The problem of malnutrition is multi-dimensional and inter-generational in nature, the determinants of which include household food insecurity, illiteracy and lack of awareness especially in women, access to health services, availability of safe drinking water, sanitation and proper environmental conditions and adequate purchasing power etc. The nutritional status of the population is the outcome of complex and inter-related set of factors and cannot be improved by the efforts of single sector or action alone.
The Government accords high priority to the overall issue of malnutrition, particularly, in respect of children, adolescent girls and women and has been implementing several schemes/ programmes of different Ministries/Departments through State Governments/UTs. These schemes, interalia, include Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), Mid Day Meals Scheme, Drinking Water & Total Sanitation Campaign, Swarnjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY), Mahatama Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGS), Targeted Public Distribution System etc. Several of the schemes namely, ICDS, NRHM, Mid Day meal (MDM), SGSY have been expanded to provide for increased coverage and improved services to the people.
To reach out the six services including supplementary nutrition to children below six years, pregnant and lactating mothers the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme has been universalised with special focus on SC/ST and minority habitation. There has been revision in cost norms as well as the Nutritional and Feeding norms of the Supplementary Nutrition component of ICDS.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Proposal to Create a National Text Book Council
A Committee of Central Advisory Board of Education on “Regulatory Mechanism for Textbooks and Parallel Textbooks taught in schools outside Government system” has recommended establishment of “National Textbook Council” to monitor textbooks used in schools in the country so that standard of education could be maintained and the student community is not exposed to inferior quality of textbooks or undesirable content. A proposal has been circulated among the State Governments seeking their opinion.
Rajiv Awas Yojana
Learning from the experience of JNNURM, the Government has announced the bold vision of a Slum-free India through Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY). RAY envisages central support to States that are willing to assign property rights to slum dwellers. RAY would adopt a ‘whole city’, ‘whole slum’ strategy with city as the unit unlike JNNURM which turned out to be a ‘pick and choose’ approach towards slum redevelopment.
RAY would have a two-pronged strategy. The first is to bring the existing slums within the formal system and enable them to avail of the same level of basic amenities as the rest of the town. The second is to undertake measures to prevent the creation of new slums through appropriate urban land policy and restructuring of the master planning model.
There is a dire need to address the issues of faulty urban land policy and urban planning models responsible for mushrooming of slums. Current land policies would need drastic changes to address the interests of the urban poor. The States need to re-look at the policies of making land and living space available to the masses in cities, especially the poor at a much faster rate than the pace of urban population growth.
Community mobilisation and participation in decision-making are also going to be an important element in RAY. RAY would also focus on enabling the urban poor to undertake housing construction and improvement programmes empowered by property right. RAY would also promote private sector participation and public private partnership for creation of affordable housing stock for the Low Income Groups. For all this, the poor will need to be enabled with access to housing and livelihoods finance.
Excerpts from speech by H'ble Housing & Urban poverty alleviation Min.
RAY would have a two-pronged strategy. The first is to bring the existing slums within the formal system and enable them to avail of the same level of basic amenities as the rest of the town. The second is to undertake measures to prevent the creation of new slums through appropriate urban land policy and restructuring of the master planning model.
There is a dire need to address the issues of faulty urban land policy and urban planning models responsible for mushrooming of slums. Current land policies would need drastic changes to address the interests of the urban poor. The States need to re-look at the policies of making land and living space available to the masses in cities, especially the poor at a much faster rate than the pace of urban population growth.
Community mobilisation and participation in decision-making are also going to be an important element in RAY. RAY would also focus on enabling the urban poor to undertake housing construction and improvement programmes empowered by property right. RAY would also promote private sector participation and public private partnership for creation of affordable housing stock for the Low Income Groups. For all this, the poor will need to be enabled with access to housing and livelihoods finance.
Excerpts from speech by H'ble Housing & Urban poverty alleviation Min.
SEBI Unified Platform for Electronic Reporting and Dissemination
SEBI has decided to set up a unified filing and dissemination system called SEBI Unified Platform for Electronic Reporting and Dissemination (SUPER-D).
The unified filing system is inter alia expected to enable listed companies and intermediaries registered with SEBI to make online filings of all regulatory requirements which can be accessed by the public.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Finance, Shri Namo Narain Meena in written reply to a question raised in Lok Sabha today.
The unified filing system is inter alia expected to enable listed companies and intermediaries registered with SEBI to make online filings of all regulatory requirements which can be accessed by the public.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Finance, Shri Namo Narain Meena in written reply to a question raised in Lok Sabha today.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Change in HDI - Intro to MPI
A new set of internationally comparable data put together by researchers at the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative at the University of Oxford tries to take Mr Sen’s ideas about “the need for a multidimensional view of poverty and deprivation” seriously*. Aided by the improved availability of survey data about living conditions for households in over 100 developing countries, the researchers have come up with a new index, called the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will use in its next “Human Development Report” in October.
The index seeks to build up a picture of the prevalence of poverty based on the fraction of households who lack certain basic things. Some of these are material. Does a family home have a dirt or dung floor? Does it lack a decent toilet? Must members of the household travel more than 30 minutes on foot to get clean water to drink? Do they live without electricity? Others relate to education, such as whether any school-age children are not enrolled or whether nobody in the family has finished primary school. Still others concern health, such as whether any member of a household is malnourished. A household is counted as poor if it is deprived on over 30% of the ten indicators used. Researchers can then calculate the percentage of people in each country who are “multidimensionally poor”.
Read this article in Economist for more details and here , its changed indicators.
The index seeks to build up a picture of the prevalence of poverty based on the fraction of households who lack certain basic things. Some of these are material. Does a family home have a dirt or dung floor? Does it lack a decent toilet? Must members of the household travel more than 30 minutes on foot to get clean water to drink? Do they live without electricity? Others relate to education, such as whether any school-age children are not enrolled or whether nobody in the family has finished primary school. Still others concern health, such as whether any member of a household is malnourished. A household is counted as poor if it is deprived on over 30% of the ten indicators used. Researchers can then calculate the percentage of people in each country who are “multidimensionally poor”.
Read this article in Economist for more details and here , its changed indicators.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Basel III norms
Indian banks are unlikely to be affected but may face some negative impact due to shifting some deductions from Tier-I & Tier-II capital to common equity, says RBI Governor Subbarao.
What are the Basel-III norms?
These are rules written by the Bank of International Settlement’s Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) whose mandate is to define the reform agenda for the global banking community as a whole. The new rule prescribes how to assess risks, and how much capital to set aside for banks in keeping with their risk profile.
What are the changes which have been made to the way in which capital is defined?
Going by the new rules, the predominant component of capital is common equity and retained earnings. The new rules restrict inclusion of items such as deferred tax assets, mortgage-servicing rights and investments in financial institutions to no more than 15% of the common equity component. These rules aim to improve the quantity and quality of the capital.
What do these new rules say?
While the key capital ratio has been raised to 7% of risky assets, according to the new norms, Tier-I capital that includes common equity and perpetual preferred stock will be raised from 2-4.5% starting in phases from January 2013 to be completed by January 2015. In addition, banks will have to set aside another 2.5% as a contingency for future stress. Banks that fail to meet the buffer would be unable to pay dividends, though they will not be forced to raise cash.
How different is the approach now?
The new norms are based on renewed focus of central bankers on macro-prudential stability. The global financial crisis following the crisis in the US sub-prime market has prompted this change in approach. The previous set of guidelines, popularly known as Basel II focused on macro-prudential regulation. In other words, global regulators are now focusing on financial stability of the system as a whole rather than micro regulation of any individual bank.
How will these norms impact Indian banks?
According to RBI governor D Subbarao, Indian banks are not likely to be impacted by the new capital rules. At the end of June 30, 2010, the aggregate capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of the Indian banking system stood at 13.4%, of which Tier-I capital constituted 9.3%. As such, RBI does not expect our banking system to be significantly stretched in meeting the proposed new capital rules, both in terms of the overall capital requirement and the quality of capital. There may be some negative impact arising from shifting some deductions from Tier-I and Tier-II capital to common equity.
What are the Basel-III norms?
