Tourism is all about relaxing, adventure and enjoying oneself, for what would be a better place than crystal blue water and sandy beaches. For better understanding of Marine Tourism there is a need to understand its various aspects including its meaning, importance, impacts to marine ecosystem and its benefits for coastal communities. Maritime Tourism is the sector of the tourism industry that is based on tourists and visitors taking part in active and passive leisure and holidays pursuits or journeys on (or in) coastal waters, their shorelines and their immediate hinterlands. Marine leisure is a collective name for a full range of activities or pursuits that are undertaken by local people, tourists, and day visitors in these marine related localities. This tourism is generally popular in the summer season. Typical Activities for a Marine Tourist Diving and Snorkelling : Activity which includes immersing in towering kelp forest, view unique coral reef ecosystem and exploring sunken relics of maritime history Boating : Tourist travel through boat enjoying senetic surroundings, wildlife and viewing opportunities Experience Maritime Heritage : Visitors have opportunities to explore, discover and appreciate historic, cultural and archeological sites and stories that represent the connection between humans and water bodies. Surfing :An activity where an individual uses a board to ride on the forward section, or face, of a moving wave of water, which usually carries the surfer towards the shore Wildlife Watching : Whale watching is the practice of observing whales and dolphins and other creatures in their natural habitat. Whale watching is mostly a recreational activity, but it can also serve scientific and/or educational purposes. Camping : Tourists can stay using a tent near the seashore and enjoy the scenic beauty of the waters. Jet Skiing and Parasailing : These exciting activities involve riding small motorised water crafts which suit either one or two people. Some Global Locations for Marine Tourism Benefits from Marine Tourism It directly and indirectly contributes to the government revenue and also helps in earning foreign exchange to the host country's economy. The tourism income reverts back to the local economy due to informal employment such as street vendors and informal guides. It also creates ample opportunities for employment in various sectors raising the standard of living of local communities. Revenue collected by visitors can be used for protection and development of marine ecosystems. Tourism provides cultural exchange developing mutual sympathy and global brotherhood. Care and Attention to Sustainability While marine tourism has the potential to be sustainable ways to support coastal communities but as every coin has two sides, we need to exercise caution and be mindful to have sustainable marine tourism. Few aspects for attention are discussed next. Activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling have physical impact on coral reefs due to people standing, walking or kicking it which results in destruction of the marine ecosystem. Abundance fishing to cater the needs of growing demand leads to over exploitation of fishes. Heavy trafficked boats lead to growth of algae which obstructs sunlight and spoil water leading the water to change its chemistry into alkaline or acidic resulting harmful effects on wildlife and humans. People always tend to buy things from tourism spots for remembrance such as ornaments made up of shells and coral which endangers the species. Release of wastages from waterways restaurants and litter are reducing the beauty of marine life. What next as a Marine Tourist? Don't Litter, near the sea shore, or ANYWHERE Respect the Oceans as a Source of Life Buy Sustainable products Use Reef Safe products including Sunscreens Employ Responsible Tour & Dive Operators Volunteer to Protect Marine Environment So are you ready for being a responsible tourist next time and conserving our charismatic water ecosystem? References : https://www.cleartrip.com/collections/best-water-sports-destinations-in-india/ https://www.cheaptickets.co.th/en/blog/how-to-be-a-responsible-tourist-under-the-sea https://reef-world.org/blog/marine-souvenir-problem https://greentumble.com/how-does-tourism-affect-coral-reefs/ https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/visit/things-to-do.html Editor Note : This is a Special Blog written by a zestful young Second Year University Student of B.Com at Tolani College of Commerce (Autonomous), Andheri, Mumbai, India who was a Knowledge Intern with #JOI for two months and is now a Guest Writer! Reach out for opportunities and internships by dropping an email to ops@johnsonodakkal.com

#JOI4U would made you aware that we have a series called #ExploringCareers wherein interesting & unconventional career options are showcased more often than mainstream careers. Our motive of launching such an informative series was to help young entrants into their vocational pursuit make informed decisions for their professional journey. Earlier this month our CEO, Dr Johnson Odakkal was in Goa on a day’s break after the academic orientation of an International Law University. He had the joy of meeting two professional clowns who went by the moniker Blim-Po with Agnel being “Blim” and Sachin being “Po”. While they were at the venue to discuss an event, the curious cat in our CEO enabled an exploratory conversation on the “serious” profession of Clowning! An offshoot of the conversation with “Blim-Po” was Dr Johnson reconnecting with his erstwhile colleague & friend, Lieutenant Commander Pravin Tulpule, now an Indian Navy Veteran and popularly known as ‘Happy – the medical clown’. I had the distinct honour of a fascinating conversation with “Happy” who has been in that industry for the last two decades. Pravin Tulpule, “Happy” shared his journey and overall experience with us to evolve this piece on #ExploringCareers anchored around on the choice to be in the business as a Clown. Clowning has traditionally been linked with circuses in India, yet it has enormous potential. It is one of the oldest kinds of art in existence. Mr. Tulpule simply joined the art to not make a great living out of it but to spread joy. In the interview he mentioned how the funny tactics which he could never do whilst in uniform, the clown get up helps him to do. He explained that the attention of an audience is hooked around the clown's clumsiness, reliving fond memories of their own childhood. Setting a unique stage is a whole new experience for the one wanting to come to this profession. As “Happy” expressed, for being a clown, one needs to be a target for the audience to laugh and make fun. Simply put, it is always easier to laugh at others. These days it is not difficult to become a professional clown as there's very little to no competition in this business. Showbiz may be blamed for its bad portrayal of Clowns. Pravin Tulpule also highlighted how a person with great jest and knack for the profession can easily make a mark with their efforts, as passion is what matters. Yet, with the right exposure and training, one can get a better hand to be the absolute best. Unfortunately, there is no institutionalised set up for Clowning in India. Nevertheless, one can easily be a member of various international communities, one being World Clown Association, and Clowns of America International Inc., in USA. #DidYouKnow that there is a whole new career as “Medical Clowning” as a pretty serious and a valid profession. This involves clowns interacting with patients to reduce the anxiety that comes with being in the hospital and foster optimism in gloomy wards. A path breaking venture, in the form of a school to educate and develop a pipeline of therapeutic clowns, has