  and become the State with the highest internet speed.  With an average of 897 kbps, India globally ranks 97 for connection speed.  Kerala currenly averages 1.386 mbps against Haryana at 1.105 mbps and  Karnataka at 1.041 mbps. Globally the average connection speed is  said to have increased to 1.7 mbps.





Meanwhile, India has been placed 21st globally for the Unique Internet Protocol(IP) number of addresss. Of the over three million IPs in India,   Delhi and Maharastra  lead with over a million IPs  each. India's annual growth rate has been put at a staggering 29%.





Internet connectivity and redundancy is critical for the IT infrastructure of the state and how the hub and spoke network is poised to take advantage of the state's unique positioning.




And this is just another advantage that Kerala offers IT companies willing to set up shop here!! And all the more a valid reason for companies to come to Kerala..






For more information, visit IndiaTechOnline





You can post your comments at www.keralait.org





Are you a successful entrepreneur in Kerala? Do you have a success story to share? At KeralaIT, we offer the right platform for you. Register today with KeralaIT and start sharing your ideas and success stories for a Smarter State!
]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 13 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Outsourcing Stigma Kicks Back</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1992</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[OUTSOURCING
 
Outsourcing has become a dirty word in developed countries and most countries  handling outsourcing work have been referred to as sweatshops .
 
This  word usage now seems to be kicking back , at a time when the United States is trying to withdraw tax benefits to companies outsourcing their work. The move intended to create more jobs within the US , has apparantly been facing some backlash as there is some stigma attached to taking up such jobs .
 
Meanwhile, there is no let up in US President Barck Obama's  determination to  do something  about outsourcing. He appears  convinced that stopping outsourcing will be the cure for Arerica' economic ills. His latest stement also pinpoints outsourcing as the prime cause  for  tax losses to the US exchequer.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 13 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopark Incubatee Catalyz Wins Recognition</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2016</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
Catalyz Scientific Technologies, a virtual incubatee of  Technopark  TBI working out of Garden City College Bangalore has won the award for the best start up company in Biotech area for the year 2009.
 
The Indian Science and Technology Entrepreneurs’ Parks and Business Incubators Association( ISBA ) gave the outstanding Incubatee award  to the Company.
 

 
Catalyz  Scientific Technologies  is a new generation health care innovations company focused on in vitro diagnostics and stem cell therapeutics. It brings hope to patients with several incurable diseases through stem cell therapeutics in collaboration with leading players in stem cell therapeutics and stem cell banking. It is leveraging expertise in nanotechnology, stem cell technology, molecular biology, immunology &amp; integrated medicine with medical doctors and researchers to develop the  next generation diagnostics &amp; therapeutics.
 
Catalyz has identified a huge market for molecular genomics and diagnostics that enable and enhance the advancement of various therapeutic options through Prognosis, Prevention and Treatment.
 
For more information, visit manoramaonline/it
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>NIIT Takes eGuru to Schools</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=2006</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 





 

 

NIIT  a well known  name in the field of IT education has taken their eGuru suite of solutions to schools in the Trivandrum area.

 

NIIT eGuru is a holistic learning solution for schools that aim at making the vital process of teaching and learning simpler. The product is said to have addressed all key sections in the education field covering teachers, students, educationalists and parents with a single solution.

 

NIIT has provided computer-based learning to over 12,000 government and private schools.  The futuristic NIIT  eGURU  range for schools is a holistic education package that comprises of Interactive Classrooms , Math lab, IT Wizard, and Quick School .

 

You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cochin Pushes Hard to Attract Domestic Tourists</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1924</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Bolghatty Palace in Cochin
 
 A  fall in the number of tourists  over the past two months, the period when Cochin's weather is at its best, has made tour operators and agencies sit up and take note and rework strategies to make up their losses.
 
The fall in room occupancy together with escalating food prices has perhaps caused the tourism industry to consider offering  special packages at discounts. The KTDC  Hotel at Bolghatty Palace has apparently been the worst hit amongst  the Cochin city hotels, due to a fall in room occupancy.
 
Each hotel and restaurant is employing a different strategy to optimise and get back  customers. Home-stays are also no exceptions to this, as they  have also begun offering discounts in innovative ways targeting the domestic tourists. Previously, this sector was not paid much attention to and now the importance of having a strong domestic base has finally begun to be understood.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Disaster Management Plan by April</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1940</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Everyone acknowledges that disasters disrupt normal life and in turn progress and destroys developmental efforts. A preventive  management of disaster, rather than the reponse  to their occurrence has  received increased attention worldwide.
 
In India, disasters are common  owing to the country's  diverse conditions and relatively poor environment management. Natural disasters like floods , earthquakes, Tidal waves, etc are unavoidable calamities. However, man-made disasters are something that a caring and civilised society can reduce if not totally avoid.
 
In Kerala state, where rain causes landslips, deaths are common in the hilly areas, floods  caused by breaking  river banks, city water logging through poor drainage, are still major problems. The  bigger danger comes from industrial development. Today, many of our major cities have inadequate  facilities to respond to  emergencies covering industrial fires. With petroleum storage, chemical silos and other such installations in the center of the city, even a small incident can spark off  a major disaster.
 
The  Revenue  Minister of Kerala is on record stating that disaster management plans will be ready and in place by April.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Google Maps will Help with Location Finding</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1906</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
When a web user searches  google maps  for the location of a restaurant or cafe , Google will  also list a choice of  other places providing similar facilities in the same area. Alongside will be a link that will enable users to get additional information that will help make their choice.
 
This  new service is intended to help web users try out places that they did not know of, or have not used before . Providing personally tailored and  location based recommendations is seen as the next evolutionary stage of web search.
 
Several websites like AMAZON already provide information in other fields like searches  for books or DVD's.  Search experts feel combining a  "recommendation"  tool with an awareness of a users location, could open up new ways of using the internet.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IBS Wins Award for Cargo Management Solution</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1914</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 
 IBS, one of the leading  IT systems providers to the transportation,travel and logistic indudstries  won the coveted "IT Systems Provider of the Year"  award at the Air-Cargo India 2010 event held in Mumbai.
 
The  Technopark  based company , has recently been blazing its own trail , with fresh contracts and agreements with different airlines. It has built and successfully delivered a number of next generation solutions for mission critical business functions in the aviation industry. The award is recognition of the hgih skills  of its employees and their ability to deliver well to their customers.
 
 You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog. 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technocity: Land Acquisition Completed</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1876</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

Technocity layout model
 
 
Nearly 246 acres of land  for the development of the next phase of the  Technopark-Technocity  at Trivandrum  is now complete. Areas from  Pallipuram,Melthonnakkal, Andoorkonnam, and Velloor villages in Trivandrum district form parts of this park.
 
