Onion Crisis- Common man's Agony!

Onion being a common man's unavoidable need and since common men are more common in India,it looks like a Paradise For boarders and Blackmarket specialists. There is a general Tendency in India alone that a topic of hot discussion in The Media would take it's natural death soon after the issue is forgotten by the mob.The memory of common public is to some extent short lived. This is what exactly happened in the case of Onion. In 2010 ,there was a major cricis of Onion when UPA were the rulers.The then Prime Minister promptly interfered and Stopped Export of Onion and lowered the Import duties to cope up with the situation.but the then NDA opposition headed by BJP went virtually on a warpathand arranged public protests.The Hoarders had a field day or to be more précis a merry day.It is a common knowledge that when the prices of Agricultural products goes up it is the middlemen are the beneficiaries and not the farmers who grow agricultural product. Once again,as though to make the saying that History Repeats justified ,the same situation is prevailing in India now.The difference is that now not only the poor but the upper class and middle class are feeling the pinching of their pocket.This is ,perhaps,the reason why some cases of theft and hoarding of Onion reported in the media recently. In those days the NDA had virtually attacked the UPA from all the sides and some leaders even said if they had assumed power the diminishing value of rupee would be arrested and brought in par with the American Dollar which is the general yard stick adopted in India for all purposes of Comparison.the NDA leaders had even boasted that if they come to power ,they would bring rupee in par with Dollars. If one reads with the present cricis in the stock market also, the rupee behaving with a declining trend against Dollar and the trend of prices increasing( like Onion) steadily,it is not clear how the Government could manage the economy of the nation in the right perceptive. It has been reported in the media that onion is being imported and would take two months to getvdistributed in India.This implies that for next two months the shortage and price rise would continue to occur as the retailers are not ready to lower the prevailing prices.This is what Media reports.the true position would be known to Authorities alone.Anyhow,everything is not going on well in the country nowadays in relation to Onion. The question of Rupee in par with Dollar is unlikely to happen though there was such an illusion in 1940 & 1947. For getting into Power any party can say anything and promise anything to the Public.It is very easy to promise. But fulfilling the promises seems to be difficult.Nothing helpful had happened to poor people in 100 days. Similarly the promise of " ache din " too remains as a distant dream. Onion prices could be controlled and likely to be settled amicably.Similarly rupee also might get stabilized in due course because of the efforts of the people who had made it stable long ago. Making promises is one thing and very easy one to do.What is making matters difficult for aGovernment is The problem of high expectationsWhich are unreasonable to say the least. The present Government had made many promises and the public expected the leaders to wave a magic wand to set things right. So let us await the good days to come although one prominent leader had said it would take 25 years rule for good days to come. But the fact now prevailing over India amounts to a vacuum.The same promises and claims they offered to Public are coming back to haunt them. Loko Samastho Sukhino Bhavanthu!! Sreedharan Mundanat 30th August 2015 .

