North Goa shacks witness mixed fortunes in 2009

Access to Goan cuisine on the comforts of the beach for foreign purses has been considered to be relatively cheaper on the various Goan beach shacks as compared to the starred resorts for such tourists visiting Goa.

However the owners of the beach shacks in North Goa are not too pleased with the outcome of the outgoing season of 2008-2009 due to their sales plummeting during the peak months of December 2008 and January 2009.

While some beach shacks  on the northern tip of Goa expressed satisfaction there were many who were quite disappointed with the slow business the last season in Goa. The Mumbai terrorist attacks coupled with the recession in the world markets has taken its toll on this business community catering to the foreign tourists in Goa. Some were quite bitter about the police crackdown on all beach activities in the peak season of December  January which they felt dashed many hopes of a revival in their fortunes because they felt that tourists come to Goa only for entertainment and if that goes missing such tourists would rather skip Goa and go elsewhere.

the bunkers erected on the beaches in North Goa was also pointed out to be a major deterrent for the tourist flow as the beaches looked like as if the government was expecting an invasion and the fear and hassle of such over reactions from the government instilled insecurity among many according to some shack owners in the north.

however the shack owners were thankful to the tourism ministry for granting them the shacks two months before the Mumbai attacks during which period they conceded that they could carry out some business which finally proved to be their saving grace for the season. However the season was a bag of mixed fortunes for the entire lot of beach shack owners in North Goa. there are over 300 shacks in Goa with over 200 of them in the north alone.

Goa FDA expected to be tough on eateries this monsoon

With the prospect of water borne diseases facing the state in the oncoming monsoons, the Goa FDA is taking no chances and is ecxpected to intensify its random checks on eateries in the state in a bid to prevent the occurrence of water borne diseases during the monsoon season.

The Goa FDA director maintained that the various restaurants in the state have been forewarned about the need to be compliant with the directives in the licenses issued to them and unhygienic conditions in these places would be viewed  stringently for strict action under the Goa Prevention of Food Adulteration rules.

De4pending on the gravity of the non-conformance of regulations, the penalty could range from suspension of license to its cancellation. The director explained that with the monsoons hitting the state there is a general tendency of overall deterioration of hygiene in various restaurants and the departments food inspectors have therefore been instructed to check on the supply and storage of water and overall cleanliness and personal hygiene of the staff in order  to prevent the contamination of the food.

Stale food and all such deficiencies are also expected to be viewed seriously by the Goa FDA during this coming season and joint inspections along with municipality staff and officers of  the health services will also be conducted as the spreads over 12 inspectors who will fan out across Goa along with food sampling attendants. There are an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 eateries all over Goa.

The FDA has further urged the participation of the Goan public to help the campaign and has asked them only to patronise clean and hygienic restaurants in the state while reporting any eateries that operate in unhygienic conditions. the telephone number of the FDA for reporting such situations is 2220245 with extension 225.

Goa's Bogmalo village wells adulterated with petroleum content

VIllagers of Chicolna Bogmalo were naturally upset and concerned over the finding of petroleum products in the drinking water wells once again around the area.

About a year ago a similar predicament was faced by the villagers in this area and the state government had assured then that the affected well owners would be provided compensation. However with opver a year passing, no compensation has ever come their way.

The villagers have now confirmed once again that the drinking water in the wells in the area have indeed been contaminated causing a major worry to the villagers. The panchayat members took a sample of the contaminated water from one of the wells and observed that it caught fire immediately upon lighting.

A spring near the area has also been contaminated thereby disturbing the aquatic life around the spring and raising the fear of the panchayat of villagers further The village of Chicolna Bogmalo had been trying to beautify this spring in a bid to attract tourists to the area. however with the contamination, no tourists are frequenting the place currently.

Summer time coolers in Goa

During the months of April and may, Goa is at its hotter end with humidity levels higher than usual. The heat coupled with the high levels of humidity often makes it unbearable leading to dehydration and fatigue. It is therefore that time of the year when people in Goa are thirsting for that super drink to quench themselves.

Also the desire to have a radiantly moist skin free of wrinkles or blemishes is there in almost everyone. The solution to have such a skin is to have lot of fluids free of alcohol.

In Goa traditionally people are known to have natural drinks to quench their thirst and cooling drinks such as tender coconut water, bhindachem sherbet , limbu sherbet and sugarcane juice are often served to guests in Goa.

Fresh lemon juice contains natural citric acid with ample vitamin C which helps to restore the electrolyte balance in the body. Kokum drinks are known to have proven to be effective against obesity. Another drink consumed by Goans during summertime is "kothmir-jeeryanche udak" which is a boiled decoction of coriander and cumin seeds. Drinks such as panak, tender coconut water keep the skin cells hydrated. Juices help our bodies get rid of toxins.

In Goa, Muslims serve sherbet-jaggery mixed with water and often flavoured with cardamom powder - On the day of Muharram. Panak is a juice prepared with kokum, fresh lime and water flavoured with spices. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Panak is served on the day of Gudi Padwa, specially prepared during vaishakhi in Hindu Mutts.

After separating the Kokum rinds, the seeds that are left are soaked in water for 1-2 hours and then drained. The water in which the seeds were dipped is then flavoured with pepper powder, salt and jaggery. This is traditionally prepared in clay pots.

Another way of making panak is by mixing water in fresh kokum extract( agal ) along with pepper powder, salt, ginger juice and jaggery. Instead of using fresh ginger juice, dry ginger powder (soonth) could be used. Another type of panak is made with lime juice, ginger powder, water and jaggery. Panak should be sweet and sour with a pungent tinge. Vitamin C in lime juice protects skin cells from free radical damage. Therefore drinking panak everyday will promote good health, heal your body, give you energy and prevent skin diseases.