These are rules written by the Bank of International Settlement’s Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) whose mandate is to define the reform agenda for the global banking community as a whole. The new rule prescribes how to assess risks, and how much capital to set aside for banks in keeping with their risk profile.
What are the changes which have been made to the way in which capital is defined?
Going by the new rules, the predominant component of capital is common equity and retained earnings. The new rules restrict inclusion of items such as deferred tax assets, mortgage-servicing rights and investments in financial institutions to no more than 15% of the common equity component. These rules aim to improve the quantity and quality of the capital.
What do these new rules say?
While the key capital ratio has been raised to 7% of risky assets, according to the new norms, Tier-I capital that includes common equity and perpetual preferred stock will be raised from 2-4.5% starting in phases from January 2013 to be completed by January 2015. In addition, banks will have to set aside another 2.5% as a contingency for future stress. Banks that fail to meet the buffer would be unable to pay dividends, though they will not be forced to raise cash.
How different is the approach now?
The new norms are based on renewed focus of central bankers on macro-prudential stability. The global financial crisis following the crisis in the US sub-prime market has prompted this change in approach. The previous set of guidelines, popularly known as Basel II focused on macro-prudential regulation. In other words, global regulators are now focusing on financial stability of the system as a whole rather than micro regulation of any individual bank.
How will these norms impact Indian banks?
According to RBI governor D Subbarao, Indian banks are not likely to be impacted by the new capital rules. At the end of June 30, 2010, the aggregate capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of the Indian banking system stood at 13.4%, of which Tier-I capital constituted 9.3%. As such, RBI does not expect our banking system to be significantly stretched in meeting the proposed new capital rules, both in terms of the overall capital requirement and the quality of capital. There may be some negative impact arising from shifting some deductions from Tier-I and Tier-II capital to common equity.
courtesy: Economic times
India’s Commitment to Shift to More Sustainable Energy Systems
The World Energy Council (WEC) meeting was attended by ministers of Algeria,Cameron, Haiti, India and Canada. Shri Shinde in his speech said that these conferences are good forum to understand the difficulties and potential of each other. He said that before defining the rules and policies we must understand the socio economic problems and developmental priorities of underdeveloped, developing and developed countries. They all have their own peculiar problems. This WEC meeting is on the backdrop of copenhegen. Addressing the gathering Shri Shinde said that this Congress is taking place at a time when the world grapples with two apparently opposing priorities – one to provide more and more energy to half the world’s population and the other to reduce Green House Gas emissions to the largest extent possible. We all need to work together to address these priorities and to move to a new energy trajectory.
The World Energy Council (WEC) is a multi-energy international organization covering all types of energy, including coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear, and renewables. Established in 1923, the WEC has now Member Committees established in 94 countries.
WEC has headquarters in London. Its mission is 'To promote the sustainable supply and use of energy for the greatest benefit of all people'.
The World Energy Council (WEC) is a multi-energy international organization covering all types of energy, including coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear, and renewables. Established in 1923, the WEC has now Member Committees established in 94 countries.
WEC has headquarters in London. Its mission is 'To promote the sustainable supply and use of energy for the greatest benefit of all people'.
Alliance of Small Island States
Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) is an intergovernmental organization of low-lying coastal and small Island countries. Established in 1990, the main purpose of the alliance is to consolidate the voices of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to address global warming. AOSIS has been very active from its inception, putting forward the first draft text in the Kyoto Protocol negotiations as early as 1994.
Many of the member states were present at the COP15 United Nations on Climate Change Conference in December of 2009. Democracy Now! reported that members from the island state of Tuvalu interrupted a session on December 10 to demand that global temperature rise be limited to 1.5 degrees instead of the proposed 2 degrees.
click here for more
Many of the member states were present at the COP15 United Nations on Climate Change Conference in December of 2009. Democracy Now! reported that members from the island state of Tuvalu interrupted a session on December 10 to demand that global temperature rise be limited to 1.5 degrees instead of the proposed 2 degrees.
click here for more
Saturday, September 18, 2010
land acquisition - pros & con
Why there is always a clash between farmers and industries? Which is the priority ? Industry , which plans to creates many jobs or food security to wipe out hunger?
This article discusses the array of issues.
This article discusses the array of issues.
Amendments to the Forward Contracts (Regulation) Act 1952
The Union Cabinet today approved amendments to the Forward Contracts (Regulation) Act 1952 by introducing the Forward Contracts (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2010 in the Parliament.
Background
The FC(R) Act provides for the regulation of commodity futures markets in India and the establishment of the Forward Markets Commission (FMC). While the markets have been liberalized with effect from April, 2003 and modern institutional structures are in the process of being evolved, yet the market regulator, FMC is largely functioning in its traditional format.
The FC(R) Act provides for the regulation of commodity futures markets in India and the establishment of the Forward Markets Commission (FMC). While the markets have been liberalized with effect from April, 2003 and modern institutional structures are in the process of being evolved, yet the market regulator, FMC is largely functioning in its traditional format.
After the Bill is passed and enacted by the Parliament, Forward Markets Commission (FMC) as a regulator will get autonomy and power to regulate the market effectively. New Products like ‘options’ will be allowed in the commodity market. This will benefit various stakeholders including the farmers to take benefit of ‘price discovery’ and ‘price risk management’.
The amendments proposed in the Forward Contract (Regulation) Act 1952 (FC(R) Act} are:
(a) up-dation of existing definitions and insertion of some new definitions; (b) changes in provisions relating to composition and functioning of FMC; (c) enhancement of the powers of FMC;
(d) corporatisation and demutualisation of the existing Commodities Exchanges and setting up of a separate Clearing Corporation;
(e) registration of Intermediaries;
(f) enhancement of penal provisions in the FC(R) Act;
(g) permitting trading in options in goods or options in commodity derivatives; and
(h) making provision for designating the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) as the Appellate Tribunal for purposes of FC(R ) Act also including that of levying fee.
The Bill also provides for some other provisions such as exempting FMC form payment of tax on wealth; income and profits or gains; conferring powers upon the Central Government; issue of directions to FMC on matters of policy and power to supersede FMC.
Rajasthan to Get 4 New Highways Projects
The projects are: four laning of Beawar – Pali - Pindwara stretch on NH-14, Reengus – Sikar stretch on NH-11, and 6-laning of Kishangarh – Udaipur – Ahmadabad stretch of NH-79, NH-79A, and NH-76 & NH-8. Paved shoulders work with 2-lane will be taken up in Darra – Jhalawar – Teen – Dhar stretch of NH-12.
SICOM Project
The Minister of State for Environment and Forests, Shri Jairam Ramesh said the major national initiative to protect our coastal ecosystems will start from states of Orissa, Gujarat and West Bengal. Inaugurating the office of the Society of Integrated Coastal Management (SICOM) here today , the Minister said this is for the first time that a professional body with experts in various aspects of coastal science and management.
The Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project consists of four components.
Under the first component, mapping, delineation and demarcation of hazard lines will be taken up by the Survey of India. Besides this, mapping, delineation and demarcation of environmentally sensitive areas, capacity building of the Ministry of Environment and Forests and the State Coastal Zone Management Authorities, and a nation-wide training programme will be taken up. A National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) will also be opened in Anna University, Chennai.
Under the second component, pilot studies will be undertaken on the ICZM approach for the coastline of Gulf of Kuchchh. Further, transplantation of corals in the Gulf of Kuchchh and sewage treatment facilities for Jamnagar district would be undertaken. Under the project, a Green Action for National Dandi Heritage Initiative (G.A.N.D.H.I.) will also be developed. The Rs 25 Crore project will focus on overall development and conservation of the environment of Dandi and the surrounding villages based on Gandhian Principles. Among other things, 100 ha of mangroves and 50 ha of bio-shield will be planted along the 8 km coastline of Dandi. The budget for Gujarat is Rs 298.34 crores.
The third component which includes Orissa has budget of Rs 300 crores. This will include capacity building of the state level agencies and institutions, preparation of an ICZM plan for the coastal sediment cells in the stretches of Paradip-Dhamra and Gopalpur-Chilika; regional coastal process study, and priority investments. It will also support capacity building in the area of coastal management and wetland research.
