Minutes - OBA EC, SSKZM, 16-08-2008

Minutes Of Meeting - 1 ST OBA Executive Committee meeting held at SSKZM on 16 August 2008 AT 1630 hrs

1. The following attended the meeting:-

SSKZM
(a) Colonel B Ajit Kumar, Principal SSKZM and Patron, OBASSKZM.
(b) Lt Col MC Thomas, Registrar and Old Boy (1260/ 1982).
(c) Lt Col K Raghu, Headmaster.
(d) Mr. K Rajendran, Master - Coordinator OBASSKZM.

OBASSKZM
(a) Captain Louis George Meprath (642/1972), President.
(b) Col Nietzsche Balan (928/1979), Vice President
(c) Mr. Sanu George, (1378/1983), Vice President
(d) Mr. G Jayakumar (892/1979), Treasurer.
(e) Mr. Raj Kumar S (2569/1995), General Secretary
(f) Cdr Rajeev Maroli, Joint Secretary (954/80)
(g) Mr. Ajith Prabhakar (782/77), EC Member 1976-80

2. The points discussed are as shown below:-
(a) Welcome address by President, OBASSKZM.
(b) Address by Patron, OBASSKZM.
(c) Projects at SSKZM - Gurudakshina.
(d) SAF - Helping cadets.
(e) High Fees paid by cadets.
(f) Computerisation of all OBA records.
(g) Membership to XII th standard Cadets on the eve of passing out of SSKZM.
(h) Golden Jubilee Celebrations 2012.
(i) OBA Assets.
(j) Role of OBA - what should OBA do?
(k) Batch reps / Chapter reps
(l) OBA EC Spokesperson.
(m) Revenue by means of advertising on our site, google adsense to start with.
(n) OBA Chapters around the globe.
(o) Use of OBA name for collecting funds.
(p) Helping Alumni.
(q) Projects outside SSKZM by Alumni
(r) Prizes distributed during Commemoration Meeting.
(s) EC Mailing list.

Welcome Address by President, OBASSKZM

3. The meeting began at 1630 hrs by observing a minute's silence in memory of the dear departed Alumni. Thereafter, the President in his address welcomed the gathering and thanked Colonel B Ajit Kumar, Principal SSKZM and Patron, OBASSKZM, Lt Col MC Thomas, Registrar and Old Boy (1260/1982), Lt Col K Raghu, Headmaster and Mr. K Rajendran, Master - Coordinator OBASSKZM and the OBAEC members for taking pains
to be present for the EC meeting on a Saturday afternoon.

4. The President informed that the OBA would continue to work in synergy(as was already being done) with the School authorities for the development of the cadets. Address by Colonel B Ajit Kumar, Principal SSKZM and Patron, OBASSKZM

5. The Principal stated that he was very happy to be associated with such a vibrant OBA and he thanked the Alumni for the same. He briefed the gathering on the happenings at SSKZM during the last few months. The following significant points were brought out:-

(a) Prizes won by Cadets. SSKZM Cadets participated in a cultural festival held at the TVM International School. They won prizes in Malayalam Declamation (I st) and in Science as well as Mathematics Quiz (II nd as well as III rd prizes for both). In addition, the Cadets won the II nd and III rd prizes for Ramayana recitation and Quiz conducted by Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, TVM.

(b) South Zone Championships. SSKZM won the III rd place overall in the SZ Championships.

(c) NCC Camps. Cadet Mukul Narayan Chaubey (Roll No. 4389) of the present X th standard was adjudged 'Best All Round Cadet, Kerala' in the RD NCC Camp held during Jan 2008 and received the Chief Minister's Gold Medal.

(d) Independence Day Parade. The SSKZM contingent (XI th and IX th standard cadets) was adjudged 'Best (non-police) Contingent' during Independence Day parade 2008 held at TVM.

(e) Inspections. The School was inspected by Air Vice Marshal SC Mukul, AVSM, VM, VSM, AOC - in - C, HQ SAC and Chairman, LBA on 04 Aug 08. Colonel RS Nehra, Inspecting Officer from Sainik School Society also inspected the School from 08 to 10 Aug 08. Both the senior officers have given glowing reports about the various aspects and spick-and-span appearance of SSKZM.

(f) Principals' Conference at Delhi. In the recently concluded Principals' Conference (held at Manali from 19 May to 21 May 08), the RRM remarked that the Sainik Schools in the country were doing a wonderful job and commended all the Principal as more than 40 % of the NDA cadets were from Sainik Schools across the country. RRM also indicated that more Sainik Schools are likely to be set up in states like Chhatisgarh. In all such cases, the Ministry of Defence is requesting these State Govts. to sign a MoU with the MoD before permission is given for setting up the Sainik School. This is to ensure that the states do not neglect the Sainik Schools in the long run.

(g) Voluntary retirement of Mr. SB Sasikumar. Shri SB Sasikumar who was one of the most inspiring and loved teachers, left SSKZM in June 2008 to take over as Principal, International School at Thodupuzha. Principal stated that SSKZM's loss would be Thodupuzha's gain.

(h) School Magazine 2009. Principal stated that he had received large number of requests for the School Magazine printed in March 2008. As the requests were received late, it was not feasible to send the Magazine to all. Alumni are requested to inform SSKZM well in advance, if they require the copy of School magazine 2009 which would be printed in March 2009. The cost would be around Rs. 150/- per copy (including cost of dispatch in India).

6. The OBAEC congratulated the Principal and his team for the excellent all-round show by our cadets. The agenda points were thereafter taken up for discussions.

7. Projects at SSKZM - Gurudakshina. The EC discussed in detail regarding the procedure for finalising Projects to be undertaken at SSKZM. Projects at SSKZM by Chapters / Groups / like minded Alumni should continue. All such projects should initially be discussed with SSKZM by the respective Alumni, so that it is established that Alumni are giving something to SSKZM which SSKZM requires. Once the matter has been initially sounded to SSKZM, Alumni should approach the OBA EC for taking up the matter with SSKZM and working out the way ahead. Projects that would be taken up at SSKZM could be finalised in this way. Principal intimated that it was his endeavour to get maximum work done by the State Govt. He promised that, wherever the State Govt could be asked to take up Projects at SSKZM, it would be his top priority to request the State Govt to do so. Only such works that the State Govt. would not normally undertake should come as projects from OBA side.

8. Students' Aid Fund (SAF). The President intimated that the existing procedure of identifying SAF beneficiaries by the School Authorities was adequate. The amounts given to each cadet under this scheme was initially Rs. 1000/-. Last year, this was raised to Rs. 5000/- (for 05 cadets). This year, it is planned to give Rs. 5000/- each to 07 cadets. However, this could be enhanced on a case-to-case basis. Shri Jayakumar, Treasurer OBASSKZM indicated that an amount of approximately Rs. 71,000/- was left over from the funds contributed by Alumni for the Harshan Memorial BUST. As decided earlier, this money has been transferred to the SAF. In addition, there were discussions held on the proposals by a few of our Alumni that they were willing to sponsor the complete fees of deserving cadets right from class VI till they are gainfully employed. The decisions taken are as under:-

(a) At present, the full fees for a year is Rs. 43,400/-. The State Govt reimburses only Rs. 14,000/- and MoD gives Rs. 2000/- (in some cases where MoD scholarships are eligible, the amount is Rs.10,500/-). Cost of messing is around Rs. 12,980/- per year
(Rs. 44/- per day). Cost of uniforms, books etc. would be extra. In short, a full scholarship holder would still have to pay around Rs. 25,000/- per year. The EC was of the view that this is the group (i.e. full scholarship holders) which the Alumni must help. At present, full scholarship holders are around 250 cadets approximately.

(b) Alumni desirous of helping such cadets would be required to contribute about Rs. 25,000/- to Rs. 30,000/- per year. However, the EC was of the opinion that sponsoring right from Class VI till the cadet was gainfully employed may not be a good idea. This is because the parents' income may change every year. A cadet may no longer be eligible for scholarship if his parents' income increases beyond the exemption limit. In addition, if the cadet does not exhibit good potential, the necessity of funding him would need to be reconsidered. Considering all these facts, the EC decided that it would be better to contribute to the SAF rather than sponsoring individual cadets. However, in case any Alumnus is still desirous of sponsoring individual cadets, the EC has no objection. It was recommended that such sponsoring should be on a yearly basis only.

