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Bomb blast in Nigeria capital kills 21, wounds 17

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Bomb blast in Nigeria capital kills 21, wounds 17


ABUJA: Nigerian authorities have arrested one suspect, and killed another, after a bomb claimed 21 lives in a shopping centre in the capital Abuja, a city gripped by fear of attacks by Boko Haram.
Wednesday´s blast shook the Emab Plaza at 4:00 pm (1500 GMT), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said, as shoppers were buying groceries ahead of the country´s World Cup match against Argentina, which kicked-off an hour later.
“The casualty figure for now is 21 persons dead, 17 injured,” national police spokesman Frank Mba said, adding that a suspect had been arrested.
Later the National Information Centre said a second suspect had been shot dead by troops as he tried to escape on a motorbike.
Senior government spokesman Mike Omeri confirmed that the blast was the result of “a bomb attack”.
Rescue teams were deployed to the scene and evacuated the victims from the area, NEMA spokesman Manzo Ezekiel told.
“The explosion struck at peak business time,” he said, adding that the area was busy at the time of the blast and that 40 cars had been destroyed.
The blast, at the entrance to the mall, was powerful enough to blow out windows in buildings on the opposite side of the street, an AFP correspondent on the scene in the immediate aftermath said.
The area, sandwiched between two other shopping centres and one of the busiest in central Abuja, was littered with the burnt out wreckages of cars and soaked in pools of congealed blood.
Rescue workers could be seen picking through what appeared to be the scorched body parts of victims.
An employee of the nearby Newcastle Hotel in the Wuse II area of the city, who did not want to be named, said she clearly heard the explosion.
Soldiers and police cordoned off the scene of the blast and firefighters were at the location, as thick smoke billowed into the sky, an AFP reporter said.
A soldier close to the scene but who demanded anonymity told reporters that two suspects who tried to flee the scene were caught.
One of them who was shot by soldiers as he was fleeing later died from his injuries. Media agencies 


 

Govt defers decision on natural gas prices by 3 months 

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Govt defers decision on natural gas prices by 3 months U
In a setback to gas producers like Reliance Industries, the government on Wednesday postponed revision in natural gas prices by three months pending a “comprehensive” review to make a controversial pricing formula more palatable.
The current USD 4.2 per million British thermal unit rate for gas, which would have jumped to USD 8.8 if a formula approved by the previous UPA government was implemented on July 1, will continue till September-end, Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said.The first revision in rates in four years was originally to take effect from April 1 but with general elections being declared it was postponed by three months.
“The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today decided that comprehensive discussions were necessary on the issue. It was decided that consultations would be held with all stakeholders and it was important to keep public interest in mind,” he told reporters after the CCEA meeting.
Pradhan, who had held three rounds of discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue since Friday, did not say if a new expert committee or a ministerial group will be constituted for the review.
In course of these discussions, it was clear that the new government was looking at making some changes in the formula, proposed by a panel headed by C Rangarajan, as it would have led to Rs 2 per unit increase in power tariff and Rs 12 a kg hike in CNG rates besides jump in fertiliser subsidy outgo.
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said a review mechanism will have to be decided by the Prime Minister’s Office and the Oil Ministry.
“There have been one or two meetings. The mechanism in the government which will review the whole thing and come to an opinion, I think now needs to be finalised,” he said.
Neither Pradhan nor Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad who briefed media persons on the cabinet decision, would say if a new formula altogether was being considered or whether the Rangarajan formula will be amended to bring down the rates to acceptable levels.
“The matter needs extensive consultations keeping the public good in mind with all the stakeholders… the new government must be given time to take a call on what should be the mechanism (of review),” Prasad said.


 

Dipika-Joshana win women’s doubles title in Malaysia

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Dipika-Joshana win women
India bagged its second title at the Tri-Nation squash doubles tournament in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday when Dipika Pallikal and Joshana Chinappa emerged winners in the women’s doubles final.
Pallikal and Joshana rallied to beat New Zealand’s Joelle King and Amanda Landers Murphy 8-11, 11-5, 11-1 at the National Squash Centre. 

Hosts Malaysia was the the other country to participate in the three-day event, seen as a warm-up to the next month’s Commonwealth Games. 
It was Pallikal’s second title in as many days after she won the mixed doubles with Saurav Ghosal. 
The Indians put up a commendable show considering they are busy playing singles for major part of the season. 
Pallikal said it was good practice for the Glasgow Games beginning July 23. 
“I am glad to have won the doubles too. We started off slow today but got better as the match progressed. Joshana played some amazing shots to shock our opponents,” Pallikal said. 
She alongside Joshana stunned the mighty Malaysian pair of Nicol David and Low Wee Wern in the semifinals yesterday. 
“The win here does a lot of good to our confidence going into the Commonwealth Games. 
Winning there is our main aim and this tournament helped us understand where we stand in the pecking order. In top Commonwealth nations, only England and Australia were not here. It was a good test overall,” said the singles World No.10. 
How tough is it switch to doubles while playing singles on the professional tour? “It is tough but you have to switch off switch on when necessary,” Pallikal added. 


 

Firing on PIA plane: over 200 suspects held

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Firing on PIA plane: over 200 suspects held in Budh Ber
More than two hundred suspects were rounded up in a search operation conducted in Budh Ber amid investigations into the incident of firing on a plane of the national flag carrier in Peshawar Tuesday night.
Now not even the passenger planes are safe anymore in Peshawar.
A flight of Pakistan International Airline (PIA) came under fire attack by the terrorists in Mashokehl in the outskirts of Peshawar. More than twelve bullets hit the plane.
Following the incident, Police and security forces launched a joint search operation in Mashokhel and Salman Khel areas and took into custody over 200 suspects.


 

THURSDAY 26 JUNE FIFA world cup Brazil 2014

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Change to your time
26 JUN 2014 – 13:00 Local time
GROUP G
Estadio Nacional
Brasilia
Portugal
PORTUGAL
Ghana
GHANA
 
13:00
 
26 JUN 2014 – 13:00 Local time
GROUP G
Arena Pernambuco
Recife
USA
USA
Germany
GERMANY
 
13:00
 
26 JUN 2014 – 17:00 Local time
GROUP H
Arena de Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo
Korea Republic
KOREA REPUBLIC
Belgium
BELGIUM
 
17:00
 
26 JUN 2014 – 17:00 Local time
GROUP H
Arena da Baixada
Curitiba
Algeria
ALGERIA
Russia
RUSSIA
 
17:00
 
 
 
 
 
 


 

Shaqiri hit a hat-trick as Switzerland qualified for the Round of 16

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Swiss Shaqiri hat-trick against Honduras 3:0

Arena Amazonia
Manaus
Honduras
HONDURAS
Switzerland
SWITZERLAND
FULL-TIME
0-3
Shaqiri treble takes Swiss through
Xherdan Shaqiri hit a hat-trick as Switzerland qualified for the Round of 16 with a comfortable 3-0 win over Honduras at the Arena Amazonia in Manaus. The Bayern Munich midfielder’s treble – the second seen at Brazil 2014, following that of his club colleague Thomas Muller – secured second spot in Group E and set up a knockout duel with Argentina in Sao Paulo.
Shaqiri had never scored at the FIFA World Cup™ before today, but he signalled his intent to change that as early as the third minute, when his close-range effort forced Noel Valladares into an excellent save.
There was nothing, however, the Honduras keeper could do three minutes later when Switzerland’s No23 next took aim. On that occasion, Shaqiri scored a contender for goal of the tournament, cutting inside from the right, holding off two Honduran defenders and curling a superb left-foot shot in off the underside of the bar from 25 yards.
Honduras attempted to respond, but suffered throughout from a lack of quality and composure in the final third, and had no-one to match the class of Shaqiri. With 31 minutes played, the Bayern midfielder doubled his and his team’s tally, racing through on to a pass from Josip Drmic, sizing up the angles and slotting calmly and firmly into the bottom-right corner.
The Hondurans did improve markedly after half-time and carved out several early chances in the second period that, had they been converted, might have sparked a comeback. Jerry Bengston was the player to whom most of these opportunities fell, but first he failed to connect with an attempted diving header and then, after rounding goalkeeper Diego Benaglio, watched in agony as Ricardo Rodriguez made a dramatic goal-line clearance.
Those misses allowed Switzerland to put the outcome beyond doubt with 19 minutes remaining, and again it was Shaqiri who did the damage. Not for the first time, he was indebted to some excellent set-up play by Drmic on the left, leaving the Europeans’ hat-trick hero to side-foot a casual left-foot shot low beyond the wrong-footed Valladares.


 

Ecuador eliminated held France to a 0-0 draw

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Estadio do Maracana
Rio De Janeiro
Ecuador
ECUADOR
France
FRANCE
FULL-TIME
0-0
Football: France fire blanks, Ecuador eliminated
 RIO DE JANEIRO: Ten-man Ecuador held France to a 0-0 draw at the Maracana on Wednesday but Didier Deschamps´ side still topped Group E to progress to a last-16 tie against Nigeria.
Through luck, determination, bad finishing and brilliant goalkeeping by Alexander Dominguez, Ecuador resisted even after captain and Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia was ordered off early in the second half for a studs up challenge on Lucas Digne.
The result was disappointing for Deschamps but was enough to take first place with seven points and the easier of the possible second-round ties next Monday.
Switzerland´s 3-0 win over Honduras in the group´s other game gave them second place and a tough match against Argentina on Tuesday as Ecuador become the first South American side to be knocked out of this World Cup.
Ecuador coach Reinaldo Rueda was left to lament the sending-off of his captain as his team came up just short.
“There is nothing to be done about it now but we lost an important player in our structure,” said the Colombian. “Various refereeing decisions went against us and it was difficult to hold on for a draw but the players showed great character.”
Deschamps made six changes for this game and will certainly bring back several of the missing players to take on Nigeria.
Karim Benzema, scorer of three goals in wins over Honduras and Switzerland, kept his place in the side, but France missed the creativity of Mathieu Valbuena and Yohan Cabaye, the latter absent due to suspension and replaced by Southampton´s Morgan Schneiderlin.
Les Bleus controlled much of the first half, but only sporadically troubled Dominguez in the Ecuador goal.
The Ecuadorean ´keeper held a crisply-struck volley from Moussa Sissoko with 15 minutes played and did well to palm the ball over the bar when Paul Pogba got his head to an Antoine Griezmann free-kick.
Ecuador began to threaten as the half wore on, almost breaking through when Enner Valencia rose above Digne to connect with Michael Arroyo´s left-wing cross only for Hugo Lloris to intervene.


 

Argentina star Messi-inspired defeat Nigeria

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Nigeria through despite Messi-inspired defeat

Argentina secured top spot in Group F and preserved their unblemished record at Brazil 2014 with a 3-2 win over Nigeria illuminated by braces for Lionel Messi and Ahmed Musa. Alejandro Sabella’s side will be joined in the Round of 16 by the Super Eagles, who contributed greatly to this enthralling match and progress due to Iran’s defeat to already-eliminated Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Even in a World Cup packed full of thrilling games, this was one of the best yet, and the tone was set as early as the third minute. That was when Messi opened the scoring in some style, crashing a first-time shot into the roof of the net from 12 yards after Vincent Enyeama had tipped Angel Di Maria’s initial effort on to the post.
Nigeria, though, weren’t content to allow Argentina’s captain to again hog the headlines, and they drew level with the next attack of the game. The impressive Ahmed Musa was the player responsible, exploiting a one-on-one with Pablo Zabaleta to cut inside from the left and curl an inch-perfect right-foot shot just inside the far post.
It was a terrific goal from a player who would continue to cause problems, although it was Argentina who carved out the better of the game’s opportunities.
Di Maria was again prominent, and on 25 minutes he measured an inviting low pass across goal that Messi – sliding in – missed out on converting by a matter of inches. Soon after, the Real Madrid winger went directly for goal, unleashing a 35-yard drive that was flying into the bottom corner until Enyeama got across to tip it wide.
It wasn’t long, though, before Messi again took centre stage. A minute into first-half injury time, and having forced a brilliant save from the keeper with an earlier free-kick, he re-established La Albiceleste’s lead from an almost-identical position. This time, there was no chance for Enyeama, with the Barcelona star curling a left-foot shot from 25 yards that cleared the wall and dropped just inside the right-hand post.
But once again, Nigeria wasted little time in responding to Messi’s brilliance. Just a couple of minutes into the second half, Musa emulated the Argentina skipper by completing a double of his own, racing through and wrong-footing Sergio Romero with a low shot into the bottom-left corner.
Argentina would not be a denied a third straight win, though, and they secured the points just three minutes later. It was the scrappiest of all five goals, with Marcos Rojo bundling a corner home with his knee, but that didn’t matter to the Albiceleste fans or to the scorer, who had never before found the target for his national team.


 

Bosnians eliminating Iran

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Arena Fonte Nova
Salvador
Bosnia and Herzegovina
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Iran
IRAN
FULL-TIME
3-1
Bosnians bid farewell by eliminating Iran
Bosnia and Herzegovina concluded their maiden FIFA World Cup™ campaign with a 3-1 victory over Iran that thwarted their opponents’ hopes of squeezing into the Round of 16 at the expense of Nigeria in Group F.
With Argentina taking maximum points from the other fixture in the section, the Iranians could have secured second place and progression with a win of their own, but a trio of timely strikes by the European debutants extinguished such ambitions and provided coach Safet Susic with reason to smile before returning home.
While qualification for the next stage was beyond his country no matter the result in Salvador, the determination of Edin Dzeko to depart the tournament with a goal was abundantly clear. After the Manchester City forward’s venomous volley from ten yards took a deflection over the crossbar, he stretched his neck to redirect a promising centre but watched the header loop into the hands of Iran goalkeeper Alireza Haghighi.
On 23 minutes, though, the 28-year-old could celebrate. With seemingly little danger to Carlos Queiroz’s well-drilled Iranians, Dzeko collected a simple pass into space midway inside the opposition half. His execution was simple but clinically effective – stride forward, dribble across the defence into freedom and cannon an unstoppable, low left-footer into the right corner from distance for 1-0.
The Asians were almost level within seconds; attacking along the right flank, the ball was worked back to the near edge of the penalty area and Masoud Shojaei, whose quickly-plotted attempt to loft up and over Asmir Begovic was aided by a slight nick but cruelly struck the top of the woodwork. The move typified an encouraging response by Iran, suddenly finding a sense of adventure and urgency.
Boosted by clinching the opener, Dzeko was at the centre of everything positive for the Bosnians and it was his incisive through pass that dissected the Iranian backline to release Avdija Vrsajevic. The No2 raced onto the delivery but snatched at the opportunity to blast on the diagonal and merely knocked the ball well wide to the left.
In contrast to the prolific nature of the simultaneous Group F fixture between Argentina and Nigeria, where the goals rained in from kick-off, fluidity and rhythm were at a premium for both sides at the outset of the second half in this one. At the hour mark, however, both characteristics were evident for all to see.
Iran defender Jalal Hosseini surrendered possession far too cheaply deep inside his own half and, in the blink of an eye, Bosnia and Herzegovina doubled their advantage. Seizing the chance, Tino Susic threaded a perfectly weighted assist into the adjoining run in the left channel by Miralem Pjanic, who shifted his weight and curled a side-foot hit around the stretch of Haghighi to end the stylish play in sublime fashion.
As a deluge unfolded above them and each team contemplated the closing stages of their participation at Brazil 2014, Reza Ghoochannejad refused to relent. Having had one effort blocked and sent another wide, he finally opened the tournament account for Queiroz’s men by tapping home after being found completely unmarked at the back post by a drill across the area.
Irritated by the concession, Bosnia and Herzegovina promptly sprinted in the opposite direction and, when Vrsajevic took up responsibility as he hurtled down the right wing, the full-back picked his preferred spot of the net and lashed a powerful shot precisely where he hoped to. Iran hopes evaporated and their Group F rivals took up residence at the next stage.


 

Costa Rica secure historic top spot with draw

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Costa Rica secure historic top spot with draw
Costa Rica drew 0-0 with England to top World Cup Group D unbeaten and leave their opponents without a win and an early flight home on Tuesday in Belo Horizonte.
England had chances to rescue something form a terrible campaign but Daniel Sturridge sent both shots wide.
Costa Rica, who only made the last 16 on one other occasion in 1990, defied the tag of minnows and outsiders in the group to beat both Uruguay and Italy.
Costa Rica did test England goalkeeper Ben Foster on one occasion as Celso Borges’ long distance freekick forced him to leap to tip the ball over the bar.
England pressed hard from the start with Costa Rica’s impressive goalkeeper Keylor Navas getting down bravely to thwart Sturridge and then saving well from Southampton winger Adam Lallana.
Sturridge should have given England the lead in the 65th minute as Jack Wilshere’s beautifully weighted pass into the area saw the Liverpool striker run on to it but he sent the ball past the far post.
England coach Roy Hodgson sent on veterans Steven Gerrard — probably for his last appearance in an England shirt — and Wayne Rooney in a bid to grab a late win but it was all in vain as the Costa Ricans held them at bay.


 

Colombia top Group C with 4-1 win over Japan

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Colombia top Group C with 4-1 win over Japan


Substitute James Rodriguez scored a brilliant goal and set up two more for Jackson Martinez as Colombia beat Japan 4-1 on Tuesday to confirm top spot in Group C and eliminate the Asian champions from the World Cup. 

Already assured of advancing, Colombia guaranteed first place with their third straight win, setting up a second-round match against Uruguay. 

The Colombians started with a virtual second-string lineup but still went in front when Juan Cuadrado, one of the few regular starters — drilled in a 17th-minute penalty. 

Japan equalized with the last touch of the first half through Shinji Okazaki’s header but Martinez scored in the 55th and 82nd minutes — both from superb passes from Rodriguez — to put the result beyond doubt. 


 

Rs 991.20 crores: Total Income of National Parties during FY 2012-13

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Only 10% from donations above Rs 20,000 of which Rs 11.14 crores from donors with no names and address

Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) analysed the IT returns and donations reports of the 6 National Parties submitted for the Financial Year 2012-13. Political parties are required to submit details of donations received above Rs 20,000 from all over India, to the Election Commission, annually. Parties provide details of the name, address, PAN, mode of payment and amount contributed by each donor who has made donation above Rs 20,000. 
  • This report, apart from analysing the total income and expenditure, analyses the contributions made by corporates and individuals above Rs 20,000 during FY 2012-13 to National Parties
  • The report looks into those donations where details of donors were not declared by the parties
  • It is seen that details of 703 donors were not declared in the donations statement, who had contributed a total of Rs 11.14 crores to the National Parties
  • BSP declared that the party received no donations above Rs 20,000 during FY 2012-13 as it had declared since FY 2004-05

                                                          

Executive Summary

        I.            Total income of political parties from all over India
  • The total income and expenditure of political parties is calculated from their IT returns filed with the Income Tax Department annually
  • The total income of National Parties for FY 2012-13 was Rs. 991.20 croresINC declared the highest total income of Rs. 425.69 crores, followed by BJP with Rs. 324.16 crores and BSP with a declared total income of Rs. 87.63 crores. NCP a declared total income of Rs. 26.56 crores, CPI, Rs. 1.07 crores and CPM declared a total income of Rs. 126.09 crores for FY 2012-13.
                                      
        II.            Number of donors contributing above Rs. 20,000 to political parties from all over India (FY 2012-13)
  • The total amount of donations received above Rs 20,000 by National Political parties during FY 2012-13 is calculated from the donations report submitted to the Election Commission annually
  •  The total donations above Rs 20,000 declared was Rs. 99.14 crores, from 3777 donors.
        III.            Top corporate donors to National Parties
  •   INC: Torrent Power Ltd donated the maximum amount (Rs 3.50 crores) followed by Torrent Pharmaceuticals (Rs 1.50 crores) and             Hyderabad Industries Ltd (HIL) (Rs 50 lakhs). 
  • BJP:  General Electoral Trust of the Aditya Birla Group donated the maximum amount (Rs 7.50 crores) followed by Lodha Dwellers             Pvt Ltd (Rs 6.99 crores) and Torrent Power (Rs 6.57 crores). 
  • CPI and CPM: CPI received a total of Rs 4.21 lakhs from organizations such as Bhartiya Khet Mazdoor Union and while CPM received a              total of Rs 1.43 crores from 29 corporate/ business houses.
        IV.            Undeclared Donors
  • The name and address of a total of 43 donors who contributed Rs 29 lakhs to the National Parties is undeclared in the                           statements submitted by the parties. Thus, these donations above Rs 20,000 cannot be traced to any individual, organization or a          trust. 
  •  Similarly, the addresses of a total of 655 donors contributing Rs 10.84 crores to the National Parties have been left undeclared              in the statements submitted by the parties.
        V.            Sector-wise donations
  • Corporate/ business sector tops the list of contributions with 72% or Rs 70.97 crores to the National Parties followed by individual         donations with 17% or Rs 17.01 crores 
  • It is to be noted that 11% or Rs 11.14 crores was donated by those donors who cannot be traced by name or address
                                            
        VI.            Donors who have not declared details of PAN
  •  A total of 2371 out of 3775 donors (or 63%) contributing Rs 37.64 crores to the National Parties have not declared their PAN details        in the contribution form. 
    ·   BJP has listed the maximum number of donors (1670) who have not declared their PAN while contributing a maximum of Rs 25.99         crores.

Recommendations of ADR 

The Supreme Court gave a judgment on September 13, 2013 declaring that no part of a candidate’s affidavit should be left blank. Similarly, no part of the Form 24A submitted by political parties providing details of donations above Rs 20,000 should be blank.
    •  
Full details of all donors should be made available for public scrutiny under the RTI. Some countries where this is done include Bhutan, Nepal, Germany, France, Italy, Brazil, Bulgaria, the US and Japan. In none of these countries is it possible for 75% of the source of funds to be unknown, but at present it is so in India.
    • Details of donors who make donations to the Electoral Trusts should be available in the public domain for increasing transparency in funding of political parties.
Those parties not following the ICAI guidelines for auditing of reports should be scrutinized by the IT department.
For more details about the top sources of income of the National Parties, party-wise break up of undeclared donors, undeclared PAN details and mode of payment, please refer to the attached report, titled ‘Analysis of income, expenditure and donations of National Parties – FY 2012-13′

Regards

Media and Journalist Helpline

+91 80103 94248
Maj. Gen (Retd.) Anil Verma
Head
National Election Watch, and
Association for Democratic Reforms
+91 11 4165 4200
+91 88264 79910
Prof Jagdeep Chhokar
IIM Ahmedabad
Founder Member
National Election Watch, Association for Democratic
Reforms
+91 99996 20944

Prof Trilochan Sastry
IIM Bangalore
Founder Member,
National Election Watch,
Association for Democratic Reforms
+91 94483 53285


 

The Ultimate Music Experience at Reggae Sumfest 2014

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The Ultimate Music Experience at Reggae Sumfest 2014
- Heartbeat of Jamaica -
All India, 25th June 2014: One of the most important festivals of Jamaica, Reggae Sumfest is set to take place between 13th to 19th July this year. Jamaica’s second-largest city, Montego Bay is the venue for the Reggae Sumfest every year. Reggae Sumfest features top reggae talent to entertain and attract thousands of tourists from around the world. It is often dubbed as “the greatest reggae show on earth”.
Bob Marley is known as the greatest reggae icon on the planet. This influential musician developed the genre reggae in his home country, Jamaica. Marley died at the age of 36 after devoting much of his life to music.
First staged in 1993 by Summerfest Productions Limited, Reggae Sumfest quickly became popular not only in Jamaica but throughout the world. The festival has successfully incorporated international artists to the line up such as Usher, Chris Brown, Kanye West, Rihanna, etc in past few years. This year’s line-up includes Sean Paul, Wiz Khalifa, Jason Derulo and many other international artists. The festival kicks off with its Sumfest Beach Party on 13th July with a great selection of DJs. The remaining days of the festival are followed by All White Party, Dance Hall Night and International Nights showcasing top performers.
Reggae Sumfest is widely regarded as the world’s premier reggae music event. One of the best times for music lovers to visit the island country is during the months of July and August to enjoy reggae along with the summers of Jamaica. The festival is not only a paradise for music lovers but also for food and beer enthusiasts as some mouth-watering Jamaican cuisines are on offer during the festival.
Known fondly as MoBay, Montego Bay is graced with a modern international airport (Sangster International Airport) giving an access to vacationers to the music city. The waterfront of the city is lined with picture-perfect sandy beaches, luxury hotels and elegant resorts. Montego Bay is home to the Hip Strip – a full mile of restaurants, entertainment, shopping, fun and excitement. Montego Bay is a thriving city abuzz with activities for every budget and preference. 
With a reputation of presenting top class artists in one of the prime tourist cities – Montego Bay; Reggae Sumfest is committed to showcasing indigenous reggae talent while keeping the motto of Promoting Music, the Universal Forcealive.
Jamaica – Once you go, you know!
About Jamaica Tourist Board
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB was declared the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board by the World Travel Awards (WTA) from 2006 to 2013. Also in 2013, Jamaica earned the WTA’s vote for the World’s Leading Cruise Destination, Caribbean’s Leading Destination and Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination for the seventh consecutive year. Additionally, the Historic Falmouth Cruise Port was recognized as the World’s Leading Tourism Development Project while Ocho Rios was named the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port and Sangster International Airport was voted the Caribbean’s Leading Airport. In Canada, Jamaica was voted the Favourite Honeymoon Destination by Travel Agents.
            
JTB offices are located in Kingston, Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Delhi and Tokyo. 
For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Web site atwww.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook at www.facebook.com/visitjamaica, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/visitjamaicanow, on Instagram atwww.instagram.com/visitjamaica,  on Pinterest at www.pinterest.com/myjamaica, or on YouTube atwww.youtube.com/myjamaicajtb. View the JTB blog at www.islandbuzzjamaica.com
For Further Information, please contact: 
Jamaica Tourist Board
c/o TRAC Representations (I) Pvt. Ltd.
Ms. Mariya Kapadia | 022 24981777 | Email: visitjamaica@gmail.com


 

Zayed Future Energy Prize 2015:  14 July submissions deadline looms

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New Delhi, June 24: There is approximately two weeks left until the entry deadline for the 2015 Zayed Future Energy Prize. The Prize, an annual US$4 million award, recognizes individuals, organizations and schools who have made significant strides to advance the fields of renewable energy and sustainability.  Submissions and nominations are now open for the 2015 Zayed Future Energy Prize. The deadline is 14 July, 2014. Applicants from the Indian renewable energy and sustainability sectors can apply in five different categories for the opportunity to win a game-changing prize pot and the prestige and opportunities that come with aninternationally renowned prize.

·         Five categories:
o    Large Corporation – Recognition Award (No monetary value)
o    Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) – US$ 1,500,000
o    Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) – US$ 1,500,000
o    Lifetime Achievement (Individual) – US$ 500,000
(In the Lifetime Achievement category, nominations will also be accepted.)
o    Global High Schools – European region – $100,000

Launched in 2008, the Prize has gained global recognition and built a strong reputation as the most influential award in the renewable energy and sustainability community. Submissions and nominations have increased 300 percent over the past five years, with a growing number from Europe following recent successes by organizations from the region.

·         Recent Indian winners include:
o    Abellon Clean Energy who won the SME category of the 2014 edition is a for-profit company founded in 2008 by Aditya Handa. Its principal activity is the manufacture and sale of biomass pellets made from agricultural and sawmill residues. The agricultural residues are sourced from local farmers, in partnership with Poornakumbha, an NGO established by Abellon in 2008.
o    Kalkeri-Sangeet-Vidyalaya (Kalkeri-Music-School) who won the Global High School Category from Asia in 2014 empowers children from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds to realise their full potential for a better life.
His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, director general, Zayed Future Energy Prize stated, “Throughout history, prizes have proven to be a mechanism to encourage innovation. The Zayed Future Energy Prize is a commitment by the UAE’s government to incentivize people, organizations and schools to tackle today’s pressing energy and sustainability challengesThe world needs viable solutions that address issues such as energy access and sustainable development and now in its seventh year, we are proud of the impact the Prize is delivering.

Call to action videos:
·         Sir Richard Branson, entrepreneur, founder of the Virgin Group and a member of the Zayed Future Energy Prize Jury –here.
·         Professor Jeffery Sachs, world-renowned professor of economics, leader in sustainable development, senior UN advisor, bestselling author, and syndicated columnist – here.