The fourth component will mainly address the coastal zone management issues in three sectors in West Bengal, namely, Sunderbans, Haldia and Digha-Shankarpur.The budget for West Bengal is Rs 300 crores.
Classification of Earthquakes
Factsheet
Based on magnitude, earthquakes may be classified as microearthquakes, slight-, moderate-, great- and very great as detailed below:
Magnitude
Microearthquake -less than 3.0
Slight - 3.2-4.9
Moderate -5.0-6.9
Great -7.0-8.0
Very great - Greater than 8.0
Depending upon the epicentral distance of the earthquake, they may also be classified as local shock, near shock, distant shock and teleseismic shock as detailed below:
Epicentral Distance in degress
Local shock Less than 4.0
Near shock Between 4.0 and 10.0
Distant shock Between 10.0 and 20.0
Teleseismic shock Greater than 20.0.
For the Earth as a whole, the frequency of occurrence of earthquakes in different magnitude is given below:
Magnitude (Ms) Average number of earthquakes/year
8.0 2
7.0 20
6.0 100
5.0 3,000
4.0 15,000
3.0 >100,000
A list of damaging earthquakes in India during the last about ten years:
· Uttarkashi earthquake of October 20,1991 (M:6.6).
· Latur earthquake of September 30,1993 (M:6.3).
· Jabalpur earthquake of may 22,1997 (M:6.0).
· Chamoli earthquake of March 29,1999 (M:6.8).
· Bhuj earthquake of January 26,2001 (M:6.9).
IBSAMAR Progresses off Durban, South Africa
| The Indian Ocean region off Durban is abuzz with activity as 11 ships of the navies of India, Brazil and South Africa engage in nautical exercises as part of the ongoing IBSAMAR, India-Brazil-South Africa Maritime (Exercise). This, the second edition of IBSAMAR scheduled from 13 – 27 Sep 2010, is slated to be a multi-dimensional exercise where in various naval scenarios are being exercised. The exercises are structured with the aim of sharing best practices in various facets of naval operations. |
National Bamboo Mission
Realizing the immense socio-economic potential of bamboo, the Government of India has launched the National Bamboo Mission (NBM) and the National Mission on Bamboo Application (NMBA) for its holistic development, cultivation and for developing the technologies and applications for bamboo based products.
The state of Nagaland has been a pioneer and had adopted a Bamboo Policy in 2004. The Policy articulates the development of Bamboo in Nagaland along two approaches:
1. Development of Bamboo as a Resource, and
2.. Development of Bamboo as an Enterprise
Developing bamboo as a resource is focused on optimal cultivation and management of bamboo resources, through development of natural bamboo forests and bamboo plantation development.
The state of Nagaland has been a pioneer and had adopted a Bamboo Policy in 2004. The Policy articulates the development of Bamboo in Nagaland along two approaches:
1. Development of Bamboo as a Resource, and
2.. Development of Bamboo as an Enterprise
Developing bamboo as a resource is focused on optimal cultivation and management of bamboo resources, through development of natural bamboo forests and bamboo plantation development.
Development of bamboo as an enterprise is focused on developing bamboo-based industries, service sectors and ancillary activities including tourism. The Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency has a mission to generate new employment opportunities based on bamboo.
In order to realize the full potential of bamboo, various technical, financial and entrepreneurial interventions are needed in the fields of forestry, land use, propagation technology for its cultivation and sustainable use, and in the areas of industry and finance.
In order to realize the full potential of bamboo, various technical, financial and entrepreneurial interventions are needed in the fields of forestry, land use, propagation technology for its cultivation and sustainable use, and in the areas of industry and finance.
Apart from its utility as food and medicine, in minor tools, implements and daily utilities, bamboo is extensively used for handicrafts, furniture and even art. Its application has expanded to boards, ply and shuttering materials for use in buildings and construction.
It has also been developed as an energy source in the form of charcoal, activated carbon and even to generate electricity through gasification. It is eco friendly, being not only biodegradable but also having enormous capacity to sequester carbon. Furthermore, as the fastest growing plant on earth, it is a renewable resource with short gestation.
G-20 Governments Need to Work together : Fin Min
some excerpts from Finance Minister's speech on post crisis.
The Brettonwood system emerged after the Great Depression. The current crisis has heralded the rise of G20 as the premier forum for international cooperation.
In a post crisis scenario, G20 Governments will have to work together to support well functioning international economy. They will need to coordinate policy actions in a manner that can ensure strong, sustainable and balanced growth.
The immediate spheres of such coordination are
(a) macroeconomic policies and exit strategies
(b) pace of regulatory reforms to ensure financial stability, without affecting prospects of growth
(c) reform in the governance of International Financial Institutions to reflect current economic realities
(d) keeping international trade open and avoiding protectionism and
(e) coordination on climate change and energy issues.
Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS) approved
Keeping in view the various risks involved in agriculture production, the Ministry of Agriculture has been implementing the National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) as a Central Sector Scheme since Rabi season 1999-2000 to insure the farming community against these risks. It was reviewed based on the experience gained from its implementation, in which many deficiencies in the scheme were identified.
The approved scheme has the following features:
(i) Actuarial premiums will be paid for insuring the crops, hence the claims liability would be on the insurer;
(ii) The unit area of insurance for major crops is village panchayat;
(iii) Indemnity amount shall be payable for prevented sowing/planting risk and for post harvest losses due to cyclone;
(iv) On account payment up to 25% of likely claims would be released as advance for providing immediate relief to farmers;
(v) Uniform seasonality discipline for loanee and non-loanee farmers;
(vi) More proficient basis for calculation of threshold yield and minimum indemnity level of 70% instead of 60%;
(vii) Modified NAIS with improved features will have two components i.e. compulsory and voluntary. Loanee farmers will be insured under ‘compulsory category’ while non-loanee farmers will be insured under ‘voluntary category’;
(viii) Private sector insurers with adequate infrastructure and experience would also be allowed in the implementation of MNAIS.
The approved scheme has the following features:
(i) Actuarial premiums will be paid for insuring the crops, hence the claims liability would be on the insurer;
(ii) The unit area of insurance for major crops is village panchayat;
(iii) Indemnity amount shall be payable for prevented sowing/planting risk and for post harvest losses due to cyclone;
(iv) On account payment up to 25% of likely claims would be released as advance for providing immediate relief to farmers;
(v) Uniform seasonality discipline for loanee and non-loanee farmers;
(vi) More proficient basis for calculation of threshold yield and minimum indemnity level of 70% instead of 60%;
(vii) Modified NAIS with improved features will have two components i.e. compulsory and voluntary. Loanee farmers will be insured under ‘compulsory category’ while non-loanee farmers will be insured under ‘voluntary category’;
(viii) Private sector insurers with adequate infrastructure and experience would also be allowed in the implementation of MNAIS.
Friday, September 17, 2010
BEL Gets “India Pride Award”
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has won the Gold prize in the Heavy Industries category of the DNA-Dainik Bhaskar India Pride Awards 2010 for “Excellence in PSUs”.
BEL, India’s foremost defence electronics company, is a Rs. 5,000-crore multi-product, multi-technology, multi-Unit conglomerate with over 350 products in the areas of Military Communication, Radars, Naval Systems, Telecom & Broadcast, Electronic Warfare, Tank Electronics, Electro Optics, Professional Electronic Components and Solar Photovoltaic Systems.
While defence continues to contribute to nearly 80 to 85% of its revenue, BEL has expanded its horizons beyond defence electronics and touched a chord with the common man through civilian products like solar traffic signals and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). BEL’s customers include the Army, Navy, Air Force, Paramilitary, Coast Guard, Police, Doordarshan, All India Radio, Department of Telecommunications and consumers of professional electronic components. BEL offers customised network-centric solutions to the Army, Navy and Air Force. The Company is also working on prestigious weapon system programmes such as the Akash Missile System.
AFNET
Shri AK Antony today inaugurated the IAF’s gigabyte digital information grid – the AFNET (Air Force Network), dedicating it to the people of the nation, for their direct or indirect participation in the communication revolution.
It ensures modernization of defence communications with the state-of-the-art communication infrastructure, the network will have the potential to support net-centric operations.