now launched in India, giving the budding profession a boost. A fellowship in the ‘MeDiClowning’ art and science has been established by the Chennai-based Saveetha University in collaboration with the Puducherry-based MeDi Clown Academy (a clown therapy provider) (FASMC). The 600-hour programme, the first of its kind in Asia, prepares clowns to bring laughter to a high-stress environment. The training involves workplace procedure, medical anthropology, well-being approaches, performative components, and other skills to help them develop their own clown personalities and emotional intelligence. Hope you enjoyed learning more of how serious a business is the journey to be a Clown! If you’re a person wanting to embark with intentionality into a professional career, or change tack to a more fulfilling option, do connect with us to know more. Chart out your way towards significance and book a Personal Navigation Plan session with us at https://go.johnsonodakkal.com/navplan References: http://www.historyofcircus.com/circus-facts/circus-clowns-history-and-facts/ https://www.globalindian.com/story/global-indian-exclusive/how-pravin-tulpule-the-former-naval-officer-became-a-medical-clown/ https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/now-medi-clowning-is-career-option/articleshow/69549891.cms

How often have you been asked “why should we hire you?” or “What do you think makes you stand apart from others?” in an interview? Many of us choose to focus on one’s work credibility, our last experience of how they will be helpful for the current profile that they've opened. Another part of this is your work ethics. Personally, I believe work ethics or certain principles across professions help to take you places. Ethics can be defined as the study of the origin and scope of moral language. In order to understand what is morally right or wrong, just or unjust, ethics explores the intellectual justifications for our moral judgments. There are certain things with which any professional can grow. It is very important for people to maintain the basic professional degree. “Morality is not properly the doctrine of how we may make ourselves happy, but how we may make ourselves worthy of happiness” – Immanuel Kant The term "professional ethics" refers to a set of guidelines that people must willingly follow in order to carry out their professional duties in accordance with their nature and the voice of their conscience; failure to do so will result in legal repercussions. Individual ethics refers to a person's responsibility for his or her personal conduct simply as a human being, whereas work ethics refers to a person's conduct as the holder of a particular profession or organizational position and is therefore accountable for their professional and professional conduct. A strong ethic offers a host of advantages to professionals. From outstanding results to a brighter career path, the benefits of developing a strong work ethic are numerous for an employee. Here are just a few of them: Building Trust : When you act ethically, you gain the trust of your coworkers and business associates. This results in more encouragement for your ideas and more opportunities for leadership, allowing you to move ahead up the corporate ladder. Lasting Networking Connections : When working your way up in your career, it’s often who you know that can help you land your dream job. Whether a former manager agrees to serve as a reference for a new job you’re interviewing for or a connection passes an exciting career opportunity your way, they do this because they trust that you’re an honest person. If people think you’re disreputable, they won’t maintain their connection with you. Build Public Image : Yes working on fulfilling your responsibilities helps build a credible public image. Moreover, your work gets noticed by the higher ups giving you the edge in building your career and networking. In simpler words your great work ethics tell you apart from others. Adaptive to Changes : The key to success is unquestionably held by employees who uphold professional ethics in the workplace. A group of sympathetic, devout, dependable, driven, caring, and responsible individuals will unquestionably fit into any role and task they are given. Additionally, it has generally been seen across the globe that in the regressive market conditions, if the corporation requests any modifications in the production or changes in the type of job, the workers object. Allow us at Johnson Odakkal Initiatives to come along side in your journey to effectiveness. Stay connected at https://www.johnsonodakkal.com/ References: https://www.careeraddict.com/ethics-professional-growth-career-development https://www.naceweb.org/career-development/organizational-structure/principles-for-ethical-professional-practice/ https://www.slideshare.net/DrRhea1/lesson-1-introduction-to-professional-development-and-applied-ethics https://www.ethicsboard.org/projects/revised-code-ethics-completed

#DidYouKnow! Conference of Parties (COP) this year is the 27th conference of climate change. The first COP meeting was held in Berlin, Germany in March, 1995. The COP Presidency rotates among the five recognized UN regions - that is, Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Central and Eastern Europe and Western Europe and Others – thus the venue of the COP also shifts among these groups. This year the United Nations Climate Change conference is being held from November 6th to 18th, 2022 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. The COP is the supreme decision-making body of the Convention. All States that are Parties to the Convention are represented at the COP, at which they review the implementation of the Convention and any other legal instruments that the COP adopts and take decisions necessary to promote the effective implementation of the Convention, including institutional and administrative arrangements. Rising global temperatures have wrecked havoc ranging from devastating floods in scorching heat ultimately disrupting communities globally. Almost half of the global population is highly vulnerable to climate change. The real work of the summit is to hash out the details of international climate agreements, particularly the Paris Agreement, which commits countries to try to limit global warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial temperatures. The main battle of the summit will be over funding, in particular for the developing countries that bear the brunt of the impact of climate change such as drought and flooding. Sources : UNCC official website https://unfccc.int/process/bodies/supreme-bodies/conference-of-the-parties-cop https://www.wri.org/un-climate-change-conference-resource-hub Enhance your #KnowledgeInfluence to journey to an effective direction & purpose. Learn more through booking a DISCovery Session at https://go.johnsonodakkal.com/DISCover