About Zayed Future Energy Prize:
The Zayed Future Energy Prize embodies the vision of the late founding father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who laid the foundation for renewable energy and sustainability as part of his legacy in pioneering sustainable development in the UAE. An annual award, the Prize is managed by Masdar, on behalf of the UAE government and seeks to award achievement and innovation in the fields of renewable energy and sustainability, as well as to educate and inspire future generations. For more information on the prize, please visit www.ZayedFutureEnergyPrize.com. More information can be found onhttp://www.facebook.com/TZFEP or Twitter: http://twitter.com/zfep. For more information about the Prize’s ongoing work, please visithttp://www.sustainnovate.ae/en/
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Ukraine and EU sign free trade zone deal

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Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko poses with European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso (L) and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy (R) at the EU Council in Brussels June 27, 2014 (Reuters / Stringer)
 Ukraine signed the economic part of the Association agreement with the EU,  Georgia and Moldova too joining the pact, even though big economic risks lie ahead.
The signing of the economic part of the agreement comes after 8 months of violent unrest in Ukraine, which broke out in Kiev and spread across the country in November after then-President Viktor Yanukovich decided to reject the trade agreement in favor of trilateral talks.
The document contains 31 signatures – Ukraine, all 28 EU member states, as well as that of the President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy, and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso. The agreement will only come into force when it is ratified by every national parliament in the EU. It is expected that the ratification process will be complete by this fall.
Georgia and Moldova also signed both political and economic parts of the Association Agreement. Ukraine signed a political part of the agreement in March, shortly after Crimea rejoined Russia.
“By signing the association agreement, Ukraine, like European nation, which shares the same rules of law, stresses its sovereign choice to become a member of the EU Association Agreement in the future,” said Ukraine’s President Poroshenko before the signing ceremony. The Ukrainian President sees the trade document as a stepping stone to eventual EU statehood.
Friday signing the Free Trade Agreement will open up trade barriers between the former Soviet states, but doesn’t guarantee them EU membership, a main goal of the three governments.
“It is their sovereign right, but the Russian Federation will have to take measures in case it negatively effects the local market,” Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesperson said, commenting on the agreements signed between the EU and Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova.
Russia has warned these “measures” could include $500 billion in lost trade and possible bans on Ukrainian imports.
In order to fully implement the free trade zone, it could cost Ukraine’s already fragile economy an additional $104 billion, according to a previous estimate by Yanukovich. This will include adopting hundreds of new trade laws and thousands of new laws to comply with EU standards.
In 2013, EU exports to Ukraine were worth $33 billion (23.9 billion euro), dominated by industrial equipment, chemicals, and manufactured goods.
Ukraine exported 13.8 billion euro worth of goods to the EU, mostly materials like iron, steel, and minerals. Agricultural and food products are also substantial exports.
The Association Agreement and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) will replace the current Partnership and Cooperation Agreement Ukraine signed with the EU in 1998.
Eastern Ukraine, which rejects the new Ukrainian government’s authority, is skeptical of Kiev’s European ambition, as is the EU itself.
“EU is not ready to integrate at this stage a country like Ukraine,”Jose Barroso, President of the European Commission said before the talks.
Brussels started the Eastern Partnership initiative to incorporate six former Soviet Republics into the EU free trade zone. Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia have followed Poland’s example, whereas Armenia, Belarus, and Azerbaijan are likely to opt for closer trade links with Russia.
Trilateral trade talks between the EU, Russia, and Ukraine will take place on July 11. Russia has made it very clear that by signing the trade agreement Ukraine can no longer enter the Eurasian Customs Union, which already includes Belarus and Kazakhstan.
Media agencies




Obama seeks USD 500 mn to train, equip Syrian rebels

27062014
Obama seeks USD 500 mn to train, equip Syrian rebels
The White House has asked lawmakers for USD 500 million to train and equip vetted Syrian rebels, in what would be a significant escalation of US involvement in a conflict that has spilled into Iraq.
Following several signals in recent weeks by President Barack Obama’s administration — and months of pressure from lawmakers like Senator John McCain — the White House said.
Thursday it intends to “ramp up US support to the moderate Syrian opposition.”
The request is part of a USD 1.5 billion Regional Stabilization Initiative to bolster stability in Syrian neighbors Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey, and to support communities hosting refugees.
In a clear acknowledgement that Syria and Iraq face a common threat, Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki earlier “welcomed” strikes by Syria’s air force on the Syrian side of the Al-Qaim border crossing, controlled by Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) fighters.
The proposed US funding would serve “vetted elements of the Syrian armed opposition to help defend the Syrian people, stabilize areas under opposition control, facilitate the provision of essential services, counter terrorist threats and promote conditions for a negotiated settlement,” the White House said in a statement.
But Damascus ally Moscow lashed out at the move, saying “there are better uses for these 500 million dollars.”
The Americans “are moving things in their own direction, they keep the fire burning instead of doing something political,” Russian ambassador to the United Nations Vitaly Churkin told reporters during a reception at the Russian mission.
The proposal was part of the USD 65.8 billion overseas contingency operations request to Congress for fiscal year 2015, which begins 1st October.
The bulk of that amount, USD 58.6 billion, was allocated to the Defense Department.
In a separate statement, National Security Council spokeswoman Caitlin Hayden said the funding “would build on the administration’s longstanding efforts to empower the moderate Syrian opposition” and allow the Pentagon to increase its support to vetted armed rebels.
Washington has been studying options for providing additional assistance to rebel forces beyond the existing aid, which includes mainly “non-lethal” support.
While US officials normally publicly refuse to comment on details of training for opposition groups, Obama’s National Security Advisor Susan Rice acknowledged early this month that the Pentagon was providing “lethal and non-lethal support” to Syrian rebels.
About USD 287 million in mainly non-lethal support has been cleared for the rebels since March 2011, and the CIA has participated in a secret military training program in neighboring Jordan for the moderate opposition.
Included in the latest request was a USD 5 billion Counterterrorism Partnerships Fund helping build counterterrorism capacity in allies from South Asia to Africa’s Sahel region.




UN: Hundred tenthousand people fled Ukraine

27062014
A line of refugees at a checkpoint in Donetsk, Rostov Region (Reuters / Sergey Pivovarov)
A line of refugees at a checkpoint in Donetsk, Rostov Region
The number of Ukrainian refugees in Russia has reached 110,000 people, while the 54,400 others have been internally displaced, the UN’s refugee department stated.
Some 16,400 people fled their homes in eastern Ukraine in the past week, many citing a deteriorating situation and fears of abduction, bringing the number of displaced within the country to 54,000.
“We are seeing a sharp rise in (internal) displacement in Ukraine,” Melissa Fleming, chief spokeswoman of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), told a news briefing.
9,500 people have officially applied for the asylum in Russia Melissa Fleming said, while 700 others have gone to Poland, Belarus, the Czech Republic and Romania.
Refugees from southeastern Ukraine unpack bags with aid prepared for them at the transit refugee camp at Artek Center in Simferopol (Reuters / Andrey Iglov)
Refugees from southeastern Ukraine unpack bags with aid prepared for them at the transit refugee camp at Artek Center in Simferopol.
Russia is taking “very good care” of refugees from Ukraine by helping them to cross the border and providing proper accommodation, the representative of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Baisa Vak-Voya, told RT, after visiting a refugee camp in the Rostov region on the Russian side of the border.
“Russia is very favorable. The government is taking care of them very well. They cross the border in a very organized way. Those who have relatives there go to their relatives. Those who don’t go to the government organized tent camp, which is run by the Ministry of Emergency. To be honest, this is one of the most equipped and well-run and professionally managed camp I have seen,” he said.
Russia’s emergency ministry says over 16 thousand refugees have been housed in camps in Russia.
The Russian Emergency Ministry is ready to open over 1,000 shelters to host refugees from Ukraine in case it’s necessary, the deputy head of Russia’s Emergency Ministry, Vladimir Stepanov, told RIA-Novosti.
Refugees from southeastern Ukraine at a tent camp in Donetsk, Rostov Region (RIA Novosti / Sergey Pivovarov)
Refugees from southeastern Ukraine at a tent camp in Donetsk, Rostov Region (RIA Novosti / Sergey Pivovarov)
More than 240 temporary shelters are currently open.
Stepanov stressed that the work to host the Ukrainian citizens is carried out constantly and the refugees are hosted in 26 of the 85 Russian regions.
President Vladimir Putin ordered the government to draft measures to help Ukrainian citizens in the conflict zone and who come to Russia.
“I would ask you to think how we can help people, who found themselves in the conflict zone and who come to our territory. It is clear that the volume of refugees is such already that regions have difficulty coping on their own,” Putin said at a meeting with government members.RT News




Myanmar and Thailand burn USD 400 million of seized drugs

27062014
Myanmar and Thailand burn USD 400 million of seized drugs
Myanmar and Thailand incinerated some USD 400 million-worth of narcotics on Thursday to mark World Drugs Day, but the UN warned opium production was on the rise in the region.
In Myanmar, which has long struggled to control illegal drug production, some 1.3 tons of opium, 225 kilogrammes of heroin and 1.2 tons of methamphetamine tablets were destroyed in controlled blazes.The haul was worth around USD 130 million, according to Major Khin Maung Than of Myanmar’s anti-narcotics committee, who added that the country’s anti-drug campaign was running into problems in some regions that are home to ethic groups where drug production is highest.
“As the government can’t reach agreement with some ethnic groups on anti-narcotics work, we can’t do the work effectively,” he told reporters.
The bulk of the destroyed narcotics were seized in Taunggyi, the capital of Shan State, a province bordering Thailand, which has long been a hotbed of drug production, the proceeds of which may have fuelled conflict between ethnic rebels and Myanmar’s army.
Shan State accounts for an estimated 98 per cent of Myanmar’s illegal poppy cultivation.
The “Golden Triangle” region, covering parts of Laos, Thailand and Myanmar, was formerly one of the world’s top producers of opium and heroin, until the emergence of Afghanistan as a drugs production hub.
Myanmar remains the world’s second largest producer of opium – the raw ingredient for heroin – after Afghanistan, accounting for 10 per cent of global production, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
In neighbouring Thailand, some 2.5 tons of methamphetamine – known as crystal meth or “ice” – 21 kilos of heroin and 74 kilos of opium worth around USD 272 million in total were destroyed in the city of Ayutthaya, according to the kingdom’s Public Health Ministry.




US says Russia has ‘hours’ to ease Ukraine crisis

27062014
US says Russia has
The United States warned Russia on Thursday it had only “hours” to prove it was helping disarm Ukrainian insurgents whose separatist drive has reopened a Cold War-style chasm in East-West ties.
US Secretary of State John Kerry’s warning came a day before Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko signs the final chapters of an historic EU accord that nudges his country toward eventual membership and pulls it firmly out of Russia’s reach.Poroshenko also intends to get German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande to join him for a second round of telephone diplomacy with Russian President Vladimir Putin in two days.
Putin came under intense pressure from both European leaders and US President Barack Obama on Wednesday to rein in separatist fighters over whom he denies exerting control.
Obama said sweeping economic sanctions were imminent unless the Kremlin stopped “the flow of weapons and militants across the border”.
US Secretary of State John Kerry was even more explicit in Paris on Thursday following talks with French counterpart Laurent Fabius.
“We are in full agreement that it is critical for Russia to show in the next hours, literally, that they’re moving to help disarm the separatists, to encourage them to disarm, to call on them to lay down their weapons and to begin to become part of a legitimate process,” Kerry said.
The State Department added that sanctions would be also discussed by EU leaders on Friday when they sign the full Association Agreement with Ukraine that was ditched by the ousted pro-Russian president in November and now lies at the heart of the raging crisis.
The punitive steps under deliberation would target Russia’s financial and defence sectors at a time when its export-dependent economy is on the verge of slipping into another recession.
US media reports said one particularly painful step under consideration would prohibit the export of technology that could help Russia explore for oil and gas in the Arctic – a major ambition of powerful state-held energy firms.
But 11 weeks of fighting that has already claimed more than 435 lives and brought factories in Ukraine’s economically vital eastern rustbelt to a virtual standstill continued today despite the ceasefire agreement.




Delhi Metro Mandi House to Central Secretariat open to public

27062014
 
 
New metro line from Mandi House to Central Secretariat open to public
Delhi Metro’s first section of phase III from Central Secretariat-Mandi House was opened to public from Thursday noon.
Union Urban Development Minister M Venkaiah Naidu flagged off the metro from Mandi House station to Central secretariat station on Thursday morning. Speaking on the occasion, Union Urban Development Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said urban transportation is a major challenge before the country and metro connectivity between Central Secretariat and Mandi House will greatly ease lives of people in Delhi.
Central Secretariat-Mandi House section has received the mandatory safety clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety.




इंडिया टुडे (अंग्रेजी) की एडिटर कावेरी बामजेई ने दिया इस्तीफा

27062014

 

 
 
 
समाचार4मीडिया
To Me
 
Today at 3:35 PM
Friday 27 June 2014
 
 
इंडिया टुडे (अंग्रेजी) की एडिटर कावेरी बामजेई ने दिया इस्तीफा
इंडिया टुडे समूह से आ रही एक बड़ी खबर के अनुसार समूह की अंग्रेजी मैगजीन इंडिया टुडे की एडिटर कावेरी बामजेई ने इस्तीफा दे दिया है…


एक ही चैनल पर अब क्षेत्रीय आधार पर दिखेंगे अलग-अलग विज्ञापन
लक्ष्य पर ध्यान केंद्रित करने को ही आज का मूल मंत्र मानते हुए स्टार इंडिया अपनी एक नई पहचान स्टार एडशार्प, जो ‘क्रांतिकारी तकनीक’ प्रसारक के रूप में झंडा गाड़ रहा है…


पूरा बचपन जुबां पर रख दिया…वाला ये इमोशनल ऐड जरूर देखिए
विज्ञापन दिग्गज पीयूष पांडे ने जब खुद एक कैंपेन में जादूई मंत्र डाले तो इसमें ऐसा कोई आश्चर्य नहीं था कि इससे पूरा देश जुड़ जाएगा…


जापान में रोबोट बने न्यूजरीडर्स
टोक्यो में रोबोट्स न्यूज रीडर्स बन गए हैं। हाल ही में टोक्यो के नेशनल म्यूजियम ऑफ इमरजिंग साइंस एंड इनोवेशन में कोडोमोरॉयड और ऑटोनेरॉयड नाम के दो ड्रॉयड्रंस को पेश किया गया…


भारतीय संपादकों के नाम एक टीवी पत्रकार का खुला पत्र
कहा जाता है कि राजनीति एक खूनरहित जंग है…और जंग खून से रंगी राजनीति लेकिन न्यूजरूम इन दोनों के बीच कहीं है…


अब चैट करने के लिए न इंटरनेट की जरूरत और न वाई-फाई की
आधुनिकीकरण की इस दुनिया में इंटरनेट एक महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभा रहा है, लेकिन यह दुनिया अब एक कदम और आगे निकल गई है…


 
शंकराचार्य स्वामी स्वरूपानंद सरस्वती साईं मंदिरों के खिलाफ अपने बयान पर कायम ही नहीं है बल्कि अब तो वे इस मुद्दे को सोशल मीडिया पर ले जाने की तैयारी कर रहे हैं…
अगर आप सोचते हैं कि सोशल मीडिया सर्किट में आपकी पहचान सुरक्षित है तो एक बार फिर सोच लीजिए…
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Sonia, Rahul summoned in National Herald case

27062014
Sonia, Rahul summoned as accused in National Herald case
Congress President Sonia Gandhi, and son Rahul Gandhi were on Thursday summoned as accused by a local court for alleged cheating and misappropriation of funds in acquiring ownership of the now-defunct daily National Herald.
Holding that complainant BJP leader Subramanian Swamy has established a prima facie case of cheating, misappropriation of funds and criminal breach of trust against the accused, Metropolitan Magistrate Gomati Manocha also issued summons to AICC Treasurer Moti Lal Vohra, General Secretary Oscar Fernandes, and Suman Dubey and Sam Pitroda, besides the Gandhis, to appear before the court on August 7.All of them are directors of Young Indian Ltd (YI), a company that was incorporated in 2010 and which took over the “debt” of Associated Journals Ltd (AJL), the publisher of National Herald.
Swamy had accused Sonia and Rahul Gandhi and others of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds by just paying Rs.50 lakh by which YI obtained the right to recover Rs. 90.25 crore which the AJL had owed to the Congress party.
He alleged that in the present scenario over Rs. 2,000 crore worth of assets also got transferred to YI, whose 76 per cent of shareholding vests with Sonia and Rahul Gandhi and the remaining shareholding of 24 per cent vests with the other accused.
“Complainant has established a prima facie case against the accused under section 403 (dishonest misappropriation of property, 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) read with section 120B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC.”
“Hence, let the accused Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Moti Lal Vohra, Oscar Fernandes, Suman Dubey and Sam Pitroda be summoned for August 7, 2014. Let the Young Indian be summoned through it’s authorised representative for the same date,” said Manocha.
Reacting to the development, Congress spokesman and a senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi said the party will respond “vigorously” to the allegations made by Swamy.
“Dr Swamy is known for his personal, motivated campaign against the Congress and you can take it that as and when we receive the papers and take the full legal advice a very vigorous response will be filed in respect of this completely false and motivated complaint.”




Holland win seventh title in women’s World Cup hockey

27062014
Netherlands win seventh title in women
Olympic gold medalists The Netherlands defeated Australia 2-0 in the title showdown to clinch the women’s hockey World Cup at the Kyocera Stadium in The Hague on Saturday.
This was the fourth time these two nations met in the women’s World Cup title encounter, and The Netherlands have won three of them.
Out of 13 women’s World Cups since its inception in 1974, the Dutch have won it seven times.
The Netherlands won both the men and women’s hockey World Cups in 1990, when they were held in different countries.
On the only occasion that the men and women’s World Cups were held together in the Dutch city of Utrecht in 1998 The Netherlands men won the title, but the women were beaten by Australia.
Captain Maartje Paumen, one of the four Dutch players winning her second World Cup gold, put her team ahead in the 12th minute with a penalty stroke conversion.
The penalty stroke was awarded when Ross Dross was brought down by the goalkeeper and a defender inside the circle.
Livewire striker Kim Lammers increased the lead by beating goalkeeper Rachael Lynch with her second try in the 29th minute, after her initial shot was blocked by the custodian.
Argentina’s star striker Luciana Aymer, playing in her fifth World Cup, scored twice in the bronze medal playoff that the South American nation won 2-1 against the USA.
Aymer scored field goals in the eighth and 21st minutes, while Lauran Crandall got the lone goal for USA in the 11th through a penalty corner.
This was Argentina’s fourth successive medal in the World Cup. They were champions in 2002 and 2010, and bagged a bronze in 2006.




UK firm honours Sachin Tendulkar with rare coin

27062014
UK firm honours Sachin Tendulkar with rare coin
Britain’s premium luxury goods brand East India Company has issued an exclusive legal tender gold coin worth 12,000 pound sterling in honour of Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.
The rare coin has been issued in honour of Tendulkar’s remarkable career spanning 24 years.”Only 210 gold coins, each weighing precisely 200g, are being issued to pay tribute to Tendulkar at a global level. Only very few will ever see this coin in the flesh, making them exceptionally rare and precious amongst thousands of fans who yearn to own a piece of the superstar’s legacy,” the London-based firm said in a statement.
“Every single 200g coin issued is a masterpiece in its own right. Exclusively presented in a custom made presentation box the coin is accompanied by an individually numbered and personally signed certificate of authenticity along with an autographed cricket bat by Sachin Tendulkar,” it added.
Tendulkar said he was honoured by the recognition.
“All my life, I have had a dream of playing cricket for India. I am very fortunate to have lived this dream for the last 24 years. I am honoured to be recognised with the issue of these special coins, which have beenimpressively designed with a lot of thought,” Tendulkar said.
The issue of a ‘legal tender’ coin is an official mark of distinction given to individuals who have accomplished great achievements in human history.
The design of the coin has been handcrafted in great detail by one of the world’s most renowned coin designers Joaquin Jimenez, currently the Chief Engraver at Monnaie de Paris.
The canvas of the coin shows the latitude lines of the globe modelled in cricket stitching to represent the international stage of cricket.
The Gateway of India features to denote Tendulkar’s home city of Mumbai, where he started and completed his illustrious career.
The cricket icon himself and his 200th Test milestone are symbolically represented by Tendulkar’s autographed bat, helmet and the number 187 which he wore during his 200th and final Test at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai in November 2013, where he announced his retirement cheered on by thousands of his devoted fans during an emotional farewell.
Sanjiv Mehta, CEO of the East India Company, said, “Historically precious metal formed an important part of The Company’s trading activities. We have been issuing our own gold and silver coins for centuries and began to do so again in 2010.
“EIC originally introduced cricket to the Commonwealth, then the British Empire, and it made immense sense for us to issue a coin for this special occasion. We feel honoured to have been given the opportunity to pay tribute to one of the Greatest Cricket Players of all time.
The Mumbai-born entrepreneur had acquired East India Company from 33 different shareholders and has spent five years to reposition the company associated with the British Raj as a modern day luxury brand.
Its first flagship ‘Fine Food’ store in Mayfair in the heart of London was launched in August 2010 and the company is now poised for expansion across theluxury real estate and restaurant sector in India.
The EIC is a multi-channel business dealing with fine food, precious metals, hospitality, publishing, fashion, art and jewelery.
The Sachin Tendulkar ‘Limited Edition’ coins are available to purchase from the East India Company’s official website.




15 killed, 18 injured in AP blaze after gas pipeline bursts

27062014
15 killed, 18 injured in AP blaze after gas pipeline bursts
15 people were killed and 18 injured when a massive blaze raged through a village in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district following a blast in an apparently leaking gas pipeline on Friday morning.
“Bodies of 13 people charred in the incident were recovered from the gutted houses.
Two others succumbed to their burn injuries while undergoing treatment at different hospitals,” Amalapuram DSP M Veera Reddy told the news agency.
18 injured people were shifted to different hospitals in the district, another police officer said, adding the deceased include five women, three girls and a boy.
The leaping flames from the state-run Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) pipeline at Nagram village in Mamidikuduru Mandal of the district quickly swept through nearby houses and coconut plantations, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
“The blast and subsequent blaze which started around 5 AM spread swiftly engulfing houses, coconut farms and vehicles parked in the vicinity. In 15 minutes everything was gutted,” the police officer said.
The fire got apparently triggered when a tea shop vendor lit up a stove, setting off a blast, IGP North Coastal Zone Atul Singh said.
A GAIL official, however, quoted its Chairman B C Tripathi as saying, “The exact cause of the blast is not immediately known. After an inquiry only we will get the details and cause of the blast.”
An 18-inch pipeline feeds gas to Lanco’s Kondapalli power plant near Vijaywada. Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has ordered a high-level inquiry headed by a Joint Secretary in his ministry.
The probe panel will have officials of Oil Industry Safety Directorate, NDMA and Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL) as members but GAIL and ONGC, from whose fields gas was being supplied, have been kept out of it.
The blaze occurred barely a few hundred metres from ONGC’s Tatipaka Refinery located at the village.
“The gas pipeline has been shut. Fire has been controlled. This is a very serious situation and I have ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident,” Pradhan, who is scheduled to visit the scene, told reporters in Delhi.
Petroleum Secretary Saurabh Chandra, GAIL Chairman B C Tripathi and ONGC Chairman D K Sarraf are scheduled to accompany him. President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi have condoled the loss of lives in the tragedy.
Modi has announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs two lakh from the PM’s Relief Fund for the next of the kin of those killed. “My thoughts (are) with the families of those who lost their lives in the GAIL pipeline fire in AP. (My) prayers (are) with the injured,” Modi said.
AP govt orders probe into GAIL pipeline mishap
The Andhra Pradesh government on Friday ordered an inquiry into the GAIL gas pipeline blast at Nagaram village in East Godavari district, in which 14 persons were killed.
“(I’ve) Ordered an inquiry and action plan to avoid these in future,” Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who is in Delhi, posted on Twitter.
“We need a preventive plan to ensure safety,” he added.
He expressed shock and grief over the deaths and extended condolences to the bereaved families. The Chief Minister is cutting short his New Delhi trip and rushing to East Godavari to reach the accident spot on Friday afternoon.
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is also expected to accompany Chandrababu to the accident site.
Naidu spoke to AP Deputy Chief Minister N Chinarajappa and East Godavari district Collector Neetu Prasad over phone and directed them to provide best medical facilities to the injured.
Chinarajappa, who has reached the spot, said that a comprehensive inquiry will be conducted in the incident.
“The state government will conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the GAIL gas pipeline blast in the district. All help will be provided to the blast-affected persons,” said Chinarajappa, who is also the state Home Minister.
He directed the hospitals where the injured were admitted to provide better medical facilities for their speedy recovery.
Meanwhile, GAIL Chairman B C Tripathi said rescue and relief operations are in progress at the mishap site in Nagaram village, according to a senior GAIL official in Rajahmundry.
“The exact cause of the blast was not immediately known. After an inquiry only we will get the details and cause of the blast,” Tripathi said, as quoted by the GAIL official.




FIFA bans Suarez for 4 months for biting opponent

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 FIFA bans Suarez for 4 months for biting opponent
FIFA banned Uruguay striker Luis Suarez from all football activities for four months on Thursday for biting an opponent at the World Cup, a punishment that rules him out of the rest of the tournament and the start of the upcoming English Premier League season.
The ban also covers Uruguay’s next nine international games, which goes beyond the next four months and rules him out of next year’s Copa America. FIFA also fined the Liverpool striker 100,000 Swiss francs ($112,000).Suarez bit the shoulder of Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during Uruguay’s 1-0 win in the group stage, but escaped unpunished as the referee did not see the incident.
“Such behavior cannot be tolerated on any football pitch and in particular not at a FIFA World Cup, when the eyes of millions of people are on the stars on the field,” Claudio Sulser, chairman of the FIFA disciplinary committee, said in a statement.
This is the third time Suarez has been banned for biting an opponent after similar incidents with Ajax in the Dutch league and Liverpool. He was given a 10-match ban by the Premier League for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic toward the end of the 2012-13 season.
The FIFA ban is effective immediately, meaning Suarez will miss Uruguay’s round-of-16 game against Colombia on Saturday.
By banning Suarez from all football activities, FIFA also prohibited Suarez from even entering a stadium at the World Cup. It also stops him from even training with Liverpool until the ban ends in late October.
“He cannot be actively involved” with a club, FIFA spokeswoman Delia Fischer said.
Suarez and the Uruguay football federation can appeal the sanctions, though Liverpool could not be formally involved in any legal challenge, Fischer said.
The four-month ban includes Liverpool’s first three Champions League group-stage games in the five-time European champion’s return after a five-year absence. Suarez will also miss the first nine matches of the Premier League.




FIFA WORLD CUP @The Italian Cultural Institue! ROUND OF 16 Matches, 28 June- 2July 2014

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Cultural Program
To Undisclosed Recipients
Today at 11:47 AM
FIFA WORLD CUP 2014@ The Italian Cultural Institute!
MATCHES of ROUND 16, 28 June – 2 July 2014
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
MATCH
DATE [IST]
TIME [IST]
 
Brazil vs Chile
SATURDAY, 28-06-2014
21:30



Colombia vs Uruguay
SUNDAY,  29-06-2014
01:30
Netherlands vs Mexico
SUNDAY,  29-06-2014
21:30



Costa Rica vs Greece
MONDAY, 30-06-2014
01:30
France vs Nigeria
MONDAY, 30-06-2014
21:30



Germany vs Algeria
TUSEDAY, 01-07-2014
01:30
Argentina vs Switzerland
TUSEDAY, 01-07-2014
21:30



Belgium vs United States
WEDNESDAY, 02-07- 2014
01:30





For more information, please visit our website www.iicnewdelhi.esteri.it/IIC_Newdelhi
Follow us on www.facebook.com/Istituto-Italiano-di-Cultura-New-Delhi

Regards,

Italian Embassy Cultural Centre
50-E, Chandragupta Marg
(Entry From Nyaya Marg)
Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110 021
Phone: 0091-11-26871901/03/04
Fax: 0091-11-26871902





IB report on NGOs in contempt of Supreme Court: Justice Sachar

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Report “misleading”, defamatory and factually incorrect   
New Delhi: Commemorating the 39th anniversary of imposition of Emergency at Indian Women’s Press Corps (IWPC), Jantar Mantar and Gandhi Peace Foundation, Justice Rajinder Sachar, former Chief Justice, Delhi High Court repeatedly expressed his outrage at the manner which the so –called Intelligence Bureau (IB) report has committed contempt court of the Supreme Court, the Delhi High Court and the Parliament. He asked, “will IB decide or law will decide?” whether or not organizations named in the report are complying with the report. He said, this agency has transgressed its jurisdiction.  

He raised the issue of Delhi High Court’s verdict on the funding of Congress and BJP by the London based Vedanta company and how protest against such a company can be deemed anti-development and anti-national.  He said, “like a sensible businessman”, Vedanta funded both the ruling party and the opposition party. It is not surprising that IB is speaking on their behalf.  

Kavitha Krishnan, noted social and women rights activist underlined how there is no conflict between development and environment but in a strange application of logic IB report will have us believe that they who defend environment are anti-national and they who speak for development are patriotic.

Sanjay Parikh, Advocate, Supreme Court who has fought most the cases named in the IB report on behalf of social organizations wondered that so far he has been pursuing these cases in national interest and for the future generations. But now IB report in its wisdom contends that they who work for environmental protection are anti-national and anti-development.

On the issue of IB report’s section on GMOs (genetically modified/engineered organisms), he said that the IB report by making specific mention of the Supreme Court cases and influencing  Court-appointed Technical Expert Committee Report (TEC) has committed contempt of court.

The IB report attributes motives to the Parliamentary Standing Committee Report which is akin to interfering with the parliamentary process.

He wondered as to IB report will justify its reliance on the opinion of Dr Ronald Herring of Cornell University who promotes GMOs and the monopoly of Monsanto. How can Government of India be blind to the design of the global GMO seed industry which wants to tame India’s regulators to approve GMOs, by-passing scientific, transparent and independent safety testing.
If India’s intelligence agencies become instruments of global corporations working against the public interest and national interest of India, our national security is under threat.

This IB report is deeply anti-national and subversive of constitutional rights of citizens in our country.  It does India no credit.