It ensures modernization of defence communications with the state-of-the-art communication infrastructure, the network will have the potential to support net-centric operations.
Further, various other functionalities comprises of facilitating video from Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), pictures from an AWACS aircraft to the decision-makers on ground sitting hundreds of kilometers away, providing intelligence inputs from far-flung areas at central locations seamlessly. This was possible mainly with the robust networking platform provided by AFNET.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Sushil Kumar Wins Gold in World Championship
Sushil Kumar Becomes the First Indian to Win Gold in World Championship. Sushil Kumar defeated Russian Gogaev to win the 66 kg freestyle title yesterday, in Moscow, to become the first Indian to win a World Wrestling Championship Gold Medal.
Earlier, Shri Bishambar Singh and Ramesh Kumar who had won a silver and a bronze in the earlier World Wrestling Championships in 1967 and in 2009 respectively.
Earlier, Shri Bishambar Singh and Ramesh Kumar who had won a silver and a bronze in the earlier World Wrestling Championships in 1967 and in 2009 respectively.
India and Argentina Sign MoU on Cooperation in Agriculture
India and Argentina have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in Agriculture and Allied Sectors.The MOU provides a framework for exchange of information on best practices and technologies, cooperation in research and development and promotion of trade, investment and joint ventures.
Argentina is the largest source of import of soya oil by India.There are 14 Indian companies which have invested about one billion dollars in IT, agrochemicals, steel, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics in Argentina.Agricultural machinery is emerging as a new area of trade and collaboration.
Friday, September 10, 2010
JVC for Design and Development O\of Multirole Transport Aircraft
The effort to design and develop a Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA) by India and Russia received a significant boost with the signing of shareholders agreement for setting up of a joint venture company.
A Joint Venture will now be formed between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and the Russian Partners namely United Aircraft Corporation & Rosoboronexport to Co-develop and Co-produce Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA).
MTA is a 15-20 tonne payload capacity Aircraft which would meet the requirement of the Indian Air Force and the Russian Air Force. The project has been approved by both the Government of India and the Government of Russian Federation.
The main features of MTA are: Maximum take-off weight 65 tonnes, Payload Capacity 15-20 tonnes, Cruise Speed 800 kmph, Range 2500-2700 km, Service ceiling 12 km. The Aircraft will have two engines, state of the art features such as fly-by-wire, full authority digital engine control, modern avionics and glass cockpit.
The total development cost is around US $ 600.70 million (approx Rs.2900 crores) to be equally shared by both the sides. It is planned to manufacture 205 aircraft with 50:50 work share between HAL and the Russian partners.
A Joint Venture Company (JVC) is being established with its headquarters at Bangalore, India for executing the MTA project in which HAL and Russian participants will have equal shareholding.
A Joint Venture will now be formed between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and the Russian Partners namely United Aircraft Corporation & Rosoboronexport to Co-develop and Co-produce Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA).
MTA is a 15-20 tonne payload capacity Aircraft which would meet the requirement of the Indian Air Force and the Russian Air Force. The project has been approved by both the Government of India and the Government of Russian Federation.
The main features of MTA are: Maximum take-off weight 65 tonnes, Payload Capacity 15-20 tonnes, Cruise Speed 800 kmph, Range 2500-2700 km, Service ceiling 12 km. The Aircraft will have two engines, state of the art features such as fly-by-wire, full authority digital engine control, modern avionics and glass cockpit.
The total development cost is around US $ 600.70 million (approx Rs.2900 crores) to be equally shared by both the sides. It is planned to manufacture 205 aircraft with 50:50 work share between HAL and the Russian partners.
A Joint Venture Company (JVC) is being established with its headquarters at Bangalore, India for executing the MTA project in which HAL and Russian participants will have equal shareholding.
E-Passport Manufacturing Facility Installed at India Security Press, Nasik
India Security Press (ISP), a unit of Security printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd manufacturers Passports and other travel documents for Ministry of External Affairs.
ICAO has suggested implementation of e-Passport world wide, keeping in view the changing global scenario, faster and easier customs clearance and high tech security concerns. In compliance to the same, e-passport facility has recently been created at ISP.
This sophisticated e-Passport machine will manufacture e-Passport of international quality with due quality checks, high productivity and less rejection. With the introduction of this machine, SPMCIL will be in a position to manufacture more than 8 million e-passports in a year and meet the entire requirement of the country.
This sophisticated e-Passport machine will manufacture e-Passport of international quality with due quality checks, high productivity and less rejection. With the introduction of this machine, SPMCIL will be in a position to manufacture more than 8 million e-passports in a year and meet the entire requirement of the country.
Benchmarks for the Urban Water Supply
The Ministry of Urban Development has formulated Service Level Benchmarks for the urban water supply sector with the intention of emphasizing service delivery outcomes, enforcing accountability and facilitating performance monitoring.
The benchmarks indicators in respect of the water supply sector include coverage of water supply connections; per capita supply of water; continuity of water supply, quality of water supplied, efficiency in redressal of customer complaints etc. Benchmark values have been specified for each of the indicators.
The benchmarks indicators in respect of the water supply sector include coverage of water supply connections; per capita supply of water; continuity of water supply, quality of water supplied, efficiency in redressal of customer complaints etc. Benchmark values have been specified for each of the indicators.
CERC Liberalises Grid Access to Green Projects
Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has taken an important regulatory initiative. While the threshold capacity for connecting to inter-State grid will be 250 MW for thermal power stations, the threshold has been reduced to 50 MW for the hydro electric generating stations and other generating stations using renewable sources of energy.
Another important regulatory change has been made to permit connectivity to inter-State grid to stations which have individually installed capacity of less than 50 MW but approach the Central Transmission Utility (POWERGRID) collectively with an aggregate installed capacity of 50 MW and above.
State Transmission Utilities in many stations, particularly in North-eastern states, are not presently in a position to extend connectively to their systems and this difficulty was hindering the development of hydro electric stations and renewable source based stations.
Coal Resources in North-East
As per the latest inventory of Geological Resources of Coal in India by the Geological Survey of India, 1471 Million Tonnes of Geological Resources of coal have so far been estimated in the NE region. Of this, 388, Million Tonnes are in Assam and 576 Milliion Tonnes in Meghalaya. In Assam three opencast mines viz., Tirap OC, Tikak OC and Ledo OC are in operation under North Eastern Coalfields Limited (NEC) of Coal India Limited (CIL). In Meghalaya, coal is being produced by the local people as per the extant customary and tribal land rights.
In Meghalaya, the only lease held by NEC, CIL is Simsang, which had expired in 2008 and its renewal is yet to be received
In Meghalaya, the only lease held by NEC, CIL is Simsang, which had expired in 2008 and its renewal is yet to be received
Chief Vigilance Commissioner
| Chief Vigilance Commissioner |
| At a ceremony held today at 1315 hrs at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Shri P.J. Thomas was sworn in as the Central Vigilance Commissioner. He made and subscribed the oath of office before the President. Sh. Thomas holds Master’s Degree in Physics & Economics and has done a one year course in Public Administration at International Institute of Public Administration, Paris. He is proficient in French in addition to English, Hindi and Malayalam. Sh. Thomas has held important assignments in the Government of Kerala as Secretary in Finance, Industry, Agriculture, Law & Justice and Human Resource Development Departments. He was the Founder Director of Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode. He became Chief Secretary of Kerala in 2007 and moved to Government of India as Secretary in Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs in January, 2009. He has been Secretary in Department of Telecommunication since October 2009 and is credited with steering 3G auction which created a new bench mark in the country. |
6th Indo-Oman Joint Commission Reviews Bilateral Economic Relations
Shri Sharma emphasized the priority attached by Indian Government for cooperation with Oman in Petroleum, Gas and fertilizer sectors while the Deputy PM (oman) underscored the need for greater cooperation in capacity building and information technology. Omani side agreed in-principle to invest in India for revival of few closed plants of Fertilizer Corporation of India (FCI) and Hindustan Fertilizer Corporation Ltd. (HFCL) and the expansion in RCF (PSU of Government of India) through investment by Oman Oil Company.