Technocity,  which  is the fourth part of Technopark,  is planned as a complete IT city, spread over 450 acres. The park will consist not only of IT/ITES buildings, but also residential, commercial, medical and educational facilities. Planned as an independent satellite city, it is not expected to put any strain on the infrastructure  resources of  Trivandrum city.
 
Besides  IT, it is also expected to support Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, high end manufacturing and R &amp;D activity. Larsen &amp; Tubro have been awarded the contract for the development which is expected to be complete in 20 months.
 
Click here to view the Technocity masterplan.
 
For more information, visit manoramaonline/it
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>ibs- the Success Saga Continues</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1849</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The ibs story began in 1997 at Technopark ,a time when few IT companies dared even think about setting up shop in Kerala. If V.K Mathews started ibs with just 55 employees, today, it is a multinational and multicultural giant with over 2000 employees worldwide. Spread across Europe, America, Middle East and Asia-Pacific, ibs operates from Atlanta, Boston, Denver, London, Rotterdam, Dubai, Banglore, Cochin, Trivandrum, Hong Kong, Sydney and Tokyo. To summarise,ibs' growth has been phenomenal, and just the boost that many others who followed needed.
 

 
The growth of the airline industry and the pressing need to upgrade systems to keep up with the changing technology and business needs was just the opportunity that ibs needed  to create new-generation technology solutions for the global Travel, Transportation and Logistics industry. V. K. Mathews founded the company on the core values of commitment, passion, precision, integrity and respect for the individual.
 
ibs has gained the highest possible quality certifications for its business &amp; development processes, work force capability processes and security - SEI CMMI Level-5 and PCMM Level 5 assessed, ISO 9001:2008, TickIT and ISO 27001:2005 certified.
 
 
Read more on the success sagas of Kerala IT companies at keralait.org 
 

 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>The Worst 10 Workplaces for IT Professionals</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1850</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

LINFEN IN CHINA
 
Indiatimes  Infotech  has recently shown a  list of the  10 worst places for IT professionals to work worldwide.  All these are places where IT professionals are  required to be stationed. Two cities from China figure  in this list with  Linfen  being the worst. The reason attributed for this is that it is amongst the most polluted cities in the world. Additionally residents are at high risk for skin diseases.Shanghai, the largest ity in China also  figures in the list.
 
The list contains countries as diverse as Afghanistan, Mexico, McMurdo in US Antartica , Jakarta in Indonesia  and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. Regrettably  one Indian city, Mumbai, is also featured in the list. The  reasons attributed  for these classifications are as varied as pollution to weather and security to traffic jams.
 
Though no Kerala IT destination features in it, and currenly  advertisements promote Kerala as a better destination, the fact is there is still a lot  to be desired.  The above  report brings into sharp focus the fact that it is not enough to have a well run company, you also need an excellent environment covering numerous aspects to attract business.
 
For more details, click here
 
 You can post comments and views  at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Nedumbaserry Airport to have Cinema</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1839</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Cochin International Airport Company  (CIAL)  continues to blaze its own trail . After announcing  proposals of various additional facilities including shopping malls, comes the news that the airport company is now proposing the  setting up entertainment  in the airport complex, and has invited  agencies that are in the business of developing or managing theatres including multiplexes, 3D theatres, and IMAX theatres to participate.
 
The envisaged concept is a theatre complex that will embrace a number of facilities including office spaces, entertainment and food courts so as to cater to the large number of passengers through here apart from the general public.
 
This concept has  sucessfully been implemented in other countries, and makes travel both domestic or international less cumbersome. Travellers use of facilities for entertainment  and eating, is common in many countries, and helps ease  the travellers drudgery of having to kill time while waiting for connecting or delayed flights. 
 
Its obvious that Nedumbaserry is a trendsetting airport in India  ! !
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 09 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Civic Infrastructure for BPO and ITES industries</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=402</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[The BPO and ITES industries are characterised by intensive requirement for human resources. Along with providing an environment where qualified and employable people are available, adequate civic infrastructure is also required. This is for employees to be able to get to work and come back on time, have ways to relax or unwind after a tough days work, and much more.
 
To a great degree, the quality of life available in Kerala has been a big draw with employees – which is reflected in the fact that software outsourcing companies in Kerala experience the least employee attrition.
 
To keep this record and continue to be a destination to not just work but also live better, the Kerala government continues to invest heavily in civic and social infrastructure facilities. Being a tourist centre, Kerala inherrently has infrastructure suited to help employees relax and have a good time.
 

To encourage BPO and ITES companies to have their business set up here, and to help them attract and keep employees happy, there are several focus areas including
 


	Plug and play infrastructure
	Mass transit
	Social amenities
	Aligning policies to suit BPO companies
	Enhanced safety and security in urban areas

 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18. Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Tourism's New Strategy</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1752</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Kerala Tourism through Railways
 
Kerala Tourism has shown a splendid  new idea in promoting the state as "GODS OWN COUNTRY". Unfazed by the drop in  the number of tourists due to the economic slowdown, an effort at a new branding exercise on trains has begun.
 
The  NewDelhi-Trivandrum  Train the "HAZRAT  NIZAMUDDIN-THIRUVANANTHAPURAM"  has been branded with its 17 bogies colourfully painted. The intention is to reach out not only to overseas tourists who visit Delhi and other North Indian destinations, but domestic  tourists as well. Last year it is estimated that about 75 lakh domestic tourists visited Kerala.
 
The train passes  through more than half  the Indian states of  Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu, Maharastra, Gujarat, Goa and Karnataka, on its two way trip. Is there a better way to bring Kerala to the attention of people !!
 
You can post your views and comments at  www.keralait.org/blog/]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Google Mapping Cleared for Trivandrum</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1680</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
High resolution mapping  is to commence this week , to cover local data on roads, important places and buildings.  The Home Department had expressed security concerns and delayed permission  till it consulted the Information Technology and Revenue departments .
 
 Several officials of the Kerala Land Information Mission under the Revenue Department and officials of several other government agencies are registered for participation in the mapping exercise.
 
At a time when satellite images are freely available through the internet, an outdated approach of our security fears  was  showing up through all this. While vigilance is of paramount importance, the authorities need to change their approach and understand the changes taking place the world over,and policing methods  must become  more  modern. Already reports indicate that India is amongst the three " least confident" nations in the world against cyber crime. With our strength in the field of IT, the Police can keep abreast  of  these achievable needs. Kerala has the ability to show the way .
 
You can post comments at  http://www.keralait.org/blog/.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>UST Global Expands Philippines Operations</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1628</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
A  leading  provider of end-to-end services and solutions for Global 1000 companies, UST Global has expanded its operations with an offshore development centre in Manila.  This state of the art facility would cater to its clients in North America and Europe and help this Technopark  company grow.
 