Democracy or लोकतंत्र is the rule of the people. The term is used to describe a type of an administration in which citizens have a voice in the choices that shape their region. A system that is popularly known as “for the people, of the people & by the people”. A system of government in which every adult citizen (those who are over 18 years old) has a voice in the election process. The goal of the elected government is to safeguard the populace's rights, interests, and welfare. Today's democracy is a form of free government in which the people directly exercise their power or choose their own representatives. The term democracy originally emerged in the political and philosophical writings of the ancient Greeks in the city-state of Athens during the classical era. The word democracy itself derives from the ancient Greek words demos , which means people, and kratos , which means power. Athenians formed what is usually considered to be the first democracy between 580 and 507 BC. The assembly, which was made up of male citizens, the boul , which was made up of 500 citizens, and the courts, which were made up of a sizable number of jurors chosen at random and without judges, were the key institutions within Athenian democracy. The democracy in Athens was direct not only in the sense that the assembled people made decisions, but also in the sense that the people - through the assembly, boul , and law courts - controlled the entire political process and a disproportionate number of citizens were actively involved in politics at all times. Since most modern democracies are representative rather than direct, they differ from the Athenian form. Legislative, Executive, and Judiciary were the initial three foundations upon which Indian democracy was being built. The creators of our Indian Constitution intended for the three distinct wings to keep one another in check through a system of checks and balances . The media is yet another crucial component of democracy; in fact, it is regarded as the fourth pillar. There is a widespread belief that the media lacks credibility and transmits news based on their economic commitments, political ties, and what the editor wants to showcase instead of actual news. The media must have editorial freedom and clear ownership if they are to succeed in influencing the public's perception. It is time for the media to acknowledge and respect the crucial function that it serves as the fourth pillar in the operation of democracy. Montesquieu's original doctrine of separation of powers can be clearly seen as compromised in modern democracies. The basic precursors to democratic backsliding are the three strains of inequality, insecurity, and incapacity. Each of them can be used and abused by power-hungry and corrupt executives seeking to undermine institutional safeguards. They support anti-systemic political movements and figures that use the traditional binary populist rhetoric—we are here to defend the "people" against the "enemy of the people"—as their basis. In addition to encouraging the entry of fresh faces with innovative ideas, its election programme encourages the ouster of established institutions and politicians. The political structure is completely redesigned as a result of these movements. We are aware of the significance of hearing from the people in a democracy. Due to the current war crises, the failure of governments and democracies has grown to be a major issue. In the middle of this protracted catastrophe, protecting oneself and one's loved ones has taken precedence over expressing your unhappiness. The power of people to speak up, both directly and through their elected representatives, and decide how they are governed is at the very core of democracy. Thus, I believe people’s voice for a successful democracy holds foremost importance. Public opinion or people’s voice is a vital component of a running, successful democracy and therefore, one thing that can take us into the future, a more open and comprehensive future is a confident Voice. Distinct voices all have different things to say, thus no two voices are the same. Speaking up for what is right instead of what is convenient is of utmost importance and it can only be done with a clear and concise voice. With a boisterous voice, you may express your ideas and gain insight into important issues. Furthermore, one’s voice serves as a potent symbol of freedom and democracy in a society. To make the world a better place, it's crucial to speak out for the truth and therefore, each individual's voice counts. Voices can communicate any emotion or idea, including passion and excitement. Change can be brought about through voices. Your voice is one of the few things that cannot be taken away, even though other people may be able to take anything tangible from you. Voices are supposed to urge other voices to unify and support one another. “Only people who claim their own voice can hear the true song of another”. — Elizabeth Lesser This International Democracy Day, let us become the voice of the unheard by providing them with one. JOI in an effort to contribute to the cause of boosting one's confidence to deliver their message in this special upcoming seminar, Maximise your Message . Join us in our quest to become a person of influence because your voice matters. Stay connected at www.johnsonodakkal.com for a soon to be scheduled event : “Maximise your Message”. References: Laws and courts in ancient Athens: A brief overview . (n.d.). Kosmos Society. https://kosmossociety.chs.harvard.edu/law-and-courts-in-ancient-athens-a-brief-overview/ Ancient Athinean Democracy . (n.d.). Ancient Greece. Retrieved September 15, 2022, from https://ssancientgreece.weebly.com/ancient-athinean-democracy.html Mondal, A. (2022, February). Four Pillars Of Democracy . The Creative Post. https://thecreativepost.co.in/four-pillars-of-democracy/ Corrales, J. (2022, January 28). Telltale Signs of Democratic Backsliding . Retrieved September 15, 2022, from https://www.persuasion.community/p/telltale-signs-of-democratic-backsliding The Power of Using your voice . (2021, February 17). Voices of Youth. Retrieved September 15, 2022, from https://www.voicesofyouth.org/blog/power-using-your-voice

India is a glorious country that is rooted on ethical norms, cultural traditions, and a rich human legacy. It is also a nation of stories about governance and geography, rich cultural past, a glorious present and an optimistic future. The celebration is about people across the length and breadth of the land of India and their continuing journey of freedom. The world takes note of a populace that having navigated storms and successes today proudly is poised to be an enduring voice of influence across the globe! On the eve of its Panchsaptithi (75th Years) - Our India @75 the voyage from 15 August 1947 declares that there is a fresh vision for growth and significance. From digital diffusion to a diversified demography ‘Indian’ is a global tagline across language, intellect, dance and attire. The celebration of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav (Glorious Celebration of Freedom) is dedicated to the people of India who played a significant role in bringing India in its evolutionary journey. It recognises activation of India 2.0 being achieved with the help of a spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self Reliant India) into an Amrit Kaal (Age of Glory). Over two years, India, as a nation, has been resolute in its campaign in the unrelenting global war against Covid 19 pandemic. Efforts to manage the unprecedented challenge caused by COVID-19 infections have become a global success story, with both government and non-governmental sectors boosting preventive health-care facilities, diagnostic and research facilities, to mitigate the loss of human life. For planning and execution during these challenging circumstances, India has received plaudits both nationally and internationally. Despite the impact of the virus, India has resisted and has not seen a collapse in the supply chain of its health and food systems. India is proud to be able to diagnose its affluent and poor equally throughout this crisis. While the successful, developed nations were hoarding giant shares of vaccines and other medical supplies, India became a world distributor whilst managing its domestic needs as a part of its tradition Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. India, as well as the rest of the world, undoubtedly experienced a major catastrophe during the pandemic period. New sectors of frontline warriors have battled on, facing the difficult new normal during COVID-19 and addressing the deadly threat