Bhindache sherbet is a welcome drink prepared by soaking kokum rinds in water. After draining these, sugar, cumin seed powder and salt are added. Instead of cumin powder it is flavoured at times with cardamom powder. Panhe is prepared by boiling mature firm mangoes in water. the pulp is extracted mixed with sugar, ginger powder or cardamom powder and salt. This can be stored in bottles. In Maharashtra it is prepared by roasting green mangoes.

Limbache sherbet is a mix of lime juice , water, salt and sugar which is often flavoured with cardamom powder. In Goa, Catholics prepare "orchata" from almonds by blanching and then removing their skins. Almonds are then ground into a consistency of thick coconut milk ( aapross) and strained. Almond milk thus extracted is then mixed with a syrup of one string consistency, continuosly stirred so that no lumps are formed. this is cooked till a thick syrup is formed, rose essence or almond essence is added and it is preserved in a bottle. Cashew nuts are used in the preparation in case almonds are unavailable. Orchata is always served on special occasions in diluted form.

Also types of fruit syrups called Xerope are prepared in catholic homes in Goa. Hindus term Xerope as Sherbet. Xeropes are prepared from local limes grown in Goa, which have a thick pale orange skin when ripe. This is known as Xerope de limao. Kokum syrup is called Xerope de brindao whereas Jamun (jambla) syrup is called Xerope de jambulao.Syrups are also prepared from ripe passion fruits.

The most ideal syrup, Xerope or sherbet should always be the refreshing one with the right proportions of all the ingredients used especially the juices and the sugar. With Goa experiencing the heat of the moment, it could be a good time to try your hand at the various options available to Goans to cool themselves the most natural way.

As if "pigs got wings"

The world is threatened by a flu which had the nerve to even rock the economic markets in the world due to the fear of its spread which could hamper a lot of industries such as tourism and aviation in particular. Countries affected by the disease got added on day after day as if the swine could fly, thereby spreading the worth of its sneeze around the world.

The time one read about pigs flying was in Lewis Carroll's " Alice In Wonderland" where it as first spoken when the Duchess told Alice that she had as much right to think as "pigs have to fly". In "Through the Looking Glass", the Walrus and the Carpenter walked along the beach pondering,"whether pigs can fly". Many years later, in the year 2009, they seem to have done just that.

A new swine flu pandemic threatens to sweep the face of the earth and while some call it the Mexican Flu, the USA's renowned centre for Disease control has steered clear of any controversy by referring to the disease as the "H1N1" flu.

The reason for the above is due to the inconclusiveness of whether the virus actually originated from pigs and calling the outbreak as "swine flu' has already confused people into believing that they can get infected by eating pork products which has naturally infuriated the international pork industry and the Goan pork butchers are helplessly fuming.

The World organisation for animal health (OIE) and the the apex body of human health the WHO disagree on the nomenclature. OIE opines that the virus doing the damage at present is a cocktail virus of mixed human, avian and swine origin and should be called " North American Flu". Traditionally, influenza pandemics are named after the regions where they originated, like the Spanish flu - 1918-19, Asian flu - 1957-58 and Hong Kong Flu - 1967-68. But the World Health Organization is not getting carried away and sticking to its version - "Swine Flu".

Mexico has seen the biggest hit of the Flu with over 100 deaths reported and is therefore the worst affected. Tourism being the biggest source of revenue for Mexico after Oil, the country is hard hit by the outbreak. Its tourism industry has lost more than Rs 5000 crores in revenues since the outbreak leaving its airports, beaches and hotels empty with occupancies less than 20%, at a time of the year when it is above 90%.

However the swine hasn't stopped here. It has flown. To the US, Canada, New Zealand, Israel and even western Europe, Germany, the UK and Spain have all recorded cases of swine flu with twelve other European Union (EU) countries looking at suspected cases.

Business rating agency Moody's has already stated that the Swine flu scare could adversely impact investment and business confidence even in countries such as India causing a drag in economic activity like household consumption, business investment as well as further pull down and already beleaguered tourism trade sector reeling under the effects of recession.

The government of Goa has therefore rightly taken precautionary measures to prevent the invasion of the disease into the state of Goa.

For the readers of this post if you are in danger of getting swine flu, it is good to make a check. Swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs but has been known to spread to human beings. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body ache, headache, chills and fatigue. Extreme cases can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure causing death.

It is believed that the flu spreads from person to person through coughing or sneezing. People are also known to be infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Doorknobs, switches and lift buttons are common transmission points. Infected people can spread the infection from day one even before the symptoms develop which means that you can pass on the flu before you know the person concerned is sick.

To avoid swine flu, regularly wash your hands with soap, try not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated by the virus and avoid close contact with people whoa re sick. Those who get infected can be treated by anti-viral medicines which are available in Goa as also the rest of India.

Air-conditioner sales get a boost in Goan summer

The sale of air conditioners in Goa has risen exponentially  in the past couple of months as citizens try to desperately beat the heat in Goa by resorting to cool down the temperatures in offices, shops and homes in Goa through the use of cooling systems.

So traders in Goa who normally sell around five air conditioners per month are now selling around 30 per month thanks to the increased humidity in the state in the month of April and May this year. Also air cooler units blowing cool air, have also seen robust sales this year thanks to the heat in Goa and traders are on song selling a record number of air-coolers in Goa this year.