 Centres of Excellence (COE) maintained by the company have  played a key role in the company's  leading expertise and success. This  sigma six practising company will hire 1000 professionals in this geographically strategic centre at Manila.
 
A model of excellence this company's centres in India  are ISO  27001 certfied and have been assessed PCMM  level 5  in  2004. The model followed is to be lauded, as it shows considerable foresight  in working ahead to expand and build new businesses by being geographically strong. In this era of change, only recognition of  the world as a single market will give an organisation real strength.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog. ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>FOSSMEET 2010 Opens at Calicut</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1743</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[                      
 
The annual meet of the National Resource Centre for Free and Open Source Software is holding its sixth meet at Calicut as  FOSSMEET 2010
 
Set up  in  2005 with the twin roles of  bridging the digital divide as well as strengthening the Indian Software industry. NRCFOSS  contributes to the growth of  FOSS in India through Research &amp; Development, Human Resource Development, Networking &amp; Entrepreneurship development, as well as, serve as the reference point for all FOSS related activities in the country.
 
The Calicut meet will help discuss ideas on web development, LAMP (LINUX/Apache/MySQL/PHP) Platform and generally cover free and open  source software, with the idea of  initiating more persons to the FOSS community. There will be also presentations of  3D modelling and animation software,  and  INKSCAPE  a vector graphics editor similar to Adobe illustrator.
 
 You can post comments and views at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 07 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>INNOZ TECHNOLOGIES Introduces TRANZ</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1732</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Deepak Ravindran
 
A fine example of a  Technopark  incubated company  Innoz Technologies  is known as the  company  that  made waves in the field of  IT  using the telecom sector to build their SMSGYAN  platform delivering  instant information.
 
According to the  CEO  Deepak Ravindran  with the advent of 3G, the company will now expand into faster mobile networking  with their  TRANZ  which will enable users  to share photos,videos and music from their GPRS /3G  mobile phone.
 
A  young and vibrant  local enterprenuership company,  it is an examplary case  of  what is achievable  if the right working environment and support is given to the young enterprenuers of this state. It is also a salute  to those in  Kerala IT  who helped nurture  this company, and  held its hands through its founding steps.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sun, 07 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Application Development Still Outsourced to India</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1721</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Global outsourcing
 
Price  waterhouse coopers  in a recent study  states that outsourcing has increased considerably over the past six months to India and China, and  from India to  other places like Phillipines,Costa Rica and even Romania. After dropping over the past couple years as companies  slashed jobs, outsourcing appears to be surging back .
The list of  what's being outsourced is growing, too, with much of the recent growth being driven by competitors playing catch-up to market leaders .  Some companies took  back to the US much of its call centre support  in the face of customer alienation. However, in contrast  the much more complicated skill sets  involving application development was still being increased to India, showing that the key to sourcing  is tied more by business needs. Though costs are  still a major factor, its becoming more  obvious that the  IT/ITES  industry will have to upgrade  its skills to stay in the business.
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 06 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Exports of IT-BPO to Touch $50bn This Year</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1656</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
Exports for the current financial year 2009/2010  are  likely to touch $ 50 bn, according to Nasscom. This growth of 5.5%  is in line with the projected growth rate of  4 to 7 %. However in comparison to a 32% growth achieved about four years ago, the rate of growth has dropped considerably.
New areas such as Engineering Services and Product Development, have grown and contributed as much as $10 billion. Nasscom, also projects  a much better outlook for the coming  financial year 2010/2011 . It expects  Software and Services exports to see increased growth and predicts a growth rate of 13 to 15 per cent.  If Kerala IT is to growwell in comparison to other states, then it's  contribution should  not be below the national projected figure.
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Enabled in Malayalam Language</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1642</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[[caption id="attachment_1643" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Malayalam Computing"][/caption]

The ‘Malayalam Computing’ project  is an initiative  by the Kerala State IT Mission to strengthen Malayalam language and to bring to all Malayalees the fruits of IT-enabled facilities such as email, blogging and chatting. The Malayalam Computing project has already been launched in the districts of Kannur, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta  and is being  extended to Trivandrum district this week.

The Central Government has recognised Akshaya centres  as Common Service Centres —a project jointly funded by the Centre and the State under the national e-governance programme. The CSCs are designed to bring government and non-governmental services closer to the common man through the use of IT. Today, select Akshaya centres offer such facilities as free filing of VAT returns, online booking of railway tickets, e-payment of BSNL bills and even courses of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). Soon these  Akshaya centres would start offering the Malayalam Computing facility, Intel Learn and e-Krishi programmes.

You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Nedumbaserry Airport Looks at Entertainment</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1674</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

CIAL ( Cochin International Airport Limited)  never sleeps.   This organisation continues its path breaking efforts  with news that it is now developing a plan to attract corporate investment by offering to develop an airport theatre complex  at Cochin's Nedumbaserry airport.

 

The airport company has already floated  its proposal  to agencies in the business of developing/ managing theatres including multiplexes, 3D theatres, and IMAX theatres.

 

The envisaged theatre complex will have other  facilities including office spaces, entertainment and food courts so as to cater to the large number of passengers passing through the airport, apart from the general public.Such facilities will be welcome news to all air travellers using Cochin airport.

 

You can post your views and comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 05 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IBS &quot;icargo&quot; Solutions for Aryan Air Cargo Express</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1638</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[One of the leading IT companies in India and a global IT giant, IBS serves the travel, transporting and logistics industry with its 17 products and six lines of business. This Technopark based company has since its establishment  in 1997, grown into a multinational  operating from 12 global destinations .
 

It has now added another feather to its cap, with the signing of an agreement with Delhi based all cargo airline Aryan cargo Express, for implementing  its award winning cargo solution  icargo. This software has in a short period of time since its launch become a leading IT solution for air cargo management worldwide.
 
IBS already has a long list of  clients which includes Nippon Cargo Airways, All Nippon Airways, Qantas Freight, Austrian Airlines, Spice Jet, Kingfisher Airlines, Olympic Air, and Tokyo International Air Cargo Terminal Ltd.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>TOONZ  PROMOTES ANIMATION CAREERS</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1573</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
The training division of  Technopark based Toonz Animation India Private Ltd., is organising a series of seminars  that will focus on career opportunities in the animation and multi media sector. Animation which covered primarily entertainment is now being expand to the field of non-entertainment and in particular telecommunications.
 
The  field of animation is considered , one of the fastest growing sectors. Considered to be the most attractive  among  emerging platforms like media convergence, mobile media and online games, it is also increasingly being used for education. Among the fields that find usage are  art, architecture, education, engineering, forensics, simulation &amp; gaming, space exploration,  military, etc.
 
