The Correspondent

The Correspondent
New Delhi
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Navy chief with senior officers at the Chinese IFR meet

Admiral Sureesh Mehta, the Chief of Naval Staff with the Indian delegation at the Chinese IFR seminar venue.

Friendship across the seven sea – Visitors onboard Indian Naval Ship during Chinese IFR

CAPMA opposes Pestiside Bill

CAPMA opposes Pesticide Management Bill

L to R Mr Y Nayudamma, Treasurer CAPMA, N K Aggarwal, Spokesperson CAPMA, R Mahindra Reddy, President CAPMA, V M Bhatt, Vice President CAPMA and Hari Aggarwal, Secretary General CAPMA against the proposed Pesticide Management Bill.

Terrorists, army, tribesmen clash in Pak

DIR: At least 13 militants including foreigners were killed amid three-way fighting between Pakistan forces, militants and tribesmen in different area of Dir.

The action against foreign terrorists started after ending of the deadline given to them to leave the area. Eight militants including three foreigners were killed in clashes with tribesmen in Dok Darra, Darra Kot and other areas. The tribesmen after the clashes set 20 houses of militants on fire.

According to the sources, a militant commander was also killed in clashes. The tribesmen used sophisticated weapons during action against militants, sources said.

On the other hand, the security forces backed by gunship helicopters pounded militants hideouts in Gali Bagh, killing five terrorists, according to agency reports.

Pillai is new Home sec

G K Pillai, serving as OSD in the home ministry, will be the new home secretary after Madhurkar Gupta retires on June 11, 2009.

Rahul Khullar is set to be the new Commerce Secretary.

PM Manmohan Singh has also reconstituted the Planning Commission: The new team is:

Deputy Chairman - Montek Singh Ahluwalia
Member - Dr Saumitra Chaudhuri
Member - Prof Abhijit Sen
Member - Dr (Ms) Syeda Hameed
Member - Dr Mihir Shah
Member - Dr Narendra Jadhav
Member - B K Chaturvedi

Fakes notes to terror agency

National Investigation Agency (NIA) is set to take over the investigation of a case relating to recovery of Fake Indian Currency Notes registered by ATS, Mumbai.

NHRC gets acting chairperson

G P Mathur, Member, National Human Rights Commission is to act as Chairperson of the NHRC with effect from June 1, 2009. This arrangment will go on till a proper chairperson is not appointed.

DU launch signature campaign against Aussie attacks

The Delhi University Students Union, expressing its ire against racial attacks has launched a signature campaign to pressurise the Australian and Indian governments.

As hundreds and thousands of students, who are seeking admission in DU, throng the campus, the DUSU would also urge the freshers to take part in the unique campaign and express their anger against racially-motivated attacks in Melbourne.

“I believe a lot of these students, who will get in to DU will go to universities abroad to pursue higher education. I, therefore, think its my duty as well as responsibility to spread awareness about the issue of security of the students abroad,” says DUSU president Nupur Sharma.

The DUSU plans to send a memorandum attached with the demand of the students to the Australian High Commission and the Government of India.

Cabinet Minister who have got portfolios:

Pranab Mukherjee - Finance
Sharad Pawar - Agriculture
A K Antony - Defence
P Chidambaram - Home
Mamata Banerjee - Railways
S M Krishna – Foreign Affairs

The portfolios of ministers are likely to be announced today.

Ghulam Nabi Azad
Sushil Kumar Shinde
M. Veerappa Moily
S. Jaipal Reddy
Kamal Nath
Vayalar Ravi
Meira Kumar
Murli Deora
Kapil Sibal
Ambika Soni
B. K. Handique
Anand Sharma
C P Joshi

New ministers announced on May 27

Cabinet Ministers

Virbhadra Singh
Vilasrao Deshmukh
Dr. Farooq Abdullah
Dayanidhi Maran
A Raja
Mallikarjun Kharge
Kumari Selja
Subodh Kant Sahay
Dr M S Gill
G K Vasan
Pawan Kumar Bansal
Mukul Wasnik
Kantilal Bhuria
M K Alagiri

Ministers of State with Independent Charge

Praful Patel
Prithviraj Chauhan
Sriprakash Jaiswal
Salman Khursheed
Dinsha Patel
Jairam Ramesh
Krishna Tirath

Ministers of State

E Ahamed
V Narayanasamy
Srikant Jena
Mullappally Ramachandran
D Purandeswari
Panabaka Lakshmi
Ajay Maken
K H Muniyappa
Namo Narain Meena
Jyotiraditya Scindia
Jitin Prasad
A Sai Prathap
Gurudas Kamat
M M Pallam Raju
Mahadev Khandela
Harish Rawat
Professor K V Thomas
Saugata Ray
Dinesh Trivedi
Sisir Adhikari
Sultan Ahmed
Mukul Roy
Mohan Jatua
S S Palanimanickam
D Napoleon
Dr. S Jagathrakshakan
S Gandhiselvan
Preneet Kaur
Sachin Pilot
Shashi Tharoor
Bharatsinh Solanki
Tusharbhai Chaudhary
Arun Yadav
Prateek Prakashbapu Patil
R P N Singh
Vincent Pala
Pradeep Jain
Agatha Sangma

ITBP rescues passengers in Mussoorie

The rescue operation done by ITBP at Mussoorie to evacuate victims from 200ft deep trench. (More pics in the images section)

Home Minister takes charge

Gets down to business

P Chidambaram took charge of the Home ministry and promised tough action against terrorists.

"I assumed charge as Home Minister on the afternoon of May 24, 2009. Home Secretary was present.

This morning, I was briefed by the Home Secretary on the security situation in the country," he said.

"Terrorism, naxalite violence and insurgency in the North East are the key challenges before the country. Besides, there are areas that are sensitive in the context of public order and communal harmony. For example, last night violence broke out in Jalandhar and some other places in Punjab as a fall out of certain incidents that took place in Vienna, Austria," the minister said.

The following is the text of his media interaction.

On February 20, 2009, I had approved a 100-day Action Plan to be implemented during the period February 21, 2009 to May 31, 2009. Home Secretary has informed me that the Action Plan has been substantially implemented. I intend to review the results later today. As directed by the Prime Minister, MHA will draw up another 100-day Plan that will be taken up for implementation during the period beginning June 1, 2009.

The Congress Party’s election manifesto promised to “deal with the scourge of terrorism squarely and decisively but without weakening the delicate strands that have, together, bound our society for centuries.” The manifesto also promised maximum possible security to each and every citizen; to accelerate the process of police reforms; and to combat communalism for all kinds and to deal ruthlessly with those perpetrating atrocities on weaker sections of dalits and women. On April 7, 2009, the Congress Party released a document titled ‘Protecting India From Terror’. The document pledged that “the Congress party is committed to providing strong and decisive leadership to meet the challenge of terrorism.” These two documents will serve as guide and help bring a focus to the efforts of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

When I addressed the Chief Ministers’ conference on January 6, 2009, I had set for us two goals in the context of meeting the challenge of terrorism. The same goals are relevant to meet all kinds of challenges to the security of the country and the maintenance of public order. Hence, I shall restate those goals:

First, to raise the level of preparedness to meet the increasing threat to security, public order and communal harmony.
Second, to respond with speed and decisiveness to any threat emanating from any source to security, public order or communal harmony, using modern systems, highly trained human resources and advanced technological tools.

HM babus take Anti-terrorism pledge

Anti Terrorism Day is observed throughout the country on May 21. Government employees in the country took a pledge in connection with the Anti-Terrorism Day.

