Category: Kharcha paani

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Campa Cola residents form human chain to protest

Faced with demolition of their homes, residents are thinking up new ways to get the Government’s attention to their plight.
by The Editors | editor@themetrognome.in

In an attempt to save their homes from demolition and to protest the demolition orders, Campa Cola residents and their supporters yesterday came out in large numbers and formed a human chain at Worli Sea Face, starting from Flora Signal to Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

“We do not want our families to become homeless with no roof over their heads. We will continue to protest in whatever way possible to save our homes,” said a Campa Cola resident.

Nandini Mehta, another resident said, Campa Cola said “Today the residents are faced with a situation that they have to demolish not only the homes that are beyond the permissible limit but 46 per cent of what has been asked to demolish is within the FSI limit, which as per the laws of the State, can be regularised with a penalty. The residents are therefore requesting the Chief Minister through this demonstration that he exercises his discretionary powers as the head of the legislative machinery and pass an ordinance to save the homes that are within the permissible FSI.”

Human chain at Worli sea faceThe residents of Campa Cola have found support from various political parties and people across religious faith supporting their cause.

What’s happening at Campa Cola? 

The Campa Cola apartments were constructed on land leased to Pure Drinks Ltd in 1955, which was permitted by the BMC in 1980 to develop it for residential purposes. Without getting the plans approved, Pure Drinks along with builders Yusuf Patel, BK Gupta and PSB Construction Co. erected seven buildings, two of which were highrises of 17 and 20 stories. During the construction period, the authorities issued notices to the builders to stop the work. The builders were fined and they paid the penalty and resumed work. After the construction was completed, nobody prevented the buyers from occupying their apartments or the buildings from forming co-operative housing societies.

Claiming ignorance of these violations, the current residents bought apartments in the building believing that they would get the occupation certificates in due course, as was the norm 25 years ago. Since 2005, the residents have been in litigation with the BMC, trying to defend their homes and save their families from being thrown to the streets.

What do you think of the Campa Cola demolition issue? Tell us in the comments section below.

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Kharcha paani

Getting a job in a grim economy

What to do when you need to change your current job or start looking for one in an unfriendly economy.
by The Editors | editor@themetrognome.in

Ashish Desai* (36), was doing very well in his job of three years with a Mumbai-based newspaper. Till two months ago, he was confident that despite a worrying economy and job cuts across industries, he could not be affected. Then he received a major jolt: his contract was prematurely terminated with immediate effect, citing budget cuts. “I am now looking for a new job. But so far, nothing has worked out,” he says.

apply for a jobAshish is not alone. Over the past few months, several people have either been transferred within departments as part of their companies’ budget cuts and re-organising of personnel, or simply dismissed from service. “Companies are tightening their budgets,” says Avinash Motta, an HR professional who works with an MNC IT firm. “There is less hiring and more firing – this happens every time there is an economic recession.”

The most job cuts happened in 2008, the first wave of the economic recession to hit our country. However, every time a new recessionary wave hits our shores, we have to pad up for some smart moves in order to save our jobs or move to others. Here’s how:

– If you’re fired, understand why: Understand that it is not personal. However, even if it is personal, and if you are working on a contractual basis (where your company reserves the right to terminate the contract with sufficient notice) there is very little you can do if you are handed the pink slip.

Get smart: Find out why you were fired. Ask for the exact reasons – was it simply a decision to save company money, or was it because of some lacunae on your part? If it is the latter, find out which areas you were seen to lack in.

– Do your research: Is this the time to angle for that job you always wanted? If you’re looking for a job anyway, why not strike out for the big players? However, do your research about each organisation well. Meet up with people currently working in the companies you have applied in, find out the work culture, management-employee relations, etc. Do not apply for a job before doing your research.

Get smart: Find out if companies are currently recruiting, if vacancies exist in the department of your choice, what the pay scale for your position is, and so on. If possible, find out the profile of recent recruits to get a better idea of the kind of employee they are looking for.

– Update your resume: This seems like a very obvious thing to do, but astonishingly, most people only add their last jobs to their existing resumes and think they are done. Instead,research read your resume once again. Delete the elements that are not required, and add relevant details which potential employees will be interested in.

Get smart: Make multiple copies of your resume, one each for the company you will be sending it to. Each company looks for something different from a potential employee. If you don’t know how to make your resume attractive, enlist the help of professional resume makers for the job.

–List yourself with job portals: Job portals will inundate you with opportunities across sectors and regions. The job search becomes easier and all you have to do is apply.

Get smart: Be careful while sifting through information – some of the results may be outdated or you may be given searches that are irrelevant to you. Read the client’s requirements carefully before applying.