The popular brands of air-conditioners in Goa range in prices from Rs 16,000 to around 47,000 depending on the type of brand and the capacity. However the 1 tonne and the 1.5 tonne air conditioners are reportedly very popular owing to their mid range size. The brands available in the Goan market are Samsung, Hitachi, LG, Onida, Daikin, Godrej, Blue star , General and Voltas.

It is also notable that the modern air conditioners sold in Goa consume lesser electricity for its use compared to the older models sold a few years back due to which the general public prefers to use an air conditioner compared to earlier trends.

The older generation of airconditioners employed toxic or flammable gases like ammonia, methyl chloride and propane. The usage of such gases could result in fatal accidents when they leaked. In the year 1928, Thomas Midgley Jr, created the first Chlorofluorocarbon gas, Freon, which was much safer for human beings but was later found to be harmful to the ozone layer of the atmosphere.

The blend mostly used in homes and buildings was an HCFC known as R-22. But it is to be phased out for use in new equipment by 2010 and completely discontinued by 2020.

However several non ozone depleting refrigerants have been developed as alternatives including R-410A, known by the brand name of Puron.

Room air-conditioners normally come in two forms or constructions. Unitary and split or packaged terminal PTAC systems. Unitary systems or the common one-room air conditioners sit in the window or wall opening with interior controls. Interior air is cooled as a fan blows it over the evaporator. On the exterior, the air is heated as a second fan blows it over the condenser.

The split AC ( PTAC) on the other hand is frequently used in offices, shops and hotels. It has two separate units ( terminal packages) , the evaporative unit on the exterior and the condensing unit on the interior with tubing passing through the wall and connecting them. This minimises the interior system footprint and allows each room to be adjusted independently.

So how does a Goan make a choice about what kind of AC he should fit in his house , shop or office. here is some advice.

If you want a nice neat look in your premises, the Split AC is a good option. Also if you didn't want to mess with the window, split would be a good idea. Besides if you don't like the external of a window AC hanging out, a split may be a prudent decision. Also the compressor of the split can be located at a far distance through tubing. However if tubing and compressor for split is a problem then surely Window AC is the way to go.

Split AC is also expensive on the budget and you may want to look at that too before making a decision. Window ACs are cheaper and 
subject to the above, both AC's have similar functions in operations and makes no difference to comfort levels.

Man(date)mohan's power, rockets stock markets to long circuits!

The role of politics in India came full circle to remind investors in the country that the narrow understanding of economics is just not enough if one ignores the role of politics in the construction of financial fortunes.

And the proof of the above came in full measure on Monday 18th may 2009 with a skyrocketing force never witnessed in the history of the markets anywhere in the world as stocks, bonds and the Indian rupee went into orbit on the back of the pleasantly dramatic mandate for Manmohan Singh and the Indian national Congress. 

It was therefore the first ever instance that the Bombay Stock exchange which was founded in the year 1875, had to halt trading for the day when the 30-scrip sensex roared by 2111 points or a mind boggling 17.3% inside the space of a minute, making investors richer by over 3.6 lakh crore. In both percentage and absolute terms, the gallop was a record smashing performance, blunting the earlier single day rise record of 1140 points on January 25 2008. The picture was no different on the National Stock exchange with the rise being marginally sharper on the Nifty at 17.7%.

The sensex which fell from over 21,000 points since January 2008 to below 8000 points in October 2008 had regained around 26% from the beginning of 2009 till the eve of elections and has now extended its gains overnight to 48% taking it from last to first among the BRIC nations( Brazil, Russis, India and China) and pole vaulting it into the best performing index in the world, barring Peru.

The whole euphoria seems to be due to the fact that the Congress government received a powerful mandate, leaving the Left decimated and incapable of coercing the ruling combination to succumb to  Leftist agendas. With the government no longer dependent on coercive allies, a stable government is expected to push reforms with PSU disinvestments, liberalisation in FDI policies, private entry pension funds and possible labour reforms as well.

What happened to the stock markets on "Golden Monday' was therefore anticipated though not to the measure that it finally weighed. The upper circuit filter was hit in seconds after the market opened at 9.55 am climbing vertically by 17980 points on the sensex from Fridays close.Trading was therefore halted within seconds holding the sensex at 13,963 points between 9.56 am till 11.55 am. Thereafter , the moment trading resumed, the index jumped by another 652 points which left traders and investors with a pleasant daze.

Brokerage houses in Goa as in the rest of India had suddenly a splurge of telephone callers who were dumbstruck to believe the indulgence of the stock markets in a single day. Most of the brokerage houses in Goa as in the rest of the country however had almost nil business today since the markets hardly allowed anyone to enter the ring with the circuits hitting faster than the blinking of an eyelid.

India Election Results - tallies from 1951 - 2009

Since the year 1951 till 2009, the following table provides a complete insight into the various standing positions of the parties at each election

Election Year	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	5th	No of seats
1951	Cong-364	CPI-16	*SP-12	KMPP-9	PDF-7	489
1957	Cong-371	CPI-27	PSP-19	SCF-6	JHP-6	494
1962	Cong-361	CPI-29	SWA-18	JS-14	PSP-12	494
1967	Cong-283	SWA-44	BJS-35	DMK-25	CPI/SSP-23	520
1971	Cong-352	CPM-25	CPI-23	DMK-23	BJS-22	518
1977	BLD-295	INC-154	CPM-22	ADK-18	SAD-9	542
1980	Cong-353	JNP(S)41	CPM-37	JNP-31	DMK-16	529
1984	Cong-414	TDP-30	CPM-22	ADK-12	JNP-10	541
1989	Cong-197	JD-43	BJP-85	CPM-33	CPI12	529
1991	Cong-244	BJP-120	JD-59	CPM-35	CPI-14	534
1996	BJP-161	INC-140	JD-46	CPM-32	TMC(M)-20	543
1998	BJP-182	INC-141	CPM-32	SP-20	ADMK-18	543
1999	BJP-182	INC-114	CPM-33	TDP-29	SP-26	543
2004	Cong-145	BJP-138	CPM-43	SP-36	RJD-14	543
2009	Cong-206	BJP-116	SP-23	BSP-21	JD(U)-20	543