Justice Sachar noted as to how the Prime Minister has been misled by the IB’s report because it does not disclose the verdict of the Delhi High Court dated 10.09.2013 in the matter of Indian Social Action Forum and the compliance order of Ministry of Home Affairs dated October 9, 2013. Someone in IB must be held accountable for this grave act misleading the government.  

Gopal Krishna of Citizens Forum for Civil Liberties (CFCL) argued as to how does IB infer that allowing our country to become a dustbin for the hazardous wastes of the developed countries is in national interest. India generates so much hazardous wastes of its own. It has not been able to manage it till date and has no blue print to do so in future. How is allowing of hazardous wastes in the country in national interest and for national development. How can colonization of Alang beach for dumping of end-of-life ships in Indian waters by ship owning countries of the developed world be deemed an act of patriotism? IB’s report fails to recognize that Government of India has a legal obligation to ban hazardous waste trade in compliance with the Supreme Court order, UN’s Basel Convention to which India is a signatory and Ban Amendment.  If the report in question is indeed from the IB then its acceptance of Lawrence Summers’ Principle is indefensible and anti-national because it originated from a 1991 memo by Lawrence Summers, former Chief Economist of the World Bank. In this memo, he promoted dumping toxic waste in the Third World for economic reasons: “Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging more migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Least Developed Countries]? […] A given amount of health impairing pollution should be done in the country with the lowest cost, which will be the country with the lowest wages. I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that.” This principle advanced the argument of transfer of harm to the developing countries and externalization of human and environmental costs. This is the principle essentially from the colonial era which cannot be accepted in national interest.

On the issue of Par-Tapi-Narmada link project which part of Interlinking of Rivers (ILR) project, Gopal Krishna argued as to how can diversion of rivers be allowed in the name of development without learning lessons from Ara sea disaster which dried because of diversion of two Siberian rivers. How can the resolution of Kerala Assembly rejecting ILR project be ignored? How can Prof. S R Hashim Commission report of September 1999 that rejected linking of Himalayan and Peninsular rivers be forgotten? Is it in national interest to ignore the fact that Brahmaputra, Ganga and Kosi are transboundary rivers? Rivers are “veins and arteries” of nature, is it in national interest to allow their mutilation in the name of ILR? Aren’t such initiatives climate insensitive and outdated as they were conceived where climate crisis was not yet an admitted reality? IB report fails to appreciate these issues of far reaching implications.        

A Statement of Concern signed by many eminent personalities, academicians, human right activists, concerned citizens etc. from all over India against this so-called IB report was shared with the media. The statement titled “Uphold Sustainable Development! Condemn `Foreign Funded’ Destructive Development Promoted by IB expressed deep shock “at the dubious methods used by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) of the Home Ministry of India, to discredit many important social activists in the country who have committed their lives in social action for years.  For a long time, these activists have consistently questioned the destructive path of development India is following and have demanded a model of sustainable and equitable development which does not harm the environment, local communities, culture and the future generations.” The statement is enclosed.

For Details: Mb: 9818111562, 09818089660, Citizens Forum for Civil Liberties (CFCL)




GSMA recommendations to new telecom minister in India

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GSMA recommendations to new telecom minister in India
From: Telecomlead <editor@telecomlead.com> Fri, 27 Jun ’14 8:08a
To: You
Show full Headers   |   View blocked images
 
 
 




Popular Pakistani Actor Imran Abbas visits Delhi to promote Zindagi

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~ The actor visits India to talk about his association with new Hindi GEC Zindagi ~

New Delhi, June 26, 2014: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL’s) new premium mass Hindi Entertainment Channel – Zindagi, launched on June 23, 2014, aims to unite people in India and across the world with shows produces overseas. Zindagi kicks off with the collection of best shows picked from across the border that embrace universal emotions. With the launch of the channel, popular Pakistan Actor Imran Abbas, who will soon be seen on Indian Television for the first time through Zindagi, visits the capital city to meet and greet the Indian viewers.
Imran Abbas is the first actor from the talented powerhouse of actors from across the border whose shows will be aired on Zindagi, to come down to Indian to represent the Pakistan Actor Fraternity while also talking about his association with Zindagi. Imran will be seen in Zindagi’s upcoming show ‘Mera Naseeb’ opposite British Pakistani actress Sanam Saeed. The actor’s visit to Delhi strengthens the channel proposition ‘Jodey Dilon Ko’ based on the fact that even if people across the globe are culturally different, the stories of their lives are universal.
Talking about his association with Zindagi, Imran said, “It is a feeling of great honor to be present here today amongst you all as a representative of the Actor fraternity of Pakistan. We are very proud to have been associated with a channel like Zindagi. In Pakistan, we have grown up watching Bollywood films and Indian television shows. I am extremely delighted to be one of the few actors from Pakistan whose shows will be aired officially on Indian Television.”
Zindagi has lined up classic masterpieces of Pakistan for Indian audiences who will be able to tune into some beautiful shows that suit their palates. In its launch phase, the channel will woo the audiences with the best shows from Pakistan handpicked selectively to give audiences on this side of the border the sense of true cultural affinity that the both countries share. Zindagi will touch your hearts and television screens on June 23, 2014 with popular Pakistani shows like ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’, ‘Aunn Zara’ and ‘Kaash Main Teri Beti Na Hoti’.
Tune into ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’ at 8:00 pm, ‘Aunn Zara’ at 8:55 pm, ‘Kaash Main Teri Beti Na Hoti’ at 9:45 pm and ‘Kitni Girhain Baaki Hain’ at 10:15 pm, Monday to Sunday only on Zindagi!!!

About Zindagi
Zindagi is the latest channel to be launched by Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), one of India’s leading television, media and entertainment companies. ZEEL is amongst the largest producers and aggregators of Hindi programming in the world, with an extensive library housing over 1.2 lakh + hours of television content and with rights to more than 3,500 movie titles from foremost studios and of iconic film star. Through its strong presence worldwide, ZEEL entertains over 700+ million viewers across 170 countries. Zindagi is a reflection of ZEEL’s corporate philosophy of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam’ meaning “The World Is My Family’. The channel will bring international content to India with an underlying theme  that people may be culturally different, celebrating different festivals, living across borders, however, the stories of our lives which are universal bind us together and bring us closer:  ‘Zindagi….JodeyDilonKo’. Zindagi aims to showcase Real, Friendly, Vibrant and Premium stories and will engage and interact with its audience through diverse shows written by award-winning novelists, literary stalwarts and many of these shows are adapted from famous novels and books. Zindagi will be available 24 hours on both Analog and Digital (DTH and digital cable) platforms in India.

For further information
Usha Rachael Thomas
Usha.thomas@zee.esselgroup.com




INSTITUTO CERVANTES DE NUEVA DELHI – CULTURA – JUNIO 2014

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INSTITUTO CERVANTES DE NUEVA DELHI  -  CULTURA  -  JUNIO 2014  -  Web

Cine: “Argentina Fútbol Club”

Cinema: “Argentina Soccer Club”
29/06/2014  Auditorio, Instituto Cervantes. 4:30 p.m.  
Ciclo de cine “Días de Fútbol”: “Argentina Fútbol Club”Sinopsis: ¿Cuál es el origen de la identidad del fútbol en Argentina y qué elementos socioculturales la definen? El documental intentará descifrar esta incógnita a través del evento futbolístico a nivel de clubes más importante y apasionante del país, el clásico entre Boca y River. Pero, ¿representan estos clubes la verdadera identidad del fútbol argentino?
 Ver el trailer
 
“Soccer Days” Film Series: “Argentina Soccer Club”
Synopsis: The feature film, Juan Pablo Rubio’s Argentina Futbol Club, dances to a different rhythm — the tango — as it talks to fans, players, and coaches about the greatest club rivalry of them all: Boca Juniors vs. River Plate.
In Spanish with English subtitles. Free entry.



AGENDA
6/07/2014Auditorio, Instituto Cervantes. 4:30 p.m.  
Ciclo de cine de animación: “El bosque animado”Sinopsis: Todos los días el ocioso Sr. D’Abondo y su fiel criado Rosendo atraviesan la Fraga Cecebre exclamando: ‘Así dios me salve si no me parece que estuviera animado el bosque entero’. Un día unos hombres plantan un nuevo inquilino, un engreido poste de teléfono. Aquí comienzan los problemas, y si hay un experto en problemas, ese es Furi, un pequeño y simpático topo enamorado de Linda, y que un día desaparece junto con toda la colonia de topos de la fraga. Los habitantes del bosque se aliarán para solucionar los problemas de la fraga y llevar de nuevo la armonía y la felicidad al bosque.
Animation Film Series: “The Living Forest”Synopsis: Except when there’s people around, the mysterious woods of Cecebre resound with the conversation of the various animals and even the oaks, chestnuts, birches and weeping willows. But man plant who seems a leafless tree, actually a telephone pole, which also sprouts from mouth but speaks like his human makers. A scientist decides to catch one mole, Linda, for his dissertation, but his bossy wife, a ‘fashionable’ ugly bitch, takes it and wants them all to make fur-coats ‘now mink is out’; Linda’s lover Furi escapes, learns the truth which the trees heard from the telephone wires and sets out to the rescue in the human world, where everything natural is abused. Spanish.
In Spanish with English subtitles. Free entry.
 
13/07/2014Auditorio, Instituto Cervantes. 4:30 p.m.  
Ciclo de cine de animación: “Arrugas”Sinopsis: La historia está ambientada en una casa de retiro y gira en torno a la amistad entre dos hombres de edad avanzada, uno de ellos en las primeras etapas de la enfermedad de Alzheimer.
Animation Film Series: “Wrinkles”Synopsis:An astonishing cocktail of friendship, resistance and life set among the unexpected landscape of an elderly care facility
In Spanish with English subtitles. Free entry.


 
COMING SOON
PRÓXIMAMENTE 
Instituto Cervantes
Centenario de Julio CortázarOne hundred years of Julio Cortázar

Instituto Cervantes
Centenario de Octavio PazOne hundred years of Octavio Paz
Instituto Cervantes
Homenaje a Gabriel García MárquezTribute to Gabriel García Márquez
 EL INSTITUTO CERVANTES
EN EL MUNDO
Madrid: Encuentro con Enrique Vila-Matas(+)

Madrid: Meeting with Enrique Vila-Matas (+)
 
Chicago: Exposición “Latino/Us Cotidiano” (+)

Chicago: Exhibition “Latino/Us Cotidiano” (+)
Agenda




Mitaali Nayyar to represent India at 7th World Karate

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Gurgaon’s Mitaali Nayyar to represent India at 7th World Karate Federation Youth Cup in Umag, Croatia to be held from 30th June to 6th July.

At a young age of 13, Mitaali Nayyar who studies at Pathways Aravali and is a Karate student at Sanshinkan Gurgaon has been selected by the World Karate Federation to represent India at the 7th World Karate Federation Youth Cup in Umag, Croatia to be held from 30th June to 6th July.

Please find the following attached:
  1. Detailed Press Release
  2. Selection Letter from Karate Association of India for Mitaali Nayyar
  3. Selection Letter from Karate Association of India for Sensei Yashpal Singh Kalsi as Head Coach of India
  4. Photograph of Mitaali and her Coach Sensei Yashpal Singh Kalsi 
For Further Information Please Contact:
Sensei Yashpal Singh Kalsi
Chief Instructor
Mobile: +91 9312877677
Email: yashpali@hotmail.com
www.sanshinkan.org

Thanks and Regards,
Shikher Gupta




CTC Group strengthens its services by opening a laboratory in India

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Friday 26th of June, 2014,
The French group CTC, worldwide leader in quality assurance for leather, leather goods, footwear, textile and fashion industries, continues to serve manufacturers and brands globally with its international expansion and development of its Asian Hub, strengthening its services with the opening of a laboratory in India.
CTC India offers services and expertise in physical & chemical analysis, PPE testing & certification, inspections, social, technical and factory audits.
Following CTC’s arrival in India in 2011 and the subsequent development of its inspection teams in Delhi, Calcutta and Chennai, CTC is enlarging its scope of services with the opening of a new laboratory in Delhi. This new laboratory, operational since the beginning 2014, will allow CTC greater efficiency and reactivity to its client’s global needs. The laboratory will cover all tests carried out on consumer goods and personal protective equipment.
CTC India laboratory, specialized in leather testing, is located in a strategic region that has seen a rapid growth in leather goods along with a strong demand of quality control from the importers and exporters in this sector. The 7,600 square feet’slaboratory is entirely dedicated to certifying the quality of footwear, PPE goods, leather materials and goods. CTC ensures its commitment to high quality services with an accredited laboratory and international standards.
“The opening of the laboratory emphasizes a new trend in the leather sector in India. We are willing to make a significant contribution in the footwear, PPE goods, leather and leather goods domains in the Indian market by guaranteeing to our clients the quality of the goods.” says Puneet SINGH, India Operational & Sales Manager.
A cocktail dinner will be organisedon Friday the 4th of July at the Taj Palace, New Delhi, to celebrate the opening of their new laboratory in India. The event will gather the Council of Leather Exports, buyers, exporters and manufacturers of leather footwear and goods. On this occasion, Jean-Luc CHAVEROT, Development & International Director and Pierre BEAUPOIL, Vice Director for Development from CTC group would be visiting India to attend the event.

About CTC group
For over 100 years, CTC has been assisting manufacturers, distributors and brands from footwear, PPE  goods, leather material, leather goods, textile and fashion industries thanks to its unique expertise and research campus based in Lyon, France.
With a wide range of services including quality assurance and CSR programs, audits, inspections, testing, certification and accreditation, consultancy and training, CTC covers the global needs of its clients from the product development to manufacturing, sourcing and launch on the market. Most of our clients are from fashion, luxury, sport, leisure and personal protective equipment sectors.
For further information about the company please contact: Mr. Puneet SINGH Operational and Sales Manager – India Email: psingh@ctcgroupe.comMobile: +91 98 10 94 91 70




Madhuri Dixit, UNICEF Celebrity Advocate launches Mamta Abhiyan in Madhya Pradesh

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Madhuri Dixit, UNICEF Celebrity Advocate launches Mamta Abhiyan in Madhya Pradesh
From: Sonia Sarkar <ssarkar@unicef.org> Thu, 26 Jun ’14 9:21p
To: <recipients undisclosed>

 
 
Greetings Please find enclosed video of UNICEF celebrity advocate, Madhuri Dixit launching Govt. of Madhya Padesh programme to curb maternal mortality .
Also please find the speech and press release enclosed.
———————————————————————————————————–
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and UNICEF celebrity advocate, Madhuri Dixit launch communication campaign
Bhopal, India, 26 June 2014 – Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and Popular Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, today launched a communication campaign ‘Mamta Abhiyan’ which is aimed at saving the lives of newborns and their mothers, in the state of Madhya Pradesh.
The campaign will  not only focus on promoting behaviors that can save the lives of mothers and children, but will also mobilize the frontline workers and advocate with elected representatives to create an enabling environment which prioritizes maternal and child health issues in Madhya Pradesh. The essence of this campaign is to highlight 12 cost effective and simple behaviors which can have a positive impact on maternal and child deaths.
At the launch, Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh shared “The government is committed to reducing maternal deaths and infant deaths in Madhya Pradesh and State will do whatever is needed for the same. Shri Chauhan along with Madhuri Dixit launched the new campaign logo, campaign theme song, campaign videos to facilitate discussions around health issues in villages and the communication strategic guidance note for the elected representatives.
Madhuri Dixit in her new role, praised the efforts of the Government of Madhya Pradesh and shared that it was inspiring for her to learn about MP State Government’s partnership with UNICEF and the many initiatives which have been collectively undertaken for saving the lives of newborns and their mothers.
“I wholeheartedly support ‘Mamta Abhiyan’ which will help save lives of children and women. I understand that this campaign is about communicating simple lifesaving messages to all caregivers, and parents with love respect and protection (Sneh, Samman and Suraksha). “
Everyone needs to understand that most maternal and neonatal deaths can be prevented through proven and simple interventions which are part of this campaign, Madhuri added.
Madhuri Dixit was also awarded ‘Mamta Ratan’ award by Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chauhan.
Trevor Clark, Chief of UNICEF, Madhya Pradesh shared ” The State has seen progress in the decline of MMR and IMR, but there is a need to increase the pace of the change and we are glad and thankful to Madhuri Dixit, for joining hands with us  and supporting this process which I am sure which will yield positive results.”
Narottam Mishra, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Sharad Jain, State Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Anthony JC DeSa, Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh, Pravir Krishn, Principal Secretary Health & Family Welfare also spoke at the event.
Madhya Pradesh has infant mortality rate of 56 per thousand which means 296 infants die every day in the State.  Madhya Pradesh has maternal mortality ratio of 296 per one lakh live birth of children which means that 12 women die each day in the State of Madhya Pradesh due to pregnancy related complications.
For more information, please contact
UNICEF India:
Ms Geetanjali Master #9818105861, gmaster@uncief.org
Ms Sonia Sarkar #9810170289, ssarkar@uncief.org
UNICEF Madhya Pradesh
Mr. Anil Gulati, #91650010849, agulati@uncief.org
Kind regards,
Sonia Sarkar
Communication Officer (Media) , UNICEF India
Tel (+91) 9810170289,9891861445;
Email: ssarkar@unicef.org

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Thai military ruler sets election for Oct. 2015

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Thailand’s military ruler says he expects a parliamentary election to be held around October of next year in preparation for a return to democratic rule.
Thai Army chief Prayut Chan-o-cha is the Chairman of the National Council for Peace and Order. He spoke about the country’s future political process in a televised speech on Friday.
Prayut explained that a team of experts has been working on a draft interim constitution that will be adopted next month.
The general said a legislature will be set up in September to launch an interim government. He added that provincial representatives will launch a council for political reform in October.
Prayut said the process will be completed in 2015 to pave the way for a creation of an elected government. He called for the people’s understanding and cooperation.
The Thai military took power in a coup d’etat on May 22nd. It continues to increase its grip on power by detaining people who protest military rule.




G S Sandhu : union Budget will focus only on growth revival.

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union Budget will focus only on growth revival. Stating this in Mumbai today Financial Services Secretary G S Sandhu said reviving the economy to a high growth path is the single theme driving the Budget preparations.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a Banking Summit, Sandhu, said issues of all the important sectors including power, mining, coal, diamond and jewellery and shipping are being examined. Meetings are being held on all sectors.
He, however, added that only a few important things will be covered in the maiden Budget of the Narendra Modi government.
The Budget will be presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on July 10.




35th National Games in Kerala from Jan 31 to Feb 14, 2015

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35th National Games will be held in different venues of Kerala from 31st of January to 14th February,next year. The dates were announced Indian Olympic Association President N Ramachandran in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Sarbanand Sonowal,who was present during the occasion, formally gave approval to the dates.
Speaking on the occasion,Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said construction on the National Games Village,which can accommodate 5000 people is almost complete.He said the Centre has allocated 120 crore rupees for the National Games .The State Government is spending crores of rupees to build up world class sports facilities,for the smooth conduct of the National Games.




Iraq launches operation against militants in Tikrit

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Iraqi troops backed by helicopter gunships launched an operation today aimed at dislodging militants from the northern city of Tikrit. After watching much of Iraq slip out of government hands, military officials sought to portray the push that began before dawn as a significant step that puts the army back on the offensive.
They said the operation includes commandos, tanks and helicopters, as well as pro-government fighters and volunteers. Tikrit residents reported clashes in the city, but the extent of the fighting is not clear.
US military is flying “a few” armed drones over Iraq’s capital in order to defend diplomats and American troops serving there, a senior US official has confirmed.
“For the last 24 to 48 hours, we’ve started that,” media reports
further the decision to attack Sunni extremists from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS/ISIL) would have to be sanctioned by President Barack Obama. Therefore, there are currently no plans to use the drones in airstrikes, officials said.
US forces in Iraq are focused on working out the state of the Iraqi military and the Sunni extremists on the battlefield. There are around 500 American military personnel there who are drawn from special operations forces. A fresh batch of 180 military advisors have also just arrived.
In addition to the drones over Baghdad, piloted and unmanned aircraft are carrying out 30-35 surveillance flights a day, some of which include F-18 fighter jets that are flying from the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier in the Gulf.




60th anniversary of Panchsheel treaty

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India has reaffirmed its commitment for stronger relations with China on the basis of Panchsheel treaty. Addressing the trilateral summit meeting to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Panchsheel treaty at Beijing this evening, vice-President Hamid Ansari said India and China which are strategic partners should have a better understanding of each other. He said greater interaction between people of two countries is necessary for stronger bilateral relations.
The Vice-President called upon India, China and Myanmar, signatories of Panchsheel, to raise above their differences and work for common good.
Mr Ansari said India believes that globalization should lead to a federation of friendly and interdependent nations. He stressed the need to evolve a framework to find solutions to the challenges faced by people at global level. In this context, Panchsheel helps to enhance mutural understanding and tackle transnational threats more effectively.
The Vice President said the five principles of peaceful existence of Panchsheel is Asia’s major contribution towards good international relations and is relevant even in the present times. He said Panchsheel was accepted by almost all countries.
Chinese President Xi Jinping in his address said asked India and Myanmar to explore the ways to promote Panchsheel in the new era to tackle challenges such as terrorist, global warming, cyber security. He said the era of domination by any country is no more relevant in the present era and one should respect the sovereignty of other countries.
Myanmar President Thein Sein in his address exuded confidence that Panchsheel would play a major role in the days to come and it forms the cornerstone his country’s foreign policy.
India has rejected Chinese claim on Arunachal Pradesh. Reacting strongly to reports that China has in its recent map shown Arunachal Pradesh and South China Sea as its territory, Spokesperson in the External Affairs Ministry said today that cartographic depiction does not change reality on the ground.
Asserting that Arunachal is an integral part of the country, he said this fact that has been conveyed to Chinese authority at several occasions including at the very highest level.
He also indicated that this may be raised by the Indian delegation, headed by Vice President Hamid Ansari, currently in China. He said it is normal practice to raise all issues of bilateral concerns.
Asked about reports of fresh incursions by Chinese troops in Ladakh region, the Spokesperson neither confirmed nor denied such incident. He said Indian soldiers guarding country’s borders are capable to secure our land.






US: Mexican chopper crosses border

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Mexican military helicopter ventured around 100 yards (meters) into the United States and fired two shots, the US border security agency said Friday in a claim quickly denied by Mexico. The intrusion took place Thursday at 5:45 am (1245 GMT) when “a Mexican law enforcement helicopter crossed… north into Arizona,” said a statement from US Customs and Border Protection.”Two shots were fired from the helicopter, but no injuries or damage to US property were reported.”
The agency said the incident, which occurred some eight miles (13 kilometers) southwest of the village of San Miguel, on the Tohono O´odham Indian Nation, “is currently under investigation.” The Mexican helicopter was on “a law enforcement operation near the border,” it added. Local media reported the helicopter was part of a counternarcotics mission.
But criminal investigator Tomas Zeron de Lucio of Mexico´s attorney general´s office denied the Mexican helicopter had crossed the border, and said it was suspected drug runners who had shot at the aircraft.
“The operation was on the border… I do not think we crossed the border, because we brought our navigation systems,” he told reporters.
Earlier this year, a Mexican helicopter crossed the border near Sasabe, also in Arizona. media agencies





Countdown of launch of PSLV C-23 begins

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Countdown for launch of ISRO’s PSLV C23 carrying a French Earth observation satellite along with four others from Singapore, Canada and Germany on June the 30, commenced at the spaceport of Sriharikota today.
ISRO in a statement said the 49-hour countdown of Mission started at 08:52 AM this morning at Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to witness the launch of the satellite. AIR correspondent reports that ISRO has so far launched 35 satellites of foreign countries onboard its workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle.




Ukraine asks for concrete steps from Russia

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KIEV: Ukraine on Saturday sought concrete steps from Russia to back up a tenuous truce it extended with pro-Moscow rebels.
President Petro Poroshenko returned triumphant from Brussels on Friday having opened the way to Ukraine´s eventual membership in the European Union by signing the final chapters of a landmark free trade and political association accord.
The 1,200-page tome spells out the minute details of the terms under which the splintered ex-Soviet nation will slip from the Kremlin´s embrace and tie its future to European economic standards and values on human rights.
But Poroshenko had ordered his top security chiefs to meet him at the airport on landing in order to make a fateful decision about prolonging an expiring truce with rebels who have seized effective control of Ukraine´s industrial east.
The 12-week insurgency has killed more than 440 people and is viewed by both Kiev and its Western allies as Russian President Vladimir Putin´s retribution for the February toppling of a leader who had ditched the very EU accord Poroshenko had signed in Brussels in favour of closer ties to the Kremlin.
Poroshenko ultimately decided to extend the shacky ceasefire until Monday evening under the condition that Russia requires the insurgents to return border crossings to Ukrainian forces and set up a monitoring mechanism for a long-term truce.
The Ukrainian military on Saturday reported sporadic attacks by pro-Russian gunmen that resulted in no casualties and appeared to be on the decline in comparison to previous days.





Sarajevo marks 100 years since killing that ignited WWI

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Sarajevo marks 100 years since killing that sparked WWI
Sarajevo on Saturday was to mark 100 years since the assassination that sparked World War I,  WWI began on June 28, 1914 a Bosnian Serb nationalist shot dead the Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife,  gave rise  to a chain of events that put  Europe´s great powers into four years of war.
Many nation marked the centenary on the sidelines of an EU summit on Thursday with a low-key ceremony at Belgium´s Ypres, where German forces used mustard gas for the first time in 1915.The deep Balkan divisions stirred up by the anniversary have made it impossible for heads of state and government to come together at the site of the assassination in the Bosnian capital.
Wildly differing interpretations of 20th-century history endure in a region where the scars of the wars that marked the break-up of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, unleashing centuries of resentment and divisions, are still fresh.
And a particularly divisive figure is the archduke´s assassin, the 19-year-old Serb nationalist Gavrilo Princip.
Muslim majority in today´s Sarajevo see Princip as a terrorist who unleashed calamity, the Serbs regard him as a hero seeking to liberate the Slavs from the Austro-Hungarian occupier.
Resenting the notion that Serb nationalism was to blame for triggering the Great War, Bosnian Serb leaders have refused to join the main Sarajevo commemorations that will feature a late afternoon performance by the Vienna Philharmonic, the symbolic envoy from the capital of a once-loathed empire. Instead they will hold their own early afternoon ceremonies, unveiling monuments to Princip in a Serb area of Sarajevo as well as in eastern Bosnia and in Belgrade.
Princip´s brazen attack 100 years ago dragged almost half the world´s population into a cycle of violence of unprecedented scale and intensity.  Nearly 52 months, it left some 10 million dead and 20 million injured and maimed on its battlefields, while millions more civilians perished under occupation, through disease, hunger or deportation.
Four of the world´s most powerful empires — Russian, German, Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman — collapsed as the world map was redrawn and Europe´s ruin cleared the way for the rise of a new superpower, the United States.
And World War I fanned the emergence of many of the ideologies that fashioned the 20th century and its conflicts, including anti-colonialism, Communism, Fascism and Nazism.
Media agencies





Saina enters Australian Super series final

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Saina Nehwal enters  Australian super series final beating world no 2  Wang Shixian of China.
Saina beat Chinese  Wang  21:19 , 16:21,21:15 in Sydney on Saturday as per media reports.
Saina  Nehwal ranked six in world won this marathon match which  lasted one hour and sixteen minutes.
Saina Nehwal stands just a win away from clinching her second title of the year after she stunned world number two and top seed Chinese Shixian Wang in a gruelling three-game semifinal contest of the USD 750,000 Star Australian Super Series in Sydney on Saturday.
Sixth-seeded Saina prevailed 21-19 16-21 21-15 in a marathon match, which lasted an hour and 16 minutes.
“Beat world number 2 wang shixian in a tough 3 game match. Through to the final of the Australian Open super series!” tweeted the Indian after recording her fifth overall win against the Chinese nemesis, which took their head-to-head record to 5-3.
Saina, who had ended up on the losing side in their previous two encounters — the most recent being the All England Championships, showed tremendous grit to outsmart the top-seeded Wang. This was evenly-contested battle between the two players, who are pretty familiar with each others tactics.
In the opening game, it went neck and neck till 19-19 before Saina broke away to seal the issue in her favour. Not the one to give up easily, Wang roared back in the second game. The two players were even till the 16th point but Wang broke off from that point to draw level with Saina.
Saina proved in the final battle of attrition and won the deciding third game rather comprehensively to enter the final. Saina had earlier this year won the India Open Grand Prix Gold in Delhi.




