Unique Times November 2019

Vol 9 Issue No.97 Nov - Dece 2019

Required, a paradigm shift in India’s agriculture policy Shri V.P. Nandakumar, MD & CEO Manappuram Finance Ltd.

Samoa: The Cradle of Polynesia

THREE CHEERS TO INNOVATIVE SPIRITS OF STRENGTH!

Editorial

Chief Mentor Mr. V.P. Nandakumar Director & CEO Jebitha Ajit Editor Jebitha Ajit Legal Advisor Latha Anand veryone can rise above their cir B.S.Krishnan Associates cumstances and achieve success, bskrishnanassociates@gmail.com if they are dedicated to and passionSub-Editor Vignesh S.G ate about what they do,” says Nelson Associate Editor Ravi Saini Mandela.

Rajeev Kumar Our cover story reveals the suc Director and special editor kollur cess story of a woman entrepreneur, Correspondents Dr. Thomas Nechupadam Elizabeth Chacko, who embarked on her journey

Vivek Venugopal- Quarter Mile as a beautician over 40 years ago. Despite many

Amrutha V Kumar roadblocks, dedication and passion have helped Creative Design PEGASUS her to build a business empire!

Cover Photographer Ashique Hassan Giving an eye-opener, Manappuram Finance Marketing UAE CEO and MD V P Nandakumar, in his regular col Phygicart.com umn, wants to turn focus to the need of a para P.O. Box: 92546, Al Karama Dubai digm shift in India’s agriculture policy to tackle

Mr. Anish K Joy its economic slowdown. For this, we have to take

Mob: +971528946999 a fresh look at our agriculture and allied sectors, info@phygicart.com he writes. Our auto team introduces Maruti’s new

Plot No 19A, 9th Floor, appealing SUV, XL6, with a raised bonnet line and

Green Building, Film City, lot more SUV elements.

Sector - 16A, Noida - 201301 This month’s travel introduces Samoa, the

Maharashtra country which is abundantly blessed by the nature

Jayasankar M, a/101, Goddess. However, it is not the sightseeing, but its

New Prathamesh Niwas, cuisine, culture, art, music and many more are the

OPP. Laxmi Park, Thakurli East, important aspects to be explored.

Dombivli post, Thane District, 421201 Go through our regular staples - Movie, Beau Mob: 9820708662 ty, Books & Gadgets, Cookery, Motivation etc. – to

Hariharan make your free time fruitful. Enjoy reading!

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CONTENTS

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Required, a paradigm shift in India’s agriculture policy

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Life skills for the modern-day entrepreneur

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Three cheers to innovative spirits of strength!

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Serbian beauty wins miss asia global title

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Goods and Services TaxEmerging trends and jurisprudence

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44

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52

58

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Gadgets

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Recipes

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Natural methods to control pimples

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Samoa: The Cradle of Polynesia

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Maruti Suzuki XL6

UNIQUE DIARY

IMF downgrades India’s growth projections

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he International Monetary Fund has downgraded the growth projection of India for the year 2019 to less than 6.1 per cent. And, the International financial organisation has also reduced the growth projection of the country for the year 2020 to 7 per cent. The organisation has cited weaker than expected domestic demand as the reason for the downgrading. Not only has it reduced the growth projection of the South Asian country, but also it has downgraded the growth projection of the entire world to 3 per cent. The action has been justified using the issues like the trade war between the US and China.

Livestock population on rise in India

“Failure Will Never Overtake Me If My Determination To Succeed Is Strong Enough.”

Og Mandino

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he livestock population of the country, as per an official survey conducted by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, has marked a commendable increase of not less than four per cent, from around 512.06 million to nearly 536 million.

The cow population of the country has growth at least 18 per cent in the last few years. Meanwhile, the poultry population of the country has registered an astounding increase of 16 per cent.

Moreover, the population of female cattle have also increased nearly 18 per cent. Unfortunately, the population of oxen and male cattle has declined slightly. Of the two, the former is what that has suffered the greatest damage.

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North-East monsoon brings heavy rain to South India

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he North-East monsoon has brought heavy rain to several South Indian states such as Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The weather condition is likely to influence the agricultural production in this part of the country. Several regions in this part of the country have experienced moderate to heavy rainfall. The North-East monsoon has arrived shortly after the South-West monsoon retreated from the region. The first phase of the North-East monsoon unfortunately has not been as powerful as expected. The agrarian population of this part of the country depends heavily on this monsoon, like how it relies on the South-West monsoon.

Forum for Trade Justice advises not to entre RCEP

“We Generate Fears While We Sit. We Overcome Them By Action.”

Dr. Henry Link

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group of academicians, labour representatives, farmer bodies and economists, Forum for Trade Justice, has warned the country not to enter into the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. The RCEP is an economic agreement the country is negotiating with at least fifteen other countries including China. The FTJ is of the opinion that the proposed agreement would bring terrible troubles to the industry and agricultural sectors of India. It has also expressed its concern about the potential impact of the agreement in the country’s power to determine its e-commerce and investment rules. The warning has come at the time the sixteen RCEP counties are approaching the final stage of the negotiation for the agreement. A crucial RCEP leaders’ summit is scheduled to take place in Bangkok in November.

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UNIQUE DIARY

FSSAI expresses concern about poor quality milk

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he Food Safety and Standard Authority of India has expressed its concern about the bad quality of milk that reaches the Indian market. As per a national wide survey conducted by the FSSAI, at least 41 per cent of the total samples they have tested are of poor quality. Shockingly, at least seven per cent of those are unfit to consume. Surprisingly, in this list, there are several popular brands also. The highest number of cases of adulteration has been reported from the South Indian state of Telangana. Madhya Pradesh and Kerala share second and third positions respectively in this list.

WeWork gets much-needed lifeline from Softbank

“Do What You Can With All You Have, Wherever You Are.�

Theodore Roosevelt

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opular US-based office-space sharing start-up WeWork has inked a crucial deal with Japanese financial conglomerate Softbank. The Japanese company was already in control of more than half of the total shares of the company. The new deal gives the Asian giant more control over the property company. The deal has paved way for the exit of Adam Neumann, the co-founder of the office-space sharing company, from the board of the company. As per a report, Mr Neumann has been handed a respectable payout by the company. And, he has also been offered the post of observer, according to the report.

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BUSINESS

As any developing economy matures, there is a natural movement of workers from low productivity agriculture to higher productivity manufacturing and services sector, where wages are relatively higher thanks to the higher productivity.

Shri V.P.Nandakumar MD & CEO Manappuram Finance Ltd.

Required, a paradigm shift in India’s agriculture policy

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ndia’s economy is currently going through a difficult phase with GDP growth weakening sharply against a backdrop of turbulence in global trade and domestic challenges such as the prolonged stress in the banking sector and a more recent liquidity crisis affecting the non-banking sector. The Indian economy grew by 7.2 percent in FY19, an improved performance from FY18, when it grew by 6.7 percent. However, in the current fiscal year, leading economic indicators suggest growth is likely to slow down to less than 6 percent as many sectors have reported a sharp drop in demand.

India’s GDP attained a level of `188.41 trillion ($2.7 trillion) in 2018-19 and will probably touch $3 trillion in FY20. The government is aiming to hit $5 trillion levels by 2024-25, which effectively requires nearly 11-12 percent nominal

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growth in dollar GDP. While it’s not easy (given the size of the economy and structural challenges), it is also not an impossible target. After all, India has in the past managed to achieve periods of sustained high growth. All the same, the government would be well advised to focus on removing the structural bottlenecks to a higher growth trajectory.

The surest way to a $5 trillion economy is to capitalise on the demographic dividend that India has in abundant measure. India is home to the largest working-age population at a time when much of the rest of the world is ageing. We are a young country becoming younger with each passing year. It is estimated that one million people join the workforce in India every month. But, if this demographic dividend is not utilised well by creating adequate employment opportunities, the dividend will turn into an unwelcome social

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and economic challenge for the next generation.

