My life, My thoughts

### The Impact of Falls on the Elderly and Potential Alternatives to Surgery Falls are a significant concern for the elderly, often leading to severe injuries, including fractures. The high mortality rate following a fall in older adults can be attributed to several factors, including underlying health conditions, decreased bone density, and complications from surgical interventions. #### Why Falls are Dangerous for the Elderly As people age, they typically experience a reduction in bone density, making their bones more brittle and susceptible to fractures. Additionally, older adults often have slower healing processes and may suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or osteoporosis, which can complicate recovery. When an elderly person falls, they are at a high risk of sustaining serious fractures, particularly in the hip, which can lead to immobility. Immobility itself can result in a cascade of further health complications, including blood clots, pneumonia, an...

**Title: Aging Gracefully: The Importance of Mobility and Safety** **Introduction** As we gracefully age, our bodies become more fragile, and everyday tasks can turn into challenges. A simple fall, whether in the bathroom or any room, can mark a turning point, leading to a period of immense pain and vulnerability. For a 74-year-old who finds themselves fully bedridden, this experience is not just physically agonizing but emotionally taxing as well. **The Impact of Falls** A fall can shatter one's sense of independence. Suddenly, simple activities like using the bathroom require assistance, disrupting not only our routine but also our dignity. Lying motionless becomes a sentence, highlighting the stark reality of our physical limitations. **The Importance of Mobility Aids** Using walking sticks or other mobility aids can significantly reduce the risk of falls. These tools provide stability and support, allowing us to navigate our surroundings with greater confidence. It's not ju...

### The Rise of Vlogging in India: Balancing Content and Quality In recent years, India has witnessed a surge in the number of youngsters turning to YouTube vlogging as a profession. This trend is largely driven by the severe unemployment crisis, prompting many to explore alternative means of earning a livelihood. Vlogging offers an accessible platform for creativity and self-expression, with the added allure of monetary benefits. However, this proliferation of vloggers has raised concerns about the quality and substance of the content being produced. Many vloggers, drawn by the promise of income from views and subscribers, create videos that lack meaningful content. The typical format often involves walking through streets or eating at various hotels, with little to no informative or engaging narrative. The frequent pleas of "Subscribe to my channel and like" have become a common refrain, yet these channels struggle to retain viewer interest due to the superficial nature of ...

Transformative Power of Temple Visits Visiting sacred sites can be a profound experience, offering a deep connection to the divine and stirring emotions that transcend everyday life. My recent visit to the Mookambika Temple exemplified this, as I found myself standing in a long queue, waiting for a fleeting moment of divine connection. Despite the physical discomfort of standing for an extended period, the moment I entered the sanctum sanctorum, an inexplicable sense of positive energy enveloped me. This mysterious force penetrated deeply into my heart, evoking an immense feeling of ecstasy. Overwhelmed by this surge of spiritual emotion, tears began to flow, and I cried, not out of sorrow, but in pure, unadulterated joy.This intense experience led me to ponder whether other devotees feel the same profound connection, or if they merely stand before the deity out of routine, completing their visit as a formality. The distinction between these two approaches is significant. A true temple...

In today’s digital age, mastering technology, especially digital banking, is essential for seamless daily living. However, despite my sincere efforts, my wife finds it challenging to learn and use digital banking tools such as ATM withdrawals, generating account statements, and fund transfers. This reluctance not only concerns me but also highlights a broader issue of technological adaptability and its impact on survival in a rapidly evolving world. Digital banking offers numerous conveniences, from easy access to account information to the ability to perform transactions from the comfort of home. These tools save time and provide security and transparency in managing finances. Nevertheless, for individuals like my wife, who struggle with these technologies, the advantages become sources of frustration and anxiety. Despite her attempts, the complexity of digital interfaces and the fear of making errors deter her from gaining confidence in these skills. I have made numerous attempts to ...

**The Revival of Hope: Palakkad's Respite from Drought** The severe drought that gripped Palakkad in May 2024 had left its residents in a state of constant anxiety. Daily newspaper reports detailing the alarming decrease in water levels at the Malampuzha Dam heightened our fears, painting a grim picture of our dwindling water resources. The sight of parched lands and dry riverbeds became a common and disheartening sight.  Malampuzha Dam, the major water source for Palakkad, supplies drinking water to many nearby areas, including Shoranur, Lakkidi, and Parli. As the drought persisted, the situation grew dire, and the thought of having to wait for a water tanker lorry to obtain just 500 litres of water was unimaginable for many of us. The dam, once a symbol of abundance and life, now stood as a stark reminder of our vulnerability to nature's extremes. Today, however, brought an unexpected change. Heavy rain graced Palakkad, breaking the relentless dry spell. The once-thirsty eart...