IPL Cricket- Harmful Impacts of this commercial Game

This blog is in continuation of my blog dt 24th of July 2015 regarding" AVIYAL Cricket of India IPL- A Gamblers Paradise". It has almost been decided that from Nest Indian Premier League ( I.P.L) there would be two new teams in place of the two banned Teams Chennai Super Kings and Rajastan Royals.not only this but from the year 2018 after lifting the Ban there would be 10 Teams in IPL on a permanent basis.This is a decision taken by the IPL Governing Council. Let us examine the negative impacts of this decision. First of all the third version of the cricket viz T 20 cricket which is a reduced version of One Day Internationals approved by ICC since 1975. There is a T20 World cup also approved by the ICC besides Test Matches which are the classic versions of world cricket.The international and Indian cricketers who are to play these 3 versions of cricket,viz one day internationals,test matches and T20 world cup.the same players often take part in IPL cricket also.such players have to run after money also and do not get time to rest.thiscalso affects the quality of international Nation to Nation Cricket.thus they spoil their health also. The IPL is a commercial version of cricket involving Astronomical amounts of Money .The players auction cost,the sponsors cost,the Television rights ,the publicity involving Cheer girls and all together make it a Hungama besides Gambling in the form of Spot fixing and Betting.All these together ,makes the original Nation to nation classical Cricket less valuable and less honoured.This makes the very presence of Nation to Nation games of Cricket a mockery rather than a competition with National spirit.There is also a tendency among players to play for money instead of National victory.This is not an established fact.But a hidden secret.There are still players who play for Nation with Patriotism.However,the real charm of cricket is lost .The IPL seriously affects the standard of International cricket involving cricket playing Nation. A solid part of the crowd on the Stadiums where IPL is staged and in front of Television Sets all over the World ,are school and College students.More than the 40 days duration of IPL every year their mind and attentio are concentrated on IPL discussions and watching the games.Naturally this affects their basic cause of Education seriously.A large number of parents have this opinion in their mind though they do not express openly.Some wise parents are putting restriction on them but not very effective . Secondly,this Hungama started by Lalith Modi who discovered the commercial scope for making money simultaneously for himself and collectively for the players,sponsors ,Broadcasting Channels,and for all those who connected with the conduct of it from advertisement to even restaurants in and around the Stadium.For around 40+days IPL conquers the nation in one way or other.A lot of money in Crores and Crores are being spinned for which there is not even clear accountability. For the same reason and various irregularities relating to IPL Shri Lalit Modi is in exile for whom even look out notice has been served.the accountability is a serious matter which could even turn up and down the Economy of the nation. There ,it appears,does not exist proper records of transactions of money received and spent.Even the Government is not aware of the Tax evasion that could have happened all around. Besides,it has been proved beyond doubt that the game of cricket in the form T20 is a platform for Spot fixing and betting which are the evils of the society without an element of Doubt. Until and unless these transactions are made accountable by taking over by Government and audit by CAG is introduced,the stability of Indian Economy can not be guaranteed . With all these happening in front of our eyes,do we need such a sports event which could break the basis of Indian Economy.?there are many more games and Sport events in India.They do not get proper recognition because of this cricket Hungama.Basically this was the reason why A football league also started last year.it is quite a reasonable demand that all sports and Games should have equal recognition for example Hockey ,Lawn Tennis,Table Tennis,and athletic events in the country .This is why we have a Sports Ministry in the cental Government as well as a sports department in the different States.The National Games is a glaring instance of the Government doing it themselves. So, it is time either to ban or Government to take over the IPL management. Thirdly,while India as a Nation is facing shortage of Electricity which often compels state Governments to employ Power cut resulting in enormous inconveniences to the public and especially for students who are to convert themselves as the Pillars of society in future. The power generated in the country and distributed by subsidized rate ,is being used by this IPL Hungama extravagantly to which the Government machinery themselves close their eyes. It is a matter to be looked into seriously whether we need such a Hungama or, if needed ,should it not be made covered by proper accountability and Audit by CAG of India? SreedharanMundanat 29th August2015 International cricket as top Players do not get time to rest.They have to run after money by spoiling their health also.