Agriculture holds the key

Given the above context, an important area to be tackled on priority is the dire situation with India’s agriculture. India’s agriculture sector employs more than 50 per cent of the total workforce, but its output contributes only about 17-18 percent to the country’s GDP. The fact is, Indian agriculture has for long shouldered the burden of employment for our growing workforce, leading to low productivity and meagre earnings. To achieve the objective of GDP growth and to fulfil the promise to farmers of doubling their income, it is imperative that we take a fresh look at our agriculture and allied sectors.

Indian agriculture’s nominal contribution to GDP in FY19 was `27.6 trillion produced by an es-

timated labour force of about 200 million. Accordingly, each person employed in agriculture may be said to have roughly contributed a production value of less than `140,000 in the whole year. This figure represents the gross output per person employed in agriculture. Indeed, if one were to subtract the cost of capital employed and input costs (seeds, fertilisers, irrigation, labour, etc.), the net contribution would be substantially lower. In a world bank study based on 2016 data, India at $1,202 was ranked at 138 out of 178 countries on agriculture value added per worker, whereas a small country like Slovenia reported the same at $239,000. Even Pakistan showed higher productivity at $1,742.

The fact that India has too many people cultivating too little land has been noticed at least as far back as 1880, by the first Indian Famine

Commission (FIFC), which observed that worker to land ratios in India were more than 10 times that of Britain’s. This was, of course, the state of affairs following nearly a century of de-industrialisation in colonial India. Eminent thinkers including Ambedkar and Nehru, regularly highlighted the problem of disguised unemployment in agriculture. Soon after independence, Nehru had said, “Everything can wait, but not agriculture.” In fact, India’s first fiveyear plan focused predominantly on agriculture. However, in the years since, things have not turned out the way our planners hoped it would.

And the one important lesson from our experience since is that pouring resources into the agriculture sector – be it by way of minimum support prices, farm subsidies and periodic loan waivers – is unlikely to make a lasting difference if we do not first

address fundamental problems like low productivity, fragmented land holdings, and the widespread disguised unemployment that prevails today. Disguised unemployment is a measure of the extent of people who appear to be employed in agriculture but whose efforts add little to the output.

As any developing economy matures, there is a natural movement of workers from low productivity agriculture to higher productivity manufacturing and services sector, where wages are relatively higher thanks to the higher productivity.

This rural-urban shift away from agriculture gathers pace steadily as the economy develops. With accelerated economic growth, job opportunities in the non-agricultural sector are created much faster leading to a pull on labour away from agriculture to higher productivity and higher-pay-

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ing manufacturing or services sector.

For India, the key to increasing productivity and incomes in agriculture is to speed up this process of shifting the workforce away from agriculture. If we can manage to shift the disguised unemployed from agriculture to other sectors, the fundamental problems of our agriculture sector (as mentioned above) will be automatically mitigated. In the mid-1950s, the economist W. Arthur Lewis (who won the Nobel Prize in 1979) outlined a model of economic development dealing with the dynamics of labour reallocation in a ‘dual economy’ composed of a traditional or subsistence sector and

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a modern industrial or capitalist sector. In the Lewis model, the transfer of labour from a low to a highproductivity sector can change the functional distribution of income.

There is thus a clear case for shifting the unutilised or partially utilised labour force from agriculture towards other productive economic activities. To this end, we should explore investments in the supply chain, in mechanisation, and in the consolidation of land holdings to increase the productivity of farmers. However, to achieve a doubling of income for farmers, the government should look at not just increasing farmer productivity (the income

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side) but also reducing the dependence on agriculture for employment only because a lack of opportunities elsewhere makes it the default option. If we can achieve even marginal improvements on the two halves of the equation, i.e. increase in output (the numerator) and decrease in the total number employed (the denominator), we will be much closer to achieving our target of doubling farm incomesď Ź

(Shri V.P. Nandakumar is MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd. Views are personal.)

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BUSINESS

Rajesh Nair Associate Partner, Ernst & Young LLP

The professional of tomorrow cannot navigate with just the front mirror and the rear mirror, but needs to have the instinct to look at every road sign, changing weather patterns and fading landscape, and imbibe every tessellation of what is around them. For the future is just around the blind corner

Life skills for the modern-day

entrepreneur

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e spend time to learn from the ‘My stories’ of great entrepreneurs.

Often what we take away is the ‘romantic’ tryst they had with their ventures, the thrilling ups and downs they faced in the business scenario and the stupendous success, especially from when it is a ‘rags to riches’ story. They are all often true and that is the essence of celebrating entrepreneurship. But, what we miss is some of the other habits of the entrepreneur which got her or him thus far. And, in this array of habits lie fairly non-glitzy and less alluring ones – listening, taking notes, etc.

On listening: It is a silent truth that one of the key aspects of persuasion is the ability to listen and understand. This is often neglected, when we rate articulation much higher than listening. And, as they say, we refuse to put listening on the same pedestal as ‘speaking well’. One of the most undervalued of skills, it is also still in a nascent state as a business competency. As an entrepreneur, our minds perceive

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that the biggest challenge is to explain our idea, product or service to others. It needs to be mentally reinforced that our pitches become much more refined when we listen to the stakeholders around – particularly, their questions. It could be the insightful suggestion of a junior team member, an acerbic comment of a customer, the pointed query of an investor – all of them help you build your repertoire of responses. We are also driven by the need to feel that what we hear confirms to our beliefs and ideas - what Dan Kanhemann calls the ‘confirmation bias’.

On taking notes: I normally tell my junior colleagues and the young entrepreneurs who meet us: “Take notes, as if your life depends on it”. Your memory is cluttered by a zillion ‘to dos’ related to work and your personal life. Every interaction with a business stakeholder becomes a failed opportunity, if one cannot take a set of actions and benefit from the interaction, and if we just forget what we heard and talked about.

You would also be surprised when we take notes and capture impor-

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tant points verbatim. On reminiscing on reading the notes later, we tend to get better and different insights too. It is also useful to understand and learn from presenters who lack the showmanship on a podium and the art of modulated and forceful speeches.

We are all inclined to listen and learn selectively. Listening and taking notes help us neutralise our biases, and get insights to take course corrections and make intuitive resolutions. But, the best part of both these skills is the ease with which you can cultivate them. You can see the positive changes in an instant with a conscious first step. So, all young and old, existing and potential entrepreneurs start listening and taking notes.

On the ability to learn: Most leadership gurus consider it as the mother competency or capacity. An open mind which questions and becomes porous to new information soak in more, adjust and adapt to any variation around him.

The subject of management has evolved through the years to be one of the most sought after, as well as craved for, academic areas. The science or art debate has been one of the prolific debates that provide the fecundity and normative logic characteristic only to the subject. The root of the foundation may not be as fertile a topic as its diverse branching. The interpretations of the subject have itself been the prerogative of the individual himself. Cultural vagrancy, ethical structure, flora and fauna have all its impact on the way the subject is manifested. As they cliché goes “It’s never Black and White but a shady Grey”. Then, why the clamour, the hype and the attention?

The answer itself comes from one of management’s premier gurus, Peter Drucker “Never was a subject so full of common sense”.

On ‘engagement’: Deep involvement in whatever we do, enhances our ability to do things better, more efficiently, pick up a wide variety of things to do across fields and encourages to seek completion of what we do rather than leaving it incomplete before the next wave of thoughts crowd in. Engagement also

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does the following: Engagement prepares our mind for serendipity – picking up ideas from diverse areas and keeping a look out for interesting cross sector insights; Engagement builds porous walls around ideas and helps cross pollination of ideas; Engagement clears the deck of the mind and prepares it for ‘deep work’; Engagement helps you to build a mental ‘to do’ library.