Navigating daily life as a physically handicapped senior citizen presented increasing challenges as I aged, particularly after turning 60. The simple tasks of switching on lights, fans, and electrical pumps became cumbersome. Recognizing the need for an alternative solution, I embarked on a search to modernize my home with remote-controlled devices. All the electric appliances in my house were of an older model, dependent on physical switches located on the switchboard. Determined to find a more convenient method, I turned to Amazon, a trusted marketplace known for its vast selection of products. After thorough research, I found remote-controlled devices that could replace my traditional switches, and I promptly ordered them. The next challenge was installation. Although I had no prior experience with such technical tasks, I was resolute in my decision to make my life easier. I turned to YouTube, a platform rich with instructional content, to study the technical know-how required to in...

### A Miraculous Homecoming At that time, I was a bank officer stationed in Calicut. Life followed a predictable routine, with work consuming most of my time. However, one evening, as I returned to my hostel after a long day at the bank, something unusual happened. I was suddenly overwhelmed by an inexplicable feeling, almost as if a telepathic message was urging me to go home immediately. This sensation was so strong and persistent that it was impossible to ignore. I felt an unshakeable restlessness that kept me wide awake and uneasy. Unable to sleep and driven by this powerful intuition, I decided to act on the feeling. Without wasting any time, I quickly packed a few clothes, grabbed my essentials, and made my way to the railway station. It was around 1:30 am when I managed to catch a train bound for my hometown. Fortunately, the next day was a holiday for Deepavali, which meant I could make the journey without worrying about work. As the train chugged through the night, my mind was...

The marketing of agricultural produce in many countries, including ours, is plagued by the pervasive issue of middlemen who exploit farmers. These intermediaries purchase produce at minimal prices from the farmers and sell them at significantly higher prices in urban markets, reaping substantial profits while the farmers, who put in the hard work, receive a meager return. This long-standing problem has persisted despite various governmental efforts to mitigate it. Middlemen control the supply chain and dictate prices, leaving farmers with little bargaining power. The government has tried to address this through the establishment of procurement agencies, but these efforts have often been inconsistent and inadequate. The agencies’ inefficiency and lack of reach have prevented them from being a viable solution to the problem. As a result, the middlemen continue to dominate, perpetuating the cycle of exploitation and impoverishment among farmers. A viable solution to this problem could be ...

**The Tsunami of Artificial Intelligence: Impact on the IT Job Market** In recent years, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked discussions about its profound impact on various industries, particularly the information technology (IT) sector. Once seen as a realm of unparalleled job security and societal prestige, the IT industry now faces the challenge of integrating AI technologies, which could significantly alter the job landscape. This transformation has raised concerns about job displacement, financial stability, and the future of work for many IT professionals. For decades, the youth have aspired to join prestigious IT companies, drawn by the promise of lucrative salaries, advanced technology, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Graduates from engineering colleges often showcase their success through social media, highlighting their comfortable lives in metropolitan cities, their ownership of luxury cars, and their frequent visits to trendy pubs and clubs. This image of su...

## The Evolution of Filmmaking: From Art to Commerce Once upon a time, cinema was a profound art form, a confluence of literary brilliance, evocative music, and visual artistry. These early films, often shot in black and white, were marked by their authentic storytelling and true-to-life situations. The music, comprised of poetic lyrics and melodious tunes, complemented the narrative, creating an immersive experience. The people behind these films were not merely technicians but literary scholars, poets, and skilled cameramen, led by an efficient director who orchestrated the entire production. The frequency of film releases was modest, with perhaps one film debuting each month. This scarcity contributed to the anticipation and excitement surrounding each release. As a child, I fondly remember accompanying my mother to the cinema, eagerly awaiting the next masterpiece. However, over time, the landscape of filmmaking has dramatically shifted. The commercial aspect of cinema has overshad...