World Cup 2014 enters knock out stage

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World Cup 2014 enters knock out stage


Last 16 teams at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil are decided, the knockout rounds get underway on Saturday when Brazil take on Chile. The Round-of-16 of the Football World Cup begins tonight. In the first two matches, Brazil will clash with Chile at Belo Horizonte at 9:30 PM Indian Time, while Uruguay will take on Colombia at Rio de Janeiro at 1:30 AM.
All India Radio will broadcast live commentary on both the matches. It can be heard on FM Rainbow, Rajdhani and national channel. You can also listen to the preview of the matches in our major bulletins at 2 PM and 9 PM.
The  casualties from the group stages include reigning champions Spain as well as Italy, England and Portugal.
Costa Rica were the surprise package in the first round, coming through on top of a group including the Three Lions, the Azzurri and South America’s Uruguay.
Schedule for the last 16, the first stage where a loss categorically means returning home:
World Cup 2014: Last 16 Schedule
June 28 9pm PST Brazil vs. Chile
June 28 1am PST(Sunday) Colombia vs. Uruguay
June 29 9pm PST Netherlands vs. Mexico
June 29 1am PST(Sunday) Costa Rica vs. Greece
June 30 9pm PST France vs. Nigeria
June 30 1am PST(Sunday). Germany vs. Algeria
July 1 9pm PST Argentina vs. Switzerland
July 1 1am PST(Sunday). Belgium vs. USA

Netherlands  so far looked one of the best sides in the tournament, winning all three of their games including a 5-1 demolition of Spain.They take on a strong Mexico side who held Brazil to a draw in Group A—in one of the last 16′s best match ups, which could well go to extra time or penalties.
Colombia will be buoyed by the suspension of Uruguay’s Luis Suarez, per FIFA World Cup, and should see themselves through to the quarter-finals as a result. They have been one of the tournament’s standout teams so far, impressing with their attacking flair.
One of Costa Rica or Greece will also make the last eight, having both upset the odds to make it out of the group stages to the surprise of many.
To some  people’s favourites for the competition, Argentina, face a Switzerland side who have bucked their previous trends in the tournament so far, conceding plenty but also scoring more goals than many had expected.Lionel Messi should have enough to inspire his side to victory but the Swiss have shown their quality and will present a stiff test.
Apart from Spain, most of the pre-tournament favourites still remain and the quality of football is likely to only get better as the competition moves forward and last-eight places are on the line.




Trustees of Sagar Media Inc

28062014

Nidhi Gambhir's photo.

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Builder mafia-MCD nexus responsible for building collapse deaths
From: Media Cell AAP1 <mediacellaap1@gmail.com> Sat, 28 Jun '14 6:18p
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Show full Headers
                                                                             Saturday, June 28
The nexus between the builder mafia and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi is solely responsible for the collapse of a four storey building in North Delhi, which has claimed atleast 10 innocent lives.
It is unbelievable and extremely shocking that the North Delhi Municipal Corporation had shut its eyes to the digging for construction purposes going on a site adjacent to this 50 year-old building in Inderlok near Sarai Rohilla, which ultimately led to the collapse of this dilapidated structure.
The builder mafia is spreading its influence across all parts of the national capital and all the three corporations which form a part of the MCD appear to be actively conniving by allowing their illegal activities to go unchecked.
Nothing can be more shameful that the civic body which controls majority of the country’s national capital - the MCD, is today synonymous with corruption and treats the people living here with disdain and considers them to be helpless and at its mercy.
Eyewitnesses revealed horrific accounts about the activities of the builder mafia to the AAP leaders who went to the site of the building collapse.
AAP national convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, MLA from Sadar Bazar Somdutt and party leader Ashutosh spoke to the victims families and people living there.
The Aam Aadmi Party demands that the Lieutenant Governor should immediately order a judicial probe into how the building collapse took place to find out the reality and fix responsibility by ensuring exemplary punishment for those guilty of lapses that led to this unpardonable incident.
The inquiry announced by the North Delhi Municipal Corporation is meaningless and will serve no purpose since the corporation which is itself responsible for the safety of buildings in its jurisdiction cannot be expected to come out with a fair and impartial finding.
The corporation needs to answer whether the buildings in the area were inspected at all ? Whether any checks were carried out in the buildings unsafe for living ? and if so, why people living there were not shifted out ?
It is common knowledge among the residents of the national capital that the MCD is known for its inefficiency, unprofessional and its corrupt style of functioning.
It has a consistent record of miserable and multiple failures in carrying out all its duties – ranging from the basic work of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene to the specialized work of checking safety of buildings and other engineering tasks.
The LG should wake up before it is too late and should rein in these erring corporations.
Regards
AAP Media Cell

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Saina Nehwal wins Australian Super Series

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Saina Nehwal wins Australian Super Series
Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal produced a dominating performance to lift her second title of the season, winning the USD 750,000 Star Australian Super Series after beating Spain’s Carolina Marin in the summit clash in Sydney on Sunday.
The sixth seeded Indian, who had won the India Open Grand Prix Gold earlier this year, prevailed 21-18 21-11 in a 43-minute contest which left her richer by USD 56,000.
The 24-year-old Saina, who enjoyed a 1-0 head-to-head record against Marin going into Sunday’s match, logged the first point and displayed some deft net play against her rival, stroking in some delectably timed volleys to take a 5-2 lead in the opening game.
But the 21-year-old Marin was not the one to give up easily and showed just why she is considered one of the most feisty players on the circuit.
She narrowed the gap to 6-8 but seemed distinctly out of her comfort zone every time Saina dragged her towards the net.
Also, Marin didn’t help her cause by committing a service error to gift an easy point to Saina, who went into the interval leading 11-7 after an intriguing rally which ended with the Spaniard smashing the shuttle wide.
Marin raised her game and the decibel levels after the break but Saina was quick to counter-attack and returned her rival’s attempted smashes with quiet intensity.
In between, Marin played some fine strokes but they never came consistently enough as Saina made it 17-12.
Marin’s dogged determination was there to be seen in every point she played for but that alone was never going to be enough to upstage a composed Saina.
The Indian, who didn’t seem affected at all by Marin’s aggressive outpouring of emotions after every claimed point, sealed the opening game 21-18 after her world number 11 rival smashed one into the net 23 minutes into the match.
In the second game, Marin’s determination helped her take a 3-1 lead to start with but it was not too long before Saina came back into the fray, this time on the back of some well-placed strokes from the baseline.
Perhaps taking a cue from Marin, Saina too let some emotion show as she clenched her fist and shouted ‘come on’ after every clinched point.
But one of her screams came about in the middle of a rally, prompting Marin to complain to the chair umpire, who merely asked her to continue.
The distraction didn’t do any good to Marin as Saina raced to a 11-4 lead against the Spaniard, who looked to be in disarray.
After the interval, Saina kept up the pressure, regularly inducing errors from Marin, who struggled to maintain the intensity she displayed in the opening game.
Dominating the proceedings, Saina produced some of her trademark smashes to further demoralise her rival, whose shoulders had dropped by that stage.
But there was to be some moments of drama before the win came about. Leading 19-9, Saina challenged a line call that went against her but replays showed that the shuttle had in fact landed wide.
The Indian made another mistake while playing the very next point as she buried an attempted smash into the net.
But Saina made amends quite quickly and clinched the title after Marin lobbed a shuttle wide.

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Li and U Thein stands for cooperation

29062014

China and Myanmar has vow to co-operate in trade, energy and infrastructure as per the agreement reached between the two countries.Cooperation agreement reached between the two countries on visit of President of Myanmar state visit from 27 June to 30 June at the invitation of Chinese premier.
Furthe Li said China will work to build economy corridor with relevant countries China, Bangladesh Myanmar,,India to strengthen economic. trade under One belt One road.Silk route of ages is new reality.
Silk road Economic belt Are the concept put forth by Chinese President.




Saina Nehwal wins Australian Super Series

29062014
Saina Nehwal wins Australian Super Series
Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal produced a dominating performance to lift her second title of the season, winning the USD 750,000 Star Australian Super Series after beating Spain’s Carolina Marin in the summit clash in Sydney on Sunday.
The sixth seeded Indian, who had won the India Open Grand Prix Gold earlier this year, prevailed 21-18 21-11 in a 43-minute contest which left her richer by USD 56,000.
The 24-year-old Saina, who enjoyed a 1-0 head-to-head record against Marin going into Sunday’s match, logged the first point and displayed some deft net play against her rival, stroking in some delectably timed volleys to take a 5-2 lead in the opening game.
But the 21-year-old Marin was not the one to give up easily and showed just why she is considered one of the most feisty players on the circuit.
She narrowed the gap to 6-8 but seemed distinctly out of her comfort zone every time Saina dragged her towards the net.
Also, Marin didn’t help her cause by committing a service error to gift an easy point to Saina, who went into the interval leading 11-7 after an intriguing rally which ended with the Spaniard smashing the shuttle wide.
Marin raised her game and the decibel levels after the break but Saina was quick to counter-attack and returned her rival’s attempted smashes with quiet intensity.
In between, Marin played some fine strokes but they never came consistently enough as Saina made it 17-12.
Marin’s dogged determination was there to be seen in every point she played for but that alone was never going to be enough to upstage a composed Saina.
The Indian, who didn’t seem affected at all by Marin’s aggressive outpouring of emotions after every claimed point, sealed the opening game 21-18 after her world number 11 rival smashed one into the net 23 minutes into the match.
In the second game, Marin’s determination helped her take a 3-1 lead to start with but it was not too long before Saina came back into the fray, this time on the back of some well-placed strokes from the baseline.
Perhaps taking a cue from Marin, Saina too let some emotion show as she clenched her fist and shouted ‘come on’ after every clinched point.
But one of her screams came about in the middle of a rally, prompting Marin to complain to the chair umpire, who merely asked her to continue.
The distraction didn’t do any good to Marin as Saina raced to a 11-4 lead against the Spaniard, who looked to be in disarray.
After the interval, Saina kept up the pressure, regularly inducing errors from Marin, who struggled to maintain the intensity she displayed in the opening game.
Dominating the proceedings, Saina produced some of her trademark smashes to further demoralise her rival, whose shoulders had dropped by that stage.
But there was to be some moments of drama before the win came about. Leading 19-9, Saina challenged a line call that went against her but replays showed that the shuttle had in fact landed wide.
The Indian made another mistake while playing the very next point as she buried an attempted smash into the net.
But Saina made amends quite quickly and clinched the title after Marin lobbed a shuttle wide.




Colombia beat Uruguay 2-0

29062014
Uruguay proud despite Colombia defeat

Colombia beat Uruguay 2-0 at the Maracana
FIFA WC: Colombia beat Uruguay 2-0 to reach quarterfinals for 1st time
James Rodriguez hero of Colombia beat Uruguay 2-0 at the Maracana on Saturday to reach the World Cup.This is first quarter-finals for Colombia where they will face Brazil. Rodriguez broke the deadlock shortly before the half hour with a breath-taking strike, chesting the ball down and volleying home from 25 yards. The 22-year-old Monaco playmaker added a second early in the second half, sending him to the top of the scorers chart with five goals and confirming his emergence as one of the players of the tournament.
His goals took Colombia into the quarter-finals for the first time, meaning the northern Brazilian city of Fortaleza will turn completely yellow when Jose Pekerman’s side play the hosts on July 4.
Uruguay’s fans sported Suarez masks and brandished banners in support of their wayward star, who flew home to Montevideo on Friday, while his shirt was hung up in the Uruguay changing room.
Rodriguez top scorer of the World Cup scoring charts on five goals and many of Europe´s biggest clubs are looking to sign emerging star. First goal of the tournament as he took the ball down on his chest with his back to goal, make move hitting to goal post. Second was a simple tap in after Juan Cuadrado headed Pablo Armero´s deep cross back into the danger zone.
Colombia will next play Brazil in Fortaleza on Friday in the last eight





Brazil plays Chile Lose in penality shoots

29062014

Brazil through as Chile pay the penalty

Brazil have squeezed through to the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup™ on penalties after a tense, thrilling 1-1 draw with Chile at the Estadio Mineirao in Belo Horizonte. Gonzalo Jara hit the post with the decisive kick, while Julio Cesar saved two, to give Brazil a 3-2 win in the shootout and send the valiant Chileans home.
Chile had only made it this far at the World Cup on three previous occasions and, having been beaten by Brazil on each of those, knew that the odds and omens were heavily stacked against them. The early stages of the match suggested that this one, too, would closely follow that historical pattern, with Marcelo snatching on an early half-cleared corner to curl in a powerful left-foot shot that flashed just wide of the left-hand post.
It was a signal of intent from the hosts and, after seeing penalty appeals turned down at both ends, the Mineirao crowd were able to cheer a Seleção opener after 18 minutes. Neymar was its architect, curling in an inswinging corner from the left that was bundled home from close range by David Luiz – with a little help from Jara – after Thiago Silva had won the initial near-post header.
Brazil were in the ascendancy and, with the fans buoyant, Neymar almost doubled their lead on 26 minutes, outpacing Gary Medel on a surge into the box only to drag his left-foot shot wide of the far post. All that positive work was soon to be undone, though, with Chile levelling six minutes later due to a moment of defensive slackness.
Hulk and Marcelo were the guilty parties, with their poorly executed throw-in routine near the byline allowing Eduardo Vargas to steal in and square for Alexis Sanchez. Unmarked and scarcely able to believe his luck, the Barcelona winger had time and space to pick his spot and duly measured a low-right foot shot into the far corner of the net from 12 yards.
Moments of hesitancy at the back continued to plague Luiz Felipe Scolari’s side, but they remained the game’s most positive attacking force and came close to re-establishing their lead on three more occasions prior to the break. First, after good play down the right by Dani Alves and Oscar, Neymar saw his goal-bound header deflected wide, then Fred shot over from close range and a 30-yard Alves effort forced a fine tip-over from Claudio Bravo.
The Seleção fans continued to roar their heroes forward, but while they were cheering again nine minutes into the second half, Hulk’s effort was ruled out for use of the arm in the build-up to him scuffing the ball home. At the other end, Brazil were indebted to goalkeeper Cesar for a wonderful reflex save, somehow diverting behind a Charles Aranguiz effort that seemed destined for the back of the net.
Chile continued to make life difficult for their hosts and opportunities began to dry up, with Bravo saving well from Neymar and Hulk on the occasions when they did break through. Extra time was therefore called upon to settle the outcome, but after Bravo again denied Hulk and substitute Mauricio Pinilla struck the bar, the stalemate remained.
That left penalties to decide this enthralling contest, and even that was impossible to predict, with Jara ultimately the fall guy after Luiz, Marcelo and Neymar had all found the net for Brazil.
David  Luiz put Brazil ahead by putting the Goal  onto ball from corner from Neymer at eighteen minutes of the game.
Sanchez does equalizer for Chile.
half time both team scoring each goal are in state of stalemate.
Both team playing with great energy and the skill of team shall help team to gain.
Brazilian Hulk get yellow card as ball touches his ball which gets in goal post.
Both Brazil and Chile quick to get possession of the ball making it speedy action oriented game a treat to watch players clashing and colliding.
Stalemate continues in second half and further thirty nib uses game  extended but the two teams played wonderful  game and could not get to the result favoring either  of the two in extended 30minutes.
PenAlity shoots to get the results  began.
David score first goal  for Brazil in penaLity kick shot.
Second turn of Chile goalless.
Brazil missed third chance.
Chile Sanchuz  unable as goalkeeper saves..
Brazil score gaol.
Chile  score the gaol.
Bra2chi1
Brazil unable to score.
Chiles score gaol.
Brazil Neymer score.  goal.
Chilegoaless.
Brazil won by penaLity shoot out and moves in quarter finals. Brazil three penaLity to Chile two penaLity shoots gave Brazil win.

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GOPIO NEWS SPECIAL BULLETIN -- JUNE 30, 2014

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GOPIO NEWS
SPECIAL BULLETIN
June 30, 2014
A Publication of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)
Issue: XIII-5June 30, 2014
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In This Issue
GOPIO ORGANIZES SUCCESSFUL 25th ANNIVERSARY JUBILEE CONVENTION
GOPIO LIFE MEMBERSHIP AND CHAPTER FORMATION
EDITORIAL BOARD
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NOTE: GOPIO News is a FREE bi-monthly newsletter of GOPIO International, based in the USA. We need your help in reaching out more NRIs/PIOs around the world. Please go to the bottom of the news bulletin and click theFORWARD button and type e-mail addresses of your friends and relatives. One could also subscribe this newsletter by visiting www.gopio.net and type in the e-mail address. All preivous issues of GOPIO News are provided at GOPIO News Archives. If you do not wish to receive this newsletter in future, please click SafeUnsubscribe at the end of this newsletter.

GOPIO is a community supported non-profit organization taking up issues of the Indian Diaspora and attempting to unifying the community in its common causes. Support GOPIO by becoming a Life Member or chapter member. Once can become Life Member online by visiting http://www.gopio.net/online_membership.html.
GOPIO ORGANIZES SUCCESSFUL 25th ANNIVERSARY JUBILEE  CONVENTION 
  
The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International) has concluded its 25th Anniversary (Jubilee) Convention 2014 in Port of Spain in Trinidad & Tobago, with a memorable and successful celebration from 27th May through 30th May, 2014 coinciding with the 169th anniversary of Indian Arrival Day commemoration in Trinidad & Tobago. The convention theme was "Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow".

GOPIO Jubilee Convention 2014 - Souvenir Brochure  
The convention was a historic event in the Indian Diaspora, attended by delegates from several countries where GOPIO is prominent - where persons of Indian origin reside in substantial numbers, and many from countries with fewer than 10% of the population. Countries include: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Malaysia, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, India, Reunion Island, Mauritius, South Africa, Netherlands and other countries of the European Union (EU), United Kingdom, Canada, USA, the Caribbean region: Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Belize, St. Vincent, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Jamaica, Grenada and St Lucia.

Among the many events of the convention, some of the notable highlights include: A notable welcome reception at the Diplomatic Centre residence of Trinidad & Tobago Prime Minsiter Kamla Persad-Bissessar; GOPIO's elections for new officers; GOPIO International Council Meetings; an all-day academic conference based on the convention theme of "Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow"; GOPIO delegates as special guests at cultural performances held at National Cultural of Indian Culture (NCIC); and unveiling of a historic arrival monument at Waterloo-by-the-Sea marking the first arrivals of indentured Indian laborers in Trinidad on 30th May 1845.

GOPIO 25th Anniversary Convention Team

The convention team organized around the GOPIO chapter in Trinidad & Tobago, worked diligently with dedicated and focused efforts to plan, coordinate and hold a magnificent GOPIO milestone convention in a country distant from the other regular venues which GOPIO has used over the years for its major events. Members of the convention team:  Ena Maraj, (Convention Co-Convener, president of GOPIO International chapter of Trinidad & Tobago); Dr. Arnold Thomas, (General Convener & Conference Co-Coordinator,  GOPIO International Coordinator Caribbean (St Vincent); other convention team members: Ramdai Sookdeo (Convention Secretary); Mahadaye Ramlagan (Registration & Assistant Treasurer); Seeta Sahatoo (Assistant Convention Secretary; Shalima Mohammed (Public Relations Coordinator, (Indian Arrival Monument Co-Coordinator); Navin Rampersad (Treasurer); Geeta Sahatoo (Hospitality Coordinator); Karran Nancoo (Legal Advisor); Dr. Kumar Mahabir (Conference Co-Coordinator); Ramnarine Bissoon (Arrival Project Liaison, Community Coordinator, Conference Site Co-Coordinator); Dr. Indrani Rampersad (Conference Co-Coordinator); Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh (Conference Co-Coordinator); Dr. Visham Bhimull (Youth Program Coordinator); Marilyn Hosein (Events Coordinator & Transportation Coordinator); Molly Mangray, Amanda Gangaram, Rowena Singh and Vanita Rampersad (Administrative and Support Coordinators); Deo Gosine (Grand Patron, Special Projects Coordination and Support); Aleem Mohammed (Community Liaison); Don Khan (Indian Arrival Monument Facilities & Hospitality Coordinator); Ramesh Kalicharan (Souvenir Brochure); Netram Rambudhan (Convention Assistant Treasurer & GOPIO International Treasurer); Seeta Sahatoo & Mahadaye Ramlagan (Delegates' Souvenir Welcome Kit);Nohar Singh (Delegates' Travel & Holiday Packages); Munish Gupta (Conference Site Co-Coordinator & GOPIO Jubilee & Life Membership Recognition).

GOPIOP JUbilee Convention 2014 Team
 Photo above: Some of the members of the Convention team with GOPIO Officials

Convention Advisors: Sunny Kulathakal; Munish Gupta; Dr. Piyush Agrawa; Umesh Chandra; Dr. Thomas Abraham; Dr. Sai Giridhar; J. Nami Kaur; Amb. R. Dayakar; Netram Rambudhan; Rajindre Tewari; Dr Jagat Motwani; Loshni Naidoo; Dr. Sushila Gidwani-Buschi; Dr. Renuka Misra; Sudha Acharya; Prof. Clem Sankat; Ramesh Kalicharan; Prof. Brindsley Samaroo; Balkrishna Naipaul; Prof. Mahin Gosine; Anita Bhat; Alkesh Sharma; Mahavir Arya; several council chairpersons and co-chairpersons; life members and chapter members.

Grand Patrons & Advisors:
Surichange Bank NV, Suriname (Dr C. Baidjnath Misier, founder & chairman)
Labidco Port Services Ltd - Trinidad & Tobago (Deo Gosine, founder & chairman)
  
GOPIO International Council Meetings

GOPIO International Council convened at the Radisson Hotel in Port of Spain shortly after the conclusion of GOPIO' Executive Council meeting on 28th May, 2014. After opening remarks, President Ramsaran reported major activities of GOPIO in his terms which was followed by financial report by Treasurer Netram Rambudhan. GOPIO Foundation report was presented by Executive Trustee Dr. Thomas Abraham which was followed by GOPIO International Coordinators reporting their activities for the regions.
 
GOPIO's outgoing Executive Council team  Photo above: GOPIO's outgoing Executive Council Team
 
GOPIO Executive Council Elections & New Team
  
Nominating Committee headed by Rajindre Tewari conducted the election for the 2014 to 2015 for the various positions in the Executive Council of GOPIO International. The following officials were elected by unanimous vote:

  • o    President - Ashook Ramsaran
  • o    Executive Vice President - Sunny Kulathakal
  • o    Senior Vice President - Dr. Piyush Agrawal
  • o    International Coordinator North America - Dr. Renuka Misra
  • o    International Coordinator Caribbean. - Dr. Arnold Thomas
  • o    Chairman GOPIO International, Inder Singh, was elected for another term.

GOPIO Elected Officials for 2014-2015.   
Photo Above: GOPIO Elected Officials for 2014-2015. GOPIO Chairman Inder Singh, President Ashook Ramsaran, Executive Vice President Sunny Kulathakal, Senior Vice President Dr. Piyush Agrawal, International Coordinator North America, Dr. Renuka Misra, and International Coordinator Caribbean, Dr. Arnold Thomas.
 
All previously appointed positions expired on May 28, 2014 with the end of the previous term and new appointments of suitably qualified candidates will be announced shortly after GOPIO' Executive Council approval.

GOPIO By-Laws Updates approved:
No changes except corrections of errors, omissions, spelling and nomenclature mistakes -
Per list circulated previously and read by Chairman Inder Singh.
GOPIO International Council circulated 30 days in advance to general membership and life members.
GOPIO to organize membership feedback and commentary via website.
Chapter delegates eligible for voting to be further clarified and defined relative to membership.
GOPIO has not conformed to its mandate in accordance with Clause 1 - Name and Purpose: The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (abbreviated as GOPIO) is a secular, nonpartisan, non-sectarian, not-for-profit global organization engaged in prompting the well being of non resident Indians and people of Indian origin, enhancing interaction and communication between these groups living in different countries and in furthering their linkages with India. 

Reception at Prime Minister's Residence

  Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar SpeakingA highlight of GOPIO's 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention 2014 was the special welcome reception of all GOPIO delegates at the Diplomatic Centre residence of the Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar on 28th May. The reception was hosted by Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration with Minister Dr Roger Samuel making the initial remarks after a welcome prayer by Brother Harripersad Maharaj, followed by remarks by GOPIO International president Ashook Ramsaran and presentation of gifts. Prime Minister Bissessar formally welcomed GOPIO's delegates, recounted GOPIO's special reception/dinner during the visit to the Kolkata Memorial on 12th January, 2012 and thanked GOPIO for "holding its 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention in the twin islands of Trinidad & Tobago".

GOPIO made presentations of gifts and books to Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar: Special Kashmiri shawl by Kedar N. Gupta (India); GOPIO 25th Anniversary Jubilee Souvenir Brochure by Ramesh Kalicharan, editor (USA); portrait and tribute to late Nelson Mandela by Rita Abraham (South Africa); books by Dr. Mahin Gosine (USA); Dr Jagat Motwani (USA); Balkrishna Naipaul (Canada); GOPIO 1st convention stamp by Dr. Thomas Abraham (USA); and book presentation by Dr C. Baidjnath Misier (Netherlands).

T&T Officials at the receiving line at the reception by Prime Minister Bissessar


  






 Photo: T&T officials in the receiving line to welcome GOPIO delegates






Business-to-Business Seminar

On 28th May, a Business-to-Business seminar featuring prominent scholars and business leaders was held at the Radisson Hotel. It was sponsored by Trinidad & Tobago's Ministry of Trade & Investment with focus tohighlight the many economic opportunities of the Caribbean region at this convention.

Sessions included:
  • o    Investment & Trade Opportunities in Trinidad & Tobago;
  • o    Investment & Trade Opportunities in St Vincent & Grenadines;
  • o    Investment & Trade Opportunities in Guyana;
  • o    Success Stories of Doing Business in the Caribbean;
  • o    Free Enterprise, Market Economy and Business Successes;
  • o    The Growth of Education and Medical Services for Bi-Lateral Trade;
  • o    Media as Marketing Tool in Emerging Economies

Speakers and presenters were: Dr. Chan Misier (Chairman, Surichange Bank NV, Netherlands & Suriname); Dr Yesu Persaud, Chairman Demerara Bank, Demerara Distilleries (Guyana); Deo Gosine (Founder & President of Labidco Port Services, Trinidad & Tobago), Dr. Sid Gautam (Center for Entrepreneurship, USA), Ishwar Ramlutchman (Founder & Chairman, AC Industrial, South Africa); Ashok Motwani (DNN News, India).

Romanee Kalicharran (USA) made a special film presentation of "The Voyage".


Academic Conference: "Indian Diaspora Today and Tomorrow" 
The Academic Conference segment of the convention was a full 1-day event held on 29th May at the Radisson Hotel. There were several sessions designed round the convention theme of "Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow" The chief guest at the Inaugural Session was Indian High Commissioner HE Gauri Gupta and the keynote speaker Dr Mahin Gosine, Professor of Sociology and Anthropology at State University of New York, USA. Dr. Kumar Mahabir, Assistant Professor at University of Trinidad and Tobago, concluded the session.