On understanding and embracing change: The most challenging task of all lies with the individual. There is a lot happening. Gone are the days of one job through your career. An average employee of the previous generation, who recently retired at sixty

(especially in the Indian context), has on an average changed less than two jobs or simply put, most have never changed a job in their career. Their careers took the twists and turn as dictated by that respective organisation. This is changing.

A recent research says that youngsters, who started their careers post 2006, are likely to change eleven jobs by the time they retire at sixty!

That is a whopping number, you may think. But, the numbers for the western world are more bizarre – with countries having average job changes at 24! Which mean on an average many employees work in one organisation for less than eighteen months?

So, while technology is more like a life skill now and not a functional skill, you also need to build

the right attitude. An attitude about yourself, the watch on the horizon, a lot more mulling on your individual career is the need of the hour.

There is a host of things you need to focus on: • Ability to think; • Ability to learn; • Ability to unlearn; • Ability to be open to discuss change; • And, the agility to do thing super quickly.

The professional of tomorrow cannot navigate with just the front mirror and the rear mirror, but needs to have the instinct to look at every road sign, changing weather patterns and fading landscape, and imbibe every tessellation of what is around them. For the future is just around the blind corner! 

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THREE CHEERS TO

INNOVATIVE SPIRITS OF STRENGTH!

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hen Dr. Elizabeth Chacko embarked on her journey as a beautician 40 years ago, there were almost no other counterparts available in the state for her.

It was indeed a fancy thing to go to a beauty salon, and not a necessity like today. The orthodox community, then, resisted the new generation who opted to groom themselves going to the parlour. Dr. Elizabeth’s contribution in transforming an entire generation’s mindset is commendable. She took initiative to talk with and had sessions with the older generation which resisted the move. She convinced them to come over to the parlours and get themselves undergo beauty treatments for good. Dr. Elizabeth was successful in conveying the right message in a very right way. She was indeed ahead of her time – a true pioneer in the field of beauty. She was a visionary and an equally smart businesswoman, who strived hard to make her dreams come true. She considers it a blessing that her parlour was full up from the day one. The role of Dr. Elizabeth, who bring a paradigm shift into the thinking of an entire society, is commendable – which then led to a plethora of women joining her work force.

Kalpana Beauty Parlous is the only beauty parlour which has persisted and sustained the twists and turns the sector has suffered over these years. The tremendous effort put behind it is indented to the upliftment of women community across the state.

Kalpana Beauty School has trained more than 2000 students, and Kalpana beauty

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Salons have employed more than 3000 staff in the tenure of 40 odd years. We can find in every other beauty parlour at least one representation from Kalpana Beauty Salon. The salary and the quality are above par than any other competitors around. Kalpana has equipped hundreds of women to independently stand on their own – some have started their own beauty parlours branching out successfully and some others fruitfully work in other parlours with excellent skills Kalpana has instilled in them. We can find a lot of women who have migrated abroad, after working with Kalpana or studied in Kalpana Beauty school. Kalpana Beauty Salon is thus a guaranteed name which has empowered and uplifted the women community in Kerala, with their foresight and dedicated vision. Dr. Elizabeth had a prudent vision, from the time she brought in the Chinese batch from Calcutta. The concept was principal enough to simulate like globalization.

These three women prove to the world that you can excel in anything that you put your heart into. Passion on what you do is what takes you ahead. Winning against the odds is their real forte.

She has now equipped her very talented daughter, Sara Kurien, to carry forward her legacy with the ethics that she has upholded all these gallant years with the prestigious Kalpana. Sara, after her graduation, upon her mother’s advice, took ample experience from hospitality and beauty industries and now runs some of the branches of Kalpana Beauty Hub. Sara says, “I’ve seen the hard work my mother put in her business, from the time I opened my eyes from the inception stage. I literally grew up in our parlours. It was not easy back then when we had to make do everything from flower

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bouquets to sarees by ourselves. Women are beautiful, no matter what their size, shape or skin tone is. Malayalee women have an amazing skin tone. I see women of different character and strength during my day to day work life here. I see three generations of clients – clients who carried me around as a baby, and now I cater to their daughters and granddaughters.”

While Dr. Elizabeth specialized on Cosmetology, Ms. Sara specialised on HR and People management. Ms. Sara is so proficient to quickly identify who does a good service and who does not.

She makes sure that the clients feel much comfortable so the loyalty stays mutual.

Tia, Sara’s daughter is now doing her finance, and likes to travel the world, work in some re-

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puted companies, and gain experience, to come back and helm the show later. She looks forward to go for adventure trips, do apprenticeship, work proactively, learn people and understand things from basics. Ms. Tia is now into dance, sports and cooking specialities.

“Today, there is no sense of guilt when spoiling oneself. There is more spending power and independence. However, when I started the beauty business, it was not so,” reminisces Dr. Elizabeth, who has 40 plus years expertise in the beauty business.

Educated in British Oakgrove School, Mussorie, and Jesus Mary College, Delhi, she went on to do a two-year course in electrolysis and cosmetology to the USA. She indeed pioneered the wedding concept in Kerala – that beauticians make a big difference to a bride on

The first Beauty Parlour to be Opened at The Southern Naval Command, Cochin is Kalpana’s

Kalpana School trained all know-hows and was instrumental in developing lives of 2000 plus women students

More than 3000 employees employed by Kalpana Beauty Salons during these years

First Health Club of Kerala

Started Budget Parlour for ladies at Cochin who could affordless

First of florists in Kerala

First of Wedding/event planners in the state

First of Flower-arrangement specialists for the 5 star categories’ hotels in the state

Free wedding and make-up services to poor who cannot afford these services

Conducting Social Responsible Events/ Programmes for upcoming talented girls

Charitable activities to help the poor on a daily basis

Collaborates with Programmes/Shows run for girls

Successfully branched out into the Middle East

her special day. “Kalpana is the first to have total wedding packages – make up and dressing – for the bride and her entourage, bouquets, car decoration etc,” she adds.

And, that is not all. She has many other firsts to her credit.

Apart from opening the first beauty parlour, she brought in Chinese hair dressers, who are considered the best in hairstyling. “What gives me immense joy is to be invited to the beauty parlours opened by my students.

If they are all independent and doing well today, it is because they have received excellent training and experience at Kalpana,” she says. The family beauty salon has been very tastefully and elegantly done up in contemporary style to offer its clients the best and the latest beauty care services in pri-

vacy and comfort. The salon is manned by highly trained and qualified staffs from the North of India, with Dr. Elizabeth being actively involved in its day to day operations. An extensive traveller, she updates herself constantly about all the latest in the beauty business. A phenomenal travel enthusiast, she shuttles between Kochi and the UK where she used to reside with her husband. She is very keen to learn new technologies and trends and adds those onto her state-of-the-art salons across the state. Dr. Elizabeth, Sara and Tia are very exposed to global culture. Worship is a support they fall back onto. These three women prove to the world that you can excel in anything that you put your heart into. Passion on what you do is what takes you ahead. Winning against the odds is their real forte

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SERBIAN BEAUTY

WINS MISS ASIA GLOBAL TITLE

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t was an amazing evening.

Hundreds of beauty lovers were in the venue arranged to organise the fifth edition of Mahindra and Manappuram Miss Asia Global, when the golden crown, designed by Parakkat Jewellers, was placed on the head of Serbian beauty Sara Damnjanovic.

With that spectacular crown on her head, the winner of the prestigious event (ie, the Miss Asia Global 2019) proudly walked towards the middle of the cheering audience. It was the conclusion of an amazing celebration.

The Miss Asia Global is a renowned beauty contest organised

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by a respected event conglomerate, Pegasus.