Onion-the most essential member of Kitchen

Onion,potato&Tomato are the Three most essential members of Kitchen all over the world irrespective of vegetarians or non- Vegetarians. Onion Family is a large and diverse one containing more than 500 Species.Onion being very small and their tissues leave little or no trace,there is no conclusive evidence about it's origin.However,many Botanists and food historians believe that Onion originated in Central Asia.Some believed that mostly this happened in Iran and West Pakistan. In India,Maharashtra,Gujrat,Rajastan,Punjab,Haryana,karnataka,Tamil naadu and Andhra Pradesh cultivate Onion in Different seasons. This is one item of vegetable that brings Tears to the eyes of Government every year due to seasonal scarcity and Sometimes due to hoarding by Manufacturers and Suppliers and consequent price increase. Of late the price of Onion roared all over India especially in Maharashtra where it even touched Rs80/- a Kilo. The government is planning the ban on export and hoarding which is the basic reason for the roaring of Prices. Most recently ,there was a news on media/ Internet that 636 quintal onion worth Rs30 Lakhs, kept for black- marketing due to the roaring price trend, was found in a raid in Raipur in Chathighat.This ,in fact,prompted me to attempt this Blog. In India,we can not imagine about preparing a delicious meals without Onion.Onion is very widely used all over India as the most popular ingredient of any kitchen irrespective of Rich or poor people.Every year it has become a common feature that the price of Onion used to rise without any attempt to arrest it by the authorities. There is no clear Policy in this regard with a definite control on the price of Onion. No wonder it brings tears to the eyes of poor,Rich and the Government. In the olden days,onion used to present regularly in the plate of poor people also and one never thought it would disappear from their plate due to abnormal increase in price.A decade ago onion used to sell at very reasonable price and there was no reason to imagine that one day it would disappear from the plates due to roaring price. The most surprising fact about Onion is that The prices rise year after year,but our Government does not take Effective steps to provide Onion at reasonable rates to the people.Onion is one such item that affect almost all families in India the price is not stable.There is History which tells the story of many Political parties lost Elections due to the roaring Price of Onion. There had been some attempts by some states and Union in the past to sell onion through their outlet at controlled rates.But this never prevailed as a permanent solution to the problem. Some of the reasons for the increase in Prices of Onion are : 1)Damage of crop due to rain.Rain is such a phenomenon that it is a Boon .But often it turn out to be a curse as in the case of Onion.We cry foul when there is no rain .we also cry foul when there is excess rain.so draught and Flood are reasons for any Government for constant worry.So naturally the people.in a democracy there are ways and means to control the prices .But are not effectively done by the Government. 2)High demand of Onion. 3)bad weather 4)Problems in the chain of Supply. 5)the export of Onion. 6)Presence of middlemen in distribution. 7) absence of a clear cut Policy on Onion. While item 1)& 3) above are beyond the control of Government the remaining items can be looked into earnestly an decision taken favourably to the consumer Let us hope Good days are coming ahead in this regard. The medicinal properties of Onion: Onions can vary In size,Shape,color and Flavour.The most common varieties are red,yello and white .Flavors are sweet,juicy with mild flavor,Sharp spicy and pungent.often,the flavors depend upon the season and place where they are cultivated. The health benefits of consuming Onion are briefly as under: It reduces the risk of different type of cancers,improving mood,and maintaining the Health of Skin. And Hair. Onion family Known as allium vegetables have been studied extensively in relation to CancerEspecially Stomach and colorectal Canceers.Their beneficial and preventive properties are likely due in Part to their Organosulfur compounds.Although the exact mechanism through which these compounds inhibits cancer is not clearly known,The possible theory available is that it could inhibit tumours growth and Prevention of free radical formation.Onions are also source of the strong Antioxidant Vitamin C and helps to combatThe formation of Free radicals known to cause cancer. Garlic with white color & Pungent smell belonging to onion family is found to be helpful for the health of heart. So as far as possible include Onion in one's diet could help leading a healthy life. Onion is helpful to prevent colon Cancer and Prostate cancer also according to studies carried out. So let us welcome Onion to our kitchen warm heartedly with the hope that the government would take measures on a permanent basis to keep the price of Onion steadily by including it in the good days to come. Sreedharan Mundanat 26th of August 2015

North-Eastern Sister States- An Accord of Glorious Diplomatic Game of Uncertainty.

