Volume 9 Issue 8 November 2020 `50

MAJESTIC FOUR AND HALF YEARS OF LDF GOVERNMENT

A Backtrack to Plant based diet

‘Live Anywhere’ is the latest trend in travel

Reopening the Doors of Tourism Destinations 2 November 2020 November 2020 3 4 November 2020 The Kerala Agro Industries Corporation Ltd. “Kissan Jyothi”, Fort, Thiruvananthapuram-695023 Ph : 0471-2471343, 2471344, 2471345 Fax : 0471-2463188 November 2020 5 Email : [email protected] Website : www.keralaagro.com 6 November 2020 November 2020 7 8 November 2020 Foreword

Dear Readers, Another edition of Metro Mart is with you. The world is still under the grip of a hitherto unseen pandemic, though its clutches have loosened. The much awaited normalcy in human life and activities of mankind is slowly becoming a reality. Readers would note that in the current edition of Metro Mart, we have included relatively more content on the hospitality sector which, inter alia, mainly includes hotels, travel and tourism. Till the pandemic struck us like a bolt from the blue, hospitality sector was a major contributor to India’s economy. Hospitality sector is acknowledged as an engine of economic growth on account of its direct and indirect linkage to a host of ancillary sectors. The nation is eagerly awaiting a revival of this sector through a resurgence in the hotels, travel and tourism segments. These are among the sectors which deserve focused attention from all stakeholders. The signals now visible are indeed encouraging and give much hopes about the future. The present edition also includes a feature on the four- and-a-half years rule of the Kerala government. It gives a snapshot on the milestones of this period. Metro Mart will shortly switch back to the print edition and will continue to reach you with a feast of content on diverse matters. Happy reading.

SIJI NAIR Managing Editor & Director

November 2020 9 Volume 9 - Issue 08 - November 2020 www.metromartdaily.com Read our e-edition: www.issuu.com/metromart Annual Subscription Rs- 500 Publisher Hari Shanker Managing Editor & Director Siji Nair [email protected] Executive Director Contents Prasad M. Executive Editor Majestic four and half years of N. Vijayagopalan 12 Editor LDF Government V. Viswanath Editorial Assistant Ampili Nair Sub Editor P.J. Sam Alex Business Development Manager Ratheesh Kumar Asst Manager - Sales & Marketing Jayaprakash R. P. Digital Marketing Officer Preethi J. L. Photographer Reopening the Doors of Ananthu P. Nair 34 Design Tourism Destinations Naveen Published, Edited and Printed by Hari Shanker A.G. and Manager - Administration Owned by Haritha Media Pvt Ltd and Printed by him at Sabu C.N. SB Press Private Limited, Statue, Trivandrum 695 001 and Published from Tharangam, Kodunganoor Post, Manager - Accounts Trivandrum 695 013 Sindhu R. Metro Mart is a monthly journal published from Trivandrum, Views and opinions expressed in the journal Corporate Office:- are not necessarily those of the Publishers. Metro Mart, MERA 44, Eanthivila Lane, Murinjapalam, Medical College P.O. Metro Mart reserves the right to use the information published here in any manner whatsoever. While every Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 011 effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the Tel: 0471 4015593 information published in this edition, neither the Publisher M: 0091 9995139933 / 9947733339 nor any of its employees accept any responsibilities for email: [email protected] any errors or omissions. All Rights Reserved RNI No: KERENG/2011/40037 Pune Office:- ENDORSED BY 2nd Floor, ARIANA, Above Unnati, Near New Poona Bakery, Wakad, Pune - 411 057 India

Pune | Kolkata | Bangalore | Kochi 10 November 2020 November 2020 11 "

No fake promises, only courageous actions. Kerala hopefully accepted the tagline 'LDF Varum Ellam Shariyakum', from 25th May 2016. After four and a half years, the LDF Government proved it in every deed they are doing for the people.

12 November 2020 MAJESTIC FOUR AND HALF YEARS OF LDF GOVERNMENT

he Government in the leadership the health sector, and Haritha of Pinarayi Vijayan faced many Keralam mission for a green and Tchallenges during the administration clean environment. The Aardram and is still facing. They never got Mission, a critical one for these tired, never gave up, but fought years, concentrates on upgrading with the problem by becoming one the primary health centers and among the people. They have made creating infrastructure developments many promises and are fulfilling for Government hospitals. Through most of them by holding united the the vision and mission, the present people. Kerala has witnessed various Government, the path creators, turns parties in power, but the red became the crisis into opportunities for their the superpower for years' legacy. believers. 'Nava Keralam' was the ultimate The Real Superheroes vision that the LDF Government Like a phoenix, in every calamity, set from the first day of power. The the Kerala Government holds its vision is set in the four missions like people tightly and safely. Began with the housing mission termed life, the Ockhi cyclone in 2017, Kerala education mission for improving the faced the worst faces of natural education infrastructure, Aardram disasters in the following years. The mission for the development in

