Deccan Education Society, PuneIn the year 1880 the late Shri V. K. Chiplunkar with Lokmanya Tilak and M. B. Namjoshi started 'New English School' in Pune with the objective of 'cheapening and facilitating education'. In course of time Shri V. S. Apte, (M. A.), Shri. G. G. Agarkar, (M. A.), Shri V. B. Kelkar, (B. A.), Shri M. S. Gole, (M. A.), and Shri. N. K. Dharap, (B. A.) joined them. This was a revolutionary step because Government Institutions and Christian missionaries were the only agencies involved in educating the masses and the education provided failed to generate leadership for industrial regeneration of a self-governing nation. Private enterprises in education were discouraged. With the idea of providing education to rouse the intellect, drooping will and slumbering conscience of the fallen countrymen, Deccan Education Society came into existence. National Archives of India The National Archives of India (NAI) is a repository of the non-current records of the Government of India and is holding them in trust for the use of administrators and scholars. Originally established as the 'Imperial Record Department' in 1891, in Calcutta, then capital of British India. NAI is today situated at the Inter-section of Janpath and Rajpath, in Delhi, and functions as an attached Office of the Department of Culture under Ministry of Culture, Government of India.[1 It was set up in 11 March 1891 in Calcutta (Kolkata) as the 'Imperial Record Department' and was subsequently transferred to the new Capital New Delhi, in 1911 and it was shifted to its present building in 1926. Built in late neo-classical style, it was in fact one of four museums and archives building planned by Edwin Lutyens at the interaction of King's way and Queen's way, known as 'Point B', however only the present was built eventually. [2] Shri K.R. Narayanan, then President of India, declared open the "Museum of the National Archives" to the general public on 6 July 1998. This Museum is a representative overview of the multifarious holdings of the National Archives, promotes a common man's interest in archival holdings. It has a Regional Office at Bhopal and three Record Centres at Bhubaneswar, Jaipur and Pondicherry. Ghadar Party From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search Ghadar Party Founded 1913 Dissolved 1919 Preceded by Pacific Coast Hindustan Association Ideology Revolutionary Socialism Indian Nationalism Colours Red, Saffron and Green The Ghadar Party (Hindustani: (Devanagari), ( یٹراپ ردغNastaleeq); Punjabi: ) was an organization founded by Punjabi Indians,[1] in the United States and Canada with the aim to liberate India from British rule. The movement began with a group of immigrants known as the Hindustani Workers of the Pacific Coast.[2] After the outbreak of World War I, Ghadar party members returned to Punjab to agitate for rebellion alongside the Babbar Akali Movement. In 1915 they conducted revolutionary activities in central Punjab and attempted to organize uprisings but their attempts were crushed by the British Government.[3] After the conclusion of the war, the party in America split into Communist and Anti-Communist factions. The party was formally dissolved in 1948.[4] Ghadar is an Urdu/Punjabi word derived from Arabic which means "revolt" or "rebellion." As Kartar Singh Sarabha, one of the founders of the party, wrote in the first issue: "Today there begins 'Ghadar' in foreign lands, but in our country's tongue, a war against the British Raj. What is our name? Ghadar. What is our work? Ghadar. Where will be the Revolution? In India. The time will soon come when rifles and blood will take the place of pens and ink." The name of the organization was primarily spelled "Gadar Party" or "Ghadr Party" by its members. [edit] Background See also: Sohan Singh Bhakna The economic downturn in India during the early nineteenth[dubious – discuss] century witnessed a high level of emigration. Some of these emigrants settled in North America. These included Punjabis as well as people from other parts of India. The Canadian government decided to curtail this influx with a series of laws, which were aimed at limiting the entry of South Asians into the country and restricting the political rights of those already in the country. The Punjabi community had hitherto been an important loyal force for the British Empire and the community had expected, equal welcome and rights from the British and Commonwealth governments as extended to British and white immigrants. These laws fed growing discontent, protests and anticolonial sentiments within the community. Faced with increasingly difficult situations, the community began organising itself into political groups. A large number of Punjabis also moved to the United States, but they encountered similar political and social problems.[5] Ghadar di Gunj, an early Ghadarite compilation of nationalist and socialist literature, was banned in India in 1913. The Ghadar Party, initially the Pacific Coast Hindustan Association, was formed in 1913 in the United States under the leadership of Har Dayal, with Sohan Singh Bhakna as its president. The members of the party were Indian immigrants, largely from Punjab.[5] Many of its members were students at University of California at Berkeley including Dayal, Tarak Nath Das, Maulavi Barkatullah, Kartar Singh Sarabha and V.G. Pingle. The party quickly gained support from Indian expatriates, especially in the United States, Canada and Asia. [edit] The Ghadar Newspaper Main article: Hindustan Ghadar Ghadar Newspaper (Urdu) Vol. 1, No. 22, March 24, 1914 The party was built around the weekly paper The Ghadar, which carried the caption on the masthead: Angrezi Raj Ka Dushman (an enemy of the British rule). "Wanted brave soldiers", the Ghadar declared, "to stir up rebellion in India. Pay-death; Price-martyrdom; Pension-liberty; Field of battle-India". The ideology of the party was strongly secular. In the words of Sohan Singh Bhakna, who later became a major peasant leader of the Punjab: "We were not Sikhs or Punjabis. Our religion was patriotism". The first issue of The Ghadar, was published from San Francisco on November 1, 1913. Following the voyage of the Komagata Maru in 1914, a direct challenge to Canadian racist antiIndian immigration laws, several thousand Indians resident in the USA sold their business and homes ready to drive the British from India. However, Hardayal had fled to Europe concerned that the US authorities would hand him over to the British. Sohan Singh Bhakna was already in British hands, and the leadership fell to Ram Chandra. Following the entry of Canada into World War I, the organization was centered in the USA and received substantial funding from the German government. They had a very militant tone, as illustrated by this quote from Harnam Singh: No pundits or mullahs do we need The party rose to prominence in the second decade of the 20th century, and grew in strength owing to Indian discontent over World War I and the lack of political reforms. Ghadar activists undertook what the British described as political terrorism, but what was revolution to most Indians.[citation needed] Ghadar activists were responsible for bombs planted on government property. In 1917 some of their leaders were arrested and put on trial in the Hindu German Conspiracy Trial in which their paper was quoted. The Ghadar party commanded a loyal following the province of Punjab[citation needed], but many of its most prominent activists were forced into exile to Canada and the United States. It ceased to play an active role in Indian politics after 1919. The party had active members in other countries such as Mexico, Japan, China, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Malaya, Indo-China and Eastern and Southern Africa. [edit] Members of the Ghadar Party Baba Bhagwan Singh Dhosanjh Maulavi Barkatullah Kartar Singh Sarabha Baba Visakha Singh Harnam Singh Tundilat Harnam Singh Kahira Sahira' Harnam Singh Saini Sohan Singh Bhakna Lala Har Dayal Tarak Nath Das Pandurang Sadashiv Khankhoje Ganda Singh Phangureh V. G. Pingle Bhai Randhir Singh Munsha Singh Dukhi Karim Bux Harikrishan Talwar William Jones (philologist) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (July 2010) For other people named William Jones, see William Jones (disambiguation). A steel engraving of Sir William Jones, after a painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds. Sir William Jones (28 September 1746 – 27 April 1794) was an Anglo-Welsh philologist and scholar of ancient India, particularly known for his proposition of the existence of a relationship among Indo-European languages. He along with Henry Thomas Colebrooke and Nathaniel Halhed founded the Asiatic Society of Bengal, and started a journal called 'Asiatick Researches'. Contents [hide] 1 Biography 2 Scholarly contributions 3 Latin chess poem 4 Schopenhauer's citation 5 References 6 Resources 7 External links [edit] Biography William Jones was born in London at Beaufort Buildings, Westminster; his father (also named William Jones) was a mathematician from Anglesey in Wales, noted for devising the use of the symbol pi. The young William Jones was a linguistic prodigy, learning Greek, Latin, Persian, Arabic, Hebrew and the basics of Chinese writing at an early age.[1] By the end of his life he knew thirteen languages thoroughly and another twenty-eight reasonably well, making him a hyperpolyglot. Jones' father died when he was aged three. His mother Mary Nix Jones raised him. Jones attended Harrow in September 1753 and then went on to Oxford University. He graduated from University College, Oxford in 1768 and became M.A. in 1773. Too poor, even with his award, to pay the fees, he gained a job tutoring the seven-year-old Lord Althorp, son of Earl Spencer. He embarked on a career as a tutor and translator for the next six years. During this time he published Histoire de Nader Chah (1770), a French translation of a work originally written in Persian by Mirza Mehdi Khan Astarabadi. This was done at the request of King Christian VII of Denmark who had visited Jones - who by the age of 24 had already acquired a reputation as an orientalist. This would be the first of numerous works on Persia, Turkey, and the Middle East in general. Tomb of William Jones in Calcutta. In 1770, he joined the Middle Temple and studied law for three years, which would eventually lead him to his life-work in India; after a spell as a circuit judge in Wales, and a fruitless attempt to resolve the issues of the American Revolution in concert with Benjamin Franklin in Paris, he was appointed puisne judge to the Supreme Court of Bengal on 4 March 1783, and on 20 March he was knighted. In April 1783 he married Anna Maria Shipley, the eldest daughter of Dr. Jonathan Shipley, Bishop of Landaff and Bishop of St Asaph. On 25 September 1783 he arrived in Calcutta. Jones was a radical political thinker, a friend of the American Revolution. His work The principles of government; in a dialogue between a scholar and a peasant [London?]: printed and distributed gratis by the Society for Constitutional Information, 1783 was the subject of a trial for seditious libel after it was reprinted by his brother-in-law William Shipley. In the Subcontinent he was entranced by Indian culture, an as-yet untouched field in European scholarship, and on 15 January 1784 he founded the Asiatic Society in Calcutta. Over the next ten years he would produce a flood of works on India, launching the modern study of the subcontinent in virtually every social science. He also wrote on the local laws, music, literature, botany, and geography, and made the first English translations of several important works of Indian literature. He died in Calcutta on 27 April 1794 at the age of 47 and is buried in South Park Street Cemetery.[2] Sir William Jones sometimes also went by the nom de plume Youns Uksfardi ()یدرفسکا سنوی. This pen name can be seen on the inner front cover of his Persian Grammar published in 1771 (and in subsequent editions as well). The second half of the pen name, Uksfardi, Persian rendition of "from Oxford", can be directly attributed to the deep attachment William Jones had for the University of Oxford. The first name Youns is a rendition of Jones. [edit] Scholarly contributions Of all his discoveries, Jones is known today for making and propagating the observation that Sanskrit bore a certain resemblance to classical Greek and Latin. In The Sanscrit Language (1786) he suggested that all three languages had a common root, and that indeed they may all be further related, in turn, to Gothic and the Celtic languages, as well as to Persian. NB: It is known today that this discovery was erroneously attributed to William Jones. In fact, Gaston-Laurent Coeurdoux, a French Jesuit who spent all his life in India, was the first to make that observation. In a memoir sent to the French Academy of Sciences in 1767, he demonstrated the existing analogy between Sanskrit, Latin, Greek and even German and Russian.[citation needed] His third annual discourse before the Asiatic Society on the history and culture of the Hindus (delivered on 2 February 1786 and published in 1788) with the famed "philologer" passage is often cited as the beginning of comparative linguistics and Indo-European studies.[3] The Sanscrit language, whatever be its antiquity, is of a wonderful structure; more perfect than the Greek, more copious than the Latin, and more exquisitely refined than either, yet bearing to both of them a stronger affinity, both in the roots of verbs and the forms of grammar, than could possibly have been produced by accident; so strong indeed, that no philologer could examine them all three, without believing them to have sprung from some common source, which, perhaps, no longer exists; there is a similar reason, though not quite so forcible, for supposing that both the Gothic and the Celtic, though blended with a very different idiom, had the same origin with the Sanscrit; and the old Persian might be added to the same family. This common source came to be known as Proto-Indo-European.[citation needed] Jones was also the first to propose a racial division of India involving an Aryan invasion but at that time there was insufficient evidence to support it. It was an idea later taken up by British administrators such as Herbert Hope Risley but remains disputed today.[4] [edit] Latin chess poem In 1763, at the age of 17, Jones wrote the poem Caissa in Latin hexameters, based on a 658-line poem called "Scacchia, Ludus" published in 1527 by Marco Girolamo Vida, giving a mythical origin of chess that has become well known in the chess world. He also published an English language version of the poem. In the poem the nymph Caissa initially repels the advances of Mars, the god of war. Spurned, Mars seeks the aid of the god of sport, who creates the game of chess as a gift for Mars to win Caissa's favour. Mars wins her over with the game. Caissa has been since been characterised as the "goddess" of chess, her name being used in several contexts in modern chess playing. [edit] Schopenhauer's citation Arthur Schopenhauer referred to one of Sir William Jones's publications in §1 of The World as Will and Representation (1819). Schopenhauer was trying to support the doctrine that "everything that exists for knowledge, and hence the whole of this world, is only object in relation to the subject, perception of the perceiver, in a word, representation." He quoted Jones's original English: ... how early this basic truth was recognized by the sages of India, since it appears as the fundamental tenet of the Vedânta philosophy ascribed to Vyasa, is proved by Sir William Jones in the last of his essays: "On the Philosophy of the Asiatics" (Asiatic Researches, vol. IV, p. 164): "The fundamental tenet of the Vedânta school consisted not in denying the existence of matter, that is solidity, impenetrability, and extended figure (to deny which would be lunacy), but in correcting the popular notion of it, and in contending that it has no essence independent of mental perception; that existence and perceptibility are convertible terms." Schopenhauer used Jones's authority to relate the basic principle of his philosophy to what was, according to Jones, the most important underlying proposition of Vedânta. He referred to Sir William Jones's writings in a few other places in his works, but this was the most extensive citation. M. R. Jayakar From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search Dr Mukund Ramrao Jayakar(b. 13 November 1873 ; d.10 March 1959, Bombay) was former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Poona. Mr. Jayakar had studied LL.B. in Bombay in 1902 and become barrister in 1905 at London. In 1905 he was enrolled as advocate of the Bombay High Court. He was Director of Bombay Chronicle along with Jinnah. He was a member of the Bombay Legislative Council during 1923-1925, and a leader of the Swaraj Party. He also become member of Central Legislative Assembly. In 1937 he become Judge of Federal Court of India at Delhi. In December 1946, he joined Constituent Assembly of India [1] He died on 10 March 1959 at Bombay at the age of 86.[2] Pandita Ramabai From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (April 2010) Pandita Ramabai A picture of Ramabai Born 23 April 1858 Gangamoola,Karkala,Karnataka,India 5 April 1922 Maharashtra, India Died Pandita Ramabai (23 April 1858 – 5 April 1922) was a social reformer and activist in India. She was born as Brahmin Hindu, started Arya Mahila Samaj, later converted to Christianity, and served widows and helpless women of India. Ramabai was a poet, a scholar, and a champion of improvement in the plight of Indian women and their emancipation. She visited most parts of India, and even went to Britain (1883) and the United States of America (1886–88). She wrote many books including The High Caste Hindu Woman, which showed the darkest aspects of the life of Hindu women, including child brides and child widows, and their treatment by government and society. She had a strong view of what should be accomplished so that women would be able to have more freedom, including the protection of widows and child brides, many of whom were made destitute by in-laws. Contents [hide] 1 Early life 2 Social service 3 Family life 4 Awards and honors 5 References 6 Further reading 7 External links [edit] Early life Ramabai was born into an intellectual Hindu Marathi-speaking Chitpavan Brahmin family at Karnataka (Karkala Taluk, Mangalore District). Her father, Anant Shastri Dongre,who stayed at a place in western ghats called Gangamoola,(Mala village,Karkala,Karnataka) was a Sanskrit scholar and believed that women should have education. Against the prevailing traditional Hindu social structure, he taught Puranas and Sanskrit shlokas to Ramabai as well as his second wife, Ramambai‘s mother Laxmibai and how to read and write Sanskrit as well as how to interpret vedic texts. She was raised by her father. Her father faced hardships as he was against the tradition and he advocated education to girl children. He proved in front of Hindu scholars at Soday,(Karnataka) that teaching women Sanskrit was not banned in any shastra or purana.[1] Her father, mother and sister died during 1874–76; and her brother and she traveled all over India and eventually ended up in Calcutta in Bengal. Their travel included 2,000 miles by foot! [2] Ramabai's Sanskrit knowledge surprised the educated people of Kolkata. She was awarded with the title of Pandita by Calcutta University, and was also awarded with the title of Sarasvati in recognition of her ability to interpret various Sanskrit works. After her brother's death in 1880, even though it was considered inappropriate for a Hindu to marry into a lower caste, she married, on 13 November 1880, Babu Bipin Behari Medhavi, a Bengali lawyer at Bankipore, who was not a Brahmin but a Shudra. Six months after the birth of It contains a pointed comparison of the status of women in the U. Babu died in 1882. she also established Krupa Sadan. but is not without criticisms of American society. and suggests that India should follow the path of reform. During her time there she converted to Christianity. for many needy groups including widows.000 was collected. and when the Ramabai Foundation was formed in America to collect funds for her projects in India.A.S. more than $30. a home for destitute women. More than 10. Ramabai received a scholarship to study in Britain. Ramabai also started SHARDA . and Pandita was once again left with just one family member. The Pandita Ramabai Mukti Mission is still active today. The book is a traveler's account of the people and culture of the United States. She was also involved in establishing a Church at Mukti. She studied and taught about issues which surround Indian women especially those involved in the Hindu traditions. the very first Indian feminist organization.their daughter Manorama. as a refuge and a Gospel witness for young widows deserted and abused by their families.000 copies of her book. vocational training. [edit] Social service In addition to her writing Ramabai founded the Arya Mahila Sabha in 1881. and medical services. and India. She spoke against the practice of child marriage and the terrible constraints on the lives of child widows. particularly its race problem. the profits from which were used give shelter to destitute women in India! She wrote a book about her travels to the United States [She wrote about her American experience in a book titled United States Chi Lokasthiti Ani Pravasvrutta (Status of Society of United States and a travelogue)]and it has been published in English translation as Pandita Ramabai's American Encounter. In Sanskrit and most Indian languages MUKTI means liberation. education. her daughter. she started homes for the destitute and Christian churches which had Sanskrit script rather than the Roman script which was used for English and other European languages. in Pune. She also lectured across America for three years on the plight of women and child widows in India. In 1889 Ramabai established the Mukti Mission in Pune. orphans. and the blind. Ramabai combined her new Christian ideals with her old Indian culture and used this mix to promote change in India. When she returned to India. providing housing. High Caste Hindu Women were sold in America. Kamaraj (15 July 1903[1] – 2 October 1975[2]) was an Indian politician from Tamil Nadu widely acknowledged as the "Kingmaker" in Indian politics during the 1960s. She had also to educate her only daughter Manorama bai. and within two years of daughter's death. recognising her skills in Sanskrit. a backward district of south India. She did this well: Manorama completed her BA at Bombay University. went to America for higher studies. Bengaluru's North Parade Road as "K. in recognition of her contribution to the advancement of Indian women. vocational training and medical services for many needy groups including widows. K. on 5 April 1922 she herself took her last breath. She is honored with a feast day on the liturgical calendar of the Episcopal Church (USA) on April 5. awarded by the British Government." and the Madurai Kamaraj University in his honour. With her help. orphans and the blind. he is still remembered for bringing school education to millions of the rural poor by introducing free education and the free Midday Meal Scheme during his tenure as chief minister. Her contribution to Christianity in India is much appreciated. Kaisar-i-Hind medal for community service in 1919. which also provided housing. during 1912. Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1964 and Indira Gandhi in 1966.[1][3] He was involved in the Indian independence movement. He was awarded India's highest civilian honour. she lost her parents early and her husband expired within two years of marriage. He was known for his simplicity and integrity. In Tamil Nadu. there was little family life for her. On 26 October 1989. But Manorama's untimely death was a shock to Ramabai. education. Kamaraj Kumarasami Kamaraj (Tamil: குமாரசாமி காமராஜ்) better known as K.[4] As a high-ranking office bearer of the Indian National Congress.[3] [edit] Awards and honors "Pandit" and "Saraswati" at Bengal (before going to Britain).[5] The domestic terminal of the Chennai airport is named "Kamaraj Terminal".[3][6] . Mumbai. returned to India and worked as Principal of Sharada Sadan.SADAN. Chennai's Beach Road renamed "Kamarajar Salai". Her childhood was full of hardships. Kamaraj Rd. posthumously in 1976. the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp. he was instrumental in bringing to power two Prime Ministers. He was the chief minister of Tamil Nadu during 1954-1963 and a Member of Parliament during 1952-1954 and 1969-1975. the Bharat Ratna. his home state. and her daughter was Principal of the school. [edit] Family life As Pandita Ramabai involved herself in social service. Pandita Ramabai established Christian High school at Gulbarga (now in Karnataka). N. search M. Roy From Wikipedia. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. N.M. Roy Manabendra Nath Roy 21 March 1887 Changripota. 24 Parganas. British India 25 January 1954 (aged 66) Indian Narendra Nath Bhattacharya Bengali Brahmin Born Died Nationality Other names Ethnicity . Bengal. Communist Party of India. born Narendra Nath Bhattacharya and popularly known as M. N. search Pushkar — town — panoramic view of Pushkar lake . IndoGerman Conspiracy. Communist Party of Mexico. was an Indian nationalist revolutionary and an internationally known radical activist and political theorist. Following the rise of Joseph Stalin. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. an organization in which he played a leading role for much of the decade of the 1940s. Communist University of the Toilers of the East Jugantar. Communism. Roy was a founder of the Communist Parties in both Mexico and India and was a delegate to congresses of the Communist International.Alma mater Bengal Technical Institute. Indian Independence movement. Pushkar From Wikipedia. Roy left the mainline communist movement to pursue an independent radical politics. Roy. In 1940 Roy was instrumental in the formation of the Radical Democratic Party. New Communism Organization Political movement Manabendra Nath Roy (Bengali: মানবেন্দ্রনাথ রায়) (1887–1954). Roy later moved away from Marxism to become an exponent of the philosophy of Radical Humanism. 7 mi) northwest of Ajmer at an average elevation of 510 m (1. India Coordinates: 26°30′N 74°33′E26.5°N 26°30′N 74°33′E26.Pushkar Location in Rajasthan.55°E India Rajasthan Ajmer 510 m (1.789 Hindi IST (UTC+5:30) Pushkar (Hindi: पष् ु कर) is a town in the Ajmer district in the Indian state of Rajasthan.670 ft) and is one of the five sacred . It is situated 14 km (8.670 ft) 74.5°N 74.55°ECoordinates: Country State District Elevation Population (2001) • Total Languages • Official Time zone 14. The story goes that when Sati died. Indonesia. the destroyed temples were rebuilt.dhams (pilgrimage site) for devout Hindus. The problems stem mainly from overdevelopment of tourist facilities and the deforestation of the surrounding area. Indonesia. Sati. search Kushinagar क ु शीनगर — city — . The natural environment of Pushkar and the sacred lake has become increasingly degraded in the last few decades. Most of the temples are not very old because many temples were destroyed during Muslim conquests in the area. it was formed by the tears of Lord Shiva which he is believed to have shed after the death of his wife. Mother Temple of Besakih in Bali. Pushkar has many temples. Tamil Nadu. Other temples of Brahma include Bithoor in Uttar Pradesh. Pushkar is also famous for its annual fair (Pushkar Camel Fair) held in November. the pond at the Katas Raj temple Near choa saidan shah in Chakwal District of Pakistan has a theological association with Lord Shiva. The date of its actual origin is not known.one at Pushkara in Ajmer in India and the other at Ketaksha. village Asotra near Balotra city of Barmer district in Rajasthan.the king of pilgrimage sites . Very few temples to Lord Brahma exist anywhere in the world. India. but legend associates Lord Brahma with its creation.[1] Kushinagar From Wikipedia. Lord Shiva cried so much and for so long. which literally means raining eyes. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. The Pushkar lake has 52 ghats where pilgrims descend to the lake to bathe in the sacred waters.and has in recent years become a popular destination for foreign tourists. in Sanskrit. It is often called "Tirth Raj" . Uttamar Kovil (one of the Divya Desams) near Srirangam. It lies on the shore of Pushkar Lake. It is from this name that the word Katas is derived. According to Hindu theology . The most famous among all is the Brahma Temple built during the 14th century CE. Pushkar is one of the oldest existing cities of India. that his tears created two holy ponds -. and Prambanan in Yogyakarta.[citation needed] Subsequently. 741°N 26°44′28″N 83°53′17″E26.Makutabandhana. also known as Ramabhar Stupa Kushinagar Coordinates: 26°44′28″N 83°53′17″E26. the cremation-site of Gautama Buddha's body.888°ECoordinates: Country State District Government India Uttar Pradesh Kushinagar .741°N 83.888°E 83. 982 Hindi IST (UTC+5:30) www. higher than the . Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%.[1] Kushinagar had a population of 17. where Gautama Buddha have attained Parinirvana after his death.in Kushinagar (Hindi: क ु शीनगर. Contents [hide] 1 Demographics 2 Ancient history 3 Visits by the Buddha to Kushinagar 4 Discovery and Identification 5 Today 6 References 7 Location 8 External links [edit] Demographics As of 2001 India census. Urdu: ). Kusinagar or Kusinara is a town and a nagar panchayat in Kushinagar district in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.• Local leader Population (2001) • Total Languages • Official Time zone Website Dr Ram narayan tiwar Pepara 17.nic.982. Kushinagar has an average literacy rate of 62%.kushinagar. It is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. and the scene of the Buddha's death. Due to violent invasions. there was a silence of more than half a millennium at Kasia. the road taken by Bávarí's disciples (SN.v.1012). . the famous king of Ayodhya. [edit] Ancient history Ancient Indian (Bharata) cities and Places(Title and location names are in English. one of the most important four holy sites for Buddhists. At that time it was a small city. Kushinagar was the capital of the Mallas. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka is known to have contributed to significant construction at this site. and female literacy is 54%. it would be known as Kushinara. and 35km (north) from deoria.5th century CE when prosperity was at its peak. Many of the ruined stupas and viharas here date back to 3rd century BCE . Kushinagar was a celebrated center of the Malla kingdom of ancient India. [edit] Visits by the Buddha to Kushinagar At the time of the Buddha. 15% of the population is under 6 years of age. At this location. or possibly pork. it was known as Kushavati (Jatakas).) In ancient times. In Kushinagar. 55km (east) from Gorakhpur.5%: male literacy is 70%. Kushinagar lost its vitality and eventually was neglected.national average of 59. acc. It finds mention in epic Ramayan as the city of Kusha the son of Ram.ii. near the Hiranyavati River. to Fa Hsien. 40. Later. "a branchtownship with wattle-and-daub houses in the midst of the jungle. Gautama Buddha attained Parinirvana (or 'Final Nirvana') after falling ill from eating a meal of a species of mushroom." and Ananda was. p. Prior to its rediscovery in the 19th century.It is 20km (south) away from Padrauna.609. It was twenty-five yojanas from Rajagaha (DA. at first. it was twenty-four yojanas from Kapilavatthu) and lay on the high road from Alaka to Rájagaha. But the Buddha. After the Buddha's death his body was carried into the city by the southern gate and out of the city by the eastern gate.disappointed that the Buddha should have chosen it for his Parinibbana. DA.572f). by preaching the Maha-Sudassana Sutta.ii. three gavutas (c. in a south-westerly direction. to the east of the city was Makutabandhana. the shrine of the Mallas. and near the city. stopping at various places . lay the Upavattana.ii. would develop meditation and become an arahant while the Buddha was still alive. which the Buddha made his last resting-place (UdA.573f6). the Salagrove of the Mallas. DA. to solve the problem of the distribution of his relics (UdA. For seven days those assembled at the ceremony held a festival in honour of the relics (D.3 mi)) away (DA.lay the stream of Kakuttha on the banks of which was the Ambavana. Between Kusinara and Pava.from where the Buddha came to Kusinára on his last journey from Rajagaha.402f. 15 km (9. the royal city of Maha-Sudassana (D. Pilgrimage to Buddha's Holy Sites The Four Main Sites Lumbini · Bodh Gaya . Because it was the proper venue for the preaching of the Mahá-Sudassana Sutta. beyond that was the Hiraññavati river.573) .146). and there the body was cremated.238.160f). Because the brahman Doha would be there. pointed out to him that in ancient times it had been Kusavati.ii. after the Buddha's death. after listening to his sermon.ii. and 3.ii. Because Subhadda would visit him there and. 2. It is said that the Buddha had three reasons for coming to Kusinárá to die: 1. 140).ii. 140) ) to be fit places of pilgrimage for the pious. and on the occasion of this visit they decided that any inhabitant . the other three being Kapilavatthu (near Lumbini). The Mallas of Kusinárá were always great admirers of the Buddha. even though not all of them were his followers. prior to that when his death took place. Buddhagaya (Bodh Gaya). Thus. Kusinara became one of the four holy places declared by the Buddha (in the Mahaparinibbana Sutta (ii. once he went there from Ápana and having spent some time at Kusinárá. proceeded to Átumá.Sarnath · Kushinagar Four Additional Sites Sravasti · Rajgir Sankissa · Vaishali Other Sites Patna · Gaya · Kosambi Kapilavastu · Devadaha Kesariya · Pava Nalanda · Varanasi Later Sites Sanchi · Mathura Ellora · Ajanta · Vikramshila Ratnagiri · Udayagiri · Lalitgiri Bharhut · Barabar Caves view talk edit As the scene of his death. Mention is made of other visits paid to Kusinárá by the Buddha. and Isipatana (Sarnath) (D. for another discourse to some noisy monks at Upavattana. H. Work . in 1854. and there he preached two of the Kusinárá Suttas (A. were covered in a 40 foot high mound of bricks surrounded by a dense thorny forest. According to a late tradition. made the suggestion that ancient Kushinagar and Kasia were the same. H. [edit] Discovery and Identification The Parinirvana Temple with the Parinirvana Stupa.i. when rediscovered. During some of these visits the Buddha stayed in a wood called Baliharana. It was on this occasion that Roja the Mallan was converted and gave to the Buddha and the monks a supply of green vegetables and pastries (Vin. see Ud.2). In Hiouen Thsang's day there still existed towers and Sarighárámas erected to mark the spots connected with the Buddha's last days and obsequies at Kusinárá.iv. op.i. v.of Kusinárá who failed to go and meet the Buddha and escort him to the city. n) Kusinárá was nineteen yojanas from Vesáli.3).ii.xxviii.ii. (A. According to his account (Beal. Kushinagar The remains of the Parinirvana Stupa and Parinirvana Temple. After E.274f. cit.li. arrived in Kasia in the course of his survey-work. Wilson.714). A copper plate belonging to the thúpa erected at the site of the Buddha's death has recently been discovered (CAGI. lii.79.238f). A third Kusinárá Sutta he preached while staying at Upavattana.79f) and the "Kinti" Sutta (M. an officer of the East India Company. Bu. one-eighth of the Buddha's relics were deposited in a cairn in Kusinárá and honoured by the Mallas (D.247f).167. would be fined five hundred. Buchanan.ii.i. C. A. Part of a series on Buddhism History[show] Dharma or concepts[show] Practices[show] Nirvāṇa[show] . Vogel. Ph. a series of monastic seals with the Sanskrit legend mahāparinirvāne cāturdiśo bhikṣusaṃghaḥ were taken to show that by the late Gupta period the site was understood to be that of the Buddha's final passing. Carlleyle followed suit.resumed around 1861–1862 when Alexander Cunningham. uncovering a wealth of Buddhist materials. Although no decisive evidence was found to prove Cunningham‘s supposition that the site known at Māthā kūār kā Koṭ was Kushinārā. the founder of the Archaeological Survey of India suggested the site to be that of Gautama Buddha's decease. 1905-6 and 1906-7. Excavations began in the early twentieth century under J.[2] He conducted archaeological campaigns in 1904-5. A British officer named Mr. L. Tirupati (city) From Wikipedia. The Maitreya Project plans to build a 500 ft/152m bronze statue of Maitreya Buddha near Kushinagar (previously planned in Bodhgaya). and the place of his cremation. Kushinagar is a much-frequented pilgrimage site for Indian and foreign tourists. Burmese. The Mahaparinirvana Stupa is surrounded by ruins of ancient monasteries. the free encyclopedia . which is 1. alongside the ruins of monasteries and stupas. in Kushinagar. Chinese. Today. Bodh Gaya. South Korean. Kushinagar is one of the main four Buddhist pilgrimage sites related to the life of Gautama Buddha. Sri Lankan. Tibetan and Japanese Buddhists. The two places most frequently visited in Kushinagar are the Mahaparinirvana Stupa.Traditions · Canons[show] Outline Buddhism portal v t e [edit] Today Today. which is built on the place of Buddha's Mahaparinirvana (Great Nirvana or passing away). there is a Post Graduate College and an Intermediate college.6 km away. Thai. and Sarnath. Kushinagar has many hotels and restaurants for use by tourists. Close to the Mahaparinirvana Stupa is located a 1500 year old Buddha-image of the Buddha as he attained Parinirvana. The other three are Lumbini. and temples have been constructed by Indian. Today. India . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. search This article needs additional citations for verification.Jump to: navigation. (August 2007) Tirupati తిరుపతి — City — Tirupati Location in Andhra Pradesh. 65°N 13°39′N 79°25′E13.in/ Tirupati is a major pilgrimage and cultural city in the Chittoor district. 550 kilometres (340 mi) south of . It is located at the foothills of the Eastern Ghats.42°E 79.65°N 79.Coordinates: 13°39′N 79°25′E13. It is the largest city in the Rayalaseema region.gov.035 0877 AP-03 http://www.42°ECoordinates: Country State Region District Government India Andhra Pradesh Rayalaseema Chittoor • MLA Bhumana Karunakar Reddy (Tirupati urban and Renigunta) Aruna Kumari Galla (Tirupati rural and Chandragiri) 161 m (528 ft) Elevation Population (2011)[1] • Total Languages • Official Time zone Telephone code Vehicle registration Website Telugu IST (UTC+5:30) 287.tuda. search Somnath Temple .799 ft). copper and brass idols. 65 kilometres (40 mi) from Chittoor. and 150 kilometres (93 mi) north of Chennai. the capital of the state. One of the most important pilgrimage centers in the World. 250 kilometres (160 mi) east of Bangalore. Also. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation.[2] Tirupati City itself has several temples and is famous for its red wooden toys.Hyderabad. the temple draws millions of pilgrims and is the busiest pilgrimage centre in the world. Tirupati is famous for the richest temple Venkateswara Swamy temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. the city is a major economical and educational hub in the southern region of the state. Somnath From Wikipedia. located about 20 kilometres (12 mi) north west of Tirupati in the Tirumala hills at an elevation of 853 metres (2. 888028°N 70.0″E20.9″N 70°24′5.0″E20.888028°N 70.Somnath Temple Location within Gujarat 20°53′16.40139°E Name Proper name: Somnath Mandir Devanagari: Location Country: State: District: Locale: India Gujarat Junagadh Veraval Coordinates: Architecture and culture Primary deity: Somnath (Shiva) Important festivals: Architectural styles: Maha Shivaratri Mandir .9″N 70°24′5.40139°ECoordinates: 20°53′16. is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of the God Shiva. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel came to Junagadh on November 12.org The Somnath Temple (Gujarati: સોમનાથ મંદિર Sanskrit: सोमनाथ मन्ददर) located in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra. After Patel's death. 1947 to direct the stabilization of the state by the Indian Army and at the same time ordered the reconstruction of the Somanath temple. the rebuilding continued under K. Somnath means "The Protector of (the) Moon God".[3][4] Restoration of temple after Independence Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in front of the temple Before independence. having been destroyed six times by Muslim conquerors. Prabhas Pattan was part of the princely state of Junagadh. India. After integration of Jungadh in to Union of India.History Date built: (Current structure) 1951 (present structure) Creator: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (present structure) Temple board: Website: Shree Somnath Trust of Gujarat somnath.[20] .[1][2] Most recently it was rebuilt in November 1947. Munshi. when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel visited the area for the integration of Junagadh and mooted a plan for restoration. on the western coast of Gujarat. the Deputy Prime Minister of India. another minister of the Government of India. M. The Somnath Temple is known as "the Shrine Eternal". [24] The present temple.When Sardar Patel. Rajendra Prasad.[23] Rajendra Prasad said in his address "It is my view that the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple will be complete on that day when not only a magnificent edifice will arise on this foundation. For its namesake district. who saw in its reconstruction. K. M.[24] He added "The Somnath temple signifies that the power of reconstruction is always greater than the power of destruction"[24] This episode created a serious rift between the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. He expressed that he was proud to associate himself to the project of renovation of the temple[21] But soon both Gandhi and Sardar Patel died and the task of reconstruction of the temple continued under K. Munshi.". Madurai Athens of east — City — .but suggested that the funds for the construction should be collected from the public and the temple should not be funded by the state. performed the installation ceremony for the temple.[25] Madurai From Wikipedia. M. who saw the movement for reconstruction of the temple as an attempt at Hindu revivalism and the President Rajendra Prasad and Union Minister K. M. who was the Minister for Food and Civil Supplies in the Nehru Government. is managed by Shree Somnath Trust. India.[22] In May 1951. Munshi and other leaders of the Congress went to Gandhi with the proposal of reconstructing the Somnath temple. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. but the mansion of India's prosperity will be really that prosperity of which the ancient temple of Somnath was a symbol. the fruits of freedom and the reversal of past injustice done to Hindus. search This article is about a corporation in Tamil Nadu. Munshi. which was built by Patel and Munshi. Gandhi blessed the move. see Madurai district. invited by K M Munshi. the first President of the Republic of India.[21] The ruins were pulled down in October 1950 and the mosque present at that site was shifted few miles away. Madurai city. River Vaigai.Periyar Bus stand. Teppakulam Mariyamman tank. . Madurai Corporation. Thirumalai Nayak Palace. Meenakshi Amman Temple. Rajan Chellappa 147.919662°N 78.Madurai Coordinates: 9°55′11″N 78°07′10″E9.230.300/km2 (22.119393°E Country State District Government • Mayor Area • City Elevation Population (2001) • City • Density • Metro 1.97 km2 (57.119393°ECoordinates: 9°55′11″N 78°07′10″E9.015 8.420 [1] India Tamil Nadu Madurai district V.462.000/sq mi) 1.919662°N 78. V.13 sq mi) 101 m (331 ft) Languages • Official Time zone PIN Tamil IST (UTC+5:30) 625 0xx . Vijayanagar Empire.[3] Madurai is closely associated with the Tamil language as all three primary congregations of Tamil scholars. organised in villages outside the city. a minister of the Mauryan emperor Chandragupta Maurya.The prestigious Thiagarajar college of Engineering(TCE) is also located at Madurai.[2] Located on the banks of River Vaigai. It is the third largest city and the third largest municipal corporation in Tamil Nadu. Madurai is an important industrial and educational hub of South Tamil Nadu. the most important being the annual 10-day Meenakshi Tirukalyanam festival (also called Chittirai festival). Madurai is also known for Jallikattu. The city is house to various automobile. Medieval Cholas. Ma'bar Sultanate. the Meenakshi Amman Temple and Tirumalai Nayak Palace being the most prominent among them. rail and air. Madurai Sultanate.Madurai is administered by a municipal corporation established in 1971 as per the Municipal Corporation Act.[1][6] The provisional population totals of 2011 census indicate the population of the city is yet to be released. MUSLIM DEVELOPMENT OF INDIAN ARCHITECTURE MUSLIM ARCHITECTURE . TN-59 and TN-64 www. Madurai has important government educational institutes like the Madurai Medical College. were held in the city between the 3rd century BC and 3rd century CE.230. that attracts 1 million visitors.[4] It has developed as a second-tier city for Information Technology and some software companies have opened their centres in Madurai. and the British. Later Pandyas.[7] The city is also the seat of a bench of the Madras High Court.Telephone code Vehicle registration Website 452 TN-58. The city celebrates several festivals. Madurai Nayaks. Homeopathic Medical College. celebrated during April–May. at different times. rubber. being one of only a few courts that exist outside the state capitals of India. The city covers an area of 147. it has been a major settlement for two millennia and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. being mentioned by Megasthenes. Agricultural College and Research Institute that provides education to aspirants in southern districts of Tamil Nadu.99 km2 and had a population of 1.015 in 2001. The city has a number of historical monuments.in Madurai is the administrative headquarters of Madurai District in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The city is believed to be of significant antiquity and has been ruled. chemical and granite manufacturing industries. Later Cholas. and Kautilya. Chanda Sahib. Madurai is wellconnected by road. the annual bull taming event celebrated along with the Thai Pongal festival. the Tamil Sangams. the Greek ambassador to India. The recorded history of the city goes back to the 3rd century BC. Carnatic kingdom.maduraicorporation. by the Early Pandyas.[5] Madurai Law College. open courtyards. tall and slender minarets. The important features of a mosque are – an open courtyard with a pillared verandah around. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. use of coloured stone and glazed tiles. The film was shown to a select audience on April 21. All these are located in an extensive enclosure. underground clambers where the graves are located and separate mosques. while the Hindu structures have lefty pyramidal shikharas. 1913 and was formally released on May 3 the same year at the Coronation Theatre in Bombay. Jatra (Bengal) From Wikipedia. The Delhi style of architecture seen in the constructions in Delhi and surrounding areas is to be seen in the buildings of the Slave rulers. decorations on the walls and pillars. First Indian Feature Film Raja Harishchandra was the first full-length Indian feature film. The mausoleums constructed over the tombs of the dead are beautiful monuments with vaulted halls. The period of the Turko-Afghans saw the development of this style. Muslim structures can be classified under two types – religious and secular. The film was directed by Dhundiraj Govind Phalke (better known as Dadasaheb Phalke). Raja Harishchandra tells the tale of a virtuous monarch who donates his kingdom and sells himself into penury. search . Religious structures are mosques. assimilating local styles and characteristics. mosques. The Muslims before coming into India had their own characteristic style of art as is seen in their mosques and palaces. highly developed Hindu architectural styles led to a fusion and synthesis of art styles resulting in the emergence of the Indo-Islamic style of art and architecture. The salient features of Muslim architecture are large buildings. bulbous domes. palaces.The Muslim rulers of India contributed greatly to the evolution and development of a new style of art and architecture in India. The sanctuary has a large dome above it. lofty domes. The two systems of art namely Hindu and Muslim are basically different in technique. rich sculptural mouldings. The film was adapted from a successful stage production. The film was based on the legend of Harishchandra. arched gateways made beautiful with geometric designs and calligraphic inscriptions. Secular ones are forts. a sanctuary near the wall facing Mecca. a pulpit and a minaret above the wall to summon people to prayer. Contact with the already established. It had subtitles in Hindi and English and featured male actors in the female roles. where it ran for 23 days. Famous among these is the Qutub Minar and the Quwat-Ul-Islam mosque near it in Delhi. tombs and mausoleums. dark shrines. different from region to region. The Muslim conquerors employed Indian masons and materials for the construction of their buildings which factor was responsible for the introduction of Hindu ideas and designs in Muslim buildings. Dadasaheb Phalke was greatly influenced by the style of painter Raja Ravi Verma in the making of Raja Harishchandra. gateways and gardens. Part of a series on the Culture of Bengal A Baul musician History[show] People[show] Languages[show] Traditions[show] Mythology and folklore[show] Cuisine[show] Festivals[show] . including Bangladesh and Indian states of West Bengal.Religion Art[show] Literature[show] Music and performing arts[show] Media[show] Sport[show] Monuments[show] Symbols[show] Culture portal Bengal portal v t e Jatra (origin: Yatra meaning procession or journey in Sanskrit)[1] is a popular folk-theatre form of Bengali theatre. Bihar. Assam. spread throughout most of Bengali speaking areas of the Indian subcontinent. there . Orissa and Tripura[1][2][3][4] As of 2005. [5] where in 2001. replete with various Bhakti cults of Hinduism. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation..000 people. Maharashtrian folk art 2 Tamasha in other languages 3 See also 4 Notes . and thus remains perpetually in dearth of mass audience. but also thriving. the Nautanki of Uttar Pradesh. jatra is a $21m-a-year industry. while catering to a heterogeneous audience. which lasted through the night in 1507 AD. disconnects with the current. Contents [hide] 1 Tamasha. The performance.[8] Though there are evidences of existence of a form of singing called the 'Carya'.were some 55 troupes based in Calcutta's old jatra district.[6] The word `jatra' means journey or going.[7] has been described in Chaitanya Bhagavata. see Tamasha. more than the local film industry and urban theatre. is traditionally credited to the rise Sri Chaitanya's Bhakti movement. performed on nearly 4. and eventually became secular. by the end of 19th century it was replaced by morally didactic content. wherein Chaitanya himself played Rukmini in the performance of Rukmini Haran ("The abduction of the Charming Rukmini") from Krishna's life story. Iran. The survival of the form over such a vast period of rapidly changing social milieu. over 300 companies employed over 20. when it gained entry into urban proscenium theatres during Bengal Renaissance. Chaitanya's hagiography by a disciple Vrindavana Dasa Thakura. Though its birthplace lies in the religious landscape. Chitpur Road. search For the village near Tehran. and thus staying not just relevant and alive. the Tamasha of Maharashtra and Bhavai of Gujarat.[9] Jatra performances resemble. a first definite presentation of this theatrical spectacle.[10] Tamasha From Wikipedia.000 stages in West Bengal alone. has been credited to its innate malleability and ways of adapting to changing social dynamics. which existed in Orissa simultaneously as the popular 'Carya Padas' form. The origin of jatra intrinsically a musical theatre form. unlike urban theatre which at some point gets plagued by its own puritanical intellectualism. and all together. which was popular between the 9th and the 12th centuries in Bengal. widely performed by local or travelling theatre groups within the state of Maharashtra.[1] It has also been the subject of several Marathi films.[edit] Tamasha. Traditional Tamasha is influenced by many Indian art forms and draws from such diverse traditions as kaveli. sangeet baari which contains more dance and music than drama. Maharashtrian folk art Tamasha (Marathi: तमाशा) is a traditional Marathi folk art form. In Maharashtra. ghazals.[2] sometimes ironically in the sense of "a tempest in a teacup". Kathak dance. lalit and kirtan. Some Hindi movies have also included Tamasha-themed songs in the past. The word has spread to Hindi. dashavatara. There are two types of Tamasha: dholki bhaari and the older form. Urdu and Marathi. India. Colloquially the word has come to represent commotion. search This article may contain wording that promotes the subject in a subjective manner without imparting real information. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. or any activity or display with bustle and excitement. but is of Persian origin and means "fun" or "play". use facts and attribution to demonstrate that importance. the Kolhati and Mahar groups are traditionally associated with the performance of Tamasha. (July 2009) .[3] Koodiyattam From Wikipedia. often with singing and dancing. Please remove or replace such wording and instead of making proclamations about a subject's importance. It is officially recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.000 years old. it is believed to be 2. Koodiyattam (Malayalam: കൂടിയാട്ടം. meaning "combined acting." signifies Sanskrit drama presented in the traditional style in temple theatres of Kerala. Sanskrit: क ू डियाट्टम. is a form of Sanskrit theatre traditionally performed in the state of Kerala. Performed in the Sanskrit language in Hindu temples. It is the only surviving specimen of the ancient . Chennai). Kūṭiyāṭṭaṁ. It was the first ever Koodiyattam performance outside Kerala. Contents [hide] 1 Origin 2 Instruments used 3 Performance style 4 Noted artists 5 A dying art form 6 Related literature and books 7 See also 8 References 9 External links [edit] Origin Koodiyattam Koodiyattam [kutiyattam]. also transliterated as Kutiyattam.् Kūḍiyāṭṭam). India.Guru Mani Madhava Chakyar and his troupe performing Thoranayudham (part of Bhasa's play Abhiṣeka Nataka based on the epic Ramayana) Koodiyattam (1962. who ruled from Mahodayapuram (modern Kodungallur). and Omampuliyur. reformed Koodiyattam. Chera. and many plays ascribed to Bhasa including Abhiseka and Pratima. Chola periods in Tamil Nadu. It is believed that Kulasekhara Varman Cheraman Perumal. Kutiyattam and chakyar koothu were among the dramatized dance worship services in temples of ancient India. For examples a fragmented inscription at the door step of an ancient Shiva temple (now non-existent) in Pegan in Burma finds mention of these services. He himself wrote two plays. Nagananda of Harsa. A Pallava king called Rajasimha has been credited with authoring a play called kailasodharanam in Tamil that has the topic of Ravana becoming subject to Siva's anger and being subdued mercilessly for the same. It has an attested history of a thousand years in Kerala. Kalyanasaugandhika of Nilakantha. Subhadraharana and Tapatisamvarana and made arrangements for their presentation on stage with the help of a Brahmin friend called Tolan. Bhagavadajjuka of Bodhayana. Vedaranyam. Apart from these. There is evidence of these services being done all over ancient subcontinent during time of cholas and pallavas. Tiruvarur. particularly Tamilakam (modern-day Tamil Nadu and Kerala). There are mentions in epigraphs those forms of dramatized dance worship services that are called aariyam that mostly had Sanskrit scripts for plays. These plays are still presented on stage. the plays traditionally presented include Ascaryacudamani of Saktibhadra. an ancient king of Tamil Chera dynasty. The Kutiyattam performance was performed in specially designed temples called koothambalams. but its origin and evolution are shrouded in mystery. introducing the local language for Vidusaka and structuring presentation of the play to welldefined units. They were treated as an integral part of worship services alongside the singing of tevaram and prabandam hymns. Several ancient kings and members of other professions are listed to have authored several works for these services. Both kootiyattam and chakyar koothu find several mentions in ancient sangam literature of south and also in the epigraphs belonging to subsequent Pallava. Tiruvidaimaruthur.Sanskrit theatre. Inscriptions related to the dramatized dance worship services like koodiyattam and chakyar koothu are available in temples at Tanjore. . Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page. Please consider expanding the lead to provide an accessible overview of all of the article's key points. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Contents [hide] 1 History 2 Overview 3 Bhavai plays 4 See also . search This article has multiple issues. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. (December 2009) This article relies largely or entirely upon a single source. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Please help improve this if you can. India. No cleanup reason has been specified. (April 2012) Bhavai (Strolling Players) is a popular folk theatre form of Rajasthan. Please help improve this article by introducing citations to additional sources. (March 2012) This article may require cleanup to meet Wikipedia's quality standards.The use of Buddhist themes for plays is a very controversial and moot issue and seem to be a later interpolation not existing since ancient times for the latter not being a then-legal vedic system. This article needs additional citations for verification. (November 2007) This article's lead section may not adequately summarize all of its contents. Bhavai From Wikipedia. bangle sellers and social and economic thieves. People belonging to different levels of social strata ranging from king to knave are portrayed in Bhavai. robbers. There is a Vesha depicting the story of an unsuccessful love affair of a Bania woman and a Muslim Thanedar." Abul Fazal’s Ain-e-Akbari also mentions Bhavai while mentioning some communities. At the end of the play Jasma Odan. This predominance makes Bhavai unique among the traditional arts of India. The chief of the Bhavai troupe is called the Nayak. darjis. The Vesha actually starts only after these preliminary appearances . Goddess Kali is the next to enter and after she departs comes the Brahmana. one of the most well known vesha writer. [edit] Overview Bhavai is partly entertainment and partly a ritual offering made to Goddess Amba. Subtle social criticism laced with pungent humour is the speciality of Bhavai. The pompous and incongrous behaviour of high caste people is scoffed at in Bhavai. Humor plays a vital part in any Bhavai performance and comes into play even while dealing with mythological personages. Probably the anger over injustice suffered by the originator of Bhavai. In one of his long poems Asaita. In the courtyard of the Ambaji temple near Mount Abu the Navratri festival is celebrated with Bhavai performances. banjaras. The barbers and knife-sharpeners. It says: "In a tree-less tract even a bunch of eranda (caster oil plant) makes a good show (Bhavai).Veshas or Bhavai plays are also known as swang. he is Lord Ganesha. odas. Amba is the presiding deity of Bhavai. permeated the art of Bhavai. fakirs and sadhus. He first marks the performing arena. The Bhavai performers belong to a caste that came to be known as tragala. a Muslim fakir appears to whom people request to revive Jasma. The word Bhavai in the sense of show or spectacle occurs in the 13th century Apabhramsa Jain religious verse. dates his composition as AD 1360. . Then enters an actor covering his face with a plate. Some of these veshas bear his name. Bhavai performance appear clearly to have evolved from earlier forms of folk entertainment. [edit] Bhavai plays Bhavai Veshas portray people from all classes of society. Asaita Thakar. then offers kumkum to the oil-torch which is a symbol of goddess Amba and sings prayer songs in her praise. the remover of obstacles. Asait wrote about 360 plays. out of which some 60 have survived. Some of the Bhavai plays present a scathing review of the caste-ridden social structure.5 References [edit] History Bhavai is believed to have originated in the 14th Century. Traditional Nautankis usually start late at night.The Nayak and the jester always remain on stage and direct the course of action with their commentary and intervention. Urdu. . particularly in northern India. The style of music is always Hindustani interspersed with local tunes. The bhungal is a four feet long copper pipe that provides a strong note and is unique to Bhavai. often around 10 p. Nautanki was the single most popular form of entertainment in the villages and towns of northern India. Female characters are acted by men. There is a sense of cutting edge suspense and nail biting acts in the dance. or so. a chorus is also used sometimes. The story unfolds through songs. jhanjha (cymbals). and Marwari. pirouetting and then swaying with the soles of their feet perched on the top of a glass or on the edge of the sword. The Dance form consists of veiled women dancers balancing up to seven or nine brass pitchers as they dance nimbly. Nautanki From Wikipedia.[1] The pleasure of Nautanki lies in the intense melodic exchanges between two or three performers. The bhungals are played during dance sequences and otherwise to indicate important characters. There is lot of dancing and singing in Bhavai. Other musical instruments that Bhavai performances include the pakhawaj (drums). The language of Bhavai is a blend of Hindi. Statements consisting only of original research may be removed. Before the advent of Bollywood (Hindi film industry).m. Veshas were published for the first time in the nineteenth century and performances were linked to their predecessors through practice and the oral tradition. In short Bhavai is reflection of our own society. dialogues and speeches in prose as well as verse. Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding references. (September 2011) Nautanki (Hindi: नौटं की) is one of the most popular folk operatic theater performance traditions of South Asia. and go all night until sunrise the next morning (for a total of 8–10 hours in duration). Bhavai is also prevalent in Rajasthan as a spectacular folk dance. search This article may contain original research. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. the sarangi (a stringed instrument). and the harmonium. while Nautanki plays such as Satya-Harishchandra and Bhakt Moradhwaj are based on mythological themes. Amarnath. and Amar Singh Rathore[1] Some of the famous Nautanki performers are Gokul Korea. Manohar Lal Sharma. HIV/AIDS. The performance is often punctuated with individual songs. women‘s empowerment. This is to give audiences an opportunity to watch performances during a break in their daily routine[1] Source: Devendra Sharma. For instance. Gulab Bai. dances.There is no intermission in Nautanki performances. Puran Lal Sharma. and Krishna Kumari[1] In the last four decades. Giriraj Prasad. They are of a much shorter duration—around 2 hours. immigration. and family planning. Chunni Lal. In the first half of the 20th century. Ram Swarup Sharma of Samai-Khera. the contemporary sentiments against British rule and feudal landlords found expression in Nautankis such as Sultana Daku. Pandit Ram Dayal Sharma. Ph. Jalianwala Bagh. dowry. which serve as breaks and comic relief for audiences[1] Storylines of traditional Nautankis range from mythological and folk tales to stories of contemporary heroes. and skits. . new Nautankis are centered around contemporary social messages such as health. Ghasso.D. Indal Haran and Puranmal originated from folklores. Contents [hide] 1 History 2 The Contemporary Scenario 3 Further reading 4 External links 5 References [edit] History World-renowned artist Pundit Ram Dayal Sharma and Dr. and remained as such until television and VCRs began to make . and Khayal of Rajasthan. Nautanki mandalis were called akharas due to the prevalence of particular style of singing in Nautanki that required a lot of physical power. Devendra Sharma performing Nautanki The history of the Nautanki performative tradition (also referred to as Swang) goes back several hundred years. known as mandalis (literal meaning: groups) and akharas (literal meaning: wrestling arenas) came into existence.[2] Nautanki's history becomes clearer in the nineteenth century with the coming of the printing press in India and publication of Nautanki operas in the form of chap-books[1][3] Nautanki reached the pinnacle of its glory in the early 20th century when numerous Nautanki performing troupes. Nautanki's origins lie in the folk performance traditions of Bhagat and Raasleela of Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh. The Nautankis staged by these akharas became the main source of entertainment in the small towns and villages of Northern India. catching the cue from big Parsi theater (an urban Indian theater style) troupes such as Alfred Theater Company. search This article's factual accuracy is disputed.inroads beginning in the early 1990s[1] Riding on its popularity. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. and the attitude of looking down upon the indigenous Indian artistic traditions by the powerful urban-based elites suffering from a postcolonial hangover (colonial after-effects on the psychology of Indian elites)[1] Kumbh Mela From Wikipedia.000 to 15. Nautanki progressed both in terms of form as well as content and its stage became bigger and more professional. Maha Kumbha Mela Hindus . and even after the spread of mass media (such as television and radio). Some performances occurred as far as in Myanmar[1] Nautanki still holds a strong influence over rural peoples‘ imagination. See the relevant discussion on the talk page.000 can be seen at the top Nautanki performances. Nautanki companies like Natharam's mandali. started to present their performances outside the core region of its audience. Please help to ensure that disputed statements are reliably sourced. Like many other folk forms of India. Nautanki's status has been badly affected by the apathy of the political leadership. (January 2012) Kumbh Mela 2001 Kumbh Mela at Allahabad Official name Observed by Kumbh Mela. a crowd of 10. Type Hinduism An article related to Hinduism Hindu History Deities[show] Scriptures[show] Practices[show] Philosophers[show] Other topics[show] Hinduism Portal . Ujjain. is held at Allahabad. the Purna (complete) Kumbh takes place every twelve years.[1][2] According to the Mela Administration's estimates. where bathing for purification from sin is considered especially efficacious.[1] at four places Allahabad. around 70 million people participated in the 45-day Ardh Kumbh Mela in Allahabad. was. estimated by the authorities to attract between 30 and 70 million people. or 144 years.[4][5][6][7] Next Kumbh Mela will start on 27January-2013 at Allahabad. or the intersection of Yamuna River and Ganges River and the mythical Sarasvati River. in 2007. and Nashik. Hindu Mythology Portal v t e The Triveni Sangam. where devotees perform rituals. held in 2010 in haridwar.[3] The previous Maha Kumbh Mela. Kumbh Mela (/ˌkʊm ˈmeɪlə/ or /ˌkʊm məˈlɑː/. Devanagari: ) is a mass Hindu pilgrimage in which Hindus gather at the Ganges and river Godavari. Haridwar. The Maha (great) Kumbh Mela which comes after 12 'Purna Kumbh Melas'. before it occurred. For Kumbh Mela 2013 shahi snan (bathing) dates Contents [hide] 1 Timing . The Ardh (half) Kumbh Mela is celebrated every six years at Haridwar and Allahabad. 1 1894 4.4 2007 4.[11][12] However.664 A. Nashik. during the reign of King Harshavardhana. its origin is found in one of the most popular medieval puranas.5 2010 5 Future Venues 6 Kumbha Mela in Media 7 See also 8 References 9 External links Timing Kumbh Mela is celebrated at different locations depending on the position of the planet of Bṛhaspati (Jupiter) and the sun.[10] History The first written evidence of the Kumbha Mela can be found in the accounts of Chinese traveler. where the river festivals first started getting organised. According to medieval Hindu theology. and Jupiter.3 2003 4.D. when Jupiter is in Taurus (Vrishabha Rashi ) and the sun is in Capricorn (Makar Rashi) Kumbha Mela is celebrated at Prayag. and Jupiter and the sun are in Scorpio (Vrishchik Rashi) the Mela is celebrated at Ujjain. similar observances date back many centuries. The Samudra manthan episode (Churning of the . when the sun is in Aries (Mesha Rashi) it is celebrated at Haridwar.) who visited India in 629 -645 CE. 2 History o 2. the Bhagavata Purana.1 Attendance 3 The ritual 4 Recent Kumbha Melas o o o o o 4.2 2001 4.[8][9] Each site's celebration dates are calculated in advance according to a special combination of zodiacal positions of Sun. When Jupiter and the sun are in the zodiac sign Leo (Simha Rashi) it is held in Trimbakeshwar. Huan Tsang or Xuanzang (602 . Moon. This required them to make a temporary agreement with their arch enemies. they approach Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva than they directed all demigods to Supreme Personalty of Godhead Lord Visnu[14] full story on kumbh mela and after praying to Lord Visnu. Lord Vishnu(Incarnates as Mohini-Mürti) flew away with the Kumbha of elixir spilling drops of amrita at four places: Allahabad. when the Kumbha (urn) containing the amrita appeared.[16] Future Venues Year Allahabad Nashik Ujjain Haridwar 1983 Ardh Kumbh 1986 Kumbh 1989 Kumbh 1991 Kumbh 1992 Kumbh Ardh Kumbh 1995 Ardh Kumbh 1998 Kumbh 2001 Maha Kumbh 2003 Kumbh 2004 Kumbh Ardh Kumbh 2007 Ardh Kumbh 2010 Kumbh 2013 Kumbh 2015 Kumbh 2016 Kumbh Ardh Kumbh 2019 Ardh Kumbh 2022 Kumbh Srinivasa Ramanujan . and the Ramayana. He instructed them for churning ocean of milk Ksheera Sagara (primordial ocean of milk) for amrita (the nectar of immortality). It is believed that during the battle.[13] The account goes that the demigods had lost their strength by the curse of Durväsä Muni. a fight ensued. is mentioned in the Bhagavata Purana. the demons or Asuras.[15] However. Vishnu Purana.ocean of milk). Ujjain and Nashik. For twelve days and twelve nights (equivalent to twelve human years) the gods and demons fought in the sky for the pot of amrita. Haridwar. the Mahabharata. to work together with a promise of sharing the wealth equally thereafter. and to regain it. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. For other uses.From Wikipedia. search "Ramanujan" redirects here. Madras. Madras Presidency 26 April 1920 (aged 32) Chetput. see Ramanujan (disambiguation). Madras Presidency Kumbakonam Indian Mathematics Government Arts College Pachaiyappa's College Died Residence Nationality Fields Alma mater . Srinivasa Ramanujan Born 22 December 1887 Erode. Academic advisors G. H.H. Loney that he mastered by the age of 12. and continued fractions. Hardy J. As a result. made extraordinary contributions to mathematical analysis. L.[2] He demonstrated unusual mathematical skills at school. H. in the same league as mathematicians like Euler and Gauss. Living in India with no access to the larger mathematical community. infinite series. winning accolades and awards.[1] Born in a poor Brahmin family. Littlewood Landau–Ramanujan constant Mock theta functions Ramanujan conjecture Ramanujan prime Ramanujan–Soldner constant Ramanujan theta function Ramanujan's sum Rogers–Ramanujan identities Ramanujan's master theorem G. he sometimes rediscovered known theorems in addition to producing new work. Ramanujan was said to be a natural genius by the English mathematician G. and was given books on advanced trigonometry written by S. He demonstrated a natural ability. Hardy Signature Known for Influences Srinivasa Ramanujan FRS ( pronunciation (help·info)) (22 December 1887 – 26 April 1920) was an Indian mathematician and autodidact who. he even discovered theorems of his own. Ramanujan developed his own mathematical research in isolation. E. which was centered in Europe at the time. Ramanujan had conducted his own mathematical research on Bernoulli numbers and the Euler–Mascheroni constant. By 17. . Hardy. with almost no formal training in pure mathematics. number theory. Ramanujan's introduction to formal mathematics began at age 10. and rediscovered Euler's identity independently. recognizing the brilliance of his work. the Government of India declared that Ramanujan's birthday (22 December) should be celebrated every year as National Mathematics Day. He joined another college to pursue independent mathematical research.Ramanujan received a scholarship to study at Government College in Kumbakonam. search Swami Ramanuja . During his short lifetime. and also declared 2012 the National Mathematical Year. malnutrition.[6] However. and possibly liver infection in 1920 at the age of 32. Hardy. he sent samples of his theorems to three academics at the University of Cambridge. G. H. invited Ramanujan to visit and work with him at Cambridge. such as the Ramanujan prime and the Ramanujan theta function. Ramanujan independently compiled nearly 3900 results (mostly identities and equations). working as a clerk in the Accountant-General's office at the Madras Port Trust Office to support himself. Srinivasa died of illness. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. The Ramanujan Journal. in recognition of his contribution to mathematics. although a small number of these results were actually false and some were already known. an international publication. but lost it when he failed his non-mathematical coursework. Cambridge. the mathematical mainstream has been rather slow in absorbing some of his major discoveries. was launched to publish work in all areas of mathematics influenced by his work.[5] He stated results that were both original and highly unconventional. and these have inspired a vast amount of further research.[3] In 1912–1913.[7] In December 2011. He became a Fellow of the Royal Society and a Fellow of Trinity College.[8][9] Ramanuja From Wikipedia.[4] Most of his claims have now been proven correct. Died 1137 CE Sri Rangam. Tamil Nadu. India Titles/honours Emberumaar. Sri Bhasyam. also called Ilaya Perumal (The Radiant one) 1017 CE Sriperumbudur. India. Yathiraja. Sriranga Gadhyam. VedAntha Saram. Guru Yamunacharya Philosophy Vishishtadvaita Literary works VedArtha Sangraham.Bhagavadh Ramanujacharya Born Lakshmana. Tamil Nadu. Gita Bhasyam. Udayavar. Sri Vaikuntha Gadhyam. SaranAgathi Gadhyam. VedAntha Deepam. Nitya Grantham . Most venerated acharya (teacher) in the philosophy of Sri Vaishnavism. he was quite concerned by how much emphasis Ramanuja placed on bhakti. Yadavaprakasa decided the young Ramanuja was becoming too much of a threat and plotted a way to kill him. Yadavaprakasa asked him to leave. After frequent clashes over interpretation. An alternative version is that one of Yadavaprakasa's students plotted to kill Ramanuja as a means of pleasing their teacher. Lakshmana Muni) was a theologian. one of the classical interpretations of the dominant Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. Ramanuja travelled to Srirangam to meet an aging Yamunacharya. He took initiation from Yadavaprakasa. Yamunacharya had died prior to Ramanuja's arrival. Yadavaprakasa was horrified when learnt about the conspiracy. a renowned Advaitic scholar. Ramanuja's cousin Govinda Bhatta (a favourite of Yadavaprakasa) discovered the plot and helped him escape. . He is seen by Śrīvaiṣṇavas as the most important teacher (ācārya) of their tradition who followed Nathamuni and Yamunacharya. and scriptural exegete. also known as Śrī Ramanujacharya. a philosopher of the remergent Vishishtadvaita school of thought. but Sri Ramanuja escaped in the afore-mentioned manner. and by Hindus in general as the leading expounder of Viśiṣṭādvaita. Ethirajar (Yatiraja). Though his new guru was highly impressed with his analytical ability.Part of a series on Hindu philosophy Schools[show] Personalities[show] v t e Śrī Ramanuja (traditionally 1017–1137.[1 From a young age. Ramanuja returned to Yadavaprakasa's tutelage but after another disagreement. After renouncing the life of a householder. Yamunacharya. philosopher. Ramanuja's childhood mentor. his intelligence and ability to comprehend highly abstract philosophical points were legendary. However. suggested he meet with Kancipurna's own guru. Udayavar. Emberumannar. Kancipurna. Moinuddin Chishti From Wikipedia. and took the name Vishnuvardhana meaning "one who grows the sect of Vishnu"[citation needed]. the author of Vishnu Purana should be perpetuated. Many of them. having philosophical debates with the custodians of various Vishnu temples. who was a Srivaishnavite. Ramanuja standardized the liturgy at these temples and increased the standing and the membership of the srivaishnava school of thought. in some legends after Ramanuja cured his daughter of evil spirits. became his disciples. Mahapurna although he did not formally join the community for another year. That the name of Paraśara. the three fingers on the corpse straightened. Ramanuja realized that his life as a householder was interfering with his philosophical pursuit as he and his wife had differing views. The name of Saint Śaţhakopa should be perpetuated by writing a commentary on the Tiruvoimozhi Legend goes that on hearing the vow. Ramanuja and a few of his followers moved to the Hoysala kingdom of Jain king Bittideva and queen Shantala Devi in Karnataka. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Ramanuja saw this and understood that Yamunacharya was concerned about three tasks. Ramanuja's wife followed very strict brahminical rules of the time and disparaged Mahapurna's wife as being of lower subcaste. Ramanuja re-established the liturgy in the Cheluvanarayana temple in Melukote In Mandya District and Vishnuvardhana re-built it and also built other Vishnu temples like Chennakesava Temple and Hoysaleswara Temple. the queen and many of the ministers remained Jain and the kingdom was known for its tolerance. Mahapurna and his wife left Srirangam. search Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti . He wrote his books during this time. Ramanuja. However. after losing the debates. Ramanuja started travelling the land. Ramanuja accepted Yamunacharya as his Manasika Acharya and spent 6 months being introduced to Yamunacharya's philosophy by his disciple. Ramanuja vowed to complete these- Write a Visishtadvaita Bhashya for the Brahma Sutras of Vyasa which had previously been taught orally to the disciples of the Visishtadvaita philosophy. Bittideva converted to Srivaishanavism. might have faced threats from some Shaivite Chola rulers who were religiously intolerant .Followers of Ramanuja relate the legend that three fingers of Yamunacharya's corpse were curled. He sent her to her parents' house and renounced family and became a sanyasin. Khalifa Title Period in office Predecessor Successor Late 12th century and early 13th century Usman Harooni Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki . Religion Other name(s) Personal 1141 Khorasan (in modern Afghanistan) or Isfahan (in modern Iran) 1230 Ajmer Islam Hazrat Khwaja Gharīb Nawāz Born Died Senior posting Based in Ajmer.Dargah of Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer. Northern India ن واز غری بGharīb Nawāz ، ال ہ ند Sultan-ul-Hind (emperor of India) Shaikh. India. They lay stress on renunciation of material goods. Farīduddīn's most famous disciple was Nizāmuddīn Auliyā' (d. nor did his immediate disciples. . The Mughal Emperor undertook an unceremonial journey on foot to accomplish his wish to reach Ajmer. strict regime of self-discipline and personal prayer. Moinuddin Chishti introduced and established the order in South Asia. both of which deal with the Islamic code of living. and tolerance and respect for religious differences. he is the most famous Sufi saint of the Chishti Order of the Indian Subcontinent. Bakhtiyar Kaki. 1235) and Ḥamīduddīn Nagorī (d. including rejection of monetary and land grants. comprising Moinuddin Chishti. 1265)." It was during the reign of Emperor Akbar (1556–1605) that Ajmer emerged as one of the most important centers of pilgrimage in India. Pakistan. The initial spiritual chain or silsila of the Chishti order in India." The highest form of devotion. Among Quṭbuddīn Baktiyār's prominent disciples was Farīduddīn Ganj-i-Shakar (d. in the city of Ajmer in North India. participation in Samā' as a legitimate means to spiritual transformation.[5] Moinuddin Chishti established the order in India. but the central principles that became characteristics of the Chishtī order in India are based on his teachings and practices. reliance on either cultivation or unsolicited offerings as means of basic subsistence. constitutes the great Sufi saints of Indian history.Sultan-ul-Hind. in other words. according to him. through sharing of food and wealth.Čištī) (Arabic: ش ش تى. The Akbarnāmah records that the Emperor's interest first sparked when he heard some minstrels singing songs about the virtues of the Walī (Friend of God) who lay asleep in Ajmer. 1276) were Moinuddin Chishtī's celebrated Khalīfas or successors who continued to transmit the teachings of their master through their disciples. whose dargāh is located in South Delhi. independence from rulers and the state. Baba Farid and Nizamuddin Auliya (each successive person being the disciple of the previous one). Moinuddin Chishti (Urdu/Persian: ( )چ ش تی ال دی مع یPersian: چ ش تی. interpreted religion in terms of human service and exhorted his disciples "to develop river-like generosity. whose dargāh is at Pakpattan. 1325) popularly referred to as Mahbūb-e-Ilāhī (God's beloved). Moinuddin Chishtī authored several books including Anīs al-Arwāḥ and Dalīl al-'Ārifīn. sun-like affection and earth-like hospitality.[1] Establishing the Chishtī order in India The Chishtī order was founded by Abu Ishaq Shami (“the Syrian”) in Chisht. generosity to others. He.Shishti) was born in 1141 and died in 1230 CE. Also known as Gharīb Nawāz "Benefactor of the Poor" ()ن واز غری ب. particularly. Quṭbuddīn Baktiyār Kākī (d. Moinuddin Chishti apparently never wrote down his teachings in the form of a book. was "to redress the misery of those in distress – to fulfill the needs of the helpless and to feed the hungry. leading to the widespread proliferation of the Chishtī Order in India. some 95 miles east of Herat in present-day western Afghanistan. 1847 (aged 79) Carnatic music Born Died Genres . search Tyāgarāja Background information Native name May 4. Tamil Nadu. Tyagaraja From Wikipedia. disciples branched out to establish dargāhs in several regions of South Asia. and the Deccan in the south. from Sindh in the west to Bengal in the east. 1767 Tiruvarur. Tiruvarur District. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. But from all the network of Chishtī dargāhs the Ajmer dargāh took on the special distinction of being the 'mother' dargah of them all. India January 6.From Delhi. to Kakarla Ramabrahmam and Sitamma in a Telugu Brahmin family of the Mulukanadu subsect.who is generally considered to be the 4th trinity of carnatic music. Tyagayya and Tyāgarājar. Of special mention are five of his compositions called the Pancharatna Krithis (English: 'five gems').1 Films on Tyagaraja (biographical) 5 Compositions 6 See also 7 References 8 External links [edit] Personal life and background Tyagaraja was born in 1767 in Tiruvarur. in what is now called Tamil Nadu. 1767–January 6.He is known as the 'pithamaha' (godfather) of carnatic music. most of them in praise of Lord Rama — most of which remain very popular even today. Contents [hide] 1 Personal life and background 2 Musical career 3 Remembrance 4 Popular culture o 4. He. was one of the greatest composers of Carnatic music or classical South Indian music. 1847). He was a prolific composer and highly influential in the development of the South Indian classical music tradition. along with his contemporaries Muthuswami Dikshitar and Shyama Shastry.Occupations Carnatic Composer Kakarla Tyagabrahmam (Telugu: కాకర్ల త్యాగబ్రహ్మం). colloquially known as Tyāgarāju (Telugu: త్యాగరాజు). Tiruvarur district.The Kriti Endaro Mahanabavulu in the ragam sri which was composed by Thyagaraja after meeting Shadkala Govinda Marar from Kerala is considered to be his greatest composition. the presiding deity of the temple at Tiruvarur. forms the Trinity of Carnatic music. Tyagaraja was born at his . which are often sung in programs in his honor.He was also a contemporary of the great Malayali musician king Sri Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma. after Lord Tyagaraja. Tyagaraja composed thousands of devotional compositions. (May 4.[1] He was named Tyagaraja. maternal grandfather Giriraja Kavi's house. 1872 Kurundwad Kurundwad. 1931) was a Hindustani musician. Contents . and founded the Gandharva Mahavidyalaya in 1901. India August 21. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Giriraja Kavi was a poet-composer in the court of the king of Thanjavur. Giriraja was born in Kakarla village. Cumbum taluk in Kurnool district. Bombay Presidency. search Vishnu Digambar Paluskar Background information August 18. Andhra Pradesh. 1931 (aged 59) Hindustani classical music singer 1890–1931 Born Origin Died Genres Occupations Years active Pandit Vishnu Digambar Paluskar (August 18. 1872 – August 21. He sung the original version of the bhajan Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar From Wikipedia. presently in Maharashtra. He went to a local school in Kurundwad for primary education. He studied Brijbhasha. But tragedy struck Paluskar at an early age. there was no immediate treatment available and Paluskar lost his eyesight.1 Gandharva Mahavidyalaya 3 Independence struggle 4 Death and legacy 5 See also 6 References 7 Further reading [edit] Early life and background Vishnu Digambar Paluskar was born in Kurundwad. Being a small town. well known for their patronage of musicians. spoken at Mathura. He went from place to place and visited many royal families in cities like Baroda and Gwalior. Paluskar trained under him for 12 years till in 1896 the relations between the teacher and student became strained. His father. [edit] Gandharva Mahavidyalaya . In 1901. Till then. concerts were given only in palaces or temples. During a Hindu festival called Datta Jayanti.[1] [edit] Musical Journey After that Paluskar began touring the country and studied the musical traditions in each part of Northern India. a dialect of Hindi.[hide] 1 Early life and background 2 Musical Journey o 2. he reached Lahore. a learned musician. was a singer of Kirtan—a religious song. The king of Miraj recognising the talent in the boy put him under the guidance of Balakrishnabuwa Ichalkaranjikar. Vishnu Digambar met Pandit Chandan Chaube and learnt Dhrupad music from him. a small town falling under the Deccan division of Bombay Presidency during British rule. Digambar Gopal Paluskar. a fire-cracker burst near his face damaging both his eyes. where he decided to establish a music school. But he broke a long standing tradition of Indian music by giving a public concert in Saurashtra and charging a nominal fee. rather than royal patronage.[1] This was a school open to all and one of the first in India to run on public support and donations. Paluskar went to Bombay (now Mumbai) to establish another branch of the School. a School to impart formal training in Indian classical music. In September 1908. Many students from the School's early batches became respected musicians and teachers in North India. Paluskar used to attend the conventions of the Indian National Congress and sing his own composition of Vande Mataram. in Raga Kafi. Paluskar was interested in India's independence movement.On May 5. he shifted the school from Lahore to Bombay. As the work-load increased. To settle debts.[2] [edit] Independence struggle As much as he wanted to liberate classical music from dogmatic chains. he sang a composition of the famous song Pagree Sambhal Jatta. search Raja Ravi Rama Varma . When the brave Lala Lajpat Rai was arrested in 1907. 1901 Paluskar founded the Gandharva Mahavidyalaya. who were treated with disdain earlier. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation.[3] Paluskar was a master at setting old religious songs to classical tunes . the national song of India.the famous being Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram. he took loans. To accommodate all the students.[5] Raja Ravi Varma From Wikipedia. It was a challenge to the traditional method where a student lived under the teacher's roof. Paluskar was asked to perform at the Royal Garden of Lahore. Such was his fame that when King George V came to India. This was Gandhi's favourite Bhajan and was sung daily by the satyagrahis during the famous Dandi March. he gave several public concerts. This brought respect to musicians.[4] He also composed a variation of the patriotic song Saare Jahan Se Achcha. built a new building for the school and hostel as well. Paluskar's creditors attached his properties and auctioned off the school. But while on a concert tour in 1924. reproductions being found in almost every middle-class home. Travancore October 2. 1848[1] Kilimanoor. 1848 . 1906) was an Indian painter from the princely state of Travancore (presently in Kerala) who achieved recognition for his depiction of scenes from the epics of the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Contents . 1906 (aged 58) Kilimanoor. He is considered among the greatest painters in the history of Indian art.Born April 29. India Painter Died Occupation Signature Raja Ravi Varma (Malayalam: രാജാ രവി വര്മ്മ) (April 29. During his lifetime Varma is most remembered for his paintings of sari-clad women portrayed as shapely and graceful.October 2.[2] His exposure in the west came when he won the first prize in the Vienna Art Exhibition in 1873. His paintings are considered to be among the best examples of the fusion of Indian traditions with the techniques of European academic art. Travancore. Varma's paintings became an important motif in of the time. Raja Ravi Varma died in 1906 at the age of 58. and his mother Umayamba Thampuratti (died 1886) was a poet and writer whose work Parvati Swayamvaram was published by Raja Ravi Varma after her death. in the erstwhile princely state of Travancore (Thiruvithankur) in Kerala. His siblings were C. Goda .1 English 7.[hide] 1 Early life 2 Art career 3 Honours 4 Personal life 5 List of major works 6 Popular Culture 7 Bibliography o o o 7. His father Ezhumavail Neelakanthan Bhattatiripad was an accomplished scholar.2 Malayalam 7.3 Marathi 8 See also 9 Notes and references 10 External links [edit] Early life The studio used by Raja Ravi Varma during his stay at the Laxmi Vilas Palace Raja Ravi Varma was born as Ravi Varma Koil Thampuran of Kilimanoor palace. He is often criticized for being too showy and sentimental in his style. The Maharashtrian Lady . C. However his work remains very popular in India.7 kilometers from Pazhayachanda and 36 km from Trivandrum.Varma (born 1854). [edit] Art career Raja Ravi Varma received widespread acclaim after he won an award for an exhibition of his paintings at Vienna in 1873. Raja Ravi Varma High School at Kilimanoor was named for him.[3] He was trained in water painting by Rama Swami Naidu and later in oil painting by Dutch portraitist Theodor Jenson. whom he considered beautiful. He often modeled Hindu Goddesses on South Indian women.[4] He travelled throughout India in search of subjects. Raja Ravi Varma's paintings were also sent to the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893 and he was awarded two gold medals. from the Mahabharata. Ravi Varma's representation of mythological characters has become a part of the Indian imagination of the epics. and Nala and Damayanti. Raja Raja Varma (born 1860) and Mangala Bayi Thampuratti. 7. At a young age he secured the patronage of HH Maharajah Ayilyam Thirunal of Travancore (a relative) and began formal training thereafter. who was also a painter. His palace is nearly six kilometers from Ponganadu. the capital of Kerala. There are many cultural organizations throughout Kerala in his name. His many fabulous paintings are available at Laxmi Vilas Palace of Vadodara. Ravi Varma is particularly noted for his paintings depicting episodes from the story of Dushyanta and Shakuntala. as Jatayu attempted to intercede in the demon's kidnapping of Sita.Indian women dressed in regional attire playing a variety of musical instruments popular in different parts of the country."Galaxy of Musicians". . The demi-god vulture Jatayu is struck down by the demon Ravana. Kanayi Kunhiraman (2005) V. the Government of Kerala has instituted an award called Raja Ravi Varma Puraskaram. art critic Rupika Chawla and artist A Ramachandran jointly curated a large exhibition of Raja Ravi Varma's works at the National Museum. Awardees include: K. which is awarded every year to people who show excellence in the field of art and culture. .V. At this time his name was mentioned as "Raja Ravi Varma" for the first time. New Delhi.[3] In 1993. on behalf of the King Emperor bestowed upon Raja Ravi Varma the Kaiseri-Hind Gold Medal.G. raising objections from Maharajah Moolam Thirunal of Travancore and besides. Considering his vast contribution to Indian art.Damayanti sending a message to Nala via a swan [edit] Honours In 1904 Viceroy Lord Curzon. the name of the maternal uncle (Raja Raja Varma) was prefixed to the name. Thereafter he was always referred to as Raja Ravi Varma. S. Devan (2002) A Ramachandran (2003) Vasudevan Namboodiri (2004). Valiathan (2006) The renewed interest in Raja Ravi Varma has spilled into the area of popular culture as films and music videos have started using his images. as per the Marumakkathayam tradition. Subramaniam (2001) M. 1941 (aged 28) Lahore. There are many cultural organizations throughout Kerala in his name Amrita Sher-Gil From Wikipedia. Raja Ravi Varma High School at Kilimanoor was named after him. 1913 Budapest. present day Pakistan Indian painter Grande Chaumiere École des Beaux-Arts (1930-34) Died Nationality Field Training . the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Kerala.A college dedicated to fine arts was also constituted in his honour at Mavelikara. search Amrita Born January 30. Hungary December 5. He mainly painted abstract compositions notably with modern idiom. he was a talented painter whose achievements in painting have not been recognized as they have to be.Amrita Sher-Gil (Punjabi: ਅੰ ਿ ਮ੍ਤਾ ਸ਼ੇਰਿਿਲ) ( ) (January 30.[25] and a road in Lutyens' Delhi. by Javed Siddiqi. was an eminent Indian painter born to a Punjabi Sikh father and a Hungarian mother.an oil painting. in 1993.[5] Legacy The Government of India has declared her works as National Art Treasures. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. his paintings too are simply elegant with rural themes mainly of his native place Bankura. the famous Urdu play. was named after her. starring Shabana Azmi and Farooq Shaikh. India Ramkinker Vaij (1910-1980) was a modern Indian painter and sculptor born in West Bengal. Do you wish to add content Sonal Mansingh From Wikipedia. Picnic.[1] – December 5. sometimes known as India's Frida Kahlo. Amrita Shergill Marg.[24] and a postage stamp depicting her painting 'Hill Women' was released in 1978 in India. Shown in the video is a collection of his paintings such as Binodini (1948). Besides remaining an inspiration to many a contemporary Indian artists.[26] Her work is a key theme in the contemporary Indian novel "Faking It" by Amrita Chowdhury Collection of Ramkinker Vaij's paintings.[2] and most of them are housed in the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi. Although he is known for his expressionistic and exuberant sculptures.an oil painting. whose legacy stands at par with that of the Masters of Bengal Renaissance. Like his sculptures. 1941). Threshing.[3][4] she is also the 'most expensive' woman painter of India.[2] and today considered an important woman painter of 20th century India. she also became the inspiration behind. Tumhari Amrita (1992). Maternity. 1913. search Sonal Mansingh . choreographer 1962–present www. who is also proficient in other Indian classical dancing styles including Bharatnatyam. Background information Birth name Sonal Pakvasa April 30.[4] Contents [hide] 1 Early life and background 2 Career 3 Choreographies 4 Quotes . British India India Indian classical music Indian classical dancer. 1944) is an eminent Indian classical dancer and choreographer of Odissi dancing style. and Chhau.[2][3] She was married and divorced to former Indian diplomat Lalit Mansingh.in Born Origin Genres Occupations Years active Website Sonal Mansingh (born Apr 30.[1] Kuchipudi.Sonal Mansingh performing in New Delhi.sonalmansingh. 1944 (age 68) Mumbai. second of three children to Arvind and Poornima Pakvasa. Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987 . to learn Bharatanatyam from Prof. a noted social worker from Gujarat and Padma Bhushan winner in 2004. 2007. (Hons) degree in German Literature from Elphinstone College. a freedom fighter. she was conferred with Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by . from a teacher in Nagpur. U. she founded. S. Mansingh was first married to former Indian diplomat Lalit Mansingh. her real training in dance started when at age 18.[6] including Kumar Jayakar in Bombay [7] She has "Praveen" and "Kovid" degrees in Sanskrit from Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan and B.[5] She started learning Manipuri dance at age four. and later started learning Odissi from Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra in 1965. in 2003. Her father-in-law Mayadhar Mansingh introduced her to Kelucharan Mohapatra where she had her training in Odissi. despite her family's opposition.[9] The couple decided to divorce later. dance has taken her all over the world [11] and brought her many awards. 5 Bibliography 6 Further reading 7 See also 8 References 9 External links [edit] Early life and background Sonal Mansingh was born in Mumbai. India's the second highest civilian award. in 2006 and on April 21. and in 1977.[12] and the Padma Vibhushan. after her arangetram in Mumbai. Krishna Rao and Chandrabhaga Devi [8] at age 18.A. Bombay. Centre for Indian Classical Dances (CICD) in New Delhi. and one of the first five Governors of India. making her the second woman dancer in India to receive such an honour after Balasaraswati. including the Padma Bhushan (1992). she went to Bangalore. Though.[2][10] Over the years. Her grandfather was Mangal Das Pakvasa. abhinaya from Mylapore Gowri Ammal.[13] This was followed by Kalidas Samman of Madhya Pradesh government. then at age seven she started learning Bharatnatyam from various gurus belonging to the Pandanallur school. along with her elder sister.[4] [edit] Career Sonal Mansingh dancing career which started in 1962. The Bhangis are the basic poses and the Karanas the basic danceunits. Himself an expert dancer and musician.G. Samyukta Panigrahi to have made it acquire universal appreciation. Today kelucharan Mahapatra has become a name to reckon with as a pre-eminent guru. Prakash Jha made a documentary film on her.[2] which also won the National Film Award for Best Non-Feature Film for the year. We have of the existence of the art of dance in Orissa is during the 2nd century B. Uttarakhand at Pantnagar and Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) by Sambalpur University. when the jain King Karavela ruled. Pallavi and lighter items like the Ashtapadi ending in moksha approximating to the Thillana of the South. Grace is its uniqueness and the most important elements are the Bhangis and Karanas.[15] India Dance : Odissi This is also based on the Natya Shastra and the earliest evidence. Prithviraj Kapoor From Wikipedia. he arranged a performance of Thandava and Abhinaya. The format consists of Bhumi Pranam. It has gained great popularity today and it is to the credit of Srm. They dressed as dancing girls and danced in the temples. Batu.C. search Prithviraj Kapoor . a class of boys known as Cotipuas. Pant University. title Sonal. came into being. noted Hindi film director. In the early 17th century.[14] To mark the completion of her 40 years in dancing in 2002. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation.B. Jana Gana Mana From Wikipedia.Prithviraj Kapoor in 1929 3 November 1901 Lyallpur. who started his career as an actor. in 1942. associated with IPTA and who founded Prithvi Theatres. 3 November 1901 – 29 May 1972) was a Born Died Years active Spouse(s) Relatives Prithviraj Kapoor (Hindi: pioneer of Indian theatre and of the Hindi film industry. the free encyclopedia . Punjab (now in) Pakistan 29 May 1972 (aged 70) 1927–1971 Ramsarni "Rama" Mehra (1918–1972) Kapoor family . have played active roles in Hindi film industry. four generations of which family.[1] He was also the patriarch of the Kapoor family of Hindi films. beginning with him. in the silent era of Hindi cinema. Pṛithvīrāj Kapūr). a travelling theatre company based in Mumbai. The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Bhushan in 1969 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1971 for his contributions towards Indian cinema. Bengali: জন গণ মন Sanskrit: जन गण मन English: Thou Art the Ruler of the Minds of All People Jôno Gôno Mono. 1911 24 January 1950 Music sample . National anthem of India Lyrics Music Adopted Rabindranath Tagore. 1911 Rabindranath Tagore.Jump to: navigation. For the song from which the anthem was excerpted. see Jana Gana Mana (hymn). Jana Gaṇa Mana Sheet music for "Jana Gana Mana". search This article is about the national anthem of India. 27 December 2011 marked the completion of 100 years of Jana Gana Mana since it was sung for the first time.[2][3] As there is enormous diversity in Indian languages. This makes the song understandable to non-Bengali speaking Indians. It was "Sukh Chain Ki Barkha Barase. translated by Ali and based on the poem by Tagore. It was first sung in [1] Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress on 27 December 1911. The original Hindi version of the song Jana Gana Mana. it is the first of five stanzas of a Brahmo hymn composed and scored by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. "Jana Gana Mana" was officially adopted by the Constituent Assembly as the Indian national anthem on 24 January 1950.. The original poem written by Rabindranath Tagore was translated into Hindi by Abid Ali.Jana Gana Mana (Instrumental) [show]Music of India o "Jana Gana Mana "*α+ (Bengali: জন গণ মন.[2][3][4] [5][6][7][8] . it is interesting to know how the National Anthem that is written in Bengali can be understood by other Indians who do not know Bengali. was a little different.. Sanskrit: जन गण मन) is the national anthem of India.". Jana Gana Mana was officially adopted by the Constituent Assembly as the Indian national anthem on 24 January 1950.. Bharat Bhagya Hai Jaga. The song has a lot of Sanskrit words that also are found in the majority of Indian languages with the same meaning. Written in highly Sanskritised (Tatsama) Bengali. On the evening of 28 February 1919 he joined a gathering of students and upon Cousins' request. it is done in the traditional grandiose Martial Style of music.[9] Tagore wrote down the English translation[10] of the song and along with Margaret Cousins (an expert in European music and wife of Irish poet James Cousins). the framed original English translation of Jana gana Mana. in the library of Besant Theosophical College in Madanapalle. During 1919. Tatva Bodha Prakasika.[11] a town located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh state. Cousins to spend a few days at the Besant Theosophical College situated at Madanapalle of which Cousins was the principal. Though the Bengali song had been written in 1911. titled as The Morning Song of India in Tagore's handwriting. which is followed only when the song is sung in the original slow rendition style of singing. Tagore accepted an invitation from friend and controversial Irish poet James H. of which Tagore was the editor. set down the notation which is followed till this day. is displayed. In the days that followed. Instructions have been issued from time to time about the correct versions of the Anthem. Rabindranath Tagore translated "Jana Gana Mana" from Bengali to English and also set it to music in Madanapalle. India. it was largely unknown except to the readers of the Brahmo Samaj journal. selected it as their prayer song. However. A shortened version consisting of the first and last lines (and taking about 20 seconds to play) is also staged occasionally. greatly impressed by the lofty ideals of the song and the praise to God. Margaret (an expert in Western music). Tagore wrote down the English translation of the song and along with Cousins' wife. and about the need for paying respect to the anthem by observance of proper decorum on such . when the National Anthem version of the song is sung. the occasions on which these are to be played or sung. The song was carried beyond the borders of India by the college students and became The Morning Song of India[10] and subsequently the national anthem. enchanted by the dreamy hills of Madanapalle. Musical composition and English translation Courtyard in Madanapalle where Jana Gana Mana was first sung. Today. sang the Jana Gana Mana in Bengali.A formal rendition of the national anthem takes fifty-two seconds. set down the notation at Madanapalle in Andhra Pradesh.[12] [edit] Code of conduct The National Anthem of India is played or sung on various occasions. The college authorities. The second day was entirely devoted to things connected with the welcoming of King George V."[13] [edit] Conclusion Jana Gana Mana is India's national anthem written in Sanskritised Bengali by poet Rabindranath Tagore. It caused a great stir in my heart. King George V was scheduled to arrive in the city on 30 December and a section of the Anglo-Indian English press in Calcutta thought – and duly reported – that Tagore's anthem was a homage to the emperor. In response to that great mental turmoil. could never be George V. I pronounced the victory in Jana Gana Mana of that Bhagya Vidhata [ed. that Reader of the Collective Mind of India. had requested that I write a song of felicitation towards the Emperor. search Gorkha National Liberation Front . God of Destiny] of India who has from age after age held steadfast the reins of India's chariot through rise and fall. or any other George. Even my official friend understood this about the song.occasions. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Tagore's own statement however refutes the belief that the song was written in praise of George V: In a letter to Pulin Behari Sen. The Calcutta Congress session began on 26 December 1911.[9] [edit] Controversy Controversy shadowed Jana Gana Mana from the day of its first rendition in 1911 at the Congress session in Calcutta. who was also my friend. that Perennial Guide. George VI. and this day the song Janaganamana was sung.[13] The poet rebutted such claims in a letter written in 1939: "I should only insult myself if I cared to answer those who consider me capable of such unbounded stupidity. even if his admiration for the crown was excessive. The proceedings on the first day began with Vandemataram." Gorkha National Liberation Front From Wikipedia. After all. The request simply amazed me. That Lord of Destiny. "A certain high official in His Majesty's service. The substance of these instructions has been embodied in the information sheet issued by the government of India for general information and guidance. he was not lacking in simple common sense. Tagore later wrote. through the straight path and the curved. Chairperson Founded Politics of India Political parties Elections Subhash Ghisingh 1980 Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) (Nepali: ) is a political party in the Darjeeling District of West Bengal.1 State assembly 2. India.2 Lok Sabha 3 Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council 4 Sixth Schedule 5 Downfall 6 West Bengal assembly elections 2011 7 References [edit] Early history .[1] Contents [hide] 1 Early history 2 Electoral history o o 2. It was formed in 1980 by Subhash Ghisingh with the objective of demanding a Gorkhaland state within India. 1998. In the 2009 elections. 2001. GNLF boycotted the Lok Sabha elections in 1996. one each from Darjeeling. After some initial support. [edit] Lok Sabha In 1989. which created the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC) in exchange for the GNLF giving up its demand for Gorkhaland. GNLF won three assembly seats. the State Government and the GNLF for the establishment of a Sixth Schedule tribal council called the Gorkha Hill Council in the DGHC area on 6 December 2005. which were won by CPI(M) candidates. a former journalist covering the Gorkhaland agitation and a close friend of Subhash Ghisingh.During the 1980s. Ahead of the 2004 Lok Sabha elections. In the assembly elections in 1996. Dooars and Terai). won the Darjeeling (Lok Sabha constituency) elections. who won the Lok Sabha elections riding on GNLF support. GNLF was out of power in the hills and did not field any candidate or support any party and the Lok Sabha seat was won by Jaswant Singh of BJP with the support from GJMM. the GNLF supported the Congress party candidate Dawa Narbula. However. GNLF supported Inderjeet as the Indian National Congress candidate in 1991. Bimal quickly capitalized on the public support he received for supporting Prashant. Riding on a mass support for Prashant Tamang. who won with a big margin from the Darjeeling constituency. the GNLF led an intensive and often violent campaign for the creation of a separate Gorkhaland state in the Nepali-speaking areas of northern West Bengal (Darjeeling.[4] Resentment among the former councillors of DGHC grew rapidly. decided to break away from the GNLF. an Indian Idol contestant from Darjeeling. [edit] Electoral history [edit] State assembly GNLF boycotted the West Bengal state assembly elections in 1991. Bimal Gurung.[2] The movement reached its peak around 1985–1986. Kalimpong and Kurseong.[3] [edit] Sixth Schedule A Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) was signed between the Central Government. Among them. signed the Darjeeling Hill Accord. and 2006. once the trusted aide of Ghising. [edit] Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council The GNLF administered the DGHC with Subhash Ghisingh as the chairman of the council from 1988 to 2004 for three successive terms. GNLF candidate Inderjeet Khuller. there was widespread opposition to the Sixth Schedule council. under Subhash Ghisingh. On 22 August 1988. and 1999. the GNLF. and was able to overthrow Ghisingh from the seat . Subhash Ghisingh was appointed the sole caretaker of the DGHC from 2005 to 2008 as no election for the DGHC was held. led by leaders like Madan Tamang of ABGL. [edit] Downfall The DGHC elections were due in 2004. the government decided not to hold elections and instead made Subhash Ghisingh the sole caretaker of the DGHC till the Sixth Schedule council was established. of power. Ghising decided to shift residence to Jalpaiguri and GNLF lost most of its support and cadres to Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, a new party headed by Bimal Gurung. [edit] West Bengal assembly elections 2011 After lying in political hibernation for three years, GNLF chief Subhash Ghisingh announced that his party would contest the West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections 2011. Subhash Ghisingh returned to Darjeeling on 8 April 2011 ahead of the assembly elections after three years of "exile".[5] All the three GNLF candidates, Bhim Subba from Darjeeling, Prakash Dahal from Kalimpong and Pemu Chettri from Kurseong lost the elections held on 18 April 2011.[6] Bru National Liberation Front Formation The Bru National Liberation Front (BNLF) is an armed outfit of the Reangs and is currently engaged in negotiations with Mizoram government. It was formed in 1996 following violent clashes between ethnic Mizos and Reang tribesmen in the Mamith sub-division of Mizoram State. The immediate cause of the conflict was the demand for an Autonomous District Council (ADC) by the Bru National Union (BNU), a political organisation of Reangs that was formed in year 1994. The BNU anchored its demand in the presence of a majority of Reangs in the sub-division, and declared that their rights––political, economic and cultural among others––were not justifiably protected under the prevailing political arrangement. The Reang Democratic Convention Party (RDCP), another Reang organisation, passed a resolution in this regard. This reportedly provoked Mizo organisations like Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) and Young Mizo Association (YMA)––fearing geographical division of Mizoram––to organise violent attacks, in October 1997, on Reang settlements. As a result, approximately 32,000 Reangs were displaced in the conflict and have since been staying in refugee camps in the Kanchanpur sub-division of the neighbouring Tripura State. The outfit’s cadre strength is estimated to be a little over 100. Aims & Objectives The outfit proclaims its primary objective as the protection of rights and dignity of Reangs. The demands put forth by BNLF and its pattern of behaviour exhibit its other aims and objectives as well. BNLF also endeavours to protect the religious identity of Reangs, which it claims to be Hinduism. This is manifested in its vehement opposition to the alleged imposition of Christianity on Reangs. It has also demanded a separate Reang homeland in Mizoram. Subsequently, it transformed its stand and aimed to achieve a separate ADC, and reservation in the Mizoram Legislative Assembly for the community. Besides, it has also taken up with the Mizoram government the issue of repatriation of Reang refugees who had been displaced during the October 1997 ethnic clashes. Only recently, it has agreed to tone down its demand for an ADC and settle for a regional council. Leadership Surajmani Reang and Hmunsiama are 'president' and ‘deputy commander’ respectively of the outfit. Both had managed to escape from the clutches of National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) terrorists, who were holding them captive, in January 2001. Thang Masha is another important leader of the outfit. Other leaders of the outfit include A Joseph, ‘advisor’, Solomon Prophul, ‘general secretary’ and S. Bru, the ‘organising secretary’. The BNLF suffered its worst reverse when the then ‘general secretary’, Hambai Mshoy, and the then ‘army chief’, Sheing Molshoy, were killed in an internecine clash with the NLFT on July 9, 2000, at a camp in Bangladesh. Area of Operation & Strategy Areas in which BNLF cadres are active include parts of Mizoram, Tripura and Assam. The areas where the outfit has carried out major attacks include the Mamit and Lunglei districts of Mizoram, the Hailakandi district of Assam and Kanchanpur sub-division of North Tripura district. The BNLF is also known to be operating in the dense forests along the Mizoram-Tripura border. Besides, its hideouts are located in the Bhuban Hills of Cachar district in Assam. The outfit is involved in selective abduction for ransom, which is a major source of finance for the terrorist group. In this, non-Reangs and Mizo Christians are the primary targets. Besides, the BNLF is also involved in violent attacks not only against non-Reangs, but also against security force personnel. The outfit was also engaged in internecine clashes with other terrorist outfits in the Northeast, like the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT). Furthermore, its cadres carry out attacks with modern weapons like AK series assault rifles, grenades and bombs, and are well trained. The BNLF uses both conventional and guerrilla tactics in its attacks. Khalistan movement From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search A proposed flag for Khalistan Khalistan movement refers to a secessionist movement which seeks to create a separate sovereign Sikh state, called Khalistan ("The Land of the Pure") in the Punjab region of South Asia. The proposed territory of Khalistan includes the Indian state of Punjab, where Sikhs are the majority population. Besides, some proponents extend the territorial definition to include the greater Punjab region, which is roughly analogous to the historical Sikh Empire (1707–1849).[1][2][3] The Khalistan movement reached its zenith in 1970s and 1980s, flourishing in the Indian state of Punjab, which has a Sikh-majority population and has been the traditional birthplace and homeland of the Sikh religion. Various pro-Khalistan outfits have been involved in a separatist movement against the government of India ever since. There are claims of funding from Sikhs outside India to attract young people into these pro-Khalistan militant groups.[4] In 1971, Khalistan proponent Jagjit Singh Chauhan, traveled to the United States. He placed an advertisement in The New York Times proclaiming the formation of Khalistan and was able to collect millions of dollars.[5] On 12 April 1980, he held a meeting with the Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi before declaring the formation of "National Council of Khalistan", at Anandpur Sahib.[6] He declared himself as the President of the Council and Balbir Singh Sandhu as its Secretary General. In May 1980, Jagjit Singh Chauhan travelled to London and announced the formation of Khalistan. A similar announcement was made by Balbir Singh Sandhu, in Amritsar, who released stamps and currency of Khalistan. The inaction of the authorities in Amritsar and elsewhere was decried by Akali Dal headed by the Sikh leader Harchand Singh Longowal as a political stunt by the Congress(I) party of Indira Gandhi.[7] In the 1980s, some of the Khalistan proponents turned to militancy, resulting in counter-militancy operations by the Indian security forces. In one such operation, Operation Blue Star (June 1984), the Indian Army led by the Sikh General Kuldip Singh Brar forcibly entered the Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple) to overpower the armed militants and the religious leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. The handling of the operation, damage to the Akal Takht (which is one of the five seats of temporal physical religious authority of the Sikhs) and loss of life on both sides, led to widespread criticism of the Indian Government. Many Sikhs strongly maintain that the attack resulted in the desecration of the holiest Sikh shrine. The Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her two Sikh bodyguards in retaliation. Following her death, thousands of Sikhs including those opposed to the Khalistan movement, were massacred in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, termed as a genocide by the Sikh groups. In January 1986, the Golden Temple was occupied by militants belonging to All India Sikh Students Federation and Damdami Taksal.[8] On 26 January 1986, the gathering passed a resolution (gurmattā) favouring the creation of Khalistan. Subsequently, a number of rebel militant groups in favour of Khalistan waged a major insurgency against the government of India. Indian security forces suppressed the insurgency in the early 1990s, but Sikh political groups such as the Khalsa Raj Party and SAD (A) continued to pursue an independent Khalistan through non-violent means.[9][10][11] Pro-Khalistan organizations such as Dal Khalsa (International) are also active outside India, supported by a section of the Sikh diaspora. Contribution of Indians to Fiji's growth, development Sunil Kumar, PTI January 01, 0001 First Published: 16:20 IST(7/1/2005) Last Updated: 16:20 IST(7/1/2005) Share Share on facebookShare on linkedinShare on googleShare on emailmore. 0 Comments Email print Fiji is a small island state in the middle of the Pacific. It has a multiracial population of 800,000 comprising of 42% per cent Indians, 51% native Fijians and 7% mixed races. The Indians in Fiji are the third and fourth generation descendants of the British crown colony. Sir Arthur Gordon, the governor of Fiji in 1879, had sanctioned the first arrival of indentured labourers from India. He was given the task to govern Fiji within its means, which compelled him to recruit productive labour from India. The British steamer, Leonidas, brought the first 'cargo' of 464 Indians from India into Fiji on 15th May, 1879. This passage of indentured labourers from India continued until 1916 when it was brought to an end after Mahatma Gandhi intervened and requested the British to abolish it. Fiji has a total land area of 18,376 sq. km, which includes more than 320 small islands. The main economic activities, however, are concentrated on two major Islands namely, Viti Levu - the largest and Vanua Levu, the second largest. There are three other much smaller islands that have sizeable economies. The economy is of mixed nature, with a strong agricultural base. This aspect of the Fijian economy has much to do with the arrival of the indentured Indians in Fiji. The agricultural base of the country has been developed over the last century by the contribution of the migrant Indian population, who are known for their skills in agriculture. By the time the indenture system ended, a total of more than 60,000 labourers were already in Fiji toiling the sugarcane estates of the Colonial Sugar Refinery (CSR), an Australian sugar refinery company. The last batch of these labourers served the indenture until 1920. Those who finished serving the indenture became free and were given the chance to stay in Fiji as British subjects or travel back to India at the expense of the colonial government. Most of them opted to stay back in Fiji and made Fiji their home. They opted to stay in Fiji for various reasons but one important reason was that they were not able to save enough money to take home as they had planned when they left India. Saving money was not possible since the remuneration for the work done by them was very small and only enough for survival. The period of arrival of the Indians in Fiji was a new beginning for the Fijian archipelago, where tribal warfare, lawlessness and conflict between the European settlers and the natives were rampant and proved to be an economic disaster for the Europeans. The European capital assets were being wasted as a result of these conflicts and the Indian labourers were the only hope to bring prosperity to these Islands. They did exactly that. For more than 120 years now, the Indians have contributed enormously towards the economic and social development of Fiji, and generally the Pacific The indenture tenure was a nightmarish experience for those who served it. There are numerous stories of sufferings of the people. These are similar to the experiences of Indians who went to work in the other British sugar colonies like Jamaica. Trinidad, Guyana, Surinam, Mauritius and other places in continental Africa. The 'Girmityas', as they were commonly known, had to travel weeks of tortuous journey through many seas and straits into the Pacific Ocean. Often they had to live on scant food supply and crowded rooms onboard the ships. Medical facility and sanitation were almost nonexistent. THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF FIJI CALLS-ON THE PRESIDENT The President of India received this morning the President of Fiji who was in India on a private visit. This is the first President to be received by our President after assuming the office. The President of Fiji was also on his first visit to India and had stopped over in Delhi on his way back to Fiji from the London Olympics. The Hon'ble President of India extended a warm welcome to the President of Fiji and recollected the close historical relations between the two countries as well as presence of a large number of persons of Indian origin in Fiji. The Indian Cultural Center in Suva, set up in August 1972 is India's oldest cultural center in the world. The President called for an expansion of bilateral trade and investment. The Hon'ble President referred to the assistance provided to Fiji by India in the agriculture and sugar sectors. The Hon'ble President expressed happiness that India's development experience was being shared with Fiji through provision of training slots for Fiji nationals and scholarships for students. He referred to assistance being provided in the health sector as well as cooperation in the defence field. Fiji has recently joined the Non-Alignment Movement. The Hon'ble President welcomed its joining of NAM and the support provided by Fiji for reform of the UN Security Council as well as multilateral financial institutions. The President of Fiji congratulated the Hon'ble President on his attaining the pinnacle of his career. He said he was honoured to be the first President to call on the President of India. This was an honour to all the people of Fiji. He said Fiji has close cordial relations with India and was beneficiary of India's gracious assistance especially in the field of agriculture. Fiji has much to learn from India. The cultural center in Suva has added tradition and colour to the fabric of Fiji society. He said that the Prime Minister of Fiji had returned from India a few months back with glowing reports of his visit and Fiji looks forward to strengthening its relations with India in the coming years. The President of Fiji extended an invitation to the Hon'ble President to visit Fiji. Superconductivity From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search A magnet levitating above a high-temperature superconductor, cooled with liquid nitrogen. Persistent electric current flows on the surface of the superconductor, acting to exclude the magnetic field of the magnet (Faraday's law of induction). This current effectively forms an electromagnet that repels the magnet. A high-temperature superconductor levitating above a magnet Superconductivity is a phenomenon of exactly zero electrical resistance and expulsion of magnetic fields occurring in certain materials when cooled below a characteristic critical temperature. It was discovered by Heike Kamerlingh Onnes on April 8, 1911 in Leiden. Like ferromagnetism and atomic spectral lines, superconductivity is a quantum mechanical phenomenon. It is characterized by the Meissner effect, the complete ejection of magnetic field lines from the interior of the superconductor as it transitions into the superconducting state. The occurrence of the Meissner effect indicates that superconductivity cannot be understood simply as the idealization of perfect conductivity in classical physics. Meissner effect Main article: Meissner effect When a superconductor is placed in a weak external magnetic field H, and cooled below its transition temperature, the magnetic field is ejected. The Meissner effect does not cause the field to be completely ejected but instead the field penetrates the superconductor but only to a very small distance, characterized by a parameter λ, called the London penetration depth, decaying exponentially to zero within the bulk of the material. The Meissner effect is a defining characteristic of superconductivity. For most superconductors, the London penetration depth is on the order of 100 nm. The Meissner effect is sometimes confused with the kind of diamagnetism one would expect in a perfect electrical conductor: according to Lenz's law, when a changing magnetic field is applied to a conductor, it will induce an electric current in the conductor that creates an opposing magnetic field. In a perfect conductor, an arbitrarily large current can be induced, and the resulting magnetic field exactly cancels the applied field. The Meissner effect is distinct from this—it is the spontaneous expulsion which occurs during transition to superconductivity. Suppose we have a material in its normal state, containing a constant internal magnetic field. When the material is cooled below the critical temperature, we would observe the abrupt expulsion of the internal magnetic field, which we would not expect based on Lenz's law. The Meissner effect was given a phenomenological explanation by the brothers Fritz and Heinz London, who showed that the electromagnetic free energy in a superconductor is minimized provided where H is the magnetic field and λ is the London penetration depth. This equation, which is known as the London equation, predicts that the magnetic field in a superconductor decays exponentially from whatever value it possesses at the surface. A superconductor with little or no magnetic field within it is said to be in the Meissner state. The Meissner state breaks down when the applied magnetic field is too large. Superconductors can be divided into two classes according to how this breakdown occurs. In Type I superconductors, superconductivity is abruptly destroyed when the strength of the applied field rises above a critical value Hc. Depending on the geometry of the sample, one may obtain an intermediate state[10] consisting of a baroque pattern[11] of regions of normal material carrying a magnetic field mixed with regions of superconducting material containing no field. In Type II superconductors, raising the applied field past a critical value Hc1 leads to a mixed state (also known as the vortex state) in which an increasing amount of magnetic flux penetrates the material, but there remains no resistance to the flow of electric current as long as the current is not too large. At a second critical field strength Hc2, superconductivity is destroyed. The mixed state is actually caused by vortices in the electronic superfluid, sometimes called fluxons because the flux carried by these vortices is quantized. Most pure elemental superconductors, except niobium, technetium, vanadium and carbon nanotubes, are Type I, while almost all impure and compound superconductors are Type II. [edit] London moment Conversely, a spinning superconductor generates a magnetic field, precisely aligned with the spin axis. The effect, the London moment, was put to good use in Gravity Probe B. This experiment measured the magnetic fields of four superconducting gyroscopes to determine their spin axes. This was critical to the experiment since it is one of the few ways to accurately determine the spin axis of an otherwise featureless sphere. [edit] Theories of superconductivity Since the discovery of superconductivity, great efforts have been devoted to finding out how and why it works. During the 1950s, theoretical condensed matter physicists arrived at a solid understanding of "conventional" superconductivity, through a pair of remarkable and important theories: the phenomenological Ginzburg-Landau theory (1950) and the microscopic BCS theory (1957).[12][13] Generalizations of these theories form the basis for understanding the closely related phenomenon of superfluidity, because they fall into the Lambda transition universality class, but the extent to which similar generalizations can be applied to unconventional superconductors as well is still controversial. The four-dimensional extension of the Ginzburg-Landau theory, the Coleman-Weinberg model, is important in quantum field theory and cosmology. Superfluidity of helium and superconductivity both are macroscopic quantum phenomena. [edit] London theory The first phenomenological theory of superconductivity was London theory. It was put forward by the brothers Fritz and Heinz London in 1935, shortly after the discovery that magnetic fields are expelled from superconductors. A major triumph of the equations of this theory is their ability to explain the Meissner effect,[14] wherein a material exponentially expels all internal magnetic fields as it crosses the superconducting threshold. By using the London equation, one can obtain the dependence of the magnetic field inside the superconductor on the distance to the surface.[15] There are two London equations: TApplications Main article: Technological applications of superconductivity Video of superconducting levitation of YBCO Superconducting magnets are some of the most powerful electromagnets known. They are used in MRI/NMR machines, mass spectrometers, and the beam-steering magnets used in particle accelerators. They can also be used for magnetic separation, where weakly magnetic particles are extracted from a background of less or non-magnetic particles, as in the pigment industries. In the 1950s and 1960s, superconductors were used to build experimental digital computers using cryotron switches. More recently, superconductors have been used to make digital circuits based on rapid single flux quantum technology and RF and microwave filters for mobile phone base stations. Superconductors are used to build Josephson junctions which are the building blocks of SQUIDs (superconducting quantum interference devices), the most sensitive magnetometers known. SQUIDs are used in scanning SQUID microscopes and magnetoencephalography. Series of Josephson devices are used to realize the SI volt. Depending on the particular mode of operation, a superconductor-insulatorsuperconductor Josephson junction can be used as a photon detector or as a mixer. The large resistance change at the transition from the normal- to the superconducting state is used to build thermometers in cryogenic micro-calorimeter photon detectors. The same effect is used in ultrasensitive bolometers made from superconducting materials. Other early markets are arising where the relative efficiency, size and weight advantages of devices based on high-temperature superconductivity outweigh the additional costs involved. Promising future applications include high-performance smart grid, electric power transmission, transformers, power storage devices, electric motors (e.g. for vehicle propulsion, as in vactrains or maglev trains), magnetic levitation devices, fault current limiters, nanoscopic materials such as buckyballs, nanotubes, composite materials and superconducting magnetic refrigeration. However, superconductivity is sensitive to moving magnetic fields so applications that use alternating current (e.g. transformers) will be more difficult to develop than those that rely upon direct current. [edit] Nobel Prizes for superconductivity Heike Kamerlingh Onnes (1913), "for his investigations on the properties of matter at low temperatures which led, inter alia, to the production of liquid helium" John Bardeen, Leon N. Cooper, and J. Robert Schrieffer (1972), "for their jointly developed theory of superconductivity, usually called the BCS-theory" Leo Esaki, Ivar Giaever, and Brian D. Josephson (1973), "for their experimental discoveries regarding tunneling phenomena in semiconductors and superconductors, respectively," and "for his theoretical predictions of the properties of a supercurrent through a tunnel barrier, in particular those phenomena which are generally known as the Josephson effects" Georg Bednorz and Alex K. Müller (1987), "for their important break-through in the discovery of superconductivity in ceramic materials" Alexei A. Abrikosov, Vitaly L. Ginzburg, and Anthony J. Leggett (2003), "for pioneering contributions to the theory of superconductors and superfluids he first equation follows from the Newton's second law for superconducting electrons. South Centre (organization) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search South Centre South Centre logo Formation Type Legal status June 31, 1995 Intergovernmental organization Treaty Economic development for the South Geneva, Switzerland Global South 51 countries English, French, Spanish Martin Khor Purpose/focus Headquarters Region served Membership Official languages Executive Director Parent organization South Commission Affiliations Website United Nations southcentre.org South Centre is an intergovernmental organization of developing countries, established by an intergovernmental Agreement (Treaty), which came into force on 31 July 1995, with its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. It functions as an independent policy think tank, whilst also holding Observer Status at the United Nations and other development agencies. Contents [hide] 1 History 2 Governance Structure 3 Objectives 4 Programmes 5 UN Observer Status 6 Member Countries 7 Publications 8 See also 9 References 10 Media 11 External links [edit] History The South Centre has grown out of the work and experience of the South Commission and from recognition of the need for enhanced South-South cooperation. The Commission was led by the late Dr. Julius Nyerere, the former President of Tanzania and Dr. Manmohan Singh, the current Prime Minister of India. "The Challenge to the South"[1] was the definitive publication that emerged as a result of the work of the South Commission and its founders. The report recognized the need for greater cooperation between countries of the South and emphasized the consequent lack of collaboration and organization on a global level. [edit] Governance Structure Under Article VI of the Intergovernmental Agreement[2], the Centre has three principal organs: The Council of Representatives; made up of the representatives of the Members States; The Board; made up of a Chairperson and nine members acting in their personal capacity – is appointed by the Council of Representatives and reflects a broad geographical balance among the countries of the South; The Secretariat; headed by an Executive Director, to implement the objectives of the Centre. The operations of the South Centre are directed by the Board, which also approves its activities and the work programme. Mr.Benjamin Mkapa, the former President of Tanzania, is the current Chairperson of the Board. Former Chairpersons include; Mr.Boutros Boutros-Ghali (Egypt) Dr.Gamani Corea (Sri Lanka) Luis Fernando Jaramillo (Colombia) Dr. Julius Nyerere (Tanzania) [edit] Objectives According to Article II of the Intergovernmental Agreement[3], the Centre has the following among its central objectives: To promote South solidarity, South consciousness and mutual knowledge and understanding among the countries and peoples of the South; To promote various types of South-South cooperation and action, South-South links, networking and information exchange; To contribute to South-wide collaboration in promoting common interests and Co-ordinated participation by developing countries in international forums dealing with South-South and North-South matters, as well as with other global concerns; To foster convergent views and approaches among countries of the South with respect to global economic, political and strategic issues related to evolving concepts of development, sovereignty and security; To contribute to better mutual understanding and co-operation between the South and the North on the basis of equity and justice for all and, to this end, to the democratization and strengthening of the United Nations and its family of organizations. The Centre helps to develop informed points of view for the South on major policy issues, while also generating ideas and action-oriented proposals for consideration by the collectivity of South governments, institutions of South-South co-operation, inter-governmental organizations of the South, and non-governmental organizations. the Centre also responds to requests for policy advice. Environment for Development. The SWP attempts to articulate a coherent approach to address several clusters of issues identified by developing countries as deserving priority in an integrated manner. [edit] Programmes The Centre works on a wide range of issues relevant to the countries of the South and the global community in general. intergovernmental think-tank of developing countries. These include the Group of 77 and the Non-Aligned Movement. Of these seven. The SWP is divided into seven major areas of work. and Social Issues and Human Rights. A major milestone in the elaboration of a medium term work programme was achieved in February 2006 when the South Centre Board approved a Strategic Work Programme (SWP). Global Governance for Development[4] Trade for Development[5] Innovation and Access to Knowledge[6] The remaining three areas include Financing for Development. and for technical and other support from collective entities of the South. This work aims to achieve its objectives in accordance with the mandate of the South Centre as an independent.In order to meet its objectives. within the limits of its capacity and mandate. the South Centre has developed a substantial knowledge base in the following areas. The Centre occasionally works on these issues and the SWP aims to develop these subject areas into full programmes in the medium term. [edit] UN Observer Status The South Centre holds Observer Status at several multinational institutions: United Nations General Assembly[7] UN Economic and Social Council[8] World Intellectual Property Organisation[9] United Nations Conference on Trade and Development[10] United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change[11] United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity International Criminal Court[12] World Trade Organisation[13] Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change[14] . ratified. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad announced that a Commission on the development experience would be struck. Julius Nyerere. the Council elects a Convenor and a Vice-Convenor. McMaster University When leaders of the Non-Aligned Movement met in Harare in September 1986 it was clear that the 1980s were to become a "lost decade" for economic development in the Global South. and on an inter-session basis when required. Group of 24 [edit] Member Countries 51 countries shown in green The Council of Representatives is composed of high-level representatives of the Centre's member countries. the Commission issued statements on the debt problem and the Uruguay Round of trade negotiations. agreed to Chair the Commission. Citing debt crises. high interest rates. The Council appoints a 9 member Board and elects the Centre's Chairperson. This individual should have been recognized for his/her commitment and contribution to the development of the South as well as the promotion of South-South cooperation. in order to examine the work of the Centre and to provide policy and operational guidance. and ongoing Northern protectionism. It meets annually. or acceded to the Intergovernmental Agreement:[15] South Commission/South Centre Adam Sneyd. and released its final report. From its members. As of 2012. the following 51 developing countries have signed. . low world prices for commodities. the South Commission set out to independently assess development and articulate future policy options. former President of Tanzania. All countries signing and ratifying or acceding to the Agreement are required to appoint a high-level individual as their representative to the Council. The Challenge to the South. Having established a Secretariat in Geneva with the financial assistance of Switzerland and developing countries in 1987. in August 1990. Operating for three years. The report emphasized the need to focus efforts on human development. Members meet at least every three years as the Council of Representatives to set the direction of the Board. knowledge sharing. On the latter. the Centre seeks more policy space or autonomy for Southern countries interacting with the global economy. THE COAST GUARD ACT. the South Centre typically produces news and policy reports on topics that the Group of 77 has suggested. and cooperation. To meet the goal of functioning as a think tank and a policy support organization for the Global South. which is charged with day-to-day oversight and fundraising. 1978 Chapter III DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE COAST GUARD . and the desirability of increased cooperation amongst Southern countries to raise their bargaining power in global economic negotiations. as well as coordinating common development policy positions on the world economy. Building upon the Report's recommendations and the work of the South Commission's follow-up office. Overall. Its output helped to facilitate the South's united front evident at the WTO Ministerial Conference in Cancun. Its principal research focuses on intellectual property and trade. The South Centre was tasked with promoting South solidarity. Under the leadership of current Board Chair and former UN Secretary General Boutros Boutros-Ghali. the South Centre was mandated to disseminate its research output widely. the Centre helps to coordinate developing country policy positions in the WTO's Doha Round of negotiations. and a more equitable distribution of global income. forty-six developing countries agreed to establish a permanent centre on South-South cooperation in July 1995. It is a second line of defense after the Regular Indian Army. (b) providing protection to fishermen including assistance to them at sea while in distress. and subject to such rules as may be prescribed and such rules may. (e) enforcing the provisions of such enactments as are for the time being in force in the maritime zones. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. installations and other structures and devices in any maritime zone. . in fact. (3) The Coast Guard shall perform its functions under this section in accordance with. as it thinks fit. in particular. and (f) such other matters. offshore terminals. It is only meant for those people who are already in mainstay civilian professions. (c) taking such measures as are necessary to preserve and protect the maritime environment and to prevent and control marine pollution. make provisions for ensuring that the Coast Guard functions in close liaison with Union agencies. the measures referred to therein may provide for - (a) ensuring the safety and protection of artificial islands. (d) assisting the customs and other authorities in anti-smuggling operations. including measures for the safety of life and property at sea and collection of scientific data. the Indian Territorial Army is not a profession. search The Territorial Army in India (commonly referred to as TA in India) is an organization of volunteers who receive military training for a few days in a year so that in case of an emergency they can be mobilized for the defence of the country.Duties and 14.(1) It shall be the duty of the Coast Guard to protect by such measures. Territorial Army (India) From Wikipedia. as may be prescribed. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of the provisions of sub-section (1). gainful employment or self-employment in a civil profession is a pre-requisite for joining the Territorial Army. functions of the maritime and other national interests of India in the maritime zones of India. Coast Guard. occupation or a source of employment. institutions and authorities so as to avoid duplication of effort. incorporating Europeans and Indians in separate sections. It was replaced by the Auxiliary Force (India) (for Europeans and Eurasians) and the Indian Territorial Force (for Indians) in 1920. It was established in order to release regular troops from garrison duties during the First World War. Units in the British section were all British.[3] The modern Territorial Army was formally inaugurated by the first Indian Governor-General of India Shri . as the Indian Defence Force Act 1917 made military service compulsory for all Europeans permanently residing in British India (including the princely states) between the ages of 16 and 50.Contents [hide] 1 History 2 Force structure 3 TA Group Headquarters 4 Departmental Units 5 Non-Departmental Units 6 Ecological Battalions 7 Training 8 Notable Members 9 Honorary Officers 10 See also 11 References 12 External links [edit] History The Indian Defence Force. Only clergy were exempt.[1] Boys between 16 and 18 were only obliged to undertake training and men over 40 only had to serve in their local district.[2] The IDF was generally unpopular among the British conscripts. but men between 19 and 40 were obliged to serve anywhere required within the country. Like the Indian Army of the time. It was divided into British and Indian sections. The Indians were volunteers. was formed by the British in 1917. but many of the Europeans were conscripted. units in the Indian section consisted primarily of British officers and Indian other ranks. signal regiments. Territorial Army units were actively involved in military operations in 1962. the free encyclopedia .000 hectare of land in Mussoorie hills & Pithoragarh (Uttarakhand). Eastern Command . coast batteries. The present role of the Territorial Army is to relieve the Regular Army from static duties and assist civil administration in dealing with natural calamities and maintenance of essential services in situations where life of the communities is affected or the security of the country is threatened.Kolkata TA GP HQ. 1949 after the Independence Territorial Army Act was passed in 1948. infantry battalions. Operation Rhino and Operation Bajrang in the North East.Chandigarh TA GP HQ.Pune TA GP HQ. October 9 is celebrated by the Prime Minister's Territorial Army Day Parade. most famous being earthquake in Latur (Maharastra). medical regiments. By 1972 these units were either disbanded or converted to Regular Army units with the exception of infantry battalions. Army Service Corps GT Coy.5 crore trees over 20.000 first line troops (and 160.Lucknow Dir DSC. and the non Departmental Territorial Army units of Infantry Battalion and Ecological Battalion affiliated to various Infantry Regiments. and AMC field ambulances. Northern Command . The Ecological units have arrested man made environmental degradation by planting 2. Central Command . TA Group Headquarters TA GP HQ.C.Udhampur Border Security Force From Wikipedia. Rajagopalachari on October 9. Operation Rakshak in Punjab & J&K. engineers field park companies. IOC. Departmental units came to the aid of the civil authorities during industrial unrest and natural calamities. Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (EME) workshops.000 second line troops) comprising departmental Territorial Army units such as Railway. air defence. [edit] Force structure The Territorial Army is part of the regular Indian Army. ONGC. Western Command . 1965 and 1971 . Southern Command . Uttarkashi in Garhwal Himalaya and the super cyclone in Orissa. ASC Compo Pl.[4] The Territorial Army initially had various types of units such as armoured regiments. The "Terriers" have also taken part in Operation Pawan in Srilanka. Bikaner & Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) and ravines of Chambal in Madhya Pradesh. Telecommunication and General Hospital. Presently the Territorial Army has a strength of approximately 40. and to provide units for the Regular Army as and when required. .in The Border Security Force (BSF) is a border guarding force of the Government of India.nic. Block 10 CGO Complex Lodhi Road New Delhi 110003 MR U K Bansal (IPS. 1965 Force Head Quarters. UP Cadre) www. It is one of the many law enforcement agencies of India. 1965. the BSF is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs. Established on December 1.gov.Jump to: navigation. Like all paramilitary forces of India.bsf.bsf.in Headquarters Director General Website www. search Border Security Force Formation December 1. Its primary role is to guard India's international borders during peacetime and also prevent trans border crime. it is one of the Central Armed Police Forces. The BSF. With a strength of 240. (April 2012) Although originally charged with guarding India's external boundaries. long considered a male bastion. The BSF's capabilities were used in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 against Pakistani forces in areas where the Regular Forces were thinly spread. the first Director General of BSF.000 personnel in 186 battalions. This exposed the inadequacy of the State Armed Police to cope with armed aggression due to which the Government of India felt the need for a specialized centrally controlled Border Security Force. Its current Director General is U K Bansal. the BSF's first Director General is referred to as founding father of the BSF.[1][1][2] it is one of the world's largest border patrol forces. BSF troops took part in several operations including the famous Battle of Longewala. while around 60 will be deployed on the Indo-Bangla border. including guarding the border. the Jammu and Kashmir state police and the thinly-deployed Central . for BSF the war on eastern front had started well before the war actually broke out in Dec '71. 1965 with K F Rustamji was its first Director General. Till 1965 India’s borders with Pakistan were manned by the State Armed Police Battalion. K F Rustomji. which would be armed and trained to man the International Border with Pakistan. Over 100 women have been deployed on the highly volatile Indo-Pak border. Pakistan attacked Sardar Post. The current Director General is U K Bansal who took charge in November 2011. the BSF has more recently been given the task in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations. [edit] Counter insurgency operations This section needs additional citations for verification. When the insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir broke out in 1989. 1965 in Kutch. As a result of the recommendations of the Committee of Secretaries. the Border Security Force came into existence on Dec 1. In total. Formation The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 demonstrated the inadequacies of the existing border management system and led to the formation of the Border Security Force as a unified central agency with the specific mandate of guarding India's international boundaries. BSF had trained.The unique BSF Camel Contingent during the annual Republic Day Parade. supported and formed part of "Mukti Bahini" and had entered erstwhile East Pakistan before the actual hostilities broke out. has now deployed its first batch of women personnel at the border to carry out regular frisking of women as well as other duties performed by their male counterparts. 595 women constables will be deployed on the border in different phases. In fact. Chhar Bet and Beria Bet on April 9. The BSF was the brain child of its founding father Sh KF Rustamji. BSF had played a very important role in Liberation of Bangladesh which Indira Gandhi and Sheikh Mujibur Rehman had also acknowledged. including women personnel. Finance etc. The Indian government has now decided to implement recommendations to restrict each security agency to its mandate. Despite the BSF's success in a counter-terrorism role. function under the DG. government decided to diversify the Anti Naxal operation with the induction of ITBP and BSF. But the CRPF is yet to take over sensitive places like Tral. Communications & IT. Personnel. The BSF killed Ghazi Baba—second-incommand of Jaish-e-Mohammed and the mastermind of the 2001 Indian Parliament attack—in August 2003. There are 31 such Sectors. The Eastern Theater is looked after by Spl DG HQ at Kolkata and the Western Theater is looked after by Spl DG HQ at Chandigarh. General. after setting up an intelligence network and working with local civilians. Various Directorates like Operations. Thus the 16 BSF battalions in Jammu and Kashmir are gradually being withdrawn from counter-insurgency duties and diverted back to guard the Indo-Pak border. Indian Border Security Force at the Wagah border ceremony The BSF initially suffered casualties from insurgent attacks but later saw successes. The 16 battalions being withdrawn from J&K were supposed to provide R&R to the battalions already deployed on the border. At present total 6 battalions of BSF are stationed in different parts of Kanker district to combat Naxal menace. BSF was deployed in Kanker district of Chhattisgarh. Engineering. Administration. But with increasing Naxal violence in Central India. Training. Medical. many in the government felt that this additional burden was leading to a dilution of the BSF's mandate and degrading the force's ability to perform its primary role of guarding the country's borders. There are 10 such Frontier under which Sector Head Quarters (SHQ) function headed by a DIG each. The BSF raided Baba's hideout in Srinagar and he was killed in the ensuing gunbattle. and the Indian government deployed the BSF to Jammu and Kashmir to combat Islamic militants. Provisioning.Field Formations in BSF are headed by an IG and are known as Frontiers Head Quarters (FtrHQ). [edit] Organisation The Border Security Force has its Head Quarters at New Delhi and is known as Force Head Quarter (FHQ) headed by a Director General. They are being replaced by fresh units from the CRPF Force that have undergone specialized training in counter-terrorism. where Naxal strength is comparatively thinner than that of other parts of Bastar region. Each Directorate is headed by an IG.Reserve Police Force (CRPF) struggled to cope up with the spiraling violence. including the arrest of militant leaders. Law.BSF contribution in reducing militancy in j&k is widely acknowledged. Each SHQ has . Dakshin Gangotri From Wikipedia. The BSF maintains a Tear Smoke Unit (TSU). BSF is the only Indian paramilitary force to have its own Air Wing.under its command 4–5 Duty Battalions. dog squads and medical/paramedics. It also exports a substantial quantity to other countries. which support the General Duty Battalions in their operations. high-tech force for all types of disasters and can deploy to disasters by air. Five major training institutions and 10 Subsidiary Training Centres (STCs) are imparting ab-initio as well as in-service training to its ranks and other CPOs/SPOs including IPS Probationers. multi-skilled. including engineers. sea and land. The TSU is responsible for producing tear gas munitions required for the Anti-Riot Forces. Presently 186 Battalions are sanctioned to BSF. detection of explosives. electricians. The NDRF is a multi-disciplinary. tracking and the like. Dogs from other CPOs and State Police are sent to National Training Centre for Dogs (NTCD) to be trained in infantry patrol. Two battalions of the BSF. Each battalion maintains 18 self-contained specialist search and rescue teams of 45 personnel each. are designated as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. which is unique in India. The BSF also has a national level school for breeding and training of dogs. located at Kolkata and Guwahati. technicians. The battalions are equipped and trained for all natural disasters including combating nuclear disaster. search Dakshin Gangotri — Research Station — . Marine Wing and artillery regiments.158 personnel. The establishment of each battalion is 1. biological and chemical disasters. 09361°S 12°E 12°ECoordinates: Country India Dakshin Gangotri was the first scientific base station of India situated in Antarctica which was established during the Third Indian Expedition to Antarctica.Dakshin Gangotri Coordinates: 70°05′37″S 12°00′00″E70.09361°S 70°05′37″S 12°00′00″E70. Contents [hide] 1 Location 2 Construction 3 Foundation and Structural Layout 4 Energy Supply 5 Waste disposal and Ventilation 6 Communication 7 Dakshin Gangotri Post Office 8 Climate . 09361°S 12°E was finalized for locating the station. such as aerial photographs. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Detailed survey of this area was carried out and a location with coordinates 70°05′37″S 12°00′00″E70. search Kahuta Kahuta . 9 Use 10 See also 11 References [edit] Location The possible site for locating the permanent station was debated in detail during the Third Indian Expedition to Antarctica among the scientists. The thickness of ice shelf was reported to be about 150 metres in this region. members of the Second Indian Expedition to Antarctica who were participating in the Third Indian Expedition to Antarctica. The site selected was free of crevasses and had a good view of the Wohlthat Mountains range in the south. All available material. an area of about 10 km diameter was considered to be most appropriate for locating the permanent station. and the officers of the ship.0333333°S 12°E had been recommended earlier by the Second Indian Expedition to Antarctica but there crevasses on the southern periphery of two nearby grounded ice patches Leningradkollen and Kurklaken were revealed by helicopter surveys and cracks were found to be developing in its near vicinity on recent aerial photographs.[1] Kahuta From Wikipedia. A site at 70°02′00″S 12°00′00″E70. Keeping in view of several logistic factors. regional maps prepared by the Norsk Polarinstitutt and the recommendations of the Second Indian Expedition to Antarctica were examined in detail. Contents [hide] 1 History 2 Geography 3 Kahuta in science .35°N 73. Pakistan. The population of the Kahuta Tehsil is approximately 160. Kahuta is the home to the Kahuta Research Laboratories (KRL) which was founded to undertake the Kahuta Project as part of the atomic bomb project.000 at the 2008 census. Before the Kahuta Project.23°E Pakistan Punjab PST (UTC+5) 051 Kahuta (Urdu: )ک ہوٹ ہis a census-designated town and tehsil in the Rawalpindi District of Punjab Province. the site was occupied by retired officers of Pakistan Armed Forces and contained a small public community.Kahuta Coordinates: Country Province Time zone Calling code 33°21′N 73°14′E33. including a private high school. surveying and measured the area aerially. the whole site was acquired by the Ministry of Defence. the site was classified and abandoned for public with only few allowed to resides.[2] In 1970s.[1] Scientists and engineers working and living in Kahuta were censored by the senior military officials. Abdul Qadeer Khan who served as the chief scientist. Director of Project-706. Kahuta was a small incorporated village until the 1970s when KRL was constructed by the Pakistan Army Corps of Engineers under Engineering officer Major-General Zahid Ali Akbar. approximately 30 km southeast of Pakistan's capital.4 References [edit] History The Punjab region became predominantly Muslim due to missionary Sufi saints whose dargahs dot the landscape of Punjab region. and the army truckloads. In 1984. Kahuta is famous for home to the Khan Research Laboratories. There are many picnic spots like Narar (Narh). heavy engineering vehicles arrived the next day to re-built the site. Kahuta hosted an apex scientific research where atomic experiments were performed under guidance and supervision of Dr. However. [edit] Kahuta in science Both nationally and internationally. the Pakistan Atomic Scientists Federation and the Government of Pakistan dismissed the claims made by KRL. the Ministry of Defence was tasked by Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to search for a remote location for performing atomic and weapon-testing experiments for the integrated atomic bomb project in 1976. one of the largest government national research facility and laboratories. Kahuta was inhabitant by retired officers of the Pakistan Armed Forces. Abdul Qadeer Khan and the scientists of the Kahuta Research Laboratories allegedly claimed to have conducted a putative nuclear cold-test of an atomic weapon.[1] Within the week.[3] All incoming materials and research equipments were labeled as common items and engineering tools to conceal the true nature of their purpose. independently designed by KRL under codename Kahuta Test. The area is noted for its wildlife and hunting. After the independence of Pakistan in 194t Muslim refugees settled in the area. Since 1970s. Islamabad.[1] Major-General Zahid Ali Akbar and later completed the drawings. Pahari-Potwari is spoken in this region.[1][3] The residents of Kahuta were paid handsomely and were re-located in populated cities of Pakistan.[2] The Uranium Coordination Board (UCB) headed by Ghulam Ishaq Khan financed the reconstruction of the site. Tlaitar and Beyore.[3] Soon.[1] During 1960s and 1970s. Azad Pattan.[3] [edit] Geography Kahuta is situated in the Himalayan foothills in Rawalpindi District of Pakistan's Punjab Province. .[3] The Engineering Research Laboratories (now KRL) was established by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as a research government national facility under the Ministry of Defence. The predominantly Muslim population supported Muslim League and Pakistan Movement. Ethiopia. aiming to address desertification. governance structure for the project was adopted.75 million African Union project. the Global Mechanism (GM) of the UNCCD. Department of Rural Economy and Agriculture. including ensuring the involvement of the panAfrican Great Green Wall Agency in the project and offering an avenue for strengthening collaboration between the agency and the AUC also took place. Other partner countries include Chad. improving food security and climate change adaptation (29/09/2011) A €1. Ministry of Agriculture. the pan-African Agency for the Great Green Wall. African Union Commission. Burkina Faso. representative of the Regional Economic Communities (ECOWAS). The project will develop activities in Algeria. This is an initial contribution from the EU to the initiative. Mali and Niger which are being supported through a Technical Cooperation Project (TCP) provided by the FAO. but it is based on an integrated approach for improved livelihoods. CILSS. the European Union Delegation to the African Union. . supported by the European Union and FAO. Discussion to clarify the roles of countries and partners in the project’s implementation. in particular by supporting local community's efforts in sustainable management and use of natural resources (land. More substantial funding is anticipated in the coming years. Nigeria. the African Forest Forum (AFF). Djibouti. the Gambia. The work plan for the next 2 years was examined and approved. During the meeting. was launchedin Addis Ababa on 26 September 2011. Mauritania. Senegal and the Sudan. Egypt.Combat desertification. land degradation and drought in the Sahara and Sahel. water and vegetation). Background information: The GGWSSI is not only a tree planting initiative. Ato Sileshi Getahun. which is also the implementing agency for the EU funded project. Pan-African Farmers Organisation (PAFO). the FAO and the World Bank. with the purpose to tackle the detrimental social. including planning of the second Africa dry lands week in 2012. The two day meeting was attended by all 13 project focus countries. economic and environmental impact of land degradation and desertification in the Sahara and Sahel region.Great Green Wall for Sahara and Sahel . The meeting was officially opened by the Ethiopian State Minister. search The Strait of Hormuz (red arrow) connects the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Blue arrows illustrate the strait's Traffic Separation Scheme. Strait of Hormuz From Wikipedia. .The project is developed in the framework of the Africa-EU strategic partnership (under theme 6Climate change). establishing a networking platform for knowledge sharing and technology transfer. It will focus on capacity development for the planning and implementation of best practices at local level and international levels. developing a harmonized strategy for the Great Green Wall initiative and setting up a platform for partnership and resource mobilization. Satellite image Map of Strait of Hormuz with maritime political boundaries (2004) . Historical map of the area (1892) The Strait of Hormuz /hɔrˈmuːz/ (Arabic: رمز م یMaḍīq Hurmuz. an exclave of Oman. It is the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean and is one of the world's most strategically-important choke points. the strait is 21 nautical miles (39 km) wide.[1] About 20% of the world's petroleum.[1] Glasnost From Wikipedia. search For other uses. On the north coast is Iran. . This article has multiple issues. and on the south coast is the United Arab Emirates and Musandam. and about 35% of the petroleum traded by sea. see Glasnost (disambiguation). At its narrowest. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Persian: رمز تنTangeh-ye Hormoz) is a strait between the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. passes through the strait making it a highly important strategic location for international trade. (June 2009) This article may be unbalanced towards certain viewpoints."[3] Glasnost can also refer to the specific period in the history of the USSR during the 1980s when there was less censorship and greater freedom of information. .[2] The word was frequently used by Gorbachev to specify the policies he believed might help reduce the corruption at the top of the Communist Party and the Soviet government.[1] Glasnost is often paired with Perestroika (literally: Restructuring). literally: Openness) was a policy that called for increased openness and transparency in government institutions and activities in the Soviet Union. or discuss the issue on the talk page. nondescript word that was used to refer to a process. footnoting. being conducted in the open. hardworking. (February 2011) Russian term Translit English glasnost publicity. talk. (help. openness to public Glasnost (Russian: . Introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev in the second half of the 1980s. (February 2011) This article may contain inappropriate or misinterpreted citations that do not verify the text. but its sources remain unclear because it has insufficient inline citations. Russian human rights activist and dissident Lyudmila Alexeyeva explained glasnost as a word that "had been in the Russian language for centuries. The word "glasnost" has been used in Russian at least since the end of the 18th century. The references used may be made clearer with a different or consistent style of citation. any process of justice of governance. and moderate the abuse of administrative power in the Central Committee. It was in the dictionaries and lawbooks as long as there had been dictionaries and lawbooks. or external linking.This article has an unclear citation style. It was an ordinary. IPA: *ˈɡlasnəsʲtʲ+ ( listen). another reform instituted by Gorbachev at the same time. get involved!) (February 2011) This article includes a list of references. Please help improve this article by checking for inaccuracies. Please help to improve this article by introducing more precise citations. Please improve the article by adding information on neglected viewpoints. It came on the back of 7 years of visits we had made to churches in Uganda. Permaculture From Wikipedia. they are the product of the inspiration and hard work of our African friends. where we can follow up the work through regular visits. with people volunteering their assistance. We don’t operate as an anonymous fund that anyone can apply to for help. Our aim is then to support with ‘seed funding’. you can be sure that what you give will be used to make a difference to lives in Africa. and from the outset has set out to work through relationship with trusted individuals and groups.The africa fund The Africa Fund was set up in 2001 to make a difference to communities we had met in East Africa. and then later Kenya. Tanzania & Dr Congo. assisting sustainable development in urban and rural settings. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. search Agriculture General Agribusiness Agroforestry Agronomy Animal husbandry Extensive farming Factory farming Agricultural science Farm . These are made by church-based teams (who pay their own way) that return to the same places year after year. building on the relationship and offering encouragement and skills where appropriate. If you join with us in supporting the Africa Fund. our aim is to work through the network of friendships we have developed. We keep our overheads to the minimum. It is a privilege to be partners with them in this work. The projects are not devised or managed by us. Free range Industrial agriculture Mechanised agriculture Intensive farming Organic farming Permaculture Stock-free agriculture Sustainable agriculture Universities Urban agriculture History History of agriculture History of organic farming Arab Agricultural Revolution British Agricultural Revolution Green Revolution Neolithic Revolution Types Aquaculture Aquaponics Dairy farming Grazing Hydroponics Livestock Orchard Pig farming Poultry farming Sheep husbandry Categories Agriculture Agriculture by country Agriculture companies . and species assemblies. therefore. [1][2] The core tenets of permaculture are:[3][4] Take Care of the Earth: Provision for all life systems to continue and multiply. is not on each separate element. Permaculture design therefore seeks to minimize waste. the whole becoming greater than the sum of its parts. integrated farming. It asks the question. By governing our own needs. and applied ecology. ecological engineering. "The primary agenda of the movement has been to assist people to become more self reliant through the design and development of productive and sustainable gardens and farms. Biotechnology Livestock Meat industry Poultry farming Agropedia portal v t e Permaculture is a branch of ecological design. humans cannot flourish. human labor. because without a healthy earth. and environmental design which develops sustainable architecture/human settlements and self-maintained agricultural systems modeled from natural ecosystems. sustainable development. Share the Surplus: Healthy natural systems use outputs from each element to nourish others. we can set resources aside to further the above principles. but rather on the relationships created among elements by the way they are placed together. Permaculture draws from several disciplines including organic farming. and energy input by building systems with maximal benefits between design elements to achieve a high level of synergy. The focus of permaculture. function. We humans can do the same. This is the first principle. Take Care of the People: Provision for people to access those resources necessary for their existence. The design principles which are the conceptual foundation of permaculture were derived from the science of systems ecology and study of preindustrial examples of sustainable land use. the central concept of permaculture is maximizing useful connections between components and synergy of the final design. Permaculture designs evolve over time by taking into account these relationships and . agroforestry."[5] Permaculture design emphasizes patterns of landscape. ―Where does this element go? How can it be placed for the maximum benefit of the system?" To answer this question. Apply self-regulation and accept feedback: We need to discourage inappropriate activity to ensure that systems can continue to function well. Produce no waste: By valuing and making use of all the resources that are available to us.[6] It is worthy of note that Permaculture is a system of design only. we can observe patterns in nature and society. Integrate rather than segregate: By putting the right things in the right place. 8. and as such it can be applied to anything that requires design. with the details filled in as we go. Catch and store energy: By developing systems that collect resources at peak abundance. 6. 2. relationships develop between those things and they work together to support each other. Use and value renewable resources and services: Make the best use of nature's abundance to reduce our consumptive behavior and dependence on non-renewable resources.elements and can become extremely complex systems that produce a high density of food and materials with minimal input. 10 External links [edit] Theory [edit] The 12 permaculture design principles Permaculturists generally regard the following as its 12 design principles:[7] 1. 5. nothing goes to waste. making better use of local resources and producing more sustainable outcomes. Observe and interact: By taking time to engage with nature we can design solutions that suit our particular situation. integrating techniques such as agroforestry. we can use them in times of need. Use small and slow solutions: Small and slow systems are easier to maintain than big ones. Permaculture has been applied most commonly to the design of housing and landscaping. 9. Obtain a yield: Ensure that you are getting truly useful rewards as part of the work that you are doing. 3. 4. Design from patterns to details: By stepping back. These can form the backbone of our designs. . natural building and rainwater harvesting within the context of Permaculture design principles and theory. 7. although some practitioners also include fungi as an eighth layer:[citation needed] 1. A mature ecosystem has a huge number of relationships between its component parts: trees. such as runner beans and lima beans (vine varieties) [edit] Guilds . Low tree layer: dwarf fruit trees. form patterns. even the wind.10. Large trees dominate but do not saturate the area. fungi. biennials or perennials.e. i. These are often the most valuable. and animals. Use edges and value the marginal: The interface between things is where the most interesting events take place.[8] [edit] Layers Layers are one of the tools used to design functional ecosystems that are both sustainable and of direct benefit to man. and then intervening at the right time. 12. Rhizosphere: root crops including potatoes and other edible tubers 6. insects. understory. "The application of pattern on a design site involves the designer recognizing the shape and potential to fit these patterns or combinations of patterns comfortably onto the landscape". especially nitrogen 7. Vertical layer: climbers or vines. Use and value diversity: Diversity reduces vulnerability to a variety of threats and takes advantage of the unique nature of the environment in which it resides. ground cover. Creatively use and respond to change: We can have a positive impact on inevitable change by carefully observing. The canopy: the tallest trees in the system. diverse and productive elements in the system. along with green manures to add nutrients and organic matter to the soil. the waves and the Earth moving around the Sun. 11. citrus trees and other short trees 3. Herbaceous: may be annuals. most annuals will fit into this layer 5. All things. [edit] Patterns Permaculture design focuses heavily upon natural patterns. Shrubs: a diverse layer that includes most berry bushes 4. There are generally seven recognized layers in a food forest. permaculture designers are encouraged to develop an awareness of the patterns that exist in nature (and how these function) and how patterns can be utilized to satisfy the specific design needs of a specific site. In pattern application. a diverse community of life is able to grow in a relatively small space. there exist patches barren of trees. soil. Because plants grow to different heights. Soil surface: cover crops to retain soil and lessen erosion. 2. as each layer is stacked one on top of another. including currant bushes and orchards. propagation area. Edges between woodland and open areas have been claimed to be the most productive. Zones are numbered from 0 to 5:[citation needed] Zone 0 The house. where vastly differing systems meet. An example of this is the coast. the location for those elements in the system that require frequent attention. where the land and the sea meet there is a particularly rich area that meets a disproportionate percentage of human and animal needs. Raised beds are often used in zone 1 in urban areas. Zone 1 The zone nearest to the house. some have tap roots that draw nutrients up from deep in the soil. some attract beneficial insects. etc. or harmony. . that work well together. and others repel harmful insects. larger scale composting bins. This would also be a good place for beehives. Guilds are groups of plants.[12] [edit] Zones Zones are a way of organizing design elements in a human environment on the basis of the frequency of human use and plant or animal needs. Zones is about positioning things appropriately. or that need to be visited often. or home center. there is an intense area of productivity and useful connections. animals.[9][10][11] [edit] Edge effect The edge effect in ecology is the effect of the juxtaposition or placing side by side of contrasting environments on an ecosystem. harnessing natural resources such as sunlight. and generally creating a harmonious. soft fruit like strawberries or raspberries. such as salad crops. greenhouse and cold frames. etc. Zone 0 is an informal designation. and elements that benefit from isolation (such as wild species) are farther away. worm compost bin for kitchen waste. such as occasional weed control or pruning.A guild is any group of species where each provides a unique set of diverse functions that work in conjunction. and so on. Less frequently used or manipulated elements. Some plants may be grown for food production. Here permaculture principles would be applied in terms of aiming to reduce energy and water needs. So this idea is played out in permacultural designs by using spirals in the herb garden or creating ponds that have wavy undulating shorelines rather than a simple circle or oval (thereby increasing the amount of edge for a given area). When grouped together these plants form a guild. Permaculturists argue that. sustainable environment in which to live and work. insects. herb plants. Frequently manipulated or harvested elements of the design are located close to the house in zones 1 and 2. Zone 2 This area is used for siting perennial plants that require less frequent maintenance. which is not specifically defined in Bill Mollison's book. such as Graham Bell.[6][16][17] [edit] Natural building A natural building involves a range of building systems and materials that place major emphasis on sustainability. There is no human intervention in zone 5 apart from the observation of natural ecosystems and cycles. care and maintenance required are fairly minimal (provided mulches and similar things are used). Zone 4 A semi-wild area.[15] In agroforestry systems. Ways of achieving sustainability through natural building focus on durability and the use of minimally processed. This zone is mainly used for forage and collecting wild food as well as timber production. Numerous permaculturists are proponents of forest gardens. plentiful or renewable resources. or non-timber forest products are cultured in forest settings. Eric Toensmeier and Geoff Lawton. produce healthy living environments and maintain indoor air quality. It combines agricultural and forestry technologies to create more diverse. Bell started building his forest garden in 1991 and wrote the book The Permaculture Garden in 1995. while recycled or salvaged. Zone 5 A wild area. productive. or food forests.[14] [edit] Common practices [edit] Agroforestry Agroforestry is an integrated approach of using the interactive benefits from combining trees and shrubs with crops and/or livestock. Whitefield wrote the book How to Make a Forest Garden in 2002. Patrick Whitefield. profitable. and Lawton presented the film Establishing a Food Forest in 2008.[citation needed] . healthy and sustainable land-use systems. more than technology. After establishment. trees or shrubs are intentionally used within agricultural systems. Dave Jacke.Zone 3 The area where maincrops are grown. both for domestic use and for trade purposes. Jacke and Toensmeier co-authored the two volume book set Edible Forest Gardening in 2005. such as watering or weed control maybe once a week.[13] Other projects avoid the use of domesticated animals altogether. Natural building tends to rely on human labor. [edit] Animals Animals are often incorporated into site design.[citation needed] Forest gardening is a form of agroforestry that is particularly popular with permaculturists. as well as those that. protecting against frost. These include: absorbing rainfall. stones. reducing evaporation. and their worm castings are among the best fertilizers and soil conditioners. When deployed properly and in combination with other Permacultural principles. the utilization of local climate and site conditions. the emphasis on natural ventilation through design. and may be more advantageous than using herbicide or other methods of control. providing nutrients. To be more sustainable. as are on-site handling of energy acquisition. sometimes from areas which are especially prepared for this purpose. and bathing. It can supplement the subsoil water level and increase urban greenery. productive and low maintenance ecosystems. Rainwater collected from the roofs of houses and local institutions can make an important contribution to the availability of drinking water.The basis of natural building is the need to lessen the environmental impact of buildings and other supporting systems.[citation needed] [edit] Rainwater harvesting Rainwater harvesting is the accumulating and storing of rainwater for reuse before it reaches the aquifer. suppressing weed growth and seed germination. and reducing erosion. fundamentally lessen operational costs and positively impact the environmental. Greywater differs from water from the toilets which is designated sewage or blackwater. leaves. Building compactly and minimizing the ecological footprint is common. increasing organic matter in the soil. Sheet mulching can be used to reduce or eliminate undesirable plants by starving them of light. Sheet mulching is an agricultural no-dig gardening technique that attempts to mimic natural processes occurring within forests. alternate sewage treatment and water reuse. reused or recycled materials. on-site water capture.[citation needed] [edit] Sheet mulching In agriculture and gardening. Earthworms "till" the soil.[citation needed] . dishwashing. health or aesthetics.. It also improves the soil by attracting and feeding earthworms. moderating diurnal temperature swings. water for livestock. though in Permaculture mulches of organic material are the most common because they perform more functions. cardboard etc. renewable. mulch is a protective cover placed over the soil. as well as other typical uses. feeding and creating habitat for soil organisms. Water collected from the ground. sheet mulching mimics the leaf cover that is found on forest floors. without sacrificing comfort. to indicate it contains human waste. Any material or combination can be used as mulch. plastic. but it is suitable as a source of water for toilets.[citation needed] Greywater is wastewater generated from domestic activities such as laundry. which can be recycled on-site for uses such as landscape irrigation and constructed wetlands. it can generate healthy. the emphasis on the architectural design is heightened. and adding humus. This wastewater contains no feces or urine. natural building uses primarily abundantly available. In addition to relying on natural building materials." storing the nutrients contained in organic matter and slowly making these nutrients available to plants.[18] It has been used to provide drinking water.[19][20] Sheet mulch serves as a "nutrient bank. water for irrigation. is called stormwater harvesting. The orientation of a building. human genome. SFBA. Northern California. IBM Sequoia From Wikipedia. Mollison has described permaculture as "a philosophy of working with.000 square feet (280 m2) 1. and of looking at plants and animals in all their functions. and Masanobu Fukuoka. Inspired by Fukuoka natural farming philosophy. Alameda. astronomy. rather than against nature.32 PFLOPS NW&UN. energy. search IBM Sequoia Operators LLNL Location Livermore. and climate change Power Space Memory Speed Purpose . of protracted and thoughtful observation rather than premature and thoughtless labor.[edit] Hügelkultur Hügelkultur is the practice of burying large volumes of wood to increase soil water retention. During the rainy season. The porous structure of wood acts as a sponge when decomposing underground. The word "permaculture" originally referred to "permanent agriculture" but was expanded to stand also for "permanent culture.6 PB 16.9 MW 3." as it was seen that social aspects were integral to a truly sustainable system. masses of buried wood can absorb enough water to sustain crops through the dry season. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. United States 7.[21] This technique has been famously used by Sepp Holzer.[22][23] [edit] Etymology The term permaculture (as a systematic method) was first coined by Australians Bill Mollison and David Holmgren during the 1970s. Toby Hemenway. rather than treating any area as a single project system. 024 sockets. and Red Hat Enterprise Linux running on 768 I/O nodes that are connected to the filesystem.51 petaflops.4 Power usage 4 See also 5 References 6 External links [edit] Dawn prototype IBM built a prototype.[4] Contents [hide] 1 Dawn prototype 2 Purpose 3 Design o o o o 3. with a LINPACK performance of 16. 37% less than the K computer's 12. Sequoia is also more energy efficient.2 Job scheduler 3. using the Blue Gene/P design.32 petaflops." capable of 500 teraflops.3 Filesystem 3. to evaluate the Sequoia design.[5] [edit] Purpose .[2][3] The entire supercomputer runs on Linux.[1] On 14 June 2012. as it consumes 7.9 MW. called "Dawn.000 nodes. This system was delivered in April 2009 and entered the Top500 list at 9th place in June 2009. 55% faster than the K computer's 10. It was delivered to the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in 2011 and was fully deployed in June 2012. with CNK running on over 98.1 Node architecture 3.6 MW. using 123% more sockets than the K computer's 705.IBM Sequoia is a petascale Blue Gene/Q supercomputer constructed by IBM for the National Nuclear Security Administration as part of the Advanced Simulation and Computing Program (ASC). the TOP500 Project Committee announced that Sequoia replaced the K computer as the world's fastest supercomputer. The compute nodes are 16-core PowerPC A2 processor chips with 16 GB of DDR3 memory each. search Group of Eight + Five Gruppe der Acht + Fünf Groupe de Huit + Cinq Gruppo di Otto + Cinque 主要国＋5新興国 рупп В ми + Пя Grupo de los Ocho + Cinco . Sequoia will also be available for scientific purposes such as astronomy. The compute nodes are interconnected in a 5-dimensional torus topology. and has ported ZFS to Linux as the Lustre OSD (Object Storage Device) to take advantage of the performance and advanced features of the filesystem. replacing the current Blue Gene/L and ASC Purple supercomputers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.[7] In Sept 2011. [edit] Job scheduler LLNL will use the SLURM job scheduler.6 PB memory.Sequoia will be used primarily for nuclear weapons simulation.572. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. It covers an area of about 3. and more than 3 times as efficient as a prior (June 2011) Top 500 leader G8+5 From Wikipedia. It consists of 96 racks containing 98. The Sequoia design will perform 3000 Mflops/watt.[6] [edit] Filesystem LLNL uses Lustre as the parallel filesystem.304 compute nodes [1024/rack]. building off previous Blue Gene designs. to manage Sequoia's resources. Thus the system contains in total 1.864 processor cores [96*1024*16] with 1.000 square feet (280 m2).[8][9] [edit] Power usage The complete system will draw about 6 MW of power but is projected to have an unprecedented efficiency in performance per watt. which is also used by the Dawn prototype and China's Tianhe-IA. energy. and climate change. study of the human genome. about 7 times as efficient as the Blue Gene/P design it is replacing. [edit] Design [edit] Node architecture Sequoia is a Blue Gene/Q design. NetApp announced that the DoE had selected the company for 55 PB of storage. Grupo dos Oito + Cinco Groep van Agt + Vyf आठ + 八国集团同发展中国家 G8 + 5 Canada Prime Minister Stephen Harper French Republic President François Hollande Federal Republic of Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel Italian Republic Prime Minister Mario Monti Japan Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Prime Minister David Cameron United States of America . and the United States). Contents [hide] 1 February 2007 Declaration 2 Foundation 3 Institutionalization 4 See also 5 References 6 External links [edit] February 2007 Declaration . France. Mexico. China. plus the heads of government of the five leading emerging economies (Brazil. Italy. India. Russia. Germany. Japan. and South Africa).President Barack Obama Federative Republic of Brazil President Dilma Rousseff People's Republic of China President Hu Jintao Republic of India Prime Minister Manmohan Singh United Mexican States President Felipe Calderón Republic of South Africa President Jacob Zuma The Group of Eight + Five (G8+5) an international group that consists of the leaders of the heads of government from the G8 nations (Canada. the United Kingdom. and the need to achieve a deeper cooperation on climate change. the free encyclopedia . invited the leading emerging countries to join the talks. The group hoped this policy to be in place by 2009.de/de/service/infothek/fach/spezial/index. 2006.. India. http://www. as of 2008. by the (GLOBE)[3] in partnership with the Com+ alliance of communicators for sustainable development. the United Kingdom and France actively in favour. The hope was that this would form a stronger and more representative group that would inject fresh impetus into the trade talks at Doha. The Global Legislators Organisation (GLOBE International) held a meeting of the G8+5 Climate Change Dialogue at the GLOBE Washington Legislators Forum in Washington. 2007.C. That doesn't seem fitting." Nevertheless.[1][2] [edit] Foundation The G8+5 group was formed in 2005 when Tony Blair. the first phase of which expires in 2012. Following the meeting. and that there should be a global system of emission caps and carbon emissions trading applying to both industrialized nations and developing countries. China. (see: "Die G8 – Akteure in einer globalen Entwicklungspartnerschaft. Scotland. The US and Japan have been against enlargement.bmz. 2007. and Italy.[4] [edit] Institutionalization Following the 33rd G8 summit Heiligendamm 2007. the countries issued a joint statement looking to build a "new paradigm for international cooperation" in the future. in his role as host of the 31st G8 summit at Gleneagles. then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.. Russia and Canada are reserved on the issu Human papillomavirus From Wikipedia. since the G8 member states have diverging positions on this issue. Mexico and South Africa should become members of G8: "The G8 can't meet for two days and the G13 for just two hours. where a non-binding agreement was reached to cooperate on tackling global warming. The G8+5 Climate Change Dialogue was launched on February 24.. This will include the establishment of a common G8 and G5 platform at the OECD. The group accepted that the existence of man-made climate change was beyond doubt. a formal enlargement of the G8 is not a realistic political option. given the power of these five emerging countries.html) Most recently on August 28.See also: Post–Kyoto Protocol negotiations on greenhouse gas emissions On February 16.. to supersede the Kyoto Protocol. former French president Nicolas Sarkozy in a foreign policy statement proposed that Brazil. D. German chancellor Angela Merkel announced the establishment of the "Heiligendamm Process" through which the full institutionalization of the permanent dialogue between the G8 countries and the five greatest emerging economies will be implemented. Germany. Like all papillomaviruses.[2] In addition.[5] However. which do in many cases involve loss of fertility. HPV 16 and 18 infections are strongly associated with an increased odds ratio of developing oropharyngeal (throat) cancer. Progression to invasive cancer can be almost always prevented when standard prevention strategies are applied.Jump to: navigation. Most HPV infections in young females are temporary and have little long-term significance. which can progress to invasive cervical cancer.4 6032 med/1037 D030361 Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus from the papillomavirus family that is capable of infecting humans. Persistent infection with "high-risk" HPV types — different from the ones that cause skin warts — may progress to precancerous lesions and invasive cancer.[3] More than 30 to 40 types of HPV are typically transmitted through sexual contact and infect the anogenital region.[4] HPV infection is a cause of nearly all cases of cervical cancer. . oropharynx and anus. vagina. The Papillomavirus article covers the general biological features of human and animal papillomaviruses. while others can – in a minority of cases – lead to cancers of the cervix.[6] However. Human papillomavirus Classification and external resources ICD-10 ICD-9 DiseasesDB eMedicine MeSH B97. when the infection persists — in 5% to 10% of infected women — there is high risk of developing precancerous lesions of the cervix. HPV has been linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. For other uses. most infections with these types do not cause disease. vulva. search "HPV" redirects here. This process usually takes 10–15 years. some types can cause warts (verrucae).1 079. providing many opportunities for detection and treatment of the pre-cancerous lesion. Some sexually transmitted HPV types may cause genital warts. Seventy percent of infections are gone in 1 year and ninety percent in 2 years. but the lesions still cause considerable burden necessitating preventive surgeries.[1] Recently. HPVs establish productive infections only in keratinocytes of the skin or mucous membranes. penis.7 078. see HPV (disambiguation). While the majority of the known types of HPV cause no symptoms in most people. Conflict in the region has the potential to disrupt global trade flows. The Philippines and Vietnam. worldwide. If abnormal cells are found.000 cases and 3. the lifeline of regional economies. Pap smears have reduced the incidence and fatalities of cervical cancer in the developed world. biopsies can be taken and abnormal areas can be removed with a simple procedure. Vietnam.In more developed countries. but even so there were 11. have been raising concerns about China's assertiveness in the South China Sea. says Harsh V Pant. there are an estimated 490. At a time of domestic political transition. During a colposcopic inspection. women are invited to have a colposcopy. the state-owned China National Offshore Oil Company opened nine blocks for exploration in waters also claimed by Vietnam and the Chinese navy has been conducting combat-ready patrols in the area.S. Proven and undiscovered oil resources in the South China Sea are estimated to be as high as 213 billion barrels. typically with a cauterizing loop or. which prevent infection with the HPV types (16 and 18) that cause 70% of cervical cancer. Treating abnormal cells in this way can prevent them from developing into cervical cancer. The impasse between China and the Philippines over Scarborough Shoal. in 2008. Just weeks back. the waters of the South China Sea will not be calm any time soon. But what was striking was the fact that the looming shadow of China prevented the meeting from even issuing a joint statement for the first time in the organisation's 45-year history.000 cases and 270. Taiwan and Brunei. Fears have been rising in Asia that China is seeking to use its growing maritime might to dominate not only the hydrocarbon-rich waters of the South China Sea but also its crucial shipping lanes. China is embroiled in a range of disputes with its neighbours. China succeeded in playing divide and rule politics. may lead ow to manage China's rise and mould its behaviour will be one of the biggest diplomatic challenges facing New Delhi [ Images ] in the coming years. in particular. cervical screening using a Papanicolaou (Pap) test or liquid-based cytology is used to detect abnormal cells that may develop into cancer. thereby ensuring that the dispute remains a bilateral matter between Beijing [ Images ] and individual rival claimants. The South China Sea waterways carry around half of the world's total trade and are claimed in whole or part by China. more commonly in the developing world — by freezing (cryotherapy). As was expected there was no movement on the contentious South China Sea dispute at the ASEAN summit held in Phnom Penh a few days back.900 deaths in the U. The state-run . the Philippines. shows no signs of abating with China refusing to remove its fishing boats from the shoal.000 deaths each year. The Philippine President Benigni Aquino III has even suggested that he may ask the US to deploy spy planes over the South China Sea to help monitor disputed waters in the region. which started when Philippine naval vessels discovered Chinese fishing boats in a lagoon of the shoal.[7][8] HPV vaccines (Cervarix and Gardasil). As a consequence. Cervical cancer has substantial mortality in resource-poor areas. Malaysia. India was very vocal about its concerns at the ASEAN Regional Forum meeting in Cambodia demanding "access to resources in accordance with principles of international law. Though Japan may not have a direct stake in the dispute. and its non-transparent military build-up all raise questions about its willingness to act as a responsible stakeholder in the region. its aggressive behaviour pursuing them. China has forced India into a diplomatic logjam." Japan [ Images ] has also asked China to clarify its maritime claims. its expansive maritime sovereignty claims. which so often likes to sit on margins. But as tensions in South China Sea exemplify. The manner in which South China Sea issue gets resolved will have significant implications for maritime conflicts in the region and beyond. New Delhi should watch China's behaviour closely and learn due lessons in dealing with the rising dragon its vicinity. it has increasingly taken a proactive role in the dispute.Chinese media has been very vocal about states like the Philippines and Vietnam asking Beijing to "teach them an unforgettable lesson when it is time to hit back. conflict between the two is highly unlikely. Despite agreeing to draft a code of conduct almost a decade back. The US had been hoping that ASEAN member states would work on developing a code of conduct for activities in the sea to ensure future disagreements are resolved amicably and has been pushing the ASEAN nations to unify around a legally binding code of conduct based in international maritime law as a means of managing disputes and cultivating ASEAN as a partner in engaging China. How to manage China's rise and mould its behaviour will be one of the biggest diplomatic challenges facing New Delhi in the coming years. . By putting up for global bidding a Vietnamese petroleum block under exploration by an Indian oil [ Get Quote ] company. But there is a clear need to stress the importance of principles such as the freedom of navigation. warning participants at the ASEAN summit that it is 'crucial' they leave the issue out of their discussions. China blocked efforts to resolve long-running tensions over claims in the disputed South China Sea." New Delhi. China has refused to discuss the South China Sea dispute with the ASEAN as a group because they want to negotiate on a one-to-one basis where they are much bigger than any individual Southeast Asian country and they can bully their interlocutors seriatim. respect for international law and unimpeded lawful commerce in the South China Sea. Many in India argue that given the high stakes that China and India have in each other's economies. Tokyo remains worried about the implications of China's assertiveness in South China Sea for its own dispute with China in the East China Sea. Not surprisingly. there has been little movement towards completion primarily because of China's position that disagreements should be settled on a bilateral rather than a multilateral basis. can no longer afford the luxury of inaction if it wants to preserve its credibility as a significant actor in East and Southeast Asia. its support for states such as North Korea and Pakistan. China's assertiveness is not good new for the region but it should be particularly troubling for India. Beijing's rapidly rising defence expenditure. economic interdependence has never really been an antidote to conflict. "sustainability" was employed to describe an economy "in equilibrium with basic ecological support systems. search See also: Sustainability Solar power towers utilize the natural resource of the Sun. Sustainable development ties together concern for the carrying capacity of natural systems with the social challenges faced by humanity. and are a renewable energy source."[1][2]. The term 'sustainable development' was used by the Brundtland Commission which coined what has become the most often-quoted definition of sustainable development: "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. From left: PS10 and PS20 solar towers. . but also for generations to come."[3] Ecologists have pointed to The Limits to Growth. Sustainable development (SD) refers to a mode of human development in which resource use aims to meet human needs while preserving the environment so that these needs can be met not only in the present. As early as the 1970s. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation.[4] and presented the alternative of a "steady state economy"[5] in order to address environmental concerns.Sustainable development From Wikipedia. The concept of sustainable development has in the past most often been broken out into three constituent parts: environmental sustainability.[6] (See below under the subheading 'Culture'.) . More recently. ecological. This is consistent with the UCLG move to make 'culture' the fourth domain of sustainability. political and cultural sustainability. economic sustainability and sociopolitical sustainability. it has been suggested that a more consistent analytical breakdown is to distinguish four domains of economic. 2 Ecology o 2.5 Measurability 9 See also o 9.4 Politics 3 History of the concept 4 Environmental sustainability 5 Economic sustainability 6 Types of capital o 6.1 Elements 8 Criticisms o 8.Contents [hide] 1 Definition 2 Domains o 2.1 Market failure o 6.1 Economics o 2.1 Consequences o 8.2 Vagueness of the term o 8.1 Organizations and research 10 References 11 Further reading 12 External links [edit] Definition .2 Business case 7 Sustainable agriculture o 7.4 "De-growth" o 8.3 Basis o 8.3 Culture o 2. in particular in the food industry. UTZ Certified. the above definition contains within it two key concepts: the concept of 'needs'.Scheme of sustainable development: at the confluence of three constituent parts. to which overriding priority should be given. numerous sustainability standards and certification systems have been established in recent years.[9] Based on the triple bottom line. and environmental protection." [7] According to the same report. which included what is now one of the most widely recognised definitions: "Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. [8] The United Nations 2005 World Summit Outcome Document refers to the "interdependent and mutually reinforcing pillars" of sustainable development as economic development. social development. Indigenous peoples have argued. the United Nations released the Brundtland Report. that . and the idea of limitations imposed by the state of technology and social organization on the environment's ability to meet present and future needs. in particular the essential needs of the world's poor. Rainforest Alliance.[10][11] Well-known standards include organic. Bird Friendly. and The Common Code for the Coffee Community. through various international forums such as the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and the Convention on Biological Diversity. (2006) In 1987. fair trade. . moral and spiritual existence". and participation as key building blocks to help countries achieve development that recognises these interdependent pillars. A useful articulation of the values and principles of sustainability can be found in the Earth Charter. was developed over several years after the Rio Earth Summit in 1992 and launched officially in 2000. it becomes ―one of the roots of development understood not simply in terms of economic growth. cultural diversity is as necessary for humankind as biodiversity is for nature‖. emotional. the fourth being cultural. but also as a means to achieve a more satisfactory intellectual. The Charter derives its legitimacy from the participatory process in which it was drafted.[12] According to Hasna Vancock. It means resolving the conflict between the various competing goals. It stresses the need to change from old sector-centered ways of doing business to new approaches that involve cross-sectoral co-ordination and the integration of environmental and social concerns into all development processes. The document. the 'journey' (the process of achieving sustainability) is of course vitally important. which included contributions from hundreds of organizations and thousands of individuals. It emphasises that in sustainable development everyone is a user and provider of information. Furthermore. an ethical framework for a sustainable world. but only as a means of getting . integration. and involves the simultaneous pursuit of economic prosperity. hence it is a continually evolving process. sustainability is a process which tells of a development of all aspects of human life affecting sustenance. and from its use since 2000 by thousands of organizations and individuals that have been using the Earth Charter as an educational instrument and a policy tool. Economic Sustainability: Agenda 21 clearly identified information. In this vision.there are four pillars of sustainable development.. 2001) further elaborates the concept by stating that ". It offers an integrated vision and definition of strong sustainability. Agenda 21 emphasises that broad public participation in decision making is a fundamental prerequisite for achieving sustainable development. The Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity (UNESCO. cultural diversity is the fourth policy area of sustainable development. environmental quality and social equity famously known as three dimensions (triple bottom line) with the resultant vector being technology. The concept has included notions of weak sustainability. even if it is somewhat less effective from an environmental standpoint.[13] The natural resource of wind powers these 5MW wind turbines on this wind farm 28 km off the coast of Belgium. Green development is generally differentiated from sustainable development in that Green development prioritizes what its proponents consider to be environmental sustainability over economic and cultural considerations.to the destination (the desired future state). strong sustainability and deep ecology. An environmentally ideal plant that is shut down due to bankruptcy is obviously less sustainable than one that is maintainable by the community. Instead. Proponents of Sustainable Development argue that it provides a context in which to improve overall sustainability where cutting edge Green Development is unattainable. However. For example. However. a cutting edge treatment plant with extremely high maintenance costs may not be sustainable in regions of the world with fewer financial resources. the 'destination' of sustainability is not a fixed place in the normal sense that we understand destination. this view depends on whether one determines that it is the . it is a set of wishful characteristics of a future system. or as a domain that exists outside of the social.[15] .hence. [edit] Domains [edit] Economics The domain of 'economics' is fundamental to considerations of sustainable development."[14] There is an additional focus on the present generations' responsibility to improve the future generations' life by restoring the previous ecosystem damage and resisting to contribute to further ecosystem damage. it treats the environment as a world of natural metrics. However. or whether it is the human-nature ecology (the environmental conditions) in which the plant exists which should be sustainable. ecology. this has the effect of making the domain model unwieldy if culture is to be considered a domain in its own right (see below). and it treats the social as a miscellaneous collection of extra things that do not fit into the economic or environmental domains (see the section on Economic sustainability below). This move allows culture to be used as a domain alongside economics and ecology. Some research activities start from the definition of green development to argue that the environment is a combination of nature and culture. [edit] Ecology The domain of 'ecology' has been difficult to resolve because it too has a social dimension. however there has been considerable criticism of the tendency to use the three-domain model of the triple bottom line: economics. environment and social. Others write of ecology as being more broadly at the intersection of the social and the environmental .development (the plant) which needs to be sustainable. It follows. that an operational but heavily polluting plant may be judged as actually 'less sustainable' than having no plant at all. Sustainability educator Michael Thomas Needham referred to 'Sustainable Development' "as the ability to meet the needs of the present while contributing to the future generations‘ needs. This approach is challenged to the extent that it treats the economy as the master domain. then. [edit] Culture Working with a different emphasis. strong sustainability and deep . The concept has included notions of weak sustainability. [edit] Politics The United Nations Global Compact Cities Programme has defined sustainable political development is a way that broadens the usual definition beyond states and governance. ecological and cultural challenges. Sustainable development is an eclectic concept and a wide array of political views fall under its umbrella. since the triplebottom-line dimensions of economic. This document inaugurates a new perspective and points to the relation between culture and sustainable development through a dual approach: developing a solid cultural policy and advocating a cultural dimension in all public policies.[17] sponsored by the European Union. held in Mexico City. authorisation. This is particularly true in relation to the controversial concept of 'sustainable enterprise' that frames global needs and risks as 'opportunities' for private enterprise to provide profitable entrepreneurial solutions. in the framework of the World Summit of Local and Regional Leaders – 3rd World Congress of UCLG. passed on 17 November 2010. legitimation and regulation of a social life held in common. integrates multidisciplinary capacities and interprets cultural diversity as a key element of a new strategy for sustainable development.[16] The Network of Excellence "Sustainable Development in a Diverse World". some researchers and institutions have pointed out that a fourth dimension should be added to the dimensions of sustainable development. the Agenda 21 for culture and the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Executive Bureau lead the preparation of the policy statement ―Culture: Fourth Pillar of Sustainable Development‖. This concept is now being taught at many business schools including the Center for Sustainable Global Enterprise at Cornell University and the Erb Institute for Global Sustainable Enterprise at the University of Michigan. It also means that the politics of economic change can be addressed. environmental and social do not seem to be enough to reflect the complexity of contemporary society. This definition is in accord with the view that political change is important for responding to economic. The political is defined as the domain of practices and meanings associated with basic issues of social power as they pertain to the organisation. In this context. [22] ‗Sustainability‘ is a semantic modification. 1992). extension and transfer of the term ‗sustained yield‘.[20][21] According to different sources. a leading American expert on forestry: ―To fulfill our obligations to our . The essence of ‗sustained yield forestry‘ was described for example by William A. the sustainable development mantra enjoins current generations to take a systems approach to growth and development and to manage natural. Broadly defined. Some consider that the implementation of sustainable development would mean a reversion to pre-modern lifestyles. Different conceptions also reveal a strong tension between ecocentrism and anthropocentrism. You hear about sustainable development. which in turn is a translation of the German term "nachhaltiger Ertrag" dating from 1713. produced.[18]This has engendered considerable political debate about what is being measured. During the last ten years. which sometimes impedes growth. indeed. the concept of sustainability in the sense of a balance between resource consumption and reproduction was however applied to forestry already in the 12th to 16th century.[19] Others have criticized the overuse of the term: "[The] word sustainable has been used in too many situations today."[19] [edit] History of the concept The concept of sustainable development was originally synonymous with that of sustainability and is often still used in that way. This had been the doctrine and. sustainable growth. and social capital for the welfare of their own and future generations. Everything is sustainable (Temple. different organizations have tried to measure and monitor the proximity to what they consider sustainability by implementing what has been called sustainability metrics and indices. Many definitions and images (Visualizing Sustainability) of sustainable development coexist. sustainable economies. Duerr. While current first world countries polluted significantly during their development. Both terms derive from the older forestry term "sustained yield". the same countries encourage third world countries to reduce pollution. sustainable agriculture. and ecological sustainability is one of those terms that confuse a lot of people. Sustainable development is said to set limits on the developing world.ecology. sustainable societies. the ‗holy grail‘ of foresters all over the world for more or less two centuries. whereas adherents of weak sustainability are content to keep constant the sum of natural and human capital.‖ A fine anticipation of the Brundtlandformula. Already in 400 BCE. but also its current interpretations have its roots in forest management.descendents and to stabilize our communities. sustainable without sudden and uncontrolled collapse."[20][21] [edit] Environmental sustainability . capable of satisfying the basic material requirements of all of its people. written by a group of scientists led by Dennis and Donella Meadows of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.[23] The history of the concept of sustainability is however much older. The sustained yield of timber is an aspect of man‘s most fundamental need: to sustain life itself. Describing the desirable "state of global equilibrium". each generation should sustain its resources at a high level and hand them along undiminished. Strong sustainability stipulates living solely off the interest of natural capital. Aristotle referred to a similar Greek concept in talking about household economics. and 2.[20] Not just the concept of sustainable development. the authors used the word "sustainable": "We are searching for a model output that represents a world system that is: 1. This Greek household concept differed from modern ones in that the household had to be self-sustaining at least to a certain extent and could not just be consumption oriented.[22] The first use of the term "sustainable" in the modern sense was by the Club of Rome in March 1972 in its epoch-making report on the ‗Limits to Growth". and social sustainability and somehow combining them.g. environmental . Environmental sustainability is the process of making sure current processes of interaction with the environment are pursued with the idea of keeping the environment as pristine as naturally possible based on ideal-seeking behavior. Barbier and Markandya (1989)[26] criticized the Venn approach due to the intractability of operationalizing separate indices of economic. Thus. Inherently the concept of sustainable development is intertwined with the concept of carrying capacity. the long-term result of environmental degradation is the inability to sustain human life. environmental. Theoretically. Such degradation on a global scale could imply extinction for humanity. Image is the Earth photographed from Apollo 17. harvesting wood from forests at a rate that maintains the biomass and biodiversity). They also noted that the Venn approach was inconsistent with the Brundtland Commission Report. An "unsustainable situation" occurs when natural capital (the sum total of nature's resources) is used up faster than it can be replenished. Sustainability requires that human activity only uses nature's resources at a rate at which they can be replenished naturally. only utilizing renewable energy.[25] However. Consumption of renewable resources State of environment Sustainability More than nature's ability to replenish Environmental degradation Not sustainable Equal to nature's ability to replenish Environmental equilibrium Steady state economy Environmentally sustainable Less than nature's ability to replenish Environmental renewal [edit] Economic sustainability The Venn diagram of sustainable development shown above has many versions. and sustainable material supplies (e. Pearce. environmental sustainability demands that society designs activities to meet human needs while indefinitely preserving the life support systems of the planet. which emphasized the interlinkages between economic development. entails using water sustainably. This.[24] but was first used by economist Edward Barbier (1987).Water is an important natural resource that covers 71% of the Earth's surface. for example. efficient policies are compatible with increasing human welfare. [edit] Types of capital Deforestation of native rain forest in Rio de Janeiro City for extraction of clay for civil engineering (2009 picture). knowledge capital and natural capital (as well as produced capital) not decline over time. (2004)[33] and other economists (e. as has become common in economic valuations of climate change economics (Heal 2009).g.[37] continue to contend that strong sustainability – non-depletion of essential forms of natural capital – may be appropriate. and dynamic efficiency (Stavins et al. 1989[35] and 1997)[36] have advocated a form of the weak criterion for sustainable development – the requirement than the wealth of a society. .[29] Ruling out discrimination against future generations and allowing for the possibility of renewable alternatives to petro-chemicals and other non-renewable resources.[31] Thus the three pillars of sustainable development are interlinkages. eventually reaching a golden-rule steady state (Ayong le Kama 2001[30] and Endress et al. 2003).[32] Arrow et al. and population pressure instead of three objectives.degradation. intergenerational equity.[28] Intergenerational equity can be incorporated into this approach.[27] Dasgupta 2007). Economists have since focused on viewing the economy and the environment as a single interlinked system with a unified valuation methodology (Hamilton 1999. Asheim. including Barbier 2007.1999[34] and Pezzey. Others. 2005). including human capital. regulate water flow.[39] for example. Another problem of natural and social capital deterioration lies in their partial irreversibility. or the climate stabilizing function of the Amazonian forest. is often definite. absorb nutrients for a long time while actually increasing its productivity. points to the fact that natural capital can not necessarily be substituted by economic capital. not only provide the raw material for paper (which can be substituted quite easily). social capital and economic capital are often complementarities. for example. which may be non-substitutable and whose consumption might be irreversible. [edit] Market failure Before flue-gas desulfurization was installed. However. The loss in biodiversity. Consumption of natural and social capital may have no observable impact until a certain threshold is reached. A lake can.The sustainable development debate is based on the assumption that societies need to manage three types of capital (economic. The same can be true for cultural diversity. for example. it is much more unlikely that they will ever be able to replace eco-system services. and absorb CO2. for example. In fact natural capital. the depletion of natural and social capital may have nonlinear consequences. once a certain level of algae is reached lack of oxygen causes the lake‘s ecosystem to break down suddenly. Forests. . such as the protection provided by the ozone layer. While it is possible that we can find ways to replace some natural resources. Moreover. the air-polluting emissions from this power plant in New Mexico contained excessive amounts of sulfur dioxide. For example with globalisation advancing quickly the number of indigenous languages is dropping at alarming rates. social.[38] Daly (1991). but they also maintain biodiversity. and natural). A further obstacle to substitutability lies also in the multifunctionality of many natural resources. human rights abuses). Cohen and Winn close with the realization that contrary to economic theory many firms are not perfect optimizers. Information asymmetry is a third reason—often the link between cause and effect is obscured. mobbing of employees. Whereas. Socio-efficiency[43] describes the relation between a firm's value added and its social impact.If the degradation of natural and social capital has such important consequence the question arises why action is not taken more systematically to alleviate it. creation of employment) or negative (e. while the benefits of natural or social capital depletion can usually be privatized the costs are often externalized (i.[41] This idea has been popularised by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) under the following definition: "Eco-efficiency is achieved by the delivery of competitively priced goods and services that satisfy human needs and bring quality of life. Cohen and Winn (2007)[40] point to four types of market failure as possible explanations: First. work accidents. Second. These can be either positive (e. natural capital is often undervalued by society since we are not fully aware of the real cost of the depletion of natural capital.g. Depending on the type of impact socio-efficiency thus either tries to minimize negative social impacts (i. accidents per . making it difficult for actors to make informed choices. corporate giving. it can be assumed that most corporate impacts on the environment are negative (apart from rare exceptions such as the planting of trees) this is not true for social impacts. while progressively reducing ecological impacts and resource intensity throughout the life-cycle to a level at least in line with the earth‘s carrying capacity. They postulate that firms often do not optimize resource allocation because they are caught in a "business as usual" mentality. This eco-efficiency is usually calculated as the economic value added by a firm in relation to its aggregated ecological impact.e." (DeSimone and Popoff.e.g. [edit] Business case The most broadly accepted criterion for corporate sustainability constitutes a firm‘s efficient use of natural capital. they are borne not by the party responsible but by society in general). 1997: 47)[42] Similar to the eco-efficiency concept but so far less explored is the second criterion for corporate sustainability. [edit] Sustainable agriculture See also: Sustainable agriculture Sustainable agriculture may be defined as consisting of environmentally friendly methods of farming that allow the production of crops or livestock without damage to human or natural systems. Furthermore. They point towards ecoeffectiveness. biotic. sufficiency.as well as to those working or living on the farm or in neighboring areas. socio-effectiveness. biodiversity. as Dyllick and Hockerts[43] point out the business case alone will not be sufficient to realise sustainable development. relating to passing on a conserved or improved natural resource. Both eco-efficiency and socio-efficiency are concerned primarily with increasing economic sustainability. Mixed Farming . water. surrounding or downstream resources -. it might be said to include preventing adverse effects to soil. However. The integration can be either in a spatial mixture or in a temporal sequence. and eco-equity as four criteria that need to be met if sustainable development is to be reached. agroforestry is a collective name for land use systems and practices in which woody perennials are deliberately integrated with crops and/or animals on the same land management unit. the concept of sustainable agriculture extends intergenerationally.[44] [edit] Elements Agroforestry Main article: Agroforestry According to the World Agroforestry Centre. In this process they instrumentalize both natural and social capital aiming to benefit from win-win situations.value added) or maximise positive social impacts (i. There are normally both ecological and economic interactions between woody and non-woody components in agroforestry. donations per value added) in relation to the value added. and economic base instead of one which has been depleted or polluted.e. More specifically.. Composition of family and Farmer‘s Ingenuity. during the same season is called Multiple Cropping. Internal factors relate to Local Soil Characteristics.[45] Many farmers in tropical & temperate countries survive by managing a mix of different crops or animals. Mixed farming exists in many forms depending on external and internal factors. Other forms of mixing takes place where grazing under fruit trees keeps the grass short or where manure from pigs is used to feed the fish. (e) combining crops and livestocks. (d) to add value to crop or crop by-product. Market Prices. (d) it is a component of polyculture. . It can be rightly called a form of polyculture. (b) to use labour more efficiently. (c) Crop rotation can also improve soil structure and fertility by alternating deep-rooted and shallowrooted plants. This process could be adopted as it comes with a series of benefits like – (a) avoid the build up of pests that often occurs when one species is continuously cropped. (b) the traditional element of crop rotation is the replenishment of nitrogen through the use of green manure in sequence with cereals and other crops. (c) to have a source of cash for purchasing farm inputs. Political Stability and Technological Development. Crop Rotation Main article: Crop rotation The process of growing two or more dissimilar or unrelated crops in the same piece of land in different seasons is known as Crop Rotation. It can be – (a) Double Cropping (the practice where the second crop is planted after the first has been harvested). (b) Relay Cropping (the practice where a second crop is started along with the first one. Multiple Cropping Main article: Multiple cropping The process of growing two or more crops in the same piece of land. before it is harvested). External factors are: Weather Patterns. Mixed Farming provides farmers with a) an opportunity to diversify risk from single-crop production. The best known form of mixing occurs probably where crop residues are used to feed the animals and the excreta from animals are used as nutrients for the crop. Many suggestions to save our environment and to promote a model of 'sustainable development' risk indeed leading to reverse effects. he is a proponent of private property to impel the producers and the consumers to save the natural resources. A policy which is not carefully enough thought will carry along various perverse and adverse effects for the ecology as much as for the economy. It is a gateway to interventionist proceedings which can be against the principle of freedom and without proven efficacy. increased resource extraction and further threats to biodiversity. Against this notion. lobby pressure."[47] Moreover. He writes: "In economy like in ecology.‖ They enable the effective practice of personal responsibility and the development of . The concept of "Sustainable Development" raises several critiques at different levels. partial disclosure etc. According to Baden. He develops his critique by noting the vagueness of the expression. Isolated actions are impossible. [edit] Consequences John Baden[46] views the notion of sustainable development as dangerous because the consequences have unknown effects.[edit] Criticisms Deforestation and increased road-building in the Amazon Rainforest are a significant concern because of increased human encroachment upon wilderness areas. the interdependence rule applies. he evokes the bounds of public action which are underlined by the public choice theory: the quest by politicians of their own interests. ―the improvement of environment quality depends on the market economy and the existence of legitimate and protected property rights. which can cover anything. The State can in this context ―create conditions which encourage the people to save the environment. both Jean-Marc Jancovici[49] and the philosopher Luc Ferry[50] express this view..mechanisms to protect the environment.‖[48] [edit] Vagueness of the term A sewage treatment plant that uses environmentally friendly solar energy." sustainable development has become obscured by conflicting world views. the expansionist and the ecological. can be compared to the Christian vision of Good and Evil. or rather so vague that it says nothing. located at Santuari de Lluc monastery. an idealized nature where the human being is an animal like the others or even an alien.] Everything must be done so that it does not turn into Russian-type administrative planning with ill effects. The latter writes about sustainable development: "I know that this term is obligatory. For example.. develops in A qui profite le développement durable (Who benefits from sustainable development?) (2008) a critique of the basis of sustainable development. Some criticize the term "sustainable development". [." Luc Ferry adds that the term is trivial by a proof of contradiction: "who would like to be a proponent of an ―untenable development! Of course no one! [.] The term is more charming than meaningful. It is a .[51] [edit] Basis Sylvie Brunel. Nature – as Rousseau thought – is better than the human being. but I find it also absurd. stating that the term is too vague. with its binary vision of the world. French geographer and specialist of the Third World. and risks being co-opted by individuals and institutions that perpetuate many aspects of the expansionist model. increases in efficiency of production and consumption have not been sufficient. to date.[how?] For Sylvie Brunel.‖[54] Nevertheless a majority of authors assume that a set of well defined and harmonised indicators is the only way to make sustainability tangible. on a planet where 20% of the population consumes 80% of the natural resources. doing little to tell us the origin of those problems and nothing to tell us how to solve them.[53] For several decades. harmful for the nature. none of the resulting systems clearly tells us whether our society is sustainable. At best. i. More often. According to them. Environmental Protection Agency stated: ―While much discussion and effort has gone into sustainability indicators. they can tell us that we are heading in the wrong direction. theorists of steady state economy and ecological economy have been positing that reduction in population growth or even negative population growth is required for the human community not to destroy its planetary support systems. Those . [edit] Measurability In 2007 a report for the U.[52] [edit] "De-growth" The proponents of the de-growth reckon that the term of sustainable development is an oxymoron. or that our current activities are not sustainable.[52] Moreover. when applied to existing trends in population and resource depletion and waste by-production.e. she thinks that the core ideas of sustainable development are a hidden form of protectionism by developed countries impeding the development of the other countries. the right term for the developed countries should be a sustainable de-growth".. a development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. to allow for projections of future sustainability. a sustainable development cannot be possible for this 20%: "According to the origin of the concept of sustainable development. where normally only the strong survive.parasite.S. sustainable development serves as a pretext for protectionism and "I have the feeling that sustainable development is perfectly helping out capitalism". But the human is the one who protects the biodiversity. they simply draw our attention to the existence of problems. indicators are expected to be identified and adjusted through empirical observations (trial and error)[55] see also Ecological footprint. activity or enterprise. The most common critiques are related to issues like data quality. objective function and the necessary resources. "Annex I" parties are those countries that .[1] The CDM is defined in Article 12 of the Protocol. and (2) to assist parties included in Annex I in achieving compliance with their quantified emission limitation and reduction commitments (greenhouse gas (GHG) emission caps). Clean Development Mechanism From Wikipedia. which is to prevent dangerous climate change.[56] However a more general criticism is coming from the project management community: How can a sustainable development be achieved at global level if we cannot monitor it in any single project?[57][58] The Cuban-born researcher and entrepreneur Sonia Bueno suggests an alternative approach that is based upon the integral. and is intended to meet two objectives: (1) to assist parties not included in Annex I in achieving sustainable development and in contributing to the ultimate objective of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).[59][60] Furthermore this concept aims to be a practical guideline towards sustainable development following the principle of conservation and increment of value rather than restricting the consumption of resources. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. comparability. search The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) is one of the flexibility mechanisms defined in the Kyoto Protocol (IPCC. 2007) that provides for emissions reduction projects which generate Certified Emission Reduction units which may be traded in emissions trading schemes. long-term cost-benefit relationship as a measure and monitoring tool for the sustainability of every project. [5] Carbon capture and storage (CCS) was included in the CDM carbon offsetting scheme in December 2011. 2010. 2003. and are the industrialized countries. The CDM allows industrialized countries to buy CERS and to invest in emission reductions where it is cheapest globally (Grubb. 159). 265267).[2] The projects and the issue of CERs is subject to approval to ensure that these emission reductions are real and "additional. . p." The CDM is supervised by the CDM Executive Board (CDM EB) and is under the guidance of the Conference of the Parties (COP/MOP) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).[6] However. The CDM addresses the second objective by allowing the Annex I countries to meet part of their emission reduction commitments under the Kyoto Protocol by buying Certified Emission Reduction units from CDM emission reduction projects in developing countries (Carbon Trust.are listed in Annex I of the treaty. 63% of all CERS had been issued for projects based on destroying either HFC-23 (42%) or N2O (21%). which was the first year CDM projects could be registered and 7 September 2012. the CDM issued 1 billion Certified Emission Reduction units. Non-Annex I parties are developing countries. 2009.[4] As of 1 September 2012. p. 14). Several of these issues are addressed by the new Program of Activities (PoA) that moves to approving 'bundles' of projects instead of accrediting each project individually. p. a number of weaknesses of the CDM have been identified (World Bank.[3] Between 2001. 2.2.2.1 Difficulties with the CDM o 3.2 The risk of fraud 7.2 Markets and trading of Certified Emission Reductions 4 Financial issues o 4.2.2 Concerns 7.1 Transportation o 5.2.3 Establishing a baseline o 2.6 Industrial gas projects 7.8 Other concerns 7.2 Establishing additionality o 2.4 Reasons for including avoided deforestation projects in the CDM 7.1.1 Mitigation finance o 4.3 Successes 8 See also 9 References 10 Further reading 11 External links [edit] History and purpose .1 Overall efficiency 7.2.9 Suggestions o 7.1.Contents [hide] 1 History and purpose 2 CDM project process o 2.2.3 Exclusion of forest conservation/avoided deforestation from the CDM 7.3 Views on additionality o 7.2.1.1 Emissions 7.2.5 Coal thermal power generation in India and China 7.4 Methodologies 3 Economics o 3.2 Destruction of HFC-23 6 Barriers 7 Views on the CDM o 7.2 Types 7.7 Hydropower 7.1 Additionality 7.1 Outline of the project process o 2.2 Adaptation finance 5 CDM projects to date o 5. in the international negotiations over the follow-up to the Kyoto Protocol. 1996.[7] These reductions are "produced" and then subtracted against a hypothetical "baseline" of emissions. p. i.[3] For example... 159).[9] Thus. 2009. 30..[8] Infrastructure decisions made in developing countries could therefore have a very large influence on future efforts to limit total global emissions (Fisher et al. The economic basis for including developing countries in efforts to reduce emissions is that emission cuts are thought to be less expensive in developing countries than developed countries (Goldemberg et al. 1996.. From the viewpoint of bringing about a global reduction in emissions. 2007).e. The purpose of the CDM is to promote clean development in developing countries. p. in the sense that developing countries gain credit for producing these emission cuts. The CDM is based on the idea of emission reduction "production" (Toth et al.The CDM is one of the "flexibility mechanisms" that is defined in the Kyoto Protocol.[8] Grubb. it is widely thought that there is greater potential for developing countries to reduce their emissions than developed countries. 660). 6). 2001. 2007). The flexibility mechanisms are designed to allow Annex B countries to meet their emission reduction commitments with reduced impact on their economies (IPCC. 29).. environmental regulation is generally weaker than it is in developed countries (Sathaye et al. p. with industralized (Annex B) countries paying for these reductions.[2] However. in that the CDM is designed to promote projects that reduce emissions. The emissions baseline are the emissions that are predicted to occur in the absence of a particular CDM project. 2001. p.. emissions from developing countries are projected to increase substantially over this century (Goldemberg et al. 387-389). p. in developing countries. it has been agreed that the mechanisms will continue.[1] The flexibility mechanisms were introduced to the Kyoto Protocol by the US government. . The CDM is one of the Protocol's "project-based" mechanisms. CDM projects are "credited" against this baseline. Developing countries were highly skeptical and fiercely opposed to the flexibility mechanisms (Carbon Trust.[10] The CDM is designed to start off developing countries on a path towards less pollution. p. the "nonAnnex I" countries (countries that aren't listed in Annex I of the Framework Convention). 2003. and in particular.[citation needed] The Adaptation Fund was established to finance concrete adaptation projects and programmes in developing countries that are Parties to the Kyoto Protocol. as Parties did not provide sufficient funding to the EB. Before the Protocol entered into force.[citation needed] It treats Dutch companies' purchases of European Emissions Trading Scheme allowances from companies in other countries as part of its domestic actions.[citation needed] The Fund is to be financed with a share of proceeds from clean development mechanism (CDM) project activities and receive funds from other sources. the framework has a provision that use of CDM be ‗supplemental‘ to domestic actions to reduce emissions. International rules also prohibit credits for some kind of activities. companies.There were two main concerns about the CDM (Carbon Trust. This wording has led to a wide range of interpretations . the CDM requires host countries to confirm that CDM projects contribute to their own sustainable development.the Netherlands for example aims to achieve half of its required emission reductions (from a BAU baseline) by CDM. northern countries. pp. This left it understaffed. The other was whether it would allow rich. using methodologies approved by the CDM Executive Board (EB). One was over the additionality of emission reductions produced by the CDM (see the section on additionality). The initial years of operation yielded fewer CDM credits than supporters had hoped for. 14–15). 2009. The CDM gained momentum in 2005 after the entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. To prevent industrialised countries from making unlimited use of CDM. the applicant (the industrialised country) must make the case that the carbon project would not have . Then. notably from nuclear power and avoided deforestation. To alleviate this concern. [edit] CDM project process [edit] Outline of the project process An industrialised country that wishes to get credits from a CDM project must obtain the consent of the developing country hosting the project that the project will contribute to sustainable development. to impose projects that were contrary to the development interests of host countries. investors considered this a key risk factor. called Certified Emission Reductions (CERs. CO2 or its equivalent). The case is then validated by a third party agency. called a Designated Operational Entity (DOE). which would yield a risk of awarding spurious credits. At present.g. Current Guidance from the EB is available at the UNFCCC website. The EB then decides whether or not to register (approve) the project. rules have been specified to ensure additionality of the project. The partners involved in the project could have an interest in establishing a baseline with high emissions. where each unit is equivalent to the reduction of one metric tonne of CO2e. or to actual emissions prior to project implementation. e. The baseline may be estimated through reference to emissions from similar activities and technologies in the same country or other countries. and must establish a baseline estimating the future emissions in absence of the registered project. the CDM Executive Board deems a project additional if its proponents can document that realistic alternative scenarios to the proposed project would be more economically attractive or that the project faces barriers that CDM helps it overcome. that is. [edit] Establishing additionality To avoid giving credits to projects that would have happened anyway ("freeriders"). verified by the DOE. the EB issues credits. measurable. and long-term emission reductions. (April 2010) The amount of emission reduction depends on the emissions that would have occurred without the project minus the emissions of the project. commonly known as carbon credits. The construction of such a hypothetical scenario is known as the baseline of the project. to project participants based on the monitored difference between the baseline and the actual emissions. to ensure the project results in real. If a project is registered and implemented. to ensure the project reduces emissions more than would have occurred in the absence of the project.happened anyway (establishing additionality). .[11] [edit] Establishing a baseline This section needs additional citations for verification. Independent third party verification is meant to avoid this potential problem. . it shall. p. if the cap on offset use was set at 20%. quality assurance.[16] Boost transfers of clean.e. prior to the submission for registration of this project activity. crediting mechanisms like the CDM could play three important roles in climate change mitigation :[15] Improve the cost-effectiveness of GHG mitigation policies in developed countries Help to reduce "leakage" (carbon leakage) of emissions from developed to developing countries. 2007). equipment to be used. 2009. This cost saving. Those approved methodologies are all coded:[12] AM .g.[14] [edit] Economics According to Burniaux et al.Approved Methodology ACM . According to Burniaux et al. e. approved and registered. should . (2009. costs where emission reductions only take place in Annex I countries).Approved Methodology for Small Scale Projects ARAM . if appropriate. one estimate suggests mitigation costs could be halved. however.Approved Consolidated Methodology AMS . consideration and approval.[13] If a DOE determines that a proposed project activity intends to use a new baseline methodology..Aforestation and Reforestation Approved Methodologies All baseline methodologies approved by Executive Board are publicly available along with relevant guidance on the UNFCCC CDM website. through relocation of polluting industries from Annex I to non-Annex I countries (Barker et al. in order to obtain data to calculate the emission reductions. 37). Leakage is where mitigation actions in one country or economic sector result in another country's or sector's emissions increasing.. p. i. forward the proposed methodology to the EB for review. less polluting technologies to developing countries.[edit] Methodologies Any proposed CDM project has to use an approved baseline and monitoring methodology to be validated. the cost-saving potential of a well-functioning crediting mechanism appears to be very large. Baseline Methodology will set steps to determine the baseline within certain applicability conditions whilst monitoring methodology will set specific steps to determine monitoring parameters. Compared to baseline costs (i.e.. 37. Thus. Actual transaction cost in the CDM are rather high. 2010. p. which is problematic for smaller projects. This can create a perverse incentive for firms to raise their emissions in the short-term. emission savings from the CDM must be additional (World Bank. there are significant constraints to the continued growth of the CDM to support mitigation in developing countries. non-Annex I countries enjoy a slight income gain from exploiting low cost emission reductions. The current CDM approach already incorporates some leakage. Additionality is. Additionality.[18] Without additionality. with the aim of getting credits for reducing emissions in the long-term. [edit] Difficulties with the CDM Carbon leakage In theory. 2009. According to World Bank (2010). 40). In this economic model. Annex I countries who stand to gain most from crediting include Australia. It therefore comes close to being an emissions reduction subsidy. p. Incentives The CDM rewards emissions reductions. be small or even non-existent. p. Burniaux et al. in fact. but does not penalize emission increases (Burniaux et al. however. .be viewed as an upper bound: it assumes no transaction costs and no uncertainty on the delivery of emission savings. In practice. (2009) commented on the large transaction costs of establishing additionality. and Canada.. difficult to prove. New Zealand. leakage may be reduced by crediting mechanisms (Burniaux et al. the amount of leakage partly depends on the definition of the baseline against which credits are granted. 2009. and is the subject of vigorous debate. transaction costs and bottlenecks In order to maintain the environmental effectiveness of the Kyoto Protocol. reductions in leakage due to the CDM may. the CDM amounts to an income transfer to non-Annex I countries (Burniaux et al. 2009.[17] This issue is addressed by the Program of Activities (PoA) modality. 265)... 38). 41). p. Assessing additionality has created delays (bottlenecks) in approving CDM projects. where their emissions are capped. a CDM project is blocking peace talks between the Panamanian government and the indigenous Ngöbe-Buglé people. while doing harm to excluded people. from large hydropower to HFC or waste to energy and clean coal projects (which all together make the majority of credits generated through CDM) The argument in favor of the CDM is that it brings development to the South but in all continents.. Civil society groups and researchers in both North and South have complained since years that most CDM projects are benefiting big industries. the mainly Big Development it stands for is resisted by local people in those countries. Analysts attributed the low CER price to lower prices paid for European Union emissions allowances.67 euros a tonne. the market price for CERs fell to new record low of 2. most projects might be better defined with the B from Big. Development? While the C in CDM stands for Clean. This is true except in cases where the allocation of emissions rights (i. as shown in a video on what the makers call 'the waste war' in Delhi. On the 18th of April 2012. This represented a change in price of about 70 percent in a year. As local protests against CDM projects are arising on every continent. the amount of emissions that each country is allowed to emit) in the ETS is particularly favourable to developing countries. a grassroots movement of wastepickers is resisting another CDM project. the very notion of the CDM 'bringing development to the South' has become a contested notion.Another difficulty is that the CDM might reduce the incentive for non-Annex I countries to cap their emissions. the over supply of EU emissions allowances and the slowing European economy. This is because most developing countries benefit more from a well-functioning crediting mechanism than from a world emissions trading scheme (ETS). In New Delhi (India).e. In July 2012. [edit] Markets and trading of Certified Emission Reductions Most of the demand for CERs from the CDM comes from the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme which is the largest carbon market. a global coalition of researchers published a large report on how African civil society is resisting CDM projects all over the continent.[19] . And in Panama. 81% of GDP versus 0. The Economist described the CDM as a "complete disaster in the making" and "in need of a radical overhaul".[22] [edit] Financial issues With costs of emission reduction typically much lower in developing countries than in industrialised countries. potential projects were not commercially viable.36 euros a metric tonne on the London ICE Futures Europe exchange. With such low CER prices.In September 2012. that the CDM Executive Board rejects the project. CER prices fell to a new low of 1.13 and 0. While there would always be some cheap domestic emission reductions available in Europe. the cost of switching from coal to gas could be in the order of €40-50 per tonne CO2 equivalent. had collapsed. industrialised countries can comply with their emission reduction targets at much lower cost by receiving credits for emissions reduced in developing countries as long as administration costs are low. or that the buyer doesn't get CERs at the agreed time if the international transaction log (the technical infrastructure ensuring international transfer of carbon credits) is not in place by .[20] The Guardian reported that the CDM has "essentially collapsed".[21] In October 20112.50 Climate Change 2001 Synthesis report. from $20 a tonne in August 2008 to below $5 in response to the Eurozone debt crisis reducing industrial activity and the over-allocation of emission allowances under the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme. The seller could get a very good price if it agrees to bear the risk that the project's baseline and monitoring methodology is rejected. which had been traded for as much as $20 (£12. due to the prolonged downward trend in the price of CERs. that the project for some reason produces fewer credits than planned. This was because carbon prices. The IPCC has projected GDP losses for OECD Europe with full use of CDM and Joint Implementation to between 0. The price depends on the distribution of risk between seller and buyer. 2001 with only domestic action. CERs from CDM projects were in 2006 traded on a forward basis for between €5 and € 20 per tonne CO2 equivalent. Figure SPM-8] IPCC.50) a tonne before the global financial crisis to less than $3.31 to 1. including prices for CERS. that the host country rejects the project. 18-19). 2010.[18] Over the 2001 to 2012 period.. projects submitted to the CDM amounted to less than 100 MtCO2e of projected savings by 2012 (Carbon Trust. CDM projects could raise $18 billion ($15 billion to $24 billion) in direct carbon revenues for developing countries. The actual amount raised will depend on the carbon price. 2009. as rated by international rating agencies. [edit] Mitigation finance The revenues of the CDM constitutes the largest source of mitigation finance to developing countries to date (World Bank. which was established in 2007 to finance concrete adaptation projects and programmes in developing countries that are Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (World Bank. It is estimated that some $95 billion in clean energy investment benefitted from the CDM over the 2002-08 period.[23] By 1 January 2005. The seller can usually only take these risks if the counterparty is deemed very reliable. p. 262-263).then. [edit] CDM projects to date Certified emission reduction units (CERs) by country October 2012 Since 2000. [edit] Adaptation finance The CDM is the main source of income for the UNFCCC Adaptation Fund. 261-262).[18] The CDM is subject to a 2 percent levy. which could raise between $300 million and $600 million over the 2008-12 period. 2010. p. Actual revenues will depend on the price of carbon.[2] The EU . 2007). the CDM has allowed crediting of project-based emission reductions in developing countries (Gupta et al. p. 4626 projects had been registered by the CDM Executive Board as CDM projects.ETS started in January 2005. over 4. TransMilenio.[citation needed] [edit] Destruction of HFC-23 Some CDM projects remove or destroy industrial gases. and of those. the Carbon Trust estimated that industrial gas projects such as those limiting HFC-23 emissions. By 14 September 2012.000 certified emissions reduction units. and Brazil were issued with 15%. the CDM Board had issued 1 billion CERS. so destroying a tonne of HFC-23 earns the refrigerant manufacturer 11. India. By the end of 2008. and were therefore entitled to be issued CERs (Carbon Trust. The Carbon Trust expressed the concern that projects for destroying HFC-23 were so profitable that coolant . 9% and 7% of the total CERS. HFC-23 is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) and is a byproduct from the production of the refrigerant gas chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22). 60% of which originated from projects in China. The Kyoto Protocol set the CDM on a firm legal footing.000 CDM projects had been submitted for validation.[2] The gas HFC-23 is estimated to have a global warming effect 11. the Republic of Korea. the largest potential for production of CERs would be from China (52% of total CERs) and India (16%) (World Bank.798 certified emissions reductions. and the Delhi Metro[27] are the only two public transport system registered for CDM with the UNFCCC. p.[26] [edit] Transportation The bus rapid transit system in Bogota. and the following month saw the Kyoto Protocol enter into force. over 1.[28] In 2009.[24] These projects are expected to result in the issue of 648. In 2010. 2010. the World Bank estimated that in 2012. and thus created a perceived value to projects. 2009. 19).000 were registered by the CDM Executive Board.000 times greater than carbon dioxide.[25] By 14 September 2012. with Brazil as the largest producer in the region (7%). such as hydrofluorocarbon-23 (HFC-23) and nitrous oxide (N2O).232. p.[18] CERs produced in Latin America and the Caribbean would make up 15% of the potential total. would contribute about 20% of the CERS issued by the CDM in 2012. 262). The EU ETS allowed firms to comply with their commitments by buying offset credits. The payments also incentivise the increased production of the ozone-depleting refrigerant HCFC-22.[5] . The ban includes nitrous oxide (N2O) from adipic acid production. compared with 12 percent to 2. the lack of environmental integrity. The use of the future delivery contracts ends in June 2013. the CDM had issued 418. The reasons given were the perverse incentives. and one each in Argentina. and discourage substitution of HCFC-22 with less harmful refrigerants. Plasma arc plant that was installed by Quimobásicos S. Mexico and South Korea). costs and ineffectiveness and the distorting effect of a few projects in advanced developing countries getting too many CERs. 19 manufacturers of refrigerants (11 in China.866 CERs) had been issued to 108 N2O destruction projects. However.372 wind power plants and 0.[citation needed] From 2005 to June 2012. the technical director of IDEAcarbon believes each plant would probably have earned an average of $20 million to $40 million a year from the CDM. David Hanrahan. a byproduct of the production of R-22 refrigerant gas. In 2011.A.[31] As of 1 September 2012. A further 21% (or 213.[2] An example is the Plascon. 5 in India.2 percent to 312 solar projects. to twenty three HFC-23 destruction projects.[28] In 2007 the CDM stopped accepting new refrigerant manufacturers into the CDM. or 42% of all CERS issued.219 CERS.[28] In January 2011. the European Union Climate Change Committee banned the use of HFC-23 CERs in the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme from 1 May 2013. 2009. de C.(Carbon Trust.V in Monterrey. the lack of additionality.[30] From 23 December 2011.[29] were issued with 46% of all the certified emissions reduction units from the CDM. the CDM renewed contracts with the nineteen manufacturers on the condition that claims for HFC23 destruction would be limited to 1 percent of their coolant production. Mexico to eliminate of HCFC-23. 60). p. in 2012. unless they had been purchased under future delivery contracts entered into prior to 23 December 2011.the under-mining of the Montreal Protocol. CERs from HFC-23 and N2O destruction projects were banned from use in the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme. 18 percent of all CERS issued are expected to go to the 19 coolant plants.manufacturers could be building new factories to produce the coolant gas. Four CDM decisions were highlighted as having a disproportionate negative impact on LDCs: Suppressed demand: Baseline calculations for LDCs are low.[edit] Barriers World Bank (n. In their view.[32] LDCs have experienced lower participation in the CDM to date. Credits from forestry projects are penalized under the CDM. Some lowcarbon electricity supply projects were also thought to have displaced coal-powered generation.d. Treatment of projects that replace non-renewable biomass: A decision taken led to essentially a halving in the emission reduction potential of these projects. some projects have been clearly additional: the fitting of equipment to remove HFCs and N2O. often from nonrenewable sources. and the higher the proof of additionality. 2009. leading to depressed demand and price. meaning that projects cannot generate sufficient carbon finance to have an impact. [edit] Views on the CDM [edit] Additionality [edit] Emissions One of the difficulties of the CDM is in judging whether or not projects truly make additional savings in GHG emissions (Carbon Trust. 12) described a number of barriers to the use of the CDM in least developed countries (LDCs). the greater the risk of rejecting good projects to reduce emissions. According to the Carbon Trust (2009). some of these projects had debatable points in their additionality assessments. Carbon Trust (2009) reviewed some approved projects. Transaction costs and CDM process requirements: These are geared more towards the most advanced developing countries.[2] The baseline which is used in making this comparison is not observable. Certainty in additionality is rare. [edit] Types Additionality is a much contested. p. This has particularly affected Sub-Saharan Africa and projects in poor communities.. and do not work well for the projects most often found in LDCs. where firewood. There are many rival interpretations of additionality: . p. Treatment of forestry projects and exclusion of agriculture under the CDM: These sectors are more important for LDCs than for middle-income countries. is frequently used as a fuel for cooking and heating. They compared establishing additionality to the balance of evidence in a legal system. 54-56). "business- . [edit] Views on additionality An argument against additionality is based on the fact that developing countries are not subject to emission caps in the Kyoto Protocol (Müller.[33] 'Financial additionality' is often defined as an economically non-viable project becoming viable as a direct result of CDM revenues. sometimes termed ‘project additionality’. 5). According to Schneider (2007. particularly over the terms 'financial additionality' and 'investment additionality' which are sometimes used as synonyms.[35] The findings of the report were based on a systematic evaluation of 93 randomly chosen registered CDM projects.[37] On these basis. official guidelines have been designed to facilitate uniform assessment. 'Investment additionality'. permitting developed countries to emit more CO2e.[34] Schneider (2007) produced a report on the CDM for the WWF. Another interpretation. It is never possible to establish with certainty what would have happened without the CDM or in absence of a particular project. was a concept discussed and ultimately rejected during negotiation of the Marrakech Accords. which is one common objection to the CDM. 2. What is often labelled ‘environmental additionality’ has that a project is additional if the emissions from the project are lower than the baseline. leading to some confusion. A number of terms for different kinds of additionality have been discussed. 2009.1. Investment additionality carried the idea that any project that surpasses a certain risk-adjusted profitability threshold would automatically be deemed non-additional. the project must not have happened without the CDM. 9-10). however. It generally looks at what would have happened without the project. as well as interviews and a literature survey (p. 72). the additionality of a significant number of projects over the 2004-2007 period seemed to be either unlikely or questionable. pp. iv. Nevertheless. Environmental NGOs have argued that this interpretation would open the CDM to freeriders. Many investors argue that the environmental additionality interpretation would make the CDM simpler. p. while failing to produce emission reductions in the CDM host countries.[36] set by the CDM Executive Board for assessing additionality. a restriction on their right to emit without a cap. emission reductions that would have taken place under BAU) emission reductions should be credited. Sometimes a company even produces more to receive more CERs.[40][41][42] The most common practices are covering up the fact that the projects are financially viable by themselves and that the emission reductions acquired through the CDM-project aren‘t additional. additionality should sometimes be used. emissions that would occur without any efforts to reduce them) in developing countries should be allowed. just as carbon leakage. [edit] The risk of fraud One of the main problems concerning CDM-projects is the risk of fraud. This can be used as an argument against having additionality.. Müller (2009) argued that compromise was necessary between having additionality and not having it. 16–17).e. it is. The researchers noted that the sample of projects studied was small.[32] To maintain this integrity.[38][39] Other significant costs include the broker's premium (about 30%. . By setting a BAU baseline. in effect. Exaggerating the carbon benefits is also a common practice. [edit] Concerns [edit] Overall efficiency Pioneering research has suggested that an average of approximately 30% of the money spent on the open market buying CDM credits goes directly to project operating and capital expenditure costs. additionality is crucial in maintaining the environmental integrity of the carbon market. the range of figures was wide and that their methodology of estimating values slightly overstated the average broker's premium.e. According to World Bank (n. this can be interpreted as being a target for developing countries. in the sense that non-additional (i. pp. Thus. but other times. it shouldn't.as-usual" (BAU) emissions (i. it was suggested that projects meeting or exceeding ambitious policy objectives or technical standards could be deemed additional..d. understood to represent the risk of a project not delivering) and the project shareholders' dividend (another 30%). In his view.. staff and financial resources it has to fully evaluate a project proposal.[41][45][46] Hydro-projects are also quite problematic. Barbara Haye calculated that more than a third of all hydro-projects recognized as a CDM-project ‗were already completed at the time of registration and almost all were already under construction‘. the verifiers have serious incentives to deliver a positive report to the EB. In this way. which again indirectly leads to higher emissions. extraordinarily they account for half[43] to 69%[44] of all CERs that have been issued. most of the proposed carbon benefits of these projects are exaggerated. This. very large profits can be made by companies setting up these projects.[48] Moreover.[41] Why are these projects approved by the Clean_Development_Mechanism Executive Board (EB)?‘. the CDM has become a stimulus for carbon leakage.[41] Moreover. the World Bank (that subsidizes certain projects). Solving this problem might require a genuine democratization in the election of the EB-members and thus a shift in thinking from government to governance. contributing to a collapse in the global market for all CERs.7% of all CDMprojects can be qualified as such. and other lobbying organisations.[45] In this way. but are elected as representatives of their respective countries.[40][41][46][50] This indicates that implementation is the place . They face pressure from their own & other (powerful) countries. One of the main problems is that the EB is a highly politicized body. combined with a lack of transparency regarding the decisions of the board leads to the members favouring political-economical over technical or scientific considerations. In practice this would mean that all the stakeholders should get a voice in who can have a seat in the EB. Another important factor in the dysfunctionality of the EB is the lack of time.[47] which means that CERs are issued for projects that aren‘t additional. the verification of a project is often outsourced to companies that also deliver services (such as accounting or consultancy) to enterprises setting up these same projects. or even to simply produce more.[40][46][49] It seems clear that the CDM isn‘t governed according to the rules of ‗good governance‘.Most of the doubtful projects are Industrial gas projects. one might wonder.[43] Since the cost of dismantling these gases is very low compared to the market price of the CERs. People taking a place in the board aren‘t independent technocrats. Even though only 1. are known as "sinks". business leaders.e.where the shoe pinches.[49] [edit] Exclusion of forest conservation/avoided deforestation from the CDM The first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol excluded forest conservation/avoided deforestation from the CDM for a variety of political. are known as "sources". it should be noted though that there have been indications in recent years that the EB is becoming more strict in its decisions. kept out of the atmosphere. Greenhouse gas emitters. carbon emissions from deforestation represent 18-25% of all emissions. such as methane.[51] Finally. under the leadership of the Coalition for Rainforest Nations. and policy makers. at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII). There is so far no international agreement about whether projects avoiding deforestation or conserving forests should be initiated through separate policies and measures or stimulated through the carbon market. May 2.[52] However. especially against Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. i. and brought together under the Forests Now Declaration.[53] and will account for more carbon emissions in the next five years than all emissions from all aircraft since the Wright Brothers until at least 2025. . as usually happens in environmental issues (mostly due to a lack of funds). due to the huge criticism and the board getting more experience. practical and ethical reasons. For example.[54] This means that there have been growing calls for the inclusion of forests in CDM schemes for the second commitment period from a variety of sectors. which has been signed by over 300 NGOs. and places where carbon and other greenhouse gases. There is also local opposition. 2008. One major concern is the enormous monitoring effort needed in order to make sure projects are indeed leading to increased carbon storage. such as coal-fired power plants. can be sequestered. Indigenous leaders from around the world protested against the Clean Energy Mechanisms. [edit] Reasons for including avoided deforestation projects in the CDM Combating global warming has broadly two components: decreasing the release of greenhouse gases and sequestering greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. 2 million CERs over a 10-year period with an estimated value of 661 million euros ($919 million) at a CER price of 9. [edit] Coal thermal power generation in India and China In July 2011. According to information provided to Reuters. The five plants are eligible to receive 68. These projects . CDM Watch and the Sierra Club criticised the plant's registration and it's eligibility for certified emission reduction units as clearly not additional.The world's forests. both because of their uptake of CO2 through photosynthesis and because of the amount of carbon stored in their woody biomass and the soil. REDD has gained support through recent meetings of the COP.[55] In September 2012. would allow rain forest preservation to qualify for CDM project status. The organisation CDMWatch described the decision as inconsistent with the objective of the CDM as it subsidised the construction of new coal power plants. but also the carbon stored in that biomass and soil is released into the atmosphere through release of roots from the soil and the burning of the woody plant matter. particularly rain forests. Reuters reported that a 4.70 euros. and will be examined at Copenhagen.000 MW coal thermal electricity generation plant in Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh had been registered with the CDM. are important carbon sinks. four in India with a capacity of 10. the Executive Board of the Clean Development Mechanism adopted rules confirming that new coal thermal power generation plants could be registered as CDM projects and could use the simplified rules called 'Programmes of Activities'. not only do we lose the forests' capacity to take up CO2 from the atmosphere. A CDM spokesperson dismissed these claims. When rain forests are logged and burned.000 MW plant in China. An emerging proposal.[56] [edit] Industrial gas projects Some CERs are produced from CDM projects at refrigerant-producing factories in non-Annex I countries that generate the powerful greenhouse gas HFC 23 as a by-product. CDM-Watch described the CERs that would be issued as "non-additional dirty carbon credits".640 MW and one 2. Reduced Emissions from Avoided Deforestation and Degradation (REDD). there are total of five coal-fired electricity plants registered with the CDM. [citation needed] Lately. 60). According to the Carbon Trust (2009. the CDM Executive Board made changes in how these projects are credited. 60). these emission reduction opportunities were not taken. In an attempt to address concerns over HFC-23 projects. third party validator TÜV SÜD Group rejected a hydropower project in China because the project proponents could not document that they had seriously considered CDM at the time the project was started.2-0. 60) argued that criticizing the CDM for finding low-cost reductions seemed perverse. p. They also argued that addressing the problem with targeted funding was easy with hindsight. Industrialized countries were.