This is just a note to self about online purchase of stuffs, which are not commonly available in stores. For us, we usually have to scout couple of shops to buy stuffs like celery, spring onion, kaima ric ( double horse), coconut milk ( pouch), sweet potato, etc.
Hopefully, this list will help someone looking to save time and order online:
1. Kunnil Super Market ( Near Medical College, Trivandrum)
Whatsapp # 85900 22226
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| Spring Onion |
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| Kunnil Margin Free ( Whatsapp 85900 22226) |
While writing another post about railway station usability and accessibility, I thought of this plan. This is a collaborative plan which can be beneficial for service providers near a railway station. So, let's imagine if a Bed and Breakfast place (BnB), a food take away centre by a home chef, and a taxi owner comes together to start a blog, writing on all topics related to train travel and services around Thampanoor railway station.
So, if these three service providers come together to write informative content on a blog, then what do you think the content will be?
1. Hotels around Thampanoor station
2. How to get North Indian take away food near the station? Can I book a food parcle?
3. Where can I stay for cheap near to Thampanoor station
4. Where is the nearest theater to watch a movie
5. How to get a pothi choru at the sation under 15 minutes for me to take with for my train travel
6. How many bars are there near this station
7. Where can I get a relaxing massage at a spa near Thampanoor
8. How to reach the local police station to file a complaint?
9. How much does it cost to hire a taxi for a day in Trivandrum?
10. Will the taxi driver speak English/Hindi?
11. Can I get a guide to assist my aged parents to board the train? ( This is for people who can provide such services near the station)
12. Which is the best hospital for a person to be admitted?
13. Is there a place to rest for 4 hrs without paying a whole day's rent?
14. Is there a place near by to buy memorbilia of Trivandrum or Kerala
15. Can someone get me some curios or sweets and get it delivered to railway station?
16. I forgot something from home, will someone get it for me?
17. I want ot reach Varkala from Thampanoor station? Will someone take me in a Innova car? What are the charges?
18. I lost a baggage - which number to report?
19. I found something suspicous under the seat - which phone number to report
20. Is there a number to reach a coolie at the station?
21. Can someone help me do all the work related to sending a bike from my home to the station ( pack and send)
22. Where do I stay for Attukal festival? Which is the best place so that I can return by train in the smae evening?
And many more blog topics!
Imagine, if three service providers come together to start a blog and start sharing helpful content based on travellers questions in that locality?
Just think, if one family is doing all these three services ( Father ( a taxi driver), mother ( an excellent cook - does North Indian, Sandwiches, Kerala pothi choru), they have couple of rooms to let, and they have a daughter who can do delivery of food to the station!
Wow! I guess, all three combined, they can make more than 1 lakh a month!
Cool Isn't!
A year ago, a friend's brother was working as a station master at Kochu Veli railway station. He was a fellow with good ideas to improve passenger experience, providing more facilities for train commuters with useful information.
Once he called me to the station and took me around. We showed the development projects of Kochu Veli station ( now Trivandrum South). He asked if I could give some suggestion which can help train commuters with get more information.
I don't remember what all things I told him. However looking back I feel I could have given more useful information if I had been to other railway station across the world.
So, here's a fantastical offer or proposal to Govt India Railways department. You can take me as a consultant for Railway Improvement Service Committee, and provide me with travel allowence or FREE First class ticket to travel all around India, Singapore, China, Europe.
So, what will I do?
Well, I will take tons of pictures of railway station, and suggestion to Indian Railway on how to implement a beneficial service. Probably, it will be helpful in small or big ways when it comes to designing railway station, improving customer information boards, or improve cleanliness in railway station, etc.
Ok!
Coming Back to the Suggestions of improving passenger comfort, accessibility, findabiity, etc.
Recycling Project:
1 Once I saw a plastic bottle crusher on a platform. It was a good idea. It would break plastic bottles to small bits, and later it could be used for recyling. I'm not sure, if that piece of box still works.
Alternative or expansion of the program: Wish every major railway sation has a facility to collect plastic bottles, and powder it using a heavy duty machine. After, it's crushed, the machine will process it and convert to into bags, pots, plastic tubs, plastic sheets for rain water harvesting, etc.
All the recycled materials made by the unit, will be sold through a counter at the railways station. ( I'm not sure about the feasibility of this project. But, what I know is there's no shortage of plastic bottles in railways stations)
Also, ladies can be entrusted to collect and do the entire recycling process. It's employment opportunity as well as value-creation.