while still working, and yet resolute in purpose. The Indian healthcare system has evolved over time to be mostly centralised, expensive. Such treatment is costly in a nation where healthcare spending is low. The COVID pandemic made these truths much more obvious. It has also increased the urgency for a more distributed, decentralised, and responsive system. Similarly, clinical testing and diagnostics which earlier during the precovid period, considered not so economically favourable. But today with increase in healthcare awareness and improvised setup, the aforementioned mindset has been replaced. The expectations on health care providers are shifting as a result of changing consumer behaviour, with a rising preference for non-traditional settings for the delivery of healthcare. Additionally, people are open to a longer-term relationship with service providers they come to trust and feel at ease with. The Johnson Odakkal Initiatives (JOI) was privileged to engage with one such service provider that values trust, while providing sophisticated pathology solutions : Metropolis Labs. Their brand manifesto proudly boasts –“We are pathology specialists. We believe in truths. We are convinced that every human being deserves to know truths, especially if they are about inner health. And our aim is to present these truths in the most human way possible”. Metropolis plays a pivotal role in raising the bar of diagnostic accuracy, technological equipment, customer experience and research-driven empathetic service in the industry. We as Team JOI cherish the unsung heroes in healthcare diagnostics, their contributions, and their stories. On 12 August 2022 Metropolis Lab celebrated Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and invited two distinguished veterans. Col P Shashidharan, VSM, CRO & Tour Director of Tibro Tours at the event inspired Team Metropolis to imbibe high ideals of the Indian Military while progressing individual and institutional growth. It was a personal inspiration as many from Team Metropolis shared their adoration of the motivating personal stories shared by CEO of JOI, Commodore (Dr) Johnson Odakkal, an Indian Navy Veteran. A heart touching narrative reflected pride at what an Indian was able to achieve and gain in serving the nation. Beginning from a poignant point as a 12 year old and intertwined with stories from his freedom fighter father, Dr Johnson enthralled the audience with the story of ‘Dreams come True’. His visit to Hawaii, Switzerland, and to stand on the Prime Meridian at Greenwich Observatory were captivating. There was in the air a belief that anyone's life can change thanks to our glorious country. Commodore Johnson had earlier in a special activity triggered off with Col Shashidharan a thumb printed flag which was inked by the Metropolis Lab Team. A creative depiction of the Tricolour was an adorable celebration of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav! The nation and its people would be well served in recognising the unsung army of healthcare diagnostic professionals across institutions such as Metropolis Labs. The phlebotomists, the histopathologists, the diagnostic technicians and the many support teams continue to be relentless in their mission to enhance the advanced healthcare of a fit and robust population. At JOI, we engage with people and organisations to learn about their journeys, which are then curated, channelized, and accomplished applying pragmatic skills and abilities in ways that were never thought to be feasible. We hope to serve as a facilitator for anybody seeking to modify their way of thinking or their way of living. We highly encourage you to embark on this journey with us and get the agility of Structure, Hope, Integration, Joy, and Transformation! Reach out to us at www.johnsonodakkal.com and allow us the honour to curate your journey of Life Navigation.

Climate change is a phenomenon that is no longer unknown to us. It has affected different aspects of human life in recent times. Time and again, there have been stressors pointing toward the need to delve into sustainable modes of development to avoid and reduce the impact of climate change. Ocean health influences climate change. The changing temperatures of the oceans have directly impacted human life. The Indian Ocean is a major source of livelihood and security. It is responsible for bringing in monsoons which is vital for the agrarian country. It is also a huge contributor to the Indian economy as it is a biodiversity hotspot, one that is home to several million species of flora and fauna. The key climate change indicators are the greenhouse gas concentration, sea level rise, ocean heat and ocean acidification all of which set new records in 2021, in a clear sign that human activities are causing planetary scale changes on land, in the ocean, and in the atmosphere, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said in its State of the Global Climate Report 2021. Combined with exploiting marine resources and even disasters at sea, a significant threat is visible to the rainforests, marine reefs, and other ecosystems in the region. All these threats, including the environmental threats, also have grave implications for the fishing community with millions of fisherfolk depending on the natural resources of the region for their livelihood, which is at stake in the current situation. Communities directly reliant on the sea are direct victims to climate change. People all over the globe are indirectly reliant on the seas for their needs. With changing patterns of food due to the changes in harvesting, people all over are equally dependent on the ill-effects of climate change. Just a year ago, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) had issued warnings for India in terms of possible loss of 12 coastal cities in the country. The cities could be nearly three feet underwater by the century's end, the climate change report has warned. The cities mentioned include Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, and Visakhapatnam, among others. With floods and tropical cyclones being a frequent issue in a number of states in India, there is an emergency which needs to be addressed. There is a dire need to look into methods that can resuscitate the adverse impacts of climate change. The increased water levels have not just disturbed the livelihoods for the people and communities at the coasts who thrive through their association with the seas, but also have disturbed fishing patterns, changes in trade routes globally and the likelihood of this is the global south submerging underwater. An immediate outcome that is followed post a calamity such as a rise in water levels is the displacement of people from the coasts to a safer place. This would be a cause for livelihood disruptions and in turn affect the development in other parts of the country with increased demands for the population in terms of housing, sanitation, employment and so on. As India is surrounded by water all around, it is natural for the country to take up initiatives that can help mitigate the effects of climate change. According to a report by the World Meteorological Organization, more than 1 lakh people displaced in India between November and December 2021 alone due to climate related hazards, it added that India has among the highest number of people facing prolonged displacement who are not able to return to their homes after climate hazards. According to Abinash Mohanty, program lead for the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, the recently released Climate Vulnerability Index suggested that 8 out of 10 people in India reside in extremely climate-vulnerable districts. This will impact the lives, livelihoods, infrastructure and economies, triggering