India-Oman Joint Investment Fund initiative is expected to function as a catalyst to promote and partnership between the private sectors of the two countries and enhance the trade and investment between the two countries. Shri Sharma stressed on the need for the fund to be operationalised and augmented immediately.
A number of sectors have been identified for investment cooperation such as (a) Agriculture (b) Air ports, sea ports and railways (c) Hospitals (d) Power including nuclear power (e) Renewable energy including solar and wind energy (f) Mining (g) Oil and gas (h) Education and skill development (i) Tourism (j) Healthcare (k) Infrastructure and (l) Chemicals and Fertilisers.
The Omani side expressed its keenness for
India-Oman Joint Investment Fund initiative is expected to function as a catalyst to promote and partnership between the private sectors of the two countries and enhance the trade and investment between the two countries. Shri Sharma stressed on the need for the fund to be operationalised and augmented immediately.
A number of sectors have been identified for investment cooperation such as (a) Agriculture (b) Air ports, sea ports and railways (c) Hospitals (d) Power including nuclear power (e) Renewable energy including solar and wind energy (f) Mining (g) Oil and gas (h) Education and skill development (i) Tourism (j) Healthcare (k) Infrastructure and (l) Chemicals and Fertilisers.
The Omani side expressed its keenness for
- setting up super-speciality hospitals in India in the form of Joint Ventures
- Investments in agro processing specially in Indian SEZs
Bharat Tirth
Railways to Run ‘Bharat Tirth’ Trains Across the Country from Next Month a bid to promote tourism in the country and also to emphasize our ‘Unity in Diversity’, the Indian Railways will be launching 16 different circuits of ‘Bharat Tirth’ touching all the important destinations across the country from next month. The objective of Indian Railways in running ‘Bharat Tirth’ Trains is to provide a comfortable, affordable and memorable experience to the customers of different segments.
The itineraries are so designed that the Bharat Tirth trains would be taken to the rail heads nearest to the tourist destination from where tourists would visit the places of tourist importance. The road journey for sightseeing is organized in comfortable buses and tour escorts accompany them in trains as well as buses.
The itineraries are so designed that the Bharat Tirth trains would be taken to the rail heads nearest to the tourist destination from where tourists would visit the places of tourist importance. The road journey for sightseeing is organized in comfortable buses and tour escorts accompany them in trains as well as buses.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Some Luminaries of Post Independent India
60 years ago the founders of nation gave us a constitution that scripted a modern democratic republic and 60 years later we pay tribute to 10 remarkable Indians who had translate that vision into reality. The show will take a close look on the lives of these legends of modern India who have made substantial contributions in diverse fields like the Economy, Politics, Healthcare, Science and technology. Some of these legends of modern India who will be featured in ‘Makers of India’ are:
Dr. Sukumara Sen- India's first Chief Election Commissioner who successful oversaw independent India’s first general election in 1952. The show will focus on Sen's successful innovations to ensure that millions of Indians could successfully cast their votes. These include party symbols, multiple ballot boxes and indelible ink, none of which had been tried elsewhere in the world
Mridula Sarabhai- One of our most remarkable yet less publicized women leaders Mridula Sarabhai was a revolutionary democrat, a top women activist, feisty freedom fighter, philanthropist and above all a selfless soul committed to the ideals of freedom, equality and democracy. Apart from her contributions towards the independence struggle, she also fought tirelessly for the civil rights of the Kashmiri people post independence
Dr Ajay & Rani Bhang- This brilliant couple who could have been rich doctors catering to the city elite and lived a life of luxury, chose instead to serve poor adivasis in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra. The Bhang couple also led a campaign against alcoholism. This got great support in more than 600 villages and now the district is a liquor free zone.
Dr. Satish Dhawan- Dr. Satish Dhawan served for many years as the Director of both ISRO and Indian Institute of Sciences, and was an architect in making them the pride of Indian science. In a country where centers of learning rise and fall with its founders, ISRO and IISc have managed to maintain their high standards till today.
Kamaladevi Chattopadyay - Described as the "supremely romantic figure of the freedom struggle," Kamaladevi Chattopadyay was to our cultural life what Mahatma Gandhi was to the life of the nation. She was a Brahmin turned socialist, a teenage bride turned feminist, a political leader who shunned office, an aristocrat who nurtured and renewed our crafts and was instrumental in setting up the Cottage Industries Emporium and the All India Handicrafts Board.
Chandi Prasad Bhatt-Chandi Prasad Bhatt is a great pioneering environmentalist, an actor and thinker of remarkable range and achievement who, by virtue of his own innate modesty and lack of command over English, remains much less known and honored than is his due. He has no trumpet, nor any trumpeters. In him lives a spirit, of quiet service, that once existed freely in Indian politics and activism.
V M Tarkunde-As a Judge of the Bombay High Court, Judicial discipline required that Tarkunde did not participate in social movements or in public decade. He, therefore, retired pre-maturely in 1969. He shifted to Delhi and started practicing in the Supreme Court. There, in the mid 1970s, he became a leading light of the anti - emergency movement. He helped found Citizens for Democracy and the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties. Much later, in the 1990s, he led the first investigation into human rights abuses in Kashmir. He was a democrat in the deepest sense, who sowed the seeds of humanism in post independent India.
Dr. Shivarama Karanth-No Indian since Rabindranath Tagore has excelled in as many fields as Karanth. He led environmental movements many decades before it became a serious issue in India. When he was 85 years old, Karanth trekked over 800 KM in the Western Ghats to create awareness about the importance of rain forests among the people. 87 year old Karanth even fought a Lok Sabha election on a Green platform in 1989.
Verghese Kurien-The remarkable life of Verghese Kurien illuminates, inspires and sometimes amuses. His speech and writings rise above the din of ideology and partisan rhetoric to provide clear and refreshing insights on varied subjects - Development, Technology, Marketing, and the Empowerment of India's Rural Producers. Here is a man who embodies the finest values of the Indian Republic as well as the deepest aspirations of Mahatma Gandhi's home state of Gujarat.
Dr. M S Swaminathan- In 1960s, India was facing a 'ship to mouth existence’ surviving on hand-outs of low quality wheat from the Western powers. Poverty and hunger was rife; our political sovereignty was threatened. These challenges were overcome through the work of a group of dedicated visionaries, one of whom was the scientist M. S. Swaminathan. Now in his eighties, Swaminathan still works and travels tirelessly throughout India.
Dr. Sukumara Sen- India's first Chief Election Commissioner who successful oversaw independent India’s first general election in 1952. The show will focus on Sen's successful innovations to ensure that millions of Indians could successfully cast their votes. These include party symbols, multiple ballot boxes and indelible ink, none of which had been tried elsewhere in the world
Mridula Sarabhai- One of our most remarkable yet less publicized women leaders Mridula Sarabhai was a revolutionary democrat, a top women activist, feisty freedom fighter, philanthropist and above all a selfless soul committed to the ideals of freedom, equality and democracy. Apart from her contributions towards the independence struggle, she also fought tirelessly for the civil rights of the Kashmiri people post independence
Dr Ajay & Rani Bhang- This brilliant couple who could have been rich doctors catering to the city elite and lived a life of luxury, chose instead to serve poor adivasis in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra. The Bhang couple also led a campaign against alcoholism. This got great support in more than 600 villages and now the district is a liquor free zone.
Dr. Satish Dhawan- Dr. Satish Dhawan served for many years as the Director of both ISRO and Indian Institute of Sciences, and was an architect in making them the pride of Indian science. In a country where centers of learning rise and fall with its founders, ISRO and IISc have managed to maintain their high standards till today.
Kamaladevi Chattopadyay - Described as the "supremely romantic figure of the freedom struggle," Kamaladevi Chattopadyay was to our cultural life what Mahatma Gandhi was to the life of the nation. She was a Brahmin turned socialist, a teenage bride turned feminist, a political leader who shunned office, an aristocrat who nurtured and renewed our crafts and was instrumental in setting up the Cottage Industries Emporium and the All India Handicrafts Board.
Chandi Prasad Bhatt-Chandi Prasad Bhatt is a great pioneering environmentalist, an actor and thinker of remarkable range and achievement who, by virtue of his own innate modesty and lack of command over English, remains much less known and honored than is his due. He has no trumpet, nor any trumpeters. In him lives a spirit, of quiet service, that once existed freely in Indian politics and activism.