Comfort
1. I always like the the idea of using vending machine. And, what not use a vending machine in railway station. So, what will the vending machine dispense. These machines, small in size can be kept inside ladies waiting room. It will dispense, sanitary napkins, tissue paper, mask, sanitizer, tissue towels, under garments, or cloth towels, water bottles, etc.
Tie-up with sanitary napkin companies to sell their product like tappoons, overnight period panties, etc.
2. Findability
People who are new to a railway station will have many doubts about the location of their train and how to reach a particular platform, esp when time is running out.
Often, what we do is see the LED display board to see the train number, platform number, etc. So, here's a better way to display information.
1. Use big TV Screen with a fixed image of all the trains lined up on the platform and the train number and the place where it stops!
( Something like the Screen at KFC which displays the various items on the menu). The image is still and shows all the trains which are scheduled for departure. If a particular train is delayed, It will show clearly) Here, no one has to wait for the LED screens to show your turn.
2. Use a static whiteboard on a stand which shows a 2D image of trains lined up ( Train Number, Departure Time, Platform for departure, etc). It will also show ( YOU ARE HERE).
I've seen similar ones at Lulu Mall, Trivadrum. I'll take a pic and show it for reference.
The board will be colorful, showing the route to reach other platform ( via stairs or elevator) or underground pathway.
3. Use a AR type device to show different platforms
Imagine, there's a recorded video which is uploaed on railway site. A person who's planning to visit a railway station, can click on it to give a clear idea on the path and the route to reach a platform. So, similar to google street view map, this video will give a clear perspective of the location.
4. Bird Eye View of the Station
An overhead view of the platforms, with platform numbers and the mark ( You Are HERE) will be useful for train commuters to reach respective platform.
This eagle eye view of the station, should include all the details, such as station entrance, exit, parcle office, canteen, water booth, waiting area. It can be simple pic of the Google Earth, but in more realistic view. Probably, it can be made and kept on a stand at all the entrance, so that anyone can view and locate.
5. FAQs ( What, Where, How )
Has anyone made a list of questions raised by train commuters in a station? Won't it be a interesting data to work or provide many remedial answers.
Questions like: where can I book the parcel, how to take talkal ticket, how to board a train, where is the nearest hospital, which is the nearest dispensary to buy insulin and how long will it take to reach and come back, where can I buy booze and have a drink before taking the train, where can I find pothi choru with ( fish fry) near Kochu Veli station, or get parota and beef fry near Thampanoor station, etc...
This data, could be filtered and made using a tag cloud!
6.
I asked ChatGPT specifically if there are school where they take kids to a affluent person's house ( someone who came from a poor background and made it big) and help the kids experience the possibility of life transformation beyond their existing and limiting life!
There are schools and programs globally that engage students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, in experiences designed to inspire hope and broaden their horizons. While the specific idea of taking children to a wealthy person’s house is not widely documented, several programs aim to achieve similar goals through alternative methods.
Experiential Learning for Hope: Programs like Kids at Hope focus on fostering hope through goal-setting and connections with successful role models. They emphasize that every child can succeed with the right support and exposure, and they integrate goal-setting in multiple areas of life, including career and education. This approach helps students envision a future beyond their current circumstances and equips them with actionable steps toward it
.Inspirational Sessions in Schools: Some schools and educators employ motivational talks and structured experiences to help students overcome self-doubt. For example, a teacher used inspirational quotes, discussions, and storytelling to show students their potential. One such session helped a student disengaged in school find passion in math, leading him to a successful career later on
EDUCATION REIMAGINED
.Travel and Exposure Programs: Programs like Make-A-Wish or educational trips often expose children to environments they wouldn’t typically access, such as visiting colleges, museums, or even going on plane rides. Such experiences provide not only inspiration but also tangible exposure to possibilities, breaking barriers created by their socioeconomic backgrounds
GETTING SMART
.The Psychological Impact
Studies suggest that exposing children to new environments and role models can increase their self-efficacy and hope. According to research by Kids at Hope and other organizations, when children see relatable role models who have succeeded despite similar challenges, they begin to believe in their own potential. These experiences can lead to improved academic engagement, goal setting, and resilience
EDUCATION REIMAGINED
.Similar Programs' Outcomes
One real-life example is a juvenile justice program in Michigan that used hope-building exercises to improve outcomes for youth on probation. These initiatives helped participants set small, attainable goals, gradually building a sense of control over their futures
Similarly, educational trips by organizations often leave lasting impressions, motivating students to aim higher in their careers and life choices.