internal displacement. The estimates by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) suggest that 14 million people have been displaced in the last 2 decades. Climate extremities will rise exponentially in the coming decades, and will further exacerbate internal displacement across Indian districts. The report suggests how India needs to climate-proof its economic sectors by integrating granular information on climate risks and investing in ecosystem-based approaches to mitigate these harsh impacts and reduce internal displacements. As an appeal to the policy-makers, institutions and governments, the need lies in combining forces and having a team at each tier of governance to help mitigate the effects of climate change. It is hence imperative to coordinate multiple national and state research agencies through the development of a multidisciplinary research fund focused on the coast with sharing of data and information which can help save the coasts and the communities in these areas. Establishing a local body which looks after the coastal city administration with decision-makers and officials participating in periodic training for climate-resilient coastal protection and management. Lastly, there is an urgent requirement to strengthen the link between science, engineering, biology, management, policy and economics for informed decision making using multidisciplinary teams. A better unification of science (to investigate nature), engineering (for construction design) and policy (for implementation) is a high priority. An emphasis to craft and design an exclusive policy framework for the coastal zones of India after due consultations with the fishing communities, stakeholders, scientists and the department concerned is the need of the hour. Timely awareness and action would bring a ray of hope through the dark clouds that loom. References (1) Climate Change Is the Biggest Threat to Indian Ocean Security - https://thediplomat.com/2021/08/climate-change-is-the-biggest-threat-to-indian-ocean-security/ (2) These Indian cities likely to go three feet underwater by century-end, IPCC report rings warning bell - https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/ipcc-climate-report-coastal-cities-in-india-sea-level-rise-environment-global-warming-indian-ocean-1839061-2021-08-10 (3) Four key climate change indicators break records in 2021 - https://public.wmo.int/en/media/press-release/four-key-climate-change-indicators-break-records-2021 (4) Why we need a coastal zone protection act - https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/environment/why-we-need-a-coastal-zone-protection-act-62876 Please do allow us to serve you and add value through #KnowledgeInfluence in the maritime domain, heritage, governance & leadership. Do stay connected with us at https://www.johnsonodakkal.com / & email us at ceo@johnsonodakkal.com for great keynote talks and inspiring conversations.

In the evolution of humankind the discovery of things around us and a curiosity of the workings of objects have held fascination across time, region and communities. Art and creativity triggers and inner harmony that pulls our whole being. Humans started exploring and experimenting with the available material in nature to create various artworks. This feeds and fuels a range of emotions that renders in colour, form and texture to behold and cherish. This was the inception of the art. The need and feeling of showing and showcasing of art gave birth to the forms of displays using various mediums whether on the walls of various caves, palaces, temples or on the walls of the special buildings or structures which are dedicated for this purpose only. Art truly flourished when it started getting patronage through the royal families, specially made artworks were specially preserved and displayed on the walls of the royal palaces initiated the concept of ‘Art gallery’. The concept of Museum did not suddenly come into function. Historically there are many references to collections, displays and organizations like libraries or other learning institutions that have existed across geographies. A comprehensive history of museums begins with the origin of the collection of the prehistory and traces of museums from grave goods to treasure troves, from Alexandrian temple of the Muses to the Renaissance cabinets of curiosities and the diverse institutes' array of modern institutions worldwide. In terms of antiquity, Ennigaldi-Nanna’s museum dating to 530 BCE and dedicated to the Mesopotamian Empire is perhaps the oldest known collection and display. The Curator was Ennigaldi, daughter of Nabonidus, the last King of the Neo-Babylon empire. It was in the historic location of Ur in modern day Iraq. Archaeologists in their excavations found dozens of artefacts arranged neatly in rows with clay cylinders with descriptive texts in three scripts. Museum as an institution came into formal existence in Europe and flourished during the Renaissance period. Exploration of the European model and its international adaptations is an important aspect of the study of museology. ‘Museum’ as a word may have been new for modern or pre-modern Indians but the concept was present. The idea of museum existed in ancient India in pre-historic cave paintings, alekhyagrihas (Ranga Mahal - Hall of paintings), chitrasalas (Paintings Gallery), devakulas, visvakarma mandirs and monasteries, that served the purpose of education and healthy entertainment. We have references of ‘ Chitrashala ’ which were the centres of the exhibitions where many art exhibits were exhibited in the palaces for the enjoyment and to prevent and preserve the art objects. ‘Chitrasalas’ (चित्रशाला) refers to “art galleries” which existed in ancient Laṅkā, the city of King Rāvaṇa, according to the Valmiki Rāmāyaṇa verse 5.6.36-37. — विविधाकाराः स कपिर्मारुतात्मजः। लतागृहाणि चित्राणि चित्रशालागृहाणि च।।5.6.36।। क्रीडागृहाणि चान्यानि दारुपर्वतकानपि। कामस्य गृहकं रम्यं दिवागृहकमेव च।।5.6.37।। Translation - The son of the Windgod (Hanuman) saw at the palace of Ravana, the lord of demons, colourful palanquins of several kinds, bowers, picture galleries, and spots for sporting, hillocks (artificial) made of wood, apartments for romance, for pleasures and day time activities. Beyond the references in these epics, Kālidāsa’s Śakuntalā and Daṇḍin’s Daśakumāracarita make many references to art galleries or chitrasalas . In the medieval period there was a concept of a room in which the specimens were kept in the private collectors which were known as chambers or cabinets. In the colonial period the wave of museum movement reached the sub-continent. Amidst the tragic stories of plunder and pillage of antiques to European locations, there was a move to establish museums in India. The need was for preservation of objects as evidence of a rich culture, heritage and glorious past. It led to the dissemination of science of conservation and preservation amidst development of the museum movement in India. Ihe pre-independence era museums had a twin function of collection and research. Another important function, of display of objects was added later. Modern museums have multi-fold activities of collection, conservation, research, display and education. Museums were established for various purposes but mainly for trade and business purposes. The establishment of the Asiatic Society (1784) and the Indian Museum (1814) were landmarks in the history of the growth and development of museums in India. Later many museums were opened in different parts of the country. National Museum of India was established at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi and opened for the public after its formal opening on 15th August 1949. CSMVS Museum, formerly known as Prince of Wales Museum was established