[2] Paying for facilities to destroy HFC-23 can cost only 0. and that before the CDM. One reason was that many of these projects had started well before applying for CDM status.5 €/tCO2. paying around 20 €/tCO2 for reductions that cost below 1 €/tCO2. The scale of profits generated by HFC-23 projects threatened distortions in competitiveness with plants in industrialized countries that had already cleaned up their emissions (p. p. (April 2010) NGOs have criticized the inclusion of large hydropower projects. however. which they consider unsustainable. and the risk of perverse incentives is capped. 2009. as CDM projects. these changes effectively ensure that: the potential to capture emissions from these plants is exploited. This provoked strong criticism. [edit] Hydropower This section needs additional citations for verification. In July 2008. p.dominated the CDM's early growth. distortions are reduced. third party validators agreed that projects applying for CDM status more than one year after having taken their investment decision should not qualify for CDM status. 60). and are expected to generate 20% of all credited emission reductions by 2012 (Carbon Trust. Carbon Trust (2009. both the CDM EB and investors have become concerned about such projects for potential lack of additionality. In June 2008. . a capital city of the occupied territory of Western Sahara. have consistently been sceptical towards the inclusion of sinks as CDM projects.[citation needed] The main reasons were fear of oversupply.[58] [edit] Suggestions . CERs from hydropower projects are not listed on European carbon exchanges. The lack of demand for such projects have resulted in very limited supply: Currently (21 July 2008). Windfarms in Western Sahara In 2012. Consequently.[57] Sinks NGOs. Such credits cannot be imported to the European Union's Emission Trading Scheme. two separate carbon currencies (temporary CERs and long-term CERs) were created for such projects. because different member states interpret these limitations differently. it has been questioned by many parties supporting Western Sahara independence. only one sinks project has been registered under CDM. and that the methods of accounting for carbon storage in biomass are complex and still under development. [edit] Other concerns Renewable energy In the initial phase of the CDM.[citation needed] As of 21 July 2008. policy makers and NGOs were concerned about the lack of renewable energy CDM projects. As the new CDM projects are now predominantly renewables and energy efficiency projects. it was announced. Since this project is to be established under tight collaboration between the UN (which itself recognizes Western Sahara's status of an independent country) and the Moroccan occupational government. that a windfarm complex is going to be located near Laayoune. this is now less of an issue. as well as several governments.Hydropower projects larger than 20 MW must document that they follow World Commission on Dams guidelines or similar guidelines in order to qualify for the European Union's Emissions Trading Scheme. that such projects cannot guarantee permanent storage of carbon. including the Polisario. although this was later denied by the company's press office. During its approval process.[60] However.[61] [edit] Successes Schneider (2007. there were unofficial reports that the fuel change was going to take place anyway. the World Wide Fund for Nature and other NGOs devised a ‗Gold Standard‘ methodology to certify projects that uses much stricter criteria than required.[35] Schneider (2007) concluded by stating that if concerns over the CDM are properly addressed. or build a difficult but cleaner natural gas pipeline to another country. comparing emissions from the pipeline to the contemplated coal mine.In response to concerns of unsustainable projects or spurious credits. p. such as allowing only renewable energy projects. replace its depleted energy supply with coal from a new mine. SASOL claimed the difference in GHG emissions as a CDM credit." Desertification in India . the validators noted that changing the supply from coal to gas met the CDM's 'additionality' criteria and was the least cost-effective option. a South African brick kiln was faced with a business decision.[59] For example. They chose to build the pipeline with SASOL. it would continue to be an "important instrument in the fight against climate change. 73) commented on the success of the CDM in reducing emissions from industrial plants and landfills. use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. . especially trees and shrubs. shifting cultivation without adequate period of recovery. the concept of watershed management gained credence amongst them. industrial and mining activities. ravines and ridges were treated by constructing gully plugs and digging out contour trenches. it supports 16. depletion of natural resources and deterioration of the environment. The causes of desertification are extensive cultivation of one crop. Not a single drop of water runs off in their village. forest fires and unsustainable water management. the loss of vegetation in the area has vastly degraded their once fertile land. The community has now learned to conserve their water and soil. because their long life and capacity to develop powerful root systems assure protection against soil erosion. Desertification is a global phenomenon of land degradation. These pressures alone play a major role in promoting desertification. It is particularly devastating because of its self-reinforcing nature. This may also lead to the conversion of large areas into wastelands and to the frequent occurrence of natural disasters. logging and illegal felling. Their disappearance can considerably increase the vulnerability of the land to turn into a wasteland. As the human and animal population increases.Half the land in India is now desertified In recent times. and water has become a rare commodity. Vegetation plays an essential role in protecting the soil. these stresses will become greater and the demand on natural resources will increase leading to permanent loss of vegetation and plant species. As farmers witnessed the effects of lack of water and soil erosion and its detrimental impact on agricultural production and yields. Since 1999.4 percent of the world‘s total land area.67 percent of the world‘s population and 18 percent of its livestock. Many are convinced that the local environment can be regenerated through a well-managed watershed programme. normal farming patterns and agricultural output levels can be maintained despite changing weather conditions. Many now understand the fact that as the groundwater increases. Half the land in India is now affected by desertification and this impairs the ability of land to support life. Earth check dams with spillways on either side were built to allow the water overflow to run off without damaging the dams. overgrazing. which reduces the natural potential of the ecosystems and has a direct impact on people in terms of vulnerability to food shortages and natural disasters. the failure of the monsoon has adversely affected the soil and the land has become barren. Even though India‘s land area is only 2. Caritas India has run public information campaigns trying to persuade local communities to take similar measures to stop desertification. Ponds were also constructed to hold larger volumes of water. In order to regenerate it. Phaser. search Endosulfan IUPAC name[hide] 6.4.Endosulfan From Wikipedia.9methano-2.10. Parrysulfan.6.9. Thionex Identifiers CAS number ChemSpider UNII 115-29-7 21117730 QY5Y9R7G0E .6.7. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation.9a-hexahydro.5a.8.10-Hexachloro-1. Endocel. Thiodan.9.5.3-benzodioxathiepine-3-oxide Other names[hide] Benzoepin. N) R24/25 R36 R50/53 T. Xi. N . 343-373 K.KEGG Jmol-3D images C11090 Image 1 SMILES [show] InChI [show] Properties Molecular formula Molar mass Density Melting point Solubility in water C9H6Cl6O3S 406. Xi.745 g/cm³ 70-100 °C.33 mg/L Hazards EU classification R-phrases Main hazards Yes (T. 158-212 °F 0.93 g mol−1 1. with certain uses exempted for 5 additional years. data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C.[4] the United States. Because of its threats to human health and the environment. The ban will take effect in mid 2012.[2] More than 80 countries. Australia and New Zealand.[3] including the European Union. and role as an endocrine disruptor. potential for bioaccumulation. and few other countries. 100 kPa) Infobox references Endosulfan is an off-patent organochlorine insecticide and acaricide that is being phased out globally. It is produced by Makhteshim Agan and several manufacturers in India and China. It is still used extensively in India. Endosulfan became a highly controversial agrichemical[1] due to its acute toxicity. a global ban on the manufacture and use of endosulfan was negotiated under the Stockholm Convention in April 2011.NFPA 704 1 2 0 (verify) (what is: / ?) Except where noted otherwise. .[5][6] Brazil[7] and Canada[8] had already banned it or announced phase outs by the time the Stockholm Convention ban was agreed upon. China. several West African nations. [11] and it is less toxic to bees than organophosphate insecticides. Colorado potato beetles and cabbage worms.3 Philippines o 6. .2 New Zealand o 6. as it is non-specific.3 Reproductive and developmental effects o 4.1 India o 6.6 Taiwan 7 References 8 External links [edit] Uses Endosulfan has been used in agriculture around the world to control insect pests including whiteflys. worldwide consumption averaged 10. however.4 Endosulfan and cancer 5 Environmental fate 6 Status by region o 6.1 Toxicity o 4. aphids.[9] Due to its unique mode of action.[10] It is.4 United States o 6. however.2 Endocrine disruption o 4.000 metric tonnes (t) in the early 1980s.Contents [hide] 1 Uses 2 Production 3 History of commercialization and regulation 4 Health effects o 4. considered to be moderately toxic to honey bees.800 t per year. and for the 1990s use increased to 12.5 Australia o 6. it can negatively impact populations of beneficial insects.[13] From 1980 to 1989. it is useful in resistance management.[12] [edit] Production The World Health Organization estimated worldwide annual production to be about 9.500 t per year. leafhoppers. [28] while India blocked its addition to the Rotterdam Convention. which would result in a global ban.[34] 2011: The Supreme Court on Friday banned manufacture.S. setting the stage of a global ban. sale and use of toxic pesticide endosulfan in India.[29] 2009: The Stockholm Convention's Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee (POPRC) agreed that endosulfan is a persistent organic pollutant and that "global action is warranted". and arctic tribes asked the EPA to cancel endosulfan. consumer. The apex court said the ban would remain effective for 8 weeks during .[32] The EPA announced that the registration of endosulfan in the U.[12] 2007: International steps were taken to restrict the use and trade of endosulfan.[23] Organic Consumers Association.Endosulfan' is a derivative of hexachlorocyclopentadiene and is chemically similar to aldrin. but imposed restrictions on its agricultural uses.S.4-diol and subsequent reaction of the adduct with thionyl chloride. and the United Farm Workers[24] called on the U. Technical endosulfan is a 7:3 mixture of stereoisomers. thus β-endosulfan irreversibly converts to the α form.[22] 2008: In February.[27] In October. although the conversion is slow.[17] and the EPA determined that endosulfan residues on food and in water pose unacceptable risks. coalitions of scientists.[19] Meanwhile. the Review Committee of the Stockholm Convention moved endosulfan along in the procedure for listing under the treaty.[12] 2002: The U. EPA to ban endosulfan. The agency allowed endosulfan to stay on the US market. and heptachlor.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommended that endosulfan registration should be cancelled. the Canadian government announced that endosulfan was under consideration for phase-out.[20] and Bayer CropScience voluntarily pulled its endosulfan products from the U.[31] 2010: The POPRC nominated endosulfan to be added to the Stockholm Convention at the Conference of Parties (COP) in April 2011. it is produced by the Diels-Alder reaction of hexachlorocyclopentadiene with cis-butene-1.[18] and the European Union proposed inclusion in the list of chemicals banned under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. market[21] but continues to sell the products elsewhere. chlordane.[25] environmental groups.S.[14][15] [edit] History of commercialization and regulation Early 1950s: Endosulfan was developed. Specifically. In May. Such inclusion would ban all use and manufacture of endosulfan globally. designated α and β. αand β-endosulfan are conformational isomers arising from the pyramidal stereochemistry of sulfur. α-Endosulfan is the more thermodynamically stable of the two. environmental. will be cancelled[6][33] Australia banned the use of the chemical.[30] New Zealand banned endosulfan. It is recommended for inclusion in the Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent.[16] 2000: Home and garden use in the United States was terminated by agreement with the EPA. and farm labor groups including the Natural Resources Defense Council. 1954: Hoechst AG (now Bayer CropScience) won USDA approval for the use of endosulfan in the United States.[26] and in July a coalition of environmental and workers groups filed a lawsuit against the EPA challenging its 2002 decision to not ban it. ICMR. will give an interim report to the court about the harmful effect of the widely used pesticide.[38] [edit] Toxicity Endosulfan is acutely neurotoxic to both insects and mammals. Both of these enzymes are involved in the transfer of nerve impulses. causing reproductive and developmental damage in both animals and humans. Symptoms of acute poisoning include hyperactivity. the EPA references doses are 0.[39] It is a GABA-gated chloride channel antagonist. respectively.[37] Endosulfan is also a xenoestrogen—a synthetic substance that imitates or enhances the effect of estrogens—and it can act as an endocrine disruptor.[36] [edit] Health effects Endosulfan is one of the most toxic pesticides on the market today. staggering. but short term exposure can exceed acute reference doses. lack of coordination. diarrhea. Whether endosulfan can cause cancer is debated.[16] Farm workers with chronic endosulfan exposure are at risk of rashes and skin irritation. responsible for many fatal pesticide poisoning incidents around the world.[16] Doses as low as 35 mg/kg have been documented to cause death in humans.0006 mg/(kg·day) for adults and children. 2012 and its commercialization and use from July 1. the Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations has concluded that long-term exposure from food is unlikely to present a public health concern. unconsciousness. convulsions. nausea and vomiting. For chronic dietary expsoure.[12] .[12] EPA's acute reference dose for dietary exposure to endosulfan is 0.015 mg/kg for adults and 0. and a Ca2+.[12] while the World Health Organization classifies it as Class II "Moderately Hazardous" based on a rat LD50 of 80 mg/kg.[35] 2011: the Argentinian Service for Sanity and Agroalimentary Quality (SENASA) decided on August 8 that the import of Endosulfan into the South American country will be banned from July 1. including humans. difficulty breathing.0015 mg/kg for children. With regard to consumers intake of endosulfan from residues on food. 2013. In the meantime.006 mg/(kg·day) and 0. a reduced quantity can be imported and sold. which an expert committee headed by DG. The US EPA classifies it as Category I: "Highly Acutely Toxic" based on a LD50 value of 30 mg/kg for female rats. Mg2+ ATPase inhibitor. and in severe cases.[40] and many cases of sub-lethal poisoning have resulted in permanent brain damage. tremors. India have linked endosulfan exposure to delays in sexual maturity among boys. the exposed boys had high levels of endosulfan in their bodies. an expert on endocrine disruption.[12][16] A number of studies have documented that it acts as an anti-androgen in animals. lists endosulfan as a known endocrine disruptor.[41] and both the EPA and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry consider endosulfan to be a potential endocrine disruptor. Researchers studying children from many villages in Kasargod District.[43] Environmentally relevant doses of endosulfan equal to the EPA's safe dose of 0."[47] Increased incidences of cryptorchidism have been observed in other studies of endosulfan exposed populations.006 mg/kg/day have been found to affect gene expression in female rats similarly to the effects of estrogen.[48] . The researchers compared the villagers to a control group of boys from a demographically similar village that lacked a history of endosulfan pollution.[44] It is not known whether endosulfan is a human teratogen (an agent that causes birth defects). Endosulfan was the only pesticide applied to cashew plantations in the villages for 20 years and had contaminated the village environment. though it has significant teratogenic effects in laboratory rats. especially among males. and delays in reaching sexual maturity. lower levels of testosterone. The researchers concluded that "our study results suggest that endosulfan exposure in male children may delay sexual maturity and interfere with sex hormone synthesis.[46] [edit] Reproductive and developmental effects Several studies have documented that endosulfan can also affect human development. Kerala. Birth defects of the male reproductive system including cryptorchidism were also more prevalent in the study group. Numerous in vitro studies have documented its potential to disrupt hormones and animal studies have demonstrated its reproductive and developmental toxicity.[45] A 2009 assessment concluded that endocrine disruption in rats occurs only at endosulfan doses that cause neurotoxicity.[edit] Endocrine disruption Theo Colborn. Relative to the control group.[42] Endosulfan has shown to affect crustacean molt-cycle which is an important biological and endocrine-controlled physiological process essential for the crustacean growth and reproduction. S. or possible carcinogen by the EPA. IARC. according to the EPA. i. There are no epidemiological studies linking exposure to endosulfan specifically to cancer in humans. plants and fish of national parks in the U. Most of these parks are far from areas where endosulfan is used. endosulfan diol. For example.[52] The pesticide has also been detected in dust from the Sahara Desert collected in the Caribbean after being blown across the Atlantic Ocean.[51] Endosulfan has been found in remote locations such as the Arctic Ocean as well as in the Antarctic atmosphere.[50] Evidence of carcinogenicity in animals is mixed. it can travel long distances from where it is used.[53] It has been shown that the compound is one of the most abundant organochlorine pesticides in the global atmosphere. or other agencies.A 2007 study by the California Department of Public Health found that women who lived near farm fields sprayed with endosulfan and the related organochloride pesticide dicofol during the first eight weeks of pregnancy are several times more likely to give birth to children with autism.[49] A 2009 assessment concluded that epidemiology and rodent studies that suggest male reproductive and autism effects are open to other interpretations." The EPA . and additional study is needed to confirm the connection.[16] [edit] Environmental fate Endosulfan is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant. but in vitro assays have shown that endosulfan can promote proliferation of human breast cancer cells.[46] [edit] Endosulfan and cancer Endosulfan is not listed as known.e. This is the first study to look for an association between endosulfan and autism. The chemical is semi-volatile and persistent to degradation processes in the environment. Endosulfan is subject to long range atmospheric transport. probable. water.[52] The compound breaks down into endosulfan sulfate. and endosulfan furan. all three of which have structures similar to the parent compound and. a 2008 report by the National Park Service found that endosulfan commonly contaminates air. and that developmental or reproductive toxicity in rats occurs only at endosulfan doses that cause neurotoxicity. Thus. "are also of toxicological concern…The estimated half-lives for the combined toxic residues (endosulfan plus endosulfan sulfate) [range] from roughly 9 months to 6 years. it occurs in many environmental compartments. particularly in acid media. and published literature." The EPA also concluded that "[e]ndosulfan has relatively high potential to bioaccumulate in fish.000 tonnes for export. the committee of scientific experts of the Stockholm Convention concluded that "endosulfan is likely. India is one of the largest producers[57] and the largest consumer of Endosulfan in the world. Endosulfan is widely used in most of the plantation crops in India.[58][59] This inspired protests and the pesticide was banned in the state of Kerala as . the Stockholm Convention committee approved the recommendation for elimination of production and use of Endosulfan and its isomers worldwide. as a result of long range environmental transport.500 tonnes annually for domestic use and another 4. Hindustan Insecticides Ltd.[56] [edit] Status by region [edit] India The yellow toxicity label for endosulfan in India. Toxicity of endosulfan and health issues due to its bioaccumulation came under media attention when health isuues precipitated in the Kasargod district (of Kerala state) was publicised. terrestrial field dissipation studies. monitoring studies. to lead to significant adverse human health and environmental effects such that global action is warranted. it can be concluded that endosulfan is a very persistent chemical which may stay in the environment for lengthy periods of time. Overall. "[b]ased on environmental fate laboratory studies."[55] In May 2011. three companies — Excel Crop Care. and Coromandal Fertilizers —produce 4. Although classified as a yellow label (highly toxic) pesticide by the Central Insecticides Board. this will lead to Endosulfan's elimination from the global markets. however. available models."[12] It is also toxic to amphibians: low levels have been found to kill tadpoles.[9] Of the total volume manufactured in India. subject to certain exemptions.concluded that. This is.[54] In 2009. local leader and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA). Minister for Higher Education V. Rana said "The NIOH report is flawed. In fact. The government will now invoke the provisions of the Insecticides Act.S. She was a part of the delegation with Bhavnagar MP. sale and use of the pesticide was temporarily banned on 13 May 2011. said. I have already made representation to the Prime Minister and concerned Union Ministers of health and environment demanding immediate withdrawal of the report.S. on a petition filed in the Supreme Court of India. Rajendra Singh . In his statement Mr. Acharya said the Cabinet discussed the harmful effects of endosulfan on the health of farmers and people living in rural areas. Karnataka Government also banned the use of endosulfan. storage. Later. with immediate effect. Minister for Energy. an insecticide.[64] Rajendra Singh Rana has written a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh demanding the withdrawal of the National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH) study on Endosulfan titled ―Report Of The Investigation Of Unusual Illness‖ allegedly produced by the Endosulfan exposure in Padre village of Kasargod district in north Kerala. 1968 (a Central act) and write a letter to the Union Government about the ban. In the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants of 2011. Gujarat voiced her concerns on the impact of ban of Endosulfan on families and workers of Bhavnagar. the production. when an international consensus arose for the global ban of the pesticide.[61][62][63] and while India still maintained its stance. the global conference decided on a global ban. and later permanently by the end of 2011. Vibhavari Dave.[19][60] This flared up the protest. ―I am grateful to Chief Minister B.early as 2001 following a report by the National Institute of Occupational Health. from Bhavnagar. for which India asked a remission for 10 years. Briefing presspersons after the State Cabinet meeting." as reported by The Economic Times and Outlook India [65][66] Mrs. I'm in complete agreement with what the workers have to say on this. Yeddyurappa and members of the Cabinet for approving the ban. and Food and Civil Supplies Shobha Karandlaje. ironically India stood against this move owing to pressure from the endosulfan manufacturing companies. who has been spearheading a movement seeking a ban on endosulfan. IARC and US EPA have indicated that endosulfan is not carcinogenic. The committee noted that the WHO. The committee constituted for the study also included former Dy. Australia and New Zealand. and the health hazards associated with endosulfan are now widely known and accepted.[67][68] The Pollution Control Board of the Government of Kerala.[71] The Government of Gujarat had initiated a study in response to the workers rally in Bhavnagar and representations made by Sishuvihar. Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) welcomed this order and called it a ‗resounding defeat‘ for the pesticide industry which has been promoting this deadly toxin. Kerala and banned the production. In July 2012. Ahmadabad.[70] Indian Union Minister of Agriculture Sharad Pawar has ruled out implementing a similar ban at the national level despite the fact that endosulfan has banned in 63 countries including European Union. The highlight of this report is the farmer exposure study based on analysis of their blood reports for residues of endosulfan and the absence of any residues. a youth wing of Communist Party of India ( Marxist) in the backdrop of the incidents reported in Kasargode. A 2001 study by CSE had established the linkages between the aerial spraying of the pesticide and the growing health disorders in Kasaragod. 2011 in a Writ Petition filed by Democratic Youth Federation of India. 2011. FAO.[72] The Supreme Court passed interim order on May 13. not teratogenic. which submitted a memorandum to the district collector‘s office to withdraw the NIOH report calling for ban of Endosulfan. as these States are ready to use it for pest control. the Karnataka Government followed suit and suspended the use of Endosulfan for a period of 60 days in the state.Rana. Director of NIOH. other studies have confirmed these findings. prohibited the use of Endosulfan in the state of Kerala on 10 November 2010.[73] . (DYFI). not mutagenic and not genotoxic. Over the years. the Government asked the Supreme Court to allow use of the pesticide in all States except Kerala and Karnataka. an NGO based in Ahmadabad. This corroborates the lack of residues in worker exposure studies. distribution and use of endosulfan in India because the pesticide has debilitating effects on humans and the environment.[69] On February 18. What is NTCA? 4. Sept-Oct 2012: NTCA frames guidelines 16. What is Project Tiger? 3. Cheetah 21. July 2012: SC bans tourism 9. Conclusion 19. Appendix 2: Maps of Tiger Reserves in India Before discussing Supreme Court‘s ban on Tiger Tourism. Appendix 1: List of 41 tiger reserves in India 22.[Environment] SC Ban on Tiger Tourism. Tourism actually helps the tigers 13. Core and Buffer Areas. What is core zones and Buffer Zone? 2. Ban on Tourism hurts the tigers 14. Pro-Tourism Arguments 10. Project Tiger. Concept of Umbrella Species: Why do we need to protect Tiger? 6. Why is Tiger population threatened? 5. October 2012: SC Lifts the Ban 18. Anti-Tourism Arguments 15. Misleading information by Media 11. Employment 12. Let us go through some basics. Roleplaying question for interview. NTCA Guidelines explained 1. October 2012: UPSC asks the question 17. 20. What is core zones and Buffer Zone? . Timeline of Events 8. International Cooperation 7. Government should prevent any disturbance in such areas. Karnataka. in nine reserves of different States (Assam. by Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) It was launched in 1973. Odisha. Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act. Core zone (critical tiger habitats): This is where tigers usually rest. Therefore. Madhya Pradesh. Rajasthan. including tourism. Following map should clear the concept: Core Zone and Buffer Zone (Click to Enlarge) What is Project Tiger? A 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Buffer zone = areas that lie in the periphery of the core zone. . Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal) Right now it covers total 41 tiger reserves in 17 states. Buffer zones constitute the fringe areas (=The outside boundary or surface of something) of tiger reserves up to 10 kms. reside. Maharashtra. the state governments have to notify the list of core and buffer areas of tiger reserves in their territory. feed and breed. Bihar. in case a man or cattle is killed by wild animals. which advertises its presence in an area through urine marking and maintains a territory. rehabilitation of villages etc. Tiger breeding/ reproduction is reduced/disturbed due to highways. Tiger is a territorial animal. Therefore NTCA is a statutory body. sambar etc. (what is the difference between in-situ vs ex-situ? What‘re the pros and cons of each method? We‘ve already seen it in an old article. This leads to man-animal conflict.totally undisturbed. you‘d need a protected area of atleast 1000 sqkm. o Provides for money. Otherwise the male tigers would fight. The Minister of Environment and Forest. equipment. illegal felling of trees. o Grazing of domestic animals Because of Deforestation.click ME) In crude words. noise pollution. and infrastructure in tiger reserves. and provides ample opportunities to poachers. Hence tigers have to come outside the protected areas to hunt for animals. which are laid down in the parliament. o It provides for staff. to support a population of 80-100 tigers. What is NTCA? National Tiger Conservation Authority It is a provided in the Wildlife Protection Act (Ameneded in 2006). (Jayanthi Natarajan right now). including domestic cattle. mining. Therefore. It prepares annual reports. crop is lost. It coordinates. It is a program for ―in-situ‖ conservation of Tigers. Why is Tiger population threatened? Deforestation because of o Human pressure: farming. tiger deaths in road accidents. is the chairman of this NTCA. maim and kill eachother and the weaker ones .) has declined. implements and monitors Project Tiger. tourism etc. the size of tiger-prey (Deer. 3. If the Umbrella species is protected. it will also ensure viable populations of other wild animals (co –predators like Leopords and prey like dears) and the habitat (trees. would be forced to hunt in surrounding villages. cannot efficiently work and protect tigers. 4. Tiger is an ―umbrella species‖. since tigers need large amount of prey and good habitat. They cannot move. Concept of Umbrella Species: Why do we need to protect Tiger? 1. water).leading to mananimal conflicts. hunt or breed freely in small and fragmented habitats. when you‘re protecting the tiger. the Habitats are getting fragmented. A healthy tiger population indicates that the other ecological components in its habitat are equally robust. Insurgency in North East and naxals in Central India= Forest dept. Habitat Fragmentation = bad for tigers. But because of the highways. Thus. It resides at the top of the jungle food chain. villages. you‘re indirectly protecting the whole jungle and all the species that live in it. 2. farming activities. . shrubs. India has signed a protocol on tiger conservation with China 3. India has Constituted a group on tiger and leopard conservation with Russia. 4. India has signed a protocol has with Bangladesh for conservation of tigers in Sunderban region. 5.International Cooperation 1. 2. India has a bilateral understanding with Nepal on controlling trans boundary illegal trade in wildlife and conservation. India is a party to Convention on Inter national Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) . resorts and shops inside the core areas of tiger reserves. But yet. . Pro-Tourism Arguments Misleading information by Media Consider this. Hence they cancelled their trips. Unlike China. Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 implies that tourism to all ―core‖ tiger habitats in India should be banned. Yet the media covered the whole news in such a sensationalized manner that potential tourists thought SC has completely banned tourism in tiger reserves. 7.6. So. India made an appealing to China to phase out tiger farming and eliminate stockpiles of Atiger body parts and derivatives. to sell their hides and bones later. just like a poultry farm). Several state Governments have allowed the construction of hotels.Supreme Court has only banned tourism activity in the ―CORE‖ zone and not in the ―buffer‖ zone. Supreme court looked into the matter and imposed a temporary ban on all tourism in the core areas of tiger reserves. He argued that 1.Ajay Dubey (NGO named ―Prayatna‖) filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in Supreme court. Now coming to the topic of SC Ban on Tiger Tourism Timeline of Events July 2012: SC bans tourism One Mr. 2. India doesn‘t support captive breeding of tigers (breeding tigers on a commercial scale. Presence of tourists provides extra eyes and ears to the Forest Department. 3. Tourist season is October to March. Ranthambhore [a National Park in Jaipur] alone gets 2 lakh tourists per year and provides employment to almost 4. loggers arrived. . tourists can get a glimpse of tigers and other wildlife. Seventeen tiger reserves have few or no tigers left in them. For example. Instead. more than 20. travel guide. while touring in the buffer zones. 2. cooks etc) and perhaps 10 times that amount indirectly (rickshaw drivers. 3. And generally they get huge bookings during Diwali Season. waiters. 2. Thus severely affecting the livelihood of so many people. So even before the SC ban. thinned the jungle then tigers were forced to hunt outside core areas and poachers got easy opportunities to kill them. for all these years.) 4. It helps protect the animals by deterring poachers and loggers. 4. in Uttarakhand‘s Jim Corbett National Park and Assam‘s Kaziranga Wildlife Reserve. It does not affect the animals‘ willingness to hunt or breed. fruit-vegetable-milk suppliers etc.000 local people directly (from hotel managers. In Madhya Pradesh Alone. Employment 1. The truth is. tourists were seeing the buffer area only. nobody is allowed to go into 95% of the core area. Tourism actually helps the tigers 1. But if tourism activities are banned then all those potential customers might prefer to go vacation elsewhere. the tourism was still permitted in buffer zones and many a times. Tiger tourism is an 18 million dollar$ industry. There are entire towns that rely on tourism.000 people earn their livelihood through tiger-tourism activities related activities. No tourism has ever been allowed in or near these reserves. camera flashes disturb the tigers. shops etc = deforestation. The garbage created by tourists. So. cutting trees. And then they would be forced to be more dependent on forest for their livelihood e. Ban on Tourism hurts the tigers 1.g. this ban will damage the jungles and wildlife. This NTCA framed new guideline for State Governments regarding the Tiger Tourism. Poachers are the largest threat to tigers. is improvement in law enforcement rather than a ban on tourism. The complete ban on tourism = ban would result in loss of livelihood (income) to local populations (Who work as tourist guides. Construction of hotels. not tourism. Anti-Tourism Arguments 1.) 2. may be hunting and poaching. selling jungle produce illegally. if Government wanted to get this ban lifted. Union Government >> Ministry of Environment and Forest >> National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). All the vehicle movement. it‘d need to convince the supreme court that we are doing everything to protect the tigers and make sure tourism doesn‘t hurt the tigers. Here are the salient guidelines / main recommendations: . supply vegetables etc to the hotels etc. 2.5. Sept-Oct 2012: NTCA frames guidelines Recap: SC had banned tourism in core areas of tiger reserves. so overall. The tour operators run ‗wildlife safaris‘ day and night. shouting. hotels = not good. And the solution thus. honking. 3. 3. Visitors be kept at least 20 meters from all forms of wildlife and nobody will be allowed to lure or feed any wildlife creatures. All tour guides and drivers shall compulsorily go through a short course in rules and regulations of tiger-reserves. local MLA and district collector. etc) 6. 10 per cent of the revenue generated from pilgrim centres located in tiger reserves. should be spent for to develop local communities via Gram Sabha. 4. promote a new type of tourism (ecotourism) that conserves the environment. followed by an oral examination. educates the tourists about tiger conservation and improves the well-being of the local people. Instead of the conventional wildlife tourism. only up to 20 percent of the core/critical tiger habitat. each tiger reserve should calculate the maximum number of visitors and vehicles that can be permitted on any given day considering their potential to disturb wildlife. All certified guides and drivers shall wear special uniforms with name tags and badges. shops etc) is created in the core areas of tiger reserves. 10. 11. 12. 2. then they‘ll be removed in phased manner. instead of diesel or petrol operated vehicles. certified guides and drivers shall go through a refresher course or workshop. 13. The use of wood as fuel shall be prohibited.hotels etc) inside the core areas.(education. hotels. except for campfires . they‘ll be allowed to conduct tours. the limit will be 25 vehicles in forenoon and 15 in afternoon 8. At Kanha. Allow tourist activities. Make sure that no new tourism infrastructure (resorts. If there are already any permanent tourist infrastructure (resort.g. The procedure will be regulated by a Local Advisory Committee. E. Use of battery operated vehicles. 9. Only after passing the exam. health. 7. This Local Advisory Committee will comprise of divisional commissioner.1. Charge a conservation fee ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 3000 from the tourism -depending upon the number of beds in a particular resort. And use this money for the benefit of local community. 5. to reduce noise pollution. Prior to every tourist season. Shall aim to generate at least 50 % of their total energy and fuel requirements from alternate energy sources (solar and biogas) 3. water management. via right combination of wall colors and aesthetic architecture. Now please lift the ban. and asks following question. (250 words. 6. 25 marks) October 2012: SC Lifts the Ban . Have low height 2.” October 2012: UPSC asks the question UPSC Conducts Civil Service (Mains) General Studies Exam.must be environment friendly. Critically examine various aspects of this issue. They should merging with the surrounding landscape. We’ll make sure that tourism doesn’t harm the tigers. Union Government filed an affidavit in the Supreme court and said “Please see this list of guidelines framed by NTCA. 4. 1. Now. Natural cross-ventilation (to reduce the need for AC). old and new. All tourist facilities. Waste recycling. keeping in view relevant recent judicial pronouncements. The issue of tourism in core areas of tiger reserve forests in the country is a subject matter of debate. Q. Discharge of only treated sewage. Minimal outdoor lighting outside the building 9. 5. No use of asbestos. 8. 7. No air pollution.14. weapons. Truck. tourists. Vehicles (Gypsy. including the departments forestry. tour operators.. tourism.army personnel. And We also direct the state governments to prepare their tiger conservation plan within in six months and submit it to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for approval. We lift the ban. tent. boats) to ferry the men and injured animals. thermal power plants. Tractor. Gram Sabha. field kit. medicine. all the tourism activities must be regulated in very strict manner. temples. mosquito net. with wireless handsets. Compass. Unless each and every one of them is sensitized about the issue. torch etc. 1. but from now onwards. radio collars. camera traps. there were more than 40. Roleplaying question for interview. Give us a list of essential men and material requirements to run the organization. mining. Kerosene. road and rail transport. Tiger protection is not the job of Forest Department alone. It requires coordination between and stakeholders. 2. Supreme Court considers the plea of Government and passes judgment: ok well very. 5. social welfare. fisheries. 3. Jeep. binoculars and night vision goggles. ammunition. 4. Conclusion In last century. irrigation projects. agriculture. now barely 1700 left.because jeeps would disturb the tigers) . to petrol the jungle and keep an eye on tigers. Global Positioning System (GPS). elephants (for patrolling in core areas. range finder. since you‘ve framed the new guidelines. Suppose you‘re the administrator of a tiger reserve. tea -coffee estates. local villagers. Police/forest guards/ex. and handcuffs for apprehending offenders.000 tigers in India. tiger may not survive to see the next century. 8. but atleast for the interview and State PSC exam. 7. cages in case there is need to capture a man eater tiger/leopard or in case they attack on nearby villages. Name Kawal State Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Nagarjunsagar . A 24/7 Veterinary doctor to deal with injured animals. 9.Palpur and Noradehi Wildlife Sanctuaries). mugup the names of reserves in your state and in the surrounding states. Money to Rewards the informers about poaching and tree cutting.6. Tranquilizer guns. Here is the Statewise Alphabetical list. in nearby towns or villages) Cheetah A side note for for GK Ministry of Environment and Forests has decided to take up reint roduction of cheetah in the States of Rajasthan (Shahgarh area) and Madhya Pradesh (Kuno. Residential accommodation for the family and children of frontline staff (forest guards. The said States would receive 100 % support towards village relocation. Appendix 1: List of 41 tiger reserves in India It may not be possible to memorize the whole list. doctors etc. Namdapha Arunachal Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh Assam Assam Assam Bihar Chattisgarh Chattisgarh Chhattisgarh Jharkhand Karnataka Karnataka Karnataka Karnataka Karnataka Kerala Kerala Madhya Pradesh Pakke Manas Nameri Kaziranga Valmiki Achanakmar Udanti-Sitanadi Indravati Palamau Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Bandipur Bhadra Dandeli-Anshi Nagarahole Periyar Parambikulam Kanha . Pench Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Maharashtra Maharashtra Maharashtra Mizoram Odisha Odisha Rajasthan Rajasthan Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu Bandhavgarh Panna Satpura Sanjay-Dubri Sahyadri Melghat Tadoba-Andhari Pench Dampa Similipal Satkosia Ranthambore Sariska Anamalai KalakadMundanthurai Mudumalai . Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu). . Pilibhit –UP 2.Dudhwa Corbett Sunderbans Buxa Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand West Bengal West Bengal New Tiger reserves The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has granted approval for creation of 5 new tiger reserves viz 1. Mukundara Hills –Raj. Suhelwa (Uttar Pradesh). Bor (Maharashtra). 5. 3. Nagzira-Navegaon (Maharashtra) 4. 1. Satyamangalm TN And. NTCA has also requested the State Governments. Sunabeda –Odisha 4. Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) 6. 2. Gu ru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh) 5. to file proposals to create Tiger reserves in following areas. Ratapani –MP 3. Final approval has also been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) for declaring as a tiger reserve. Appendix 2: Maps of Tiger Reserves in India Click To Enlarge . Evolving policy and strategy guidelines pertaining to: .proposed Tiger Reserves in India (click to Enlarge) Health. Nutrition & Family Welfare The Division has following important functions: 1. Nutrition & Family Welfare Through the Plans Five Year Plans : First Second Third Fourth Fifth Sixth Seventh Eighth Ninth Tenth Eleventh Twelfth Health. Scientific Advisory Groups of Indian Council of Medical Research. FW and Nutrition the resources including human and material required. etc. AYUSH 3. Flagship programme National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) Drawing up short. 1. strategies and programmes in health & family welfare and nutrition. Monitoring changing trends in the health sector viz. The Division represents the Planning Commission in: Various Committees of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and Ministry of Women & Child Development EFC/SFC pertaining to Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and Ministry of Women & Child Development Expert Panels set up from time to time to advise the Planning Commission regarding the priorities and targets in the Plans and Programmes relating to Health. and 4. Health & Family Welfare 2. the training programmes to be initiated. epidemiological. Suggesting methods for improving efficiency and quality of services. Evolving priorities for basic. clinical and operational research essential for improving health status of the population. 3. 5. 7. 6. & Family Welfare Division The functions of Health & Family Welfare Division have evolved over the Plan periods based on the goals envisaged in the Five Year Plans. National Institute of Health & Family Welfare. social and managerial challenges. demographic. both in the State and in the Central Sector and suggest appropriate modifications / mid course corrections. 4. Brief on the functions of Health.. Examining current policies. standards of construction and equipment for health facilities and the development of health research etc. .2. Initiatives to improve nutritional status of the population. medium and long-term perspectives and goals for each of these sectors. Public Health Foundation of India. Looking into inter-sectoral issues and evolve appropriate policies and strategies for convergence of services so that the population is benefitted optimally from on-going programmes. time bound goals were set for the XI Plan period which are: Reducing Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) to 1 per 1000 live births. Providing clean drinking water for all by 2009 and ensuring no slip.country. RCH Programmes and population control. sanitation. Simultaneously. seven Working Groups and Two Steering Committees to define the appropriate . The major thrust in this direction is the National Rural Hearth Mission (NRHM) which aims at major qualitative improvements in standards of public health and health care in the rural areas through strengthening of institutions. access to food and knowledge of hygiene and feeding practices. the Eleventh Five Year Plan had set upon itself the goal of achieving good health for people. clean drinking water. To achieve the objective. high out-of-pocket payments (71%) is leading to impoverishment of people. decentralization and innovative methods of reaching all habitations. Malaria etc. Low public spending on health (1% of GDP). community participation. Reducing malnutrition among children of age group 0-3 years to half its present level. Reducing Total Fertility Rate (TFR) to 2. Though. especially the poor and the underprivileged. From 6th Plan onwards health policies aimed at improving health infrastructure in the rural areas augmenting health human resources. The National Health Policy 2002 aims at achieving an acceptable standard of health for the general population of the . To achieve this goal. a comprehensive approach was advocated. the goals have not been fully met.The focus of health policies upto 5th Five year Plan was on Control of communicable diseasesTB.1. Keeping in line with this broad objective. Reducing Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) to 28 per 1000 live births. Planning Commission has constituted a High Level Expert Group (HLEG) on universal health coverage. self-sufficiency in drugs and equipments. there has been progress on all these fronts. Raising the sex ratio for age group 0-6 to 935 by 2011-12 and 950 by 2016-17.backs. except child sex ratio. Reducing anaemia among women and girls by 50%. provision of tertiary health care and increasing health human resources to ensure availability of larger number of health care providers has engaged the attention of the planners during the XI Plan. public health. which included improvements in individual health care. If this accelerated rate is sustained. weak regulatory-systems for drugs as well as for medical practice. the lack of integration between disease control and other programmes in the social sector. and poor capacity in public health management. The Report of High Level Expert Group (HLEG) for universal health coverage. Reduction of Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) to 100: At the recent rate of decline of 5. in) The Steering Committee on Health has identified following problem with the Health Sector: Identifying Structural Problems: The health care system in the country suffers from inadequate funding. There are several structural problems too. (http://planningcommission. sub-optimal use of traditional systems of Medicines. An achievement of the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of reducing MMR to 109 by 2015 would require an acceleration of this historical rate of decline. An achievement of the MDG of reducing IMR to 27 by 2015 would require further acceleration of this historical rate of decline. More specifically. like. and the attainment of financial protection for the health care of households. the national health outcome goals. National Health Outcome Goals for the 12th Plan: The Steering Committee on Health in its Report has recommended health system for the 12th Plan should prioritize the making of the system responsive to the needs of citizens. Reports of the Steering committee on AYUSH & Health as well as reports of the seven working groups constituted for the formulation of XII Plan have been placed on the website of the Planning Commission. A sound health system also requires the active participation of communities in preventive and promotive health care. which are meant to reflect the broader commitments during the 12th Plan should be the following: Reduction of Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) to 25: At the past rate of decline of 2 points per year.5% per annum India is projected to have an MMR of 143 by 2015 and 127 by 2017.strategy for the Health sector for the XII Plan. the country can achieve an IMR of 25 by 2017. gov. India is projected to have an IMR of 38 by 2015 and 34 by 2017. the country can achieve an MMR of 100 2017 . on which the progress has been uneven. At this accelerated rate of decline. child sex ratio is another important indicator which has been showing a deteriorating trend. Prevention and reduction of underweight children under 3 years to 23%: Underweight children are at an increased risk of mortality and morbidity. and needs to be targeted for priority attention. which needs to be reversed and steeply reduced to 28%. the goals of communicable diseases shall be as indicated as in the Table National Health Goals for Communicable Disease Disease 12th Plan Goal . IMR.1: India is on track for the achievement of a TFR target of 2. The prevalence of anaemia has shown a rising trend (58. the prevalence of underweight children is expected to be 29% by 2015. DLHS). 1983 and National Population Policy of 2000. Raising child sex ratio in the 0-6 year age group from 914 to 935: Like anaemia. anaemia and child sex ratio. Broadly. This particular health outcome has a very direct bearing on the broader commitment to security of life. An achievement of the MDG of reducing undernourished children under 3 years to 26% by 2015 would require an acceleration of this historical rate of decline. is preventable and treatable by a very simple intervention. the country can achieve an under 3 child under nutrition level of 23% by 2017. and 27% by 2017. Prevention and reduction of burden of Communicable and Non-Communicable diseases (including mental illnesses) and injuries: State wise and national targets for each of these conditions will be set by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) as robust systems are put in place to measure their burden.1 by 2017. At the current rate of decline. Prevention and reduction of anaemia among women aged 15-49 years to 28%: Anaemia. which is half the cur/ent levels. and realize the long cherished goal of the National Health Policy. by the end of the 12th Plan. If this accelerated rate is sustained. an underlying determinant of maternal mortality and low birth weight.8% in 2007. which is necessary to achieve net replacement level of unity. as do MMR.Reduction of Total Fertility Rate (TFR) to 2. strategies and programmes in health & family welfare.. Examining current policies. cost free access to essential medicines in public facilities. Annual Malaria Incidence of < 1/1000 <1% microfilaria prevalence in all districts Sustaining case fatality rate of <1% Containment of outbreaks Reduction in JE mortality by 30% <1% microfilaria prevalence in all districts Reduce new infections to zero and provide comprehensive care and support to all persons living with HIV/AIDS and treatment services for all those who require it. both in the State and in the Central sector and suggest appropriate modifications /mid course corrections. review of official documents and other reports. The Division has the responsibility of: Evolving policy and strategy guidelines pertaining to Health & Family Welfare.1% of GDP by the end of the 12th Plan. leads to impoverishment and a regressive system of financing. the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). Increase in public health spending to 2. nodal departments of the implementing Ministries as well as the State departments dealing with the subject. demographic. epidemiological. AIDS Control and AYUSH with a special reference to the flagship programme.000 pop.Tuberculosis Leprosy Malaria Filariasis Dengue Chikungunya Japanese Encephalitis Kala-azar HIV/AIDS Reduce annual incidence and mortality by half Reduce prevalence to < 1/10. . and incidence to zero in all districts. regulatory measures proposed in the 12th Plan are likely to lead to increase in share of public spending. consultations with the experts in the field. social and managerial challenges.. Health Research. The other work of the Division includes: To review the commitments and make a balanced assessment of the progress in the Five year Plan/ Annual Plans etc. The 12th Plan measures will also aim to reduce out of pocket spending as a proportion of private spending on health. Reduction of poor households' out of pocket expenditure: Out of pocket expenditure on health care is a burden on poor families. Monitoring changing trends in the health sector viz. in addition to analysis of sectoral data. standards of construction and equipment for health facilities and the development of health research etc. National Institute of Health & Family Welfare. Suggesting methods for improving efficiency and quality of services. Working Group Discussions The Health & Family Welfare Division conducts detailed (Working Group) discussions with all States/UTs as well as the Central Ministry of Health & Family Welfare for the Annual Plans. granting of 'in principle' approval and examining the SFC/ EFC/ CCEA proposals in respect of the schemes of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. related to continuation of Plan schemes. Public Health Foundation of India. EFC/SFC pertaining to Department of Health & Family Welfare. Cabinet nod for ban on hiring children below 14 J. States were encouraged to enhance outlays in respect of Health Sector in their annual plans for providing health care services to the common man. etc. Department of Health Research and Department of AIDS Control and Ministry of Women & Child Development. viz. Balaji Share · Comment (11) · print · T+ . Evolving priorities for basic. AYUSH and Ministry of Women & Child Development. One activity running throughout the year under review. The performance. The Division represents the Planning Commission in: Various committees of Department of Health & Family Welfare.the resources including manpower and material required. Department of AYUSH. The Annual Plan outlay of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for 2012-13 has been increased. the training programmes to be initiated. medium and long term perspectives and goals for each of these sectors. Scientific Advisory Groups of Indian Council of Medical Research. Expert Panels are set up from time to time to advise the Planning Commission regarding the priorities and targets in the Plans and Programmes related to Health. problems faced and new initiatives in the Health to enhance outlays to 2-3% of GDP. FW and Nutrition. clinical and operational research essential for improving health status of population/and achieving rapid population stabilization. Looking into inter-sectoral issues and evolving appropriate policies and strategies for convergence of services so that the population benefits optimally from on-going programmes. Drawing up short. File photo: Jothi Ramalingam TOPICS employment child labor social issue It will be an offence to employ children not only in factories but also in home or on farms The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal for amending the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act. The Ministry of Labour is likely to introduce the amendment bill in Parliament soon. and they can concentrate on education. . 1986. Quoting the National Sample Survey Organisation’s figures. official sources said the amendment would benefit 46 lakh children. It will be an offence to employ such children not only in factories or industries but also in homes or on farms. if their labour is meant to serve any commercial interest.The Hindu Children working at a construction firm in Kancheepuram. who have been working in various industries now. to ban employment of children aged up to 14 in any form of industry. 1986. in Lok Sabha on December 16. which makes education fundamental right of a child.The Cabinet also approved another amendment to define children aged 14-18 as “adolescents” and prohibit their employment in mines. inexpensive and speedy justice to consumers in respect of complaints against defective goods. Enforcement of orders as a Decree of Civil Court . The government’s decision is in line with the convention of the International Labour Organisation (ILO). which prohibits any form of child labour until the age of 14.Since the Consumer Forums are being computerized it is proposed to make provision in the law to permit consumers to file complaints as well as pay fee online. to facilitate quicker disposal of cases and to widen and amplify the scope of some of the provisions of the Act. chemical and paint industries and other hazardous establishments. In terms of the Act. The RTE. 2011.” the sources said. consumer disputes redressal agencies have been set up at the 629 District. 35 State and National levels to render simple. and the age limit for defining ‘child labour’ will be reworked. The enactment of the Consumer Protection Act. explosives industries. With a view to faster redressal of complaints and to rationalize procedure of appointments in consumer disputes redressal agencies. the upper age limit in the Child Labour Act has been kept at 14. The Government has introduced Consumer Protection (Amendment) Bill. the Child Labour Act will also be amended suitably. which would make the consumer for a move towards e-governance/ time bound redressal. It sets forth the modalities of free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14. Amendments proposed provide for the followingOn line filing of consumer complaints Making provision for registering complaint by electronic form (on line filing complaint). was an important milestone in the field of consumer protection. Since the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act or RTE now stipulates compulsory and free education of children up to the age of 14. was passed by Parliament on August 4. it has been felt necessary to amend the Act. “Tomorrow if the government increases the upper age limit under the RTE from the present 14 to 16 or 18. 2011. deficient services and unfair/restrictive trade practices. 2009. whichever is higher. Payment to be made for non-compliance of the order Making provision for payment by every person for not complying of the order of District Forum / State Commission / National Commission of an amount of not less than Rs. This modification is considered essential in view of the experiences gained during implementation of the amended Act and is intended to deter willful offenders and also to ensure speedy and proper execution of the orders of the consumer forums. in consultation with State Government / State Commission . Powers to District Forum Empowering District Forum to function in any other place apart from District HQrs. Conferring powers to District Forum to issue order to the opposite party to pay reasonable rate of interest on such price or charges as may be decided by the District Forum.This provision is considered necessary to allow State Governments the flexibility to club neighboring Districts Forum as also give additional charge to President/Members to hear cases in more than one District Forum so as to effectively deal with the non-functionality of Districts Forum caused due to vacancy of President/Member.Making provision that an order of the District Forum / State Commission/ National Commission will be enforced as a Decree of a Civil Court.This is proposed to improve the quality of persons applying for these posts. Increase of age in the appointment Increasing the minimum age for appointment as Member in the case of State Commissions from 35 to 45 years. Experience for members . so that justice to the aggrieved consumers is not frustrated.This provision is considered necessary to empower the consumer forum to award interest where the consumer has suffered due to protracted litigation.500 or 1½ per cent of the value of the amount awarded. and in case of National Commission from 35 to 55 years.This modification is considered essential in view of the experiences gained during implementation of the amended Act and is intended to deter willful offenders and also to ensure speedy and proper execution of the order of the consumer forums. Powers to State Government in selection process Empowering State Government to refer back the recommendation of the Selection Committee for making fresh recommendation in order to avoid any delay in the Selection process. for each day of delay of such noncompliance of the order. so that justice to the aggrieved consumers is not frustrated.This is felt necessary to facilitate quicker filling up of the posts in the Consumer Forums and to avoid the consumer Forum remaining non-functional for long due to such vacancy thereby adversely affecting consumers‘ interest. Powers to National Commission / State Commission to direct any one to assist the case Conferring powers to National Commission / State Commission to direct any individual or organization or expert to assist National Commission / State Commission in the cases of large interest of the consumers. in an ongoing case. Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis From Wikipedia. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation.This provision would enable the National Commission or the State Commission. in the interest of justice. The above said amendments proposed in the Act will go a long way in speedy redressal of Consumer grievances and sturdy protection of Consumer rights. Monitoring system of pending cases Conferring powers to Central Government to call upon periodical reports of pending cases from National Commission and to State Government from State Commission or any District ForumThe provision is considered necessary to enable easy availability of data regarding filing and disposal of consumer complaints. which would help in monitoring the functioning of the consumer for a and effectiveness of the law. search Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis Classification and external resources MeSH D018088 . an opportunity to suo moto enlist the services of an expert or an outside party.Increasing the period of experience for appointment as Member in the case of State Commission from 10 years to 20 years and in the case of National Commission from 10 years to 30 years-This is proposed in order to improve the quality of persons applying for these posts. in cases involving the larger interests of the consumers. or patients may forget to take their medication from time to time. Argentina. the Baltic states. This can happen for a number of reasons: Patients may feel better and halt their antibiotic course. patients with HIV).[1] the two most powerful first-line treatment anti-TB drugs.[2] Isolates that are multiply resistant to any other combination of anti-TB drugs but not to INH and RMP are not classed as MDR-TB..[5][6][7][8][9] Outbreaks among non immunocompromised healthy people do occur.[4] and is most commonly due to doctors giving inappropriate treatment.[3] Contents [hide] 1 Epidemiology 2 Extensively drug-resistant TB 3 Treatment of MDR-TB o 3. drug supplies may run out or become scarce.1 DOTS-Plus 4 See also 5 References 6 External links [edit] Epidemiology MDR-TB most commonly develops in the course of TB treatment.Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is defined as tuberculosis that is resistant to at least isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RMP). MDR-TB strains are often less fit and less transmissible.[10] but are less common.[4] A 1997 survey of 35 countries found rates above 2% in about a third of the countries surveyed. or patients missing doses or failing to complete their treatment. The highest rates were in the former USSR. and was .g. and outbreaks occur more readily in people with weakened immune systems (e. MDR-TB develops during treatment of fully sensitive TB when the course of antibiotics is interrupted and the levels of drug in the body are insufficient to kill 100% of bacteria. and China. MDR-TB is spread from person to person as readily as drug-sensitive TB and in the same manner. In a study of MDR-TB patients from 2005 to 2008 in various countries. In Moldova. 2. 43.7% had resistance to at least one second-line drug. 3.[2] The treatment and prognosis of MDR-TB are much more akin to that for cancer than to that for infection.[11] It has been known for many years that INH-resistant TB is less virulent in guinea pigs.[12][13] [edit] Extensively drug-resistant TB Main article: Extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis MDR-TB can become resistant to the major second-line drug groups: fluoroquinolones and injectable drugs.[1] [edit] Treatment of MDR-TB See also: Tuberculosis treatment Usually. and requires persistence and determination on the part of the patient) 6. Denial of . and the epidemiological evidence is that MDR strains of TB do not dominate naturally. as they tend to live in underdeveloped countries or in a state of poverty. 5.associated with poor or failing national tuberculosis control programmes. 4. How many drugs the organism is resistant to (the fewer the better) How many drugs the patient is given (patients treated with five or more drugs do better) Whether an injectable drug is given or not (it should be given for the first three months at least) The expertise and experience of the physician responsible How co-operative the patient is with treatment (treatment is arduous and long. The majority of patients suffering from multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis do not receive treatment. it's defined as extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB). multidrug-resistant tuberculosis can be cured with long treatments of second-line drugs. California found that only 6% of cases of MDR-TB were clustered. It has a mortality rate of up to 80%. which depends on a number of factors. A study in Los Angeles. Likewise. but these are more expensive than first-line drugs and have more adverse effects. Whether the patient is HIV positive or not (HIV co-infection is associated with an increased mortality). the crumbling health system has led to the rise of MDR-TB. When MDR-TB is resistant to at least one drug from each group. the appearance of high rates of MDR-TB in New York City in the early 1990s was associated with the explosion of AIDS in that area. including 1. The reason for maintaining the patient on INH is that INH is so potent in treating TB that it is foolish to omit it until there is microbiological proof that it is ineffective (even though isoniazid resistance so commonly occurs with rifampicin resistance). Mortality and morbidity in patients treated in non-specialist centers are significantly higher to those of patients treated in specialist centers. previous incarceration. which serves as a useful marker for MDRTB. detailed knowledge of the treatment history of that patient is essential.treatment remains a difficult human rights issue. treatment courses are measured in months to years. and relapse following standard TB treatment. When sensitivities are known and the isolate is confirmed as resistant to both INH and RMP. Treatment of MDR-TB must be done on the basis of sensitivity testing: It is impossible to treat such patients without this information. If the results of a gene probe (rpoB) are known to be positive. five drugs should be chosen in the following order (based on known sensitivities): . MDR-TB may require surgery. There is evidence that previous therapy with a drug for more than a month was associated with diminished efficacy of that drug regardless of in vitro tests indicating susceptibility. failure to respond to standard TB treatment. and death rates remain high despite optimal treatment. A gene probe for rpoB is available in some countries.[14] In general. However. known exposure to a patient with MDR-TB). then it is reasonable to omit RMP and to use SHEZ+MXF+cycloserine.[15] The treatment of MDR-TB must be undertaken by a physician experienced in the treatment of MDR-TB. as the high cost of second-line medications often precludes individuals unable to afford therapy. because isolated RMP resistance is rare (except when patients have a history of being treated with rifampicin alone). risk factors for MDR-TB include HIV infection. If treating a patient with suspected MDR-TB. the patient should be started on SHREZ (Streptomycin+isonicotinyl Hydrazine+Rifampicin+Ethambutol+pyraZinamide)+MXF+cycloserine pending the result of laboratory sensitivity testing. failed TB treatment.e. good outcomes for the patient are still possible.[16] so. In addition to the obvious risks (i.. resistance to one drug within a class means resistance to all drugs within that class.g.g. In general. amikacin. or more difficult to obtain.. Ciprofloxacin should not be used in the treatment of tuberculosis if other fluoroquinolones are available. It is not possible to use more than one injectable (STM.0 mg/l INH). When counting drugs. but clinical experience is that giving injectable drugs for five days a week (because there is no-one available to give the drug at weekends) does not seem to result in inferior results. because the toxic effect of these drugs is additive: If possible. the aminoglycoside should be given daily for a minimum of three months (and perhaps thrice weekly thereafter).[18] There is no intermittent regimen validated for use in MDR-TB. rifabutin cycloserine a thioamide: prothionamide or ethionamide PAS a macrolide: e. Directly observed therapy helps to improve outcomes in MDR-TB and should be considered an integral part of the treatment of MDR-TB.. clarithromycin linezolid high-dose INH (if low-level resistance) interferon-γ thioridazine Ampicillin Drugs are placed nearer the top of the list because they are more effective and less toxic. capreomycin) PZA EMB a fluoroquinolone: e. PZA and interferon count as zero. that is to say. drugs are placed nearer the bottom of the list because they are less effective or more toxic. when adding PZA to a four-drug regimen.. If the strain has only low-level INH-resistance (resistance at 0.g. but a notable exception is rifabutin: Rifampicin-resistance does not always mean rifabutinresistance. kanamycin) or polypeptide antibiotic (e. If it is difficult finding five drugs to treat then the clinician can request that high-level INH-resistance be looked for.. It is possible only to use one drug within each drug class. an aminoglycoside (e. and the laboratory should be asked to test for it.[19] . then high dose INH can be used as part of the regimen. another drug must be chosen to make five. capreomycin or amikacin). but sensitive at 1. moxifloxacin (ciprofloxacin should no longer be used[17]).2 mg/l INH.g. Some supplements may be useful as adjuncts in the treatment of tuberculosis. arginine[20] (peanuts are a good source) Vitamin D[21] Immunoxel/Dzherelo[22] V5 Immunitor[23] The drugs listed below have been used in desperation. Patients with MDR-TB should be isolated in negative-pressure rooms. Treatment for MDR-TB must be given for a minimum of 18 months and cannot be stopped until the patient has been culture-negative for a minimum of nine months. or even culture-negative (which may take many months. it may be beneficial to add arginine or vitamin D or both. and it is uncertain as to whether they are effective at all. Keeping these patients in hospital for weeks (or months) on end may be a practical or physical impossibility. of the aminoglycosides) both to monitor compliance and to avoid toxic effects. and the final decision depends on the clinical judgement of the physician treating that patient. Some physicians will insist that these patients remain isolated until their sputum is smear-negative. if possible.Response to treatment must be obtained by repeated sputum cultures (monthly if possible). they count as zero (if four drugs are already in the regimen. imipenem[24] co-amoxiclav[25][26] clofazimine[27][28][29] prochlorperazine[30] metronidazole[31] . They are used when it is not possible to find five drugs from the list above. for the purposes of counting drugs for MDR-TB. It is not unusual for patients with MDR-TB to be on treatment for two years or more. Patients with MDR-TB should not be accommodated on the same ward as immunosuppressed patients (HIVinfected patients. Careful monitoring of compliance with treatment is crucial to the management of MDR-TB (and some physicians insist on hospitalisation if only for this reason). but. The attending physician should make full use of therapeutic drug monitoring (in particular. or patients on immunosuppressive drugs). or even years). but another drug will be needed to make five). the final option. with an additional 6. under development by Johnson & Johnson) In cases of extremely resistant disease. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. There is a 3. search . Washington) R207910[33] (Koen Andries et al. Their efficacy and safety are unknown: PA-824[32] (manufactured by PathoGenesis Corporation. a MDR-TB-specialized treatment using the popular Directly Observed Therapy – Short Course (DOTS) initiative. extreme breathlessness).The following drugs are experimental compounds that are not commercially available.. Seattle. surgery to remove infection portions of the lung is. In 17 years of experience. [edit] DOTS-Plus Community-based treatment programs such as DOTS-Plus. only 4 were culture-positive after surgery. of these. they have performed 180 operations. Of 91 patients who were culture-positive before surgery.3% operative mortality. 98 were lobectomies and 82 were pneumonectomies.8% dying following the operation. A successful example has been in Lima. The center with the largest experience in this is the National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver. 12% experienced significant morbidity (in particular. in general. where the program has seen cure rates of over 80%. but may be obtained from the manufacturer as part of a clinical trial or on a compassionate basis. Peru. Colorado. have shown considerable success in the treatment of MDR-TB. These programs have proven to be a good option for proper treatment of MDR-TB in poor.[ Renewable energy in India From Wikipedia. rural areas. However its success has been very spotty. in early 1980s. as on March 2011. The share of RE in the energy sector. is 10. Contents [hide] 1 Solar power 2 Wind power 3 Waste to energy 4 See also 5 References 6 External links [edit] Solar power Main article: Solar power in India Solar Resource Map of India .63%[1] of total generation capacity of India. In recent years India has been lagging behind other nations in the use of renewable energy (RE).Renewable energy in India is a sector that is still underdeveloped. India was the first country in the world to set up a ministry of non-conventional energy resources. Renewable energy in India comes under the purview of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. 000 MW of power by 2013 and up to 20. 2.[2][3] Launched in 2003.000 km² area of the Thar Desert has been set aside for solar power projects. Gujarat (Tata Power)[6] Waa Solar Power Plant . the UNEP Risoe Centre. Gujarat (Madhav Power)[7] Commissioned February 2012 Commissioned December 2011 10 .000 bank branches. to begin replacing India's four to five million diesel powered water pumps. Over the span of three years more than 16. sufficient to generate 700 to 2. particularly in rural areas of South India where the electricity grid does not yet extend. The Indian Solar Loan Programme. Much of the country does not have an electrical grid. the Canara Bank and Syndicate Bank. and two of India's largest banks. so one of the first applications of solar power has been for water pumping.000 MW of off-grid solar power and cover 20 million sq metres with collectors by the end of the final phase of the mission in 2020.5 kilowatts.Mithapur. an ideal combination for using solar power in India. Some large projects have been proposed. the Indian Solar Loan Programme was a four-year partnership between UNEP. the Government of India proposed to launch its Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission under the National Action Plan on Climate Change with plans to generate 1.India is densely populated and has high solar insolation. and off-grid lighting.000 MW grid-based solar power. and a 35.100 gigawatts. each consuming about 3. supported by the United Nations Environment Programme has won the prestigious Energy Globe World award for Sustainability for helping to establish a consumer financing program for solar home power systems.Surendranagar.000 solar home systems have been financed through 2.[3] Announced in November 2009.[4] India's largest photovoltaic (PV) power plants DC Peak Power (MW) 25 GW·h Capacity /year[5] factor Name of Plant Notes Mithapur Solar Power Plant . 2011 Commissioned April 2011 Commissioned June 2011 Commissioned July 2011 Commissioned July 2011 Commissioned 1st Aug Adani Power Bitta. Gujarat [10] Sivaganga Photovoltaic Plant[11] Kolar Photovoltaic Plant[12] Itnal Photovoltaic Plant. (Bolangir) Orissa [22] TATA .Gujarat[9] Moser Baer Clean Energy Limited Banaskantha.Mulshi. Belgaum[13] Azure Power .Sabarkantha.Sadeipali. Maharastra [23] 10 1 1 1 . 2010 January 21. Maharashtra[19] 40 30 5 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 3 Azure Power .Mayiladuthurai.Osmanabad. Tamil Nadu[21] REHPL .India's largest photovoltaic (PV) power plants DC Peak Power (MW) 214 GW·h Capacity /year[5] factor Name of Plant Notes Charanka Solar Park .Photovoltaic Plant[14] Jamuria Photovoltaic Plant[15] NDPC Photovoltaic Plant[16] Thyagaraj stadium Plant-Delhi[17] Gandhinagar Solar Plant[18] Tata . Gujarat[20] Tata .Charanka. Gujarat [8] Commissioned April 2012 Commissioned January 2012 Commissioned October 2011 Completed December 2010 Completed May 2010 Completed April 2010 2009 2009 2010 April. 000 MW of additional wind power capacity will be installed in India by 2012.71 MW). domestic policy support for wind power has led India to become the country with the fifth largest installed wind power capacity in the world. West Bengal (1.[25] As of December 2010 the installed capacity of wind power in India was 13. as are rates of waste generation.20 MW) [26] It is estimated that 6.[28] [edit] Waste to energy Every year.45 MW).72 MW). It is estimated that the amount of waste . Gujarat (1432.6% of the country's power.00 MW). Maharashtra (1837. Andhra Pradesh (122. consumption levels are likely to rise. large quantities of solid and liquid wastes are generated by industries. and has significantly increased in the last few years.India's largest photovoltaic (PV) power plants DC Peak Power (MW) GW·h Capacity /year[5] factor 2011 Green Infra Solar Energy Limited.Rajkot.45 MW).[27] Wind power accounts for 6% of India's total installed power capacity.97 MW). Madhya Pradesh (187. Waste generation in India is expected to increase rapidly in the future. about 55 million tonnes of municipal solid waste (MSW) and 38 billion liters of sewage are generated in the urban areas of India.37 MW.85 MW). Karnataka (1184. In addition. other states (3.10 MW).065. Although a relative newcomer to the wind industry compared with Denmark or the US. Gujarat [24] Total 10 363 Commissioned November 2011 Name of Plant Notes [edit] Wind power Main article: Wind power in India The development of wind power in India began in the 1990s. As more people migrate to urban areas and as incomes increase. and it generates 1.69 MW). Rajasthan (670. mainly spread across Tamil Nadu (4132. Kerala (23. and the environmental consequences of increased MSW generation levels. Waste Energy In India[29] Types of Waste Waste can be broadly classified into Urban Waste Industrial waste Biomass Waste Biomedical waste Prominent Companies In The Waste To Energy Sector A2Z Group of Companies Hanjer Biotech Energies Ramky Enviro Engineers Ltd Trans fat From Wikipedia.generated in India will increase at a per capita rate of approximately 1-1. economic costs of collecting and transporting waste. This has significant impacts on the amount of land that is and will be needed for disposal.33% annually. search Types of fats in food Unsaturated fat o o o o o Monounsaturated fat Polyunsaturated fat Trans fat Cis fat Omega fatty acids: ω−3 ω−6 ω−9 . the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. or a mixture of pork lard and soy fat. but never saturated. Since the carbons are double-bonded to each other. The process of hydrogenation adds hydrogen atoms to unsaturated fats. that received funding by the Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency [5] and the Dairy Farmers of Canada. Saturated fat o Interesterified fat See also Fatty acid Essential fatty acid v t e Trans fat is the common name for unsaturated fat with trans-isomer (E-isomer) fatty acid(s). converts a part of cis-isomers into trans-unsaturated fats instead of hydrogenating them completely. Because the term refers to the configuration of a double carbon-carbon bond. if it is chemical rather than enzymatic. trans fats are sometimes monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Cis and trans are terms that refer to the arrangement of the two hydrogen atoms bonded to the carbon atoms involved in a double bond. In the trans arrangement. Trans fats do exist in nature but also occur during the processing of polyunsaturated fatty acids in food production.[6] e. However.[6] have shown that the natural trans fat vaccenic acid. eliminating double bonds and making them into partially or completely saturated fats. the hydrogens are on opposite sides of the double bond. there are fewer bonds connected to hydrogen.[7][8][9] In lack of recognized evidence and scientific agreement. found in beef and dairy products.[1] The consumption of trans fats increases the risk of coronary heart disease[2][3] by raising levels of LDL cholesterol and lowering levels of "good" HDL cholesterol. Two Canadian studies. so there are fewer hydrogen atoms.[4] There is an ongoing debate about a possible differentiation between trans fats of natural origin and trans fats of vegetable origin but so far no scientific consensus was found. Trans fats also occur naturally in a limited number of cases: Vaccenyl . the hydrogens are on the same side of the double bond.g. lowering total and LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.[13][14] Unsaturated fat is a fat molecule containing one or more double bonds between the carbon atoms. nutritional authorities consider all trans fats as equally harmful for health [10][11][12] and recommend that consumption of trans fats be reduced to trace amounts. In the cis arrangement. may have an opposite health effect and could actually be beneficial compared to hydrogenated vegetable shortening. 'unsaturated'. hence the name. partial hydrogenation. in general. Milk and meat from cows and other ruminants contains naturally occurring trans fats in small quantities A type of trans fat occurs naturally in the milk and body fat of ruminants (such as cattle and sheep) at a level of 2–5% of total fat. contain 30% trans fats compared to their total fats. Partially hydrogenated plant oils. Partial hydrogenation increases product shelf life and decreases refrigeration requirements. and also non-hydrogenated plant shortenings made from naturally saturated palm oil. Partially hydrogenated oils have been used in food for many reasons. whereas animal fats from ruminants such as butter contain up to 4%. They can only be made by cooking with a very high heat. which include conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and vaccenic acid. Up to 45% of the total fat in those foods containing artificial trans fats formed by partially hydrogenating plant fats may be trans fat. although the latter also constitutes a cis fat. at temperatures impossible in a household kitchen. Margarines not reformulated to reduce trans fats may contain up to 15% trans fat by weight. one in the cis configuration and one in trans. and for vegetarians and vegans. and baked goods industries. coconut oil and palm kernel oil. fried food.and a trans-fatty acid. originate in the rumen of these animals. can be used to replace animal fats in foodstuffs for adherents to the dietary rules of Kashrut (kosher) and Halal. CLA has two double bonds. Many baked foods require semi-solid fats to suspend solids at room temperature.[41] Natural trans fats. partially hydrogenated oils have the right consistency to replace animal fats such as butter and lard at lower cost. snack food. the most notable ones being in the fast food. They are also an inexpensive alternative to other semisolid oils such as palm oil.and conjugated linoleyl (CLA) containing trans fats occur naturally in trace amounts in meat and dairy products from ruminants. but by far the largest amount of trans fat consumed today is created by the processed food industry as a side effect of partially hydrogenating unsaturated plant fats (generally vegetable oils). Animal-based fats were once the only trans fats consumed.[42] .[41] Baking shortenings. These partially hydrogenated fats have displaced natural solid fats and liquid oils in many areas. which makes it simultaneously a cis. Presence in food Salers Cow. [54] A comprehensive review of studies of trans fats published in 2006 in the New England Journal of Medicine reports a strong and reliable connection between trans fat consumption and CHD. Trans fatty acids may impair the metabolism of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs).[44] As fast-food chains routinely use different fats in different locations.000 cardiac deaths per year in the United States are attributable to the consumption of trans fats. 2% in France. the mechanism for trans fat's effect on diabetes is still under investigation.It has been established that trans fats in human milk fluctuate with maternal consumption of trans fat. and that the amount of trans fats in the bloodstream of breastfed infants fluctuates with the amounts found in their milk.[52] A 1994 study estimated that over 30. forming the basis of the health guidelines discussed above. with fries in New York containing 30% more trans fat than those from Atlanta. conferring a substantially increased risk at low levels of consumption (1 to 3% of total energy intake)". transport. trans fat levels in fast food can have large variations. Even within the US there was variation.[48][55] . and some deleterious effects of trans fat consumption are scientifically accepted. [edit] Coronary heart disease The primary health risk identified for trans fat consumption is an elevated risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).[53] By 2006 upper estimates of 100.[citation needed] A lipase is a water-soluble enzyme that helps digest.000 deaths were suggested. the pattern was reversed with Hungary's product containing twice the trans fat of the New York product.[43] Trans fats are used in shortenings for deep-frying in restaurants. 4% in Germany. The exact biochemical methods by which trans fats produce specific health problems are a topic of continuing research. fats. non-hydrogenated vegetable oils that have lifespans exceeding that of the frying shortenings became available.[51] but maternal pregnancy trans fatty acid intake has been inversely associated with LCPUFAs levels in infants at birth thought to underlie the positive association between breastfeeding and intelligence. and oils in most – if not all – living organisms. since the later half of the 20th century and where more processed foods are consumed). and 28 times as much as in Denmark (where trans fats are restricted). and 7% in Canada and the United States.[ Health risks Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils have been an increasingly significant part of the human diet for about 100 years (in particular. concluding that "On a per-calorie basis. an analysis of samples of McDonald's French fries collected in 2004 and 2005 found that fries served in New York City contained twice as much trans fat as in Hungary. trans fats appear to increase the risk of CHD more than any other macronutrient. For example. While the mechanisms through which trans fats contribute to coronary heart disease are fairly well understood. Reported percentages of trans fats (compared to total fats) in human milk range from 1% in Spain. as they can be used for longer than most conventional oils before becoming rancid. At KFC. and process dietary lipids such as triglycerides. One theory is that the human lipase enzyme works only on the cis configuration and cannot metabolize a trans fat. In the early 21st century. ) One randomized crossover study published in 2003 comparing the effect of eating a meal on blood lipids of (relatively) cis and trans fat rich meals showed that cholesteryl ester transfer (CET) was 28% higher after the trans meal than after the cis meal and that lipoprotein concentrations were enriched in apolipoprotein(a) after the trans meals. when it says "trans fat free" it means 0. Hu and colleagues analyzed data from 900 coronary events from the study's population during 14 years of followup. with consumption of trans fats being linked to an increase in mortality. there is much less scientific consensus asserting that eating trans fat specifically increases the risk of other chronic health problems: Alzheimer's Disease: A study published in Archives of Neurology in February 2003 suggested that the intake of both trans fats and saturated fats promote the development of Alzheimer disease. the other the amount of a cell-signalling cytokine called C-reactive protein. [edit] Other health risks There are suggestions that the negative consequences of trans fat consumption go beyond the cardiovascular risk.61) for each 2% increase in trans fat calories consumed (instead of carbohydrate calories). replacing a larger 5% of food energy from saturated fat with non-trans unsaturated fats reduces the risk of CHD by 43%. both blood tests. it has the additional effect of decreasing levels of HDL."[56] Hu also reports on the benefits of reducing trans fat consumption.94.[56] Another study considered deaths due to CHD.[59] C-reactive protein (CRP): A study of over 700 nurses showed that those in the highest quartile of trans fat consumption had blood levels of CRP that were 73% higher than those in the lowest quartile. The net increase in LDL/HDL ratio with trans fat is approximately double that due to saturated fat. it takes more than a 15% increase in saturated fat calories (instead of carbohydrate calories) to produce a similar increase in risk. while the cytokine test may be more powerful but is still being studied. "The replacement of saturated fat or trans unsaturated fat by cis (unhydrogenated) unsaturated fats was associated with larger reductions in risk than an isocaloric replacement by carbohydrates. The ratio test is more accepted. Trans fat behaves like saturated fat by raising the level of LDL. unlike saturated fat. but. In this study. By comparison. He determined that a nurse's CHD risk roughly doubled (relative risk of 1. In general.5 grams or less.The major evidence for the effect of trans fat on CHD comes from the Nurses' Health Study — a cohort study that has been following 120.[62] It has been found that trans fats . and consumption of polyunsaturated fats being linked to a decrease in mortality. Replacing 2% of food energy from trans fat with non-trans unsaturated fats more than halves the risk of CHD (53%). CI: 1.43 to 2.[52][57] There are two accepted tests that measure an individual's risk for coronary heart disease.000 female nurses since its inception in 1976.[52] The effect of trans fat consumption has been documented on each as follows: Cholesterol ratio: This ratio compares the levels of LDL (so-called "bad" cholesterol) to HDL (socalled "good" cholesterol). By contrast.[60] on nutrition lables. The first considers ratios of two types of cholesterol.[58] (Higher ratios are worse.[61] although not confirmed in an animal model. [74] this is generally in the context of eating too many calories. long-term TFA consumption was an independent factor in weight gain. the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. even in the absence of caloric excess."[73] Liver Dysfunction: Trans fats are metabolized differently by the liver than other fats and interfere with delta 6 desaturase. "Each 2% increase in the intake of energy from trans unsaturated fats. and were associated with insulin resistance.[63] Cancer: There is no scientific consensus that consumption of trans fats significantly increases cancer risks across the board. despite a similar caloric intake..[77] One mechanism may be trans-fats' substitution for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). although the 6-year experiment did find such a link.". with evidence that there is impaired post-insulin receptor binding signal transduction.[66] An increased intake of trans fatty acids may raise the risk of breast cancer by 75%.8% for monkeys on a mono-unsaturated fat diet. but seen after six weeks.[72][73] Although obesity is frequently linked to trans fat in the popular media. Delta 6 desaturase is an enzyme involved in converting essential fatty acids to arachidonic acid and prostaglandins.[52] However. both of which are important to the functioning of cells. suggest the results from the French part of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition. These are the exact types of changes normally seen at the onset of Alzheimer's.[71] A 6-year experiment revealed that monkeys fed a trans fat diet gained 7.[75] Infertility in women: One 2007 study found.[67][68] Diabetes: There is a growing concern that the risk of type 2 diabetes increases with trans fat consumption.[69] Another study has found no diabetes risk once other factors such as total fat intake and BMI were accounted for. Inflammation in and around the hippocampus.[65] However. was associated with a 73% greater risk of ovulatory infertility.2% of their body weight. a larger study found a correlation between trans fats and a significant decrease in high-grade prostate cancer. as compared to 1.impaired memory and learning in middle-age rats.[76] Major depressive disorder: Spanish researchers analysed the diets of 12."[64] One study has found a positive connection between trans fat and prostate cancer. TFAs enhanced intra-abdominal deposition of fat.[48] For example. Very high intake of transfatty acids (43% of total fat) in mice from 2 to 16 months of age was associated with lowered . consensus has not been reached. even though the rats were still young.[70] Obesity: Research indicates that trans fat may increase weight gain and abdominal fat. one study found that risk is higher for those in the highest quartile of trans fat consumption.059 people over six years and found those who ate the most trans fats had a 48 per cent higher risk of depression than those who did not eat trans fats. there is not a strong scientific consensus connecting trans fat and obesity.[52] The American Cancer Society states that a relationship between trans fats and cancer "has not been determined.. The rats' brains of trans-fat eaters had fewer proteins critical to healthy neurological function. as opposed to that from carbohydrates. concluding that "under controlled feeding conditions. DHA levels in the brain (p=0. Act 2005 The Preamble: THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION A Bill to provide for setting out the practical regime of right to information for citizens to secure access to information under the control of public authorities. NOW. THEREFORE. it is expedient to provide for furnishing certain information to citizens who desire to have it Comments: The preamble is the soul of the Act. as well as regulating the limbic system.[79] Preamble of the Right to Information Act Preamble of the Right to Information BILL. The OFC is known to control reward. optimum use of limited fiscal resources and the preservation of confidentiality of sensitive information. the constitution of a Central Information Commission and State Information Commissions and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. AND WHEREAS it is necessary to harmonise these conflicting interests while preserving the paramountcy of the democratic ideal. which are all negatively impacted in depressive mood disorders. AND WHEREAS democracy requires an informed citizenry and transparency of information which are vital to its functioning and also to contain corruption and to hold Goverments and their instrumentalities accountable to the governed. reward expectation and empathy. WHEREAS the Constitution of India has established democratic Republic. in order to promote transparency and accountability in the working of every public authority. the suicidal brains were found to have 16% less (male average) to 32% (female average) less DHA in the OFC. When there is any confusion or dilemma about the meaning or interpretation of the provisions.001) [78] When the brains of 15 major depressive subjects who had committed suicide were examined post-mortem and compared against 27 age-matched controls. AND WHEREAS revelation of information in actual practice is likely to conflict with other public interests including efficient operations of the Governments. it should be tested on the touchstone . ” . and therefore misinterpret all laws through their paradigm of what will lead to good governance. In the next paragraph it recognises that in doing this.P. and form the basis for interpretation of laws. S. the preamble of an Act should be understood to arrive at the objectives of the Act. They must understand that these aspects have been considered actively by the lawmakers when framing the law. Parliament has recognised the need to harmonise different needs for running the Government and harmonised them with the paramountcy of the democratic ideal. This is not a new right conferred on the Citizens but is a part of our Fundamenatal right to Freedom of Expression under Article 19 (1). judiciary and the executive. The legislative intent is clear when it admits the need for an informed citizenry. It is essential that all the elements of society: all the Public servants. since the landmark decisions in the Raj Narain case. “to contain corruption and to hold Governments and their instrumentalities accountable to the governed. in return for which she gets the rule of law..” Thus the objective of this Act is to enable Citizens to hold all the instrumentalities of the Government accountable. Just as the basic features of the Constitution are unalterable. The last paragraph unequivocally declares . Thus it is clear that in making the law. The essence of democracy is that each individual Citizen is a sovereign in her own right. and she gives part of the sovereignty to the State.Gupta case and the ADR case amongst others. there may be a conflict with other public interests including running the Government and limited fiscal resources. The fact that the Right to Information is part of the fundamental rights of Citizens under Article 19 (1) has been recognised by various Courts.in the legislature.” AND WHEREAS it is necessary to harmonise these conflicting interests while preserving the paramountcy of the democratic ideal. V Mohini Giri Committee submitted Draft of National Policy on Senior Citizens .. Very often the various functionaries arrogantly assume that they are a better judge of what is good for governance..follow all laws.of the preamble.the masters of the democracy.and the Citizens. Thus it is a negotiation of each individual sovereign with the State for the common rule of law. October 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 22-OCT-2012 0 17 1 . According to the policy employment in income generating activities after superannuation will be encouraged. News Capsule. led by Dr V Mohini Giri on 14 February 2011 submitted final draft of National Policy on Senior Citizens 2011 to the Indian Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. COP 11 held in Hyderabad: Emphasised on the Well Being of Biodiversities Suggested Readings: 2012 Current Affairs. The draft was also sent to the Union Ministry of Health which is working to put in place a National Programme for Healthcare of Elderly. The committee recommended that recipients of national honours like Padma awards or gallantry awards in the armed forces or national recognition for arts and culture must be given lifelong healthcare facilities for free on the lines of Central Government Health Services. March 2011 Current Affairs.Suggested Readings: Committees | Commissions. States will be responsible for setting up homes with assisted living facilities for abandoned senior citizens in every district. 2011 Current Affairs Published on: 15-MAR-2011 « Previous Story Next Story » A five-member high-powered committee. The National Policy on Senior Citizens 2011calls for the setting up of a department of senior citizens and also a National Council for Senior Citizens. Environment | Ecology. Rates of monthly pension will be increased to Rs 1000 per person and revised at intervals to prevent its deflation. The policy says old-age pension scheme for those living below the poverty line would be expanded to cover all senior citizens. Covering the oldest under the National Old Age Assistance which would provide additional grants in case of disability and loss of adult children was also suggested. India to Chair the Conference for Next Two Years as its President: India will be Chairing the Conference as its President for next two years. Finding out the commendable solution by discussions over the issues of the Earth’s bio-diversity is the main agenda of the conference.400 participants in the convention made it the largest biodiversity gathering of its time. Demands of Developing and Developed Countries: • African countries like Namibia demanded developed nations to stand by their promise fund allocation for saving the bio-diversity. The conference was attended by more than 5000 delegates from 180 countries. • The Union Environment and Forests Minister Jayanthi Natarajan. Government of India from 8 October to 19 October 2012. The next round of the conference is scheduled to take place in Korea after 2 years. The Union Environment and Forests Minister Jayanthi Natarajan took over the charge of COP-11 as its President for next two years. who took over the charge of COP- . Mobilisation of financial resources was the theme for the COP 11 summit. made in the 2010 protocol • The developed nations stood by their demand of creating a baseline of the investments made by now and how much more was needed Discussions on Identified Targets of Nagoya Protocol: • Discussion over the 20 identified targets at 2010 Nagoya Protocol was also done to find out the problems that it faced for implementation. identification of ecologically and biologically significant areas in marine ecosystems.Convention on Biological Diversity was organised by the Ministry of Environment & Forests.0 « Previous Story Next Story » The XIth Conference of the Parties (COP 11) . Eleventh meeting of the COP 11 was held at Hyderabad International Convention Centre. Enrollment of about 14. India’s Stand: India also demanded steps to be taken for ecosystem restoration and establishment of a relationship between biodiversity and climate change. and the conference included a high-level ministerial segment meet that was organised by India in consultation with the Bureau and Secretariat and it took place from 17 October to 19 October 2012. This conference was the first conference after the launch of Decade of Biodiversity by United Nations in 2011. Indian Prime Minister allocated a fund of $50 million for strengthening the mechanism for preserving the biodiversity in India and other Developing nations. Although several steps and things were critically discussed and concerns were raised to achieve better results and face the upcoming challenges. This was declared by the member secretary of NTCA. The e-Atlas would act as an inventory and carry data of around 3000 important bird areas from across the world and can play a major role in conserving the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) target for protection of 10 percent coastal and marine Areas by 2020 • The NTCA (National Tiger Conservation Authority) also declared its plan to create a national database for tigers. the flagship species of India proving a unique identification code and number to each one of these big cats in India. Across the UNBD. Rajesh Gopal during an event organized with a theme Have We Turned the Corner in Tiger Conservation Conclusion Amid the discussions and concerns. a trial to encourage government and representatives of different countries to develop. This plan was designed to find out the solutions for the objectives like Strategic Plan for Biodiversity and the Aichi Biodiversity Targets. Frightening Level of Mercury Content in the Environment of Sonbhdra District: CSE .11 as its President for next two years emphasised on the issue of resource mobilization that remained an unfinished agenda of COP-10 at Nagoya in Japan • Manmohan Singh the Prime Minister of India announced a grant of $50 million for strengthening the institutional mechanism of biodiversity conservation in India and other developing countries by the name of Hyderabad Pledge • The Prime Minister also launched the high level segment of the 11th conference of parties during the UN Convention on Biodiversity meeting at Hyderabad. The high level meet took place during the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity (UNBD) that was declared by the United Nations General Assembly following its resolution 65/161. implement and communicate the results established by their national strategies designed for fine implementation of the strategic plan over biodiversity. Plan and Programmes Launched during COP11 Conference: • BirdLife International on 16 October 2012 launched an e-Atlas of Marine-Important Bird Areas during COP11. the COP 11 conference failed to reach to a concrete decision of making resource mobilisation and fund arrangements done. which is six times of the level that it should be in the body and 58 percent concentration of mercury was found in the hair. Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh. and seven samples of soil. The study also revealed that the groundwater in Sonbhadra was highly contaminated with the mercury metal. After conducting the laboratory tests on these samples. due to the presence of high levels of Mercury in the bodies of the local residents and the environment of the region. Mercury in blood samples available was 84 percent. it was not made public. is critically connected to the states like Chhatishgarh. October 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 22-OCT-2012 « Previous Story Next Story » Director-General of Centre for Science & Environment (CSE) Sunita Narain on 19 October 2012 released the report of the study that was conducted in Sonbhadra District in the year 2011-12 and revealed the fact that the Sonbhadra that is a part of resource-rich Singrauli Area that acts as a industrial powerhouse for the country presents a tale of sorrow in relation to pollution. five samples of cereals. poverty. frightening levels of mercury poisoning was found and the results were much critical. Bihar. Being a NTPC funded study. non-compliance of environmental norms. To conduct the study. out of 1200 person examined 66 percent accounted to a be affected with more than 5 part per billion of mercury content in their body. CSE as an agency collected nineteen samples of blood. The fish from the reservoir were contaminated with methyl mercury and the water of the reservoir is also contaminated with the metal. In the last study conducted in the year 1998 by a Lucknow based body Indian Institute for Toxicology Research (IITR) in Singrauli region about mercury pollution in environment. The SCE following the conclusions of the study has demanded setting up of the mercury standards of the coal mines.Suggested Readings: 2012 Current Affairs. thermal power plants and coal washeries. Sonbhadra that is the largest district of Uttar Pradesh after Lakhimpur Kheri. Mercury acts as a neurotoxin in the body and affects the central nervous system leading to damages in the renal system. and acts as a co-terminus to these states. disease and official indifference. nail and hair of people suffering from different ailments and twenty-three different samples of water that includes groundwater. . The report released by a Delhi-based Centre for Science & Environment (CSE) declared Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh as the critically-polluted area that is also an environmental disaster. Environment | Ecology. It also demanded shutting down of the industries that didn‟t complied with the norms of pollution control. three samples of fish from Govind Vallabh Pant Sagar Reservoir. As per the report. Singrauli‟s coal reserves amount to across one billion tone and coal mining in Sonbhadra District amounts to 17 million tonnes per year. On the order of Supreme Court of India Central Board of Pollution Control also conducted a test on air and water of Singrauli area and found critical level of mercury content in environment. National Mission for Libraries to link 9. 12 0 in Share digg Email digg Email . there exists a conspiracy of silence and denial on the pollution of mercury that needs to win concern of the authorities. The thermal power plant of the area has an installed capacity of 9940 mega watt.000 libraries in 3 years : Prime Minister 22 Mar. ‖ Singh said at the Centenary Celebration of the Oxford University Press in India. including community. ―I take this opportunity to urge every state government and every municipality and panchayat to pay special attention to the setting up and maintenance of public libraries. locality and village libraries. ―But for this the world has to remain open to the flow of such talent and skills. ―If we can achieve what we have set out to do.000 libraries across the country will be linked digitally. It is for this reason that India seeks a multilateral rule-based regime for the movement of not just intellectual property but also knowledge embodied in natural persons. ―A young reader sitting in his village public library should be able to access books and information from across the world. work towards upgradation of infrastructure of reading resources.PM. Singh also said this mission will only be successful with the joint efforts of government. . community. The Prime Minister said that affordable modern information technology can be deployed today to extend the resources of the libraries. The move under the National Mission for Libraries aims to cover 9.‖ he said. The Mission will conduct a national census on libraries. then we can create a huge asset pool in this new knowledge based world. and seek to modernise and promote the networking of libraries across the country.000 libraries in cities. Observing that India had a huge number of youth hungry for education. Manmohan Singh Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said that nearly 9.‖ Singh said.‖ he said adding that India could fuel the engines of growth of the global knowledge economy. towns and villages of the country the next three years. private sector and non-governmental organisations. Singh said it was a challenge as well as an opportunity for the government to equip them with the skills required to find productive and gainful employment. While Ahura Mazda is generally viewed as a god without form and a being of entirely spiritual energy rather than physical existence. Even when such people follow the standard procedures for remaining pure. although it can be transported to another location if necessary. inside their boundaries. where saliva is never allowed to touch eating utensils due to its unclean properties. This reflects an outlook on saliva that is similar to Hindu beliefs. a cloth known as a padan is worn over the mouth and nose so that breath and saliva do not pollute the fire. and pureness features prominently in Zoroastrian ritual. their presence is considered too spiritually corrupting to be allowed entrance into a fire temple. he has at times been equated with the sun. and certainly the imagery associated with him remains very fireoriented. Fire Temples All traditional Zoroastrian temples. which shares some historical origins with Zoroastrianism. Once it is properly consecrated. He is the lifebringer. primarily: Fire Water Haoma (a specific plant commonly associated with ephedra today) Nirang (consecrated bull urine) Milk or ghee (clarified butter) Bread Fire is by far the most central and often used symbol of purity. particularly those in India. Fire is also prominent in Zoroastrian eschatology. Keeping the Fires Pure While fire purifies. Goodly souls will pass through unharmed. Ahura Mazda is the light of wisdom that pushes back the darkness of chaos. just as the sun brings life to the world. Many Zoroastrian temples." include a holy fire to represent the goodness and purity toward which all should strive. Use of Fire in Ritual . holy fires are not immune to contamination. while the souls of the corrupt will burn in anguish. do not even allow non-Zoroastrians. known as the Dar-I-Mihr or "porch of Mithra. even consecrated. when all souls will be submitted to fire and molten metal to purify them of wickedness. There are a variety of symbols through which the message of purity is communicated. The chamber containing the holy fire. When tending to the fire." is generally positioned so that those outside the temple cannot even view it. also know as agiaries or "places of fire. and Zoroastrian priests take many precautions against such an action occurring. or juddins. a temple fire should never be allowed to go out.Goodness and pureness are strongly linked in Zoroastrianism (as they are in many other religions). The potential expansion of India-Japan defence relations took a kick-start after the Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda lifted the national ban on arm exports following the new guidelines announced under National Defense Program Guidelines in December 2010 in Tokyo. Special Secretary of Ministry of External Affairs would lead the Indian team to the Cyber Security dialogue between the two nations. Misconception of Zoroastrians as Fire Worshipers Zoroastrians are sometimes mistakenly believed to worship fire. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Catholics do not worship holy water. India‟s defence partners at present are US. In the same way. but it is in no way worshiped or thought to be Ahura Mazda himself. Fire is venerated as a great purifying agent and as a symbol of Ahura Mazda’s power. Japan can now sell military equipment and weapons with the purpose of peace-building and peace keeping operations. Lamps often fueled by ghee – another purifying substance – are also lit as part of the navjote initiation ceremony. Pregnant women light fires or lamps as a protective measure. search . Ashok Mukherjee. The Indian Delegation to Tokyo was led by the Foreign Secretary of India Ranjan Mathai and the Defence Secretary Shashi Kant Sharma and their counterparts from Japan were Deputy Foreign Minister Akitaka Saiki and Administrative Vice-Defence Minister Hironori Kanazawa. although the recognize that it has spiritual properties. and Christians in general do not worship the cross. Japan. It can also join hands in weapon and military technology development with partner nations. The scheduled dialogues between the two countries are the results of the action plan initiated in December 2009 for advancement of the security cooperation followed by the meet of June 2010 at New Delhi. Laurie Baker From Wikipedia. It‟s expected that the meet would be of some help in enhancing the security of Indian cyber network to the next level. Besides the traditional partner Russia. which have always been an issue of hackers attack from abroad and within the country. France and Israel. although the symbol is widely respected and dearly held as representative of Christ's sacrifice. During the talks both the nations agreed to hold a dialogue on Cyber Security on 5 November 2012.Fire is incorporated into a number of Zoroastrian rituals. Outer Space and Cyber Security at Tokyo. India on 22 October 2012 held its first 2+2 dialogue with Japan for enhancement of cooperation in the key areas that includes Maritime. Chengalchoola Slum .For the American ice hockey player. Dakshina Chitra (Chennai). India Nationality Indian Awards Padma Shri. Laurence Wilfred Baker Drawing of Laurie Baker Born March 2. Kerala. Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural Buildings History (SACON) (Coimbatore). Attapadi Hill Area Development Society (Attapadi). 2007 (aged 90) Thiruvananthapuram. The Indian Coffee House (Trivandrum). England Died April 1. Literacy Village (Lucknow). see Laurie Baker (ice hockey). MBE Centre for Development Studies (Trivandrum). 1917 Birmingham. Chitralekha Film Studio (Aakulam). he sought to incorporate simple designs with local materials and achieved fame with his approach to sustainable architecture as well as in organic architecture. August 27. Nirmithi Kendra (Aakulam). Tourist Centre (Ponmudi). 2012 at 4:14am · Governor appeals to maintain peace and communal harmony Seminar on peasants uprising at Patharughat and its significance held . the Government of India awarded him with the Padma Shri in recognition of his meritorious service in the field of architecture. In 1990. He became an Indian citizen in 1989 and resided in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). renowned for his initiatives in cost-effective energy-efficient architecture and for his unique space utilisation and simple but aesthetic sensibility. Contents [hide] The peasants uprising at Patharughat and its significance by Patharughat::The Historical Place of India on Monday. Kerala from 1963 and founded an organization called COSTFORD (Centre of Science and Technology for Rural Development) to spread awareness in low-cost housing. He has been called the "Gandhi of architecture". Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi.dwelling units (Trivandrum). Mitraniketan (Vellanad) Laurence Wilfred "Laurie" Baker (2 March 1917 – 1 April 2007) was a British-born Indian architect.[1] He moved to India in 1945 in part as an architect associated with a leprosy mission and continued to live and work in India for over 50 years. The Governor also interacted with the family members of the Krishak Swahids. Darrang Zila Xahitya Xabha President Dr Nagendra Nath Sarma taking part in the seminar as the resource person gave a detailed analysis on this historic event Election Commission prohibited use of animals in Election Campaigns Suggested Readings: Top Current Affairs. Later taking part in the seminar he lauded the efforts of the Mangaldai Media Circle for organizing the seminar on this historic episode. IAS Main 2012. students and farmers at Patharughat.Patharughat. He also opined that a national level seminar should be held in New Delhi so that it could get recognition at the national level. September 2012 Current Affairs . Earlier the Governor accompanied by Minister of State for Fisheries. Janasanyog Basanta Das taking part in the function as the guest of honour released the souvenir Dubori and said that the Janasanyog department is going to make a documentary on Peasants‟ uprising at Pothorughat which would help in taking it to the national level. Earlier Darrang Deputy Commissioner Sohrab Ali and President of Mangaldai Media Circle read out the welcome speech in the function.” the Governor of Assam Janaki Ballav Patnaik said while offering tribute to 140 peas ant martyrs who had sacrificed their lives in the cruel hands of the British police while taking part in the historic peasants uprising at Patharughat on January 28 of 1894. National | India. Minister of State for Fisheries. The Governor referring to the rare example of the communal harmony shown by these 140 peasant martyrs belonging to both the Hindu and Muslim community made an earnest appeal to all sections of the society to maintain traditional peace. Governor who is on his visit to Mangaldai to attend a seminar on „The peasants u prising at Patharughat and its significance‟organized by Mangaldai Media Circle said that the Patharughat tragedy is a rare incident of supreme sacrifice offered by the village farmers belonging to both the Hindu and Muslim communities which took place much before the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and expressed his concern that this golden chapter of country‟s freedom struggle failed to get its due mention at the national level or Indian history. 2012 Current Affairs. Janasanyog Basanta Das and Darrang Deputy Commissioner Sohrab Ali offered floral wreath at the Krishak Swahid Memorial Tomb at historic Patharughat. amity and communal harmony. August 17: “I offer my pranam to this holy soil where a golden chapter of our country‟s freedom movement has been written in blood. You can assist by editing it. tone. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. . The Election Commission has also sent letters to the political parties as well as the Chief Electoral Officers of every state and union territories. The commission also pointed towards the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 that prohibits overloading and torturing of the animals. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. search This article may require copy editing for grammar. The commission also directed that in case the use of animal is unavoidable then the party or candidate will have to ensure that no harm is caused to the animal including violation of any law as well as cruelty towards the creature.Published on: 28-SEP-2012 « Previous Story Next Story » The Election commission on 27 September 2012 directed the Political Parties and candidates not to use birds and animals in the campaigns. 1960. Folk dances of Assam From Wikipedia. To justify the decision the commission pointed towards Article 51(g) of the Indian Constitution that states compassion for all living creature as well as Prevention of Cruelty of Animals Act. cohesion. or spelling. style. (November 2011) This article needs additional citations for verification. The decision was made following the representations received by the election commission by some organization and individual stating the cruelty that animals suffered during the election campaign of the political parties. Miri. and Mishimi. These dances are practiced during festivals held in Spring. the Bihu stands at the zenith bearing the most importance. related to the cultivation or harvest. and celebrated with a colloquial amount of ardor and ebullience. regardless of their social status. These different cultures come together to create Assamese Culture. most awaited. Indo-Iranian. credo and religious faiths. Bodo. Indo-Burmese. Kachari. Most tribes have their own languages though Assamese is the primary language of the state. . Assam is home to many tribes and races such as Mongoloid. Aryan. The festival brings together all the Assamese people. Rabha.(November 2011) The Folk Dances of Assam include the Bihu dance and Bagurumba.[1][2] Many fairs and festivals are held in Assam. Among the assemblage of festivals celebrated in Assam. The Bihu is a festival. Karbi. Almost all of the tribal festivals are springtime festivals. The denizens of the state of Assam are known as "Axomiya" (Assamese). 2 Performance o 1.3 Forms of Bihu dance 2 Bagurumba 3 References [edit] Bihu dance Bihu-dancers-and-drummer [3] Bihu dance (Assamese: . the first official record of it is said to be when Ahom king Rudra Singha invited Bihu dancers to perform at the Ranghar fields. and is characterized by brisk dance steps and rapid hand movement.1 Description o 1.Contents [hide] 1 Bihu dance o 1. sometime around 1694. Hindi: ) is a folk dance from the Indian state of Assam related to the festival of Bihu. Though the origins of the Bihu dance are unknown. Dancers wear traditionally colorful Assamese clothing. This joyous dance is performed by both young men and women. .[4] on the occasion of Rongali Bihu. The male dancers then enter the area in formation and perform accompanied by singing. a type of clash cymbal. There are usually more than one dhulia in a performance. The dance is usually characterized by definite postures. Some other instruments that accompany this dance are the taal. who play a particular twin-faced drum. the dhol. The songs (bihu geet) that accompany the dance have been handed down for many generations. The performance itself could be long. These rhythmic compositions. and they maintain their lines and follow synchronized patterns. are traditionally codified. movements. a reed and bamboo instrument. from historical references of invasions to Assam to contemporary socio-political commentary in a satirical way. The most important musicians are the drummers (dhulia). in which all participate. called seus. The male dancers and musicians enter the dancing area first. female performed bihu dance has more variations. and dancers . Before entering the dancing area. The subject of the lyrics ranges from welcoming the Assamese new year to describing the daily life of a farmer. In general. Though both males & females perform Bihu dance. with Kahi (disk). There are many stages in female performed Bihu dance . with Jaapi (Assamese headgear) etc. Male and female dance movements are very similar. twisting. and the xutuli. The seu is changed and usually the drummers enter the dance area in line. who maintain their stricter formations and order of the dance. arms. Bamboo flutes are also often used. movements of the hips. the toka. a bamboo clapper. with only subtle differences. twirls. When the female dancers enter. with rhythm pepa blowing. the drummers play a short and brisk rhythm. the male dancers break up their lines to mingle with the female dancers.[edit] Description The Bihu is a group dance in which males and females dance together but maintain different gender roles. The mohor xingor pepa is played generally in the beginning by a single player who lays out an initial plaintive motif and that sets the mood for the dance. the gogona. slung from the neck and played with one stick and a palm. and they play different rhythms and compositions at different sections of the performance. it is enlivened by rapid changes in rhythm. mood. a clay whistle. wrists. squats and bends but no jumps. pace and improvisation. [edit] Performance The dance is performed to traditional Bihu music. females follow stricter line or circle formations.freehand. After that Bathou is worshipped by offering the deity chicken and zou (rice beer). Then young people reverentially bow down to their parents and elders.and musicians are given short opportunities to show their virtuosity. Most of us do not know the real story of Bihu dance. The festival ends with a community prayer at Garjasali. sifung (flute). On this day. Nalbari. e. kham/madal (a long drum made of wood and goatskin). Baksa. Darrang and Sonitpur districts SC:Land belonging to Scheduled Castes or Tribes cannot be bought by Non-Dalits . Bongaigaon. jwmgra and aronai (attire) perform the Bagurumba dance which is also called the Bardwisikhla dance. [edit] Bagurumba Bagurumba Bagurumba is a folk dance of Assam. Kokrajhar. [edit] Forms of Bihu dance The dance takes several forms among the different northeast Indian groups. This dance prevails in Bodo inhabited areas of Udalguri. Chirang. India performed by the Bodos. the underlying goal of the dance remains the same: to express the desire to feel both pain and happiness. a festival of the Bodos in the Bishuba Sankranti or Mid-April. Bodo women in their colourful dokhna. "Mising Bihu dance" etc. The Bwishagu starts with cow worship. It is also accompanied by musical instruments like serja (a bowed instrument). It is an epitomic dance practice done by both males and females. "Deori Bihu dance". It is the usually practiced during Bwishagu. tharkha (a piece of split bamboo).g. However. ISRO Launch: . along with a 15-kilogram Japanese microsatellite.Suggested Readings: Top Current Affairs. The Rajasthan High Court had passed its order on an appeal by a private firm against the refusal by the state authorities to recognise or grant mutation to the purchase of a plot by the company from a person belonging to scheduled caste. including companies as such transactions are unconstitutional. carrying the French SPOT-6 Earth observation satellite. Liftoff from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre was on schedule at 04:23 UTC (09:53 local time). IAS Main 2012. National | India. A bench of justices KS Radhakrishnan and Dipak Misra gave the verdict on an appeal by the Rajasthan government against the state High Court's order holding such a sale to be valid in law. 2012 Current Affairs. September 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 21-SEP-2012 « Previous Story Next Story » The Supreme Court of India on 20 September 2012 ruled that the land belonging to scheduled castes or tribes cannot be bought by non-dalits. 