 

IN 1951- *SP-SOCIALIST PARTY
               KMPP- Kisan Mazdoor Praja party
               PDF- Peoples Democratic front

In 1957 - PSP - Praja Socialist party
             SCF- All India Scheduled Caste Federation
             JHP - Jharkhand Party

In 1962  - SWA - Swatantra
               JS  - Jan Sangh

In 1967 - SSP - Samyukta Socialist

In 1971 - BJS - Bharatiya Jan sangh

In 1977 - BLD - Bharatiya Lok Dal
             ADK - All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Khazagam

In 1980 - JNP(S)  - Janata Party (Secular)

In 1996 - TMC(M) - Tamil Maanila Congress ( Moopanar)

Lok Sabha elections 2009 : Final tally of seats and winners

Party	Seats	Alliance
UNITED PROGRESSIVE ALLIANCE - 262		UPA - 262 seats
Indian national Congress	206
Trinamool Congress	19
DMK	18
Nationalist Congress Party	9
National Conference	3
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha	2
Muslim League Kerala State Committee	2
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen	1
Bodoland People's Front	1
Kerala Congress (Mani)	1
	Total	262
NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE		NDA - 159 seats
Bharatiya Janata Party	116
Janata Dal-United	20
Shiv Sena	11
Rashtriya Lok Dal	5
Akali Dal	4
Telangana Rashtra Samithi	2
Asom Gana Parishad	1
	Total	159
THIRD FRONT		TF - 80 seats
Bahujan Samaj Party	21
CPI-M	16
Biju Janata Dal	14
AIADMK	9
Telegu Desam Party	6
CPI	4
Janata Dal-Secular	3
Forward Bloc	2
Revolutionary Socialist Party	2
MDMK	1
Haryana Janhit Congress	1
Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik)	1
	Total	80
FOURTH FRONT		27  Seats
Samajwadi Party	23
Rashtriya Janata Dal	4
	Total	27
OTHERS		15 seats
Independents	9
Assam United Democratic Front	1
Bahujan Vikas Aaghadi	1
Swabhimani Paksha	1
Nagaland People's Front	1
Sikkim Democratic Front	1
VCK	1
	Total	15

                                                Total       - 543 seats

Lok Sabha Elections : Cong is King - calls the shots

Its a pleasant surprise for Independent India of the modern times to be presented with a result that promises more stability than has been witnessed in recent times.

While no one thought that the congress-led UPA would emerge as winners, some did opine that the Congress would turn out to be the single largest party and the UPA as the topmost coalition, but few imagined that the party would retain office with a staggering tally of 206 seats - the highest that any single party has got in the last 25 years . The UPA has secured a tally of 262 seats which is only 10 short of the simple majority of 272 seats required to form a government.

The extent of the Congress win looks more remarkable when one considers the fact that the Congress did not contest all seats in big states such as Maharashtra,West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Besides it took the plunge on its own in states such as UP and Bihar without any groundwork or preparation. While the gamble did not pay off in Bihar, it threw up delightful results for the party in Uttar Pradesh. Bihar also gave the party a sizeable chunk of the Muslim votebank.

The election thus marked an emphatic endorsement of Manmohan Singh as the Prime Minister and Sonia Gandhi as the leader of the UPA. It also gave a thumbs up to the young Rahul Gandhi whose hard work in Uttar Pradesh provided more than the desired results to the party. The congress themselves are pleasantly surprised with the final tally which is an impressive 206 seats on its own and 262 seats in total for the UPA.

Well done! Now the bigger job of leading the country in the right direction, by keeping with the times, lies ahead!

Goa Lok Sabha elections 2009: Assembly wise votes polled in North Goa

Name of Assembly segment	Shripad Naik	Jitendra Desh Prabhu	Christopher Fonseca	Pandurang Raut	Martha D'Souza
Mandrem	8759	7454	492	898	204
Pernem	8308	9219	539	355	250
Bicholim	8782	5055	420	1198	176
Tivim	6634	6792	326	185	125
Mapusa	8537	4766	393	396	119
Siolim	7763	5855	425	295	151
Saligao	7288	5371	381	198	124
Calangute	4578	7803	441	163	160
Porvorim	6651	4303	370	166	109
Aldona	6232	7021	428	238	146
Panaji	7996	4212	274	139	112
Taleigao	5260	7793	374	172	130
St.Cruz	5578	6959	533	144	149
St. Andre	4580	7072	329	117	122
Cumbarjua	5811	5963	399	183	99
Mayem	8214	5008	421	508	198
Sanquelim	7627	4960	512	249	91
Poriem	4987	11504	518	296	320
Valpoi	4928	9933	460	239	266
Priol	9073	4224	610	496	166
Postal ballot papers	130	96	1	3	0
Total Number of votes recorded at Polling Stations	1,37,716	1,31,363	8,646	6638	3217
RESULT	WINNER	LOSER	3rd place	4th place	5th place

