It is with great pleasure I can inform you that the next Ambassador to Finland is HE Shri Hemant H. Kotalwar. He is from Latur in Maharashtra..
Before I proceed may I tell you about the earthquake that hit Latur in Maharashtra.
The earthquake that struck Latur in Maharashtra, India, in 1993 was a devastating natural disaster that caused widespread destruction and claimed numerous lives.
I wish to shed light on the tragic events that unfolded on September 30, 1993, while also highlighting the resilience and recovery efforts of the affected communities.
The Latur earthquake serves as a reminder of both the destructive power of nature and the indomitable spirit of human perseverance.
The Latur earthquake was a seismic event that originated in the Killari region, located in the Osmanabad district of Maharashtra. Registered at a magnitude of 6.3 on the Richter scale, it struck the region early in the morning, catching the residents off guard. The earthquake lasted for about 20 seconds, leaving an indelible mark on the affected areas.
Since it was at very low depth from the surfaces, the tremors unleashed by the earthquake resulted in severe damage to infrastructure, including buildings, roads, and bridges, primarily due to their poor construction quality. Thousands of buildings collapsed or suffered extensive structural damage, endangering the lives of countless individuals.
The earthquake claimed the lives of an estimated 9,748 people, left over 30,000 injured, and rendered more than 200,000 individuals homeless.
In the aftermath of the disaster, rescue teams from nearby cities, as well as national and international organizations, were deployed to aid in the search and rescue operations. These organizations provided immediate relief by distributing food, water, medical supplies, and setting up temporary shelters for the displaced residents. The Indian Army and Air Force played a crucial role in airlifting the injured and providing logistical support.
The earthquake unleashed a wave of solidarity from various parts of the country, leading to immense support for rebuilding and rehabilitation efforts. Governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and volunteers worked tirelessly to construct permanent houses, schools, healthcare centers, and other essential infrastructure. The spirit of cooperation and resilience exhibited by the affected communities played a vital role in the recovery process.
The Latur earthquake served as a stark reminder of the importance of proper urban planning, building codes, and enforcement. The tragic consequences of substandard construction and inadequate disaster preparedness led to significant changes in building regulations and the establishment of disaster management agencies at various levels. It also highlighted the need for continuous training for emergency response teams and public education about safety measures.
The earthquake in Latur, Maharashtra, remains etched in the collective memory of the Indian nation. Despite the immense devastation it brought upon the region, the tragedy also demonstrated the resilience and determination of the affected communities. The disaster paved the way for crucial lessons on disaster management and urban planning, ensuring that future scenarios are met with better preparedness and a commitment to safety.
Today, Latur stands as a testament to the courage and perseverance of its people in the face of adversity, serving as a reminder of the indomitable human spirit.
Amidst the chaos and despair, media outlets played a critical role in helping rebuild the affected region.
I focus here on the instrumental role played by Malayala Manorama, a prominent Indian newspaper, run by my maternal family, in the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts following the tragic Latur earthquake.
Malayala Manorama played a pivotal role in raising awareness and mobilizing support for the affected population of Latur.
The newspaper utilized its extensive reach and influence to disseminate accurate information about the earthquake, casualties, and the urgent need for assistance. Through comprehensive news coverage, documentary reports, and photo essays, Malayala Manorama effectively captured the scale of the devastation, not only drawing national attention but also international
Recognizing the need for immediate relief efforts, Malayala Manorama actively collaborated with government agencies, NGOs, and local volunteers to coordinate rehabilitation initiatives.
The newspaper established a dedicated helpline, enabling affected individuals to seek information, assistance, and support.
Malayala Manorama became a central hub for disseminating information about relief camps, medical facilities, food distribution centers, and other crucial services. Its active involvement in rescue operations was essential in reaching and delivering aid to those in remote and inaccessible regions.
Malayala Manorama played a significant role in advocating for the rights and needs of the earthquake victims, acting as a watchdog to ensure that authorities fulfilled their responsibilities.
The newspaper reported on the challenges faced by survivors, highlighting issues such as delayed government assistance, improper distribution of aid, and corruption within the relief system.
By bringing these concerns to the forefront, Malayala Manorama fostered accountability, exerting pressure to ensure optimal allocation of resources and timely assistance to those in need.