– Look for a ‘hook’ to get you in: These days, it is rare for people to get an interview call simply because they sent a resume. You will have to be creative not just with your resume, but with your overall approach.

Get smart: Ask a friend or acquaintance in the company you have applied in to ‘put in a word’ about you to the recruiting authority. That way, you will know at once if they are looking to hire somebody with your skills. If they are interested, your contact at the company must be aware of your current pay package, work experience and job skills.

– Follow up: If you’ve applied, don’t just sit back and wait for a call. Follow up diligently till you feel sure that either you will be called for an interview or that your application has been rejected.

Get smart: However, don’t stalk the HR or the manager constantly. Send respectful reminders via email. If they have given you a contact number, phone them up to ask the status of your application. Don’t be pushy, but be urgent enough for them to realise that the job is important to you.

interview– Make a good impression: The interview meeting is the most crucial phase of the process. Dress well, be sharp and attentive, and answer questions in a way that shows you have done your research for the interview. But don’t seem like a know-it-all: give out information only when relevant.

Get smart: Be honest. Don’t lie or hedge around the real reason why you have applied to them. However, don’t plead to be recruited, and do not badmouth the company you were last working with. Let the recruiters understand that hiring you would be beneficial to them.

– Negotiate well: Since you are applying, there is little chance of the company offering a chance for lengthy salary negotiations. Don’t underquote just to secure the job, but don’t overquote either.

Get smart: Ensure that they pay you more than your last company did, and that your tax structure is not adversely affected. Sit with the HR to understand your take-home component and your investment declaration.

– Don’t sit idle: If you don’t secure a job right away, don’t fall prey to depression. Keep yourself busy and don’t be disheartened by rejection. You may have to wait a while, but you will find something in the end.

Get smart: Take up freelancing jobs to pay the bills and to keep busy. If you have enough time and money, go on a break to recharge your batteries – travel, learn a craft, meet up with family and friends, invest time in your hobbies.

 (Pictures courtesy www.mediabistro.com, www.glassdoor.com, talentegg.ca, www.yorksj.ac.uk)

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Are you jogging wrong?

If your jogging routine is causing aches and ailments, you need to unlearn the habits that are causing you harm.
by The Editors | editor@themetrognome.in

The city has already started training for the Mumbai Marathon that will take place in early January 2014, and the early morning hours are witness to scores of joggers and runners putting themselves through training. But there are several who give up their training mid-way, because of injury or fatigue.

While some amount of fatigue is expected, due to the muscles toning up and the body reacting to high periods of intense stress, what most people don’t realise is that they may actually be putting their bodies to risk through wrong running practices. Here’s how you can do yourself more harm than good if you’re jogging or running wrong:

jogging wrong– Running too fast: Most people are under the impression that punishing the body leads to faster, better results. So they set unrealistic goals to meet them, with the result that they are running too fast. When you start a new routine, take it slow. Run at a certain speed in terms of minutes, not kilometres. Then gradually increase the time, while maintaining the speed.

– Running too slow: Some people are unable to run very fast, so they decide to jog instead. However, jogging is trickier than running – it should not be too slow and not too fast. If you jog very slowly, you put immense pressure on your knees and ankles to support your weight longer than necessary. Time yourself when you jog – jog on a treadmill and set the speed to one which is too fast for a walk but too slow to run.

– Wrong running gear: This is a no-brainer, but a lot of people get this wrong. Merely investing in swanky new shoes is not enough. Your running shoes should support your heel, provide good cushioning to your toes, and absorb shock. Avoid soles that are thin, even if the shoes are comfortable. Also avoid soles that are inflexible and hard, as these will not let your instep curl when you run, and cause spasms. Similarly, wear loose cotton clothing when you run and stay away from synthetic fabrics.

– Not hydrating enough: It is crucial to keep drinking water or mineral replenishing fluids before, during and after your run. Not keeping the body well hydrated will result in dehydration and cramping. In some cases, it might even lead to heart attacks. Keep sipping water even when you’re running on a treadmill in an air-conditioned gym.

– Not stretching before and after: Stretching the body is crucial, both before and after your run. If you don’t stretch adequately, your Stretching before joggingmuscles will not be warmed up enough for a heavy bout of running. Stretching revs up the blood circulation, prepares muscles for activity, even prepares your lungs for the work ahead. Do on-the-spot jogging and stretching exercises for your calves, thighs, hamstrings, ankles and back. Stretch for at least 10 minutes before you begin, and 10 minutes after your run to prevent cramping. Skipping is also recommended.