This year, it was organised at Gokulam Convention Centre in Kochi, Ernakulam. At least 24 beauties from around 24 different countries participated in the event.

This year’s event had many specialities. YB Yeoh Soon Hin, the tourism minister of Penang, Malaysia, was the chief guest of the event. Along with him, several dignitaries representing the Penang government participated in the event. The baton handing over ceremony – the ceremony conducted to formally entrust the responsibility of organising the next

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year’s event to the Penang government – was an important part of the event.

The Miss Asia Global and the Miss Asia are the two top titles awarded in the Miss Asia Global event.

As mentioned earlier, Ms. Sara was the luckiest. The second big title, Miss Asia, was wristed by a Vietnamese beauty, Nguyen Thi Yen Trang.

The crowning ceremony was the most exciting moment in the event. Ms. Nguyen was crowned by Miss Asia 2017 Honey Tian mi, and Ms. Sara by Miss Asia Global 2018 Assem Yessengeldiyeva.

The top two titles were not the only titles awarded in the event. Several other titles, including sub-titles, were gifted.

Interestingly, Korean beauty Leeseul Kim and Philippines beauty Jeanyeer Ozbot received the Miss Asia Global first and Miss Asia Global second runner up titles respectively. The first runner up was crowned by Mr. V P Nandakumar, the MD and CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd, and the second runner up by Mr. Suresh Kumar E S, the Regional Sales Manager of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. The Miss Beautiful Face, Miss Beautiful Skin, Kalpana International Miss Beautiful Hair, Miss Beautiful Smile, Miss Beautiful Eyes, Miss Congeniality, Miss Perfect Ten, SAJ Earth Miss

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Talent, Miss Catwalk, Miss Personality, Best National Costume, Miss Social Media, Miss Fitness and the VeeKayVee Gourmet Queen sub-titles were awarded to Samiksha Singh (India), Hsieh Ling Tzu (Taiwan), Yana Khramtsova (Belarus), Leeseul Kim (Korea), Shanta Paul (Bangladesh), Singye Bidha (Bhutan), Elshamma Valdor (Haiti), Karoline Aline De Morais Daniel (Brazil), Bonadeo Adora Jane (Australia), Tenzin Zomkey (Belgium), Dong Xiaoge (China), Hannah Paiwan (Laos), Oksana Zemlianukhina (Ukraine) and Ajita Rayamajhi (Nepal) respectively.

Notably, the title winner also won at least two sub-titles. Ms. Sara was the winner of the Miss Photogenic and Miss Viewers’ Choice titles.

The backbone of the event was its supportive event partners. Mahindra and Manappuram Fi-

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nance were the main partners of the event. And, DQue watches, CERA, SAJ Earth Resorts and T Shine were the powered by partners.

There were nearly three rounds in the event: the national costume round, black cocktail round and the white gown round. Each one was better than the other. The depth of the effort put by each and every contestant was clearly evident. It was not a surprise. It was the natural outcome of the intense training given in the grooming session commenced (un-

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der the leadership of eminent personalities from the modelling and fashion sector) at least a week prior to the commencement of the event at Saj Earth Resort in Ernakulam.

Not only their groomers, but also each and every person worked for the event was keen to retrieve the best from each and every contestant. Anyway, the biggest gift the contestants got was the judging panel.

With the panel, what they gained was the special opportunity to get evaluated by a group of acclaimed profession-

als. Christine Huang, Hari Anand, Alice Lee Chan, Rajeev Pillai and Rita Mathen were the prominent persons in the panel.

Dr. Ajit Ravi, the Founder Chairman of the Miss Asia Global, said that the event was conducted to showcase the rich culture of the country and to promote its tourism sector.

Unique Times, Juzt Shine Family Fitness, Neo TourEx Private Limited, Wow Factor, J D Institute of Fashion Technology, The Times New, Kerala Gods’ Own Country, DTPC, UT

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November-December 2019

World, Europe Times, Fitness Forever, Vee Kay Vees, Parakkat Resorts and Aiswarya were the event partners of the Miss Asia Global.

Bonadeo Adora Jane (Australia), Shanta Paul (Bangladesh), Yana Khramtsova (Belarus), Tenzin Zomkey (Belgium), Singye Bidha (Bhutan), Karoline Aline De Morais Daniel (Brazil), Eva Nedelcheva Dobreva (Bulgaria), Dong Xiaoge (China), Jana Kutova (Czech Republic), Fatou Ndateh Sowe (Gambia), Maame Yaa Asieduwah Donikor (Ghana), Elshamma Valdor (Haiti), Samiksha Singh (India), Fira Dwi Indria (Indonesia), Melissa Kassanova (Kazakhstan), Leeseul Kim (Korea), Hannah Paiwan (Laos), Aylasha Ramrachia (Mauritius), Ajita Rayamajhi (Nepal), Jeanyeer Ozbot (Philippines),Shakherezada Rastokina (Russia), Sara Damnjanovic (Serbia), Hsieh Ling Tzu (Taiwan), Oksana Zemlianukhina (Ukraine), Nguyen Thi Yen Trang (Vietnam), and Rabecca Kabaso (Zambia) were the contestantsď Ź

November-December 2019

31

FINANCE

Adv Sherry Samuel Oommen is a practising lawyer at High Court of Kerala who specialises in tax and Corporate Laws.

Presently he heads the tax and corporate law practice of Nash Capital Partners. Apart from being a qualified lawyer, he is also a chartered accountant, cost accountant and a company secretary. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate Degree and is reachable at sherryoommen@nashcp.com.

In respect of transitional credit, the Gujarat High Court in the case of Siddharth Enterprises Vs The Nodal Officer (2019-TIOL-2068-HC-AHM-GST) has held that the denial of input tax credit paid under pre-GST laws would amount to violation of Article 14 and 300A of the Constitution of India.

Goods and Services Tax-

Emerging trends and jurisprudence

G

oods and Services Tax (“GST”) since its introduction in July 2017 has been a matter of continuous change. One would argue that while the initial teething problems have to a large extent been resolved, the continuous changes in the law is indeed a matter of concern.

For instance, the Government vide Notification No 49/2019 dated 09 October 2019, has sought to amend Rule 36 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017 (“the Rules”) with the introduction of the Central Goods and Ser-

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November-December 2019

vices Tax (Sixth Amendment) Rules, 2019. The amended qua Rule 36 reads as under: “Input tax credit to be availed by a registered person in respect of invoices or debit notes, the details of which have not been uploaded by the suppliers under sub-section (1) of section 37, shall not exceed 20 per cent of the eligible credit available.”

In short, it does become even more certain that a recipient would be in a position to claim input tax credit on his inward supplies only if his supplier has filed the extant returns. Furthermore, the

Government has decided to restrict the input tax credit under the Goods and Services Tax to 20 percent of the eligible amount for an entity, if its supplier has not uploaded the relevant invoices.

While one would contend that such move was intended to plug revenue leakages, the need for pushing this obligation of ensuring that the concerned supplier files his related returns is indeed debatable especially since the Department has been vested with all the powers to recover any revenue lost owing to non-payment of taxes

by erring suppliers. Consequently, one would argue that credit cannot be denied to the recipient for the default on the part of supplier.

It is pertinent to note that in the erstwhile VAT regime, there were provisions limiting input tax credit on a bonafide purchaser on account of a failure in the concerned seller complying with the extant provision in law. The said provisions were challenged before the Delhi High Court in the case of On Quest Mer-

chandising India Private Limited (2017-TIOL-2251-HC-DEL-VAT).

The Hon’ble Court observed that once all the conditions within the power of purchaser have been complied, input tax credit cannot be denied for non-payment by seller which is not in control of purchaser.