November 2020 13 hurricane killed 143 fishermen, as 2019. Kerala Government's and the Government spent about "Rebuild Kerala Initiative" (RKI) 202 crores to support affected was another milestone to families, rebuild coastal villages revive Kerala from the worst and help the fishing industry impact of the 2008 floods. return to normalcy. Nipah Virus The Government never allows was another crisis for Kerala the people to give up in each in 2018. Even though the virus struggle. Amidst these hardships, created a hopeless situation, the the successful infrastructure Government took the necessary projects, Kochi Metro and Kannur steps and worked hard to bring Airport contributed a lot to the the state into normal. The fight progress. And now the Covid against the deadly virus was a 19 saw the real power of the success, and the efforts created LDF Government, they became a Nipah-free Kerala' within the real superheroes. From months. Later Kerala witnessed the wake of the pandemic, the recurring floods in 2018 as well Government provides systematic

14 November 2020 guidelines for its people. The improvement of the public health sector through the Aardram Mission was another advantage. And finally, in the health index of NiTi Ayog, Kerala filled in the top position of the list. And Kerala became a model for the world in the fight with the pandemic. The time is left for more developments for Kerala because the LDF Govern- ment is with us.

November 2020 15 TOURISM

Reopening the Doors of Tourism Destinations N.Vijayagopalan

16 November 2020 he negative impact of COVID-19 economic growth’. India cannot on the economy is the most afford to have its tourism industry Tdiscussed topic ever since the struggling, notwithstanding any pandemic hit us. Of the several calamity. industries severely impacted by Even before the outbreak of the pandemic, tourism is on the Covid-19, tourism industry was fore front. Tourism industry which plagued by a few challenges and has direct or indirect linkage to the pandemic has only aggravated a host of key sectors, to which the situation. Can we make use of one in every eight jobs in India is the unlock phase of the economy directly or indirectly linked, which to fix challenges that have long contributes about 40 per cent plagued the sector? of the country’s revenue, can be rightly considered as an ‘engine of India’s tourism revenue loss post

November 2020 17 the lockdown clamped to fight Covid-19 is projected to be 10 lakh crore, with an estimated five crore people losing their jobs. This being the case, it is no wonder that the central and state governments are rushing to restart domestic tourism, given the possibility that it would be a long time when international tourism is back to air. However, the chances of this exposing vulnerable local communities to the coronavirus, while offering little reassurance to potential travelers, cannot be overlooked, unless there is a major revamping of tourism policies. This makes it imperative that as we emerge into a new “normal” and learn to live with COVID-19, India’s tourism industry transforms itself to create a COVID-ready destination, which is also sustainable and resilient in the medium and long run. One of the major issues which has long plagued India’s popular hill stations and ecologically fragile hotspots is over-tourism, which The price of over tourism is often as defined by The World Tourism chaotic construction, traffic jams and Organisation (UNWTO) is the impact ecological degradation. of tourism on a destination, or parts thereof, that excessively influences The pause brought in by COVID-19 perceived quality of life of citizens has come as a blessing in disguise and / or quality of visitor experiences for such destinations giving them in a negative way. The congestion a much-needed breather. Further or overcrowding from an excess of it also gave them an opportunity tourists often results in conflicts with to assess their tourism carrying locals. Every summer, the hill towns capacity, which is the maximum including Manali, Shimla, Darjeeling, number of people that may visit a Mussoorie and Leh become overrun tourist destination at the same time, with tourists, shops, street vendors without causing destruction of the and other offshoots of tourism. physical, economic, socio-cultural environment and an unacceptable

18 November 2020 decrease in the quality of visitors, as away from the crowds. In such a defined by UNWTO. Implementation scenario, the implementation of of the carrying capacity concept can carrying capacity across popular be attempted only through prior and potential tourism destinations registration, travel permits, limiting assumes more relevance as it would the number of rooms available, facilitate travellers spreading out having a tiered tourist tax structure and practice of social distancing etc. and support livelihoods across a In the new normal, selection wide range of places. In the same of a travel destination will be vein, the earlier popular destinations influenced as much by the ease of can retrieve their original appeal social distancing it would provide and fix their ecological imbalance, as by the proximity to nature. while emerging destinations can be More people are likely to choose saved from the looming threat of places where they can easily get overtourism.

November 2020 19 It is a fact that alongside many disposal of biomedical waste like spectacular visuals of India, there is face masks, shields, sanitisers, the ugly reality of the surroundings gloves and even PPEs which are being littered with waste materials, expected to increase significantly packings, bottles and remnants as tourism rebounds. This would of food materials and rivers and aggravate the waste problem backwaters being choked with and also pose a serious threat of discarded waste and even precious contamination among locals and heritage sites lined with rubbish. tourists alike. Absence of proper waste The above mentioned problems management has been one of the warrant resorting to continuous woes of India’s tourism hotspots, awareness campaigns in tourism- particularly the mountains. Even oriented cities, coupled with the places where the waste is initiation of measures like the conscientiously gathered from creation of plastic waste collection the streets and rivers do not have points across the city. Tourism access to recycling facilities. This destinations across India need to results in either burning of the also initiate steps to fix their supply accumulated waste releasing chains to ensure biomedical and toxic chemicals, or their piling up segregated waste reaches the in overflowing landfills, ultimately nearest recycling centres. landing up in oceans and rivers or The Covid-19 led reverse migration contaminating the groundwater. crisis witnessed in India has A major threat looming large in necessitated the adoption of the new normal is the unplanned effective measures for sustainable