to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1906 which finally opened its doors to the visitors on 10th January 1922. We at Johnson Odakkal Initiatives have a special link with heritage and its narrative. Our founder and CEO, Commodore (Dr) Johnson Odakkal was mentored by the Grand Sire and Maritime Icon, Late Vice Admiral MP Awati to conserve and archive the rich collection at Maritime History Society. That is a work that is in a critical state of attention. Collaborative efforts with many individuals and institutions are the need across museums. At the celebrations to mark 150 years of the Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Byculla, Mumbai, Shri Aaditya Thackerey, Maharashtra Minister of Tourism, Environment and protocol stressed on the need of private-public partnerships in the progress of heritage, culture and museums. He lauded the collaborative efforts of the Bhau Daji Lad Museum with Brihanmumbai Muncipal Corporation and Bajaj Foundation in an International Award winning conservation effort. The even saw the release of a special edited work – “Mumbai : A City Through Objects.” It is an amazing labour of love by the Managing Trustee and Honorary Director, Tasneem Zakaria Mehta and her team. Nowadays when the aims and objectives of education have been diversified, the museums have become an inevitable source for successful visual education. Image and popularity of a museum depends upon its public friendly approaches, entertainment, amusement facility in addition to its contribution towards research and education. Museums are ready to take challenges and think out of the box. Museum approaches have changed, they not only try to attract audiences but also they step out and try to bring exhibits to the doorsteps of the visitors by running projects of mobile exhibitions. Schools in their return to in-person activities would benefit from making museum visits a vital part of the learning experience of the emerging generation of Nation Builders. Our history and its objects need to inspire our collective minds with creative insight for a vibrant and resurgent India. On the occasion of this International Museum Day, let's think about it in a different way. Why do we need particular artifacts acquired through different resources? Why do we have to go anywhere? Just look around… You will get to see the objects which are very close to your heart. You can establish your own museum at your home with simple creative ideas, and methods. Why do we need huge space and fancy display techniques? We can make our own museum using ‘What we have’ and ‘What we like’. Sounds interesting? How? Want to know more? Connect with us. Stay connected with us at www.johnsonodakkal.com for a workshop on basics of collections and your role in this endeavour starting from your home!

The maritime heritage of India spans many millenia. It is a journey of community, tradition and nautical knowledge which has revealed as much as what is yet to be discovered. On Indian National Maritime Day 2022, our CEO & Founder Cmde (Dr) Johnson Odakkal traced the maritime journey of India. Tracing from Indian mythology to the historical empires that utilised the power of the seas to expand on connectivity, commerce and culture he highlighted the rich knowledge that in the Indian maritime ecosystem and through which a legacy is being further built. The focus lies on how India can change its growth trajectory from another maritime sea power to a centrality as a rich blue economy. It is time for India to build collaborative competence with other nations to strengthen the oceanic networks and sea connections within the region. The talk titled, “Indian Maritime Prowess : Past, Present & Perspective” outlined the rich legacy inherited by the Indian Navy and its evolution from colonial times to today. In 75 years of nation-building the highlights included growth of Indian Navy to become the 4th largest Navy in the world. It is a visible symbol of the policy of statecraft and the power that represents the vibrancy and the aspirations of a resurgent Maritime India. The initiatives that the Prime Minister had declared in 2016 through the SAGAR policy (Security And Growth for All in the Region) are emerging are instruments of revival in the oceanic commons and in the maritime sector. The focus on the seas and ocean has been a way of being a dominant force in global politics. It also enables states with vast amounts of resources that help in the development and attributes to social and economical growth. To access the full talk at Pragna Bharti, watch the full video here . The second chapter from min 11:56 to 45:50 (Chapter II) is the core talk followed by a captivating Q & A Session. Please do allow us to serve you and add value through #KnowledgeInfluence in the maritime domain, heritage, governance & leadership. Do stay connected with us at https://www.johnsonodakkal.com/ & email us at ceo@johnsonodakkal.com for great keynote talks and inspiring conversations.

Indian coasts have a long history of bringing foreign influence through commerce and connectivity within the country. In ancient times, the Malabar confluence through the port of Calicut was a transit point for foreign travelers. As mentioned in an article in the Indian Naval Despatch, Winter 2020, Cmde (Dr) Johnson Odakkal notes how the Malabar coast was dotted with ports that carried on a thriving commerce in the markets of the Indian Ocean Region. The coast was known as a melting pot of communities, religions & languages. It evolved into a confluence of maritime trade routes heading westwards or eastwards. Today, India has 12 major ports and several new and emerging ports. India’s geography owing to the eastern & western has availed the opportunity to have multiple ports which could aid in multiple sectors within the maritime industry. Through this article we would be looking at two south Indian ports, Kochi & Thoothukudi that can be better utilised to build a robust maritime sector. The Indian maritime industry has been through vast changes from Indian independence. A lot of the maritime prowess that India possessed during the ancient and mediaeval was lost due to the colonial period and lack of development in terms of global standards. Few ports although did receive the infrastructural developments from the colonial masters, yet to even be considered a competition to leading maritime countries, that wasn’t enough. Today, achieving the goal of a maritime nation is more than just a show of strength; it leads to the socio-economic development of the country. The Sagarmala project initiative launched in 2016, hosted a maritime India summit in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited the global business community to become a partner in the process of India’s port-led development. From 2014, the Indian government has emphasised on building the futuristic infrastructure in the country through the Sagarmala programme. Along with the Make in India initiative, the government aims to modernise the ports and to integrate them with special economic zones (SEZs), port-based smart cities, industrial parks, warehouses, logistics parks and transport corridors. Opening an avenue for global investors in terms of enormous opportunities through this massive infrastructure transformation programme. In March 2021, the government had released a document on Maritime India Vision 2030 which encapsulates opportunities of growth in maritime industry. The Maritime India Vision 2030, states the total traffic handled at Indian Ports rose from 885 MTPA (million tones per annum) in 2010-11 to 1300 MTPA (million tones per annum) in 2019–20. The 12 Major Indian Ports handled nearly 54 percent of the total cargo in 2019-20 and have witnessed just about 4% CAGR growth in overall