The said judgment of the Hon’ble Delhi High Court was challenged before the Hon’ble Supreme Court by the Government of Delhi. In appeal, the Hon’ble Supreme Court

upheld the right of a bonafide buyer in claiming input tax credit despite non-payment of tax by the selling dealer. In my view, the said principle would also apply in the GST regime as well. Furthermore, one needs to draw a distinction between a bonafide purchaser and a purchaser and a seller acting in collusion, which was also considered by the Hon’ble Delhi High Court.

The above-mentioned amendment is indeed a big change. As a

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33

result of this restriction, there is a greater necessity of ensuring that a regular matching is undertaken based on the data generated from the GST portal in Form GSTR-2A. Needless to state, businesses would now need to follow-up with their vendors on a real-time basis to ensure that the latter duly files their return.

Transitional creditRecent judgments

In respect of transitional credit, the Gujarat High Court in the case of Siddharth Enterprises Vs The Nodal Officer (2019-TIOL-2068HC-AHM-GST) has held that the denial of input tax credit paid under pre-GST laws would amount to violation of Article 14 and 300A of the Constitution of India.

In a recent judgment, the Punjab and Haryana High Court in the case of Adfert Technologies

34

Private Limited CWP No 30949 of 2018 has held that the due dates prescribed under Rule 117 of the Rules is procedural in nature and should not be construed as a mandatory provision. In view of the same, the Hon’ble Punjab and Haryana High Court has now permitted tax payers who had failed to file the related returns with the prescribed due date (i.e., by 27.12.2017) by 30 November 2019.

This judgment does provide a window of opportunity for those who have missed filing their returns by 27.12.2017.

In another interesting development, the Madras High Court in the case of Messrs Sutherland Global Services Private Limited (WP No 4773 of 2018) has permitted the carry forward of Education Cess, Secondary and Higher Education Cess and Krishi Kalyan Cess

November-December 2019

into the GST regime. The Hon’ble Madras High Court in arriving at its judgment, placed significant reliance on the judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of Eicher Motors Limited Vs Union of India (106 ELT 3) where it was held that Modvat Credit lying to the balance of an assessee represented a vested right accrued or acquired by the assessee. The said right becomes absolute at that point when the input was used in the manufacturing of the final product and thereby indefeasible.

In conclusion, it would augur well on the Government if a practical approach is considered in resolving disputes, especially when the principles in law are well-settled. Unless a pragmatic approach is implemented, the related effects on the business et al could be deleterious

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HEALTH

Dr Arun Oommen MBBS, MS (Gen Surg), Mch( Neurosurgery), MRCSEd, MBA Consultant Neurosurgeon, VPS Lakeshore Hospital Kochi, India

Neurological pain is considered one of the most distressing, as well as one of the most challenging to treat, disease conditions and forms a major chunk of the patients seeking aid in the pain and palliative clinics. There are a multitude of reasons for neurological pains.

10 TYPES OF NEUROLOGICAL PAIN HOW TO TACKLE Neurological pain is considered one of the most distressing, as well as one of the most challenging to treat, disease conditions and forms a major chunk of the patients seeking aid in the pain and palliative clinics.

There are a multitude of reasons for neurological pains of which 10 common causes are below: 1. Peripheral Neuropathy These are common types of neurological pain characterized by burning or electrical sensation in the hands and feet, and may be associated with sensory loss and paraesthesia. Feet are more vulnerable than hands. Pain is symmetrical, slow onset, progressive and ascending type. There is no

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associated neck or back pain.

Common causes include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV, certain medications, chemotherapy, B12 deficiency and idiopathic.

Treat underlying cause. Antiseizure and anti-depressant medications can help.

2. Radicular pain down the legs or arms Shooting type of pain caused due to nerve root irritation. The pain radiates along the path of the nerve. It is very common.

The most common cause is a disc prolapse which irritates the nerve and produce symptoms. Irritation can be due to direct mechanical irritation or due to inflammatory reaction caused by the prolapsed material (Nucleus pulposus con-

taining inflammatory factors such as Sub P and NO2). Prolonged irritation and decreasing blood supply make this nerve hypersensitive producing prolonged radicular pain.

Pain is typically burning, electric, sharp and lancinating. Pain aggravates on leaning forward.

The affected nerve can be identified by proper neurological examination. MRI can be used to identify the herniated disc.

Treatment includes epidural steroid injection, medications (anti-seizure, anti-depressants and opioids), physical therapy, and surgery in refractory cases.

3. Carpel tunnel syndrome It is the most common cause of pain in the hand. It is caused

due to compression of median nerve under the transverse carpel ligament in the region of the wrist. Symptoms are seen in the distribution of the median nerve i.e. the thumb, index, middle and half of ring finger.

Patient suffers electric painful sensation in the hand. Atrophy of hand muscles can occur in severe cases.

Treatment can be by wrist splint

that keep wrist in neutral position, medications (anti-seizure and antidepressant), steroid, and surgery in refractory cases.

4. Trigeminal Neuralgia It is the most severe form of neurological pain. Sometimes so severe that it can lead to even suicide. It produces severe electric pain in one

side of the face. Pain is precipitated even by mild sensory stimuli like fast moving air. The cause is due to pathology in the trigeminal nerve supplying the face, such as abnormal blood vessels compressing the nerve etc.

Its presentation is typical hence diagnosis is clinical. It produces brief, episodic, stabbing shock like

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37

sensation. It is unilateral in the distribution of the nerve never crossing midline.

The treatment includes medicines like carbamazepine, pregabalin, baclofen opioids etc. Trigeminal nerve block treatment is used in the case of severe pain. Surgery can be tried to tackle any abnormal vessels.

5. Alcohol induced neuropathy People who drink too much may start to feel pain and tingling in their limbs.

This is known as alcoholic neuropathy.

The peripheral nerves (transmit signals between the body, the spinal cord, and the brain) have been damaged by too much alcohol use. Thiamine, folate, niacin, vitamins B6 and B12, and vitamin E are all needed for proper nerve function. Drinking too much can alter levels of these nutrients and alter nerve function. Other symptoms that can be associated with alcohol neuropathy include bowel and bladder problems, impotence and other sexual dysfunction. Fortunately, abstaining from alcohol can help restore your nutritional health. This may improve your symptoms and help prevent further nerve damage.

However, some alcohol-induced nerve damage is permanent.

The most important thing you can do to treat this condition is to stop drinking.

Once alcohol use has been addressed, doctors can focus on the neuropathy itself. Symptom management is important.

Vitamin supplements can improve nerve health. Folate, thiamine, niacin, and vitamins B6, B12, and E are often recommended. Tricyclic anti-depressants and anti-convulsant medication may both be used to reduce discomfort.

6. Post herpetic Neuralgia- Presents as burning pain across the chest or abdomen following an outbreak of herpes zostes. The Herpes zoster virus harbours in the dorsal root ganglion that is reactivated causing burning pain, tingling or electric sensation and itching alone the nerve distribution usually thoracic dermatome.

Sometimes, vesicles may be seen.

Aggressive treatment during the acute outbreak can prevent the progression to PHN. Acyclovir can be helpful. Anti-seizures and anti-depressants are also useful. Also, epidural steroids and lignocaine patch can also be tried. Spinal cord stimulator can be tried in refractory cases.

7. Meralgia paraesthetica- occurs due

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to irritation or compression of the nerve supplying the lateral aspect of the thigh i.e. the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. Presents as burning, tingling or paraesthesia in the lateral aspect of thigh. No back ache or pain below knee. Causes can be pregnancy, abdominal tumors, ascites, obesity or trauma. Diagnosed clinically, but NCS can help.

Treatment is conservative. Nerve block using steroids or local anaesthetic can be useful. Physiotherapy can also be tried. If occur during pregnancy, it subsides after delivery.