Goa Lok Sabha elections 2009: Assembly wise votes polled in South Goa

Name of Assembly segment	Francisco Sardinha	Narendra Sawaikar	Matanhy Saldanha	Raju Mangueshkar	Hamza Khan
Ponda	6241	8278	164	262	82
Shiroda	7701	7597	156	285	167
Marcaim	2911	9157	113	381	147
Mormugao	4374	5400	241	163	81
Vasco	6329	6349	248	205	110
Dabolim	4659	4345	485	142	78
Cortalim	6584	4016	2860	507	148
Nuvem	8956	1524	1745	132	149
Curtorim	7978	4169	924	148	94
Fatorda	6109	5736	746	144	42
Margao	8247	6790	560	121	117
Benaulim	6291	1720	2678	114	64
Navelm	4909	4816	928	106	67
Cuncolim	7018	4030	1298	144	112
Velim	9601	2850	1415	158	159
Quepem	7712	6348	944	300	290
Curchorem	4891	6916	304	164	67
Sanvordem	4014	8317	78	457	163
Sanguem	5083	7813	242	308	207
Canacona	7793	8645	593	321	192
Postal ballot papers	1,27,401	1,14,816	16,722	4,562	2,536
Total Number of votes recorded at Polling Stations
RESULT	WINNER	LOSER	3rd place	4th place	5th place

Its Sardinha in South Goa, Shripad in the North

While the whole country was agog with the most sensational news of a surprise UPA ( United Progressive alliance) comeback in the country, Goa threw up no surprises with the Goan electorate settling for the tried and tested political warhorses of Goa.

So while the Bharatiya Janata party retained the seat in the North Goa ( Panaji) constituency, the Congress maintained its stronghold on the South Goa ( Mormugao constituency). Both the MPs will therefore be serving their third term in the parliament.

While the two candidates may have won in their respective constituencies, their margins of victory this time were dented by their political opponents to a significant amount.. The North Goa candidate Mr Shripad Naik defeated the Nationalist Congress party ( NCP ) candidate  Mr Jitendra Deshprabhu by a mere 6,353 votes. In the last election held in 2004 Mr Naik had won from this constituency by over 56, 213 votes which suggested how massive the drop in victory had been this time around. The NCP candidate in the meanwhile was ruing the fact that an extra bit of hard work could have seen him pulling it off in the race. While Mr Shripad Naik polled 1,37,716 votes, the NCP candidate could muster close on his heels with a tally of 1, 31,363 votes

In South Goa, the Congress nominee Mr Francisco Sardinha was a winner by a margin of only 12,516 votes over his nearest BJP rival Mr Narendra Sawaikar. Mr Sardinha had won this seat last time in the November 2007 bye-election by a margin of over 40,893 votes. Blaming some party men for anti-party activities which resulted in his lower victory margin, Mr Sardinha said that the victory had given a befitting reply to such elements within the party. Mr Francisco Sardinha polled a total of 1,27,494 votes whereas the BJP candidate could manage around 1,14,978 votes. The UGDP candidate Mr Mathany Saldanha also bit into the congress vote-bank , emerging  third in the race with a tally of 16,727 votes.

Goa meet reveals facts on frogs and toads

Goa and Goans made sure that the international day of the frog was celebrated at Porvorim with interactive sessions, presentations and quiz as part of WildGoa's 'Save Our Frogs" campaign.

"Amphibians of Goa" being the theme, a photo exhibition was held in the display area of the eco-store "Earth Worm" to create awareness of the diversity of amphibian species that have been documented in Goa so far.

There was also a visitors area at the exhibition space dedicated to visitors views and suggestions on the "save our Frogs" campaign. Mr Nirmal Kulkarni also gave a powerpoint presentation and talk focussing on the topic "Amphibian Diversity of Goa" where he highlighted the key species that were threatened in Goa due to illegal hunting and trade as well as due to the loss of habitat.

The interactive session saw an attendance of students, wildlife enthusiasts and media persons who also participated in various issues related to amphibian conservation and biology. During the breaks visitors spoke intensely about various issues including garbage management, habitat destruction in the Pilerne lake area and the role of the forest department in the 'Save Our Frogs" campaign.

A quiz on amphibians was later conducted and many unknown facts about frogs and toads were revealed through this medium.

Goan mangoes can be heat busters

Mangoes have been a favourite among Goans at this time of the year with the markets flooding with the delicious produce at the height of the summer season. However this year, the crop has been pretty dismal with the result that mango prices have refused to go down as the season progressed.

However, most Goans are self sufficient with mangoes and have a lot of mango trees in their compounds providing them with their favourite delicacy in summer time.

The heat during the summer season in Goa props us to search for cooling foods with a high water content and a touch of sweetness to boost our energies. It is here that Mangoes can be the ideal choice besides being a delightful and healthy way to beat the heat in Goa

The King of fruits that it is, the aroma of the mango is very inspiring, especially if it is the Goan Mancurad mango which has that distinct aroma which captivates the senses very easily.

Mangoes either raw or ripe have been cherished by Goans for centuries. Some of the varieties in Goa are said to have been imported during the Portuguese times from Africa and have embraced the Goan flavour giving our mango varieties a vast pool.

Raw mango chutneys, pickles and ripe mango lassis have reached many parts of the globe from India as well. In Goa, people are fond of mango shakes and mango ice creams. For preservation of the mango taste, Goans are known to prepare the mango jam, unique to Goa known as the "mangad".

Mangoes are also a rich source of vitamins like A, B1, B2,B3,B6 C and E besides important minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, zinc and selenium all necessary to keep in perfect health.

Ripe mangoes are one of the richest sources of beta carotene, a powerful and effective antioxidant that fights free radicals, protects against heart diseases and cancer and prevents degenerative diseases caused by vitamin A deficiency.