Union Home Minister P Chidambaram administered the oath to the officers and staff of the Ministry of Home Affairs in North Block lawns this morning.

The Day is observed to generate awareness in the country among all sections of people, about the danger of terrorism, violence and its dangerous effect on the people, the society and the country as a whole.

`The objective behind the observance of Anti-Terrorism Day is to wean away the youth from the terrorist/violence cult by highlighting the suffering of the common people and showing how it is prejudicial to the national interest. These objectives are aimed to be achieved by organizing debates/discussions in schools, colleges and universities; holding of symposia/seminars, lectures, etc. on the dangers of terrorism & violence and a determined and sustained drive to bring about a mass awakening against terrorism and violence

Traders demand new ministry for trade

New Delhi:

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) demanded a creation of a separate Ministry for Internal Trade from Prime Minister Dr Man Mohan Singh.

The apex body of the Indian trading community also released its Trader’s Agenda for the new Government at the Centre while demanding for a National Trade Policy for domestic trade.

The CAIT has categorically stated that in a country where more than five crore traders are involved in domestic trade having a great potential of strengthening the economy, putting the trade on the priority of the Government will prove to be a right step in emerging out from the current economic slowdown.

CAIT National Executive President B C Bhartia, and secretary Praveen Khandelwal demanded the Government to declare India as a free trade zone by abolishing all kinds of entry forms and road permits in inter-state trade. It has also demanded early declaration of roadmap of Goods and Services Tax (GST) while consulting Trade and Industry. The GST is likely to be implemented in India from April 2010. All kinds of commercial taxes must be merged into GST-said both the leaders.

The CAIT in its agenda also demanded better banking facilities to traders and easy loan facility from Banks at primary sector lending rate whereas on the other hand it has also urged the Government to form a Banking Regulatory Authority.

Amar Singh ki amar kahani

Samajwadi Party general secretary Amar Singh coming out of the Election Commission office in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Amar Singh complained to the ECI against SP leader Azam Khan and sought his custody.

Singh met Election Commissioner V S Sampath and cribbed that Khan was threatening him. Khan had even said that there are no shows that could be thrown at Singh, as “he is a cheap man”. Both leaders close to SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav have been slugging it out in public over Rampur seat from where actress Jayaprada is contest on SP banner.

Later, he alleged that Khan, in connivance with the Congress, was tarnishing the image of Jayaprada. “In the battle for ballot, such tactics are shameful and Ms. Sonia Gandhi should stop her party functionaries from indulging in such activities,” he said.

AWACS to arrive on May 25

IAF gets ready

AWACS
The first Indian Air Force AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) platform that altogether sets to alter the dimension of the see-through capability of the IAF, will arrive in India on May 25.

On its maiden flight from Israel to India, the veritable flying-giant with an all-pervasive electromagnetic vision will land first at Jamnagar base in western Gujarat and arrive at Palam airport the following day.

Although slated to operate from Agra, home to the Ilyushin family, an induction ceremony awaits the first AWACS in the National Capital.

What is AWACS?

The AWACS is an airborne mission support system fitted on an IL-76 aircraft with improved engines. With radar that can help detect even a cruise missile or an aircraft at ranges far more than the ranges detected through the present ground-based radars, the AWACS radar, most sophisticated to date, can collate surface information about troop movements and missile launches even while listening to highly confidential communications between enemy frontline units.

Air combats the world over are now envisaged in an ever-increasing electronic surveillance environment where pilots have little liberties for individual manouevring without endangering their own lives or safety of their aircraft. The IAF AWACS will help pilots find hitherto unconceivable space and room for tactical manouevres in the air under controlled directions that will give them an edge over their adversaries at all times.

AWACS, a potent force-multiplier, will significantly enhance the effectiveness of both - offensive and defensive operations. The intensity and pace of modern air battle need AWACS for a successful air defence umbrella to be maintained. The swift mobility that the AWACS platform provides will help neutralize any threat as it can be moved anywhere at a very short notice.

Jet moves women

As part of its 'Celebrating Womanhood' initiative, Jet Airways had embarked on an in-flight collection drive for five Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) - Muktangan, Navjeet Community Health Center, Swayam Shikshan Prayog (SSP), SAHAS and Mijwan Welfare Society.

These NGOs are working on a range of women’s issues including health, education and empowerment.

On May 21, 2009, Jet Airways Vice-President, Corporate Communication and PR, Ragini Chopra formally handed over the cheques to representatives of the five NGO's at a small ceremony at the airline's Litolier office.

Statue of Liberty to open in July

Mumbai, May 21, 2009: Visitors from across the world will once again be able to visit the crown of the Statue of Liberty, one of the celebrated attractions of the Big Apple.

Statue of Liberty is slated in every travel operator’s itinerary. The US Department of the Interior will invest $25 million to stabilize the Baggage and Dormitory Building at Ellis Island, built in 1908 to house immigrants waiting for further processing, and repair 2,000 feet of the island's crumbling seawall.

"On July 4th, we are giving America a special gift," Salazar said. "We are once again inviting the public to visit the crown. We cannot eliminate all the risk of climbing to the crown, but we are taking steps to make it safer," Salazar said.

This includes raising the handrails on the spiral staircase and stationing rangers throughout the Statue to aid visitors, as well as help them enjoy the experience and learn more about the Statue and its symbolism. The funds to restore the building and sea wall at Ellis Island are part of more than $750 million in Recovery funds we will be investing in national parks across the nation. The Statue of Liberty will be open for the next two years. Then it will be closed again for work on a long-term solution that will improve safety and security permanently.

Some 40 percent of American citizens can trace a family connection to Ellis. "Visitors who make the pilgrimage to Ellis Island will be able see, touch, and get a sense of that first American experience had by a mother or grandfather," Salazar said.

Congress is insulting me: Laloo

Laloo and Pranab
RJD chief Laloo Prasad Yadav after meeting Prime Minister M M Singh. Laloo accused the Congress of insulting him.

India issues fresh dos for international travellers to check Swine Flu

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed all airlines operating international air services to and from India, to make available to all international passengers copies of the Proforma – designed for the purpose of declaration to the Airport Health Organisation – at the time of embarkation to ensure that the passengers are informed about the steps being taken by the Government of India to conduct entry screening of passengers traveling to India from countries which have reported human cases of Swine Flu.

The Proforma is to be distributed to all passengers and crew members of the airlines before they dis-embark. All persons coming to India from countries which have reported human cases of Swine Flu.

USA
Mexico
Canada
Austria
Germany
Israel
New Zealand
Spain
UK

Passengers to and from the listed countries will have to provide information if they have visited/transited these countries in the past 10 days if they have; whether they have experienced any symptoms related to the flu, etc. Personal information regarding seat and flight number, passport number, contact address, ports of embarkation and disembarkation etc. will also be collected through the Proforma. The Proforma also informs passengers regarding the steps to be taken in case they develop any flu like symptoms during the flight or within 7 days of their arrival in India.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) basketball team easily outplayed the visiting Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) team 3-0, lifting the winner’s trophy today at the end of the three-match basketball ‘friendship series’ played between the two Air Force teams, from May 5-9, at the Mercury indoor stadium of Army’s No. 1 Signal Regiment in Subroto Park, New Delhi. The scores of the three matches played were 104-58, 89-61 and 86-66.

Indo-Chini bhai-bhai

The fleet out at sea during Chinese IFR. Rear Admiral AG Thapliyal, the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet exchanging ceremonials at sea.