The North Eastern Sister states of India,who vote for the General Election of India, are Assam,Tripura,Arunachal Pradesh,Meghalaya,Mizoram,Nagaland and Manipur.Thus they are integral Parts of India.These are sometimes being called Seven sisters State. Recently in the month of June 2015 these North - Eastern states all of a sudden became a topic of attraction by the People and Media of India. The NSCN-K( National Socialist Council of Nagaland- Khalpang) terrorists ambushed Manipur killing 18 Indian Soldiers on 6th of June 2015 crossed the border back into Myanmar and hid in 2 camps there Indian Army Intelligence traced the terrorist's organizations in a massive hunt that followed the Ambush. The Army found out that more attacks were planned fromMyanmar Camps. Drones were sent deep in Myanmar Camps. One camp was located east of Nagaland and another east of Manipur,approximately 150 KM south.both well inside Myanmar Once the Drones located the camps,Indian Army Top leadership sought operational clearance from PMOINDIA(involved border crossing).The PMO was quick in providing the clearance. Planes carrying Indian special forces silently crossed into Myanmar after informing Government of India. It was not a joint operation with Myanmar Army,intelligence or Government.All special commandos were dropped strategically. Indian Special Forces eliminated at least 20 NSCN- K terrorists in the two camps inside Myanmar.Best of all there was zero casualty for India which has to be viewed as a splendid achievement in a hostile Foreign Territory. The Indian Army announced the success of this hot pursuit inside Myanmar only after every single Indian Special Forces Commando reached home safely. The Government of India has lived up it's promise of providing a free hand to the Army when it comes to National Security.Not only it was a warning to China,against encouraging Terrorism in the North East,it is also a stern Message to Pakistan which has already been warned earlier against any Misadventure in J&K.Ajit Doval has categorically stated that any mischief by Pakistan in Indian Territory and it will end up losing Balochistan. This also ensure to serve as a lesson for the anti- AFSPA ACTIVISTS RUNNING THEIR HUMAN RIGHTS SHOPS at the behest of foreign powers that their propaganda is going to crack Now almost after two months, at a time when confusion,intrigue,hatred,tension and dissension over the Politica arena prevail over the nation ,an accord/Pact appears to have been signed between India and the Insurgent Group of Nagaland,The National Socialistic Council of Nagaland I-M( NSCN- IM).The issue is likely to raise a lot of tempers amd dissatisfaction within the Political arena of India as the pact/ Accord is understood to have been signed as a matter of secrecy without taking into confidence the public and even the Paliamentarians.This is what has been reported in the Media.The president of India is the Constitutional Head of the Nation who is to be informed about any event affecting the affairs of the states.Whether this was done prior to the signing of the accord,the time could tell. The President is the Titular head of the State and enjoys enormous Powers under the Constitution of India such as Executive,Legislative,Military,Diplomatic,Judicial,and Emergency Powers including Financial Emergency Powers.The Financial Emergency powers have never been used until now. The President is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces . Hece, it would appear binding on the part of the Government to inform the President about any development relating to the affairs of the State well on time . In this case of pact/ Accord with Insurgent Group it is reported in the Media that just 4 people knew about the terms and conditions of the Accord.They were the Hon.Prime Minister,Home minister,The National Security Adviser,the Insurgent outfit leader T.Muivah and Government's interlocutor RN Ravi. Later on the Primeminister claimed the Accord was "not merely the end of a Problem but the beginning of a new future The Accord came into existence almost 2 months after 18 Indian soldiers were killed in Ambush carried out by Naga Militants in the Chandel District of Manipur.Following this ,India carried outMilitary operation from within Myanmar about which it has been explained in the beginning of this Blog. The present situation is that while India is anticipating a new future ,there is another faction called NSCN( K)led by SS Khaplang ,a Burmese Naga outfit,who has chosen a hard line against the Central Government. This Khaplang faction Operating out of the Border region of the Nagaland and Myanmar Is understood to have brought together various Militant groups including the Paresh Barua-led ULFA Faction,Kangleipak communistparty(KCP),National Democratic Front of Bodoland( NDFB),Peoples Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak(PREPAK),Peoples Liberation Army(PLA), United National Liberation Front( UNLF)and Kanglei Yawol Kunna Lup( KYKL)To join hands to fight Indian State. The Group professes to create Western South East Asia( WESEA)as a larger separate Stateand comprising of all the Regions of NorthEast. The peculiarity of the pact/ Accord is that the neighboring States of Assam,Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh have neither been consulted nor taken into confidence according to Media reports.The CMs of the three states are stated To be opposed to integration of Naga- inhabited Areas and are not ready to be deprived of an inch of their territorial areas.Thus, uncertainty looms over the pact and unless the contents of the Accord is made known . Thus,it is not yet clear whether the Government is skating on thin ice or whether there is any sound basis for the confidence expressed by the Prime minister that the accord is the beginning of a new future. Although it would appear to be there is hope on the Horizon but whether this hope Will translate itself into reality is yet unknown. In a nutshell the entire issue,like Cricket ,would appear to be a Glorious Diplomatic Game of Uncertainty. Sreedharan Mundanat 23rd August 2015

