FOREWORD

It is a wonderful moment for the student fraternity at NICM AR. Their first edition of the campus E magazine Abhyudana is out finally. And readers, relax. It is not going to be drab, only cement and steel stuff that is going to bore you down. There are pleasant surprises tourist reports, stock market peeks, campus recruitment news, you name it, its there. I assure all, its going to be some pleasant reading and informative too. M y compliments to the editorial team at NICM AR.

Prof. M anishi Guha Head Students Activities

An organization that introspects from time to time and responds to the growing demands of the contemporary world evolves into an institution. A dream that took a concrete shape has come of age with twenty glorious years behind it. When we look back our traditions and alumni inspire us. However, the past is there to learn from and to provide impetus to march forward. This inaugural issue ABHYUDANA traces the memorable journey of the students. We bring to you the bonanza of continuous celebrations held on the campus. In this, we have tried to capture the joys, the ecstasy, the ups and downs and the glorious moments gone by. Last term has been full of excitement and satisfaction for all new pursuits and endeavors that were concluded successfully. Our readers are requested to contribute to this effort with interest and their suggestions. We are looking forward to the valuable feedback.

With best wishes S tudents Committee 2007-08

Editorial Team 2007-08

The tenth Constro exhibition was held in Pune later this year offered a platform to a wide range of Indian and international participants. Top construction equipment manufacturers and technology developers from Korea, China, M alaysia, Germany, Italy, Canada, Holland, Denmark and Dubai displayed their products at Constro 2007 held in Pune from November 28 to December 2, 2007. The event was the 10th in the series.

No end in sight for Dubai's boom

Steel import seen rising manifold in India

India, a net exporter of steel, is slowly becoming a net importer as the demand from the construction sector is growing at a fast pace.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - For years, observers have asked when the Dubai housing market was going to crash. Yet, every year prices for the upscale homes, villas and condominiums go up across the city of 1.5 million people show no sign of faltering. The city's recent Big 5 Trade show, the largest construction exhibition in the M iddle East, attracted 25 per cent more visitors and exhibitors than a year earlier, according to figures supplied by the organizers, DM G World M edia Dubai. The show was initially organized in a tent 28 years ago.

From the beginning of the financial year 2007-08, the country has imported 3.6 million tonnes per annum (M TPA) of steel as against 2.9 M TPA of exports. Experts say the trend is likely to continue for three to four years. R K P Singh, director general, Institute for Steel Development and Growth (INSDAG), Kolkata, while talking to DNA M oney on the sidelines of 7th Asian Steel Conference, said: "The construction sector will be the biggest driver of steel industry in India and other developing countries for the next 5-10 years."

THE COVER STORY

ULCRA REPEALED

The M aharashtra government on November 28, 2007, repealed the three-decade-old Urban Land Ceiling and Regulation Act (ULCRA) at its Assembly session in Nagpur. Formed with the purpose of curbing land hoarding in the hands of a few, the Act empowered the State Government to acquire "excess" land and then release this land for public use. Sounds good, does not it? If Person X has loads and loads of land, then what is wrong if he surrenders a bit of it to the Government who then gives it back to the aam janta in the form of low-cost housing.

Campus Pulse

Share Market: Lets Get, Started by Siddhanth Walia

A stock exchange , share market or bourse is a corporation or mutual organization that provides facilities for stockbrokers and traders, to trade company stocks and other securities. Stock exchanges also provide facilities for the issue and redemption of securities as well as other financial instruments and capital events including the payment of income and dividends.

Interview with the Placement InCharge Mr.Tarandeep Singh about overseas placement.

Health and living

10 Smart eating habits

In The traveler

Know your city: Pune 20 companies bid for longest expressway in India

Chamber of Secrets: Bedse Caves

Bedse caves are also popularly called Bedsa caves. Dating back to the 1st century B.C., these caves are probably among the oldest of cave monuments in India and the world.

The M aharashtra government on November 28, 2007, repealed the three-decade-old Urban Land Ceiling and Regulation Act (ULCRA) at its Assembly session in Nagpur. Formed with the purpose of curbing land-hoarding in the hands of a few, the Act empowered the State Government to acquire "excess" land and then release this land for public use. Sounds good, doesn't it? If Person X has loads and loads of land, then what's wrong if he surrenders a bit of it to the Government who then gives it back to the aam janta in the form of low-cost housing.

If only it was that simple. Ironically, even with all the discretionary power that the ULCRA gave to them i.e. The ULCRA act prohibited individuals from owning over 500 sq m of land, State Governments just couldn't work it right. They just couldn't - didn't - acquire surplus land. Besides, land owners, and Governments, conveniently circumvented the Act using the "exception" clauses that the Act contained.

Now, to put numbers to it, consider this nationwide data Land deemed as excess: 2,20,674 hectares

Land acquired by State Governments: 19,020 - or a mere 9% Actual excess land exempted under the Act: 61,967 hectares.

While the state is expected to get nearly Rs 11,000 crore from the Centre under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal M ission after the repeal of the Act, this move is expected to boost middle- and low-income housing in the eastern suburbs of the city and cool prices in these areas over the next three to five years.

The ULCRA was applicable in eight cities if the state M umbai, Thane, Pune, Nasik, Nagpur, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur and stipulated that an individual cannot hold more than 500 square meters of vacant land in M umbai and 1,000 sq meters in other cities such as Nagpur. Repeal of ULCRA has led to a great amount of discussion over its consequences on real estate market. According to a paper brought by The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM ) Repealing of Urban Land Ceiling Regulation Act (ULCRA) by all the states will help the real estate business to grow at 14% by 2011-12 and substantially increase its contribution to national GDP from current level of 1%. With the annulment of ULCRA by all states, says the Paper, the real estate sector alone will create an additional 4 million job opportunities and curtail the currently sky rocketing property prices by at least 40% in next 5-6 years. The other issues that currently restrict and hinder the growth of domestic real estate industry include high stamp duty, obsolete rental and foreclosure laws and building code standards. The ASSOCHAM Paper therefore has suggested that the previously mentioned issues if addressed properly with new laws in place, housing will be affordable to poorer and weaker sections of the society. Another important aspect that this event might cause is the lowering of property prices though industry-watchers believe that the ULCRA repeal will not see prices fall immediately, the new supply will ensure that prices stabilize. Prices in prime areas will not have any impact but the ULCRA repeal will see a housing revolution in the state. According to Anuj Puri, chairman of property consultant Jones Lang LaSalle M eghraj."We will see at least ten times more mass housing projects in some of the M umbai suburbs, Kalyan, Pune, Nasik, Sangli and Kolhapur in the next three years," Developers also feel they can save significantly on the money spent on getting permission under ULCRA for land development. "M ost developers spend Rs 100 per square foot on getting permission from the ULC department. Now we can save that cost and pass on the benefit to consumers," a M umbai-based developer said.