'99 percent of public money looted'

May 3, 2009

The Correspondent Bureau

While former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi said only 10 paise out of Re 1 reached the people, the son and Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi says only 10 paise out of Rs 10 reaches the people.
Rahul, addressing a rally in Jaipur, said that the situation in the country had gone from bad to worse and that only 10 paise were being spent out of the Rs 10 allotted by the government.
If voted to power, Rahul said the Congress would ensure that public money is properly spent.
The Congress scion however, missed the point that his partyhad been in power for the last five years.
He came on heavily on BJP-led NDA for neglecting the poor, farmers, Dalits and backwards and expressed his faith in the common man. Terming the poor as the real strength of India he said, “It is the poor who fought for the independence with Mahatma Gandhi and built IITs, Universities, dams and bridges after the independence .” He said that earlier the whole world was saying that India cannot move forward but now they have changed their opinion.. “Only India and China is moving forward in current economic scenario with almost equal growth rate and this is due to the poor who does not have food and cloth,” he said.
Difference between the Cong and BJP
Congress General Secretary said that there was a fundamental difference between the thinking of BJP and the Congress. “In last general election they coined India shining slogan without consulting the poor, backwards and Dalits. During the same election, Congress Party talked about aam aadmi(Common man). This slogan came from the common man, the poor, Dalits and backwards. You showed them the door,” he said.
He added that India was shining only for some chosen few living in big bungalows and traveling in AC cars but it was not shining for the poor and jhuggi-jhopadi wallas( slum dwellers). He further said that the thinking behind the common man was to understand the real strength of this country. “And the real strength of this country lies in the poor and backwards. We want them to be the participant in the development process,” he said.
He cited example of Amethi where he took a British Minister along with him to show the real India. “I spent a night with him in a village, had food and he said that now he had understood the strength of India. The villagers of this country have great affection for the motherland and India will go very far,” Congress General Secretary said. He further said that opposition had criticized this by saying that Rahul Gandhi was showing the poverty of India to a Britisher. “I did not intend to show him the poverty of India; I just showed him the strength of India. That British Minster understood this simple thing, but the opposition failed to understand it,” he said.
Congress General Secretary said that the UPA government tried to accommodate all sections of the society in the development process. He said that government did so by various welfare schemes like NREGS and loan waiver for the farmers. “But opposition again criticized it by saying that the money was being wasted,” he said. Congress General Secretary said that even opposition was surprised to see the high growth rate during UPA rule. “We said that it was because we cared for the common man, the poor and backwards,” he said.

They will tell you how much money is lying in Swiss banks!

How much of Indian money is lying around in Swiss banks? According to Prof Jagdish Mukhi, BJP Candidate from West Delhi around Rs 72 Lakh Crore in Swiss banks alone. Former Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala and other BJP leaders with Prof Mukhi in West Delhi on Thursday, April 30, 2009. May 1, 2009

Dabur launches “Real Burrst”, a light and refreshing fruit beverage to beat the heat this summer

·         Real Burrst is a light non fizzy beverage for audiences of all age groups
·         Real Burrst offers great value at Rs 65 & Rs 15 with its availability in 1 Litre & 200ML tetra packs
·         Real Burrst is available in 4 refreshing flavors- Mixed Fruit, Crispy Apple, Orange Bytez, & Mango Mania

Decision of Special Bench of Mumbai ITAT
May 1, 2009
In an important ruling in case of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., the Special Bench of ITAT Mumbai, has dealt with the issues regarding obligation of a resident payer to withhold tax while making a payment to a non-resident and a time limit to initiate action by the revenue on the payer for non-withholding of such tax.

PM’s World Press Freedom Day Message

May 3, 2009

The celebration of World Press Freedom day is a reaffirmation of the world’s commitment to the right to
freedom of opinion and expression. A free press makes
governments accountable, increases awareness of important issues among people and benefits society. It is an essential pillar of any democracy. On World Press Freedom Day, I call upon everyone to respect the freedom of journalists and contribute towards a fearless and free press in all parts of the country and the world.

PM's remarks to the Media on his visit to Russia

I have had an intense and productive visit to Russia to participate in the Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and in the first ever standalone summit meeting of the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and China yesterday. This has been my first visit abroad in the new term of the Government. The visit has reinforced my sense of the significance of India’s engagement with the world, particularly at this time of economic crisis and political change.

In the short time that I was in Yekaterinburg, I had also had bilateral meetings with President Hu Jintao of China, President Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan, President Zardari of Pakistan and President Medvedev of Russia.

At the BRIC Summit, we discussed the need to intensify cooperation among ourselves and discussed the international economic downturn, and how we can prepare for the forthcoming G-8 and G-20 Summits. We have agreed that our Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors will meet, and with the help of experts, examine the further steps we should take in this regard.

In my meeting with President Hu Jintao of China, we reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and recommitted ourselves to carrying forward the Strategic and Cooperative Partnership that we established in 2005.

President Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan was our honoured guest at our Republic Day earlier this year. We both expressed satisfaction at the rapid expansion of proposals for bilateral cooperation in diverse fields including energy, petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. Our Foreign Ministers will lay out a road map with timelines for implementing these proposals.

When I met President Zardari of Pakistan, we discussed India-Pakistan relations, which remain under considerable stress. The primary cause of this, as everyone knows, is the terrorist attacks against India from Pakistani territory. I conveyed to President Zardari the full extent of our expectation that the Government of Pakistan take strong and effective action to prevent the use of Pakistan’s territory for terrorist attacks against India, act against the perpetrators of past attacks and dismantle the infrastructure of terrorism in Pakistan. The President of Pakistan told me of Pakistan’s efforts to deal with this menace and the difficulties that they face.

We agreed that our Foreign Secretaries will discuss what Pakistan is doing and can do to prevent terrorism from Pakistan against India and to bring those responsible for these attacks to justice including the horrendous crime of the attacks in Mumbai. They will report to us and we will take stock of the situation when we are at Sharm el Sheikh for the Nonaligned Summit in mid-July.

I have spoken before of my vision of a cooperative subcontinent, and of the vital interest that India and the people of the subcontinent have in peace. For this we must try again to make peace with Pakistan. It also requires effective and strong action against the enemies of peace. If the leaders of Pakistan have the courage, determination and statesmanship to take the high road to peace, India will meet them more than half-way. These were the ideas and sentiments that I shared with the President of Pakistan.

With President Medvedev, I exchanged views on the unique and close strategic partnership that we enjoy with Russia. We are both looking forward to its rapid development in the future.

I return to India satisfied with the results of my visit. International developments and the economic crisis will pose fresh challenges to Indian diplomacy. I am, however, confident that we will be able to convert challenge into opportunity for India.

Q - Talks with President Zardari

Let us wait for the outcome of the meeting of the Foreign Secretaries. As I said the purpose of this meeting is to learn from Pakistan what it has done to control terrorist activities directed against India and what they claim to do and in the process President Zardari mentioned to me the problems that they face. I explained to him that whereas Pakistan has now taken effective action against Taliban and Al Qaeda, we have a feeling that those elements who are actively engaged in perpetrating terrorists acts in our country, they are not being brought to justice. So my expectation is that this meeting of Foreign Secretaries will tell us whether Pakistan has taken effective action , if it plans to take effective action against these perpetrators of terrorism.

Q - Any Discussion on Kashmir?