(c) In addition to the above, Shri Rajendran intimated that the cadets join in VI th standard. It therefore becomes very difficult for the House Masters and School Administration to identify suitable candidates from VI th standard. OBA EC therefore recommended that it would be better to start such scholarships from VII th standard, as SSKZM would get a fair picture of the background of the cadets once they have spent an year in SSKZM.

9. High Fees paid by cadets. Fees paid by parents are very high (around Rs. 44,000/-). Shares of State Govt and MoD are very meagre. As a result, even a full scholarship holder's father / mother pay around Rs. 25,000/- to Rs. 30,000/- as fees. Poor but deserving children are thus deprived of good education, as their parents are unable to afford the high fees!! Salaries of teachers and other Staff and pensions are paid out of the fees paid by the Parents. This is the problem faced by most of the Sainik Schools in India. The Tuition Fees are expected to go up once the Sixth Pay Commission recommendations are implemented. It was the general opinion that the salary and pensions of the Staff should be paid either by the State Govt. or the Central Govt. This burden should not be placed on the poor parents. The EC decided that the OBA would extend all support to the Parents' Association in taking up the matter with appropriate authorities.

10. Computerisation of all OBA records. It was decided that OBA should computerise all its records- Circulars, Bulletins, Magazines (School+ Magazines / Souvenirs issued by various batches), accounts, photographs etc. to be computerised. Outsourcing may be resorted to. This point is also covered under 'Golden Jubilee Celebrations' .

11. Membership to XII th standard Cadets on the eve of passing out of SSKZM. At present, cadets who pay Rs. 500/-, are enrolled as life members of OBA just before passing out (as against Rs.1000/- for normal life membership). This is a totally voluntary contribution by the cadets. EC discussed whether we continue with this system or whether we should resort to Student Membership i.e. once students pass out of the school, they should be enrolled as 'Student Members' only. When they start earning, they could be enrolled as 'Life Members'. Shri K Rajendran clearly stated that this was purely a voluntary payment and no cadet was forced to take membership on passing out. He further stated that last year, XII th standard cadets had approached him and requested to be enrolled as life members of OBA. This indicated the keenness of the cadets to enroll as OBA life members. The EC decided to maintain status quo i.e. to continue with the practice of enrolling cadets on the eve of passing out as Life members of OBA on payment of Rs. 500/-.

12. Golden Jubilee Celebrations 2012. Preliminary discussions were held. It was unanimously agreed that the School's Golden Jubilee Celebrations must be conducted on a grand scale. The EC decided the following:-

(a) As a first step, OBA and SSKZM are to undertake a joint project to digitise all records - Circulars, Bulletins, Magazines (School+ Magazines / Souvenirs issued by various batches), accounts, photographs etc. Alumni are therefore requested to forward any such articles in their possession to OBA / SSKZM. It would be preferable if the Alumni forward a scanned copy of the documents they have with them (to avoid loss of these invaluable documents in case these are sent by normal post). More details of how to go about this mammoth task could be obtained from Shri Rajkumar (General Secretary OBASSKZM) who has volunteered to be the OBA rep in this mega project. SSKZM would also be nominating a rep for this purpose.

(b) Alumni to be requested to forward suggestions on conduct of 'Golden Jubilee Celebrations' . Once suggestions are received from Alumni, OBA EC and SSKZM would work out the way ahead.

(c) Sponsoring batch for OB Day 2012 i.e. 1987batch is also to be actively involved in these activities.

13. OBA Assets and Role of OBA - what should OBA do? It was suggested by some Alumni that OBA should be a powerful pressure lobby. One of the major factors for achieving this is that OBA should have financial strength - need not be cash, but it should have assets in the form of land or buildings. So, should OBA own assets? It could be land or building (office space or anything). This should also be linked to the 'Role of OBA'. Considering all the factors above, what should be the role of OBA was discussed in detail by the EC. Should we go all out to increase Assets and to take on additional responsibilities? The EC was of the view that the OBA as a group should limit the main OBA activities to organising OB Day, coordinating Projects at SSKZM, Students' Aid Fund etc. so that we remain focused on core issues. Rest of the activities could be delegated by the main OBA to be conducted by Chapters / batches / like minded Alumni. It would be better to remain a manageable entity (with sufficient funds) than to grow into an unmanageable entity that would give rise to associated problems. The EC also decided that it would request Alumni who have prior experience in Managing Projects to forward a Project Report for buying of land + constructing of a building / buildings for OBA that would serve as guest house, office, Multipurpose hall etc. Project report is to include ideas for generation of funds, income tax and other Govt regulations to be followed, maintenance of such assets once construction is complete etc. Alumni volunteering for this task may forward their details to General Secretary.

14. Batch reps (e mail id) / Chapter reps (e mail id). E mail ids and contact details of batch representatives (1965 to 2008) should be available with OBA. Similarly, details of Chapter members (all over the globe) should also be available with OBA. This is for ease of networking. Shri Rajkumar (General Secretary, OBASSKZM) was requested to inform Alumni accordingly. Batch reps + Chapter reps are also requested to contact Gen Sec (at least two members each).

15. OBA EC Spokesperson. EC decided that the official statements of the EC will be made by the President or any other EC member on behalf of the EC as nominated by the EC. In such cases, the member will state that it is on behalf of the EC or the statement has the approval of the EC.

16. Revenue by means of advertising on our site, google adsense to start with. Suggestions have come that our mail site could be used to generate huge amounts of revenue. Gen Secretary was requested to get more suggestions from Alumni on how to proceed ahead. How do we go about it? What about the legality of these schemes? What about Tax issues? What about Security issues?

17. OBA Chapters around the globe. These should be strengthened. Alumni visiting these places must be taken care of. Chapter get-togethers must be organised. All these activities must ultimately lead to a stronger OBA. These Chapters must have their own elected representatives who would look after the Chapter. Funds for running such Chapters efficiently should be generated by the Chapters themselves.

18. Use of OBA name for collecting funds. EC decided that Chapters / batches and other Associations of groups of Alumni (of SSKZM) should not resort to collect funds in the name of OBASSKZM. It should be clarified to the members that funds being collected are for use by Alumni of that Chapter/group / batch only.

19. Helping Alumni. Members were of the opinion that Alumni are generally reluctant to approach OBA for help (especially financial help). It may be better if the individual batch-mates work out some schemes to help their batch-mates, who are in need of help (could be financial, psychological etc.).

20. Projects outside SSKZM by Alumni. EC members' views were that It should be left to the discretion of the Alumni of the various Chapters / batches / groups etc. to initiate projects outside SSKZM viz. Kazhak's Clubs at various places, Old Age Homes (for Alumni), Children's Shelters, Guest Houses, New School(s) etc. Once again, the cardinal rule should be that no funds should be collected in the name of OBA for projects which have not been put up for approval of the EC.

21. Prizes distributed during Commemoration Meeting. Members felt that more than a hundred prizes were distributed by the OBA on OB day (during the Commemoration Meeting). This tended to be a very boring affair, often resulting in Alumni as well as others to leave the Auditorium midway through the Prize Distribution. It was decided that Prizes for classes VI, IX, X and XII would continue to be given on OB Day during the Commemoration Meeting. All other prizes would be distributed on other suitable occasions like Annual day etc.

22. EC mailing list. EC decided that in addition to the elected EC members, any Alumnus holding the post of Principal, Headmaster or Registrar would also be included in the OBAEC mailing list, during their tenure at SSKZM.

23. The OBAEC also took this opportunity to welcome Lt Col K Raghu, the new Headmaster of SSKZM .There being no other points, the meeting was adjourned. It was decided that the next OBAEC meeting would be held in Dec 2008 / Jan 2009. After this, the EC members were taken on a tour of the newly inaugurated Multimedia Lab. Principal intimated that such a facility has greatly helped our dear cadets. More computers (internet cafe) would be housed in the proposed room under the Clock Tower.