But a section of society doesnt agree with decision of repealing of ULCRA M r. P B Samant, who led Brihanmumbai Nivara Abhiyan to carry out a successful housing project in Goregaon under ULCRA announced a multi-pronged agitation to create public awareness against what he called the ulterior motives behind repealing the Act. According to M r. Samant, Its not a question of just ULCRA and the land. The entire M umbai development model neglects the needs and interests of an average M umbaikar. We will involve experts, town planners, engineers, architects, legal experts, retired civil servants, associations of tenants, labourers and environmentalists in our agitation against this, e said the agitation was against the cartel of big builders and private sector companies out to get a pie in M umbai development, and the burden on infrastructure that measure like

more FSI would lead to. On top of the Abhiyans list is the demand for 1,000 acres of land in M umbai for w-cost housing. The organization has raised around Rs 100 crore from around 1 lakh members, who ould form co-operative societies to execute housing schemes on this land, M r. Samant said. ndeed, who can argue with that? Should not the State Government first implement the Act in its spirit efore repealing it? But does not past experience tell us that this Act cannot be implemented? So, can we ust our politicians to actually execute this Act? Even if they do start implementing it, what if land-owners o to courts and delay the process? Even if the Government acquires land, then who will monitor the rocess of the surplus land reaching its ultimate end-use, i.e. low-cost housing? Is there any regulatory ystem in place to ensure transparency in this land-release?

s always, too many questions, too few answers. Now when ULCRA is finally repealed, the process will ake time and it won't be transparent. Look at M umbai's M ill Lands. The Supreme Court verdict (allowing or re-dev elopment of the mills) was in March-2006, and ev en today a year-and-a-half own the line, mill owners, the BMC and MHADA are all fighting ov er who gets how much Effect on Pune M ore supply will come following repeal but without the development plan or master plan being passed for Pune the availability of land would not necessarily have the desired impact. Developers will need a clear direction from the government on utilization of land that will be released that will come only after DP has been passed. The government also needs to work on improving infrastructure, as the housing industry is dependent on it. Only these will help in the objective of providing affordable housing. In Pune, land prices in 5 to 7 km from the city have risen 300-400 times. An acre of land was sold at Rs 12 lakh three years ago in Pune. Today, the same land is sold at Rs 45 lakh. I feel that after the repeal, more land will come and prices will stabilize, chairman of Pune Builders and Promoters Association: Even if lands get freed up under the ULCRA repeal, until the development plans for the 23 fringe villages presently lying with the state government is accepted and notified, no real benefit will be felt. Elaborating on the impact of repeal in Punes realty prices, an industry source said: If land in Lohegaon and Wadgaon-Sheri villages are freed up, it will impact the prices in neighboring Vimannagar or if land in Baodhan and Baner are freed up, prices in Aundh will be impacted. Both Aundh and Vimnnagar are favorite residential destinations for Punes IT and ITeS employees.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - For years, observers have asked when the Dubai housing market was going to crash. Yet, every year prices for the upscale homes, villas and condominiums going up across the city of 1.5 million people show no sign of faltering. "This is what people ask and we never know the answer," said Linda M ahoney, the M ontrealborn chief executive of the Dubai real estate agency Better Homes. "But there's no bubble," insisted M ahoney, who has about 400 employees. "You know how many years I've been listening to this bubble stuff? The economy here is very strong. This doesn't have a flavour-of-the-month feeling." M ahoney has been in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, since the early 1980s, when the city's population was a fraction of its current level. It was a time when motorists didn't have to battle traffic and were still parking in sandy lots. Today the lots have made way for new developments, including the world's largest tower, the Burj Dubai; the man-made Palm Island mixed residential and hotel projects; a $4.2-billion urban rail project, and the world's largest airport. And, while some observers have questioned whether Dubai's ever-growing supply of high-priced homes would find buyers, real estate analysts say strong demand continues to underpin the market. According to a recent report by the trade publication Gulf Construction, about 15 per cent of the world's cranes are located in Dubai. The city's recent Big 5 Trade show, the largest construction exhibition in the M iddle East, attracted 25 per cent more visitors and exhibitors than a year earlier, according to figures supplied by the organizers, DM G World M edia Dubai. The show was initially held in a tent 28 years ago. "Ever since I came here people said this couldn't possibly continue," said DM G managing director Bernard Walsh. "But it does. The ambition is endless." It's part of a trend of construction on an unprecedented scale across the Gulf Co-operation Council, which includes the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. According to the database company Proleads, there are 3,400 active construction projects in these Persian Gulf countries,

Constro 2007, a show in India on construction industry, provides a unique opportunity to display the latest products and technologies required in construction industry. The event highlighted new processes and materials evolved in construction industry. The show had conferences running concurrently with the exhibition by experts from related field.

Constro 2007 was organized across 7.5 acres land at the College of Engineering (COEP) Ground in Pune. An area of around 6,000 sq.m was covered with more than 200 booths. Pune Construction Engineering Research Foundation is celebrating its Silver Jubilee year, M r Nagarkar added, and this time, "For the first time in the last 25 years in association with Orbit, we intend to give this show a wider canvas and global perspective to the issue." The tenth Constro exhibition held in Pune later this year offered a platform to a wide range of Indian and international participants. Top construction equipment manufacturers and technology developers from Korea, China, M alaysia, Germany, Italy, Canada, Holland, Denmark and Dubai displayed their products at Constro 2007 held in Pune from November 28 to December 2, 2007. The event was the 10th in the series. According to M r. R D Nagarkar, Chairman of the organizing committee of Constro 2007, a new concept of cluster pavilions for overseas participants was introduced, apart from special features for products and services related to M alls, M ultiplexes IT parks and intelligent homes, which created the main theme of the event.

M r. Naren Kothari, Hon. Secretary of PCERF, an NGO, and organizers of the event says that more than two lakh visitors and 10,000 professionals have attended. According to PCERF, the real estate demand in the next five years is expected to be more than 2000 million sq.ft. within all seven active markets of the country, amongst which Pune is at the forefront. The construction industry also provides an impetus to other sectors creating linkages and infrastructure facilities. Constro also hosted competitive events for industry and institutions for design and implementation of entrance gates and the theme pavilion. Platinum, Gold, Silver and Associate sponsorships were promoted for various competitions and seminars. This year, entries from all over M aharashtra from Architectural and Engineering colleges were called for the competition of Entrance gate - a major attraction of the event. The centralized theme promoted the concept of Intelligent Homes (India 2020) "as this is the future of the Indian construction and building industry", say the organizers.

Steel import seen rising manifold in India

India, till now a net exporter of steel, is slowly becoming a net importer as the demand from the construction sector is growing at a fast pace.