cargo traffic over the last 5 years. Given the evolving global shipping market and 10-year traffic projections across commodities and regional clusters, India needs to upgrade its port infrastructure to increase its market share. Through the Maritime India Vision 2030, the government has identified key interventions across 4 areas which are brownfield capacity augmentation, developing world-class Mega Ports, development of transshipment hubs in Southern India, and infrastructure modernization. With the target to achieve 3 ports by 2030, MIV 2030 envisions an overall investment of INR 3,00,000 – 3,50,000 Cr across ports, shipping, and inland waterways categories. This vision roadmap is estimated to help unlock INR 20,000+ Cr worth of potential annual revenue for Indian Ports. Further, it is expected to create an additional ~20,00,000+ jobs (direct and non-direct) in the Indian maritime sector. The development of transshipment hubs is vital for India as it would be a gateway into building southern India’s economy through the maritime industry. It would handle containers, store them temporarily and transfer them to other ships for the onward destination. The task owing to the location and proximity of international ports from South of India, makes it an ideal point to emerge as a leader in the industry. Major transshipment ports today on the Indian Ocean route lie on, Dubai, Colombo & Singapore. With each country charging a fee per container according to the competitiveness of the port. India could leverage its location and break its own container cost as well as gain fees from foreign containers. In the conversation around Port led development the prominence in the narrative is on a few major ports such as JNPT. The larger need requires emphasis and is shared in this piece through developments at Thoothukudi and Kochi. As part of the initiative the government has pushed for development of all major ports and has identified areas for new ports to be developed. To speak of the developments of the existing ports, the V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) or Thoothukudi port, which was named after the Indian Freedom Fighter, V.O. Chidambaranar. In October 2020, the then Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurated the DPE (Direct Port Entry Facility) at V. O. Chidambaram Pillai Port Trust. The Direct Port Entry Facility will help in reducing the time and cost of exports. Exports will be allowed directly without any delay into the port terminal and finally, the list of compliances is verified to let the export orders and goods out of India. [1] In the past year, reports also mentioned about the port being developed into a major transshipment port, with a new multi-modal logistics park were announced. In August last year, port Chairman T K Ramachandran had said that the port would be transforme d into a transshipment hub at an outlay of Rs 7,000 crore. While launching various infrastructural, social welfare projects in the state, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said about 575 projects, which include port modernization, port linked industrialization, coastal community development & port connectivity development which would involve an outlay of over Rs 6 lakh crore and would be implemented between 2015 and 2035. The move would create a domino effect in industries related to the maritime sector and also bolster the economy of the state. With the completion of the project an overall enhancement of the state workforce as well as the country's’ maritime force would be seen and thus, we have a transformed pearl city of Tamil Nadu. Through the years, India has been working towards regaining the maritime might it once had. With the initiatives in the recent past within the maritime industry we see how the shift and developments are being looked at to project and enable India to lead as a maritime power. With growing Tier II cities on either side of the country it is vital to look at the trade routes through sea and inland connectivity that would bolster development. On the western coast of India, in the state of Kerala, the government through Sagarmala has plans to build 63 Projects which would be worth more than Rs 17,000 Cr.. In order to enhance the infrastructure related to port-led industrialization, port modernization, port connectivity enhancement, coastal community development & coastal shipping, and inland waterways. The Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi has been a hub of connectivity, culture and commerce throughout history. The Kochi port is a major port which has capabilities to be a transshipment port in the west coast. The Vallarpadam port which was inaugurated in 2011, was the first of its kind in India to make India’s mark in the industry as well as create a milestone in logistic infrastructure development. The added advantage that Kochi has is of the area being developed as a smart city with facilities of IT Park & other transportation facilities. The effort to build the International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Vallarpadam in Kochi, took 10 years to achieve the milestone after battling the initial turbulent period. The ICTT also managed to silence sceptics who did not give a chance to the terminal saying Colombo port’s locational advantage and the Vallarpadam’s smaller draft will not help it survive for long. Apart from booming local state economy it adds to the prowess of the southern region. This would ensure all round development within the country and would also be a chance for maritime might & connectivity through the south to regain impetus and as well as focus. It adds to a strong economic case which means enabling a transshipment hub in Southern India that can attract Indian and regional transshipment traffic from the current hubs, save significant revenue loss, reduce logistics inefficiencies for Indian trade which otherwise goes to Sri Lanka or Singapore, reduce risks to country’s export competitiveness and create an opportunity for India to become a large hub for Asia-Africa, Asia-US/Europe container traffic trade. Enabling a socio-economic powerhouse through the maritime industry through the growth and development for the state as well as the country as a whole. Unlike the earlier standard of growth being centric to certain regions due to the prevailing colonial infrastructure, this would enable growth in a sector leading to the development of the country. Powerful industries enabling social and economic growth are essential. They are required to be spread out rather than concentrated near a particular region or area. Southern India has been known for years of connectivity and trade all due to their sea power. Maximizing it and multiplying the forces with abilities to make India be a superpower also lies perfectly within the region. Giving the hand ahead, ensuring that growth and development gets a bottom up approach that would propel a new era of maritime development for India. Through the ideas and developments mentioned above, one prominent call to action comes through, the need for a growth mindset. Channeling this mindset would ensure people in maritime industry, policymakers, young scholars and professionals and even other industries to become leaders and consequently serve the country. References : 1. marineinsight.com/shipping-news/india-to-promote-port-led-development-through-harnessing-indias-7500-km-long-coastline/ 2. swarajyamag.com/infrastructure/how-sagarmala-is-anchoring-indias-port-led-development 3. sagarmala.gov.in/sites/default/files/MIV%202030%20Report.pdf 4. squareyards.com/blog/sagarmala-project-gvi 5. constructionworld.in/transport-infrastructure/ports-and-shipping/tuticorin-port-to-be-transformed-into-transhipment-hub/25915 6. offshore-energy.biz/india-developing-green-freight-corridor-along-western-coast/ 7. newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2021/mar/04/a-decade-down-ictt-aims-to-emerge-as-indias-transhipment-hub-2271745.html 8. sagarmala.gov.in/sites/default/files/MIV%202030%20Report.pdf 9. ibef.org/industry/ports-india-shipping.aspx