20 November 2020 and resilient development in rural In order to reassure domestic India. Erratic weather patterns and international travellers that and natural calamities caused or India takes the threat of zoonotic aggravated by climate change are diseases seriously, the country predicted to significantly affect rural must revisit and amend its existing communities. animal cruelty laws which warrant Tourism needs to evolve in the long overdue amendments. That new normal creating better places means phasing out attractions and to live first, and host second. It is festivals that confine or misuse essential that tourism development animals, in favor of national parks focuses on the needs of the local and protected sanctuaries that community through measures offer ethical and safe wilderness like incentivising the preservation experiences. of their traditional way of life, The need of the hour in the context also facilitating access to urban of the defiant Coronavirus is to conveniences, to facilitate creation launch a public awareness cam- of destinations worth visiting. That paign in the country targeted at would certainly help paving the way potential travellers with clear direc- for long-term sustainability and tions on coronavirus safety and an resilience. emphasis on meaningful experienc- According to a United Nations es, supporting local livelihoods and report, the world is treating the being mindful of the environment. health and economic symptoms This assumes significance as tour- of the coronavirus pandemic but ism shifts towards creating better not the environmental cause. places to live.

November 2020 21 FESTIVAL TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

Tourism and Hospitality Industry in India – A Snapshot MM Desk

ere is a snapshot on Indian Creating higher employment Tourism and Hospitality • As of 2019, 4.2 crore jobs were Hindustry basing on India created in the tourism sector Brand Equity Foundation’s study in India, which was 8.1 per cent report on the industry. (August of the total employment in the 2020) country. Contribution to GDP above Higher investment world average • Travel & tourism’s contribution • According to WTTC, India to capital investment in India is ranked third among 185 projected to grow 6.7 per cent countries in terms of travel & per annum during 2018–28. tourism’s total contribution to GDP in 2018. During 2019, FEEs • Under the Swadesh Darshan from tourism increased 4.8 per scheme, 77 projects have been cent* y-o-y to Rs 1,94,881 crore sanctioned worth Rs 6,035.70 (US$ 29.96 billion). crore (US$ 863.60 million). • In India, the sector’s direct Increasing visitor export contribution to GDP is expected • Contribution of visitor export to grow by 7.1 per cent per to total export is estimated to annum during 2018-28 increase 5.5 per cent per annum during 2018–2028. Policy Support • International tourists arrival is • A 5-year tax holiday has been expected to reach 30.5 billion offered for 2-,3- and 4-star by 2028. category hotels located around New visa reforms UNESCO World Heritage sites (except Delhi & Mumbai). • Electronic tourist authorisations, known as e-Tourist Visa, • Under the Swadesh Darshan launched by the Government of scheme, 15 thematic circuits in India, has resulted in increase the country have been selected in number of tourist visa issued for development of tourism in the country. The facility was infrastructure. extended to citizens of 169 • e-Tourist Visa facility offered to countries as of December 2019. 169 countries as of December • During 2019, a total of 2019. 29,28,303 tourists arrived on Diverse Attractions e-Tourist Visa, registering a growth of 23.6 per cent • India offers geographical diversity, attractive beaches, 30 Advantage India World Heritage SBPM and 25 Robust Demand bio-geographic zones. • By 2020, medical tourism • The country’s big coastline is industry of India is expected to dotted with several attractive touch US$ 9 billion. beaches. • During 2019, 10.89 million • Ministry of Tourism is foreign tourists arrived in the promoting Buddhist Circuit to country. increase India’s share in global • International tourist arrivals are tourism market. expected to reach 30.5 million SEGMENTS OF TOURISM by 2028. AND HOSPITALITY • Prime Minister Narendra Accommodation and catering Modi urged people to visit 15 domestic tourist destinations in Accommodation could be hotels & motels, apartments, camps, India by 2022. guest houses, lodges, bed & Attractive Opportunities breakfast establishments, house • India has a diverse portfolio boats, resorts, cabins & hostels. of niche tourism products – In addition, tourists also require cruises, adventure, medical, catering facilities, which includes wellness, sports, MICE, eco- include hotels, local restaurants, tourism, film, rural & religious roadside joints, cafeterias & retail outlets serving food & beverages tourism. also sell associated products such as insurance, car hire & currency exchange. Business travel agencies specialise in making travel & accommodation arrangements for business travellers & promoting conference trades. Tour operators Offer customised tours, including travel, accommodation & sightseeing. EMERGING TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY SEGMENTS Luxury Tourism The luxury travel market in India is expected to grow at rate of 12.8 per cent during 2015-25, the Transportation highest in comparison with any This segment comprises airline other BRIC country. companies, cruise services, Heritage Tourism railways, car rentals & more. Atourist’s choice of transport Tourists visit India for its cultural would depend on the travel heritage in various cities The budget, destination, time, purpose country’s rich heritage is amply of the tour & convenience to the reflected in the various temples, point of destination majestic forts, pleasure gardens, religious monuments, museums, Attractions art galleries, urban & rural sites. Another major component of Medical Tourism the travel & tourism industry is ‘attractions’ such as theme Tourists seek specialised medical parks & natural attractions treatments, mainly ayurvedic, spa including scenic locations, & other therapies The primary cultural & educational attractions, purpose is achieving, promoting monuments, events & medical, or maintaining good health & a social or professional causes. sense of well-being Travel agents Adventure tourism A fragmented sector with several A wide range of adventure sports independent travel agents & are covered under this category many online businesses. They with specialised packages The