From the beginning of the financial year 2007-08 till date, the country has imported 3.6 million tonnes per annum (M TPA) of steel as against 2.9 M TPA of exports. Experts say the trend is likely to continue for three to four years. R K P Singh, director general, Institute for Steel Development and Growth (INSDAG), Kolkata, while talking to DNA M oney on the sidelines of 7th Asian Steel Conference, said: "The construction sector will be the biggest driver of steel industry in India and other developing countries for the next 5-10 years." The total steel production capacity of the country is currently 45 M TPA. He said the sector would consume almost 50 per cent of the total produce in the country and if the demand does not get sufficed by domestic manufacturers, the sector would start importing. "A shift towards import of steel has already started as the kind of products demanded by the sector is not manufactured abundantly in India," Singh said. Singh said the construction sector demands heavy structural steel with high tensile strength that is manufactured by only two major manufacturers in the country - Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) and Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL). "These two companies together don't meet the demand of steel from the construction sector and as a result more and more orders are flowing outwards," he said. The current demand from the construction sector is approximately 24 M TPA, out of which almost 4 M TPA has been met by imports till November 2007. With the government and the private sector investing heavily in expansion and strengthening of infrastructure in the country, the demand is expected to grow manifold. "Currently the construction sector is consuming close to 44 per cent or 20 M TPA of the total steel produced in the country while China is consuming almost 55 per cent of its total production," Singh said. He said with investments in roads, railways, airports, ports and real estate growing at a brisk pace, the construction sector, as a ripple effect, is growing at the same rate or even higher. By 2011-2012, the demand of steel from the construction sector will stand at over 55 per cent of the total production. This will be complemented by the impetus given by the government and the industry for more and more steel intensive structures, especially in ports, airports and real estate. The construction sector in India is growing at the rate of 15 per cent per annum while the steel industry is growing at the rate 12.9 per cent. On the other hand, the demand for steel-related products is growing at the rate of over 13 per cent per annum. "Though it is a good signal for the steel industry, if capacity augmentation does not keep pace with the demand, India will have to import high quantities of steel," he said. He said all major capacity -augmentations planned by steel manufacturers will take at least three to four years to come on stream. Therefore, till 2010-2011 India's share of imports will rise and companies such as Arcelor-M ittal and Posco will be the biggest beneficiaries, he added.

STUDENTS COMMITTEE 2007-08 Students Committee functions under the guidance of Mr. Manishi guha. Its headed by Mr. Abhijatya Kumar, Students Coordinator.

Committee M embers w ith Prof. M anishi Guha

EVENTS
INDEPENDENCE DAY: 15 AUGUS T 2007 India has proudly worn its patriotism on its sleeve for the past six decades now and millions of tricolors that graced offices and homes yesterday, just proved the fact all over again. On this occasion of completing 60 years of independence, the Students Committee of the National Institute of Construction M anagement and Research (NICM AR), based in Pune, organized a Blood Donation
Students depicting unity in diversity

Camp at their Balewadi Campus. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. M .G. Korgaonker, DirectorGeneral, NICM AR, and Prof. Ajit Patwardhan, Dean, NICM AR.

After inaugurating the auspicious occasion, the Director General delivered an enlightening speech. He said that he believes that Independence Day must now be viewed as Inspiration Day- a day on which we draw inspiration for building the future India of our dreams. Also at NICM AR, we would like to contribute in making Education India Brand a globally respected brand, said Dr. Korgaonker.
Participants w ith the Indian Flag

Registration to the blood donation camp began at 2 PM . The enthusiasm of the students was truly commendable. Poona Serological Institute (P.S.I.) Blood Bank was able to collect a total of 87 units of blood. Even though some of the students were unable to donate due to not fulfilling the criteria, they were encouraging and supporting their colleagues in the process. It was truly a day of celebration for every Indian to commemorate our jubilant victory. It was to this success that every student stood up; chin held up with pride and saluted one another Jai Hind to mark the 60th anniversary of Indian victory.

ONAM: 28 AUGUS T 2007 Onam is one of the most important festivals of Kerala symbolizing the prosperity of people. Being the harvest festival, to thank the God for bountiful yield and enjoy the bounty of nature after a year of hard labor, the legendary king M ahabali is welcomed to his kingdom with all the reverence. Prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu for his divine kindness.
Students w ith the magnificent rangoli

As a part of NICM AR tradition, students from Kerala took this opportunity to celebrate Onam in a grand way. Everyone celebrated Onam with a marked zeal and fervor. To celebrate this event students from Kerala, dressed in their

traditional attires, created elaborate and intricate designs of rangolis using pookkalam (with flowers). Students sang Onappaattu songs highlighting the rich culture of Kerala and
Students singing the traditional

distributed sweets amongst the students.

S PORTS EVENTS The importance of sports for students is invaluable. It instills lessons that are essential in the life of a student. Sports play a pivotal role in the makeup of young athletes. It helps a young impressionable discipline, youth learn values like
Boys engrossed in volleyball tournament

responsibility,

self-confidence,

sacrifice, accountability and teamwork.

Various intra-college sports events were organized in the campus. There was a volleyball tournament organized in the last week of August for the boys. Students from the senior and junior batches participated actively. The senior ACM team and junior ACM section-3 team qualified for the finals. The final match brought the two batches together to cheer for their respective teams. The ACM senior team won the tournament with a final score of 3-0. The junior team gave them a tough fight.

A throw ball match was organized for girls on the 3 September 2007. The two teams were from the Senior and Junior batches. This was more eventful than the boys volleyball match was. It was highly appreciated that the girls came forward and played sportingly. The senior girls won the game with a final score of 2-1. The junior team was beaten, but was truly appreciated for its efforts and sportsmanship.
Girls throw ball match in full sw ing

JANMAS HTAMI: 04 S eptember 2007 The college students celebrated Krishna Jayanti in a colorful manner. A very popular ceremony known as Dahi-handi was organized on the campus, wherein the students broke clay pot containing curd and fruits. It had been arranged separately for boys and girls. They had different teams for both the senior as well as the junior batch.
Boys team reaching the sky

All the students actively participated. They came in large numbers to cheer and support their respective teams. The students formed a human pyramid by standing over each others shoulders until the pyramid was tall enough to allow the topmost person to reach the pot. This ritual symbolizes the way Krishna used to steal curd (dahi) with his friends. There was a special traditional dhol arranged to heighten the tempo
Girls team in

of the students. The celebration created a jubilant and happy atmosphere amongst the students. The event was celebrated with great splendor.

TEACHERS DAY: 05 S eptember 2007 Teachers have an influencing role in the life of a student. They are the beacons of light guiding us in the formative years of our life. A teacher moulds us and in the process shapes our future. The day, 5 September, was selected to be celebrated as Teachers day as it is the birthday of a great teacher and the former President of India, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Teachers Day was a memorable day for the faculty members of the National Institute of Construction M anagement and Research, Pune, with students presenting an array of creative programmes for them. The Chief Guest for the event was Dr. S. Sivaram, Director, National Chemicals Laboratories, Pune and the Guest of honor was Dr. M G Korgaonker, Director-General of NICM AR, Pune. Dr. S Sivaram emphasized that education is a process of learning, which practically never ends. He also mentioned that there are many alternatives available to an individual for a situation but he needs to foresee the hurdles and make the right choice for that particular instance to make an appropriate decision.
Chief Guest: Dr. S Sivaram and Guest of Honor: Dr. M G Korgaonker

His speech was followed by an informal session especially designed for the faculty members. Events like Product Description and Antakshari were organized for the teaching as well as non-teaching staff

members. They actively and enthusiastically took part in all the events.