Conference Sessions:
Inaugural Session I: Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow
Session II: The Indian Diaspora: Issues, Challenges & Opportunities
Session III: Global & Regional Diaspora Investments & Economic Opportunities
Session IV: Diaspora's Youth, Children, Gender & Inter-Generational Issues
Session V:  Multi-Cultural Diversity & Inter-Ethnic Cooperation in the Indian Diaspora
Session VI:  Education, Science & Technology as Significant Assets in the Indian Diaspora
Session VII: Health, Wellness, Lifestyle & Nutritional Factors in the Indian Diaspora
Session VIII: GOPIO's 25th Anniversary Resolutions
Session IX: Wrap-up & Conclusion

Inaugural Session I: Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow
Session Chairperson: Dr. Arnold Thomas (St Vincent)
Session Co-Chairperson: Dr. Kumar Mahabir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Program:
  • o    Introductory Remarks: Dr. Arnold Thomas (St Vincent)
  • o    Welcome: Ena Maraj (Convener, Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Remarks: Inder Singh (Chairman, GOPIO International, USA)
  • o    Remarks: Ashook Ramsaran (President, GOPIO International, USA)
  • o    Remarks: Dr. Jagat Motwani (Founding Life Member, GOPIO International, USA)
  • o    Introduction of Keynote Speaker: Deo Gosine (GOPIO Life Member, TnT)
  • o    Keynote Speaker: Dr Mahin Gosine, Prof of Sociology and Anthropology at SUNY, USA
    • Focusing on the Indian Diaspora and the story of "From Scars to Stars"
  • o    Introduction of Indian High Comm.: Ms. Mahadaye Ramlagan (GOPIO Chapter TnT)
  • o    Remarks by Indian High Commissioner Gauri S. Gupta
    • Focusing on the progress of the Indian Diaspora in the Caribbean Region
  • o    Presentation of Tokens: Ms. Shalima Mohammed (GOPIO Chapter Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Book Releases (Listed above): Moderator:  J. Nami Kaur (Secretary, GOPIO Int'l, USA)
  • o    Conclusion: Dr. Kumar Mahabir (Co-Chairperson, Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Thanks & Appreciation: Dr. Arnold Thomas (Chairperson, St Vincent)
GOPIO Officials with High Commissioner Gauri S. Gupta Photo above: GOPIO Officials with Indian High Commissioner Gupta

Session II: The Indian Diaspora: Issues, Challenges & Opportunities
Session Chairperson: Umesh Chandra (International Coordinator, Oceania - Australia)
Session Co-Chairperson: T. Ramappa (GOPIO Chapter of Bangalore, India)
Speakers & Program:
  • o    Dr. Winston Tolan (Jamaica, West indies)
  • o    Dr. Kumar Mahabir (Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Prof. Parmatma Saran (USA)
  • o    Q/A: Moderator - Umesh Chandra (Session Chairperson, Australia)
  • o    Conclusion: T. Ramappa (Session Co-Chairperson, GOPIO of Bangalore, India)
  • o    Presentation of Tokens: Ms. Nadira Narine & Ms. Camelia Singh (GOPIO of Guyana)

Session III: Global & Regional Diaspora Investments & Economic Opportunities
Session Chairperson: Jeevan Zutshi (GOPIO Regional Coordinator, USA)
Session Co-Chairperson: Gem Madhoo-Nascimento (GOPIO of Guyana)
Speakers & Program:
  • o    Dr. Sid Gautam (USA)
  • o    Mr. Munish Gupta (USA/India)
  • o    Dr. Yesu Persaud (Guyana)
  • o    Conclusion:  Ms. Gem Madhoo-Nascimento (Session Co-Chairperson, Guyana)
  • o    Presentation of Tokens: Lucienne Sacarbany (GOPIO Martinique)
  • o    Thanks & Appreciation: Marilyn Hosein (GOPIO chapter of TnT)

Session IV: Diaspora's Youth, Children, Gender & Inter-Generational Issues
Session Chairperson: Ishwar Ramlutchman (South Africa)
Session Co-Chairperson: Jagdish Lodhia (GOPIO chapter Sydney NW, Australia)
Speakers & Program:
  • o    Dr. Kamla Tewarie (Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Rita Abraham (GOPIO's Women's Council, South Africa)
  • o    Sudha Acharya (SACSS, USA)
  • o    Tivesh Nair (Youth - GOPIO Cape Town, South Africa)
  • o    Uresha Moodley (Youth - GOPIO Cape Town, South Africa)
  • o    Dr. Bisham Bhimull (GOPIO Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Conclusion:  Jagdish Lodhia (Session Co-Chairperson, Australia)
  • o    Presentation of Tokens: Tara Gosine (USA/Trinidad and Tobago)
 Conf. Panel Family and Youth - Jagdish Lodhia Speaking Photo above: Conf. Panel Family and Youth - Jagdish Lodhia concluding the session


Session V:  Multi-Cultural Diversity & Inter-Ethnic Cooperation in the Indian Diaspora
Session Chairperson: Krishen D. Needar (Trinidad and Tobago)
Session Co-Chairperson: Romanee Kalicharran (USA)
Speakers & Program:
  • o    Balkrishna Naipaul (Canada)
  • o    Dr. Arnold Thomas (St Vincent)
  • o    Keith Compton (St Lucia)
  • o    Romanee Kalicharran - A special presentation of "The Voyage"
  • o    Shadel Nyack Compton (Grenada)
  • o    Conclusion:  Romanee Kalicharran (Session Co-Chairperson, USA)
  • o    Presentation of Tokens: Elie Shitlou, Claude Sheikboudhou  (Guadeloupe)
 Multi-Cultural Diversity & Inter-Ethnic Cooperation in the Indian Diaspora Photo above: Conference panel on Multi-Cultural Diversity & Inter-ethnic Cooperation in the Indian Diaspora

Session VI:  Education, Science & Technology as Significant Assets in the Indian Diaspora
Session Chairperson: Ashok Motwani (India)
Session Co-Chairperson: Deo Gosine (Trinidad and Tobago)
Speakers & Program:
  • o    Dr. Thomas Abraham (USA)
  • o    Dr. Clem Sankat (University of West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Dr. Gary Brar (AUB, Barbados)
  • o    Ashok Motwani (India)
  • o    Kewal Kanda (USA)
  • o    Conclusion:  Deo Gosine (Session Co-Chairperson, Trinidad and Tobago)
  • o    Presentation of Tokens: Inder Singh (USA)
Conf. Panel Science and Tech Panel - Dr. Thomas Abraham Speaking Photo above: Conf. Panel Science and Tech Panel - Dr. Thomas Abraham Speaking
  
Session VII: Health, Wellness, Lifestyle & Nutritional Factors in the Indian Diaspora
Session Chairperson: Dr. Renuka Misra (USA)
Session Co-Chairperson: Dr. Ramesh Pandey (USA)
Speakers & Program:
  • o    Dr. Vivian Rambihar (Canada)
  • o    Swami Chidananda (India)
  • o    Dr. C. Baidjnath Misier (Netherlands)
  • o    Dr. Rini Johar (USA)
  • o    Conclusion:  Dr. Ramesh Pandey (Session Co-Chairperson, USA)
  • o    Presentation of Tokens: Sylvia Perez (Belize); Yamonee Barbaro (USA)
Conference session on Health, Wellness, Lifestyle & Nutritional Factors in the Indian Diaspora
Photo above: Conference session on Health, Wellness, Lifestyle & Nutritional Factors in the Indian Diaspora. Dr. Renu Misra chairing the session,

 
Session VIII: GOPIO's 25th Anniversary Resolutions

Session Chairperson: Dr. Piyush Agrawal (USA)
Session Co-Chairperson: Harbachan Singh (USA)
Thanks & Appreciation: Farouk Samaroo (USA)

Session IX: Wrap-up & Conclusion
  
Session Chairperson: Dr. Arnold Thomas (St Vincent)
Speaker: Ashook Ramsaran (USA)
Thanks & Appreciation: Ena Maraj (Trinidad and Tobago)



Resolutions
On 28th May at Session VII "GOPIO Resolutions- GOPIO's 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention 2014", chaired by Dr. Piyush Agrawal, the following resolutions were adopted for action by GOPIO and advisory/notification to respective government and agencies:

  • o    Salutations to Indian Democracy & Fair General Elections in India
  • o    Enhancing the Relationship between India & its Diaspora
  • o    Streamlining the process of Indian Consular Services
  • o    Review of OCI/PIO/OIC Policies Needed
  • o    Proposal for International Indian Emigration Day
  • o    India's Opportunity to Engage the Diaspora
  • o    GOPIO's Continuing Efforts at Outreach to the Diaspora
  • o    Limitations on Import/Export of Indian Currency on NRIs/PIOs
  • o    Towards a More Peaceful Co-Existence of PIOs in Multi-Ethnic Societies
  • o    Indian Visas On Arrival Program
  • o    Addressing Human Rights Violations in the Diaspora

These resolutions titled "GOPIO's 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention 2014" are posted on GOPIO's website atwww.gopio.net.

Book Releases

At the conclusion of Inaugural Session I: "Indian Diaspora Today & Tomorrow", the following books were released:

Balkrishna Naipaul (Canada): Sangam: The Jhansi Legacy
Indina High Commissioner Gauri Shanker Gupta: Unraveling Mysteries of Life
Dr. Yesu Persaud (Guyana): Reaching for the Stars - An Autobiography
Dr. Mahin Gosine (USA): Eight Great Virtues of Leadership
Dr. Kumar Mahabir (Trinidad & Tobago): Indian Diaspora in the Caribbean
Dr. Chan Misier (Netherlands): Spiritual Management and Road to Eternity
Ramesh Kalicharan, Editor (USA): GOPIO 25th Anniversary Jubilee Convention Souvenir Brochure

The Moderator of the "Book Releases" segment was J. Nami Kaur, Secretary of GOPIO International

Release of books at the GOPIO Jubilee Convention 2014 in Trinidad and TobagoPhoto above: Book Release - GOPIO International Coordinator Caribbean, Dr. Arnold Thomas (St Vincent); Balkrishna Naipaul (founding Life Member, Canada); Dr. Yesu Persaud (founding Life Member, Guyana); Dr Kumar Mahabir (Co-Chair, GOPIO Academic Council, Trinidad & Tobago); Dr. Jagat Motwani (founding Life Member, USA); Shri Gauri Gupta, Indian High Commissioner to Trinidad & Tobago); Dr. Mahin Gosine (Co-Chair, GOPIO Academic Council, USA); J. Nami Kaur (Secretary, GOPIO International, USA)

Jubilee Recognition Awards Gala

The Jubilee Recognition Gala was another highlight of GOPIO's 25th Anniversary (Jubilee) Convention 2014, held on 29th May, 2014 in the Grand Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel in Port of Spain. In attendance was Indian High Commissioner to Trinidad & Tobago, Shri Gauri Gupta; Trinidad & Tobago's Minister of Trade & Investment, Dr. Vasant Bharath; and Min. Ramona Ramdial, Minister in the Ministry of Environment & Water Resources. The event was emceed by prominent radio and television host Zelisa Boodoosingh and was broadcast live courtesy of Dr Hans Hanoomansingh (Heritage Radio).
  GOPIO Jubilee Recognition Awardees with Dignitaries and GOPIO Officials
Photo above: GOPIO Jubilee Recognition Awardees with Minister Dr. Vasant Bharath, Min Ramona Ramdial, Indian High Commissioner Shri Gauri Gupta and GOPIO Officials

GOPIO's Jubilee Recognition for outstanding achievements in selected categories were accorded to several persons "who contributed to the betterment of people of the Indian Diaspora. The Jubilee Recognition recipients achieved significant and prominent levels of stature and recognition in their respective fields of endeavor and have served interests of people in their respective countries of domicile and others as well, in addition to generating pride and respect among the Indian Diaspora and others in country of birth or domicile". Each GOPIO's Jubilee Recognition awardee (or representative for posthumous recognition) was presented with a GOPIO Jubilee award.

Posthumous Recognition:Henri Sidambaron (Guadeloupe); Dr. Najma Sultana (USA); Baleshwar Agrawal (India); Lall Paladee (Trinidad & Tobago); Dr Cheddi Jagan (Guyana).
Friends of GOPIO: HE Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent & Grenadines; Hon Albert Ramdin, Deputy Secretary General of Organization of American States (USA); Hon. Chandrikapersad Santokhi Chairman of Progressive Reform Party (Suriname).
Professional, Civic, Culture, Entrepreneurship, Media, Philanthropy: National Indian Cultural Centre - NCIC (Trinidad & Tobago); John Barath (Trinidad & Tobago); Brenda Gopeesingh (Trinidad & Tobago); Dr. Hans Hanoomansingh (Trinidad & Tobago); Sattaur Gafoor (Guyana); Dr Yesu Persaud (Guyana); Chancellor of Judiciary & Chief Justice Carl Singh (Guyana); Dr C. Baidjnath Misier (Netherlands); Dr. Lakshmi Persaud (United Kingdom); Ishwar Ramlutchman (South Africa); Nicole Vaitylingon (Guadeloupe); Kamaludin Mohammed (Trinidad & Tobago); Dr. Vivian Rambihar (Canada); Ashok Motwani (India); Dr. Parmatma Saran (USA); Dr. Sudhir Parikh (USA); TV Asia H R Shah (USA); India Abroad (USA); Kedar N. Gupta (India); Israel Khan (Trinidad & Tobago).

In addition to recognition of those who contributed to GOPIO's formation in 1989. The First Convention Convener Dr. Thomas Abraham introduced co-conveners Sudha Acharya and Dr. Jagat Motwani and other founding life members and invited them to the stage.  
GOPIO Life Members at Inception in 1989 Present at the T& Jubilee ConventionPhoto above: Some GOPIO Founding Life Members at GOPIO inception in 1989 who were present at the Jubilee Convention

GOPIO also recognized the newest life members since 6th January, 2014 in attendance, with plaques and new life membership lapel pins: They included Yamonee Barbaro (USA); Balkrishna Naipaul (Canada); Deo Gosine (Trinidad & Tobago); Sasenarine Sankar (Guyana); Claude Sheikboudhou (Guadeloupe); Elie Shitalou (Guadeloupe); Shaji SM Alex (India); Shaji Baby John (India).

GOPIO Life Members in 2014 Photo above: GOPIO Life Members in 2014

Special recognition was accorded to GOPIO's 25th Anniversary (Jubilee) Convention 2014 grand patrons: Surichange Bank NV (Dr C. Baidjnath Misier, Netherlands) and

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Zee TV | India’s Best Cinestar Ki Khoj to launch on 5th July

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The entertaining journey of India’s aspiring cine stars begins on Sat, 5th July
Dhoom 3 director Victor & Sonali Bendre to judge the series
Parineeti-Ayushmann are first amongst a slew of film achievers 
to guide & inspire the contestants
Mumbai, 26th June: You felt your heart race with excitement when Simran almost missed the train and Raj held out his hand for her … You danced a jig yourself when you saw Rani overcome her inhibitions and groove on top of the bar in Queen. You gave your friends a high-five as you stepped out of 3 Idiots because there was so much of the film you’d lived out with them. You felt a twinge in your belly as you relived your first heartbreak when a teary eyed Anjali, on seeing Rahul and Tina together, told her hostel housekeeper “Mera Pehla Pyaar Adhura Reh Gaya!” There’s no denying that we, as Indians, experience the entire range of emotions through the world of movies and our beloved cine stars. With films and actors touching practically everyone’s lives in one way or the other, Zee TV’s next BIG ticket, non-fiction property is bound to touch a chord!
Starting 5th July at 9 PM every Saturday & Sunday on Zee TV is an exciting, new 13 week reality series called  ‘India’s Best Cinestars Ki Khoj powered by Glam up’ – a hunt for the most versatile, talented cine stars who have it in them to light up the silver screen with their acting prowess and charisma! What’s more … it’ll be the viewers who will have as much say as the judges in deciding who will be India’s next big cinestar. So, with some power-packed histrionics and mind-blowing performances coming your way from some of the most promising acting talent in the country, the show is bound to be your one-stop entertainment shop!
Having concluded a nationwide series of auditions across 18 cities in an attempt to smoke out the most promising acting talent from every nook and corner of the country, Zee TV has signed on Vijay Krishna Acharya aka Victor, the director of Dhoom 3, the highest grossing Bollywood film worldwide and gorgeous actress Sonali Bendre to judge the show. The channel and production houses Essel Vision Pvt Ltd and TrompeL’oiel  Media Pvt Ltd. are considering other A-league actors and renowned directors for the third position on the judges’ panel. Parineeti Chopra and Ayushmann Khurana, who embody the picture of India’s emerging youth and all its aspirations, have been called upon to guide and inspire the contestants with their own examples in the audition phase.   
Zee TV Programming Head Namit Sharma said, “Zee TV has always stood for celebrating the talent of India’s common man. In 1995, the channel created the mecca of singing talent in the country with Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and introduced the entertainment fraternity to some of its leading singers such as Shreya Ghoshal, Shekhar and Kunal Ganjawala. Dance India Dance, similarly gave hope to a million dance enthusiasts across the country, making stars out of Salman, Shakti Mohan, Dharmesh, Raghav and Prince. After revolutionizing the worlds of singing and dancing, Zee TV is all set to make a similar impact in the world of acting with our exciting reality series India’s Best Cinestars Ki KhojWe have a knack of identifying the right talent, we look forward to an interesting season of this show! The sheer range of performances spanning diverse styles of acting that the audiences will see in the course of the season will make the show a one-stop shop for entertainment.”
The show will put its participants through a slew of challenging rounds designed to test their creativity and ability of enacting a variety of different roles. Spanning varied genres such as romance, comedy, drama, dance and action, the contestants will be called upon to prove their versatility, presence of mind, spontaneity and sheer mettle across a number of different acting styles.
About signing on Victor & Sonali as judges, Namit Sharma, Programming Head, Zee TV said, “Victor is the man behind one of the biggest Bollywood hits of all times – Dhoom 3. He has the credits to the story, screenplay and dialogue of the entire Dhoom franchise. He’s worked with Mani Ratnam on films like Guru. He’s a multi-faceted personality and has worked closely with some of the finest actors of the country. His knack for identifying, grooming and honing acting talent makes him a perfect fit for the show. Sonali is a very attractive, glamorous actress with an impressive body of work. She’s been a part of blockbusters such as Sarfarosh and Hum Saath Saath Hain, critically acclaimed films like Zakhm and continues to do some great work in films and television. She has been a much loved judge of our successful children’s acting hunt show ‘India’s Best Dramebaaz’ and we’re extremely pleased to continue this association. We’ll soon announce a third judge!”
The show presents the talented youth of the country with a golden opportunity to have an interface with some of Bollywood’s most renowned film makers, actors, choreographers and be groomed by them. About bringing Parineeti and Ayushmann on board, Namit Sharma adds, “We’ve roped in a number of achievers from the film fraternity, who’ve made a distinct mark for themselves, to be a part of the selection and grooming process of our contestants. We’re happy to have Parineeti & Ayushman join us on India’s Best Cinestars Ki Khoj in the audition phase. This will take our contestants’ exposure to the real world of films to the next level. Parineeti’s journey from being a PR consultant and an aspiring investment banker to a leading cinestar is remarkable to say the least. Ayushmann, a rank outsider with no film connections, has made it big entirely on the merit of his sheer talent. His versatility encompasses everything from singing and anchoring to acting. The insights they can share will add immense value to the learning process of our budding Cinestars.” So starting 5th July, stay tuned to ‘India’s Best Cinestars ki Khoj powered by Glam up’ every Saturday-Sunday at 9 PM, only on Zee TV! 


 

PM seeks French cooperation in areas of low-cost defence manufacturing

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought French cooperation in the areas of low-cost defence manufacturing, skill development, urban planning, tourism and heritage conservation. 
Referring to French support to Ahmedabad Heritage project, the Prime Minister said India has planned to build heritage cities and 100 new smart cities for which France can extend its expertise. Mr Modi was speaking at a meeting with visiting French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius in New Delhi today.
For his part, the French Foreign Minister expressed keenness of his country to expand cooperation with the new government in Delhi. He also discussed student exchange programme and further deepening of technological cooperation between the two countries.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh and ambassadors of India and France were also present in the meeting.


 

Iraq: 1st session of newly elected 328-member parliament convened

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In Iraq, the first session of the newly elected 328-member parliament has been convened in the capital Baghdad today.
Ahead of the session, elected Iraqi lawmakers from the majority Shia, minority Sunni and Kurdish community discussed the structure of a new Government amidst the push of ISIL militants towards the capital.


 

LPG price hiked by Rs. 16.50 per cylinder

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Price of non-subsidised cooking gas (LPG) was today hiked by 16 rupees 50 paise per cylinder. 
Indian Oil Corporation said each non-subsidised 14.2 kilogram cooking gas cylinder will now cost 922 rupees 50 paise in Delhi. 
It will cost 966 rupees in Kolkata, 949 rupees 50 paise in Mumbai and 924 rupees in Chennai. 
The hike was necessitated following surge in prices of international oil due to the ongoing Iraq crisis. 
Non-subsidised LPG rates were last month cut by 23 rupees 50 paise per cylinder.


 

150 Indians likely to return home from Iraq this evening

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About 150 Indian nationals are expected to reach back home from war-torn Iraq this evening.
External Affairs Ministry spokesman Syed Akbaruddin told this to AIR News. India is facilitating return of six hundred Indian nationals this week from non-conflict zones of Iraq.
Giving an update on the situation in Iraq, Mr Akbaruddin said Indian diplomats in Iraq are reaching out to Indians and facilitating the paperwork and ticketing for those who want to return home.
He said 60 Indians left from Najaf, 30 from Karbala and four from Baghdad yesterday.
The Spokesman said, all Indians are leaving by commercial flights but India is ready to evacuate Indian nationals if need arises.


 

Chennai Building collapse toll rises to 28,

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Building collapse: Toll rises to 28, three more pulled out alive
Eight more bodies were recovered on Tuesday, taking the toll in the collapse of an under- construction multi-storeyed building in Chennai to 28 even as three persons were pulled out alive, a senior government official said.
A total of 26 persons have been rescued so far as the non-stop rescue efforts, involving multiple agencies, entered the fourth day on Tuesday, Director, Public Health, K Kulandaisamy said. 
“Mahesh was rescued alive today besides two others. He has indicated that several persons are alive under the rubble including his wife. This has enthused rescue personnel,” the official said. 
He said they were hopeful of rescuing more persons today. 
“We are very hopeful and positive. Also, there are indications about the likely location of the survivors under the rubble. We hope that survivors should be holed up in that location”, he said. 
Kulandaisamy said there were indications that the first and ground floors of the building had not fully crumbled. 
“It is the guess of rescue personnel going by the account of the rescued man. We cannot say anything more now.” 
Of the three rescued on Tuesday, two belonged to Andhra Pradesh and they have been admitted in the SRMC. “They are stable,” the official said. 
Six persons, including two owners and two engineers, had been arrested under various sections of the IPC in connection with the building collapse. 


 

Ukrainian president ends unilateral ceasefire 

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Ukrainian president ends unilateral ceasefire
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko says he is halting a unilateral cease-fire in the conflict with pro-Russian separatists and says Ukrainian forces will go on the offensive against the rebels.
A statement from Poroshenko on his website says the cease-fire is being halted and that “we will attack and we will free our country.” The fragile cease-fire expired Monday night.The idea was to give rebels a chance to disarm and to start a broader peace process including an amnesty and new elections.
But rebels did not disarm, and the ceasefire was continually violated.
Rebels did not comply with Poroshenko’s latest push to get them to turn over key border crossings with Russia and permit international monitoring of the cease-fire.
“The unique chance to put the peace plan into practice was not realised,” Poroshenko said in a speech prepared for delivery to the nation.
“This happened because of the criminal actions of the fighters.” Poroshenko had already extended the cease-fire from seven days as part of a plan to end the fighting that has killed more than 400 people since April.
Poroshenko’s decision followed four-way talks in search of a solution with Russian President Vladimir Putin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande Monday as the deadline approached.
He issued a statement after the talks ended saying the key conditions needed to continue the ceasefire had not been met.
European leaders and the US have urged Russia to use its influence with the rebels to ease the bloodshed and have threatened to impose another round of economic sanctions against Moscow.
While Putin has expressed support for the cease-fire, the West has accused Russia of allowing weapons and fighters to flow across the border into Ukraine.
Poroshenko said he meant for a cease-fire to be followed by an amnesty for fighters who had not considered serious crimes, and political concessions such as early local and regional elections, protections for speakers of Russian and, in the longer term, changes to the constitution to decentralise power to the regions.


 

US-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue on July 9-10 

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US-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue on July 9-10
The next round of annual US-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue would be held in Beijing on July 9 and 10. 
US Secretary of State John Kerry and Treasury Secretary Jack Lew would travel to China next week for this omprehensive dialogue between the two countries.
They would be joined for the Dialogue by their respective Chinese co-chairs, State Councilor Yang Jiechi and Vice Premier Wang Yang, along with members of the US delegation and their Chinese counterparts.
“The Dialogue will focus on addressing the challenges and opportunities that both countries face on a wide range of bilateral, regional and global areas of immediate and long-term economic and strategic interest,” an official statement said. 


 

Germany beat Algeria 2-1 to enter quarterfinals 

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Germany beat Algeria 2-1 to enter quarterfinals<br />
Germany and Algeria were tied goalless at the end of the first half of the last-16 FIFA World Cup match on late Monday.
Andre Schuerrle and Mesut Ozil struck in extra time to earn Germany a 2-1 win over Algeria in a pulsating last-16 clash here and a quarter-final date with France.Chelsea forward Schuerrle broke the deadlock in the 92nd minute, with Arsenal’s Ozil adding a second in the 120th minute.
Abdelmoumene Djabou struck in the first minute of stoppage time to give Algeria a consolation goal.
This was Algeria’s first ever appearance in the knockout stages and they covered themelves with glory, taking the game to the three-time champions.
Sporting Lisbon striker Islam Slimani had a goal disallowed for offside in the first half while Germany’s best early chance came as the break beckoned, when only the lightning reflexes of Algeria keeper Rais Mbolhi denied first Toni Kroos’ and then Mario Goetze from the rebound.
Germany coach Joachim Loew introduced Schuerrle for Goetze after the interval and he almost made an immediate impact, his 48th minute drive only narrowly deflected. Mbolhi then made a superb flying fingertip save to deny Phillip Lahm.
In an enthralling evening’s entertainment at this southern port city Mbolhi once again did the north African’s proud, punching away Thomas Mueller’s header with 10 minutes of regulation time remaining.
With the sides deadlocked, extra time was required, and Schuerrle finally was the man to find a way past Mbolhi, flicking the ball with the inside of his heel at close range after Mueller’s cross from the left in the 92nd minute.
Ozil then struck before Djabou’s contribution.
Friday’s quarter-final at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracana is a repeat of the 1986 semi-final won by the then West-Germany.


 

FIFA: France beat Nigeria 2-0 to enter quarterfinals

1072014

 
FIFA: France beat Nigeria 2-0 to enter quarterfinals
France struck twice in the second half to beat Nigeria 2-0 and enter the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup at the Estadio Nacional on Monday.
France broke the deadlock in the 79th minute through Paul Pogba before doubling their lead in additional time through an own by Joseph Yobo.
Nigeria started on bright note and enjoyed the lions’ share of possession at least in the opening 20 minutes of the game.
Neigeria’s persistent efforts resulted in a free-kick just outside the French circle in the 17th minute when Peter Odemwingie was brought down by Blaise Matuidi but the Super Eagles failed to cash in on the chance.
Two minutes later Emmanuel Emenike found the back of France net with a deft touch only to to be ruled out marginally off side by the line referee.
Nigeria certainly was on top at the opening exchanges as France played the second fiddle. But France got their acts back quickly and had a great chance in the 22nd minute only to be denied by a brilliant Vincent Enyeama in front of Nigeria goal.
Enyeama showed brilliant reflexes to keep out Paul Pogba’s powerful shot after a one-two with Mathieu Valbuena.
France enjoyed a rare spell of possession in the last 12 minutes of the opening half but to no avail as their forwardline lacked creativity.
The Les Bleus had one one of the best chance of the half in the 40th minute when Valbuena clipped a ball into the onrushing Debuchy whose effort was off target. The Newcastle man should possibly have done better with that despite the box being crowded with bodies. 
French strikers Olivier Giroud and Karim Benzema were almost anonymous in the opening half as Nigeria came out with stout defending. 
Just like the opening half, Nigeria started livelier of the two teams after the change of ends. 
Odemwingie came close to breaking the deadlock for Nigeria but his fierce strike well saved by skipper Hugo Lloris in front of French goal. 
France coach Didier Deschamps’ decision to bring in Antoine Griezmann in place Giroud was bang on target as it imbibed fresh life into their forwardline. Benzema then looked threatening for the first time in the match in the 70th minute but his effort was cleared off the line by Victor Moses. 
Seven minutes later, France came tentalisingly close to breaking the stalemate when Yohan Cabaye’s effort rattled the woodwork. 
But France’s consistent pressure finally bore fruit when Pogba headed in from their eighth corner after Enyeama flapped at a cross which found Pogba in a clear position. If not for that one mistake, Enyeama stood like a rock in front of the Nigeria goal as six minutes from whistle he sticked out a huge hand to deny Griezmann. 
It was all over Nigeria as France doubled their lead in the extra-time when Yobo scored an own goal while trying to clear Valbuena’s low ball towards Griezmann. France will meet the winners of the match between Germany and Algeria in the quarterfinals


 

Adarsh: CBI files 2nd supplementary chargesheet, preparing SCN

1072014

 
Adarsh: CBI files 2nd supplementary chargesheet, preparing SCN
The Central Bureau of Investigation has completed its probe in the multi-crore Adarsh Society scam with the agency filing a second supplementary charge sheet in a special CBI court last month.
The agency is also preparing a Self Content Note (SCN) of the flat owners who were found ineligible to buy a flat in the society which will soon be handed over to the Maharashtra government. 
“The charge sheet is filed against five accused, including one member and four financiers,” a CBI official said on Tuesday. 
One of the society members died, hence he was not named in the charge sheet, said the official. 
The charge sheet, filed last month, names former MLA Mukundrao Mankar, Landscape Realtors Private Limited (LRPL), Sanjay Kondwar and Gopal Kondwar (both directors of LRPL) and UK-based NRI Sharad Madan. 
The flat of Lieutenant Colonel-rank personnel was allegedly financed by Madan but since he is no more, the agency has named only Madan in the charge sheet. 
LRPL was a shell company floated with a sole aim of allegedly financing ‘benami’ flat in Adarsh, the official said. 
“LRPL gave a loan of Rs 62 lakhs to Mankar,” he alleged. 
According to the charge sheet, LRPL received money from other five to six shell companies. 
Interestingly, the address of one of the shell companies which allegedly financed LRPL is that of an educational institution chaired by a state Cabinet minister. 
The CBI said that they have not found any link of the involvement of the minister. 
Meanwhile, the agency is preparing a SCN of the 27 flat owners who were found ineligible to buy a flat in the society. The SCN will be handed over to state Chief Secretary. 
“The list of 27 members include flats of Indian diplomat Devyani Khobragade and former Union Power Minister Suresh Prabhu,” said the CBI official. 
Once the SCN on CBI findings is submitted, the state government can decide on the future course of action, he said. 
“The state can decide on whether or not to cancel their membership,” said a CBI official. 
The official also said that “loan availed by relatives of former state Chief Minister Ashok Chavan from a Pune-based builder were returned within few years after purchase of flat.” 
The 13 accused named in the first charge sheet of CBI, which includes Ashok Chavan, have been charged with criminal conspiracy, cheating and criminal misconduct under the Indian Penal Code, besides the Prevention of Corruption Act. 
However, the CBI later moved the Bombay High Court saying that Chavan’s name be dropped as Maharashtra Governor has not given sanction for his prosecution. 


 

Junior Golfing talents in the fray for USHA DGC Juniors Golf Championship, 2014

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New Delhi, June 30, 2014: Post the recently conducted Usha DGC Junior Golf Training program (JTP), the last camp of which was concluded on the 20th of June 2014, Usha International presents the USHA DGC Junior Golf Championship, 2014, which is set to get underway at the lush green Delhi Golf Club. Round 1 will be played at the Lodhi course and the Peacock course on July 1, Tuesday and July 2, 2014.

The draw has seen acceptance from 103 junior golfers in all.  The event will be played in the stroke-play format over three days and 54 holes. The winner is likely to emerge on Friday, July 04, 2014.