– Running on an injury: The initial days of running will cause some amount of muscle soreness as your body adjusts to the exercise. However, as you progress, the soreness should gradually fade. If it doesn’t, you’re either pushing your body beyond its limits, or you’ve suffered an internal injury. If you notice swelling and pain, ice the area and stop running till the injury has healed. If you’ve been cramping, it is possible that your posture and intensity is wrong. If possible, get the help of an expert to minimise damage while running.

– Not exercising apart from running: While jogging and running are great cardio workouts, you still need to put in strength training to build your core and up your stamina. Follow up your run with 20 minutes of strength exercises to build muscle and spinal strength. On the days that you give yourself a break from running, try light cycling and brisk walking.

– Following an improper diet: Most people run to lose weight, so they decide to supplement their efforts by completely cutting out certain foods or eating very less. A good diet is key to a good running regime. Get the help of a nutritionist to chart out an ideal diet plan as per your age, dietary requirement and overall health condition. Munch on a banana or a handful of nuts before you begin your run, and have a hot, nutritious meal after your run.

– Ignoring health concerns: Some people are so intent on fitness, they ignore their own bodies’ capacity for exercise. If you are a heart patient, you should be running only on the advice of your doctor. Ditto for those with breathing ailments, DVT, back problems and diabetes. Instead of running, try on-the-spot marching or brisk walking on the treadmill.

(Pictures courtesy www.mid-day.com, reviews.in.88db.com, www.123rf.com)

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Kharcha paani

Mumbai will spend less this Diwali: Survey

City is second to New Delhi in probable cut in Diwali spending; inflation and shaky job situation are the reasons.
by The Editors | editor@themetrognome.in

Diwali will be upon us in November, but it seems that worried Mumbaikars are practicing thrift already.

A country-wide survey conducted by ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry) and released recently reveals that this Diwali, there will be a 40 per cent cut in most households’s festive budgets, with Delhi-NCR topping the list. The survey sample includes a majority of middle and lower income families.

The reasons given for slashing their Diwali spends were: rising monthly expenses due to high inflation, less job opportunities, shrinking real wages, and staggering costs of food commodities that are commonly used during Diwali.

Titled ‘High prices dampening the festive spirit’, the survey was conducted under the aegis of ASSOCHAM and showed that over 72 per cent respondents from middle and lower middle income families would spend nearly 25 per cent of their monthly salaries on Diwali for shopping, sweets, gifting, apparel etc. Delhi-NCR is on top of the chart projecting curtailment of festive budget thanks to eroding purchasing power, while Mumbai ranks second, followed by Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Chennai.
 The survey was conducted over two months beginning August to September 2013 in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Pune, Chandigarh, Dehradun etc. A little over 200 persons were selected from each city on an average. 
“The skyrocketing prices of essential commodities have left the aam aadmi  hard pressed. Be it sweets, dry fruits, crackers, pulses, dairy products, fruit or vegetables, the prices have registered large increases this year compared to the Diwali of last year. Even gold, the much sought-after item during this festive season, stays in the range of Rs 30,000 per 10 gm compared to Rs 22,000 last Diwali,” said DS Rawat, Secretary General, ASSOCHAM.
The survey reveals that the high income group remains unaffected from rupee fall, double digit food inflation. However, a large number of lower and middle income groups indicate that they are finding ways to cut back spending now or indicating they will do so in the future, noted the survey. A majority of respondents said that they plan to spend fewer amounts on this festive season as the prices on average of most of the gifts and traditional Indian sweets have gone up by 55 per cent, while the value of saving has gone gown by almost 15 per cent. Revisions in interest rates by banks have also sent their EMIs soaring, further eroding their monetary power, adds the survey.
Most of the respondents plan to cut down on personal expenses or go bargain hunting to keep their festive budgets in control. Over 57 per cent of the respondents will buy only on sale or discounts, 12 per cent will buy fewer gifts and the rest 2 per cent will buy a group gift. Only a small percentage feels that festivals are the time to splurge, even as discounts remain the biggest attraction for most buyers.
Over 76 per cent of respondents said that monthly grocery bills have jumped to about Rs 7,000, compared to Rs 4,000 in the last 12 months. The prices of vegetables and bakery products have also risen in the last few months. Obviously, this will affect the Diwali celebrations. Milk, butter, sugar, dry- fruits, flour and labour charges all go into making sweets. On the other hand, dry fruit and sweets are the most expensive items in Diwali.
The survey adds that the rates of ghee, sugar, edible oils, atta and spices have also registered increases of around 25 per cent to 35 per cent during the past one year.
(All figures courtesy ASSOCHAM. Picture courtesy webylife.com)
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Trends

Need blood tests? Don’t step out of home

You can get your blood work done and X-rays taken in the comfort of your home. We tap the trend.
by The Editors | editor@themetrognome.in

Mulund resident Sushila Paranjape (56) suffers from diabetes, and for the last two years, a recurring back problem that makes sitting impossible. “I need physiotherapy twice a week, and a blood test once a month. However, the local pathology laboratory is always crowded, and last year, I stopped going for blood tests because the lab could never do my blood work immediately and I had to wait for a long time.”