More information at  THE  HINDU
 
You can post comments at  www.keralit.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cochin to Have New Walkway</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1581</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Proposed New Walkway for Cochin
 
Exercise  is not just for the body. It is also meant  to help the mind relax and allow one to go  refreshed to work with a clear head. Living in a metro takes its toll on  you. So, when news of some improvement  in public space and/or utilities is announced, we greet it with joy.
 
The proposed 3km walkway between Thevera toll and Mattancherry bridge, will have a joggers' path with ornamental plants and trees. This wonderful initiative is to be  welcomed , when the the only other walkway in the city is the immensely popular one on marine drive ,where  walkers and joggers are seen  early in the morning, and at dusk.
 
As the proposed walkway will run along the waterside, it should be  an ideal spot for exercise and will be  welcomed by the residents of Cochin.
 
More information at  THE HINDU
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Indian BPO Creates Jobs in USA</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1589</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 

 
Amazing  and  absolutely true!
 
Firstsource  is a global leader in Business Processing Management operating across four continents. It was perhaps the first Indian BPO  that set up shop in Buffalo, USA  with 287 employees and has grown its business that it now has over 4000 employees. There are other examples like  Essar Group Aegis  and  Aditya Birla Nuvo group.
 
 
 
 
President Barack Obama in his speech endorsing withdrawl of tax benefits  to companies outsourcing work was quoted as saying   "Say no to Bangalore (to be read as "NO to offsourcing to India") and yes to Buffalo". That's strange considering that the Mumbai-based business process outsourcing (BPO) company was creating  jobs even in Buffalo, and not just in India.
 
The IT  industry has not overreacted to all this buzz about tax changes. One TV talkshow  even revealed that all that would happen was that things would go underground, and that there would be more " Tax Planning".
 
Its obvious that the IT/ITES industry will look after itself.
 
More information at Sify.com
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Energy Efficiency Becoming Mandatory</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1435</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

Energy efficient products with BEE labels
 
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency ( BEE)  is now making  efficiency in energy  saving compulsory. Commencing January 2010 , the BEE has made it mandatory for products  such as  refrigerators, room air conditioners, tubular fluoroscent lamps and  distribution transformers, sold in Kerala to be carrying  a label. 
 
Launched in 2006, the programme has only now been extended to Kerala. The  scheme envisages star ratings on the labels and atleast a one star rating before putting a product on sale with a label. 
 
As the  National Energy Conservation Act  gets more teeth, it is sure to be extended to more items of use in all  fields.
 
The IT fraternity with its larger spending power on  luxury goods can contribute its might by insisting on buying products with  these energy efficient labels. Every citizen has a duty to contribute to the challenge to conserve energy at a time when demand is growing.
 
More information at The Hindu.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Needs High End Skills for Growth Momentum</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1497</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

R.Chandrashekar
 
Mr.R.Chandrashekar, MD and President of  Cognizant Technologies, which has a presence in Kerala at the Muthoot Technopolis,  feels that the outsourcing industry will go through rapid changes in the next decade.
 
Stating  that by 2020 , services will be bundled as an end-to-end business, he feels there is need  to understand this, and expand  deliverable capabilities and aim at high end consulting and new geopgraphies. The $52 billion Indian  IT-BPO industry is expected to grow to $175 billion by 2020, and for this to take place, IT companies will have to prepare themselves with high end skills.
 
More easily said than done, but newer opportunities are bound to open up as healthcare and life sciences consolidates itself.
 
More information at  Times of India
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cyberpark: Land Acquisition Begins</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1491</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
 
 
 
 The land acquisition for Cyberpark in Kozhikode has begun with 4 acres   already registered through negotiated purchase option giving Rs 1 Lakh for a plot with at least 6 ft road access and Rs. 85000 for those without road access.The 43 acres of land required for the project is being acquired through a fast-track mechanism. The acquisition is expected to be completed by March after which the park will apply for SEZ status.
 

 
 The Government of Kerala has taken considerable care to see that minimum people are displaced on account of the land acquisition. Only 17 families will have to move out of their holdings.
 
  The Cyberpark project, which forms the centerpiece of the State Government's initiative to promote IT industries in Malabar, is expected to take off by the middle of 2011.
 
The park is planned in the lines of  the Technopark at Thiruvananthapuram and Infopark in Kochi to build, operate and manage IT parks for the promotion and development of investment in IT and ITES industries.  The IT park at Kozhikode is being set up in a hub and spoke model with spokes at the SEZ approved land at Eramom in Kannur (27 acres) and Cheemeni in Kasargode (100 acres).
 
 The State will spend around Rs 43 crore towards land acquisition for the Calicut Cyberpark and another Rs 250 crore over the next four years for providing necessary infrastructure and construction of buildings. The parks in Kannur and Kasaragod are estimated to cost Rs 150 crore each, spread over a five-year period.
 
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Needs to Upgrade Higher Education</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1421</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[[caption id="attachment_1422" align="alignnone" width="345" caption="Oomen Chandy at Malabar Christian College"][/caption]

 

At the  valedictory function of the  Malabar Christian College in Calicut,  the opposition leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala,  Oomen Chandy has called for improvement in higher education in Kerala. He clarified that it was necessary to try and understand why students migrated to other states to take up professional studies.

 

The  Kerala IT Mission's  efforts need to be mentioned and understood in this context. Whilst the mission is making  every effort at improving the availability of  students related to IT matters, it is the subject of  Higher Education in Kerala that merits a closer look by the Government of Kerala. Steps to fund both post graduate and Doctoral degrees in IT related subjects are laudable, but the need is not to just create more persons with higher degrees, but to create excellence in learning through modifications and continous updating in the syllabus .

 

More information at  The Hindu

 

You can post your views and comments at www.Keralait.org/blog]]></description>

					<pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>BKRG- for a Better Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1402</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
                                                  
Better Kochi Response Group (BKRG) is an initiative taken by the citizens of Kochin city who feel that the city can leapfrog into the list of the top cities of the world.Once fully operational, the prestige projects such as the International Container Terminal, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), Cochin Special Economic Zone (CSEZ), Infopark,  LNG Petronet  etc are sure to change the image of Kochi as a domestic urban infrasturcture to that of a global habitat. These projects will bring in the world trade and commerce, global services and international corporates directly to the city.
 
BKRG  intends to act as a catalyst in the developmental activities of the city. It would work along side the governament and private bodies to expedite project sanctions and fund clearance, provide knowledge and support to the people, and mobilize mass support from the citizenry for the developmental activities. The Vyttila Mobility Hub and the Public Toilets Project are fine examples where the group played a vital role.
 
In short, BKRG  can add value in areas such as traffic, waste management, transportation and public works, with the sole aim of visualising, conceptualising, formulating, implementing, and expeding all projects which will bring up a better Kochi.
 