 

1072014
Dear ALL,

India’s external debt at about US$ 441 bn

India’s external debt, as at end-March 2014, was placed at US$ 440.6 billion showing an increase of US$ 31.2 billion or 7.6% over the level at end-March 2013. The increase in total external debt during financial year 2013-14 was primarily on account of rise in Non-Resident Deposits. The surge in outstanding stock of NRI deposits can mainly be attributed to mobilisation of fresh FCNR(B) deposits by commercial banks under the swap scheme offered by the Reserve Bank during September to November 2013. In terms of major components, the share of external commercial borrowings continued to be the highest at 33.3% of total external debt, followed by NRI deposits (23.6%) and short term debt (20.3%)

External Debt – Outstanding and Variation
Source: Ministry of Finance, Government of India and Reserve Bank of India

On the other hand, increase in the magnitude of external debt was partly offset by the valuation change (gain) resulting from appreciation of US dollar against Indian rupee and other international currencies. Further, share of short term debt in total debt in terms of original maturity as well as residual maturity also declined due to net repayments of short-term debt and withdrawal of FII investment from debt securities during 2013-14.

Based on residual maturity, the short-term debt accounted for 39.6% of total external debt as at end-March 2014 as compared to 42.1%% at end-March 2013. Within the short-term debt based on residual maturity, the share of NRI deposits was the highest at 31.4%. The ratio of short-term debt by residual maturity to foreign exchange reserves worked out to 57.4% at end-March 2014.The valuation gain during 2013-14 amounted to US$ 9.4 billion reflecting the appreciation of US dollar against the Indian rupee and other major currencies. Thus, excluding the valuation gains, the stock of external debt as at end-March 2014 would have increased by US$ 40.6 billion instead of US$ 31.2 billion over end-March 2013. US dollar denominated debt continued to be the largest component of India ’s external debt with a share of 61.8% as at end-March 2014, followed by Indian rupee (21.1%), SDR (6.9%), Japanese Yen (5.1%) and Euro (3.4%).

Residual Maturity of External Debt Outstanding as at End-March 2014
Source: RBI

Government (Sovereign) external debt stood at US$ 81.5 billion as at end-March 2014 as against US$ 81.7 billion as at end-March 2013. The shares of Government and non-Government external debt in the total external debt were 18.5% and 81.5%, respectively, as at end-March 2014

India’s Key External Debt Indicators
Source: RBI

Warm regards,

Dr. S P Sharma
Chief Economist
________________________________________________
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry
August Kranti Marg, New Delhi – 110016
Tel 91 11 49545454, Fax 91 11 26855450,
E mail – spsharma@phdcci.in


 

AAP WORLD Party for Arvind Kejriwal – Internal Conflict

1072014
Ravinder Singh
To chauthidunia@gmail.comindiaagainstcorruption.2010@gmail.comchandru_14521@yahoo.com and 360 More…
Jun 30 at 7:43 PM
AAP WORLD Party for Arvind Kejriwal – Internal Conflict
June30, 2014AAP is the only party, thanks to Anna Hazare Movement against
corruption, within weeks registered millions of Workers and Volunteers
across India, was getting funds from all over the world. His
reluctance to contest outside Delhi is surprising.
This was unprecedented response to a newly formed party and securing
11.3m votes in 2014 Lok Sabha election when it had not a single
National Level Leader.
But AAP politics remained localized for Kejriwal and only for
Kejriwal. He called workers and volunteers to support him in Varanasi
neglecting campaigning across India, which he eventually lost was
primarily responsible for poor show.
AAP remained Opportunistic Party exploiting Local Issues than
providing VISION – even Lame Duck vision is better than no vision.
He has not spelt out his ECONOMIC AGENDA to the people.
AAP has not been able to out of initial success when Delhi voters
expressed unprecedented faith in his leadership but he preferred to
stay on streets than work for people and remove corruption from system
and also improve all services.
AAP didn’t win a single seat outside Punjab where it won four seats
and sizeable vote share 24.4% this was next only to Delhi vote share
of 32.9%.
AAP failed because it didn’t have NATIONAL AGENDA and Clear Road Map
to improve Income and Wealth Sharing of Indians and AAP didn’t support
candidates except in few regions.
Polling 4.2% votes or 48,802 votes average per constituency is not bad
for Haryana contesting first time against 4-5 parties already
established for decades.
Reluctance to contest from Haryana primarily Rural Dominated economy
indicates AAP preference for Urban centric policies than Rural Farming
MSME serving majority.
Political fever that helped him get good percentage of votes in
December and April state and national elections is over – it shall be
AAPs third attempt in Delhi and hopefully second in other states going
to polls shortly and he must come up with Concrete Agenda and Vision.
Ravinder Singh, National General Secretary.
Sabka Bharat Mission 2019
Y-77, Hauz Khas, New Delhi -110016
Ph: 9650421857, 9718280435
Sabkabharatmission2019@gmail.com


 

CAG-CBI Reported MEGA Bungling in ALL Ambani Companies

1072014
 
 
 
 
Ravinder Singh
To chauthidunia@gmail.comindiaagainstcorruption.2010@gmail.comchandru_14521@yahoo.com and 360 More…
 
 
 Today at 12:54 AM
CAG-CBI Reported MEGA Bungling in ALL Ambani Companies
July01, 2014
There is long list of Ambani Companies MEGA Bungling. CAG and CBI are
not reporting full extent of RIL Bungling.
1.1] 4G Scam: In addition to the Rs.40,000 crores in Reliance Jio it
is not reported SIDE SCAM of Rs.25,000 Crores Rural Broadband Program.
1.2] In 2002 RIL laid Optical Fiber Network that was to Provide Broad
Band services at par with Singapore in Indian Cities but when it got
WLL License cheaply and that Local Wireless was converted to National
Service and soon converted to regular GSM / CDMA licenses it gave up
BROAD Band plan in 2003.
1.3]  Last few years SAM PITRODA helped RIL in MISDIRECTING BSNL
Rs.25,000 Cr Rural Broadband Program. Optic Fiber based BROAD BAND is
most suitable for Metro Cities and other densely populated area. A
single Optical Fiber can serve a Multi Story Building or Five Star
Hotel. But PITRODA Misguided DOT in to supporting Wireless 2G, 3G, and
4G Services in cities based on all Imported Hardware and Software.
But for Rural Broad Band 4G Services are MOST EFFECTIVE and Economical
– a 4G Tower can serve several hundred villages and some towns
ensuring Speed & Reliability.
1.4]  RIL was also caught red handed Operating 30 Clandestine
Telephone Exchanges in RE-ROUTING International calls as Locals but
let off lightly.
Ravinder Singh, National General Secretary.
Sabka Bharat Mission 2019
Y-77, Hauz Khas, New Delhi -110016
Ph: 9650421857, 9718280435
Sabkabharatmission2019@gmail.com
Petition against 4G licence to Reliance Jio Apex court seeks Centre’s reply
PTI/ Our Bureau
New Delhi, May 9:
The Supreme Court on Friday sought response of the Centre and telecom
regulator TRAI on a public interest litigation filed by an NGO
challenging grant of 4G licences to Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio
Infocomm Ltd (RJIL).
A Bench of Justices HL Dattu and SA Bobde issued notice to the Centre,
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and RJIL on the petition
of NGO, Centre for Public Interest Litigation (CPIL), which challenged
the Government’s decision to allow Mukesh Ambani’s company to offer
voice services on its 4G spectrum.
The PIL, filed through advocate Prashant Bhushan, also sought quashing
of the permission granted by the Government to Reliance for providing
voice telephony on Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) spectrum and
pitched for a court-monitored CBI investigation in the alleged Rs.
40,000-crore scam.
The petition said that the Centre’s decision to allow voice telephony
has given undue benefit of about ₹22,842 crore to RJIL and
corresponding loss to the Government and “is therefore arbitrary,
unreasonable and discriminatory“.
It also alleged that the company was allowed “backdoor entry” into
voice telephony using BWA spectrum by paying entry fee of meagre
amount of Rs. 1,658 crore determined way back in 2001, a figure which
was rejected by the apex court in its February 2, 2012, judgement in
2G spectrum allocation scam case.
Reliance Jio reaction
“We have not received any notice of any petition so far filed by
Prashant Bhushan. This appears to be one more in a series of attempts
to create a controversy in a next-generation foray which Reliance is
determined to create 


 

Modi Can Revive Ties With Nepal

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South Asia is a tough environment for optimists. Too many false starts and near misses. But sitting in Kathmandu, I feel optimistic about the prospects for regional integration in South Asia. My optimism arises because of the news of Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj’s imminent visit to Dhaka to be followed by her visit to Kathmandu reportedly in preparation for Prime Minister Modi’s tentatively planned visit to Nepal in the beginning of August.
This is just amazing news, coming as it does on the heels of his invitation to South Asian heads of government for his swearing in and making Bhutan his first foreign visit. If Modi does visit Nepal, ahead of his first speech from the Red Fort and prior to visiting any country outside South Asia, it will mark a positive change in Indian foreign policy.
Positives
For me, who has been propagating the cause of and working on regional cooperation in South Asia since the mid- eighties ( nearly 30 years), this is almost too good to be true. My hope is that this change in the focus and orientation of our foreign policy will soon be reflected down the line in the MEA. Henceforth, South Block and India will wholeheartedly accept the asymmetric responsibility for making South Asia an integrated economic space with open borders that permit free, but legally permitted movement of people, goods and services.
Modi’s predecessor, Manmohan Singh, was himself a strong proponent of open borders in South Asia. But quite inexplicably he did not find the time to visit Nepal! Consequently, Indo- Nepal relations suffered inordinately. Many friends of India have been angry at Nepal being left to be handled by the ‘ Agencies’ with political contacts being allowed to wither away. This could be the critical difference between Singh and Modi. The latter has quite visibly put politics in command. For a Prime Minister to have met all his counterparts in the region and visited two neighbouring capitals within the first 100 days of becoming Prime Minister is history making action.
It clearly distinguishes Modi from all his predecessors. It also sends a clear signal that henceforth India will give the highest priority to its neighbourhood, and not look for kudos from global powers or seek to punch above its weight on the global scene. Realism and the pursuit of national interest, the two drivers of India’s foreign policy, requires that South Asia has now become India’s central focus.
Coming back to Nepal, it may be important for the two governments to try and sort out some of the outstanding issues in Indo- Nepal relations prior to Modi’s visit that is also aimed at paying homage to Lord Pashupatinath, the protector of Kathmandu. There is a good chance for an agreement being finalised between GMR and the Government of Nepal to start work on the 600 MW hydro power project. The PMO could encourage GMR to take a quick decision on this and push the project forward.
This will mark a major breakthrough and could be the beginning of Nepal’s journey to prosperity and South Asia’s progress to energy security.
Irritants
India also needs to address the concerns of a vocal minority in Nepal which is opposed to export of hydropower to India if the commercial exploitation of nearly 80,000 MW of Nepal’s hydropower potential could become a reality. Modi would do well to push the envelope forward, by declaring, while in Kathmandu, India’s support for a South Asian region electricity grid and announcing India’s willingness to allow unimpeded flow of Nepalese hydropower energy across Indian territory to other countries in South Asia. This will be a big win and has the potential to change the development trajectory in the entire region.
At the same time, some minor irritants have to be removed to make this visit truly historical. Indian border officials do not endear themselves to the vast number of Nepalese who cross the open border and go back home from their jobs in India. The petty and ham- handed corruption and harassment meted out by personnel of the Seema Suraksha Bal, other para- military forces and the Customs department to Nepalese youth changes potential goodwill towards India into deep seated anger among them.
Sentiments
This results in the creation of long term negative sentiment that is difficult to counter despite the presence of a large number of Nepalese who have been educated in Indian universities and carry very fond memories for their time spent in India. This pernicious practice can surely be changed almost overnight with strict directions going out from the home ministry and the CBEC. The PMO may want to ensure that such directions are issued prior to Modi’s visit.
Secondly, India still requires the testing of food products exported from Nepal ( ginger is one of them) to be tested in CFTRI laboratories located in Kolkata, Delhi or Lucknow. This process takes up to 2- 3 weeks and is marked with rampant rent seeking. India should create sufficient testing capabilities within Nepal in a fast track manner under our technical cooperation program.
Finally, India has to demonstrate its sensitivity to the vulnerability felt on a daily basis by a land locked country like Nepal. It was a huge mistake on our part to have flexed our muscle in the past and exposed Nepal’s critical dependence on India for all its necessary imports. Such negative memories take exceptionally long to be erased. Do Indians still not remember 1962? The surest way to help Nepal build a more trust based relationship with India is for Modi to guarantee unimpeded access to Indian roads and ports and airports for goods and services being imported or exported by Nepal.
He will surely be able to find the right formulations to convey this guarantee as explicitly as possible.
Modi appears to have a vision for South Asia, which is in sync with his vision for India. More importantly he has already started taking decisive action in pursuit of this vision. It is also now time for our global partners to work even more closely with us to accelerate the pace of South Asian regional integration.

Notes:
Author is a Senior Fellow at the Centre for Policy Research. He is also the former Director of ICRIER and former Secretary General of FICCI.


Dear Mr. SagarI am forwarding my article “Modi Can Revive Ties With Nepal” that has appeared in the newspaper “The Mail Today” on 27th June (Friday).
Your comments and suggestions are always appreciated.
With Best Regards,
Rajiv Kumar


 

GCC countries plan massive rail technology investment.

1072014
 
 
 
 
Jamie, Middle East rail 2015
To Me
 
Today at 10:49 AM
If you have trouble viewing this email, read the online version
 
   
 
Dear N.K,
Almost every country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has plans to develop rail transport 
technology in 2015. 
Plans to develop fully integrated networks enabling seamless cross-border freight transport to facilitate trade with European and Asian markets will reflect the region’s growing global importance to world trade. 
A key component to these projects will be the technology supporting the main lines.  Operators have and will float tenders for the manufacture and supply of rail coaches and the installation of control systems for inter operable national systems. 
Companies from the following profiles are needed to support regional rail technology projects:
  • Signaling & communication
  • Operations & security
  • System integration
  • And more…
The 9th annual Middle East Rail exhibition and conference at The Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre will bring together transport operators and contractors to meet the implementation of these multi-billion dollar projects.  

Download sponsorship brochure
Do you want to showcase your pioneering products? Can you meet the challenges of these demanding projects? Do you want to win a share of the business?  Then you need to be Sponsoring or Exhibiting in Middle East Rail 2015.
Enquire now about your tailor-made package.  Contact Jamie Hosie at Jamie.hosie@terrapinn.com or +97144402501.
Jamie Hosie
Project Director
Middle East Rail 2015


 

Sikhs Helping Sikhs

1072014
To Me
 
Today at 10:56 AM
http://www.deedaday.in is a project to save 250000 children in Punjab 
These children are from economically distressed families who don’t have enough money for daily sustenance.
The only way to save a family locked in poverty is to help educate their child.
This will give them a chance to break the chains of poverty and lead a better life, once the child grows and enters the workforce.
Please help to save us. Adopt a child to help save the Panth.
Take a look at this video on YouTube

http://youtu.be/5oS1uqAZx7A



To unsubscribe click here.
For more information please visit our website www.sikhshelpingsikhs.com,
or email us via sewa@sikhshelpingsikhs.com



 

AirAsia to re-enter Japan’s low cost carrier market

1072014
 
 
 
 

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TOKYO, 1 JULY – AirAsia today announced that it will be entering into a Shareholders Agreement with Octave Japan Infrastructure Fund I GK (Octave), Rakuten Inc. (Rakuten), Noevir Holdings Co. Ltd. (Noevir), and Alpen Co. Ltd. (Alpen) to establish AirAsia Japan. 

Tony Fernandes, Group Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia said, “We are very excited to return to Japan’s skies together with Octave, Rakuten, Noevir and Alpen this time round. I am more confident than ever that AirAsia Japan, led by Odi (Odagiri Yoshinori) with the strong partnership we have with our new investors, will continue to realize our vision to revolutionize the low-cost carrier segment of Japan. The AirAsia Japan team is now working hard with the relevant authorities to obtain necessary operational approvals, and we hope that all will be in place to start both domestic and international flights by the summer of 2015.”

Odagiri Yoshinori, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Japan further commented, “We are ready to take on this challenge and with great teamwork, we hope to bring AirAsia’s successful low-cost business model once again to Japan. Our counterparts in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and India have seen great and encouraging responses in their markets, and we will work towards the same for Japan. We would like to thank the investors for their belief in us and we look forward to working closely with them moving forward.”

Rakuten was incorporated in Japan on February 1997 and its major business includes Internet services (e-commerce, travel), financial services (bank, credit card, securities. etc), telecommunications and professional sports, while Noevir, which was incorporated in Japan on March 2011 and its major business includes cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and health food, apparel and aviation business.

Alpen was incorporated in Japan on July 1972 and its major business includes manufacturing and retail of ski equipment, other sporting goods equipment including golf, tennis, marine sports, baseball, etc. and leisure goods; management of ski resorts, golf courses and fitness clubs; while Octave was incorporated in Japan on May 2014 and its major business is to acquire, own, manage, hold, sell, and dispose of the shares of AirAsia Japan and make collections from the shares of AirAsia Japan.

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blh Øe esa MkW0 “kekZ us vkxs crk;k fd ftl ;equk dks eFkqjk o`Unkou esa ifo= ekudj J)kyq vkpeu djrs gSa] mlesa fnYyh ds 18 egkdk; ukyksa ds vR;Ur iznwf’kr ty ds vykok vkSj dqN Hkh ugha gSA tks eFkqjk rd vkrs & vkrs ihuk rks nwj Nwus yk;d Hkh ugha jgrk gSA fQj mlh iznwf’kr ty dks ;equk ty dSls cuk;k tk ldrk gS \ blfy, t+:jh gS fd ufn;ksa dks izkphu Lekjdksa dh rt+Z ij uSlfxZd Lo:Ik iznku fd;k tk;s vkSj mUgsa ;Fkkor~ cuk;s j[kus dh ft+Eesnkjh ;wusLdks ;k oYMZ cSad ljh[kh laLFkk dks lkSaih tk;sA  blh ds lkFk ns”k ds “kgjksa dh lhojh ufn;ksa dks tksM+dj ,slk usVodZ cuk;k tk;s ftldk la”kksf/kr ty flapkbZ] fo|qr mRiknu vkSj “kkSp vkfn ds fy, pØh; rkSj ij mi;ksx esa vkrk jgsA  
MkW0 “kekZ us lpsr fd;k fd Hkkjr dk Hkfo’; izkÑfrd lalk/kuksa ds laj{k.k vkSj tula[;k fu;a=.k ij fuHkZj gSA ;fn le; jgrs ml ij dk;Z ugha fd;k x;k rks pquko ds ok;ns vkt ugha rks dy [kks[kys lkfcr gksaxsA fygkt+k fodkl ds uke ij izÑfr ds va/kk/kqa/k “kks’k.k vkSj lalk/kuksa ds iznw’k.k ij jk’Vªh; uhfr cuuh t+:jh gSA
MkW0 “kekZ us ;equk iznw’k.k eqfDr dks ysdj iz/kkuea=h ds vkns”k ij lEcfU/kr vQljksa vkSj oSKkfudksa dh udkjkRed izfrfØ;k ij xgjk {kksHk trk;kA dgk fd ljdkj dks ;equk eqfDr ds fy, lEcfU/kr vf/kdkfj;ksa dks lkcjerh ekWMy fn[kkus ds ctk; oSf”od Lrj ij fo”ks’kKksa dks vkeaf=r djuk pkfg,A vU;Fkk Hkkjrh; ukSdj”kkgh dks yxh ykijokgh dh tax ;equk dks dHkh iznw’k.keqDr ugha gksus nsxhA crk;k fd vfHk;ku ds rgr ns”k ds lHkh lwcksa dh ljdkjksa dks Kkiu lkSaidj muls ufn;ksa dh ifo=rk dh ekax dh tk;sxhA

blls iwoZ mifLFkrksa us eka ;equk ds fp=iV ij ekY;kiZ.k ,oa nhiksigkj ls vk;kstu dh “kq:vkr dhA rRipkr~ ufn;ka NksM+ks lhoj tksM+ks ds ukjksa ls {ks= xqtk;eku gks x;kA bl volj ij ealskyk prq0] “kqHke~ prq0] y{e.k prq0] iIiw] jkds”k lesr J)kyq mifLFkr FksA

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US names mountain after an Indian-American scientist

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US names mountain after an Indian-American scientist
The United States has named a mountain in Antarctia in honour of an eminent Indian-American scientist whose pioneering biological research expedition has provided critical data about animal populations.
Akhouri Sinha, adjunct professor in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development at the University of Minnesota, was recognised by the US Geological Survey, which named the mountain Mt Sinha, for his work he did as an explorer in 1971-72
. Sinha was a member of a team that catalogued population studies of seals, whales and birds in the pack ice of the Bellingshausen and Amundsen Seas using US Coast Guard Cutters Southwind and Glaciers in 1972 and 1974.
The mountain was named by Advisory Committee on Antarctic Names (US-ACAN) and the US Geological Survey.
Mt Sinha, a mountain (990 m) at the southeast extremity of Erickson Bluffs in the south part of McDonald Heights, overlooks lower Kirkpatrick Glacier from the north in Marie Byrd Land.
“Anyone can see the Mt Sinha, Antarctica on Google.com or Bing.com,” Sinha said in an interview.
“Show to the world that you are capable, don’t be afraid to contact people out in the field today, and grab every opportunity,” he said.
Sinha, who graduated with a BSc degree from the Allahabad University in 1954 and MSc degree in Zoology from the Patna University in 1956, said he was invited to conduct research on reproduction of Antarctic seals by the National Science Foundation Antarctic Program.
He also taught in the Department of Zoology at the Ranchi College from November 1956 to July 1961, before coming to the US.
“I went to Antarctica on two expeditions lasting for about 22 weeks on the US Coast Guard cutters, Southwind and Glacier, during 1972 and 1974, respectively,” said Sinha, who has published over 100 papers and has been teaching graduate level courses for almost 25 years.
Sinha says his forefathers migrated to Buxar in Bihar from Delhi after Nadir Shah of Iran invaded Delhi in 1739.
“I go to my village (Churamanpur) almost every year, preferably in February to escape Minnesota winter and to visit relatives and village friends and others.


 

Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus

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On the occasion of celebration of Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus, which is officially observed on the 3rd July, Ambassador of Belarus in India, H.E. Mr. Vitaly A. Prima held a reception on 2nd July 2014 at Hyatt Hotel in New Delhi. Dignitaries from various embassies including Ambassador of Tajikistan in India HE Saidbeg Saidove, Second Secretary Bayasgalan Naranzul in Embassy of Mongolia in India, Ambassador of Russia, Zambia, Korea were present. Diplomats, politicians and media too joined the party with sumptuous dinner and cocktails.
Belarus is building its own unique model of market economy, the main values of which are:
  • focus on the person,
  • social security,
  • effective government regulation,
  • high technology,
  • resource and energy efficiency,
  • competitiveness,
  • developed entrepreneurship,
  • market infrastructure.


 

Russian president’s visit to Belarus over

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MINSK, 2 July – President of Russia Vladimir Putin visit to Minsk is now overofficial media reports.
Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko personally saw off the Russian leader in the National Airport Minsk.
On 2 July Vladimir Putin took part in the opening ceremony of the new premises of the Belarusian State Museum of Great Patriotic War History. A bilateral meeting of the presidents of Belarus and Russia also took place in Minsk. Various aspects of cooperation between the two countries were discussed.
Russian and Belarusian heads of state laid wreaths at the monument in Victory Square.


 

600 Indians out of Iraq, more on their way: MEA

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Nearly 600 Indians out of Iraq, more on their way: MEAUpdated on : 02-07-2014 09:36 PM
Nearly 600 Indians have left conflict-hit Iraq after being facilitated by the External Affairs Ministry and about 900 more are to follow even as the Indian embassy in Baghdad was in touch with the 46 nurses stuck in Tikrit who are safe and unharmed.
“By our estimation, the facilitation phase has now gathered pace. We have provided tickets to approximately 530 nationals. Their seats have been booked on commercial flights. In addition, we are processing the documentation of another 850 persons,” the Spokesperson in the External Affairs Ministry said in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Asked about the condition of the nurses who have taken refuge in the basement of their hospital after bombing and firing took place in the vicinity of the building, the Spokesperson said that the Indian Ambassador spoke to them and they remain safe and unharmed.
About the other captives in the conflict zones, he said the understanding was that they are safe.
Giving details of issuance of travel documents to Indians, he said in terms of passports being processed in different locations in Iraq, the largest number are from Najaf.
“Currently, there are 350 passports that are being processed for Indian nationals from Najaf, 290 from Karbala, 190 from Basra and a little bit from Baghdad also. In Baghdad, there is no backlog because we have an embassy there and so all the work that is there is up to date,” the Spokesperson said.
He said seats continue to be available on commercial flights so the ministry was making use of these to fly back Indian nationals to the nearest international airports.
Iraq is witnessing serious strife with Sunni militants, backed by al Qaida, capturing two key cities and marching towards Baghdad.
Hundreds of thousands of Iraqis have been displaced in the fighting that broke out on 10th June.
When asked about reports that ISIS has declared holy war against India along with many other countries, the Spokesperson downplayed the reports saying India was in safe hands.
The Spokesperson also noted that there was a curfew in Karbala after a religious strife.


 

Army Chief holds talks with top brass of China’s PLA

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Army Chief General Bikram Singh, who is in China on a four-day official visit, held talks with People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Chief of General Staff Fang Fenghui on Tuesday.
The Indian army chief’s visit to China comes after a nine year gap. The then army chief Gen N C Viz had visited China in 2005.
Later in the day, Gen Singh is scheduled to meet Vice Chairman of China’s Military Commission Gen. Fan Changlong, the all powerful body headed by President Xi Jinping which controls all wings of the armed forces. Gen.
Singh, also the Chairman of the tri-services Chiefs of Staff Committee, is scheduled to meet Vice President Li Yuanchao besides Vice Executive Foreign Minister Zhang Yesui.
On Wednesday he is due to address cadets of the National Defence University and later travel to Shanghai on July 5 where he would visit a Chinese naval ship.
Commenting on Gen. Singh’s visit, the PLA said it is of “great significance” as it aimed at strengthening high-level strategic communication and mutual trust between the two militaries. The visit is of great significance as it contributes to healthy and steady development of Sino-Indian relations as well as the ties between the two armed forces and create a good atmosphere, the Chinese Defence Ministry said.
Relations between the two armies, the regional security situation besides the issues of common concern and exchanges will come up for discussion between Gen. Singh and the Chinese military officials, the ministry said.
The two sides will implement consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries to strengthen border exchanges and cooperation between the two armies to jointly safeguard the peace and tranquillity in the border areas, it added.
Gen. Singh’s visit is an important event in this year’s planned military exchanges under the ongoing ‘Sino – Indian Friendship Exchange Year’, it said.
His visit comes after the just concluded tour of Vice President Hamid Ansari and ahead of the first meeting between Chinese President Xi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Brazil later this month.


 

AIRASIA X LANDS IN XIÁN!!!

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CELEBRATES FIRST FLIGHT INTO XIÁN, SOLIDIFYING ITS PRESENCE IN CHINA
Offering guests promotional inaugural launch fares from as low as MYR199* (CNY588*) from Kuala Lumpur
Photo Caption: Azran Osman-Rani the CEO of AirAsia X flanked by Terracotta Warriors revealing the Xi’an Inaugural fare
XIÁN, 3 July 2014- AirAsia X, the long-haul, low fare affiliate of the AirAsia Group touched down XiÁn, Xianyang International Airport International Airport at 23:20pm yesterday from Kuala Lumpur marking its inaugural flight into XiÁn from Kuala Lumpur.
XiÁn is the airline’s 5th destination in China after Hangzhou, Chengdu, Beijing, and Shanghai. AirAsia X will commence 4 weekly flights into XiÁn, China from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and will be the only airline servicing direct flights between the two cities. The arrival of AirAsia X into XiÁn will further expand the airlines reach in North Asia.
AirAsia X officially celebrated the inaugural launch at Tang Dynasty West Market Hotel today with the attendance of AirAsia X’s Chief Executive Officer, Azran Osman-Rani and Director, Dato’ Fam Lee Ee. Also present were the Deputy Director of Tourism Section of the Embassy, Mr. Rohaiza Haris, The Director of the Primary Industries Department of Municipal Development and reform Commission of Shan Xi Province, Ms. Ma Li and the Chief Marketing Officer of XiÁn Xianyang International Airport, Mr. Fu LiSheng, representatives from tourism bodies, Xianyang airport, and business associates including members of the media.
To commemorate this special occasion, AirAsia X will be offering promotional fares to XiÁn from Kuala Lumpur from as low as MYR199* (CNY588)* on Economy and from just MYR699* (CNY1499*) on its Business Class. The fares are available for online bookings from now to 13 July, 2014 for immediate travel between now and 31 March, 2015. For more details, log on to http://www.airasia.com.
Azran Osman-Rani, CEO of AirAsia X said, “I am pleased to announce that AirAsia X is the first airline that flies direct into XiÁn. Adding XiÁn into our ever growing network in China proves our commitment in our growth strategies in the Asia Pacific region and will further expand the airlines reach in North Asia. The airline has in total carried 2.7 million passengers to date into/from China from Kuala Lumpur with an average passenger load of 82%. With XiÁn added on our network, we expect to see our total revenue increase to over 17% with more than 1 million guests flying into/from our China routes from Kuala Lumpur this year.”
“With the addition of the 8th Wonder of the World; XiÁn to the AirAsia X family, guests may now discover more exotic and exciting destinations in China and similarly guests from XiÁn and its surrounding region may tap onto our strong group network to discover South East Asia and beyond” Azran concluded.
XiÁn has always been a global destination and attract visitors from all over the world and thou more famous as the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the Terracotta warriors of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has a lot more historical culture to offer. Attractions include the discovery site of The Lantian Man, and the Great Wild Goose Pagoda which was built to store the translations of Buddhist sutras obtained from India. XiÁn also has a famous Muslim Quarter where guest can experience the Chinese Muslim food, learn about Chinese Islamic culture and visit China’s biggest and oldest mosque a. Nature lovers can also opt for a hiking tour up the Green Dragon Ridge, to take in breath taking views of the surrounding areas.
AirAsia X was the first long-haul, low fare carrier to introduce Business Class Premium Flatbed seats, which have standard business class specifications of 20″ width, 60″ pitch and stretch out to 77″ in full recline position.
The Business Class Premium Flatbed seats feature universal power sockets, adjustable headrests and built-in personal utilities such as tray table, drink holder, reading light and privacy screen. Business class guests also enjoy premium complimentary products and services including Pick A Seat, Priority Check-in, Priority Boarding, Priority Baggage, 25kg Baggage Allowance, Complimentary Meal and Pillow & Duvet.