V M Tarkunde-As a Judge of the Bombay High Court, Judicial discipline required that Tarkunde did not participate in social movements or in public decade. He, therefore, retired pre-maturely in 1969. He shifted to Delhi and started practicing in the Supreme Court. There, in the mid 1970s, he became a leading light of the anti - emergency movement. He helped found Citizens for Democracy and the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties. Much later, in the 1990s, he led the first investigation into human rights abuses in Kashmir. He was a democrat in the deepest sense, who sowed the seeds of humanism in post independent India.
Dr. Shivarama Karanth-No Indian since Rabindranath Tagore has excelled in as many fields as Karanth. He led environmental movements many decades before it became a serious issue in India. When he was 85 years old, Karanth trekked over 800 KM in the Western Ghats to create awareness about the importance of rain forests among the people. 87 year old Karanth even fought a Lok Sabha election on a Green platform in 1989.
Verghese Kurien-The remarkable life of Verghese Kurien illuminates, inspires and sometimes amuses. His speech and writings rise above the din of ideology and partisan rhetoric to provide clear and refreshing insights on varied subjects - Development, Technology, Marketing, and the Empowerment of India's Rural Producers. Here is a man who embodies the finest values of the Indian Republic as well as the deepest aspirations of Mahatma Gandhi's home state of Gujarat.
Dr. M S Swaminathan- In 1960s, India was facing a 'ship to mouth existence’ surviving on hand-outs of low quality wheat from the Western powers. Poverty and hunger was rife; our political sovereignty was threatened. These challenges were overcome through the work of a group of dedicated visionaries, one of whom was the scientist M. S. Swaminathan. Now in his eighties, Swaminathan still works and travels tirelessly throughout India.
National Council for Tribal Welfare
For cause of welfare of tribals, an apex body ‘National Council for Tribal Welfare’ (NCTW) headed by the Prime Minister has been constituted.
The Council would provide broad policy guidelines to bring about improvement in the lives of the ST community in the country. It would also review the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, implementation of Schedule-V and Schedule-VI of the Constitution, monitor the implementation of Tribal Sub-Plan and the programmes aimed at protecting vulnerable tribal groups. Meetings of the Council would be linked with the meetings of the National Development Council (NDC) to ensure that they are held regularly and the Chief Ministers are able to attend during NDC meeting.
The Council would provide broad policy guidelines to bring about improvement in the lives of the ST community in the country. It would also review the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, implementation of Schedule-V and Schedule-VI of the Constitution, monitor the implementation of Tribal Sub-Plan and the programmes aimed at protecting vulnerable tribal groups. Meetings of the Council would be linked with the meetings of the National Development Council (NDC) to ensure that they are held regularly and the Chief Ministers are able to attend during NDC meeting.
Swami Vivekananda Values’ Education Project
Government of India had earlier decided to commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda in a befitting manner. A National Committee has been constituted under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.
The National Implementation Committee in today’s meeting chaired by Union Finance Minister, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has approved in principle Swami Vivekananda Values Education Project at the cost of Rs.100 crore with the following objectives:
· To emphasize upon inculcation of Swami Vivekanada’s values among the students of different schools and colleges all over the country who are busy in highly competitive environment at the cost of other aspects of life.
· Involving the youth through competitions, essays, discussions and study circles.
· Publishing Swami Vivekananda’s complete work in different languages.
· Emphasis on Swami’s ideals in colleges and universities as well as setting up of Swami Vivekananda’s ‘Chairs’ in different universities and Centers.
· International programmes including conferences, seminars and lectures abroad in overseas universities.
· Focusing on Vivekananda’s teachings on Yoga to develop its proper understanding and establish standard for it.
· Utilizing the electronic media for prorogating of Swami’s message through All India Radio, Television, CDs, DVDs, Internet, Website and Films on Vivekananda.
· Encouraging research on religion and harmony, interfaith dialogue and bringing Swami’s ideals into current scope.
· Commemorating his CHICAGO Address about Indian culture through an Endowment for an Annual Lecture.
· Involving States and different organizations in commemorating CHICAGO travels throughout India and to preserve some important heritage sites.
· Creating a campaign through catch word or phrase or logo and involving fresh ideas through press and competitions.
· Under the ‘Print Media’ programmes various publication activities will be taken up including distribution of complete work of Swamiji’s to the libraries of 311 Indian universities , 465 government approved libraries and 100 Indian Embassies in different countries.
Under ‘Electronic Media’ programme, two feature films on Swami Vivekananda’s life & activities and Swami Vivekanands’s Call to the Nation, two animated films for children, TV programme entilted “Swami Vivekananda’s Answers” will be produced and made available at subsidized rates, besides producing 3-4 audio-DVDs on selected works of Swami Vivekananda.
Under the ‘Youth Programme’, Vivekananda Centre for Youth Counselling will be set up in 9 major cities for counseling to groups and invidividuals, two National Youth Conventions with the themes ‘National Growth/Development’ and ‘Religious Harmony’, five Regional Youth camps and a number of youth camps at State level will be held.
Under the “Special Service Activities”, a project titled “Gadadhar Abhyudaya Prakalpa” named after the child Ramakrishna will be taken up for development of neglected children by providing food, dress, basic education and health care at 150 places.
Under the Cultural Programmes, two International Seminars on India’s role in building terror-free society and Swmai Vivekananda’s vision of the future of Mankind, 10 National Seminars on Swami Vivekananda’s relevance in 21st Century, 16 State level seminars on Indian culture beside an exhibition on national integration will be organized.
Besides above, the National Implementation Committee also approved the following proposals in principle:
The Committee approved to assist Kolkata Municipal Corporation in converting Sister Nivedita’s residence in Baghbazar into a befitting memorial. Archeological Survey of India (ASI) would undertake work for restoration of aforesaid building while Ministry of Culture, Government of India would support to set up a Museum as part of Vivekananda Memorial Celebrations.
The Committee also approved in principle to extend necessary support to Ramakrishna Mission, Barrackpore, West Bengal which is involved in propagating and disseminating the ideals and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
The Committee approved commemoration of CHICAGO Address of Swamiji’s in 1893 through a memorable programme and an Endowment for an Annual Lecture among others.
Besides above, the Committee also agreed in principle to design Logo and issue commemorate Coins on the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
Union Minister for Health and Family & Family Welfare suggested to name District Wellness Centres for propagating Yoga to be renamed as Swami Vivekananda District Wellness Centre to mark the occasion. He suggested that 150 such District Wellness Centres will be set up in the first year followed by 75 such centers each in next two years. Thereby, the total 300 such centers will be setup in the country in next three years.
The National Implementation Committee in today’s meeting chaired by Union Finance Minister, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has approved in principle Swami Vivekananda Values Education Project at the cost of Rs.100 crore with the following objectives:
· To emphasize upon inculcation of Swami Vivekanada’s values among the students of different schools and colleges all over the country who are busy in highly competitive environment at the cost of other aspects of life.
· Involving the youth through competitions, essays, discussions and study circles.
· Publishing Swami Vivekananda’s complete work in different languages.
· Emphasis on Swami’s ideals in colleges and universities as well as setting up of Swami Vivekananda’s ‘Chairs’ in different universities and Centers.
· International programmes including conferences, seminars and lectures abroad in overseas universities.
· Focusing on Vivekananda’s teachings on Yoga to develop its proper understanding and establish standard for it.
· Utilizing the electronic media for prorogating of Swami’s message through All India Radio, Television, CDs, DVDs, Internet, Website and Films on Vivekananda.
· Encouraging research on religion and harmony, interfaith dialogue and bringing Swami’s ideals into current scope.
· Commemorating his CHICAGO Address about Indian culture through an Endowment for an Annual Lecture.
· Involving States and different organizations in commemorating CHICAGO travels throughout India and to preserve some important heritage sites.
· Creating a campaign through catch word or phrase or logo and involving fresh ideas through press and competitions.
· Under the ‘Print Media’ programmes various publication activities will be taken up including distribution of complete work of Swamiji’s to the libraries of 311 Indian universities , 465 government approved libraries and 100 Indian Embassies in different countries.