Warm regards,

Rajkumar
2569/1995
General Secretary OBASSKZM

OBA Website http://www.sskzm.org
SSKZM website http://www.sainikschooltvm.org
OBASSKZM BLOG http://www.obasskzm.blogspot.com
Information could be posted on the BLOG by sending an E Mail to news@sskzm.org.

Minutes of meeting of the AGBM held on OB day 2008 (21-06-2008)

1. The agenda for the meeting was as under:-

(a) Silent Prayer in memory of our dear departed Alumni.
(b) Welcome by OBA President.
(c) Address by Principal SSKZM and Patron, OBASSKZM.
(d) Presentation of accounts by Treasurer.
(e) Gradual switching to E mode-Payment of money to OBA accounts by cheque/electronic transfer.
(f) SAF.
(g) Any other items.
(h) Election of office bearers for 2008 - 2009.

2. The summary of discussions and decisions taken are as under:-

(a) Welcome Addressby Captain Louis George Meprath (642 / 1972), President, OBASSKZM.
The President, OBASSKZM welcomed the Alumni who had come from far and wide for this reunion. He thanked the sponsoring batches viz. 1974 and 1983 batches for the wonderful arrangements made. He also thanked Col Ajit Kumar, the Principal, Lt Col K Raghu, the Headmaster and Lt Col MC Thomas, the Registrar for leaving no stone unturned in making OB day 2009 an enjoyable one. He also expressed the hope that the existing synergy between OBA and SSKZM would continue.

(b) Address by Col Ajit Kumar, Principal, SSKZM and Patron OBASSKZM.
Col Ajit Kumar in his address thanked the Alumni for donating various projects to School. For the first time in the history of the AGBMs (and thus indicative of the ever strengthening bond between the OBA and the School), Col Ajit Kumar gave a Power Point Presentation highlighting the activities of the School and the various infrastructure / other projects planned at SSKZM. This shows the great pains taken by SSKZM in keeping the Alumni abreast of the latest happenings. The Principal's statement that in X th standard (CBSE) exams, 100 % of the cadets passed with flying colours was replied with thunderous applause by the Alumni. The XII th standard results were also similar. The Principal stated that the OBA and the SSKZM would continue to work in tandem for the betterment of the quality of life of the cadets.

(c) Presentation of Accounts by the Treasurer. Treasurer of OBA.
Shri Jayakumar presented the accounts and the same was passed without any comments. The balance sheet will be uploaded to www.sskzm.org.

(d) Gradual switching to E mode-Payment of money to OBA accounts by cheque/electronic transfer.
The President intimated that Alumni should be requested to send in their contributions by cheque / e transfer. This was with a view to simplify transactions. Alumni were also requested to inform the Treasurer whenever they transferred money by e transfer, as tracking of this amount would pose a problem as details of senders are not known. The members agreed to this proposal and the proposal was passed.

(e) Students' Aid Fund (SAF).
The President informed the gathering that many of our Alumni were willing to sponsor needy cadets, right from class VI to Class XII and even after they leave School for College / NDA etc. i.e till they get gainfully employed. The members were of the view that the primary aim should be to strengthen the SAF and try to build a huge corpus so that OBA has enough funds to help needy cadets. At the same time, if any of the Alumnus is keen to help out a particular needy cadet right from class VI till the time he is gainfully employed, there should be no objection. However, emphasis should be on increasing the Corpus of the SAF for ensuring benefit to a wide range of cadets.

(f) Any other items

(i) Amendment to Bye Laws.
It was brought out by some members that the mandatory time period for serving as Joint Secretaries prior to contesting the post of General Secretary should be reduced to one year. The President also informed that the present bye law as such provides provision for the appointment of any candidate as General Secretary if there are lack of volunteers and if the GBM approves. The President stated that the matter will have to be taken up in the OBAEC and formally put up to AGBM in 2009 for amendment to Bye Laws.

(ii) Dissemination of Information.
A few members were of the opinion that all important circulars and other information should be posted on the website (http://sskzm.org) in addition to posting on mailing list. The GBM agreed to the proposal. It was decided to use the sskzm.org website, BLOG ( http://obasskzm.blogspot.com ) as well as group mails for dissemination of information.

(g) Election of New Office Bearers.
Shri TK Chandramohanan (64 / 1968), the senior most Old Boy present, conducted the elections. The following were elected as OBA Office Bearers for 2008 - 2009 by the General Body:-

President: Louis George Meprath (642/72)
Vice President: Nietzsche Balan (928/79)
Vice President: Sanu V George (1378/1983)
General Secretary: Rajkumar S (2569/95)
Joint Secretary: Rajeev Maroli (954/80)
Joint Secretary : Ashok N (1164/82)
Treasurer: Jaya Kumar G (892/79)


Batch Representatives
1965-70 Hari Prasad A (144/68)
1971-75 Ajith Kumar J (418/72)
1976-80 Ajith Prabhakar (782/77)
1981-85 Naushad A (1484/84)
1986-90 Thaju U (1643/86)
1991-95 Padmaraj T R (2298/93)
1996-00 Sunil Jose Gregory (2731/97)
2001 onwards Ashish Bens (3393/02)


(h) The members thanked the outgoing OBAEC members for their valuable contributions to the OBA.

(i) OB Day 2009 (20 June 2009) will be sponsored by the batch of 1984.

There being no other points, the meeting was adjourned.


(Rajkumar S)
2569/95
General Secretary
OBASSKZM
29 June 2008

OB DAY HELD ON 21.06.2008

A message from the President, OBA SSKZM.

Dear Alumni,

I am writing this to thank the Alumni who attended the OB Day functions on 21.06.08 and making it a grand success.

The minutes of the meeting of the AGBM held and the list of new office bearers would be separately circulated.

I would like to thank Shri Rajookrishnan, Vice President OBASSKZM who volunteered to step down this year due to his personal commitments. He has been the guiding pillar of the OBA EXEC Committee.

Similarly, I would like to thank Shri Jayshankar Warrier, outgoing General Secretary who also stepped down voluntarily. Shri Jayshankar Warrier inspite of his poor health coordinated all the activities of the OBA very well for the last two years.

Special thanks to Shri Haridas and 13 of his batchmates for sponsoring drinking water (mineral water) on OB Day.

The function began with a Guard of Honour at 0830 hrs by the SSKZM cadets to the Chief Guest Lt Gen SP Sreekumar PVSM AVSM ADC, SO-in-C followed by the 'Wreath Laying Ceremony'. Many senior Old Boys of the 1960s batches, 70s and 80s batches also attended the function.

This was followed by the inauguration of the Multimedia Lab by the Chief Guest who was instrumental in getting the computers from Army Headquarters.

After this the solemn ceremony of unveiling the Bust of Captain R Harshan , Ashok Chakra was done by the Chief Guest in presence of Harshan's father Shri Radhakrishnan Nair. I must mention here that the Alumni has been very generous in contributing for this noble venture.

The Harshan Pavilion in the Parade Ground was then inaugurated by Harshan's father. Mrs NJC Nair and son were also inviteees for this function.This idea of constructing a Pavilion was mooted by Harshan's batchmates - Sunil Gregory, Manu and others.

After this, the customary Cricket match (reduced to 10 overs), Basketball match, Volleyball match and Football match were played. The OBs won all matches except Cricket.

The AGBM was held therefater. There were not many points to be discussed. The Minutes of this Meeting will be circulated separately.

Lunch was held in two shifts - first shift for ladies at 1245 hrs - ladies and children were very Happy - also some enterprising Old Boys joined in the first shift (about 150 Old Boys only). I do not know the reason for this. Maybe they felt that the ladies and Children would leave nothing for the second shift.

However, the Registrar SSKZM took charge of the situation and thus there was ample food for the second shift also at 1430 hrs.

The career guidance counselling by Alumni was next. This was not carried out as expected as some OBs who volunteered to help did not turn up!!