Five Elements of life

The matter (a substance which has mass and occupies Space)is classified into Atom which are made up of a number of Protons,Neutrons and electrons. Even though not the same way, the cosmos(an orderly system of Universe)Is full of Beneficial Energies which are to be kept in Balance for experiencing a state of Well being.Electro- Magnetic Energy produced by the rotation of Earth is basically the source of Energy for us.Earth is the Third planet ,where exists life beyond doubt, out of thenine planets well known to us so far.The life exists in Earth because of Five elements of Energy which are known as Earth,Water,Fire,Air and Space( Sky).These elements are also known as Vaastu Elements.Vastu( object)& Vaastu( Science of placement of an object) are strictly speaking different. EARTH: The first,Best and the foremost Element of Nature which produce maximum energy is indeed the Earth.The selection of a site for the construction of a house is very important from the Vaastu point of view.A detailed inspection of the site include the inspection of the soil,the plot and it's shape and size.Earth is the most important Element in Vaastu Shastra and this influence the life of human beings in every way. WATER: Water is present in earth in many forms like Rain,Ocean,Sea,Rivers and Streams.This next to earth is also considered as a vital element in Vaastu Shastra.It is considered as an element of North- East.so water sources in a house should be from North- East.If a swimming pool or an Aquarium is to be constructed in a building complex or house it should be situated in the direction of North- East.In the Ancient housed there used to have a " Nadu muttam"( Central courtyard) an open square or Rectangular space in the middle of the house where rain water can fall freely.this was very ideal for a house.but we have dispensed with this system. FIRE:Fire is considered as an element of South - East.So the Kitchen fire should be on the South east direction of the house.Water,air and Light are the essences of life.Fire is also light.Sun is the natural light giver for Earth. Fire/Sun is the basis of all kinds of Energy Including Thermal Energy and Atomic Energy.So in every house there should be sufficient sources of ventilation for sunlight to come inside the house.Human beings need light more than any other living bing on Earth. AIR: The most essential element of Life is Air.Air is also an Element of North -East.Air is a mixture of various Gases which has no shape.Gases are also matter like solid or Liquid atoms and Molecules but wisely spaced with power to expand unlike Liquid. Air consists of various gases like Hydrogen,Oxigen,Nitrogen,Helium,Carbon Dioxide etc.A balanced percentage of different gases,Atmospheric Pressure and Humidity level are important for all living beings on this Earth.So windows and doors should be properly placed in a house for proper circulation of Air throughout the interior of the house. SPACE( Sky):The Space or Sky is a never ending Phenomenon.The Space is full of Constellations,Galaxies ,Stars,Moon ,Sun and all other known nine Planets besides unknown.Hence called The Universe.Space has a very important place in our life.the Open space mentioned in "water" above is the same reason for affording importance to sky also.This space, the ancient people called Brahmastan.it is believed by ancient people that it was very important to have open space in the middle of the house because any matter relating to any disturbance from sky can be detrimental and should be minimized. The Magnetic Forces affects the body of Human beings.Human body itself acts as a Magnet with the Head the heaviest part of the body acting as a North pole .this is the reason why it is insisted that one should not sleep with head towards the direction of North.This results in the nort pole of Earth and human body repel each other affectingthe circulation of blood in the body,thereby causing disturbed sleep besides Tension and other connected problems. It has been well established that the Nervous system of the human body communicates with the help of Electric impulses,thus producing Electro- Magnetic field around the part of the body.Muscles also produce Electrical effect.It is also an established fact that all the activities of the human body are controlled by the Electrical and chemical reactions occurring in the body during the course of day to day life. The Electrical Movements will have a corresponding magnetic reaction in the body.These continue as a regular process in the body The heaviest and important part of the body,the Head,behaves as a North Pole because Head is the most powerful source of Electric and magnetic Fields in the organism and also that in the eye , the magnetic field Induction,is significantly higher than other parts of the body.This is how it is said that while sleeping the head should not be kept towards north side and positively kept towards East as far as possible.So the design of sleeping in bedrooms are to be arranged accordingly. The principle of the same poles of earth repels and opposite poles attract are relevant here. Similarly the Maglev trains ( Bullet Trains ) in China was designed based of the principles of Magnetic Levitation virtually by lifting the train from the track while running and brought down to track when required to stop.The speed of the Train is 300 KM per hour and covers 30 KM from Shanghai Airport to Shanghai Metro Station in 8 minutes.This is the fastest train in the world. The Distance between Mumbai and Ahmedabad is 458 KM by train.By bullet train with Maglev principle it would take Just over 2 hours whereas the present time taken is over 7 hours.The proposed Bullet Train would thus help business Travellers between the cities as the fare would be much higher.The cost of the system is also enormous and Astronomical. ( This blog has the curtesy of Site Divine Vastu also) The best place to follow the principles of Magnetic Energy is the Temples of Kerala. The placement of the Idol should be at place where maximum of The Earth's magnetic waves passes through .This is located by Vedic ways.So in all famous Temples where Vaastu Sastra is followed the Idol would be at the place where the maximum of magnetic waves are passed through. It is believed that even the water poured over the idol for Holy bath contains magnetic particles and helps our Heath to improve if the water( Theerth is taken).This looks very true.the Prasadam supplied by the temple also has Godly elements to help us maintain good health and peace of mind.it is considered extremely healthy to take bath and visit Temples in the early mornings. Besides almost all the Temples have Banian trees with a basement. If one takes round (Pradakshinam) by walking around the Tree it might help to enhance the life Span.This also has to be true as the Banian tree is the one which has maximum number of years as the life Span among trees. Incidentally,I think I had read in the Face book recently that according to the Vastu sastra the following pictures are notWorth placing in the drawing room of a home..these pictures ,in fact,are the most sought after paintings in India They are The Taj Mahal,the war at Kurukshetra,and the Nataraja.