While more structured studies on such interventions are limited, anecdotal evidence and related research strongly support the idea that these programs positively influence children's outlooks. Designing a program with mentorship, role-model visits, and ongoing virtual support could offer significant benefits to students at risk of losing hope.
Link to the earlier post on the same topic - Click to view the post
Today, I was watching a petty fight between two, three ladies who collect waste from houses. It was not a cat fight kinds, but on a small issue. There was not much raised voices. However, in this group one relatively young lady was saying this repeatedly - I won't get fooled easily. I'm a 10th pass! I'm a 10 pass and studied at school and I can read and write!
After some time, I left the argument zone, and they slowly retreated back to their job.
After sometime I was thinking of this - where did she study? How many students in her glass is working on similar type of jobs? How many went on to lead successful house or a rich house?
All these answers are not there? But I was wondering of a proposition which came to my mind! Let me get my AI assistant to elaborate on this idea and the practicability of it!
Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Through Inspiration: A Path to Empower Young Minds
In many government schools, students from financially struggling families face a bleak future. Despite their potential, these young minds often lose interest in studies, drop out, or end up in menial jobs due to financial pressures and lack of guidance. It’s a vicious cycle, and breaking it requires more than just traditional education—it demands inspiration, hope, and practical pathways to success.
This blog introduces a novel and practical approach to instill hope and possibilities in the minds of students from classes 8 to 10. By introducing them to role models who have emerged triumphant from similar circumstances, we can spark motivation and help them envision a brighter future.
The Plan: "Inspire and Achieve" Program
This program is designed to connect students with success stories they can relate to, fostering a belief that their dreams are achievable. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Building Connection Through Role Models
Group Visits to Inspirational Homes: Students are divided into small groups, and each group is taken to the home of a successful individual who studied in the same or a similar school.
Showcasing Real Success Stories: These individuals could be former students who overcame poverty and hardships to achieve significant success in life.
Step 2: The Experience
Warm Hospitality: At the host’s home, students are welcomed with a generous spread of snacks to create a positive and uplifting experience.
Story of Resilience: The host shares their personal journey—how they faced hardships, stayed focused, and overcame obstacles to achieve their goals.
Inspiring Dreams: The session includes advice on building discipline, setting goals, and believing in their own potential.
Step 3: Tangible Reminders of Possibility
Photographs for Motivation: A group picture of the students with their host is printed and given to them.
Custom Mementos: Students may also receive personalized cups with the group photo, serving as a constant reminder of what is possible with determination and focus.
Step 4: Ongoing Support Through Mentorship
Virtual Mentorship Groups: After the visit, students are enrolled in a virtual group where mentors guide them on building productive habits and staying motivated.
Focused Guidance: Mentors address issues like lack of attention, study plans, and staying consistent in their efforts toward achieving their goals.
Psychological Impact of the Program
Building Hope: Meeting someone who has succeeded despite similar challenges creates a belief that “If they can do it, so can I.”
Visualizing Success: Visiting the host’s home helps students envision a future beyond their current struggles.
Strengthening Resolve: Personalized mementos act as a daily reminder of what they can achieve with focus and effort.
Breaking Barriers: Regular interaction with mentors helps students overcome self-doubt and stay on track.
Real-Life Inspiration: How a Mentor Changed a Life
History is filled with stories of individuals who transformed their lives after meeting a mentor or role model. Consider the story of Oprah Winfrey, who credits her 4th-grade teacher, Mrs. Duncan, for inspiring her love for learning and instilling self-belief. Despite growing up in poverty, Oprah became one of the most influential figures in the world.
Another example is Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, India’s “Missile Man,” who often spoke about his humble beginnings and how his teachers inspired him to dream big. He went on to become a world-renowned scientist and India’s President.
Thee stories highlight how a single encounter with the right mentor can alter the trajectory of someone’s life, making success seem possible even in the direst circumstances.