The final event of the Day was the Commemoration Meeting and the GURUVANDANAM wherein the Masters (Retired as well as Present) were honoured by the sponsoring batch (batches of 1974 and 1983). Trophies and cash prizes donated by OBASSKZM were also distributed. In addition, SBI donated computers as well as cash prizes to SSKZM. This was due to the efforts of Col (Retd) Abraham K George (1970 batch).

The Chief Guest for this function was Lt Gen Sreekumar. In addition, we had a surprise guest - the Honourable member of Parliament Shri PC Thomas. Shri PC Thomas in his brief speech kept the audience spell bound by his narration of stories of the initial years at Pangode and Kazhakootam. Lt Gen Sreekumar in his speech exhorted the cadets to do well in their careers after leaving SSKZM and promised all help from the Alumni for this. Speeches were also given by Col Ajit Kumar Principal and Capt Louis George, OBA President.The Vote of thanks was proposed by Cdr R Maroli, the newly elected Joint Secretary of OBA.

The function ended with tea and refreshments.

The OBA is thankful to Col Ajit Kumar, Principal SSKZM, Lt Col Thomas (Registrar), Shri Sarma (Senior Master) and all other members of teaching as well as non-teaching staff for the wonderful efforts put in to make the functions on 21.06.08 a grand success. THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN. I am confident that this cooperation and Synergy between SSKZM and OBA would continue in the coming years also.

After the Old Boys' Day, I received an interesting feedback from a few families. They appreciated the efforts put in by all, OBA as well as SSKZM - like games for families , conducted tour, early lunch etc. However, they feel that there should be some organised programme (like GANAMELA) followed by dinner. This would be an occassion for Alumni to interact with each other and their families (and also to unwind after the running around at SSKZM the whole day).This need not be held at SSKZM. this could be held at Kazhakootam / Trivandrum.

May I request the sponsoring batch (1984 batch) to consider this event also whilst working out the Budget for sponsoring next year's OB Day (on Saturday 20 June 2009).

with warm regards,

Captain Louis George Meprath (642 / 1972)
President, OBASSKZM

Dubai get together with Mr. PCN, 09 Jun 2008

Kazaks in UAE had a get together to meet PCN Sir who is on a visit to Dubai. In spite of the meeting being arranged at such a short notice and that too in the middle of a working week, it was heartening to see around 15 Old boys turnout and some of them with families. Niaz (1004/80) one of the most spirited Kazaks in UAE, came all the way driving 150 kms from Abu Dhabi for the event. Vinod Krishnan (1365/83) was the first one to reach the venue at sharp 8 PM. Bobby Krishna (2470/94) coordinated the meeting and arranged the venue. We missed the Trimurti's of UAE chapter Dileep, Krishna Kumar & Saju of 82 batch and the other Kazaks as they couldn't attend due to prior
committments.

Cijal & Sajith Raja of 95 batch were the juniormost among the lot. The other attendees were Roy, Sunil Kuruvilla, Rajeev (GDT Sir's nephew) and of course Rony (PCN Sir's son). I am sure I have missed few names here, guys sorry for that.

Vinod Krishnan of 83 batch will be visiting school after a gap of 25 years for this OBA . He seemed all excited to know from PCN Sir, what all has changed in school.

We really had a nice time. PCN Sir will be leaving Dubai next week and those in UAE who want to meet him can contact Rony.

(Writeup by Saji Vasudevan 2487/94)

Pune get together on 01 Jun 2008

A get together of SSKZM alumni at Pune was held at the Officers' Mess, 101 Inf Bn (TA) MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY on 01 Jun 2008.

The attendance though was not overwhelming, was encouraging. It was heartening to see that besides those settled/ located in Pune, Kazaks came in from Mumbai, Ahmednagar and Lonavala.

After navigating through the lanes of Pune Camp ( some did manage to get lost!) people started reaching the venue by 12 o' clock. The warm climate was ideal for a couple of glasses of chilled beer which was available in plenty. Most came in by about 1 o' clock or so.

Informal introductions broke ice and then Thilakan took over to inform everyone about the way we would go about conducting the event. It started with a brief introduction of each one attending to include his name, roll no, batch, family details and some interesting episode from his/her schooldays. The last part was what made the afternoon so interesting. Each one had a hilarious yarn to spin and this time the theme was ` Shank's Humour' ( with due respects to late Sri CVSN ). It really went on and on till someone looked at the watch and said that he had an appointment to keep. Reluctantly, the session wound up at 4 pm and then everyone moved for lunch. Before moving for lunch, everyone together sang the English School Song which once again took everyone back to school. A sumptuous meal later, the crowd slowly broke off with a promise to meet again in the near future.

The following old students( all young at heart) attended the GTG:-

171/62- Brig(Retd) Shyam Lal
642/72- Capt LG Meprath, IN with family
835/78- Col (Retd) Thilakan EV with family
914/78- Col PP Davis with son
967/80- R Sreesankar
980/80- CG Krishnakumar
988/80- Jagdish Nair with family
1013/80- Col K Nandakumaran with family
1039/80- Lt Col Rajesh Nair
1234/81- Col(Retd) Shyam Nair
1433/85- TH Gopalakrishnan with family
1598/85- Satheesh Manmohan with family
2011/89 Mrs Medha Vitekar with family
2376/93- Shyam V Srivatsa
2654/97- Blessan CK
2859/98- Lt Rishi Das, IN
2862/98- Radish Pillai
3107/2000- Lt Nilesh KG, IN
3117/2000- Lt Abbie George, IN
3216/2000- Raghav Pachauri

A highlight of the event was the presence of Capt Louis George, the President of our OBA.

MP Anil was requested to attend but his medical condition did not allow him to be moved over such long distance but most who attended the meet also paid a visit to him.

Thilakan, the `Karanavar' of the Pune Chapter requested to be relieved of the responsibility since he is shifting lock, stock and laptop to Mumbai. The responsibility was then handed over to Col K Nandakumaran for as long as he is posted at Pune.

It is high time someone took the initiative and compiled all of CVSN's jokes. The compilation would be a bestseller. Anyone who is reminded of his jokes, please start putting them on the net. They will remain on record.

Those who took photos that day, may I request them to upload them on the net.

Hope the families also had an interesting time as we had.

The attendance could be much better. Hope we achieve that from the next time.

(writeup by Col K Nandakumaran 1013/80)

OBA Invitation 2008

The Principal, Members of Staff and Students of Sainik School, Kazhakootam invite you with family to attend the 39 th Reunion of Old Students (Samagamam 2008) at the School Campus on Saturday 21/06/2008

RSVP: Registrar, SSKZM
Phone: 0471 2418247
Mobile: 94951 51486

Revised visit programme to Sainik School Kazhakootam

Lt Gen SP Sreekumar, PVSM, AVSM, ADC SO-in-C & Senior Colonel Commandant
Chief Guest, 39th Reunion (Samagamam 2008)

0830h - Guard Of Honour Followed By Wreath Laying Ceremony
0840h - Homage To Sh VK Krishna Menon
0845h - Homage To Col NJ Nair AC, KC
0845h - 0855h Interaction with alumni
0900h - Inauguration of multimedia lab
0915h - Unveiling of Harshan memorial bust
0930h - Address to cadets and staff
1000h - Tea



39th REUNION PROGRAMME

0800h - Old students arrive in campus
0830h - Guard of Honour followed by Wreath Laying Ceremony
0900h - Inauguration of Multimedia Lab
0915h - Unveiling of Harshan Memorial Bust
1015h - Inauguration of Harshan Memorial Pavilion by Sh Radhakrishnan (Father of Capt HarshanR, AC (Posthumous)
1030-1230h - Festival Cricket Match
1130-1230h - Festival Basketball, Football and Volleyball matches
1030-1115h - Games for ladies and children
1115 to 1215h - Campus visit for ladies and children
1230h - Lunch for ladies and children
1245-1355 - Annual general Body Meeting
1400h - Lunch for Alumni, Masters & Class XIIth
1500-1600 - Career guidance for cadets
1630-1800h - Commemoration meeting & Guruvandanam
1830 - Departure of Alumni

39th Reunion Sponsored By 1974 & 1983 Batches
Harshan Memorial Pavilion Dedicated By 1997 Batch

Note:

1. School Bus to Thiruvananthapuram at 6.30 PM. Overnight accommodation is not available at SSKZM.
2. Registration fee for Alumni - Rs. 200/- (Rs. 50/- for Students who passed out after April 2003).
3. Please collect the OBA Badge from Registration Counters. Please wear the OBA Badge for all activities throughout the day.
4. Families are cordially invited.
5. Contribution to OBA/Students' aid funds will be accepted at the Registration Counters vide Cheque/DD/Cash (in favour of "OBASSKZM" payable at Trivandrum). Funds could also be transferred electronically to OBA account in advance.