24 November 2020 activities include mountaineering, • According to 2018 report of trekking, bungee jumping, the World Travel and Tourism mountain biking, river rafting & Council (WTTC), India was rock climbing ranked third in the tourism Pilgrimage Tourism sector. • One of the biggest contributors Total earning from the sector in to tourism industry. India being a India stood at US$ 28.6 billion religious hub for different cultures, in 2018, and it is targeted to attract many tourists every year. reach US$ 50 billion by 2022. Rural Tourism FOREIGN EXCHANGE The aim is to develop interest in • Tourism is an important source heritage and culture; & promote of foreign exchange in India visits to village settings to similar to many other countries experience & live a relaxed & During 2019, foreign tourist healthy lifestyle arrivals (FTAs) in India stood at 10.89 million, achieving a Eco-Tourism growth rate of 3.20 per cent Vast variety of flora & fauna in y-o-y various states is a major factor • During 2019, India earned behind their growing popularity foreign exchange of US$ 29.96 as tourist destinations. Thenmala billion from tourism, recording in Kerala is the 1st planned a y-o-y growth of 4.80 per cent. ecotourism destination in India. • Foreign exchange earnings RISING CONTRIBUTION TO (FEEs) from tourism in India INDIA’S GDP witnessed growth at a CAGR of • India ranked eighth in the world 8.96 per cent during 2007-2019. in 2018, contributing almost US$ 247 billion to the country’s RISING REVENUES FROM GDP. It is the third largest LEISURE AND BUSINESS foreign exchange earner for the SEGMENTS country. • Share of revenue from leisure • India was ranked 34 in the Trav- travel to total tourism stood el & Tourism Competitiveness around 94.8 per cent in 2019. Report 2019 published by the • Leisure travel spending reached World Economic Forum. US$ 234.16 billion in 2019 and • The tourism & hospitality is expected to reach US$ 432.3 sector’s direct contribution billion by 2028F. to GDP is expected to reach • Business travel revenue was Rs 12.68 trillion (US$ 194.69 US$ 12.84 billion in 2019 and billion) in 2028. is projected to increase to US$

November 2020 25 24.4 billion by 2028F of its hotels in India to 170 by 2020. GROWTH DRIVERS FOR THE TOURISM MARKET • Hospitality majors are entering into tie-ups to penetrate deeper Infrastructure into the market. Taj & Shangri- • More than half of Ministry of La entered into a strategic Tourism’s budget is channelised alliance to improve their reach for funding the development and market share by launching of destinations, circuits, mega loyalty programmes aimed at projects as well as rural tourism integrating rewarded customers infrastructure projects. of both hotels • Tourism Ministry is currently Growing Demand developing several theme- • Domestic expenditure on based tourist circuits under tourism is expected to rise Swadesh Darshan Scheme to due to the growing income of promote tourism. households. Rising FDI • Several niche offerings such as • Hotel & Tourism sector medical tourism & eco tourism received cumulative FDI inflow are expected to create more of US$ 15.28 billion between demand. April 2000 and March 2020. • By 2029, India’s tourism sector • International hotel brands are is expected to reach Rs 35 targeting India. Carlson group is trillion (US$ 488 billion) with aiming to increase the number a growth of 6.7 per cent and accounting for 9.2 per cent of the total economy. Policy Support A web based Public Service Delivery System (PSDS) had been launched by the Ministry of Tourism to enable all the applicants seeking approval for hotel projects and track their applications online on a real time basis. The Government will develop 17 iconic tourist sites in India into world-class destinations as conveyed in the Union Budget 2019-20 (Courtesy : IBEF Study Report (August 2020))

26

BUSINESS

Accurate Trade Links Accuracy Par Sophistication

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30 November 2020 November 2020 31 LITERATURE

Un- ending lines & undying flame

elicham Dukhamanunni, 'VThamasalo Sugapradham,' (Light is sorrow, Darkness is happiness), the alluring lines engraved this name forever in the literary world, Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri. He searched, wrote, and conquered eternal love. The vivid meanings through his lucid and straightforward style of writing grabbed the hearts from the initial moment. The Jnanpith awardee indisputably became the "Mahakavi" (great poet) of Kerala. He presented the "meaningful modernism" in several decades ago.