Her physiotherapist suggested that she call blood technicians home. “I was initially hesitant because I thought that it would cost me more to get the technicians home, but I found that the laboratory also did home blood testing at a very nominal home visit cost. They were very quick and the results came back within a few hours. Now I don’t go to the laboratory myself unless I am assured of immediate attention.”

Like Sushila, there are several others who are increasingly getting their testing done at home. “It’s faster and I am more relaxed because it happens in the comfort of my home,” says Santacruz resident Ruchit Hattangady (36), who gets a check-up done every six months. “Not just blood tests, the local hospital near my house also offers urine testing, lipid profile and other tests. I call them as per my convenience and I get the results the next day,” he says.

blood test at homeThe trend is catching on

Several diagnostic facilities and hospitals are now offering ‘testing packages’, where patients can choose which tests they want to undergo and pay as per the particular package they select. “For instance, we offer a package where we do a variety of tests through just one blood sample, right from Vitamin D levels to bilirubin, and from blood sugar to blood cholesterol levels,” says a technician attached to a private hospital in Powai. “There are some 20 tests in the most basic package, and most people opt for it. However, there are others who want more tests, such as bone and muscle strength tests, for which we offer separate packages.”

A single such package may contain a minimum of 10 tests and may be priced Rs 1,500 and above. Says Dr Shashank Ahuja, a cardiologist, “We find that many patients are hesitant about undergoing a battery of tests at private hospitals, where every test comes with prohibitive costs. They are happy going to a diagnostic lab they trust and get a range of tests done at a lesser cost. Also, labs are presenting the results in a detailed manner, so with a bit of research, even the patient understands the state of his or her health.”

Even X-rays can be taken at home

In Mumbai, there are at least three private clinics offering the option of getting an X-ray taken at home. “People are always short of time, and X-ray machines are more portable and light-weight than they used to be, so carrying them to the patient’s home is not an issue,” says a technician. “Of course, the price of this facility is higher than the money one would spend in getting it done at a hospital. But people are willing to pay.”

Three years ago, a company in Thane started manufacturing kits for malaria testing for as low as Rs 30. “A person could purchase the kit from a chemist but the blood would have to be drawn by a technician. Doctors also feel that the test is a fairly accurate one and since it is so cheap, even the poor will not hesitate to get themselves tested,” said the manufacturer of the kit.

A diagnostic facility in Mumbai said that recently, a family requested for cardiac testing on a 74-year-old man to be done at home. “Since this requires a stress test and a treadmill test, we tied up with a local gym to conduct part of the test there. We are now looking at offering cardiac testing at home, though the costs will be higher,” says a spokesperson for the facility.

Names of diagnostic facilities and hospitals have been withheld.

(Pictures courtesy www.nyu.edu, online.wsj.com. Images have been used for representational purpose only) 

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Marathi B.Ed syllabus for visually challenged in Maharashtra

The announcement was made on the All India Flag Day for the Blind; State Governor pledged support for all initiatives.
by The Editors | editor@themetrognome.in

The National Association for the Blind (NAB), today organised the All India Flag Day for the Blind in Mumbai, and during the launch, Rameshwar Kalantari, President, NAB, announced that soon, B.Ed syllabus would be available for study in the Marathi language as well.

Kalantari said, “Every year, students who are visually challenged and who speak Marathi are forced to study for their B.Ed degree in English or Hindi, because textbooks and course material is not available in Marathi. This also deters a lot of visually challenged candidates from opting for B.Ed studies. A lot of students have been taking their degrees from other universities in outside States. Many of them are not able to afford the costs of studying outside Maharashtra.

Keeping this in mind, and the fact that the syllabus has recently changed, we will be offering B.Ed in the Marathi language for the first time in the State, through the Yashwantrao Chavan University and funds for the visually-challenged allotted by the Central Government.” The degree will be available to visually challenged students from the new academic year 2014-2015.

On the sidelines of this announcement, Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan pledged his support to the cause of increasing awareness of eye donations. “India has the most numbers of visually challenged people in the world. At the same time, the numbers of people pledging their eyes must increase,” he said.

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