 

यमुना जागरण अभियान पर विहिप ने दी शुभकामनाएँ

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नई दिल्ली जुलाई 02, 2014. जागरण समूह द्वारा आज प्रारम्भ किए गए यमुना हिंडन बचाओ अभियान पर विश्व हिँदु परिषद दिल्ली के महा मंत्री श्री ऱाम कृष्ण श्रीवास्तव ने शुभ कामनाएं देते हुए अभियान की चहुँ-मुखी सफलता हेतु समस्त दिल्ली व एन सी आर वासियों से जुट जाने की अपील की है।
दिल्ली के यमुना घाट पर यात्रा से पूर्व यमुना पूजन व रथ क़ो हऱी झंडी दिखाने के बाद विहिप दिल्ली के मीडिया प्रमुख़ श्री विनोद बंसल ने कहा कि यमुना दिल्ली के शरीर रूप में बह रहे रक्त के समान है जिसके दूषित होने पर होने वाले खतरों को हम भली भॉँति जानते हैं। इस रक्त रूपी जल को अविलम्ब शुद्ध किया जाना दिल्ली के स्वास्थ्य व अध्यात्मिक दृष्टि से नितांत आवश्यक है। उन्होंने आशा व्यक्त की कि जागरण परिवार द्वारा प्रारम्भ किया जा रहा यह जागरण अभियान नागरिकों को जागरूक कर व्यापक जन जागृति खड़ा कर यमुना जी के माध्यम से पतित पावनी माँ गंगा को भी निर्मल बनाने में मील का पत्त्थर साबित होगा।
राजघाट स्थित हरिहर उदासीन आश्रम में रथ यात्रा का स्वागत कर कलश पूजन करते हुए यमुना घाटवासी युवा सँत व विहिंप के चान्दनी चौक जिला-मंत्री श्री मंगल पाण्डे ने कहा कि हम सभी लोग अब यमुना मैया कि रक्षार्थ जुटेंगे और लोगों को इस अभियान से जोड़ेंगे।
धन्यवाद
भवदीय
विनोद बंसल


 

AAP: Electricity tariff hike will be resisted at all costs

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From: Media Cell AAP1 Wed, 2 Jul ’14 4:54p
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Show full Headers
Wednesday, July 2
The Aam Aadmi Party warns the BJP-led NDA’s central government against trying any misadventure of hiking electricity tarrifs in Delhi, since any such move will be met with stiff resistance by the people.
The Narendra Modi government, which is controlling the national capital indirectly, will be solely responsible for this anti-people and blatantly pro-corporate decision, in case the tarrif hike announcement is made next week.
The BJP cannot fool the people and go back on its repeated election promise of bringing down the electricity tariffs in Delhi by 30%.
Modi government has no right to humiliate the overwhelming verdict in favour of lowering the electricity tariffs in the existing Delhi assembly, in which 60 MLAs in the 70-member assembly were elected on the promise of slashing the electricity tarrifs, which had been systematically increased by the Shiela Dikshit government in collusion with private power distribution companies (discoms) over the last decade.
The BJP can no longer rely on the old excuse used by the Congress that tariffs are fixed by the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC), and the government has no role in it.
Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government had dispelled this wrong notion by having implemented its election promise of slashing the electricity tariffs by 50% within 72 hours of coming to power.
If the AAP government could implement its promise within hours of assuming office, why is the BJP silent on its promise even more than five weeks after it assumed control of Delhi through backdoor ?
Why is the union power minister Mr Piyush Goyal and his ministry so reluctant to give a clear message to the DERC that it would be highly improper to hike electricity tariffs at a time when the account books of discoms are being audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General to ascertain whether any records have been fudged ?
Can the BJP set the record straight by publicly stating how its stand is any different from the Congress on the issue of dealing with discoms which have been looting the people of Delhi since a decade ?
The AAP is of the clear view that the BJP is forcing the people of Delhi to take to streets by imposing a completely unjustified decision, which must be stopped at all costs.
Regards
AAP Media Cell

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Global roundups

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Putin calls for better relations with US in congratulatory message to Obama


President Vladimir Putin called for better relations between Russia and the US on Friday in a goodwill message to President Barack Obama on US Independence Day, Reuters said. Putin highlighted that the two states carry exceptional responsibility for safeguarding international stability and security, and should cooperate “in the interests of the whole world,” the Kremlin said.

USS Oscar Austin calls at Lithuanian port


USS Oscar Austin has reportedly called at the port of the Lithuanian city of Klaipeda. The destroyer is making a friendly visit to Klaipeda Seaport, Lithuania’s Ministry of National Defense said. On July 4, President Dalia Grybauskaite, Minister of National Defence Juozas Olekas, US Ambassador in Lithuania Deborah McCarthy are expected to visit the vessel, the Baltic Course reported.

Hungary monitors 5 people for suspected anthrax infection


An infection of the deadly anthrax disease has been identified in beef in eastern Hungary, the health authority ANTSZ said on Friday. Five people are being monitored in hospital for suspected infection from the disease, Reuters reported. The disease was identified in frozen beef after two cattle were illegally slaughtered in a farm in the town of Tiszafured, 160km east of Budapest.

Police detain organizers of huge rally in Hong Kong


Police on Friday arrested the organizers of Hong Kong’s biggest pro-democracy rally since the city was handed back to China, AFP said. Five members of the Civil Human Rights Front, including its convener, were arrested three days after the march, with campaigners denouncing the detention as the “political suppression.” The group said it had mobilized half a million people to voice anger at Beijing’s ever-tightening grip on Hong Kong.

70,000 ask Google to delete personal links


More than 70,000 people have asked Google to delete links about them under Europe’s “right to be forgotten” ruling. Google had received 70,000 requests since it put a form online on May 30 as a result of the ruling by the European Court of Justice, AFP said. The search engine has restricted access to a BBC blog posting and several British newspaper stories under a legal ruling granting people a right to be “forgotten” in search engines. In particular, the BBC’s 2007 posting about former Merrill Lynch chairman Stan O’Neal was removed from certain searches in Europe. The Guardian newspaper had been notified that six links to its stories had been removed from search results.

Bolivia MPs vote for child labor from age 10


Bolivian Congress has approved child workers as young as 10 years old, AFP said. Congress passed a new law that lays out specific conditions for employing children by consensus on Wednesday. Employers will have to follow certain criteria to ensure the physical and mental health of employed children, and to prevent child exploitation. “The age limit, as defined formally by the Code for Children and Adolescents, is 14 years old,”Senator Adolfo Mendoza said. However, the new code allows exceptions, when specific legal criteria have been met.

Hurricane Arthur reaches Category 2, makes landfall on North Carolina coast


Hurricane Arthur was upgraded to a Category 2 storm Thursday afternoon, with maximum sustained winds of 100 miles per hour. By late Thursday night it had made landfall between Cape Lookout and Beaufort, North Carolina. “The hurricane’s strongest winds are now more likely to be experienced along the Outer Banks, rather than remain offshore,” the US National Hurricane Center in Miami said in its latest advisory. The storm surge is forecasted to be 3 to 5 feet in the Outer Banks and other parts of eastern North Carolina. A tropical storm warning is now in effect for Nantucket and parts of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, while a hurricane warning extends from North Carolina to the border with Virginia.


 

प्रसार भारती अब यूरोप के बाजार तक 

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समाचार4मीडिया
To Me
Jul 3 at 9:07 PM
Friday 4 July 2014
प्रसार भारती अब यूरोप के बाजार तक पहुंचाएगी भारतीय आवाज
प्रसार भारती देश के साथ ही अब विदेशों में भी अपने देश की आवाज…


‘प्रसार भारती न सरकार समर्थक है न सरकार विरोधी, खबरों में दिखती है ये बात’
पहले से ही स्वायत्त संस्था प्रसार भारती ने खुद को और स्वायत्त…


अब ऐडवरटाइजिंग की दुनिया में लौटे सुनील लुल्ला, बने ग्रे ग्रुप इंडिया के चेयरमैन और MD

शंकराचार्य स्वरूपानंद ने सुमित अवस्थी से पूछा, क्या गोमांस खाते हो?

एक फ्रिज की कहानी जो 80 लाख लोगों को हुई ट्वीट, What an Idea Sirji!
कुछ लोग दुनिया में हमेशा ही दूसरों की मदद के लिए तत्पर…


लाइव इंडिया समूह ने अपने अखबार के पाठकों को दिया ऑफर

लाइव इंडिया समूह के हिंदी दैनिक अखबार ‘प्रजातंत्र लाइव’ ने पाठकों के बीच व मार्केट में अपनी पैठ जमाने के लिए एक बेहतरीन ऑफर की पेशकश की है…


फेसबुक पर लगाया गया गोपनीय शोध में न्यूज फीड से हेराफेरी करने का आरोप
एक रिपोर्ट के जरिए फेसबुक पर न्यूज फीड फीचर में छेड़छाड़ करने …



 

Boletín de Noticias de Nueva Tribuna [04/07/2014]

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Nuevatribuna
To Boletín de Noticias de Nueva Tribuna
Today at 4:39 AM
 
Boletín informativo. Viernes 4 de Julio 2014.
Laboral
Un mercado de trabajo cada vez más indecente
Por Enrique Negueruela | De todos los datos que han aparecido, hay dos que por su implicación y capacidad de condicionar el futuro, destacan sobre los demás: la evolución de los afiliados por tipo de contrato y la de prestaciones. Ninguna de las dos contiene datos positivos.
CON MOTIVO DE LA CAMPAÑA “NO NOS VAN A CALLAR”
Movilizaciones en todo el país a favor del derecho de huelga y la libertad sindical
Esta ofensiva responde a una forma de gobernar caracterizada por la restricción de derechos y libertades básicas de la ciudadanía y ya ha conseguido que haya casi 300 sindicalistas sometidos a un proceso judicial.
Carlos Barra Galán: Acoso a la democracia: Restricción de derechos y libertades 
Estamos asistiendo en nuestro país a un ataque progresivo y constante a los derechos y libertades de la ciudadanía por parte del Gobierno del Partido Popular…
“Amas de nuestras vidas a amos de la miseria”
Por Consuelo Navarro y Cristina Sánchez | Sr. Rosell, podríamos empezar esta carta saludándole, pero a estas alturas no merece la pena por las continuas afrentas a la clase trabajadora…
CCOO LOS DEFENDERÁ CON MOVILIZACIÓN Y EN TRIBUNALES
8.000 empleos destruidos en las universidades públicas en dos años
El Ministerio de Hacienda y Administraciones Públicas confirma la pérdida de 5.669 docentes e investigadores (PDI) y 2.455 miembros de personal de administración y servicios (PAS).
Julio Rodríguez López: La recuperación avanza en un entorno complicado 
¿Pasó ya la crisis de la eurozona? Las encuestas indican que el clima empresarial se recupera…
Juan Torres López: La injusticia como política económica 
En lugar de forjar un nuevo trato por la igualdad para salir de la crisis, el Gobierno echa la carga en los mismos de siempre…
Monarquía
“AIZOON TENÍA COMO FIN RECIBIR FONDOS ILÍCITOS”
El contable de Nóos confiesa
El que fuera contable del Instituto Nóos Marco Antonio Tejeiro ha desvelado cómo Urdangarin y Torres urdieron un entramado de empresas para repartirse los fondos de las Administraciones públicas.
Otros temas de portada
DESDE AMNISTÍA INTERNACIONAL CON MÁS DE 100.000 APOYOS EXIGEN LA RETIRADA DEL ANTEPROYECTO DE LEY
“La reforma del aborto retrotraería España a épocas pre democráticas”
El anteproyecto de Ley orgánica sobre aborto no respeta las obligaciones que el Estado tiene contraídas en materia de derechos humanos y pone en riesgo la salud y la vida de las mujeres y las niñas.
MILES DE PERSONAS LLENAN LA PLAZA DE LA VIRGEN
Octavo aniversario del accidente de Metro de Valencia
En un claro ambiente festivo, el acto ha comenzado a las 19 horas con varios ‘muixerangas’ realizadas por las asociaciones de Valencia, Cullera, Algemesí, Sueca y Camp de Túria.
HA PRESENTADO EL LIBRO ‘CONVERSACIÓN CON IGLESIAS’
“¿Por qué no va a existir una regulación que garantice la libertad de prensa?”
El eurodiputado y líder de Podemos, Pablo Iglesias, es partidario de establecer mecanismos de control público para regular a los medios de comunicación, o por lo menos a “una parte”, y garantizar así “la libertad de prensa”.
Francisco Javier Vivas: Coaliciones de “frikis” 
De entrada, es difícil admitir buena intención en el Gobierno cuando habla de regeneración y transparencia…
ENCUESTA DE OCU SOBRE LA SATISFACCIÓN
Madrid es la peor ciudad para utilizar la bicicleta
OCU ha realizado una encuesta a más de 4.000 personas de 16 grandes ciudades para conocer su opinión sobre las condiciones para ir en bicicleta en su localidad de residencia.
Cine
Alex de la Iglesia se cuela en el mundial con su documental sobre Messi
Por José Manuel Rambla | La película, cuyo estreno en España está por determinar, fue presentada en Rio de Janeiro por Jorge Valdano.
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ISIS militants seize control of Syria’s most important oil fields

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"Iraq

ISIS militants have seized control of one of Syria’s most important oil fields after fighters from other factions switched their allegiance to support it. The Deir-e-zzor oil field was earlier seized by Al Nusrah front from the Syrian troops in November last year.The two groups were engaged in fierce fighting for the oilfield earlier.
Amidst mounting pressure Al Nusrah fighters gave up and handed over the control of Al Omar oilfield to ISIS. The gains made by ISIS implies that it now controls a stretch of Syria from the town of Deir al-Zour in the middle of the country to Abukamel on the Iraqi border. Within neighbouring Iraq, it holds the cities of Mosul and Tikrit, has free rein in Anbar province and is making a push towards Baghdad.
Afghan official says militants fired two rockets into the military side of the Kabul airport, striking President Hamid Karzai’s helicopter as it sat on the tarmac.
Abdul Wahab Wardak, the commander of the military airport, says only one of the two rockets exploded in today’s attack and no casualties were reported.
But he says the Russian-made military helicopter used to transport Karzai was set on fire.
The attack on the airport, which is in one of the most heavily guarded areas of the Afghan capital, underscores the resiliency of militants led by the Taliban who are fighting against the Western-backed government.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in an email message sent to a news agency claimed the responsibility for the attack on the airport, which has been targeted several times in recent years.
“There is loss of life and financial losses to the airport, and several planes were torched,” the Taliban said. The insurgents often exaggerate the impact of their attacks.
The strike comes a day after a Taliban suicide bomber in Kabul killed eight military officers travelling on a military bus.


 

 Agra from Delhi in 90 mins by train from November 

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Travel to Agra from Delhi in 90 mins by train from November
Indian railway is to enhance speed of various trains to 160Kms per hour but with its load capacity how much speed it enjoys could be less than 150 kms per hour  but the speed enhancement entails four stages, introduction of electronic and smart card system in trains for making it water tight  and secondly improving the signals with electronic gadgets , third need  mechanical up gradation of trains of its wheels, springs connecting points of bogies  and finally of Geological study and structure analyses of the rail track foundations to absorb and sustain the speedy continuous vibrations, jerks due to train running and other structural design to strengthen the rail track from external natural threats of foundation of rail track. When we are enhancing speed from normal 90Kms per hr to 160 Kmsper hour we need to  be sure of its structural engineering to its core that too specially in alluvial formation where runway of water during monsoons and  creating fissure nay be of some concern to these rail tracks which need to be weather proof and structurally inbuilt strong, can take load and absorb speedy frictional losses. Magnetic dose to enhance malleability also needs attention.
 One can travel to Agra, the city of Taj Mahal, by train in just 90 minutes, cutting the journey time by 30 minutes at least. Trial run of a semi high-speed train between Delhi and Agra was conducted yesterday. The train was flagged off from New Delhi Railway station at 11:15 am and reached Agra at round 1 pm. With a speed of 160 kilometres per hour, the train is expected to reduce travel time between Delhi and Agra by 30 minutes. After its successful trial, the Railways plan to run similar trains to Kanpur and Chandigarh from Delhi.
Its commercial operation is expected to begin in November, railway officials said. So far, Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi was the fastest train with a speed of 150 kmph.The trial run of the ‘semi high-speed train’ was conducted this morning on a 10-coach train. It left New Delhi station at 11.15 am and reached Agra about 99 minutes later. From Nizamuddin station, where it will actually originate during commercial operations, the train took 90 minutes, Deputy Regional Manager (DRM) Delhi Division Anurag Sachan said.
The time taken currently by the Shatabdi train between Delhi and Agra takes 120 minutes. A journey by road via the Yamuna expressway takes two hours between Delhi and Agra. After the Delhi-Agra service, Railways are expected to run similar high speed trains on Delhi-Kanpur and Delhi-Chandigarh sections. “The trial run was conducted successfully and we hope to start commercial service by November,” said Sachan who was involved in the exercise on Thursday.
There are about 16 speed restriction areas and curves on the Delhi-Agra route which had been upgraded to improve the speed. The train would come as a boon for tourists visiting Taj Mahal as the travel time between Delhi and Agra will come down by half-an-hour from the current level.
The public transporter is using its own resources to make operational the semi-high speed train — the first of its kind in the railways. It is estimated that a cost of Rs 15 crore would be incurred to make the track ready for the semi-high speed train, said a senior Railway Ministry official involved with the project. There will be fencing for a stretch of 27-km along the track between Delhi and Agra to prevent obstruction and ensure speed.


 

PM flag off Katra train

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Jul 4,  2:6 PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday declared that the Centre wants to win the hearts of people of Jammu and Kashmir through development as he flagged off the train linking Katra–the base camp for pilgrims headed to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine nestled in the Trikuta hills.
Suggesting that the train be named ‘Shree Shakti Express’, Modi, who is on his maiden visit to J and K after assuming power, said the state has gone through many “problems and difficulties” and the country wants it to be “prosperous and peaceful”.’Shree’ is one of the names of Goddess Durga.
The train connectivity to Katra is part of the ambitious Kashmir rail link project that will connect the Valley with the rest of the country.
The last link between Katra and Banihal pass, is expected to be completed by 2018.
The 25-km long Udhampur-Katra line, commissioned after prolonged delays, has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 1,132.75 crore.
The train will traverse through seven tunnels and over 30 small and large bridges.
There will be a small station – Chakrakhwal – between Udhampur and Katra.
Trains will be able to reach Katra directly as the 53-km Jammu-Udhampur rail line is already operational.
This would enable lakhs of pilgrims headed to the revered Vaishno Devi shrine to travel directly to the base camp at Katra.
“I congratulate the crores of devotees of Mata Vaishno Devi, who want to come here for pilgrimage from all across the country,” Modi said while dedicating the train to the nation.
The Prime Minister said the new rail link will speed up the process of development in the state.
“The journey started by Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be continued… our priority is to win the hearts of every citizen of this state through development,” Modi said.
Modi said the train is a gift not just for people of J and K but for the whole of India At the function at the Katra station where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was among others present, the Prime Minister refrained from touching upon any political issue facing the state.
The Prime Minister also allayed the fears of the people of Jammu, who feel that the direct rail link to Katra will have negative impact on the development of their city, saying the “development of Jammu will not be stalled.”
Modi said the government will further enhance the rail connectivity in J and K and that the Banihal rail line will be linked to the rest of the country directly.
Omar also raised the need for a Banihal link in his speech and demanded an upgrade for the railway station in Jammu city
Modi today dedicated to the nation the newly constructed railway line between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Udhampur in the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Shri Modi also flagged off first train –a DMU – from newly constructed Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Katra Railway Station at a programme held at Katra, The Guests of Honour present at the function included Shri N. N. Vohra, Governor of J&K and Shri Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of J&K. The function was presided over by Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda, Minister of Railways. The distinguished guests included Shri Manoj Sinha, Minister of State for Railways, Government of India and Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science and Technology, Earth Science & Minister of State in Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances, & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Government of India. Chairman Railway Board, Shri. Arunendra Kumar, Member Engineering Railway Board Shri V. K. Gupta, General Manager, Northern Railway & North Central Railway Shri Pradeep Kumar, Senior officials of Railways and J&K State Government were among those present on the occasion.
Following is the text of Minister of Railways Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda:-
“I am greatly honoured to be here in this holy abode of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and to be part of this historic occasion. Linking of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine with Indian Railways Network has been a dream for many, not only in this part of the country, but for the whole nation. At this outset I wholeheartedly thank the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India on behalf of Indian Railways for having come here and inaugurating this great facility of Rail link to the Holy Place of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. The Rail connectivity to this holy place of Katra will occupy a pride of place on the rail map of the country. The linkage will provide an opportunity to large number of pilgrims who had aspired throughout their life to visit this revered shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi through the comfort of Railways. Visiting this revered shrine and seeking the Goddess blessing is a dream of every devout pilgrim. The Rail linkage will mark a milestone in the Railway’s effort towards fulfilling the aspirations of common public.
This state of Jammu & Kashmir occupies a special place in every Indian’s heart. This State which has been a birth place of early civilization, is a mosaic of colourful and harmonious culture with vibrant social fabric. The linkage to the valley will enable every Indian to visit this wonderful place through the comfort of Railways and appreciate the God’s gift to this country.
Rail transport in the country has brought economic and social development leading to greater economic growth by opening new avenues of employment, trade, industrial development. I am sure the Rail connectivity to Katra will provide better opportunities for local artisans, traders and student community. Under the able and effective leadership of Shri Narendra Modi ji, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, this Valley of Kashmir will be heralded with a new hope and development in all spheres of the governance and the State in toto.
The Rail link is a triumph of every Indian spirit to overcome the arduous hurdles of nature for reaching the people in this far-flung area. The Rail link is a result of many aspiration and dreams of the people of this country and had been made possible through tremendous perseverance and hard work of not only the Railway work force, but for many other supporting organizations who have worked day and night to fulfill this dream. Technically, this 26 km long Udhampur-Katra rail link was a challenge as more than 40% of the route is on tunnels having 7 major bridges and steep curves. To conquer the hilly Shivalik ranges, innovative approaches were adopted to ensure highest standards of operations and safety. My salutations to every officer, engineer and staff of Indian Railways and all the persons who contributed through their sweat and labour for their commendable job in executing this project. The Rail project has enabled permanent jobs for 700 persons whose land was taken over for the project. As part of the project, 235 kms approach roads to work sites have been constructed which will provide road connectivity to far flung villages in the State benefitting huge rural population of the State.
I am aware that since Katra to Banihal Rail project is yet to be commissioned, full rail connectivity to Kashmir valley is currently unavailable. To overcome this missing link, Railways had planned to bridge this link through Rail cum Road facility in collaboration with Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation. This facility will enable direct connectivity between Srinagar and rest of India to commuters. Earlier the introduction of rail services in Kashmir Valley has been a great success and considering the huge demand, Railways have not only enhanced the carrying capacity of DEMU trains from 8 to 12 Coaches, but have also planned 4 more pairs of enhanced services in the Kashmir Valley thereby providing a safe, affordable and comfortable option of transport to people in this State.
I am also happy to announce that 3 pairs of train services currently between Jammu to Udhampur will be extended to Katra. The Railway has also planned to run 3 pairs of Express trains from New Delhi, Kalka, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Bangalore. Indian Railways is committed for ensuring a balanced development of different regions of the country through Rail transport. With the opening of the Rail linkage and by increasing the frequency of Rail services, I am sure there will be a definitive thrust to development in Jammu & Kashmir enabling economic development and greater investment opportunities.
I am grateful to His Excellency, the Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Vohraji, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Omar Abdullah ji for their valuable time, my colleagues Dr Jitender Singh ji and MLA Shri Baldev Raj ji. On this occasion, I am thankful to the Honourable Prime Minister for being part of this momentous occasion as his presence and guidance will encourage us to fulfill its commitments to the people of this country and specially the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Thank you. Jai Hind.”
The Katra – Udhampur section is a part of ambitious 326 Killometer long Udhampur- Katra-Quazigund- Srinagar -Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL) Project of Northern Railway and will provide seamless flow of rail traffic through Jammu to Katra via Udhampur through the entire Indian Railways network. The newly constructed Udhampur – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Rail Line is 25.6 km. long, consisting of the 9.4 km. long Udhampur- Chak Rakhwal and 15.5 km. long Chak Rakhwal- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra sections. This railway line connects the important towns of Jammu region also. Of the towns in Jammu region, Katra, a tehsil of district Reasi, has great importance because this is the place from where the faithful commence their pilgrimage to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. So far this town was connected with Jammu Tawi, where devotees usually congregate from all over the country, only through National Highway 1-A. With the completion of the Udhampur-Katra railway line, there is now another mode of mass transportation available to the pilgrims.
This Railway alignment passes through unstable geological formations and highly undulating and difficult hilly terrain of Shivalik & Trikuta ranges of Himalayas. It crosses a number of rivers, nallahs, canals, channels and khads in addition to number of roads, cart paths and footpaths. This rail section serves the district of Udhampur & Reasi. This section has 10.9 km of tunneling, one important, 7 major and 29 minor bridges. The station on this section is Chakrakhwal in addition to Udhampur and Katra. The construction of the rail line necessitated building of 12 ROB/RUBs in addition to about 38.86 lac cum of earthwork. The approx. cost of this rail section is Rs. 1132.75 crore upto 31st March 2014. The bridge on River Jhajjar is the longest Steel Girder Bridge in India with a height of 85 m and with two spans of 154m each. The rail section has 22 curves with the sharpest curve at 5O. The construction of the entire permanent way and structures on this rail section was a challenging task. Tunnel No. 23 is the longest tunnel on the section at 3.1 km. and it has ballast less track between Udhampur and Chak Rakhwal station.
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra station is provided with modern passenger conveniences. It is a four line crossing station. Platform No. 1, 2 & 3 the main passenger train dealing platforms are 550m long high level Platform each with 400 m long platform shelter. To facilitate passengers for going from platform no.1 to platform no 2 & 3 and exit from station from Platform No.1, two Foot-over-Bridges, with one side ramp and other side stairs are provided. Lifts have also been provided to facilitate passengers for going from platform no.1 to exit from station. One escalator connecting station building and PF-1 is also provided. Sufficient water booths are provided on all platforms. Public conveniences, water taps, benches, etc. are also provided on all the platforms. One through FOB has been provided for the local people of the town.
The construction of the USBRL project has other benefits for the local residents. More than 235 kms of approach roads are being built along construction sites for carrying of construction material. These roads will benefit the villagers of far-flung areas which had no roads previously. Also 700 of landowners from whom more than 75% of their land was acquired for this project have been given a permanent job in the Railways. At present trains run up to Udhampur via Jammu from the Indian Railway network to terminate there. After the commissioning of Udhampur-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra section, trains will start operating upto Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, providing an- all weather connectivity with significantly reduced travel time.
Falling in difficult and mountainous terrain, the State of Jammu & Kashmir has always been a challenge to transportation providers. Other factors which increase the difficulty in providing modes of mass transportation is that the area is geologically unstable, prone to tremors and earthquakes, with deep gorges alternating steep, rocky mountains. For any construction activity, the weather is quite inclement. Long months of incessant rains and heavy snow can put life on hold. Despite these constraints, the lure of the beauty of this area has not been contained. Northern Railway has worked in these circumstances and has constructed the most modern railway line in the Kashmir Valley which provides economical, all weather connectivity, the Banihal – Baramulla railway line which is a part of the 326 km. long Udhampur-Katra-Quazigund – Srinagar – Baramulla railway line (USBRL). This railway line is a project of National importance. The present approximate estimated cost of the USBRL project is Rs 19565 Cr. So far, about Rs. 9666.71 cr has been spent upto 31st March, 2014.
Once completed, the entire network of Indian Railway will be connected to the Kashmir Valley. The Kashmir Valley railway is a 119 km long railway line that became completely operational in October 2009. It connects Baramulla in the western part of Kashmir Valley to Quazigund at the other end of the Valley, via Srinagar. This line has been extended to Banihal through a tunnel T-80 which pierces through the Pir Panjal range, thus providing an- all weather connectivity to Kashmir Valley with the Jammu Region. The residents of the area appreciate the promise of all weather connectivity, especially when other facilities grind to a halt in deep snow.
With the completion of this Udhampur – Katra Section the Kashmir Valley has reached a step closer to being connected to the remaining Indian Railway network. The construction of this rail project despite heavy hurdles signifies the dedication and resolution of Northern Railway in providing rail connectivity to the farthest corners in its jurisdiction.