Under ‘Electronic Media’ programme, two feature films on Swami Vivekananda’s life & activities and Swami Vivekanands’s Call to the Nation, two animated films for children, TV programme entilted “Swami Vivekananda’s Answers” will be produced and made available at subsidized rates, besides producing 3-4 audio-DVDs on selected works of Swami Vivekananda.
Under the ‘Youth Programme’, Vivekananda Centre for Youth Counselling will be set up in 9 major cities for counseling to groups and invidividuals, two National Youth Conventions with the themes ‘National Growth/Development’ and ‘Religious Harmony’, five Regional Youth camps and a number of youth camps at State level will be held.
Under the “Special Service Activities”, a project titled “Gadadhar Abhyudaya Prakalpa” named after the child Ramakrishna will be taken up for development of neglected children by providing food, dress, basic education and health care at 150 places.
Under the Cultural Programmes, two International Seminars on India’s role in building terror-free society and Swmai Vivekananda’s vision of the future of Mankind, 10 National Seminars on Swami Vivekananda’s relevance in 21st Century, 16 State level seminars on Indian culture beside an exhibition on national integration will be organized.
Besides above, the National Implementation Committee also approved the following proposals in principle:
The Committee approved to assist Kolkata Municipal Corporation in converting Sister Nivedita’s residence in Baghbazar into a befitting memorial. Archeological Survey of India (ASI) would undertake work for restoration of aforesaid building while Ministry of Culture, Government of India would support to set up a Museum as part of Vivekananda Memorial Celebrations.
The Committee also approved in principle to extend necessary support to Ramakrishna Mission, Barrackpore, West Bengal which is involved in propagating and disseminating the ideals and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
The Committee approved commemoration of CHICAGO Address of Swamiji’s in 1893 through a memorable programme and an Endowment for an Annual Lecture among others.
Besides above, the Committee also agreed in principle to design Logo and issue commemorate Coins on the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
Union Minister for Health and Family & Family Welfare suggested to name District Wellness Centres for propagating Yoga to be renamed as Swami Vivekananda District Wellness Centre to mark the occasion. He suggested that 150 such District Wellness Centres will be set up in the first year followed by 75 such centers each in next two years. Thereby, the total 300 such centers will be setup in the country in next three years.
India and South Korea Sign two Landmark MoUs to Boost Defence Cooperation
Heralding a new chapter in the history of defence cooperation, India and South Korea today signed two landmark Memoranda of Understanding to give a huge boost to the Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr Antony said New Delhi will be happy to see the defence industry relationship to be more than a buyer-seller relationship and its further evolution into Transfer of Technology, joint production and joint R&D etc.
The talks covered a wide range of security issues- both regional and global.
Maritime Security
- maintaining peace as well as ensuring safety and security of sea lanes of communication in the region.
-securing vital energy supplies that pass through the Indian Ocean.
-like- minded countries working in the Gulf of Aden to coordinate efforts and also exchange information on the happenings in the area.
Regional Security Scenario
- have to maintain balance and restraint even in the face of grave challenges to our security. Our intention is to develop friendly and cooperative relations with all our neighbours
East Asian Architecture
-India looks at itself as an integral part of East Asia. India is a founding member of East Asia Summit and as such, looks at the emerging architecture in East Asia as open and inclusive.
‘That is why we welcome the decision of ASEAN Foreign Ministers to move towards the inclusion of the United States and Russia as members of the East Asia Summit.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
India confirms seven payloads for Chandrayaan-2
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that a national committee of experts has finalised seven payloads that will go on the second lunar mission, Chandrayaan-2, sometime in 2013. Three of the seven payloads are new.Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft would have an orbiter (satellite), a lander and a rover, is planned to be launched onboard Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota in 2013.
While the lander would be provided by Russia, the orbiter and rover are being built by Bangalore-headquartered ISRO. Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft weighs about 2,650 kg at lift-off of which the orbiter's weight is about 1,400 kg and lander about 1,250 kg.
After detailed deliberations and considering the mission needs, weight and power available for scientific payloads, the committee has recommended five payloads to be flown on the orbiter, of which three are new and two are improved versions of payloads flown earlier on Chandrayaan-1 orbiter.
The five recommended payloads of Chandrayaan-2 orbiter include:
- Large Area Soft X-ray Spectrometer (CLASS) from ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), Bangalore and Solar X-ray monitor (XSM) from Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad for mapping major elements present on the lunar surface.
- L and S band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) from Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad for probing the first few tens of metres of the lunar surface for the presence of different constituents, including water ice. SAR is expected to provide further evidence confirming the presence of water ice below the shadowed regions of the moon.
- Imaging IR Spectrometer (IIRS) from SAC, Ahmedabad for mapping of lunar surface over a wide wavelength range for the study of minerals, water molecules and hydroxyl present.
- Neutral Mass Spectrometer (ChACE-2) from Space Physics Laboratory (SPL), Thiruvananthapuram to carry out a detailed study of the lunar exosphere.
- Terrain Mapping Camera-2 (TMC-2) from SAC, Ahmedabad for preparing a 3D map essential for studying the lunar mineralogy and geology.
In addition, the committee recommended two scientific payloads on the rover of Chandrayaan-2. The two scientific payloads on Chandrayaan-2 rover are Laser induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) from Laboratory for Electro Optic Systems (LEOS), Bangalore and Alpha Particle Induced X-ray Spectroscope (APIXS) from PRL, Ahmedabad. Both instruments are expected to carry out elemental analysis of the lunar surface near the landing site.
Source: TOI
Friday, September 3, 2010
The Personal Laws (Amendment) Act, 2010
The President has assented to the Personal Laws (Amendment) Act, 2010 on 31st August, 2010 and it is published in the Gazette of India as Act 30 of 2010 on 1st September, 2010. The Act has amended the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 and the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956.
The Act is aimed at bringing gender equality in the matter of guardianship under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 and in the matter of giving in or taking in adoption a son or a daughter by father or mother under the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956.
Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 & Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956 were amended to include mother as Guardian along with father.
Earlier these laws incapacitated a married woman from taking in adoption merely on the basis of her marital status or curtailed the right of mother to give in adoption if father is alive or is of sound mind or has not renounced the world completely and finally. This was discriminatory in nature.
The Act is aimed at bringing gender equality in the matter of guardianship under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 and in the matter of giving in or taking in adoption a son or a daughter by father or mother under the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956.
Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 & Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956 were amended to include mother as Guardian along with father.
Earlier these laws incapacitated a married woman from taking in adoption merely on the basis of her marital status or curtailed the right of mother to give in adoption if father is alive or is of sound mind or has not renounced the world completely and finally. This was discriminatory in nature.
National River Conservation Plan
River conservation activities such as creation of civic infrastructure for sewage management and disposal are also being implemented under other central schemes, such as Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns, as well as under state schemes.
Conservation of rivers involves collective efforts of the Central and State Governments. The Central Government is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in river conservation.
The Central Government , in February 2009, has set up the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) as an empowered planning, financial, monitoring and coordinating authority to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic approach with the river basin as the unit of planning.
Discharge of untreated wastewater constitutes the major source of pollution load for the rivers. Drawing water for irrigation, drinking, industrial use, power etc. are other aspects which compounds the challenge to maintain flow in the rivers and cleaning the rivers. Interception and diversion of sewage and setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants have therefore been among the main components of pollution abatement schemes under the National River Conservation Plan
Conservation of rivers involves collective efforts of the Central and State Governments. The Central Government is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in river conservation.
The Central Government , in February 2009, has set up the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) as an empowered planning, financial, monitoring and coordinating authority to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic approach with the river basin as the unit of planning.
Discharge of untreated wastewater constitutes the major source of pollution load for the rivers. Drawing water for irrigation, drinking, industrial use, power etc. are other aspects which compounds the challenge to maintain flow in the rivers and cleaning the rivers. Interception and diversion of sewage and setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants have therefore been among the main components of pollution abatement schemes under the National River Conservation Plan
Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission & Portal
Gandhi Heritage Sites (GHS) Panel was chaired by Shri Gopalkrishna Gandhi, the then Governor of West Bengal, with eminent Gandhians as Members like Ms. Nirmala Deshpande, Shri B.R. Nanda, Shri. Narain Desai, Shri Ranesh Ray and Shri Ramachandra Guha and Officers of the Government of India.