NICM ARs distinguished Faculty members

GANES H UTS AV: 15 to 20 S eptember 07 Every country has its own unique culture. Indians believe in unity in diversity and this attitude truly reflects in every citizen. Ganesh Chaturthi or the birthday of Ganesh (the elephant headed God of wisdom and prosperity) was celebrated in a grand fashion. Ganesh is Indias cutest God.
Traditional M aharashtra dance

He has the head of an elephant on which is perched a dainty tiara, four podgy hands joined to a sizeable belly with each hand holding a symbolic object. One has a trishul, or a trident, the second, an ankush made from his very own broken tooth, the third elegantly holds a lotus and the fourth a rosary (which is sometimes replaced by modaks, his favourite sweet).
Ganesh Sthapana at boys hostel

It is a very popular festival in M aharashtra. This festival brought all the NICM ARians together. The Ganesh festival began on a religious note by setting up a pandal with the Ganesh idol (Ganpati Sthapana), which was followed by a procession of the students to the NICM AR campus. Students performed the traditional M aharashtrian dance lezim.
Students enjoying the t

15 S eptember 07 Ganesh Sthapana was done at the Boys Hostel lobby that was followed by Aradhana and Pooja of the idol. The decorations for the event were taken care of by the core cultural team.

Rangoliother entries

Rangolithe w inning entry

16th S eptember 07 Rangoli competition was organized to allow the students to display their talent in art and creativity. The winners were M r. Siddhesh Kashinath Pai and M s. Pranoti Ashok Karhe. 17th September 07 Carnival events were held on the campus involving both the seniors and juniors. Various fun events like Balloon Balance, Cap the Pen and Bucket the Rocket were organized which the students enjoyed to the hilt.

Participants at the carnival event

18th S eptember 07 Traditional and cultural events were organized, wherein students wore traditional attire. The main attractions of the day were various cultural events performed by the students, especially the lezim dance.
Students on traditional day

In addition, the titles of M r. NICM AR and M s. NICM AR were given away to the best traditionally dressed students.

Students in traditional

20th S eptember 07 Active participation and involvement by students was witnessed during the Ganesh Visarjan. On the day of Visarjan

(immersion), a procession of students carried the idol to the river, with fervid shouts of Ganapathi Bappa M orya, M angal M urti M orya, a popular chant in M aharashtra.
Students performing lezim

Our Laurels
M r. Abhijatya Kumar of ACM -21 won the Third prize in Debate Competition in M IT, Pune

M s. Sapna of ACM -20 won the Second prize in Paper Presentation Competition in M ITCON, Pune

Concrete casts new light in dull rooms

The days of dull, grey concrete could be about to end. A Hungarian architect combined the worlds most popular building material with optical fibre to create a new type of concrete that transmits light. We all know that concrete can be concocted to look like many things, but who would have thought that the rocksolid substance could be a substitute for a window? As it turns out, a handful of academic and commercial, researchers are not just dreaming of this, they are busy making it happen. A wall made of Light Transmitting Concrete or LitraCon allegedly has the strength of traditional concrete but thanks to an embedded array of glass, fibres can display a view of the outside world, such as the silhouette of a tree, for example. Thousands of optical glass fibres form a matrix and run parallel to each other between the two main surfaces of every block. The hope is that the new material will transform the interior appearance of concrete buildings by making them feel light and airy rather than dark and heavy. Mr. Anuj Mahajan (ACM-21, S ec 2)

Wrestle with your fear

Some studies have shown that fear of public speaking ranks up there with the fear of death.
Public speaking - you know the feeling... you work for weeks, prepare your presentation to the best of your ability, try to ignore the nerves building up, then... Get on the platform or stand up at the meeting and there you are Dry mouth, shaky legs, blank mind!

We are all afraid of something or the other. It can be the idea of flying, giving a speech or even crossing the street. While fear is a natural response to danger, phobias are exaggerated response to situations that, in the cold light of day, are not very dangerous. Yet they remain terribly difficult to overcome. A big reason has to do with the way most people respond to fear- by avoiding it. Whether its closed spaces or packed audiences, the more you duck those tough spots, the more you will fear them. To deal with any type of stress effectively, you first must understand that life itself, including public speaking, is NOT inherently stressful. Do your knees shake, voice trembles and your thoughts be jumbledyou know the rest, once you are on the dais? M any of us have observed public speakers and thought to ourselves "Wow, I could never be that smart, calm, witty, entertaining, polished . . . or whatever." Well, the news for you-- you do not have to be brilliant, witty, or perfect to succeed. That is not what public speaking is all about. It may look that way, but it is not. You can be average. You can be below average. You can make mistakes, get tongue-tied, or forget whole segments of your talk. You can even tell no jokes at all and still be successful. Audiences are incredibly forgiving. They really do not care if you mess up. They do not care if you lose your place. They do not care if you look at your notes, and they do not expect you to start with a joke. They know it could just as easily be them up there, and they are rooting for you. So make what the audience learns more important than how you appear when you are providing that information. Ms. Madhvi Walia (ACM-21, S ec 3)

Animation, technology that challenged every possible laws of science where we saw candies on trees, flying cars, made Superman fly and many such miracles that were nothing more than static comic characters. This industry today has changed from its halcyon days and has grown into major entertainment. No children can imagine their life without such cartoon characters and its use for effects in movies has made it favorite of all ages.

India: A rising giant in animation

The global market size of the animation industry (based on demand) was estimated at USD 55 billion in 2005. The industry is expected to witness a CAGR of 8% and is estimated to be USD 75 billion by 2009. The size of the Indian animation market (based on demand) was estimated at USD 285 million in 2005. It is expected to witness a CAGR of 35 percent from 2005-2009 and increase to USD 950 million by 2009. India has the worlds largest entertainment industry, already a leader in software industry and skilled work force that fuels the growth of the animation and special effects industry. These fuels brought this industry a long way from being a medium of entertainment for children to a wholesome family entertainer and is in the process of emerging as a global animation hub with movies like Hanuman, Krishna, etc. Global entertainment giants Disney, Sony, IM AX and others are increasingly outsourcing cartoons and special effects from India. Even other companies are targeting India for their commercial and computer games animation. India possesses the necessary skill-sets including low-cost, Englishspeaking workforce, talented technicians and the expertise to prov ide quality animation content, which can compete with international studios and digital animation production houses.

Indian animators from M aya Entertainment, M umbai were involved in producing the spectacular special effects for the action adventure movie The Mummy, Stuart Little. Although they have yet to produce a hit, cartoon as successful as Finding Nemo. Indian movie winning an Oscar is a fantasy. It used to be some years back but in 2002 Oscar, nominated Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves an Indian made animated movie. India's reputation in this field is growing fast. Indian animators have shown already their talent in many movies as said earlier, in addition to that there are Pentamedia (which made Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves), Crest Communications, UTV Toons, JadooWorks focus on 3D animation, used for special effects in films, such as those seen in The Matrix. The Walt Disney Company is exploring India as a production base for its animation and feature films. They have also signed an agreement with Yash Raj Films. M TV is considering adding India to Korea and the Philippines as outsourcing destinations and Cartoon Network is buying programs made in India.