Raw mangoes provide the protection against the adverse effects of the scorching heat. the pulp of grilled or roasted raw mangoes applied to the forehead, palms and soles gives instant relief to people suffering from heat stroke and prickly heat. Aam Panna, made out of raw mangoes is ideal to beat the summer heat, replenish lost body salts and energy levels and keep heat stroke at bay.

Aam Panna is an Indian drink renowned for its heat resistant properties. It is made from green mangoes and it is used as a tasty and healthy beverage to fight against the intense Indian summer heat. Apart from being tasty this drink also looks good due to its refreshing light green color.

For a mango drink, boil raw mangoes with skin and take out the pulp, blend it with fresh mint leaves, rock salt and sugar in a blender. Add the requisite amount of water and serve chilled..

Eating a large ripe mango is a healthy food to revitalise your energy after any physical stress or a walk in the scorching heat. It provides you with adequate amounts of potassium and magnesium which is suitable for hypertensive people.

Mangoes are also considered to be good-mood-makers. If one is feeling low, eating mangoes can elevate spirits due to tryptophan ( an amino acid) is a precursor of the good mood hormone serotonin.

Mangoes are also considered to be good for skin and are known to aid in beauty care. Treating skin to a wonderful mango pack for a smooth and shiny skin can do wonders. For that blend quarter cup of mango pulp, two teaspoons sugar, one teaspoon honey and two teaspoons whole milk to a smooth paste and apply over the face for 15 minutes, Rinse with warm water and refresh with cold water. This helps to enhance complexion besides providing a cool refreshing feeling.

Mangoes also help in adding calories for the underweight. A medium, sized mango has 106 calories and those trying to reduce weight should therefore not indulge in eating too much of the king of fruits.

Precautionary measures against swine flu in Goa

The state government of Goa is not taking any chances regarding the steps to prevent swine flu from entering the state of Goa and have initiated precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the flu from hitting the state.

Accordingly, all foreign tourists coming from areas that encountered the swine flu outbreak would be checked for symptoms at immigration counters at the Dabolim airport by a team of two doctors and other para-medical staff.

However only those foreigners who have traveled to or from the areas affected by the disease and show symptoms of the disease would be screened and sample taken from them would be sent for examination at Pune.

The integrated disease surveillance project epidemiological cell, directorate of health services, Goa who has opened its centre at Dabolim airport on Wednesday following the outbreak of swine flu disease has screened around 150 passengers who arrived at Dabolim airport on Wednesday late night and in the wee hours of Thursday morning by two separate flights.

The doctor's team stationed at the arrival gate of Dabolim airport screened all the passengers but did not find anyone suspected to be afflicted by the viral swine flu disease.

It has been decided that the doctors at the centre will be screening a;ll; the passengers whether domestic or international. Such passengers will be handed with a profile to tick mark the questionnaire which include whether the passenger has visited countries such as USA, Canada, Mexico, Spain, New Zealand, France and UK during last 10 days. The passengers have also been told to tick mark for sore throat, running nose, cough and fever.

Goa Health dept help against heat strokes

With the mercury levels rising in the  summer in Goa, the government of Goa, through its directorate of health services has launched a commendable awareness campaign to prevent any possibilities of heat strokes in the state of Goa.

Going by the prediction of the Meteorological department , the temperature in the state of Goa is inching towards 40 degrees due to which the people may suffer from heat stroke and therefore the health department has appealed to the people in Goa to take certain precautionary measures. Following are the details of the appeal

APPEAL TO PUBLIC

TO PREVENT

HEAT STROKE

• Drink plenty of water: Avoid tea, coffee, soda & Alcohol
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colours
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat, sun-glasses and using an umbrella

First Aid measures

1. Move the victim from the heat and get him/her indoors. have him/her lie down in a cool place with feet elevate about 12 inches.
2. Loosen clothing and cool him rapidly using whatever methods you can, Like:-

• Place cold compresses on the victim's neck, groin, armpits:
• Wrap in a cool, wet sheet and fan vigorously
• Sponge with cool water
• Spray with cool water from a garden hose
• Immerse the victim in a tub of cool water
• Place in a cool shower
• If alert, give the victim cool water or beverages to sip ( specially with electrolytes) or make a slat sugar drink by adding a teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of salt in a glass of water. Give every 15 minutes
• For muscle cramps: massage affected muscles gentle but firmly untill they relax
• If the victim's condition does not improve or he shows no signs of shock, or is having seizures 9 fits) or loses consciousness, call a doctor or shift him to the nearest health facility

Help yourself to protect from heat Stroke.

Goa not facing heat wave at present

The Meteorology department, government of Goa has said that the state is not facing a heat wave at present with the department indicating that the temperatures in the state were in the range of 34 degrees Celsius which was the normal range.

In comparison, northern Maharashtra areas such as Bhusaval continued to reel under temperatures as high as 47 degrees according to the department

Heat wave conditions mean atleast 4 degrees celsius above normal, but currently only the minimum temperature was about one degree higher than normal. However the department did not rule out the temperatures going higher for a day or two in the month of May.

The Chief Minister Mr Digambar kamat has asked the health authorities to gear up to over come any after effects of the heat wave in the state at a high level meeting along with health officials.

The highest temperature recorded in the state of Goa was 39.8 degrees celsius in April 1989 and temperatures may reach those figures for a short period of a day or two this month.

The rainfall expected this year was however predicted to be normal with the onset of the monsoon only after May 15. However larger breaks in between the monsoon period is expected if the Monsoon sets early. The national institute of oceanography(NIO) research had pointed out to an increasing dry spells during the monsoon in the months of July and August and attributed them to rapid ocean warming. The study also pointed out that the period between July and August when most dry spells occur contributed to 61 percent of rainfall during monsoons.