The Taj Mahal:We all know TajMahal was built by Shahjahan for the memory of his belovedwife Mumtaz.It is indeed considered as a sacred token of Love.Then what is the harm in keeping it in the Drawing Room? The reason put forward by those who oppose keeping it is that The TajMahal is not just a symbol of love by the Emperor tohis queen But a Posthumous Tribute to a departed Wife from a loving Husband.Thus the TajMahal is as good as a Tomb. So irrespective of whether it is prescribed under the Vaastu or not,it should be treated as a memorial that might bring death to the household.This is more or less a superstition .But many people observe it. Similarly,it is considered not Auspecious to come across Ash,Firewood and Oil when one goes out for any purpose. At the same time these materials are freely used in villages for many purposes.Oil is being used everywhere and in every house.So these are to be considered as Superstitious views and limited to individual views .This should not Have anything to do with the Vaastu Sastra which is based on scientific Principl The Kurukshetra war picture: In the Kurukshetra war picture,Lord Krishna is driving a chariot for Arjuna the Pandava Prince.this picture is also relating to Bhagavad Geeta in which many Principles of Eternal source of inspirations are described.The Bhagavadgeeta is considered as a Holy Book like Bible and Khuran. The reasons put forward for exhibiting these in the home is that it is the story of war between brothers killing each other.Although this would appear to be a better argument than the TajMahal,this too has nothing to do with Vaastu Sastra.So it should be purely individual choice whether to keep it at home or not. The Nataraja: The Nataraja is a dancing form of Lord Shiva.The argument is that it is a destructive Dance of Lord Shiva and should not be kept at home. There are many places all over the world this painting/ Picture/ Wooden or metal carvings are being exhibited. In Hindu families also the opinion is decided.This also being one which has nothing to do with Vaastusastra ,this too should be of Individual choice. Sreedharan mundanat It ,however looks as though superstitions are trying to prevail over the beauty of the exhibits in the case of those who oppose to it.

TOMATO- The Red Queen of Veggies

Tomato need no introduction.It is ,perhaps,most popular vegetable being enjoyed by people all over the World in one way or other.Tomato the Red Queen of Vegetable is so popular among people due to the various different roles assumed by it beginning from ketch-up and Juice to various other dishes like Vegetable Sandwitch,Sambar, Chutney,pickle,salad,Tomato Uthappa,Tomato Upmarket besides most popular dish of Tomato Omlette in Bombay. Nowadays,for vegetarians Tomato is an invariable item of vegetable used in Indian kitchen.Tomato is not a seasonal product .It is an all-time product available.in some places it is also considered as a fruit.the speciality of Tomato is that it can be used in vegetarian dish as an ingredient.this ,it appears is the most trusted vegetable - cum- Fruit among people.Irrespective of age everyone likes Tomatoes. The origin of Tomato is in Mexico as back as in the year1492.In 1515 during war between Mexico and Spain,the Spaniards had stolen the Tomato seeds and taken to Spain.This had resulted in wide cultivation in Spain and South America. In 1544 for the first time in Italy it was used for making Jam.In the year 1692 the Tomato was considered as a poisonous plant.the reason was very funny.In some areas people were eating it in the vessels made of Lead.the acidic juice of Tomato which when mixed with lead had the effect of poison .But later on those who took Tomato in wooden vessels did not have any effect of poison.later on with research it was established that there was no poison Effect in tomato. There are many varieties of Tomatoes cultivated all over the world.In Italy and Spain the 2 popular varieties of yellow and Golden color are called Yellow Apple and Golden Apple. In India it is said that the cultivation of Tomato started in the 16th Century. There is year- round growth of Tomatos in Bihar,Uttar pradesh,Orissa,Andhraprradesh ( both including Telungana) and Karnataka.But tomato can be cultivated anywhere in India where moist soil is available.With proper care of manure It grows in plenty.it is ideal for home gardens and Terrace gardens.the seeds are available all over India.Best seeds are obtainable from Agricultural Depots .the present prevailing situation of alleged poisonous vegetables all over India I,t is ideal to grow Tomatos in Home gardens.The cultivation is not expensive.Even in big earthen pots one can grow Tomatoes. Now, coming to the most important part of this Blog regarding the Medicinal benefits from Tomato,Dr.Elaine Magee, MPH RD, has 10 reasons Why one should eat more delicious and Nutritious Tomatos .They are briefly as under: 1)Tomatoes contain all four major Carotenoids Ie Alpha& Beta carotene,Lutein,Lycopene.These provide high health benefits. 2)in particular,Tomato provides Tremendous amount of Lycopene which acts as highest Antioxident for Human body. 3)Tomatoes contain Synergy that can help prevent Prostrate Cancer 4)A diet rich tomato based products can help prevent Pancreatic cancer according to a study carried out by the University of Montreal.This is because of the rich contents of carotenoids. 5)The Tomatoes contain all the three essential Anteoxidants viz Vitamin A.Vitamin E and Vitamin C. 6)Tomatoes are rich in Pottasium,a mineral we don't usually get enough from other vegetables/Fruits.One cup of Tomato juice can provide 534 milligrams of Pottasium whereas half a cup of Tomato Sauce 454 milligrams. 7) Research study in the Ohio University has found out that when Tomato is takennalong with Avacado( a fruit) or Olive oil the body's absorption carotenoids Phytochemicals in Tomatoes can increase from 2 to 15 times 8)A study from Harward University school,had shown that 39,000 women Whom they followed for 7 years Showed that when tomato products ,particularly Pizza sauce taken with oil had increased the cardio vascular benefits & helped hearts functioning smoothly. 9) when Breast feeding mothers eat tomatoes it increases the concentration of Lycopene in their Breast milk.Cooked Tomato products are better in this regard.However Tomato sauce is found to be the Best for Breastfeeding Women. 10)There is a general belief spread among Indians that Tomato peels are more harmful than beneficial.This belief is absolutely wrong.According to a study by Marseille,France,The Tomato peels contribute a high concentration Of The carotenoids found in Tomatoes.The amount of carotenoids absorbed by human intestinal cells was much greater With tomato paste enriched with Tomato peels as compared to paste without peels.The Tomato skins also hold Most of the Flavanols as well.So to get most of the benefits of Tomatoes better not to peel them off. Now,get ready to welcome this Red Queen to your kitchen without any hesitation. Sreedharan Mundanat