32 November 2020 Narrow Paths "Yogakshemam." Later he joined The son of Amettu Akkithathu All India Radio (AIR) in 1956, Manayil Vasudevan Namboothiri worked in Kozhikode, and Thrissur and Checkur Manaykkal Parvathy stations. His soul always tied with Antharjanam was born on 18th Vedas and it was evident in his March 1926 at Palakkad District. close association with "Anaadi", a He was named Achuthan, and literary initiative for popularising along with the family name, he Vedic studies. Akkitham was became Akkitham Achuthan associated with the social reform Namboothiri. The family wished activities of the "Yogakshema to see him as a great Vedic Sabha" and also in the Paliyam scholar; thereby, Vedic studies satyagraha. On 15th October 2020, accompanied him from schooling. the legend left the stage. As an extension, he studied The poetic way Sanskrit, Astrology, and Music. " As I shed a tear for others, After matriculation, he joined the college but didn't complete it. There rises within me a thousand But poetry sustained him all these suns. years. Meeting with the legendary As I expend a smile for others, poet Edassery Govindan Nair was Shines within me a full moon, a milestone in his career, which eternal and serene. commenced him a masterly path I never knew of this heavenly bliss in the literary world. Edassery's before; support and guidance extracted the poet in him, and published Lamenting over that great loss his first collection of poems in again and again I weep." 1946. He penned for changes by revealing the evil practices in the community. Even Though He started here, and the depth Communism had a significant in it fulfilled his poetic life. These impact on him, he was enthusiastic lines preface the poem "Irupatham about going deep in Rig-Veda. Noottandinte Ithihasam" (The Akkitham was married to Sreedevi Epic of the Twentieth Century), the first genuinely modernist Antharjanam. poem in . Akkitham's career commenced The eight hundred lines of the in the magazine, "Unni poem waited many months to Namboothiri" as an editor. He go in the press. And the work was an assistant editor in the proclaimed Akkitham as a great magazines "Mangalodayam" and poet to the world and won the

November 2020 33 Award in 1952. And the Golden feathers line 'Velicham Dukhamanunni, After the turning point, "Irupatham Thamasalo Sugapradham' got Noottandinte Ithihasam", Kerala complete attention by its in-depth Sahitya Akademi recognized his meaning. His success enveloped poetry "Balidarshanam". His "Ni- in the poetry anthologies, "Bali Darshanam" ( "The Vision of misha Kshetram" won the Odak- Bali"), "Arangettam", "Nimisha kuzhal Award. Later in 1994, the Kshetram,", "Idinju Polinja Lokam", Asan Smaraka Kavitha Puraskaram " Amrita Ghatak" and "Kali and 1996, Lalithambika Anthar- Kottilil". The renowned essayist janam Smaraka Sahitya Award gifted two collections of essays, honored his rhythms. The Val- "Upanayanam" and "Samavartana" lathol Award in 1997 was another into Malayalam literature. He also milestone. Vayalar Award in 2001 translated Srimad Bhagavatam glitters on the list. In 2006, the as "Sree Mahabhagavatham". He honored his never forgets to bring love and literary achievement through the compassion as his themes. The Ezhuthachan Puraskaram. Due to poetry of Akkitham celebrated ill health, he couldn't physically every aspect of life like family, receive the Padma Shri, another parenthood, sex, and so on. There recognition. India honored him was a natural blend between the with the Jnanapith Award in 2019 farmer's slang and the Vedas. for his immense contribution to the Malayalam literary world and noted him as "A poet of rare in- tegrity." Several awards encouraged his journeys like Geedhi Award, Nalappad Award, Puthezhan Award, Janmashtami Award,Moorti Devi Award, and Amrita Keerti Puraskar.

NUTRITION

A Backtrack to Plant based diet

FC, Berger, Pizza- the western during a pandemic. foods conquered the Indian Indian Animal Protection minds in a short time. E ven Organization (FIAPO) offers 20 Kin breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the lakh rupees to bring Initiatives various meat recipes will capture like Indian plant-based startups, the Indian hearts at a glance. We restaurants, entrepreneurs, Indians were flying towards the researchers, and even students spicy world of meats; we wandered who have tasty and healthy to find the new recipes. Everything products for the market. constitutes meat as an inevitable part of our food habits. Under the ministry of health and family welfare, an autonomous Yes, the time came to bring body, the Food Safety and back the nutrition of green. The Standards Authority of India (FSSI), immunity development, the only released guidelines under Eat weapon to defeat the coronavirus, Right during COVID 19 to ensure triggered a plant-based diet in our the immunity-boosting through daily life. Thereby many startups the minerals iron zinc, amino and manufacturers accepted the acids, and the spices and herbs. importance of plant-based food The hygiene of meat is another items. To consume a healthy question mark. They also bring and immune boost diet, people guidelines for meat shops to keep became ready to have vegetables health and hygiene properly. irrespective of killing animals