Swine Flu -Do's and Don'ts

The Epidemiological cell, directorate of health services, Campal Panaji Goa has ben releasing the following through advertisements in Goa for the benefit of the Public.

Some cases of swine flu have been reported from Mexico, USA, UK, Canada, Spain, France and new Zealand. Swine Flu is an illness manifesting with respiratory symptoms like cough, sore throat, running nose along with fever. the virus which causes swine flu is normally present among pigs. However it is found to have caused disease among human beings. the cases were found to be mild in USA but there have been some deaths reported in Mexico

Government of Goa gas initiated steps for the control of this disease

Some Dos and Don'ts

1) If you have visited  Mexico, USA, UK, Canada, Spain, New Zealand or France and if you are suffering from high fever, cough, sore throat or running nose, please contact the nearest health centre for advise.

2) Wash your hands regularly with soap and water

3) Cover your nose and mouth with cloth while coughing and sneezing

4) Avoid close contact with sick persons

For further information please contact

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CELL
DIRECORATE OF HEALTH SERVICES
Campal Panaji Goa
Phone Number : 2225538
All India toll free : 1075

Goa Travel Advisory! SWINE FLU

The government of India at Goa has issued the following advisory to people in Goa and those arriving in the state from rest of India or abroad, to arrest the pandemic of swine flu facing the world.The advisory is as under

 

Swine Influenza virus (H1N1) is causing an epidemic among humans in Mexico and has spread to neighbouring United States and Canada. Some cases are now being reported from Europe and other countries.

Swine Influenza has not affected India

Do not panic!

Necessary medicines are available and measures are being taken to limit the entry of the disease in India.

TRAVEL ADVISORY

Government of India advises all its citizens to defer non-essential travel to the affected countries

The list of affected countries is being constantly updated on www.who.int and mohfw.nic.in

APPEAL

People who have travelled from Mexico. USA and Canada in the past 10 days and show symptoms of influenza like fever, cough or sore throat and difficulty in breathing should immediately contact

Outbreak Monitoring Cell, Natonal Institute of Communicable diseases or call 011 -23921401

Goa govts swine flu questionnaire for tourists

With the alarm of  swine flu giving sleepless nights to the world at large, the Goa government through its health department has prepared a detailed questionnaire to be filled out by all tourists arriving in the state of Goa.

The questionnaire is aimed to provide the health authorities ascertain whether any of the passengers arriving in Goa have symptoms of swine flu. Passengers will be quizzed whether they have been to any of the swine flu affected countries and if they have any of the symptoms - fever, funning nose, cough or sore throat. The medical team at the airport is expected to handle the tourists who think that they have any of the symptoms mentioned in the questionnaire.

in a bid to make the procedure fool-proof, the government has decided to give the questionnaire to both domestic as well as international tourists to avoid any . Medical teams stationed at the airport arrival lounge are therefore checking both domestic as well as international tourists arriving in Goa.

Once the questionnaire is filled, the tourists have to hand it at the immigration clearance counter where it is to be verified.

The entire country has increased surveillance at all international airports and ports as a part of global measures to arrest the spread of swine flu. All passengers arriving on flights from flu affected countries such as US, Canada, UK and Mexico are therefore being checked for the virus which is believed to have killed over 170 people in Mexico where it is supposed to have originated.

Globally the cases of swine flu have been on a steady rise. Swine flu is usually found in pigs and contracted only by people in contact with the animals. However it can also spread from person to person - probably through the medium of cough or sneezing.

The Goa government has also issued a circular to the travel and tourism association of Goa asking it to be extremely vigilant to observe if any of their guests have any swine flu-like symptoms and report the matter to the nearest health authority

Project Frog, gaining momentum in Goa

The Goan pitch to save frogs from the taste-buds of poachers in Goa seems to be gaining momentum by the day with the forest department endeavouring to spread the message of the ills caused due to frog reduction in Goa

Experts are out explaining about the numerous bio-indicators which prove that frogs which are a major part of Goan bio-diversity are facing an imminent threat to their very existence. The alarm is caused due to the dramatic drop in the frog population in the state owing to the lusty eyes of frog poachers who are being blamed for the current fall in their numbers.

Although there are no numbers to support the claim of the declines, experts opine that there are enough bio-indicators to point towards the fact that there is a threat to this species in Goa.

The bio-indicators are increase in malaria cases in Goa, increase in snakes venturing into human inhabitation in search of food. Frogs are considered to play a major role in the control of insects such as mosquitoes which are known to spread malaria and other crop damaging insects.

Wild Goa, a network of wildlife lovers in Goa are therefore currently working with the forest department that has launched a 'save frogs from extinction" campaign. WildGoa explains that the catching of frogs before thy mate not only kills the frog but also kills an entire generation of unborn tadpoles. The irony is that frog-poachers normally hunt for the big frogs who are the ones most likely to spawn the most number of eggs.

The Goa civic and consumer action network (GOACAN) has also lent its might to the campaign to save frogs and said that they would reach out to the people through the gram panchayats to spread the awareness and so co-ordinate with the police and the forest department to enforce the law.

The forest department has also resorted to spreading the message through the medium of spirituality as a means of stopping people from killing frogs. In this medium, the forest department has published colourful leaflets which sate" Frogs are believed to be incarnation of Goddess laxmi and are known to bring prosperity and rains. besides Monsoons is mating, breeding, multiplying, feeding, recruitment season for many species of frogs. It is during this time they become the victim of their biggest predator - man.