The major recommendations of the Panel were the setting up of the Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission with five Zonal Centers, and setting up of a Gandhi Heritage Sites Portal in Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust (SAPMT) at Ahmedabad.
The Panel recommended setting up of the Portal at Sabarmati Ashram. All documents related to Gandhiji in India and abroad will be compiled in the Portal which will serve as an Electronic Library of Gandhiji’s life and achievements. The central objective of the Portal is to preserve and perpetuate his invaluable heritage with proper research, in an authentic manner.
The Portal will be regularly updated by the SAPMT to ensure that all relevant details on Gandhiji are incorporated in one site which will be unique in more senses one. It will be interactive and provide a virtual walk–through to an incomparably distinguished leader, whom the Nation and the entire International community looks up to with reverence, admiration and gratitude.
The Mission will be assisted by the existing Zonal Cultural Centers – SZCC Thanjavur (Tamil Nadu), NCZCC, Allahabad (U.P), SEZCC Nagpur, EZCC Kolkata and WZCC, Udaipur which will be provided additional officers and a fixed budget outlay. The Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission will be headed by the Chairperson who will be the eminent Gandhian and the Director of the Mission will be an officer of the rank of Joint Secretary.
The Mission will initiate conservation/restoration and preservation of Gandhi Heritage Sites which will be an ongoing exercise.
The Panel has recommended 39 Core Sites which include Porbandar and Rajkot sites of the childhood period, Tilak Ghat, Chennai, Mani Bhavan, Mumbai, Beliaghata, Kolkata, the venue in Madurai where Gandhiji took to the loin-cloth, the prison cell in Yeravda Jail, Pune, and the prison room in Aga Khan Palace (Pune) etc.
“Gandhi Heritage sites” refers to two indivisible yet distinct forms of “heritage” - the tangible heritage in terms of structures and sites on the one hand, and the legacy and of texts and visuals on the other, consisting of published and unpublished documents, non-text photographs and audio-visual footage.
The list of Gandhi Heritage Sites has covered almost every single place visited and associated with Gandhiji from 1869 to 1948, in India, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Mauritius, Burma (Myanmar), Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and venues in what now form parts of Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The Comprehensive Master List is being published by the Publications Division (I&B Ministry) with support worth 21.55 Lakhs rupees from Ministry of Culture.
The major recommendations of the Panel were the setting up of the Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission with five Zonal Centers, and setting up of a Gandhi Heritage Sites Portal in Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust (SAPMT) at Ahmedabad.
The Panel recommended setting up of the Portal at Sabarmati Ashram. All documents related to Gandhiji in India and abroad will be compiled in the Portal which will serve as an Electronic Library of Gandhiji’s life and achievements. The central objective of the Portal is to preserve and perpetuate his invaluable heritage with proper research, in an authentic manner.
The Portal will be regularly updated by the SAPMT to ensure that all relevant details on Gandhiji are incorporated in one site which will be unique in more senses one. It will be interactive and provide a virtual walk–through to an incomparably distinguished leader, whom the Nation and the entire International community looks up to with reverence, admiration and gratitude.
The Mission will be assisted by the existing Zonal Cultural Centers – SZCC Thanjavur (Tamil Nadu), NCZCC, Allahabad (U.P), SEZCC Nagpur, EZCC Kolkata and WZCC, Udaipur which will be provided additional officers and a fixed budget outlay. The Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission will be headed by the Chairperson who will be the eminent Gandhian and the Director of the Mission will be an officer of the rank of Joint Secretary.
The Mission will initiate conservation/restoration and preservation of Gandhi Heritage Sites which will be an ongoing exercise.
The Panel has recommended 39 Core Sites which include Porbandar and Rajkot sites of the childhood period, Tilak Ghat, Chennai, Mani Bhavan, Mumbai, Beliaghata, Kolkata, the venue in Madurai where Gandhiji took to the loin-cloth, the prison cell in Yeravda Jail, Pune, and the prison room in Aga Khan Palace (Pune) etc.
“Gandhi Heritage sites” refers to two indivisible yet distinct forms of “heritage” - the tangible heritage in terms of structures and sites on the one hand, and the legacy and of texts and visuals on the other, consisting of published and unpublished documents, non-text photographs and audio-visual footage.
The list of Gandhi Heritage Sites has covered almost every single place visited and associated with Gandhiji from 1869 to 1948, in India, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Mauritius, Burma (Myanmar), Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and venues in what now form parts of Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The Comprehensive Master List is being published by the Publications Division (I&B Ministry) with support worth 21.55 Lakhs rupees from Ministry of Culture.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Handicrafts - a overview
Paintings & Murals
| S.No. | Name of the Panel | State |
| 1. | Mural Dhokra Panels | Chhattisgarh |
| 2. | Gond Painting | Madhya Pradesh |
| 3. | Warli Painting | Maharashtra |
| 4. | Santhal Painting | West Bengal |
| 5. | Mural Glazed Terracotta Tiles | West Bengal |
| 6. | Patua Painting | West Bengal |
| 7. | Pithora Painting | Gujarat |
| 8. | Cherial scroll Painting | Andhra Pradesh |
| 9. | Mural Terracotta tiles | Molella, Rajasthan |
| 10. | Kalamkari | Tamilnadu |
| 11. | Mata-Ne-Pachedi | Ahmadabad Gujarat |
| 12. | Rogan work | Gujarat |
| 13. | Mural Ceramic Tiles | Delhi |
| 14. | Hase Chitra | Karnataka |
| 15. | Mithila Painting | Madhubani, Bihar |
| 16. | Godna Painting | Madhubani, Bihar |
| 17. | Mural Terracotta tiles | Orissa |
| 18. | Kali Ghat Painting | West Bengal |
| 19. | Phat Painting | Rajasthan |
| 20. | Patta Chitra | Orissa |
| 21. | Mural Sanjhi Art | Rajasthan |
| 22. | Stone Dust Painting | Delhi |
| 23. | Kotah School Painting | Rajasthan |
| 24. | Chamba School Painting | Chamba, Himachal Pradesh |
| 25. | Mural Camel Bone | Delhi |
| 26. | Kishan Garh School Painting | Rajasthan |
| 27. | Thangka Style Painting | Rajasthan |
| 28. | Mewar School Painting | Rajasthan |
| 29. | Mural Brass Embossed | Delhi |
| 30. | Tanjore Painting | Tamilnadu |
| 31. | Straw Work | Kerala |
| 32. | Tussar Painting | Orissa |
Hand Crafted
| S.No. | Name of the Panel | State |
| 1. | Kani Weave | J&K |
| 2. | Chain Stitch Embroidery | J&K |
| 3. | Phulkari Embroidery | Punjab |
| 4. | Chiken Embroidery | Lucknow(UP) |
| 5. | Chamba Rumal Embroidery | H.P. |
| 6. | Folk Embroidery | Kutch, Guj. |
| 7. | Folk Embroidery | Barmer(Raj) |
| 8. | Kasuti Embroidery | Karnataka |
| 9. | Block Printing | Bagru(Raj) |
| 10. | Tie & Dye | Rajasthan |
| 11. | Applique work | Gujarat |
| 12. | Bagh Print | Bagh(MP) |
| 13. | Ajarakh Print | Kutch(Guj.) |
| 14. | Parsi Embroidery | Delhi |
| 15. | Kantha Embroidery | West Bengal |
| 16. | Tie & Dye | Gujarat |
Hand Woven
| S.No. | Name of the Panel | State |
| 1. | Kanchipuram Saree | Tamilnadu |
| 2. | Paithani Weave | Maharashtra |
| 3. | Banaras Brocade | U.P. |
| 4. | Jamdani Weave | West Bengal |
| 5. | Baluchar Weave | West Bengal |
| 6. | Patola Weave | Gujarat |
| 7. | Viman Saree | Orissa |
| 8. | Vichitrapuri Saree | Orissa |
| 9. | Shawl | Manipur |
| 10. | Shawl | Nagaland |
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