BKRG was officially inaugurated by Prof. K. V. Thomas (Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Consumer Affairs) on January 29th 2010.
 
For more details,  visit   The Hindu
 
Visit www.keralait.org and post your comments to this blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CM to Launch Portal on Kerala IT News and Current Activities Powered by Manorama Online</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1352</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 


 
The Honorable Chief Minister of Kerala, V. S Achuthanandan will launch a portal on Kerala IT news and current activities powered by Manorama Online at www.manoramaonline.com/IT.
 
From Investment Opportunities and Advantage Kerala, to IT parks and IT enablers, this portal will delve into everything that Kerala has to offer to IT and ITES companies world-wide. With a majority of the IT companies already having its presence in Software Parks all over the State, this information portal will help propel the State as one of the top IT destinations in the country.
 
Shri Achuthanandan will launch the web site at a private ceremony in his chambers on February 1, 2010. He will also release a coffee table book about IT in Kerala titled “IT@Kerala The Smart State”. This book will be available in book stores shortly.
 
In the meantime, if you would like a sneak preview, visit the Park Offices of Kerala IT – at Infopark Kochi or Technopark Trivandrum.
 
For more details about the coffee table book or the IT portal launched by Manorama visit us online at www.keralaIT.org or email us with your questions to admin@keralait.org]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CM to Launch Coffee Table Book on Kerala IT</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1342</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
The Honorable Chief Minister of Kerala, V. S Achuthanandan will launch a coffee table book on Kerala titled “IT@Kerala: The Smart State.”  This beautifully illustrated book takes the reader on a journey of Kerala seen through the eyes of the IT/ITES industry.
 

While acknowledging the natural beauty of God’s Own Country, this book lists the myriad attractions it holds for the IT companies who are looking to start a business or invest in Kerala. As India’s most e-literate State, and with the highest Physical Quality of Life Index, Kerala is fast becoming one of the top IT destinations in the country.
 
Shri Achuthanandan will release the book at  a private ceremony in his chambers on February 1, 2010. He will also launch a new website on IT powered by Manorama Online (www.manoramaonline.com/IT).
 
 “IT@Kerala: The Smart State” will be available in book stores shortly. In the meantime if you would like a sneak preview , visit the Park Offices of Kerala IT,  at Infopark Kochi or Technopark Trivandrum.
 
For more details about the coffee table book or the IT portal launched by Manorama visit us online at www.keralaIT.org or email us with your questions to admin@keralait.org
 ]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Athulya- Infopark's Latest Smart Space</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1229</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 
Infopark's latest smart space Athulya is a perfect blend of intelliegent workspaces, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and 360 degree support facilities and lifestyle amenities, seamlessly integrated within one complex to create a singular business environment of hi-technology companies.
 
 Situated on 7.1 acres of land in Infopark SEZ, it has a total built-up area of 5.5 lakh square feet and can house a software development block (with an area of 3.5 lakh square feet), a cafetaria building (with an area of 0.50 lakh square feet), and multi-level car parking facility. Athulya's total seating capacity would be 4000 and will have a total of 10 elevators (8 for the software development blocks and 2 for the cafetaria).  With an average floor plate size of 50000 sq. ft, it can provide parking facilities for 111 cars.
 


There is no doubt that Athulya, when launched, will be Infopark's most modern smart space.

 
For more information on Athulya,  contact Mr. Arun Rajeevan at info@infoparkkochi.com or at 048 441 5217.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>International Symposium on BioComputing at Calicut</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1290</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Seminars and conferences  highlight  the importance  Calicut is beginning to receive  as an alternate IT  destination. 
 
An  International Symposium on Biocomputing organised by the NIT and IUPUI  is to be held here from February 15th to 17th. With more than a 100 papers from 14 countries  being presented on subjects ranging from Computers to Life Sciences and Statistics, the  seminar will focus on exchanging ideas and promoting  future collaboration for development of  improved bioinformatic tools.
 
The role of Information Technology in furthering life sciences has been widely acknowledged the world over. Israeli scientists   have developed a computer than can perform 330 trillion operations per second - more than 100,000 times faster than a PC  by using the help of  DNA.
 
That India, particularly Kerala is now beginning to look  at the uses of  Biotechnology, emphasises  the  slow  but sure  shift from the  field of plant propagation using Tissue culture to the role that Molecular Biology plays in the field of Pharma  and curative medicine is receiving attention.  Currently most usage in India centers with working  alternate formulations for drugs  which go off  the patent list.  India's best researchers in this field still work abroad, and seminars  such as these, will  help make them consider returning home , to develop this field in the same way that the IT  boom took place.
 
For more information on the seminar, visit manoramaonline.com/it
 
You can post your views and  comments on  http://www.keralait.org/blog
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT  is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Engineering Students Display their Skills</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1301</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[Robotic vehicles made by Engineering Students
 
The Technical expo   CETEX  2010  at the  College  of  Engineering  (CET)  in Thiruvanthapuram  has a five day technical exhibition.
 
Electrical and Electronic engineering students have showcased  their skills particularly in the field of Robotics. The  Mechanical Engineering Laboratory  has been a big draw with people flocking to see the display of sophisticated machines like the  Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) machine centre. Participation of many Government and Private organisations with their displays is evoking keen interest. These participants include  Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) , Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) , Brahmos,  and Agency for Non-Conventional  &amp;  Rural Technology.
 
It is through exhibitions and dissemination of information of  the above nature, that scientists, researchers and developers of tomorrow are made.  Kudo's to the Engineering College !!
 
For more information, click here
 
You can post comments on our site.
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for It and ITES in Kerala please email us at  info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-24115217]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CIAL prepares for a Tour Division </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1261</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

[caption id="attachment_1266" align="aligncenter" width="122" caption="CIAL Cochin"][/caption]


The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) took another step forward to increase the passenger volume through its Nedumbaserry airport.   The airport company entered into a memorandum of understanding with a select group of service providers in the tourism sector for an exclusive tour division.

Nineteen parties comprising of eight tour operators, four Ayurvedic hospitals, three travel agencies, two resorts, one dental clinic and an ophthalmology centre will participate. CIAL may include more agencies that have come forward to join with the new initiative.

CIAL proposes to have the Tour division’s operations up an going by end March .The  website to promote tourism through information is getting ready. Apart from  general Tourism , niche marketing  can bring it a whole host of Ayurvedic and medical  tourists.  Probably with an eye on the business  sector, and the fact that  Cochin has a growing IT  fraternity and that there is now an impressive array of   conferences and business meetings facilities, as  added attractions.

Youu can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.

If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.

Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>India among the &quot;Least Confident&quot; against Cyber Crimes </title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1250</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

Even as Technopark gears itself  and takes increased  security measures to ward off  possible dangers, comes a report stating that India alongwith Mexico and Saudi Arabia have been classified as amongst   "least confident"  list of countries to fight Cyber crime.

A  report commissioned by McAfee shows that more than a third of those surveyed believe they are  unprepared  to deal with attacks or infiltrations by high level adverseries.The report also states that staggering costs would be felt  if  impact of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure such as electrical grids, oil and gas production, telecommunication and transportation networks are seen.  Already more than half of critical infrastructure enterprises have suffered from large scale attacks or stealthy infiltrations from organised crime gangs, terrorists or nation states.

The area of security has for long been treated as an avoidable  additional expense. There is need to rethink further than just commercial espionage and realise that the world we live in now has become a more difficult one. The role of the IT industry to allieviate this problem is stupendous. Lets get to work.

You can post commentsand views  at  www.keralait.org/blog.

If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.

Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Private Parks - L and T Tech Park</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1165</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[SIGNATURE PARK 
The L &amp; T  Techpark located  on a 7.45 acres  in Infopark is getting ready with its Phase II  "Signature Tower"  which is expected to be complete by  September  2010.
 
In collaboration with Pragnya Fund , Mauritius, this  infrastructute initiative has  been  the coming together of ecology and technology. This  building with 350,000 sq. ft will be equipped with state-of-the-art eco-designed infrastructure facilities, allowing for relocation of companies seeking to move and for scaling up by companies already operating in Infopark.
 
L &amp; T  Techpark clients operating out of their Phase I building  "Tejomaya"  make an impressive list.
 
You can also post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Now has the Highest Internet Speed</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1255</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Kerala has pipped Haryana  and become the State with the  highest internet speed.  The average speed for India is currently put at an average of  786 kbps.  Kerala currenly averages 1386 kbps against Haryana at 1105 kbps and  Karnataka at 1041 kbps. Globally the average connection speed is  said to have increased to 1.7 mbps.
 
Meanwhile, India has been placed 21st globally for the Unique Internet Protocol(IP) number of addresss. Of the over three million IP's in India,   Delhi and Maharastra  lead with over a million IPs  each. India's annual growth rate has been put at a staggering 29%.
 
For more information, visit, manoramaonline.com/IT
 
You can post comments/views  at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Citizen Call Centre to Enhance e-Governance</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1162</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[

 

The IT initiatives by the Government of Kerala  are now being extended  to citizen call centres. Intended to assist the public  as part of the Government to  Citizen ( G2C ) interface , the citizen call centre functions at Trivandrum and can be accessed on 155300  from anywhere in the state.

 

Information regarding  ration cards, driving licences,building permits, employment registration are among the services which are available through the call centre.  As e-governance  spreads  and gets implemented throughout various Government  departments in the state,  the   citizens  in the state will benefit as efficiency increases and corruption reduces.

 

The first State in India to take such a step, it is being keenly watched by others as a role model.

 

You can post comments/views  at www.keralait.org/blog.

 

If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.

 

Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Helping the Differently Abled</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1200</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
Many of us are unaware that there are a number of joint initiatives undertaken by the Government of  Kerala under  KeralaIT.  One  such initiative is   INSIGHT   aimed at empowering the differently abled through computers, internet and ICT tools.  Training programmes for  Akshaya Entrepreneurs at Allepey and  training for special school students at Idukki have already  been conducted this year.
 
This joint initiative  of the Kerala State IT Mission and the  Society for Promotion of Alternative Computing and Employment  has come a long way since its inception in 2007. Today any visually challenged person can walk into an INSIGHT  centre  and get trained.
 
A fine example of  how  helping others  helps us  and how society benefits.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog. 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Is KeralaIT Building Too Much Space?</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1193</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The  thought whether Kerala IT  is building too much space  has been  on the minds of many, especially at a time when adjoining states are offering  discounts on unsold space, and are likely to compete even more in the coming days.
 
The need to consolidate  and upgrade infrastructure will probably make more sense at  this time, as US President Obama has moved a bill cutting Tax exemptions  to companies outsourcing  work. It is obvious that IT companies will feel the effects of this move, as nearly 50%  of outsourced work comes to India from the United States.  Nasscom  has also  expressed fears that more than the tax cuts ,there could be protectionist measures in the offing.
 
Want to know more? Visit The Hindu
 
Time to  rethink Kerala IT strategy ?
 
Share your views  and  comments with us at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>PIT Solutions to Work on Blue Brain Project</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1139</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 

 

Technopark based firm PIT solutions will work with the Swiss Federal Brain Mind Institute on their $ 3 billion Blue Brain project.

 

Dr.Henry Makram who heads the project says that the intention is to create a human brain in a super computer in the next 10 years. Replicating the brain synapses – junctions between two nerve cells in the brain, the computerized brain would be driven by a bio-processor fashioned by IBM.

 

The immediate benefit of such a brain would be in the field of medical diagnosis, as it can be used to simulate the dysfunctions in a patient’s brain. This will enable doctors to customise treatment and prescribe drugs.

 

Dr. Markram said that the brain inside the computer would have a mind of its own, but there was no danger of it becoming ‘intelligent’ in any undesirable manner, because inputs are controlled by man, and that it will be essentially a tool.

 

Want to know more? Visit  The Hindu

 

You can post comments/views at  www.keralait.org/blog..]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>ITES Training at Habitat Centre-Cochin</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1157</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
India's first  exclusive ITES  training centre  is now  functioning at Cochin.  An initiative of  the Kerala Government's  IT Department, the Habitat Centre is located in the heart of the city and aims at being a premier training  facility to the IT/ITES industry.
 
With over 24 companies utilising this facility, the focus of the courses have been primarily on English speaking and communication skills. The Habitat has facilities to demonstrate  BPO  and call centre operations, and has been drawing overseas participants towards the training course.
 
For more details, visit KeralaITMission
 
You can post comments/views  at  www.keralit.org/blog. 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Sutharya Kerala -Grievance Redressal</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1171</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 
We are familiar  with TV  shows where the Chief Minister can be reached by a   dial-up to hear your grievance  -  but  many  are distressed as only a few  can get through.  Don't despair -  you now have an alternative.
 
 "Sutharya Kerala"  is an innovative initiate by the Government of Kerala  whereby you can bring complaints and grievances directly to the notice of the Chief Minister. Accessible from anywhere in the state using the  number 155300  you can register your complaint. All calls are recorded in an electronic data system and goes to a grievance redressal centre through a server.
 
For more information, visit  www.sutharya.kerala.gov.in  
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18. Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>SECURITY COVER FOR  TECHNOPARK</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1120</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 

With security concerns increasing worldwide with    religious fundamentalism on the rise, the Kerala Police are also gearing up to meet security threats. Official sources say that radical groups using cyberspace for training, fundraising, propaganda, recruitment, data mining and coded messaging are a real threat.