36 November 2020 Eat for the Planet The Delhi-based Ahimsa is the first The plant-based diet secures not Indian company on the list. Since only your body but also the whole 2008, they provide alternatives for planet. We can't avoid the fact that fish, mutton, chicken. The next one the primary source of methane is Vegeta Gold, which replaces the emission is the production of meat products with soya, textured meat and its rocketing use. And vegetable proteins (TVP), isolated the reality is meat and dairy alone soy proteins, and mushrooms with make up 65% of all livestock the same taste and nutritional emissions. As per statistics, there value. The Udaipur-based are 38,000 commercial farms in company "Good Dot" provides 119 countries across the world. high-protein, environment- And the greenhouse gas emission friendly, and cruelty-free meals. is mainly from 29 different food Another company Vezlay offers products like beef, nuts, etc.. bipartite food community products. The grill or barbecue, when the meat is smoked at high Coming into a global view, the temperatures, there is an emission major companies are Marukome, of toxic components like polycyclic the Japanese based company aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) which offers soybean-based through the dripping fat onto meat. And the notable factor, the cooking surfaces, which are the sales increased by about 96 carcinogenic. And also bring many per cent in May. The next one is health issues. Obesity, Cholesterol, the California-based startups like heart- diseases all developed due Beyond Meat products, and Before to the body's fat content mainly the Butcher provides plant-based from meat. By accepting the burgers, grounds, and chunks. plant-based diet as a habit, we can Another one is a division of create a healthy human body and Kellogg's, named as MorningStar a healthy environment by reducing Farms. The Michigan-based greenhouse gas, thereby global company produces dairy and egg- warming and other environmental free patties, wings, and nuggets. problems. The change from the animal- Enough Alternatives based diet into a plant-based one ultimately secures the future Even Though people have a vivid planet. The plant-based diet is idea about the harmful effects of an ultimate solution for indirect meat, the taste never allows them hazardous like antibiotics and to avoid it from the food. But here hormones in the meat. The meat are a lot of alternatives for your products harm not only you but meat love. The mock meats brands also the planet. Everything is your are flourishing in India day by day. choice!

November 2020 37 TOURISM

KERALA OPENS BEACHES AND PARKS FOR TOURISTS, SAFETY PARAMETERS ENFORCED

erala is opening its beach- distancing, Mask and Soap San- es, parks and museums for itizer) norms. Hill stations were domestic tourists from No- also thrown open, signalling the Kvember 1, marking the resumption revival of the revenue-generating of tourism activities in full swing industry. ahead of the annual tourism sea- “Beaches of Kerala have always son, after remaining shut for eight attracted visitors from all corners months following the outbreak of of the world on account of their COVID-19 pandemic. unsurpassed beauty, the warmth In the first phase, tourist destina- of waters and cleanliness. It is sig- tions and services across the state nificant that we are re-opening our were reopened on October 10, beaches, including globally famed by strictly adhering to a compre- sea-side destinations like Kovalam, hensive set of Standard Operating when the annual tourist season is Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the around the corner” State Tourism safety of visitors. Minister Shri Kadakampally Suren- dran said. The services that started receiving guests on October 10 included “The response in destinations and house boats on backwaters and services that resumed operations personalized boating and adven- early this month has been encour- ture tourism spots, which have aging, with the footfall gradually controlled access and it is easy increasing. The stake-holders have to implement the SMS (Social extended their total co-operation

38 November 2020 to see that all safety parameters are followed. The visitors are also complying with the guidelines issued by the State Government,” said Tourism Secretary Smt George IAS. “As we re-open our beaches, Tour- ism Department officials on the ground are making extra efforts to ensure that the specific guidelines Strict instructions have been is- are followed to the last detail,” sued for street vendors to follow said Tourism Director Shri P Bala COVID-19 protocols. Cleaning Kiran IAS. and fumigation of toilets and re- As part of safety parameters for strooms will be taken up at regular beaches, which do not have con- intervals. trolled access, directions have As per the SOP issued by the Gov- been issued to ensure that offi- ernment earlier, the visitors to the cials are deployed at the entry state will have to follow Break the points, walkways and open areas, Chain norms including wearing of equipped with a thermal check, masks, use of soap and sanitizer sanitizers and hand-wash facili- and follow social distancing. ties. Boards prominently featuring “Dos’ and ‘Don’ts’ are being put up Tourists coming for visits of less and walkways, hand-rails and shel- than seven days are exempted ters will be sprayed with sanitizer from quarantine but they should at regular intervals. register in COVID Jagratha portal. If visitors plan to extend their stay Tourism police personnel will for more than seven days, they be posted, if necessary, to help have to undergo the test at their Kudumbashree volunteers and Life cost on the 7th day at ICMR/ the Guards. A register will be kept at state government approved lab- the entry for recording details of oratories. The visitors are advised visitors. For parks and museums, to avoid travel if they are sympto- online ticket /SMS booking will be matic. explored to the extent possible at the gated entries. Vehicles will be Hospitality facilities, tour opera- allowed to be kept at the parking tors, tourism transport operators areas to a maximum of one hour. and other services such as hotels, A register will be kept at all entry resorts, houseboats, Ayurveda cen- points for entering the visitor’s tres, homestays, service villas and name, native place, contact num- adventure activity centres were in- ber and time and date of the visit. structed to strictly go by the SOPs.