No discussion on Kashmir took place. He did not raise it nor did I raise it. He did mention to me the difficulties that Pakistan is facing in containing terrorism and asked us to bear with him, give him some more time. But there was no mention of Kashmir at anytime in our discussions

Q.3. – (Not audible )

I have often said we can choose our friends but we have to live with our neighbours. It is necessary not to close our channels of communication with neighbours. I think that’s what we should do.

Q.4. Any tangible outcome of the talks with Pakistan? Did you raise the issue of release of Hafeez Sayeed?

I did raise with him what tangible things we would like to see.

Q...? (not audible)

I think that’s better not said.

Q - Any timelines?

We have said that the meeting of Foreign Secretaries should take place before the NAM Summit, that is in July.

Q - What will be the policy agenda for next 5 years? Will BRIC be useful or be a talk shop?

I hope it goes beyond shop talk. We are responsible for 40 % of the population. If all the nations join together, I think their voices will be heard in the global councils. As for India ‘s relations (policy agenda) we will pursue the path that has been outlined by the Hon’ble President in the address to parliament a few days ago.

Q - Comments on the situation in BJP

Well I am not in favour of gloating over the difficulties of other political parties. I wish them well.

Q.8. Spat with Mr. Advani ?

Well I was compelled to reply and I did say a few things which Advaniji said had hurt him. Then he rang me up on 16th May and he expressed regret. In exchange , I apologized to him if I had said anything to hurt his feelings. I look forward to a close relationship with the leader of the opposition.

Q.9. What are your priorities ? Pakistan ?

You must have read the President’s address. I think those are our priorities.

We wish Pakistan well in dealing with the Talebans, the Al Qaedas. But I would also like Pakistan to show the same determination in dealing with terrorists who operate from Pakistan’s soil and conduct acts of terror against our country.

Q.10. Alternate Global Currency

Those were the ideas that were aired but no concrete conclusion emerged. It was agreed that these are highly complex issues , Replacing dollar by other currency –National or SDRs. And it was felt that this matter required proper examination by our Foreign Ministers and Governors of Central Banks.

Q.10. What difficulties were expressed by Zardari ?

President Zardari’s point was that he is fighting a grim battle and there are difficulties in fighting on all fronts and therefore he said, while I am absolutely sincere in controlling terrorism from what ever source it emanates and at which ever country it is directed you must bear with me.

Q.11. Presidents address and the budget ?

I would not like to disclose what’s going to be in the budget. I think that would be improper.

Q - Any reduction of troops along the border by India and Pakistan?

Troop deployment is a matter of functional necessity and I won’t like to speculate on that in public on what we should do or what they will be doing.

Q - Situation in Kashmir.

As regards Jammu & Kashmir , the Home Minister was there. The Home Minister made some important statements of the deployment of forces. And it is very unfortunate that these incidents have taken place. If there were any violation of human rights we will take effective action and I have also promised the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister that once the new Government settles down, we will look at the problems of developing Jammu and Kashmir, update our development and reconstructive plans. I have always said that we would be happy to engage in a dialogue with any groups and I mean any groups in talking to us that option is open and we would welcome even those groups who are not in the political mainstream . If they have any views ,we are quite willing to discuss with them. In the past also I have invited the Hurriyat .They said they would send us proposals, they never sent us any proposals. They said there are too many people detained. I asked them to give me a list of people who they felt had been detained without purpose, they never gave any list. I am not complaining. We are willing to engage in dialogue with anyone who is willing to shun the use of gun.

Q - BRIC has no Secretraiat who will coordinate ?

This is the first meeting at Summit level of BRIC Countries. It is an evolving situation. As we grapple with the challenges that lie ahead, what modalities there would be in place to enable us to play an effective role. As I said, it is not a one time operation and we will be meeting again next year in Brazil to take stock.

Q - Membership of SCO ?

I believe it is for others. If they feel India will be useful as a member we would welcome it. But I am not lobbying for it. Central Asia is our extended neighbour .We are expanding our contacts with the countries of Central Asia. I had a very good meeting with the President of Kazakhstan when he was in Delhi for 26 th January celebrations. We had very extensive agenda of cooperation in diverse fields. We will do more of this with other countries of Central Asia. I had on the sidelines a very good discussion with the President of Tajikistan who is very keen I visit Tajikistan as early as I can.

Q - Election results - Coalition Politics on way out – Are the days of single party governments coming back.

I am not an astrologer.

Q… (not audible)?

If wishes were horses beggars would ride.

Q - Kerala Governor Issue

The Governor is a constitutional head of state and it would not be proper to comment.

Q - Naxal menace in India

I had said many times that Naxalism is a great danger to our polity. The Home Minister has good ideas. We will take effective action and we have plans. Would not be able to go in public what we propose to deal with the menace. But its seriousness is fully appreciated and recognized by our Government.

Q - West Bengal- politics of aid ?

Mamta Banerjee is an honoured member of my cabinet and we will work together as colleagues. But the relationship between the Govt. Of West Bengal or for that matter State and the Central Government are governed by constitutional norms. We will fully abide by constitutional norms which should guide the conduct of Center-State relations.

PM’s remarks to the Media on his visit to Russia

Where is the rail dude?

New Delhi:

Four rail projects are in a state of limbo as Maharashtra is looking at New Delhi for funds.

Chief Minister Ashok Chavan was in the Capital to meet Railway Minister Mamta Banerjee, the first CM visitor to meet the new minister, and demand funds for four projects.

The Chief Minister said that the State was bound to make financial provisions to the tune of 50 percent costs to be incurred on these rail projects.

The four projects

Ahmednagar-Parali-Vaijanath (Rs 1010 crore)
Wardha-Nanded (Rs 697crore)
Manmad-Indore (Rs 823 crore)
Wadasa-Gadchiroli (Rs 200 crore)

Apart from this, the state also sought permission for laying of the new 265km Pune-Nashik rail lines, Chavan said.

Survey to the 261.25 km Ahmednagar-Beed-Parali rail line has been completed by the Railway Board and the Railway Ministry has already incurred an expenditure of Rs 26.37crores till this March 31.

Apart from this, the new railway line of Pune-Nashik stretch of 265.09km would incur an estimated expenditure of Rs 1044.25 crores.

Why throw shoes at politicans?

Throwing shoes is not the answer but at least it will ensure that neta get their act together.