 

As a first step, the Technopark campus will soon have a police control room, with commando personnel to meet any emergency. IT companies will assist the police in setting up sabotage-proof security cameras, and electronic perimeter fencing, to secure the campus from potential threats and sabotage.

 

Last year, the State police evaluated through exercises, security threats and preparedness of various establishments. These revealed various shortcomings. The Technopark was amongst those found with vulnerability. Following this, steps to ensure traffic, fire and electrical safety on the campus are to be taken. Regular fire drills and disaster management exercises will become part of training for Technopark employees. The success of such an endeavour will come , if everyone  using the Technopark remains vigilant.

 

For more information, visit The Hindu

 

Post your comments/opinions at  keralait.org]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>G2C - A Bid to Improve Public Service Delivery</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1133</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 
A workshop for Government employees to integrate various departments with IT applications was recently organized by the Kerala IT Mission. It primarily aims to disseminate IT initiatives to government officials, so that better public service through quality improvement can benefit the common man .
 
The dissemination explained the efforts on to implement e-district programmes at Palakkad and Kannur districts, where initially issuing of different categories of certificates, revenue cases, public distribution system, and RTI services is being provided. Aimed at an integrated system of service through automation and process redesigning among other things, the service designated as  G2C (Government to Citizen) would be provided to the public through common facility centers like Akshaya.
 
Want to know more? Visit  The Hindu 
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog. 
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18. 
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Space in the Second Technolodge Near Kollam Sold Out</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=451</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

The space in the second Technolodge at Perinad Panchayat in Kollam has been completely sold out. The Technolodge features the following:

 

	-It comprises of 2750 sq. ft.
	-Fully taken over by Technopark  based Accentia Technologies Ltd.
	-Accentia is a Business Process Management (BPM) major
	-The company will be employing about 200 professionals in Perinad
	-The company works three shifts

 



The fact that a BPO/BPM (which requires a high standard of security and data protection) has chosen this location is a testament to the quality of the IT infrastructure provided by the Kerala IT department. This is at par with the Telecom and ICT infrastructure being provided at other major IT parks in Kerala.

 

The employment opportunity for 200 individuals will boost the social infrastructure around the lodge. This highlights one of the key focus areas of the government – human resources for IT and ITES.

 

The Kerala government's commitment to such projects can be seen from the large contingent of ministers present at the inauguration, even though available space is small compared to the larger software parks in Kerala.

 

For more details, visit  The Hindu

 

If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CREDAI Clean City Movement</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1013</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 

 Setting an example in clean city movement , CREDAI- Kochi (Confederation of Real Estate Developers'  Association of India- Kochi) started a movement in 2007  which now covers waste management in over 25,000  apartments in Kochi. Through  bio-degrading,  waste materials are converted into fetilisers. Recycleable materials are separated  at the generating point.Shredded plastic now goes for road tarring.

 

Controlling pollution and  stink in a city is important . Such  efforts  will attract more tourists and others to come and work and live in Cochin.

 

The Infopark  development at Kakkanad  has seen a burst of multi-storied buildings  and  a movement of professionals  from other states to  work in Kerala. It is vital to ensure hygiene  and cleanliness, if such industries are to be attracted to the state, and the state's natural beauty retained. Public participation is necessary along with governmental effort if such objectives are to be met.

 

You can post your comments at  www.keralait.org/blog. To know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.If]]></description>

					<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala's IT Growth will Centre Around Cities: Says GVR</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1008</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[                                                                            

Mr.G.Vijayaraghavan, GVR to many, is a well known figure in Kerala IT, as the founder CEO of Technopark, and as a leader in the IT industry. His views regarding the future growth of IT/ITES industry in Kerala are interesting.
 
He feels that the growth will by and large centre on the two major cities of Trivandrum and Cochin.  The third place in the offing is Calicut as its infrastructure gets better. This view is contrary to the Hub-and-Spoke Model envisaged by the Government of Kerala aiming at growth  in the rural areas also.
 
Infrastructure development is very important as companies prefer to work within SEZs where it is more readily met. GVR also mentioned that cost advantages have eroded in comparison to other states, but need not stunt the growth of IT in the state , as Kerala has a strong human resources pool. Stress on talent improvement of graduates coming out from educational institutions is also of paramount importance.
 
For more information visit  manoramaonline/it.
 
You can post comments at http://www.keralait.org/blog/
 
If you would like to know more about  IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala State Spatial Data Infrastructure (KSSDI)</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1028</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

 



The Kerala Government’s setting up of the Kerala State Spatial Data Infrastructure (KSSDI) has been aided by an already sanctioned amount of Rs. 937  lakhs for the project.

 

 The objective is to provide a basis for spatial data discovery, evaluation and application for users and providers within all levels of government, the commercial sector, the non-profit sector, and academia and the citizens in general. The Geo portal once set up will allow the users spread across the internet, to view and query the spatial information and the related maps.

 

 The web-gateway will allow access geospatial data content with facility to search, locate and publish geospatial data to the needs of diverse user groups.

 

For more information, visit  Kerala IT Mission

 

You can also post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.

 

If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.

 

Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Kerala Education Grid Project</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1032</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 The Kerala Education Grid Project is a path-breaking initiative of the Government of Kerala to provide quality education to all the students pursuing higher studies in the state.
 

The project aims at facilitating course-specific information and knowledge networks through the internet  for an on-line assisted learning environment for colleges in any subject. Colleges of engineering and science are being covered in the first phase.

 

Education Grid Resource Centres (EGRC) at NIT-Calicut, College of Engineering-Trivandrum, and IIITM-K will operate initially. The operation centre would be at IIITM-K.

 

For more  details visit www.edugrid.ac.in

 

You can also post comments/views at  www.keralait.org/blog.

 

If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.

 

 Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>What Ails GCDA?</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=1017</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
Those who have lived in Cochin and seen the heydays of the GCDA would now be asking this question about it.
 
The GCDA website says that it "is the planning and development authority of the Metropolitan area of Cochin...." and that its  jurisdictional area "comprises of the Cochin City..., 6 surrounding municipalities and 25 intervening panchayats covering an area of 632 sq.km"
 
Further, the objectives include coordinating "the activities of different developmental agencies including Government departments operating in the area.”
 
If this is so, what is the need for a  separate coordination committee under the MD of the Roads and Bridges Development Corporation? Why is the Cochin Corporation being blamed for all the ills?
 
If political expediency has changed the objectives of GCDA, then the public has a right to know. Someone has to take the blame when infrastructure development does not take place as planned. Mentioning flyovers and ring roads on the website will serve no purpose.
 