8. Neurogenic Claudication- can occur secondary to spinal canal stenosis where the diameter of the spinal canal gets reduced thus compressing the spinal cord and nerves. Spinal canal stenosis occurs secondary to age related degeneration where there can be thickening of the ligaments in the spinal canal or hypertrophy of the facet joints or central disc herniation.

Neurogenic Claudication presents as pain and paraesthesia in the back, buttocks and legs and is relieved by rest. Symptoms usually bilateral with greater degree of pain in the back than legs Symptomatic treatment can be tried but severe compression may require surgery.

9. Radiation induced neuropathic pain- Radiation used to treat cancer can cause neuropathic pain. Mechanism for radiation induced neuropathy can be localized ischemia and subsequent fibrosis due to microvascular insufficiency. Symptoms present 1-30 years following radiation therapy.

Usually, the brachial or lumbosacral plexus is involved. Symptoms start distally and progress. Diagnosis is by MRI and EMG. 10. Phantom limb- After amputation patient may experience phantom sensation and phantom limb pain - i.e. painful sensation in the absent limb. It is present in about 90% of patients in first month after amputation and gradually decreases with time. They complaints as burning or crushing sensation in the absent limb. Mirror box manipulation is a novel approach to treat phantom limb.

Anti-convulsants and anti-depressants can be helpful. TENS (transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation) placed at the stump of the missing nerve can be helpful. Other methods are spinal cord stimulation and sympathetic nerve blocks. A multimodal approach to pain including psychological care is strongly recommended

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November-December 2019

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November-December 2019

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COOKERY

Toshma Biju

Grape Wine Ingredients

• • • •

44

Grapes - 500 gm Sugar - 250-500 gm Cinnamon Stick - 1 Cloves - 3

November-December 2019

Method

Clean and dry a large jar. Wash the grapes and dry well. Divide the sugar and grapes into equal number of portions. Take one portion of the grapes and place it in the jar.

Crush it lightly with the back of a wooden stick. Layer a portion of the sugar.

Repeat this process until all the fruit is used up. Crush the last layer of fruit, and add the cinnamon stick and cloves. End with layer of sugar. Close the lid, and store it in a dark place, away from light and heat.

Around 24 hours later, shake the jar lightly to distribute the sugar and spices evenly. Repeat this process for at least 5 days. If the mix froths to the top, open the lid a little to vent. Close and return it to the storage area.

Keep the jar undisturbed for nearly 21 days. For more complex flavours, keep it for not less than 3 months. Open the jar, and strain the juices into a clean dry bottle.

Banana Wine Ingredients

• • • •

Banana - 2 Kg Water - 3/4 cup Dry yeast - 1 tablespoon Sugar - 3 tablespoons

Method

Dissolve sugar into water. Chop or mash the bananas, and combine it with the sugar syrup. Now, add wine yeast, and keep the mixture in a ceramic jar for a few weeks. Then, strain out the wine. Store it in a dark place until it tastes good.

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45

Ginger Wine Ingredients

• • • • • • • • • •

46

Ginger – 250 gm Water - 2 litres Yeast - 3/4 teaspoon Sugar - 750 gm Cinnamon - 4 nos Cloves – 5 nos Cardamom – 4 nos Caramelised sugar – 3 tablespoons lemon juice - 3 lemons Papaya peels – as much as required

November-December 2019

Method

Wash and peel the ginger skin. Chop it small. Keep it aside. Boil the water in a pan, and add sugar, with spices and chopped ginger. Reduce the wine to half the quantity - it takes about 45 minutes or 1 hr. Let the mix come to room temperature, and add the yeast and lemon juice in it.

Heat another pan, and add the sugar for caramelise. Wait till it dissolves and add about 3 tablespoons of water. Once it reaches golden brown, switch off flame. Cool it. Pour it along with the mixture and papaya peels in clean, dry glass jars or bharani (clay pot) and cover it tightly. After 10 days, strain out the clear liquid discarding the sediments. Bottle it, leave it aside in a dark place and then strain again into clear bottles after another 20-25 days.

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Pineapple Wine Ingredients

• • • • • • •

48

Pineapple - one large Water - 3 cups Sugar - 3 cups Dry yeast - 1/8 teaspoon Cloves - 5 nos Cinnamon - 1 piece Egg white - 1 slightly beaten

November-December 2019

Method

Wash the pineapple thoroughly, and cut the peels. Use pineapple for making your delicious recipes. Reserve the core and skin for this recipe. Washing the skin afterwards loses its juices.

Boil and cool 3 cups water. Add in sugar, yeast, cinnamon, cloves and pineapple peels. Cover the lid lightly and keep it in a dark place. On the 7th day, add the egg white and give it a quick stir. Close the lid and leave for another 3-5 days. And, again the 10th day, decant the wine without disturbing any of the contents or pour over a cloth. Make sure not to squeeze the contents. Pour it in clean, dry bottles and wait for another 20 days.

BEAUTY

Natural methods to control pimples

P

imples are a serious issue to some people – especially, to teenagers. Actually, it is not a worrisome skin problem. It is natural. It is your unnecessary anxiety that makes this simple condition complicated.

Sadly, what an affected person does generally is that he/she, as soon as he/she finds that he/she is affected by the condition, rushes to a near-by skin hospital or a medical store in search of an effective chemical capable enough to erase this condition within a day or two. Notably, what he/she does not bother to know is that whether a chemical solution for pimples has any side-effects or not.

In reality, the majority of teenagers are even ready to try skin peelers if they feel those chemicals can solve - at least, temporary - their pimple issue.

In this edition, to those who wonder whether there is any harmless solution available to solve this issue, some natural methods to control pimples are suggested.

Tea Tree Oil

It is a natural product extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, which is mostly found in Australia. It can fight almost all types of bacteria that can cause pimples. The only problem with this method is that it is not easy to procure this oil. As per a beauty report, this oil is far more effective than many anti-pimple products available in the market.

This oil is very powerful, so it is not advisable to use it directly without diluting it. To make it suitable for skin, combine one part of tea tree oil with at least nine parts of water. Dip a clean cotton swab in the mixture. Place the swab on your pimples.

Keep it there for few minutes. Later, wash it off with clean water. Apply any moisturizer, if needed.

Repeat it at least twice a day for better result.

Other Essential Oils

Other than tea tree oil, there are several effective essential oils with the capability to fight pimples available in the market at present. The prominent among them are the essential oils of rose, lavender, cinnamon, rosemary and lemongrass. These oils have both anti-bacterial and antiinflammatory properties. Some of these oils even

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November-December 2019

have some rare properties beneficial to skin.

Like tea tree oil, most other essential oils are highly concentrated. So, like what is suggested in the case of tea tree oil, it is important to dilute these oils also with water. To turn it suitable for skin, combine one part of essential oil with at least nine parts of water. Dip a clean cotton swab in the mixture.

Place it on your pimples. Keep it there for few minutes. Wash it off with fresh water. Repeat it at least twice a day for better result.

Green Tea

Many of us drink green tea regularly. But not many know green tea is not only helpful for body but also useful for skin. Green tea is a rich source of flavonoids and tannins, which have the capacity to fight pimples. It also contains a powerful antioxidant, epigallocatechin-3-gallate. Many studies, done in the recent past, have endorsed the claim that green tea is an effective solution to eliminate certain skin conditions like pimples. Anyway, the attractive part is that green tea is simple and cost effective.

Put some green tea in boiling water. Keep it aside for few minutes. Once it is cooled, apply it on your face with a clean cotton ball. Let it rest on your face for few minutes – at least ten minutes. Wash it off with clean water. Repeat it at least two times a day for better result.

Aloe Vera

Nowadays, not many gardens are there in India without this plant. This popularity is partly because of its medicinal value. Aloe vera is used to treat a variety of skin conditions; pimples are definitely one among them. It is a rich source of several beneficial elements including urea nitrogen, phenols and salicylic acid; most of these have the capacity to fight pimples.