Gift a shoe or … depends on what you prefer!
Jarnail Singh is hardly the kind of journalist who could have thrown a show at anyone. He is one of the few low profiles scribes, who recently lost a dozen of kilos. Not only does he become a worldwide hit but also may contest elections to sit amongst these bloody suckers and eventually get a bigger and better opportunity to … stack the moolah in a Swiss bank account or drive a comfortable sedan in one his swanky islands in the Panama with babes by his arms.
But P C Chidambaram is the kind of minister who could have attracted such kind of attack. And interestingly he is not the only one. …
I can think of hundreds of such netas and ministers who journalists like Singh and even ‘Aam Admi’ would not mind not only throwing a shoe at but even spitting… Please join the boot it camp. This is a serious effort to tell the politicians where they stand. Shall we start alphabetically or start from who comes first.
Amar Singh – for being our famous dalal and for his awful parodies
Mulayam Singh Yadav – What has he done? For being an alleged American man, for promoting gunda raj in UP, promoting Yadavs and Muslims, for taking crores in bribes and possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income (this we will let is pass – since it is the norm of any politician), recruitment scam, for opening Mayawati’s nada
Mayawati - for the Taj Express corridor scam, float pump scam, for openly accepting money for her happy birthday and for taking action against her own MLA who was collecting the cash, for getting hooked to Kanshi Ram and Ambedkar, for allowing Mulayam Singh to open that nada
Laloo Prasad Yadav – for fodder and other scams (just too many)
Jayalalitha – For possessing too many sarees, sandals, accessories, and just being horribly fat (this is just for kicks)
L K Advani – Damn it. He is not worth it. For being a shame of a home minister, for allowing Kandhar to happen, for not taking action against BDR after they slaughtered BSF men
A B Vajpayee - for the Kargil fiasco, for letting his crony Mahajan get away with murder, for Shining India, for Rs 20,000 crore highway projects, for promoting Ambanis (this again we will let is pass – since it is the norm)
Jansanghis – For accepting crap from leaders like Advani and Vajpayee
Shivraj Patil – for changing three dresses on the terror attack evening. Just this is enough. (the only place where a full stop is essential)
Manmohan Singh – For making the PM’s post insignificant, for allowing Tamils to be killed in Sri Lanka, for going soft on Pakistan, for accepting nuclear terms of the US
Sonia Gandhi - for being an agent – KGB or CIA or whatever, for smuggling, for removing Sitaram Kesri, for becoming God Mother of Congress
Congressmen – for accepting a person like Sonia Gandhi as their leader
Rahul Gandhi – for being the Casanova around town, for that sex and rock and roll thing when the country needs him
Left (Karat, Bardhan and Gang) – for taking their cut in deals, for having their cake and pudding and eating it too, for backing naxals in Nepal and India, for following the Chinese model of communism, for Nandigram and Singur
Menaka Gandhi – for not taking off that towel in the advertisement
Please send a shoe to the neta’s address who you think deserves one. You must tell your reasons for sending your shoe. I can help you find the address or phone number of any place.

UNITED WE STAND , DIVIDED WE FALL – Construction Workers on Labour Day

Construction Workers in Delhi, whose lives are central to the skyrocketing buildings emerging overnight in the capital staged a dharna against the dysfunctional status of the ‘Delhi Building and other Construction Workers Welfare Board’ on the eve of Labour Day. The welfare board has above 200 crores in its coffers and no tangible benefits have reached the workers since the inception of the board in 2002. This is in contrast to the welfare board in Madhya Pradesh where 7 lakh construction workers have registered with the board and 14 crores have been utilized during the same period for providing the workers a better quality of life. The board in M.P have provided some extraordinary benefits to the workers like the provision of ambulances in various districts for the construction labourers who are a highly accident prone occupational group and built sheds at labour chowks.

Sewa workers during a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on May 1, 2009 demanded better facilities from the government.

What is the word!

Gainly - Graceful; dexterous

Wieldy - Easily handled or managed

Exorable - Capable of being persuaded or moved

Evitable - Capable of being avoided or evaded

Higher growth possible with right policy agenda to revive the economy

The Indian economy slowed down considerably during the second half of 2008-09 in the wake of the global financial meltdown as well as a cyclical downturn in the domestic economy. In 2009-10, CII expects a recovery to be driven by the decline in interest rates, the moderation in the price of essential commodities such as food and fuel as well as the reductions in indirect tax rates. Rural demand also remains strong in view of the good performance of the agricultural sector. “The fact that rural demand remains unaffected by global developments is a source of strength for the Indian economy”, said Mr. Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII.

According to a report on the State of the Economy released today, CII is factoring in a base case of 6.1 per cent GDP growth in 2009-10. This scenario, factors in sectoral growth rates of 2.8-3.0 percent, 5.0-5.5 percent and 7.5-8.0 percent respectively for agriculture, industry and services. A more decisive recovery will be possible through further monetary easing by cutting repo and reverse repo rates by atleast 50 basis points, implementing large infrastructure projects and revive confidence by ensuring a business-friendly environment. If these revival measures are implemented, the GDP growth during 2009-10 could be higher.

Offer lasts till Friday

In a move to arrest the downslide, airlines, desperate to get back into the huge profit mode, are offering day-to-day schemes. So better check with the airlines before booking your ticket(s) this season.

Jet has announced plans to fly Delhi-Mumbai at Rs 1,900 – less than luxury train fair – but the catch is – you have to book till Friday.

The second rider is that flight date has to be between July 1 and September 30. Jet is also offering other routes are economical budgets.

So if you are planning to travel by train from July to September, better to book air tickets.

Kumar Santosh

Jet introduces 30 new flights

Jet Airways’ new economy service is going to introduce 30 new flights to its current pan-India network of 62 daily flights.

Jet Airways Konnect will link Hyderabad and Thiruvananthapuram with Chennai, and enhancing services on the Coimbatore-Chennai sector.

Jet Airways Konnect will also introduce services from Thiruvanathapuram and Mumbai to Bengaluru. In addition, the airline has also introduced a new service on the Ahmedabad-Indore – Bhopal – Raipur - Hyderabad sector, among other services.

Jet Airways Konnect currently links several destinations across India, including Kochi, Pune, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Bhopal, Amritsar, Jorhat, Agartala and Guwahati with five major metros - Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Chennai.

Jet Airways Konnect service will operate with a fleet of 10 ATR 72-500 and three Boeing 737-800 aircraft on key domestic routes.

Vital stats

Jet fleet strenght - 109 aircraft, 444 flights

'Recall aid to Pak'

June 5, 2009 (Washington, DC)

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) urged US President Barrack Obama to renew his promise to offer over $1.5 billion in aid to Pakistan.

"President Obama must break with his predecessors in blindly supporting regimes that have birthed and nurtured the Taliban, terrorized India, and nuclearized the country," said HAF Public Policy director Ishani Chowdhary,

"Pakistanis have been displaced, victimized and disenfranchised by a corrupt and weak government that has, over fifty years of the nation's existence, failed to track humanitarian aid at best, and diverted aid into aggressive militarization and sponsorship of Islamist terror groups at worst," added Chowdhury

Though the HAF praised President Obama's much heralded speech in Cairo, it expressed surprise and concern that an address filled with allusions to interfaith understanding ignored Hindus, the third largest religious presence globally.

"President Obama is very aware that overwhelmingly Hindus--from India to Malaysia and the Middle East--are victims of the very extremist Islamic terrorism he critically described in his speech," said Ishani Chowdhury, HAF's Director of Public Policy. "And he is equally aware of Hinduism's teachings and history of religious pluralism and tolerance so necessary in the world today. Just as President Obama recognized Hindus in his Inaugural Address, so too should he have recognized the absolute necessity and value of Hindus in any meaningful engagement of the 'Muslim world'."

Navy thwarts piracy attempt in Aden

n Indian Naval ship foiled a daring piracy attempt on Liberian vessel on May 28.

The Indian warship had earlier commenced an eastbound escort of merchant vessels including MV Maud AM 27 May 09.

At about 1250 h on 28 May 09, MV Maud with an Indian Master and nine Indian crew, reported a skiff manned by eight armed personnel approaching her at high speed. The position of the incident was approximately 225 nm east of Aden.

The Indian warship immediately responded to the distress call and advised the vessel to increase speed and carry out evasive manoeuvres to avoid getting boarded.

Simultaneously, the warship launched her helicopter with Marine Commandoes and started closing the distressed vessel.

The helicopter saw two personnel on a ladder attempting to board the vessel from the bow. The visibility being low, it was possible that the pirates may not have sighted the warship and the helicopter.