Changes bring progress - stagnation is a sign of decay.
 
You can post  your  comments  at http://www.keralait.org/
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18. 
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>IT Animation Course at Kollam</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=881</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Keltron has launched  a state-of-the-art  animation course at its campus in Kollam. The carefully designed  curriculum bears in mind that creative streaks, fundamentals of visual communication, iconography, image processing tools, and the art of story telling are essential ,and strives to develop these through the course.
 
The curriculum has been designed  by IT experts  and professionsals, to meet industry needs as a course  which will match international standards.
 
Considered to be one of the fastest growing IT segments in the field of entertainment and media, animation has been making waves and moving up the value chain by partnering international studios to produce animation for a global audience. Currently the Indian animation industry is dependant on outsourced work, but this is set to change. Estimated to be a $0.94 billion industry by the year 2012, the industry holds exciting prospects.
 
More information on this is available at www.manoramaonline.com/it. To know more about the Kerala Government's plans for IT/ITES   visit,  www.keralait.org]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Coordination for Kochi's Development</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=887</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 
Even as we complain of the way in which the authorities in Kochi are going about its development, comes some refreshing  news. The Hindu has  reported that a co-ordination committee for the Kochi region has been setup under Mr.T.K.JOSE, Managing Director, Roads and Bridges Development Corporation, Kerala.
 

 
Hopefully  his guidance, better coordination and Management of work will allow development as planned.
 
Reportedly, Mr. Jose has found that the Kochi  Corporation’s engineering wing has no details or maps of the roads. Neither does it have modern tools and equipment. Let us hope that common sense prevails and  those responsible stop playing the blame game.
 
To post your comments, visit www.keralait.org/blog.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>CIAL Brings More Airlines to Nedumbaserry</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=879</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
The Cochin Airport Authority's  new strategy  includes plans to get major International Airline Companies to start their service to Cochin. The airport aurhority has been taking active steps to attract more passengers and cargo aircraft.
 
Direct marketing efforts include making presentations about CIAL at various international air shows and  fairs. A successful pitch has already been made at the Dubai air show, and this is being followed up by participating at the forthcoming Singapore air show.
 
Currently handling 3.6 million passengers, Nedumbaserry is the fourth largest handler of International passengers in India.CIAL has been in continuous expansion mode and is a trend setter to other Indian Airports . Its relentless efforts in various directions are both laudable and a sure recipe for further  growth in the coming years.
 
You can post your comments to this blog. Visit  Kerala IT Blogs for more information on events and happenings in Kerala, particularly in the field of IT and Infrastructure. Visit Kerala IT to know more about Government of Kerala's agenda for IT and e-governance.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopark Invites Applicants for Phase III</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=885</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
The  Government of Kerala through its IT department has started inviting private and public companies  for leasing 22 acres of land at Kulathur.
 
The Phase III  of  the Technopark campus covering 92 acres will see  India's largest IT building of over one million square feet. Infrastructural facilities  such as power and water supply are already in place  and developmental work on  roads, sewage treatment plant, and other construction activity are underway.
 
Under Phase II, major IT companies  were alloted land and allowed to plan and build on their own. This  model is being  replicated on the 22 acres of  the above Phase III land . These buildings  will be in addition to the one million sq.feet  space  being built by the Park.
 
More information  can be had from  the Senior Business Development Manager, Technopark at  mvdev@technopark.org.
 
To know more about  IT and ITES in Kerala, email  info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT  is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Cruise Liners at Kochi</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=894</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 
 

 
More than eight cruise liners  bringing in over 10,000  tourists are expected in Kochi over the next two months.
 
Over the past few years , the Cochin Port Trust has been working towards bringing in  more passenger liners , and its  sucess has been underscored by the fact that even large liners like Queen Mary 2  and QueenVictoia  now call regularly at this port.
 
Tourism is also growing as a two way street with more and more Indians outbound and cruise trips from Kochi becoming the order of the day. Previously,one had to travel to Singapore or some similar place to take a holiday cruise. Not any more  - with Kochi alone seeing as many 32 cruises operating from this port during the current year.There are now hoardings appearing over Kochi city inviting the well heeled to take these affordable trips.
 
For more information, visit The Hindu.
 
You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.
 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Technopreneur Meet at Cochin</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=904</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[ 

For those who are  interested in the country’s social development and would like to debate about making a difference – here is your chance.

 

Technopreneur 2010  is to be held at IMA House, Kaloor, on February 20th with the theme ‘Technology for Social Progress.’ Amongst the eminent speakers listed are Sam Pitroda, Sanjay Vijaykumar (CEO, MobMe), and Arun Subramaniam (Faculty - IIJNM, Bangalore).

 

A social entrepreneurship venture by the Yi net of Model Engineering College, “Corpuscles” will  enable people and hospitals to find willing blood donors without delay, after the website is inaugurated on this day.

 

Sociopreneur, a first of its kind in the State competition, will see the best minds of the country who want to create a social impact come forward with  ideas and battle it out for the Sociopreneur title. Technopreneur 2010 will close with some entertainment , which features a rock concert by the Kerala rock band ‘Sound Awake’.

 

For more information, visit The Hindu.

 

Or contact Model Engineering College,Thrikakara

 

You can post comments at  www.keralait.org/blog.

 

If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.

 

Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>TECHNOPARK HAS OUTGROWN ITS PRESENT INFRASTRUCTURE</title> 

	                <link>http://www.keralait.org/blog/?p=911</link> 

	                <description><![CDATA[
 When Allianz-UK set up their captive facility at Technopark in  2003,it was based on factors including cost, size of peer companies,  infrastructure, location, and the quality of human resources available in Kerala. Today, their view of having set up operations in Technopark remains positive.
 
However, in a recent interview the Chief Operating Officer of Allianz Cornhill highlighted that the Technopark had outgrown it present infrastructure capacity and needs to work on improving it  and avoid getting into a similar situation that other cities were facing.  He mentioned the scarcity of  power and water and also the congestion in the roads leading to the Technopark. Besides, the parking facilities in the park would need long term planning.
 
Obviously the need of the hour is proper planning and quick implementation, so that the many projects announced do not remain just on paper. Perhaps the solution lies in ensuring that the CEO position remains stable at Technopark.
 
For more information visit www.manoramaonline.com/it 
 
You can post your comments and ideas at www.keralait.org/blog. 
If you would like to know more about our plans for IT and ITES in Kerala, email us at info@infoparkkochi.com or call us at 91-484-2415217/18.
 
Kerala IT is a Government of Kerala initiative offering a single window to a world of opportunities to IT companies, professionals, investors, Developers and service providers alike in the State of Kerala.]]></description>

					<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010</pubDate>

	            </item><item> 

	                <title>Nokia to Control e-waste In Kochi</title