Brigadier Mathson SM, takes charge

Brigadier Cherish Mathson, SM has taken charge as Brigade Commander of the Pangode Military station. He also took charge as Station Commander in a colourful ceremony at Brigade Headquarters here on May 1.

After assuming charge, Brig. Mathson laid a floral wreath at the Pangode War Memorial.

He succeeds Brig. P.M. Hariz who has been transferred to Jalandhar.

A native of Tiruvalla, near Kottayam, Brig. Mathson was commissioned into the Garhwal Rifles of the Indian Army, Brig. Mathson received the Sena Medal for gallantry in 2003.

Brig. Mathson has held several important command and staff appointments that include serving in a brigade in a U.N. Mission in Somalia.

He also commanded his unit on the Line of Control. Before assuming this charge, Brig. Mathson was Senior Defence Specialist in the National Security Council Secretariat at New Delhi.

© Copyright 2000 - 2008 The Hindu

Gettogether at DSSC Wellington - 25 Apr 2008

Kazhaks at DSSC Wellington had a get-together at the Golf Hut of Wellington Gymkhana Club on 25 April 08.The occasion marked the visit of Lt Gen Thomas Mathew to Wellington, and the graduation of the 63rd SC which had three Kazhaks also happened to be on that day.

The following attended,

Lt Gen Thomas Mathew
Col Jacob Dominic
Brig CA Krishnan
Col V Anoopkumar
Col George Jacob
Col PR Murali
Col NV Sunil Kumar
Wg Cdr Benny Mathew(Moving to Shillong)
Lt Col Rajesh Bhanu(Moving to Srinagar)
Cdr MH Rajesh(Moving to Mumbai)

The last three were student officers who graduated with the 63rd course on that day.

Any Kazhak joining the 64SC must contact Col Jacob Dominic,the senior most old boy at the College on arrival.

Harshan's statue unveiled at Parachute Regiment Training Centre, Bangalore.

Soldier’s statue unveiled

Staff Reporter

Bangalore: It was a simple but profoundly moving ceremony. On the occasion of 56th
Raising Day of the Parachute Regiment and in honour of the unflinching courage displayed by the late Capt. Harshan R., his statue was unveiled at the Parachute Regiment Training Centre (PRTC), Bangalore, on Tuesday.

A new Military Training Multipurpose Complex was also inaugurated.

Colonel S.S. Sangwan, Officiating Commandant of PRTC, requested Capt. Harshan’s father, K. Radhakrishnan Nair, to unveil his son’s statue. Col. Sangwan narrated the 27-year-old captain’s heroism in fighting terrorists at Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir in March 2007.

Lieutenant General H.S. Lidder, Colonel of the Parachute Regiment, in his message, stated that Capt. Harshan’s statue would instil courage and patriotism in the Regiment.

Earlier, a wreath-laying ceremony was held at the War Memorial of the Parachute Regiment to pay homage to the war heroes. Col. S.S. Sangwan and senior serving and retired officers placed wreaths at the memorial.

© Copyright 2000 - 2008 The Hindu

Hindu URL

Hon. Jacob Eapen, MD, MPH is Awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor on May 12, 2007

Hon. Jacob Eapen, MD, MPH was awarded the "Ellis Island Medal of Honor" on May 12, 2007. He was selected by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations, among other recipients from various heritage groups, to receive this honor because of his dedication and leadership qualities in community service.

Each year, NECO awards the "Ellis Island Medal of Honor" to outstanding individuals who lead a lifestyle dedicated to community service, exhibit interests for the preservation of cultural groups and share and contribute through personal and professional achievements toward the overall benefit of society. The Ellis Island ceremony starts with an elegant and festive Welcome Cocktail Reception where all medalists meet one another. Following the ceremony, the Gala Dinner is held in the beautifully restored Great Hall on Ellis Island, capped by a stunning display of fireworks.

Full news at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2007/05/prweb527989.htm

Farewell function for Lt Col Srinivaslu

Farewell function for Lt Col Srinivaslu was held at Kazak's club on 23rd March 2008 at 1930 hrs. From School Lt Col Srinivaslu & Wife, Principal & wife,incoming HM Lt Col Raghu, Registrar Lt Col MC, Mr Sasikumar & Mr Rajendran attended.

From EC Dr Rajookrishnan Presided over the function along with General Secretary Dr Jayasankar R Warier. As a token of our gratitude, on behalf of OBA EC & all presented, a momento was presented to the outgoing HM. Others present were Jt Secretaries Mrs& Mr Ashok, Mr S Rajkumar, 1971-75 rep Mr Ajit Kumar J (also as Kazak President), 1976-80 rep Mr Ajith Prabhakar, Auditor Mr MB Sanil Kumar.

From Club EC, Dr Mohanachandran & Mr Gopikrishna KS co-ordinated the evening function. Mr TK Chandramohanan, Mr Omanakuttan Nair, Mr KG Radhakrisnnan, Mr Pret Joseph & Mr Sasikumar (1983 batch), Mr Vipinachandran, Mr. Prem C Pillai, Mrs jayasankar, Mrs Jayakumar and children of Gopikrishna also attended the function.

Harshan Memorial - Press Meet

From Lt Col Thomas MC, Registrar, SSKZM.

The School and the OBA organised a press briefing at the TVM Press Club on 18th March 2008, the during which the announcements of the Harshan Memorial , Harshan Pavilion and the Harshan Trophy were made. The event was covered by DD, Asianet, Amritha TV, Manorama News and Citi Cable. Reporters of Hindu, Express and numerous other newspapers were present.

Our special thanks to Shri Radhakrishnan, father of Capt Harshan who was gracious to attend the briefing. Our special thanks also to our Old Boys, viz, Dr Jayashankar Warrier, G Jayakumar, Ajithkumar (Veekshanam) and Ajith Prabhakar ( Catholic Syrian Bank) , Manu Chandran and Major Unnikrishnan for having attended the event. Special thanks to Ajith kumar for organising the press in spite of the Kerala Assembly Session.

I have uploaded a few photographs in the photo section of the OBA forum. You may notice the beautifully designed trophy instituted in memory of Capt Harshan, designed by Cadet Camillo Powell of the 2008 batch.