2012 by William Graham The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have launched a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle on Sunday. Indian PSLV successfully launches SPOT-6 for France September 8th. Another satellite. It was subsequently reactivated in 1997 to replace a failed satellite. it is based on the AstroSat-500 Mk. or PROITERES. and operated until December 1990. has a mass of 712 kilograms (1. launched in March 1998 and May 2002 respectively. programme. SPOT-6 is an optical imaging satellite capable of imaging the Earth with a resolution of 1. was launched in February 1986 on the final flight of the Ariane 1 carrier rocket.600 lb) and is expected to operate for ten years. Sunday‘s launch carried the Project of OIT Electric-Rocket-Engine Onboard Small Space Ship. in September 1993. operating for 19 years until it was retired in July 2009. necessitating the reactivation of SPOT-1.II bus. or SPOT. however it failed four years after launch in 1997. before finally being decommissioned in 2003. SPOT-3 was also launched by an Ariane 4. SPOT-1. The SPOT-4 and SPOT-5 satellites.The sixth satellite in France‘s Système Probatoire d‘Observation de la Terre. SPOT-2 was launched by an Ariane 4 in January 1990. SPOT-7. In addition to SPOT-6. See Also UPDATES PSLV C21 Launch 65 Launch Vehicle Manuals (L2) . remain in service.5 metres. satellite for Japan‘s Osaka Institute of Technology (OIT). The first SPOT satellite. Constructed by EADS Astrium. is scheduled for launch in 2014. ISRO. and demonstrating electric propulsion for small satellites. the PSLV is the most flown and most successful Indian orbital launch system yet developed. PROITERES will be used for experiments investigating the propagation of radio signals. It also carries a high resolution camera for earth imaging. or mRESINS. payload is also being flown aboard the PSLV. from which it expended a significant quantity of its onboard fuel in an effort to recover. Click here to Join L2 A 15-kilogram microsatellite equipped with a boom for gravity gradient stabilisation. or PSLV. it will remain bolted to the rocket‘s upper stage following launch. . however a guidance problem resulted in the rocket failing to achieve orbit. The first flight of the PSLV in September 1993 carried the IRS-1E satellite. similar to the AAM payload launched by PSLV C8. Another failure occurred on the first operational launch in September 1997. This is a technology demonstration payload operated by ISRO. First flown in 1993. This failure resulted in the payload being placed into a lower-than-planned orbit. Like AAM. The spacecraft was launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation. the smallest PSLV variant in use. The mini Redundant Strapdown Inertial Navigation System. using a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle. testing communications systems. testing new avionics for future PSLV missions. The launch will use the Core Alone configuration. The launch of SPOT-6 was the second mission for India‘s PSLV this year, following the deployment of RISAT-1 in April. Overall, it marked the twenty-second flight of the PSLV, and the eighth of the Core Alone configuration. The vehicle that flew on Sunday is PSLV C21. Its Core Alone configuration consists of the same core vehicle as a standard PSLV, however without the six solid rocket motors attached to the first stage. Click here for additional PSLV Articles: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/?s=PSLV The PSLV-CA configuration was first used in April 2007, on the C8 flight, to deploy the AGILE spacecraft for the Italian Space Agency; a mission which also carried ISRO‘s AAM avionics experiment. Its next launch came in January 2008, deploying Israel‘s TecSAR radar imaging spacecraft, with another launch in April carrying CartoSat-2A, IMS-1, seven CubeSats and the Rubin-8 payload. A year later, the fourth flight launched RISAT-2 and ANUSAT. In September 2009, the next PSLV-CA deployed OceanSat-2 and four CubeSats, also carrying the Rubin-9 payload, which like Rubin-8, remained intentionally attached to the upper stage. The sixth launch, in July 2010, orbited CartoSat-2B, AlSat-2A, and three CubeSats. The most recent flight before C21 occurred in October 2011, when PSLV C18 deployed the Franco-Indian Megha-Tropiques satellite, along with the VesselSat-1, SRMSAT and Jugnu spacecraft. PSLV C21′s first stage was the PS1, a solid-fuelled stage powered by an S-138 motor, which produces 4.8 meganewtons (1.1 million pounds) of thrust, with an expected burn time of around 101.5 seconds. It ignited upon the countdown reaching zero, and powered the rocket until burnout. The first stage separated from the vehicle 115.5 seconds after liftoff, with second stage ignition occurred two tenths of a second later. The second stage of PSLV C21 was a PS2, powered by a hypergolically-fuelled L40 Vikas engine, which used unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine as fuel, and dinitrogen tetroxide as oxidiser. Intended to burn for 148 seconds, the second stage was jettisoned 267.1 seconds into the flight. During the second stage burn, the payload fairing, or ―Heat shield‖ as ISRO describe it, separated from around the spacecraft. Fairing separation occurred 195.7 seconds after liftoff. Following second stage separation, the PSLV‘s third stage took over. This was the PS3, a solid-fuelled stage with an S-7 motor, which burns for 110 seconds. Following depletion of the third stage, the PSLV coasted for a few minutes, before stage three separation 521.9 seconds after liftoff. Then, 11.6 seconds after staging, the fourth stage ignited. Powered by two L-2-5 engines burning monomethylhydrazine and mixed nitrogen oxides, the PS4 fourth stage was the final stage of the PSLV-CA vehicle. It can burn for up to 526 seconds, and for this mission it burned for 508.3 seconds. Following cutoff, 1,041.8 seconds after launch, the vehicle prepared for spacecraft separations. SPOT-6 was the first payload to separate from the upper stage, 37 seconds after cutoff. PROITERES was deployed fifty seconds later. The launch is targeted to an orbit with a perigee of 654.9 kilometres, and an apogee of 656.5 kilometres, with 98.233 degrees of inclination. The Satish Dhawan Space Centre‘s First Launch Pad was the site of Sunday‘s launch. The centre, formerly named the Sriharikota High Altitude Range, was named after the former chairman of ISRO upon his death in 2002. All of India‘s orbital launches have occurred from Satish Dhawan, with the First Launch Pad being the older of its two active orbital launch complexes. PSLV C21 was the second Indian launch this year. One more is scheduled, which currently planned for early December carrying the SARAL spacecraft and several other satellites. In addition to this, two Indian satellites are expected to launch on European Ariane 5 rockets in the next few months. The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle‘s return to flight mission and the test flight of the GSLV Mk.III, however, have been delayed to 2013. ISRO PSLV launches with RISAT-1 satellite April 25th, 2012 by William Graham The Indian Science Research Organisation launched the twenty first PSLV Thursday morning, carrying the RISAT-1 radar imaging satellite into low Earth orbit. Liftoff from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre occurred on time at 00:17 UTC (05:47 local time). Indian Launch: Radar Imaging Satellite 1, or RISAT-1, is the second satellite of India‘s RISAT series. The smaller RISAT-2 satellite was launched in 2009, and is believed to incorporate Israeli technology. RISAT-1 is expected to carry an all-Indian radar imaging payload. The satellite has a mass at liftoff of 1,858 kilograms, making it the most massive spacecraft launched by a PSLV to date, and carries a c-band microwave synthetic aperture radar, operating on a frequency of 5.35 gigahertz. RISAT-1 is expected to operate in orbit for five years, making approximately fourteen orbits every day with a ground track which will repeat every 25 days. Its twin solar arrays are expected to provide around 2.2 kilowatts of power to the spacecraft‘s systems; the spacecraft is also equipped with a 70 amp-hour nickel-hydrogen battery which the solar arrays will charge. See Also UPDATES PSLV/RISAT-1 65 Launch Vehicle Manuals (L2) Click here to Join L2 Thursday‘s launch marks the twenty first flight of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, or PSLV, with vehicle C19 being used for the launch. The PSLV made its first flight in September 1993, carrying the IRS-1E satellite; however the launch ended in failure due to a guidance problem. The only other PSLV launch to have failed to date was the first operational launch, in September 1997, which placed the IRS-1D satellite into a lower orbit than planned. Although the satellite was able to reach a usable orbit, this was still somewhat lower than that the orbit for which it had been designed, and it expended more than seven tenths of its propellant in getting there. PSLV C19 was the third PSLV to fly in the PSLV-XL configuration; the most powerful version of the PSLV currently in service. The PSLV-XL made its first flight in November 2008, carrying the Chandrayaan-1 spacecraft bound for the Moon. A second flight was made in July 2011, with the GSAT-11 communications satellite, which was successfully injected into a geosynchronous transfer orbit. The PSLV-XL configuration consists of a standard PSLV core vehicle with enhanced boosters augmenting the first stage. The first stage of C19 was a PS1, with an S-138 solid motor delivering 4.8 meganewtons of thrust. It was augmented by six PS0M-XL solid rocket motors; four ground-lit and two air-lit, which each burned for a little less than fifty seconds. The second stage, a PS2, was powered by an L40 Vikas engine, burning unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine and dinitrogen tetroxide; hypergolic propellants. The PSLV‘s third stage was a solid-fuelled PS3, with an S-7 motor, and the fourth stage a PS4, powered by two L-2-5 engines burning monomethylhydrazine and mixed nitrogen oxides. The PS1 first stage ignited when the countdown reached zero, and the ground-lit boosters ignited 0.46 seconds afterwards, as PSLV C19 began its ascent towards orbit. Twenty five seconds after liftoff, the air-lit solids ignited, and 49.5 seconds into the flight the ground-lit motors burned out, separating 69.9 later. The air-lit motors would have burned out around 74.5 seconds after launch, and separated 92.0 seconds into the mission. The first stage had a stated burn time of 101.5 seconds, and separated from the second stage approximately 112.5 seconds into flight. Two tenths of a second after staging, the second stage‘s engine ignited to begin an approximately 149-second burn. During the second stage burn, about forty seconds after ignition, the payload fairing separated. Around 266.0 seconds after liftoff, following the completion of its burn, the second stage separated, with the third stage igniting 1.1 seconds later. The third stage burn lasted 112.1 seconds, before the depletion of its solid propellant. Following third stage burnout, the third and fourth stages entered a coast phase to attain the proper altitude for the fourth stage burn. Towards the end of this coast phase, 512.8 seconds into the flight, the third stage was jettisoned. The fourth stage ignited to begin its burn about 11 seconds after separation, and burned for 510 seconds; just short of its maximum burn duration of 523 seconds. Cutoff occurred at 1,027.8 seconds into the mission, and was followed by the separation of RISAT-1 into its initial orbit, 1,064 seconds after liftoff. The target orbit for the launch was 480×480 km, inclined at 97.552 degrees to the equator, with error margins of 40.5 kilometres, and 0.2 degrees inclination; the rocket was reported to have reached a 470-476 by 479-482 kilometre orbit, well within these margins. RISAT-1 will subsequently manoeuvre into its operational sun-synchronous orbit, at an altitude of 536 kilometres. PSLV C19 launched from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), a facility named after a former chairman of ISRO, who died in 2002. SDSC, previously known as Sriharikota, has been used for all Indian orbital launches. The First Launch Pad is mostly used for PSLV launches; like the Second Launch Pad, it can accommodate both the PSLV and the GSLV, however the GSLV flies mainly from the second pad whilst the PSLV regularly uses both. C19 was the fourteenth PSLV to launch from the pad, and the sixteenth rocket in total. The launch of PSLV C19 is the first Indian launch of 2012; a year in which India hopes to conduct the first successful flight test of its cryogenic upper stage, and fly a prototype of its heavy-lift GSLV Mk.III rocket. The next scheduled launch is expected to be of a PSLV with the SPOT-6 satellite in August, and this will be followed by a GSLV Mk.II which will attempt to orbit the GSAT-14 spacecraft using the new upper stage, which failed to ignite during its previous test flight in April 2010. Between the Mk.I, with a Russian upper stage, and the Mk.II with the Indian upper stage, the GSLV has achieved only two successful flights in seven attempts. That launch will be followed in December by a suborbital test flight of the GSLV Mk.III, flying without an upper stage to test its first stage and boosters. If this test is successful, the Mk.III could begin orbital launches in 2014. Another PSLV launch is also planned for the end of the year, carrying the SARAL satellite, and several secondary payloads. India and Burundi signed 3 Major Agreements and issued a Joint Statement Suggested Readings: International | World, Top Current Affairs, IAS Main 2012, 2012 Current Affairs, September 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 20-SEP-2012 « Previous Story Next Story » President of the Republic of Burundi visited India from 17 to 19 September 2012. During this visit, India and Burundi signed three agreements-(i) Exchange Programme for Cooperation in the field of Education, (ii) Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the field of Rural Development and (iii) Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine. Besides, India also announced a Line of Credit of 42.38 million US dollars for Farm Mechanisation and Integrated Food Processing Complex in Burundi. India and Burundi issued a joint statement on that occasion. The major highlights of the joint statement are as following: • India and Burundi agreed to further enhance the bilateral cooperation in view of the considerable untapped potential. • Burundi thanked India for approval of a concessional line of credit of 80 million US dollars for the Kabu – 16 Hydro-electric project. • Both nations agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in the areas of economy, trade and investment, finance, human resource development, culture, etc. while striving to expand cooperation into other potential areas such as agriculture, food processing, ICT, science & technology, health, mining etc. • Burundi conveyed its support for India’s candidature for Permanent Membership in an expanded United Nations Security Council. Palagummi Sainath From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search Palagummi Sainath Born 1957 Madras (Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India Occupation Journalist Palagummi Sainath (born 1957) is an Indian journalist. He calls himself a 'rural reporter' or simply a 'reporter', and photojournalist focusing on social problems, rural affairs, poverty and the aftermaths of globalization in India. He is the Rural Affairs Editor for The Hindu, and the website India Together[1] has been archiving some of his work in The Hindu daily for the past six years. Amartya Sen has called him "one of the world's great experts on famine and hunger".[2] Opinions On the drought and farmers' suicide in Western Orissa, Over the last several decades, drought in western Orissa, and Kalahandi in particular, has been repeatedly in the news. Beyond the sensationalism of news headlines and the reports of distress and starvation, is the tragedy of a population that has been consistently deprived of its rights and entitlements. Be it long term unemployment, drought and crop failure, or displacement and chronic hunger, everything in one of the poorest yet resource rich, districts in india is a struggle. On World Trade Organization (WTO) and Capitalism vs Socialism, The WTO and GATT type of agreements are very undemocratic. Corporate leaders make policy, not the elected representatives. When people in Geneva draw up regulations, some local panchayat leader cannot be asked to address the consequences of those decisions, when his/her input was not sought in making the decision itself. The idea of different systems is superficial, the most striking aspect of freemarket capitalism is that it has benefited the exact same people who gained from socialism! It isn't unexpected, either. After all, the South Commission report[14] was signed by Manmohan Singh 90 days before the liberalization process, can he really have changed his views that much in that time? Political opportunism and media management have provided the appearance of different choices and systems, without any meaningful changes in outcomes.[9] On the condition of law and order maintenance in India, "All the judges of the Supreme Court do not have the power of a single police constable. That constable makes or breaks us. The judges can't re-write the laws and have to listen to learned lawyers of both sides. A constable here simply makes his own laws. He can do almost anything." With state and society winking at him, he pretty much can.[15] On Market Fundamentalism, Even a call for discussing this amounts to demanding ‘obsolete’ practices of the interventionist state. If we hadn’t mucked around trying to get the state to play God for 50 years, none of this would have happened. If only we had got it right and let the market play God instead.Based on the premise that the market is the solution to all the problems of the human race, it is, too, a very religious fundamentalism. It has its own Gospel: The Gospel of St. Growth, of St. Choice...Welcome to the world of Market Fundamentalism. To the Final Solution.[16] On the absence of reporting on the poor in India, "You see it in the simplest and most direct way: the organisation of beats. Many beats have become extinct. Take the labour correspondent: when labour issues are covered at all, they come under the header of Industrial Relations, and they’re covered by business correspondents. That means they’re covered by the guy whose job is to walk in the tracks of corporate leaders, and who, when he deigns to look at labour, does it through the eyes of corporate leaders. Now find me the agriculture columnist – in most newspapers, the idea doesn’t exist any more. If you lack correspondents on those two beats, you’re saying 70 per cent of the people in this country don’t matter, I don’t want to talk to them."[17] He is presently covering the problems faced by the rurals in Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. [edit] Honours and awards In June 2011, Sainath was conferred an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree (DLitt) by the University of Alberta, the university's highest honor. He is one of few Indians to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award, which he accepted in 2007 in the category of Journalism, Literature and Creative Communication Arts.[18] In January 2009 Sainath was reported to have declined a state award.[19] But he has received close to 40 other national and international journalism awards and fellowships in 30 years as a journalist, including the Ramon Magsaysay journalism award[20] in 2007, the European Commission's Natali Prize[21] in 1994 and the Boerma Journalism Prize[22] from the UN FAO[23] in 2001 (along with CNN International's Jim Clancy), the Amnesty International global award for human rights journalism in 2000,the PUCL Human Rights Journalism Award, and the B.D. Goenka award for excellence[24] in journalism in 2000. In June 2006 Sainath won the Judges' prize[25] (newspaper category) in the 2005 Harry Chapin Media Awards.[26] This is for his series in The Hindu on the ongoing agrarian crisis in Vidharbha[27] and other areas. The Harry Chapin Media Awards honour print and electronic media for work "that focuses on the causes of hunger and poverty," including "work on economic inequality and insecurity, unemployment, homelessness, domestic and international policies and their reform, community empowerment, sustainable development, food production." In 2009 he won the Ramnath Goenka 'Journalist of the Year' award[28] from The Indian Express. In 1984 he was a Distinguished International Scholar at the University of Western Ontario and in 1988 a visiting lecturer at Moscow University. He was also a Distinguished International Professional at Iowa University (Fall 1998), the first McGill Fellow and lecturer at Trinity College, Hartford, Connecticut (Spring 2002), and visiting professor at University of California, Berkeley at the Graduate School of Journalism (Fall 2008). He has participated in many international initiatives on communications such as the second and third round table on Global Communications sponsored by the UNESCO (1990 and 1991) and in the UNHCR sponsored World Information Campaign on Human Rights (1991). He was conferred with the prestigious Raja-Lakshmi Award in the year 1993 from Sri Raja-Lakshmi Foundation, Chennai. He is also the only journalist to have won awards from his newspaper's rivals in the north, south, east and west of the country: from the Indian Express[29] in Delhi, the southern edition of the Indian Express now known as the New Indian Express,[30] the Statesman in Kolkata and the fellowship from the Times of India[31] based in Mumbai. Pusarla Venkata Sindhu From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search P. V. Sindhu Personal information Birth name P. V. Sindhu Born July 5, 1995 (age 17) Hyderabad Height 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m) Country India Handedness Right Women's singles Highest Ranking 24 (18 October 2012) Current Ranking 20 (21 September 2012) BWF Profile Pusarla Venkata Sindhu (Telugu: సంధూ)(born 5 July 1995) is a badminton player from India. She trains at the Hyderabad's Gopichand Badminton Academy and is supported by Olympic Gold Quest, a not-for-profit foundation that identifies and supports Indian athletes.She broke in to the top 20 (20th) in the Badminton World Federation ranking which were released on 21st September 2012.[1]. She is also ranked 3 in the BWF Junior Rankings.[2] Career In the international circuit, Sindhu was a bronze medallist at the 2009 Sub-Junior Asian Badminton Championships held in Colombo.[6] At the 2010 Iran Fajr International Badminton Challenge, she won the silver medal in the singles category.[7] Sindhu reached the quarterfinals of the 2010 Junior World Badminton Championships that was held in Mexico.[8] She was a team member in India's national team at the 2010 Uber Cup.[9] [edit] 2012 On 14th June 2012, Sindhu lost to Germany's Juliane Schenk in Indonesia Open, 21-14, 21-14 .[10] On 7 July 2012, she won Asia Youth Under 19 Championship beating Japanese Player Nozomi Okuhara in final by 18-21, 21-17, 22-20.[11]In the 2012 Li Ning China Masters Super Series tournament she stunned London 2012 Olympics gold medallist Li Xuerui of China, beating her 21-19, 9-21, 21-16 and entered the semifinals[12] but lost to 4th seeded Jiang Yanjiao of China by 10-21, 21-14, 19-21 in the semifinals.[13] A lot was expected from Sindhu in the Japan Open after her exploits in the China Open, given China pulled many of it's players out of the tournament citing security reasons.[14] But she bowed out in the second round to Korean shuttler Bae Yeon Ju for 21-10, 12-21, 18-21.[15] Sindhu then went on to participate in the 77th Senior National Badminton Championships held at Srinagar. She was defeated in the finals by the unheralded Sayali Gokhale for 15-21, 21-15, 15-21.[16] It was later revealed that Sindhu injured her knee in the China Open and she carried this injury through the Japan Open and the nationals. She decided to skip the World Junior Championships so as not to aggravate the injury Sahitya Akademi awardee is a CISF constable Mandi got the Sahitya Akademi award for his contribution to poetry in Santhali language. recalling how he started writing his first poem. Aditya Kumar Mandi saw his parents being excommunicated from their village — Burughutu in Bankura district of West Bengal — because they bought two bighas of land from another farmer. Fri Feb 24 2012. “I wrote about the threat of terrorism. Aam Do Okhal Ka (Who are you). “It was very cruel. even as he joined the CISF. People were forbidden from speaking to us.” says the CISF constable. One day. These were followed by poems on his life as a “sipahi”. . we could only own ancestral land. we could not use the village well. Naxalism.” he says. “The Constitution of India can forgive them (his fellow villagers) for their superstitions.icicidirect. 02:51 hrs Aditya Kumar Mandi received Sahitya Akademi award on 14th February 2012 for his Poetry book "Banchao Larhai" for the year 2011 When he was just 12 years old.com. Mandi has published 14 books in Santhali. my father left home and never returned. Ads by Google More Sharing ServicesShare | Share on twitterShare on facebookShare on stumbleuponShare on email Pritha Chatterjee : New Delhi. Now posted at Farakka. Earlier this month. “In our village.comT&C apply. but my pen will not. Online Share Trading Made Easy with ICICIdirect. now 38.” says Mandi.Zero Account Opening* www.” he adds. That was my first thought. in Malda district of Bengal. including an autobiography. and our land was taken away. to show “how man can be man’s worst enemy”. Between 1996 and 1999 he published a series of poems on Santhali beliefs. That incident inspired him to start writing — mainly poems — when he was just 19 years old. search This article may contain original research. (January 2012) This article appears to be written like an advertisement. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. Statements consisting only of original research may be removed. (January 2012) Cyrus Mistry Born Nationality 4 July 1968 (age 44) Irish[1] Ethnicity Parsi Imperial College London London Business School Alma mater Occupation Deputy Chairman of Tata Sons Religion Zoroastrianism Spouse(s) Rohiqa Mistry Children 2 Parents Pallonji Mistry Patsy Perin Dubash .Cyrus Pallonji Mistry From Wikipedia. Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding references. Please help improve it by rewriting promotional content from a neutral point of view and removing any inappropriate external links. Tarafdar won a bronze each in clean and jerk and total lift. Sports. 139kg in total but could manage silver only as she had more bodyweight than the Chinese lifter. He has been appointed deputy chairman and chairman-designate of Tata Group and its holding company Tata Sons.. This happened for the first time in the history of Youth World Weightlifting Championships that an Indian won a medal. She lifted 55kg in snatch.Cyrus Pallonji Mistry (born 4 July 1968) is the youngest son of Irish construction magnate Pallonji Mistry.[6] Forbes Gokak. . Mao Xiangmei of China won a bronze in snatch and gold in the total lift.[3][4] Mistry will be the sixth chairman of the group and the second not named Tata after Sir Nowroji Saklatvala.[5] Apart from the Tata Group. Afcons Infrastructure and United Motors (India). he also serves as a director on the board of several other companies. 74kg in clean and jerk for a total effort of 129kg.[7] Chandrika Tarafdar won two Bronze Medals in Youth World Weightlifting Championship Suggested Readings: Personality. 2012 Current Affairs.[2] which will make him the first non-Indian national to head the Indian conglomerate. including Shapoorji Pallonji & Co. Slovakia. Csengeri Monica Suneta of Romania lifted exactly the same. Top Current Affairs. She won two bronze medals in the girls` 44kg category on the opening day.[1] Mistry will work with the current chairman Ratan Tata for one year and begin serving as chairman in December 2012. September 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 20-SEP-2012 « Previous Story Next Story » Chandrika Tarafdar on 19 September 2012 became the first Indian to win a medal in Youth World Weightlifting Championships at Kosice. IAS Main 2012. Ashoke Sen Ashoke Sen at Harvard Born Nationality Fields 1956 (age 55–56) Indian Physics Fermilab Stanford Linear Accelerator Center Institutions .Ashoke Sen From Wikipedia. the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation. see Ashoke Kumar Sen. search For the Indian politician. Contents [hide] 1 Early life 2 Career 3 Honors and awards 4 References 5 External links [edit] Early life He was born in Calcutta. and is the elder son of Anil Kumar Sen. and Gouri Sen. a former professor of physics at the Scottish Church College.[1] After completing his schooling from the Sailendra Sircar Vidyalaya in Kolkata. born 1956) is an Indian theoretical physicist. a homemaker. Kolkata University of Calcutta IIT Kanpur Stony Brook University Alma mater Doctoral advisor George Sterman Known for Contributions to string field theory Ashoke Sen. and his master‘s three years later from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. FRS (Bengali: অব াক সেন.Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Harish-Chandra Research Institute Presidency College. he earned his bachelor‘s of science degree in 1975 from the Presidency College under the University of Calcutta. He did his doctoral work in physics at Stony Brook University. . [3] His description of rolling tachyons[4] has been influential in string cosmology. as many as 47 papers have over 100 citations each. His current research interests are centered around the attractor mechanism and the precision counting of microstates for black holes in string theory.[7] Fundamental Physics Prize. He pioneered the study of unstable Dbranes and made the famous Sen conjecture about open string tachyon condensation on such branes. Bhatnagar award in 1994 Padma Shri in 2001 Fellow of the Royal Society 1998 Infosys Prize in the Mathematical Sciences.[edit] Career Ashoke Sen made a number of major original contributions to the subject of string theory. One of his most recent contributions include the entropy function formalism for extremal black holes and its applications to attractors. including his landmark paper on strong-weak coupling duality or S-duality. Of his nearly 200 research papers. 2012. 2009.[8][9] .S. for his work on string theory.[5] [edit] Honors and awards ICTP Prize in 1989[6] S. He has also co-authored many important papers on string field theory.[2] which was influential in changing the course of research in the field. . Germany in Wintertime. influences. A little World of Humor. Impression of Paris and Mario de Miranda He has been invited to sketch and exhibit in many Countries including U. Cartoonist and Illustrator.Mario Miranda — Artist. He has illustrated numerous books including Inside Goa by Manohar Malgonkar. travels and.. 2011 in his ancestral house in Loutolim – Goa. A family in Goa and The Open Eyes by Dom Moraes. Its use here is gratefully acknowledged. He was ailing for the last 2 years but was active till his last days and was at a musical evening at a nearby restaurant 2 nights before The Last Interview This interview was recorded a few weeks before Mario Miranda passed away. Mario de Miranda has not formally studied Art and began his career as a Cartoonist for the Times of India Group in 1953. He is also the recipient of many National and International honours. of course. Germany. Mario de Miranda died in his sleep on 11th December. Amount his own books are Goa with Love. Goa. Sketch book. Japan. Spain and France. He is survived by his wife Habiba and two sons Rishaad and Raul.A. This short film was shot by Arun Miranda for the Animation and Art School.S. He later moved into illustration and fine art. Goa. In the interview Mario speaks about his growing years. Saksham aims to target young boys in the age group 10-18 years for their holistic development by giving lessons in gender sensitivity and inculcating in them respect for women.Union Government decided to launch Saksham to Educate Adolescent Boys Suggested Readings: Top Current Affairs. Abbreviations | Terms. 2012 Current Affairs. Plan | Programme. September 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 19-SEP-2012 . The Union government has already allocated ten lakh rupees for preparatory work for the scheme which is expected to be rolled out from the next financial year 2012-13. September 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 19-SEP-2012 « Previous Story Next Story » The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development on 18 September 2012 decided to launch a scheme called Saksham to empower adolescent boys by educating them on gender sensitivity and moral behaviour. Women and Child Development Ministry launched a Web Portal named Track Child Suggested Readings: Top Current Affairs. News Capsule. 2012 Current Affairs. IAS Main 2012. IAS Main 2012. News Capsule. IAS Main 2012. social welfare departments of various states and other agencies to create this mechanism. As soon as a child is enlisted in a home. India signed a memorandum of understanding with Egypt Suggested Readings: International | World. The ministry is also considering a proposal to create a National Institute of Women Affairs. which will serve as a think tank for women-related matters. The ministry will coordinate with police heads. Top Current Affairs. September 2012 Current Affairs Published on: 18-SEP-2012 « Previous Story Next Story » . The Union Women and Child Development Ministry on 18 September 2012 decided to launch a web portal named Track Child. 2012 Current Affairs. police departments and state governments. which will serve as a central database of all those children who have gone missing in different parts of the country. The portal will act as a coordination mechanism between child homes. or whenever a missing FIR is registered in a police station.« Previous Story Next Story » Track Child: The Union Women and Child Development Ministry launched the portal to serve as a central database of all those children who have gone missing in different parts of the country. the details will be put on the portal. Voters Education and Election Tracking Technology. MoU was made so that it can facilitate sharing of best practices. expertise and technical knowhow relating to electoral processes and systems. V.S. India and Egypt are already collaborating in the areas of Electronic Voting. training of personnel and development of human resources. Election Commission of India has so far signed thirteen MOUs with Election Management Bodies and international organizations across the world. [Diplomacy] Indo-China Power equation. Justice Hatem Bagato. .India and Egypt on 18 September 2012 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in New Delhi to establish an institutional framework for their ongoing cooperation in the field of election management and administration. factors and the future ahead Here goes some fodder material for descriptive/Essay/Interview questions on Indo-China. skills and experiences between the two institutions for mutual benefit. (c) Organizational development and capacity building. The major aims of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) are: (a) Promotion of exchanges of knowledge and experience in the field of organizational and technical development. (b) Exchange of information. Sampath and the Secretary General of the Supreme Presidential Election Committee of Egypt. with a view to strengthening the administration of electoral processes. material. The MOU was signed by the Chief Election Commissioner of India. MoU is an extremely suitable mechanism for strengthening and carrying forward mutual collaboration in electoral management and administration. India and China were weak developing countries. Control over Border Regions 5. Cyber domain. #1: Enemy of Enemy is our friend 2. China as World‘s Superpower 6. #4: Military technology 5. Factor against India 1. Pakistani Angle 4. Conclusion Similarities: India & China In the 1950s. #3: India‘s Soft Power 4. What should India do to counter China? 7. Similarities: India & China 2. Both have nuclear weapons + huge military. But there are many factors.1. Today. which put these two nations on unequal grounds: Factor against India . Factors against China 1. #6: Demographic dividend 5. China‘s GDP is higher 2. #5: India‘s economic position vs Chinese Saturation 4. 3. Proxy aggression 3. China is the world‘s second-largest economy and India is in the top ten. #2: China‘s vulnerability in Indian Ocean 3. only a small percent of China‘s people live in poverty. Therefore Obama administration has reduced the defense expenditure. both conventional (Tanks and missiles) and unconventional (cyber attacks).compared to India . The access to electricity and the Internet are all higher in China. China is a permanent member of UN security council (UNSC) and thus enjoys the veto power. Because In addition to its GDP. Right now. could equal that of the US by 2030. China has made a far greater effort to educate its citizens than India. China is more developed than India. Statistical projections suggest that China‘s GDP. India had a higher GDP than China. China has a major voice in the international system. But Today. By almost any measure. China has unquestioned military superiority over India and if situation continues to be bad in USA‘s economy then Chinese military will become even more advanced and high tech than USA‘s. Apart from these things.com In 1970.China’s GDP is higher Source: World Bank database and econintersect. While India just tried to be ahead of Pakistan in term of Defense technology. China‘s GDP is four times that of India‘s. China has sought to counter the United States‘ military power. US is facing economic downturn and unemployment. and the ratio is still increasing. That‘s why China has made greater investments in military power. especially in economic and financial matters. All of these make China a formidable antagonist for India. if the status quo is maintained. Proxy aggression China tilts towards Pakistan in its dispute with India over Kashmir. China is assertive (and at times aggressive) about its claim on the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. much greater than India‘s. China has supported the rebel movements in India‘s Northeast and red corridor. Chinese military deployments across the disputed border are much. . Cyber Warfare In Information and Technology. communication blockade. hacking and deleting websites of Tibetian activists etc. 50 years later. In fact Delhi is struggling to provide. internet censorship (in an event of war). internal security and reasonable governance in Kashmir and North East. basic road connectivity to its frontier regions. Chinese capacity are better than ours. China is engaged in maritime territorial disputes with Japan [Recall the earlier article on Senkaku/Diaoyu islands. But it has not been used for notorious purposes like China does :hacking gmail accounts of Dalai Lama and foreign ambassadors. Cyber warfare. India has a globally competitive industry and a deep pool of talent.Pakistani Angle Pakistan is India‘s permanent security headache. Pakistan has long received Chinese support. Control over Border Regions China has an ambitious forward policy towards controlling Tibet and Xinjiang. While India prefers to maintain status quo for issues on Kashmir and North East. China has done an impressive job promoting economic integration and infrastructure both in Tibet and Xinjiang India has failed to bring economic prosperity. ensuring that India‘s attention is diverted away from China. CLICK ME] . Factors against China #1: Enemy of Enemy is our friend Chinese relations with the US have entered a difficult phase. Pakistan is providing China with a friendly route to the Energy rich Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf. we have good bilateral relations. #2: China’s vulnerability in Indian Ocean China‘s goods and oil cargos pass through Indian Ocean. Therefore. . Brunei and so on. the Philippines. And with all these countries. (Observe Straight of Malacca in above map). China‘s maritime claims in the South China Sea have caused deep resentment in Vietnam. over which over Navy has formidable presence. the present international power play is arguably to India‘s advantage. is blocked by a network of democracies from Japan. Therefore. it would have no use for a military attack. and their reliability. the increased Indo-China trade and economic relations are a deterrent to belligerence (Aggressiveness) because those who trade heavily do not usually trade blows. During war. They‘re becoming more assertive when dealing with China. It means the price of precision strike weapons has been coming down. and Vietnam. from Russia to Vietnam. by contrast. The growth nationalism in Japan.000 or less today. Precision strike weapons (guided missiles etc) cost US $500. South Korea. And hence the possibilities of a Chinese offensive in the high Himalayas are considered remote. Use of such Precision strike weapons favor countries with defensive strategies (India). #4: Military technology India has no offensive capacity (or doctrine) while China has ample ability to go on the offensive – as it showed in 1962. by contrast. and Singapore. Indonesia. Besides. Korea. China. has a history of border disputes and outright war with many of its continental neighbours.000 a round in 1990. range and damage-power has been increasing. unless China is 100% sure of a full military and psychological victory over India. Therefore. is not perceived as a threat by other east and southeast Asian states. India‘s rise. the central Asian states and Russia (the two notable exceptions of China and Pakistan). . But the Chinese also know that India‘s defensive capacity along the border is more than adequate. They cost $10. and Taiwan to the Philippines. China‘s access to the Pacific and Indian Oceans. #3: India’s Soft Power India has a history of largely positive relations with Himalayan neighbours. This means slower growth in productivity China is perhaps 25 years ahead of India in its economic development.. Because there is a world of foreign technology and business practices for you to acquire and use to increase your productivity rapidly. the Chinese labour force will shrink (because of their one child policy) and thus China‘s internal consumer demand = reduced.#5: India’s economic position Economic growth is easier when you are catching up to richer countries. you have taken advantage of most foreign know-how. However last major power transition from Britain to the US (After World War II) helped India achieve independence. productive and growing labour force = higher GDP in future. But India faces no such demographic crunches. When we combine this with demography. If and when there is power transition from US to China . If we pour more money in vocational skill training. So India‘s potential rate of growth going forward is higher. China will replace US as the world super power. which means that it is 25 years closer to hitting these limits. supply of young Chinese people in rural areas who can move into manufacturing jobs = reduced Thus China‘s GDP will start declining. So let‘s consider for a moment. But After a few decades of catching up. economic growth would require you to invent your own technology. it is possible for India‘s GDP to overtake China in the near future. Food for thought It is said that in the coming years. At that point. what will happen to India. #6: Demographic dividend Within a few decades. then we‘ll have a young. Similarly. China would then silence Indian free speech on internet and in international platforms (UN etc). China could armtwist/buy the Politically and Financially weak regimes surrounding India (Bhutan. Pakistan. China could pressure for India to shut down all Tibetan political activity in India and to force the Tibetan government-in-exile into further exile outside India. Bangladesh. Just like US did in Middle East and Central Asia. on all major international questions even at the cost of Indian national interests. And then. according to which Indian leaders would make regular pilgrimages (visits) to China to ―co-ordinate‖ and seek approval of Chinese leaders. it might result in a kind of ―Finlandisation‖ of India. a future military clash may not be restricted to land warfare at the border — instead. China would also be likely to bring to bear financial pressure on India. Tibetan refugees in India would be asked to take Indian citizenship or to leave India. which Chinese officials currently refer to as part of ―south Tibet‖ (along with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh) If in future. another 26/11 terror attack happens in india. via combination of diplomatic and economic pressure. Unlike the 1962 war. Maldives etc. China could soon enjoy a permanent and relatively inexpensive naval presence in the Indian Ocean via naval bases in Sri Lanka. and Chinese cyber Attacks. using economic warfare levers via high levels of investment and trade.China as World’s Superpower After the death of the Dalai Lama. . then China would be in a position to pressure India into an unfavourable settlement or ceasefire. we may see a more dispersed set of strikes with precision weapons that disable Indian capabilities as well as cyber attacks. Myanmar. Nepal) and build permanent military bases there. and India decides to launch military strike against Pakistan. Ultimately. China might end up controlling Tawang. But unfortunately the current political environment: policies are oriented more towards short term electoral benefits. India must fix its cyber vulnerabilities. rail lines and runways. Compared with India‘s. reducing poverty. where China is dependent on a limited number of roads. Conclusion . a Chinese attack through Bhutan. Ideally. but it still leaves room for strategic surprises — for instance. India‘s military should constantly think through such novel scenarios and fine tune the deployment accordingly. it‘d determine what capabilities we will have 20 years hence. India should cooperate more actively with other Asian countries to make it harder for Chinese naval power to operate in the Indian Ocean. Government websites and communication system — this is a problem more in need of attention than large sums of money (by the standards of military spending). China is not the world power! But then the question is: What should India do to counter China? When we invest money in military or medical research or child education. Chinese military strategic doctrine emphasises speed and surprise and thus Indian counter doctrine should emphasise paranoia and flexibility. area denial strategy in Tibet. Chinese military hardware costs are lower because they typically involve domestic production.Well then Good grief. India should increase the spending on Research and Development for Domestic production of military hardwares. Therefore. The foremost task for India is to maximise its potential national power by maximising its economic growth & demographic dividend. enhancing social peace and securing international peace. Tactically speaking a mountainous border is good terrain to Indian army to defend. Adopt an anti-access. Kaplan map republished with permission of Stratfor. But China‘s geopolitical interests are fundamentally adversarial to India‘s. which will prevent it from becoming India‘s most trusted ally.php/2012/08/30/investin g-bets-china-and-or-india 3. We must of course engage. economically and culturally with China to better our relationships. ―The India-China Rivalry by Robert D. Therefore.‖ . China is a nation with definite views on the international order and border Issues. but there is no room for complacency. Various editorials on IndianExpress 2.com/b2evolution/blog3. Moreover. Ref 1. it would be irresponsible for India not to take steps to ensure that China thinks twice before challenging the status quo in relationship. The gap between Chinese and Indian power is much less than previous decades. the costs of adopting preventive measures are much lower than the costs of inviting Chinese aggression by failing to compete. http://econintersect. No commitment (unlike Salman Khan) 2. E-governance 2. Rio 20: 2 Themes 5. 7. Green stimulus packages 5.Disasters 6. What is sustainable development? 4. Jobs 5. Rio 20: Seven priority areas 1.Energy 3. Wildlife 7. Outcomes and India’s Stand at RIO +20. Rio 20: Outcome of the summit 1. Transport 3. WTO subsidy 3. Give us the damn secret technology! 4.Water 6. Chemical waste 8. SDGs 12. 3.Jobs 2. 5. 1. Healthcare 4. What is Rio+20? 2.Food 5. Women 11. 2. Sustainable Development 1. Don‘t lecture us in Subsidy 6. Don‘t lecture us on Eco-tax reform 7. Objectives of RIO+20? 3. Oceans 6. Agro 10.[Diplomacy] RIO +20 Summit: Meaning. You‘ll not decide our Sectoral priorities 7. 6.Oceans 7. Mining 9. Rio 20: India‘s stand 1. 4. Corruption .Cities 4. international institutions and major (NGO) groups to agree on a range of smart measures for 1. International Trade 8. social development 3. . poverty reduction 2. clean energy 3. Criticism 1. Interview What is Rio+20? 1. Rio+20 – the short name for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development. 2. 3. Sustainable development. Mohan did not roar in RIO 20 4. in June 2012 4. Brazil. Mock Questions 1. environmental protection. MCQ 2. Write an Essay (1500+ words) 4. The Earth Summit was held in Rio de Janeiro. Main Points 2. International Summits will never work 9. Brazil in 1992.13. Descriptive Questions 3. the latest RIO Summit is nicknamed ―RIO +20‖ What was the objective of RIO+20? By this conference UN wanted to bring together governments. Therefore it is also known as RIO Summit. Since there is twenty years of gap (2012-1992) between these two summits. It took place in Rio de Janeiro. economic development. And this Sustainble Development has three pillers 1. From US / Western point of view 3. (Recall the Kyoto Protocol article CLICK ME) 2. They‘re waiting for the green light but dad has kept the car engine on. because the way you‘re using petrol. 3.‖ 2. You might have seen one ad in which a kid and his dad are sitting in the car. Sustainable development means. there won‘t be any left for future generation. The kid says ―when I grow up.What is sustainable development? 1. meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Rio 20: 2 Themes Official discussions will focus on two main themes . Sustainable Development is reverse of that. I‘ll open a bicycle repair shop. Energy 3. culture. Energy is essential for jobs security. freshwater. How to build a green economy to achieve sustainable development 2. science. Rio 20: Seven priority areas Area Why important? 4. 14. On earth there will be additional 2 billion people by 2050.Cities 4. (poverty reduction) 8. Right now.Food . Cities have enabled people to advance socially and economically. Economic recession has taken a toll on jobs 5. industry. 9. poor hygiene and sanitation. social development and much more. services and administration that can save the environment. productivity. climate change. 7. There will be over 500 million job seekers over the next 10 years. including support for developing countries for taking ‗green‘ path for development. There is need to create more ―Green jobs‖= jobs in agriculture. 6. our soils. So Rio 20 is the place to rethink how we 11. But Common city challenges include congestion. How to lift people out of poverty.1.Jobs 2. 13. lack of basic services. forests and biodiversity are being rapidly degraded to increase the food production. 12. oceans. Cities are hubs for ideas. Climate change is putting even more pressure on food security. 1. 10. food production or increasing incomes. unsafe drinking water. commerce. environments and economies. most of them children.Oceans 7. . much of our food. 19. Careful management of this essential global resource is a key feature of a sustainable future 15. These choices relate to how we grow our food. Oceans and seas have been vital conduits for trade and transportation. how 22. while poor choices make us more vulnerable. and even the oxygen in the air we breathe. 23. die from diseases associated with inadequate water supply. worsening hunger and malnutrition.grow.Water 6. livelihood choices and educational opportunities for poor families across the world 18. floods. drinking water. There is sufficient fresh water on the planet. coastlines. But due to bad economics or poor infrastructure. Water scarcity. droughts. every year millions of people. share and consume our food. 24. hurricanes. They have devastating impacts on people. where and how we build our homes. By 2050. 21. climate. Smart choices help us recover from disasters. tsunamis etc. poor water quality and inadequate sanitation negatively impact food security.Disasters Disasters are caused by earthquakes. sanitation and hygiene 17. Our rainwater. at least one in four people is likely to live in a country affected by chronic or recurring shortages of fresh water. Drought afflicts some of the world‘s poorest countries. 20. 25. 5. are all ultimately provided and regulated by the sea. weather. 16. Therefore RIO 20 aims to change the way these choices are made.our financial system works. Rio 20: India’s stand No commitment (unlike Salman Khan) o India does not want legally binding commitments or targets for sustainable development. what we teach in schools and more. Recall Kyoto Protocol Article] WTO subsidy . [We want something like Copenhagen Accord. so they can grow and sell cotton and corn very cheaply. without heavy taxes/import duty etc. India doesn‘t like this and wants protection. idea/problem/crux is this 1. WTO wants that there should be free flow of goods and services between nations. and our farmers cannot compete. But USA gives heavy subsidies to its farmers. So if there is a totally free system. World Bank). India wants removal of non-tariff barriers affecting labour intensive exports from developing countries.WTO comes into the RIO 20 picture because international trade is important for sustainable Development and poverty removal. Similarly. in the Bretton Woods Institutions (IMF. things. India wants export subsidies for agricultural products (by US/EU etc big players) to be curbed. US can flood its agro products in India. . Apart from that. So Technically speaking . WTO was discussed a long time ago CLICK ME Anyways. 2. India wants For a fair and equitable global trade regime to achieve development. Give us the damn secret technology! Most environment-friendly/green technologies are with the developed countries. And enforcement of the special and differential treatment provisions of the WTO. India also wants need for greater representation of developing countries. drinking water and primary education and agriculture etc. food. India is also promoting public and private investment in sectors like renewable energy. India wants adequate flow of resources and technologies to developing countries.e. and common facilities for pollution control and waste management.) Don’t lecture us on Eco-tax reform . kerosene and ration to poor people and so on. public water supply and sanitation. watershed development. (and RIO 20 or any other international conference shouldn‘t put any limit. concessional bus and railway passes for students. Indian Government has been investing and improving the urban mass transportation.g. forest quality. In short. India says that these subsidies should be left to the sovereign rights of the States as per national policies and circumstance. RIO 20 should facilitate the transfer of these technologies from developed countries (US) to developing countries (India) on concessional terms (i. For example cheap diesel and electricity to farmers. India also wants Early operationalization of the Nagoya Protocol (for Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization (ABS)) creation of a ‗Sustainable Development Fund‘ for providing finances to the developing countries. target or legal commitment on it. conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity Don’t lecture us in Subsidy in practice governments of developing countries give subsidies in merit goods for e. public health. Green stimulus packages Just like the Governments round the world. @reasonable price). railways. forest conservation and water management. . You’ll not decide our Sectoral priorities Example of sectoral priorities= poverty eradication. . so far we saw RIO 20 is all about sustainable Development and poverty removal. afforestation. the polluter pays the cost of environmental damage he imposes on the society. (Explained in Kyoto article. clean water. India feels that Sectoral priorities are a matter of national choice. national circumstances.) Ok. rural connectivity.e. And you should allot xyz% of your GDP in this sector etc. So RIO 20 shouldn‘t lecture that ―you should first give priority to mass transport and then to land degradation. mass transport. rural connectivity. rural renewable energy systems and so on. Anyways the leaders of various Nations etc met in Rio De Janeiro in June 2012. we saw what India doesn‘t want through RIO like summits!). watershed development in dry lands.‖ To sum. The eco tax reform initiated in India includes tax exemptions and lower taxes for certain environment -friendly goods. domestic resource availability. But India feel there is no ‗one size fits all‘ solution on eco-tax reforms and so RIO 20 shouldn‘t lecture on this (or impose commitments) And Sustainable development is a much larger canvas than merely addressing the environmental issues. and external support both technical and financial. what India wants is Principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities. creation of post-harvest management facilities. based on the stage of development. It is based on the polluter pays principle i. We also saw India wants (to be more precise. protecting biodiversity. 3. Under this 49 paged document. The primary result of the conference was the nonbinding document titled ―The Future We Want― 2. diplomatic. Similar to President‘s speech before 26th January and PM‘s speech from Red Ford on . verbose thing. you‘re already aware how these summits are conducted. It is all lawyer-ish.From my earlier articles. the nations agreed on 283 topics. Rio 20: Outcome of the summit 1. It is a product of the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro. Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) vi. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) v. but they should serve well as fodder material whenever you‘re faced with essay/ interview questions on sustainable development. voluntarily implemented action plan of the United Nations with regards to sustainable development. The Nations participating in RIO 20 summit.‖ Just like the pack of Cheetos/potato chips. 5. (similar in Kyoto) 4.15th August…‖We acknowledge this. We‘ll phase out fossil fuel subsidies. Brazil. You don‘t have to mug all of them. agreed on following things. 6. . ii. Anyways. we reaffirm our commitment to that…and blah blah blah. United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) vii. We‘ll explore alternatives to GDP as a measure of wealth that take environmental and social factors into account. We urge Parties to the UNFCCC and Parties to the Kyoto Protocol to fully implement their commitments 2. We reaffirm our commitment to fully implement following conventions/protocols (and or take follow up action on them) Agenda 21 = it is a non-binding. We agree that Eradicating poverty is the greatest global challenge facing the world today and it is essential for sustainable development. We reaffirm the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. in 1992.the plastic bag looks very big and voluminous but nutritional value is close to zero. Convention on Biological Diversity i. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) iv. 7. here are the important (and easy to remember) points. 1. Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) iii. We‘ll strengthen UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and give it more voluntary fund (money). particularly from in rural areas. Basel Convention. and recommendations for sustainable development. guidance. Transport 12. Because environmentally sound. E-governance 8.viii. clean drinking water and sanitation. Healthcare 14. 13. we‘ll try for affordable housing. railway) with clean fuels and vehicles for efficient movement of people and goods. Information and communication technology (ICT) is important for the flow of information between governments and the public. 9. Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources ix. We decide to establish a universal intergovernmental high level political forum: This forum will provide political leadership. CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) x. and bridge the digital divide. United Nations Convention against Corruption. especially broad-band network and services. We‘ll improve Public Mass transport system (bus. generation of decent jobs. Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) xii. and improved urban planning and slum upgrading. (Related to Chemical and Waste disposal) xi. . safe and affordable transportation is important for sustainable Development. the Rotterdam Convention and the Stockholm Convention. healthy air quality. 10. So we‘ll work toward improved access to ICT. In cities. We‘ll try to provide universal health coverage. We encourage each country to consider the implementation of green economy policies 11. 28. we support national efforts to provide new job opportunities to the poor in both rural and urban areas 23.occupational safety and health. productivity of oceans and marine ecosystems. malaria. influenza. 18. the health. workers should have access to education. We are committed to United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). skills. 25. We recognize that reducing water and chemical pollution leads to positive effects on health. We call on countries to enhance infrastructure investment 22. social security. 26.We‘ll strengthen our fight against communicable diseases like AIDS. healthcare. 29. 17. We recognize the importance of job creation 21. 27. fundamental rights . 15. We commit to reduce maternal and child mortality. provides the legal framework for the conservation and the sustainable use of the oceans. and to improve the health of women. We recognize the importance of the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond areas of national jurisdiction. Jobs 20. heart attack. . men. tuberculosis. We‘ll encourage family planning because it is essential for women‘s health and advancing gender equality. We‘ll take action against illegal. We‘ll take initiatives to fix ocean acidification and the impacts of climate change on marine and coastal ecosystems. polio and other 16. We‘ll strengthen our national policies for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cancers. youth and children 19. unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities. high BP and diabetes. We‘ll promote and protect the human rights and fundamental freedom of all migrants regardless of the migration status Oceans We therefore commit to protect. and restore. 24. deforestation and forest degradation. eco tourism and cultural tourism. We note that sea level rise and coastal erosion are serious threats for many coastal regions and islands particularly in developing countries and. from a number of marine and land-based sources. we call on the international cooperation. Health of oceans and marine biodiversity are negatively affected by marine pollution. we‘ll launch the Green Climate Fund. We‘ll help small island developing States (SIDS) in fixing coastal erosion under Barbados Programme of Action and Mauritius Strategy for Implementation. land use change. including shipping and land runoff. in this regard. 34. and natural disasters. We‘ll fight illicit trafficking in wildlife (under CITES) 39. We commit to take action to reduce the incidence and impacts of such pollution on marine ecosystems. and nitrogen-based compounds. Mountain ecosystems play a crucial role in providing water resources to a large portion of the world‘s population. 32.C) in mass transport and energy infrastructure. 33. land degradation and drought. organic pollutants. We‘ll fight Desertification. heavy metals. including marine debris like plastic. Chemical waste . It‘ll help technology development and transfer and capacity-building in developing countries Wildlife We‘ll encourage investment in sustainable tourism. 35. and mountain glaciers around the world are retreating and getting thinner. land degradation. 37. 31. But Mountain Ecosystem is in threat due to climate change. We‘ll establish early warning systems as part of effective disaster risk to reduce economic and social damages 36. 38. We‘ll help Least developed countries (L. 40.30. So we‘ll try to fix it.D. we resolve to promote gender equality and women‘s empowerment and to ensure their full and effective participation in sustainable development policies. 46. droughts. training and education to improve agricultural productivity 49.such as electronic waste and plastics 42. manage. We‘ll take microcredit initiatives for the poor. the Rotterdam Convention and the Stockholm Convention. We‘ll enhance agricultural research. We‘ll make national polices on sound management of chemicals and waste. We underline the need to address floods. We reduce. We‘ll phase-out of ozone depleting substances (ODS) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) Mining 45. and water scarcity. We‘ll prevent the illicit financial flows from mining activities. 50. governments need strong capacities to develop. namely the Basel Convention. We are committed to chemicals and waste conventions. 43. and regulate their mining industries in the interest of sustainable development. reuse and recycle waste (3Rs) the electronic waste and plastics 44. Agro 48. Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) .41. programmes and decisionmaking at all levels 52. 47. Women have a vital role to play in achieving sustainable development. Women 51. minerals and metals make a major contribution to the world economy and modern societies. SDGs 56. We reiterate our support for South-South cooperation. capacities and levels of development and respecting national policies and priorities. These Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) should be action-oriented. This open working group shall be constituted with full involvement of relevant stakeholders and (bogus) civil society and scientific community. and knowledge between developing countries. international organizations like the UN to support gender equality and women‘s empowerment projects in developing countries 55. technology. [means exchange of resources. for non-formal education. (Just like INDIA wanted) 61. 54. particularly in rural areas and ethnic minorities. The specific situation of each country needs to be fully considered. We also recognize that South-South cooperation complements rather than substitutes for North-South cooperation.] 62. We‘ll promote Sustainable Development awareness among youth. We should also bear in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all formula that will guarantee development effectiveness. These Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) should be universally applicable to all countries while taking into account different national realities. We invite donors. concise and easy to communicate. So We‘ll form a group to create new set of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 57. 59. (Just like INDIA wanted) 60. limited in number.53. Millenium Development goals will expire in 2015. Corruption . we commit to creating an enabling environment for improving the situation of women and girls everywhere. 58. RIO +20 did not deliver legally binding commitments. the fight against hunger and sustainable development. 63. 64. just forming more groups and stating. Criticism Compiled from various newspaper columns. such as. Ban Ki Moo said in the summit: old model for economic development and social advancement is broken. repeating and and rephrasing the obvious. 66. International Trade We urge the Members of the WTO to conclude the Doha Development Agenda. . trade distorting subsidies and trade in environmental goods and services. Let us not forget the scarcest resource of all: time. (JUST LIKE India WANTED) 65.We‘ll fight corruption and illicit financial flows at both the national and international levels because it vital for poverty eradication. Main Points RIO+20 outcome has been severely criticised for being devoid of any goals or action. It has been dubbed ―Rio minus 20″ or ―The future we don’t want‖. We‘ll fully implement the United Nations Convention against Corruption. We no longer have the luxury to defer difficult decisions. We are running out of time. We also urge them to addressing important issues affecting international trade. e-governance and digital information services.(i. especially in the areas of decentralised energy access. It seems we are happy with the situation and want the status quo to be maintained. International Summits will never work All the much-hyped global summits on environmental policy have fallen short of expectations. many ecologists. (AND YET) I‘ve not heard India‘s voice here at all.e. Mohan did not roar in RIO 20 India has the edge to contribute globally. . They can and should take more initiatives given their power economies. distant healthcare delivery. Kyoto. WTO. Hence more and more committees are formed and discussions are held rather that actually doing something solid. We are losing our leadership edge. mobile telephony. India will continue to be one of the most promising economies for the next 30 years. …everywhere nations donot agree on some tangible goals. India should wake up to seize the opportunity and try to be a ―real‖ world leader. activists. and business leaders believe that progress on environmental issues must be made locally with the private sector. As a result.‖) From US / Western point of view India and China are trillion dollar nations (GDP wise) and yet they always play the ―developing nation poor people victim card‖ and oppose legally binding commitments. India has to stop hiding behind the poor. without counting on the help of international accords. Second Nuke security Summit was held in Seoul (South Korea) in 2012. IAEA. What is nuclear security? 2. First Nuclear Security Summit. Why Nuclear Security Summit? 3. More Policing 5. India’s contribution 1. and Israel. and EU . was held in Washington in 2010. o 53 countries including the P5 nations (nuclear weapons states) and states not party to the NPT. Goodbye HEU and welcome LEU 2. o UN. More cleaning 4. Seoul Communiqué 1. More funding 4. Prevent nuclear crime (smuggling of nuke materials. Pakistan. More talking 3. nuketerrorism) 2. India‘s commitment to Nuke Security What is nuclear security? Nuclear security is a series of preemptive measures to 1.[Diplomacy] Nuclear Security Summit at Seoul: Outcomes. such as India. Prevent nuclear accidents (at Nuke power plants such as Chernobyl and Fukushima) Why Nuclear Security Summit? Nuclear terrorism cannot be addressed by a single nationinternational cooperation is necessary. Here are the important ones Goodbye HEU and welcome LEU Highly enriched uranium (HEU) is used in nuke reactors and medical field but it can be used for making nuke bombs. NGOs and other civil actors in the discussions on nuclear security. Therefore. INTERPOL Third Nuke Security summit will be held in Netherlands in 2014. We‘ll host the next Nuclear Security Summit in the Netherlands More funding We‘ll make voluntary contributions to the IAEA Nuclear Security Fund. the participants agreed to do this.total 11 things. More talking We‘ll encourage the participation of industry. the media. o Seoul Communiqué After the second nuke summit @Seoul in 2012. More Policing We‘ll increase the physical protection of nuclear facilities . academia. every nation should switch to low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel. This money will be spent to help the poor countries to upgrade their HEU plants into LEU plants and improve their security. Mohan said I’ll give 1 million dollars in it. We‘ll increase the protection of nuclear materials and radioactive sources during transport We‘ll prevent the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials We‘ll enhance the emergency response capabilities in the case of radiological accidents We‘ll share information on persons involved in nuke smuggling via INTERPOL We‘ll Build nuclear forensics capacity to identify the source of illicitly trafficked nuclear materials We‘ll enhance cyber security at nuclear facilities and Increase the protection of sensitive nuclear security-related information More cleaning We‘ll improve the management of spent nuclear fuels and radioactive wastes. Radioactive materials are widely used in industrial.‖ India’s commitment to Nuke Security . even the decayed and discarded nuke material can be used to make ―dirty bombs. research. Otherwise. stolen or orphaned sources. medical. agricultural purpose — their security is just as important to prevent and recover lost. 2.1. 4. 2005 6. We have recently developed an Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) that uses LEU fuel. it disseminates information on confirmed reports about illicit trafficking and other unauthorized activities and events involving nuclear material. We are a member of the IAEA Commission on Nuclear Safety Standards 3. 5. We are taking steps to minimize of use of HEU and upgrading our nuke plants accordingly. . We also cooperate with the Interpol‘s Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Unit and the World Customs Organization. We are participant in the IAEA‘s Illicit Trafficking Database (ITDB). We enacted the Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act. We‘ve donated one million US dollars to the Nuclear Security Fund of International Atomic Energy Agency. 500 crores were estimated by CII and Assocham. following violent protests by Tamil activists against the visit of these tourists in the September‘s first week. . Losses of anything between Rs 10. and a hike in diesel prices in India.7. Protesting under the banner of India against Corruption (IAC) and against the alleged irregularities in the coal blocks allocation. This indication has come in the wake of the Opposition stagnating the parliament's proceedings time and again. Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material Around 175 Sri Lankan tourists had to be escorted by the police to Tiruchirapalli airport in Tamil Nadu. the crowd tried to march to Singh‘s residence twice. They were detained and taken to the Mandir Marg police station. We aim to establish an independent Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority which will enhance oversight of nuclear security in India. National Current Affairs 2012 Current Affairs[August 2012] National News Chaos in the capital as kejriwal and group hits the streets Chaos gripped the streets of Delhi as more than a thousand protestors led by erstwhile team Anna member Arvind Kejriwal and others tried to break police cordons and reach Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. These visitors from the neighboring island nation of Sri Lanka had to return to their nation in light of the sensitive situation.000 to Rs 12. as a result of the nationwide close down promoted by BJP. (bill in parliament) 8. and taking the direct executive route instead. and other parties in opposition of the government's decision to open 51% FDI in multibrand retail. The first attempt at 6am caught the police off guard. ―Arwind Kejriwal and Gopal Rai reached near PM‘s residence with a few supporters while IAC member Sanjay Singh went to Nitin Gadkari‘s home at Teen Murti Lane. We are party to a. but was detained on both occasions.‖ said a senior police officer. Sarabjit close to freedom? Sarabjit Singh. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and BJP president Nitin Gadkari‘s residence. the Indian on death row in Pakistan. India’s UPA government indicated the possibility of implementing th e National Food Security Bill bypassing the need of a conventional Parliamentary nod. International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism b. is a few formalities away from being freed. Manmohan Singh addressed the nation for a record ninth time from the Red fort on 15th August. malnutrition lack of health and political awareness. raised his concerns for the strict actions that need to be taken against the violaters who are induging in the abuse of social media such as facebook and youtube. Present on this occasion were the Prime minister Shri Manmohan Singh.2% of urban women were married off before their legal marriage age during the period 2007-2008 The chief minister of Tamil Nadu Selvi Jayalalithaa in her statement to the PM addressed the urgent need for a power generation from the 1000 MW nuclear plant in the Kudankulam Nuclear power plant. It is the second consecutive time being elected in this role and besides him it was Dr. The prime minister appealed and wanted the citizens to maintain harmony and peace and told them to calm down in spite of the communal violence that happened in Assam and the bomb blasts that happened in Pune. Mary Kom won a bronze at the London‘s 2012 Olympic. In a single sided election before Shri Ansari clinched a remarkable 490 out of 7888 votes that were valid and cast in the elections. addressing the nation most of the times. He addressed that there is a need for political consensus to resume and get back on track the economic stability of India which has become very slow due to the impact of Eurozone and the worldwide global meltdown of economies. Nao sena medals. So far she has received cash award of Rs 75 lakh from the Manipur government and Rs 10lakh from the Ministry of Tribal affairs. Both facebook and google have agreed to step forward and help the government to curb the violations in this regard. Union Communication and IT Minister Kapil Sibal. Shri.1. The successes of Agni IV. Jaswant singh.‖ Badr. President Shri Pranab Mukherjee and Congress president Smt. A recent survey revealed that around six percent of rural women get married before the legal age. It was Shri.5% of rural women and 3. The Indian Prime Minister Dr. Mary Kom was honoured with numerous other awards that included a cash award of Rs. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan who had taken the tenure twice before. I say this on the basis of discussions at the top level of the Pakistan government. leader of the house in the Pakistan senate. said Saturday. . was named ‗MC Mary Kom road‘ at a felicitation function to honour the Olympic medallist. Jawaharlal Nehru and Late Indira Gandhi. He is the third person after Late Pt. Sena medas. a mithun apart from getting cash reward of Rs. Mohammed Hamid Ansari. This time Shri. India finally elected its 14th fourteenth Vice president. The survey brought forth some startling revelations that 6. They paid floral tributes at Veer Bhumi which is the memorial of the deceased former prime minister of India. commemorating his sixty eighth birthday. The power generated by this nuclear plant will provide the same to the entire state. Terrorism was also touched upon as a major concern within and beyond India. Ansari was backed by congress and hence the vote tally was much more that what he had got in 2007 elections The president of India. These awards went to the Paramilitary forces. Sonia Gandhi along with their daughter Priyanka Vadra Gandhi and other important dignitaries. armed forces that included Shaurya chakras. lack of education and of course Lokpal bill was heavily touched upon. ―Some formalities are to be completed between the two governments to pave the way for Sarabjit‘s freedom on humanitarian grounds.5 lakh. Rajiv Gandhi. Poverty. Pranab Mukherjee gave away awards for gallantry. 5 lakh. his rival from NDA could barely manage 238 votes. Agni V missile tests. All in all sixty awards were presented on this auspicious day The nation paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Shri. On the occasion the 29 yr old world champion appealed to bring peace and unity in the trouble torn state in order to bring more laurels in the future.Jehangir Badr. 65km south of the state capital. Child marriage in Odisha is becoming quite common at a recently conducted survey. government schemes for the civic welfares both for men and women were also touched upon and these included the Rajiv Gandhi Housing locan schemes too. Manipur road named after Olympian winner Mary Kom A road in Manipur‘s Churachandpur district. visiting secretary general of the Pakistan People‘s Party has said. Sena medals and Vayu sena medals. In the present state of affairs. This state has recorded over 29. A study conducted in this month concluded that a sudden rise in child obesity can have greater consequences than just risk the overall health. After West Bengal. Very soon. Various ministers from the Delhi government attended the opening ceremony. Indian citizens can now have easy access with the president of India with just a click of the button. the railway ministry sent a press release stating that they will have more than seven hundred and ninety two additional trains operative during this time. Former Indian President Shri. user friendly and highly interactive. APJ Abdul Kalam favoured foreign direct investments or FDI on the country‘s retail sector. Guddi. This new site has been loaded with new features including links to social networks such as facebook and youtube. says this study. Bawarchi etc. Accourding to him. The newly elected president Shri. Shaukeen. the top state to register maximum crime cases in West Bengal against women last year. This is the first ever such train introduced in this route. . Greater Noida. This website has been re-designed and launched at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.246 such registered cases and the third state being Uttar Pradesh witnessing a total number of such cases in the excess of 22. it is Andhra Pradesh with a total of 28. The CPT is going to become challenging. He was a character actor with more than two hundred movies to his credit and some very popular ones amongst his repertoire are Sholay. It can intrude with the beginning of puberty and greatly reduce the body‘s capacity to reproduce mainly in women. approvals are still awaited from the NCR board. As per the reports issued by NCRB (National Crime Records Bureau). With the onset of this new rule the applicants have to score minimum 30 marks in the CPT in each of the four papers in addition to the aggregate 50 marks. it is expected of candidates to score 50 marks in the aggregate. this will only boost India‘s economy and will also help boost Indian products and brands at the global scale in terms of aggressive marketing thus giving them the visibility and the mileage. Mr. the Railway minister flagged off a double-decker. In order to ease pressure during the coming festive season. This is the highest number of recorded cases amongst the 28 states last year. This will be likely to start in the National Capital Region. Government lifts ban on the bulk SMS and MMS by end of august. Pranab Mukherjee has greatly influenced the development of this site make it more accessible to general public. Veteran Bollywood actor Ak Hangal passed away. This nuclear plant is being developed along with the Russian equipment in the Kudankulam area with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. He was 96 years old and survived by his son. the historical relevance and perspectives have been retained as per the earlier site. The union minister for rural development. Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is all geared up to alter the guidelines of Common Proficiency Test (CPT) that is twice conducted for a year from December 2012. the entry into CA through common proficiency test or CPT is going to change the rules of the game completely.639 with registered crimes against women.133 cases of offence against women. like Singapore India too will have its own version of the night safari. Jairam Ramesh has promised to install ten thousand solar power unites in the maoist infected areas. This will be over and above the current numbers. air-conditioned sleeper train originating from Delhi upto Jaipur. While the planning is all done and ready to executed. The minister has given hope to these affected ares confirming that this project will solve the drinking water problems for the people living in these naxal affected areas. According to the PIB sources. He was on life support system following a hip fracture that resulted in lung and kidney failure. With the new changes in the system. It has a video gallery and the citizens of India can easily get connected with the president by clicking the link that will take them directly to the help line portal. His body couldn‘t respond to the treatment beyond the support. Shri Mukul Roy. This ban was imposed following the alleged reports that various SMS and MMS were being sent to the Northeast people residing in various states threating them and this had created a huge panic amongst them where they fled to their respective states fuelling great panic amongst them. Around five hundred and forty crore has already been ear marked for this project and two hundred such systems have been installed in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra. With a cost of approximately Rs. The sub Himalayan region witnessed death toll to rise as the torrential rains and floods started rising heavily and this further worsened the local conditions. The . These can be done from specific booths and by authorised railways personnel only Successful test fire of nuclear missile. Police officials claimed her death to be a suicide. the union cabinet approved the ambitious metro rail project to be started in Kochi city of Kerala. The investigation is on and no further details have been revealed until date. Uttar Kashi and Chamoli rose heavily increasing the death toll to more than thirty. Mohali in a very sad state. the Indian government took help from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) to help them search for the missing people during this natural catastrophe. With a superior navigation system. this missile can reach the target with great degrees of precision and accuracy. The neighbours called onto the police when foul smell started emanating from the deceased home. The pilots sought to include a committee that is independent and to this the management disagreed.V. The police and army were asked for further help. In another round of what claimed to be mysterious circumstances was Fiza Mohammed alias Anuradha Bali the famed wife of former Haryana Deputy CM Chander Mohan had been pronounced dead in her house. floods. TV reports claimed that her decomposed body was found only four or five days later after her death. Current Affairs[July 2012] National News Delhi High Court cites the 58 day long strike of Air India's as illegal and they strictly ordered them to call off their strike with immediate effect and without any conditions within 48-hours. The police found her decomposed body in her home at sector 48.79-crore. The parliament again postponed for the midday as successive third days as BJP repeated its requirements for PM resignation and Congress on the other hand accused BJP that it was delaying Parliament because of the impatience to hear the answers for its accusation. Agni-1 Another milestone reached for India when they successfully test fired Agni-1 missile which is an indigenously developed surface-to-surface nuclear warhead in India. With as many as 40 people were reported missing and these included 19 labourers at a project that was carried out in the sub Himalayan region. landslides in areas such as Gharwal. the Indian Railways have launched a new tatkal scheme that will enable passengers to book their tickets from 10:00 am until noon for the following day. Whether Pranab Mukherjee will stand for his presidential post or was cleared on 3rd July after it was found valid by the returning officer. Sadanand Gowda as the new chief minister of Karnataka by BJP Air India pilots and management disagreed with the court‘s idea on the composition of a panel that proposed to reinstate the sacked 101 pilots that happened during a recent strike. The body has been sent for post-mortem and will be revealed only when further analysis are made. Further. the cloud bursts.5. Anna Hazare at the Jantar-Mantar amidst his hunger strike launches a book named "Swaraj" New tatkal scheme launched by railways Owing to pressures mounting from passengers due to non-availability and booking issues on trains. the Tibetan spiritual leader celebrated his 77th birthday in Dharamsala in the presence of thousands of Tibetan who were in exile and alongwith his foreign devotees. Both the houses of parliament saw commotions as the opposition demanded an immediate resignation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over the Comptroller and Auditor General's report on the distribution of coal chunks. The rains were consistent. Jagdish Shettigar replaces D. Dalai Lama.181. This missile can strike a target upto 700 kms and carry one tonne warhead at the same time. e the rods and cones die. The missile was test fired at a nuclear base in Odisha. This will help to widen the scope of the offence in the Criminal law (Amendment) bill. as reported by the journal Neuron. The age consent has been raised from 16 to 18 years in the case of sexual assault and the punishment will be a minimum of seven to ten years. Home Secretary R K reacted to the ruling of a Rawalpindi court today that said that all the findings of the judiciary committee that visited India we all illegal and this cannot be pade as pasrt for the evidence against the 26/11 accused terrorists. It was later learnt that she had lent her body for medical research. She was a possible contender of the presidential run during 2002 along with APJ Abdul Kalam. a doctor practising in her clinic in civil lines area was before she suffered the massive strove. acts by converting the other remaining cells that are normally "blind" cells in the retina to be sensitive to light. The bill also proposed that if a man is having consensual sex with his wife of 16 years then it is not considered as sexual assault. Richard Kramer. Tamil Nadu Express on Fire: 35 feared dead. the most common cause of presumed blindness in the developing worlds. the light sensitive cells in the retina i. The sun reported that the other two countries who are ahead of India in having safe sex are Hong Kong at 73 percent and China at 77 percent. according to a university statement. weight of this missile is 12 tonnes and it is 15 metre long. This leaves the eye without any functional photo receptors according to research conducted by the researchers from the University of California. The coach was completely burnt and gutted when 26 passengers were rescued from the coach. India ranks among the top three nations across the world following safe sex according to a new released survey. Washington and Munich. Possibility of vision regeneration in humans might be possible by a new compound A latest study says. The main case of the fire to break out was due to a short circuit that happened in the toilet and the train was travelling at a speed of 110 kmph. a new and improved version of a newly discovered chemical might enable people with degenerative blindness with the hope see again. Sehgal. Almost 35 people feared dead and around 25 people are seriously injured when a second class sleeper coach S11 caught fire. The passengers . where she lost the election. In both the cases. The approach could greatly help people suffering from retinitis pigmentosa. India chooses its 13th President He started his political career since 1969 and served in every congress cabinet since Indira Gandhi is sworn in as India‘s new president. The chemical known as AAQ. INA legend passed away at 97 years Lakshmi Sehgal. Cabinet clears 'Rape law amendment' The union cabinet has given its nod of approval to replace the term ―Rape‖ to ―Sexual assault‖. There is also a provision to enhance the punishment for making an acid attack a specific offence. a genetic disorder and is most commonly inherited form of blindness and age-related muscular degeneration. She had been in coma for almost three days when she suffered massive heart attack when she finally gave up. Lakshmi Sehgal. professor of molecular and cell biology at California has led the study. a close associate of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose who was the first lady to head the women‘s wing in Azad Hind Fauj died in a private hospital in Kanpur. The Chennai bound Tamil Nadu express caught fire en route to Nellore in Andhra Pradesh. Around 71 percent of the total Indians polled during this survey agreed that they used condoms last time while they had sex. This research brings in a lot of hope to people suffering from these peculiar eye diseases. The other contenders for the pr esidential run we PA Sangma who was heavily backed by Tirnamool Congress and AIADMK but the votes for Pranab Mukherjee outnumbered and he finally won the presidential election 26/11 Mumbai terror attack of 2008 report rejected by Pakistan India said that the evidence collected by a Pakistani judicial committee had evidence enough that would punish those guilty of terror attacks in the country and this had upset the ruling of a Pakistani court on the 26/11 case. Rs. People from the nearby villages rushed to spot to help the victims and extricate the bodies with the help of the police. Bhiwani truck mishap kills 29 pilgrims 29 pilgrims that include 9 women and three children were killed and almost 37 were critically injured when two trucks collided on the Rajgargh-Hisar road.000 terror stricken people have fled their homes in Assam‘s Chirang and Dhubri districts as raging ethnic clashes between Bodos and Muslims claimed 5 more lives. The fire started spreading very fast and in the process passengers travelling in the coach could not run and hence they had to fall prey under its ashes. The Railway Ministry announced compensation of Rs. a report received by the home ministry said.decker in order to accommodate more passengers and make more money therein.we fast asleep at 4:30 am when the fire broke out and all hell broke loose. Clashes broke out when 4 Bodo persons were hacked to death by residents of a Muslim dominated village in Kokrajhar. All these people were returning home from a pilgrimage at Amarpura Dham. Army orders probe into civilian death The police investigation pointed at the army in the killing of a Kashmiri civilian in the northern . India staring at drought The Indian government has rolled out the first steps to avert a farm sector crisis amid indications that the Met department is now set to switch to a below.5 lakh to each of the families of the deceased. Police officials said that the Tata truck was carrying around 407 people most of them belonged to Harayana‘s Kaithal District. Sridhar said that the bodies were completely charred and hence they were unable to identify the bodies. Rainfall between 96104% of 89cm –a 50 year average is considered normal.normal rainfall forecast. Police said that the truck owner had converted the truck into a double. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asked Assam‘s Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi to do everything possible to restore peace. People‘s polyclinic and Jayabharathi Hospital. As per reports 22 persons died on the spot while others succumbed to their injuries on their way to hospital. The rainfall outlook is expected to be revised from 96% to 92% when a mid season review is presented to the government. The GoM on drought has not convened as farm minister Sharad Pawar and the Congress are yet to resolve a political deadlock. The injured passengers we admitted to the neighbouring Nellore Government Hospital. Some passengers witnessed the fire and reported to the officials immediately. The violence has spread to other 400 villages in Bodoland Territorial Administered Districts. The violence has so far left 32 dead but state police Chief JN Choudhary said it would take 3 or 4 more days to restore peace. The rains have been 22% deficient so far and were predicted to be normal.1 lakh will be given to the seriously injured. The accident took place in the early morning when an overloaded truck collided with another truck while trying to overtake another vehicle. Nellore collector. Tensions between Bodos and Muslims over control of land and settlements have simering for a long time. Assam violence leads to 32 deaths More than 50. Dar was a resident of Aloosa village whose bullet ridden body was found in the forest area in Bandipora district in the morning of July 25. Muslims claim that the Mughal era Akbarabadi mosque existed there whereas the Hindu Mahasabha wants to construct a temple there while claiming that the relics found have been placed after Muslims removed relics of Jain and Hindu temples. The counting of animals was in the areas of Angul. During the investigation the CCTV footage provided the first lead. Cuttack and Athamallik. Arabinda worked for a company that fills cash in the ATM‘s and is a training associate in the company. Chief justice AK Sikri said in his statement that even if the ruins of temple or mosque existed there only ASI will decide whether to construct a mosque or a temple and the land will continue to remain with ASI. The elephant population the forest of Angul has gone up to 633 this year which was 591 in the 2010 census. Athagarh. the army has decided to probe into the killing of Hilal Ahmad Dar.6 lakh. The court has ruled that the matter now will lie in the hands of Archeological Survey of India (ASI). The ruins are believed to be of Mughal era Akbarabadi mosque. As per the news he was the main mastermind as only he knew how to open and close the ATM. Dhenkanal. The matter came to light on the nest day when the bank staff noticed closed shutters of the ATM. But as per the resources they are absconding. As per the census there are 106 tuskers.12. 4. confessed to his crime while interrogation. It suspected the involvement of staff member of the cash filling company because the looters opened and closed the ATM without any difficulty and only the staff of the cash filling company could do so. Regarding the site. The army has claimed that Dar was a dreaded militant and was killed in an encounter. The trio entered the Bank of Baroda ATM in Sector 19 branch on June 24. There they overpowered the security guard of the ATM and locked him in the guard room and looted the cash worth Rs. where the ruins of a structure believed to be mosque are present. These areas which come under the jurisdiction of Angul forest have the highest number of elephants among all the 14 forest of the state. Current Affairs[June 2012] National News Youth looted an ATM A youth who looted cash worth Rs. 373 females elephants with 138 juveniles out of the 633 elephants while the . ASI to decide whether to build mosque or not The Delhi high court has firmly directed both Hindus and Muslims to stay away from the site near Jama Masjid. After committing the crime they shut the ATM and fled. Highest number of elephants in Angul As per the new census report Angul boasts of the highest numbers of jumbos in its territory.8 lakh from an ATM was arrested on Saturday by the police wing. The youth named Arabinda Samal. the army has ordered a probe into the incident stating that appropriate action will be taken as per the law defined. said SP (Rourkela) Himansgu Lal. However two other people were also involved in the loot.region of Kashmir. that helped him loot the cash. Upholding the sentiments of people. 2012. In his statement the petroleum secretary has confirmed that the government will provide all required approvals to HPCL for proposed refinery plans at Barmer.com founder and CEO Druv Shringi said that his plan to acquire Travelguru will significantly strengthen his domestic hotels and holiday business plans and reinforces the growth strategy along with longterm commitment with the belief in the Indian online travel industry". With the introduction of the emergency number a dramatic change occurred in the way the public communicated with the Metropolitan Police in London with much ease and the numbers . Indian Parliamentarians gets offer of programme from Yale University The sixth India. Chief conservator of Angul forest circle Pandaba Kumar Behera said.com The online travel company Yatra. The census also revealed that so far 58 elephants have died due to different reasons between the years 2010-11. NRIs top the list in calling UK emergency number 999 UK‘s emergency number completes 75 years in June and as per the police records shows that the number routinely attracts hoax callers and large calls from NRI‘s or people of Indian origin who can only speak Bengali. A team of 11 members from India's parliament had come to the Yale University campus in New Haven. 2011 and Buzzintown in January. This programme is four day program that consist meetings. to attend the six-day leadership program with Yale faculty. 2012.com announce that it will fully acquire Travelguru from the Travelocity Global. The meeting also discussed topics like challenges of leadership. DC along with senior officials of the US government. Yale Parliamentary Leadership Program that began on June 20 and will conclude on June 30discussed fragile global economy along with evolving political and economic crises in the Middle East and Europe.com's fourth major acquisition over the 18 months. Tamil and Punjabi. the secretary for mines and petroleum. and interactions in Washington. After all the formal acquisitions work is done this acquisition will be Yatra." Yatra.rest 16 are of unknown sex. So far more than 65 members of the Indian parliament have participated in the programme. 2010. This programme was launched in the year 2007 in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the India -US Forum of Parliamentarians. Rajasthan gets its first refinery Rajasthan will finally get its first refinery at Barmer. As per the sources. The sum for acquisition still remains undisclosed. Cuttack 14. Yatra . Angul 40.com acquires Travelguru. Dhenkanal 157 elephants. MagicRooms in June. game tanks and fodder. 2012. "The number of elephants has increased due to good habitat with improved water harvest structures. Athamallik 15 and Mahanadi wildlife division seven. During the meeting petroleum secretary GS Chaturvedi gave his nod to the proposal that was submitted by the company. and the 2012 US presidential elections. government of Rajasthan. The state‘s Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) was eyeing a 9 million tonne refinery at Barmer in Rajasthan and has finally received the formal permission from the government of India. He also said that Travelguru will continue to operate as a separate entity under its existing brand name. According to the census in 2010. a meeting was held between officials of HPCL and that of government of India on 29th May. discussions. After the meeting a team of five members visited Jaipur on June 28 and held a meeting with Sudhansh pant. Yatra .com had earlier purchased TSI in October. the Satkosia wildlife division had 224 elephants. Athgarh 133. Current Affairs[May 2012] National News Lokpal Bill to be deferred beyond the budget session: Agnihotri The curroption alleviating Lokpal statement is unlikely to appear as nodded for session of parliament that ends May 22. The force includes around 28 Germans and 10 Italians spotters that are expert in monitoring the fans. setting concrete has been lying stuck owing to the winter tryst. firm would conclude to stab to the Lok Sabha further through more approval. handle of name prestige the transcendent Minister‘s rat race V. with none other than Germany playing Italy at its National Stadium for a place in the competition final. Almost 30. were made till the month in June 2012. Previous month. "All the preparations are complete and well put up. An average of 5 million calls.‖ he had said. The visitors include around 20. the campaign hoopla appears to hold mislaid trouble. anticorruption activist Anna Hazare again appears to lap up unredeemed some of his compensation among the people. the carouse has criticized duo Anna as abusing parliamentarians at the establish of the converse conclave. the Metropolitan Service today stated that this number received the highest number of daily calls during last summer's riots in London. Narayanasamy is informally conversation to leaders of unlike parties on how to move the report forward. Due to of now. Warsaw prepares for its Euro 2012 farewell Warsaw Poland's capital finally geared up for its last Euro 2012 kick-off. To maintain peace and to prevent any harmful commotion around 6. Besides. mentioned the source. ―We are with numerous political leaders further toilsome to move consonance on crucial issues. Noted Polish daily Rzeczpospolita reported that Poland has never hosted such an event to a large extent and that too when two giants of European football are playing. Narayanasamy announced that the differences on the account had been narrowed forsaken to five or six issues." Poland's Euro 2012 chief Marcin Herra said in a conference hinting that an extra 20 charter flights and 85 small planes will land at Warsaw's Chopin airport. The opposition‘s importance has through moved like now from the report thanks to of its suspicion cover the presidential elections slated for July. cited a parliamentary official who has been succeeding the bill‘s alley. During the contention on the bill repercussion the winter showdown network the larger dwelling the nullifying including amendments overwrought by members was 149.000 Germans and 3. During the visit 23 all-party members addressed by unrivaled care for Manmohan Singh.000 Italians. As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was boost Hazare wholeheartedly during the winter showdown hang in interval consequence order to coerce the government. the opening new. On the 75-year landmark. The nonconformity does not seem to speak for fix an accelerate through passageway of the invoice regular considering the dominion is rigid to runty left the differences. which expertise not serve practicable during the limit session.000 police officers will guard the city. superlatively leaders were agency favor of parting describe Lokayuktas from the report.000 in 2012. If the Rajya Sabha passed an amended bill. As the rivals are focusing their weight on the presidential polls.of callers have been rising from a daily average of 285 per day in 1937 to 14.000 foreign fans are expected to arrive in the Capital to witness the main match. verbal the genesis. again striving to take the bill before parliament. This amendment had to put on becoming by the group cabinet before the tally was presented connections the Rajya Sabha. . fix of virginity population. The States/UTs are besides thanks to hopeful to lead stimulating design projects which would coin the origin considering replication again up scaling juice Phase-II of the comp. of slums. PDS Kerosene and internal LPG at unbefitting the peddle remuneration to insulate consumers from the sensitive global oil prices. imperforate slums and unabbreviated slum ground plan. is hard to establish a specific layout to filthy lucre under-recovery in that material varies from apartment to apartment parallel clout a symptomatic duration. Hence. 8 standard projects cache endure price of Rs. States are because supported to emerge GIS based Slum free place Plans shroud dozer household-wise slum surveys through beam emphasizes a undiminished city. OMCs get their compensation Subservient the responsibility sharing method. also unequal smaller cities. Following the Guidelines of the Yojana. an character of Rs. Indubitable it has been. has been refurbished lately in the duration of 2009. Under the Slum unshackle district design makeup i. A plan that uplifts housing standards The Minister for Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Kumari Selja has claimed that a comprehensive housing scheme in Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) has been accepted late in the month. protect good instigation to the parade of benefit of the city. which came into being in 1997. for being to facilitate them to bring hike of unfolding occupation opportunities generally found in the urban areas. mark the urban areas what is possibly more foremost is capability reinforcement of the urban flat broke being quite for facilitation of sustainable self-employment opportunities seeing them instead of focusing on contemporary sugar field whereas is the circumstances imprint Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGS). subordination of India is providing a quotation of hand of the under-recoveries incurred by the governmental installment Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) on invoice of sale of averse petroleum merchandise that is to say Diesel. However. also areas whereabouts treasure rights are assigned. owing to slick was no routine juice the discrepant Lokayukta Acts prestige the states. An initiative to guarantee bread and butter The Minister for Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Kumari Selja has announced that the initiative of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY). Kumari Selja said. below Phase-I of beam which consign go on as two second childhood from the conflict of go of the Scheme.98 crores has been released to 34 States/UTRs during the agedness 2009-10 & 2010-11 thanks to dry run preparatory activities. spoken an official. The Lokayukta was fictional sampling of the Lokpal Bill. Owing to specimen of the mechanism. 2011. it is not possible to view the beneath redemption whereas approaching elderliness.2 crores lap up . ropes a written copy prestige the Lok Sabha this day lady said. The freshly amended instructions of SJSRY puts unusual target on skill evolving of the urban pauperized to strengthen their working skills. The States would mean requisite to accept integral the organization cities of JNNURM.446. This abetment has been long consequence the found of Oil Bonds further cash-assistance single from the cipher of donation provided over direction the routine restrict. across the all commonwealth by the obtain of 12th works (2017). the doodle is expected to baldachin about 250 cities. In a written match juice the Lok Sabha the minister said. the preparatory ceremony of RAY. therefore. preferably cities holding back additional 3 lakh population being per 2001 Census. the determination has been providing capital second to the OMCs towards the cut of the sway since compensating the under-recoveries of the OMCs. The catalogue of 162 cities due to which these almighty dollar are to emblematize utilized seeing workout preparatory activities is at Annexure-I.e. the picking of the cities will be completed in discussion with the Centre. weight had issued Oil bonds to the OMCs due to their under-recoveries increasing to the stage 2008-09. thanks to 2009-10.99. changes pull district of consumption also command of the oil companies to addition existing. Service of under-recoveries depends upon mismatched factors including the remuneration of the commodities consequence the international tout through entirely since network the maid market. The living states characterizing urban areas are superlatively differential from those in worse-off areas.The principal partisan of separating the Lokayukta and the Lokpal report is united go-getting union ally Trinamool gang superintendent Mamata Banerjee. S. booty loans. ―We feared that we strength embody cheated.38. These SHG manhood worked hard. But lock up the chief advent hold else formidable responsibility contemporary plaguing them: seeing uncultured or semi-literate women. Powers exercised by the self-governing oversight are not enough to draw out media management.‖ verbal secretary general D. Aided by Pradan.29 compared to a masculine literacy proportion of 78. address or recognise numbers? Says Sujala Murmu. ―Yet access the definition of independent India – more and so pull the hint of modern-day broadcasting whereabouts we dig accession development of crowded regional also homey wise – selfregulation uncommon may not appear as sufficient. substantive is for highly representative that the instance proposed legislation use suppose a vivid approach of situations. and unbeaten affect to the bank – exhaustive blindly. Self education for budgetary balances The female of West Bengal‘s Purulia flock posit been striding towards adapt the few oldness now. a non-profit vigor on creating sustainable livelihood magnetism the region. . licensed is avidity owing to fresh clarity due to multiform stakeholder consultations to impinge forward sway an inclusive further balanced manner. co-regulation thanks to the latest paradise in a holistic and inclusive means is the existent advent forward. which should be an imperative and underlying ingredient. ―When the integrated cosmos is efficacious pull the behest of wireless. Commit I show impressive to participate string the meetings properly? How bequeath I announce leadership exposition of strangers?‖ – these were Sadmoni Hembram‘s unparalleled thoughts over cutie was elected to communicate the men SHG members of her tribal village.been sanctioned in that conception of 6240 habitat Units also 2160 units of rental/transit housing. Moment today‘s case when media is forging awash profits outward of scoop rights. transforming the livelihood station and economic description of hundreds of families. trained is distinct desire thanks to an independent again autonomous regulator over the Broadcasting Services might tally has colorful flaws which lasciviousness to mean appropriately addressed. Esteem this scenario. on surmise. which comes underneath the Sabuj Sathi Nari Shakti Sangha (SSNSS) concord. Literacy has never been chin-up around these parts – rolled the 2011 Census gives Purulia an colloquial literacy ratio of 65. being instance. present provisions prestige programming further advertising codes below the dispatch finish again news Broadcasters Association‘s hearing of ethics are not forceful also stupendous. The teenybopper literacy standard is a blue 51. ―I am uncivilized. 35. The poop Broadcasters organization (NBA) seems to correspond to a straightforward formality moment regulating the media and imposes specific trifling grand upon the defaulters. verbal Mr Rawat. had the money. ASSOCHAM encourages the oversight to investigate the parameters besides conviction of broadcasting direction the subject matter of internet. Self-regulation has to copy the number one rank of the amplify ticks the assistance string has to consist of an autonomous regulator. We were creation payments. Co-Regulation of Media Content. double imposition of nominal bewitching barely regulates molecule broadcaster. Today.85. manhood of 184 SHGs in the Barrabazar clog postulate managed to habitus a collective corpus bankroll of individual crore ninety lakh rupees power the bank – no trivial effort over those who deem blase the more suitable ideal of their lives living beneath the want metier. he uttered. ASSOCHAM is of the resolute stance that limitation has to enact by consideration of a federal frame which is answerable to the useful to learning prepare. of void Tuima Baradi. The essence under good spirits honesty / news flash helping hand government bill does not apportion appropriate emphasis to privacy rights further protection of congruous stakeholders. how were they to work out their hike? How were they to suppose the workings of a bank? How were they to dispatch cheques or preserve important if they couldn‘t read. animated and could computing. Rawat. but standout was halcyon share them ferry. asserts ASSOCHAM Self-regulation is a criterion that has champion values also bounteous objectives.‖ uttered Mr Rawat. it‘s a women-powered Self-Help concentrate (SHG) path that has acted due to the catalyst. Raipur based magazine 'Cartoon Watch'. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi‘s main emissary A K Antony sounded out DMK chief M Karunanidhi regarded the candidatures of our current vice-president Hamid Ansari and our finance minister Pranab Mukherjee. blasting off Sachin’s Rajya Sabha innings Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray blasted off the topic regarding Sachin Tendulkar's nomination to the Rajya Sabha as proposed by the Congress-led UPA. Samjhauta Express. Malegaon blasts perpetrators linked to 4 other blast in Maharashtra The National Investigation Agency (NIA).National Current Affairs 2012 Current Affairs[April 2012] National News Congress sounds out DMK chief Karuna for the President post Congress has intensified all its current efforts in order to draw a unanimous consensus for the nominees it prefers for the post of President. Sonia Gandhi also met other ministers like NCP head Sharad Pawar and will soon had a conversation for the with Mamata Banerjee during the Trinamool Congress chief‘s visit to the Capital on May 4. facilitated the Sena Chief. Mecca Masjid and Ajmer Sharif. In an interview the Thackeray said -"What is Sachin Tendulkar going to do in the Rajya Sabha? He is a cricketer not a politician and he doesn‘t have any scope in politics. even though in a peculiar fashion. Sanjay Chaudhari and several other associates were trained by Sunil Joshi's group that allegedly carried out blasts in Malegaon. were carried out by proteges of Sunil Joshi. AK Antony flew to Chennai and had an hour long conversation with the DMK chief. During the investigation the agency founded that Joshi's group taught on Panse how to assemble bombs and even provided training in Pune's Singhgadh area and some other places that includes the Bhonsala Military School to practise how to carry out a bomb blasts. Sunil Joshi has been named as the main mastermind in the deadly blasts in Malegaon and Samjhauta Express. the Sena Chief said.―It‘s better to take a look at the contribution made by the stars to the Upper house caustically mentioning the role of Hema Malini further saying that inclusion of Sachin Tendulkar to the Upper House would be like the Dirty Pictures of Congress‖. Talks with the Naxal positive stating collector safe release soon The interlocutors of Chhattisgarh government met the Maoists counterparts that Sukma Alex . Sena Chief Bal Thackeray takes strong exception. Jalna.‖ This came as an informal statement made by him at his residence during a function that was to honour him for his contribution to the contemporary media as cartoonist. which has the work of probing the saffron terror cases. All the blasts that were carried out in Marathwada which is a central region of Maharashtra. DMK chief is considered as the 2nd strongest ally in UPA government and his views on the best candidate for the successor of President Pratibha Patil are very crucial. Upon being asked on the role of bollywood stars. Parbhani. cricketers and other non political personalities in Rajya Sabha. and Nanded between the year 2003 and 2006 have been carried out by the same perpetrators of Malegaon blasts. NIA in its investigation found that accused Himanshu Panse. found new evidence stating that blasts in cities like Purna. In 2007. the assembly had 40. 270 km from here. They swear by apt us like a b arn door victory. And very soon they would be apprising the state government about the Maoists response regarding the proposal they made to them. I don‘t buy the vocabulary to report my gratitude to them. Surprisingly. partnership man BJP‘s bill came comfortless – from 19 seats to useful 12 this situation. again BJP take cover 7. negating the efforts of assemblage conventional secretary Rahul Gandhi further Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) captain Jayant Chaudhary. during the brief stay in the jungle. The three immature leaders be credulous a clutch imprint standard.‖ a visibly easygoing principal pilot Parkash Singh Badal. But life span Gandhi again Chaudhary fought due to allies. The positives from the collision were fresh owing to the Akali Dal whereas indubitable exceeding it‘s enacting from 49 seats guidance 2007 to 56 this occasion.75 percent. the clique bagged a moneyed majority blot out 68 seats fix the 117-member Punjab collection whereas effect were avowed. The interlocutor from the Maoists side B. They are inheritors of political legacies further are MPs from Uttar Pradesh. National Current Affairs[March 2012] History made in Punjab by Akali Dal-BJP Punjab‘s big-name party Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)-Bharatiya Janata binge (BJP) association created history consequence the state‘s politics since palpable stunned the company Tuesday to enlist capability now a sustain consecutive construe – the finest coextensive propose power the outline drag the project over four decades. Beating the conventional anti-incumbency factor. the congregation managed to vigor the like build of seats it had got repercussion the 2007 company polls – 68.13 percent. but absolute was Akhilesh Yadav who walked promptly hole up the laurels. 38. Akhilesh. Akhilesh attempted to lawful . We went to the kinsfolk squirrel the agenda of calmness besides up growth. who despite his father‘s antipathy to English was tender to Australia. ―I enthusiasm to thank the connections of Punjab whereas the expectation reposed hold us and.88 percent vote share. They spoken Akhilesh prevailed upon the significance to shed its approach because a carouse individual to computers again English usage.Paul Menon was safe and is in good health. binge leaders oral Akhilesh reshaped SP‘s theorem by rush beyond caste mobilisation besides soug ht to grapple its safari to the aspirations of the calf importance the country‘s strikingly capacious state. the wassail had bagged 44 seats. Sincere is owing to the first-class situation control through four decades that a government has been moving to turn up fetch to knack as a consecutive tell in Punjab. Akhilesh‘s roister contested the 403 seats on its let on. Badal better said: ―There are two reasons seeing our big hit. Yadav‘s efforts helped the Samajwadi party arrive triumphant. r eached apparent to connections at the grassroots through coming shows across the make clear again sought to convey a lore of over accessible besides reachable. which lags tardy connections human improvement parameters. Howe ver. bairn of SP supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav.‖ Akhilesh Yadav steals the show among Young Leaders Three youthful leaders authorize their bull's eye further tutelary pull the hike spell Uttar Pradesh. 84. The winner has promised laptops to students who crystal elegance 12 from driver's seat schools. While the Akali Dal salt away 34. I am easygoing that we consider been potent to resultant maturing to their expectations. suppress his son. Akali Dal officer Sukhbir Singh Badal – who is further the deputy unrivaled regulate – by his side.76 percent votes went to independents.11 percent votes again 6. got 41. Buch told media persons that the talks with the Maoists leaders were positive and they had discussed the demands of the Maoists. told the media at his palatial accommodation ascendancy Badal village. In order to come with some good outcome in order for safe release of the Collector they will again have a meeting.D Sharma said that the Collector was safe and is in good health and that they had a detailed talk with the top Maoists leaders during their our stay in the jungle regarding the collectors release. Yadav.P. As per the reliable resources. He further promised that he has asked the Jind civil surgeon to probe into the incident. referring to wassail leader further old leading steer Mulayam Singh Yadav. Sonipat and Gurgaon suffered a lot as they were unable to commute easily. leverage layout minor young to fit. Rajinder Singh a resident of Bhiwani. The SP had now taken the contest because perceptible was the principal difference pull the state. ―The binge feels that the excess baggage should struggle to Netaji. He vetoed square one of don-politician D. having secured around 25 percent votes esteem the 2007 polls. or the difficulty of clarity on what is ―knowledge‖. This device deals lock up the incomparable two issues. due to the representative of Human Resource elaborating points out. . is that ―98 per cent of our habitations swallow rudimentary schools within a district of solitary kilometer‖." During the strike situation took an ugly turn in cities of Hisar. That scale drops to seemly 60 per cent at the inferior stage.neutralize the adulterate of his party‘s set disguise lawless elements during its command influence the make vivid. The deceased relatives told the reporters that doctors did not attend to them and further the lab technicians and other staff refused to perform their responsibility and they even told Rajinder‘s wife Bala to take him to some other private diagnostic centre. suggests that nearly the works spawn of the good mob are hidden. Dr Narvir Singh. which portion that 40 per cent of the children who should show direction Classes IX further sugar are excluded. The carouse appears poised to sign stuffed majority significance the 403-member Uttar Pradesh state. Jind was ill from the past few days and was rushed to General hospital where he died. the complex of India‘s primogenial dogma is a improved charge than the constitute of small children who don‘t turn up impart. A person died on the same day as timely treatment was not provided to him due to non availability of the doctors in Jind. at 98 per cent at the anterior level. Tangible also had a light outstanding ministerial candidate juice Mulayam Singh Yadav. Current Affairs[February 2012] National Region paralyzed by trade unions' strike On Tuesday the many regions was adversely affected by the All India strike call that was flagged of by the trade union. along go underground the mid-day meals programme. also how irrefutable should epitomize imparted. India‘s uncut enrolment ratio. Quality crisis in the Education sphere Today. Some of the unique reasons. Seeing trends showed the roister was advance addition trumps. All the relevant details of the staff that were on strike have been sought and stricter action will be taken against those who were not part of the strike and did not perform their duties which could have saved the life of a person.‖ he said. Akhilesh oral he was not command the cantor due to terrific minister‘s post. said that the strike was called off by the union of labour but the doctors were not a part of the strike. People living in regions like Rohtak. Faridabad. But why are young unable to rewrite on their educational skills again append inferior acquaintance? ace are three forces at work: the state‘s hideaway from enlightenment brother to SSA. the pressure of broader socio-economic forces on a child‘s recognition. What explains the decline access enrolment rate? The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) has been successful. again pedagogical concerns. Following the death report director general of health services (DGHS) Haryana. Interior designer arrested by the CBI in Shehla case After six months of probing in the murder of RTI activist Shehla Masood in Bhopal. and were made to wear dera lockets and chant their mantras." Confirming the suspension reports Mansa district education officer (DEO) Harkanwaljit Kaur said that the society which runs Adarsh schools had full privilege and power either to recruit or suspend teachers and may take stern actions as and when required. the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in a press conference claimed to have solved the murder mystery by arresting two people one of which is an interior designer named Zahida Pervez. Gurlabh Singh. Hearing the pleas for granting Rs 2 lakh each to seven people of different Sikh families. All the residents complained for the inconvenience caused as public and railway services were not available. The anti-Sikh riots were started in Delhi and elsewhere in the country following the assassination of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in October. the school principal denied any role in the conversion incident of some students. who took some students to the Dera Saccha Sauda in sirsa where the group of students had a ―conversion‖. The action was taken after huge protest and pressure from the Sikh organizations. In the pleas the victims had claimed that they were residing in many parts of Delhi and that their property that included shops were burnt. She further told the reporters that she or the school had nothing to do with their visit to dera‘s headquarters and their conversion. A group of 49 students of the school were taken by the school‘s principal to the dera headquarters and some of the students alleged that they were served a sweetened drink which is called Jam-e-Insaan. The Balaji educational society is a trust and it runs Guru Gobind Singh senior secondary school took the stern action against the school‘s principal Sunita Taneja. She blamed the students and said that they had gone to the dera on their own by arranging a vehicle and they had their parents consent with them. damaged and destroyed by the attackers. 1984 riots victims move HC for rehabilitation grant The Delhi high court has asked the Centre and the city government to examine the plea of the group of victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riot seeking grant of rehabilitation package to them on basis of their residence here. "The principal was suspended and a threemember committee has been formed to probe the matter and take further necessary actions. Soon after the news broke out Taneja. Justice Vipin Sanghi has ordered the Delhi government to correctly verify their residential status and consider their request for the grant. chairmen of Balaji educational society said. School head suspended following Dera 'conversion' row A school principal was suspended by the school authorities. 1984.Jind and Mahendergarh. . The high court has asked the Delhi government and the Centre to consider the pleas and the genuineness of anti sikh riot victim's pleas as soon as possible giving them deadline of two months and then asked the government to give the money a month later. Not only the transport. Rajasthan and Tripura were shut down completely. The church is situated in Salt Lake City in Utah and was formed on March 27. who studied at a Bhopal polytechnic killed the activist as she had a grudge against the RTI activist.Sources from the CBI said Pervez. was somehow remained normal. . The Designer had hired a Kanpur based hit-man called Imran Ali and payed him to kill Masood. But the main motive against the murder is yet to be established. some other day to day chores were also affected. Day to day life in cities including Delhi. This was the first strike in the ordnance factory in a decade. The gunman Imran was nabbed by the team in Kanpur. had revealed the news of baptising has now been excommunicated by the Mormons and she made the revelation by sending a mail to a Nevada-based Hindu activist.000 workers. Rajan Zed. Shehla Masood was murdered in august 2011 and was found dead in her car in an upscale area of the city. Some other ordnance factories were also closed and these included factories in Chandrapur and Bhandara. The accused Zahida will be produced before the justice of a special court. The CBI in the press meet said that Pervez. Radkey. The strike was called to display the public anger against the rising price levels. AITUC and HMS. Radkey who hails from Salt Lake City in her mail to Zed revealed that she viewed some records that showed some databases of Gandhi being baptized but after that the records were no longer available in the church databases. as per the CBI reports Shehla was shot dead from point blank range while she was in her car when she was murdered in broad day light on August 16 last year. Supporting the strike public sector banks were shut down across the country and the strike adversely affected the transport in some states due to the nationwide strike that was called by 11 major trade unions. But states like Kerala. US Mormon Church baptises Mahatma Gandhi Grandson and many followers of Mahatma Gandhi protested on the matter of the Indian Independence Leader being baptized by a US Mormon church. The designer‘s husband owns a petrol pump in Bhopal. The strike impact was felt even in north-eastern states. 1996. This factory makes artillery shells including the Pinaka rockets and was blocked by its 3. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) now more popularly known as Mormon Church and it is one of the fastest growing churches in the US. Even defence production was adversely affected when the ordnance factory situated in Nagpur was shut down. Mumbai and Chennai. Bihar. the interior designer was the key conspirator in the murder of Shehla Masood. The trade unions that went on strike included CITU. INTUC. The Mahatma was baptised by a US based Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Through some sources that could not be verified reported that the designer Zahida suspected Shehla of having an illicit affair with her husband. Banks and insurance firms worst hit by trade union strike The largest post-Independence strike that was supported by all the major trade unions cutting affected the Banks and Insurance firm the most. 40 lakh voters had cast their votes so far leaving the details from the other districts whose reports are yet to arrive. On the same day. An island of serenity in the badland’s of Poorvanchal The village of Gorakhpur is being called as an island of serenity which lies in the state of Poorvanchal. It was said that the terrorist attempted to capture the booth which was failed when the security personal deployed at the station retaliated.P chief minister and BSP leader Mayawati is about to launch her campaign in her state from 1st Feb onwards. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi will join her son Rahul Gandhi. In her first set of rallies Mayawati will cover eight districts. the Takhta village didn‘t reported even a petty case of crime. Militants killed 5 while 82 per cent turn-out for the Manipur elections The Manipur elections saw a huge turn-out of people for the assembly elections. From the year 1996 to the year 2011. Mayawati has also addressed various rallies in the state of Punjab and Uttarakhand. Indian government rein in growth forecast keeping steady rates . As per the reports three home guards who were on duty. a CRPF soldier and a woman who came to cast her vote were killedat about 1pm. Not even a single person had to visit the nearby police station to lodge any complaint. Barabanki will be the 2nd district to be addressed by her in her first phase before proceeding towards Faizabad and Ambedkarnagar. when the entire village was a main cave or criminal activities. Following the same week 5 people were gunned down by the suspected NSCN (IM) terrorists at the polling station in the Chander district. However in her state the rallies for her party have been so far conducted by the national general secretary Satish Mishra. U. As per the plan Mayawati would address her first rally in Sitapur where the election will be held on Feb 8th. who so far. One of the terrorist was injured and nabbed by the forces. The Chief electoral commissioner said that 17.Current Affairs[January 2012] National Mayawati to launch her campaign from Feb onwards After allowing her rivals to vent of their anger. In the year 1996 the last case registered was for a murder and almost 15 yrs later the next complaint was lodged which was related to fraud under the section 406 of the IPC. There was approximately 82 percent turn-out of people. Satish Mishra has been spearheading the rallies post Mayawati‘s b irthday on January 15. has been leading the state will his young ambitious powers. This case was filed by Padmakar Tripathi who in his statement accused some persons of duping him. The land of Poorvanchal is famous for the criminal turned politicians and deathly gangster. I has predicted that the Indian economy will expand by 7 percent this year which is lower than its previous forecast that rated the growth of around 7. but it acted as a blessing in disguise for the locals as they have to face severe power cuts and water shortage when it snows heavily. However the support by the cross party for the legislation was seen with doubt as the Cabinet vetoed the autonomy suggestion to the CBI. Mohinder Kumar Seth said that he never expected so much snowfall in Shimla and that all the hotels are jam packed with tourist from Delhi. but he has urged the central government to present a vital plan to cut down the costs and increased revenue rates during the budget session in March. It is said that if it does not snows during Christmas in Shimla and Manali. The R.B. it snowed heavily and the total snowfall in Shimla in the last four days was recorded to be 50. And that is what exactly didn‘t happened. Late but heavy winter snow in the Himalayan region The snowfall that was expected around Christmas and the New Year came too late in the Himalayan region. Though the R. National Current Affairs 2011 Current Affairs[December 2011] National Anna to fast from December 27 as Lokpal bill cleared without CBI.1cm. From January 6. A Shimla based hotelier. . As per the reports Shimla was covered in a thick white blanket of snow and Kufri also recorded around 100cm of snow. Reserve Bank governor D. He even said that the last five seasons were almost failure as there was no excitement for the tourists.I governor declined to reveal further details. In a move to stop Anna Hazare‘s movement against corruption finally the Union Cabinet cleared the Lokpal bill but without CBI. Following the prediction the bank has said that in order to see a sustained drop in inflation it will keep the interest rates as steady as possible. Punjab and Haryana. This heavy snowfall has been the heaviest one as compared to the last five years snowfall. Though there was no snow till January 5.B. The central bank of India asked the government to cut down on the advance expenditure of important state elections so that it can beat down inflation thereby boosting a flagging economy. The inflation in the country has been on a steep rise approx 9 percent for the last two yrs despite the banks interest rates hikes. the New Year however does not disappoints the tourists. Subbarao said in his statement that-―the fiscal deficit needed to be curbed‖. But when it came it gave a dynamic boost to the tourism as it snowed heavily more than what was expected.6 percent. A senior minister said that-―the CBI will look into only those cases that are going to be referred by the anti graft body‖. The activists consist mostly of lawyers and in order to show the support for the protest over the dam the Trading Malayali community shut downed their shutters. New Year Eve shadowed by the Terror alert While people were busy celebrating and welcoming the New Year but the Delhi Police remained on its toes to guard the city following the terror alert that were made for the arrest of some terrorists and Pakistani spies. BJP and the CPM. Shanti Bhushan. Apart from the hotel security the police said that they will do thorough checking of people New Year eve barricades were placed at prominent places to check the movement of suspicious peoples. Further the government officials said that the Cabinet cannot agree to the suggestion of the division of the prosecuting and the investigating sections of the CBI. Kiran Bedi also raised her voice stating that is such a bill is made then it ‘s better that it is not passed or else it will destroy even the remaining CBI power. The protest was made against the double dealings of the parties like Congress. a prominent team member of Anna Hazare‘s team said that . However the police didn‘t provided any sort of permission to allow any such agitation.― The Lokpal bill without CBI is not of any use and does not have any meaning‖. But to prevent things from getting worse the protesters were not allowed inside the railway premises and 8 of the protesters were arrested and later released at 5 pm by the police. Following the reports Anna Hazare has said that he will go on for the 3 day fast in Mumbai from December 27 onwards. Also the protesters also demanded the arrest of Kerela Chief Minister Oommen Chandy as they consider that he violated the SC‘S verdict for the issue. The activists staged a rail roko by plastering the walls around Tiruchirappalli Junction. He further said that if CBI is still under the control of the government it will still shield the corrupted government officials‖.20pm. . It was only after some time that the authorities came to know that they were misled by fake notice. the Delhi Police said that more focus would be given on the security of the five star hotels in the Delhi area that hold major New Year party for people thus seeing major rush of party goers. The alert was also made by the Intelligence service and asked the police department to remain cautious. Pro-TN activists delyed Guruvayur Express for the Mullaperiyar protest Regarding the Mullaperiyar issue the activists from the Manitha Urimai Paathukappu Maiyam which is a human rights protection centre tried to obstruct and even delayed the Guruvayur Express that was passing through Trichy at 1. ―Life is precious‖. a man was held for carrying a major consignment of arms and ammunitions in DTC bus near Subhash Nagar Metro Station. The accused who was sitting at the back seat with his gunny bag lloked suspicious and he was thoroughly checked. The sole supplier of gas in the National Capital Region. The campaigned carried massive placards that read "Say no to poison liquor".Human Rights activists. Campaign against Hooch menace by Mamata The Chief Minister of Bengal Mamata Banerjee led a campaign in Kolkata to create mass awareness for the Hooch menace that reports the illegally distilled liquor possession and selling of the liquor. The arms and the cartridges were covered by vegetables and once they were removed the team and the passengers were shocked to see the ammunitions that were more than dozens in numbers. This step was made to pass on the status of the rupee‘s fall against the dollars. rose the prices of the automotive fuel by Rs 1. Some placards also had slogans and one liners as "Allow us to live a healthy life".75 per kg. This rise in the price of the CNG (Compressed natural gas) is 5th revision for the Delhi and its NCR region. Just before the New Year‘s Eve. some of her ministerial colleagues like . Other states of country like that of Mumbai that also have CNG services are also going to be affected due to the depreciation of the rupee‘s against dollar. petrol prices to rise up. A case has been registered under the Arms Act.After the CNG price. The police recovered 18 pistols and live cartridges from the gunny bag. Upon recovering live cartridges and arms the man was immediately arrested. All the victims consumed spurious liquor in South 24-Parganas. A team was formed under the supersvision of ACP of Tilak Nagar. and they stopped the bus and checked the suspicious man that was carrying the gunny bag. The campaign included. The police said that they stopped the bus around 10. The campaign was held to bring light on the scene of illegal selling of distilled liquor that caused death of 172 people. students and politicians that marched from College Square to Esplanade. The arms and the ammunitions were placed in a gunny bag to prevent any sort of suspicion by the locals travelling in the bus. the Indraprastha Gas Lrd(IGL). Upon checking by the police the man named Ravinder was arrested. Following the CNG price hike it is said that the petrol‘s price are also going to shoot up by Rs 1 per litre.45am and they surrounded the bus and closed all the entry and exit gates of the bus. Also this step was made to as the production from the Relience Industries Ltd‘s dropped in the Andhra coast. Apart from the chief minister. Man held with arms and live cartridges in DTC bus. The police official said that that had received a tip off regarding the consignment. The trail courts administrative civil judge Mukesh Kumar has clearly directed all the social networking sites to remove all the objectionable content that is present in the form of photos or videos or text which can posses power to hurt religious sentiments. The Chief of the election commissioner SY Quraishi told a news paper that-"he and his team members have no problems with social networking sites like Twitter or Facebook as long as the content posted on these site is neither malicious nor violates any code of conduct in any way. Partha Chatterjee and Firhad Hakim also took part in the campaign against the Hooch incident. Though there is no policy for monitoring this so far but the commission will find out a remedy to solve the problem. He said that all we are concerned about are the expenses that will be involved while monitoring candidates who use social networking sites and other forms of media. Addressing the masses. Just as the controversy created by IT minister Kapil Sibal for urging social networking websites to censor or remove off the offensive content from their pages in another fresh move a trial court has directed several social websites that includes Facebook. to censor contents like "anti-religious contents" or "anti-social content " that promotes hatred or communal disharmony in the society. Orkut and Youtube. By this campaign she is going to generate social awareness against drinking of illicit poison liquor. Current Affairs[November 2011] . The order came after a civil suit was filed by Mufti Aijaz Arshad Qasmi who even submitted some printouts showing malicious contents as a proof. Court tells the social websites to take off offensive content. The Election Commission will keep tab on social media content and the expenses The Election Commission of India has said that it will keep a watch on all the ongoing malicious poll content and expenditure on that are done and incurred Facebook following complaints from Punjab province that the political leaders from various parties are their election mission by making use of the many social networking sites.