Old age is a challenging phase of life for many, where health and companionship play crucial roles in determining overall well-being. When we are healthy, life tends to be smoother, but the inevitability of aging often brings health issues that can complicate daily living. Having a supportive spouse during this period can make a significant difference, offering emotional and practical support that enhances the quality of life. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to have a cooperative partner, and the quality of this relationship can be a matter of luck. In India, the tradition of matching horoscopes before marriage was once prevalent, believed to predict compatibility and ensure a harmonious union. This practice aimed to mitigate the unpredictability of marital relationships by using astrological guidance. However, with the passage of time and the influence of modernization, this practice has largely faded. Today, young men and women often choose their partners based on personal ...

**The Increasing Incidents of Medical Errors: A Call for Accountability and Reform** Medical errors, particularly those involving surgeries performed on the wrong body part, are a growing concern that has captured public attention and alarm. The disturbing frequency of such errors undermines trust in the healthcare system and highlights critical issues within the medical profession. Daily reports of surgeons making grievous mistakes, such as operating on a tongue instead of a sixth finger, paint a grim picture of the current state of medical practice. The repercussions of these errors are severe, affecting patients' lives and eroding public confidence in healthcare providers. This essay explores the reasons behind these errors, their implications, and the necessary measures to address this alarming trend. The primary factor contributing to surgical errors is the lack of meticulous preparation and communication among medical teams. Surgeons and their teams often fail to conduct thor...

**The Unexpected Fall** I had always been cautious. As I aged, the fear of falling became a constant companion. To ensure my safety, I relied on two sturdy walking sticks. Despite my precautions, the inevitable happened. One bright afternoon, while navigating my living room with my walking sticks, my foot slipped unexpectedly. In an instant, I was on the ground, helpless and stunned. The fear I'd always harbored had materialized. As I lay there, a mix of pain and frustration washed over me. I had been so careful, so diligent. How could this have happened? Determined to understand, I replayed the moments leading up to my fall. I realized that while the walking sticks provided support, my pace was still too brisk. I needed to slow down, to move with more deliberation. Furthermore, I noticed small but significant hazards in my home. A loose rug, a damp spot on the floor, and a few scattered objects—these seemingly minor details had contributed to my fall. As I sat there, contemplating...

Raindrops descend gently from the sky, a delicate dance rather than a heavy downpour. They first kiss the roofing sheets, producing a soothing, rhythmic symphony that echoes like a lullaby. The sound is a gentle percussion, each drop a note in nature's orchestra. They then cascade onto the leaves of trees, each leaf trembling slightly under the soft, refreshing touch. The leaves become glossy with wetness, their colors deepening. The raindrops continue their journey to the plants below, nurturing the stems and petals with their life-giving essence. Flowers lift their faces to the sky, petals drinking in the moisture with thirst unquenched for months. The broad, expansive leaves of the plantain plant are transformed, their surfaces now shimmering as they catch each drop. This gentle rain, arriving after five months of oppressive heat, is a blessing, a long-awaited gift. The earth sighs in relief, the air becomes fragrant with the scent of damp soil and renewed life, and spirits are ...

###  Present life of a  Kerala family  The story of the domestic worker who frequents your home encapsulates a broader societal issue prevalent in Kerala. Her struggles with multiple ailments, compounded by the lack of employment within her family, paint a grim picture of economic and social distress. Despite advice to channel her son into vocational training for trades such as painting, masonry, or carpentry, she remains unable or unwilling to implement these changes, leading to continued financial instability and reliance on borrowing. This scenario underscores several critical issues. Firstly, there is the issue of unemployment and underemployment. The woman's husband and son are not contributing to the household income, a situation that exacerbates their financial woes. The son’s poor academic performance limits his opportunities, closing the door on many potential government jobs. However, the reluctance to pursue vocational trades suggests a deeper problem of societ...

### The Case Against Hoarding Boards: A Call for Legislative Action The tragic incident in Mumbai, where a hoarding board 100 feet tall fell during heavy winds and rains, resulting in the death of 14 people, underscores the urgent need to reassess the use of such structures. These hoardings, often found in urban areas and alongside national highways in India, primarily serve as advertisements for jewelry, motorbikes, cars, real estate, shopping malls, and hotels. However, their potential hazards far outweigh their advertising benefits, especially when alternative, safer avenues for advertisements are readily available. Hoarding boards pose significant risks, particularly in adverse weather conditions. In Mumbai's case, the combination of strong winds and heavy rainfall led to a catastrophic failure of the structure, highlighting their vulnerability. This incident is not isolated; similar accidents have occurred in the past, causing injuries and fatalities. The physical presence of ...