The helicopter had to, therefore, resort to firing warning shots to deter the pirates from boarding the ship. The pirates were then observed to disengage from the merchant ship and two pirates who were in the process of climbing the merchant vessel fell into the water. A boarding party from the warship, thereafter, boarded the skiff and confiscated various weapons as well as equipment used by the pirates.

Since, further piracy attacks were possible due to the low visibility prevailing in the area, the warship proceeded with full dispatch to continue with her escort mission, as warships from other countries had arrived on the scene for any follow up action. The three merchant ships are presently being escorted safely through the Gulf of Aden.

From available records, it is appreciated that this may be the first instance of a piracy attempt being thwarted when the pirates were actually in the process of boarding a merchant ship.

After low cost fly, its now low cost cargo

Deccan 360 India’s first cargo airline to launch international freight operations today took to the skies from New Delhi’s DIAL Airport (Cargo Terminal).

Deccan 360 launched

The inaugural flight from New Delhi to Hong Kong by Deccan 360’s Airbus A- 310 freighter aircraft was flagged off from New Delhi‘s DIAL Airport by Directorate General of Civil Aviation DG Dr. Naseem Zaidi and Civil Aviation secretary M M Nambiar in the presence of Capt G R Gopinath.

Begins express line haul and freight operations with Airbus A310 on the Delhi – Mumbai – Chennai – Hong Kong – Dubai sectors
India’s first cargo airline to launch international freight operations

Deccan 360 CMD Capt Gopinath said, “India presently has only seven cargo aircraft offering a combined capacity of just 120 tones while China our closest rival; on the other hand has over 100 dedicated cargo aircraft. The Indian logistics industry is severely limited in terms of reach and infrastructure and if supply chain is the backbone of economic growth then we need to build scale and connect India’s hinterlands and production areas with major domestic and global markets. Our mission is to be able to deliver cargo in a day cross 75 cities creating unprecedented access and growth opportunities for Indian industries, entrepreneurs and agriculture. In the future we also plan to explore opportunities in the cargo charters segment in Indian as well as in overseas markets.”

Following the launch of commercial operations Deccan 360 becomes India’s first cargo airline to deploy a wide body aircraft for domestic and international operations and to set up a hub and spoke distribution model in the express industry in India connecting not only the metro cities but also the Tier-I & Tier-II cities to India’s trade network. In the first phase of operations Deccan 360 will be connecting Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai with domestic markets and also with the Asian business hubs – Hong Kong and Dubai.

Obama goes secular

May 6, 2009 (Washington, D.C.)

President Barack Obama resisted mounting pressure from the far-right Christian group, Focus on the Family, and will not hold a formal Christian-only prayer service in the White House to mark the National Day of Prayer tomorrow. For the past eight years, the annual observance led by the National Day of Prayer Task Force, specifically excluded Hindus, other non-Christian faiths and progressive Christians, according to the Managing Director at the Hindu American Foundaton (HAF). She welcomed the Obama administration's plans to sign a national proclamation to mark the day instead.

Suhag Shukla, Esq., the Washington D.C. based Foundation's managing director, explained that while leaders of the Foundation were invited to attend portions of the National Day of Prayer ceremony at the White House during the previous Bush Administration, only Christians could offer the prayer to mark the observance. "As a private organization, members of the Task Force are, of course, free to pray however they may see fit," stated Shukla, "but for years now, the Task Force has, under the appearance of governmental endorsement, staked exclusive claim to 'official' National Day of Prayer celebrations across the nation." Several years back, when she and other Hindu Americans reached out to local Prayer Task Force chapters in both Florida and Michigan to offer a Hindu prayer at local celebrations, Shukla added that the Task Force, headed by the right-wing conservative Shirley Dobson, rebuffed the offers, indicating that only Christian prayer could be offered.

"In showing the divisive and exclusivist Prayer Task Force the door, President Obama should be congratulated for actually restoring the sanctity of the National Day of Prayer," said Shukla. "We, as Hindu Americans, join our fellow Americans in prayer in our homes and in our temples everyday, and we celebrate President Obama's refusal to allow this symbolic day to be hijacked by partisans that seek to deny the pluralistic ethos of our founding fathers."

Priyanka Gandhi at a public rally in Amethi
Prinya gandhi addressing a Public rally in Amethi.

May 6, 2009 (Washington, D.C.)

Israeli, Egypt meet to sort out Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will travel to Egypt on May 11 and meet Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in the Sinai resort of Sharm el-Sheikh.

It will be Netanyahu's first trip abroad since becoming prime minister in March and underlines the importance Israel places on its relationship with Egypt.

Netanyahu’s visit to Egypt comes a week before he is due in Washington D.C. to meet with President B Obama on May 18, where the Iranian and Palestinian issues will be the main topics for discussion.

Iran’s nuclear program is set to be a major topic for discussion between Netanyahu and Mubarak. The Israeli prime minister will seek support from Mubarak to halt Tehran’s uranium enrichment. Netanyahu recently stated that the Iranian nuclear drive represents a common danger to Israel, Arab countries in the Middle East and nations in the wider world. Netanyahu stressed that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

“We seek expanded relations with the Arab world. We want normalization of economic ties and diplomatic ties. We want peace with the Arab world…I believe it is possible to achieve it, but I think it requires a fresh approach, and the fresh approach that I suggest is pursuing a triple track towards peace between Israel and the Palestinians - a political track, a security track, an economic track,” Netanyahu said.

Discussions will also cover the issue of Israel-Palestinian negotiations.

The Israel Project

Snaparazzi

Our citizen journalist V P Tewari caught the General Motors doing what each company does with complete secrecy – test drive.

General Motors’ was conducting a test drive of its latest unnamed luxury car in the big car segment.

On National Highway No2, Tewari noticed a covered car zipping past Balabhgarh towards Delhi. A motor enthusiasts, Tewari chased the vehicle for over a fifty kilometers.

The six personnel in GM Chevrolet model were monitoring real time data. Both the cars bearing Gujarat numbers were covered. However, we managed to get a few pictures. Get ready for a some exciting action on the roads.

'Eat later, but vote first!'

May 4, 2009

The Correspondent Bureau

While television channels, private companies and public awareness groups have roped in film stars like Aamir Khan to seek people’s participation in the general elections, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad is simply sending its sleuths urging the people not to eat but to vote first.

The VHP Delhi spokesperson Vinod Bansal said their campaigners were “even requesting Dehlites not to take their meals before casting the vote”.

The voter awareness campaign by Dharm raksha manch Delhi had gained movementum, the VHP press release in Delhi said.

The manch had contacted around 10 lakh people of the national capital territory to make them “compulsorily cast their vote”.

Briefing about the campaign, Bansal said that we have appealed to the citizens of Delhi to cancel their entire itinerary till they cast their votes.

The VHP stands for:

Generating Employment
Eliminating ellitracy
Curbing terrorism
Curbing relegious conversions
Stopping attacks on saints & army officers
Saving Ganga
Saving Gau mata
Construction of Ram Temple
Saving the temples

_______________________________________________

Ice-ice baby!

Unidentified photographs of two ice palaces posted by Sachin Tyagi via e-mail

Some amazing accidents

Is recession over?

Our Bureau

Finally, the news that most industry watchers, job seekers, employees and employers were expecting has come. Though it will still take the press much more to call of the so-called recession, but it’s the start of the end in the current phase of slow down.