Take a spoon of aloe vera. Apply it on your face.

Let it rest on your face for few minutes. Wash it off with clean water. Repeat the method at least thrice a week for better result.

Confidence is Beauty!

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Mob: 9388618112

November-December 2019

51

TRAVELOGUE

Samoa: The Cradle of Polynesia

The nature Goddess has blessed no country as much as she has blessed Samoa. Sightseeing is the least thing that can be done in Samoa.

To enjoy Samoa rightly, its cuisine, its culture, its art, its music and its several similar gifts should be tasted. It needs lot of patience and dedication.

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November-December 2019

T

ulsi Gabbard is a very popular US politician. She has made headlines several times in the recent past, because of her heated word exchange with former Democrat presidential candidate Hilary Clinton.

Actually, it is not the reason why she is well known among the American people. She holds many feathers on her hat. She is a Hawaii Army National Guard Major. She serves as the US representative for the second Congressional district of Hawaii.

Moreover, she is the first practicing Hindu to be elected to the Congress.

The reason why she has gotten a place in the beginning of this travel article has nothing to do with anything that has been mentioned above.

It is this politician that has helped a tiny Island country in the Oceania region to gain more global attention in the recent days. Ms. Tulsi is a Samoan-American. That lucky country which has won huge attention in the recent past because of Ms. Tulsi is no country other than Samoa.

When it is spoken about Samoa, there is every chance to emerge unnecessary confusion, as there are two by the same name: one is American Samoa – which is an overseas territory of the US, and the other is the Independent state of Samoa – which is popularly known as Western Samoa. In this edition, the inde-

November-December 2019

53

pendent country is explored.

About the Country

Samoa is composed of around two big Islands – Savaii and Upolu – and at least four small Islands – Manono, Apolima, Fanuatapu and Namua. It is a unitary parliamentary democracy. It has as many as eleven administrative divisions. It is a Christian nation; at least ninety per cent of the country’s population are from that community. Its total population is less than two lakhs.

Unlike many countries similar to this Island country, it is a developing country.

Independence Movement

Though Samoa is a tiny Island country in the Oceania region, it has a huge story to tell regarding its independence.

Many westerners exploited this tiny Island – from Germans to New Zealanders. Samoans fought fearlessly against all of them. They succeeded in bringing up a coordinated Independence movement against its last oppressor, New Zealand.

In the year 1961, the movement tasted success, and the country got liberated.

Present Samoa

At present, Samoa is in a good relation with all its former oppres-

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November-December 2019

Samoa is not all about its beauty, it has many things to tell to this world. It is one of the very few countries in that part of the world which has a commendable literacy rate; its adult literacy rate is far more higher than many of its neighbours

November-December 2019

55

sors – especially New Zealand. It has come too far from its beginning. Over the years, it has learned many lessons – from the importance of maintaining a stable economy to the necessity of keeping a friendly relation with its neighbours as well as the superpowers, particularly the west.

The country is now a member of United Nations and several similar International organisations like the Commonwealth of Nations.

Name Change

The change of the name of the country from Western Samoa to Samoa is the most important event seen in the modern history of the country.

The name change was not easy. It faced serious opposition from the American Samoans. Overcoming the protest, the Samoan government amended the constitution of the country to change the name of the country from Western Samoa to Samoa.

What that the name change actually gifted is a new confidence.

Samoan Economy

The Samoan economy largely relies on foreign remittance and agriculture export.

At least two-third of the workforce of the country is employed by its agricultural sector. Copra is the main export product produced in the country. Among the three main sectors, the service sector is the biggest one in this country. Interestingly, the manufacturing sector depends heavily on the agriculture sector, as the agro-industry sector makes a considerable part of the manufacturing sector in the country. The liberal economic structure of the country increases its potential to grow. The tourism sector is seen as the future of the country’s economy. In the recent times, it has witnessed a tremendous growth. Actually, the country possesses everything necessary to emerge as the most popular tourist destination of Oceania.

Tourist Heaven

The nature Goddess has blessed no country as much as she has blessed Samoa. Sightseeing is the least thing that can be done in Samoa. To enjoy Samoa rightly, its cuisine, its culture, its art, its music and its several similar gifts should be tasted. It needs lot of patience and dedication.

Apia, Upolu, Savaii and Lalomanu are some of the most popular tourist destinations in this gifted country.

Apia is the capital city of Samoa. It houses several office buildings and commercial centres. Apart from those, there

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November-December 2019

are several historic ruins and museums in this city; the Museum of Samoa is the most prominent among them.

Not many know renowned Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson, who is popular for his travel stories, spend his last days in this extra-ordinary city.

His restored house now functions as a museum. Yearly, it draws a large number of visitors. The place where he rests in peace forever is also located in the city – at the top of Mount Vaea.

Palolo Deep Marine Reserve located in this part of the world offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience – that experience cannot be explained legibly through letters alone.

Upolu is the second largest Island in the country. It is formed by a massive basaltic shield volcano. The scenic beauty of the land is exceptional. There are several colonial ruins in this part of the country. It is the best place to get a glimpse of genuine Samoan culture, art and music. In the recent past, because of its natural beauty, the region has become the filming location for many popular films, including Return to Paradise. Like what the name of the film developed in this land indicates the Island is a true paradise.

Savaii is the largest Island in the country. It is home to several astounding tourist destinations like Afu Aau Falls, Pulemelei Mound, Alofaag Blowholes and Mount Matavanu. Each is better than the other.

Lalomanu is an amazing village located around one hour away from the capital city.

Lalomanu beach is the most popular tourist destination in this village. This white sand beach holds the capacity to excite all types of travellers. It offers plenty of activities from snorkelling to scuba diving. The uninhibited Nuutele Island is just a few miles away from this beach. The Island can be viewed from this region. The Congregational Christian Church situated exactly at the centre of the village is another important attraction in this part of the country.

Samoa is not all about its beauty, it has many things to tell to this world. It is one of the very few countries in that part of the world which has a commendable literacy rate; its adult literacy rate is far more higher than many of its neighbours. Notably, around sixty per cent of the electricity the country consumers are sourced from its renewable sources; moreover, it has an appreciable ambition to hike that to around one hundred per cent by the year 2021.

Do visit this paradise at least once!

AUTO REVIEW

Vivek Venugopal is one of India’s top automotive writers with over a decade’s experience in road-testing and reviewing cars.

He is currently the Editor of Quarter Mile magazine and a columnist in several leading magazines and newspapers. He is also a highly sought after consulting engineer and market analyst for many automobile manufacturers.

The biggest improvement in the XL6 is the cabin. You get black interiors and leather seats that are way classier than the Ertiga’s. We hated the wood trim in the Ertiga, and here you have better finished trim that’s inspired by granite and aluminium.

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t goes without saying that the market place for SUVs is so ripe that more and more manufacturers are jumping on the bandwagon now. The second generation Ertiga is a very good car and a strong seller, but what do you do to make it more appealing to the SUV loving customers out there? Well, Maruti has given it a raised bonnet line and kitted it with a lot of SUV elements, and called it the XL6. It is broadly similar to what Honda did with the Mobilio when they created the BRV. The name XL6, which to most, brings back memories of the old Grand Vitara XL7, stands for ‘Exclusive’ and ‘6 seater’. And, since it is a premium offering, it will be sold via Nexa outlets.

The XL6 has SUV in-

spired styling with a more butch face and bolder styling. The wheel arches are made to look bigger, but since they were working on a constrained budget, Maruti hasn’t reworked the suspension or given it bigger wheels. The front styling is characterised by larger trapezoidal grille and LED headlamps. The bumper gets skid plate and black trim around the fog lamps. From the sides, the 15 inch wheels that are the same as in the Ertiga, look small. The rear is very similar to the Ertiga save for new rear bumper and black trim under the rear glass.