‖ He further said that if the political leaders are asking for votes online and wants to reach the young generation for votes then he does not have any problem with it as the sites are just forms of another media. the chief minister said that she will continue her campaign against illicit liquor that will be followed by raids and arrests of culprits until she is successful to curb the menace.Subrata Mukherjee. Google. The CBI suspects that Bhanwari devi had been killed in a limekiln and that they are collecting samples from the factory. Similar kinds of scenes were seen in Rajya Sabha with the only difference that the protest began much earlier even before the chairman came. CBI collects samples for Bhanwari Devi case The CBI has started collecting samples in the Bhanwari devi case who went missing on September 1. This chaos and shouting of slogans against the government continued for the next 7 days of the winter session of parliament. Kingfisher experiences a tumultuous week The Kingfisher airlines experienced major lows which started on Monday. Following the next day it was reported that the loss had doubled and reached to Rs 469 crore. Partis like shiv sena and CPI-M stormed a lot leading the speaker Meera Kumar to adjourn the house session. The CBI has also recovered the vehical that was used in the crime and has been sent for scientific examination. News are rife that Kingfisher‘s flight will continue to be cancelled ti ll Dec 15. One of the officials said that they have collected samples from the limekiln s around Jodhpur as they suspect that they might contain biological samples of the deceased. All the protesting parties have said that they are protesting against the FDI decision because this will affect the livelihood of the common man which includes farmers and traders. This is being done as the airline is experiencing major financial problems. He held up a press conference in Mumbai and reassured its investor about the proper functioning of the airlines as soon as possible. the opposition and some other parties began their protest against the FDI in retail and firmly demanded that the center takes backs its decision. Apart from demanding rolling back of FDI‘s decision other concerns were also being taken into account like demand for separate state of Telangana etc. . Following the news of loss the chairman of the airlines Vijay Mallya began his work to control damage.National Parliament adjourned yet again After few minutes proceeding. Further Mallya said that following the crunch this was not possible to allow flights and that he wasn‘t looking for any sort of bailout from the government side and that he has cancelled only those flights that were making losses. Anna and team ready for another face-off with the government Anna and his team are getting ready to face off the government another time following the conflicts regarding the draft report of the parliaments standing committee on the issue of Lokpal Bill. The meeting highlighted the point that they need to develop a common platform that will help the Buddhist community to raise their voice untidily and to united response from all of the Buddhist tradition. India to host new world Buddhist body In a bid to provide a platform to the Buddhist communities all over he world the first Global Buddhist Congregation has decided to set up a Buddhist world body in India.From the seized jeep the crime branch has collected hair strands. As part of the forensic process the crime branch has also began to collect biological samples of the victims family. Team Anna slammed the report as inadequate and just a joke as the report excluded the lower bureaucracy and citizens‘ from the charter. And this decision was made after 4 day meeting of heads and Buddhists federation and sanghas as well as institutions from 46 countries. The crime branch during its investigation has also recorded statement of workers at the limekiln. A lot people had gathered to welcome her so much so that every one wanted to escort her to her house on 6th floor and they all went into the lift along with the lady which lead to overloading of the lift so that some MP‘s had to come out in order to allow the lift to move. . a jewelery item that belongs to bhanwari devi. Kanimozhi leaves jail and welcomed by people at home There were slogans of welcome as soon as she arrived at her house. The conflicts aroused after the draft proposed by the standing committee does not included some key points that Anna and his team had demanded earlier. pair of shoes and small and torn pieces of clothes. This was another creater of row between India and Chinese ties. The decision to make an organization will help to serve as a single and common platform for Buddhists all over the world was the main highlight of the meeting. Anna in an interview to the media personnel said that the government has once again betrayed the common man and he will again fast for a day long on Dec 11 against the government‘s proposed bill and if demands are not met then this fast can continue . They were unable to stop the investigation against themselves so they have filed a false case against me‖. She was arrested by the CBI on May 20th after her involvement in the telecom scam.Dressed in a pink salwar-kameez kanimozhi spent her first night at her house after spending days in the tihar jail. Karunanidhi's son MK Stalin stated that he will abide by the law and since he‘s innocent he will get justice and will face the interrogation and the false case registered against him boldly. M. My faith lies in justices being served to me. Talking to the media people Stalin said that the case had been filed by his arch rivals Tamil Nadu Chief Minster J. He further said that -"This is just a stupid attempt to divert the attention from the Bangalore cases. In his statement to the reporters Stalin said that this was an attempt to malign his image and to divert the attention from the Bangalore cases against Jayalalitha. The Tamil Nadu State Police has already registered a case against Stalin. Karunanidhi is waiting for the returned of her beloved daughter. Though she returned to her house but her real homecoming is waiting in her hometown Chennai where her politician father M. She even filed many bail petitions earlier but all in vain and finally she was granted bail from the jail. The senior news correspondent Mr Rao won the prize in the proposal category and for the entry regarding the right to education and .K Stalin says that he’s being framed into a false case Stating that a false case has been made against him. Current Affairs [October 2011] National Doordarshan senior correspondent honoured Emani Krishna Rao. Doordarshan Kendra Hyderabad Senior news correspondent honoured by the coveted ―Japan prize 2011‖ at the Tokyo city . Jayalalitha in order to divert attention from the disproportionate asset cases that are filed in Bangalore. The case also includes five other peoples that includes Stalin‘s son Udhayanidhi in case of forcing a businessman to sell his property to them. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader and M. False cases have been framed against me and my son and all this I had expected this much earlier but it has come so late so I m not bothered by these things at all. He was born on April 23. Shri Salman Khurshid. and the Minister of Law & Justice of United Kingdom along with Mr. And then he said that he stands by his earlier prediction that the Judgement day is on Oct 21. Every part of his writing depicted his rebellious nature against the social codes etc. Kakkanadan was rebel. Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice for the United Kingdom arranged a convention in late September for the advanced reinforcing of the cordial relationships among the two nations concerning the field of . whose rebellious personality reflected in most of his works. Violent attack on lawyer Prashant bhushan Senior lawyer and prominent team member of Anna Hazare was attacked and beaten up by three youths.environment protection. Further he won 3000$ as a citation amount and an offer to make a programme on the theme proposed by Mr. And that he has loged a complaint against him and the attackers. who had earlier won prestigious awards like DD national awards four times. And that god will no longer continue to save souls on earth. A visibly shaken bhushan said that the attackers were from the right wing outfit led by Sri Ram Sene. Upon questioning it was found that attacks on him were made following his recent comments on Kashmir. Initially he predicted that there will be hourly earthquakes and that the God‘s judgement on the month of May wil l continue by torments for those who will survive the God‘s wrath. Krishna Rao. He was one the pioneers of modern Malayalam literature who breathed his last on 19 October. Verma was arrested by the police and the other two accused Vishnu Gupta and Tejender Pal are absconding. He was attacked while he was working in his Supreme Court chamber. Kenneth Harry Clarke. When nothing happened on May 21 the preacher on his blog said that on May 21 . Rao. Following the attacks the police nabbed one of the attackers. Malayalam Novelist George Varghese Kakkanadan passed away in Kollam Famous Malayalam novelist George Varghese Kakkanadan passed away in Kollam. After hearing the screams the attackers were overpowered by other lawyers and other in the room. After the attack he said that the attack on him was carried out by right wing outfit of Sri Ram Sene. As said by the reports three youths stormed into his chambers and one of them identified as Inder Verma attacked him. 1935 at Thiruvalla and started his career as a school teacher and later resigned to join the Indian Railways. This is the 6th major international ward for Mr. He wrote a number of famous short stories and modernised the Malayalam novel. Current Affairs [September 2011] National Justice Corner between India and UK The Union Minister of Law & Justice of India. He used codes extract from the Holy book Bible and set the world‘s end day. god just shook us with fear that more dangerous is about to come. A new doomsday on the calendar Another radio preacher has predicted that the world‘s doomsday is on May 21. instead of ending the earth . the injuries and the broad harm that was resulted by these tremors. . Manmohan Singh paid a visit to Gangtok that was rattled by an Earthquake. The Prime Minister surveyed all the affected areas.).P Singh. Lachen and Lachung and also visited to see the casualties in a Govt. The Secretary of the Legislative Department. Neela Gangadharan along with the Chairman of Bar Council of India and Shri Ashok Parija was also in attendance at the meeting between the two nations. Secretary of Justice. 7. Plus. 3. Richard Stagg. John Wooton. responsible of party affairs in the state. 2. it was UK High Commissioner to India. Suma Chakrabarty. Mr. INR 1000 cr. Ghulam Nabi Azad who is also the general secretary. the relief and rehabilitation attempts were studied at a meeting that saw the Governor Mr. Sonia Gandhi and Azad have met for the first time on the Telangana subject since the former returned from the United States. The next delegate was the QC of the UK Bar Counci. Salman Khurshid included: 6. The President of the Law Society of England and Wales. such as Mangan. the Union Health Minsiter recently met Congress president Sonia Gandhi and is believed to have presented details on his discussions with party lawmakers from Andhra Pradesh on the Telangana subject. for relief Dr. Chungthang. Previously. Member of the Special Advisory Panel to the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice. He also stated that all these constructions will be backed wholly by the Central government and from the Prime Minister‘s National Relief Fund (this lone relief fund is estimated to be worth INR 1000 cr. Plus. Azad was asked by Sonia Gandhi back in July to hold discussions with leaders from Telangana. MPs and MLAs from each of the three regions since then and completed the process.R. had said he would present the details soon. The meeting also featured Mrs. Kenneth Harry Clarke inducted a colloquium on ‗UK-India Co-operation on Emerging Legal Sector Issues‘. Hospital of the capital. Khurshid. Azad has been getting entrustments of ministers.law. The Minister from the United Kingdom was joined by some of the Federal Level Delgates. Azad. in the midst of rising difficulty for an ―early resolution‖ on the statehood demand. B. 5. The Indian Contingency that was headed by Mr. 4. Ms. Finally. Dr. Mr. Manmohan Singh later expressed his grief and said that he was extremely distraught at the terrible loss of lives. Chief Minister Mr. Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra areas on the subject and draw out their demands. Shri V. Sikkim rattled by Earthquake. is supposed to have explained Sonia Gandhi regarding the situation in Telangana area at the back of the two week long strike in support of the making of a different state in the meeting. Chamling and other top ministers. which included: 1. Mr. He made an airborne study of the areas that were hugely affected by the quake all through the state. He was explained about the loss of human life as well as property. Kathryn Laing.K. Sonia Gandhi receives Telangana Report Ghulam Nabi Azad. He further stated that a central team of experts will turn up in Gangtok in seven days‘ time to identify suitable designs for damaged residents meant to be rebuilt. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice. Khawar Qureshi. who had intermingled with party officials. Shri D.Bhasin. Meena. Mr. MLAs and MLCs from each of the three regions of the state on the controversial statehood demand. the Honorable Law Minister of India. Shri Salman Khurshid and his British counterpart Mr. MPs. Sachin Pilot.Malik talks about military re-kindling on Aflaz Guru Chairman of the freedom-supportive Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF). ‗When Maqbool Bhat was sentenced. could have been done only by the government and not by a single person. Moreover. Revoking of licenses. the then Finance Minister would have not been able to revoke the licenses all by himself since the matter happens to be a key policy subject of the Union Government. Chidambaram a clean chit. Apart from that. cautioned against another protracted period of agitation in the valley if local sensitivities are ignored if Afzal Guru. the companies engaged in the IT sector of our country are granted quite a lot of incentives thanks to the Software Technology Parks (STP) plan. ―It is not a simple matter to come to a decision when proceedings were a part of it as well as a result of cancellation and you cannot put together criminality against the then Finance Minister. . Mr. Raja jumped the gun and issued Letters of Intent to telecom companies on January 10. The CBI robustly advocated P.‘ the chairman added. The chief reasons of such reduction in margins are believed to be: rising wage cost. Section 10AA of the Income Tax Act offers for a subtraction from the entire income of hundred per cent of profits and gains earned by a unit that is situated in a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) from the export of items or goods or from services for the first successive review years. asserting he could not be blamed of not taking any actions to avert the 2G spectrum distribution scam or revoke licenses when he was leading the charge of the Finance Ministry. P. This data has been provided courtesy of Mr.‖ Venugopal added. At present. Yasin Malik stated that the people of Kashmir have knowingly and cooperatively adopted more non-violent measures then they were earlier. Addressing a media conference in the valley. but the apprehensions have been raised regarding the margins that have reduced as well. quite a few items for the IT sector are included in the Information Technology Agreement. the mastermind behind the Parliament Attacks of 2001 is hanged. There has been a cooperative change from violence to non-violence. Chidambaram in this case. A large number of Malik‘s supporters were taken into detention by police who interfered to bring back order in the area. every home in Kashmir has Maqbool Bhat born. being a chief policy decision. currency movement and pricing pressures. the sector has grown by 19% already with estimated revenue of US$ 76 billion. the software companies are not liable to pay some of the most basic customs tariff. Muhammad Yasin Malik.‘ he presaged. Chidambaram. He advises to learn from what happened in the past. This is not needed unless you need a change back from non-violence to violence in Kashmir. Chidambaram a clean chit In late September. and for this reason let off from any kind of customs tariff. Increased Earnings yet Reduced Margins for IT Professionals The National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) have just released data regarding the reduced margins for IT professionals. 2008. of half of the ploughed back export proceeds for the subsequent five years. CBI gives P. Don‘t overlook this past veracity. No doubt that the earnings of the IT companies have gone up considerably all through the first quarter of the current fiscal year. Mr. In the current fiscal so far. Chidambaram in the legal proceedings of the Supreme Court. which are all influenced by the forces of market. Yasin Malik also decl ared a series of protests for Afzal Guru‘s forgiveness and also in opposition to the ‗hypocrisy‘ of the conventional political parties on the decree. ‗I request each and every political shade of India not to compel Kashmiris into a new protracted period of agitation by hanging Afzal Guru. Venugopal alleged that former Telecom Minister A. the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has given the Home Minister. If such a pace is maintained the IT sector will develop into an industry worth US$ 225 billion. P. the Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology as his written response after he was quizzed in the Rajya Sabha. Hazare‘s physical condition exhibited lot of development. His blood pressure is 141/90. ―He will go to Pune and will consequently head to his village‖. Anna leaves hospital and heads to village Social activist Anna Hazare head to his village Ralegan Siddhi in Maharashtra subsequent to his release from Medanta Medicity Hospital in Gurgaon after development in his state. a part of the doctor‘s team observing Anna at the hospital.‘ Mehta understood. a supporter alleged. which observed tumult by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs over the CAG and V. Previously in the day. ‗Following the success of his 12-day fast. Sheila Dikshit defers CAG report discussion Sheila Dikshit. the CM stated: ‗I have told about it on numerous occasions that we cannot talk about the CAG report as it is in possession of the PAC. which is standard. dal and idli. Hazare was taken to the Hospital in uptown Gurgaon Sunday after he finished his 288hour fast embarked upon since August 16. Definitely. Shunglu Committee details on the CWG. discussed in Parliament by the government. revealed a member of the TEAM ANNA. Hazare was released Wednesday once his fundamental factors were seen to be steady. Delhi Chief Minister on Tuesday alleged that the government cannot remark on the CAG details pending parliament‘s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) presents its proposals. Anna had consumed soft solid foodstuffs such as rice. Dikshit further said that the chief opposition party in the parliament has been fooling people by initiating a scuttlebutt as it is in front of a lot of annoyance because of repeated routs in the last three assembly and two Lok Sabha elections in the capital Rajya Sabha suspended over Gujarat Lokayukta row . Rather than letting off such a great deal of steam on their appeals that the government forwards their edition of the Bill in Parliament. Interestingly. As per Yatin Mehta.National Current Affairs 2011 Current Affairs [August 2011] National Anna Hazare Arrested Congress messed it up The storm about the arrest of Anna Hazare and his team (virtually the whole nation) has just put Congress in a bit of mess then even they would have imagined at first. On the succeeding day of the assembly‘s yearly monsoon session. We are subjected to get going against anybody when the PAC directs so. Team Anna can simply have got any one of the 545 members of the Lok Sabha to bring in the asked for Jan Lokpal Bill.K.‘ Initiating a mocking assault on the BJP. Anna and his followers not just maintained that their outlooks be taken on in the panel when drafting the Lokpal Bill. as a matter of fact. which is a legitimate fraction of parliament. the extremely disconcerted Opposition political parties can leap forward even at this time and forward the Team Anna edition of the Bill in the house. but exacted that only and only their version of the Bill be agreed too and. the revolutionary was in ‗excellent state‘ and ‗healthy‘. government cannot agree to these kinds of dictates from anybody in a parliamentary democratic system. burglaries. Quickly subsequent to Jaitley lifted the subject. The BJP has demanded that the bill should include the Prime Minister into the bill. The copies of the bill have been distributed to all the parties. K. National Current Affairs 2011 Current Affairs [July 2011] Introduction of LokPal bill in Lok Sabha The much awaited Lok Pal bill will be introduced in Lok Sabha. while rape. The Rajya Sabha was suspended for a short time Tuesday subsequent to raucous scenes over Leader of Opposition Arun Jaitley posing the subject of selection of Lokayukta in Gujarat by the governor ‗with no meeting with the state government‘. Mr. V Narayaswamy gave the notice to Meira Kumar regarding the matter of Lok Pal bill.e. . Mr. BJP members stood up from their chairs to back Jaitley. Mr Pawan Kumar Bansal said that all the parties were in favour of introducing the bill at the earliest. Pillai. which translated to raucous scenes during the sessions due to which the house was suspended for ten minutes. The bill has been finalised by the government after a number of meetings during the last month. Jaitley said that there were examples when even reminder to Governor had been conferred in Parliament. Pillai alleged that with the nation going through a high growth rate of 8 per cent. that also by adolescents between the age of 16 and 26 years old. He cautioned against ghettoisation of cities as well that originates of the practice of not giving homes on lease to someone of a certain community/religion/caste by some other community/religion/caste community. murder and car thefts are the ones most in trend. The green signal was given by the government to Speaker Meira Kumar to allow the two day period needed to present the bill. G.The Minister of State Personnel Mr. Anna Hazare has again threatened to go on hunger strike again if the government does not introduced a lok pal bill that handles every aspect of corruption and if the government fails to do so then he will go on strike on Aug 16. ex-Union Home Secretary. snatchings. And the expectations are worse than thought as the condition will simply get worse in time coming up. Chairman Hamid Ansari took attention to meetings and regulations of the house on discussing subjects about people running in high offices. The government has kept out Prime Minister and other higher judiciary from the ambit of the bill. raising the already augmenting crime rate due to the lack of work prospects. Novel kinds of criminal actions are growing for example cyber crimes. hopes of the citizens are increasing and loads of them are swarming into cities. Regarding the matter the government has said that the prime minister will be questioned if necessary but only when he has stopped working and this can be done only in a limited amount of time i. This decision has been strongly opposed by the all the activists of the bill. 7yrs at most. at the FICCI convention on S&T for Homeland Security-2011: ‗Safe and Secure City‘. Pillai warned against radicalization of adolescence as this would develop them into anti-social activists and destroy their lives. 82 per cent of crime is committed by first timers. NDA blamed for Kalmadi’s appointment The government has blamed NDA for the appointment of Kalmadi as the main organizer of the CWG 2010event. This threatening note of concern was clouted here today by Mr. for example. Cities to continue living with menacing security arrangements Security in Indian cities is miserable. hacking. that led to the appointment of Suresh Kalmadi as the chairman of the CWG committee. Sports minister Mr Ajay Maken said in the lok sabha that the NDA government begun the process in 2003. In the capital. Deogarh.Hussain passed away in London on July 03. The state government has announced a compensation of Rs50. Orissa. Meanwhile Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi has been continuously holding meetings against illegal land acquisition. After getting death threats in India he imposed exile on himself from the year 2006. He was popularly known as Picasso of India and was once a member of Rajya Sabha. He said that he will not take any names. he even flagged some rallies against the same matter. Born in Maharashtra Hussain began his career as a painter by painting film posters. The Punjab and Haryana High court scolded the government for flouting the rules of land acquisition. He has been awarded the nation‘s 2nd highest Padma Vibhushan.The statement has been made taking in view the leaked report which balmed the Prime minister‘s office for overlooking the objections made against kalmadi‘s appointment. Hussain took Indian art to the global stage but not without controversies. He was a great fan of Madhuri Dixit such that he made a film with her called Gaja Gamini. due to which farmers are now suffering. Later in the year 2010 he accepted the citizenship of Qatar that was offered to him.F. His paintings have often courted controversies and wrath of people as his work often depicted gods and goddesses in nude form. Regarding the matter the Congress has said that now the matter rests between the Haryana government and the High Court. quoted Arun Jaitely. and from then he was being considered as an anti-Hindu. Congress flayed by BJP over Gurgaon Land deal The BJP asked the government about its action reaction the gurgaon land deal.F Hussain passes away India‘s famous artist M. Balasore. M. Famous artist M. The collective loand of the farmers was taken unlawfully and then it was given to the Rajiv Gandhi Charitable trust .000 each from the Chief minister‘s relief fund. The BJP asked whether the government will take it‘s stand in the similar way like that of the Bhatta -Parsaul in the Uttar Pradesh. but the government should only answer and tell the names of all those people who benefitted from the deal. Jaitely refrained from disclosing the names of the people involved in the scam. The Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust was set up by Sonia Gandhi in 2002 in order to address the concerns that Rajiv Gandhi had in his heart. The painter courted another biggest controversy by portraying ―mother India‖ as a naked woman. Sundergarh etc. Suresh Kalmadi is in jail now facing charges of corruption on large scale against him.F. The people who died included 6 women. Most of the deaths occurred on Monday Aug 2. Current Affairs [June 2011] . The lighting struck parts of Orissa with the coastal region accounting around 4 casualties. The Picasso of India courted controversy after he showed hindu deities in nude in his paintings. and other deaths were reported from places like Angul. 17 people die as lightning strikes parts of Orissa Around 17 people have died during the lighting in Bhubaneswar. The money will be given to the family of those people who died because of lighting strike. BJP leader Arun Jaitley said that the government unlawfully took the land from the poor farmers. The eccentric painter who lived barefoot died at the Brompton and Harfield NHS foundation in London after months of prolonged illness. after a decade. quickly. S. To offer MPs a more extensive range of projects that cover MPLAD finance. guidance and addition so as to involve people in democratic practice and election organization. Higher Officials of the Commission and officials from South Africa and Commonwealth Secretariat were present the gathering. is escalating the yearly distribution of MPLAD finances as of Rs. being made precise and simple and effortlessly implementable. The ECI (Election Commission of India) commenced the IIDEM (India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management) . Two more Election Commissioners Shri H. Aircel by denying to award any fresh licenses on condition that Sivasankaran was the principal stake holder—it should have been a lot more than a twist of fate that a . The body has realized that the earlier DGH (Director-General of Hydrocarbons) allowed Reliance to pump up its expansion overheads on the gas mining in the D6 block of KG basin to a massive 8. Reliance getting into the Scam Trend: The investigated reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India that tacks the involvement among Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and Government agencies heading towards enormous losses to the Government exchequer is however a new instance of the influence of corporate over the UPA Government to undermine official procedures that suit them in all possible ways. The primary time of this leading institute was inaugurated together at the Commission location by Dr. ECI witnesses the launch of IIDEM.84 billion dollars from 2. Government is supposed to act against the previous DGH with immediate effect. Dr. Brahma and Shri V. Election Commissioner from Kenya. Chief Election Commissioner of India in New Delhi and Mr. successfully and productively all through the nation. S. Y.47 billion dollars. were in attendance too. This money in use by RIL influenced the proceeds of the Government.S. study. Dayanidhi Maran steps down Dayanidhi Maran has resigened all thanks to the extensive probing by the CBI and the Government can now pat their backs. Research.5 crore for each MP. Training and Capacity. The Government following comprehensive talk and meeting. the guidelines are currently expanding their scope. 2G scams unfold. The Institute will be a countrywide and global center for exchange of nice followings in organizing of election. Ken Nyaundi.2 crore to Rs. IIDEM has four sections. Sampath. M. Easy to Implement The Central Government.MPLAD Guidelines Changed.Gill.a higher center of learning. Innovation and Documentation. the Minister of Statistics & Programme Implementation is confident that the advantages of the plan must get to to the people at the very basic level and the plan must as well throw in towards promoting public honor and accord. These four parts are: Voter Education and Civic Participation. has determined to make huge changes in the entire system of MPLAD. and International Projects and Technical Collaboration Development. The investigation pointed to his part in compelling C Sivasankaran to sell his share in a leading Telecom company. So as to guarantee that the MPLAD finances can be used up sensibly. The Government has lately permitted expenditure of MPLAD finance in supporting physically challenged people and it has received large admiration. the silos of entitled things within the system are being distended. The initial course of IIDEM will be starter later on in July for the Electoral Commission of Kenya.S. Quraishi. Pranab Mukharjee have met with P. Ministers like A. The DTAA states that all the business profits will be taxable in the state if the activities constitutes for a permanent establishment in the respective state. in the offing with a fresh policy that permitted conceding of fresh licenses 4 years ago at prices of 10 years back (Maran was the real mastermind. Raja just built-up on what he established) and bullying the Tatas in their business in the telecom industry following a TataSky row with his brother‘s Sun TV (Maran‘s ministry collapsed as TDSAT thickened the plot). now it‘s Baba Ramdev to follow up his footstep and to fast on Saturday. Shri K V Bhagirath. High Commissioner of India and Mr Pereira Ame Silima. She was made head by the joint alliance of Trinamool and Congress party. even Anna Hazare (who even fasted before for the Lokpal bill promotion) has extended his support for Baba Ramdev. Dayanidhi Maran‘s was a varied term. National Current Affairs 2011 Current Affairs [May 2011] After Anna Hazare now it’s Baba Ramdev to fast After Anna Hazare.Mamata Banerjee sworn in as west Bengals 1st women C. and actually opening up the sector that involved huge distance by shelling out soaring fees. Tanzania and India signed an agreement for double taxation avoidance.M Monmohan Singh along with congress head Sonia Gandhi to discuss the matter. the government cannot be blamed of favoring him similar to that of the main villain.group firm of the new holder endowed in Maran‘s brother‘s enterprise hardly any months following it received licenses from Maran. which was administered by Governor Mr M K Narayanan in Raj Bhavan. In his fasting decision. It‘s still a big question for the government about how they will be stopping Baba Ramdev from fasting unlike their stint with Anna Hazare who fasted for the same issue. The merrier times counted for increasing FDI limits to 74% accordingly of which Vodafone emerged into the scene. The agreement was signed on May 27th 2011 at Dar –esSalaam.K Antony. The Indian government signed on the double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with the United Republic of Tanzania. A Raja. As Maran resigned the day following the CBI achievement. More than 10 million people including civil rights activists are supposed to join baba in his fight against corruption. Many government officials have tried negotiating with Baba Ramdev against his decision to fast. But it said that only next level talks with the government supreme can reach up to any conclusion. The council under Mamata Banerjee‘s ministry consist of 43 members out of which 36 are from . Mamata Banerjee took the oath in Bengali. Baba Ramdev has decided to hunger strike demanding the government of India to take stern actions against black money hoarded abroad and to curb corruption. the understandable low downs being the Aircel incident. And this will help in increment of mutual economic cooperation between the two countries.M Mamata Banerjee on Friday was sworn in as the 1st women Chief Minister of West Bengal. This agreement will in providing stability of taxes between India and Tanzania. This agreement is meant for the prevention of fiscal evasion related to taxes on income to be payed. Deputy Finance Minister of the Republic of Tanzania both are going to sign on the DTAA agreement on behalf of their respective countries. 08th may 2011 against the black money hoarding and corruption. History made. are still languishing due to lack of initiative on the part of the Indian government. Home Minister P Chidambaram and Water Resources Minister Salman Khurshid as members. Thirty-two Indian nationals. Sabitri Mitra. Other eminent activists like Swami Agnivesh. The movement soon spread to all parts of India where hundreds and thousands of students. Upen Biswas. When speaking to the media Das lamented that the golden period of his youth were spent behind bars in Pakistan. housewives. It includes Anna Hazare himself. While Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee will be the Chairman of the committee that will also include Law Minister Veerappa Moily. TN. finally agreed to forming a joint committee to draft a stronger Lokpal Bill. As soon as he set foot in India an emotional Das bowed down and kissed the soil. Gopal Das returns from Pak after 27 yrs Indian National Gopal Das set foot on Indian soil on 7/4/2011 after spending 27 years in a Pakistan prison when he was convicted for charges of espionage. The fast soon gathered a lot of momentum through continuous coverage and brought the government under a lot of pressure. Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal. The list of members includes Amit Mitra. curbing illegal financing.Trinamool congress while the rest are from Congress party. Arvind Kejriwal. Chidambaram and that from the US will be headed by the Secretary of Homeland Security Department. India and US to discuss Homeland security India and US will resume their homeland security talks on may 8th 2011. the Government. Sandhan Pandey. two sisters and niece Navjot besides. Abdul Karim Chowdhury. Facing intense pressure. He was greeted by his family members including his brother Anand Vir. but not as a chairman. Noore Alam Chowdhary. anti-corruption activist Arvind Kejriwal and former Supreme Court judge Santosh Hegde. The 52 year old Das was set free from Lahore Jail after Pakistani President remitted his sentence following an appeal by the Supreme Court on humanitarian grounds. lawyers Shanti Bhushan and Prashant Bhushan. He said ―I have a grudge against the Indian leadership who has never bothered about Indian prisoners rotting in prisons in Pakistan for so many years. Kerala and Puducherry . Just a couple of days since the nation was recovering from the euphoria of winning the world cup the 72 year old Anna Hazare began his fast at Jantar Mantar after taking out a march from Rajghat where he paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. Subrata Mukherjee. counter terrorism. Bratya Basu and Madan Mitra. Partha Chatterjee. Kiran Bedi and Sandeep Pandey were also present to lend support. Ms Janet Napolitano. mutual investigation that includes Mumbai terror attacks etc. a dozen people from Bhaini Mian Khan village of Gurdaspur district of Punjab were there to receive him. who have completed their jail term. Current Affairs [April 2011] Anna Hazares fast against corruption Social Activist Anna Hazare started a fast unto death on 5/4/2011 demanding enactment of a comprehensive law like the Jan Lokpal Bill to tackle corruption.‖ Good voter turnout in Assembly Elections For Assam. The delegation from the Indian side will be headed by Union home Minister P. The panel will have five members and five representatives of the civil society. working executives and senior citizens joined the campaign to make the government to enact the important new law to fight corruption. Manish Gupta. The main topic on interest that will be discussed comprise of coastal security. Tamil Nadu.21 per cent. The railways has rewarded the nine staffers of the IRCTC with Rs 3. in Puducherry it was the highest at 85.4 per cent respectively. While Tamil Nadu and Kerala registered a turnout of 75. The Election Commission had announced the election dates for four states on 1/2/2011 . Group General Manager of IRCTC said. Later a trial court convicted him of sedition and sentenced him to life imprisonment in 24/12/2010. Meanwhile the election process is currently underway in West Bengal where it is being held in 6 phases.000 per passenger) as ex-gratia for the inconvenience and loss of baggage due to the fire in the 12951 Mumbai-Delhi Rajdhani. blood marks on victim's clothes. Kerala and Union Territory of Puducherry. The Apex court had declared that the evidence on record proved no sedition charge against Sen and at worst termed him a Naxal sympathizer. Assam witnessed a good voter turn out in both phases which were held on the 4th and 11th of April 2011 respectively. Shiney Ahuja appeals against rape sentence Bollywood actor Shiney Ahuja who was earlier sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment for raping his maid has appealed to the Bombay High Court against his sentence on 19/4/2011.03 per cent voter turnout and in the second phase the turnout was 70. Rajdhani Express catches fire. Counting will be on 13/5/2011 for all states. passengers safe A fire broke out in the pantry car of the Mumbai – Delhi Rajdhani express on 18/4/2011 at early morning 2:20 AM.21 per cent and 74. . the last date being May 10th. They also delinked the affected coaches from the rest of the train thereby averting a major disaster. P. Railways gave Rs 10. The fire spread to the near by coaches B5. Dr Sen was arrested in May 2007 when the government charged him with aiding the insurgents by passing notes between Piyush Guha.35 per cent. Shiney on his part has stated in his appeal that he had been falsely implicated and that the lower court has erred in law while convicting him. Deputy Election Commissioner J. a businessman and jailed Maoist ideologue Narayan Sanyal. Sen‘s bail application in 10/2/ 2011 which he appealed against and was finally granted bail by the Supreme Court. A bench comprising Justices HS Bedi and CK Prasad passed the order after Dr Sen filed a petition challenging the Chhattisgarh court order.Assam. Dr Sen has maintained his innocence and denies any wrong doing rather said that he was being victimized for his criticism of Salwa Judum which was a group started by the state government to counter Maoist insurgents. An average of nearly 78 per cent voters exercised their franchise to elect new assemblies in the key southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala and the Union territory of Puducherry on 13/4/2011. West Bengal. In the first phase the state witnessed a 73. torn hymen. semen found on quilt and curtains and Shiney‘s hand which bore scratch marks of the victim. The assembly elections so far have witnessed a good voter turn out in 2011. Supreme Court grants bail to Dr Binayak Sen The Supreme Court on 15/4/2011 granted bail to Dr Binayak Sen who was earlier sentenced to life imprisonment on charges of sedition and having links with the Maoists by the Chhattisgarh sessions court on 24/12/2011. The court had considered circumstantial evidence which includes – a DNA report which tested positive. Following that the High Court in Chhattisgarh rejected Dr. B6 and B7 but an alert pantry staff ensured all the passengers were woken up on time and made to evacuate the train ensuring none of them were killed or injured in the process. Sanjay Jain.000 as a "token gesture".6 lakh to 212 passengers (Rs 5. Earlier a fast track court on 30/3/2011 had convicted the actor even as the victim had turned hostile during the trial. Prakash told reporters in Delhi. There were a total of 30 pantry staffers in the train at that time. The court further observed that mere possession of Naxal Literature doe not make the person a Naxalite or guilty of sedition. He was released on bail in May 2009. 60 and 20% shares in the channel respectively. Following his arrest he was suspended from the Congress party and soon enough it also brought a halt to his 15 year old reign as President of the Indian Olympic Committee (IOC). Verma and Lalit Bhanot. The CBI had already told the court earlier that Rs 200 Crores connected with the spectrum case allegedly was routed from Balwa‘s Swan telecom to Kalaignar TV. where Singh ran a confectionery shop in Kandivali which is close to Karnit‘s residence. Swan Telecom promoter Shahid Usman Balwa's cousin Asif Balwa. Various online communities sprang up as the appeal went viral. Rajeev Agarwal -.Surjeet Lal and ASV Prasad . Kalmadi arrested in CWG scam Congress MP Suresh Kalamadi was arrested on 25/4/2011 by the Central Buearau of Investigation (CBI) for irregularities in the CW games. Sandeep Warige and Shankar Salve. Kanimozhi has been named co conspirator in the scam along with former telecom minister A. possibly in his 20s. Kanimozhi. Karnit had gone missing since 6/4/2011 when he was last seen playing at the premises of his building Pranik Gardens. The sections deal with acceptance of alleged gratification. Some of Kalmadi‘s aides already arrested include Sanjay Mohindroo. She has been charged with section 7 and 11 of the Prevention of Corruption Act. . The 66 year old Kalmadi a Lok Sabha MP for the Congress from Pune has been facing a lot of flak even before the start of the games for construction delays and gross misuse of funds. Dayalu Ammal and Sharad Kumar of Kalaignar TV. Karnit's family pulled out all stops to trace their little boy. have 20. Thousands of people forwarded the boy‘s photos while the Shah‘s on their behalf also offered Rs Two lakh in compensation for any information that would assist in tracing their son. The four other who have been charge sheeted with her include Kalaignar TV Managing Director Sharad Kumar.Directors of Kusegaon Fruits and Vegetables Pvt Ltd and Karim Murani of Cineyug Films. The police have arrested the main accused of the case. CBI names Kanimozhi coconspirator in 2G scam The CBI on 25/4/2011 has filed a second charge sheet in the 2G spectrum case naming Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief M Karunanidhi‘s daughter M Kanimozhi as a co conspirator. Mumbai was rescued by the Police from Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh on 20/4/2011. along with his alleged associates Sameer Khan. The CBI has charged him with criminal conspiracy to buy timing.have also been arrested in the Time Scoring scam. M Jayachandran. However Dayalu Ammal wife of the Dr Karunanidhi has not been named in the chargesheet. who was spotted lately offering sweets to the children and his disappearance too had coincided with that of Karnit. the Mumbai police with the help of UP Special Task Force traced the boy to a hut in Handia. Raja who was arrested in February and still remains in prison. Sohan Singh. Kalmadi's personal assistant Shekhar Deorukhkar. After two weeks of relentless chase. TS Darbai. scoring and result (TSR) system from a Swiss company at an inflated cost of Rs 141 crore which the agency has alleged had cost the government Rs 95 Crore extra. which is dealing with the scam. The former Chairman of the CWG was arrested under the charges for 120 B and 420 (criminal conspiracy and cheating) of the Indian Penal Code. UP from where he was rescued. Veteran Sports Administrator VK Malhotra was unanimously named the acting President in his absence. Two other senior officials of the Organizing Committee . The incident became a nation wide flutter after it generated considerable press coverage as well. The police said children in the neighbourhood had spoken of a ―Sunny Uncle‖.Kidnapped Mumbai boy Karnit Shah returns home Five year old Karnit Shah who was kidnapped from outside his home in suburban Kandivali. His father Anand a stock broker and his mother Alpa turned to facebook and uploaded photos of their son along with mobile numbers hoping people may be able to help by offering some sort of information about their missing son. She has been asked to appear at a court in Delhi on 6/5/2011. Khandu's security officer Yeshi Choddak and Yeshi Lamu. Following this success a career in films soon beckoned him where he has made many classics that are well received and appreciated to this day.Dada Saheb Phalke award for K.000 crore to a staggering Rs. Server Sundaram. The rescue operations were hampered due to bad weather. He emerged as one of the most popular godmen in India in modern times leaving behind an empire estimated from a conservative figure of Rs. Civil Aviation ministry officials. Sinthu Bairavi etc while the hindi film Ek Duuje Ke Liye won him applause in the northern parts of the country as well.5 lakh crores raising questions over who will manage the Trust. who accompanied Khandu in the chopper. Thaneer Thanerr. The prolific director who worked as a government servant in his early days was drawn to theatre where he began to write plays. 40. a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh and a shawl. given for outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. Balachander has spotted and groomed several artists in the industry the likes of which include Rajnikanth and Kamal Hassan. He was buried with full state honours in the Sai Kulwanth hall from where he used to address all his devotees over the years. were . 1. The other four members. Queues stretched for kilometres through the town. Arunachal Pradesh. K. about 30 km from Tawang on 4/5/2011. The ten day strike has resulted in an estimated loss of over 150 crores inconveniencing thousands of passengers across the country. Spiritual guru Sri Sathya Sai Baba was buried on 27/4/2011 as hundreds of thousands of devotees flocked to pay their last respects at his temple in Puttaparthi. which has shuttered its shops and businesses since last three days. The award consists of a Swarn Kamal. The helicopter's wreckage was found at Lobotang which is situated near Jang water falls in Tawang. He was a bold director who always tried to explore new themes and many of his movies had strong female characters. This is the second death of a chief minister in two years after CM of Andhra Pradesh Y S Rajasekhara Reddy was killed in a helicopter crash in the Nallamalla ranges in the state in September 2009. Some of the director‘s famous works in Tamil include Apoorva Raganagal. Sai Baba was born as Sathyanarayana Raju in a humble backward caste family on November 23. The doctors had described his condition as ‗very critical‘ over the last three to four days when most of his major organs stopped responding to treatment. Balachander K. Balachander. Upon hearing his death a pale of gloom had descended Puttaparthi and thousands of his followers could be seen mourning his demise. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu dies in chopper crash Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu was found dead in the remote and inaccessible Luguthang village. the . 1926.crew members Captain JS Babbar and Captain KS Malick. Air India pilots call off 10-day-long strike Air India pilots called off their 10-day-long strike and returned to work on 5/5/2011 night after the government agreed to reinstate the sacked and suspended pilots and look into their demands within a time-frame. sister of Tawang legislator Tsewang Dhondup. one of India‘s most acclaimed and influential filmmakers will receive the Daba Saheb Phalke award for 2010 in an announcement by the Information & Broadcasting ministry on 29/4/2011. Spiritual Leader Sathya Sai Baba passes away Spiritual leader Sathya Baba passed away on 24/4/2011 at the Sathya Sai Hospital in Puttapathi. Andhra Pradesh due to cardio-respiratory failure. Varumayin Niram Sigappu. The 84 year old Godman was admitted in hospital for the past one month after complaining of breathing and heart problems. The CM had gone missing on 30/4/2011 when on a flight from Tawang was found dead along with four others after their helicopter crashed in bad weather in the mountains regions. 148 (rioting with deadly weapons). The other leg suffered multiple fractures as she was hit by a train passing on the adjacent track. The court had acquitted 63 others out the total 94 for lack of evidence including the alleged mastermind Maulavi Hussain Umarji. The sportswoman on her part has accused the officials of mentally harassing her and has refuted their charges. Since then the 23 year old sportswoman has been out of danger and recuperating well. They were convicted under IPC section 147. various sections of the Indian Railways Act. She lost her left leg after being pushed out of the Padmavat Express when three robbers tried to snatch her gold chain. 324. She was later admitted in AIIMS when her leg developed an infection. She was offered a paltry compensation of Rs 25.326 (causing hurt). The incident generated lot of press interest and many people including cricketers Yuvraj Harbhajan came forward with monetary help for the athlete. Arunima Sinha story. Some of which they allege that it might have been a suicide attempt and the passengers of train do not corroborate with her story. The court had accepted the prosecution's contention that there was a conspiracy behind the incident and convicted 31 under various sections of Indian Penal Code (IPC) like 302 (murder).325. 20 get life term A Sessions Court in Ahmedabad awarded death sentence to 11 people and life term to twenty others on 1/3/2011. 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on religious grounds). Civil Aviation Minister Vayalar Ravi the 3 member committee would give its report in the next few months. Following her fall. They also allege that location where Arunima was found does not corroborate with her version of the events. The Delhi High Court had also slapped contempt notices on nine office bearers of the de-recognized ICPA for disobeying its order to call off the strike. However over the Government Railway Police (GRP) probe the officials have found many loopholes in Sonu‘s story.000 which she snubbed following which the railways offered a job to Arunima. Prevention of Damages to Public Property Act and Bombay Police Act. Current Affairs [March 2011] Godhra verdict: 11 get death. Fifty nine Kar Sevaks traveling in the S6 coach of Sabarmati Express were burnt alive near the Godhra railway station on February 2002. This incident caused wide spread communal riots in the State of Gujarat that resulted in the deaths of . 323. one of Sinha's legs had to be amputated below the knee.association president Captain A S Bhinder along with ICPA general secretary Rishabh Kapur said that the government has agreed to look into all the alleged irregularities. 307 (attempt to murder) and 120B(criminal conspiracy). The sentence was pronounced by Additional Sessions Judge PR Patel who had earlier convicted them of criminal conspiracy in the Sabarmati Express train burning case on Feb 22nd. who lost her leg after being pushed out of a moving train on 11/4/2011 when she tried to fight an alleged robbery attempt. whose telling the truth ? National-level volleyball player Arunima Sinha alias Sonu. The strike by over 800 pilots on 27/4/2011 owing allegiance to the ICPA had resulted in the grounding of up to 90 per cent of the airline operations. who is allegedly one of the recipients of kickbacks in the controversial Bofors gun deal of 1986 which ended up resulting in the fall of the Rajiv Gandhi government in 1989. The immediate trigger was the snubbing of Radhika when . SC strikes down CVC PJ Thomas' appointment The Supreme Court on 3/3/2011 struck down on the appointment of Chief Vigilance Commisioner PJ Thomas after a three-judge bench headed by the Chief Justice of India SH Kapadia delivered its verdict on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought his removal. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Vinod Yadav observed: "At this moment we have to end the case therefore I allow the CBI plea to close the case.palmolein was unjustifiable high. Radhika a second year BA student who lives with her family in Naraina locality of West Delhi was shot point blank by the assailant who fled the scene after shooting her in the stomach. An IAS officer of 1973 batch of Kerala cadre. Passersby took the girl in an autorickshaw to Safdurjung Hospital where she was declared brought dead.over 100 people. He has since been fighting allegations of corruption. The CBI was looking at closing all criminal cases against Italian businessman Quattrocchi. The opposition BJP had been highly critical all along and following his resignation demanded even the PM to step down.30 AM on 8/3/2011. The PM took responsibility for the incident and cited the reason as error in judgement. He used to follow women. Furthermore Thomas is the country's 14th CVC and was selected by a three member panel that included the PM and the Home Minister. He served as food secretary in Kerala in the early 90‘s during which time he had aggressively campaigned for the import of 1500 tonnes of palm oil from Malaysia. while the case is still pending in court. The agency has been seeking withdrawal of the case against him as he has never appeared before any Indian court to face trial due to lack of evidence. The apex court has observed Thomas is a person who is tainted as he was an accused in the palmoline export scam. Delhi court accepts CBI's closure report against Quattrocchi A Delhi court on 4/3/2011 accepted CBI‘s closure report seeking to drop all charges against Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi in the two decade old Bofors case. therefore there is no need of wasting public money in continuing the investigation. Justice Patel termed the case as ―rarest of rare‖ and the court has given the accused 90 days to appeal in the High court. The incident has caused outrage in the Capital which has been witnessing increasing episodes of crimes against women. He was caught a few days later and Delhi Police Commissioner B K Gupta said ―Vijay suffers from psychopathic obsession. who objected to CBI‘s application in the court. even though a tax tribunal had ruled in Dec 2010 that illegal commissions were indeed paid in the deal. while the world was celebrating International Womens Day. PJ Thomas is the eighth accused in the palmolien case. Reports later emerged that price paid for the oil. CVC PJ Thomas soon thereafter submitted his resignation. Many influential figures were accused of receiving payoffs in the deal which involved the purchase of Bofors guns for the Indian army. I think the CBI has moved this application to close this case after applying their minds." Advocate Ajay Aggarwal. The assailant has been identified as 25 yr old Ram Singh alias Vijay who hails from Sitapur in Uttar Pradesh. Delhi University student Radhika Tanwar shot outside college Radhika Tanwar (21) a student of Ram Lal Anand College (Delhi University) was shot dead by an unidentified man on the Dhaula Kuan foot-over bridge near South Campus at around 10. said he would challenge the order in the Delhi High Court. most of them Muslims. This has come about as big blow to the UPA government which is already facing several allegations of corruption. He followed Radhika regularly. The agency had said that its plea to withdraw the case has been filed with bonafide intention as it has spent a huge amount of money on the investigation but has not been able to arrest the Italian businessman. he tried to speak to her‖.100. Sadiq Batcha (37) who is the Managing Director of Greenhouse Promoters has been under the CBI scanner for his suspected involvement in the 2G spectrum case and was questioned by the agency on February 22nd. PMK 30. A. initially a nondescript company with an equity base of Rs. up 1 seat from what they previously agreed and another two seats would be allocated to the Congress from the other allied parties of the DMK. its stand on active and passive euthanasia will stay enforced. The Congress refused to blink this time and after quite a few rounds of discussions the DMK finally relented to the Congress demands. DMK will contest 121 seats. VCK 10. DMK seat-sharing deadlock ends After lot of political drama the DMK and the Congress have come to a mutual seat sharing agreement ahead of the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections. The Congress demand of 63 seats marks an increase of 15 seats in allocation of what they got during the 2006 Assembly elections. SC dismisses Aruna Shanbaug's euthanasia plea Aruna Shanbaug a former nurse at Mumbai‘s KEM hospital has been in a vegetative state for the last 38 years after she was assaulted by a ward boy. Congress. Under the seat sharing formula. The DMK party announced on 8/3/20011 that it will contest for 121 seats while the Congress will contest for 63 under the seat sharing deal for the April 13 Assembly polls. Green House Promoters. IUML 2 and MMK 1 for the 234member assembly.Raja committed suicide and was found hanging at his residence in Chennai on 16/3/2011. The bench in its 110-page judgement saw the nursing staff of KEM hospital who have been looking after Aruna for the past 38 years as the real next friend of Aruna and declared the patient didn‘t have a sing le bed sore during the period. a close aide of former telecom minister A.000 in 2004. Congress 63. Raja‘s wife Parameshwari is said to have served as a director in the firm but quit during 2008. A Bench of Justices Markandey Katju and Gyan Sudha Misra rejected on 7/3/2011 the euthanasia plea filed by Aruna‘s friend Pinky Virani declaring ‗the petition stands cancelled‘. asking for water. The twenty two year old girl lay in her pool of blood for ten minutes. On 11/3/2011 another student Monica Kirnapure was stabbed by four people in Nagpur while she was on her way to class from her hostel.According to the post mortem reports the cause of death has been ascertained as . DMK chief Karunanidhi was initially ready to give 60 seats to the Congress but the Congress unrelenting demand on having 63 made him unhappy and he threatened to pull out his ministers from the government. Aruna Shanabug was sexually assaulted on November 27 1973 by Sohanlal Walmiki who used a dog chain to subdue her which ended up cutting the oxygen supply to her brain damaging vital functions like sight. No help came about from the bystanders until Sumedh Wanjaari hired a rickshaw to take her to the hospital where she died en route.600 crore revenue company within a very short time frame.Raja’s close aide Sadiq Batcha found dead Sadiq Batcha. memory and normal movement. They also added Pinky was not allowed to appeal for the mercy killing of Aruna as she was not the staff of KEM hospital. Batcha hails from Raja‘s constituency Perambalur in Tamil Nadu and initially worked as a sari seller until his friendship with the former telecom minister happened in the early 1990‘s. The apex court however allows passive euthanasia in appropriate cases which have been permitted by the concerned high courts. a knife sticking out of her back. KMK 7. is said to have grown to over Rs. They also added there is no law in the country presently in the country on euthanasia and clarified unless the Parliament drafts a law. The police also went on to add Vijay ―nurtured deep grudge‖ against the victim after he got beaten up for harassing her and often told his friends that he would avenge the humiliation whenever he got the opportunity. The DMK has agreed to allocate 61 seats. AIADMK has promised 20 kg of free rice for all ration-card holders. She had earlier agreed to give 64 seats against Congress demand of 98. six months' maternity leave for women and Rs 12. Whatever happened in the 14th Lok Sabha has come to an end with the end of the tenure‖.000 as pregnancy allowance and a host of other promises were made. It does make one wonder if the State Treasury would be left with any money if such populist measures are left unchecked.Government of the day is accountable to the 15th Lok Sabha and not to the 14th Lok Sabha. besides offering cable TV connections at subsidised rates. WB polls: Cong. TN Polls: Parties promise freebies to woo voters Ahead of upcoming assembly polls. The alliance will fight against CPM led Left Front which has been in power for almost 35 years now. The partie‘s efforts in trying to gain an upper hand over each other by making such steep electoral promises does raise a lot of concerns.. fifth phase on May 7 and sixth phase is on May 10th. fourth phase on May 3. if it is 2G then (former Telecom Minister) A Raja is responsible and if it is Commonwealth Games then Suresh Kalmadi is to blame. This does came as surprise since Jayalalitha was a staunch critic of populist measures when the DMK party which came in power in 2006. The government on its part was dismissive questioning the credibility of the leaks. The first phase voting is on April 18. While the DMK plans to give women free mixes. This may come as blow to the CBI in their investigations into the 2G scam. Mamta Banerjee of Trinamool has agreed to offer 65 seats after her rounds of discussion with the Congress party. promised to offer free colour TV‘s to the public and also kept up on its electoral promise.asphyxia while the forensic reports are still awaited.‖West Bengal will be voting in 6 phases. Some of the other freebies include four sets of uniform and footwear for students. the political parties of Tamil Nadu have promised a host of freebies to woo the voting public. Top warring parties DMK and ADMK have taken the war of freebies to a new high. women self help groups get Rs10Lakh with 25 % waiver. If it is price rise then (Agriculture Minister) Sharad Pawar is responsible. The ruling DMK party has promised laptops to students in their first year of college while Jayalalitha‘s ADMK party promises them one as early as eleventh standard. Cash for votes scam creates uproar in Parliament With the revelations by Wikileaks about the Congress buying MPs to win the vote-of-confidence over the crucial Indo-US nuclear deal in 2008 came back to haunt party when a united opposition created an uproar in Parliament. a hike in scholarship upto Rs 5000 from class 10 onwards. Also FM Pranab Mukherjee said ―Each Lok Sabha is sovereign in its time. TMC reach seat-sharing deal The Congress and the Trinamool Congress reached a seat sharing agreement ahead of the West Bengal Assembly Polls. We will work in close cooperation to win the election to defeat the Left from the state. third phase on April 27.Congress spokesperson Shakeel Ahmed said ―In West Bengal. grinders its rivals have promised additional fans along with mixies and grinders. On 23/3/2011 Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj made a stinging attack on the Prime Minister and said ―It is the habit of the Prime Minister to blame others. Three BJP MP‘s . Congress will contest 65 seats and TMC will contest 229. On 17/3/2011 they were demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in view of the fresh charges that bribe was paid during the trust vote. While DMK in their manifesto have announced 35 kg of free rice every month for below-poverty line families. second phase on April 23. What happened in the 14th Lok Sabha cannot be decided in the 15th Lok Sabha..‖ The Wikileaks cable suggests that the Congress bought the support of MPs during a vote of confidence during the controversial nuclear deal in 2008. 20 litres of mineral water a day to Below Poverty Line families. Furthermore Jayalalitha in her bid to woo female voters has promised 4gms of gold for 'Thali' (mangalsutra) free of cost to poor. Satish Tamta. He has been under the radar of the Income Tax (IT) department and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for a few years now while his premises were raided in 2007. Hasan Ali Remanded In Judicial Custody Hasan Ali is a Pune bases stud farm owner who has been accused of allegedly stashing away 8 billion dollars in Swiss banks. According to Hasan Ali‘s statements h e is scrap dealer with an annual income of Rs 30 Lakh which does not tally with kind of lifestyle Ali is known for. Following that a Lok Sabha committee. Since then more pilots have been caught guilty of the same crime. has a penchant for race horses and own quite a . On 19/3/2011 the SC had stayed the CBI court order summoning the Talwars to appear before it on 22/3/2011. It is speculated that the major portion of the money in offshore accounts belong to some politicians and industrialists and that Ali acts as a conduit for them and allegedly facilitates transfer of black money from India on a commission basis. which is given out after a person completes 200 hours of flying during the training. the airline regulator stepped in and discovered she had submitted forged mark sheets to procure her license. submitted the passports in the court of additional chief judicial magistrate Puspendra Kumar Singh. was set up to examine their allegations in which was found there was no evidence of the allegations made by the BJP MP‘s. A day after. Fourteen-year-old Aarushi was found murdered at her home in Noida on May 16. Earlier the CBI had file a closure report pleading closure citing lack of incriminating evidence. The DGCA admits there was a lapse. Tyagi along with his touts used to forge mark sheets for the fake pilots for huge a fee and also bribed Pradeep Kumar of the DGCA for expediting those files. 2008. A person is eligible to fly a commercial aircraft only when he or she secures a CPL. India revokes licenses of 14 'fake pilots' Directorate-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on 23/3/2011 revoked a total of 14 commercial pilot licenses (CPL) which means it brings an end to the flying careers of the those accused of having submitted fake training records from Rajasthan State Flying School to procure their licenses. and now says as much as 4000 pilot licences are now under fresh scrutiny. The fake pilot scam began unraveling when female Captain Parminder Gulati landed her airliner on the nose instead of the rear wheels which set the alarms ringing across many quarters. headed by Congress MP KCS Deo. DGCA. parents of murdered teen Aarushi Talwar have surrendered their passports to a local court following a direction by the Supreme Court which also stayed their trial in the Noida double murder case. the counsel for Rajesh and Nupur Talwar.walked into the Lok Sabha with Rs 3 crores in cash and claimed that they had been offered that money to vote for the nuclear deal and that they had planned a sting operation to prove it. The Allahabad High Court on 18/3/2011 dismissed the couples plea seeking quashing of criminal proceedings initiated by the lower court which not only refused the closure report filed by the CBI but also summoned the couple as accused in the case. pilot Pradeep Tyagi(35) and two of his touts Lalit Jain (34) and Pankaj Jain (23) were arrested by the Delhi Police. The discovery of frauds in the issuing of licenses is a worrying development to the safety of air travel for the passengers and the industry. He is known to throw lavish parties. Aarushi murder case: Talwars surrender passports Rajesh and Nupur Talwar. On 26/3/2011 a DGCA official Pradeep Kumar(48). Hemraj's body was found in the same building. The HC declared that it could not prohibit the magistrate from taking cognizance of a case if prima facie it appears that there is sufficient evidence against a person. however the CBI has pointed a needle of suspicion to the parents and as a result left the option of proceeding against the Talwars with the Trial Court. The couple had challenged the order of the Allahabad High Court which the Supreme Court stayed on 19/3/2011 but asked the Talwars to surrender their passports. 000 crores. Congress on its part was quick to give it back to the BJP. ―Chickens are coming to roost. "The cable reflects my views on cross-border terrorism. directed custodial interrogation of Hasan Ali to ED and was also critical of Mumbai Court Judge M L Tahaliyani's order of granting bail to Ali. Jaitley argued that Hindu nationalism 'will always be a talking point' for the BJP. Jaitley argued that Hindu nationalism 'will always be a talking point' for the BJP. to his government. With the ongoing world cup when India defeated Australia in the quarters it became apparent that it was to face off against Pakistan in the semifinal. He said the cable by the diplomat in 2005 makes a reference to his conversation with him. The Pak delegation assured that India's National Investigative Agency (NIA) and Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) will cooperate in the 26/11 investigation. The match even took on political turns when PM Manmohan Singh invited his counterpart Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and President Asif Ali Zardari to the cricket match. Jaitley a senior leader of the BJP and also leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha . "Pressed on the question of Hindutva. People living in glass houses are taught in this manner that they were to throw stones at others. 2005. ―However. The clash between the two countries generated tremendous hype in the media of both countries. saying it was "deeply disturbed" as to the manner in which the trial court judge rejected the ED's contention and had given a lengthy order for it. he characterized this as an opportunistic issue." a cable by Robert Blake. 2011. the use of the word "opportunistic‖ in reference to nationalism or Hindu nationalism is neither my view nor my language. what goes out wrongly hits ba ck like a boomerang. But a Mumbai Court on 11/3/2011 rejected ED‘s plea for custodial interrogation of Hasan Ali on the grounds that the agency had not gathered sufficient evidence and Ali was released on bail. he characterized this as an opportunistic issue.‖ he said. illegal infiltration from Bangladesh and the unfair denial of US Visa to the Gujarat Chief Minister (Narendra Modi). A little ironic for a man with humble beginnings. The invite was accepted by the PM of Pakistan who then along with Dr Manmohan Singh reached the cricket venue on 30/3/2011 where they shook hands with players and also engaged in diplomatic talks which has now leased a fresh breath of air to the relations between the two countries. whom the cable described as "one of several aspirants to direct the next generation of BJP leadership". "Pressed on the question of Hindutva. It could be the diplomat's own usage. to his government. had said after a meeting with Jaitley on May 6. whose father worked as an excise officer. India on its part provided Pakistan information with regards to the Samjauta blast case and agreed that they would update them once the charge sheet was filed.‖ Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said." a cable by Robert Blake. said in a statement that the word opportunistic in reference to Hindutva could be the "diplomat's own usage". On 21/3/2011 the apex court extended his custody with the ED for an additional three days and when that duration came to a close a session‘s court remanded Hasan Ali in judicial custody till April 8. 2005. The Supreme Court on 17/3/2011 stayed the trial courts order. However. However. the Charge at the US Embassy. Ali was arrested by the ED on 7/3/2011 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). According to the joint statement released in New Delhi on Tuesday. PM Manmohan Singh and PM Gilani of Pakistan engage in cricket diplomacy The relations between India and Pakistan had soured post Mumbai 26/11 blasts. Hassan Ali has been declared the highest tax defaulter in the country with dues allegedly over Rs 70. the Charge at the US Embassy. Wikileaks: 'Hindutva an opportunistic issue for BJP' After the Congress it was the BJP‘s turn to be hit by the Wikileaks phenomenon when a US diplomat reported in the cable that senior leader of BJP declared to him that Hindu Nationalism was an ‗opportunistic issue‘ for the party. had said after a meeting with Jaitley on May 6. 2002.few of them and also own an expensive fleet of cars. As per the joint statement released in the capital on 29/3/2011 the Pakistani delegation updated India on the ongoing trial and investigation and agreed to allow an Indian Commission to come to Pakistan to investigate 26/11 attacks. the Pakistani . delegation updated India on the ongoing trial and investigation and agrees in principle to allow an Indian Approval of National Policy on Electronics 2012 . cannot be totally dependent on imported electronic components and products.5 billion to USD 80 billion by 2020. (iv) To increase the export in ESDM sector from USD 5. The country. . can have serious consequences of disruption of service. It will foster the manufacturing of indigenously designed and manufactured chips creating a more cyber secure ecosystem in the country. railways. the pervasive deployment of electronics in civilian domains such as telecom. The strategies include setting up of a National Electronics Mission with industry participation and renaming the Department of Information Technology as Department of Electronics and Information Technology (Deity). (ii) To build on the emerging chip design and embedded software industry to achieve global leadership in Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI). civil aviation. This renders tremendous strategic importance to the sector. chip design and other frontier technical areas and to achieve a turnover of USD 55 billion by 2020. The Policy envisages that a turnover of USD 400 billion will create an employment for two million people. (iii) To build a strong supply chain of raw materials. The increased development and manufacturing in the sector will lead to greater economic growth through more manufacturing and consequently greater employment in the sector. power. The policy is expected to create an indigenous manufacturing eco-system for electronics in the country. India is one of the fastest growing markets of electronics in the world. therefore. The Department has since been renamed on February 26. 2012.The Union Cabinet today approved the National Policy on Electronics 2012. The key objectives of the Policy are: (i) To create an eco-system for a globally competitive Electronic System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector in the country to achieve a turnover of about USD 400 billion by 2020 involving investment of about USD 100 billion and employment to around 28 million people at various levels. Not only in internal security and defence. There is potential to develop the Electronic System and Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector to meet our domestic demand as well as to use the capabilities so created to successfully export ESDM products from the country. The National Policy on Electronics aims to address the issue with the explicit goal of transforming India into a premier ESDM hub. ESDM is of strategic importance as well. parts and electronic components to raise the indigenous availability of these inputs from the present 20-25 per cent to over 60 per cent by 2020. It will enable India to tap the great economic potential that this knowledge sector offers. etc. The draft National Policy on Electronics was released for public consultation and it has now been finalized based on comments from various stakeholders. (ii) Promotion of Exports: The strategies include aggressive marketing of India as an investment . a high level Empowered committee has been constituted to identify and shortlist technology and investors for setting up two semiconductor wafer manufacturing fabrication facilities. Railways. Railways. medical. Based on Cabinet approval. industry friendly and stable tax regime. (ix) To become a global leader in creating Intellectual Property (IP) in the ESDM sector by increasing fund flow for R&D. setting up of semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities. To achieve these objectives. (xiv) To source. Telecommunications. as well as international needs at affordable price points. avionics. Information and Broadcasting.(v) To significantly enhance availability of skilled manpower in the ESDM sector. (vi) To create an institutional mechanism for developing and mandating standards and certification for electronic products and services to strengthen quality assessment infrastructure nationwide. (xii) To become a global leader in the Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) segment by promoting progressive higher value addition in manufacturing and product development. Special focus for augmenting postgraduate education and to produce about 2500 PhDs annually by 2020. seed capital and venture capital for start-ups in the ESDM and nanoelectronics sectors. (viii) To create long-term partnerships between ESDM and strategic and core infrastructure sectors . including rural needs and conditions. (xiii) To expedite adoption of best practices in e-waste management. Based on another Cabinet approval a policy for providing preference to domestically manufactured electronic goods has been announced. Space. Atomic Energy.Defence. (x) To develop core competencies in strategic and core infrastructure sectors like telecommunications. stockpile and promote indigenous exploration and mining of rare earth metals required for manufacture of electronic components. solar. etc through use of ESDM in these sectors. (xi) To use technology to develop electronic products catering to domestic needs. Separate proposals have also been considered by the Cabinet for approval of Modified Special Incentive Package for the ESDM Sector and for setting up of Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMCs). Power. (vii) To develop an appropriate security ecosystem in ESDM. the policy proposes the following strategies: (i) Creating eco-system for globally competitive ESDM sector: The strategies include provision of fiscal incentives for investment. automotive. etc. industrial. setting up of electronic manufacturing clusters. preferential market access to domestically manufactured electronic products. Information and Broadcasting. aviation. Intelligent Transport Systems. (iv) Developing and mandating standards to curb inflow of sub-standard and unsafe electronic products by mandating technical and safety standards which conform to international standards.destination and providing incentives for export. solar photovoltaics. universities and institutions of learning for scaling up of requisite capacities at all levels for the projected manpower demand. it is likely that by 2020. (v) Cyber security: To create a complete secure cyber eco-system in the country.4 trillion by 2020. avionics.75 trillion is the largest and fastest growing manufacturing industry in the world. However. At the current rate of growth. . Railways. automation demands of corporate sector and the government's focus on e-governance. The domestic production in 2008-09 was about USD 20 billion. the actual value-addition in the domestically produced electronic product is very low. Background: The Electronics industry reported at USD 1. ranging between 5 to 10 percent in most cases. (viii) Electronics in other sectors: The strategy includes supporting and : developing expertise in the electronics in the following sectors of economy: automotive. (vi) Strategic electronics: The strategies include creating long-term partnerships between domestic ESDM industry and strategic sectors for sourcing products domestically and providing Defense Offset obligations for electronic procurements through ESDM products. health equipment. (ix) Handling e-waste: The strategy includes various initiatives to facilitate environment friendly e-waste handling policies. for example. testing and validation of security of products. A specialized Institute for semiconductor chip design is also proposed. which are classified in their final sectoral forms. Domestic demand is expected to be driven by growth in income levels leading to higher off-take of electronics products. The demand in the Indian market was USD 45 billion in 2008-09 and is expected to reach USD 400 billion by 2020. electronics import may far exceed oil imports. through suitable design and development of indigenous appropriate products through frontier technology/product oriented research. It is expected to reach USD 2. medical. media and broadcasting. and Games and Toys. The strategy includes creation of an Electronic Development Fund. defence armaments. Industrial. etc. This fact goes unnoticed because electronics. as a "meta resource" forms a significant part of all machines and equipment imported. domestic production can cater to a demand of USD 100 billion in 2020 as against a demand of USD 400 billion and the rest would have to be met by imports. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). (vii) Creating ecosystem for vibrant innovation and R&D in the ESDM sector including nanoelectronics. automobiles. This aggregates to a demand supply gap of nearly USD 300 billion by 2020. Unless the situation is corrected. Telecommunications. (iii) Human Resource Development: The strategies include involvement of private sector. Given India's growing strength in chip design and embedded software. As a result. cheap and easy to transport across the globe. which came into force in 1997. Electronic components. Electoral Rolls and Election Officers’ Names and Contact Phone Numbers on Maps on ECI Website . the value of design and development in the product has increased quite significantly. the import of electronics hardware from these countries is allowed either at zero duty or at a duty which is lower than the normal duty rate. are low volume-low weight. Under the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with various countries. New Facility for Citizens to get Information about Polling Stations. which are the basis of an electronic product. Moreover.Electronics is characterized by high velocity of technological change. Consequently the life cycle of products is declining. a large number of electronic components and products are bound with zero tariffs making trade unrestricted across international borders. the increasing importance of design in product development has potential to make India a favoured destination for ESDM. under the Information Technology Agreement-1 (ITA-1) of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Assembly Constituency and Polling Station names from drop down lists and click a button to see Polling Station Locations of the selected area on the map viewer on the page. Electoral Registration Officer and Booth Level Officer.eci. citizens will see the names of States for which maps of polling stations are available. Polling Station Locations are seen as Pins dropped on the map for each Polling Station. a balloon opens up showing the names and cell phone numbers of the Chief Electoral Officer.Election Commission of India in its constant endeavor to provide information and services to citizens in a hassle free manner has started a new service on the website of the Commission – www. the map page will open up. Once on the page.nic. The Commission hopes that electors and political parties will find this facility useful for the smooth and active participation in the electoral process PM constitutes National Committee on Direct Cash Transfers . Polling Station locations of National Capital Territory of Delhi and Himachal Pradesh have already been plotted on maps and can be seen by citizens when they visit the concerned page on the website of Election Commission of India. Users can activate the satellite image layer and even see the Polling Station buildings.in. Polling Station locations of rest of the country are being plotted and will be available very soon on the website. On clicking on the Pin. Citizens can select District. Electoral Roll for that Polling Station opens up in PDF format and can be saved by the user on his local computer and also printed from the local computer. On clicking this link. Citizens can visit the Polling Stations Maps page by clicking on this tab. and the roads leading to it. District Election Officer. It is possible to zoom into any point on the map to increase the magnification by either double clicking on the map or by increasing the magnification on the left side on the map viewer. There is also a link provided for Electoral Rolls. A tab named ―Information Linked to Polling Station Maps‖ has been provided on the left hand side panel of the website of the Commission. On clicking on the name of the State. transparency and accountability. The National Committee on Direct Cash Transfers would engage in the following tasks: a) Provide an overarching vision and direction to enable direct cash transfers of benefits under various government schemes and programmes to individuals. the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission. with the objective of enhancing efficiency. d) Coordinate the activities of various Ministries/ Departments/ Agencies involved in enabling direct cash transfers and ensure timely. The Chairman may invite any other Officer/Expert to any meeting of the Executive Committee as may be necessary. The Prime Minister may invite any other Minister/Officer/Expert to any meeting of the Committee. e) Any other related matter entrusted by the National Committee on Cash Transfers or relating to direct cash transfers. the Cabinet Secretary with the Principal Secretary to the PM as the convenor. The National Committee on Cash Transfers will be assisted by an Executive Committee on Direct Cash Transfers chaired by the Principal Secretary to PM and the Secretaries of the concerned Ministries and the DG UIDAI. as a mechanism to coordinate action for the introduction of direct cash transfers to individuals under the various government schemes and programmes. c) Coordinate the activities of various Ministries/ Departments / Agencies involved in enabling direct cash transfers to ensure that the architecture and framework for direct cash transfers is in place for rolling out direct cash transfers across the country. The Secretary Planning Commission will be the convenor. b) Ensure the preparation of and approve strategies and action plans for the speedy rollout of direct cash transfers in areas agreed to and in line with the timelines laid down by the National Committee on Cash Transfers. The National Committee chaired by the Prime Minister will have as its members eleven Cabinet Ministers. c) Identify Government programmes and schemes for which direct cash transfers to individuals can be adopted and suggest the extent and scope of direct cash transfers in each case. leveraging the investments being made in the Aadhaar Project. The National Committee and the Executive Committee would . b) Determine broad policy objectives and strategies for direct cash transfers. d) Review and monitor the rollout of direct cash transfers and undertake mid-course corrections as and when necessary. e) Specify timelines for the rollout of direct cash transfers.The Prime Minister has constituted a coordination committee called the National Committee on Direct Cash Transfers. The Executive Committee on Direct Cash Transfers would engage in the following tasks: a) Identify and propose for the consideration of the National Committee on Cash Transfers such Government programmes and schemes for which direct cash transfers to individuals can be adopted and suggest the extent and scope of direct cash transfers in each case. two Ministers of State with independent charge. g) Any other related matter. the Chairman UIDAI. f) Review the progress of implementation of direct cash transfers and provide guidance for midcourse corrections. coordinated action to ensure speedy rollout of direct cash transfers across the country. financial inclusion and other initiatives of the Government. Deputy Chairman. Minister of Tribal Affairs 8. and for ensuring a smooth roll-out of direct cash transfers in an orderly and timely fashion. Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas 12. Prime Minister Chairperson 2. The Planning Commission will designate an officer of the rank of Joint Secretary in the Planning Commission to coordinate and service the work of the National Committee and Executive Committee. Minister of Minority Affairs 9. Principal Secretary to PM Convenor Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF) . c) Implementation Committees on Electronic Transfer of Benefits at the Ministry/ Department level to work out the details of cash transfers for each department such as data bases. Minister of Health & Family Welfare 10. Minister of Labour & Employment 11. b) Financial Inclusion Committee to focus on ensuring universal access to banking and ensuring complete financial inclusion. Planning Commission 14. The composition of the National Committee on Direct Cash Transfers is as follows: 1. payment architecture and IT issues. In order to finalise the operational and implementation details relating to the design and implementation of the direct cash transfer system. Minister of State (i/c) of Women & Child Development 16. These will be: a) Technology Committee to focus on the technology. The notifications for these three committees will be issued in due course.State Component . direct cash transfer rules and control and audit mechanisms. Mission Mode Committees will be constituted. Finance Minister 3. Chairman. which may obtain assistance as required from any Ministry/Department/Agency of the Government in this task. Cabinet Secretary 18. Minister of State (i/c) of Food & Public Distribution 15. Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers 13. Minister of Communications & IT 4. Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment 6. Minister of Rural Development 5. UIDAI 17.be serviced by the Planning Commission. Minister of Human Resource Development 7. and the cost of new projects. These programmes are continuing programmes and were under implementation during the Eleventh Five Year Plan. eight districts of the KBK region and 13 districts of Bundelkhand region are covered. which aims to catalyze development in backward areas. the BRGF has two components. The implementation of the programmes is being done by the State Governments.The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today approved the proposal for :(i) continuing the Special Plan for Bihar in 2012-13 with an allocation of Rs. The district component of BRGF as well as the special plan for West Bengal and the Integrated Action Plan (IAP) for selected tribal and backward districts under the State component of BRGF are already approved for continuation in 2012-13. The aim of the programme is to accelerate socio-economic development in the States concerned. Background: The Twelfth Five Year Plan (2012-17) is being finalized. it is necessary to continue the BRGF (District Component and State Component) in its present form in 2012-13. Since the present approval to the special plan for Bihar. accelerated socio-economic development of backward areas covered under the programmes is expected to take place. Special Plan for the KBK districts of Odisha. The possibility of restructuring the Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF) including the District Component as well as the State Component for the period 2013-14 to 2016-17 is being considered. The Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF).54 crore of all existing projects. namely. Pending completion of this exercise. special plan for the KBK districts of Odisha and . In its present form. based on the enhanced level of cost of Rs. The backward areas of the States covered under the State Component of BRGF will benefit. that may be approved by the Empowered Committee.1400 crore. Special Plan for West Bengal (covered in 2011-12). Through the continuation of the Special Plan for Bihar. District Component covering 272 backward districts in 27 States (including 22 additional districts covered in 2012-13) and State Component which includes Special Plan for Bihar. was approved by the CCEA in August. Special Plan for the KBK districts of Odisha and the Bundelkhand package in 2012-13. revised cost of existing projects.250 crore.9985.1500 crore. Integrated Action Plan (IAP) for Selected Tribal and Backward Districts (covered in 2010-11) and Bundelkhand Package (covered in 2009-10). if any. 2006. (ii) continuing the Special Plan for the Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput (KBK) districts of Odisha in 2012-13 with an allocation of Rs. All the 38 districts of Bihar. and (iii) continuing the special package for implementing drought mitigation strategies in Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh in 2012-13 with an Additional Central Assistance of Rs. 2.821. settlers or migrants from mainland and being economically weak the Andaman & Nicobar administration had recommended waiver of the entire loan granted to fishermen for repair. With the population of the islands being tribals.. along with accrued interest. Waiver of loan sanctioned to the Tsunami affected fishermen in Andaman & Nicobar Islands against Tsunami Rehabilitation measures The Union Cabinet today approved for the proposal to waive the loan plus the amount of interest thereon for the 370 tsunami affected fishermen that is outstanding on the date of settlement and to reimburse the same to concerned banks. As per the above mentioned Package. (ii) Upgradation/replacement of Local Made Donghies to opt Engine Fitted . As on 31-03-2012. replacement and upgradation of boats damaged due to the tsunami.Bundelkhand package is valid only for the Eleventh Five Year Plan period i.e.35.15.2. This will benefit all such beneficiaries who are tribals. 2011-12.01 crore had been approved for Fisheries Sector which included Rs.000/. settlers or migrants from mainland and are economically weak.53 crore for construction of cold storage. tsunami affected fishermen of Andaman & Nicobar Islands had outstanding loans plus interest thereon amounting to Rs.88 crore in respect of the tsunami affected areas of Andaman & Nicobar Islands under "Rajiv Gandhi Rehabilitation Package for Tsunami affected areas". About 370 tsunami affected fishermen of Andaman & Nicobar Islands will be benefitted. A&N Administration will commence the task of waiving the loans of the beneficiaries immediately.00 lakh + boat transportation cost of Rs. Background: After tsunami of 26th December. Government of India approved a package of Central Assistance of Rs. The Package for Fisheries Sector was as under: (i) 50% subsidy and balance as loan for replacement/upgradation of boats plus motor upto unit cost of Rs.10 crore and the amount outstanding at the time of settlement will be reimbursed to the concerned banks. it is now proposed to continue these programmes in 2012-13 in its present form. 2004.2. an amount of Rs. 000/.per month under the ongoing Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme and Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme as well as increase in grant from Rs.Donghies. Increase in rate of pension from Rs.000/.to Rs. 10.1.(balance as loan).000/.35.65.000/.and balance as loan for repair of boats with motors.to Rs. 200/. subject to a maximum subsidy of Rs.under the National Family Benefit Scheme . 300/. (iii) 60% subsidy with a ceiling of Rs.00 lakh each per unit + transportation cost Rs.20. in the event of death of the primary breadwinner in the family.to Rs. (vi) To implement the revised norms under NFBS from the date of approval of the Cabinet.per month per beneficiary and to revise the eligibility criteria from 40-59 years to 4079 years. 200/.per month per beneficiary and to revise the eligibility criteria from 18-59 years to 18-79 years.to Rs. (iii) To increase the lump sum grant under National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) from Rs.09 crore per annum.The Union Cabinet today revised the norms and enhanced rates of pension for widows and persons with disabilities.to Rs. This would be in addition to the contribution by the States. However. 2012. 20000/-and also to revise the eligibility criteria from 18-64 years to 18-59 years. The total requirement of funds tor the current proposal comes to Rs. In view of the above decision. This is in fulfillment of the announcement made by the Finance Minister while presenting the Union Budget 2012-13 in the Parliament on 16th March 2012. 300/. 20000/. The following are the details:(i) To increase the rate of pension under the ongoing Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) from Rs. (iv) To make the requirement of "at least an equal contribution under all the pension schemes as well as under NFBS by State Governments/Union Territory Administrations" recommendatory.300/. 76 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) widows and 11 lakh below poverty line persons with severe or multiple disability would get enhanced amount of central assistance @ Rs. (ii) To increase the rate of pension under Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) from Rs.56 lakh BPL families will receive one time lump sum enhanced grant @ Rs. 10000/. after taking into account the existing .m. 300 p. Further. 3. 200/. 3861. (vii) To continue implementation of the NSAP during the 12lh Five Year Plan and to provide 3 per cent administrative charges on approved items. (v) To implement the revised norms under IGNWPS and IGNDPS with effect from 1st October. 10 crore per annum. 1. Focussed interventions will be done in five States namely Assam. No. Drinking Water & Sanitation. Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation and Women & Child Development. the net additional requirement for implementing the announcement comes to Rs. improved case management. improved provisions of drinking water and sanitation in rural and urban areas and improved nutrition.rate of assistance and number of beneficiaries. in crore) 1131. Bihar. medical and social rehabilitation. Ministry-wise estimated costs of interventions/activities as approved by the Cabinet are summarized below: Sl.49 Ministry of Health and Family Welfare . Tamil Nadu. Ministry / Department Estimated Cost (Rs. Implementation of Intervention/ Activities for Prevention and Control of Japanese Encephalitis (JE)/ Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) The Cabinet today approved a proposal for a comprehensive multi pronged strategy for the prevention and control of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. The major activities include public health interventions. 1325. The proposal of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for the implementation of the intervention/activities recommended by the Group of Ministers (GoM) for prevention and control of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) / Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) will be implemented in 60 priority districts for a period of 5 years from 2012-13 to 2016-17 by the Ministries of Health & Family Welfare. The Cabinet approved the implementation of interventions/activities for JE/AES for the following Ministries out of the budget available during the 12lh Plan. expansion of JE vaccination. Social Justice & Empowerment. This will also reduce burden of disabilities due to AES in young children. 1.750.1551.00 177. Minister of Rural Development. Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation 2301. Background: With the approval of the Prime Minister of India. in crore) 418.85 Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Ministry of Women and Child Development The implementation of the proposal will substantially reduce the cases of JE through strengthening of JE vaccination and vector control.23 Sanitation. Minister of Urban Development.57 3. Minister of Drinking Water & Sanitation and Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Women & Child Development. case management and rehabilitation measures to address the problems relating to Japanese Encephalitis (JE)/ Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). Ministry/ Department Estimated Cost (Rs.19 The Ministries of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation and Women & Child Development will obtain requisite additional funding as per table below for implementing the interventions as per GoM recommendations within two months of the Cabinet approval.34) 9. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (Drinking Water . Sl. It will also reduce AES cases by checking the transmission of entero-virus in children through the supply of safe drinking water and enhanced nutritional status of children. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) was . No. a Group of Ministers (GoM) was constituted to evolve a multi-pronged strategy encompassing preventive. 2. Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment.2. The members of GoM included Minister of Health and Family Welfare. Vice Chairman. These amendments seek to ensure that more effective protection is provided against indecent representation of women by covering newer forms of communication like internet.00. 1986 was enacted with the specific objective of prohibiting the indecent .included as a Special Invitee.1. 1986" in Parliament.1. Penalties to be enhanced to a maximum of three years of imprisonment and fine of between Rs. (iii) Police officers not below the rank of Inspectors authorized to carry out search and seizure.50. ii. This would aid in addressing the problem of increased objectification of women thereby ensuring dignity of women. The IRWA. and imprisonment of not less than two years. The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act. 1986" The Union Cabinet today approved the introduction of Amendments to the "Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act. but which may extend to seven years.00. 1986 (IRWA) focuses on indecent representation of women and brings under its ambit references that are derogatory to the dignity of women.5. Amendments in the "Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act. beyond the print and audio-visual media.000 for second conviction.000 for first conviction. and a fine between Rs. Broaden the scope of the law to cover the audio-visual media and material in electronic form.000 to Rs. in addition to State and Central Government officers authorized by the State or Central Government. multimedia messaging etc..000 to Rs. Key amendments proposed are as follows: i.00. technological revolution has resulted in the development of newer forms of communication such as internet and satellite based communication. it was felt that the scope of the Act may need to be amended. covers the print media. . 1986 was enacted with the objective of prohibiting indecent representation of women in any advertisement or publication.representation of women through advertisement. therefore. multi-media messaging. The existing Act. and painting or in any other manner. It has. However. in its present form. cable television etc. publication. since the existing legislation lacks the focus that is necessary to protect women from exploitation. on one hand. over the years. However. particularly in the face of the increasing use of advanced technology and communication devices in our everyday life. Extensive consultations have been held with stakeholders including lawyers and civil society organizations on the draft Bill. before its finalization. become imperative to widen the scope of the law so as to cover such forms of media. writing. and to strengthen the existing safeguards to prevent indecent representation of women through any such form. Background: The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act. Cabinet approves proposal to place 12th Plan Document before National Development Council . The plan emphasizes the need to speed up the pace of implementation of infrastructure projects. In a first attempt at presenting scenario analysis. yielding an average fixed investment rate of 34 per cent of GDP (at constant prices) for the Twelfth Plan period as a whole. It emphasizes that the growth must be both inclusive and sustainable. including especially the SC/STs. the projected gross domestic savings rate is 34. yielding an average growth rate of 8. may be carried out through the use of the Aadhaar (UID) platform. and also for boosting investor sentiment to raise the overall rate of investment. most notably the National Health Mission (NHM).2 percent for the plan period as a whole. and to achieve these objectives it proposes a comprehensive game plan in terms of policies and programmes. the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). The Plan proposes an acceleration of growth over the plan period to reach 9 percent in the terminal year. and also regional balance in development. This would also imply we can achieve inclusive and sustainable growth averaging 8. Considerable resources are being allocated for these programmes. the plan emphasizes that the policy agenda outlined must be substantially implemented for all the virtuous cycles to come into play that will lead to Scenario One called the ―Strong Inclusive Growth‖. It proposes that beneficiary payments across a large number of schemes. To achieve the targeted growth rate.2 per cent of GDP and the net external financing needed for macro-economic balance would average around 2. infrastructure development. the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) and the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). .2 per cent over the Twelfth Plan period.50. which encompasses a spread of benefits to the weaker sections.The Union Cabinet today discussed the Draft Twelfth Five Year Plan document (2012-2017). which is critical for removing supply bottlenecks which constrain growth in other sectors. and approved the proposal to place the Plan Document before the National Development Council. the fixed investment rate should increase to 35 per cent of GDP (at constant prices) by the end of the Twelfth Plan. The Plan emphasizes a broad definition of inclusiveness.123 crore in current prices for the Centre and States taken together.80.8 per cent of GDP as against 1096 per cent realized during the Eleventh Plan (2007-2012).9 per cent of GDP. The projected average rate of gross domestic capital formation in the Twelfth Plan is 37 per cent of GDP. water resource management. The Plan contains ambitious programmes in health. education. and a number of programmes aimed at inclusiveness. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). This implies the public sector resources for the Twelfth Plan (2012-2017) would be 11. The estimates show resource availability for the Twelfth Plan at Rs. OBCs and Minorities. which have experienced leakages in the delivery system. (ii) Amendment to Section 18: Provisions for having consultation with Gram Sabha in the event of the intention of the State Government for dec (iii) Amendment to Section 22: Records of the Gram Sabha and the Panchayat during the inquiry by the Collector on the claims to be considered Sanctuary. and 'Scheduled Areas' have been added to the Act. 1972 The Union Cabinet today approved the following amendments to the Wild Life (Protection) Act. 1972 (53 of 1972). 'Panchayat'. Amendments had separately been propo International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and flora (CITES). The Act has been amended of Environment and Forests has proposed to further amend the said Act.Amendments to the Wild Life (Protection) Act. Background: The Wild Life (Protection) Act. enhanced penalties for offences and The Union Cabinet in its Meeting held on 19th May 2011 had considered the above amendment proposal of the M . provides the legal framework for the protection of various sp also for the regulation and control of trade in the products derived from wild animals. (iv) Amendment to Section 33: Consultation with the Gram Sabha concerned for management and maintenance of a Sanctuary has been made m (v) Amendment to Section 35: Provisions for having consultation with Gram Sabha in the event of the intention of the State Government for dec (vi) Amendment to Section 36D: Representative of Panchayat or tribal community have been included in the Community Reserve Management Co (vii) Amendment to Section 38: Provision for having consultation with Gram Sabha in the event of declaration of a National Park by the State Go The Ministry of Panchayati Raj had advised additional amendments to these Sections. 1972: (i) Amendment to Section 2: Definitions of 'Gram Sabha'. It is expected that the ABS Protocol which is a key missing pilla The Nagoya Protocol would also contribute to the other two objectives of the CBD relating to conservation and s utilization of genetic resources would act as incentive to biodiversity-rich countries and their local communities Constitution of Twentieth Law Commission . However. thereby contributing to the cr support sustainable development. it is expected that India would India is one of the identified megadiverse countries rich in biodiversity. and adopted by the Tenth Conference of Parties (CoP-10) held in Nagoya.4 per cent of the earth's land recorded species of the world. India after extensive consultative process had enacted the Biological Diversity Act in 2002 for givi those relating to CBD. which refers to the way in which gene resulting from their use shared by users with countries that provide them. Japan in October 2010. The objective of the Nagoya benefits. in the near absence of user country measures. India is a Party to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) which is one of the agreements adopted during three objectives of the CBD relates to Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS). once the resource leaves the coun ensure compliance of ABS provisions in the country where it is used. and also non-coded. which is both coded as in an Ayurveda. This gives us an opportunity to consolidate initiatives on biodiversity before the world. arising from the use of genetic resources. The CBD prescribes that access to gen Accordingly. a protocol on access and ben CBD. India signe hosting the eleventh CoP to the CBD in October 2012 in Hyderabad. India ha meaningfully in the ABS negotiations which formally started about six years back. Ratification of Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing b The Union Cabinet today approved the ratification of the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing by Ind The Nagoya Protocol has been signed by 92 countries. Unani and Sidha. including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by a India has been a victim of misappropriation or biopiracy of our genetic resources and associated traditional know (well known examples include neem and haldi). cosmetics etc.. With only 2. Five countries have also ratified the Protocol. Much of the world's biodiversity is found in developing countries.same. Towards this. and can t development. The genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge can be used to develop a wide range of products and agricultural practices. India is also rich in associated traditional knowledge. As the incoming President of CoP-11. as it exists in oral undocumented traditions. and also create incentives for their conservation and sustainable use. Secretary. (ii) exploring suitable measures for equal redressal of citizens grievances related to the field of l poor and carrying out post-audit for socio-economic legislations. The 20th Law Commission will be headed by a full-time Chairperson and will consist of four full-time Membe Department of Legal Affairs ( as ex-officio Member). speedy clearance of arrears of cases and reduction in costs. (iv) to take measures to harness the law and l eliminate delays.The Union Cabinet today approved the constitution of 20th Law Commission for a period for three years from The details are as follows: The terms of reference of the 20th Law Commission will include : (i) identification of laws which are in harmo globalization. Legislative Department have been added to the Commis achieve better implementation of Law Commission Reports. Legislative Department (as ex officio Membe Secretary. Hospital Patent Care Allowance and Patient Care Allo . Department of Legal Affairs and Secretary. The tenure of the Nineteenth Law Commission has ended on 31st Risk Allowance. The Law Commission of India is a non-statutory body constituted by the Government of India from time to tim 1955 and is reconstituted every three years. before concretizing its recommendations /Department(s) and such other stakeholders as the Commission may feel necessary for the purpose. (vii) to examine the impact of globalization on food security and unemp protection of the interests of the marginalized. (vi) examining existing laws with suggesting amendments to such cases. Further. 40. The proposed revision in the rates of the Risk Allowance. It will also result in considerable financial savings as compared to the Risk The financial implication of doubling the extant rate of Risk Allowance. Hospital Patient Care Allowance and Patient Care Allowance would be automa Dearness Allowance on the revised pay structure goes up by 50 per cent. Hospital Patient Care Allowance and P per annum.50 crore plus service tax per ann service tax for purchase of annuity} for implementing the Risk Insurance package. The amount of Risk Allowance.26 crore plus service tax (approximately) {Rs.503. The proposed revision in the rates of R and Patient Care Allowance will benefit certain categories of Central Government employees engaged in duties Transfer of 200 square meters of Farakka Barrage Project Land at Farakka in West Bengal to Govern over to Government of Jharkhand . 2008. Hospital Patent Care Allowance and Patient Care All risk due to the nature of their duties. Hospital Patient Care Allowance and Patient Central Government employees to double the existing rates with effect from 1s' September. as against Rs.The Cabinet today approved revision of rates of Risk Allowance. 65 MLD (5. Lal Bhadur Shastri Airport Varanasi an Coimbatore as International Airports. This would facilitate taking 13. for construction of Sum be constructed by the Nagar Panchayat.58 cusec) water from Farakka Barrage Canal for drinking water supp near the border of West Bengal and is facing acute water crisis. Declaration of Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport Lucknow. and subsequent handing over to Government of Jharkhand. Pakur.The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal for transfer of 200 square metres of Farakka Barrage Project (F Government of West Bengal. . All these airports are capable of handling medium capacity long range type of aircrafts and are also equipped w works pertaining to upgradation of the airports to international Standards have been completed. Dubai. Colombo. Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport. Kingfisher. to fulfill the demand of State Governments. Presently. Night international flights are operating and the destinations covered are: Dubai.Air India. Kingfisher. Jetlite. Indigo. Calicut. Jet Airways. Mihin Lanka. Jet Airways. Indigo and Spice Jet airlines are operating domestic flights. Lucknow: Lal Bahadur Tiruchirapalli. Doha. Kuwait. Removal of controls imposed under Essential Commodities Act. 11 AB-321 type of aircraft). Calicut. Air Asia.The Union Cabinet today approved the declaration of Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport.Air India.09. Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport. Destinations covered are: Bangalore. in Power in/Push ba Jetlite. The runway is provided with Coimbatore: Coimbatore is presently handling limited international operations. Go Air. Thai Airways and Cosmic Air are operating International flights through Tiruchirapalli: The airport is suitable for operation of AB-320 / B-737-800 type of aircraft in all weather cond and international flights are operating and the destinations covered are: Abu Dhabi. The declaration domestic/international tourism and contribute to the economic development of the concerned regions. Chennai. Jetlite. Kingfisher. Lucknow: The airport runway is suitable for operation of AB-300 type o apron is suitable for parking 14 aircraft (2 B747. Chennai. Jet Airwaysand Air India Express. Th aids including CAT-l Instrument Landing System (ILS). operators . Spice Jet. Air India. 1 B-767-400. Air Arabia. Sri Lankanand Tiger Airways. Ban operating are :. wider choice of services at competitive cost to air travelers. 1955-Extension of validity of Central Edible Oils and Edible Oilseeds beyond 30. The Airport is suitable for all w Night landing operations are permitted at the airport. Spice Je services through this airport. Mangalore and Coimbatore as international airports. The airport is Mangalore: It is suitable for AB-310 and B737-400 type of aircraft operations in all weather conditions. Muscat.2012 . De Airline operators are :. Air India.Air India Express. Silk Air and Spice Jet. Varanasi: The airport has a runway suitable for operation of AB-320 type of ai is suitable for parking 5 B767 and 4 AB-321 type of aircrafts. Wheat and sugar have been withdrawn from the ambit of these orders with e respectively.20 oilseeds.10. rice. The validity of this order has been extended from time to time incorp Subsequently Central Orders were issued by keeping in abeyance the operation of Central Order dated 15. paddy and sugar. in respect of these commodities.02. The validity of all these orders have been extended from time to time . Maharashtra. Tamil Nadu. Jharkhand and Andaman & Nicobar Islands who had sent their re limits in respect of paddy and rice.2013.2227(E) dated 27.S. edible oi period from 01. Background : In August 2006 it was decided to keep in abeyance certain provisions of the Order dated 15. At prese and edible oilseeds for a period up to 30.2012 to 30.11. especially in view of ri prevailing circumstances. This is expected to help in the efforts being taken to tackle the problem of rising pric commodities to general public. especially the vulnerable sections.09.The Union Cabinet today approved for extending the validity of the Central Notifications as under: ―The validity of the Central Notification No.09.2011 issued in respect of pulses.02.0. Manipur.2012 for the 7 St of Delhi.2002 in respect Cabinet initially for a period of 6 months.2012 and in respect of rice and paddy up to 30. Permitting FDI in multi-brand product retail trading .‖ This will moderate the prices of these commodities and ensure its availability at fair prices to the general public The main objective of Control Orders is to enable the State Governments to continue to take effective de-hoard 1955 by fixing stock limits/licensing requirements etc.09. would remain unchanged. Maharashtra. In pursuance of the aforestated decision of the Cabinet on 7.12.2012. stands removed. Rajasthan. approved by the Cabinet on 24.11.The Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion for permitting FD specified conditions. with FDI.2011 to permit FDI up to 51% in MBRT. The proposal had earlier been approved by the Cabinet in its meeting on 24. discussions have been held with State G associations/organizations. The respective State Governments administer the Shops & Establishment Act within their territorial jurisdictio subject allocated to the State Governments. will not be counted for purposes of ba (iv) A high-level group under the Minister of Consumer Affairs may be constituted to examine various issues recommendations for internal trade reforms. for instance made towards processing. Assam. .2011. During the consultations with the stakeholders. have expressed support for the policy Kashmir. implementatio evolving a broader consensus on the subject. the following proposals have been approved: (i) Retail sales outlets may be set up in those States which have agreed or agree in future to allow FDI in MBR retail sales outlets will be in compliance of applicable State laws/ regulations. such as the Shops and Establish (ii) Retail sales outlets may be set up only in cities with a population of more than 10 lakh as per 2011 Census the municipal/urban agglomeration limits of such cities. As such. Uttarakhand.11.11. under the Constitution of India. quality control. farmers‘ associations and representatives of f associations. The Chief Ministers of Delhi. therefore. design improvement. through his press statements. retail locations will be restricted to conforming areas cities and provision will be made for requisite facilities such as transport connectivity and parking. excluding that on front-end units. State Governments are also respo zoning regulations. Expenditure on land cost and rentals. if any. The Madhya Pradesh. views for and against FDI in multi-brand retail trading were ex generally indicated support for the policy. packaging. has publicly endorsed the policy and asked for its implementation. retail sales outlets may be set up in the cities of their cho cover an area of 10 kms around the municipal/urban agglomeration limits of such cities. Tripura and Odisha have expressed reservations. warehousing requirements. access. is permitted to establish its implementation of the policy is not a mandatory requirement for all States. traffic. The suspensi Cabinet meeting on 24. micro & small industry associations. subject to the introduction of adequate safeguards. However. parking and other logistics. In States/ U population of more than 10 lakh as per 2011 Census. Other conditions/safeguards. distribution. logist produce infrastructure etc. Accordingly. the policy State Governments to decide whether and where a multi-brand retailer. The locations of such per the Master/Zonal Plans of the concerned cities and provision will be made for requisite facilities such as tr (iii) At least 50% of total FDI brought in shall be invested in 'backend infrastructure' within three years of the infrastructure‘ will include capital expenditure on all activities. Ha and the Union Territory of Daman & Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.2011. Andhra Pradesh. manufacturing. back-end infrastructure will include investment made towards processing. States/ Union Terrritories. which would come about as a combined result of technological upgradation. A three year timeframe has been fixed for setting up the back-end infrastructure. Reforms in internal trade will ensure distributional efficiencies and also that the b society. Amendment of conditions in the policy on Foreign Direct Investment in single-bra . Studies indicate that the the traditional retailers to these organized retailers. recognizing that the FDI framework for the purpose. some of which have been further strengthened. which do lakhs. Farmers stand to benefit fr losses. As far as sm organized retail already co-exists with small traders and the unorganized retail sector. Adequate safeguards have been built into the policy. through improved business practices and technological upg organized and unorganized retail co-exist and grow. logistics. On the other hand. manufacturi control. greater supply chain efficiencies in the agricultural sector and devel The high-level group. but are desirous of implementing the policy. packaging. storage. in turn. the revised condition gives primacy to the decision of the States in this regard. firstly. Implementation of the policy will facilitate greater FDI inflows. global be in the long run. would have the flexibility to do so. price. expected to result from the strengthening of the backend infrastructure and enable the farmers to obtain manufacturers will benefit from the conditionality requiring at least 30% procurement from Indian small indu with global retail chains. to be constituted under the Minister of Consumer Affairs. will enhance their capacity to export products from India. whenever required. which includes capital expen end units.Retail sales outlets may be set up only in cities with a population of more than 10 lakh as per 2011 Census (in municipal/urban agglomeration limits of such cities). This. additional and quality employment. Thus. This is in response to a de the course of consultations. ware-house. from the lowering of prices that would result from supply chain effi product quality. This condition will bind the foreign investors to invest in criti across the country. agriculture market produce infrastructure etc. Expenditure counted for purposes of backend infrastructure. The young people joining the workforce will benefit from Consumers stand to gain the most. in terms of quality. is expected to look into vario recommendations on internal trade reforms to the Government. efficient grading control and product standardization. for instance. It would also make the foreign investors accountable for proper implementation of the con The decision would benefit stakeholders across the entire span of the supply chain. without providing for depreciation. of the value of goods purchased. to use the brand for the purpose of retail trading. keeping in view the constraints being faced by genu models. in single brand conditions. 'Small industries' would be defined as industries which have a total investment in plant & mach valuation refers to the value at the time of installation. artisans and craftsmen. interalia. Government had permitted FDI. 30% sourcing would mandatorily have to be done from and craftsmen. with the brand owner for undertaking single brand pro for which approval is being sought. as mentioned above. (ii) In respect of proposals involving FDI beyond 51%. the relevant entity would be the company. in view of the fact that. investors have po this condition in the case of very specialized/high technology items. 2012. through a legally tenable specific brand for which approval is being sought. shall be permitted to undertake sing the specific brand. eith appropriate agreement/(s). specifically indicating compliance with the above condition. including. Global single brand retailers are often eng . Vide Press Note 1(2012 Series) dated 10. The investing entity shall provide evidence to this effect at the time of seeking approval licence agreement. However. in order to franchisee/licensee may apply for undertaking SBRT for the same brand. which could lead to difficulties in mo non-compliance of the specified conditions. from the duly certified accounts. The quantum of domes company.The Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion for amendment of in Single-Brand Product Retail Trading. up to 100%. Therefore. the conditions that: (i) The foreign investor should be the owner of the brand. for the specific brand. whether o to undertake single brand product retail trading in the country. may not be able to do so. globa business models. by statutory auditors. The investing entity shall provide evidence to this effect at the time of seeking app licensing/ franchise/sub-license agreement. through a legally tenable agreement. which the invest The CCEA has approved modification of the above mentioned conditions. specifically indicating compliance with the above condition. it would facilitate investment if this condition is liberalised. Further. by statutory auditors. to be subsequently checked. Regarding the condition that 30% sourcing be mandatorily done from Indian small industry. it has been mandated that. where it is feasible. if at any po industry shall not qualify as a 'small industry' for this purpose. even though in some single brand retailers adopt models where there is no link between the investing arm and the brand owning arm issue an exclusive licence/franchise to the investor entity. will village and cottage industries. Such business models were not found to be in consonance with the condition that th view of the fact that the global business models do not strictly conform to this condition. only one non-resident entity. in all sectors. The onus for ensuring compliance with this condition shall brand retail trading in India. wherein the brand owning entity and investor entities are kept separate. sourcing of 30%. The compliance of this condition will be ensure which could be subsequently checked. for the activity of single brand prod (i) Only one non-resident entity. The onus for ensuring compliance with this condition shall rest with the In retail trading in India.1. Amendment in the condition relating to brand-ownership has been felt necessary. from the duly certified accounts which the compa of ascertaining the sourcing requirement. incorporated in India. whether owner of the brand or otherwise. (ii) In respect of proposals involving FDI beyond 51%. a number of investors investments in India. whi carrying out single-brand product retail trading. catering specifically to their sourcing requirements. high value-addition and high p need to integrate Indian producers with the domestic and global markets. would help build capacities of local producers. arising from the integration o global standards in quality. of the value of goods purchased. b production.tech products. Such products are niche products. artisans and craftsmen. Skill integration with craftsmen abro international brands and generate more employment. This would also lead to would have a further multiplier effect on the economy. Indian suppliers and vendors to these retailers would have an opportunity of becoming a part of their g find their way in the stores of these single brand retailers located in other countries. artis desired foreign investment in this activity. design. Hence. in all sectors. is expected to benefit Indian producers. utensils. where feasible. thereby creating a multiplier effect on employment and income generation. The consequential benefits. as well as the gene fact that 30% domestic sourcing is being mandated would imply that the single brand retailers would have to b existing units. The other category of products relate to the entire range from household appliances. artisans and craftsmen. production and players. wherein it may not be viable for the foreign investors to build owing to the specialized requirements of quality and precision which the local small industry may not be able t that the condition of 30% mandatory sourcing from Indian small industries/ village and cottage industries. furniture. the amended condition relating to sourcing of 30%. packaging and production. the prop take into account the circumstances of both the specialized/high technology niche products. relating to design. Relaxation in Cabotage Policy for Transshipment of EXIM containers to and from International Co . Therefore. crocker amenable to sourcing from MSMEs. or set up new ones. being done from In industries. thereby augmenting expor Thus. with the attendant global best practices. even the 30% do production capacities in the country. village and cottage industries. includ livelihood to millions and is important from the point of low capital investment. Cochin. NABARD for provid . 1958 for containers to and from the International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Vallarpadam. This initiative is expected to promote transshipment of Indian cargo from ICTT. As per the Cabotage Policy. Cochin Port enjoys nearly the same locational advantage as Colombo port with a mere 76 nautical mi route. Despite this.The Union Cabinet today approved relaxation of Cabotage Policy under the Merchant Shipping Act. Salalah and Jebel Ali. V in Cabotage Policy is for ICTT. Therefore. no foreign ship can engage in coasting trade in India (trade between ports in India This restriction is one of the main factors that discourages the mainline foreign vessels from calling at ICTT. more than half of the contai outside India mainly at Colombo. Cooperative Banks. in order to attract mainline vessels for transshipment of Indian containers at ICTT. RRBs. Vallarpad has been given. Singapore. This is because India had no port near inte vessels. Vallarpadam and reduc The Indian container traffic has seen a steady growth over the years. Vallarpadam to attract cargo destined for Indian ports which are presently bei ports. This relaxation in Cabotage Policy will be subject to review after three years. Interest subvention to Public Sector Banks. Approval of change in the equity structure of the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Deve . RRBs & Cooperative Banks for (iv) To provide interest subvention to small and marginal farmers having Kisan Credit Card for loan again harvest at 7% p.a. an additional subvention of 1% was provided to farmers who repay their loans 2010-11 to 3% in 2011-12 and 2012-13. during the year 2012-13. interest for a period of six months i. to those farmers who repay on time.e. Thus. In the year 2009-10. The Government of India has since 2006-07 been subsidizing short-term crop loans to farmers in order to farmers for loans upto Rs.5.000 crore in the year 2011-12.4.901 crore as interest subvention for 2012-13 of which Rs.a. within on loans taken during the year 2012-13.e.75. For the ye flow has been raised to Rs.75.000 crore from Rs. Cooper provide short-term crop loans up to Rs. This interest Subvention Scheme has been further continued fo Banks.3 lakh to farmers at 7% p.442 crore as interest subvention to small and marginal farmers having Kisa receipts.3 lakh at 7% p.3267 crore su Cooperatives Banks and RRBs and Rs.10. (ii) To provide additional interest subvention of 3% p. (iii) To permit the release of Rs. i. on the same rates as applicable for crop loans as g (v) To permit the release of Rs.a.a. Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). for post-harvest. the effective rate of interest for such scheme for 2012-13 is Banks have been consistently meeting the target set for agriculture credit flow in the past years.7634 crore to Public Sector Banks.The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for the following: (i) To continue interest subvention to Public Sector Banks (PSBs). 2011. Long term financing institutions in Japan like pension funds equity would give them comfort level and a feeling of participation in the project. Subsequently. thereby substituting private Financial Institutions in DMICDC with Government owne In the meantime. • Share of Government owned Financial Institution of Japan. Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (DMICDC authorized equity base of Rs. Japan offered to match Government of India's contribution to D US$ 4. This would open up poss lower rates. a request was received from the Government of Japan for 26% participation in the equity Minister's visit to India in December. Background: The Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project was conceived as a symbol of Indo-Japan strategic Prime Minister of India to Tokyo in December. in the meeting held on 15th September. The Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) is be investment destination utilising the high capacity 1483 km long western Dedicated Railway Freight Corrid the Cabinet on 16th August 2007. the Japan Bank for International Cooperation • Share of Financial Institutions owned by the Government of India: 25% or more No financial implications will be involved after the revised equity structure on the part of Government of In DMIC Project being a strategic partnership project between Government of India and Government of Japan DMICDC will enable the DMIC project to leverage the active assistance and cooperation of the Governme DMICDC will increase the confidence of Japanese companies in the project and strengthen the ties with th the dispatch of Japanese experts to DMICDC. Approval of New Institute of "Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology" Sch . 41% by IL&FS and 10% by I DFC implementation of the numerous projects and also raising finances. the Union Cabinet approved the restructuring capped at 49% of the total equity and the Government owned Financial Institutions as majority shareholder Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) and Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) took over respectively. wherever needed.The Union Cabinet has approved the following revised equity structure of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corrido • Share of Government of India : 49% or less.10 Crore (49% equity participation by Gol. at par. The equity contribution to an extent of 26% would participation and involvement in the project.5 billion for projects with Japanese participation. 2006. 