India offers a significant cost advantage in animation and game development, as compared to other outsourcing destinations such as Taiwan, South Korea, Philippines, China and Taiwan get worlds largest number of animation contracts. Nasscom says, India is competing head on with China and offering very competitive rates. There are at least 14 excellent animation studios in India.

Analysts say the future of animation in India is brilliant, we have everything going for us great talent, great prices, great stories. We generally work as pure contractors where both storyline and the animation brief is given by the client just need to come up with stories and characters that have an international appeal. Mr. Abhinav S rivastava (ACM-21, S ec 3)

The art of learning

"A Learned person learns from his

experiences, but a more learned one learns from others' experiences."

All the inventions and discoveries have been made through practical experiments. What is the use of such a knowledge or education, which is written in books but not utilized. One should not only wander in search of knowledge, but should try

The value of physical work is much less as compared to the mental or intellectual. Hence, try to learn and find out new fields and pastures that have remained untraversed so far. Whatever objective a man thinks in his mind and works in that direction, he is able to achieve the same. The three foundations of learning are, seeing, suffering, and studying. While as a student, most of our knowledge comes through listening, as we advance in age, we can devise various other methods to make education an interesting experience. Just as a child is curious to learn more and more about as many things as possible, it is a human trait and we must be curious to learn in detail going into the depth of all what we want to study. We can always keep this trait in mind and utilize it for better purpose, making our learning interesting at the same time. This idea if practiced daily can even become exhilarating and as a result, you will feel happy at the end of the day. Because of the simple fact that you have not undertaken this as a task or work, but as a play and this mood should give you pleasure, instead of being tired. But I would like to caution you here that even play or game has become 'work' for those who have taken this seriously and earn money thereby as is happening in today' world. What an irony of the situation in that physical games, e.g., boxing, lawn tennis, cricket, etc., are more paying job than any other work, excepting the tinsel world actors. Nevertheless, they also play as actors and actresses for people to enjoy. The question is how to make the process of learning so interesting that a student may naturally feel attracted towards it? Generally, most of the students consider it a burden, so tedious a responsibility as has been said in a Hindi proverb. To study is to chew the iron-grams.

According to most of the students, it is unpleasant and boring and a distasteful imposition from outside; they do not put their heart and soul in their work, thus ending with a second or third division. The more persistently, perseveringly and regularly a person studies a subject, the more he will be able to understand its basic concepts, and that which appeared to be tough to follow in the beginning will become quite interesting.

With constant practice, even a dull-witted person becomes an expert. Practice makes a man perfect. Hence, if a student works hard and continues to do so regularly without break, he is bound to succeed in his mission. There can be no two opinions on this point. If you learn the hard way and overcome the difficulties with courage, you will relish your work even more and are not likely to forget easily what you have learnt. Even otherwise, whatever is learnt and memorized as a child is not likely to be forgotten. Experience tells us that childhood memories become our life-long partners. Nowadays 'learn while you play' methods are being devised, particularly for small children who grasp the fundamentals of their subject without being conscious of it. For grown-up children, lessons on different subjects are given on television or with the help of computer. This makes the task of learning easy and interesting, because even ten thousand spoken words cannot make such a great impact on the mind as one visual scene. Indeed, it is one of the greatest lessons of life that the burdens we carry by necessity or by choice, instead of weighing us down can actually lift us up in life. Certainly, the students have to accept the burden of learning, because there is no escape from it, why not change your attitude towards the burden and sing your way through life, thus making it not only acceptable but also interesting and pleasant? Your learning will actually lift you up ultimately and will make your life purposeful, like the burdensome wings of the birds that become attached to their backs, enabling them to fly. Your learning and education will certainly lift you up in life! Ms. Madhvi Walia (ACM-21, S ec 3)

SHARE MARKET: LETS GET STARTED SERIES: INTRODUCTION (CHAPTER 1)

By: Mr. Siddhant Walia ACM 21, Sec 3

What is a share market? A stock exchange , share market or bourse is a corporation or mutual organization which provides facilities for stock brokers and traders, to trade company stocks and other securities. Stock exchanges also provide facilities for the issue and redemption of securities as well as other financial instruments and capital events including the payment of income and dividends. The securities traded on a stock exchange include: shares issued by companies, unit trusts and other pooled investment products and bonds. To be able to trade a security on a certain stock exchange, it has to be listed there. Usually there is a central location at least for recordkeeping, but trade is less and less linked to such a physical place, as modern markets are electronic networks, which gives them advantages of speed and cost of transactions. Trade on an exchange is by members only. The initial offering of stocks and bonds to investors is by definition done in the primary market and subsequent trading is done in the secondary market. A stock exchange is often the most important component of a stock market. Supply and demand in stock markets is driven by various factors which, as in all free markets, affect the price of stocks.

Bombay stock exchange (BSE)

SHARE MARKET: LETS GET STARTED

How somebody can buy shares of a company?
To be able to hold shares of a company it is necessary to have a demat account, the abbreviation for dematerialised account, is a type of banking account which dematerializes paper-based physical stock shares. The dematerialised account is used to avoid holding physical shares: the shares are bought and sold through a stockbroker. This account is popular in India. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) mandates a demat account for share trading above 500 shares. As of April 2006, it became mandatory that any person holding a demat account should posses a Permanent Account Number (PAN), and the deadline for submission of PAN details to the depository lapsed on January 2007. Procedure 1. Fill demat request form (DRF) (obtained from a depository participant or DP (a depository participant is a market intermediary between the depository (generally NSDL) and investors) with whom your depository account is opened). 2. Deface the share certificate(s) you want to dematerialise by writing across Surrendered for dematerialisation. 3. Submit the DRF & share certificate(s) to DP. DP would forward them to the issuer / their R&T Agent. 4. After dematerialisation, your depository account with your DP, would be credited with the dematerialised securities. Required Documents The extent of documentation required to open a demat account may vary according to your relationship with the institution. If you plan to open a demat account with a bank, a savings account holder has an edge over the non-account holder. In fact, banks usually offer additional incentives to customers who open a demat account with them. Along with the application form, your photographs (with co-applicants) and proof of identity/residence/date of birth need to be submitted. The DPs also ask for a DP-client agreement to be executed on non-judicial stamp paper. Here is a broad list (you will not need all of them though): - PAN card - Voters ID - Passport - Ration card - Drivers license - Photo credit card - Employee ID card

TRADING ACCOUNT
A trading account at a brokerage firm allows you to buy and sell a full range of securities av ailable on the open market, but choose your broker carefully. Instructions Gathering Information Things You'll Need Calculator Paper And Pencils Steps Step One Call sev eral major brokerage firms in your area and ask for the broker-of-the-day, duty broker or new accounts broker. Be ready to take careful notes of each conv ersation. Step Two Ask each broker about the firm's minimum deposit for opening a trading-only or cash account and what account features are offered (for example, the ability to trade on margin). Step Three Inquire about account fees, broker compensation and whether the firm prov ides any online serv ices. Ask for brochures. Step Four Thoroughly discuss what costs, such as commissions, are negotiable. This is important! Choosing the Brokerage Steps Step One Rev iew the information you hav e gathered and rank the top three brokerage firms. Step Two Call the brokers, top-ranked firm first, and make appointments to v isit their offices during market hours. Step Three Tour each office and note the av ailability of research materials, a customer computer terminal and a cashier station for processing deposits and checks.