November 2020 39 TRAVEL

‘LIVE ANYWHERE’ IS THE LATEST TREND IN TRAVEL Our Bureau orld Tourism Day is Commemorating the occasion celebrated on September of World Tourism Day, AirBnB W27th every year. “Tourism released a travel trends report. – building peace and fostering ‘Live Anywhere’ emerged to be knowledge” is the theme of world the latest trend in travel as per tourism day 2020. Tourism is a the report. significant income generator for According to the report, online a country’s economy. It drives the searches for accommodations financial indexes high. over the past few months are Travelling to different destinations reflecting how consumers are helps us to relax, detoxify our viewing travel in the new normal, minds and achieve peace from and several unique trends are within. The top travel trends emerging. revealed by Airbnb on World Travellers are understandably Tourism Day include Live seeking heightened reassurances Anywhere, the Quest for Unique of hygiene and safety, as well Accommodations, Clean is the as seclusion. There is a growing New Green, and Resurgence of demand for getaways that are off International Travel Corridors. the beaten track and offer unique

40 November 2020 experiences – properties that are closer to nature, ones that have an assortment of outdoor amenities, Travellers are or are laden with luxury features. understandably Furthermore, people want to seeking heightened experience longer stays but in another home, blurring the reassurances of line between living and travel. hygiene and safety, Amenities that offer the full flexibility of a home away from as well as seclusion. home, such as WiFi, kitchens, There is a growing and outdoor access, are being sought by travellers as they seek demand for getaways to experience life somewhere new, that are off the beaten after a long six months of being homebound. Most are seeking track and offer unique a change of scene to inspire experiences creativity and productivity. From digital nomads, and millennials to solo-travellers and Additionally, a further 36 percent families, all are looking at newer of searches have been for stays use-cases for travel during the that are between seven to 27 pandemic. nights. Combined, the trend Airbnb highlights some of the key for Live Anywhere accounts for trends observed after the outbreak demand across travel segments. of Covid-19, that paint a picture of 2. Reconnecting with nature travel in the new normal: through unique accommodations 1. Live Anywhere with digital such as tree houses, farm stays, nomads driving the trend: Airbnb’s lodges and campsites: In the past data suggests that over 20 per 90 days, 45 percent of searches cent of all searches on Airbnb by travellers were for tree houses. within the last three-month period Searches for barns and farm stays in India, have been for long-term stood at 41 per cent and 34 per stays (more than 28 nights) at a cent respectively. With summer property. This shows that with coming to a close, many families access to technology and remote are exploring breaks with their working infrastructure people children, and searches for ‘trips are willing to relocate to new with kids’ account for nearly a accommodations for months fifth of all searches over the last at a time. This marked interest 90 days. Indian culture is deeply coincides with an increase in family-oriented and close-knit, longer-term stays by creatives, and this crisis has connected authors and entrepreneurs. families and re-established bonds with extended family and friends.

November 2020 41 Millennials are also looking at 5. Consumer confidence in travel staying at places which are great continues to build: As Indian to photograph and bring them government opens more travel some love on social media. bubbles with different countries, 3. Clean is the new green the sentiment and searches for with Wi-Fi, kitchens and pools key destinations such as the USA, among the most sought-after UK and UAE are on the rise. amenities: A clean place you can According to Amanpreet Bajaj, call home with great Internet General Manager - Airbnb India, connectivity makes Airbnb the Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and platform-of-choice for digital Taiwan, “There is a gradual shift in nomads. Working from home consumer behavior towards travel. is translating to working from Our recent search trends have any home. With remote offices pointed to the fact that travelers becoming the trend, people want are looking to explore safe and to be connected all the time hygienic accommodations that from anywhere; 23% of guests offer flexibility. Bookings trends specifically searched for homes have shown us that unique stays with Wi-Fi as a top amenity and large homes have emerged as followed by kitchens and pools, a choice for family and friends to over the last 90 days. be together for breaks and longer 4. The sunshine state remains one stay options. We see additional of the most sought-after tourist interest in amenities that offer destinations amongst travellers: a home away from home, and As per traveller wish lists over the long-term travel that appeals to a past 90 days, Goa continues to be number of individuals and families the most searched-for destination who want to establish a remote for homestays, followed by Lona- working base outside of their vala, Shimla and Uttarakhand. Ac- homes. We feel that these trends cording to Airbnb’s search trends will continue to drive the market from this period, guests travelling with demand with customer ser- to Goa were looking for amenities vice innovation, and more intimate such as a relaxing pool, gardens, accommodation formats”. and traditional Portuguese villas What is clearly emerging is that – further, the top 7 most wish while travel as we know it is still listed homes in India are in Goa. on the path of recovery, people According to the Oxford Econom- are eager to see the world on ics’ report on the impact of Airbnb their own terms and are looking in India, Goa had the largest share at stays in newer, more intimate of Airbnb guest spending and the formats. Airbnb community contributed The report is a strong pointer US$61 million in Goa in 2019, to the possibility of a robust benefiting local entrepreneurs and resurgence in world tourism. communities. (Courtesy : BW Hotelier)