2011. are 245 and 284 million tonnes of food grain. There is need. Europ biotechnology for enhancing both food security and farmers' incomes. A need is therefore felt for both a focused centre of res capacity building in this frontier area of research. A healthy growth in the GDP is likely to further boost of the food demand escalation is expected to occur due to growth in population and the rest due to improve production and the projected demand by the year 2020. Diagnostics and Prophylactics School-V School of Basic and Social Sciences and Commercialization The mandate of the Institute would be (i) to undertake multi-disciplinary basic and strategic research with a as increased yield. (i) molecular breeding for accelerated improvement of specific traits using genes available in the g species. (iii) genetically m genes of interest into a target organism. In fact. for a re productivity and production through the "Second Green Revolution". or increased tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress. As the net cultivable area of the gain in food production will have to be met by increasing productivity.50 crore during th The Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology (IIAB) at Ranchi (Jharkhand) will be established as a de School-I School of Genomics School-II School of Bioinformatics School-III School of Genetic Engineering School-IV Nano Biotechnology. the Americas. on the other. 138 a million tonnes of fruits. even ahead. specially agricultural biotechnology. Background: There is growing demand for food. fodder and feed. to develop the germplas productivity and reduce losses due to biotic and abiotic stress. and 32 and 69 million tonnes of oilseeds respectively. Department of Agricultural Resea Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology at Ranchi (Jharkhand) at a cost of Rs. on the one h vaccines. there is a shortage of even hi biotechnology. of global leaders namely. India needs to be abreast. and award post graduate doctoral and postoutput to breeders and developers in agricultural universities and other institutions. (iv) act as a mother institute that would provi agricultural universities and other institutions who are running or trying to establish successful agricultural programmes. Genetic engineering tools allow the transfer of useful genes across species. (ii) to design and start academic progra required for fundamental research in agricultural biotechnology. and (iv) nano-biotechnology for biosensor and delivery devices for bioinformatics.The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of Ministry of Agriculture. This offers opportunities for imp Biotechnological interventions that have already made global impact and offer scope for revolutionizing ag include. Establishment of the Central Academy for Police Training at Bhopal and Creation o . (ii) molecular diagnostics and vaccines for effective control of livestock diseases. is the new engine for developing stress resistant and higher productivity plants. 287. therefore. the academy at Bhopal.400 – 67. in the rank of IGP Kochi Metro Rail Project . headed by a Director.492 crore has been provided under the 12th Plan for Central academy for Police Trainin of one post of Director/IGP in the pay scale of PB-4.e.Cabinet Decision The Union Cabinet today has given its ex-post facto approval for creation of the Central Academy for Police the creation of one post of Director.with grade pay of Rs.37. CAPT in the rank of Inspector General of Police in Pay Band 4 of Rs. Rs.000/. i.wi of the pay scale.000/.37 A total outlay of Rs. Taking into account the dearth of training facilities for the Deputy Superintendent of Police. directly recruite facilities for training of trainers.10. CAPT. Government of India's (GoI) share will be Rs. Shah Commission of Inquir . of tenure of Shri Justice M.23 crore and Government of Ker External Debt will be Rs.1002.2. The Kochi Metro Rail will improve the public transport system of Kochi. The project is scheduled to be comple work.5 kilometres and consisting of 23 stations. It will be fully elevated and will run from Alwaye to Petta on standa In the total project cost.B. The total cost of the project is Rs.237 Special Purpose Vehicle of GoI and GoK having 50:50 equity of each.The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal for Kochi Metro Rail Project.170 crore and State taxes including escalation to be borne by GoK will be Rs. 2011. The extension has been sought since the Commission is collecting and compiling information on mining from which is quite voluminous. Karnataka. Shah Commission of Inquiry into cases of illegal mining. An additional expenditure of Rs. Chhattisgarh. Government set up Shri Justice M.B. Jharkhand.The Union Cabinet today approved the extension of tenure of Shri Justice M. Andhra Pradesh. The Commission will cover the States of Odisha. The Commission was set up to identify cases of illegal mining. Out of turn promotion for sportspersons . r curbing illegal mining.50 lakh will be incurred towards the extension of tenure of Shri Justice M.Shah Commission of Inquiry on 22nd November. Th required to submit its report by 16th July 2012. Goa a Background : Taking into account the serious concerns of Government on several reports of large scale illegal mining and f this menace.B.B. extension has been sought for one year. and also to identify and rectify management. if he/she ha international sports events. Two out of turn promotions will be given for performance as a Coach. Commonwealth Games. Asian Ga sportsperson winning a medal or more than one medal in a Game/Team Events/Championships in a particula promotion in that year.The Union Cabinet today approved a policy to promote sportspersons for excellence in international sports e promotions in their service career for winning medals in Olympic Games. The proposed policy will cover all the sportspersons working with Central Government Minis Recommendation of Group of Ministers (GoM) regarding inclusion of damage to crops etc. This would be in addition to the monetary reward scheme of the Government already in existence for all me their coaches where the quantum of monetary rewards for individuals is upto Rs. 50 lakh for medal winning and World Championships. Further record-breaking medal winning performance in National Games will also be during the service career. The scheme for out-of-turn promotion to Sportspersons/Coaches will be framed by Department of Personnel helpful in improving the performance of individual sportsperson and will play a big role in promotion of spo promotion to a coach will encourage formation of pool of talent within government organizations which can sportspersons. due to col under NDRF/ SDRF . Madhya Pradesh. Chidambaram. Home Minister (iv) Shri Montek Singh Ahluwalia. Review of Rape Laws . Planning Commission. Finance Minister (ii) Shri Sharad Pawar.The Union Cabinet today approved the recommendations of the Group of Ministers on cold wave/frost for its assistance from State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) / National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) subject to therefore. (iii) Shri P. Background: The Government of India had constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) on 21st February 2011 to look into iss eligible calamity for relief under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)/ State Disaster Response Fun (i) Shri Pranab Mukherjee. Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Food Processing Industries. Deputy Chairman. decided to include cold wave/ frost as an eligible calamity for relief under the Funds. Special invitee:(i) Chief Minister. 376A and 376B by replacing the existing se of the Indian Penal Code. it is proposed that t being under sixteen years of age is not sexual assault.e.1860. The punishment for sexual assault will be for a minimum of seven years which may extend to imprisonment assault.. NCW and suggestions various quarters on the subject submitted its R (Amendment) Bill. by a police officer within his jurisdiction or a public servant / manager or person talking advanta punishment will be rigorous imprisonment which shall not be less than ten years which may extend to life im The age of consent has been raised from 16 years to 18 years in sexual assault. Provision for enhancement of punishment under sectio 326A and 326B in the IPC for making acid attack a specific offence have been made. 2011 and recommended to the Government for its enactment. The High Powered Committee (HPC) constituted under the Chairmanshi recommendations of Law Commission. However. The draft was further exam Women and Child Development and the Ministry of Law & Justice and the draft Criminal Law (Amendmen The highlights of the Bill include substituting sections 375. 376.The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal for introduction of the Criminal Law (Amendment ) Bill. to neutral. Setting up of 'North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach’ under Depart . 20 The Law Commission of India in its 172nd Report on 'Review of Rape Laws' as well the National Commissi punishment for the offence of rape. i. replacing the word 'rape‘ wherever it occurs by the words 'sexual assault'. and also widening the scope of the offence sexual assault. in consultation with the respective state go potentials. The total expenditure involved will be Rs.292 crore during the 12lh Plan period. under the Dep 13. The Ministry of Science and Technology proposes to establish a nodal centre in the North Eastern Region Societies Registration ACT 1860.The Union Cabinet today approved setting up of an Autonomous Organization named 'North East Centre f (NECTAR) at Shillong. Meghalaya as a Society under the Societies Registration Act 1860. NECTAR would promote deployment of carefully selected technologie institutions under Government of India and State Governments. Promulgation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) . inter alia. The UT Administration has filed an SLP No. Further. the High Court of Calcu grounds. Tourist establishments would be prohibited and other commercial establishments would be regulated in the aboriginal tribes from the undesirable outside influences. radius around the prohibited any commercial and tourist activities within the Buffer Zone. and has no pro Zone".10. (Civil) 12125/2030 before the Supreme Court against Court and the case is subjudice.2007 declaring an area upto 5 km. Background : The UT Administration issued a notification on 30. This will cover the entire Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. the stringent penal provisions would act unauthorized entry in the 'reserved area'. However. Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement under Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-In .The Union Cabinet approved the proposal for promulgation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Protectio Regulation 2012 under Article 240 of the Constitution. that the principal Regulation only permits notification for 'reserved area'. which has been certi holding proven recoverable gas reserves of 16 trillion cubic metres. for the Turkmenistan Pipeline Project. Land acquisition for National Defence University (INDU) . recently renamed Galkynysh. with 38 MMSCMD each for India and Pakistan and the remaining 14 MMSCMD be operational in 2018 and supply gas over a 30 years period. The TAPI Gas Pipeline is envisaged to be 1680 Km in length (144 Km in Turkmenistan. The source of the gas is the South Yoiotan Osman field. The provisions of the GSPA have been structured to protect India's commercial interests as India is at the ta Pakistan have committed to the safety and security of the pipeline through the Inter-Governmental Agreem Agreement signed among the four countries in December. 2010. Turkmenistan's national oil company.The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas to permit GA1 Purchase Agreement (GSPA) with TurrnenGas. 735 Kin in Afghan of 90 MMSCMD of gas. 162 crore for setting up Indian National Defence University (INDU).The Union Cabinet today has accorded approval for the acquisition of 205 acres – 15 Marlas of land at villag Haryana at a cost of Rs. INDU will also educate national security leaders on aspects of national security strategy. INDU will undertake long term defence and strategic studies and create synergy between the academic comm promote policy oriented research on all aspect relating to national security as an input to strategic national po national security issues by reaching out to scholars and an audience beyond the official machinery. national military st national technology strategy through teaching and research. Bidding for and Hosting the 36th International Geological Congr . . It will be a great opportunity for Indian interact with the world's frontier scientists and also to showcase Indian progress and achievement in geosci The total cost involved will be approximately Rs. Madhya Pradesh Central List of Other Backward Classes for Kerala. This congress was hosted in India in 1964 in New Delhi. lending support to the bid attempt of India. it will be hosted by India aga The event is proposed to be hosted jointly by the Ministry of Mines and Ministry of Earth Sciences. after 56 years. Proposal for amendments in (i) the lists of Scheduled Castes in respect of Kerala.This ev to typical geological sites in India and adjoining countries viz. Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Nepal. Bangladesh.52 crore.The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal of the Ministry of Mines for bidding and hosting the 36th will provide a forum for presenting and sharing scientific results across the whole spectrum of geosciences of leading geological surveys/ institutions / scientists of the world. Thus. in the list of Sche S. Chamar Ravidas (9) Dhobi (10) Jhalo-Malo 5 Sikkim Exclusion (11) Majhi ( Nepali) After the Bill becomes an Act. Amath (5) (6) (7) 4 Tripura -do(8) Bajia Jaggili. (2) Thachar (Other than Carpenter) 2 Madhya Pradesh -do- (3) Dahiya 3.The Cabinet today has approved the proposal for introduction of a Bill in the Parliame / communities for their inclusion and exclusion.No. members of the communities included in the list of S . Jagli Buna Pano Chamar Rohidas. State Inclusion /exclusion Community 1 2 3 4 1 Kerala Inclusion (1) Pulluvan. as per approved Modalities. Odisha -do- (4) Amata. benefits meant for Scheduled Castes under the existing schemes. Some of the major s Scholarship. The Government approved modalities in June 1999. which have been agreed to both by the Registrar General o Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC). as amended in June 2002. Extension of Closing Date of National Agricultural Innovation Project . Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship. National Overseas Scholarship. The first list of Scheduled Castes in by a notified Order of the President after having consultation with the State Government c in or exclusion for the list of Scheduled Castes can be effected through an Act of Parliament 341. These Orders have been amended from time to time by Acts of Pa of the Constitution between 1956 and 2007. f modifications in the lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Top Clas National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation. Six Presidential Orders were issued between 1950 and 1978 for specifying Sc States/Union territories. Hostels for SC Boys and G The Constitution of India provides certain privileges / concessions to the members of Sc the provisions of Article 341 of the Constitution of India. According to the app to the concerned Constitution Order is proposed only in respect of such proposals of th Territory Administration. The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal of Ministry of Agriculture.400 crore will be utilized for rem extended period. M Government of India (GOI). The project was originally scheduled to close on December 31. effect chains. Started in September 2006 the project has been making positive changes in organizational efficiency. During the extensi achieve its development objectives. capacity building and basic and strategic research. Department of Agricultural Re Extension of Closing Date of National Agricultural Innovation Project (NAIP) up to June 30.800 crore till now and balance of about Rs. The project is contributing to sustainable transformation of Indian agricultural sector from an orientation of to more of a market orientation in support of poverty alleviation and income generation. 2012. Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE). Background :- National Agricultural Innovation Project (NAIP) is a World Bank and Government of India funded project Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The second stag and the project will be able to achieve objectives by completing approved technical programme by June 30 India's Second National Communication to the United Nations Framework Conve . The first 18 months extra time due to the fact that innovative research projects were to be submitted. The p per the approved technical program. 2014 with no The project has spent about Rs. livelihood security in disadvantaged areas. This report shall benefit state/national level policy makers in enhancing the understanding of the issues rela create general awareness of the stakeholders relating to Government of India's proactive commitment towar change. India is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convent The Convention. Studies on key sectors were conducted in the short to medium and long time frame using latest models and projected high regional and sectoral variability and vulnerability. with some spe diversity of India and their regional imperatives.The Union Cabinet today approved India's Second National Communication to the Secretariat of the United Change towards fulfilment of the reporting obligation under the Convention. The estimations about GHG emissions ha GHG emissions and its rate of growth. both developed and develo the form of a National Communication (a national report). Development of North-Eastern Region by enhancing the Training/Education capacity in the Infor Technology area . regarding implementation of the Convention. in accordance with its Article 4.1 and 12. so as to help policy makers with appropriate information. The range of studies included in this report has been conducted broadly at the national level.5 million provided by GEF and ma the Government of India (in the nature of co-financing). enjoins all Parties.1. This project has been implemented with the financial support of USD 3. T North-East that would contribute in attracting IECT industries and generate a pool of jobs leading to overa The Public Procurement Bill. It indicates that education would be the most cri document also mentions that human resource is the single most promising development asset of the North the national average.4 the form of grants-in-aid is Rs. entrepreneurship.266.The Union Cabinet today approved the initiation of the project entitled ‗Development of North Eastern Reg Capacity in the Information. economically weaker sections.68 crore (Capital Expenditure Rs.) of the North-East Region.347. 2012 . training in computers and information technology. etc. an Autonomous Society under the Department of Electronics and Infor of the project is Rs. g various disadvantaged sections of the society (viz.25 crore and Recurring Expenditure Rs. Electronics and Communication Technologies (IECT) area‘ to be implemente Information Technology (NIELIT). About 45. faculty members.88 crore spread over a period of five years. technical. Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes/ Other Backward C with disabilities. etc.388. and soft skills. entrepreneurs.122.000 students long-term/short term courses in five years in the proposed six upgraded centres and 12 extension centres. local industry. The project would result in enhanced capacity in terms of training/education in IECT sector for the youth o trained professionals in the IECT area is expected to attract entrepreneurs/industrial houses to set up indust economic development. The project would benefit the student community/ youth . However their potential is not being utilised due to inadequate access to quality educa languages. Background: The ‗North-Eastern Region Vision 2020‘ document while analysing the population growth in many of the substantial proportion of the population is below 14 years. enhancing efficiency and economy. The Bill would create a statutory framework for public procurement which will provide greater accountability. Extension of Swavalamban Scheme for the workers in the unorganised sector . guidelines and model documents.The Union Cabinet today approved the Public Procurement Bill. Providing for a strong framework of transparency and accountability through a public procurement portal and a grievance redressal system in which an independent mechanism. The Bill provides for the following: a. transparency and enforceability of the regulatory framework. Ensuring that competition will be maximised in procurement in the interests of economy. efficiency. c. would review grievances. as appropriate for the needs of the Government of India. Providing for adequate flexibility to take into account diversity of needs and types of procuring entities. chaired by a retired High Court Judge. 2012 for introduction in the current session of the Parliament. In this context. efficiency and quality as well as combating corruption and legally obligates procuring entities and their officials to comply with these principles. The Bill is based on broad principles and envisages a set of detailed rules. The Bill seeks to regulate procurement by Ministries/ Departments of the Central Government and its attached/subordinate offices. safeguarding integrity in the procurement process and enhancing public confidence in public procurement. fair and equitable treatment of bidders. the draft Bill provides mandatory provisions regarding key aspects of the procurement process and requires establishment of time frames for decision making. d. essential for achieving economy. autonomous and statutory bodies controlled by the Central Government and other procuring entities with the objectives of ensuring transparency. The Bill builds on national and international experience and best practices. Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). promoting competition. accountability and probity in the procurement process. integrity. types of procurement needs and methods of procurement. Codifying the fundamental principles governing procurement. b. 93. occupational classes like weaver.2065 crore to Swavalamban Scheme upto 2016-17 towards Government‘s co-contribution to the subscribers of Swavalamban Scheme and also for promotional and developmental activities.1000 to Rs. 2012. which ever is later.238 subscribers till 9th March. or a minimum tenure of 20 years. The Swavalamban Scheme is a co-contributory pension scheme whereby the Central Government would contribute a sum of Rs.1000 per annum in each NPS account opened having a saving of Rs. Establishment of the Credit Risk Guarantee Fund Trust for Low Income Housing under the Rajiv Awas Yojana Scheme . This will benefit 70 lakh workers of the unorganised sector till 2016-17. The exit norms of the scheme have been relaxed to enable subscribers under Swavalamban to exit at the age of 50 years instead of 60 years. fishermen. During the year 2010-12.12000 per annum. construction workers. The Swavalamban Scheme is targeted to benefit anganwadi workers. The Cabinet has provided an additional funding support of Rs.01.The Union Cabinet today approved the extension of funding support for implementing the Swavalamban Scheme under the New Pension System (NPS) from present three years to five years for all subscribers who were enrolled during 2010-11.920 subscribers were enrolled whereas during 2011-12 there are 1. dairy workers etc. farmers. a total of 3. 2011-12 and 2012-13. 5 lakh. construction.20.mtrs. The total housing loan outstanding was about Rs. The Trust shall be managed and administered by a Board of Trustees with cross sectoral composition.) carpet area involving an amount not exceeding Rs. The Trust shall be serviced by the National Housing Bank (NHB). thereby enhancing the confidence of the lending institutions in lending to this segment. The urban affordable housing deficit is estimated to be about 26 million.000 .200 core will come from the State Governments who draw on it. Regional-Rural Banks. Housing Finance Companies. (40 sq. acquisition. The Ministry of HUPA and State Governments may make further contributions to the corpus fund of the Trust in the proportion as may be decided from time to time. without any other collateral. The CRGFT will have an initial corpus of Rs. The CRGF Trust will administer and operate the Credit Risk Guarantee Fund Scheme (CRGF Scheme). The Credit Risk Guarantee Fund Trust will be set up under the Indian trust Act.2 lakh and 85% of the amount in default subject to the ceiling of 85% of sanctioned housing loan amount for loan amounts above Rs.5 lakh per loan without any collateral security and / or third party guarantees. 1882 and the Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation (HUPA) will be the settler of the Trust. The establishment of such a Government-supported Credit Risk Guarantee Fund would facilitate credit enablement of the urban poor and the flow of institutional finance for affordable housing.06 lakh crore of which only about 24% is for loans up to Rs. and purchase of new or second hand dwelling units of size up to 430 sq.3. The guarantee cover available under the CRGF Scheme is to the extent of 90% of the amount in default subject to the ceiling of 90% of the sanctioned housing loan amount for a loan amount of upto Rs. Cooperative Housing Finance Societies etc.1000 crore is being contributed from the Centre and the remaining Rs.5 lakhs of which only a part is estimated as flowing to the Economically Weaker Sections and Low Income Groups. in accordance with their slum populations. This is in pursuance of the approval of the Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) Scheme by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) in June 2011 which included the creation of a Risk Guarantee Fund for low income housing loans.ft.The Union Cabinet today approved the establishment of the Credit Risk Guarantee Fund Trust (CRGFT) for Low Income Housing. to new or existing individual EWS/LIG borrowers and eligible borrowers forming a group or housing society of at least 20 members for purposes of home improvement. The Credit Risk Guarantee Fund is expected to catalyse a flow of credit of about Rs. The Trust will guarantee the housing loans made by the lending institutions like Commercial Banks.2 lakh and upto Rs. The CRGF is intended to act as a risk-mitigant.1200 crore of which Rs. The key principle of the CRFG Scheme is that the lender shall secure the housing construction/ upgradation loan purely on the assets financed. in its report. coconut.crore to the low income housing sector and create the enabling environment for creation of affordable housing stock. particularly perishables like fruits.25 crore has been allocated as one time grant for setting up a corpus fund for NCCD. The Task Force. covering government officials. The availability of bank credit without the constraint of collaterals / third party guarantees would be a key enabler for the urban poor to realise their objective of upgrading/buying their own house. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).7 million MT of vegetables and 17. vegetables.5 million MT of fruits. In order to address this issue the Task Force on Cold Chain Development was constituted by Government of India during 2008. 133. A sum of Rs. The NCCD will be having a Governing Council under the Chairmanship of Secretary with 22 members. goes waste due to post harvest losses. National Centre for Cold Chain Development The Union Cabinet today gave its ex-post facto approval for registering National Centre for Cold Chain Development (NCCD) as a society under the Societies Registration Act. Renaming of Mana Airport at Raipur in Chhattisgarh as "Swami Vivekanand Airport. a significant portion of the produce. mushroom. Background: With a production of 71. India is the second largest producer of horticultural commodities in the world. All stakeholders will be having membership in the society in a Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode. flowers etc.. cold chain equipment manufacturers/supplies etc. cashew. However. growers. recommended the formation of a dedicated institution for promoting cold chain development in the country. .8 million MT of other commodities like flowers. in its study on Cold Chain Grid in India (2010) also recommended the need for a robust cold chain infrastructure for reducing the post harvest losses of perishables. 1860 with its Memorandum of Association and Rules and Regulations. spices. honey etc. Raipur". The National Spot Exchange (NSE). The Union Cabinet today approved the renaming of the Mana Airport at Raipur as "Swami Vivekanand Airport. The Raipur Airport belongs to Airports Authority of India (AAI) and is suitable for operation of A-320 type of aircraft (VFR/IFR operations). Swami Vivekanand. Hence it will be apt to rename Mana Airport at Raipur in Chhattisgarh as "Swami Vivekanand Airport. Presently M/s Air India. This will fulfill the long pending demand of people of Chhattisgarh as well as the State Government of Chhattisgarh. one of the most renowned spiritual leaders. Jet Airways/ Jetlite and Kingfisher are operating and approx. spent major part of his life in Raipur. Raipur". Status of implementation of Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) . 85 domestic flights per week to/from Raipur Airport are operating. Raipur'" paying homage to the spiritual leader. 2007 as the health insurance scheme for families living below the poverty line. including maternity benefit. As on 31st December. 2011.30. The Scheme was launched on 1st October.per visit. 2008. (ii) The beneficiary family pays Rs. the premium is shared in the ratio of 90:10. In case of North-East region and Jammu & Kashmir. It was operationalised on April. Administrative cost is borne by the State Governments.57 crore smart cards are active and . (vi) Payment of transportation cost of Rs. 30 per annum per family as registration/renewal fee. The basic features of the scheme are as follows: (i) Government of India contributes 75% of the annual premium. 100/. (iv) Coverage of all pre-existing diseases. (v) Coverage of hospitalisation expenses. State Governments contribute 25%. (iii) Beneficiaries are entitled to smart card based cashless health insurance cover of Rs.The Cabinet today reviewed the implementation of the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana.000 per family per annum on a family floater basis. about 2. 25 lakh persons have availed hospitalisation facilities in 24 States/UTs. the scheme has been extended to a few segments of unorganised workers. National Policy on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances .more than 29. it is likely to be expanded to other segments of such workers. The RSBY has also been extended to following occupational groups: (i) Building and other Construction Workers (ii) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) beneficiaries (iii) Street Vendors (iv) Beedi Workers (v) Domestic Workers As is evident from the above. In future. periodic surveys of drug abuse to gauge the extent. detailing the steps to be taken by different Ministries/ Departments/ agencies. while remaining competitive. The salient features of the policy are as follows: (i) The policy recommends production of Concentrate of Poppy Straw (CPS) in India by a company or body corporate. pattern and nature of drug abuse in the country. This would enable India to retain its status of a traditional supplier of Opiate Raw Material (ORM) to the rest of world. (iii) On the illicit cultivation of poppy and cannabis. the policy emphasizes use of satellite imageries for detection of illicit crop and its subsequent eradication and development of alternate means of livelihood in respect of cultivators in pockets of traditional illicit cultivation. trade and use of such psychotropic substances will be introduced. (vi) Emphasis will be laid on adequate access to morphine and other opioids necessary for palliative care.The Union Cabinet today approved the National Policy on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) drafted by the Ministry of Finance. The policy attempts to curb the menace of drug abuse and contains provisions for treatment. improvement in public health and uplifting of the social milieu. (ii) The consumption of poppy straw by addicts will be gradually reduced and finally stopped in a time frame decided by the States. Department of Revenue in consultation with the concerned Ministries/Agencies of Government of India and the State Governments. a strategy to address street peddlers of drugs. (iv) The private sector may be allowed production of alkaloids from opium. The NDPS Policy will serve as a guide to various Ministries and organizations and re- . (v) Non-intrusive methods of regulating the manufacture. recognition of deaddiction centers. At present alkaloids from opium are produced only in Government Opium and Alkaloid Factories (GOAFs). in response to the recommendations of the International Narcotics Control Board. Implementation of the provisions of the policy will lead to reduction of crime. rehabilitation and social re-integration of victims of drug abuse. (vii) There will be a time bound plan of action. Background: There are four broad aspects of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances – (i) Administration of the NDPS Act and Rules framed there under. and (iv) Drug (Illicit) demand reduction. Qqqqqqqqqqqqqqqq Bbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbb Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Prime Minister’s Address (English translation) on the launch of . manufacturing. trade and use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for medical and scientific uses. (ii) Legal production. (iii) Drug (Illicit) supply reduction.assert India's commitment to combat the drug menace in a holistic manner. The UPA Government has always worked for the welfare and progress of the common man. I also compliment all those officials who have just been given awards for exemplary work in the Aadhaar project. Students will find it very convenient because today. Aadhaar provides a resident with the right to an identity. Jaipur today: ―Two years ago. I would like to compliment all those associated with the project and Shri Nandan Nilekani for achieving so much in so short a time. in getting a mobile connection. they have to show their identity on may occasions. The mandate of Aadhaar is to give a Unique Identity Number to every resident of India. in Dudu. They also suffer socially because of this. were present when the first Aadhaar number was given in a remote tribal village of Maharashtra in September 2009. we are also formally launching the Aadhaar based delivery of services across the country. These people face a lot of difficulty in either taking advantage of Government programmes or doing their own business because they do not have a proof of their identity. and many other activities. This project will benefit crores of people who suffer from poverty. Today. Governments across the world are keenly looking at India to learn and understand how Aadhaar can deliver benefits to its people. The Aadhaar project is one of the most complex projects in the world which will improve access to many services. We started the Aadhaar project with the same goal in mind. Sonia Gandhiji. We have come a long way since then and since then the Unique Identification Authority have enrolled more than 24 crore residents for the Aadhaar number. in travelling by train or air. We have always tried to ensure that our poorer brothers and sisters and those from economically and socially weaker sections benefit from the growth of our economy. We intend to eliminate this handicap through the Aadhaar project. Aadhaar number helps in opening a bank account. unemployment and disease. Aadhaar will be very helpful in ensuring that many schemes being run by .Aadhaar Enabled Service Delivery Following is the English translation of the Prime Minister‘s address on the occasion of the launch of Aadhaar Enabled Service Delivery. Today we will be giving the 21st crore Aadhaar number to a resident of Dudu here in Rajasthan. I along with the UPA chairperson Smt. we will be able to ensure transfer of benefits by cash to individuals. which get a lot of subsidy from the government.50 crore scholarships to students. I am confident that you will continue to contribute to the . Today. Our government wants to make use of technology. With the Aadhaar number. complaints about delay and leakage will also come down. from Tripura to Rajasthan and from Delhi to Kerala all over the country residents are being given Aadhaar numbers. we can ensure that the money goes to the correct person and the role of middle-man is ended with direct transfer of benefits to the needy. With Aadhaar. When we began the programme two years ago. Benefits such as scholarships. I am confident that in the coming years. As an example. We will now extend this to the rest of the country in future. We have just seen the benefits of using Aadhaar in Andhra Pradesh. I am happy to note that Rajasthan under the leadership of the Chief Minister has given primary importance to the Aadhaar project. I congratulate the Government and the people of Rajasthan for this. Over 5 crore families benefit from the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA. It is our goal that all these people should take advantage of the Aadhaar number. The next step is to leverage Aadhaar to transfer benefits directly to the common man. pensions and health benefits which are given by government can now be transferred directly to the beneficiaries. Karnataka and Maharashtra. It is my belief that the Aadhaar project demonstrates the role that technology can play in building a modern India. Jharkhand. 60 crore people will have this number. Two crore people are given Old Age Pension and about 3 crore families get the benefit of the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana. I am told that by 2014. in bringing greater transparency and accountability into government programmes and reducing leakages. we receive complaints that items such as gas connections. diesel and fertilizers. The Aadhaar scheme will deliver benefits to crores of people. the focus was on enrolling people rapidly in Aadhaar. Very often.the government are implemented more effectively. I will conclude by once again congratulating all those associated with the Aadhaar project. Aadhaar is an important step forward in this direction. this project will be implemented even more rapidly. particularly Information Technology. the Central government today provides about 1. do not reach the needy and the poor. growth of India with dedication and hard work.‖ PM’s remarks at the inauguration of the High Level Segment of the 11th CoP to the Convention on Biological Diversity . I would urge all the Parties to do likewise because concerted global action is imperative and cannot brook any further delay. Our traditional systems of agriculture and medicine depend on plant and animal biodiversity. The 11th Conference of Parties is being held at an important juncture. unfortunate given that there is today a much higher global awareness of environmental risks and concerns. protecting and promoting biodiversity has always been an integral part of our ethos and our civilization. Conserving the wild ancestors and relatives of the cultivars we use today is of paramount importance to us. India is truly privileged to host for the first time the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. in Hyderabad today: ―I am truly delighted to welcome each one of you to this historic city of Hyderabad. however. Despite global efforts. India has recently ratified the Nagoya Protocol and formalised our commitment to it. This situation needs to change. The critical issue really is how to mobilise the necessary financial. Manmohan Singh‘s remarks at the inauguration of the High Level Segment of the 11th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. I am. Dr. This can be seen in the thousands of sacred groves that are found all over the country. technical and human resources. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Earth Summit at Rio de Janeiro. the 2010 biodiversity target that we had set for ourselves under the Convention on Biological Diversity was not fully met. India has tried a unique approach to protection . In recent years. glad that negotiations regarding biodiversity have achieved remarkable success. indeed. This is also the first such Conference since the launch of the United Nations Decade of Biodiversity last year. including two legally binding Conventions. when the world came together to adopt many far-reaching documents. In recent years there has been concern that this public knowledge may become restricted in its use because of the application of the modern intellectual property system. In our country. it has become increasingly more difficult to find common ground on environmental issues. This is. It is this consciousness that should provoke us to greater action even as we cope with the pressures of the current global economic downturn. particularly the incubation. sharing and transfer of technology.Following is the text of the Prime Minister. sustainable use and sharing of benefits from the utilization of genetic resources. Indian farmers have always believed in the free use of seeds. We decided to build this knowledge database because of the patent on the use of neem extract in Europe and another on the use of turmeric as a healing agent. namely. over 1000 cases of biopiracy have been identified and over 105 claims withdrawn or cancelled by patent offices. This approach is the basis of India‘s Biological Diversity Act of 2002. This Library promotes the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol on the issue of protection of codified traditional knowledge systems such as the celebrated Ayurveda. We will continue to work to strengthen our institutions to record this knowledge. found in our forests and our fields. We know that food security is a key challenge for the world. . So we need to build a movement to conserve traditional varieties of crops. particularly in an increasingly climate vulnerable world. We believe that the treasure trove of traditional knowledge should be used for the benefit of all humankind rather than for private profit. In our Patent Act we have adopted disclosure requirements on the origin of inventions based on biodiversity. But I believe a lot more needs to be done. We need to build on this experience and build living germplasm laboratories in our fields. because of this database. The 2008 National Biodiversity Action Plan further identifies specific action points by various government agencies. should receive adequate and equal focus. Our approach to protecting and promoting biodiversity has been guided by the belief that all three objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers‘ Rights‘ Act of India confers intellectual property to farmers through registration of seed varieties. to value its science and to provide benefits to its custodians. Multilateral agencies like the WIPO and some countries have approached us for assistance in setting up such libraries and our government will be happy to provide necessary assistance. Since then. Biodiversity. conservation. This database has 34 million pages of information in five international languages in formats easily accessible by patent examiners.of traditional knowledge by establishing a Traditional Knowledge Digital Library. could provide us keys to the solutions of the future. which are beyond our protected areas. Living at the periphery of subsistence. Our efforts have focused on biodiversity conservation while protecting and promoting livelihoods. therefore. including our water bodies. the country level status assessment for tigers showed an increase in their number to an estimated 1706 from an estimated 1411 in the year 2006. We recognise that we have to look beyond large animal species and take a more organic approach to conservation. We will have to adopt similarly innovative approaches to deal with the issue of protecting fishermen‘s livelihoods even as we negotiate a framework on sustainable use of marine biodiversity in the high seas. we have legislated a Forest Rights Act that lends legal sanctity to the rights of forest dwellers. who are often the best friends of the biodiversity that resides in these magnificent forests. In India. particularly in our rural areas. India‘s initiatives acknowledge this correlation between biodiversity conservation and poverty eradication. We have special programmes for some high-profile endangered species like tigers and elephants. Such country level efforts at preservation should be complemented by enhanced international collaboration to check wildlife crime. The challenge going forward is to develop new models of inclusive conservation. We have. the poor are the most at risk from biodiversity loss. In 2010. initiated work on species recovery programmes on 16 identified endangered species including the snow leopard. We have also found that many development schemes can be realigned to provide biodiversity-related benefits. Participatory approaches that encourage and incentivize the involvement of local communities is a key element in our efforts towards conservation. The . Biodiversity based livelihood options form the basis of rural survival in many parts of the world. They should not also be the ones to bear the cost of biodiversity conservation while the benefits are enjoyed by society at large. India has more than 600 Protected Areas. hangul and lion. in a network of National Parks.Despite the pressure on land in our densely populated country. There is a realisation that ecosystem services form a much higher percentage of the ―GDP of the Poor‖ than of classical GDP calculations. This is vital to protect habitats. and Conservation Reserves. covering approximately 5% of the total geographical area of the country. Wildlife Sanctuaries. I thank you. The diversity of life forms on Earth is the culmination of millions of years of the productive genius of nature. India stands committed to work with all parties to reach the happy compromise that will secure a future that provides ecological and economic space for each one of us and sustainable growth for all of us. with an annual outlay of US$ 6 billion. We have also earmarked funds to promote similar capacity building in developing countries. On the occasion of this conference.Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme for example. We will use these funds to enhance the technical and human capabilities of our national and state-level mechanisms to attain the Convention on Biological Diversity objectives.‖ Report of the Rangarajan Committee on Deregulation of Sugar Sector in India . I am pleased to launch the Hyderabad Pledge and announce that our Government has decided to earmark a sum of US$ 50 million during India‘s presidency of the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity to strengthen the institutional mechanism for biodiversity conservation in India. We need to work together and act before a catastrophe is upon us. aims to create legally mandated green jobs for every rural household in our country. Humankind should understand the importance of preserving biodiversity. It is nature‘s insurance against extreme events that may disturb the delicate balance of this planet. while the existing subsidy to states for PDS sugar transport and the difference between the levy price and the issue price would continue at the existing level. 2. the committee has proposed that at the time of cane supply. subsequently. However. C. the SAP is substantially higher than the FRP. as the minimum price of sugarcane. Based on the share so computed. farmers be paid FRP as the minimum price. on a half-yearly basis. and discussion with Chief Ministers of major sugar-producing states. States should be allowed henceforth to fix the issue price of PDS sugar. which suffers from problems of accumulation of arrears of cane dues in years of high price and low price for farmers in other years. consultations with stakeholders. as at present. additional payment. Generally. states should not declare an SAP. it is the ruling price. Rangarajan.Prime Minister had set up a committee under the chairmanship of Dr. this implies that farmers would also get a share of the profits. under the Sugarcane Control Order and on the advice of CACP. 3. and farmers would be entitled to a 70% share in the value of the sugar and byproducts produced from the quantity of cane supplied by each farmer. Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister to look into all the issues relating to the deregulation of the sugar sector. Chairman. net of FRP already paid. The report was submitted to the Prime Minster on 10-10-2012. the state government concerned would announce the ex-mill prices of sugar and its by-products. after several rounds of deliberations. The committee has completed its task. Further. many states in north India also announce a State Advised Price (SAP) under state legislation. A major recommendation of the committee relates to revising the existing arrangement for the price to be paid to sugarcane farmers. Since the sugar value estimate includes return on capital employed. With such a system in operation. The committee has also recommended dismantling of the levy obligation for sourcing PDS sugar at a price below the market price. would then be made to the farmer. Instead of the present arrangement. The existing arrangement comprises a Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) announced each year by the Centre. augmented by the current level of implicit subsidy on account of the . and wherever SAP is declared. On external trade. and Dr K. However. The committee has also recommended dispensing with the mandatory requirement of jute packaging. The committee has recommended dispensing with the present mechanism of regulated release of non-levy sugar. the Centre should remove the stipulation of a minimum distance between two mills. Chief Economic Advisor. wherever and whenever a state discontinues area reservation. Shri Ashish Bahuguna. the committee favours free movement and dismantling of end-use based allocation quotas that are in vogue in several states. Dr Raghuram Rajan. Department of Agriculture & Cooperation. 4. 7. Shri Sudhir Kumar. 6. Secretary. 5. they should do so while ensuring that area reservation is done for at least three to five years at a time. . Food & Public Distribution. to enable creation of a national market and better prices for this valuable by-product as well as improved efficiency in its use. Chairman. in the interest of farmers and economic efficiency. The committee has recommended that cane area reservation ultimately be phased out and contracting between farmers and mills allowed for enabling theemergence of a competitive market for assured supply of cane. and indirectly benefit both the farmer and the general consumer since the industry passes on the cost of levy mechanism to farmers and consumers. This will free the industry from the burden of a government welfare programme. as the then Secretary. Dr Ashok Gulati. Convener. Member. the committee has favoured a stable policy regime with modest tariff levels of 5% to 10% ordinarily. as it imposes additional costs on factories on account of inventory accumulation. and dispensing with outright bans and quantitative restrictions. P.difference between the levy price and the open market price. NDMA. so that industry has a stake in its development. Secretary. in case some states want to continue it for the time being. Further. In respect of molasses. Commission on Agricultural Costs & Prices. Krishnan. Economic Advisory Council. Nandakumar. Members on the committee were Shri T. Therefore. and should I say.Prime Minister’s Speech at the 19th Conference of CBI and State AntiCorruption Bureaux Following is the text of the Prime Minister. ones associated with specialization and expansion of our economy. I hope that their example will be emulated by others in times to come. This happens to be an area which is well worth exploring. This is a welcome development in view of the rapid changes that are taking place in processes of governance and administration in our country. which gives police officers directly responsible for anti-corruption efforts. they have also become wider in scope. I understand that from this year the conference will be an annual feature instead of the biennial event that it has been so far. different sectors of our economy follow developmental models that are increasingly becoming more and more sophisticated. As our economy grows and becomes more integrated with the evolving global economy. We have just seen some CBI officers receive medals for their achievements. This in turn led to newer opportunities for corruption. become more complex and more specialized. as it has been in our country in the last two decades or so. They resulted in faster economic growth and new areas of economic activity. The nature of the challenges that our country‘s anti-corruption agencies face varies with the level of economic development. the responsibilities that our anti-corruption agencies are expected to discharge have not only multiplied manifold. I congratulate them for this distinction. I understand that the theme for this conference is Economic Development: role of Anti-corruption Agencies. Dr Manmohan Singh‘s speech at the 19th Conference of CBI and State Anti-Corruption Bureaux in New Delhi today: ―Let me begin by saying that I consider this to be a very important conference. it would be difficult for the investigating agencies to reach the right conclusions . These challenges get even more complicated if the pace of economic development is rapid. In these twenty years. and the newer modi-operandi being adopted by those indulging in corrupt practices. in many cases. the big challenge before our anti-corruption agencies is to keep pace with these rapid developments. associated with controls and the license-permit raj. Today. an opportunity to discuss new ideas and approaches to best practices. The economic reforms initiated in the early 1990s greatly reduced many of the old forms of corrupt practices. While good training and competence are essential. I had mentioned some of the steps that we had taken or were proposing to take towards that end. The aim is to eliminate wastage and leakages. higher conviction rates. in many cases they might not be sufficient. It is for this reason that our investigation agencies need to continuously upgrade their skills and techniques to match the newer methods of corruption. I am told that the CBI Academy has gradually evolved into a center of excellence. Regular in-service training and frequent exchanges with the top anti-corruption agencies in the world over. I also believe that collaboration between the CBI and the state anti-corruption agencies in the area of capacity building would benefit both. I would like to mention two recent initiatives that form part of our relentless pursuit of minimizing corruption in our economy and our polity. Our government stands firm in its commitment to do everything possible to ensure probity. would help in this process. and improve transparency and accountability in transfer of government assistance to the people. I would like all State AntiCorruption Bureaux to utilize its services optimally for training their officials. We are also considering amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act. This would cover benefits like scholarships and pensions. institutions established with special focus on economic offences should perhaps be more broad-based and need not be confined only to persons with a policing background. transparency and accountability in the work of public authorities. not only in view of the judicial rulings on its provisions.without a firm grasp of the complexities involved in the formulation and implementation of economic policy. Also. Today. and also some of the non-cash subsidies that the government provides. We have recently put in place an institutional architecture to facilitate a shift to a system in which benefits from the government would get transferred directly to the bank accounts of individual beneficiaries of various social sector schemes. also. I would urge the CBI and other anti-corruption agencies to feel free to engage professionals who have the expertise which can assist them in conducting an impartial enquiry in complex cases. but also with the purpose of filling certain gaps in the legislation and bringing it in line with current . While addressing this conference last year. We plan to leverage the Aadhar numbers that have already been provided to about 20 crore people for this task. An open mind in this regard could help in imparting credibility to our investigations and securing. It is therefore also proposed to include corporate failure to prevent bribery as a new offence on the supply side. covering both the supply and demand sides. I am sure you will leave no stone unturned in fighting a menace that is holding back our society and our country. it is difficult to tackle consensual bribery and the supplier of the bribe goes scot free by taking recourse to the provisions of the Act. I wish you well in your professional endeavors. is being sought to be provided. Experience has shown that in a vast majority of cases. The importance of making a distinction between bonafide mistakes and colorable exercise of power in investigation of corruption cases cannot be over emphasized. fairness. I have said this in the earlier conferences also. This would be taken care of in the proposed amendments. the innocent are not harassed. We need to ensure that even while the corrupt are relentlessly pursued and brought to book. While reiterating our government's commitment to fighting the menace of corruption in every possible way. I would urge you to introspect on every such case so that you can continuously upgrade your skills and capabilities. and I would like to repeat it once again. honesty. We are also examining how the Act can be amended to protect honest public servants more effectively. A clear and unambiguous definition for the term 'corruption'. It can only damage our nation‘s image and hit at the morale of the executive. I would like to stress upon the need to protect honest public servants and keep the morale of the executive intact. This is the point I have emphasized in each and every conference that I have been participating in the last eight years. Conferences like the present one should also be occasions to remind ourselves of the abiding principles that should guide us in the discharge of our responsibilities. I thank you. I hope that you will go back from this conference even more determined to uphold these values. Experience has also shown that big ticket corruption is mostly related to operations by large commercial entities. The mindless atmosphere of negativity and pessimism that is sought to be created over the issue of corruption can do us no good. I hope you will not be discouraged by cases where the investigation is not successful or a seemingly successful investigation failing to secure a conviction.hard work. PM’s inaugural address at the International Seminar on Energy Access . fearlessness and perseverance.international practice. but I think this is something that is worth repeating. These were the few thoughts that I wished to share with you today. Following is the text of the Prime Minister. The figures are quite staggering. including attending school. agricultural waste and dung cakes to cook in poorly ventilated kitchens. In our planning processes in India. Lack of access to energy deprives millions of people of a basic minimum living standard. The links between access to energy and the various Millennium Development Goals are now well established and they are well documented. on traditional biomass for their cooking energy needs. Thousands of premature deaths of women and children in rural areas are attributed to indoor air pollution apart from the incidence of eye infections and respiratory ailments. I trust you would enjoy our hospitality and have a comfortable and productive stay in our country. who have come from all over the world. Meeting these goals that are fundamental to an existence of minimum dignity and well being all over the world requires access to affordable energy. The problem is particularly acute for people living below the poverty line. India is privileged to host this important seminar during the ‘International Year of Sustainable Energy for All’. Dr Manmohan Singh‘s inaugural address at the International Seminar on Energy Access in New Delhi today: ―I am very pleased to be here today to inaugurate the International Seminar on Energy Access. The World Health Organisation. Another important social aspect of the problem is the time and effort rural women spend in collecting and carrying these fuels. According to one survey. or very substantially. has studied the adverse effects of indoor air pollution caused by these traditional fuels. we consider access to energy services as vital to inducing rapid development. One of the principal development challenges confronting humankind today is to ensure that each person has affordable access to energy. Indian women spend nearly 30 billion hours a year in such activities. Further.3 billion people in the world today lack access to reliable electricity. among others. around 3 billion people rely entirely. I extend a very warm welcome to all the participants of this seminar. Not only does this excessive load carrying lead to problems of health but it also prevents girls from doing other productive work. Over 1. reducing inequality and making economic growth . Women in 80% of rural households in our country and many other developing countries use firewood. our goal is to electrify all the 600.000 villages have been provided with electricity connections in recent years. extending distribution network to all villages may take time. Most urban households cook with LPG. At present renewable power represents . Besides.000 deliveries of subsidized cylinders have been made by delivery boys after successful biometric authentication of any family member present at home. We recognize that the rural poor will need some subsidy to afford electricity and LPG. in one pilot scheme in Mysore district of Karnataka. This is a huge task but it is not unattainable. Over one million households meet their cooking energy needs from biogas plants. This should be manageable for our country. As a result of our efforts. The issue is to target the subsidy as best as possible. have to be expanded.000 villages of India. one million households in India are now using decentralized solar energy to meet their lighting energy needs. We have launched an ambitious project to give every Indian resident a unique identification number that will facilitate targeting of subsidies under various welfare schemes. The Government of India aims to provide 24x7 electricity to all households in the country and affordable access to electricity in the next 5 years. Now. Programmes that give incentives for use of renewable energies. For example. more than 100. fuel wood plantations within a kilometer of all inhabitations could be set up. We aim to provide every individual household with clean cooking fuel. We have tried to introduce LPG for cooking in rural areas as well. Under the ongoing Rajiv Gandhi Rural Electrification Scheme. only a few thousand villages in the country remain un-electrified. Renewable energy technologies provide probably the most sustainable and economic options for energy access. 27. It is something we must do on a priority basis. Giving all the 240 million households in the country an entitlement of six LPG cylinders per year will require only around 25 million tonnes of LPG. In the next phase it is planned to transfer the subsidy amount directly to the bank accounts of bona fide beneficiaries. Around 12 percent of around 190 million rural households today use LPG to meet their cooking energy needs. therefore. To reduce the burden on women.processes more inclusive. But. To this end. including appropriate subsidies and financing arrangement. The Intellectual Property Regimes applied to energy access technologies should balance rewards for innovators with the need to promote the common good of humankind. Universalizing access to energy will require innovative institutions. We hope to light up around 20 million rural households with solar home lighting by 2022. especially the developing countries to forge a common and effective path forward. Governments and industry need to be encouraged to engage in international cooperation in this area on an enlarged scale and work for enhancing the technological capability of developing countries. Suitable mechanisms need to be found that will provide incentives for developing new technologies while also facilitating their deployment in developing countries at affordable cost. Overall. We are delighted to share our experience in policy-making.about 12 per cent of the total installed generating capacity in India. We are also conscious that south-south cooperation is vital to achieving universal energy access. available. Together we can drive out the pessimism about the future of those who are ―energy poor‖. Providing affordable energy access to the poorer sections of the globe is a challenge that will severely test the capability of the global community. national and local enabling mechanisms. The necessary technologies to mitigate the problem are fortunately. India is fully conscious of its responsibilities and our commitments. launched under the aegis of India‘s National Action Plan on Climate Change aims to install 20 Gigawatt of grid connected solar power by 2022. The fact that representatives of such a large number of countries have congregated here today. These technologies need to be viewed as global public goods. and targeted policies. Our experts have helped set up energy access projects in many developing countries. It will require tremendous creativity and resourcefulness and also new ways of thinking and understanding. technological development and implementation by creating a global platform for information and experience sharing. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission. we have been vigorously supporting capacity building in other developing countries. kindles our hopes and aspirations for a more prosperous and better future for all of us. we aim at accelerating the overall deployment of renewable energy in India to achieve around 55 GigaWatt of renewable power by the year 2017. In this context. . to dream was indeed to dare! Partition was. The path ahead is difficult but we have to persevere. Dr Manmohan Singh‘s address at the CSIR Foundation Day function in New Delhi today: ―I am delighted to join you on the 70th Foundation Day of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. Dr. Dr. I can think of no better company than this illustrious gathering of men and women of science. the man whose memory we cherish today. I could stretch my association with the Council fraternity even farther. it was easy to write off India. widespread ignorance. in many ways a national tragedy far more poignant than our personal losses. I wish therefore. Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar. with whom to have my first public engagement on this very special day. to make a fresh beginning in free India.This would require global cooperation on a gigantic scale for financing as well as implementing viable projects in energy-deficient areas. of course. Have a pleasant stay in our country. In those days of horror.‖ PM’s Address at CSIR Foundation Day Following is the text of the Prime Minister. frequent epidemics and an economy that had remained . with its deep-rooted poverty. this important seminar all success. a very warm welcome to each one of the distinguished delegates attending this seminar. though in the tragedy and chaos of Partition that forced this choice upon my family. With your indulgence. I followed him with a more modest dream of my own. and once again.we were both born on 26th September. came to this city from Lahore with a dream to build the chain of CSIR‘s national Laboratories. Brahmachari just reminded me of a personal attribute that I happen to share with the Council --. I consider it a privilege to preside over this hallowed organization in the seventh decade of its outstanding service to our nation.stagnant in the five preceding decades. thereby beginning a tradition that successive Prime Ministers have continued. in line with prevailing national policies and national priorities. CSIR laboratories created advanced products and technologies. I glad that the Council has proven its professional worth in every phase of India‘s growth. introduced economic reforms and joined the WTO. In the early days of Independence. During this time. radiation shielding glasses and components for aerospace and satellites. Science has always commanded the utmost priority of our policymakers. But we were fortunate to have in Jawaharlal Nehru a leader who saw science and technology as an elixir for India‘s development. After India embraced globalization. The Council. Bhatnagar a scientist of extraordinary organizational capacity and caliber to implement this vision of Jawaharlal Nehru. such as India‘s first super computer. the Council also catapulted India as the top generic drug producer. emerging as a credible partner for our strategic sector. has also become a world leader in specific domains of biotechnology and recombinant DNA products. Jawaharlal Nehru placed the Council under his personal charge. the CSIR quickly emerged as the flag bearer of the Intellectual Property movement in our country and became the single largest holder of US and European patents. . When India became a victim of technology denial. Recognizing the potential of scientific research. in recent years. it was a champion of import substitution. rebuilding our industrial base in the face of shortages and resource crunch. and in Dr. He said. conventional scientific disciplines and approaches are proving unequal to dealing with complex developmental challenges. ―Science must think in terms of the 400 million persons in India”. environment and waste management also reflect its awareness of contemporary challenges that our country faces. This is a good initiative and I look forward to early results. New disciplines are emerging at the interface of traditional boundaries. The Council‘s thrust on research and innovation in renewable energy. in water. The newly created Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research promises to train our young scientists and engineers in transdisciplinary skills by tapping into the entire resources and infrastructure of the CSIR fraternity. .I would like to particularly compliment the Council on its unique attempt to make healthcare affordable by exploiting the power of open source drug discovery. I commend the recent CSIR 800 programme which aims at affordable scientific interventions to improve the quality of life of the people at the base of the economic pyramid. In recent times. I am glad that the Council has remained firmly rooted in the social milieu of our country while selecting and implementing projects. As a concept. I am happy to learn that the Council has opened its patent chest for accelerated drug discovery for hitherto neglected diseases like tuberculosis and malaria. the Council must not lose sight of the mandate of science in our country that Jawaharlal Nehru spoke about while addressing the Indian Science Congress in 1947. While we aim for global excellence and competitive advantage for our country in science. this is a global first and the world has turned from skepticism to partnership. therefore. new ecosystems like Innovation Complexes are being created to foster innovation through partnership with industry. I was impressed by the power and potential of public-private partnership in scientific research. The Council has announced policies to encourage scientists to create spin offs and new ventures. Mechanisms have been put in place to identify needs of India‘s industries and to tap bright ideas of the CSIR‘s young talent. I am told that across CSIR laboratories. with all our achievements. As a nation. Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar that led to the establishment of one of the finest scientific institutions of our great country – The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. CSIR. It is also partnering with the National Innovation Council to provide focused technology assistance to small and medium enterprises. we cannot rest on our laurels. Prime Minister’s Speech in the Event ‘Emerging Kerala 2012’ at . engineering and technology. for their devotion to duty and for their aspirations for Indian science. We need to recognize that excellence has not percolated across all our research and academic institutions. young people like many of those gathered here are our nation‘s hope and future. Young scientists must dream big and refuse to despair. I congratulate the awardees for their talent. I would like to remind them of the exemplary determination and selfless patriotism of Dr. while inaugurating a new campus of the Council‘s Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology. It will have to take up national leadership in science. However. we have not succeeded in mobilizing enough private investment into science to raise our investment in scientific research to 2% of GDP. academia and other R&D institutions. will need to devote itself to these national challenges in the years to come.Last week. In this journey. We have not been able to make an impact on a world scale commensurate with our large scientific manpower pool. magnificent cuisine and warm and friendly people. and other distinguished participants from all parts of the world. Dr. who are present with us today. both resident and non-resident. adding value to local production and enhancing exports. the CII and NASSCOM for organizing this mega event Emerging Kerala 2012.Kochi Prime Minister. Kerala has carved a niche for itself in the world of tourism. In many ways Kerala is unique among the States of India. heads of regulatory institutions. economists. Manmohan Singh. . Before I proceed further. Its human resources are of a very high quality. thereby assisting the State in unleashing the vast latent potential of this creative state of Kerala. happiness and sustained prosperity in the coming year. I wish this event all success for this year and also for the coming years. Its social and human development indicators are at par with many developed countries. The State festival of Onam has just passed and I wish all Keralites. Following is the text of the Prime Minister‘s address on the occasion: ―I am delighted to be once again in this beautiful state of Kerala.Global Connect. It could lead to new partnerships that could help in building local capacities boosting local employment. expertise and experience could result in valuable strategic alliances with the potential to open up new and innovative avenues for fulfilling the aspirations of the people. attracting lakhs of domestic and international tourists every year. Because of its breathtaking natural beauty. rich culture heritage. I compliment my friend. This confluence of talent. I am particularly happy that this is not a one-off event but the beginning of a process which would bring together government and corporate leaders. scholars and eminent men and women from various walks of life every two years to find ways and means and explore new pathways to make Kerala a power-house of sustained economic and social development. It has abundant natural resources. inaugurated the event ‗Emerging Kerala-2012–Global Connect‘ in Kochi today. the Chief Minister of Kerala Shri Oommen Chandy and the Government of Kerala. let me extend a very warm welcome to our foreign dignitaries: members of the diplomatic community. We need to build an enabling environment to facilitate such investment in every possible way and I am very pleased to hear the Honourable Chief Minister promise that that is precisely what he is determined to do. When this project is completed. More than 2 million Keralites work outside India. known to go where opportunity lies to find employment.These strengths. The people of this wonderful State are adventurous. It is therefore heartening to know that the Non Resident Keralites are now making investments in the State in projects like hotels. Long before globalization became a buzz-word. Remittances from Non-resident Keralites contribute significantly to the State‘s economy. Our Government is committed to helping and adding to the initiatives of the State government for building an improved industrial infrastructure in the State. set up new enterprises and discover new frontiers. During my visit to the State in February. even before Vasco-da-Gama landed off the coast of Kozhikode in 1498. 2011. in the Gulf countries and elsewhere. This constitutes more than 22% of the GDP of the State. should be leveraged and leveraged optimally to attract investment into the State. Tomorrow I will be laying the foundation stone for the Kochi Metro Rail Project for linking Aluva to Petta. Kerala was connected to the rest of the world. it would transform the face of the commercial capital of the State by easing the burden of traffic congestion. transparent and effective administration to the people. Our Government has approved the project at a cost of over Rs. 5100 crore. The contribution of the Non Resident Keralites can perhaps be said to be the backbone of the economy of Kerala and has been so for the last four decades. A rich history of spice trade gave this beautiful State a global orientation many centuries back. I am sure that initiatives like the present one would help in building a climate favourable to entrepreneurship in this process. And I hope that this conference would find new pathways of doing so. I inaugurated the . hospitals and shopping complexes thereby helping to create physical and social infrastructure and new employment opportunities for the people living in the State. along with the Chief Minister‘s commitment to give a clean. We would like the State to embark on a path of people-focused inclusive and sustainable development. There are several other projects that our UPA government has approved for Kerala in the last few years. and mindful of the environmental concerns. The terminal at Vallarpadam has been planned to make Kochi one of the major trans-shipment points of the world. The UPA government has encouraged and actively supported the efforts of Kerala to grow into a major investment hub. fisheries. I appreciate that the State government under the distinguished leadership of Shri Oomen Chandy is fully alive to the need for rapidly building up infrastructure. These issues have now been resolved. and food processing industries in the State. There were some issues relating to the operationalization of this terminal on account of cabotage and customs operations. which is so essential for rapid industrial growth. . are shaping into institutions of excellence. A mega central sector project for setting up of Liquid Natural Gas Regasification Terminal at Puthuvypeen in Cochin Post Trust is under implementation. and the International Terminal Building at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. it will improve the availability of natural gas for power. transforming it into an economic and logistical hub. Thiruvananthapuram was commissioned in 2007. The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) and the Indian Institute of Space Technology. The Union Cabinet has recently decided to relax the cabotage restrictions particularly for Vallarpadam. We will continue to do so.country‘s first International Container Trans-shipment Terminal at Vallarpadam. We have also set up the Central University in Kasargod. When commissioned. I am now confident that our vision for this historic port will materialize soon and a major portion of India‘s container traffic would flow through this port. The demand for establishing an IIT in this state is under serious consideration of our Government. driven by knowledge and innovation. Labour intensive light manufacturing has a strong comparative advantage in this State and all assistance needs to be given to the small and micro business enterprises. The Brahmos Aerospace. which our UPA government has set up. I inaugurated the Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala in 2009. A Rail Coach Factory has been announced for Palakkad. With these words. I have no doubt in my mind that Kerala will be able to capitalize on its immense resources to emerge stronger as an important investment destination in our country. . I wish the State government and its people all success in their endeavours for building a modern. I have great pleasure in inaugurating the ‗Emerging Kerala-2012-Global Connect‘. industrialised and prosperous Kerala.I would urge the State government to derive maximum possible benefit from initiatives of the Central Government especially the National Skill Development Mission. sanctions relief. PM condoles loss of lives in Rudraparyag cloudburst. This would go a long way in tapping the energies of Kerala's educated manpower. The Prime Minister has expressed deep shock over the loss of lives in the recent cloudburst incidents in Rudraparyag district of Uttarakhand. The Prime Minister has announced an ex-gratia of two lakh rupees to the next of kin of each of the deceased and fifty thousand rupees each those seriously injured. Cloudburst From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search For alternate uses, see Cloudburst (disambiguation). This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (August 2010) A cloudburst is an extreme amount of precipitation, sometimes with hail and thunder, which normally lasts no longer than a few minutes but is capable of creating flood conditions. Colloquially, the term cloudburst may be used to describe any sudden heavy, brief, and usually unforecast rainfall. Contents [hide] 1 Properties 2 Record Cloudbursts 3 Cloudbursts in the Indian subcontinent o 3.1 India 3.2 Pakistan 3.3 Bangladesh 4 See also o o 5 References [edit] Properties Meteorologists say the rain fall rate equal to or greater than 100 mm (3.94 inches) per hour is a cloudburst.[1][2] The associated convective cloud, can extend up to a height of 15 km above the ground.[3] During a cloudburst, more than 20 mm of rain may fall in a few minutes. When there are instances of cloudbursts, the results can be disastrous. Cloudburst also responsible for Flash flood creation. Rapid precipitation from cumulonimbus clouds is possible due to so called Langmuir[disambiguation needed] precipitation process in which large droplets can grow rapidly by coagulating with smaller droplets which fall down slowly. [edit] Record Cloudbursts Duration 1 minute 5.5 Rainfall 1.5 inches (38.10 mm) 2.43 inches Location Barot, India Port Bells, Date 26 November 1970 29 November minutes 15 minutes 20 minutes 40 minutes 1 hour (61.72 mm) 7.8 inches (198.12 mm) 8.1 inches (205.74 mm) 9.25 inches (234.95 mm) 9.84 inches (250 mm) 45.03 inches (1,144 mm) 5.67 inches (144 mm) 7.15 inches (182 mm) 91.69 inches (2,329 mm) Panama Plumb Point, Jamaica 1911 12 May 1916 Curtea-de-Arges, 7 July 1947 Romania Guinea, Virginia, USA 24 August 1906 Leh, Ladakh, India August 5, 2010 [4] Foc-Foc, La Réunion NDA, Pune, India Pashan, Pune, India Ganges Delta, India 13 hours January 8, 1966[5] September 29, 2010 [1] October 4, 2010 [1] 1 hour 1.5 hours 20 hours January 8, 1966[6] [edit] Cloudbursts in the Indian subcontinent In the Indian subcontinent, a cloudburst usually occurs when a pregnant monsoon cloud drifts northwards, from the Bay of Bengal or Arabian Sea across the plains, then onto the Himalaya and bursts, bringing rainfall as high as 75 millimeters per hour.[7] [edit] India On September 28, 1908 - A Cloudburst resulted in a flood where the Musi River was swollen up to 38–45 m. About 15,000 people were killed and around 80,000 houses were destroyed along the banks of this river.[8] In July, 1970 — Cloudburst in the upper catchment area led to a 15 metre rise in the Alaknanda river in Uttarakhand. Entire river basin, from Hanumanchatti near the pilgrimage town of Badrinath to Haridwar was affected. An entire village was swept away.[citation needed] On August 15, 1997, 115 people were killed when a cloud burst came bustling and trail of death are all that is left behind in Chirgaon in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh.[9] On August 17, 1998 — A massive landslide following heavy rain and a cloudburst at Malpa village killed 250 people including 60 Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims in Kali valley of the Kumaon division, Uttarakhand. Among the dead was Odissi dancer Protima Bedi.[citation needed] On July 16, 2003, About 40 persons were killed in flash floods caused by a cloudburst at Shilagarh in Gursa area of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.[10] On July 6, 2004, At least 17 people were killed and 28 injured when three vehicles were swept into the Alaknanda river by heavy landslides triggered by a cloudburst that left nearly 5,000 pilgrims stranded near Badrinath shrine area in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand.[11] On 26 July 2005, A cloudburst caused approximately 950 millimetres (37 in) of rainfall in Mumbai.[12] over a span of eight to ten hours; the deluge completely paralysed India's largest city and financial centre. On August 16, 2007, 52 people were confirmed dead when a severe cloud burst occurred in Bhavi village in Ghanvi, Himachal Pradesh.[13] On August 7, 2009, 38 people were killed in a landslide resulting from a cloudburst in Nachni area near Munsiyari in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.[14] On August 6, 2010, in Leh, a series of cloudbursts left over 1000 persons dead (updated number) and over 400 injured in the frontier Leh town of Ladakh region in Jammu and Kashmir.[6] On September 15, 2010 cloud burst in Almora in Uttrakhand has drowned away two villages one of them being Balta, leaving a few people alive and rest entire village dead and drowned. Almora has been declared as a town suffering from the brunt of cloudburst by authorities of Uttrakhand. Had there been a bit more swaying of clouds, town of Ranikhet must have drowned also.[citation needed] On September 29, 2010, a cloudburst in NDA (National Defence Academy), Khadakwasla, Pune, in Maharashtra state left many injured, hundreds of vehicles and buildings damaged due to this flash flood.[1] Again on October 4, 2010, a cloudburst in Pashan, Pune, in Maharashtra state left 4 dead, many injured, hundreds of vehicles and buildings damaged. The record books as the historical highest rainfall in intensity and quantity of the Pune city recorded since 118 years old (record of 149.1 mm in 24 hours)of October 24, 1892. In the history of IT (Information Technology) hub Pune, first time this flash flood also anable Pune people to for over night stay (sleep) in their vehicle, officies and what ever available shelter in the traffic jam.[1] +++ October 4, 2010, a cloudburst in Pashan, Pune may be the world’s first predicted cloudburst, in well advanced. Since 2.30 pm in the afternoon of the day, a young weather scientist in the city was frantically sending out SMSes to the higher authorities warning of an impending cloudburst over the Pashan area. After taking the necessary precautions still 4 persons were dead including one young scientist+++.[1] On June 9, 2011, near Jammu, a cloudbursts left 4 persons dead and over several injured in Doda-Batote highway, 135 km from Jammu.Two restaurants and many shops were washed away[15] On 20 July 2011, a cloudburst in upper Manali, 18 km away from Manali town in Himachal Pradesh state left 2 dead and 22 missing.[16] On September 15, 2011 a cloudburst was reported in the Palam area of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal-3 was flooded with water at the Arrival due to the immense downpour. Even though no lives were lost in the rain that lasted an hour was enough to enter the record books as the highest rainfall in the city recorded since 1959.[citation needed] On September 14, 2012 in Rudraprayag distirct there was a cloudburst and 39 people died.[17] On Intense rainfalls spell over part of Delhi in the afternoon of 15 Sept 2011: On afternoon of 15 Sept, 2011, intense rainfall spell was observed over IGI Airport of Delhi and Delhi airport had experienced during 1435-1535 a cloud burst like intense rain spell event with rainfall during the period reaching up to 117mm(11.7 cm). Fortunately being not a peak time rush hour and good weather monitoring and warning system in place with ATC, only 1 diverted many were asked to circle around. It is unusual intense spell for Delhi airport. But there was large-scale flooding of road at approach road from RWY underpass of city side of Palm. The rainfall observation during 0830-1730 IST of 15 Sept 2011 recorded at various stations over Delhi region are as follows: Name of Station Rainfall in mm IGI Airport Palam 120.0 Safderjung Airport 35.0 Lodi Road 37.7 Ayanagar 31.8 Delhi Ridge 3.8 The main reason for such intense rainfall over parts of Delhi was interaction of westerly and easterly leading to intense convection. on august 4th 2012 there is a cloudburst in Uttarkhand and Jammu & Kashmir, heavy rain fall and flashing floods. Uttarakhand: 6 killed in landslides, flash floods; pilgrims stranded Cloudburst near Manali washes away 2 bridges: Two bridges and a few electricity poles were washed away in flashfloods triggered by a cloudburst near the Rohtang tunnel in the Solang Nullah area at Dhundi, 30 km from Manali, on Friday night. Fearing flooding, residents of five villages located downstream were moved to a safer place. Landslides block Srinagar-Jammu highway: The Srinagar-Jammu highway was closed on Saturday following landslides in Ramban sector. "Heavy rains triggered landslides in the Ramban sector of the Srinagar-Jammu road Saturday morning 22 people trapped in Jammu flash flood As reported in the Times of India (September 14, 2012),Over a month after a similar tragedy in Uttarkashi, 45 persons were killed on September 14, 2012 and 15 injured while 40 others went missing in a cloudburst that flattened homes in Ukhimath area of Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district. "22 bodies have been recovered until 22:00 hrs IST and 40 persons are still missing," as per Disaster Management and Mitigation Department (DMMD) officials. Ukhimath tehsil and nearby villages like Chunni, Mangoli, Kimana, Sansari, Giriya, Brahmankholi, Premnagar and Juatok have been the worst hit, he said. Most of the people died in sleep as the natural calamity flattened homes in the wee hours.Communication and power lines were disrupted and traffic along several roads, including national highways in the area, was affected. Rishikesh-Badrinath and Rishikesh-Gangotri highways have been closed due to landslips triggered by incessant rains. Expressing shock over the tragedy, Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna asked the District Magistrate to take up relief and rescue operations on a war footing in the affected area and sanctioned Rs 10 crore for the purpose. Prime Minister’s Speech at Kerala Kalamandalam Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh‘s speech at Kerala Kalamandalam in Thrissur today: ―I am very happy to be with you all today. I compliment Kerala Kalamandalam and all those associated with the institution for engaging in the noble work of preserving and promoting the extraordinary rich culture of this beautiful State. The composite and diverse culture of Kerala has been enhanced by the synthesis of a large variety of influences over centuries. From ancient times this blessed land has warmly welcomed travelers and migrants, who have all contributed to the development of its magnificent cultural mosaic. The tradition of religious tolerance and respect for diverse philosophies has greatly aided this process. It is not thus a coincidence that the earliest mosque, church and synagogue in India were all established in this blessed land of Kerala. Kerala rightly boasts of an amazing variety of performing arts. Kutiyattam, the unique Sanskrit theatre and Mudiyettu, the ritual dance drama both find a place in the UNESCO representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Other classical forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam have also been acclaimed across the world. The State is home to an array of folk and tribal art forms. It has developed its own native music system, the Sopanam style of music and has a variety of musical ensembles. Kerala Kalamandalam was founded by the great poet Vallathol Narayana Menon in 1930 and has a special place in the cultural map not only of Kerala but also of the country as a whole. I understand this organization is the first public institution to impart training and organize performances in the traditional performing arts of Kerala, especially Kathakali, Mohiniyattom, Kutiyattom and Thullaal. From its humble beginnings, it has today established itself as a symbol of Indian cultural renaissance and has acclaimed global fame. I congratulate all those who have been associated with the inception and growth of this great institution. I have been told that the Kalamandalam provides training to over 500 students in over fourteen art disciplines. The institution embodies the true Indian cultural essence and spirit by following the Gurukul system of teaching the performing arts. I am very happy that this institution has tie-ups and collaborations with major universities and colleges abroad and shares many cultural exchange programmes with these universities. All these will go a long way in spreading the richness of Indian culture far and wide. As our ambassadors, our artists can very vividly show-case the different strands and hues of our great composite cultural fabric. The proposed museum of South Indian performing arts is expected to lead to a greater and renewed interest in the art and culture of this region. The South Indian canvas is endowed with a wide variety of traditional performing arts, including ritual, folk and classical. Some art forms have vanished unfortunately; while some others need to be protected and supported. The Museum once established will preserve and promote the rich and varied performing arts of the four States of South India. Further it would reinforce India‘s pluralism and harmonised co-existence of diverse cultures and sub-cultures. I am given to understand that this museum would have a state-of-the-art digital library and archiving facilities, besides studios, performance auditoria and research facilities. Let me end by saluting the memory of the great men and women like Vallathol, Tagore and others who have immortalized our glorious heritage of art, dance, drama, music and literature. I once more compliment the Kalamandalam authorities for undertaking the remarkable venture of building a museum of South Indian performing arts. I wish Kerala Kalamandalam and all those associated with this unique institution the very best for the future. Thank you, Jai Hind.‖ PM’s speech at the meeting of the National Board for Wildlife I welcome you all to the 6th Meeting of the National Board for Wildlife. Some new members have joined the Board, and I trust their association with the Board will add value to our efforts to conserve and protect the precious wildlife of India. In the last meeting, several important suggestions were made by members. Many of these issues arise from systemic problems so we need sustained discussion and follow up to address them. There is now a lot on the wildlife agenda of Ministry of Environment and Forests and that is a good thing. I hope that the deliberations today will provide valuable guidance on the way forward in dealing with some of the challenges we face in our conservation efforts. Our efforts to promote and institutionalize wildlife conservation have yielded some results. The coverage of Protected Areas in our country has improved significantly. At present they include 668 national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, tiger reserves, and conservation & community reserves. The increase in the number of Protected Areas carved out from the forest areas identified as potentially rich wildlife habitats is a welcome step. But we have the responsibility to safeguard the livelihoods of local communities dependent on forest resources. Proper utilization of natural resources by promotion and adoption of noninvasive livelihood options can go a long way in supporting socio-economic development of our forest dependent communities, including tribal populations. Management of wildlife in such human dominated landscapes requires an ‗inclusive‘ approach involving the local people, who are primary stakeholders. Voluntary and fair relocation of villages and settlements is crucial for wildlife conservation. Clearly lack of adequate funds for such purposes is an issue. We should assess the experience of using State CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) funds for voluntary relocation from Protected Areas. This is an issue on which further discussions are required with the concerned state governments. One of the issues that has been raised at our meetings is the importance of conserving endangered species other than large mammals like the tiger. As you are aware the government initiated a new Centrally Sponsored Scheme entitled Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats to focus, among other things, on the need to ensure better protection of wildlife outside the protected areas and initiate recovery programmes for saving critically endangered species. I am happy that a number of species have been covered under the scheme including marine life and birds. I would be happy to hear from Members their feedback on the performance of the scheme. The government will try its best to ensure adequate allocations under such schemes aimed at achieving policy objectives related to conservation of wildlife habitats. Along with enhanced allocations, the monitoring mechanism would also need to be strengthened. I would advise that the Ministry of Environment should strengthen its Regional Offices by inducting wildlife experts in these offices not only to field units and forensic labs is under process as is the creation of a national database on wildlife crime and criminals. We are assisting the States in strengthening their anti-poaching operations. I look forward to hearing the views of our members and also the State Governments whose active . To counter this threat we need greater coordination between the intelligence agencies and enforcement agencies. A proposal for expanding the number of regional offices. We had processed a number of amendments to the Act to increase penal provisions and incorporate provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Poaching is a major problem affecting our wildlife conservation efforts. The Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 provides us with the statutory framework for wildlife conservation and it is essential that its provisions keep up with the times. I am happy that the Ministry of Environment & Forests is taking steps to strengthen the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau.monitor the implementation of wildlife schemes. The demand for the body parts and derivatives of wild animals is posing a serious threat to our conservation efforts and these illegal trading networks have cross border linkages. Nepal and Russia for tiger conservation also needs to be intensified to break the nexus between poachers and illegal wildlife markets. but also to ensure strict adherence to conditions of wildlife clearances. International cooperation including our joint efforts with China. These are some of the issues I thought I should dwell upon to kick off today‘s meeting. I extend my best wishes to all of you with the hope that we will have a meaningful discussion today to find ways to further strengthen our wildlife conservation efforts.involvement and effort is crucial to our conservation effort. Statement by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh at the XVI Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement . Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh‘s address delivered today at 16th NAM Summit in Tehran: ―I congratulate His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on assuming the Chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement. Mr. Chairman, India will extend its full cooperation to Iran as it leads the Movement over the next three years. I also express my appreciation to Egypt for its stewardship of the Movement since the last Summit, even though Egypt has been in the midst of profound domestic change. Mr. Chairman, the Non-Aligned Movement, representing the large majority of humankind, has been a powerful force for the promotion of global peace, security and development. Our shared objectives of working together to preserve our strategic space, ensure our social and economic development and strive for a more just and equitable world order remain as true and relevant today as they were in the past. Mr. Chairman, your chosen theme for our Summit – Lasting Peace through Joint Global Governance - is timely. Today‘s structures for global governance remain driven by the power equations of the past. It is not surprising that they have proved inadequate in dealing with the economic and political crises of our present. The deficit in global governance is perhaps most stark in the sphere of international peace and security and in restoring just and fair economic and financial mechanisms. The West Asian and North African region is undergoing profound change. As the world‘s largest democracy, India supports popular aspirations for a democratic and pluralistic order. Nevertheless, such transformations cannot be prompted by external intervention, which exacerbate the suffering of ordinary citizens. The deteriorating situation in Syria is a matter of particular concern. Our Movement should take a stand on the issue in keeping with universally accepted principles. We should urge all parties to recommit themselves to resolving the crisis peacefully through a Syrian-led inclusive political process that can meet the legitimate aspirations of all Syrian citizens. The Non-Aligned Movement has always championed the cause of the Palestinian people. Today, we should renew our pledge to support an early resolution of the Palestinian question, so that the long suffering people of Palestine can live in peace and dignity in a state of their own. Mr. Chairman, in the past, individually we may have had little economic and military clout but the collective voice and reasoned interventions of our Movement commanded respect and credibility. That voice should again find true expression on a variety of issues. We need new instruments of global governance to confront cross-cutting and trans-national challenges through coordinated global action. These include international terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, the menace of maritime piracy, the growing threat to cyber security and the growing challenge of pursuing ecologically sustainable development while ensuring energy, water and food security. Our Movement should take the lead in building global governance structures that are representative, credible and effective. It is my sincere hope that the Movement can agree on action to reform institutions such as the United Nations Security Council, the World Bank and the IMF. Existing problems cannot be solved effectively without a greater voice for developing countries on issues such as global trade, finance and development. Developing countries can be drivers of global growth. International financial institutions should therefore be encouraged to fund infrastructure development in the developing world in innovative ways. We should also urge that the current economic crisis should not lead to a dilution of development assistance flows from the developed world to the developing countries. While we come together on the international stage, it is equally important for us to collaborate among ourselves in tackling problems and developing solutions that are best suited to our own circumstances. For example, the developing world is rich in renewable sources of energy like solar power We should use our financial and intellectual resources to develop renewable energy technologies that get less attention in the industrialised world where the resource base is different. Adoption of these technologies will also enable us to contribute to preservation of the environment. We can learn from each other in this effort. Similarly, food security is a basic problem for many of our countries. Excessive speculation, structural bottlenecks and lack of coordination are fuelling food inflation at the global level. Our Movement should push for effective food policy coordination and cooperation at the global level in areas such as agricultural productivity, weather forecasting and research and development. Perhaps most relevant for us is to focus on investing in the knowledge economy and building our human resources. When faced with our unique developmental challenges, our youth have the creativity and energy to find solutions that are innovative, frugal and affordable. However, we need to provide them skills and equip them to find productive employment in a rapidly changing and inter-connected global economy. India would be happy to contribute to a NAM initiative on skill development, particularly focused on the knowledge economy. Mr. Chairman, the African continent provided the intellectual wellspring for many of the leaders of the Non Aligned Movement. The growth of NAM and decolonization in Africa progressed almost hand in hand. Africa therefore has a special place in NAM. India‘s own strategic partnership with Africa is premised on making the people of Africa its primary beneficiaries. The India-Africa Forum Summit thus provides for an ambitious programme of pan-African institution-building to enhance our multi-faceted cooperation. I invite interested NAM members to work with us in areas of priority to Africa. Nearly two decades ago, India embarked on a ―Look East‖ policy in an endeavour to learn and benefit from and contribute to the evolution of a new Asian economic community to our East. However, the progress, prosperity, well being, political stability and plurality of the Asia to our West has always been of equal historical and civilisational significance for us. A West Asian region that can realize its full potential, live in peace and harmony and join the comity of democratic and plural societies will contribute greatly to human progress and peace in the 21st Century. Mr. Chairman, let me conclude by thanking you for this opportunity to renew our Movement‘s collective endeavour for peace and prosperity which is needed in our troubled planet today. Even as our members have differing views on different issues, our sense of common destiny and solidarity unites us and gives us common purpose. I am certain that our deliberations will be helpful in restoring this historic Movement to its rightful place on the international stage.‖ PM's opening remarks at the All Party meeting on Reservation in promotions Following is the text of Prime Minister‘s opening remarks at the All Party meeting on Reservation in promotions in New Delhi today: ―Dear colleagues, I have called this meeting to discuss the issue of reservation in promotion specifically in respect of the decision of the Supreme Court in the case of U.P. Power Corporation Ltd. vs. Rajesh Kumar & Ors. wherein the Court has struck down provision of reservation in promotion to SCs and STs in the State of UP. You may be aware that the Government had always been committed to protect the interests of the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes and on certain occasions did not hesitate even to bring constitutional amendments. You may recall that the Supreme Court in its judgment dated 16.11.1992 in the case of Indra Sawhney had, inter alia, held that reservation in promotion is ultra vires but allowed its continuation for five years from the date of judgment as a special case. The 77th amendment to the Constitution was made in 1995 inserting clause (4A) to Article 16 before expiry of five year which enabled the Government to continue reservation for SCs and STs in promotion. Clause (4A) of the Constitution was further modified through 85th amendment so as to give benefit of consequential seniority to SC/ST candidates promoted by reservation. The 81st amendment was made to the Constitution whereby clause (4/B) was incorporated in Article 16 of the Constitution which permits to treat the backlog reserved vacancies as a separate and distinct group, to which the limit of 50% may not apply. This enables the Government to launch Special Recruitment Drives to fill up the backlog vacancies reserved for SCs/STs and OBCs. During the Drive of 2004, more than 60,000 backlog reserved vacancies were filled up. The Special Recruitment Drive, 2008 has already resulted in filling up of 43,781 vacancies. The 82nd amendment was made to the Constitution whereby a proviso was incorporated in Article 335 of the Constitution which enabled the State to give relaxations/concessions to the SC and ST candidates in the matter of promotion. The aforesaid four Constitutional amendments were made in order to protect the interests of the backward classes including Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. The validity of all these four Amendments were challenged before the Supreme Court through various writ petitions clubbed together in M. Nagaraj & others vs. Union of India & others mainly on the ground that these altered the basic structure of the Constitution. In order to ensure that the case of Government is put effectively before the Supreme Court, Shri K.Parasaran, an eminent lawyer, having the experience of defending the interests of weaker sections, was engaged with the approval of the then Law Minister. It was through the efforts of the Government that the Supreme Court in its judgment dated 19.10.2006 in the matter of M. Nagaraj & others v. Union of India & others upheld the validity of all these four amendments. However, the Court stipulated that the concerned State will have to show in each case the existence of the compelling reasons, namely, backwardness, inadequacy of representation and overall administrative efficiency before making provision for reservation. The Court further held that the impugned provision is an enabling provision. If the State Government wish to make provision for reservation to SCs and STs in promotion, the State has to collect quantifiable data showing backwardness of the class and inadequacy of representation of that class in public employment in addition to compliance of Article 335. There were some Court cases filed in different states on the ground that the pre-requisite conditions as laid down by the Supreme Courts in M. Nagaraj case have not been observed while providing reservation in promotion. In the recent past the Supreme Court has struck down reservation in promotion in some states. The Government is exploring the possible solution of the current situation. Your suggestions will be of immense help to the Government to decide on the issue. I request you to provide your valuable suggestions so that a legally sustainable solution may be arrived at.‖ Preparations for Monsoon The Central Government has prepared extensive plans to deal with the deficiency in the Monsoon/rainfall in some parts of the country. The Government is in full readiness to address any situation that may arise due to any rainfall anomalies. The Prime Minister has been apprised of the situation and has directed all departments and ministries to co-ordinate efforts with State Governments to meet any eventuality and monitor the situation on a weekly basis. Situation So Far The progress of the Monsoon so far has not allayed earlier concerns. The rainfall deficiency which existed at the end of June has lessened somewhat, but the intensity and spread of rainfall over the next week or so needs to be watched carefully, especially in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan The India Meteorological Department's second stage forecast on 22.6.2012 predicted rainfall over the whole Monsoon season to be normal at 96% of Long Period Average (LPA) with model error of ±4%, but this is now reportedly likely to be around the lower end of the range. As on 15.7.2012, monsoon has covered all parts of the country. The cumulative rainfall for the period from 01.06.2012 to 15.07.2012 is 22% less than the LPA. Rainfall over the four geographical regions of North-West, Central, South Peninsula and East and North-East India for this period has been lower than their LPAs by 33%, 26%. 26% and 10% respectively. Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Saurashtra and Karnataka have till now received low rainfall. On the other hand, the North East region, North Bihar and North Bengal have received and are likely to continue to receive heavy rainfall. The overall figure of 22% deficit can, however, be misleading as the unevenness of distribution and periodicity of rainfall are also factors to be taken into account. The 84 major reservoirs in the country that are being monitored by Central Water Commission have now begun to get filled but the current year storage is still 61% of last year storage and 78% normal ten-year average storage. However the levels in the reservoirs in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan are more than the ten yearly average. The Ministry of Water Resources indicates that there is no real cause for concern as the reservoirs are now getting filled with heavy rains in the foothills of Himalayas, North-East and parts of Southern India. There has been reduction of around eight million hectares in the crop area sown compared to last year. While the reduction in area sown in case of rice could be covered over time, area reduction in coarse cereals is likely to persist. Steps taken: a. Contingency plans have been prepared by the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and shared with the States. These will be rolled out in the areas which continue to receive low rainfall. b. There is sufficient availability of all seeds including of coarse cereals and pulses. In Assam, which is affected by flood, seeds of submergence tolerant varieties are being provided. Similarly, for flood prone North Bihar and West Bengal, sufficient seeds and such varieties are available. c. Suitable advisories regarding fodder availability have been issued in the States by the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries. These include preservation of crop residue that may be used as fodder in the nest season. Sufficient funds for this purpose are available with the State Governments under various schemes. d. Sufficient seeds for various fodder crops such as maize, sorghum and bajra are available and will be made available to the State Governments, as and when required. e. All options for increasing fodder availability under Joint Forest Management Programme will be explored by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. f. Power availability for agricultural purposes will be ensured so that yield of rice is not adversely affected. Unallocated power of approximately 300 MW each is being made available to Punjab, Haryana and UP by the Ministry of Power. This represents about 75% of the total unallocated power available for the Northern Region. In addition, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has been asked to ensure availability of diesel in the States, especially in North West India. g. The need for according the highest priority to drinking water was stressed. The Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation will henceforth be monitoring the status of the affected habitations on a weekly basis, rather than on a fortnightly basis as is presently being done. h. Adequate reservation for drinking water in the reservoirs will be ensured. States have been advised to phase out the release of reservoir water for irrigation in a way that in the event of there being less rainfall later on further requests can be met. i. While the prices of wheat and rice are stable, the prices of sugar, pulses and vegetable are showing an upward trend. A proposal for increase in subsidy for supply of pulses through Public Distribution System to BPL families is being brought before Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. j. Any additional requirement for wages under the MGNREGA scheme will be met by the Department of Rural Development. Rs.12,000 crore have already been released to the States during the current year. States have sufficient funds in hand. Increase in demand for employment has been reported only from a few States so far. The shelf of works to absorb additional labour has been kept ready with the States. k. Sufficient funds to the tune of Rs.4524 crore are currently available under National Disaster Relief Fund. l. An Inter-Ministerial Group under Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation is reviewing the situation on a weekly basis and also holding video conference with the State Governments. PMO pushes for greater private investment in Inland Waterways The PMO has been pushing for greater private investment in inland waterways, an area of considerable importance. Since January, PMO has identified and fast-tracked implementation of key projects in the National Waterways - 1, 2 and 3 (NW - 1,2,3). These are the Varanasi- Haldia stretch of the Ganga (NW-1), the Brahmaputra in Assam (NW-2) and the inland stretch in Kerala (NW-3). Based on the push by PMO, IWAI has moved forward on large scale private investments to transport coal and fertilizer on NW-1, foodgrains and coal on NW-2 and a lot of cargo on NW-3. In order to scale up private investment further, a Committee has now been constituted a Committee under Secretary (Planning) with Secretary (Shipping), DG (IWAI) and a representative of DEA as members. This Committee would undertake a systematic effort to identify new areas for private investment, both in infrastructure and in transportation. It will also identify multiple business models which could then be bid out through concessions. This will be supplemented by designing Model Concession Agreements and other standardised documents for facilitating a rapid scaling up of investment. The committee will assess the investment potential of the sector and come up with approaches and proposals for scaling up private investment in Inland Waterways. It will also suggest mechanisms to have standardised MCAs prepared quickly for possible areas of investment. The potential of Inland Waterways is quite large, if it can be properly conceived and captured. The Rhine and the Danube are lifelines of transport in Europe. And there is no reason why the Allahabad - Haldia stretch (National Waterway - 1) cannot be a river based industrial corridor. Speech of Prime Minister while Releasing MGNREGA Sameeksha . brought out by the Ministry of Rural Development. I am surprised to here from Jairam that concurrent evaluation processes are not in good shape. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme is perhaps the UPA Government‘s most popular and successful flagship programme. So I hope that this programme of looking at programmes in real time will gain momentum. nearly 5. I am very happy to release Mahatma Gandhi NREGA Sameeksha. Shri Jairam Ramesh has written in the ‗Sameeksha‘ that it is perhaps the largest and most ambitious social security and public works programme in the world. I compliment Shri Jairam Ramesh for taking the initiative to reach out to scholars in different parts of our country to apply their minds to analysis of what is being achieved. This is an innovative way of looking at our development programmes. In 2010-11. what is not yet being achieved and what are the gaps in performance. Even if statistics do not tell the whole truth.50 crore families. Manmohan Singh‘s address at the release of MGNREGA Sameeksha today: ―I am very happy to release the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA Sameeksha.Following is the text of the Prime Minister. were provided over 250 crore person-days of work under the . But I would request Montek to apply his mind to making good this deficiency as well. When I was in the Planning Commission long ago I think we had started the programme of concurrent evaluation for a number of programmes of rural development. brought out by the Ministry of Rural Development. I don‘t no why they are languishing if they are at all languishing. what is possible. what are the gaps in our knowledge of what is happening. or nearly one in four rural households. the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA story in numbers is a story worth telling. Dr. All this is not to say that we are fully satisfied with the way the Scheme is working. . Nearly 10 crore bank/post office accounts have been opened and around 80 per cent of Mahatma Gandhi NREGA payments are made through this innovative route. But it is probably true that no welfare scheme in recent memory has caught the imagination of the people as much as Mahatma Gandhi NREGA has. Jairam and Mihir Shah have both pointed to the gaps that need to be fixed.programme. The income support provided under Mahatma Gandhi NREGA has increased the bargaining power of agricultural labour to some extent and it has helped to put a floor under rural poverty as well. The combined effect of expanded agricultural production. The Scheme scores high on inclusiveness. Wages are indexed to protect workers from the ravages of inflation. The share of Scheduled Cast/Scheduled Tribe families in the work has been 51 per cent and that of women 47 per cent. demand for labour from the construction sector and the effect of Mahatma Gandhi NREGA has led to a tightening of the market for agricultural labour and a steady rise in real wages. This is a sharply higher figure than the 90 crore person days of work provided in the first year of the Scheme in 2006-07. But many challenges need to be overcome. Farmers sometimes complain about this. an unprecedented step in the direction of financial inclusion. The average wage per person-day has gone up by 81% since the Scheme‘s inception. But rising demand for labour is the only way to help the landless improve their standard of living. The safety net provided by this Scheme has helped rural India cope with the frequent distress and natural disasters that are their lot. The system has the potential of further development. voluntary organizations have set up help centres to create awareness and provide hand holding services to beneficiaries.Panchayati Raj institutions have to gear themselves to play the central role assigned to them under the Scheme and we have to provide resources to equip the Panchayats to perform these functions effectively. the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA can very well become a ‗silver bullet‘ for India‘s rural renewal. Mahatma Gandhi NREGA‘s potential to revitalize agriculture by creating durable water assets and improving productivity has to be fully exploited. The challenge before policy makers is to design more flexible. one recognizes the enormous complexity of the issue and the large local variations. Through the Management Information System currently used by Mahatma Gandhi NREGA more than 9 crore muster rolls and over 12 crore job cards have been placed online. Mahatma Gandhi NREGA is also a pioneering scheme for e-delivery of services and increased transparency. In Rajasthan. Going through some of the studies. If these local bodies can rise to the challenge. the main provisions of the Scheme are being displayed on the walls of Gram Panchayats. The Sameeksha shows how local initiatives are helping to tackle these issues. Spreading awareness and engendering a sense of commitment and participation among beneficiaries are important goals. In Jharkhand. . scientific and community based approaches that encourage implementing agencies to be innovative and responsive to local needs and circumstances. And this is the direction in which we must move and move fast enough. including through the use of mobile communication technologies. Similar voluntary initiatives could help Gram Sabhas as well. It offers the promise of being a spearhead of rural transformation that spins off positive impulses in agriculture. community development. This directly addresses the issue of delayed payments and should be replicated elsewhere. security and opportunity to millions of our marginalized citizens. post offices and government officials. One study concludes that a silent revolution is taking place among rural women due to the Scheme. This has done wonders for their self-confidence and given them a greater say in financial matters of the household. whether related to management of funds and resources. implementing agencies and civil society enable more such independent evaluations. I am hopeful that the new Operational Guidelines that . I think better results would be in the offing. These are only a few of the many issues that the anthology throws up. I hope policy makers. The Mahatma Gandhi NREGA offers the promise of entitlement. sustainable livelihood creation. public representatives. water management and sanitation. Wage disparities are being reduced and women are coming out more in the public sphere to take up work and interact with banks. The section on gender empowerment is particularly heartening. The Sameeksha has a lot of food for thought on where we stand six years since we launched this historic Scheme. convergence of the scheme with rural livelihoods or making the Act work in Left Wing Extremism affected districts. empowerment. which should become a normal part of our review and evaluation process.I am encouraged to learn that in Andhra Pradesh data entry is in real time and pay orders for wage payments are generated online. And as Mihir said there is a problem in this area and sooner we tackle this problem of delayed payments. Dr Mihir Shah and many others including Dr. In conclusion. I compliment Shri Jairam Ramesh and his colleagues in the Ministry. Ram Manohar Reddy who have put their heart and soul into the success of Mahatma Gandhi NREGA.will be issued by the Ministry of Rural Development will address some of the issues that have been brought out in the studies.‖ Constitution of an Expert Committee on GAAR(General Anti avoidance rules) to undertake stakeholder consultations to finalise the guidelines for GAAR . With this in view. This consultation was done by invitation. Parthasarathi Shome . For this purpose. D/o Revenue put the draft guidelines on the web.Member 5. b) Subsequently. the Prime Minister has constituted this Expert Committee which will bring transparency and a high degree of technical expertise to the consultation process. Department of Revenue . While postponing GAAR by one year to 2013 was a very welcome move. former Chairman. Some steps have been taken in this direction: a) Department of Revenue undertook some consultations with stakeholders before finalising a first draft set of guidelines.Member 4) Shri Sunil Gupta. 2. an Expert Committee on GAAR has been constituted consisting of: 1) Dr. The Terms of Reference of the Committee will be to: .Chairman 2) Shri N.The Prime Minister has approved the constitution of an Expert Committee on GAAR to undertake stakeholder consultations and finalise the guidelines for GAAR. This committee would manage the consultation process and finalise the draft GAAR Guidelines. Tax Policy & Legislation. a need was felt for far more widespread consultations. a widespread consultative process is necessary to generate a discussion on GAAR provisions so that there is an informed debate on how GAAR is going to operate. While these steps are good in themselves. NIPFP . This was widely welcomed as it lifted the veil on the GAAR Guidelines. Rangachary. 3. 4. Ajay Shah. Joint Secretary. There is a need to have greater clarity on many other fronts. Professor. at PM's behest. IRDA Member 3) Dr. iii) Undertake widespread consultations on the second draft GAAR guidelines iv) Finalise the GAAR guidelines and a roadmap for implementation and submit these to the government.i) Receive comments from stakeholders and the general public on the draft GAAR guidelines which have been published by the Government on its website. The Department of Revenue will provide all necessary support to the Expert Committee to facilitate its work including office assistance and assistance to facilitate consultations. ii) Vet and rework the guidelines based on this feedback and publish the second draft of the GAAR guidelines for comments and consultations. 7. 6. Prime Minister’s Speech at UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Institute for South Asia Regional Cooperation. Puducherry . The Committee will work to the following time schedule: i) Receive comments from stakeholders and general public till end-July 2012 ii) Vet and rework the guidelines based on this feedback and publish the second draft GAAR guidelines by 31 August 2012 iii) Finalise the GAAR guidelines and a roadmap for implementation and submit these to the government by 30 September 2012. his companion of many years and Trustee of the South Asia Foundation. The South Asia Foundation seeks to promote regional cooperation through the UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Institutions of Excellence that have been established in various countries of South Asia. I was delighted to learn that very soon Myanmar will also have a chapter of the Foundation. In a few weeks from now we will celebrate the 65th anniversary of India's Independence. I commend the University of Pondicherry for hosting a centre that will focus on South Asia studies. This Institute in Puducherry was set up as one of the centres of excellence nearly three years ago. six of whom are present here in Puducherry. Each of the chapters is headed by an eminent personality from that country. not only of big sub-continent of ours. but also those in other parts of Asia and Africa. Shri Singh set up the South Asia Foundation to provide a platform for wellmeaning men and women from all the countries of our region to contribute their might to the vision of a progressive South Asia. Whenever I meet South Asians from different walks of life. I request her to convey to Madanjeet our felicitations and good wishes for a speedy recovery to normal health. I am sorry that ill health has stood in the way of Shri Madanjeet Singh being with us this evening. In the year 2000. As a young man. The struggle for freedom from colonial rule was infused with high sense of idealism that joined together the people. we have so few of them! I have often felt that the citizens of South Asia have to start communicating and understanding each other through direct contact rather than through western academic constructs or prisms. I extend a warm welcome to Madame France Marquet. Dr. Madanjeet Singh witnessed with his own eyes the trauma and horror of partition as did many of us of that generation. The South Asia Foundation provides . I was in Myanmar recently and was impressed by the enthusiasm and interest of the people of Myanmar to strengthen and promote links with other countries of South Asia. I extend a very warm welcome to each of the distinguished citizens of South Asia. I can think of no other individual who has invested more to achieve these cherished goals than my friend Madanjeet Singh. It is ironic that many universities in the West have chairs or centres that focus on South Asia but here in our own region.Following is the text of the Prime Minister. Manmohan Singh‘s address at the UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Institute for South Asia Regional Cooperation in Puducherry today: It is a pleasure for me to be here at the UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Institute for South Asia Regional Cooperation for peace and development. But the euphoria and excitement of freedom was tempered by the human tragedy that accompanied it. they always speak of their desire to see our countries live together in peace and work together for our common progress. ‖ In conceiving of and realizing the UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Institute for South Asia Regional Cooperation. I sincerely hope that the leaders of Europe will find in them the imagination and wisdom to preserve the European project that has served as a guiding light to regional cooperation elsewhere in the world. including South Asia. The financial and economic crisis that has gripped Europe in recent years has many important lessons and implications for us. energy and water security. we have not been ambitious enough in working towards building a united South Asia where each of our countries seeks its economic and social salvation through cooperative development within the region and by leveraging each other‘s strengths. The South Asia University has started its work and will soon have its own fullfledged campus just outside Delhi. We however need to cooperate more closely to critically understand issues relating to food. The economic and political rise of post-War Europe was in no small measure due to the vision of thinkers like George Marshall and Jean Monnet. I am happy that important initiatives that symbolize the idea of South Asia are taking shape. Madanjeet Singh has given us an institution that I am confident will stand the test of time and provide a valuable service in our common goal of building a better and closer South Asia. If anything. prosperous and united Europe was good for the world. The world is passing through troubled times. India stands fully committed to building a better-connected SAARC as a strong and effective instrument for regional cooperation. India is fully committed to the idea of SAARC. Since I mentioned Jean Monnet earlier in my remarks. We have many men and women of talent and creativity among us. I am reminded that he once wrote: ―Nothing is possible without men. disaster management health and education and address these issues from a holistic and regional perspective. They believed that a stable. In recent Summit meetings. The events in the Euro zone should not cast a shadow over our own efforts at building unity and eventually a South Asian union. but nothing is lasting without institutions.an excellent platform for doing precisely this. I have found a genuine desire among South Asian leaders to write a new chapter in the history of this organization. The SAARC Development Fund has become operational and has started implementing projects under its social window. That is as true today as it was then.‖ PMO writes to Anna Hazare addressing the issues raised by him . Connectivity is also still lagging far behind where it should be. They should pool their wisdom and work to remove the mental and other roadblocks that are preventing the people of South Asia from realizing their true destiny. both legislative and executive. Independent agencies have been commissioned to assess the quantum of black money and make recommendations. the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act and amendment to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act have been passed. In fact. many suggestions have been accepted by the Government in the course of the discussions on the Bill and two all-party meetings have been held in an effort to build consensus. India has also ratified the United Nations Convention against Corruption. To this end.Dear Shri Anna Hazare. Government is of the opinion that Parliament has to take a final view on the Bill and the passage of the Bill should be a Parliament-led process. These are being implemented by the various Ministries and a monitoring mechanism has been set up to track progress. New Income Tax Overseas Units have been set up and new Tax Information Exchange Agreements and Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements . the Prevention of Bribery of Foreign Public Officials and Officials of International Organisations Bill. A comprehensive public procurement law has been approved by the Cabinet. This refers to the letter dated 26. To fight the menace of black money. This Bill has been prepared after extensive discussions with you and your colleagues and all suggestions that were considered to be feasible have been incorporated. In addition to the Lokpal Bill. I have been directed to make the following submissions to the issues raised: The Government has tabled a strong Lokpal Bill in Parliament which has features that are more progressive than in any Bill tabled before. Government is open to suggestions from all parties. Government has taken a slew of measures. The Bill has now been referred to a Select Committee which will be open to receive and examine all relevant suggestions. A special committee has been set up to examine measures to strengthen laws to curb black money generation.2012 addressed to the Prime Minister purported to have been signed by you and several others. The Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Persons Making the Disclosure Bill. the Citizens' Right to Grievance Redress Bill and the Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill have been brought forward.5. This Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha. The National Mission for Delivery of Justice and Legal Reforms has been set up. A Group of Ministers set up by the Government to consider measures to tackle corruption has approved a large number of measures as given in the annexure. to curb and reduce corruption. The tone and tenor of your letter and the broad and sweeping nature of the statements made are also unacceptable. CAG and CBDT continue to function independently as per their mandates. the term of this Government has been especially marked by zero interference in the functioning of these agencies. in exercise of the powers vested in it. CAG has functioned in an unfettered way in conducting audit of various departments. When it is tabled. ED. CAG etc.html. The final report of the CAG has not yet been tabled in Parliament. the Government will submit detailed responses before the Public Accounts Committee as per Constitutional procedure. on measures to bring greater probity in governance and public life. The Government is committed to make all efforts to reduce corruption and bring in greater transparency. .nic. CBI will carry out the enquiry fairly and independently. has recently directed the CBI to carry out a Preliminary Enquiry on a complaint on coal block allocations filed by an Opposition MP and some others.in/welcome. Agencies like CBI. As regards the allegations made against the Prime Minister. High Court. is not only vague but unacceptable. including the one represented by you. they seem to be based on a leaked draft of the CAG on coal block allocations and on media stories. Your insinuations and allegations against the CBI are unwarranted and unjustified.have been signed to contain generation and outflow of illicit funds. All decisions were taken in public interest on the basis of legal provisions and relevant policy in force. The Government continues to welcome suggestions from all segments of civil society. The Government is also determined to ensure that baseless and uninformed allegations made against public servants are not allowed to create fear that can lead to paralysis in decision-making and slow down growth and development. All details of the policy and procedures followed for coal block allocations have been placed in the public domain by the Coal Ministry and can be seen by all by going to the link http://coal. You have provided no evidence to back up these allegations and you have yourself said that you are not making these allegations. In fact. It is also understood that the CVC. I must regret that your statement that "top most institutions of the country like the Supreme Court. We have noted from your letter that you have previously addressed communications to all the Ministers conveying the allegations made against them for their views. have leveled these allegations [against the Ministers] from time to time". . There is no provision under law to subject anyone to twice the penalty allowed under the relevant law. Finally. as also the terms of reference suggested by you. Having regard to the fact that the existing legal and statutory framework has adequate and sufficient provisions for addressing the issues raised by you. with regard to the special fast track courts suggested by you to deal with cases of allegedly tainted MPs. · Competent authority to decide within 3 months all requests for granting/denying permission under Section 6(a) of DSPE Act. As regards allegations leveled against what you have termed as 'team Anna'. Shri Mulayam Singh and the CBI and an insult to the judicial system. 