Text of Press Brief:

PRESS RELEASE CAPT HARSHAN R, AC (POSTHUMOUS) REMEMBERED
1. Capt Harshan R of 2 Para Regiment (Special Forces) laid down his life at the altar of duty while battling Harkatul Mujahideen terrorists at Lolab in the border district of Kupwara in Jammu & Kashmir on 20th March 2007.
2. Harshan, who hails from Manacadu in Trivandrum is an alumnus of Sainik School Kazhakootam. He joined the School in class VI way back in June 1990. During his stay in the school, he displayed high degree of courage and extraordinary leadership traits on all occasions. He was appointment School Cadet Captain, a well deserved appointment in his final year in the
school. As recognition of his outstanding contribution to the school, he was awarded the prestigious best All Round Cadet Trophy in 1997, the year he passed out.
3. Capt Harshan was commissioned into the Army in December 2002. He was groomed to be a tough commando of the elite 'Red Devil' unit to perform daring exploits. He had also earned the coveted parachute wings and maroon beret, the hallmark of Special Forces commandoes. On the fateful day he received a message about the presence of some hardcore terrorists in
Chhoti Margi area of Lolab in Jammu & Kashmir. Despite heavy snowing, Capt Harshan leading his men cordoned off the house in the early hours of the morning. Four terrorists came out of the house firing indiscriminately to break the cordon and came face to face with Capt Harshan. He killed two of them on the spot but was hit by retaliatory fire in the neck. Despite grevious injury, he continued to fight till he breathed his last. His valour in the face of heavy odds inspired his men to pursue and eliminate the remaining terrorists.
4. The nation honoured this brave hero by bestowing upon him the Ashok Chakra posthumously, the country's highest peace time gallantry award on 26th January
2008, at the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi. The citation and the medal were received by his father Mr K Radhakrishnan Nair from the President Smt Prathibha Patil.
5. Sainik School Kazhakootam salutes the brave martyr who sacrificed his life for the country maintaining the highest tradition of gallantry.
6. The batch mates of Capt Harshan are planning to build a sports pavilion in his memory on the occasion of his first death anniversary. The Old Boys Association of Sainik School Kazhakootam has taken up a project to build a Memorial with his bust in the central garden of the Academic Block. The School is instituting a trophy in his memory to be awarded to the best basket ball player - a game which was so dear to him. Capt Harshan will continue to be a source of inspiration and motivation for the young cadets to emulate and his memory will continue to be fresh in their minds.

OBA Awards - 2007 - part I

Following are the prizes given away during the commemoration meeting of OBA on 07/07/07. The prizes were given by Mr Raju Abraham (MLA) & Mrs. Ajit Kumar (W/O Principal, SSKZM). This post covers academic part, subsiquent posts will cover other awards.

Rank Holders

• Roll No:184 Maj PU Abraham Memorial Prize for first rank in Saink school entrance exam, Class VI - Roll No: 4715 Cdt. AKASH K R
• Roll No:447 Maj GS Satishchandran,SM Memorial prize for first rank in Saink school entrance exam Class IX - Roll No: 4728 Cdt. KIRAN V S
• Roll No:454 KA Latheef Memorial Prize for first rank in class VI 2006-2007 - Roll No: 4603 Cdt VISHNU DIVAKAR 592/600
• Roll No:444 Flt Lt S Vijya kumar Memorial prize for first rank in class VII 2006-2007 - Roll No: 4547 Cdt. HEMANTH P 588/600
• Roll No:437 Flt Lt G Padmakumar Memorial prize for first rank in class
  VIII 2006-2007 - Roll No: 4383 Cdt. SREERAJ S RAJEEV 635/650
• Roll No:1783 Prince Augustine Memorial Trophy and cash award of Rs. 400/- instituted by his classmates of 1987 batch for first rank in class IX 2006-2007 - Roll No: 4342 Cdt ADARSH MOHAN 516/550
• Roll No:304 Flt Cdt P Gopakumar Memorial Trophy & Roll No:1427 S. Gopakumar Memorial Cash award of Rs. 500/- Instituted by his classmates of 1983 batch for first rank in class XI 2006-2007 - Roll No: 4091 Cdt. DEEPAK SHARMA P 459/60
• Assam Regiment Trophy instituted by Roll No:168 Brig. NPK Kumar,VSM (Retd) & Roll No: 442/73 C. K. Vijayan Memorial award of Rs. 500 for Highest Rank Holder in Class X AISSE 2007 - Roll No: 4569 Cdt. JUSTIN JOSHUA 467/500
• Defence Minister`s Trophy instituted by late V. K. Krishna Menon, former Defence Minister of India & Roll No:442/73 C. K. Vijayan Memorial award of Rs. 1000 for Highest Rank Holder in Class XII AISSCE2007 - Roll No: 4271 Cdt. ANAND G KRISHNAN 451/500
• Kerala State Government Trophy & Roll No:890 Fg Offr B Shyam Kumar Memorial award of Rs. 1000 for Highest Rank Holder in the Entrance Examination for NDA 116th course, who joins the NDA in the first chance - Roll No: 3901 Cdt. MITHUN R

CBSE Subject wise endowments.

Class X AISSE 2007:
These prizes were given out of two endowments, to the students who obtain highest marks in various subjects in the AISSE:

1. In memory of Flt Cdt Varghese Cherian, Roll No:740, set up by his classmates of the 1976 batch
2. Endowment donated by late Lt Col BK Somaiah(Retd.) 1st Principal of SSKZM

• English: 4569 Cdt JUSTIN JOSHUA 90/100
• Hindi: 4569 Cdt JUSTIN JOSHUA 98/100
• Mathematics: 4173 Cdt ANUPAMA V KUMAR, 4501 Cdt SHAILESH JAYACHANDRAN, 4503 Cdt AVINASH STALIN 99/100
• Social Studies: 4484 Cdt JACOB JOHN, 4503 Cdt AVINASH STALIN 99/100
• General Science: 4182 Cdt JAYAKRISHNAN K V 94/100
• Malayalam: 4224 Cdt HARIKRISHNAN 97/100

Class XII AISSCE 2007
These prizes were given out of three endowments, to the students who obtain highest marks in various subjects in the AISSCE:

1. In memory of Flt Lt E Satish, Roll No:390, set up by his father Mr E Krishnan (Retd. Chief Engineer)
2. In memory of Smt.G M Subhalakshmi instituted by her son Late Mr. GM Chandrasekhar, Ex-Master, SSKZM
3. In memory of Roll No:442 C K Vijayan, set up his father Mr. P R Krishna Pillai

• English: 4054 Cdt VISHNU R C, 4061 Cdt ARUN A 95/100
• Mathematics: 4271 Cdt ANAND G KRISHNAN 97
• Physics: 4272 Cdt GEORGE THALEYATH 92
• Chemistry: 4272 Cdt GEORGE THALEYATH 92
• Biology: 3936 Cdt ALBIN KURIAKOSE 90
• Computer Science: 4271 Cdt ANAND G KRISHNAN 92

Special Prize for Mathematics
Late Sri. C.V. Sankaranarayanan(Ex-Master, Mathematics) memorial prize instituted by the batch of 1968.

1. Highest Marks in Mathematics Class X: 4173 Cdt ANUPAMA V KUMAR, 4501Cdt SHAILESH JAYACHANDRAN, 4503Cdt AVINASH STALIN
2. Highest Marks in Mathematics Class XI: 4091 Cdt. DEEPAK SHARMA

3. Highest Marks in Mathematics Class XII: 4271Cdt. ANAND G KRISHNAN

OBA get together at MHOW on 26 Feb 2008

An OBA GTG was held at Infantry School, Mhow on 26 Feb at 2000 hrs. Details are as under:

The following attended

1. Brigadier JP Alex (391/1970)
2. Captain Louis George Meprath (642/1972)
3. Group Captain V Raghavan (854 /1977)
4. Colonel KT Sreekumar (1012/1980)
5. Captain P Ashokan (962/1980)
6. Col JP Mathew (1168/1982)
7. Colonel K Narayanan (1208/1982)
8. Major Robins Mathews (2362/1993)
9. Captain Prajith P Varma (2868/1998)
10. Captain Keats K Das (2990/1999)
11. Lt Arun VP (3462/2003)
12. Lt Nithin Narayan (3513/2003)

News from School October to December 2007

1. The Second quarter of the Academic Year was mostly devoted to the completion of syllabus and to the conduct of planned school activities.

2. The third monthly test was conducted form 29^th October to 3^rd Nov 2007. The first model examination for classes X and XII and second Mid Term examination for other classes were held from 08^th Dec to 14^th Dec 2007. The following inter house competitions were also completed during this period as under :-

(i) Inter House Hindi debate for Sub Juniors , Juniors and Seniors was held on 04^th Oct 2007.

(ii) Inter House Declamation for Seniors and recitation for sub Juniors and Juniors were held 10^th Oct 2007.

(iii) Inter House PT Competition for Sub Juniors, Juniors and Seniors was held on 15^th Oct 2007.