Malayala Manorama continued its support long after the immediate relief phase, focusing on the crucial task of rebuilding the shattered city of Latur.
The newspaper actively engaged in fundraising campaigns, encouraging the public to contribute towards reconstruction efforts. It highlighted success stories and initiatives undertaken by individuals, NGOs, and government agencies involved in the rehabilitation process. By showcasing positive developments, Malayala Manorama inspired continued support and investment in the reconstruction of Latur.
The role of Malayala Manorama in rebuilding Latur after the earthquake cannot be overstated. Through its extensive reach, the newspaper made a significant impact on raising awareness, mobilizing support, coordinating relief efforts, advocating for accountability, and driving the long-term reconstruction of the city. Malayala Manorama not only played a crucial role in providing immediate aid and support, but also served as a catalyst for sustainable recovery by fostering public engagement and galvanizing local, national, and international assistance. Its efforts serve as an enduring example of the power of media in post-disaster rehabilitation and rebuilding.
Latur, is Malayala Manorama territory. They adopted the village of Banegaon in Latur after the earthquake. They built 180 PUCCA Homes, a choultry, a school etc .
Padma Shri Mammen Mathew (current Chirf Editor of Malayala Manorama) went for the Bhoomi Puja at Banegaon with the Chief Minister Sharad Pawar and the Governor of Maharashtra, P C Alexander present at the village.Photographs of Latur from Benny Kuriakose and Associates.
A cow shed was provided for each house.
It was the then Chief Editor of Malayala Manorama, Padma Bhushan late K. M. Mathew’s dream project.
Prime Minister Narasimha Rao ji praised Malayala Manorama lavishly. All the top management team of Malayala. Manorama, including Mrs. K. M. Mathew, came for the handing over ceremony.
Those days there was not even a toilet available in Latur.
Mrs. Mathew felt moved at the village and hugged everybody .
All the underprivileged got a home.
A year later the villagers chartered train coaches and came to Kottayam just to say thank you.
Mr. K. M. Mathew broke into tears, when the Sarpanch touched his feet.
This is what is Nation building .
This is what is the Sacred Trust, espoused by the Doyen of Kerala late K. C. Mammen Mappillai.
The village is now :Manorama Banegaon - Latur.
Even after rewiring Malayala Manorama had Rs. 25 Lakhs to spare.
What a thrill for all at Malayala Manorama.
Minister and former Lok Sabha Speaker Shivraj Patil was MP for Latur. He spoke in Kannada and Marathi .
When this esrhhquake occurred Shri Hemant Kotalwar would have been just 22 years old.
I am sure our new Ambassador knows the contribution of Malayala Manorama to the rebuilding of Banegaon, Latur.
Bio data of HE Shri Hemant H. Kotalwar, newly appointed Indian Ambassador to Finland:
Because of his electrical and electronics background, his appointment as Ambassador to Finland is very appropriate as he will be able to liaise with the innovative technology base of Finland.
It is the pleasure of Annikki and me to welcome HE Shri Kotalwar to Finland with the same love and affection that Malayala Manorama had for the people of Latur.
Let us all welcome our new Ambassador, not only to Finland but also, especially, to our Oulu.
Latur, is Malayala Manorama territory. We had adopted the village of Banegaon in Latur after the earthquake. We built 180 PUCCA Homes, a choultry , school etc .
I went for the Bhoomi Puja at Banegaon with Chief Minister Sharad Pawar and Governor P C Alexander present at our village.
A cow shed also for each house.
It was my Fathers dream project and Narasimha Rao ji praised us lavishly.Except for Thambi who had a bad hip all including my dearest Ammachy came for the handing over ceremony. Those days there was not even a shit pot.Ammachy felt moved at the village and hugged everybody .
Even the village call girl got her home. A year later the villagers chartered train coaches and came to Kottayam just to say thank you. Achachen broke into tears, when the Sarpanch touched my Fathers feet. This is Nation building.
The village is now :Manorama Banegaon - Latur.
Even after rewiring we had Rs. 25 Lakhs to spare.
What a thrill . Minister and former Lok Sabha Speaker Shivraj Patil was M P for Latur. But he spoke Kannada and Marathi .
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