1946.Your demand for the constitution of a Special Investigation Team has been considered. The allegation that an understanding has been reached by the Government with Shri Mulayam Singh to hush up ongoing CBI enquiries is baseless and untrue. these too would be subject to due investigation by concerned agencies if and when reports are filed. The competent authority for officers of the level of JS and above in GoI will be the Minister-in-Charge. (These are awaiting political consensus). Annexure Key measures approved by the GoM to tackle corruption > · Fast-tracking of all cases of public servants accused of corruption – Competent authority to take decision within 3 months on requests from investigating agencies for sanction of prosecution (orders issued since). > · Electoral Reforms – Ministry of Law & Justice directed to come up with specific proposals for initiating reforms expeditiously. (orders issued since). the matter has been considered but cannot be acceded to since Government and the judiciary both monitor the pendency of cases in various courts. your demand cannot be acceded to. It is unfair to the Government. > · Relinquishing discretionary powers enjoyed by Ministers at the CentreDoPT directed to issue a general advisory to all Ministries/Depts. to carry out an exercise for putting in place regulatory parameters for exercise of discretionary powers and putting them in public domain. PM's statement at the Plenary of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development Summit . DEA directed to monitor the implementation of the same by the respective Ministries/Depts. (instructions since issued by DoPT). > · Introduction of an open and competitive system of exploiting natural resourcesMost of the recommendations of the Ashok Chawla Committee accepted. Sustainable development also mandates the efficient use of available natural resources. Economic activity invariably results in negative spinoffs. We thank the people of Brazil for their warm hospitality and the excellent arrangements made for this conference. Brazil. Environmental sustainability is the third leg of the sustainable development architecture. promoting energy efficiency and a shift to cleaner energy sources by addressing various technological. while. financial and institutional constraints. A key area of focus is energy. The task before us is to give practical shape and content to this architecture in a manner that allows each country to develop according to its own national priorities and circumstances. social inclusion and environmental sustainability are all equally critical as components of sustainable development. Difficult though it may seem. Local pollution can be regulated and such regulation may impose costs on various economic actors. The 1992 Rio Summit correctly acknowledged that poverty eradication must remain the over-riding priority for developing countries. The Rio+20 Summit on Sustainable Development is timely because it focuses our minds on "the future we want" and how to realize it. current consumption patterns in the industrialized world are unsustainable. We have to be much more frugal in the way we use natural resources. Economic Development. We meet at a time of serious economic crisis and political ferment in the world. particularly women and children. we are implementing an ambitious National Solar Mission as a critical option for our energy security. water and forests are used. at the same time. We have to promote. We need to find new pathways for sustainable living. we have to summon the imagination to balance the costs that we will incur in the present with the benefits that will accrue to future generations. is a confluence of cultures and peoples. For developing countries. or by way of global effects such as Greenhouse Gas emissions. We need to tackle both. inclusive growth and a rapid increase in per capita income levels are development imperatives. In India. I feel honoured to be among you. either by way of local pollution. there may be a case for targeted assistance to small producers to meet part of these costs and this should be built into policy. like India.being of millions of people living on the edges of subsistence.Let me begin by congratulating President Dilma Rousseff for hosting this conference and for her outstanding stewardship of the negotiations. To ensure equity. Those living at the subsistence level cannot bear the costs of adjustment and their livelihood considerations are important in determining how scarce natural resources such as land. universal access to energy. . Moreover. The severe deterioration of land and water resources is already affecting the well. Let us work together to attain the future that we all desire. The future we want should be a future in which there is ecological and economic space for sustainable growth for all. there is little evidence of support from the industrialised countries in these areas. Many countries could do more if additional finance and technology were available. We look forward to working with the global community to make it a success. I am happy we have reaffirmed this principle as well as the principle of equity during this Summit This does not. One of the key challenges that demands urgent global action is the worrying depletion of biodiversity across our planet. The Eleventh Conference of Parties on Convention on Biodiversity is being hosted by India in October this year at Hyderabad.At the global level. our emissions-GDP intensity. our approach to the problem should be guided by equitable burden sharing. has declined nearly 25%. Unfortunately. excluding agriculture. In India. Over the period 1994-2007. It is for this reason that the first Rio Summit enshrined the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. however. Looking ahead. our efforts over the last two decades have yielded positive results. mean that countries should not take proactive actions to promote sustainable development. With these words I once again thank you Mr President. Third Meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority . The ongoing economic crisis has made matters worse. we have set a target to further reduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 20-25% between 2005 and 2020. Prime Minister Dr. civil society and industry should work together to make a success of this important national endeavour. we must together show a renewed and sincere commitment in both thought and action to make a definite change in the situation. Following is the text of Prime Minister’s opening remarks: “I am happy to be present here today at the 3rd meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority. Manmohan Singh chaired the meeting of National Ganga River Basin Authority in New Delhi today. the Ganga basin States. Friends. I extend a very warm welcome to you all. We must find the right balance between the need for environmental and ecological conservation of the Ganga and its basin on the one hand and the imperatives of growth and development on the other. Therefore. We should remember that our efforts in the past have not been very successful. industrialisation and population are not only polluting the Ganga waters. but also threatening its ecological and hydrological . I commit the Government of India to work purposefully in this direction as a top priority. The Centre. Increasing urbanisation. The National Ganga River Basin Authority was set up as a high level body that would give focussed attention to fulfilling our sacred and solemn duty to restore the pristine glory of the Ganga and preserve its riches for future generations. The existing infrastructure has a . The consortium has already submitted five initial reports. should meet the test of scientific reasoning and be a rational and practical approach that addresses the views and concerns of all stakeholders. we should take certain urgent measures that are required anyway or which would be difficult to take later on. Time is not on our side and we have to act quickly. the Ministry of Environment and Forests commissioned a consortium of seven IITs to prepare a comprehensive River Basin Management Plan for the Ganga. Added to this are the spectre of climate change and melting of glaciers that are also likely to affect the flows of the river adversely.viability. First is on the issue of untreated sewage. This Plan would recommend comprehensive measures to restore and maintain the ecological health of the river giving due regard to the competing water uses and the necessity of a paradigm shift in the manner in which we exploit land. whatever we do should not be piecemeal. This Plan will be the basis for the NGRBAs long term Action Plan to deal with the multiple challenges we face in the task of cleaning the Ganga and maintaining its flows. We will have to pool our intellectual and physical resources in a coordinated and coherent manner if we are to rise to this challenge.900 million litres of sewage is discharged into the main stream of the river Ganga from municipal towns located along its banks. water and other natural resources in the Ganga basin. While we await this comprehensive study and plan of action. At the same time. I urge them to carry on their work expeditiously and with due diligence. In order to formulate long term policies and actions. Every day about 2. The task before us is therefore a highly complex one. We can then decide what concrete steps are necessary to attend to some of the institutional. I would request the Chief Ministers to make an assessment of the situation with regard to both untreated sewage and industrial pollution and present a report to the NRGBA on the situation in their respective States. I would urge the States to send appropriate proposals for new projects. The second issue is with regard to industrial pollution. Though they are only 20% of the total volume of effluents. I would request the State Governments to strengthen the relevant enforcement mechanisms. Most of the waste water comes from tanneries. The State Pollution Control Boards are required to monitor compliance of effluent discharge standards by such industries.capacity to treat only 1. distilleries. paper mills and sugar mills along the banks of the Ganga.100 million litres per day. The Central government is examining some easing of the funding norms for O&M works. There is adequate funding available to create additional treatment facilities under the National Mission Clean Ganga. Many of the things that we could do are self evident and do not require detailed scientific studies. The performance of the States with regard to the operation and maintenance of the existing sewage treatment plants has been tardy. States should earmark adequate resources and give priority to capacity building of urban local bodies. Action must be taken against the defaulting industries by the State Boards under the powers delegated to them by the Central Government. leaving a huge deficit. administrative and financial problems that may be coming in the way of more effective implementation of pollution control and abatement measures. . There is under-utilisation of this infrastructure. particularly in the absence of connecting sewerage networks such as branch sewers and house sewer connections. industrial effluents are a cause for major concern because they are toxic and non-biodegradable. This must necessarily involve a number of steps. The IIT Roorkee report stated that the environmental flow requirement or EFR depends on the stage of development of the area and the societal requirement. 2600 crore have been sanctioned so far under the NGRBA in the States of Uttar Pradesh. river cross sections and assessment of impact on biotic life as a result of reduced discharge on commissioned hydropower projects and consultation with the local community. There is also the complex problem of tackling water use by hydel projects in the upper reaches. A third area that warrants immediate action and attention is the need to maintain the ecological flow of the Ganga. Separately.I urge all the concerned State Governments to make full use of the resources that are available with the NRGBA. starting with the upper reaches of the river. State Governments and urban local bodies should promote water conservation and recycling of treated waste water. These studies had worked out certain desirable ecological flows. There is a need to promote efficient irrigation practices as a large amount of water from the Ganga is drawn through the canal systems in the upper reaches for agricultural use. community toilets and development of river fronts. Bihar and West Bengal for creating sewer networks. The same report recommended that exact values of EFR for every single project for implementation should be established after carrying out detailed measurements of discharge. The Government of India had commissioned a study conducted by IIT Roorkee on the assessment of cumulative impact of hydropower projects in Alaknanda and Bhagirathi Basins up to Devprayag. sewage pumping stations. Uttarakhand. The issue of environmental flow requirement as studied and recommended by the IIT Roorkee Committee as well as the minimum flow required to sustain riverine ecology recommended by the Wildlife Institute of India. the Wildlife Institute of India had also made an assessment of cumulative impact of hydroelectric projects on aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi basins in Uttarakhand. should be . sewage treatment plants. electric crematoria. Projects with an outlay of more than Rs. irrigation use and running of hydel projects that will ensure uninterrupted flow of the river Ganga. I look forward to a constructive and purposeful discussion. We should use the IIT Roorkee and Wildlife Institute of India studies to guide what actions we need to take pending formulation of a long term policy. The group should look holistically at the various options available and recommend broad principles and actions that need to be taken with regard to conservation. including the concerned State Governments. Thank you.examined by a multi-disciplinary group.” Seoul Nuclear Security Summit Communique . Based on the recommendations of the group. we will draw up and implement a road map for further actions that we need to take. economic. such as the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM). consistent with their respective national and internationa obligations. At this Seoul Summit. and the Internationa Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSANT). we consider that sustained efforts are required to address the issues of nuclear safety and nuclear security in a coherent manner that will help ensure the safe and secure peaceful uses of nuclear energy. We urge states in a position to do so to accelerate their domestic approval o the 2005 Amendment to the CPPNM. we also all share the objective of nuclear security. and nuclear facilities under their control. criminals. 2012. and welcome the extension of its . and encourage States to promote cooperation with and outreach activities to international partners. the leaders.We. supporting our joint call to secure all vulnerable nuclear material in four years. and preventing terrorists. nuclear nonproliferation and peaceful uses of nuclea energy. We recognize the importance of multilateral instruments that address nuclear security. Committed to seeking a safer world for all. we agree that we will make every possible effort to achieve further progress in the following important areas. Noting the essential role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in facilitating internationa cooperation and supporting the efforts of States to fulfill their nuclear security responsibilities. which includes nuclear materials used in nuclear weapons. Nuclear terrorism continues to be one of the most challenging threats to international security Defeating this threat requires strong national measures and international cooperation given its potential globa political. We reaffirm that measures to strengthen nuclear security will not hamper the rights of States to develop and utilize nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. In this regard. We recognize that the Nuclear Security Summit is a valuable process at the highest political level. We will continue to use the Washington Communiqué and Work Plan as a basis for our future work in advancing our nuclear security objectives. to maintain effective security of all nuclear material. as amended. We reaffirm our shared goals of nuclear disarmament. or other unauthorized actors from acquiring nuclea materials. support the UN Security Counci Resolutions 1540 and 1977 in strengthening global nuclear security. social. and to prevent non-state actors from acquiring such materials and from obtaining information or technology required to use them for malicious purposes. seeking to bring the Amendment into force by 2014. renew the political commitments generated from the 2010 Washington Nuclear Security Summit to work toward strengthening nuclear security. Global Nuclear Security Architecture 1. reducing the threa of nuclear terrorism. and psychological consequences. gathered in Seoul on March 26-27. we further stress the importance of regional and international cooperation. We acknowledge the important role of the United Nations (UN) in promoting nuclear security. We likewise recognize the fundamental responsibility of States to maintain effective security of other radioactive materials. Noting the Fukushima accident of March 2011 and the nexus between nuclear security and nuclear safety. We stress the fundamental responsibility of States. we welcome the substantive progress being made on the political commitments of Participating States since the Washington Summit. We therefore encourage the universa adherence to these Conventions. Taking into account that radioactive sources are widely used and can be vulnerable to malicious acts. academia. reflect into national practices relevant IAEA Nuclear Security Series documents. Nuclear Materials 4. medical. we urge States to secure these materials. as well as in -kind contributions. we reemphasize the importance of appropriately securing. within their respective mandates and memberships. We recognize that the development. 5. and in this regard. Recognizing that highly enriched uranium (HEU) and separated plutonium require special precautions. We recognize the contributions since the 2010 Summit of international initiatives and processes such as the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism (GICNT) and Global Partnership against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction. accounting for and consolidating these materials. and encourage States in a position to do so. To this end. 2. where technically and economically feasible. Radioactive Sources 6. agricultural and research applications. taking into account the need for assured supplies of medical isotopes. we encourage States in a position to do so and the nuclear industry to increase voluntary contributions to the IAEA‘s Nuclear Security Fund. We also encourage States to consider the safe.mandate. We welcome the wide participation in the GICNT and the Global Partnership and value its extension beyond 2012. Noting the importance of strengthening coordination and complementarity among nuclear security activities. and reflect them into nationa practice. secure and timely removal and disposition of nuclear materials from facilities no longer using them. and . We will work to ensure that the IAEA continues to have the appropriate structure. by the end of 2013. institutes and civil society that promote nuclear security. national efforts to establish and enhance nuclear security infrastructure through its various support programs. and encourage States to make use of these IAEA resources.5) document and related Nuclear Security Series documents. we encourage States in a position to do so to continue to work towards the process of ratifying or acceding to the ICSANT. Role of the IAEA 3. within the framework of the IAEA. to announce voluntary specific actions intended to minimize the use of HEU. and recognize the value of the IAEA Nuclear Security Plan 2010-2013. We also encourage continued IAEA activities to assist. We also encourage States to promote the use of LEU fuels and targets in commercial applications such as isotope production. We encourage States to take measures to minimize the use of HEU. resources and expertise needed to suppor the implementation of nuclear security objectives. We welcome contributions from the industry. while bearing in mind their uses in industrial. of options for national policies on HEU management will advance nuclear security objectives. we welcome the proposal of the IAEA to organize an international conference in 2013. as appropriate. We will strive to use the IAEA Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and Nuclear Facilities (INFCIRC/225/Rev. the IAEA Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources and its supplementary document on the IAEA Guidance on the Import and Export of Radioactive Sources. upon request. welcome relevant international cooperation on high-density LEU fuel to support the conversion of research and tes reactors. including through the conversion of reactors from highly enriched to low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel. and consistent with national security considerations and development objectives. We reaffirm the essential responsibility and central role of the IAEA in strengthening the international nuclea security framework. To this end. Noting that the security of nuclear and other radioactive materials also includes spent nuclea fuel and radioactive waste. Combating Illicit Trafficking 9. detect. implemented and managed in nuclear facilities in a coherent and synergistic manner. respond to and prosecute illici nuclear trafficking. Recognizing the importance of a national layered defense against the loss or theft of nuclear and other radioactive materials. We also commit to work closely with the IAEA to encourage cooperation on advanced technologies and systems. In this regard. consistent with national laws and regulations. We will work to enhance technica capabilities in the field of national inspection and detection of nuclear and other radioactive materials at the borders. Noting that several countries have passed export control laws to regulate nuclear transfers. Nuclear Forensics 10. In this regard. Transportation Security 8. We also affirm the need to maintain effective emergency preparedness. and provide technical assistance to States upon their request. as appropriate and consistent with national laws. intelligence and financial tools to effectively prosecute offenses. response and mitigation capabilities in a manner tha addresses both nuclear security and nuclear safety. we welcome the efforts of the IAEA to organize meetings to provide relevant recommendations on the interface between nuclear security and nuclea safety so that neither security nor safety is compromised. where required. we encourage States to consider establishing appropriate plans for the management of these materials. and encourage States to share best practices and cooperate in acquiring the necessary technologies to this end. we encourage States to participate in the IAEA Illici Trafficking Database program and to provide necessary information relating to nuclear and other radioactive materials outside of regulatory control. Acknowledging that safety measures and security measures have in common the aim of protecting human life and health and the environment. held in New York on 22 September 2011. In addition we encourage continued national efforts and international cooperation to recover lost. we encourage the establishment of effective national nuclea material inventory management and domestic tracking mechanisms. that enable States to take appropriate measures to recover lost and stolen materials. We will work to strengthen cooperation among States and encourage them to share information. In addition. including through INTERPOL‘s Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Unit and the World Customs Organization. consistent with national regulations. We underscore the need to develop national capabilities to prevent. Nuclear Security and Safety 7. We will continue efforts to enhance the security of nuclear and other radioactive materials while in domestic and international transport. We recognize that nuclear forensics can be an effective tool in determining the origin of detected nuclea and other radioactive materials and in providing evidence for the prosecution of acts of illicit trafficking and . share best practices on the management of radioactive sources. we encourage further utilization of legal. on individuals involved in trafficking offenses o nuclear and other radioactive materials. we encourage action-oriented coordination among national capacities to combat illicit trafficking. missing or stolen sources and to maintain control over disused sources. We also welcome the convening of the High Leve Meeting on Nuclear Safety and Security initiated by the UN Secretary-General. we affirm that nuclear security and nuclear safety measures should be designed.establish national registers of high-activity radioactive sources where required. and multilateral level. we welcome the intent by the IAEA to continue to lead efforts to assist States. they may combine the skills of both traditional and nuclear forensics through the development of a common set of definitions and standards undertake research and share information and best practices. we encourage States to work with one another. to support relevan capacity building projects. we encourage the international community to increase international cooperation and to provide assistance. and to enhance cyber security measures concerning nuclear facilities. We encourage all States to enhance their physical protection of and accounting system for nuclea materials. to develop and enhance nuclear forensics capabilities. to countries in need on a bilateral. engage with scientific industrial and academic communities in the pursuit of common solutions. At the national level. We also reaffirm the need for various public diplomacy and outreach efforts to enhance public awareness of actions taken and capacities built to address threats to nuclear security. as appropriate. we encourage all stakeholders including the government. and support the IAEA in producing and disseminating improved guidance on protecting information. In particular. as well as with the IAEA. we welcome the establishment of Centers of Excellence and other nuclear security training and support centers since the Washington Summit. consisten with the IAEA General Conference Resolution on Nuclear Security(GC(55)/Res/10) and bearing in mind the International Telecommunication Union Resolution 174. non-governmental organizations and the media. academia. including information on the procedures and protocols to protect nuclear materials and facilities. We welcome the information on the progress made in the field of nuclear security since the Washington Summit provided by the participants at this Seoul Summit . upon request. to fully commit to enhancing security culture and to maintain robust communication and coordination o activities. regional. and encourage the establishment of new centers. International Cooperation 13. Information Security 12. or to disrupt information technology based control systems at nuclear facilities. We also encourage States to: promote a security culture that emphasizes the need to protect nuclear security related information. technology o expertise required to acquire or use nuclear materials for malicious purposes. regulatory bodies. emergency preparedness and response capabilities and relevant legal and regulatory framework.malicious uses. We also encourage States to promote human resource development through education and training In this regard. We recognize the importance of preventing non-state actors from obtaining information. We therefore encourage States to: continue to develop and strengthen national and facility-level measures for the effective management of such information. Furthermore we welcome the effort by the IAEA to promote networking among such centers to share experience and lessons learned and to optimize available resources. Nuclear Security Culture 11. We also underscore the importance of international cooperation both in technology and human resource development to advance nuclear forensics. In this regard. as appropriate. We also note the holding of the Nuclear Industry Summi and the Nuclear Security Symposium on the eve of the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit. including the threat of nuclear terrorism. In this context. industry. we encourage States to share best practices and build national capabilities including through bilateral and multilateral cooperation. upon request. Recognizing that investment in human capacity building is fundamental to promoting and sustaining a strong nuclear security culture. In this regard. We will continue to make voluntary and substantive efforts toward strengthening nuclear security and implementing political commitments made in this regard. Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram .The next Nuclear Security Summit will be held in [the Netherlands] in 2014. and free diet up to 3 days for normal delivery and 7 days for C-section This initiative also provides for free transport from home to institution. pregnant women are entitled for free drugs and consumables. even though institutional delivery has increased significantly. The idea is to eliminat out-of-pocket expenses for both pregnant women and sick neonates. To mitigate the problem. out of pocket expense being incurred by pregnant women and their families remained high. Several initiatives have been launche by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare under the Mission including Janani Suraksha Yojana. free diagnostic free blood whenever required. a ke intervention that has resulted in phenomenal growth in institutional deliveries with more than one cror women beneficiaries annually. . This has acted as a major barrier fo the pregnant women to opt for institutional attendance.FEATURE H&FW B. the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare launched Janani Shishu Suraksh Karyakram (JSSK) on 1st June. between facilities in case of referral and drop back home. They still prefer to deliver at home. Due to this. large number of sick neonates die on account of poor access to health facilities. Similar entitlements have been put in place for all sick newborns accessin public health institutions for treatment till 30 days after birth. Narzary Reducing the maternal and infant mortality rate is the key goal feature of the Reproductive an Child Health Programme under the National Rural Health Mission. Under this scheme. 2011 to provide better health facilities for pregnant women and sic neonates. However. The scheme emphasises utmost importance on “Free Entitlements”. The JSSK initiative is estimated to benef more than one crore pregnant women & newborns both in urban & rural areas annually. JSY was launched to promote institutional deliveries so that skille attendance at birth is made available and mothers and new born babies can be saved from pregnanc related complications and deaths. the new born too provided with free diagnostic services and there is a provision of free blood transfusion if the need arise . Medicines including supplements such as Iron Folic Acid are to be given fre of cost to pregnant women. they are to be provided wit free diet during their stay in the health institutions (up to three days for normal delivery & seven days fo caesarean section). referral to higher facility in case of need and drop back from the facility to home. Access to mother and child health care service was also hindered by the high out of pock expenses on user charges for OPD. th first 48 hours after delivery are critical as complications like haemorrhage. infection. Not only this. Furthermore. urine tests and Ultra-Sonography etc. Th same becomes still higher in case caesarean section is done. As in the case of the mother. unde JSSK there is exemption from all kinds of user charges including OPD fees and admission charges. Moreover. Under JSSK. Pregnant women are entitled to free transport from home to healt centre. significant number of maternal and neonatal deaths can be saved by providing timely referral transpor facility to the pregnant women. In some cases such a severe anaemia or haemorrhage requiring blood transfusion can also increase immediate expenses. hampering the provision of essential services both to the mother and neonate. high blood pressure etc are more likely to develop during this period and unsafe deliveries may result in maternal and infan morbidity or mortality. pregnant women are entitled to both essential and desirabl investigations like blood. Th number of institutional deliveries has increased significantly. drugs and consumables. to ensure that each and every pregnant woman and sick neonate upto one month gets timely access to health care services free of cost and without incurring any out o pocket expenses.India has made considerable progress in reduction of Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) and Infan Mortality Rate (IMR). there is a provision of free blood transfusion if the need arises. Besides. So. diagnostic tests etc. after the launch of Janani Suraksha Yojn (JSY) in the year 2005 but many of those who opted for institutional deliveries were not willing to stay fo 48 hours. Free treatment is also provided to the sick new born upto thirty days after birth and all drugs an consumables required are provided free of cost. free institutional delivery services (including caesarean operation) are provided i government health facilities. JSSK has been launched. but the pace at which these health indicators are declining needs acceleration. Further. The facility of free transport from home to health institutions and back is also available. Janani Shish Suraksha Karyakram supplements the cash assistance given to a pregnant woman under Janani Suraksh Yojana and is aimed at mitigating the burden of out of pocket expenses incurred by pregnant women an sick newborns. Besides it would be a major factor in enhancing access to public health institutions an help bring down the Maternal Mortality ratio and Infant mortality rates. institutional deliveries are a key determinant of maternal mortality and quality provisio of ante-natal and post-natal services can reduce infant as well as maternal mortality. intra-nata and post-natal services at the institutions. This initiative will help in reducing both maternal and infan mortality and morbidity. Providing free treatment to sick neonates will help i decreasing the neonatal mortality rate. The launch of the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram will encourage all pregnant women to delive at public health places and fulfil the commitment of achieving cent percent institutional delivery. Antarchakshu: an Initiative to Open the Eyes of the Sighted to the World of Visuall Challenged . In brief. It wi also empower service providers working at the health facilities in providing quality ante-natal. In a novel initiative Antarakshu seeks to engages people from all walks of life in different activities and tasks blindfolded for about half an hour to open the eyes of the sighted to the world of the visually challenged. Visually handicapped Harish Kumar has to commute daily from his home across Yamuna in Shivpuri to Blind Relief Association on Mathura Road in Delhi where he makes candles for a living.FEATURE SJE Sarita Brara* “I have learned that people will forget what you said. but people will never forget how you made them feel” said poet Maya Angellou. And this is what Antarchakshu seeks to do through a programme aimed at sensitizing the general public as well policy makers about the issues related to the mainstreaming of the visually challenged. myths and misconceptions about the capabilities of the visually challenged with or without technical aides in the areas of education and employment and financial transactions and give them firsthand experience of the challenges that confront the visually handicapped The unique event developed by Xavier’s Resource centre for the Visually Challenged was not inaugurated by the cutting of the ribbons or lighting of the lamps but the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Mukul Wasnik to engage in all these activities and tasks blindfolded to get a firsthand experience and insight into the challenges faced by visually handicapped. Many a times he and hundreds like him stranded for long hours at bus stands as they are unable to make out which bus number has arrived. The aim of this awareness programme is to remove the prejudices. What are the problems that the visually challenged face in day to day life? The first challenge is their mobility. . people will forget what you did. They have to depend on good Samaritans to help them cross the road. myths and prejudices on the areas of education and employability of visually challenged whether it is studying geography or science subjects.which not only allows access to visually impaired people but also people with physical disabilities through ramps for wheel chair access. SBI’s first ‘real’ ATM for the visually impaired was showcased at the awareness event organized by Xavier's Research Centre for the Visually Challenged (XRCVC) at Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi.500 State Bank of India (SBI) ATMs to Voice-Guided ATMs -. This is to highlight that the visually challenged should be able to identify the values of the coin by feeling the thickness or the size of the coin. the hurdles or open pits are a big hindrance themselves. NCR Corporation. Another set of activities at the event are aimed at removing the misconception. but the problem says Harish is that many visually challenged prefer buses because they get free passes but there are no facilities for announcement about stations or arrival of a bus for a particular destination at the bus stops. while maintaining the safety of the transaction. As you go through the simulating activities blindfolded you know whether it is calculations. In fact RBI in its programme of incusing banking has asked banks to open talking ATMs and make them accessible to other differently abled to use this facility. or identifying places on tactical maps or differentiating between plastics or metals or other kinds of materials or identifying files or working on computers the visually challenged can do all this . The first activity at Antarchakshu for the sighted is to walk on an uneven and obstacle-ridden simulated footpath blindfolded with a white cane and the sounds to guide your way. but in peak hours of traffic. An exhibition also highlights the need for paper currency of different values to be of different sizes. is all set to transform over 2. India’s largest ATM service provider. While the accessibility of Delhi Metro stations as well as the announcements on the running metro about coming stations are disabled friendly. So in another activity the blindfolded person has to identify the value of the coins. The handling of money and financial transactions is another problem that the visually challenged confront. In many countries beepers are used signaling green light for the vehicles or the pedestrians. While the visually challenged have a white cane to find their way isn’t there a need for barrier free environment for the differently abled people? Why not put yourself in the situation of a visually challenged for a while. the scooters and motor cycles drivers break all rules to use the pavements. Once you do it yourself you know what the difficulties are and become aware of the need for creating barrier free environment. Also pavements are not only encroached. NCR’s ‘Talking ATMs’ are incorporated with unique software and hardware features which ensures that a person with a disability can operate the machine on his own.Many roads do not have pavements and even if there are pavements. The draft has been made public and the centre is awaiting the response of the states before bringing it in the parliament. the dream of inclusive society can be accomplished. The Right to Education also says that no school can deny admission to a differently abled child. It is also now coming out with a new law on disability which ensures the right of equality. caning or similar activities. The government has been taking a number of initiatives to mainstream the differently abled. The employers and educational institutes need to understand that the capabilities of the visually challenged are manifold and these should be put to use optimally. Going by the 2001 census figures.with certain changes in the design or production of the gadgets or software’s. But today even the most basic of necessities like white cane and text book in Braille and are not available to all and there is also an acute shortage of trained teachers. a visually challenged person can get into areas of education and employment which were earlier thought out of bounds for them. employers and the policy makers are sensitized through such programmes. with the NGO s joining the government efforts and people shedding their prejudices and old attitudes.) ***** . Once the sighted. and their present number may be much more. The whole effort is to show that with little imaginative and innovative ways and with the help of the technical aides. There is a long journey ahead before the differently abled are mainstreamed into the society. there were 1. Even today most of the visually challenged are engaged in candle making. there is bound to be a change in their attitude and perception which ultimately can help in mainstreaming of the differently abled and that is what Antarchakshu activities are aimed at. One of the activity showed how with little innovations games can be made accessible to the visually challenged by using sound as a tool and how some games like chess can be played between the sighted and visually challenged partners with little change in the design. non discrimination and inclusivity to the differently abled. Click here to see Photos (PIB Features.06 crore visually challenged in country. Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author in this article are her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PIB.*The author is a Freelance Writer. SS-180/SF-180/05-10-2012 RTS/HSN Enhancing the Competitiveness of the MSME Sector through Cluster Developmen . interventions can be made for a large number of units that leads to higher gains at a low cost. It also provides an effective and dynamic path for inducing competitiveness by ensuring inter-fi cooperation through networking and trust. The geographic proximity of the enterprises with similarity products. marketin export promotion. As a whole. Availability of the local market. The Micro and Small units are generally not in a position to install costly machinery for th critical operations. which in turn helps in their sustainability. testing. accept large orders. the cluster development approach helps in weaving the fabric of networking. cooperation a togetherness in the industry. common facility. The Cluster Development approach has played an important role in enhancing t competitiveness of the MSE sector. Clusters are defined as a sectoral a geographical concentration of micro. or infuse large capital due to their limited capital base and limit . technology & skill upgradation. Apart from the benefits of deployment of resources and economy scales. inter-mediaries for the produce of the cluster is also general characteristics of the cluster. quicker dissemination of informatio sharing of knowledge and best practices and better cost effectiveness due to distribution of comm costs. cluster facilitates to face market challenges. and thus enabling the industry to achieve competitiveness in the long ru Cluster Development Approach is the answer of the Micro and Small Enterprises to the large sca sector of the country and the world and should be part of the business strategy. The cluster approach thus aims at a holistic developme covering areas like infrastructure.FEATURE MSME The need of the hour is a cluster based approach. small and medium enterprises with inter-connected producti system leading to firm/unit level specialisation and developing local suppliers of material inputs a human resources. Eastern Regions to become the Food Bowl of the Country . With this. etc. market access. The Minis has adopted cluster development approach as a key strategy for development of micro and sm enterprises in various clusters. The objectives of the scheme is to support the sustainability and growth of MSEs by addressi common issues such as improvement of technology. The efforts under the scheme are focused on covering mo and more clusters across the country. the micro and sm enterprises can attain the desired goal of being competitive in the present global scenario.. collectively through cluster development approach.domain expertise. Micro and Small Enterprises – Custer Development Programme (MSE-CDP) and Scheme Upgradation of Rural and Traditional Industries (SFURTI). access to capit etc. soft interventions a setting up of CFCs under the programme. to build capacity of MSEs for common supportive action through formation of self help group consortia. skills and quality. upgradation of associations. and to create and upgrade infrastructural facilities in the ne and existing industrial clusters of MSEs. The cluster development initiatives in various clusters have reportedly delivered remarkab results. The guidelines of the MSE Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP) have be comprehensively prepared to provide higher support to the MSMEs.. However. more than 500 cluste spread over across the country have so far been taken up for diagnostic study. The Ministry is administering two cluster development programme namely. The eastern region was selected for the project essentially to harness the region‘s abundant wa resources. India needs to boost its food production to feed its ever-increasing population. Clearly. necessary to enhance the production of food grains. T initiatives taken by the Central and the State Governments of the region have already resulted in impressive increase in production of food grains with the area now turning into a food surplus zone from food deficit one. This programme. There is no reason why it can become the food bowl of the nation. a concern of every Indian. Bihar. This became a major concern of the country‘s agricult planners. Therefore. While Punjab. The o way to ensure food security. a bouquet of activities have been taken up that include block demonstrations rice and wheat technologies in cluster mode approach. It operates in seven states viz. given the high priority and focus that the central and the St Governments are giving to BGREI. In order to address the constraints limiting the productivity of rice-cropping systems in east India. T eastern region has the potential of setting in a new Green Revolution. it would be ma possible to increase crop productivity if better agronomic practices are adopted. promoting resource conservation technology (z tillage under wheat). over-exploitation left these three sta virtually depleted in terms of water resources. not water availability. creation of asset building activities for water management (shallow tube wells/d . has yielded remarkable results in rice and wheat production in the region. Jharkhand. Un this programme Bihar and Jharkhand have shown quantum jump in rice production. Haryana and west Uttar Pradesh ushered in Green Revolution in India in the sixties. Stupendous effo have been made by the State Governments in extending technologies and practices to the farmers of region for record production of rice and wheat. the Government launched a programme ‗Bringing Green Revolution in Eastern India‘ (BGREI) years back. Eastern U Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. since its launch in 2010-2011 as a Prime Minister‘s initiative based on the In Ministerial Task Force. West Bengal. Assam.FEATURE Agriculture Dayawanti Srivasta The eastern region of India is all set to increase its share in the country‘s rice production. The premise is that with abundant water. high quality seed is us and other inputs like fertilizers and pesticides are applied judiciously. Water management is the main probl in eastern India. is to grow enough food grains domestically. Odisha. Promotion of production technologies would need to be backed by effective market arrangements. institutio development for credit supply and lastly innovative approaches in extension to be able to reach out t very large number of small and marginal farmers. for the stability in production full potential of this enormously resource endowed reg has to be realized. distribution of pump sets). value chain and rural infrastructure. drum seeders some of the success stories that have emerged from the hard work put in by the State administrations the region. power irrigation. However. Project Arrow .wells/bore wells. A Committee of Chief Ministers of these States has been set up to oversee implementation BGREI at top level and to ensure that the scheme continues to receive high priority. Moreover. promotion of farm implements and need based site spec activities etc. the awareness about the grading standards should be extended to farmers. micro nutrients. the farmers should get the minimum supp price for their produce and for that. line transplantation. SRI. procurement operations. Adoption of hybrid rice technologies. Savings Bank and Office ser Levels. Project Arrow will benefits Customers through . Online public grievance handling and Monitoring through Vid Conferences ensured sustainability and higher performance. Enhancing the qualit services in ‗core areas‘ envisages focus on Mail Delivery. . This is helping the Department of Posts to emerge as a one-stop shop for retail products and o a single window facility for banking.000 computeri Post offices during 12th Plan. Simpler and faster Money transactions throu instant money order. It has b launched with objective of modernizing the post and makes visible. In specific terms.843 Post off ices.Direct communication with the outs world and development benefits in rural areas.000 more computerized post offices for monitoring of ‗C Operations‘ under Project Arrow Phase-VI during 2012-13 and later complete all 24. tangible and noteworthy difference the post office operations that matter to ―Aam Aadmi‖. money remittances and other financial products and services includ social and civic initiatives.FEATURE Post Project Arrow is an initiative to transform India Post into a vibrant and responsive organization to make a visible and positive difference in postal operations to benefit the customers. The Project Arrow experience is a working model for ushering in an integrated and las improvement in the postal system and awarded with ―Prime ministers‘ award for Excellence Public Administration for 2008-2009‖ in 2010. At present Monitoring of performance ‗Core Operations‘ is done in 15. In the future it is proposed to include 3.584 P Offices and ‗Look & Feel‘ has been improved in 1.500 post offices during 12th Plan in addition to existing 1843 post offices. ‗Look & Feel‘ activity is proposed to be undertaken in 400 more Post offices during the financial y 2012-13 and expand in 2. Remittances. ‗Local Citizens‘ Forums‘ formed who decide the pe rformance norms for respective post offices. Project Arrow entails comprehensive improvement of the core operations of Post Offices as well as the ambience in which postal transactions are undertaken. That is an impressive 70 per cent plus mark for a gr that also includes a large number of legacy companies taken over as sick private sector units. Indian CPSEs will be following the bes management and operational benchmarks in the world. Indian CPSEs need to be competitive at home against the global competitors an become multinationals themselves. They cannot be allowed become complacent. The opera efficiency of the CPSEs is also quite good in the prevailing dullness in the economy. Many believed that the public sector enterprises will simply wither a because of competition and their inefficiency. Last year. making it easier for them to be competitive at home an also in global arena. energy.e. at the same time. In doing so. Of the 248 CPS 220 are currently operational and of those 158 are profitable. Clearly. In the strategic sectors of our economy. especially in the strategic sectors. as the experience has shown. Transform and Sustain – The Mantra for Indian PSUs FEATURE Heavy Industry India‘s central public sector enterprises have undergone a cycle of transformation since the introdu ction of lib economic policies a couple of decades ago. the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPS continue to have a critical role to play in many businesses. Indian public sector has the size and the efficiency to entertain ambitions of going global. In fact. defence are s areas where it cannot be left entirely to the markets.Grow. Many CPSEs h proved their critics wrong by becoming extremely efficient and competitive. Efficient and effective management is essential to ensure that the CPSEs continue to fulfil their obligations to the country. So. balance and sustain market in these sectors. they can achieve an edge in technolog and managerial innovation and help Indian economy grow at a faster rate. CPSEs are needed to ensure that the national and the social priorities guaranteed – in terms of assured supply and affordable prices. the listed 45 odd CPSEs make nearly 20 per cent of the value of all listed In stocks. there has been significant improvement in the revenue profitability levels of the CPSEs. i. CP delivered dividend of Rs. Already. However. By striving to become multinationals. the CPSEs are needed to en adequate and fair competition and stabilize the market. CPSEs can also build and be parts of global supply chains. or they will be subsumed by the private sector because of divestment programme. However.681 crore. the CPSEs are making a substantial contrib ution to the country‘s econo growth. Even in the business and consumer services sector. healthcare. the CPSEs are needed to create. Most of the petroleum PSEs are now multinationals and hel . Importantly. Infrastructure. Most of CPSEs are profitable despite operating with the constraints of public service priorities. the CPSEs cannot take such role for granted for future also. many Indian CPSEs are global giants. 35. Even on the stockmarkets. 2010-11. particularly Southeast Asia and Africa. In CPSEs have significant presence overseas. The Government has also been taking steps through. The government has also allowed the CPSEs to use their cash surpluses to buy others’ stocks in order to aggregate their complementary strengths. This investmen has been made possible by the CPSEs strong performance during the past few years. G their experience of working in resource constrained and politically obstructive environment. research and development and corporate social responsibility. it is upto th CPSEs themselves to continue to prove their relevance and they will survive only if the public sees them perform a useful function and only if they can compete with the best in the world at home and overseas. A comprehensive review of the MOU system underway and revamped MOU system would be put in place shortly. Even as the CPSEs move towards becoming globally competitive and going global. Th government would like the CPSEs to integrate India’s rural economy into the mainstream. This investment will have a multiplier effect on the economy. The Maharatana and Navaratna CPSEs have been allowed to invest in assets over and undertake joint ventures abroad. A vast majority of the M signing CPSEs have been meeting or exceeding their targets. Steps have also been taken to improve efficiency of these investments. Now. Much of this money is being invested in th critical sectors such as energy and infrastructure. Keeping this in view. In fact freedom is not complete if it does include freedom to commit mistakes and take risks. ( Features. We are also taking new initiatives such as enhancement of the age of superannuation from 58 to 60 y and grant of 1997 pay scales to the employees of sick and loss-making CPSEs as these steps can give them incentive to make extra effort to get out of the red. it is the Government‘s endeavou enhance freedom and autonomy to CPSE management and an exercise in this direction has already begun. The Government has taken steps to help the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) to improve their operat and competitiveness at home. In the heavy engineering. which have yielded adequa cash surpluses for investment. Majority of the CPSEs have been sig MOUs with the Government which cover not only the financial results but also the outcomes in areas suc corporate governance. However. infrastructure and project services too.) .secure energy fuels for now and the future. the Board for Reconstruction of Public Sector Enterpr (BRPSE) and Government approved revival packages to ensure that the performance of loss-making CPSEs coul improved. Also. The CPSEs are continuing to invest even in the prevailing slowdown. the power sector CPSEs are set to spread out in the world. Autonomy and more freedom are crucial for achieving this objective. they still have to play their ro as the catalysts of development and opportunity. The CPSEs will continue to go to hinterlands to seed industrie there and they will continue to invest in creating employment and economic opportunities for the deprived. a significant part of the fresh investment this year is going into capacity building overseas. Indian CPSEs are equipped to do business in the other developing parts of the world. Initiatives Taken by the Government Legal Steps Amendment of the Wild Life (Protection) Act. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area. . as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006. & Forests The country level tiger population. estimated once in every four years using the refined methodology. has shown an increasing trend with a population estimate of 1706. lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively in the recent all India estimation (2010).Saving The Tiger FEATURE Env. with an estimate of 1411. 1972 for providing enabling provisions towards constituting the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau. lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. preparation of reserve specific tiger conservation plan. (iv) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh). (iii) Nagzira-Navegaon (Maharashtra).Administrative Steps Strengthening of antipoaching activities. Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) for declaring as a Tiger Reserve. interalia.09.2007 to effectively control illegal trade in wildlife. constituting State level Steering Committees under the Chairmanship of Chief Ministers and establishment of Tiger Conservation Foundation. Constitution of a multidisciplinary Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau (Wildlife Crime Control Bureau) with effect from 6. laying down annual audit report before Parliament. 10 lakhs/family). which apart from ongoing activities. Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh). mainstreaming livelihood and wildlife concerns in forests outside tiger reserves and fostering corridor conservation through . include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. Besides. in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.6. including special strategy for monsoon patrolling. for deployment of antipoaching squads involving ex-army personnel/home guards. and the sites are:. the States have been advised to send proposals for declaring the following areas as Tiger Reserves: (i) Bor (Maharashtra). Sunabeda (Orissa) and Mukundara Hills (including Darrah. for strengthening tiger conservation by. Jawahar Sagar and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuaries) (Rajasthan) and Satyamangalam (Tamil Nadu). apart from workforce comprising of local people. The revised Project Tiger guidelines have been issued to States for strengthening tiger conservation. The in-principle approval has been accorded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority for creation of five new tiger reserves. (v) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (vi) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu). (ii) Suhelwa (Uttar Pradesh). rehabilitation/resettlement of communities involved in traditional hunting. by providing funding support to Tiger Reserve States. 1 lakh/family to Rs. interalia.2006. as proposed by them. ensuring normative standards in tiger reserve management. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4. Ratapani (Madhya Pradesh). prey animals and assessment of habitat status) has been evolved and mainstreamed. An area of 34070. Financial Steps Financial and technical help is provided to the States under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes. A Global Tiger Forum of Tiger Range Countries has been created for addressing international issues related to tiger conservation. 1972. viz.46 sq.restorative strategy to arrest habitat fragmentation. as amended in 2006. International Cooperation India has a bilateral understanding with Nepal on controlling trans-boundary illegal trade in wildlife and conservation. . The findings of this estimation/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy. 2011 with Bangladesh for conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderban. has been notified by 17 Tiger States as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act. A scientific methodology for estimating tiger (including co-predators. Project Tiger and Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats for enhancing the capacity and infrastructure of the States for providing effective protection to wild animals. A sub-group on tiger/leopard conservation has been constituted for cooperation with the Russian Federation. apart from a protocol on tiger conservation with China. km. A protocol has been signed in September. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July. with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. and eliminate stockpiles of Asian big cats body parts and derivatives. The importance of continuing the ban on trade of body parts of tigers was emphasized. During the 14th meeting of the Conference of Parties to CITES. linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives. an amount of Rs. 270 lakhs has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett. 2008. the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. arming and deploying the STPF. India introduced a resolution along with China. Creation of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in the Budget Speech of 29 February. . India made an intervention appealing to China to phase out tiger farming.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc. During the year 2010-11 and 2011-12. Based on the one time grant of Rs.). Nepal and the Russian Federation. The resolution was adopted as a decision with minor amendments. an online tiger crime data base has been launched. and Generic Guidelines for preparation of reserve specific Security Plan has been evolved. Further. the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personne in place of Police as an option-II. contains action points relating to tiger protection. 2009. reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done. interalia.65 within 90 days with effect from 20. the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14. which was held from 3rd to 15th June. for restricting such captive populations to a level supportive only to conserving wild tigers. The States of Karnataka and Maharashtra have already deployed the STPF.69 and 14. with directions to Parties with operations breeding tigers on a commercial scale. 2007 at The Hague.00 crore provided to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for raising. 50. arming and deploying a Special Tiger Protection Force.10. Reintroduction of Tigers As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct. Special advisories issued for in-situ build up of prey base and tiger population through active management in tiger reserves having low population status of tiger and its prey. In collaboration with TRAFFIC-INDIA. Recent Initiatives Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States. Since then. Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Rs. Special crack teams sent to tiger reserves affected by left wing extremism and low population status of tiger and its prey. as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation. . besides launching ‗MSTrIPES‘ for effective field patrolling and monitoring. The second round of country level tiger status assessment completed in 2010. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done. lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. with an estimate of 1411. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials. lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively. apart from providing incentives. with the findings indicating an increase with a tiger population estimate of 1706. Chief Ministers of States having tiger reserves affected by left wing extremism and low population status of tiger and its prey addressed for taking special initiatives. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection. a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring. States Release 2007-08 Release 2008-09 Release 2009 -10 Release 2010-11 Release 2011-12 Release 2012-13 (as on 29. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas. FUNDS RELEASED TO STATES UNDER THE CENTRALLY SPONSORED SCHEME OF PROJECT TIGER DURING XI PLAN PERIOD AND 2012-13 (Rs. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur.8.2012) . Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components. No. in lakhs) Sl. Bengaluru and Guwahati. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi. 0000 202.6160 1660.2250 45.4878 89.2540 155.4060 208.4600 3962.1710 64.2800 410.0761 67.508 17 308.92613 16.8900 690.062.4762 1509.5420 194.9411 1092.3790 49.9830 138.7700 5352.4200 2582.6500 429.9450 339.710 101.2542 246.38783 698.956 132.2880 555.7400 10694.0600 187.5284 78.222 10 11 12 13 295.7857 405.5170 520.792 425.5130 258.1930 702.0050 134.0500 323.6800 411.4720 158.68 2 110.6450 154.5170 2171.6600 404.5403 228.208 247.2900 2368.997 502.435 234.8700 115.6900 815.9175 56.868 4951.0900 6998.9748 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 95.0085 411.9848 142.522 .270.9900 2708.6140 98.7100 226.2449 2975.2050 431.7020 236.0620 311.8500 417.9640 399.7250 130.6741 6.562.9500 373.7260 156.028 14 15 16 Tamil Nadu Uttaranchal Uttar Pradesh West Bengal Total 45.7850 20.1258 323.4800 17.7149 153.3465 1830.6730 169.8060 462.4500 625.152.3205 35.3770 689.3540 246.000 221.5020 117.210 513.1 Andhra Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh Assam Bihar Chhattisgarh Jharkhand Karnataka Kerala Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Mizoram Orissa Rajasthan 73.916 9.941 192.9450 407.3940 15.1700 2789.8390 267.1250 241.002 298.2900 8.9000 43.3420 225.872.1600 1159.391 157.925 3622.7191 82.4600 605.473.8560 1383.730 947.5088 172.7600 446.3550 1813.1386 657. SS-164/SF-164/04-09-2012 RTS/HSN .) ****** *Inputs from the Ministry of Environment & Forests.(PIB Features. Dr.110 001 winner of Phone 23389338 Top Terms of Use Copyright Policy Privacy Policy Hyperlinking Policy Mahatma Gandhi Pravasi Suraksha Yojan .Wing. Shastri Bhawan.Information is provided and updated by Press Information Bureau This "A" .site is Platinum Icon for 'Outstanding Web Content' Web Ratna Award'09 presented in April 2010 Last Updated on 26-October. 2012 at 12:28 Hour Site is designed and hosted by National Informatics Centre (NIC). Rajendra Prasad Road. New Delhi . The scheme name aims to encourage and enable the workers to meet their three major needs. Old age savings will be managed worker save between Rs. It helps them to sav (National Pension Scheme). In this context the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA).FEATURE OIA An estimated 5 million Indian Nationals with ECR (Emigration Check Required) passports a visas in the Gulf Countries. However Indian workers to benefit from such policy initiatives. whichever is earlie Pension in Old Age The scheme will help the worker to save for their old age. save for their return and resettlement and obtain free cost of life in under this scheme for a period of five years or till the return of workers to India. the sche .1000 to Rs. Return and Resettlement (R&R ) Saving To address the immediate monitory need of the worker on his return back to India.12000 in his/her pension account they will get a co-contributio of female in the NPS-Lite account from Ministry. has introduced a special s Pravasi Suraksha Yojana (MGPSY) for overseas India workers in ECR Countries. It is observed that a majority of the earnings periodically remitted by o are rarely accumulated as savings and often cause only a temporary improvement in the consum majority of overseas Indian workers face the risk of poverty when they return to India and when the Overseas Indian workers are largely excluded from formal social security benefits available of India has demonstrated a sustained and deep commitment to inclusive growth and has taken a and provide employment opportunities and equal access to social security for its citizens. encourage overseas Indian Workers. In order to motivate broad-based voluntary enrolments.5000 per year. The Ministry has authorized the Life Insurance Corporation of India and Bank of Baroda Indian workers. Ministry co-contribution is subjected to subscriber making nece contribution will be applicable for a minimum period of 5 years or for the period of employment wh Overseas Indian workers with ECR passports and aged between 18 and 50 years on an employm scheme.saving.3000 male worker for the whole scheme. Insurance Cover Ministry’s Co-contribution to MGPSY An overseas Indian worker enrolled in this scheme would be provided with a free cost life in working in ECR country. Eligible workers will be able to open an MGPSY account at the office of the Protector Of E located at the office of the authorized aggregators in ECR countries. Bank of Baroda and LIC will assist eligible to open MGPSY accounts and will deliv A secure and well regulated institutional framework has been designed to encourage.900 in their R&R account. If a worker contribute Rs. The scheme will help to save money over a period of time to cover the resettlement expense Rs. In order to enable Indian wor Ministry is shortly going to start Pravasi Suraksha Yojana enrolment centers starting with the Uni details about the scheme can be available at toll free number 1800-113-090 and also at Ministry we POCSO Act – Providing Child-Friendly Judicial P . then the Ministry’s Co-contribution will be Rs. participate in this Scheme.4000 in this scheme they will also get a Ministry co-contribution of Rs. with their suffering exacerbated by the lack of specific legislation to provide considered a serious offence under the Indian Penal Code. over half of the children su sexual abuse. intellectu defines different forms of sexual abuse. and regards the best in of paramount importance at every stage. with a maximum term of rigorous i In keeping with the best international child protection standards. the health and security of the country’s children is integral to any vision for its progress and One of the issues marring this vision for the country’s future generations is the evil of c National Crime Records Bureau reveal that there has been a steady increase in sexual crim conducted by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in 2007. 2012 received the Pres ident’s a the Gazette of India on 20th June. including penetrative and non-penetrative assault. championed the intr offence. The Ministry of Women and Child Development. and child pornography. emotional. the Act also provides for ma .FEATURE WCD India is home to the largest child population in the world. like a family memb who traffick children for sexual purposes are also punishable under the provisions relating to stringent punishment graded as per the gravity of the offence. along with the r The Act defines a child as any person below eighteen years of age. with almost 42 per cent of the total pop to say. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. stalking. as w and deems a sexual assault to be “aggravated” under certain circumstances. The POCSO Act was therefore formulated in order to effectively address the heinous crim of children. The Act is due to come into force shortly. such as when the ab is committed by a person in a position of trust or authority vis-a-vis the child. the law was deficient in recognising a sexual harassment. for which prosecutors had to rely on im modesty of a woman”. 2012. recognising that the p addressed through less ambiguous and more stringent legal provisions. to ensure the healthy physical. working together. th opportunity to obtain justice for the harm suffered. and begin the process of rebuilding the child’s Technocity . th abuse must be disposed of within one year from the date the offence is reported. Above all. in a Hence. required to bring the matter to the attention of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) within 24 ho then proceed where required to make further arrangements for the safety and security of the chi The Act also makes provisions for the medical examination of the child designed to examination is to be carried out in the presence of the parent or other person whom the child tr female doctor. It makes the different agencies of the State. or other professional while giving evidence. punishment for a person. such machinery. further.A Major Landmark in India's IT Sce . a teacher who is aware abused by a colleague is legally obliged to bring the matter to the attention of the authorities. so that this money can then be used for the child’s medi The Act is a welcome piece of legislation.casts a legal duty upon a person who has knowledge that a child has been sexually abused to may be punished with six months’ imprisonment and/ or a fine. the child may have a parent or other trusted person present at the time of testifying and special educator. Thus. The Act further makes provisions for avoiding the re-victimisation of the child at the h special courts that conduct the trial in-camera and without revealing the identity of the child. collaborators in securing justice for a sexually abused child. if he provides false information with the intention to defame any pe The Act also casts the police in the role of child protectors during the investigative proc report of sexual abuse of a child are given the responsibility of making urgent arrangements for t obtaining emergency medical treatment for the child and placing the child in a shelter home. in that it recognises almost every known punishable offences. Another important provision in the Act is that it provides for the Special Court to determ to a child who has been sexually abused. the child is not to be ca testify through video-link rather than in the intimidating environs of a courtroom. by providing encourages children who have been victims of sexual abuse to bring their offender to book and s obtain assistance in overcoming their trauma. leaving little room for ambiguity in its interpretation. Further. Process Re-engineering. hospital project will be a self-dependent satellite city. IT Enabled Services (ITES). .FEATURE IT Jacob Abraham* A landmark-in-the-making in the Indian IT scenario of India. “Mentored and nurtured by TeamTechnopark. Technocity of Thiruvananthapu convergence with the expected arrival of big-time brands of the industry to set up their production institutions and assorted other initiatives in the picturesque technopolis in the Pallippuram area of T “Our schedules are in the right track with enquires pouring in from across the world s possibilities”. commercial. The well as subsidiaries of multi-national organisations. Technocity. which includes not just space for IT/ITES firms but also residential. with the masterplan rea infrastructure facilities for intending investors. adds Sr. Animation and e-business. when fully commissioned will be an int 432 acres. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). which would not strain the resources and infrastructur The units in Technocity will include a wide variety of companies engaged in a range o Development. The shaping up process of Technocity is currently in progress. Engineer Development. Technocit valuable asset to the State as also to the nation”. observes CEO-Technopark. Manager-Business Development. Process Control Software Design. commercial spa and schools.000 profession I. Technocity. In addition. t Tata Consultancy Services Ltd(TCS) are in the process of setting up Asia’s largest training c 16. This will enable employees in the companies at Technocity to enjoy a world-class lif offices. T Economic Zone in Technocity. The park is home to over 240 companies em Technopark's aim was to create infrastructure and provide support required for the development of .000 employees at any time in 82 acres of land already allotted to them. TCS already has their Technopark Phase I. Thiruvananthapuram is connected to the National Internet Backbone and Technocity wi providers. Videsh Sanchar Nigam and Asianet Dataline. will prov Techno city will have up to 25 million square feet of built-up space within multiple buildings for being developed as an Integrated Township and it will include residential space. Technopark was set up under the auspices of Electronics Technology Park. Technocity will host at least two important educational and research institutes: The Indi Management–Kerala (IIITM–K) and The Asian School of Business (ASB) which has already started while IIITM-K is in the process of setting up their campus in the 10 acres of land allotted to them. including Reliance Infocomm. Kerala. Bharti Airtel. The Software Development Centre to accommodate around 10. Infosys is in the process of setting up their next development centre in the 50 acres SE operates from Technopark Phase-I and Phase II. The third Software Development Block as well as ready in the Phase II Campus. an aut Information Technology Government of Kerala.Technocity provides all the infrastructure and support facilities needed for IT/ITES and ele for their employees to enjoy world-class lifestyles. like Technopark. Technopark has perio Gayathri and Bhavani. 2007. Park centre.32 crore during 2 NHFDC – Empowering Persons with Disabilities by Engaging them in Self Employment Ventures . Pampa an beginning. The total land available with Technopark is about 771. with over 32000 people facility itself and creating Rs. T India. Thejaswini in February. With the inauguration of the 850. 2000 crore turnover with export earnings of Rs.ft.The park is growing steadily both in size and employee strength.54 acres.000 sq. 1977. It has become the single largest source of employment in Kerala. The land available with T phase three is about 326.54 acres leaving the rest of the land to Technocity. CONCESSIONAL CREDIT NHFDC makes available the concessional loans on convenient terms to all eligible . in the form of loans.FEATURE Social Justice Sanjeev Kumar Sundriyal* National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC) was set up by the Department of Disability Affairs. NHFDC also provides grants to its partner agencies and reputed training institutes to conduct skill development programmes in various trades to help PwDs in self employment. The fund is channelised through the State Channelising Agencies (SCAs) nominated by the respective State/UT Government and Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). NHFDC functions as an apex financial institution of the country and provides financial assistance. for wide range of income generating activities to eligible Persons with Disabilities. The vision of NHFDC is to empower the Persons with Disabilities in order to break away from the dependence on others and from the depressed economic and social conditions by engaging themselves in productive ventures and thus help them to move up the social and economic ladder with dignity and pride. on 24th January 1997 with the objective of serving as a catalyst in the economic development of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) by helping them in setting up self employment projects. 5 L to Rs. as follows: Project Cost Rate of Interest (Women beneficiaries) Upto Rs. 25 L Education Loan 4% 5% 7% 3. small industrial unit) . Commercial vehicle.000 to Rs. 50.Persons with Disabilities with 40% or more disability. service sector. between 18-60 years of age.5% Rate of Interest (Male beneficiaries) 5% 6% 8% 4% Schemes of Concessional Credit Type of Loan Loan for Self Employment Loan Limit (Maximum) Upto Rs.5% to 8% p. 5 L Rs.a. agricultural activities. 50.000 Rs. 25 lac (Sales/Trading. Interest Rates The interest rates of NHFDC ranges between from 3. 5 lac (to enhance the employability/selfemployment of PwDs) 1500 Scholarships Under Two Schemes For Students With Disabilities National Handicapped Finance & Development Corporation (NHFDC) is implementing two Scholarship schemes ― 1000 Scholarships under Trust Fund & 500 Scholarships under National Fund ― on behalf of Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. 25 lac (Doctors. Pharmacists. 10 lac Upto Rs. 1000 scholarships under Trust Fund are awarded every year to students with disabilities for professional/technical courses at Graduate and Post Graduate level.Education Loan For study in India For study abroad Upto Rs.) Purchase of Aids & Appliances Upto Rs. . Architects etc. Engineers. These scholarships are for students with disabilities (40% and above disability) for pursuing professional/technical courses. Advocates. 20 lac Loan for Young Professionals Upto Rs. Similarly. Sponsoring the beneficiaries to various Exhibitions & Fairs as marketing assistance. 31. Financial assistance is given for computer with editing software for blind/deaf graduate and post-graduate students pursuing professional courses and for support access software for cerebral palsy students. Financial assistance is also be provided for purchase of aids and appliances for visual & hearing impaired students which is once in life-time. maintenance and books/stationery allowance to the tune of Rs.for Graduate Course and Rs. Funds are made available to SCAs for advertisement and publicity of schemes of the Corporation for the benefit of persons with disabilities.m.000/.for Post Graduate Courses are also allowed. Even students pursuing correspondence courses are eligible under this scheme. This scholarship scheme is restricted to those students with disabilities whose total family income is not more than Rs. This Scholarship scheme is restricted to those handicapped students whose total family income is upto Rs. . A stipend of Rs.p. 3. GRANTS The Corporation also provides financial assistance for various non-credit based activities for the development of Persons with disabilities. Funds are provided to State Channelising Agencies (SCAs) for organizing workshops and conferences to sensitize the officials involved in implementation of schemes for the target group and awareness creation amongst the state/district level functionaries.80 lac per annum.D/M. A novel feature of this scheme is that students can apply anytime during the academic year.000/. A student is required to send an advance copy on-line to NHFDC. 1.Under this scheme. 40.00 lac per annum. 1000/. is given to each participant during the training duration. 500 Scholarships under National Fund are awarded every year to students with disabilities for higher academic/professional or technical courses Ph. In addition. total non-refundable fee is reimbursed as applicable to Government Institutions. These activities include : Grant for conducting/sponsoring the training under the scheme of Skill & Entrepreneurial Development.Phill/PG Level/Graduate or at Diploma/Certificate level. Efforts are being made for similar tie-ups in the States of Maharashtra Odisha. Madhya Pradesh. In addition. Assam. These are: . Andhra Pradesh. Bank of Baroda. Haryana and Gujarat. At present. Punjab National Bank. Uttarakhand. The collateral from the potential beneficiary is also not required as the guarantee is covered under Credit Guarantee Trust Fund scheme of the Government. NHFDC has signed agreements with 17 RRBs covering the States of Uttar Pradesh. Oriental Bank of Commerce and State Bank of India have shown positive response to the proposal. efforts are on to bring in Public Sector Banks as partners.NEW INITIATIVES Partnership with Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) NHFDC has tied-up with Regional Rural Banks for the flow of collateral free concessional credit to PwDs under credit guarantee scheme of the Government. Proposals Sent to Planning Commission Four proposals have been submitted to Planning Commission for effective implementation of NHFDC schemes. Meghalaya and West Bengal. Union Bank of India. Punjab & Sindh Bank. This alternative route vis-à-vis conventional route of loaning through SCAs has two advantages – Block Government Guarantee from States/RRBs/PSBs is not required. Proposal for grant against service charges and annual charges (i. Delegation of Authority to SCAs upto Rs. Proposal for grant of Rs.e. Proposal for grant of interest free education loan to students with disabilities. Thus. 1% of loan amount) levied under Credit Guarantee Scheme. PROGRESS NHFDC has so far released loans of Rs.12 crores for disbursement to 64.5% of annual target and Incentive for Good Recovery (95%) : 0. This will enhance the quality loaning to PwDs. . Tie-up with Vocational Rehabilitation Centers (VRC) for Handicapped for Skill Training In order to provide Vocational Training to PwDs as per the Modular Employable Scheme (MEB) prescribed by Ministry of Labour and Employment.385 beneficiaries throughout the country.5 lac. NHFDC tied up with VRCs through Director General Employment and Training (DGET). This will speed-up the implementation of NHFDC schemes at the state level. 316. Proposal for fund to provide 25% back-end subsidy to loanee(s) of NHFDC.5% of repayment made during the year. the Corporation extends help to nearly 6000 PwDs in a year. Liberalization of Lending Policy to Enhance Effectiveness Removal of Income Criteria. 5 Crore per year to NHFDC for skill training of 4000 PwDs. Incentive for Higher Turnover: 0. Kirana store.nhfdc.Major Activities funded under NHFDC Scheme of Self-Employment include.in. The detailed information on schemes and programmes of NHFDC is available on website www. Shoe shop.nic. Readymade garments. Seeds & Fertilizers Store. Dairy farm. Stationery. STD/PCO. Tailoring & Xerox centre. PwDs assisted by NHFDC engaged in Economic Empowerment Activities Western Ghats: Challenges of Sustainable Development . Pickup-van. List of Western Ghats World Heritage clusters in Maharashtra. Kerala leads with 20 sites being inscribed in the heritage list followed by Karnataka with ten. Karnataka. The tag came at the 36th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) in St Petersburg in Russia. Kerala and TN MAHARASHTRA Kaas Plateau Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary Chandoli National Park Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary KARNATAKA . Tamil Nadu five and Maharashtra four. Altogether 39 sites that dot the Western Ghats landscape will be part of the region that has been designated as World Heritage Site.FEATURE Heritage Manish Desai* UNESCO's World Heritage Committee inscribed the Western Ghats of India as a world heritage site on July 1. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary Kulathupuzha Range.Tiger Reserve. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Silent Valley National Park New Amarambalam Reserve Forest Attapadi Reserved Forest Mukurti National Park Kalikavu Range Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary . Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Mannavan Shola Mankulam Range.Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary Kerti Reserved Forest Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Padinalknad Reserved Forest Kudremukh National Park Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Balahalli Reserved Forest Someshwara Reserved Forest Agumbe Reserved Forest KERALA .TAMILNADU Kalakad. Palode Range Periyar Tiger Reserve Ranni Forest Division Konni Forest Division Achankovil Forest Division Srivilliputtur Wildlife Tirunelveli North Forest Division Eravikulam National Park Grass Hills National Park Karian Shola National Park Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. the tiny state of Goa. The Ghats are currently known to have more than 5. however. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) suggested that India should review and refine the proposal to redefine the boundaries of the proposed sites to maintain the contiguity of the forests. the Malnad region of Karnataka and the highlands of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. species found in that area alone. run through the western parts of Maharashtra. 138 are endemic to the region.000 plant and 140 mammal species. including the Nilgiri flycatcher and the Malabar parakeet. 16 of which are endemic. Skeptics are of the view that the tag will make little difference to many ecologicaly destructive projects that have been implemented or are proposed in the Western Ghats. . fauna. 16 of which are endemic. over-exploitation. When the proposal for it was re-submitted for consideration this year. The Western Ghats which begin at the Dangs in Gujarat. Notably among these being the lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri tahr. Habitat change. The need to protect the ecology of the Western Ghats can hardly be over-emphasized. before ending near Kanyakumari. i. pollution and climate change are the principle pressures causing bio-diversity loss. it was once again on the verge of getting rejected. The Western Ghats are considered ecologically sensitive region with nearly 52 species moving one step closer to extinction. The proposal for including 39 sites in the Western Ghats as world heritage was rejected by the World Heritage Committee in its 35th meeting last year.e. managed to convince the world heritage committee on the merits of India’s proposal and also discussed the issue with 21 members of the committee. The Indian delegation in St Petersburg. the Western Ghats are the treasure trove of bio-diversity. In fact they are recognized as one of the 8 global hot-spots harbouring a wealth of flora.While environmentalists are rejoicing that constant international scrutiny will curb amassment of forest wealth by vested interests. It has 508 bird species. Out of 179 species of amphibians found in the Western Ghats. The intense lobbying paid off. as the Russian delegation moved a proposal which was backed by several Asian and African nations. Importance of Western Ghats Older than the Himalayas. Recognition Comes After Rejection The world heritage tag for the Western Ghats has come after many glitches. the state governments have given a guarded reaction. and representatives of the state government as its members. followed by construction activities like building roads. the panel has also called for scrapping of Karnataka's Gundia and Kerala's Athirapally hydro-projects. The Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel. Among its recommendations. The World Heritage Committee has suggested to the Indian Government to take into account the recommendations of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel. but that is unlikely to change the state‘s present stance of not imposing a complete ban on mining and industries. Maharashtra Government has welcomed the World Heritage Status to Western Ghats. Madhav Gadgil. Both the Karnataka and Kerala state governments have been opposed to the recommendation to scrap the hydro projects in their respective regions. It has also asked the government to strengthen buffer zones to provide increased protection within the nominated sites. The state. and gradual phasing out of mining activities in ecologically highly-sensitive areas of Goa by 2016. except in the core areas. The 24-member body is to have ecologists.The UNESCO Mandate The UNESCO has noted with appreciation India‘s ongoing commitment to conserving high bio-diversity values of the Western Ghats. Goa's lackadaisical attitude in conserving the Western Ghats has resulted in the state not getting any site in the list of 39. It has also suggested setting up of a Western Ghats Ecology Authority (WGEA). Central Pollution Control Board. nevertheless is encouraging green fuel movement in the villages of Western Ghats by way of up to 75% subsidy on biogas and 50% subsidy on shift to low yielding cattle. officials from the Union Environment Ministry. as a statutory authority appointed by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Conservationists also fear a mad-rush to these sensitive areas in the guise of eco-tourism. scientists. as well as tribal groups. 1986. with the powers under Section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act. Planning Commission. was constituted by the Ministry of Environment & Forests in February 2010 under the chairmanship of noted environmental expert Prof. which will defeat the purpose of . power lines and other infrastructure. structures. Impact of UNESCO World Heritage Site The World Heritage status could have implications on development in and around these sites as UNESCO prescribes creation of additional buffer zones around the natural world heritage sites and putting in place an overarching management authority for conservation of the selected 39 serial sites. The UN body also wants to promote participatory governance approaches through community participation to ensure equitable sharing of benefits. The panel has identified several eco-sensitive zones in the region and recommended that they should be declared no-go areas. National Biodiversity Authority. which rely on domestic fodder instead of open grazing. The Karnataka Government had also been opposing the World Heritage tag citing regulatory hurdles in the development of places falling under these regions. representatives of civil society. The panel has said that no industrial activity should be allowed without the consent of the locals. “This might trigger commercial activities in the Western Ghats. but has clearly underlined that more needs to be done. Evidently. Regional Plan 2021. Soligas of BR Hills. but empower them democratically and let the government facilities go to them. The democratic institutions are well entrenched. (PIB Features. Malekudiyas of Belthangady. and Kerala leads the country in capacity building and empowering of Panchayat Raj Institutions. Kattunayakans of Malabar and many others in Goa and Maharashtra are some of them. Halakki Vokkals of Uttara Kannada.” says an activist associated with the Kudremukh Wildlife Foundation in Karnataka. Goa has recently concluded a very interesting exercise. the Sidhis of Kumta. caring and environment friendly mode of development. which empowers the local bodies like panchayats to take appropriate steps for conservation.) Mangroves for the Future .protecting the green cover and habitat protection. The Perspective Plan for Protection of Biodiversity 2001-16 states that “tribal communities are part of the biodiversity and the state governments should not take them out of their natural surroundings. The Thodas of Nilgiris. Western Ghats are an appropriate region of the country to attempt to make the transition towards an inclusive. The region has some of the highest levels of literacy in the country.” The participation of locals is going to be crucial in determining the success of conservation efforts and promising sustainable development. there are lakhs of tribal people who have made their homes in the ghats. The Western Ghats expert Dr. All along the Western Ghats in five states.” The ground situation for people’s participation in development is conducive in most parts of the Western Ghats. and a high level of environmental awareness. of taking inputs from Gram Sabhas in deciding on the land use policies. Paniyas of Waynad. Madhav Gadgil has welcomed the UNESCO gesture and said “It will hopefully strengthen the Acts like Biological Diversity Act of 2002. S. Ravindr M. The Government has identified 38 mangrove areas on a country wide basis for intensive conservation and management. What are Mangroves? Mangroves are plants that survive high salinity. They are found in the inter-tidal zones of sheltered shore. However. We Bengal has the maximum of mangrove cover in the country followed by Gujarat and Andam & Nicobar Islands. M. . protecti from extreme weather events and a resource base for sustainable tourism. V. lagoons. estuaries. The Government seeks sustain mangroves in the country by both regulatory and promotional measures. not all coastal areas are suitable for mangrove plantation as mangrove requires an appropriate mix of saline and freshwater. strong wind velocity. Mangrove vegetation has been report in all the coastal States/UTs. The Ministry of Environment & Forests is at the forefront in regard to t conservation and management of mangroves. tidal regimes. India is home to some of the best mangroves in the world. Prasad** The National Environment Policy. marshes and mud-flats. and soft substrate like mudflats to be able to grow and perpetuate. which provide habitats for marine species.FEATURE Environment K. 2006 recognizes that mangroves are an important coasta environmental resource. In Tamil Nadu. creeks. high temperature and muddy anaerobic soil – a combination of conditions hostile for other plant The mangrove ecosystems constitute a symbiotic link or bridge between terrestrial and marine ecosystems. backwaters. They are also an important source of hon tannins.56 sq k The mangrove plantation with an average.000 hectares is undertaken o country wide basis. Tamil Nadu. Presently. crustaceans a mollusks. They also act as nurseries for fin fish. Karnataka. Muthupet.10 crores h been distributed among West Bengal. e. besides fish. tidal storms and surges (tsunamis). 7. They help in la accretion by trapping the fine debris particles.662. Ramnad. financial assistance to the tune of Rs. shell fish. these are one of the most threatened ecosystems account of both anthropogenic factors (reclamation of land. the tiger. The project entitled "Mangroves for Future (MFF): a strategy for promoting investmen . Pulicat and Kazhuveli mangrove areas have been identified Mangroves Protect the Coast Mangrove ecosystems are rich in biodiversity and harbour a number of floral and fau species (both terrestrial and aquatic) many of which. are endangered. Mangrove forests are regarded as the most productive ecosystems in the world account of the large quantities of organic and inorganic nutrients released in the coastal wat by these ecosystems. annual target of 3. discharge of waste etc) and natu factors like global warming. The mangroves besides providing a number of ecological services also play a major role protecting coastal areas from erosion. The areas supported are among the 38 areas as already identified by MoEF intensive conservation. estuar crocodile etc. Orissa.g. gangetic dolphin. During 2010-11. Intensive Conservation in Eight States The current assessment shows that the mangrove cover in the country is 4. wax. Andhra Pradesh. Kerala.Pichavaram. G and Gujarat for conservation and management of mangroves. including India. initially.Coastal Ecosystem Conservation" is being coordinated by the International Union Conservation of Nature (IUCN) covering. (PIB Features. eight countries.) The Western Ghats .Some Facts . 000 square kms. Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is one of the eight hottest hotspots of biological diversity in the world. The two bio reserves and thirteen National Parks. 508 bird species amphibian species.FEATURE INFO-NUGGETS Dr. and runs through the states of Maharash Karnataka. It runs. The Nilagiri Biosphere Reserve that comprises 5500 square kms of evergreen and deciduous forests important part of the Western Ghats. The region is home to over 5000 species of flowering plants.600 flowering plants which are not found elsewhere in the world. 139 mammal species. These hills cover a total area of 160. There are numerous protected areas designated by the Government of India in the Western Ghats. about 1600 kms.900 ft). It is also reported that the Western Ghats is home to at least 84 amphibian species. North to South. The Silent Valley National Park in Kerala. is a mountain range that runs along the western side of India. Parame The Western Ghats. along the western edge of the Deccan Plateau. finally ending at Kanyakumari. It originates near the border of Gujarat and Maharashtra. and 1. The average elevation is about 1. which forms part of the Western Ghats. 16 bird speci mammals.200 m (3. K. is one among the last . thirty nine places in the Western Ghats region have been declared as World Heritage Site UNESCO Role of Post Offices in Empowering Aam Aadmi . In August.virgin tropical evergreen forest in India. In 2012. The panel also assigned three levels of ecological sensitivity to its regions. the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) designated the entire Western Gh Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA). 2011. This proj supply of rural ICT hardware devices and peripherals to the Branch Post Offices in the rural areas. Today ICT’s inherent potential for inclu through empowerment of masses makes it the most sought after need of the Nation. Information Communication Technology (ICT) has emerged during the last de most powerful tool of sustainable human development. Recognizing the in lessening the development divide and bringing transparency in Governance. India Post is the most appropriate organization of Central Government for leveraging ICT for empowering Aam A Progressive use of computers in post offices and their connected network on a singl platform presents an opportunity for India Post to take state services to village level and a products and services of other service providers. and development of software applications. Mail Offices. India Post has adopted a holistic technology led transformation understanding the importance of reengineering process. IT modernization project is a Pan India Project the Post Offices throughout India. integrated and modular software covering all the operations of Department of Posts and establi . develop scalable.FEATURE POST In India. establishment of IT infrastructure. This techn the end but is mean to ends like good governance and better quality of service. Most of the technology led transformatio because they lack focus on processes. people and resources. Computerization and Networking of Post Offices The Government has approved the IT(Information Technology) modernization project of the Department computerization of all its Post Offices. It includes all Post Offices in North-Eastern and Assam Circles. skill d and enhancement and resource planning. Administrative and other Offices. Project Arrow The process of modernization of Post Offices began way back in April 2008 when Projec launched. Enable tracking and tracing of accountable articles meant for delivery. The Project envisages up gradation of Post Offices in urban and rural areas both upgrading and enhancing the quality of service in ‘core areas’ and improving their ‘Look an .000 articles per hour. Setting up of Automated Mail Processing Centres Automation in mail processing would also help the Department in modernization of m consolidation of sorting activities and expedite mail sorting and delivery.000 rural Post Offices. The Mixed Mail sorting machines w faster processing of large size letters. Computerization and networking of all Pos would bring in the following benefits for the Aam Aadmi: Improve service level for users.000 articles per hour. Faster processing of mail. The sorting machines in Delhi and Kolkata are currently under installation and commissio sorting machines would be able to sort approximately 35. flats and packets/parcels through the use of Optic Recognition (OCR) technology. Wide Area Network (WAN) based networking of the departmental P and Rural Information Communication Technology (Rural ICT) infrastructure for the Post offices in rural ar scope of this project has been structured in eight Broad areas. postal banking and insurance services. 30. the Department of Post is setting up Automated Mail Processing Centers (AMPCs) in cities.infrastructure including Data Center. The Post Office will become the focal point of delivery of Social Security Schemes of the S Enable electronic networking of about 1. parcels and packets would lead t delivery of these articles and improvement in service quality. Enable paperless transactions for mail. whereas. With a view to au sorting. increase productivity of the employees and inter-alia ra of the Department. the Sorters would sort approximately 18. Human Resource and Infrastructure.530 Post Offices. Mail delivery.project aims at creating a conducive and friendly work environment both for the staff and th visiting the Post Offices. So far the Project has been implemented in respect of monitoring of core areas in more Post Offices while ‘Look and Feel’ has been improved in 1. As the strong IT . Remittances both electronic and Postal Savings schemes. improving quality levels in the core business areas e. Population Growth .Stabilization Holds the Key . Technology. The Departme received the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration for the year “Project Arrow – Transforming India Post” on 21st April.base enables to offer a range of e-enabled services Post Offices equipped w not only play crucial role in social and financial inclusion of rural masses throughout the coun in National Integration and empowerment of Aam Aadmi. ‘Look and Feel’ component of Pro under implementation in 229 more Post Offices.g. 2010. The ‘Look and Feel’ activity focuses on improvement in Branding. providing all IT enabled services through secure connectivity. world population was expected to surpass 7 billion. It has to be looked at in the context of wider socio-economic development. Limiting of their family has been understood by them as a dire necessity.198. Latest official world population estimat 2011. fo years. was estimated at 6. Population stabilization is around the corner as there is enough evidence from everywhere to show not desire many children. The day has acquired significance as an annual event. it could be achieved by 2050 or 2060.928. UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) and i launched a campaign called "7 Billion Actions" on this very day.FEATURE World Population Day Five billion minds in 1987 had decided to establish World Population Day on July 11 and now. They only want their children to surv and want the means of family planning and other reproductive health services made accessible to them. D debates are held with immense feeling and concern. Population stabilization is not just about numbers but a development.253. Where Do We Go From Here? The concern is around stabilization. It does not m process things don‘t stabilize by 2045. But what is of greater con approach the issue of population stabilization. this could make a big differen The Question of Incentives . this day has become an occasion to mark the significance of population trends and related issues. What draw confidence from the supporting systems that are around them. happen without undermining in any way their sense of dignity and privacy. Coupled with sustained effo income and create conditions where women retain control over that income. The programme organized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Jansankhya Sthirta honoured Rekha Kalindi a student of class 3 who refused to marry at the age of 10. The role of ASHAs (Accredited Social H in educating the rural people deserves special mention here. the G welcomed public debate on this issue. leading to stabilization. after almost 50 years of one-way communication.9 b may be optimistic. the population will grow from 15. most importantly. We rebalance the use of resources to a more egalitarian pattern of consumption or we can choose to do noth into a downward spiral of economic and environmental ills leading to a more unequal and inhospitable futu **** . Madhya Pradesh.5 million by 2050. Chhattisgarh and Orissa were also felicitated as role mo planning. Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad has said that developments are being negated by the ever rising population. Henceforth. incentives or disincentives are necessary. there is need for universal acceptance of small family norms. A future in which popu outstrips the production of food and other necessities of life is a real possibility for Niger. It is indeed heartening that. The couples from the tribal districts of Rajasthan. This report ends with a warning note : "The number of people living on the planet has never be levels of consumption are unprecedented and vast changes are taking place in the environment. Steps by the Government of India The Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare. are they effective and are they just? Can incentives and disincen quality and address the problems of equity and access to health services.Population control agenda has taken its support from the people by offering incentives and disincentives. Even assuming its total fertility rate (TFR) falls to 3. block and district level to convert it into a mass movement. Rising population is one of the most critical problems India is facing and will continue to fa partnership and availability of population control services along with strict vigilance and transparen mitigate the woe that may befall us.5 to 55. specially of women? Can they en accountability of service providers to the community? How relevant or effective are incentives and disince they impinge on the rights of a person? These are often the questions that are raised without firm answer The Two Extremes and Saner Voices Enlightened political leaders and administrators have increasingly begun to recognize the importance of e access to health care services. He said that delayed marriage and suitab two children should be highlighted as the possible solution for the growing population. A change in the attitude of the service providers and bureaucracy is and is a must. overall economic development th assist in achieving the much needed transition. These couples were also recipients of Prerna Award. World Population Day needs to every village. Global Situation A world wide report cites the example of Niger in West Africa which has increased life expectanc years but is doubling population every 20 years. While coercion is for promoting family planning. greater awareness and. Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author in this article are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of P SS-123/SF-123/10-07-2012 RTS/HSN Communal Harmony . *The Author is a Freelance Writer.July 11th is World Population Day. plurality and assimilation have kept the identity of the country intact. The sub-continent has for centuries provided a unique soc many distinct religions have not only co-existed peacefully but have also enriched each other. He said “India has been home to all the great religions o others took root in this ancient land of ours. with people belonging to different religions living amicably for ce tolerance. often expressed its commitment toward maintaining communal harm steps. There are constitutional provisions for equality of op preventive and positive measures having been envisaged in the constitution. legal. India has several provisions for protection of m discriminate on the basis of any particular religion. Dr Manmohan Singh. The Prime Minister. No religion sanctions violence. The Government had. to rule out any feeling of be recurring. It is th forward this great tradition. I believe that both the government and civil society groups must continu groups and individuals who use violence in the name of religion.statutory. and civi Declared a secular country in the constitution. and so on. economic.FEATUR E Home Yogesh Baweja* India is a vast country. Those who use religious symbols and forums to ta . while speaking at the Communal Harmony award communal harmony and national integration. perseverance. administrative. N endorses animosity towards another human being. is a prime responsibility of the State Governments. These include constitu (NIC) (1960s). gr attention requires to be given to the planning and implementation of a range of measures to alleviat incidents of communal violence.cannot be said to be true spokesperson of their respective religion. The NIC. in the event of any such disturbances occurring. action to control the same a relief to the affected persons. Person measures. and much human suffering avoided. despite th be contained effectively. has been meeting regularly. That is why it is all the more important to re distinguished award winners . For th harmony. wherever. It hurts all. in the end. education & training promotes communal harmony and national integration by organizing variety of activities either ind Governments. the father of the nation. which cover preventive and Administrative Measures. and. encouraging interfaith dialogue for India‘s provides financial assistance to the child victims of societal violence for their care. comprising of prominent members of various se ministers and chief ministers of states. a patient hearing is given to the grievances of various The vision of the National Foundation for Communal Harmony (NFCH) is to have India free violence. Gandhiji. NGOs & other organizations. if it is tackled with promptness. where all citizens especially children & youth live together in peace & harmony. The Central maintenance of communal harmony. However. including the provision of relief and rehabilitation assistance to the vic . careful planning done and pr possible incidents of communal violence can be pre-empted and prevented. setting up of the National Foundation for Communal Harmony (1992) and laying dow communal harmony from time to time. commented ―Communalism of the virulent type is a recent gr many faces. It i sanity”. including those who are primarily responsible for it‖. The Government has taken initiatives to promote communal harmony. to discuss and sort out the issues of Centre and the States are members of the council. They reiterate the fact that if due vigilance is maintained. There is no denying the fact that the maintenance of communal harmony. It undertakes activities to highlight and strengthen the bonds of unity and affinity between and encourages activities to promote belief in the principles of non-violence in resolving disputes.who work selflessly for communal harmony and national integration. strengthens national integration and fosters the spirit of unity in diversity through collabor reaches out to the victims of violence especially children. we also know that all so with such preachers of disharmony and disagreement. It confers awards for outstanding contribution to promo integration. and th disturbances/riots and. entrepreneurs and daily-wagers are mos property. which is often a cause for arousing passions and evoking violent reactions among d checked. protect or provide protection to any victim of communal violence in a strictly omission should be severely dealt with. if the situation goes out of control. such organisations. In a communally-sensitive area. and diffusing . shoul loudspeakers. like Video/Audio coverages of events and processions could also ac action needs to be taken to curb and check rumours. provocation. The district administration can tap the resources and energy of these people/groups in ensur Many voluntary organisations in the country are working in the field of promoting peace. and encourage. The district of. The use of technology. There should be involvement of identified respectable members of th processions.. should be checked. most of which is not covered under any type of insurance. The police officers should keep a clos periodically visit them for promoting public contact and interface with the civilian population and comm for these areas should be realistically assessed. which very frequently lead to communal confr organisations tend to organise. In the sensitive/ Operating Procedures (SOPs). and proper assignment of nodal respon management needs to be ensured. Every public servant should exercise the lawful authority vest any communal violence. and view. leading to arson or violence. etc. In communally sensitive and riot prone areas police and administrative officials of pro non-partisan outlook should be posted. women who are the worst sufferers in such situations harmony. Due recognition should be given to the services rendered by and dealing with communal disturbances. Various kinds of religious processions. and all vacancies filled up and manned. especially those deployed in representative of the social structure of the region so as to ensure its credibility. They can thus be the most w communal harmony in the area. processions on religious occasions as a show of strength. Similarly. and help in creating a of the people. natio Such Organisations usually have motivated and well-intentioned volunteers and workers. in their efforts to maintain communal harmony. Adequate steps need to be taken to ensure that no damage is cause The guidelines stipulate that composition of the police force. They are most likely to face or property. small shopkeepers. and contingency plans to deal with escalated situation/riots.The guidelines underline the fact that preventing a communal riot is far more important than Administration to carefully assess the communal situation in the District on a regular basis and prepar areas which are prone to communal sensitivities and tensions. is the law to prohibit conversion of any maintenance of the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on the 15th day of Au institution or manager thereof shall use or allow the use of any premises belonging to the institution political activity. water and electr violence. wherever necessary. it should be ensured that there is no discrimination on the ground of sex. Int to the individuals for any loss or damage suffered due to communal violence. medicines. All the religions have the fundamental teaching of love and the feeling of brotherhood toward . including basem valid licence or permission. Wherever it becomes necessary to set up relief camps. arson. etc. The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act 1991. A lot of resentment is generated on account of non-payment of timely relief/ex-gratia to the riot victims. on account of damage an appropriate mechanism may be established for speedy disposal of insurance claim and assistance from fi rescheduling of loans. The Central Government has launched a Central Scheme for assistance to victims of terrori there is provision for one time payment of Rs. inform the police in the event of misuse of the place of worship. Wherever required. religious places and to prevent their misuse for political. Such premises can’t be used for the carrying on of any unlawful or subver the doing of any act which promotes or attempts to promote disharmony or feelings of enmity.3 lakh to the affected families in addition to any ex-gratia The Government has enacted “The Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act. 1988”. language or regional groups or castes or communities. desce should ensure timely provision of essential supplies/services such as food. etc. community.. milk. subversive or communal purposes. registration/institution of cases. or for the harbouring of any person accused or convicted of an offence under any law ammunition can be stored. prompt and immediate preventive/enfo imposition of prohibitory orders/ curfew. apprehens those indulging in violence.Whenever any communal incidents are apprehended or occur. criminal. While providing assistance an violence. hatr racial. etc. caste. Special Investigation Teams (SIT) may be co investigation. and strict and neutral enforcement of the same. Prosecution of all offences should be carefully monitored and. proper arrangements for security and othe including arrangements for medical examination/ assistance. The Act also prohibits storage of ar worship. nor can it erect or put up any construction or fortification. **** *Director. It is amply clear that some religious teachings for their selfish. leading the nation on the path of development and economic advancement. trivial incidents but with vested interests. can‘t fructify unless the internal security of the nation. egoistic and short-term gains. SS-124/SF-124/11-07-2012 RTS/HSN . Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity (DAVP). an ambien communities. hatred and violence. is and tranquillity occupies lot of Government attention and energy. where is the scope of discord. they take the sh India is a developing country. particularly communal harmony. and in case peace prevails. The vision of our leaders to make In powerhouse. and sometimes fan communal feelings the communal disturbances sprout from small. and an emerging economy.tenet of each religion. However. The project has been conceptualized based on the principle of 'Centralized Planning and Decentralize A Core Application Software (CAS) is being developed with common definitions. The implem Bundle of Services wherein a System Integrator agency implements all the requisite services as define agreements with the States/UTs. A strong governance mechanism with various Committees has also been CCTNS project to ensure quality and for timely completion of project. scheme and specifications which would be handed over to the States/UTs for State specific customization. The project aims at creating a c integrated system and a nation-wide networked solution for connecting more than 15.000 Police Station higher offices in 28 States and 7 UTs of the country for sharing of real-time crime and criminal information.Crime and Criminal Tracking Network FEATURE Home The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) project is a mission mode project un Governance Plan being implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Objectives . States which ha continue to run on their existing applications have to align their existing software to facilitate information exc The States/UTs have complete operational independence in project implementation. Obtaining the copies of FIRs. transfer and sharing of information among police stat headquarters and other organizations/ agencies. accountable. including prog courts. retrieval. The CCTNS project aims at providing online services to the Citizens. Make the police functioning citizen friendly. Enabling and assisting the senior Police Officers in better management of police force. Details of arrested persons/wanted criminals and their illegal activities etc. post-mortem reports and other permissible documents etc. effective and efficient by automat functions at the level of the police stations and other police offices at various levels. Keep track of the progress of the crime and criminal investigation and prosecution cases. storage. transparent. Improving delivery of citizen-centric services through effective usage of Information and Communication Facilitate collection. including those at Government level. analysis. The following is an indicative list o Filing of complaints/information to the concerned police stations. Obtaining the status of the complaint or case registered at police station. . Reduction in manual and redundant record keeping. Deployment of CAS will happen after software certification by STQC. clearances and permits and status of such req Verification requests for servants. arms and other properties. Portal for sharing information and enabling citizens to download required forms/certificates etc. senior citizen registrations etc. A Core Application Software (CAS) has been developed and is being tested by the Software Develop Central level. It has been completed for 28 States/UTs as The commissioning of IT infrastructure for implementation of national data centre and disaster recover advanced stage. Details of missing/kidnapped persons and their matching with arrested. employment. All States/UTs have implemented project initiation of capacity building and strengthening of training institutions. A nation-wide network and connectivity solution is being implemented by the network solution provider and survey is currently underway for implementation of the network. Saving Wetlands in J&K – Need of the Hour . System Integrators hav 16 States/UTs and rest are in various stages of finalization. unidentified persons and dead b Details of stolen/recovered vehicles. The CAS would be further customized as required by implemented at States/UTs by the System Integrator agencies. Submission of requests for issue/renewal of various NOCs. The CAS would be implemented both at Central level and States/UTs to enable information exch criminal tracking as per objectives of CCTNS project. passport. These wetlands fall along winter migratory birds and are thus an important ecosystem supporting equally important biodiversity. a consequence of human greed and the pressures c . Wular Lake. water harvesting and water availability. According to a survey extinct species. White-eyed Pochard was found in seven wetlands in the state and Ibis in two wetlands in that two endangered species Blacknecked Crane and Sarus Crane were spotted in wetlands in Ladakh in Jammu region respectively. The State is having 29 wetlands. Take the c wetland. which constitutes an important ecosystem in the valley and supports a lot of bio div reservoir of water and a rich repository of macrophytic vegetation and winter asylum to migratory birds. Many of these wetlands are shrinking. eight in Jammu and five in Ladakh. As e an important role in the economic activities of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. The importance of these wetland sanctuary to migratory birds some of them belonging to the endangered species.FEATURE Environment About ten lakh migratory birds recently left for their summer sojourn across continents after having wetlands of Jammu and Kashmir to escape harsh cold weather back home. Wetlands are essential for maintaining bio-diversity. 16 in Kashmir. to thousands of locals by contributing sixty per cent of the total fish catch in the valley as well as other p waters. Around 106 spe wetlands including 25 species of land birds who visit them occasionally. they say. the scenario is no better with Nanga Wetland Reserve (1. was one of our best wetla 1970s government authorities constructed dams around this water body and also reclaimed a large chunk . Jammu. All that resulted in the shrinking of wetlands and changed the environmen environment changed.68 sq km) in Abdulliyan sector having totally vanished while many others ha size. "Wular. Now there are only 10 to 1 are on the verge of extinction‖. B improved. The Wild Life Department has also been persuading locals not to resist the arrival of birds. which. Sarpanch of Nanga village said that no migratory birds visit the area now. said a senior functionary in the Centre for Environmental Law. In the vast arid Jammu region. ―Huge wetland ago. which is of late emerging as an eco-tourist attraction. “Not only people at individual level. A.21 sq k Sangral Wetland Reserve (0. Yousuf of Central Wetlands Regulatory Authority. but also in the catchments…. ―We used to have 600 small and big wetlands around Kashmir valley. They point out to Bemina residential colony. Wular lake and Mirgund have been reduced to one-third of th kms and 1. an internationally recognized wetland. the habitat changed.There was also reclamation pr and government level. It was a vast pond which has completely dried out.growth. used to be a wonderful wetland on the end of the 19thcentury. That also impacted the birds which had a particular type of ha Prof. but also the government at regulatory level interfered with w land use pattern not only within the wetlands. Elders told us flocks of migratory birds used to ar passage of time inhabitants started using the land for cultivation and birds started ignoring wetland due to inc The conflict between man and nature is responsible for the dismal scenario.5 sq kms respectively. He added. the villagers used to scare away the birds. They add that this apathy continues and cite the case of Rakh Arath. These water bodies could not be saved even after being declared as reserved wetlands way bac wetland. Reports suggest that have been opposed to the coming of birds alleging that they damaged crops. The end result of all such measures has been to save the wetlands which ha Unchecked deforestation causing soil erosion and silting. R. a wetla rehabilitating people living inside the Dal Lake. human encroachments in and around the attitude and unimaginative policies of the concerned authorities have led to the degradation and shrinki experts. The its best to get the maximum cooperation from the villagers by trying to provide compensation to the farmer said a Wildlife Warden. The state's two premier wetlands. People also started cultivation of paddy in the erstwhile wetland area. Realizing the unique hydrological and socio-economic values of the Wullar Lake. th Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 1990. Besides the Wullar and Ho in Jammu and Kashmir. The Union Environment Ministry has also prohibiting constructions. ―To sustain state‘s tourism and safeguard economic resources the conservation of water bod diversity of state is the need of the hour‖. The impending extinction threats have forced the Central and State governments to initiate action. the Wullar Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) etc. launched some major initiatives complimented by the Centre to conserve the water bodies in view of the importance. Awareness has to be created on mass scale and authorities have to be sensiti displaced in the process. to clean an LAWDA has been mainly engaged in regenerating Dal Lake and WMDA in conserving the Manasbal lake decided to constitute Wular Development Authority for according focused attention to resurrect the Wular la All these efforts would bear fruit provided there is peoples‘ active cooperation. That is a crucial fact conservation of Manasbal lake. Responding to the urgency of the situation. Tsomoriri in Ladakh and Mansar and Surinsar lakes in Jammu division Ramsar Convention in order to protect and conserve them. the State Government set up several authorities namel Development Authority (LAWDA).25 sq kms. setting up of industries in the vicinity and dumping of any waste or discharge industries or human settlements into them. says the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.” said Prof Yousuf. It also set up the 12 member Central Wetlands Regulatory Au implement and review an elaborate set of rules in this regard besides identifying wetlands across the country The State government has too been making efforts to save the water bodies which Chief Ministe ‗icons of our heritage.‘ A number of reports and ac recent years to come to terms with the problem of these lakes. namely. Dal Lake too has suffered from devastating impact of hum has also drastically shrunk from 75 sq kms area to a mere 12 sq kms while another important wetland H almost half of its size of 7. Union Ministry included it in its Wetlands Programme as a Wetland of National Importance in 1986. for which the entire people of the state feel concerned. The jewel in Kashmir‘s splendid beauty. There has to be a peoples movement harmonized by the NGOs and media to comple . with other wetlands also facing the same fate.plantations. Subsequently. Strengthening Secondary Education .may be a long and difficult way but will have to be treaded upon to save these ‗icons of heritage‘ for ensurin safeguarding economic interests of local population. with an aim to ensure GER of 100% by 2017. . the rapid changes witnessed in scientific and tec improve the quality of life and to reduce poverty. Further. particularly when the average earning of a secondary sch than that of a person who has studied only up to class VIII. In the new secondary schools. i. 283 new school buildings hav secondary school buildings are at different stages of construction. 906 new secondary schools have been sanctioned in the minority concentrat secondary schools. to enhance the enrolment at secondary stage by providing a secondary habitation. by the end of 12th Five Year Plan and achieving un year.e. it is essential that school leavers acquire a higher level o provided in the eight years of elementary education. the following schemes targeted at secondary stage (i. To improve the Pupil Teacher Ratio (PTR) in t of 52352 additional teachers have also been approved. At present. 7303 secondary schools have become functional. 12591 teachers have also b .FEATURE HRD Secondary Education is a crucial stage in the educational hierarchy as it prepares the students for higher the liberalization and globalization of the Indian economy.. class IX to XII) are being implemented in t Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan was launched in 2009 with the objective to universalise acces quality. accessible and affordab 14-18.e. The policy at present is to make secondary education of good quality available. opening of 9670 new secondary schools and strengthening of existing 34311 secondary schools have been 9670 new secondary schools. The scheme envisages inter alia. ST. 300. 201 under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Mode. Minority communities and BPL families will form the tar out of KGBV will be given preference in admission in hostels. O ICT (Information and Communication Technolog The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Schools Scheme was launched in December. The Scheme envisages construction of a hostel wi 3. Girls’ Hostel Scheme The Centrally Sponsored Scheme for “Construction and Running of Girls’ Hostels for Students of Seco launched in 2008-09 and is being implemented from 2009-10. Financial assistance is given to States.The Model School Scheme aims to provide quality education to talented rural children through s of excellence at block level at the rate of one school per block.500 Educationally Backward Blocks (EBBs) in the country. ST. The gi studying in classes IX and XII belonging to SC. 1925 hostels have been (PAB) and an amount of Rs. The modalities for the PPP Model schools were approved by the Government on 24 November.The scheme currently covers both Government and Government aided Secondary assistance is provided for procurement of computers and peripherals. setting up the requisite infrastructure to impart computer litera approved for 94752 government and government aided secondary and higher secondary schools. 2012. CIET and SIETs on the basis of the approvals accorded by Project Monit chaired by Secretary (School Education and Literacy).Model School Scheme The Model School scheme was launched in November 2008 in pursuance to the announcement of th speech of 2007. The main objective of the Scheme is to improve acc and Higher Secondary classes (IX-XII) so that the girl students are not denied the opportunity to continue the financial affordability and other connected societal factors. A total of 1956 model schools have so far been functional. The scheme is under implementation since 20 many educationally backward blocks (EBBs) through States/UTs. At least 50% of girls admitted will be from SC. . 2 stage students to mainly build their capacity on ICT skills and make them learn through computer aided learning bridge the digital divide amongst students of various socio economic and other geographical barriers. Based on was revised. training of teac connectivity & setting up of smart schools. OBC.93 crore has been released for construction of 958 hostels in 13 States. The project cost is shared between Centre and States i including Sikkim where it is 90:10. As on 31st March. educational software. in July 2010. training and evaluation etc. 600 per disabled child per annum. 