Indian Manufacturing sector shows marginal signs of recovery with a few sectors moving from negative growth to moderate growth and a few other moving from moderate to positive growth compared to the previous quarters of 2008-09, said CII in a press release issued hear based on the CII’s mAscon survey for the period April 2008 – March 2009 over April 2007- March 2008.

Though no company has announced its roll back of pay cuts or squeezing of staff strength or marketing budgets, but CII feels it is just the right time to announce the growth indicators.

From negative to moderate

The sectors that moved from negative growth group to moderate growth group between the third and fourth quarter of 2008-09 are Fertilisers, LDPE, HDPE, Pig Iron, Steel and Mopeds. Vanaspati sector moved from moderate growth group to high growth group during this period.

High growth in 80 sectors

High growth in production was reported by 18.75% of the 80 sectors for April – Mar 2009. The percentage of sectors reporting high growth declined in last two quarters from 40% to 26.73% to 15.63% as enumerated in the table below. However, the year to year comparison reveals that manufacturing sector has significantly slowed down during 2008-09 when compared to 2007-08.

‘While on a yearly basis the manufacturing sector has slowed down, there are some green shoots from a few sectors that have demonstrated a marginal pickup during the second half of 2008-09 when compared to the first half. These demonstrate a cautious optimism on signs of recovery, said Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General CII.

Church burnt in Andhra Pradesh

New Delhi, May 6, 2009

A church roof and furniture were burnt in Sidapuram Village of Hasanpatri Mandal in Warangal District of Andhra Pradesh.

Activists of All India Christian Council rushed to the spot and help in lodging a complaint with the police.

According to sources, at around 2 am on May 5, some unknown persons broke the church gate and attempted to burn the church building.

Franklin Sudhakar, local AICC said, “The FIR is registered in the local police station and accused are not identified. Christians believes that the accused can be only the religous fanatics.”

Anand Kumar of United Christian Youth Forward reports, “All the furniture, mike set, speaker boxes, carpet and roof of the church are burnt.”

To express the concern of safety and justice to Christian minority in Warangal district, Mr. Anand Kumar reports, “Christians are marching a peace protest rally in Warangal from Public Ground to District collector office tomorrow.”

Rev Clinton is the pastor of the church, which is named "PARISUDDHATMA DEVUNU SANGAMU" (Holy Spirit God's Church). He has around 200 church members for last few years. Christian minorities in different parts of Andhra Pradesh are facing attack constantly from Hindutva fanatic for last few years.

The All India Christian Council, birthed in 1998, exists to protect and serve the Christian community, minorities, and the oppressed castes.

Grandfather of BMW case convict Admiral Nanda passes away

Admiral SM Nanda passed away last night after a prolonged illness.
A 1971 war veteran, was the grand father of the infamous BMW hit and run case accused, Sanjeev Nanda, who is currently in jail for killing six people.
The Chief of the Naval Staff has conveyed his deepest condolences at the demise of one of the greatest stalwarts of our Navy.
In his passing, the nation has lost a hero and a visionary leader, who contributed significantly to the growth of the modern Indian Navy. He will always be remembered in the most glowing terms for his leadership of the Indian Navy during the Indo-Pak Conflict of 1971, in which the Indian Navy carved its name in golden letters in the annals of history by its sterling offensive actions.
Admiral Nanda remained in constant touch with the Navy even in his twilight years and continued to be a source of inspiration and support to the Naval community.

Vote you must - ABVP style

In the midst of scorching sun and examination fervour, a group of 100 ABVP members organized “My Vote My Voice” campaign.

Nearly 700 students of Delhi University realized reaffirmation and reacted to the lowering electoral morale and youth sensitization for the political participation and awakening which, inevitably is visible during the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections.

Aptly estimating the diligence and prudence of the citizen of Delhi University, the state unit of ABVP organized a well researched and well thought and deeply thought-provoking street play “Aaj Ka Yuva”, which primarily focused upon the indifferent attitude and the berating shift of today youth from the political making and a holistic development of the nation.

What all was said was that the most initial step towards the achievement of political goal was to “go out and vote, just vote”. Explaining the basic gamete behind the ideation, former DUSU Vice-President Vikas Dahiya said that “Voting happens to be the most essential and integral part of youth’s contribution to nation building. Its that one mark of an indelible ink which defines the course, definition and destination of the nation for five years.

Midival Punditz rocks Delhi
with Hello Hello!
Recently, Midival Punditz performed in the Capital for their new Album ‘Hello-Hello’.

This past decade has been marked by the rise of the Indian electronica scene and no single band has had more influence on its growth than the Midival Punditz. Comprised of New Delhi based producers Gaurav Raina and Tapan Raj, the Punditz have been repeatedly heralded as pioneers of a scene that has ushered in some of the freshest global music out of India.

On their new, third studio album Hello Hello, the duo has successfully documented their own personal journey as artists and brought their sound into the present. As India’s influence on the world through music, film and fashion hits a new peak as evidenced by the worldwide popularity of the film Slumdog Millionaire, the Punditz have kept their hands on the wheel and helped steer this ship into a new century of sound and culture.

CVC DISPOSES 391 CASES IN MARCH

While disposing off 391 cases in March, the Central Vigilance Commission launched prosecution against 25 officers.
Of these, five each were from Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC), Personnel, PG & Pensions, four from EPFO, three from Urban Development, two each from Ministry of Railways and Indian Council of Medical Research and one each from LIC of India Ltd, Ministries of Textiles, Labour and CPWD.
The Commission advised initiations of major penalty proceedings against 78 officers. Of these, 12 were from Ministry of Railways, 11 each from public sector banks and National Cooperative Consumer, 7 from Chennai Port Trust, 6 from Bharat Coking Coal Ltd. The remaining 31 cases pertained to different departments of the Government of India and insurance companies.
The Commission also advised imposition of major penalty against 35 officers including 7 from Ministry of Railways, 6 from the public sector banks, 4 from DDA, 3 from CBDT and 2 each from BHEL and ICAR. The remaining eleven cases pertained to various other departments. The Commission disposed 616 complaints during the month. Of these, 531 complaints were sent for necessary action/ATR, whereas 85 complaints were sent for investigation and report.
On Commission’s recommendations, the administrative authorities imposed major penalty on 44 officers including 10 from Telecommunications. 4 from the insurance companies, 3 each from BSNL and CSIR, 2 each from ITDC, Department of Steel, DDA and one each from CBEC, SAIL, Development Commissioner(Small Scale Industries), STC India Ltd. and MCD.
Recoveries to the tune of Rs.6.54 crore were affected after Commission conducted technical examination of some departments.