Water ,Water,everywhere! Not a drop to drink!

Water is a treasure.The three main elements for our survival are water,air and Light. Water represents 71% of Earth's surface and is covered by Oceans,Seas,Lakes,Rivers,Streams etc.When the sunlight enters into the Earth's surface,it heats water and plants creating vaporization of Water Molecules and transpiration of Plants.The water vapor in the atmosphere gets Cold and changes back into liquid forming clouds through condensation.After a level reaches,more accumulation becomes impossible.Then the water falls into the Earth's surface in the form of Rain,Snow,Sleet or Hail.Part of the water infiltrates into the ground and remains in the water Table,the remaining part flows into the nature's reservoirs viz Oceans,Sea,Rivers,Lakes,Streams et The above process continues over and over and this constitutes what is called Water cycle.According to the World Health Organisation Reports,the problems of Unsafe water and Inadequate Sanitation Systems are most acute in Developing Countries. It is said that Water and Sanitation crisis claims more lives through disease than any war claims through guns. There is a Global shortage of Drinking water.One might wonder how this can be when 70% of Earth is occupied by water. Most of the Earth's water in not fit for consumption by Human beings.most of it is Sea water and Ocean water .Both are salty water and not fresh water for drinking by Human.Just 4% of Earth water is fresh water and can be taken only a portion of this after purification is available for drinking. India is considered to be the 7th Largest country in the World By Geographical area and the first populous country and the second which gets most frequent rainfall in the World.Then why is India Experiencing water shortfall?This is mainly because abnormal population and lack of Sanitational facilities. There are many other reasons relating to environmental indiscipline Cities and Towns population dump Raw sewage To lakes and Rivers.this results in Contaminated water which are not useful for human Consumption. Excessive water withdrawal and Dams decimate Fish and other aquatic population. Climate changes and the increasing trend of Global Temperature are major factors likely to affect the evaporation rate in lakes and rivers to the maximum in future.This would result in shortage of water.Apart from this the climatic changes Could result in melting of GlaciersWhich increase the heat thus leaving less water for drinking Purposes. Thus while there are natural causes for shortage of fresh and drinking water,therecalso exists various other reasons contributing towards shortage which are manmade.as a result saving water has become an ultimate need of the time.every citizen has responsibility to discharge in regard to saving water earnestly and sincerely bearing in mind that this is of urgent nature. Saving basically means not wasting or to be précis not becoming extravagant in using water.Everyone with volunteering with open heart can also spread the message of not wasting water to friends and relations. First thing first.Everyone can take care not to leave any tap of their household or public taps of water open.It should be made a habit to turn off water taps tightly after use without allowing spillage by even small drops. Besides,there are many more habits one can form to save water In our home, the usage of water Can be restricted INDOOR & OUTDOOR to save water. Saving of household indoor water: ***********************************what is required basically to save water indoor are : 1)Wash only in full load of Laundary as well as Dishwater process. 2)Fix household leaks of water promptly by changing washer etc. 3)Those who use shower ,just use it in minimum duration ,limiting to maximum of 5 minutes. 4)While brushing teeth ,turn off the tap and open it only when again required.The tap should not be allowed to remain open allowing water to flow throughout the duration of Brushing teeth. 5) Buy water saving devices like cloth washing Machines. Saving of Household outdoor water: ************************************ 1)Give water to gardens only once in 2 days instead of 5 days a week. 2)Check leaking in the rubber tubes used for watering frequently.Change water tubes asvsoon as you notice leak. 3)Resort to use of Brooms instead of Hoses to clean Sidewalks. 4)Always water the plants in garden in the morning or evening when Sunday's are not hot .This could help in Reduced 5)Car& other vehicles wash and Dog& other Pet wash should be restricted to the minimum possible. If every one strictly and willingly follow the above habits the amount of water saved in a country would be enormous even beyond calculation. ENVIRONMENT & MOUNTAIN FORESTS: ******************************** In protecting our environment Mountain Forests play a very crucial role.