The biggest improvement in the XL6 is the cabin. You get black interiors and leather seats that are way classier than the Ertiga’s. We hated the wood

Maruti Suzuki XL6 trim in the Ertiga, and here you have better finished trim that’s inspired by granite and aluminium. Also, instead of a middle sofa, you now get two individual arm chairs that also recline and slide back and forth. The large glass area, the ample legroom, the flat floor and the tall roof made sure I spent most of my time here. If you are going to be chauffeur driven, look no further than the XL6. It is less than half the price of an Innova and the petrol engine’s refinement is in a different league. The third row seats are better too, since it now lets you sit with your legs extended towards the centre of the middle row.

The familiar Bosch infotainment unit is replaced with one similar to that of the new WagonR, with customizable menus and all, but it isn’t as bright and suffers from sunlight readability. The XL6 gets cruise control in the top spec while the rest of the dashboard is similar to that of the Ertiga. The flat bottomed steering is good to hold and the driving

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position is excellent. There are two cup holders lower down in the centre console and they have an AC vent with flow control to keep your beverages cool. The boot space has also been improved with 209 litres with all three rows in place, 550 litres with the last row folded and 803 litres with both rows down.

The XL6 gets the same 105bhp and 138Nm, 1.5 litre petrol engine as in the Ertiga and facelifted Ciaz.

It also gets the additional Li-ion battery pack for the hybrid system, although in real life, you can’t tell when it is providing any assistance to the engine. The engine also gets a stop-start system which, coupled with the refinement of the engine, works like a treat. The engine does offer good tractability and low end. It is very easy to drive around town and you can maintain a decent cruising

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With the XL6, Maruti has taken the Ertiga and made it little bit better. It might seat only six, but offers more comfort, better premium feel, more equipment and many more, while retaining the core values that made the Ertiga so good.

speed on the highway. It labours its way to 6200rpm and overtaking calls for a quick downshift or two. Fortunately, the clutch is very light and the gearshifts are snappy. The XL6 also gets an automatic variant, but it is a 4 speed torque convertor which is best suited for city driving. There is no diesel variant as such.

The XL6 has the same suspension as the Ertiga, which was a neat

November-December 2019

handler. The steering could do with a bit more feel, but it grips better than before and is very sure footed through the corners. Yes, it rolls a little, but you can drive it fast for an MPV. And, this isn’t at the expense of ride quality either. The suspension irons out most vertical movements, and the cabin feels very well insulated from the surface underneath.

You can drive it fast over broken roads without discomfort. Brakes are confidence inspiring as well.

With the XL6, Maruti has taken the Ertiga and made it little bit better. It might seat only six, but offers more comfort, better premium feel, more equipment and many more, while retaining the core values that made the Ertiga so good. It costs approximately Rs.70,000 to Rs.1 lakh more than the Ertiga, and is definitely worth the extra cash

MOVIE REVIEW

Bala

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t is a romantic comedy film directed by Amar Kaushik. The film is about a young man, who is balding prematurely. The film depicts how he overcomes the negative thoughts that have crawled into his mind due to his physical condition. Ayushmaan Khurrana appears as the central character of the film. The effort he has put for the film is commendable. Apart from Mr. Khurrana, Yami Gautam, Bhumi Pednekar, Seema Pahwa and Manoj Pahwa act in the lead roles.

There are several interesting comedy sequences in the film. The film is written by Niren Bhatt and Karan Malhotra. The film has already attracted several positive responses.

Bypass Road

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t is a thriller film directed by talented filmmaker Naman Nitin Mukesh. The story of the film is developed by its lead actor, Neil Nitin Mukesh, itself. The film is filled with several breathtaking sequences. The film is likely to be a new trend setter. Apart from Mr. Mukesh, Adah Sharma, Shama Sikander, Gul Panag and Sudhanshu Pandey appear in the lead roles. The film is produced by Mr. Mukesh itself, in association with Miraj Group. The film is expected to give a big break to Mr. Mukesh, who is at present nowhere in the list of top Bollywood actors.

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Terminator: Dark Fate

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t is a fantasy film directed by renowned filmmaker Tim Miller. It is the latest film from the Terminator sequence. The film is based on Characters developed by James Cameron and Gale Anne Hurd. Linda Hamilton, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mackenzie Davis, Gabriel Luna and Natalia Reyes act in the lead roles. There are several stunning action sequences in the film.

The film has attracted mixed responses. The film is not as addictive as its predecessors. Mr. Cameron and David Ellison are the producers of the film.

The film revolves around a newly modified liquid Terminator, who arrives from the future to kill a young factory worker.

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil

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t is a fantasy film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Joachim Ronning. The film portrays the story of the war of Maleficent against a queen, who hatches a plot to kill all fairies in her country. It is the latest film from the Maleficent series. It is a big budget film.

A huge sum of over 18.5 crores USD is invested in the film. Angelina Jolie appears as the central character. Her acting in the film is exemplary. Apart from Ms. Angelina, Michelle Pfeiffer, Harris Dickinson, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Ed Skrein act in the lead roles. The film has received many positive responses.

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BOOK REVIEW

Turbulence & Triumph: The Modi Years Author Price

: Rahul Agarwal, Pradhan S Bharathi : Rs. 663 (Hardcover)

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arendra Modi, the present Indian Prime Minister, is different in many ways. He is not like any of his predecessors. In the modern political history of the country, no leader is as charismatic as PM Modi. He is an orator, social worker and many more. Yet, not many books are available about his turbulent political career. This book attempts to fill that gap.

This work of Rahul Agarwal and Pradhan S Bharathi discusses extensively about the extra-ordinary political career of the greatest political leader the modern India has even seen. The book is not a biography, but a research work.

Call Sign Chaos: Learning to Lead Author Price

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: Jim Mattis, Bing West : Rs. 538 (Hardcover)

ike what the title of the book indicates, it is a book about the highly interesting topic of leadership. What makes this book special is that Jim Mattis is one of its writers. Moreover, this book is almost entirely about his personal experience as a leader. It is not necessary to introduce Mr. Mattis. He is a very popular figure. Mr. Mattis is a former United States Secretary of Defence. As a person who once occupied one of the top leadership positions in the United States, he definitely can share many relevant tips to this generation leaders and even to the want-to-be leaders of the present generation. Precisely, what this book does is that.

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BOOK REVIEW

Stillness is the Key: An Ancient Strategy for Modern Life Author Price

: Ryan Holiday : Rs. 384 (Paperback)

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ike what the title of the book rightly suggests, this book is all about the highly useful quality of stillness. The book presents the quality as a secret key to success. Several interesting philosophies, like Buddhism, appear in this book. What the book tries to tell its readers is that the said quality is the only common quality that is seen among the successful human beings. The writer of the book is also the writer of ‘The Obstacle is the Way’ and ‘Ego is the Enemy’. Both of them have performed well in terms of the sales of book. The latest is also of the same genre. It is also likely to impress its readers.

The Class of 83: The Punishers of Mumbai Police Author Price

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: S. Hussain Zaidi : Rs. 314 (Paperback)

t may sound like a fiction. Actually, it is not a fiction. It is a real story.

The book is about an infamous encounter specialist, Pradeep Sharma.

Mr. Sharma was a member of the Mumbai police. Notably, he was the part of the 1983 batch, trained by legendary trainer Arvind Inamdar. The 1983 batch was instrumental in liberating the city from the clutches of the Mumbai Underworld, which once was deadly dangerous and fearless. The book narrates, with the support of some fiction elements, how the said batch reinstated the rule of law in the city of Mumbai. This is far better than a fiction.

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Printed On 09/ 11/ 2019

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