42 November 2020 PANDEMIC SCENARIO

VIBAN : DRDO DEVELOPS A NEW FACE FOR DISINFECTION A CHEMICAL-FREE SOLUTION FOR COVID 19 new leaf to the Atmanirbhar idea into reality. A Bharath, Motivation Engi- The Disinfection System uses UV neers, and Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. C light, which is the latest pop- brought a new dimension to the ular emerging tool in defeating Disinfection during this pandemic the pandemic worldwide. The UV era by the Technical efforts by C Disinfection System employs Scientists from DRDO (Defence 6/12nos. These mercury lamps Research and Development Orga- that emit a total UVC output pow- nization). After the trial, the DRDO er for complete 360° disinfection. approved and issued a certificate A room with a 400 sq ft area can for the commercial production of be disinfected in 30/60 minutes UV Tower. Likewise, the tagline of by positioning the equipment at Viban, the rapid and chemical-free different places within the room. Disinfection, mainly aims at the The major advantages are that the pandemic prone areas. The unique operation time is selectable, it can system of VIBAN is equipped with detect the Visual message for any PIR Sensor, 32 Bit Microcontroller, Motion, and there is a Visual indi- fully WiFi-enabled, and a Mo- cator for all 12 lamps status. The bile App to operate it. The wi-fi innovation is highly beneficial in enabled mobile app can be used hospitals, airports, shopping malls, very simply by easy handshaking metros, hotels, factories, etc. and with the UV Disinfection System. for electronic equipment, comput- The Laser Science & Technology ers, etc., laboratories, and offices Centre (LASTEC) based in Delhi, that are not suitable for Disinfec- with the help of New Age In- tion with chemical methods. struments and Materials Private Limited, Gurugram brought the For more details-contact +91 9947733339/9995139933

November 2020 43 RECOGNITION

Kerala Tourism wins World Travel Mart Award for exemplary activities during COVID-19

n a massive affirmation of its to the tourism sector. exemplary activities aimed at The Work at Home Videos have Ipromoting Responsible Tourism been developed by RT Mission during the challenging times of entrepreneurs with a message COVID-19 pandemic, Kerala Tour- to stay home safely during the ism has been bestowed the cov- lockdown but not to despair eted ‘Highly Commended’ Award and to adopt measures to effec- by World Travel Mart London. tively prevent the spread of the Kerala’s Responsible Tourism (RT) COVID-19. The videos also make Mission received this recognition an impassioned appeal to the in the category of ‘Meaningful tourists visiting Kerala to see their Connections’. activities as soon as the pandem- The RT Mission received the award ic-triggered issues are brought for its innovative work on ‘Wok at under control. Home Videos’ and storytelling au- “The award proves that the RT dio and video series produced and Mission is becoming a driving presented by various Mission units force in sharing innovative ideas in the state during the pandemic and ensuring public participation that has posed multiple challenges in the tourism sector,” said Tour-

44 November 2020 ism Minister Shri Kadakampally these videos were aired at the Surendran. ‘Folkkathone’ programme for 90 Tourism Secretary Smt. Rani minutes. George said the Mission has “The uniqueness of this recogni- played a significant role in the tion is that the RT Mission units tourism sector during the pan- are proving that life-affirming demic. “This is a morale-boosting activities need to be presented recognition that celebrates the live without exaggeration to be best-in-class of global travel and evaluated and recognised by the tourism industry,” she added. world,” he added. Tourism Director Shri P. Bala Kiran The award jury said it was the congratulated all the RT Mission most popular intervention in the unit members in Kerala for this world to give confidence to en- sterling achievement and sustain- trepreneurs and tourists who are ing tourism activities in the most reeling from the epidemic. “The adverse circumstances. move sends a message that any The RT Mission had instructed the crisis can be overcome by working members of various units to wash with one mind,” it noted. their hands with sanitizer or soap This is the 5th International Award and start their work. They were for the Responsible Tourism Mis- presented as a video document to sion since its formation in 2017. engage them during the lock- The Mission has also won three down period. Besides becoming a National Awards. marketing tool, it also became an There are currently 20,017 units instant hit in national and interna- operating in Kerala under the tional platforms. This was followed Mission with more than one lakh by storytelling audios about each beneficiaries as part of its activi- area and its festivals, followed by ties. The units under the mission the videos on various traditional earned revenue of Rs 35 crore musical instruments and other folk in three years. One of its salient art forms. features is that 80 per cent of the State RT Mission Coordinator Shri total units are headed by women. K Rupeshkumar said the Mission The Mission, which also runs 140 received a total of 1,048 audios experiential tour packages, has and videos, all of which were so far imparted training to 7,000 produced and edited by the unit people. Also, 48 new tourism des- members. These were viewed tinations have sprung up through by thousands of people through the Mission's flagship projects various social media platforms. Pepper and Model RT Village. During the World Folklore Day,

November 2020 45 NEW PROJECT

Kerala Tourism launches Miyawaki forest project

n a major green initiative, Kerala al University, Japan, the micro ITourism has launched a project forestation model seeks to expand to create Miyawaki model micro the green cover on the earth forests at 22 tourism spots in 12 by nurturing mostly indigenous districts across the state. species of plants in small patches Inaugurating the project by plant- of land. A Miyawaki model forest ing a sapling at Shanghumukham can attain growth within five to Beach here last night, State Tour- ten years, whereas a natural forest ism Minister Shri Kadakampally takes 25 to 30 years to gain the Surendran said more than 30,000 same level of growth. saplings would be planted in The model has been replicat- about two acres of land identified ed across continents, especially for the scheme. among communities where the Creation of micro forests that pressure on land is heavy. It compare well with natural forests has proved effective in fending would make the tourist desti- off ill-effects of environmental nations in the state, especially degradation and climate change those in urban areas, environment by conserving biodiversity, saving friendly, the Minister noted. plants from extinction, shielding communities from natural di- Pioneered in 1970s by botanist sasters and serving as a bulwark and plant ecologist Dr Akira against atmospheric and noise Miyawaki of Yokohama Nation- pollution.

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