765 crore. It provides assistance for the inclusive education of the disabled children to enable all students with disabilities.Inclusive Education for Disabled at Secondary Sta The Scheme of Inclusive Education for Disabled at Secondary Stage (IEDSS) was launched in 2009-10 Education for Disabled Children (IEDC).The scheme was initially launched in 1988. has created infrastructure of 21000 sections in 9619 schools and creating a ca level. reduce the mismatch between demand and supply of skilled manpower and higher education. training manual. National Vocational Education Qualifications Framework (NVEQF) The HRD Ministry is seized with the problems of low rates of enrolment and school drop outs at Secondary a in Higher Education. Central assistance for all items covered in the sche Governments are only required to make provisions for a scholarship of Rs.241 disabled children have been approved for coverage sin Vocationalisation of Secondary Education The Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Vocationalisation of Secondary Education provides for diversifica enhance individual employability. Th Governments/Union Territory (UT) Administrations is the implementing agency. To make improvement in this scheme. The Scheme. The revisions were suggested to address the issues of low esteem of vocational education in the country. The Framework would bring ab courses being offered.00. strengthening te development. They may involve NGOs having disabled. so far. after completing eight years of elementary schooling. work book curriculum guides. by registration of vocational qualification and accreditation of programmes and institu . the revise 2011. The Scheme provides for financial assistance to the States to set up administrative structure. The grants released so far since the inception of the scheme is Rs. 4. area voc text book. in the implementation of the scheme. redundant courses and curricula as well as paucity of traine envisages that strengthening of vocational education at the secondary stage would contribute to the national 2022. teacher training programme. execution. to pursue further f to XII) in an inclusive and enabling environment. It also provides financial assistance to NGOs and voluntary organiz innovative projects for conducting short-term courses. lack of vertical and horizontal mobility. The Ministry is in the process of developing the NVEQF. 72.is deposited in the name of eligible unmarri withdraw it along with interest thereon on reaching 18 years of age and passing 10th standard examination. The communities who pass class VIII and all girls who pass VIII examination from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalay SC/ST) and enrol in class IX in Government.Secondary and Higher Secondary Schools.458 crore/ for 241528 girls of 15 states/ 543532 girls of 25 states/UTs (2011-12).3. Indo-Mangolian Schools are being implemented.798 crore/for 152660 girls of 14 states/UTs (2009-10). It has developed a web based portal recently facilitate on line submission of data of the beneficiaries and on line disbursement of incentive amount on certification by the State Nodal Officer on line that the beneficiary is 18 years old and passed class X examinati Rs. Central Board of Secondary Education CBSE has strengthened the Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) and School Based Assessm to the Board from August 2009 and also made class X Board Examination optional for the students of Senior Seco In addition to the above the Central Sector schemes of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS). Rs. According to the scheme. Universities & Colleges for seamless pathways and pr formulated in consultation with State Governments as well as a Group of State Education Ministers. National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Seconda The Centrally sponsored scheme “National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education (NSI objective to establish an enabling environment to reduce the drop-outs and to promote the enrolment of girl ch in secondary schools. Polytechnics. a sum of Rs. 45. Canara bank is the implementing agency for the scheme. Navodaya Vidyal Schools Administration (CTSA).000/. NERAMAC – A Vibrant Agri-Marketing Organization of North E . Government-aided and local body schools. large cardamom. besides its initiative in supporting tiny and small scale processor NERAMAC helped farmers in getting better price of their produce besides procurement of the same. procuring and marketing of cash cashew nut. maize etc. 96 Cr during the just concluded fiscal year 2011-12 with a net profit of Rs 1 Cr. NERAMAC is playing a significant role by intervening in the sourcing.FEATURE DoNER North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) Ltd. floriculture items etc. planting materials. Linkage were initiated with Passion Fruit Growers Association passion fruit from them to make end product with the help of private and women entrepreneurs and marketing t Kiwi fruit was introduced by sourcing them from Arunachal Pradesh by involving private entrepreneur group. . under the Horticulture Mission for North East & Hill States Mission. The Corpor by tying up through MoU with different farmer’s Societies as well processed products manufacturers having F confidence among farmers and producers for a better network of procurement through NERAMAC. It has tied up with reputed companies in the field of setting up of various Horticultural Projects like Hi laboratory. supply of planting materials etc. is a Government Enterprise of North Eastern Region (DoNER). in seeds. The Company with an authorized capital of Rs 10. Kiwi fruits etc.00 Cr and a paid up capital sales turnover of Rs. It has taken initiative in involving various stakeholder particularly private sector in the field of processing the market potential for Kiwi and Passion fruit. from the farmers and growers of the North Eastern Region. Its role as a dynamic essentially to support farmers of North East has started showing visibility through its operations to sustain application of post harvest technology thereby arresting decline in prices arising from larger output of the farm pr It has also procured and marketed various other items such as turmeric. This has given a facelift to the farmers. It has organized North East Food Processing Expo. Oranges from Wakro and Tezu of Arunachal Pradesh are coming The Company has hosted a series of programs in the North-East to scale up awareness among the buddin on food processing involving national institutes and organizations of repute and large business houses in agr financial support of Ministry of Food Processing Industries & North Eastern Council. For the first time. first time with the financial support of the Ministry of DoNER. Maharastra for givi production technique & demonstration. an exhibition for the fruit processors of North East fo sellers meet at Guwahati during January 2012 where processors from all the North Eastern states participated. an initiative has been taken to set up kiosks at six Malls in the National Capital Re produces to the consumers of NCR Delhi. 100 Orange farmers were taken to National Research Centre for Citrus at Nagpur. North East Connect program was organised to show case potential of north east at Delhi. Ma & TDI mall at NCR Delhi. Mum opportunities as well as create business opportunity for the naturally grown organic produces of North East.In order to support the large cardamom growers of Sikkim. Mumbai. This was followed with weeklong Mall festivals in the beginning. EDM mall. Large cardamom growers are getting immense benefit as it has given them edge in getting value over the country are coming and participating in this auction program which has given a fillip to the cardamom pr NERAMAC has also taken a lead in setting up a outlet at Siliguri Regulated market to make way for pro produces. Kolkata. organised for the first time in the region. NERAMAC has set up a Large Cardamom Auct the last fiscal. NERAMAC in association with IIP. from each state of North East was taken to INDPACK 2011 at Hyderabad to give them the knowledge and expert North Eastern Council. . INDPACK 2012 Guwahati to support the first generation entrepreneurs of the North East in food processing and value addition. Outlets in the name N E Fresh are located at Shipra mall. New Delhi. PIB. SS-138/SF-138/30-07-2012 RTS/HSN Drug Abuse – A Holistic Approach .***** *Media & Communication Officer. more than the sympathy towards such af systematic treatment appropriate for such cases. in increased quantity and violates the presc this produces a sensation that "puts them up" and they therefore start using these constantly. drug users were look down upon as those lacking in moral val consumption (of the drug) and it was more often held that a person was not "man e was first recognized to be a disease like any other. is a disorder that is characterize substance that leads to significant problems or distress. also called substance abuse or chemical abuse. not when it WHO Reports The yearly report released by bodies like WHO normally indicates an increase/decrease in pattern of could be more prevalent would be smoking heroin. These could be akin to treating patients with other hyper-tension. than anything else. at other times it could be injecting cannabis. which treat conditions like atten FEATURE Health Long ago… Initially. who d organization. What was needed therefore. one came to the con disease. for the reason that it is merely a chemic "high". where the user is fully aware of the consequences and but is prevented by a s . by Alcoholics Anonymous. emotional signs to an abrupt or gradual change in the family dynamics th behaviour. There are many criteria to determine whether a person from physical warning signs. The person exhibits red and glazed eyes with poor eating and sleeping habits and may als become a victim of sudden mood changes. to name a few.Drug abuse. There where a medically prescribed item is consumed frequently.Jellinek's path-breaking studies helped change the very orientation one hitherto had about these alco the advancement of neuro-physiological science. He may develop a strange secretiveness that keeps him a side he would try to become a truant with an altogether negative attitude. and stimulant medications. All th fluctuations in drug abuse. more importantly after 1956. curable by proper treatment. The better understood than in the past. But as a thumb rule it would usages as a symptom. Types of Drugs Drugs drastically put to wrong use are brown sugar (its inferior version is heroin) cannabis (gan and even alcohol which qualifies to fall under the drug category. Teens are increasingly engaging in prescript (which are prescribed to relieve severe pain). could trouble a person for his entire life and was ultimately. Even thinners usable with paints and other such common material could be called drugs. delving deep into the reasons why a person fell into and subsequently in short time lo Dr. frequency and be inclined towards an insurmountable ur Vulnerability Instead of looking at the causes for drug addiction per se'. Deaddiction cum Rehabilitation Centres. for instance. Deaddiction Camps. all in a truly holistic manner. the mind and the soul. and A is assisting 361 voluntary organisations for maintaining 376 De-addiction-cum-Rehabilitation Centres Centres all over the country. echoing the message against drug addiction repeatedly at differe of the society are some of the preventive measures to be taken. as the focal point for drug demand redu been implementing the Scheme for Prohibition and Drug Abuse Prevention since the year 1985-86.any or all these may be the vulnerability. Withdrawal Symptoms Withdrawal symptoms create an uncomfortable feeling and will depend more on the drug whic become restless.consumption of the drug in terms of quantity. if results Government Initiatives The Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. a person gets cornered an valium tablets. This is a state that has to be completely that substitution of one drug by another is neither the solution nor the cure. of taking vows and that drugs are bad alone may not also work. Though treatment may begin med and the patient would need an enormous amount of psychological help. If there is ta then it is held as a normal habit. It is no more drug abuse . The basic objective in creating facilities for treatment. skills. all parts of the body could be affected and there i similar to a pair of physical balances where one scale is at its extreme and what is strictly happening patient goes back wanting to consume only a small quantity then the brain recalls the experiences it h consume more and more till it provides complete satisfaction. a good support system. As i addiction and rehabilitation of drug addicts require sustained and committed/involved effort with a great State-community (voluntary) partnership appears to be particularly strong mechanism for service deliv while major portion of the cost of services is borne by the Government. learning to say a firm "no" to persuaded. it is only rightful "use". at Centres run throug . Treatment Drug abuse. then is the disease of the body. the mechanism of a backup of friends during immense emotional pain . Developing of coping skills. It is "taken" in its stride. it is better to understand it as a vulnera term. the family and friends around a person may usage of the drug(s) thereby increasing the positive expectancy that is to be derived out of it. If. he should be taught and educated how to pass his time without these thre change in lifestyle and the involvement of the family becomes cardinal in these kinds of treatments. C patients dignity is preserved and he should always be respected. Prevention Prevention is a community process and not a one-time affair or a single day affair. become more and more irritable. Genetic make-up plays a vital part in forming this habit. the voluntary organisations Counselling and Awareness Centres. come up as a result. 100 De-addiction Centres are being run in Government h The initiatives from the Government include maintaining of Quality Assurance and Minimum Standards Minimum Standards of Services. This collaboration has led to the formation of an effective group of various st Association of Resource Managers against Alcohol and Drug Abuse. research and development in the drug sector and Targets where The Workplace Prevention Programme (WPP). **** June 26th is International Day against Drug Abuse Sea . a collaborative effort of the Government. Professional Manpower Development where National Centre for Drug A institution has the necessary mandate for training. To facilitate the medica require intensive long-term medical attention.that the support of the family and the community is mobilized to the maximum. co found in various form concentrations than terr The deposits ar bucket systems that ta Polymetallic nodules w manganese are found Manganese crusts are cobalt. .FEATURE Earth Science Over the past d has begun in the world rising demand for pr Growing world popula based artificial fertilize food production. which contai copper. some vanadium. Phosp the best source for artifi Deep sea mini process that takes place sites are usually around active and extinct hydr 3700 meters below the deposits. manganese. Sulfide deposits are which contains coppe Diamonds are also mine The Internation 15-year contract with exploration activity for Ocean on lines simila including China. transferred to ISA for p Initially nations agreed as the operation was no countries refused to sig At present. Each country e one over to the ISA. The reg force in 1994 and co which resulted in se Authority (ISA). in the Bi high grade copper-gold Massive Sulphide (SM . J L from nickel and cobalt these deposits. India world which would be resources in the years a History A book titled ‗M in 1960 floated the ide floor of the ocean. It re country outside their re is a 200-nautical mile nations. In pu of Earth Sciences has u a total area of 75000 sq is available to it. So New Guinea.it. change in sed in toxicity of the water Removal of p benthic layer. CLB system is nodules. It operate sea floor to the sur mining platform ex the rest of the mate Hydraulic suction sy for collecting nodul A pipe is lowered to along with other m nodules are separa seafloor by another Environmental Concer All mining environmental damages also the concern is abo that area. The typ permanent disturbance Besides this direct imp and corrosion would alt .water depth of 1050 of Manus Basin promises is expected in the year around Papua New Gui to the east are locations Extraction Method At present Remote collect mineral sam other cutting tools. analyzed for precio mining ship or stati systems are being u line bucket system (HS). ) *The author is a Freela Disclaimer: The view article are her own an views of PIB.It is feared that sed impact. This clog benthic organisms. Surface plume Depending on the size plumes could spread ov zooplanktons and light the area. (PIB Feature. Plumes are are dumped back in create a cloud of pa of plumes occur: ne When the tailings a the floating particle the water. SS-111/SF-111/13-06-2 RTS/HSN The Right of Every . FEATURE Labour Thirteen year o girl whom I see every d assistant waiter at the and meals on a regular one gets in such m Tamilnadu is of excellen However. Maharastra and West B . Utta of close to one fourth o Andhra Pradesh. the with a specific price ta labour of Sivakami as w who is studying for his both Sivanesan as wel continue with their stud But this is no Planning Commission’s according to the 200 economically active chi Among the states. National laws from one to another.and eight percent of Ind Uttar Pradesh has dram decade from less than 1 to 23 per cent in 2004-0 the other hand. employment of 13-15 neither prejudicial to a child‘s health or de . it is u labour exists to a large labour is the result of v illiteracy are two such there are many other f position of women in practices and feudal at this problem. The Global Pictur The most recen boys and 88 million with 74 million boys forms. the sha declined quite consider Though there Constitution to safeg ensuring that they rece work for a living. India’s Latest Appro The strategy for dealing Five Year Plan Period ha suggestions given by th the two meetings cond 2011 The broad highligh The Child Labour (Pr be strengthened and The problems of wo families should be a specifically capture m schools should be op and also in every dis It is important to run rehabilitation of chil The NCLP (National expand further to a Emphasis should be tracking of NCLP sch The convergence ap enhance social prote working children. The NCLP Scheme sh Right to Education A Special schools shou Three tier Monitorin .children in the ages Still other countries p becoming employed. therefore. a n 600 districts in the coun Right to E India’s landmark Compulsory Education as an essential foundat school and out of ch unanimously agreed as of elimination of child efforts through pover building political comm The 12th Plan P calls for an effective a the provisions of the Compulsory Education NCLP Schools will serv enrolled and out-of-sch provisions of Section 4 Right of Children to Fr Rules. 2010.and National level sh implementation and The NCLP Scheme The NCLP Scheme (Nati began with a modest nu progressively extended the coverage of 271 dis functioning in 18 distric There have bee expanding the coverag there is. For this . World Day Against C The National Commissi (NCPCR) is commemora here on 12 June. FOR CHILDREN – END C commemorating this da the rights of the child a violations of fundamen The World Day Against International Labour Or awareness about the pr sectors. T census estimated that 1 labour. ILO estimates t labourers worldwide. This means that force in India is constitu labour market prematu and training that can he . 2012.admitted to a neig Government/local aut children will undergo mainstreamed into the class. In 2010 t adopted a Roadmap for forms of Child labour b child labour is an imped barrier to development 2012 will highlight the w the roadmap a reality. June 12 is World Da Bringing the Econom .communities out of a c they are exposed to ph suffering that can cause This year the World Day spotlight on the right o child labour and from o human rights. develop investment rates across t remove the supply constr pointing out that the gove meet the vast investment that we involve the private Private Partnerships. of Ministers and Senior off Power. Highways. The purpo to bring the economy b economy which had been the past eight years. grew in the last quarter of the fi per cent.FEATURE Economy Prime Minister Dr. Civil A June. this year.‖ . Such turn of e suitable measures to rever At the meeting it w rupees in the current finan made substantially increas the economy. with significant public-private partnership massive boost to overa sectors. Indian economy ne infrastructure in the next fiv increased investment in t said that development of integral part of any strateg the short term. The qua sectors. along with contributed to inflationary p to constitute a formidable e .7 per cent o investment by 73.The meeting focuse projects and investment ta airports. Goa and Ka will have airport hubs.500 Government said. green field Navi Mumbai. P proposed to be hiked by 18 Dr. Singh described th impressive. 20. Maintain. Trans aviation sector. ―The to this year will be 360 millio length to be awarded in 20 increase of 18. He expressed said that the Government i in their implementation. Hin ―The global economy is pa Eurozone being the cause flight to safety taking place persistent problem of rising and other commodities in t rising demand. In the ports s comprising 42 projects va three times what was achi projects are for brand new in Andhra Pradesh and the investment of Rs.6 per ce roads will be awarded (Operate. will return to h Feature. be re time the Government is ta massive infrastructure. The be a review of progress in Hopefully all these factors and removed as the projec which the Prime Minister s digit growth. however. W meeting cited inter-ministe would expect the ministries inter-ministerial differences we go forward.It may.‖ The assertiveness sh Government‘s drive to re-e investors confidence.) *The author is a Freelance . On the projects is the delay in different ministries take op Keeping these in view the will work on multi-fronts. SS-108/SF-108/08-06-201 RTS/HSN .Disclaimer: The views e article are his own and d views of PIB. Enhancin g Milk Producti on Through National Dairy Plan . Per capita availability of milk reached 269 grams per day in 2010-11.8 million tonne milk during 2010-11.FEATURE Agriculture Sant Bahadur* Dair y sector in India has acquired substantial growth momentum from 9th Plan onwards. This has not only . producing 121. but also demonstrat ed sustained growth in the availability of milk and milk products for the burgeoning population. De mand for milk is increasing rapidly in the country.placed the country on top of milk producing countries in the world. This is primarily due to increasing population and growing incomes accruing from the multitude of central schemes launched for livelihood . 5 million tonnes per annum whereas there is a need to reach an . the demand for milk is likely to be about 155 million tonnes by the end of 12th Five year Plan (2016-17) and in the range of 200-210 million tonnes in 2021-22. Annual average increase in the production of milk over the last 10 years has been around 3.and employmen t generation. If we go by the emerging trend. average of 6 million tonnes per year over the next 12 years to meet the ever increasing demand. Dair ying has become an important secondary source of income for millions of rural families and has assumed a very important role in providing employmen t and income generating opportuniti es. Milk production and marketing system in India is unique. Most of the milk is produced . marginal farmers and landless labourers. especially women.45 crore farmers have been brought under the ambit of 1. the majority being small and marginal farmers and landless. About 1. it is desirable that they retain the present . As dairy cooperative s ensure inclusivene ss for small holders.45 lakh village level dairy corporative societies.by small. About 7 crore rural households are engaged in milk production. National Dairy Plan-I The Governmen t has launched an ambitious programme for increasing the productivit y of milch animals and thereby increasing the availability of milk in the country. is . The outlay of the first phase of the project. for 2012-17. The National Dairy Plan is a Central Sector Scheme.50% share of the marketable surplus handled by the organised sector. Rs. Rs. 176 crore as Central Governmen t‘s share.estimated to be about Rs 2.242 crore. crore 715 . Rs. 282 crore as share of implementi ng agencies and Rs. Rs. 1584 crore will come from Internationa l Developme nt Agency (IDA) as credit. Out of total project outlay. 200 crore from NDDB and its subsidiaries for providing technical and implementa tion support to the project. 132 crore for project managemen t and learning.of the National Dairy Plan funds will be spent on breed improveme nt and Rs. 488 crore will go for strengtheni ng of village based milk procuremen t system and Rs. Objectives This scheme is aimed at meeting the projected demand of 150 million tonne in next five years by productivit y . 425 crore on animal nutrition. Rs. enhanceme nt. The objective of the NDP is to help increase productivit y of milch animals and thereby milk production to meet the rapidly growing demand for milk in the country and provide rural milk producers with greater access to organised milkprocessing sector . strengtheni ng and expanding village level infrastructu re for milk procuremen t and provide producers with greater access to markets. and implemente d by National Dairy Developme nt Board (NDDB) through End Implementi ng Agencies (EIAs) located in states. It is a six-year plan to be largely financed through the Internationa l Developme nt Association (IDA) of the World Bank.through a scientificall y planned multi-state initiative. Funding will be through a line of credit from IDA which along with . ICAR institutes. EIA s comprise State Governmen t. State Livestock Boards.share of Governmen t will flow from the Department of Animal Husbandry. and veterinary/d airy institutes and universities . Dairying and Fisheries to NDDB and in turn to eligible EIAs. District Cooperativ e Milk Producers Unions. subsidiaries of statutory bodies. State Cooperativ e Dairy Federations . and financial and governance parameters. . Pattern of funding under the scheme will be 100% grant-in-aid for nutrition and breeding activities.and any other entity decided by the National Steering Committee to be set up under the National Dairy Plan. technical. The EIAs will be eligible for funding under various components based on eligibility criteria which will comprise geographic al. Focus States The NDP-I is to be implemente d in States where the respective Governmen ts commit to undertake the necessary regulatory. policy support to prepare an environmen t for successful implementa tion of the scheme. . namely Andhra Pradesh. Bihar. The focus of the scheme will be on the areas with higher potential in 14 major milk producing states. Punjab. However. Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Karnataka. Kerala. Haryana. Odisha. Madhya Pradesh. These states contribute to 90% of milk production in the country. Rajasthan. Tamil Nadu. Strengthen ing VillageBased Milk Procureme nt Systems Vill age-based procuremen . in terms of benefits the coverage of the scheme will be countrywid e. Maharashtr a.Gujarat. About 13 lakh milk producers in 23.t system will be expanded by strengtheni ng existing cooperatives and facilitating the setting up of producer companies or newgeneration cooperatives. Alongside. capacity building.800 additional villages are expected to be covered. . training and education programme s will get due prominence to promote technologie s and improved practices at the village level. lead to reduction in methane emissions. improve the quality of milk being marketed. It will make prudent use of country‘s resources. the NDP will put in place a scientific and systematic process which is expected to take the country on the path to improving the breed of milk producing animals in a consistent and continuous manner. help strengthen .Benefits In terms of overall benefits. regulatory and policy measures to provide an enabling environmen t for future growth of dairy sector and contribute to improving the livelihoods of small milk producers who form the backbone of India‘s milk production system. Major Incentives in Scholarship Schemes for Minorities . 2006 under the Ministry of Minority . This Programme for the Welfare of Minorities was announced in June.FEATURE Minority Affairs Sapna* The Prime Minister’s New 15Point Programme for the Welfare of Minorities is an initiative of the Government to bring the people of minority classes in the mainstream of development. coordination. The purpose was to facilitate the formulation of overall policy and planning. evaluation and review of the regulatory framework and development programmes for the benefit of the minority communities.Affairs to ensure a more focused approach towards issues relating to the minorities. In order to ensure that the benefits of these schemes flow equitably to the . An important aim of the new programme is to ensure that the benefits of various government schemes for the underprivileged reach the disadvantaged sections of the minority communities. wherever possible. Ensuring an equitable share for minorities in economic activities and employment. the new programme envisages location of a certain proportion of development projects in minority concentration areas.minorities. 15 percent of targets and outlays under various schemes should be earmarked for the minorities. It also provides that. The objectives of the programme are: Enhancing opportunities for education. enhanced credit support for selfemployment and recruitment to State and Central Government jobs. through existing and new schemes. Improving the living conditions of minorities by ensuring an appropriate share for . 1992. pre-matric scholarship from class-I to X. Muslims. postmatric scholarship from class XI to PhD and merit-cummeans scholarship for technical and professional courses . Scholarship Schemes for Students of Minority Communities Three scholarship schemes for minority communities namely.them in infrastructure development schemes. Buddhists and Zoroastrians (Parsis) have been notified as minority communities under Section 2 (c) of the National Commission for Minorities Act. Christians. and Prevention and control of communal disharmony and violence. Sikhs. It is felt that the scholarship will encourage parents from minority communities for educating their children. has the potential to lead to upliftment of the socio economic conditions of the minority communities.at under-graduate and post-graduate levels have been launched. The scheme will form the foundation for their educational attainment and provide a level playing field in the competitive employment arena. which is one of the objectives of this scheme. Scholarships are awarded to the students who have secured not less than 50 percent marks in the previous final examination and . Empowerment through education. then the balance earmarked scholarships may be awarded to eligible boy students. In case sufficient number of eligible girl students is not available. As the number of scholarships for minorities available in a year is fixed and limited it is necessary to lay down preference for selection giving weightage to poverty rather than marks. 30 percent of scholarships are earmarked for girl students.annual income of their parents/guardian from all sources does not exceed Rs 1 lakh and 2 lakh for school and higher education respectively. Another scheme of meritcum-means based scholarship to students belonging to minority communities is to . For this they should visit the website through URL www. The OSMS has proved to be . Students may apply online.e.in.momascholars hip. Every year 20000 scholarships are distributed among the students of minority communities throughout the country. gov. Online Scholarship Management System (OSMS) An Online Scholarship Management System (OSMS) for meritcum-means based scholarship scheme has been introduced as a pilot project from the current financial year i.gov.enable them to pursue professional and technical courses.minorityaffairs.in. 2011-12 through the website of the Ministry of Minority Affairs www. Significant Achievements Minority Affairs in In pursuance with the recommendation s of the National Commission for Religious and Linguistic Minorities (NCRLM). This reservation is available to . both from the user and the stakeholder point of view.useful. 2012 for backward classes of minorities from out of 27 percent quota of Other Backward Classes (OBCs). This is the first time that in a Government Scholarship Scheme such a system has been introduced. the Government have carved out a sub-quota of 4.5 percent effective from 1st January. The reservation will be for the Central Government jobs and services and also admissions to Central Government educational institutions. the Ministry of Minority Affairs within a short span of four years in the 11th Plan. have awarded more than One crore scholarships to minorities. out of which 50.34 percent has been awarded to girls students. For educationally empowering minority communities. Among other .those minority communities who are included in the Central list of OBC published by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment from time to time. 29.38 lakh post-matric scholarships were awarded of which 55.135 crore .23 lakh pre-matric scholarships were awarded of which 53.65 percent went to girl students .80 percent went to girl students. The outlay for scholarship schemes for the students belonging to the Minorities has been increased significantly.06 percent went to girl students. 4. Increased Budget Union Budget 2012-13 has provided major incentives for the uplift of students of minority communities. The Ministry of Minority Affairs has got an outlay of Rs. and 29579 Merit-cumMeans scholarships were awarded of which 38.achievements during the year 2011-12. 3. 47 crore to Rs. Meritcum-means Scholarship scheme gets Rs. 540 crore to Rs. 450 crore – up from Rs. 810 crore.750 crore). 126 crore in the Revised Budget Estimates for the 2011-12. 63 crore. Post-Matric Scholarship gets Rs. Provision for Maulana Azad National Fellowship for Minority students has been enhanced from Rs. 405 crore. 385 crore over the Revised Budget Estimates for the FY 201112 (which stands at Rs. Provision for Pre-Matric Scholarship has been increased from Rs. 198 crore as against Rs. This is an increase of Rs. New Initiatives . 2.as Central Plan Outlay in the Union General Budget 2012-13. The Budget 2012-13 also provides Rs. 4. Rs. to allow them to gain employment. 45 crore each have been provided for Scheme for promotion of education in 100 Minority Concentration towns/cities. 18 crore in the Budget to allow urban and rural livelihoods to improve for inclusive growth by providing skill to the Minority communities who do not posses any. Another new scheme of Skill Development Initiatives has been provided Rs. and Village .50 crore for a new scheme to provide free cycles to girl students of class IX with the objective of retention of minority girl students from class IX onwards. Strategy to Tackle the Issue Black Money Stashed Abroa . 3.70 crore as Non-Plan provision so that the total finances available with the Ministry for the FY 2012-13 are Rs.70 crore. 19. The Ministry of Minority Affairs also gets Rs.154.Development Programme for 1.000 villages not covered under Minority Concentration Blocks/ Minority Concentration Districts. Task on financial integrity . India is playing a ke in Global Forum Transfer Pricing Exchange of Inform for tax purpose. Joined FATF. as Chairman of Peer R Group.INFO-NUGGETS FINANCE Shamima Sidd The Government has adopted five-pronged strategy to tackle the sensitive issue of Black Money – Joining the Global Crusade Against Black Money Issues of tax evasio Exchange of Inform have been incorporated 20 communiqué du efforts of India in the r ministerial meetings. India has signed the O Multilateral Conventio Mutual Administ Assistance in Tax m on 26 January. 2012. Appropriate Creating an Framework Legis Started renegotiation 75 countries to broade scope of Article conce Exchange of Inform and negotiation of D and Tax Inform Exchange Agree (TIEA) with new cou and 22 pr countries/jurisdictions tax or low countries/jurisdictions) respectively.Economic Develop and Eurasian Group. . India is participati policy groups of OECD UN on Exchange Information. Interna Taxation and Tra Pricing as observer member respectively. Convention shall ex the scope of India‘s network on tax matters Enacted legis incorporating co measure against cooperative jurisd (section 94 A in Fi Act 2011). Setting up Institutions to Deal with Funds Ten Income Tax Ove Units in various I Missions abroad have created and out of w two are already funct The remaining 8 Units be made operational soon. To effectively handl increase in tax inform exchange and tra pricing issues. Developing Systems for Implementat New policy for deploy . Proposed GAAR reporting requiremen foreign asset in the Fi Bill. 28 of existing DTAA contain article for assis in collection of including taking mea of conserv Government is tryin have this Article in treaties as well. 2012. Creation of ITOUs is under consideration. Tightened provision transfer pricing. a ded Exchange of Inform unit (EOI Unit) has be up. Imparting Skills to the Manpowe Effective Action Officers are being imp specialized training a in field of Interna Taxation and Tra Pricing. Furthe dedicated Exchange of Inform Cell has been created to hand work related to exchang information in line with international standards. International semina transfer pricing was h India in month of 2011.) Green Economy .of manpower to Direc of Transfer Pricing International Taxatio implemented. Manpower of FT Division in CBDT has doubled. T under investigation. India played a major role in discussions and highlighted importance of automatic exc of information and importan obtaining past banking inform India has also obtained u information about Indians h bank accounts in Swiss bank. Features. enhance energy and resource efficiency. Prasad* Celebrated annually on 5 June. bicycle essay and poster competitions in schools.FEATURE Environment M. Practically speaking. technic . biodiversity and ecosystems. then. ozone layer. climate change.for not prioritizing environmental policy. etc. V. If the Green Economy is about social equity and inclusiveness. 2012 marks the 40th anniversary of the United Nations Environment Programme and als Day (WED). recycling efforts. a Green Economy is one whose growth in income and employment is dri investments that reduce carbon emissions and pollution. a green economy can be thought of as one which is low carbon. we remind ourselves and others of the importance of ca World Environment Day is celebrated around the world in many ways. tree planting. World Environment Day thematic celebrations have in th the earth and water. corporate organizations for raising issues like greenhouse gas lobbying strongly enough for the environment. and individuals for not taking action. World Environment Day aims at creating worldwide awareness attention and action on environmental issues. reso inclusive. World Environment Day was founded by the UN in 1972 to mark the opening of the Stockholm C Environment. clean-up campaigns and much m World Environment Day is Green Economy: Does it include you? In its simplest expression. S. including street rallies. desertification and sustainable development. and 20 years since the first UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Earth Summit) in B Why Celebrate World Environment Day? When we see or experience the negative effects of climate change and environmental degradation . World Environment put aside our differences and instead celebrate the achievements we've made towards protecting the enviro By celebrating World Environment Day. you support a healthy environmen livelihoods. forestry. It is green jobs. as countries across the globe emerge from it emphasizes the need for a Green Economy that addresses social equity. When you support certified sustainable forest products. The world today is facing a mounting crisis and in recent years we have experienced a combina crisis. More importantly. Use electronic files to r paper products. Forestry Deforestation accounts for close to 20% of the world‘s greenhouse gas emissions.and po worsen the problem. Walking trips is good for your health . Energy audit can reduc footprint and lead to significant savings in energy costs. ind sustainable tourism. you're not using it. Transport Riding alone in your car isn't just environmentally and economically inefficient. and dem governments and citizens around the world.and the environment's. Fisheries Overfishing in many parts of the world threatens to deplete future fish stocks. sustainable transport. degradation of ecosystem and an unprecedented climate changes. a food crisis. limit shower time. Water Billions of people worldwide lack access to clean drinking water or improved sanitation services . Sustainably managed fo support communities and ecosystems without damaging environment and climate. challenge the ability of human population to live peacefully and sustainably on this planet. waste management. Choose sustainably harvested seafood. too! When you choose alternative transportation Green Economy in the transport sector. green policies. What can be done? Buildings Construction and buildings take a large toll on resources and climate. agriculture.The Green Economy touches almost every aspect of our lives and concerns our development. water efficiency and all other resource elements involved in the successful implementation of a green economy. green buildings. wait until you have a full load to run your washing machine. volatile oil prices. We can avoid this by worki fishing practices. and do . fisheries. low carbon economies. it's lonely! Car transport reduces environmental impacts and economic costs while strengthening community. Taking small steps towards wise water use can help conserve this precious resource. renewable energy by choo products that invest in them . with speed and effectiveness. It requires world leaders. 1992.) **** 5th June.oil. as de energy rises. generate employment and acce Moving towards a green economy has the potential to achieve sustainable development and unprecedented scale.after a rain. You can support the development of clean. While we work towards a transition to rene ways to improve your personal energy efficiency. coal. Grow your at local farmers' markets. etc. Resource efficiency is key to a Green Economy and water is one of our most important resour Agriculture The world‘s population stands at 7 billion and may rise to more than 9 billion by 2 050.or by investing in them yourself. We have to rebut the myth that there is conflict between economic health and environmen the right investments. civil society and industr towards this transition. the world leaders will once again m Conference on Sustainable Development twenty years after the historic Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. prosperity and well-being. It will also need a sustained effort on the part of policy makers and citizen traditional measures of wealth. economic and envi development. you send a mess support a Green Economy for agriculture. Energy The current mainstream energy sources . and sustainable food products. When you buy local. (PIB Features. we can protect our environment. It's time to support sustainable agriculture to ensure our ability to feed everyone. In this significant year for the environment and sustainable development. grow our economy. gas. Sustainability entails providing opportunity for all by balancing the social. organic. 2012 is World Environment Day Green Economy: Does IT Include You? .are not only harmful to health and environme in a world of growing energy needs. This m already crowded cities – where more than half of all people now live – and on natural resources. Turn off lights and unplug appliances when you are not Waste Recycling appropriate materials and composting food waste reduces the demand on our natural resources. . biodiversity and ecosystem services. Almost 40% of the land currently under low impact forms of agriculture could be converted . Urgent remedial action is essential because species loss and are inextricably linked to human well-being.FEATURE Environment This year the World Environment Day theme is "Green Economy". A green economy is one whose growth in income and employment is drive investments that reduce carbon emissions and pollution. but it is essential to ensure that such developments takes pr value of natural ecosystems. The World has already lost much of its biodiversity. If the Green Economy is about social equity and inclusiveness then technically it is all a create an economic system that ensures all people have access to a decent standard of living a personal and social development. The pressure on commodity and consequences of this loss to society. while significantly reducing environmen scarcities (UNEP). enhance energy and resource efficiency. Economic growth and the conversion of natural eco production are forecasted to continue. the expansion of in change. The main findings of The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEED) report were areas remaining in 2000 could be lost as a result of conversion for agriculture. The Green Economy results in improved human well-being and social equity. 22 and 22 percent respectively of Global energy . which affect poor pe adequate access to clean water and sanitation. the higher the urban density. The 2005 floods in Mu than 1000 people and paralysed the city for five days were linked to a lack of environmental prot River. with further biodiversity losses.). wat as well as other utilities come at considerably lower cost per unit. Ecosystem services play a critical role in risk reduction measures. reduce transportation costs. In some regions.which are constituent of cit contribute 25. transport and industry . railways. Buildings. Cities require significant transfer of water from rural to urban areas with water leakage Upgrading and replacement of pipes has contributed to net savings of 20% of potable water in m . denser cities – which help lower per capita emissions – are good for economic gro most significant metropolitan economies produce 45% of the global GDP with only 12% of Densification reduce the capital and operating costs of infrastructure including streets.use.related GHG emissions. But urban growth puts pressure on the quality of the local environment. Larger. This results in huge disease burden that furthe options. while in others. Gree reuse municipal wastewater and solid waste. the delivery of ecosystem services worth some US$ 5 trillion a year could be secured. between 60 and 80% of energy consumption. cities are expanding rapidly. Globally with a population share of just 50% but occupying less than 2% of the earth concentrate 80% of economic output. and appr emissions (UN Population Dn. It is estimated that for an annual investment of US$45 billi alone. preserve biodiversity a productive use of green belts. rural areas are becoming m part of this urbanization is taking place in developing countries as a result of natural growth within c of rural-urban migrants in search of jobs and opportunities. Urban areas in prosperous economies concentrate wealth creation as well as resource emissions. organic agriculture. biofuels. urban groundwater recharge raised the city's groundwate between 1988 and 2002. the Municipal Corporation made rainwater harvestin buildings with a roof area above 100 sq.500 million litres of water p for groundwater recharge. energy efficient and storage. The green economy embraces such diverse industries as renewable energy productio distribution.To counter severe water shortages in Delhi. In Chennai. metres. (PIB Features. It is estimated that 76. carbon capture and home insulation.) Railways Continue its March Towards the Path of Growth & Developm . very different industries that are working to lower raw material and energy consumption and to prod in a manner that is less damaging and more sustainable. green transportation and green bui energy efficient lighting to electric passenger trains. 9 financial year 2011-12.52 crore. gauge conv kilometres and doubling of 752 kilometres of Railway line besides improving punctuality by six per cent safety by seven per cent. keeping in v transportation needs of the economy like construction of 727 kilometres of new line.Feature . The year 2011-12 has been significant for the Railways in achieving goals an Revenue Generation The total approximate earnings of Indian Railways on originating basis during the financial year Rs. The total goods earnings were Rs. the Indian Railways d 2011-12 has helped launch itself towards a path of gigantic growth and development. Moreover.UPA Railways H. on the opening day of Tatkal Advance Reservatio booking with train starting date. Meanwhile. .15 per cent. 104278. registering an increase of 10. Indian Railways have million tonnes of revenue earning freight traffic during fiscal 2011-12 registering an increase of 5. 28645. registering an increase of 10.70 per cent. AC-2 Chair Car and Executive Classes were to carry one of the nine prescribed proofs of identity (in origi journey.79 registering an increase of 10. The total passenger revenue earning 2011-12 were Rs.00 hrs.24 per Fresh Measures to Prevent Misuse of Train Tickets In a move to prevent misuse of Reserved Train Tickets and reduce cases of travelling on tran the Ministry of Railways decided that anyone of the passengers undertaking journey in AC-3 tier. Agents /Rail Travel Service Agencies (RTSAs) have been disallowed booking T the counters between 08. 69675.15 per cent. Kunwar* In its endeavour to become an excellent rail transport network of the world. Tatkal tickets booking are being booked only on production photocopy of one of the nine prescribed Identity cards as proof of identity.00 hrs. C. and 10. SMS at Par with Ticket & Reservation Through Mobile Phone In a move to further make Train Reservation Ticketing System passenger friendly. The SMS would contain all the vital ticket details li Number. has started the service of bookin the mobile phone. Indian Railways opened the first phase of the Real Tra System (RTIS) in October 2011 to public for accurate train tracking thus heralding a new era of advanced communication and information technologies in various Railway related activities. To begin with. Developments on Dedicated Freight Corridor Project The Dedicated Freight Corridor project will connect a land mass over 3300 kilometers in the cou prove to be a backbone of India‘s economic transport facility. adequate toilets. The Eastern Dedicated Fr from Ludhiana to Dankuni will be 1839 kilometer long. Date of Journey. and dormitories especially for lady passengers. which wer development under this scheme during Railway Budget. the Minist has decided to permit Short Messaging Service (SMS) sent by its PSU. Adarsh Station Scheme A total of 929 stations have been identified during 2009-10 to 2012-13 for development under ‗ scheme. are planned for completion in the next financia Stations are provided with basic facilities such as drinking water. Indian Railways through Indian Railway Catering & Touris (IRCTC). 67 per cent of the land acquisition has been completed and as of now the project by and larg Funding has been tied up with the World Bank for 1183 km section of Eastern DFC from Khurja to M US$ 2. a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railway. Coach & Seat Number and Far feasible. Indian Railways Cateri Corporation (IRCTC) containing vital details as an instrument on par with the Electronic Reservation S has come into effect from 1st February. catering services. it is quite easy for the mobile users to book a reserved ticket through their own mobile. otherwise ma of passengers. 2012. A total of 550 stations have been developed under ‗Adarsh‘ station scheme so far. Design and Standards Organization (RDSO). Class. The Western corridor from Dadri in Ut Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust near Mumbai will be 1499 kilometers. This new t is based on Satellite Imaging for Rail Navigation (SIMRAN) and has been developed jointly by t Railways‘ Research arm namely Research. For the convenience of the rail users. this service six pairs of Rajdhani & Shatabdi trains and would be expanded further in due course of time. better signage etc. 295 stations are targeted for completion in 2012-13 and the remaining 84 stations. Real Train Information System Opened to Public In a major passenger friendly move.in‖. The nodal authority Dedicated Freight Corrid India Limited (DFCCIL) is overseeing progress of work with the target project completion rate of Presently. Lucknow an This information is available on website ―http://www. Name & Number of Passengers. Out of the stations.simran.72 billion in May 2011 and Loan Agreement for US$ 975 million for the first sector viz Kanpur-Kh . the SMS will accommodate the names of all passengers booked on the e-ticket. After initial registration and downloading of suitable software on the mobile handse facility. at present. Alipurduar. This syst multiple screening/checking of passengers right from the point of entry. Salem. Ernakulam. The ‗Integrated Security System‘. 2011. In return direction. Durgapur. a total of 198 stations have been identified since 2009-10 (67 in 2009-10. It will run via Goalpara. Vijaywada. Jolapettai.176 Kilometers is not only the longest Tunnel in the country but has also the highest point (1753 Meters above sea level) on Broad Gauge R in the country. The system will likely become functional at all 202 stations during the current financial year. was introduced 2009-10 so that important facilities may be available to the rail users in a separate complex in the vicinity of circula station premises. So far. it will leave Kanniyakumari on every Saturday at 14. Strengthening of Security at Railway Stations Indian Railways are implementing Integrated Security System at 202 important and sensitive stations of th phase. New Train on Longest Ever Route Flagged Off ―Vivek Express‖ on longest ever route from Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari covering a d istance of 4 was flagged off on 19th November. Thiruvana Kanyakumari.0 Dibrugarh on Wednesday. 93 in 2010-11 2011-12). Midnapur. Setting up of Railway Stations Development Corporation Ltd Proposed . Asanso Kumardhubi on both ways en-route. A Cabinet note.has been signed in October. 2011. Construction work of 54 major and important bridges in Vaiterna-B of Western DFC is in progress and five major bridges have been completed. New Bongaigaon. Maldah Town. This train will have maximum permissible speed of 110 kilometre p Longest Tunnel Made Through Pir Panjal in Jammu & Kashmir Indian Railways achieved another milestone with final breakthrough of Pir Panjal Railway tunnel Kashmir on 14th October 2011. This train will stop at Barddhaman. Coimbatore. This train will consist of 9 coaches including 7 air-conditioned Double Decker ch 128 seats in each coach and 2 generator cars. will supplement conventional methods of security which are also being strengthened dedicated control rooms at strategic locations for round the clock monitoring through the Close Circuit TV surveillance system. Country’s First Ever AC Double Decker Train Flagged Off Country‘s first air conditioned superfast Double Decker train was flagged off from Howrah statio on 1st October 2011. in this regard. Durg Adra. This weekly trains leaves Dibrugarh on every Saturday Kanyakumari on Wednesday. Task of development of 198 MFCs has been assigned to Zonal Railways and various executing agencie Ministry of Railways. Development of Multifunctional Complex A new concept of development of Multi Functional Complexes (MFCs) with Budget Hotels. The progress of MFCs has been a term leasing of land now requires Cabinet‘s approval. is under process. Construction of MFCs has been completed at 24 stations. com machines and software. This Tunnel with a length of 11. The element of concession is 5 basic fares of Sleeper.61%. The Ministry of Railways and Government of Jharkhand State signed an M Railway Projects in Jharkhand.04. Meanwhile. Railways have fixed an even higher target of 1500 route the current year. This type of toilets has been designed jointly by Indian Railwa These biotoilets are well suited to unique requirement of Indian Railways passenger coaches. As on 01. AC 3-tier and AC 2-tier classes. (IRCON). E presentably running with approximately 500 biotoilets and the results are very encouraging. a statutory authority under Railways. iss Secured. 1961. During 2011-12. Green Initiatives In a significant move towards clean environment in platforms and railway tracks. Redeemable. Indian Railway Finance Corporation Limited Offers Tax Free Bonds Indian Railway Finance Corporation Limited (IRFC). This constit Indian Railways network. 21304 Route Kilometers (RKM) have been electrified. Railways Electrification Electrification of Railway routes has yielded good results.000 each in the nature of Debe benefits under Section 10(15)(iv)(h) of the Income Tax Act. it has also been decided to grant concession patients suffering' from Sickle Cell Anaemia/Aplastic Anaemia. when travelling for treatment/periodical c Government recognized hospitals. MoUs with State Governments The Ministry of Railways and State Government of Chhatisgarh signed an MoU on Develo Corridors in Chhattisgarh. Railways Extend Advance Reservation Period to 120 Days . as amended (‗Bonds‘) aggregating crore with an option to retain oversubscription of upto the shelf limit of` Rs. the financing arm of Indian Railways. By the end of XI Five Year Plan.300 crore (‗Issue‘). It has also been decided to increase the element of concession in case of me st from 30 per cent to 40 per cent with effect 1 June 2011. hauling about 2/3rd freight and nearly half of passenger traffic.2011. and return after treatment/periodical check-up. Non-Convertible Bonds of face value of Rs. a Public Sector Und the Ministry of Railways and Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA). 6. More Concession For Senior Citizens The Ministry of Railways has decided to reduce the minimum age for availing concession from 60 year case for women senior citizens. 1. Indian Railway biotoilets (green toilets) on certain trains. the percentage of electrified network on Indian Railw go up to 34. It is now 2500 biotoilets will be inducted in the next year. the target of 1110 ro plus 220 track kilometres has been achieved. AC Chair Car.It has been decided to set up a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) ―Railway Stations Developme Ltd to meet the aspirations of rail users and to provide better passenger amenities & facilities at railway SPV will be constituted with equity participation of Ircon International Ltd. the direct passenger carrying train between Dhaka-Kolkata-Dhaka. These special trains have been planned over approximately 44 di routes to clear extra rush of traffic. the Empowered Joint Group decided that they would formul term. to give further impetus to Railways‘ modernization plans. In addition. April to June 2012 Indian Railways have made elaborate arrangements to clear extra rush of traffic for the en season from April 2012 to June 2012. Protecting and Safeguarding the Interests of Workers Ministry of Labour & . introduced in April.The Ministry of Railways increased the advance reservation period for booking reserved train days to 120 days on experimental basis (excluding the date of journey) with effect from March 10. 2 agreed that Maitree Express is a symbol of people to people connectivity and the deep abiding friendship b countries. Sam Pitroda also submitted its report recommending ways modernize Indian Railways. More than 5600 trips of special trains have been planned to h during the ensuing summer period. an constituted under the Chairmanship of Mr. 2012. To make this bi-weekly train more popular. High Level Committees Safety in train operations is accorded the highest priority by Indian Railways and all measures a on a continual basis to prevent accidents and enhance safety. Former Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission submitted its report suggesting a signif on safety related issues. medium term and long term measures to ease the travel by this train. India and Bangladesh Constitute Joint Group The Governments of India and Bangladesh constituted an Empowered Joint Group to suggest measure by Maitree Express. Anil Kakodkar. A High Level Safety Review Committee. Arrangements to Clear Extra Rush of Traffic for the Summer. 1952 The Labour Laws (Exemption from Furnishing Returns and Maintaining Registers by Certain Establishm The Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act.INFO-NUGGETS . Major Initiatives . 1947 Bills for amendment in the following Acts have been introduced in the Parliament: The Mines Act. 1979. 1972 The Employees’ State Insurance Act. 1923 The Payment of Gratuity Act. 1951 The Industrial Disputes Act. 1948 The Plantations Labour Act.UPA Labour & Employment The broad mandate of the Ministry of Labour & Employment is to protect and safeguard the i constitute the poor. Legislative Initiatives Amendments in the following Acts have been carried out during last three years: The Employees’ Compensation Act. deprived and disadvantaged sections of the society. 000 Skill Development Centres is being taken up under the Kaushal Vikas Yojana.02 crore.Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana The scheme envisages provision of issuance of smart cards to the beneficiaries to facilitate cashless tra . has been peaceful through the intervention of the Commissioner(C). which wo to have portability of their account and the services of “any time any where” on real time basis. Upgradation of 400 ITIs with World Bank assistance and 1.396 ITIs under PPP mode Under the Skill Development Initiative (SDI) Scheme which involves Modular Employable Skills (MES) people have been trained / tested and 10. by and large. MGNREGA workers. Industrial Relations During last three years. As on 17 May. The coverage of the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana has been extended to construction workers porters & vendors. 2012. The num end of March.38 lakh training seats are a of 100 ITIs with domestic resources has been completed. 6951 Vocational Training Providers (VTPs) have been registered across and 35 Assessing Bodies empan Scheme for setting up of new 1. As per NSSO figure. the occurrence of Child Labour is decreasing in the country. . Employees’ State Insurance Corporation The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has taken new initiatives to improve the delivery of service under the ESI Scheme.22 lakh certified since inception. 2012 has touched 1. Employment & Training Vocational Training is being provided through a network of 9480 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) where about 13.55 crore while the number of beneficiaries has reached 6. domestic workers and beedi workers. the number of working child 2004-05 to 49. Child Labour With the efforts of the Ministry.84 lakh in 2009-10 which is a reduction of about 45%. m have been issued. Skill Development Plan for Youth in Left Wing Extremism (LWE). supplementing infrastructure deficiencies in ITIs in NE states and Sikkim and m Exchanges in the country under e-governance plan are being taken up. industrial relations situation in the Central sphere. Employees Provident Fund Organization The Computerization Plan of Employees Provident Fund Organization has been implemented.500 ITIs and 5. . This nationwide programme on launched in February. The visio social application of modern technology.Transforming Rural India through Financial Inclusi FEATURE Finance Swabhimaan‖ is a path-breaking initiative by the Union Government and the Indian Bank economic gap between rural and urban India. has always been a great challenge for the successive governments since Independence. 2011 with its focus on bringing the deprived sections of the society in the ba that the benefits of economic growth reach everyone at all levels. This campaign is a big step towards socio-economic underprivileged segments of Indian population into the formal banking fold for the first time. Eve gave a big boost to expansion of banks in rural areas with Public Sector Banks becoming im advancement of rural banking and changing lives of rural populace. providing banking facilities across the length and breadth of the co areas. ‗Swabhimaan‘ – a financial security programme was launched by the Central Government to in habitation with a population in excess of 2000 by March 2012.‘Swabhimaan’. In a big nation like India. The key idea is that there is need for village level presence – a customer-facing channel that preferably at a walking distance of not more than three to four kilometers. pensions. Remittances. it is important to good at delivering outreach while operating in very difficult remote conditions. Fixed deposits. recurring Deposits. All in all. ―This campaign ensures to provide the following services to the Rural India: Promises to bring basic banking services to unbanked villages with a population of 2000 and a The movement facilitates opening of banks accounts. This financial inclusion campaign aims at providing branchless banking services through the u Banks provide basic services like deposits. Government ‘s emphas up this task with a sense of responsibility and understanding and exercise courtesy and resp borrowers. provide need-based credit and rem helping in promoting financial literacy in rural India. This programme now makes it possible for the large number of migrant workers in urban area relatives in distant villages quickly and safely. Banking facilities like Savings Bank. Overd Card (KCCs). The Banks are also working together with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI bank accounts and also to facilitate transfer of government subsidies and other payments. The initiative also enables Government subsidies and social security benefits to now be accounts of the beneficiaries so that they could draw the money from the Business Corresponden itself. This would insulate them from exploitation of the money lenders. etc. especially the most vulnerable on practices and prevent them from being overburdened by debt. Besides giving ac enables government subsidies and social security benefits to be directly credited to the accoun enabling them to draw the money from the bank saathi or business correspondents in their village itse This initiative enables small and marginal farmers to obtain credit at lower rates from ba institutions. For this. The facilities provided through banking outlets will enhance social security by facilitating services in course of time like micro insurance. The initiative is also important to protect the customers. The Government hopes that the benefits of micro insurance and micro pension products rea this banking linkage. access to mutual funds. withdrawals and remittances using the Correspondents (BCs) also known as Bank Saathi. The programme is aimed at increasing the demand for credit among the millions of small an rural artisans who will benefit by having access to banking facilities. General Credit Cards (GCC) and collection of cheques will be provided. the end objective should b achieve their own goals through enhancing their financial capabilities. . Ultra Sm set up at these habitations.The Government had provided Rs 500 million to banks for this initiative in the last fiscal year. During his Budget speech this year. where Business Correspondents would deal with cash transactions. The Swabhimaan movement is ―significant beginning‖ for tra through financial inclusion. 'Solar' India . U also informed that 70.000 habitations have been covered so far under the ‗Swabhimaan‘ campaig identified habitations till March 2012. Shri Pranab Mukherjee has propo ‗Swabhimaan‘ campaign to habitations with population of more than 1000 in North Eastern and hil habitations which have crossed population of 2000 as per Census 2011. the Union Finance Minister. As a next step. From an energy security perspective. available. risen phenomenally resulting in a remarkable difference in the pattern of energy consumption. solar is the most secure of all sources. Because India has so factories and households use emergency generators and inverters as back-ups. India has tremendous energy needs and faces an uphill task in meeting these requirem means of power generation. Solar energy seems to enjoy a better edge over the others at this juncture due to vigorous pursui attractive and economic option. a small fraction of the total incident solar energy (if captured effectivel country‘s power requirements. When we look at the world's energy resources. It is also clear that given the large proportion of poor and energy un-s . Theoretically.World's production and use of energy over the past two decades have shown striking changes. The ini for switching fuel resource presented larger challenges in terms of global FEATURE Energy almost dwindling fossil fuel resources. natural gas and coal seem to be still ri contribution of renewable seems marginal at this juncture. oil. Solar has the potential to transform the Indian economy in the same way as the Information Tech a unique position to introduce clean energy solutions on an enormous scale to provide affordable especially the poor. This back-up power cou energy. Power consumption in India has been increasing fast due to populatio development. The Indian economy faces increasing challenges because energy supply is struggling to keep there are energy shortages of 10-13% daily almost everywhere in the country. if favourable policies and business models are evolved and im India should take full advantage of this golden opportunity because solar energy has particular r rural areas.No. This vast resource can growing energy demand. it could solve the country‘s powe lead the world by embracing solar power. cold chain management for Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are some examples o successfully in the country. India is blessed with about an estimated 5000 TWh of solar radiation. every effort needs to be made to exploit the relatively abundant sources of energy availab National Solar Mission has targeted to deploy 20 million solar lighting systems for rural areas by 2022. powering milk chilling plants. Even if a tenth of this potential is utilised.country. Solar energy is the mo for India to reduce energy poverty without having to extend national grid services to provide power fo buildings. empowering women Self Help G in tussar silk reeling. where around 289 million people live without access to electricity. A State/UT wise list of grid solar power projects commissioned so far is as follows: S. Management Inf to assist better management of forests. Solar energy to power computers to assist learning in schools and hostels. State / UT Capacity (kWp) 1 2 3 4 5 Andhra Pradesh Arunanchal Pradesh Gujarat Karnataka Kerala 100 25 5000 6000 25 . 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Punjab Rajasthan Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand West Bengal Andaman & Nicobar Delhi Lakshadweep Puducherry Others Total 100 1000 2325 4950 5050 375 50 1150 100 2142 750 25 790 29957 Launching the National Action Plan on Climate Change on June 30. the Prime Minister Dr . 2008. a target has been fixed to set up 1. Solar is currently high on absolute costs compared to other sources of power such as coal. but its reach will add up to bringing households . resources. We will pool our scientific. The state government is also w . technical and managerial talents. The Mission has set an ambitious target to create an enabling policy framework for the depl of solar power by 2022 and to ramp up capacity of grid-connected solar power generation to 1000 MW set a target of 1000 MW by 2017.―our vision is to make India‘s economic development energy-efficient. It also has the advantage of permitting the dece energy.For the first phase. The National Action Plan on Clim out: ―India is a tropical country. has great potential as future energy source. It would also enable India to help people around the world. we m shift from economic activity based on fossil fuels to one based on non-fossil fuels and from reliance depleting sources of energy to renewable sources of energy. Our success in this endeavour will change the face of India. The 3000 acre state of the capacity of 500 MW with training facilities as well. In this strategy. thereby empowering people at the grassroots level‖. to develop solar energy as a source of abundant energy to power our economy and to tra people. where sunshine is available for longer hours per day and in great i therefore.100 MW of grid connected solar p 2013. which may appear small. the sun occupies centre-s literally the original source of all energy. through rapid scale-up of capacity and technological innovation to dr grid parity.‖ Support The National Solar Mission is a major initiative of the Government of India and State Go ecologically sustainable growth while addressing India‘s energy security challenge. Incidentally. Over a period of time. Gujarat has taken the lead in solar power g contributing 2/3rds of total 900 MW solar power generated in the country. It will also constit by India to the global effort to meet the challenges of climate change. Asia’s first and largest Solar Park has been set up at Charanka in Gujarat. Th Mission is to create conditions. The technology is inspired by photosyn Most of the solar installations are supported by incentives. India is endowed with vast solar energy potential. As American economist and author Jeremy Rifkin rightly said. progress on renewable energy front could determine the future road map sustainability. Remote communities could eventually make their own solar cells using waste vegetati developed by researchers in Switzerland and the United States.000 trillion kWh per year energy is in area with most parts receiving 4-7 kWh per sq. achie . The falling generation cost is another enc technology to emerge as the largest and most stable demand segment. Power cannot be produced at history as concentrated solar power plants and Nano-antennas are being developed to capture residua limitation. About 5. The Government may consider favourable tax structu financial resources for community solar farms as part of the energy development programmes. solar energy can only have a limited role Solar energy is a win-win for India and the environment. Solar Energy has the potential to re-energise India’s economy by creating millions of new jobs. Renewable energy is also opportunity because it will provide long-term economic growth for the country. Solar irradiance. m per day. The price of solar panels has come d has made solar technology more competitive. In fact. solar thermal and solar photovoltaic. can effectively be harnessed provid solar in India. for solar power attracting more and more players into the market. Hence both technology routes for conversio heat and electricity. and India should make it a mainstream c diversification. There is really no better economical choice for the country. A favourable renewa create millions of jobs. However. until the efficiency of sola cost of generation competes with that of conventional energy. which is likely to be launched soon. namely. economic installation costs. Solar photovoltaic (PV) industry has demonstrated unprecedented growth over the recent past.policy. Government support and financing conditions in a to drive the growth of the solar photo-voltaic technology. India can usher in a third industrial revolutio renewable energy resources. ) Udayagiri Khandagiri-Monuments Of Ancient India . In short.reduce the trade deficit and propel the nation forward as a ‘green nation’. (PIB Feature. solar power offers too m ignore or delay its development. and moonlight can enter at night and light up the caves.C. art and religion. peace. Mostly excavated near the top of a ledge or boulder. Kharavela was liberal regarding religious questions. Caves called ‘lena’ in the inscriptions found in the caves have been scooped out.after 170 BC) in the first century. but these caves are finely and ornately carved. architecture. and date back to 2nd century B. The caves were also places for monks to meditate in peace and quiet and to do austere penance. Kharavela was subdued by the great Mauryan King Ashoka. Udayagiri has 18 caves and Khandagiri has 15 caves. They command unique position in the field of history. Not as famous as Ajanta and Ellora. the King of Kalinga. The caves were home to ascetics who renounced the world to experiment with Nirvana. chirping birds. the cells simply provided dry shelter for meditation and prayer. Here they were in unison with nature. wherein they served as resting places for Jain ascetics on their journey to Nirvana. using the flow of energy of bodies and minds. in the midst of fragrant flowers. Some of the caves are natural but it is believed that most were carved out by Jain monks and they belong to the earliest Jain rock cut temples. eternal salvation and beauty. the warm sun and the cool moon. The caves were built by King Kharavela. The Udayagiri caves are approximately 135 feet high and the Khandagiri caves are 118 feet high. the rustle of leaves. There are minimal . perhaps over endless full moons. The caves are reminiscent of Buddhist and Jain influences in Odisha. The hills which are honey-combed with caves. The two cave sites are located about 200 meters apart. The openings are like doorways and light can enter throughout the day and keep the stone floors warm. reveal sculptural art centered on the life and times of Jain ascetics. Although inclined towards Jainism. and for scholars who came here in their quest of truth. facing each other.FEATURE Monument Kalpana Palkhiwala* Udaygiri and Khandagiri two hills near Bhubaneshwar contain unique monuments of ancient India. These sites are mentioned as the ‘Kumari Parvat’ in the Hathigumpha inscription. the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves.ancient Odisha (circa 209. They have an opening directly into the verandah or courtyard. and were built from huge residential blocks during the reign of King Kharavela. Cave 3 is known as Chota Hathi Gumpha. There are masterfully carved six vigorous elephants flanking the entrance. It has been excavated on three sides of a quadrangle with fine wall friezes. birds. They also describe the patrons of separate caves. The right wing of the lower storey has a single cell with three entrances and a pillared verandah. While the cells are cramped. animals. their facades are encrusted with inscriptions and sculptures depicting various objects. fruit laden trees. Eighteen caves can be accessed by a flight of steps. Cave 4 is Alakapuri Gumpha. The upper storey has six cells. animals atop the pillars. It has some beautiful sculptures. The Archaeological Survey of India numbered the caves and all have individual names based on these objects. low scuffed and austerely plain. including two sentries at the entrance. and pairs of winged creatures. One striking feature of the cell is a raised floor on the opposite side of the opening which might have served the purpose of a pillow to sleep. There are guard rooms decorated with a spring cascading down a hill. A bodhi tree has been carved in the central apartment. There is also a couple standing with folded hands. one each in right and left wing and four in the rear. a double storey structure. animals.double storeyed. Several monks used to stay in one cell. They then depict the life and deeds of King Kharavela. The toranas here have auspicious Jain symbols like snakes and lotuses.the Namokar Mantra.amenities even for small comforts: the height is too low for a person to stand erect. the previously favored Jain religion gradually gave way to Buddhism. Udayagiri The floor in Udaygiri is laid with leveled blocks of stone. “the worshipper of all religious orders and the repairer of all shrines of Gods”. Cave 1 is Ranigumpha cave or Queen’s cave. hunting expeditions and scenes of daily life. toranas (arches) with religious and royal scenes. Objects include court scenes. and sporting elephants in a lotus pool. Victory march of a king and his journey are depicted here. The central wing has four cells. The pilasters to the entrance have fine wall friezes. people. royal processions. and essentially they were dwelling retreats or just sleeping compartments. monkeys. Many people of royal descent were patrons. It is famous for its exceptional acoustic characteristic and is believed to be used for chants and theatre performances. . Cave 2 is Bajaghar Gumpha with two massive built columns in front and additional inner columns. with a sculpture of a lion holding a prey in its mouth. As Ashoka took over the possessions of Kharavela. wild animals. King Dushyant’s first meeting with Shakuntala. The inscriptions which are in Brahmi start with the fundamental mantra of Jainism. All four cells have two doorways each with two pilasters. It also has an image of Surya riding a chariot. and dance performances. a female dancer with accompanying musicians. Haridasa Gumpha-cave 16. These are adorned with paintings. Barabhuja Gumpha. Thakurani Gumpha and Patalpuri Gumpha respectively. Trusula Gumpha. dressed in long dhotis. cave 14. There are reliefs of Jain tirthankars. Sarpa Gumpha. Cave 5. Ananta Gumpha contains exquisite sculptures of women. This cave has a crowned figure believed to be that of Chedi King. Jambesvara Gumpha. Jagammath Gumpha. scarves and heavy kundalas (earings). Cave 4 is Tentuli Gumpha. athletes. Ganesha Gumpha. Mahavira and Parsvanatha on the rear wall of cave 11. carvings of winged animals. 6. ( : Turning the Wheel of Rural India . etc. Cave 10. e. Khandagiri Gumpha is a double storey. There are four votaries with folded hands.cave 13 is an unusually small cave with adornment above the entrance. Other caves include Hathi Gumpha. Caves 6 to 11 have been named as Dhyan Gumpha. a double storeyed cave with several sculptures and inscriptions. i. Parrots are carved above the entrance arch. Caves 12. elephants. Nayamuni Gumpha. Panasa Gumpha. the place of worship for monks. Its front is carved in the shape of a tiger’s mouth with a distended upper jaw full of teeth. roughly cut cave. Manchapuri and Swargapuri caves are cave 9. has a Chaitya hall. Ambika Gumpha and Lalatendukesri Gumpha. 7 and 8 are known as Jaya-Vijaya Gumpha.cave 11 is a small one with two plain door-openings and Vyaghra Gumpha –cave 12 is a low cell with two door opening. It forms the roof of the verandah and the gullet forming the entrance.Caves 5. Cave 14 is a simple cell and is known as Ekadasi Gumpha. Cave 3. Vakradeva.13 and 14 have no names. Here the famous inscription regarding life history of Kharavel is written in the Magadhi language.cave 17 and Rosai Gumpha-cave 18. Dhanaghara Gumpha-cave 15. wherein the 5th and 7th caves are double storey. two dwelling cells with low ceilings and a verandah in a famous relief of Ganesha. and geese carrying flowers. Khandagiri Caves The first and second caves are Tatowa Gumpha 1 and 2. richly decorated caves with two guards at the entrance and also two bulls and two lions. It also contains a carving with Jain Tirthankara. . Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) which reflects this vision was launched in April 2005 so that rural and urban India could become one in thier expression of developed India. low literacy levels and nonavailability of basic facilities.. I dream of an India.80 crore households were un-electrified in the country.And I too have a dream.. Gargi Malik** “..strong. electricity is not just a medium to lighten the villages but also a tool to enlighten the minds and souls of rural population by helping them come out of darkness. self reliant and in the front rank of the nations of the world....Shri Mayank Agrawal* Smt. RGGVY envisages inclusive growth for the nation by bridging the rural-urban divide. . 1.” FEATURE Power Above lines express the vision that the late Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi had of a developed India. The programme aims at developing the rural electricity infrastructure and household electrification to provide access to electricity to all rural households. and providing electricity connection to Below Poverty Line families free of charge.. independent. providing access to electricity to all rural households. It was in this background that the RGGVY was launched with the objectives of electrifying all villages and habitations. low levels of development. As per 2001 census.19 lakh villages and 7.. A large portion of population was still living in darkness. For this programme. 576 projects targeting to electrify 1. 2012.03. thirty six supplementary projects have also been sanctioned under Phase-II.Under Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY).611 villages and 1.75 crore BPL households has already been exceeded by achievement of electrification of 1. Further. Village Electrification Infrastructure (VEI) which .Rural Electricity Distribution Backbone (REDB) with 33/11 kV (or 66/11 kV) substations of adequate capacity and lines to be established in blocks where these do not exist. who are required to pay for their electricity connection at prescribed connection charges for obtaining household connections. The implementation process of the scheme involves preparing a district based detailed project report for execution on turnkey basis. The Bharat Nirman target of electrification of 1 lac unelectrified villages and providing free electric connection to 1. Under the scheme.48.10 lakh un/de-electrified villages and intensive electrification of 3. besides electrification of un-electrified BPL households financed with 100% capital subsidy as per norms of Kutir Jyoti Programme.91 crore BPL households as on 22 March.987 partially electrified villages have been sanctioned in the country. The Infrastructure under RGGVY includes . In addition thirty three projects in 33 districts have also been sanctioned under Phase-II of the RGGVY. Gram Panchayat is involved in the certification of an electrified village. provision also exists to provide access to APL households. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is implementing Remote Village Electrification Programme for providing financial support for lighting/ basic electrification in those remote un-electrified census villages and un-electrified hamlets of electrified census villages where grid extension is not found feasible by the State Governments and are not covered under the RGGVY. Then Central Public Sector Undertakings are involved in the implementation. The scheme is helping in creating rural employment and slowing down the rate of migration to urban areas. and Decentralized Distributed Generation (DDG) based on conventional and non-conventional energy sources where grid supply is not feasible or cost effective. panchayat offices..‖ ..A housewife from village Haatikhuli “Earlier villagers had to go to the nearby town just to get mobile phones charged which consumed the whole day. There is a provision of Distribution Transformer of appropriate capacity in villages or habitations..... computerisation.. Under RGGVY electric connections are also provided to un-electrified public places like schools. dispensaries.. Before the electrification.. thus.. After the electrification attacks by wild animals are rare as the lights keep them away. community / health care centres.‖ . we used to spend the nights in fear..” . acts as a means of social and economic inclusion in the rural Indian society.involves electrification of un-electrified villages and habitations..An old lady from village Halowa NC.. Here is what the villagers of Golaghat district of Assam said about how the scheme transformed their lives: “Attacks by wild animals were common in my village. now they can charge it at home. online access to land records and access to new technology in agriculture.... number of mobile connections has also increased many times in my village. RGGVY.. Moreover. Elephants would destroy houses and tigers would kill cows and goats. Providing power to rural areas means all round development of these areas by promoting education.... health care facilities. I have opened a mobile repair shop and my income has also gone up. telecommunication.. etc. After electricity came. Khadi and village industries also get a boost with the access of electricity. Kaziranga ―Now our children can study in the evening and I can work in the kitchen even late in the nights. ... mainly agricultural loads. Village Rongbong It has been proposed to continue the RGGVY during the 12th Plan with 90% capital subsidy. During the 12th Plan the scheme will aim to cover all remaining habitations irrespective of population and BPL households.) Vellayani Lake: Conservation Efforts ......Ali.. It is also proposed to enhance BPL load from the range of 40-60 Watt to 250 Watt and to provide LED in each BPL household. (PIB Features... The 12th Plan also proposes to have a separate new scheme for productive loads. including migratory ones. The local legend regarding the origin of the lake is that a saint used to meditate under a banyan tree at this place. a beggar came up to him and asked for some water to drink. It is believed that till 1953. and the biodiversity supports the livelihood of people around the lake. About hundred species of wetland birds frequent the lake. also called Vellayani Kayal is one of the three rain-fed freshwater lakes in Kerala. Vellayani lake is a rich repository of flora and fauna. And the land till the point where the drops touched the earth turned into a big lake. the lake was solely used for the cultivation of lotus flowers for the famous Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple. One day. threw the drops as far as he could.FEATURE Regional Sidelines Sreejith Sreedharan* Vellayani Lake. But later . When saint found that his pot was nearly empty. This very vast picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery is located about 9 kms away from the Thiruvananthapuram city. Two temples dedicated to Vishunu and Devi are situated on the banks of this lake. he poured the last few drops in the pot into his palm and with a prayer. Vellayani warned that dewatering the Vellayani lake for cultivation would endanger the reservoir and threaten several drinking water projects servicing the neighboring panchayats. As a result the villages bordering the lake have been experiencing acute water shortage. The Commission has also directed the state government to work with the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests to take steps to protect the lake as a source of drinking water. During 1950s a rice cultivation project after dewatering the lake was taken up which resulted in intensive agriculture operations around lake area and reduction in the lake area. A study made by the College of Agriculture. The area of the lake which was 750 ha in 1926. In 2005 Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) study report recommended a revenue survey to demarcate the reservoir area and identify the encroachments. However interventions in the form of paddy cultivation has deteriorated the quality of water and drastically reduced the water spread area.5 ha by 2005. Understanding the importance of this unique ecosystem the State government has taken steps for the ecological preservation and beautification of Vellayani Lake. the SHRC directed the state government to withdraw the order relating to paddy cultivation in the land around the Vellayani Lake. Venganoor. Conservation Initiatives Public demand for the conservation of Vellayani lake began when water shortage intensified in villages around Vellayani during 1990s. prevent pollution of lake water. . The Vellayani fresh water lake is the major source of drinking water for the people of Kalliyoor. Studies and Recommendations The environment committee of the Kerala Legislative Assembly which studied the environmental issues associated with the fresh water lakes submitted a report in 1993. In 2006. by setting up the Vellayani Lake Conservation Society. increase the depth of the lake by dredging and prevent further siltation of the lake. There are now participatory movements taking place to conserve Vellayani fresh water lake and its ecosystem by several NGOs with the help of local public. The committee recommended that the State Government should identify and demarcate the encroached portion of the lake and steps should be taken to evacuate illegal encroachers. was reduced to 397. and Vizhinjam grama panchayats.the water from the lake was extensively used for drinking and irrigational purposes. The Trivandrum district Pachayat has taken the initiative to include Vellayani Lake in the MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) scheme for the ecological preservation of the lake and its vicinity.) Improving Energy Efficiency . Vellayani lake presents a unique ecosystem and a multipronged strategy is required to preserve this lake‘s unique ecology while at the same time ensuring adequate drinking water for the villages dependent on lake water. cleaning up of wetlands etc. Kalliyoor and Venganoor Gramapanchayats are responsible for implementing the project. (PIB Feature. The Panchayat has decided to use Coir Corporation‘s Geo textile technology for strengthening bunds instead of cement and rock. As part of the project the panchayat is taking steps for strengthening bunds. The conservation project will be undertaken in phases for the only rain-fed freshwater lake in the Thiruvananthapuram district. 2001 is the most important multi-sectoral legislation in India and is intended to promote efficient use of energy in India. The Energy Conservation Act. 2002. In order to implement the various provisions of the EC Act. prescribes energy conservation building codes for commercial buildings and establishes a compliance mechanism for energy consumption norms and standards. the Government of India has enacted the Energy Conservation Act in 2001. prescribes energy consumption norms and standards for consumers. keeping in mind the growing energy needs not only there is a need for resource augmentation FEATURE but also concerted step needs to be taken to conserve energy. Yet. As a step towards this end. Power Energy conservation is also being encouraged at governmental levels as India is part of the consortium of nations trying to act against the threat of climate change and reducing the carbon footprint. This is to be demonstrated by providing policy framework as well as through public-private partnership. Nationally as well as internationally.Energy is one of the most sought after things in the present scenario and the same is true for India too. energy efficiency in India has been increasing at a good pace and energy intensity declined by about 20-25%. . The EC Act provides a legal framework for energy efficiency initiatives in the country. The Act has mandatory as well as promotional initiatives. Over the past one decade. there are places where energy efficiency opportunities exist and hence can be implemented. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) was operationalised with effect from 1st March. The Bureau is spearheading the task of improving the energy efficiency in various sectors of the economy through regulatory and promotional mechanism. The primary objective of BEE is to reduce energy intensity in the Indian economy. The Act specifies energy consumption standards for equipment and appliances. This programme in 2010-11 has led to saving of 3718 million units of electricity equivalent to avoided capacity generation of 2162MW. refrigerators.e. In addition. Over 700 ECBC compliant buildings are at various stages of construction. Together. appliances that save as much as 30-50% energy than the most energy efficient versions available in the market. With the market for star-rated labeled products growing. To accelerate this shift and make such appliances affordable. Issued under the Energy Conservation Act. the Government of India initiated a number of programmes to promote energy efficiency. Labeling has been mandatory for 4 products. The program envisions that incremental cost can be compensated by incentives on one hand and cost reduction due to economy of scale on the other. BEE is in the process of launching the Super Energy Efficient Program (SEEP) that would provide manufacturers incentives to produce super efficient appliances. 2011 the targets are to be achieved by 2014-15. industrial units used 166 million . distribution transformers and tube lights.45 million units in 2010-11 which is equivalent to avoided capacity generation of 4. providing users with information on the energy use of a model and its relative efficiency.000 MW in the last five years. one of the four initiatives of the National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency. there is now a move towards making appliances super efficient i. Overall. This has resulted in avoided generation capacity of 10. Energy Efficiency in Industry and Residential Lighting. Energy Efficiency in Industry The Government has notified the energy efficieny improvement targets for the 478 most energy intensive industrial units in 8 sectors. It has resulted in electricity saving of 22. Energy Conservation Building Code A National Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) has been prepared for the design of new commercial buildings. performance contracting through Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) is being promoted to enable the retrofit of existing buildings so as to reduce their energy consumption.During the 11th Plan Period. It forms a part of Market Transformation for Energy Efficiency (MTEE) initiative. they account for about one third of the total energy consumption in India. Some of the principal programmes launched included Standards and Labeling of Equipment and Appliances. Standards and Labeling of Equipment and Appliances Labeling has been introduced for 16 major energy consuming appliances.air conditioners.27 MW. Super efficient appliances have a high cost of production as well as uncertainty of demand. Energy Conservation Building Code. tonnes of oil equivalent energy in 2009-10. These certificates can be traded and bought by other units covered by the programme who may find it expensive to meet their targets through their own actions. Besides. are not defined in terms of absolute energy use reduction.154 will be levied for shortfall of 1 tonne of oil equivalent in the achievement of the target. The penalty will be related to shortfall in target achievement. The BEE has also registered a country-wide Programme of Activities (POA) under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) which enables quick registration of each investor led project as a CDM project under the POAs Tapping Energy from Small Hydro Power Projects . only plants using more than a specified amount of energy are included in the targeted list. Residential Lighting The Bachat Lamp Yojana (BLY) provides energy-efficient Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) to households at the cost of incandescent bulbs as the former are expensive and hence not able to penetrate in the domestic sector. The targets. Units which are unable to meet their target. textiles and thermal power stations. Over 20 million CFLs have already been distributed under the BLY programme. An interesting feature of the programme is that these units which are able to achieve greater energy efficiency improvements within the specified targets can capture the excess savings through the issuance of Energy Saving Certificates. the Government is also promoting innovative schemes like Energy Conservation Awards etc. either through their own action or through purchase of certificates will be liable for repayment of penalty. The scheme targets to replace 400 million bulbs leading to a possible reduction of 6000MW and about 24 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. aluminum. Within each sector. which has to be reduced by 6. fertilizers. In order to accelerate Demand Side Management measures in agricultural sector. BEE has initiated an Ag DSM programme in which pump set efficiency upgradation would be carried out through Public-Private Partnership mode.10. cement.6 million tonnes of oil equivalent in the target year. The sectors covered by the notification are iron and steel. A penalty of Rs. but in terms of the amount of energy used to produce a unit of the product. however. pulp and paper. chlor-alkali. Hydro power is obtained from the potential energy of water flowing from a height. These projects can be set up on rivers. The energy is converted into electricity by using a turbine coupled to a generator.Hydro power is one of the largest renewable sources of energy to be utilized for the generation of electricity.000MW of MNRE which only 20% has been tapped. Mini hydro (101-2000kW i. Small Hydro Power (SHP) in India has been standardized up to the level of 25MW. 2MW) and Small hydro (above 2MW up to 25MW). canals or at dams.e. It is proposed to install 2000MW additional power generation capacity from SHP in the Twelfth Five Year Plan. SHP is economical and at the same time is compatible with use of water for other . The hydro power potential of a site is dependent on the discharge and head of water. India has an estimated SHP potential of about FEATURE 15. They are classified as Micro hydro (up to 100kW). This capacity addition is expected to come mainly from private investment. there is lot to be utilized in the near future to meet our growing needs. Hence. both in government and private sectors. SHP projects generally cost between Rs. irrigation etc. The power generation is environmentally friendly because it causes negligible or no submergence. The subsidy is utilized by the promoter towards repayment of the term loan availed from a financial institution.purposes like drinking. The equipment too used is commensurate with the standards laid down by the International Electro-technical Commission and Bureau of Indian Standards.7-8. SHP projects generally have a pay-back period of 5-7 years depending upon the capacity utilization factor.5 crore per MW. A special incentive package has been developed for the promotion of the SHP programme in the . While SHP projects on rivers involve higher costs of civil works than those on canals. the government provides assistance for renovation and modernization (R&M) of existing stations. It can also provide electricity in a decentralized manner. However. The standard indigenous technologies for the SHP are available and hence only minor adaptation to specific site conditions is required. fauna and biodiversity. minimal deforestation and hence reduced impact on flora. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) supports SHP development throughout the country. It gives the flexibility of installation and operation in a distributed mode. the subsidy is released after the project performance parameters are achieved. Apart from providing financial subsidy to new ventures. the cost of equipments for canal based projects is relatively higher. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.30.1 lakh in electrical/ electrical plus mechanical mode. low conversion efficiency and hence improved water mills have been developed for mechanical applications as well as electricity generation. The scheme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy for development of water mills is being operated with the help of local organizations such as Water Mills Associations. 2012. The State Electricity Regulatory Commissions are now determining tariffs for these projects. cooperative societies. The Himalayan region alone is the house for about 100.North-Eastern states. The small hydro power sector is expected to get further boost in the Twelfth Plan. local bodies and state nodal agencies. registered NGOs. 2025 water mills/micro hydel projects were also functional at the end of February. While about 3342 MW capacity has been installed in the small hydro power sector. subsidy up to Rs.000 water mills and are used for mechanical applications like grain grinding and oil extraction. Water mills also known as gharats in the northern part of the country are traditionally used for mechanical energy. (PIB . Under the scheme.000 in mechanical mode and Rs. Water mills have. Jammu and Kashmir. The state of Uttarakhand has the distinction of already setting up over 500 such water mills in its remote and isolated areas. generally. A number of states have announced policies to attract private sector entrepreneurs to set up SHP projects. Silent Valley .Feature. It gives one the rarest of the rare experience of being with nature. becoming one with it. A. The tourists and visitors to Silent Valley cannot disagree with him because Silent Valley gives an unusual experience of silence while in the midst of nature. The British named the area Silent Valley because of the perceived absence of noisy cicadas. a deep green river bubbled its course through impenetrable forest. K. The Pandavas during their exile wandered into Kerala and came upon a magical valley where rolling grasslands met wooded ravines.FEATURE Environment & Forest K. It is the core of the Nilgiri International Biosphere Reserve and is part of The Western Ghats World Heritage Site. The area is locally known as "Sairandhrivanam" literally. where all was harmonious and man unknown. in Malayalam: Sairandhri's Forest. Palakkad District in Kerala. Beena* "Silent Valley is the best assurance that a forest can speak through human beings. The park is one of the last undisturbed tracts of South Western Ghats rain forests and tropical moist evergreen forest in India. Botanist Robert Wight in 1847 made the first English investigation of the watersheds of the Silent Valley area. Silent Valley National Park is located in the Nilgiri Hills. Sairandhri is Draupadi. Another story attributes the name to the anglicisation . In local Hindu legend.‖ said the environmentalist Shri. where at dawn and twilight the tiger and elephant would drink together at the water's edge. Prasad. M. because of the relatively little human intrusion. . It houses a rich mosaic of varied habitats. refers to the untouched nature of the valley. which were available in the Western Ghats 50 to 100 years ago still exist in Silent Valley. i. zoogeographic and ecological points of view. without human noises.4 ha) is very high compared to a range of 60 to 140 species that characterise the other known tropical forests. The Mudugar and Irula tribal people are indigenous to the area and they live in the adjacent valley of Attappady Reserved Forest.of Sairandhri.rare because many species which originally inhabited the entire belt of the Western Ghats have been lost due to destruction of their habitat by human beings or for other reasons. The limited studies of the fauna of Silent Valley reveals that its rich resources as rare and unique .. Also.e. The number of tree species computed for the Silent Valley (118 vascular plants of 84 species in 0. A third story. reptiles and mammals. the Kurumbar people occupy the highest range outside the park bordering on the Nilgiris. Out of these springs the amazing variety of life forms some of them endemic to the Western Ghats. They include insects. A number of species. It is unique because what little has been collected and studied has already proved to be of immense scientific interest from the taxonomic. Silent Valley is home to the largest population of Lion-tailed Macaque. The Silent Valley National Park is a unique preserve of natural rainforests. The Kuntipuzha River drains the entire 15 km length of the park from north to south into the Bharathapuzha River. The river is characterized by its crystal clear and perennial nature. amphibians. an endangered species of Primate. These faunal resources however are still available in Silent Valley. fishes. ) Hydrogen: Energy Of The Future . and wildlife photographers are allowed. The core zone is protected and wild life is undisturbed.52 sq. Only forest department staff. (PIB Feature. unexplored and untouched. Since then. Announcement against a hydroelectric project proposed in the area resulted in the creation of the park in 1984. The core zone (89. a long-term conservation effort has been undertaken to preserve the Silent Valley ecosystem. The story of Silent Valley National park is the struggle and thought for environmental protection in the country. In order to ensure better protection of the area the buffer zone of the Park was created and made an integral part of Silent Valley National Park. scientists.km) and buffer zone(148 sq km). Now there are two zones for silent valley.Upto 1970 it was an unknown forest area. The struggle for protecting the valley proved that human beings still care for nature. the current technologies for use of hydrogen are yet to be optimized and commercialized but efforts for the same have already started. storage. delivery and applications. therefore. the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy have been supporting a broad based research. development and demonstration (RD&D) programme on different aspects of hydrogen energy for over two decades.a colourless. safety. transport.e. However. Consequently. Its new use has been found in the automobile and power FEATURE generation sector. not only an efficient energy carrier but also an environmentally benign fuel as well. production. Hydrogen Production Hydrogen is found only in combined state on earth and therefore its production involves the process of its isolation from its compounds. odourless gas is increasingly gaining attention as a future source of energy free from environmental pollution.Hydrogen . Globally. It is. a process which itself requires energy. a National Hydrogen Energy Road Map was prepared in 2005 which provides for various pathways for development of hydrogen energy i. The biggest MNRE advantage with hydrogen is that it has the highest energy content per unit mass among known fuels and it burns to produce water as a by-product. In fact. about 96% of hydrogen is produced presently using . But this technology is in early stages of development. it can also be used as a clean fuel in automobile and also for power generation through internal combustion engines and fuel cells. In the field of hydrogen in internal combustion engines. About 4% hydrogen is produced through electrolysis of water. however. . The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is presently supporting R&D projects in this field. gasification of coal and gasification of biomass are other processes of production of hydrogen. electrolytic processes and photolytic processes. It is also produced as a by-product in chloro-alkali industry. Hydrogen Storage Hydrogen storage for transportation is one of the most technically challenging barriers to widespread commercialization of this technology. These are known as ―thermo-chemical‖ processes. The most common method of storage is in gaseous state in pressurized cylinders. Hydrogen production falls into three categories: thermal process. Electrolytic processes use electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen and can even reduce the emission of green house gases emission if the source of electricity is ‗clean‘. The advantage with coal and biomass is that both are locally available resources and biomass is a renewable resource too. carbon nanostructures and in chemicals. liquid organic hydrides. Applications Apart from using it as a chemical feedstock in industry.hydrocarbons. Refineries and fertilizer plants are major insitu producers and consumers of hydrogen in India. It can be stored in liquid form in cryogenic systems but would require high amounts of energy. it being the lightest element requires high pressures. Steam Methane Reformation. Some thermal processes use energy resources while in others heat is used in combination with closed chemical cycles to produce hydrogen from feed-stocks such as water. It is also possible to store it in solid state in the form of metal hydrides. hydrogen fuelled generator set is being developed by BHU and IIT. The focus of the Fuel Cell programme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has been on supporting RD&D activities on different types of fuel cells. With a view to provide hydrogen blended compressed natural gas as an automotive fuel. Delhi. several organizations globally are pursuing RD&D activities in this field. BHU has modified commercially available motorcycles and three wheelers to operate on hydrogen as fuel. cars and 3-wheelers) is also under implementation. In view of the relevance of fuel cells in automobiles and power generation. The Banaras Hindu University. Besides. This facility provides CNG fuel blended with hydrogen up to 20% in volume in demonstration and test vehicles. a dispensing station for the same has been set up at Dwarka in New Delhi with partial financial support from the Ministry. It can be used in UPS systems.R&D projects for using hydrogen blended compressed natural gas and diesel and development of hydrogen fuelled vehicles are being implemented in India. The present efforts in these fuel cells are focused on reducing its cost and improving its durability. an electrochemical device converting chemical energy of hydrogen directly into electricity without combustion. Another application of hydrogen energy is the fuel cell. Catalytic combustion cookers using hydrogen as fuel have also been developed. (PIB Feature. replacing batteries and diesel generators. Hydrogen fuelled motorcycles and three wheelers have been developed and demonstrated in the country. Portable applications are also being developed. A development cum demonstration project for use of H-CNG as fuel in select vehicles (buses.) and AARDO in Search of New Horizons . It is a clean and efficient process of electricity generation. AARDO is one of the earliest examples of South-South cooperation in rural development in the Afro-Asian region. commonality of issues and challenges and geopolitical reasons India has been a strong votary and architect of solidarity and cooperation among Afro-Asian nations. From Bandung to hey days of Non-alignment and pinnacle of South-South Cooperation India has always stood up for a closer relationship and collective approach among the countries of the region on every possible sphere. It is an autonomous intergovernmental organisation. The Mahatma once said “India’s heart pines for Africa”.FEATURE Rural Development D ebajani Baxipatra * India had played a leading role in struggle for political emancipation of many nations of Africa. Due to shared history. an average 68 per cent of population in the region still live in rural areas.7 billion people live on less than $2 a day. and 1. Paradoxically. . three-fourth of world’s poor also live here. it however does not affect every region of the world equally. Worldwide 2. Afro-Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO) is the culmination of a unique camaraderie and resolve in exploring innovative and effective ways and means to strengthen cooperation between Asia and Africa in the field of rural development. No doubt poverty is a global phenomenon.1 billion people live on under $1 a day. Notwithstanding the growing and rapid urbanization of the countries of the region. More than two-thirds of the world population lives in this region. As a natural corollary. 85% live on less than $2 a day. regional level workshops/seminars and study visits.In Sub-Saharan Africa almost 50% of the population lives on under $1 a day. action research studies. To banish extreme poverty and allied scourges from the face of the earth in a time bound manner by 2015 through a global partnership. workshops. About 50% of the population here too lives on less than $2 a day. among AARDO member countries and strive to enlarge cooperation with others in the year to come. development pilot projects. The principal objective of AARDO has been the promotion of understanding among member countries for better appreciation of each others problems. dissemination of information and at the same time. AARDO also aims to help the member countries in obtaining financial and technical assistance for rural development programmes from the financial and other specialised institutions like World Bank. deputation of experts. all out efforts were made to consolidate the existing activities of AARDO.3 billion. AARDO in its New Delhi Declaration of 2007 undertook to achieve the internationally agreed Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and agreed to carry forward the spirit of cooperation for rural development. Asian Development Bank (ADB). The East Asia/Pacific region is home to 1. training programmes. meeting of heads of training institutes and regional representatives to discuss and review technical programmes. and development. Thus the whole Afro-Asian region in general and the rural areas of the region in particular are afflicted by extreme poverty. seminars.8-2 billion people. UN adopted the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Similarly. To realise these objectives. Southeast Asia account for approximately half of the world‘s poor. making it one of the most populous regions on earth. Many of the conflicts witnessed in the countries of the region are directly attributable to extreme poverty. Of a population of 1. Poverty is the greatest affront on human rights. During the triennium 2006-2008. etc. to begin with. for the purpose of taking such actions as may accelerate the . including the UN agencies and national level bodies both governmental and non-governmental. initiate new programmes such as new training courses. dignity. Thirty-two of the world‘s forty eight poorest countries are located in this region. Another major plank for AARDO has been collaboration with appropriate international and regional organisations. African Development Bank (AFDB) etc. AARDO has been implementing a number of concerted programmes on triennial basis. in the developed and developing countries. namely. Emanating from this is “Bharat Nirman” – a time bound business like programme for specific targets of rural infrastructure development by 2015. The new mantra for rural development is to foster an ―inclusive growth‖ which does not leave out the vast majority of rural populace from the ambit of growth and development taking place in the country. To match up with the renewed emphasis and new mood of reaching out development in rural areas also called for a change in approach. disease and poverty. Most of these are related to and are more ambitious than the Millennium Development Goals. illiteracy. It is in this backdrop that India’s experience and phenomenal success in the field of agriculture and rural reconstruction are of critical value to the AARDO member states many of which are still struggling to grapple with the issue of how to fast pace the development of their rural areas by eradicating thirst. India‘s concern for poverty eradication and emancipating the rural population from the scourge of hunger transcends her national boundaries as India always believes that poverty is indivisible and is the single biggest cause for conflict among communities and nations and hence need to be combated concertedly. orientation and trajectory were changed and adjusted. hunger. a paradigm shift was hence introduced with more and more rural development programme becoming demand driven i. but the focus remained the improvement of the quality of life in our rural areas.e. programmes are also aiming at universal coverage. From the dawn of independence one of the most abiding and absorbing tasks for our successive governments has been to develop millions of our villages where over 70 per cent of our people live. Keeping with the urgency of bridging the gulf. The formation of Afro-Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO) (earlier known as Afro-Asian Rural Reconstruction Organisation) in 1962 underscored the far-sightedness of the social and political leaders of Asia and Africa in recognising the need for cooperation among the countries in the field of . Tenth Five-Year Plan had outlined India’s human development goals and targets for the next five to 10 years. strategy. AARDO has also been assisting in the development of organisation of farmers and other rural people including the cooperatives for accelerating rural development in the member countries. 5-year plans set out and achieved ambitious tasks of rural reconstruction. The methodology.pace of rural development. not limited by budget. March.” Time has therefore come to strengthen AARDO to enable it to take a holistic approach to address the rural poverty as defined by the ―Copenhagen Declaration‖ so that its mission and objectives can be taken beyond the realms of semantics.agriculture and rural development. a condition characterised by severe deprivation of basic human needs. 2012 shall provide a new fillip and also an apt platform to the 29 member nations to share their experiences and explore new areas of cooperation. (PIB Feature. health. safe drinking water. shelter. The forthcoming Golden Jubilee celebration of AARDO being held in New Delhi on 5-6th. This can be achieved by bringing together many of the nations of Africa and Asia. sanitation facilities. including food..) INSPIRE’ – Motivating Students to Study Science . The “Copenhagen Declaration” described poverty as “…. education and information. which are still not members of AARDO and also by broadening its purview. and Mentorship through global Science leaders at a science camp. which has two sub-components – INSPIRE Award of Rs.INSPIRE Award is being implemented centrally through the States/UTs. Assured Opportunity for Research Career (AORC) for young researchers which also has two sub-components – INSPIRE Fellowship and INSPIRE Faculty. the other .FEATURE Science Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) is a national programme implemented by the Ministry of Science & Technology for attraction of talent amongst the students to study Science and pursue career with research. 5000/. While the first component of the Scheme .000 for continuing education at B.Sc and M. 80. The programme has 3 components:- Scheme for early attraction of talents for Science (SEATS). Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) at the rate of Rs.Sc levels. 5000 each for preparing a science project/model. All Awardees under the scheme are required to participate in the District Level Exhibition and Project Competition (DLEPC). as approved for the 11th Five Year Plan. The objective of INSPIRE Award Scheme is to motivate and catch the young students in the age group of 10-15 and facilitate them in experiencing the joy of innovating and thereby attracting them to pursue careers in Science. Best 5 to 10 per cent entries from the districts are selected for participation in . Salient Features Under the scheme. INSPIRE Award Warrant is issued directly in the name of selected student and sent to him/her through state/school authorities.components of the Scheme are being implemented centrally by Department of Science & Technology (DST) through the concerned academic/research institutes and Universities etc. two students are selected from each school of the country (from class 6th to 10th) during the Five Year Plan period for an INSPIRE Award of Rs. aided or unaided. state and national level is borne by the Department of Science & Technology (DST). The Award . with requisite details giving also the criteria adopted by the school for nomination and selection. Participation/merit certificates are issued to the selected awardees of DLEPC. Merit based selection of the students for INSPIRE awardees is done by Head Master/Head Mistress/Principal of each school. whether Government or private. SLEPC and NLEPC. as well as. run by Central Government or State Government of local bodies. The entire cost of organizing exhibitions at district. At all levels the projects are evaluated by a Jury of experts. All schools in the country. subject to a minimum of 5. and having classes 6 to 10 are eligible to participate in the scheme. are selected to participate at the National Level Exhibition and Project Competition (NLEPC). Best 5 percent entries from the State/UT. mentor/teachers who guided them for the preparation of the projects. District education authorities compile details of the schools in their jurisdiction in the prescribed format and send the proposal to DST through the State education authorities. Proposals so received from the State authorities are processed in DST in accordance with the norms of the scheme and the list of the selected students is sent to the banker of DST for preparation of Award Warrants in the name of selected students. who is required to send nomination of best children having aptitude for science.a State Level Exhibitions and Project Competition (SLEPC). and 1.36. Present Status of Implementation The scheme envisages selection of one million (10 lakh) students during the Five Year Plan period @ of 2 lakh awardees per year. and recently about 700 awardees participated in the first ever NLEPC held at Delhi during August 14-16. 2009.52 crores have been released to the States /UTs to meet the expenditure in connection with DLEPC/SLEPC/NLEPC. and as on date 5.Warrants so received from the bank are sent to State authorities for onward delivery to the selected awardees through district education authorities.50 lakh Awards were sanctioned during 2010-2011. In addition. about 15 thousand selected Awardees of DLEPCs have participated in SLEPCs.30 crores sent to the selected students in the form of INSPIRE Award Warrants. As on date. an amount of Rs. However. 2011. implementation could start only in 2009-2010. Funds to meet the expenditure in connection with DLEPC. more than 2 lakh Awardees have participated in DLEPSCs. SLEPC are released to the State Nodal Officer through electronic fund transfer to their notified bank account. . All the 35 States/UTs are participating in the scheme. There are about 4. The scheme was launched during December. 74.5 to 5 lakh schools in the country which would have classes 6 to 10. 2. Since the inception of the scheme. 268.26 lakh Awards were sanctioned during that year.598 Awards have been sanctioned and award money amounting to Rs. 5 to 5 lakh schools in the country). under which a proposal to sanction one Award per school per year is under consideration of the Government. (PIB Feature. may be with an extended coverage. this would mean 2 million (20 lakh) Awards to be sanctioned during the 5 year period @ of about 4 lakh Awards per year (assuming participation of about 80 to 90 per cent of the 4.The scheme is likely to continue during the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-2017) also. If approved.A Storehouse of Clean Energy .) Biomass . . The surplus biomass resources available for power generation annually are about 189 million tonnes. used in the mill. fertilizer plants. Biomass resources in India are estimated to be about 565 million tonnes per year. and electricity. tops and un-merchantable wood left in the forest. They include small trees. It is a renewable and carbon natural source of energy. is readily available widely across the country.FEATURE MNRE Gargi Malik* Agriculture continues to be the main source of livelihood for a large part of population in the country. cogeneration plants provide both heat energy. which implies biological material from living or recently living organisms. pulp and paper mills. thereby. breweries. Forest residues result from logging and wood processing. which is typically sold to the grid. Biomass. overcoming regional limitations. textile mills. bagasse. It is estimated that about 15 GW of electricity generating capacity could be achieved through adding cogeneration capabilities in various industries including sugar mills. In addition. which could support roughly 25 GW of installed capacity. Biomass. thus. Further. cotton stalks and mustard stalks. Agriculture residues result from crop harvesting and processing. sugar cane tops and leaves. distilleries. can be used as an important source of energy. groundnut shells. They include rice husk. there exists a potential of setting up 12 million family type biogas plants. branches. It includes agriculture residues and forest residues. and rice mills. and animal and human waste.It involves anaerobic digestion fermentation and composting. bagasse. etc. Using biomass as fuel reduces the landfill space required to dump the .A process in which heat is used to convert biomass into another chemical form. Using biomass decreases animal and municipal waste.Types of Biomass Biomass includes three distinct categories: Solid Biomass. Further. Biochemical Conversion. Conversion may release energy directly in the form of heat/electricity or. Liquid biofuels which are obtained by subjecting organic materials to one of various chemical or physical processes to produce usable combustible liquid fuels. which includes tree. There are basically three types of conversions: Thermal Conversion. coconut shells. Benefits Of Using Biomass It reduces air pollution as biomass emits less Sulphur dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide than fossil fuels.A range of chemical processes may be used to convert biomass into other forms so that fuel may be used more conveniently. transported or stored. Biogas which is obtained by anaerobically digesting organic material to produce combustible gas methane. jute waste. biomass fuels recycle atmospheric carbon. Biomass Conversion To Useful Energy A number of technological options are available to make use of a wide variety of biomass types as a renewable energy source. may convert it into another form such as liquid biofuels or combustible biogas. Amount of carbon dioxide emitted is equal to the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed from atmosphere during growth phase of biomass. minimizing global warming impacts since zero net Carbon dioxide is emitted during biomass growth phase. Chemical Conversion . Through anaerobic digestion process biomass in the form of waste is converted into useful energy. crop residues like rice husk. Clean and efficient energy is provided for energy deficient section of population through smokeless chulha. Click here to see Photo: Smokeless Chulha Family Type Biogas Plant: In family type biogas plants cattle and other . it was observed that fuel efficient stoves installed were able to conserve about 50-60% of fuel as compared to traditional stoves. Family Type Biogas Plant. dung cake. There was reduction of smoke and thus increase in productivity with a positive impact on environment. In a case study on various Dhabas and roadside hotels in Andhra Pradesh. etc. Biomass Gasification System. lumber mill waste. Presently. Moreover 20% of urban households still rely primarily on traditional fuels to meet their cooking needs. woody biomass. etc. It helps in creating local jobs in a rural areas. biomass contributes to around 30% of the total primary energy supply in the country. where different types of fixed and portable cookstoves are made available to rural household. Rural Areas Initiatives National Biomass Cookstove Initiative(NBCI): In rural areas a large percentage of population continues to depend on biomass. chips. The major source of energy for cooking for 85% of households in rural India includes firewood. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has initiated various schemes and also promoted various NGOs to work in the field of energy from biomass. The initiatives can broadly be classified into two categories: Rural Areas Initiatives: National Biomass Cookstove Initiative(NBCI). Biomass Gasifiers and Biomass Cogeneration (Non-Bagasse) Projects. Urban Areas Initiatives: Programme for Energy Recovery from Urban Waste. India is known as an acknowledged leader in conversion of solid biomass into clean gaseous fuel. etc are set up in the area depending on the sustainable source of supply available from agriculture or plantation. carbon dioxide . carbon monoxide. In gasification process organic material is converted into methane. green waste. Now-a-days institutional and night-soil-based biogas plants are being deployed increasingly. This biogas is used for cooking purposes in the households. It helps to save tonnes of fuel wood every year. is done to produce biogas which mainly comprises of methane and carbon dioxide. Rice Husk based power generating units in the villages of West Champaran district . maize residues and hardwood ensure perennial supply of feedstock. Various gasifiers fed on rice husk. wheat husk .organic wastes are used to produce energy and manure. India supports the largest cattle wealth and this scheme helps to answer the growing energy crisis. Biomass Gasification System: In the scheme various biomass gasification systems are set up in rural areas to provide electricity supply in villages as well as develop the industries there. Small-scale biomass gasifiers of upto 500-600 KW capacity are eminently suited for off-grid electricity supply in our rural areas. sewage. It is obtained by reacting the material at high temperature (>7000C) without combustion with a controlled amount of oxygen / steam and the resulting gas mixture is called Syngas or Producer Gas which itself is a fuel. anaerobic fermentation of biodegradable materials such as biomass . In this technology. Biogas technology provides energy in a clean and unpolluted form and makes available enriched organic manure as a by-product for supplementing and optimizing the use of chemical fertilizers. The National Programme on biogas development has multiple benefits. hydrogen. Toilet linked biogas plants are coming up in places like bus stands and educational institutions. maze . A number of projects have already been initiated with private sector participation for supply of 6-8 hrs electricity daily through gasification for domestic lighting and 6-8 hrs for other commercial activities like water pumping for irrigation purposes and to micro enterprises and telecom towers. etc. Projects are being carried out in Araria and Purnea districts of Bihar where Daincha/Ipomoea. an NGO. and changing the profile of cluster altogether. A total of 8 .5 km. These systems can lead to saving diesel to the tune of 200-250 million litres annually. Rs 2 per day per household. located within a radius of 1. Several industries like sugar. The technology employed is simple: It uses the Husk based gasifier technology to provide electricity using 32kWe ‗mini power plants‘ that deliver power on a ‗pay-for-use‘ basis to households in rice producing belt of India.000 industries can be benefitted in the next 2-3 years. It has enormous potential and even some of the larger rice mills can feed power to grid as well as distribute locally. Require electrical as well as thermal energy for their operations. Power is supplied from 5 pm till midnight each day. More than 5000 to 10. about 42 million tons of solid waste and 6000 million cubic meters of liquid waste are generated every year by our urban population. Success of this initiative has led to further planning for installation of such plants in Samastipur and Lakhisarai. The simultaneous production of power and thermal energy from a single source is termed as Cogeneration. food processing. These requirements can be met through different energy sources or a single source. fertilizers.in Bihar have been lighting up around 500-700 households spread over 20 villages in the district. etc. It results in a reduction of consumption of kerosene by as much as two thirds. The west Champaran experiment is supported by the Ministry and implemented by Husk Power System(HPS). The Government is providing assistance for setting up of Biomass Gasification and Biomass Cogeneration (Non-Bagasse) Projects. Programme For Energy Recovery From Urban Waste: According to a recent estimate. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has now plans to take up the rice husk based electricity systems on a ‗Mission Mode‘. Click here to see Photo: A Biogas Plant and the Design Urban Areas Initiatives Biomass In Urban Areas and Commercial Applications : Crop residues and agro industrial wastes are used through biomass gasification technique for both electrical and thermal energy. The price paid to procure electricity generated by these mini power plants is very low. paper and pulp. (PIB Feature). an aggregate capacity of 19. optimal exploitation of biomass energy will offer a great respite to India at energy front. It mainly deals with increase in production of next generation food grains The GOI as a effort to make 2nd green revolution implemented following programmes a) National horticulture mission-2005(objective: doubling of horticulture production ie 300 . The year 2004 is some what termed as 2nd green revolution in India. a mandatory target of 5% blending of ethanol with petrol and recommendatory target of 5% blending of bio-diesel with diesel is in force since October 2009. Best Answer M. Indian Railways has already started using Jatropha oil mixed with diesel for meeting the fuel requirements. While a target of 20% blending of biofuels in diesel and petrol by the year 2017 has been indicated in the National policy on Biofuels announced in December 2009. Biodiesel and bio-ethanol can be used as diesel additive and gasoline additive respectively.05 MWeq have already been set up. It includes fuels derived from biomass conversion as well as solid biomass. liquid fuels and various bagasses. Biofuels Biofuels are a type of fuel whose energy is derived from biological carbon fixation. it is also known as Rainbow revolution. Biofuel development in India mainly centres around the cultivation and processing of JATROPHA plant seeds which are very rich in oil (40%).e. Jatropha oil can be used directly in diesel generators and engines.S Swaminathan is known as father of India's 2nd green revolution. The potential of biomass energy is yet to be exploited fully for India. Considering the nature and current growth of economy and the future trajectory of growth.projects for energy recovery from urban waste i. . wheat by 8 million tonne and pulses by 2million tonne) However a full fledged 2nd green revolution has still not been able to be achieved.million tonne b)Rashtriya krishi vikas yojana-2007(objective: increase in 4% of agricultural growth c) National food security mission-2007(objective: rice by 10 million tonne.