Opening the Account Steps Step One Take home the documents requiring your signature for opening an account and carefully read all the terms and conditions to which you will be agreeing. Step Two Open your account only after hav ing all your questions answered and making sure you understand critical information regarding your account's cost, features and limitations. Step Three Get copies of all signed documents relating to your account.

Now after knowing how to buy next question that comes in mind is what to buy? Types of investment/trading -primary market (IPO) An Initial Public Offering (IPO) --is the first sale of stock by a private company to the public. IPOs are often issued by smaller, younger companies seeking capital to expand, but can also be done by large privately owned companies looking to become publicly traded. In an IPO, the issuer may obtain the assistance of an underwriting firm, which helps it determine what type of security to issue (common or preferred), best offering price and time to bring it to market. Also referred to as Public Offering. IPOs can be a risky investment. For the individual investor, it is tough to predict what the stock will do on its initial day of trading and in the near future since there is often little historical data with which to analyze the company. Also, most IPOs are of companies going through a transitory growth period, and they are therefore subject to additional uncertainty regarding their future value. -S ECONDARY MARKET The secondary market is the financial market for trading of securities that have already been issued in an initial private or public offering. Alternatively, secondary market can refer to the market for any kind of used goods. The market that exists in a new security just after the new issue is often referred to as the aftermarket. Once a newly issued stock is listed on a stock exchange, investors and speculators can easily trade on the exchange, as market makers provide bids and offers in the new stock. Ways to trade in secondary market Mutual funds Long term investment

Mutual funds : A mutual fund is a professionally managed form of collective investments that pools money from many investors and invests it in stocks, bonds, short-term money market instruments, and/or other securities. In a mutual fund, the fund manager, who is also known as the portfolio manager, trades the fund's underlying securities, realizing capital gains or losses, and collects the dividend or interest income. T he investment proceeds are then passed on to the individual investors. Highly advisable for those who are new in share market and want to play ve ry safe . Long-te rm inve stme nt: It is worldly acknowledged that longer the investment is more fruitful it is but the big question is how long is long enough? An answer that can come only after sustained efforts in understanding the principles of finance, business and overall logic of market. T his way of investment is good but according to me only for people who have a long term experience of market. Short-te rm inve stme nt: If the period of investment is not long enough but still long enough to reap benefits of progressive market can be termed as short-term investment. Different portals, interest sites, analyst, brokerage firms issue their own advice regarding which share should be bought and sold some such internet sites are moneycontrol.com, economictimes.com, anandrathi.com etc. T his type of investment can reap lot of profit but depends on many factors which are not in the hand of a investor and can only produce benefit when market is on rise. Trading: T his may be divided into the following: Day trading Multiday trading

Day trading: In all share trading methods this is the most risky way many even call it casino but until a few years back it provided liquidity to bourses. T his type of trading involves buying and selling shares in a day and taking or giving the margin with respect to profit/loss. T his can also be done on reverse basis (short selling). In short se lling , the trader borrows stock (usually from his brokerage that holds its clients' shares or its own shares on account to lend to short sellers) then sells it on the market, hoping for the price to fall. The trader eventually buys back the stock, making money if the price fell in the meantime or losing money if it rose. Exiting a short position by buying back the stock is called "covering a short position." T his strategy may also be used by unscrupulous traders to artificially lower the price of a stock. Hence, most markets either prevent short selling or place restrictions on when and how a short sale can occur. T he practice of naked shorting is illegal in most (but not all) stock markets. Multiday trading As name suggests this type of trading can take place for a little longer period then a single day trading and apart from that there can be no short selling in this, it is almost same as day trading. Both the methods of trading our highly risky and should definitely be avoided by anyone who is interested in

Kuwait is keen to invest in grassroots oil and gas projects in India

Kuwait is keen to invest in grassroots oil and gas projects in India. It is also in talks with private petroleum companies, including Reliance Industries, to take up such projects. This was conveyed by the visiting head of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), the national oil company of Kuwait, Saad A. Al Shuwaib, during his meeting with Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Murli Deora at his office here on Thursday. 20 companies bid for longest expressway in India The planned expressway will dwarf the 95km-long, six-laned, access controlled expressway connecting Indias financial capital Mumbai with Pune. Twenty firms have submitted initial bids for building Indias longest and biggest expressway project yeta Rs40,000 crore, eight-laned, access controlled expressway linking Ballia in eastern Uttar Pradesh (UP) with Greater Noidalocated on the border of the Capital, New Delhi. The 1047 km-long road project dubbed Ganga Expressway will, when operational, cut travel time between the backward eastern part of Uttar Pradesh and the more prosperous western part of the state, by 16 hours from the current 24 hours. For a traveler, it would take just about eight hours to zip from the holy city of Varanasi to New Delhi when the project is completed. Jaguar dealers say no to India The head of a group that represents Jaguar car dealers in the US is warning Ford Motor Co. against selling its premium Jaguar brand to either of the two interested Indian bidders, because of what he called unique image issues. Instead of selling to Indias Tata group or Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M), Ford should sell Jaguar to another final bidder, US-based JPMorgan Chase & Co. unit One Equity Partners, said Ken Gorin, chairman of the Jaguar India's RPG group to invest 140 bln rupees over three years India's RPG group said it plans to invest 140 bln rupees over three years into the power generation, transmission, retail and entertainment sectors. Of these, investment in the power sector will be about 90 bln rupees. the group company RPG Transmission Ltd and Nitel, will be merged soon into power transmission company, KEC International Ltd, to consolidate Navayuga Engg bags Rs 710cr NHAI project Hyderabad-based multi-disciplinary engineering and construction player, Navayuga Engineering Company, has bagged a Rs 710 crore project from the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