(iv) Inter house Cross Country for Sub Juniors , Juniors and Seniors was held on 22^nd Oct 20007.

(v) Inter house drill competition for Juniors and Seniors was held on 19^th Nov 2007

3. Diwali was celebrated in the school with a lot of fanfare on 08 Nov. The venue of the celebration was tastefully decorated with lamps, lights and festoons. The celebration started with the lighting of the traditional lamp by Mrs Sreedevi Ajit Kumar. It was followed by a display of pyrotechnics by the cadets. A special dinner was hosted at the Cadets' Mess to mark the occasion.

4. Children's Day was celebrated at the school in a befitting manner on 14^th Nov 2007. A variety entertainment programme presented by the faculty in the auditorium was the highlight of the day. The Principal greeted the children and the School Cadet Captain Nikhil thanked the staff for their splendid cultural extravaganza.

5. The Passing Out Parade of 87 cadets of class XII was held on 22^nd Dec 2007 at the school parade ground. Shri Rishiraj Singh IPS, Inspector General of Police ( Crime) Govt of Kerala took salute and reviewed the parade. In his address the IGP complimented the cadets for their immaculate turn out and excellent standard of parade. He also awarded trophies to the outstanding cadets who excelled in various school activities. A large number of parents, old boys and invitees attended the colourful function.

6. The 46^th Annual Day celebrations of the school was held in the evening of 22^nd Dec 2007. Mr G Vijaya Raghavan the founder CEO of Techno Park, Trivandrum graced the function as Chief Guest. The Principal presented the school Annual report for the Academic year 2007 - 08. The Chief Guest gave away the prizes to the winners in academics and other co- curricular activities. He called upon the Sainik School students to keep abreast with the latest developments in Science and Technology and to equip themselves to take up the challenges the country is facing today. The variety entertainment programme presented by the cadets on the occasion entertained the gathering.

7. Thirty three cadets have cleared the UPSC written examination for admission to the 120^th Course of NDA . SSB training is being conducted for these cadets by a professional team of officers from Cavalier's Academy Trivandrum.

8. Christmas was celebrated in the campus on 17^th Dec 2007. Carol singing, Santa Claus , Crib and Christmas tree added colour and melody to the festivity. Unlike previous years friendly matches in cricket and volleyball among Officers, staff and employees were also played as part of the celebrations. The Principal gave the Christmas message and Mrs Sreedevi Ajit Kumar cut the Christmas cake. The celebrations cAme to an end with a Christmas dinner at the Cadets' Mess which was attended by all staff and their families.

9. The cadets of class X accompanied by three masters went on an educational tour to Hyderabad from 04^th Nov to 11^th Nov 2007. The party visited AOC Centre, Ramoji Film City, Golconda Fort, Charminar and other places of interest at Hyderabad. It was an enriching experience and exposure and helped the cadets widen their horizon.

10. The cadets of class VIII accompanied by three masters visited Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary at Thekady from 5^th Nov to 8^th Nov 2007. The cadets underwent mountain trekking and boating in the Periyar Lake.

11. The cadets of class X and XI were taken to Air Force station Shangumugham, Trivandrum to see the fighter planes like Sukhoi, Mirage and Jaguars at close quarters. They also had an opportunity to interact with Wg Cdr Suresh Kumar an alumnus of the school who was Officer in charge of the Air Show.

12. Air Vice Marshal Rajinder Singh, AVSM, VM, Senior Air Staff Officer Headquarters Southern Air Command and an alumnus of the school visited the school on 27^th Oct 2007. He drove around the campus and expressed happiness over the remarkable progress the school has made in all fields.

13. Six Senior Division cadets and one Junior Division cadet of the school have been selected to represent the Kerala Directorate at Republic Day Camp in New Delhi. Cadet Mukund Narayanan, the JD Cadet has been adjudged the best cadet of the Directorate and he will represent the Directorate at the best cadet competition in New Delhi.

14. Twenty five cadets of this school accompanied by two masters have attended a Seminar on `Learning of Science' conducted by Science Foundation at Hotel Residency, Trivandrum on 3^rd Dec 2007.

15. Participation of Cadets in Outside Events

(a) 18 cadets of classes XI and XII participated in the Regional Mathematics Olympiad held at Arya Central School on 07^th Oct 2007.

(b) 13 cadets of classes IX and XI attended the selection camp for RD Parade held at Pandalam from 03^rd to 15^th Oct 2007.

(c) Senior cadets participated in the All Kerala Inter School Basket Ball Championship held at Loyola School.

(d) 9 cadets attended the National informatics Olympiad conducted at Arya Central School on 17^th Nov 2007.

(e) 6 cadets of class XI and 1 cadet of class IX attended the pre RD Camp at Pangode from 17^th to 26^th Nov 2007.

(f) 12 cadets of class X took part in the NCC Day Celebrations on 24^th, 25^th Nov 2007 at Tagore Theatre, Trivandrum and presented a Mime in the presence of Mr. V S Achutanandan Hon'ble Chief Minister of Kerala.

(g) 8 cadets of classes VI and VII took part in the Hindu Young World Painting Competition at Govt Women's College Trivandrum on 24^th Nov 2007.

(h) The CBSE All Kerala Cluster Athletic Meet sponsored by Alan Feldman School was held at our School ground from 27^th Oct to 29^th Oct 2007, in which six athletes represented the school and Cdt Varghese Mathew won Silver Medal in 800 M, and Bronze in 1500 mts in the under 16 category.

(i) 25 cadets of class VI to VIII will be writing Science Talent Exam to be conducted by Kerala Science Foundation on 06 Feb 2008.

(j) The cadets of class VI to VIII will be participating in a cultural prgramme to be organized by Trivandrum International School on 25 Jan 2008.

(k) Cyber Olympiad: 50 cadets from class VII to XI appeared in the National Cyber Olympiad conducted by National Cyber Olympiad foundation, New Delhi and five of them received Medals and merit certificates.

(l) National Informatics Olympiad: 30 cadets of this school participated in the informatics Olympiad conducted by CBSE at Arya Central School, Pattom, Trivandrum on 23 Nov and the results are awaited.

16. NCC Training: The cadets of NCC proceeded on various NCC camps organized by NCC Directorate and few camps attended/being attended by the cadets are as under:-

1. Twenty cadets of class XI and 10 cadets of class IX attended National Integration Camps held at Alleppey and Mananthvady from 23^rd Dec 2007 to 01 Jan 2008.
2. 6 Senior division cadets and one junior division cadet have been selected for the Republic Day Parade NCC contingent of Kerala for the RD Parade Jan 2008 at New Delhi.
3. Cadet Mukund Narayan of class IX of the school represented the state in the Best Cadet Competition to be held in Delhi during the RD camp in Jan 2008.

17. Visit to School By dignitaries

1. Air Vice Marshal Rajinder Singh, AVSM, VM SASO, Senior Air Staff Officer, Southern Air Command and an old Boy of 1967 batch visited the school on 27^th Oct 2007.
2. Wg Cdr S Biswas PRO, Southern Air Command visited the school on 22^nd Nov 2007 and delivered a motivational lecture on career guidance on Air Force.
3. Mr. Rishi Raj Singh IPS Inspector General of police (Crime) visited school on 22^nd Dec 2007 and reviewed school POP.
4. Mr. Vijaya Raghavan eminent educationist visited the school on 22^nd Dec 2007 as Chief Guest for the AnnualDay
5. Air marshal Y R Rane, AVSM, VM, AOC -in-C Southern Air Command will be visiting and chairing the LBA meet on 24^th Jan 2008.
6. Old Boys of 1967 batch visited the school on 28 Dec 2007.
7. Brig R G Krishnan of 1974 Batch visited the school on 17^th Dec 2007.