Kashmiri Pandits unhappy with migrant tag, boycott polls
New Delhi, May 7
Unhappy at being classified as “migrants”, the Kashmiri Pandits who were forced to leave their homes in the Kashmir Valley boycotted elections on Thursday.
The Election Commission has not received a single ‘M’ (Migrant) form, which Kashmiri Pandit migrants have to fill up to be eligible to vote.
“We have advertised in the newspapers asking the Kashmiri Pandits to fill up the ‘M’ form, but nobody has responded. Though we had made arrangement for voting for Kashmiri Pandits at four places in Delhi but no one is voting,” Ghulam Qadir Bawa, the assistant returning officer for Kashmiri Pandits, said.
The number of eligible voters in the community has dropped considerably from the voter list of Jammu and Kashmir state for the past 12 years. In 1996 there were 147,000 voters but the figure went down to 117,000 in 2002 and further to 71,000 during last year’s assembly polls.
“I did not vote in protest. This is a kind of discrimination. We are not migrants. Migrants are those who moved out of the valley on their own will. It was a forced exodus. Even the UN calls us internally displaced person,” Aditya Raj Kaul, a Kashmiri activist, said.
“We should have normal voter Id cards like every other Indian. Moreover, except for Jammu and Delhi, Kashmiri Pandits cannot vote anywhere else. Don’t the Kashmiris settled elsewhere in India have voting rights?” Kaul asked.
The sentiments were echoed by Rashneek Kher of the Roots in Kashmir organisation.
“Kashmiri Pandits are spread across the country but I think not more than 25,000 would have access to voting. Also the requirement of ‘M’ form is 100 percent discriminatory. I am as much an Indian as anybody else.
“We have not moved out the valley out of choice. It (the migrant tag) is a misnomer,” Kher said.
Kher also added that though he filled up the requisite forms couple of years ago he is yet to get his voter Id card.
“It is not just me. I know many people in the NCR (national capital region). About 20,000 people had filled up the forms and of them only about 2,000 have got their voter-Id cards,” Kher added.
At a time when voter registration is just a mouse-click away the “tedious” process of filling the ‘M’ form is a big setback.
“The process is very cumbersome. You have to get the ‘M’ form from the relief commissioner in Jammu. Moreover, the poll process is meaningless till our issues are addressed,” said Panun Kashmir national spokesman Kamal Hak.
Kashmiri Hindus were forced to flee their homeland when separatist militancy erupted more than two decades ago in Jammu and Kashmir.
Some 300,000 Pandits fled the Kashmir Valley since 1989, when militancy was at its peak, at times targeting members of the community. Today, most of them live in Jammu, New Delhi, Chandigarh, Bangalore and Mumbai. Only about 3,000 still reside in the valley.

DAIL denies that terminal ID was damaged
On the evening of May 4, 2009 a small panel (portion) of the false ceiling of the bus boarding canopy on the airside at Terminal 1D came loose due to strong winds. The said gate has not been put to use yet and DIAL staff immediately attended to it and the panel is being replaced.

In another unrelated development, some water accumulated in the ticketing area outside Terminal 1D as the water sprinkler system of that area was being tested. The accumulated water was cleaned up and there was no disruption to terminal operations.

DAIL reiterate that both the incident never took place inside T1D.

'IAF beats Bangladeshis
A three-match friendship series between the Indian
Air Force (IAF) and Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) teams got underway at the Mercury indoor stadium of Indian Army’s No. 1 Signal Regiment in New Delhi.
Director General Administration of IAF, Air Marshal Naresh Verma, chief guest on the occasion declared the series open. The friendship series follows the recent visit of the BAF Air Chief, Air Marshal SM Ziaur Rehman to India.
The Indian air warriors defeated their Bangladeshi counterparts in the inaugural match with a score of 104-58.


After Manmohan Singh, who?
BJP's (prime minister in waiting) L K Advani gives himself 50 percent chance of being the PM. The other 50 percent belongs to the Congress candidate Manmohan Singh. The Congress party is officially not announcing the candidature of Rahul Gandhi. But clearly, the party is revolving around him and he is likely to be the next PM.
Congress President Sonia Gandhi at a rally in Bhadrak(Orissa) today praised Prime Manmohan Singh for “putting a lot of pressure on Pakistan” for the Mumbai attack. Gandhi also said that Singh had all the qualities to hold the top job.
Sorry, Madam! Singh does not have all the qualities to be the king. Had he really been the KING, he would have attacked Pakistan.
In all fairness, Singh has many qualities but perhaps not all of them. Our king has to be perfect. We cannot, and should not, accept any person less than perfect as our prime minister. Let us evolve a zero tolerance policy towards our PM.
Enough has been written and a lot more has been said about Singh and his qualities or the lack of it… In fact he has been perfect in one thing – becoming the PM and staying put for five years. He has done a great job just being there.
But I am not sure if we can give him full marks in other spheres of general administration of the country, ensuring corruption free governance and complete leadership.
For one thing that the government really deserves full praise is empowering the people with the RTI. The remaining is just filling the gaps (even though this is essential). Like for instance, modernizing the airports – the time has arrived for us as a nation to move into the big league. Of course, who gets to modernize the airports and who pockets what percentage is another question. The bottom line is that airports are being given a better look with improved facilities.
Then of course the schemes – employment guarantee scheme, etc… have been initiated. They do deserve good grades for at least trying to initiate meaning plans. How successful they remain, only time will tell.
But given our administrative structure that empowers our babus, enslaved mindset, archaic laws, rules and regulations and incoherent will of the people we are not making much headway. It is not that we are a young nation craving to compete and succeed in a hurry. They will not be done in a day or two. But we need a good prime minister who can pull in all together.
If Singh had been Sonia Gandhi or Singh had been L K Advani then it would have been different. But Singh was Singh and most of the time he was more interested in saving his skin and keeping Gandhi in good humour. So where is the question of him being an ‘independent person’ or a strong PM. Advani says Singh is a weak PM. Sure! Singh just ended up pressuring Pakistan for the Mumbai attack.
More than two weeks ago, on a TV channel I said that Pakistan would disintegrate in six months to two years time.
Many areas of Pakistan are not in its control. Pakistan Army is on a weak footing. They are constantly being the World for money. Recently their president was seeking aid from Japan to tackle terrorism. More than half the forces are deployed along the Afghanistan border. The Americans are operating inside Pakistan. So we could have, had we had a tough Prime Minister, attacked Pakistan instead of just pressuring Pakistan. We need a PM who will be able to change – not only the administration, legislature and judiciary, but we the people also. We need a PM who will be willing to take bold decisions and eliminate corruption. The country needs a leader.

HS flags off ITBP team to Mt Kamet
New Delhi
01 May 2009
Home Secretary Madhukar Gupta flagged off ITBP Mountaineering and Skiing Expedition to Mt Kamet (25447 ft. ) and Mt. Abi Gamin (24130 Ft. ) at the CGO complex in the capital today morning.
The 47 Members team is being led by renowned Everester Harbhajan Singh, DIG.
ITBP DG Vikram Shirvastva expressed confidence that this team had experienced mountaineers and skiers and it would certainly accomplish its mission.
The uniqueness about this expedition is that the same team will climb both the peaks Mt Kamet and Mt Abi Gamin and ski down from both. This will be first attempt of its kind in India. This expedition is third in the series of pre-Everest Expedition. ITBP has planned 1^st Indian Mountaineering and Skiing Expedition to Mt Everest in August-October 2009. The skiing from Everest top by this team will be an world record in itself. The world class special equipments and clothings has been procured by ITBP for this expedition. Two special helmet mounted video cameras are planned to be used to record the skiing down event.
          After its raising in 1962, ITBP started mountaineering in 1964, when Capt. M. S. Kohli led first ITBP expedition to Nanda Devi and Trishuli. Till date ITBP has scaled more than 160 national and international peaks. ITBP Team has scaled Mt Everest in 1992, 1996 and 2006. Till now 21 ITBP personnel has stood at top of Mt Everest and 05 of them have done so twice.
      ITBP team led by Shri Sohan Lal, scaled and skied down from Mt Kamet in 1981.
      This expedition will establish 06 Camps. The base camp will be at the height of 15,500 ft at Basudhara Tal. The camp one, two, three and four will be established at height of 16,500 ft., 17,400 ft., 20000 ft., and 22000 ft respectively. The summit camp will be established at the height of 23000 ft.
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