Sustaining growth, a critical challenge The Centre said the prospects of economic growth remain strong, but cautioned against rising capital inflows. In the Mid-Year Review 2007-08 that was tabled by the Finance Minister P. Chidambaram in Parliament, the Government said critical challenge was to sustain the growth momentum and called for paying greater attention to disadvantaged groups so that they could also share economic opportunities. India's Energy Suppliers: Questions on the IPI Gas Pipeline While the Indo-US nuclear deal faltered around issues of national sovereignty, will India's national interest lead to agreement with Iran (and Pakistan), to proceed with the gas pipeline project? The strained relations between Iran and the US, in September 2007, saw an extension of the Iran Sanctions Act (ISA), (Congressional Research Service, ISA, 12 Oct 2007), and now also includes provision to remove Administration's ability to waive the application of sanctions on national interest grounds, as it did in the case of a pipeline project viewed as beneficial to Turkey, an American ally. As the US regards India and Pakistan as allies, at least in the war against terror, the new sanctions provisos could prove very damaging in international relations terms, but so far US officials have only gone so far as to "expect" India to support the sanctions regime. Although American concern about the pipeline project has been expressed, and it has been called "unacceptable", no statement has yet been made (or made public), to the effect that the pipeline would be subject to sanctions. India's need for speed
Indian officials are preparing for the jump. Along with the biggest highwayconstruction boom since independence, India will also be raising its speed limits from the current upper limit of 80km/h (48mph) to 100km/h (60mph), thereby lopping nearly 3 hours off the trip between New Delhi and Mumbai. With all the highways and faster speed limits, India might have to come up with a better driver's licensing scheme. That is to say, the country might actually need to develop one. No driving test is required to obtain a license despite India's 96,000 traffic fatalities each year. C hina and India both seem to look at the U.S. transportation system as a model worth replicating, but it's a system that was developed over 50 years ago at a time when oil was cheap and efficiency was not a concern. It's time to get a new model. C hina and India both seem to look at the U.S. transportation system as a model worth replicating, but it's a system that was develope d over 50 years ago at a

time when oil was cheap and efficiency was not a concern. It's time to get a new model.

Do we know Pune?? NAME Pune derives its name from Punya Nagari, or the city of virtuous deeds. Pune started out as PunyaVishaya or Punak Vishaya an agricultural settlement in AD 937. By the 13th century, it had come to be known as Kasbe Pune or Punavadi when under the Sultan rule. It was known alternatively as Poona by the British; but it has regained prominence as 'Pune' in the past few years.

Infosys Office building, Phase 2 at Rajiv Gandhi IT Park, Hinjewadi, Pune What is this peth? Peth is the general name for a locality in old Pune. Peths are an important part of Pune culture and were important ingredients of ancient city planning. Some of the Peths are named after the days of a week: Raviwar (Sunday) Peth, Somwar (M onday) Peth, M angalwar (Tuesday) Peth, Budhwar Peth (Wednesday), Guruwar (Thursday) Peth, Shukrawar (Friday) Peth, and Shaniwar (Saturday) Peth. Some peths have been named after a major temple located within their boundaries, such as Ganesh Peth, Bhawani Peth and Ganj Peth. Other peths have been named after certain notable M aratha and Peshwa rulers and generals, such as Central Peths by Dadoji Konddev,South Peths by Nilopant M ujumdar,Sadashiv Peth for Sadashivrao Bhau, Nana Peth for Nanasaheb Peshwe, Narayan Peth for Narayanrao Peshwe, Ghorpade Peth for Santaji Ghorpade and Rasta Peth for Sardar Raste. The last peth is the Navi (New) Peth. Currently, many localities are named as "Nagar" such as Sahakarnagar, Shikshaknagar, Vimannagar, Lokmanyanagar, Karvenagar and so on DID YOU KNOW? Pune was called "The Oxford of the east" by Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime M inister, due to the well-known academic and research institutions in the city and its popularity amongst students.

The first rules of the game were written in Pune by the British in 1873 and were not dissimilar to those in the modern version of the game. Hence Pune is known as the birthplace of Badminton. Pune is referred to by various names. Some of the most popular ones are

Nicknames o Queen of the Deccan o Oxford of the East o Detroit of India o The Automobile City Historical Names o Punyapattan o Punyanagari o Punnaka o Poona

S ome amazing facts about Pune1. Pune has the impeccable record of highest growth within a span of 20 Years. 2. Pune has highest number of pubs in Asia. 3. Pune has highest number of cigarette smokers in India. 4. Pune has the highest number of software companies in India - 212, followed by Bangalore - 208, Hyderabad - 97. 5. Pune has 21 engineering colleges, which is highest in the world in a given city. Pune University has 57 Engineering colleges affiliated to it, which is highest in the world. 6. Pune is the only city in the world to have commercial and defense Airport operating from the same strip. 7. Pune has highest number of public sector and government Organizations in India. 8. Pune University has highest number of students going abroad for higher studies taking the first place from IIT-Kanpur. Pune Universitys degree is recognized on Par by Oxford and Cambridge Universities. 9. Pune has only 38% of local population (i.e.M arathi). Hence a true cosmopolitan with around 20% North Indians,10% Tamilians, 14% Telugus, 10% Keralites, 8% Europeans (Koregaon Park), 5% Africans, 2% Bengalis and 6% a mixture of all races. 10. Pune police has the reputation of being second best in India after Bombay. 11. Pune has the highest density of traffic in India. 12. Pune has the highest number of 2-wheelers in the world. 13. Pune is considered the fashion capital of east. 15. Pune has produced the maximum international sportsmen in India for all sports next to M umbai & Delhi. 16. Pune has produced the maximum number of scientists considered for many high profile Prize nominations. 17. Pune has produced the highest number of professionals in USA almost 60% of the Indian population abroad is from Pune (except Gulf).

10 Smart e ating habits Most of us have a busy work schedules and a dozen other commitments to look into. But, to do justice to all these various aspects of your life, you MUST pay attention to your diet and health. How you eat your food is as important as what you eat. So, the next time you sit down to eat, enjoy your meal by keeping these pointers in mind.

Ene rgiz e your life style

i . Eat slowly; che w your food we ll It takes 20 minutes before your stomach sends a clear message to your brain that you're full. If you take the time to chew your food well, you will find you end up eating less. Ideally, you should have smaller, frequent meals as opposed to larger, infrequent ones. ii . Eat more If you want to lose weight, starving yourself does not help -- you need to eat well. Surprised? Here is the explanation: When your body does not receive the required nutrients, your metabolism slows down. Metabolism is the rate at which you burn calories while resting. So if you do not eat enough, fewer calories will be burnt and there will be less fat loss. You should eat small meals at regular intervals to keep your energy levels high. Eat till you are satiated (at the same time, don't forget what we suggested in T ip No 1).

Ge t MO RE out of your cardio workout

iii . Eat le ss re d me at Red meats are high in saturated fat and should be avoided by people with high cholesterol. Chicken and fish are the best meats to consume. Fish is better than chicken because it has antioxidants. Antioxidants are organic substances that include vitamins C, E, A and carotenoids; carotenoids add pigment to some fruits and vegetables. For instance, carrots wouldn't be orange without them. Beta-carotenoid is the most popular of carotenoids. Antioxidants help prevent cancer, heart disease and stroke. These meats can be baked, grilled or roasted. Frying will add unnecessary fat.

iv. Pre ve nt constipation Add fibre to your diet; this adds bulk to your food and prevents constipation. Whole grain foods like oatmeal, bran, wheat germ, brown rice, fruits (especially with their skin), prunes (dried plums), etc, are all good sources of fibre. Home remedies for constipation including the following: ~ Have guavas with the seeds. ~ Have honey in a glass of milk twice a day. ~ Have one tablespoon of corn syrup in a glass of water. Corn syrup is actually corn starch, which is primarily glucose. It is used in making candies, jams and jellies because it does not crystallize like sugar. Corn syrup is available in any well-stocked supermarket.