### The Modern Marital Crisis: A Societal Analysis Marriages in contemporary society are facing an alarming crisis, with reports indicating a high failure rate and an increase in domestic violence. This troubling trend is fueled by various factors including the pervasive influence of dowry demands, substance abuse, and societal normalization of violence. This essay will analyse these issues and their implications for the quality of life in our country. #### The Dowry System and Domestic Violence One of the significant causes of marital discord is the dowry system, a deep-rooted cultural practice in many societies. Despite legal prohibitions, dowry-related harassment and violence continue to plague numerous households. The financial pressure on the bride's family often leads to dissatisfaction and abuse by the groom's family, seeking more wealth or assets. This cycle of demand and violence can start almost immediately after the wedding, leading to physical, emotional, and psycho...

# ## The Terrace Leakage Issue in Kerala: A Comparative Analysis of Old and New Roofing Technologies Terrace leakage has emerged as a prevalent issue in Reinforced Concrete (RC) houses across Kerala, especially during the monsoon season. This pervasive problem often results in wet roofs and water droplets penetrating living spaces, causing considerable distress to homeowners. Despite various attempts to mitigate the issue using roofing compounds, the leakage persists, prompting a shift towards an alternative solution: the installation of metal sheet roofs on truss structures. This essay explores the reasons behind the terrace leakage in modern RC houses, the efficacy of the current remedial measures, and a comparison with the performance of traditional tiled roofing systems. #### Causes of Terrace Leakage in RC Houses The fundamental cause of terrace leakage in RC houses can be attributed to the inherent characteristics of concrete and the construction practices employed. Concrete, whi...

### BSNL's Strategic Shift: Leveraging Private Optical Fiber Networks for Enhanced High-Speed Internet Services #### Context and Need for Strategy Change BSNL has historically faced stiff competition from private telecom giants like Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, which have dominated the market with aggressive pricing, extensive coverage, and superior technology. The advent of 4G and the impending rollout of 5G have further intensified this competition, putting pressure on BSNL to innovate and adapt. The new strategy of collaborating with private cable TV operators marks a pragmatic approach to expand its reach without incurring the high costs associated with laying new fibre-optic cables. #### Benefits of the Strategy 1. **Increased Reach and Accessibility**: By partnering with existing cable TV operators, BSNL can tap into an already established infrastructure that spans across urban and rural areas. This approach enables rapid deployment of high-speed internet services...

## The Evolution of Internet in India: From Costly Beginnings to the Jio Revolution The evolution of internet services in India has been a remarkable journey, characterized by dramatic shifts in accessibility, affordability, and speed. In 2001, the internet was a luxury in India, primarily available through landline copper cables. The cost for a mere 1 GB of data was around Rs 100, making extensive use prohibitive for many. For Rs 900, users could access unlimited internet, but this came with significant limitations. The maximum speed was 1 Mbps, which, by today's standards, is exceedingly slow. Videos buffered endlessly, and the overall user experience was frustrating, deterring widespread adoption. ### Early Days: Limited Access and High Costs During the early 2000s, the internet in India was a fledgling service. The infrastructure relied heavily on copper wire technology, which was not optimized for high-speed data transfer. The high cost of data and the slow speeds meant that t...

### The Deterioration of Marital Harmony and Societal Health: A Critical Analysis Marriage, traditionally viewed as a sacred institution and the cornerstone of society, is increasingly becoming a site of conflict and disintegration in contemporary times. Reports of domestic violence, dowry disputes, and substance abuse flood news outlets, painting a grim picture of the marital landscape. This essay aims to analyze the underlying causes and potential consequences of this trend, and suggest measures to address it. #### The Prevalence of Domestic Violence Domestic violence within marriages is alarmingly common, with many incidents going unreported due to social stigma and fear. However, the cases that do surface reveal a disturbing pattern. Violence often begins shortly after the wedding, driven by demands for dowry or valuable possessions like cars and jewelry. The persistence of such archaic practices reflects deeply entrenched gender inequalities and a commodification of women in marri...

