Thursday, December 26, 2019

Swatch Bharat

We Indians outcasted ourselves so much that we are either just living zombies or on the streets making so much noise that nothing makes sense.

Swatch Bharat. Modi initiated a crazy marketing campaign and EVERONE got excited. Then . . . . . . . . . 

Where are the toilets? Even some government offices are not having proper 'knowledge' of hygiene. Shouldn't the government initiated matters first to be reflected at it's own establishments? 

This week my visit to Medchal Sub-Registrar Office, Telangana proved one more time that Swatch Bharat is a failure. Just wasted public money on marketing. 

I took picture of the way to 'toilet'. There is one single toilet behind iron grilled barricade locked doors for both men and women. The key is with one private owned biz. I am not sure if the toilet is only for all the businesses in the building and they hold the key or if it's owned by one single biz. I went to a couple of ladies in different biz and asked for direction to ladies restroom. I was told there are none. Then my husband went asking around for a restroom and one gentleman gave him key saying it is for both men n women.

The toilet is well maintained though to my shock well kept secret. 

My friends say India fails to implement many programs because of its size. Isn't it the reason why we have a huge administration system? It's high time Indians start demanding an office in every constituency where the local MLA/MP sits from morning to evening and does his/her job. Then at least ppl know who is 'elected' and whether that person is taking care of the constituency.

Saturday, December 7, 2019

Readymade Korra Millet Pongal

I bought this ready mix with usual skepticism thinking of other similar products I tried from various home brands. My perception of these things was it will be smelly, tastes weird, salty, . . . end, I will go back to my usual cornflakes. 

I followed the instructions except for pressure cooking. On stove top it took about 20 mnts on very low flame to cook to the creamy consistency of my liking. 

I soaked for 10 mnts. Then on low flame cooked for 20 mnts. I kept adding warm water till the whole thing was creamy. 

As the pongal was cooking, our kitchen filled with fantadtic aroma. I found myself salivating. It's been an year that I really salivated and wanted to eat. My doctor's kept encouraging me to try different foods to improve my health and appetite. 

I added little salt and ghee as suggested on the pack. The simple plain looking ready to eat mix turned into a very tasty creamy pongal. Later I also felt that there is no need to add salt or ghee. I can have fresh curry or sambar or avial with this much to make it a full meal. 

I bought it at Daaram outlet in Hyderabad. I recommend you to try it if it is available near you or online.