Life style tips for diabe tics v. Have onion and garlic Onion decreases blood pressure and garlic decreases cholesterol. Any amount and form of onion and garlic will give you the benefits of their properties, but a raw garlic clove taken on an empty stomach in the morning is the best. vi . Use le ss salt in your cooking Use minimum amount of salt for cooking if you have high blood pressure. Salt also causes water retention. This means your body will retain water if it is not receiving enough. After all, it still has to carry on the normal functioning of the organs and, if you are not drinking enough H2O, then the body starts keeping it. Water being taken in other forms, such as, soups, dals, drinks, etc, is retained for later use. Bloating and puffiness are all signs of water retention.

10 se nsible die t habits

vii . Have calcium-rich foods Use skimmed or double-toned milk and milk products as these contain less fat. Double-toned milk has lesser fat than toned or full cream milk. In the non-packaged variety, cow's milk is just as good as skimmed milk; it is definitely better than buffaloes' milk as the latter contains large amounts of fat. You should have between one and two glasses of milk a day. Other sources of calcium and protein can be taken instead of milk, if one is allergic to it. Calcium rich foods include almonds, figs, red kidney beans ( rajma ), mustard greens ( sarson ka saag ), etc. Proteins are found in meats, sprouts, soya, dals, etc. viii . Switch from maida to whole grains Replace maida products with whole grains, whole wheat, soya breads, etc, as these have a good amount of fibre; fibre helps in binding cholesterol, which helps in less production of bad cholesterol. Whole grain foods like oatmeal, bran, wheat germ and brown rice, fruits, especially with skins, prunes, etc, are all good sources of fibre. T oo much fibre may cause loose stools, so you have to monitor your individual intake accordingly. Medically, approximately 25 gm of fibre a day is enough to help maintain your digestive system.A good indicator: four slices of brown bread contains five grams of fibre; so does one large banana or orange. Dos and don'ts for migraine attacks ix . Have foods that contain iron T hese include red meats, especially liver, fruits like watermelon and pomegranate, vegetables like spinach, beans, beets and broccoli, whole grains, dried fruits, especially prunes, sunflower seeds, etc. x . Re lish the flavours You may have heard some of these before. But the best good food habit, which we all seem to overlook, is to actually taste and enjoy the flavour of the food with your emotions instead of just your tongue.

Interview with the placement In charge Mr.Tarandeep Singh

about overseas placement. Hope this interaction with him would give you some information in deciding your career. How was the overseas placement this year in comparison to the previous years? Well, this year there was an increase in the number of companies as well as the packages that were offered to the students. The variety of the companies have been more diversified this year. There have been Consultant, Contractor, Power project, Infrastructure project, Real estate companies. What about the number of students who appeared for overseas placement in comparison to the past. The number of students who appeared for the overseas have been the same. Surprisingly the students prefer to stay in India. One reason might be because the construction sector is at its pinnacle now and they have plenty of opportunities in India. Usually people have a bad impression about working in the gulf. What are your comments on this? It is not bad. You find people from all parts of the world. They work on latest technologies. The best of the world talent pool is present there. The projects are huge. You would face a tough and mechanical life no doubt because of the extreme temperatures, cost of living and travel in the cities there. The real estate boom has led the cost of living high there and traveling is not that easy. You should own a vehicle and getting a license is a difficult task. One more thing is that the rules and regulations are strict. But the best part is that there is a huge Indian community. You get all types of Indian food like the Punjabi, Gujrathi, and South Indian etc. How can a student going for an overseas job see himself in the organization in next few years, especially if he /she is a fresher. In gulf, the designations do not matter. An assistant project engineer will have a more responsibility than a project manager has here in India. Typically, it would take 7-10 yrs to become a project manager. But project managers there will be in the top of hierarchy of the organization more than a general or regional manager in India. Remember you would be competing with the worlds best.

Can you tell us how NICMARians are seen and about the recognition of NICMAR in the Gulf. Yes. NICM AR has got a good recognition in the gulf. NICM ARians now hold top positions in many organizations there. We have lot of NICM ARians working there. NICM Arians are usually known for their understanding of project over the others.

CHAMBER CAVES

OF

SECRETS:

BEDSE

Bedse caves are also popularly called Bedsa caves. Dating back to the 1st century B.C., these caves are probably among the oldest of cave monuments in India and the world. The Bedse caves are located about 9 km on the road from Kamshet railway station (on the M umbai-Pune line) to Kale colony. To get there by public transport, take the morning 08:00 Lonavala local train from Pune and get off at Kamshet station which comes after Vadgaon. The one way second class fare from Pune to Kamshet is ten rupees.

From Kamshet station there is a bus every 15 minutes going to Kale colony. Get into this bus and ask the conductor to drop you off at Bedse village. The bus fare is three rupees, and the bus journey takes about 15 minutes. A fifteen minute level walk from this drop off point will take you to the base of the mountain through Bedse village. The cave itself is visible from the bus / drop-off point as a hole-in-the-wall to your right. If you decide to drive there in your own vehicle, take the M umbai-Pune road till you reach Kamshet, about 48 km from Pune. At Kamshet, do not enter the town. Take the left fork, or bye-pass (if you are driving from Pune), proceed about 300 meters along it, and turn left under an arch with a signboard. Bedse village is nine kms from here. You can park you vehicle(s) at Bedse village. From Bedse village, there is a well-marked, easy path going up. The climb is short and easy. It will take anywhere between 15 minutes to half an hour depending on your body fitness. If you need directions, just ask any of the pre-teen kids hanging around there. For ten rupees, they will happily guide you right up to the cave. For another ten, they will even carry your luggage! As you come up to the grassy, level, one-acre plateau in front of the caves, you will see an Archeological Survey of India signboard telling you what you cannot do there and what will be done to you if you do what you are not supposed to do. There is absolutely no information about the caves available at the site this can be a reason because of which these caves are less crowded at any point of time as not many people are even aware of its existence. However, the beautiful caves are worth a one-time visit and are also good from trekking point of view. There are two main caves here that have entrances facing the east. Hence, a visit in the early morning to see the glory of the cave carvings in the sunrise is recommended.

The main cave is the prayer hall or Chaitya and has a beautiful Stupa. Carvings are present in both the caves though not all of them are visible properly. These caves are also in need of maintenance. An interesting anecdote about this place is always part of the folklore. It is said that the carvings in the caves and the Stupas here were in very good condition till the year 1861. Around this time, a British officer who had heard about these caves planned a visit here. A local officer, in charge of the travel arrangements, promptly employed labour to clean and paint the walls of the caves to prepare for the British Officers visit thereby

Bedse caves along with those in Karla and Bhaje form the trilogy of caves in the M awal Region of M aharashtra, something that one should not miss out.