18. Infrastructure and other Developmental Activities

1. Construction of new Swimming Pool is over but electrification, filtration plant and compound wall is pending.
2. Construction of Computer Lab in the `Gurudakshina Tower' under slow progress. Estimate of Rs 25 lakhs for the remaining work has been submitted by the PWD to the Govt for sanction.
3. Networking of class rooms and provision of TVs in class rooms is taken up in a phased manner. To begin with all classes of North wing are provided with the facility and classes in South wing will be completed before reopening of school. This will facilitate utilization of educational software already procured for all classes.
4. Provision of mosquito proofing in Mess and Dormitories under progress.
5. Provision of a Multimedia Class Room under progress on a fast track. Civil work has been completed. We are awaiting the computers released by the COAS to complete the remaining work.
6. Construction of QM & Clothing Stores. Work is in progress.
7. Construction of Bio Gas Plant near Cadet Mess: Case was taken up with Board of Governors. However non acceptance to meet the expenditure from Reserve Fund was conveyed verbally. Hence expenditure to be made out of School Fund by employing Govt Agency `ANERT' has been approved by LBA.
8. Installation of Inverters in Study halls of 11 Dormitories. Nearing completion.
9. PA Equipment and sound system exclusively for Auditorium.
10. Stainless Steel washing sinks in Mess Pantry.
11. Laundry & Drier machines for Dhobi shop.
12. Water purifier cum coolers for remaining dormitories & Mess.

19. The School closed for mid term break on 23^rd Dec 2007.

News from School - July to September 2007

1. The first quarter of the year was devoted to the preparation for NDA examination coverage of syllabus and the completion of various co curricular and extra curricular activities. The first Mid Term Examination for class VI to XI was held from 8^th to 14^th August 07. The first Mid Term Examination for class XII was conducted from 7^th to 13^th Sept 2007.

2 The OBA reunion is a major event in the school calendar. This year the OBA reunion was celebrated on 07-07-2007. A good number of old boys along with their families turned up for the function to relive the memories of their school days. The programme commenced with a wreath laying ceremony by Capt (IN) Louis George Meprath, President OBA and Col B Ajit Kumar, Principal, Sainik School Kazhakootam at the “Stupa of Remembrance”. This was followed by friendly matches in Cricket, Basketball and Volleyball between the Old Boys and the school teams, which revived many nostalgic memories. The OBA of Sainik School Kazhakootam is one of the most vibrant OBAs among Sainik Schools. The alumni of the school has a strong bond with the school and they have been consistently contributing their mite to the overall growth and development of the school since 1969. This year the OBA dedicated a Clock Tower on the occasion of the OBA to the school. It was constructed at a cost of 10.5 Lakhs sponsored by the 1982 batch of OBA. The tower, christened as Gurudakshina Clock Tower is a tribute to the masters who shaped and moulded the destiny of legions of students who passed out of the portals of this unique institution. The clock tower was formally inaugurated by Sri Mullakara Ratnakaran, Hon'ble Minister for agriculture, Govt of Kerala. The valedictory function, held in the Auditorium was presided over by Mr. Raju Abraham MLA. He addressed the gathering and gave away the trophies and prizes to the winners of various competitions and examinations.

3. The UPSC written examination for entry into the 120 course of NDA was held on 19^th August 2007. 85 cadets of class XII appeared for the exam at various centers in Trivandrum.

4. The Principal Col B Ajit Kumar attended a 02 day interactive session with the trainers of Intel Corporation under PLTF (Principal's Leadership Training Forum) on 2^nd and 3^rd August at Sainik School Bhubaneshwar.

5 The Diamond Jubilee of the Indian independence was celebrated in the school in a befitting manner on 15^th August 2007. In the morning the Principal unfurled the National Flag and delivered the independence day message to the gathering. Mrs. Sreedevi Ajit Kumar distributed sweets to the Sub Junior cadets of the school. Patriotic songs sung by the school choir and the school band enthralled the gathering with patriotic spirit.

6. The closing ceremony of the 46^th Annual Athletic Meet of the school was held on 16^th July 2007 at the school parade ground. Shri M A Baby Honourable Minister for Education, Govt of Kerala graced the function as Chief Guest and gave away the trophies and medals to the winners. The programme commenced with a colourful march past led by the School Cadet Captain. The Honourable Minister took salute and declared the meet closed. Speaking on the occasion the Minister complimented the cadets for their fine turn out and smart drill movements. Band display, Mass P T display and Karate added colour to the closing ceremony. The Principal welcomed the gathering and introduced the Chief Guest to the gathering. A large number of parents, old boys and invitees attended the function.

7 53 cadets of the school attended CAWTC - I conducted by the Trivandrum group (NCC) from 04^th to 15^th Sept 07. The School contingent won the Inter Battalion Drill Competitions in Senior Division as well as Junior Division. The contingent also won the second position in the Quiz and the Flag Area Competitions.

8. As many as hundred and six cadets of the school attended CAWTC - II at Trivandrum from 19^th to 30^th September 2007. Nine SD cadets and five JD cadets from this camp have been selected for the inter group competition to be held at Pandalam from 3^rd to 14^th October 2007.

9. 40 cadets of the school participated in the KV Utsav at Kendriya Vidyalaya Pattom and won the trophy in the Inter School Drama Competition. Cadet Anand Mohan of class XI won the coveted Best Actor Award for his sterling performance in the drama competition.

10. The following inter house competitions were conducted during this period.

Sl No	Date	Activity
1	5-7-07	Inter House Malayalam Debate
2	10-7-07	Inter House Volleyball
3	12-7-07	Inter House English Debate
4	18-7-07	Class cleanliness competitions
5	27-7-07	Inter House cleanliness competitions
6	14-9-07	Inter House P T competitions
7	27-7-07	Inter House Hockey

11. The cadets of class VI went on an educational tour to Trivandrum and nearby places on 28^th July 2007. The party visited Trivandrum, Zoo, Art Gallery and other places of interest in the city. In the afternoon the party visited “Happy Land”, an amusement park near the state capital.

12. The cadets of class VII went on an educational tour to Kanyakumari on 28^th July 2007. Enroute the party visited the historic Padmanabhapuram palace of the erstwhile Travancore kings. At Kanyakumari, the party visited Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Tiruvalluvar Statue and the Gandhi Mandapam.

13. Two Masters of the school attended the workshop in computer training at Sainik School Bhuvaneshwar from 4^th to 13^th August 2007. The workshop was conducted by Intel Corporation.

14. Onam, the biggest festival of Kerala was celebrated in the school with lot of fanfare on 17^th August 2007. Unlike previous years, this year the festival was observed with lot of competitions associated with Onam. All cadets participated in floral design (athapookalam) competition which is a rare blend of colours and designs with flowers. It was followed by a variety entertainment programme presented by staff and their families. Some of the traditional art forms, folkdances and tug of war added colour to the celebrations. The sumptuous ` Ona Sadhya' at the cadets mess marked the culmination of the celebrations.

15. Fifty cadets of the school took part in the FM radio programme at Kinfra Video Park on 19^th August 2007. The party presented radio-programmes in English and Malayalam . The programme was aired on 21^st Sept 2007.

16. The School Sub Junior house day “Soiree' was staged on 19^th September at the Kazhak Silver stage. The tiny tots of the school presented dance, music skit and mimes in English, Hindi and Malayalam. The programme was well appreciated by one and all.

17. The Junior house day “Edmonton' was presented by the Junior house cadets on 21^st Sep 2007 , The dance, music , orchestra and skits presented by them was well received by the audience.

18. The Senior House Day `Thrijanya' held on 25^th Sep was the culmination of the house days. The hilarious comedies, sweet melodies, rocking dances and the sterling mime shows mesmerized the audience.

19. 35 cadets of this school participated in the various literary competitions conducted by Hindi Prachar Sabha on 19^th September 2007 at Trivandrum. The school teams won second prize in Hindi patriotic song and third in Hindi quiz and recitation.

20. The school teams have taken part in the South Zone Games meet held at Sainik School Amaravathi Nagar from 20^th to 24^th Aug 2007. The school football team won the runners up trophy in football. Cadets IR Rahul and Cadet Hari Prasad won the Best Defender medal in Basketball and Football respectively. The school debate team won the trophy for the English debate competition held during the games meet. This is the third consecutive year that Sainik School Kazhakootam is lifting the English debate trophy in the South Zone games meet.