Final Point: Creating a Ripple Effect of Hope and Possibilities
The "Inspire and Achieve" program has the potential to create a ripple effect of hope and success among underprivileged students. By bridging the gap between young minds and relatable role models, and providing ongoing mentorship, this initiative can guide students toward a future filled with opportunities.
As they hear real stories of perseverance, see tangible proof of success, and receive continued guidance, even the most disengaged students can rediscover their potential. The impact? A generation of empowered individuals who dare to dream and strive to achieve, breaking free from the chains of poverty and creating a brighter tomorrow.
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| Just a Poster for my Service ( Just a Sample) |
2. Customized Solutions for Startups, Small Biz and IT Biz
Emphasize your ability to provide tailored recommendations specific to each client’s industry and goals.
Offer solutions in areas like website optimization, customer service improvements, and strategic branding.
3. Results Speak ( Check for Samples)
Here in this blog, I have posted various senarious, examples of ideas, hacks, suggestions, improvement process which can lead to measurable improvements in sales, customer retention, or market positioning.
4. Flexible Engagement Options
Present yourself as a virtual consultant available for one-off brainstorming sessions or ongoing partnerships.
Highlight the convenience and cost-efficiency of hiring a virtual brainstormer or consultant.
5. Engage Through Thought Leadership
Share insights, tips, and innovative ideas on blogs, LinkedIn, or social media to establish yourself as an authority.
Host free webinars or brainstorming sessions to demonstrate your value.
5 Ways to Attract Potential Clients
Highlight Competitive Insights
Offer free mini-competitor analysis reports to showcase your ability to identify untapped opportunities.
Use this as a hook for businesses to explore your in-depth consulting services.
My Blog is My Portfolio ( If you're impressed, Only then You Contact me)
I've listed many suggestions, random ideas, imaginative plans, govt website improvement tips, bus service betterment plans, and things used to tackle common business challenges.
An Introductory Brainstorming Sessions ( Offer You Can't Resist)
Collaborate with Co-working Spaces or Incubators
Well, I'm partnering with other start-ups working in co-working spaces in Trivandrum, Bangalore - providing brainstorming or business consulting services to their members.
Host brainstorming events or seminars to showcase my expertise.
My Focus on Niche Biz
My Highlight - Virtual Brainstorming Services
Emphasize Speed and Creativity: Showcase your ability to generate innovative ideas quickly and from diverse perspectives.
Position as a Solution Finder: Market yourself as someone who helps overcome creative blocks, generating new approaches to business challenges.
Focus on Accessibility: Promote your service as a cost-effective and flexible alternative to hiring a full-time creative strategist.
Share Success Stories: Highlight specific examples of how brainstorming sessions have led to breakthroughs for other businesses.
Market the Process: Share how your brainstorming sessions are structured (e.g., virtual whiteboards, idea sprints) to instill confidence in potential clients.
Here're Possible Ways I can Provide Brainstorming Services!
1. Benchmarking with Other Biz
Based on your value proposition and by comparing with other biz in similar area, I can suggest few point(s) for improvement.
- This is based on online research. Comparing websites, social media content, etc.
2. Find New Services around existing Services
Can we look at services which are not there in the market and which could by your gold mine? What if we can unearth a new product line which is not explored or waiting to be exploited?
3. How to increase Engagement, Customer Service, or reduce waste motion in your factory, store, website?
Well, life has changed for all of us. We have changed, and the people around us. There are many who are going with the flow of change, and many like me who lament on the disruptive nature of change.
Question to You!
Did you notice that a new neighbor had shifted with all the belonging to a house or as a resident to your apartment?
Do you know that they are in a state of grief!
Or was there a news which caused so much of happiness in their life!
Well, if you're curious, you can just make a wild guess about what's going in their life! And, the same applies to you!
No one is bothered these days to check, to know the real story of the real you! Well, we walk around in a pretentious manner - all fulfilled look! Our frail body will break, and even then, the world just goes all the way it is!
So, what can be done to make a more sensitive and curious life!
Here are few unconventional things you can do!
1. Walk and be interested in what happens in your next door
2. Smile or smile inwards
3. Check out the new dress they wear, new plants on their balcony
4. Try and make some excuse to ask them something
5. Give them eye contact - avoid looking through
6. Try to imagine their hobbies, their se* life, their dreams
7. Memorize their car or scooter number
8. Wish them good
9. Think of 5 things which will they can add to the house exterior, or in their balcony
10. Pray for them!