Enduring Loss and Finding Strength: A Journey Through Grief and Graduation After completing higher secondary school, I joined Government Victoria College to pursue a degree in Physics. My mother was the cornerstone of our family, dedicating herself entirely to ensuring we received a good education. She provided us with sound advice, nutritious meals, and a strong foundation of faith in God. Her constant support and guidance created an environment where we could thrive academically and personally. Our class consisted of twelve students, all considered the best among the best. I was fortunate to receive a merit scholarship for the first two years of my studies, which significantly lightened our financial burden and motivated me to excel in my coursework. However, my third year took a tragic turn when my mother's health began to deteriorate. She was diagnosed with blood cancer at a time when there were no specialized cancer hospitals or advanced treatments like chemotherapy available....

When I retired from service, a sense of uncertainty loomed over me. For years, my life had been structured around my work, and now, without it, I found myself adrift. The one skill I possessed that seemed transferable was my ability to teach mathematics. I decided to offer tuition to school students up to the 10th standard, hoping it would give me a sense of purpose. Initially, there were only a few students, and I conducted my classes in a small room at the front of my house. However, as word spread about my tutoring, the number of students gradually increased. Soon, the area outside my home was packed with bicycles, a testament to the growing popularity of my classes. It was heart warming to see so many eager young minds gathered to learn, and it filled me with a renewed sense of fulfilment. Among these students, there was one who stood out and left an indelible mark on my heart. She was a 7th standard student, an innocent girl with a purity that shone through her demeanour. Her earn...

**The Vanishing Verandas: A Shift in Architectural and Lifestyle Trends** The architecture of a home significantly influences the lifestyle of its inhabitants. In previous generations, houses often featured wide verandas that wrapped around the exterior, typically about 2 meters in width. These open verandas, supported by intricately carved wooden pillars, were not just aesthetic architectural elements but also vital living spaces for the residents. They allowed for an interplay between the comfort of being indoors and the benefits of fresh air and nature, an aspect that is increasingly missing in modern constructions. Traditionally, verandas served multiple purposes: they were spaces for relaxation, social interaction, and various daily activities. The design of these verandas promoted a lifestyle intimately connected with the natural environment. The open space provided a sheltered interface with the outdoors, offering not just ventilation but also a cooling effect, thereby reducing ...

  In the heart of our village, nestled a midst lush greenery and swaying coconut palms, lies a time-honoured tradition that binds us together - the reliance on well water. As the clouds gather overhead, pregnant with the promise of rain, we eagerly await the rhythmic patter on our rooftops, yet sometimes it eludes us, favouring neighbouring districts instead. But here, water is not merely a necessity; it's a communal affair, a thread that weaves through the fabric of our daily lives. In days of yore, when modern amenities were but a distant dream, each household boasted its own well, a lifeline that sustained families through scorching summers and parched seasons. There was an intimacy in the act of drawing water, a ritual passed down through generations, where the creaking of the iron pulley echoed the rhythm of our existence. Our maternal ancestral home, a sprawling ancestral home, stood as a beacon of this tradition. Its well, deep and cool, was a wellspring of life for over ...

**Title: Analyzing the Impact and Rationale of Subsidized Cooking Gas in India** In 1978, the Indian government launched a subsidy program for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to facilitate access to cleaner cooking fuel for households, particularly aiming to support women in domestic settings. The rationale behind this subsidy was multifaceted, primarily focusing on improving health conditions, alleviating poverty, and promoting gender equality. Traditionally, Indian kitchens relied heavily on biomass fuels such as wood, dung, and coal, which are not only inefficient but also pose severe health risks due to indoor air pollution. According to the World Health Organization, indoor air pollution is one of the leading health hazards globally, disproportionately affecting women and children who spend significant time near the hearth. By subsidizing LPG, the government aimed to transition households to a cleaner, more efficient source of energy, thereby reducing health risks associated with tr...

Title: The Evolution of Television Viewing: Android OS TVs In the landscape of modern entertainment, the advent of televisions operating on the Android operating system has ushered in a new era of convenience and choice for viewers worldwide. This technological advancement has transformed the way people consume content, offering access to thousands of videos through platforms such as YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, SonyLiv, Zee5, JioTV, and more. Gone are the days when viewers were limited to traditional cable TV subscriptions or satellite dish services. Today, the possibilities are endless, and the power lies in the hands of the consumer. One of the most significant impacts of Android OS TVs is the sheer variety of content available to users. With access to streaming services like YouTube, users can explore an extensive library of videos ranging from educational content to music videos, vlogs, tutorials, and beyond. The democratization of content creation has empowered individuals from...