The awareness programme also states that consumption of frogs over a period of time could trigger paralytic strokes, cancers, kidney failures and other deformities. The educative information highlights the positive role played by frogs in preventing vector borne diseases and their killing is considered to be an ecological crime against the food chain

Beating the summer in Goa

The scorching heat in the summer is nothing new for Goans or for tourists who visit Goa regularly this time of the year. And now towards end of April and early may it probably tests you near its all  time highs. While many Goans just escape to the water springs and the beaches in Goa there needs to be a regular survival kit to beat the summer.

Here are a few tips which could do just that

Control your diet

• Goan foods are normally hot and spicy. It is best to avoid such foods. Instead try some vegetable based foods such as dal, chapati and Goan vegetable such as ladyfingers etc. Eat moderately as stomach upsets in summer in Goa is not a new phenomenon. 
  
• Water based fruits from Goa are a great escape to beat the heat in Goa and the water melon probably tops the list. Apart for the water melon, cucumber, oranges, carrots and spinach help on the water addition to the body since the humidity in Goa makes the body  lose a fair amount of water. 
  
  
• The Goan coconut water is another source of rich content for the body and although some may prefer to rely on the 'eight glasses a day' theory, it is important that one has enough of water as much as one feels. Goa tender coconut water or lime juice in water ( without sugar preferably) helps to balance the water levels in the body

Hold your temptations

• It is best to avoid food with excessive fat and sodium content. Sodium causes water retention thereby further dehydrating the body. Salty peanuts, chips and oily foods are bad as well. Instead a bowl of fresh fruit or a cup of Yogurt could do wonders

Kid management

• Loss of appetite in kids at this time of the year in Goa is a regular phenomenon and if the kids complain, provide them with compact meals - stuffed parathas, vegetables -sabhji wrapped in Goan chapatis, curd-rice or raitha khichdi
  
• Instead of water, Goan tender coconut water is the best option besides lime juice water or mixed fruit juice.

Caring for your skin

• During the summer in Goa, prickly heat, fungal skin infections and sun burns are the common complaints. In order to avoid these problems, preventive action is a must.
• Prickly heat is caused by an itchy infection mainly due to blockage of sweat glands. The best recourse to combating prickly heat in Goa is by taking a shower twice a day. If more prone, take thrice if possible.
  
• Fungal Skin infection is caused due to excessive perspiration and lack of air circulation. Avoid fabrics which are synthetic and do not wear tight clothes. Also use comfortable footwear and avoid closed shoes.
  
• Sun Burns in Goa are quite a bother for some people in the summer. To beat sun burns it is best to avoid over exposure to the sun which can tan you skin and even burn it. The result is that you develop black skin patches that peel off. Moisturise this affected area and do not pull the peeling skin. General hygiene is the basic requirement and diligent skin care can go a long way in avoiding sun burns. Preventive measures are

1. Taking a shower immediately after any exertion or any exercise
2. Wearing open shoes to allow proper circulation
3. Always wearing a sunblock lotion

Summer ailments

• Summer ailments are also a common feature and you can also get affected in Goa like anywhere else. Summer ailments are mainly caused by poor hygiene, water infections and dehydration. common ailments are
  
• Gastroenteritis : This is mostly common among those who consume pre-cooked meals. During summer, the foods tend to get spoilt faster owing to the heat than in the other seasons in Goa, and consumption of such deteriorated foods can lead to vomiting and food poisoning. The Solution to this ia to have freshly cooked meals and boiled water as also well washed fruits such as oranges, bananas and sweet limes.
  
• Coughs and Colds : During summer due to the fluctuating temperatures in Goa, often due to the difference in temperatures in the street against the temperature of the bedroom or office AC often results in coughs and colds. Excessive consumption of iced water and cold foods are also responsible for this trend. The Solution to this is to maintain a nice transitional AC temperature which could hover between 22-25 degrees. Consume lesser cold foods and beverages in correct measures.

Dehydration Blues

• Over exposure to the summer can be severely dehydrating by snuffing away the essential hydration from the body which then needs to be replenished with water. Giddiness, headaches, fainting and fever are some of the symptoms.
  
  The Solution to this problem is to regularly have an intake of liquids during the day and ear a cap or a hat while you are outdoors in the sun. A shower in between the day is also bound to be a great soother.

Goa govt keeps sarpanchas on tight leash

The plush position of a Sarpanch may not be the desired seat in Goa for long, as the government of Goa has decided to act tough with sarpanchas and their deputies who are found to be incapable of discharging their duties and may therefore be unseated by the government under sub-section 4 of section 50 of the Goa panchayati Raj act.

The director of panchayats Mr Menino D'souza is known to have already issued 67 notices since mid September 2008, to various sarpanchas in Goa with due information that adverse observations have been reported against them regarding their failure in discharging their duties properly.

Under the above section of the act, a sarpanch or deputy sarpanch being "persistently remiss" in the discharge of his duties is liable to be removed from office by the director or deputy director of panchayats. However the sarpanch is given an opportunity to defend himself before any such order of removal is passed.

Under the act, when a panchayat fails to demolish illegal constructions which have been erected or reconstructed without the panchayats permission, or contrary to the rules made under the act or any condition imposed under the permission within a month, the deputy director shall assume the powers of the panchayat under subsection (3), (4) and (5) and take necessary measures to demolish the illegalities.

Also under section 66(2) the village panchayat has to issue a construction licence within 30 days of receiving an application. Failure to adhere to this would mean a "remiss of duties".

Some of the panchayats which have been issued the notices include Calangute, Candolim, Saligao, merces, Colvale, St Cruz, Colva, Majorda, Cansaulim, Loutolim