Mountain forests make up I/3 of Natural Forest cove worldwide.They are found everywhere except Antartic. The main role played by Mountain forests is to Store water and prevent Erosion.They play another important role in climate changes of the region.They can absorb rain water like a sponge.Tropical mountain forests in particular,can give back the collected heavy downpours in the form of Water sources like river,lakes and streams and canals. Mountain forests are Home for a unique collection of Plants and animal species.They include very strongly specialized Species that one can not find in low lying areas.The craggy Landscapes and different temperature zones also lead to different animal and plant habitats.Some of these are smaller.Thus we have Islands of diverse plants and animal species. Mountain Forests are not merely threatened by Climate changes but by human use such as Cattle grazes,Collection of Firewood and above all Tea and Coffee Plantations as well.This is happening all over the world including India. IN INDIA THE WORST EXAMPLE IS THE DESTRUCTION OF WESTERN GHATS. The Mountain forests play a very vital role of fighting harmful climate changes also.Most of the Forests store vast amounts of Carbon Dioxide.When the forests are destroyed it amounts to the release of this harmful Green house Gas to the atmosphere resulting in harmful climate changes. THE WESTERN GHATS IN INDIA: ***************************++ The Western Ghats are Rolling hill and not snow covered mountains.the ghats stretch over 1,600 KMs from north of Bombay( Mumbai) to the souther Tip of India.They are Biodiversity HotspotsThat contain large Proportion of the Nation's Plant and Animal Species; many of which are only found here and nowhere else in the World. The Western Ghats are also called TRAINFORESTS.The destruction to Western ghats is destruction to rain water denying fresh water supply to India by nature. The Western Ghats also a source of Wild life conservation like Large numbers of Elephants and Tigers! THE MAJORITY OF THE FRESH WATER SUPPLYING SOURCES ARE THE RIVERS ,MOUNTAINS AND FORESTS. WE ,HUMAN ARE DESTROYING THESE MERCILESSLY DENYING FRESH WATER TO OURSELVES. THE destruction of Forests and Mountains are to be stopped by taking a vow to enable the next generation to live Peacefully.The Environment and Nature are our protectors.By removing Forests and destroying mountains for a few monetary benefits we are executing the Unkindest cut of all to our protector .Inspire of frequent Earthquakes ,T Sunamis,storms and Floods which are the fury of Nature ,we are yet to learn a lesson for the sake of survival of humanity. As a matter of compensation for our sins to the nature,it is time the Humanity think about remedies for the sins already committed. Remodeling of Earths Mountains & Environment Development Yojana is to be framed and worked on it devotedly without Destroying the Mother Nature any more.Or else one day the Mother Nature would be forced to perform yet another of her " Samhara Thandava Dance ".Humanity won't be able to survive it unless wevact wise from now onwards. (This blog is dedicated to Mother Nature and her nectar, the Water) Sreedharan Mundanat 2nd of August 2015