" No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens. " - Michelle Obama, Former First Lady of the United States In the run up to International Women’s Day 2022, my readings discovered select elements of women’s rights from American and English Legal History. The right to vote nationwide was mandated only in 1920 in the USA, with the right to vote restricted to white men who held properties in the 18th century and certain states allowed women to vote. Two years earlier Britain passed the Representation of the People Act wherein women over the age of 30 who met a property qualification were allowed to vote. Scholarship usually credits Western societies for introducing ideals such as independence and liberty and through it achieving economic independence. Yet, women have been conveniently left out this entire narrative and process. Women have contributed immensely throughout the ages. Mary Wollstonecraft is the first feminist thinker who advocated equality of women. Through her book, ‘ A Vindication of the Rights of Woman (1792)’, she argues that women are not naturally inferior to men, but appear to be only because they lack education. Despite stressing on the need for education to achieve equality, women being involved in the society and its advances does not come through soon. Levels of literacy would have improved but for participation in political and economic spheres, that came quite later. Such movements instead had men in the forefront of the account. Women and their rights were not treated primary or considered equal to that of men. In the contemporary globalized world, democratic institutions ensure participation of people in choosing their elected representatives. As for most matters it is through the west that the world would have gained these critical ideas and thoughts, however, we see another trend in terms of equality in the Asian / eastern part of the world. Women in Asia have been part of political movements throughout history. Although there has been fractured development in terms of literacy rates in several countries among women, it is also true that women have been given voting rights as well as been premiers of their country. The first woman to become head of governance as Prime Minister was Sirimavo Bandranaike in 1960 from the small island nation of Sri Lanka. She was elected to power with a decisive victory which was a big achievement in history. This was in a country that attained independence in 1948 and had its first woman elected representative in just 12 years from independence. India also had its first woman prime minister around the same timeline. In 1966, Indira Gandhi became India’s third Prime Minister. She is known as the Iron Lady of India and was a popular leader in terms of policies as well as leadership skills. While her tenure as prime minister came with several controversies yet the significance was particiular in a nation that was a colony just two decades earlier. Adding to the list of phenomenal women in governance, we have Golda Meir from Israel who served as the Prime Minister in 1969. She had the title of Iron Lady of the Middle East. As the global order changed from the colonial period, we have independent countries choosing women as their leaders and even granting equal voting rights. Unlike in the western world, which has been a leader in these very ideals yet not recognising and promoting gender equality. It wasn’t until 1979, that Britain elected a woman as its prime minister. Margaret Thatcher was popularly referred to the Iron Lady of the West for her portrayal in the media & her stance on several policies. This highlights how the eastern world has produced more women leaders as elected representatives and have been at the forefront in promoting equality among genders as well as bridging the gaps among the genders. In the todays’ day and age we’ve women leading several industries and being world leaders. Probably for the first time in history, through the technological age, women are creating history equally with men. Although the capacity and the women involved in the changes worldwide are still not even a fraction of the total population. Several instances clearly highlight that we still have a long way to go to incorporate women into crucial conversations at each level. Even today, phrases such as breaking the glass ceiling, having a seat at the table or even building her own table are being used to quote an achievement made by a woman. Each win of a woman must be celebrated to ensure young girls and women learn and leap forward to take what is theirs. With each year on the 8th of March, we celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Alongside raising awareness about women's equality, accelerate gender parity, we must ensure to promote women in all industries equally and provide opportunities through each sphere to women to equip her to grow to her full potential and as well as deliver the best for the world too. I believe it is & must be affirmed as a thought that women have a key role in contributing to the structures and institutions of the world. “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made. It shouldn't be that women are the exception” Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 2nd Women Justice of US Supreme Court Stay connected for great learnings and a #Knowledge #Influence #Life Voyage at https://www.johnsonodakkal.com/

#GoaLiberation1961 Saga of Goa's liberation is one that showcases the power of the peoples' movement, be it indigenous or from neighbor states. While decisive military action sealed the liberation finale in 36 hours, the contribution of ordinary folks helped the region of Goa attain freedom after 451 years of Portuguese rule. Goa had a slightly different story compared to most parts of India as it had a more brutal Portuguese colonization and did not taste freedom for 14 years after Indian independence. As we celebrate the #DiamondJubilee of #GoaLiberation1961 may we unite our hearts with the travails of countless brave fighters of an erstwhile era from different parts of the country who supported Goa and its' people. The Malabar "Jathas" or marches, ran parallel to the main narrative of Indian Independence. Our founder & CEO, Cmde (Dr) Johnson Odakkal in a recent talk at the Goa Liberation Seminar by #IndianNavy on 14th December 2021 highlighted stellar work by veteran journalist, Late M.B. Singh, Shri Narayanan Nair, and his own inspirational father Odakkal Master of Kondotty, Malappuram, Kerala. In 1955, three marches of "Jathas" from the Malabar region of Kerala found solidarity with the Goan indigenous freedom movement. The talk in addition mentioned Dr. Tristao de Braganza Cunha, in addition to local women warriors - Sindhu Deshpande, Libia Lobo, Shashikala Hodarkar, Sharada Padmakar Savaikar in the peoples' movement. They were an assertive resistance against the colonial European power and sent a strong message to the Portuguese, that it was time for them to leave. He spoke of how they were reluctant to give up Goa with flimsy arguments. The changing global scenario, the peoples' movement, and the military action by Indian Armed Forces, all combined to pave the way for a free Goa. A period of 15 long years since Ram Manohar Lohia raised a public protest, Goa was free. The takeaway was the zeal and spirit of the idea of “India” that may not have had a Republic or Constitutional tag prior to 1950 and yet has had a civilizational legacy for many millennia.