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B V Wanchoo resigns

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Goa Governor B V Wanchoo resigns

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B V Wanchoo on Friday resigned as Governor of Goa as government went about finalizing its plans for replacing the Governors appointed during the previous UPA regime.
63-year-old Wanchoo sent his resignation after he received a call from Union Home Secretary Anil Goswami on Friday morning asking him to resign, official sources said.
The resignation of Wanchoo, a former chief of elite Special Protection Group, will be sent to President Pranab Mukherjee for acceptance.
A 1976-batch IPS officer, Wanchoo’s resignation came a few days after former National Security Advisor M K Narayanan quit from Governorship of West Bengal.
Wanchoo was quizzed by CBI as a witness in connection with AgustaWestland deal bribery scandal as was Narayanan just before his resignation.
Besides Wanchoo and Narayanan, three Governors have already resigned and they are B L Joshi (Uttar Pradesh), Shekhar Dutt (Chhattisgarh) and Ashwani Kumar (Nagaland) following a nudge from the NDA government.
Two Governors H R Bhardwaj (Karnataka) and Devanand Konwar retired late last month.
However, a few other Governors appointed by the previous UPA regime continue to remain in office.
They include K Sankaranarayanan (Maharashtra), Sheila Dikshit (Kerala), Jaganath Pahadia (Haryana), Kamala Beniwal (Gujarat), Shivraj V Patil (Punjab), besides some others.
The sources said the government was considering appointing some BJP veterans as Governors.
The names doing the round include those of former UP Chief Minister Kalyan Singh, former UP Assembly Speaker Kesari Nath Tripathi, former Union Minister Ram Naik, former Lucknow MP Lalji Tandon, former Bhopal MP Kailash Joshi, BJP leader from Kerala O Rajagopal besides others




Nurses back from Iraq

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Nurses back thus end captive by ISIS militants in Iraq
05-07-2014  Forty-six nurses, who were held captive by ISIS militants in Iraq, on Saturday returned home by a special Air India flight to a happy reunion with their families in Kochi, bringing to an end their about month-long ordeal.
The special aircraft, which also had on board about 137 others, touched down the tarmac at the Kochi International Airport at 11.57 AM, a senior airport official said.
Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy whose coordinated effort with the Union Government that ensured liberty to nurses from his state, besides another who hails from Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu received them at the airport.
Family members of nurses, on whose face a sigh of relief was writ large had assembled in large numbers to see their beloved ones return and were joined by political leaders from BJP and Congress at the airport.
The ordeal of the nurses, who were working at a hospital in Saddam Hussein’s hometown of Tikrit, began when ISIS (Islamic State for Iraq and Syria) militants launched an offensive in that region on 9th June.
Even as Indian authorities continued to maintain constant touch with their counterparts at Iraq for safe release of nurses, they were moved out on Thursday against their will and detained in the militant-held city of Mosul.
Efforts by External Affairs Ministry led to setting free the nurses held in captivity and they were transported in buses to Erbil International airport on Friday.
The Special Flight that left Erbil in the early hours of on Saturday arrived at Mumbai for a brief stop over for refuelling and catering supplies.
Besides the nurses, the flight also carried 137 other Indian nationals, including 70 from Kirkuk in the northern part of Iraq, 23 crew members and three government officials, including a joint-secretary level IFS officer and an IAS woman officer from Kerala.
Chandy thanked the Centre, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Indian Embassy in Iraq and MEA for ensuring the return of nurses from strife-hit Iraq.
“The Centre has acted in complete understanding of the deep anxieties of Kerala. The Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Iraq have made sincere efforts in securing release of the nurses,” Chandy told reporters in Kochi.
Kerala Government has made arrangements to enable nurses to reach their respective destinations across the state.
Oommen Chandy on Saturday thanked the Narendra Modi government for ensuring the return of the Indian nurses from strife-hit Iraq with their safe evacuation capping days of anxiety for the state as it waited for a resolution to the crisis.
A visibly relieved Chandy expressed his gratitude for the Centre, especially External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, for bringing the matter to a happy conclusion.
“The Centre has acted in complete understanding of the deep anxieties of Kerala. The Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Iraq have made sincere efforts in securing the release of the nurses,” Chandy told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday morning.
Even his political rivals at home admitted that persistent efforts by Chandy, who had camped in Delhi for the last two days, saw the Centre making all out efforts to secure the return from Iraq of the 46 nurses, one of whom hails from Tamil Nadu.
The nurses remained trapped in a hospital in Iraq’s Tikrit for several days after the area came under the control of the militants of ISIS.
Voicing relief over the return of the nurses, CPI (M) leader VS Achuthanandan acknowledged the efforts of the Centre and the state government in the matter.
A special Air India flight carrying the 46 Indian nurses and 137 others released by ISIS arrived on Saturday morning in Mumbai, from where it is headed to Koch




Germany beat France 1-0

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Mats Hummels headed Germany into the World Cup’s last four as his first-half goal sealed a 1-0 win over France in Friday´s quarter-final  at Rio de Janeiro´s Maracana Stadium Brazil 2014
Mats Hummels’ first half header proved decisive as Germany marched into the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup for a record fourth time in a row with a 1-0 win over fellow European giants France in Rio De Janeiro on Friday.
The contest between the two European powerhouses lacked spark and Hummels’s 13th minute strike spelt doom for France at the iconic Maracana stadium.
Germany keeper Manuel Neuer was also outstanding under the bar as he made two spectacular saves in each half to deny France the equaliser.
Neuer also made a last-second save when he pushed Karim Benzema’s strong left-foot strike from the left to send his side into the World Cup semi-finals for fourth successive time.
Germany had more possession but it was France, who had first strike in the rival goal post in the seventh minute but Benzema could not provide the finishing touch as he hit a volley wide on a pass from Mathieu Valbuena.
The Germans were clearly the more dominating side and they were rewarded for their effort as Mats Hummels headed home a superb free-kick from the left taken by Toni Kroos.
Hummels not only jumped well but also out-powered French defender Raphael Varane, nodding home the lead in the 13th minute.
The Germans continued to enjoy great possession thanks to to some superb work by their midfield trio of Toni Kroos, Sami Khedira and Bastian Schweinsteiger.
A rattled France upped their game and swung to action. Again it was Mathieu Valbuena from the left, making a superb effort but Germany keeper Neuer stuck his left arm out made a great save.
Germany also survived the resultant corner as Mahadou Sakha headed over the cross bar.
Veteran Germany striker Miroslav Klose was handled pretty badly as he was taken down a number of times by the French defenders.
Klose also sought a penalty on one such tackle but the referee did not oblige. France improved near the break. Benzema started to find holes in German defence.
The Real Madrid player rushed from the left took a pass from Paul Pogba but his feeble shot landed safely in Manuel Neuer’s arms.
The French side was different in the second half, which was far from the German domination. Antoine Griezmann and Valbuena were staying up as close to Benzema as possible.
Germany midfielder Sami Khedira was shown the first yellow card of the match as he brought down Griezmann, nine minutes into the second half.
The French side raided more even as efforts did not bear fruit. Their midfielder Blaise Matuidi rushed forward with a superb sprint but his cut-back from the left wing was well intercepted by a sliding Bastian Schweinsteiger.
German keeper Neuer came to action first time when he easily picked a header from Raphael Varane.
A couple of substitutions followed as Chelsea player Andre Schurrle replaced Klose for Germany while France brought in Arsenal centre-back Laurent Koscielny in place for Mamadou Sakho.
France did succeed in creating a few half chances but never got that equaliser. Schurrle had a chance to double the German lead but his low shot was was blocked by Raphael Varane.




Brazil beat Colombia

5072014
Brazil set up semis date with Germany with 2-1 win.
David Luiz blasted a sensational free-kick into the net from 35 yards as Brazil knocked out South American rivals Colombia 2-1 to set up a FIFA World Cup semifinal clash with Germany, in Fortaleza Friday.
Luiz doubled the Brazilian lead with his spectacular free kick that crashed into the top right of the net in the 69th minute while skipper Thiago Silva’s first half strike on a Neymar corner kick had put the hosts ahead.
Colombia pulled one back when James Rodriguez converted a penalty in the 80th minute but Brazilians held nerves in the tense remaining time to set up a last-four clash with European powerhouse Germany, who ousted old rivals France 1-0 in Rio De Janeiro early in the day.
The hosts though have some worries going into Tuesday’s showdown as Brazilian skipper Silva will miss the last-four clash due to double booking and Neymar’s fitness is under cloud after he was carried off on a stretcher following a rough challenge from Colombian defender Juan Camillo Zuniga late in the second half.
Neymar, kneed on the back by Zubiga, was taken to a hospital to undergo tests.
Neymar ruled out of the World Cup after fracturing his vertebrae in the closing stages of the 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia on Friday, his team said.
“It´s not serious in the sense that it doesn´t need surgery, but he´ll need to immobilize it to recover,” team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar said after the player had been taken to hospital.
“Unfortunately, he´s not going to be able to play,” he said, adding he expected the recovery period to take at least a few weeks.
“Neymar, who has scored four goals in the tournament to lead Brazil´s bid for a sixth world title,

In a fast and frenetic quarterfinal clash, Brazil came up with its best show so far in the home tournament even as Colombia put up a spirited fight.
Young Colombia striker Rodriguez was gutted as he left the field in tears before exchanging his shirt with Luiz, who consoled the rival player.
Rodriguez scored his sixth goal of the tournament but his penalty was not enough to keep his side alive in the tournament.
Silva struck as early as in the seventh minute when Neymar’s corner was missed by Luiz in the middle but the home skipper smashed in with knee.
Silva became the first captain to score for Brazil in a World Cup game in 20 years and it was Brazil’s quickest World Cup goal since Ronaldo scored in the fifth minute against Ghana in 2006.
It was slack defence from Colombia as Silva was allowed to drift in at the back post.
Two minutes later, Hulk struck powerfully but Colombia keeper David Ospina got down just in time to thwart the challenge.
The burly Hulk was at it again as he initiated a flurry of attacks but Ospina denied him once again and the hosts took the break with a 1-0 lead.
Surprisingly, the pace of the game dropped a bit in the second-half and there were fewer of chances as the play was restricted to mid-field.
Brazilian coach Felipe Scolari was frustrated when Silva collided with Ospania and was booked.
However, Luiz with his extraordinary free kick brought the cheers back.
A 2-0 lead had settled the home players but they were up to challenge again when Colombian substitute Carlos Bacca was brought down by Julio Cesar inside the penalty area.
Rodriguez converted the resultant penalty, sliding the ball left as Cesar dived on the right.
A charged up Colombia tried hard to get the equaliser but it never came.




Om Prakash Chouhan drives home the advantage to bag third title

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Om Prakash Chouhan drives home the advantage to bag third title
Khalin Joshi is runner-up
Pahalgam, July 5, 2014: Om Prakash Chouhan of Mhow registered his third title triumph as he drove home the advantage in the final round of the J&K Bank PGTI Pahalgam Masters presented by KEO. Chouhan posted a three-under-67 in round four to emerge winner by two strokes at 19-under-261 on a bright and sunny day at the Lidder Valley Golf Course in Pahalgam. Khalin Joshi of Bangalore finished runner-up at 17-under-263.
Om Prakash Chouhan (65-64-65-67), the overnight leader by two strokes, consolidated on his lead with two birdies on the first three holes courtesy an excellent drive on the first and a chip-in on the third. He came up with another immaculate approach on the eighth to set up a birdie and emerge as the firm favourite. The 27-year-old from Madhya Pradesh then had a couple of hiccups as he dropped shots after lip-outs on the 11th and 14th. However, he came back strongly with two long birdie putts on the 16th and 18th to win the first ever event at the heavenly Lidder Valley Golf Course.
“I’m delighted to win my first title in almost two years. After an excellent 2012 season, I had a relatively poor run in 2013. I had had two top-10s this year and knew that I was getting close to a win. The loss in a playoff earlier this year was a big disappointment. The win has rejuvenated me and helped me set new goals for myself,” said Chouhan, who has now climbed from 12th place to fourth position on the PGTI’s Rolex Rankings.
He added, “I had set a target of 20-under for myself before the start of today’s round. I started well but had a few anxious moments during the middle. However, I managed to pull it back with some consistent putting towards the end.
“I dedicate this win to my six-month-old daughter Ishika. I’d like to thank the authorities at the Army War College Golf Course in Mhow for giving me the permission to play at their course once again. My driving improved after practicing at the course in Mhow. I’d also like to thank Mr. Nitesh Patel, who is like an elder brother to me. He has helped me through my tough times. My next goal is to earn a card on the Asian Tour through the qualifying school.”
Khalin Joshi’s (65-66-67-65) runner-up finish was his best result of the year. The 21-year-old made seven birdies and two bogeys in his final round of 65, to move up four places from his overnight tied sixth position.
“I’m coming back from an injury on my right hand and am therefore quite pleased with this week’s performance. I felt I played really well through the four days. I had a couple of tap-in birdies today and two long putts as well. The birdies on the 14th, 15th and 17th got me back into the game and helped me finish well,” said Joshi.
Gurgaon-based professionals Shubhankar Sharma and Arshdeep Tiwana shared third place at 16-under-264.
Jyoti Randhawa was a further shot back in tied fifth along with Delhi’s Shamim Khan, Shankar Das of Kolkata and Kapurthala lad Ashbeer Saini.
Reigning Rolex Rankings champion Rashid Khan of Delhi secured ninth place at 14-under-266.
Sri Lankan Anura Rohana produced the tournament’s joint best single round score of seven-under-63 to claim tied 13th place at 12-under-268.




Trading License Rs.5,00,000 Cr/Y Scam, Re-Building Loans

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July05, 2014
When allocation of Telecom Spectrum or Coal and Mining Blocks are MEGA
SCAMS than Free Trading licenses that deal with over Rs.100,00,000
crores Transactions every year is the biggest Scam.
Since Trading margins are often 30% to 200% without any value
additions, annual auctions like in case of Liquor Licenses shall
attract huge BIDDINGS.
GOI to self correct and Supreme Court should intervene in this –
because at 5% approximate Value Trading Licenses could yield
Rs.5,00,000 crores every year.
It will not affect final price to consumers as it SHALL OPEN up
trading business to COMPETITION. Actually prices shall fall as Traders
who had paid LICENSE for the year shall try to sell max volumes and
that shall reduce retail prices and margins.
Rs.5,00,000 Cr could finance, 1. 100,000 MW of Solar Power or 2.
50,000 MW Hydro Power or 3. Upgrade Entire Railway System, or 4.
Upgrade R&D to Number One Level, or 5. Fund Electronic & Hardware
Plants at 50% Subsidy etc. ALL THIS ADDITIONALITY POSSIBLE IN FIVE
YEARS.
Second most important REFORM is to reserve 50% of Housing Loan Outlay
for Re-Building – A rebuild house cost just Rs.500 per sq.ft to
Rs.2000 per sq.ft whereas newly built property has cost of land as
major component cost Rs.2000 per sqft to 10,000 per sq.ft to even
Rs.20,000 sqft in Metro Cities.
Old and Unsafe buildings should PRIORITY in housing loans as
REBUILDING is just Six Months operation whereas new projects
materialize in Six Years.
This program shall renovate all Old Houses in Rural Urban areas in five years.
Ravinder Singh, National General Secretary.




Quakes

5072014

Quake of M6.0 – NIAS REGION, INDONESIA

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude6.0
Date-Time
  • 5 Jul 2014 09:39:30 UTC
  • 5 Jul 2014 15:39:30 near epicenter
  • 5 Jul 2014 13:39:30 standard time in your timezone
Location1.995N 97.015E
Depth30 km
Distances
  • 88 km (54 mi) SE of Sinabang, Indonesia
  • 198 km (122 mi) W of Sibolga, Indonesia
  • 204 km (126 mi) SW of Kabanjahe, Indonesia
  • 241 km (149 mi) SW of Binjai, Indonesia
  • 534 km (331 mi) WSW of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Quake M6.6 – NEW BRITAIN REGION, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude6.6
Date-Time
  • 4 Jul 2014 15:00:26 UTC
  • 5 Jul 2014 01:00:26 near epicenter
  • 4 Jul 2014 19:00:26 standard time in your timezone
Location6.205S 152.821E
Depth10 km
Distances
  • 193 km (119 mi) S of Taron, Papua New Guinea
  • 214 km (132 mi) SSE of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea
  • 300 km (186 mi) W of Arawa, Papua New Guinea
  • 305 km (189 mi) ESE of Kimbe, Papua New Guinea
  • 717 km (444 mi) ENE of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea





SABA Qualifiers for u-18 men to tip off in Bengaluru from 5th July 2014

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Gopalakrishnan R, Press Release, 4th July 2014: Defending champions and overwhelming favourites India will look to be recrowned champions when the 2014 edition of the South Asian Basketball Association (SABA) Qualifying Championship tips off in the garden city of Bengaluru from 5th to 7th July. Just three teams, India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have confirmed their participation in this regional championship. This is a round robin tournament and each team will play the other two teams once. The team with the most wins after its two matches will qualify to the 2014 FIBA Asian Basketball Championship for u-18 men scheduled to be held from 19th to 28th August in Qatar.
The Indian u-18 team: Akhilesh Kumar, Mahipal Singh (Rajasthan), Gurvinder Singh Gill, Dildar Singh Brar, Anmol Singh (Punjab), Gaurav Ohlan, Sunil, Narender (Delhi), Sagar Joshi (West Bengal), P Rajesh (Chhattisgarh), Pradeep (Haryana), Ambati Reddy (Andhra Pradesh). Coaching Staff: Jora Singh Ghulia (Services), Paramdeep Singh (Punjab)
Schedule:
Saturday, 5th July 2014, 6:00 PM: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh
Sunday, 6th July 2014, 6:00 PM: India vs L/O Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh
Monday, 7th July 2014, 6:00 PM: India vs W/O Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh
All matches will be played inside the Koramangala Indoor Stadium, Bengaluru and organised by the Karnataka State Basketball Association.




Urmila Matondkar is Shirina Singh’s Idol!

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As her character Pakhi in Ek Mutthi Aasman takes an obsessive turn,
Shirina watches Urmila’s portrayal of the obsessive lover in Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya for inspiration



Bollywood actors are known to prepare for their characters extensively but even our television stars leave no stone unturned when it comes to preparing for their roles and getting into skin of their character. Such was the case with actor Shirina Singh, who plays Pakhi in Zee TV’s popular show ‘Ek Mutthi Aasman’. In an interesting upcoming track, her character  turns into an violent obsessive lover and attempts to win the affections of her love Raghav Singhania (Ashish Chowdhry). To understand the nuances of this complex character, Shirina took references from the actress Urmila Mantodkar, who has nailed the personality of an obsessive lover in her critically acclaimed movie-Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya. Viewers will be surprised to see Pakhi in this all-new avatar with shades of grey; Till now, she has been shown as an extremely sweet, positive girl who despite coming from a rich family, is very down to earth and loving person… but clearly, her emotions for Raghav and their non-reciprocation have brought out the worst in her.

In the show, Raghav marries Pakhi as a form of revernge for all the bad things her family had done to his parents. Despite marrying Pakhi, Raghav continues to love Kalpana (Rachna Parulkar) and this brings out the worst streak of jealousy in Pakhi. Her unrequited love for Raghav soon turns her into an obsessive, violent lover who does things to harm herself and Kalpana. A betrayed Pakhi, unable to get Kalpana out of Raghav’s mind & heart, decides to force Raghav to accept her by hook or by crook- even if it means hurting Kalpana & herself!

Pakhi’s character will have streaks of Urmila Mantodkar from Pyaar Tune Kya kiya who could go to any lengths to get the person she was madly in love with!  Sharing her excitement on the new change in her character Shirina says “When I was told  that my character Pakhi will turn into a psychotic lover, the first name which hit my mind was that of Urmila Mantodkar’s convincing  portrayal of Ria Jaiswal in Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya. Playing an obsessive lover is not that easy, I had to understand the complexities of the character as to what a person goes through when his love in not reciprocated in the positive manner so that I don’t end up overdoing the part. I tried to take a few cues from Urmila’s character to understand the role better but at the same time I added my own bit and the feedback from the creative team of the show has been positive so far. It was quite challenging for me as an actor and I am satisfied that I have put in my best efforts. I am eagerly awaiting the audience’s reaction, hope they like it”

Will Pakhi’s obsession for Raghav destroy everyone’s life? Who will stop her? To find out, keep watching Ek Mutthi Aasman Monday-Friday at 7 PM only on Zee TV.




Misleading Propaganda on Sardar Sarovar Dam Height Increase by the Government

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Rehabilitation first, Dam next is the law: NCA must review illegal decision

July 5, 2014, New Delhi : Almost three weeks after the decision in the ‘Emergency Meeting’, by the Narmada Control Authority, under the Ministry of Water Resources permitting further work on the controversial Sardar Sarovar Dam, in utter violation of the Narmada Tribunal Award and Judgements of the Supreme Court, the Press Information Bureau has issued, what we find not just a belated, but a very dubious press release.

The three para release issued on 3rd July, 2014 claims that permission to carry out Phase-I proposal of SSNL, comprising construction of piers, over head bridge and installation of gates in open or raised position at Sardar Sarovar project as per the approved design has been granted by the NCA at the ‘behest of the MoWR’.

However, the release goes on to make a completely misleading statement that “In the absence of gates the dam was overflowing for the last two months”! We would like to emphasize and reiterate that that even with gates in raised position – and thereby allowing, instead of preventing, the overflow of water – the submergence behind the dam wall will increase by 1.62 mts. Has the NCA looked into the question of rehabilitating affected families whose land will go under water when the 1.62 mts higher backwater level effect would occur?

A vertical increase of 1.62 mts can cause havoc in the plain areas of Madhya Pradesh where thousands of families continue to reside in the thickly populated village communities; engaged in farming, fishing, labour work etc. and awaiting rehabilitation, as per law, to this day. The misleading prediction in the press release that Construction of gates will prevent overflow of water” is absolutely unscientific, non-factual and unwarranted propaganda.

The Narmada Water Disputes Tribunal Award’;s clauses on submergence and rehabilitation unambiguously state that that all the affected families must be rehabilitated six months prior to the decision to start construction work. Shockingly, there is not a word on submergence and rehabilitation in the press release!
One may also recall that very recently, on 21st June, newspapers carried the story that low water flow had forced SSNNL authorities to shut down River Bed Power House since 7th June. That news report quoted dam officials as saying, “the status quo will be maintained until the water level improves from the current 114.46 mtrs”. Sardar Sarovar dam currently stands at 121.92 mtrs and the implication of a dam official reporting the water storage level at 114.46 mts would mean that the dam is eight mts empty and NOT OVERFLOWING FOR LAST TWO MONTHS!
In the last line, the PIB press release claims that the proposal that was approved thereby paving way to increase the height of the dam to 138.69 mts was “an eight year old proposal”. This again is spin doctoring, and the nation distinctly remembers that the decision of raise the dam height from 110 mts to 121.92 metre was taken in March 2006 – precisely eight years ago. 
When that decision was questioned by project affected families and Supreme Court took cognizance of the matter, the construction got stopped due to the onset of monsoon June 2006, the height was at 119 mts. Construction had begun to raise the height in October 2006 and by December of 2006 only the dam height had reached 121.92 mts. So how can PIB term this proposal and eight year old one?
Following the mass agitation by hundreds of oustees in the last week of June and our meeting with the Union Water Resources Minister on 24th June, who promised of directing NCA officials to verify the rehabilitation, PIB press release should have told us a bit about what was going on with respect to unfinished agenda of Resettlement and Rehabilitation as per NWDTA conditions and Supreme Court directives. Alas, the latest PIB release disappoints and makes us ask the minister, Who will inform, when PIB misinforms?
The promises made in 2006 have not been kept. The assurances of the state governments, the conditions of the Rehabilitation and Environment Sub Group and the written committeeman by the Former Prime Minister to the Supreme Court have all been flouted. There is no reason to doubt that history will not repeat itself. We, therefore, continue to challenge the illegal decision making process and demand that the rehabilitation of all the oustee families must be fully ensured and NCA’s decision of 12th June, be reviewed.

Medha Patkar, Devram Kanera, Hiradaram, Meera
Contact : 9179148973
Attached PIB Release




Shubham Narain wins after the play off at the 8th Usha DGC Juniors Golf Championship 2014

5072014
 

New Delhi, July 04, 2014: Exhibiting some rare stellar performance, Shubham Narain manages to steal the winning title at the 8th Usha DGC Juniors Golf Championship 2014, Category ‘A’ boys and Category ‘B’ boys combined after the play off. Shubham played a fantastic round of Golf today, stitching together a string of 3 birdies on the 1st, 2nd and 15th hole and an eagle on the 18th hole to score a total of 297. His 2 bogeys on the 16th and 17th hole today could not manage to mar his overall performance in the tournament.

Rohan Rana, the leader of the Round 3 category ‘A’ and ‘B’ Boys combined, ended up with a total score of 297. Both Shubham and Rohan had under PAR rounds today returning cards of 3 under 69 and 2 under 70 respectively. Rohan Rana, lovingly referred to as “Rana ji” cards a staggering string of 7 birdies, 3 bogeys and 1 double bogey at the end of the final day. The tournament was underway at the Delhi Golf Club, Lodhi course.

Sunhit Bishnoi displayed a fairly consistent performance in the tournament to finish at the 3rd    position with a total score of 306, trailing by 9 strokes behind Shubham and Rohan.Sunhit scored 1 eagle against 1 triple bogey and 3 bogeys on the 6th, 10th and 12th hole.  Sunhit Bishnoi is also the winner of Category ‘B’ Boys.  Kartik Sharma, Mohd Wasil and Alammgir Grewal secured the 4th and joint 5th position with total scores of 307 and 310 respectively.

In Category ‘B’ Girls, Sifat Sagoo wins with a total score of 250, followed by Shagun Narain with a score of 263. In Category ‘C’ Girls, Himadri Singh wins with a total score of 284.  In Category ‘C’ boys, Manav Bias emerges as the winner with a total score of 304. Bharat Sharma trails behind with a score of 313.  In Category ‘D’ girls, Khushi Hooda snatches the winning title and in Category ‘D’ Boys, Shubham Jaglan wins with a good score of 192 and a total Round 1, 2, 3 and 4 combined PAR of 12. In the Special Category Boys and Girls, the highest score was 258, by Ishita, followed by Tushar Saini at 272.





U Mumba Future Stars”kicks-off the second round

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U Mumba Future Stars”kicks-off the second round of Knock-Out Tournaments featuring players from North Mumbai


·         “U Mumba Future Stars” tournament looks to unearth local talent from the top 8 clubs representing North Mumbai
·         Selected players will be a part of the “U Mumba Future Stars” programme and will be given an opportunity to represent “U Mumba”, the Pro-Kabaddi league francise


Mumbai: Unilazer Sports, the sports arm of Unilazer Ventures and the owner ofthe Mumbai Franchise -“U Mumba”,which will be a part of the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League, showcased its efforts to unearth local talent on Friday with its ambitious “U Mumba Future Stars” programme with the second round of Knock-Out tournaments featuring players from North Mumbai.

Conducted in three phases, the Knock-Out tournaments will feature the top 24 clubs from South Mumbai, North Mumbai and Thane district. Each region will witness 8 teams, representing respective clubs who would compete in Knock-Out challenge against opponents from the same region. Through rigorous tournaments, the four players from each of the three regions will form the“U Mumba Future Stars” team.

Today, the teams representing Om Creations Club and Arunoday Krida Mandal kicked off the North Mumbai tournaments amidst cheers and excitement at the Dharavi Sports Complex, Mumbai. Each team from the top 8 clubs put up a tough fight as they battled to qualify for the finals. The tournament also witnessed the presence of Ms. Snehal Salunke, International Kabaddi Champion and Asian Games 2012, Gold Medalistwho greeted and exchanged pleasantries with the players as the Chief Guest for the evening.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Supratik Sen, CEO – Unilazer Sportssaid, “The “U Mumba Future Stars” programme aims to create as a funnel process and serve as a platform for the introduction, development and eventual selection of local youth who would form the“U Mumba Future Stars” team. We aim to eventually facilitate tournaments across districts in Maharasthra which will be further extended as a state-level tournament.”

Arunoday Krida Mandal, Ghatkopar, was the first to set the match rolling as they competed with players from Om Creations, Khar, through an exciting match which lasted for approximately 45 minutes. Om Creationseventually lost out to the powerful raiding technique demonstrated by player Haridas Bhayde and the team’s raiders failed to counter-attack Amar Nivate in defense.

Also advancing to the semi-finals were Parle Sports Club, Siddhi Krida Mandal and Om Sai Krida Mandal. Parle Sports Club defeated Swastik Krida Mandal 44-25 before Siddhi Krida Mandal staged a late fight-back to overcome the challenge of G.S.P.M., Ghatkopar, 23-17.

The match between Siddhi Krida Mandal and GSPM turned out to be a contest of attrition as the lead kept changing hands through out the encounter before Raju Lohar and Rajesh Bendur showed all-round skills to take their team to victory.

The Chief Guest, Sneha Salunkhe was extremely impressed with the arrangements and facilities created for the tournament and also emphasized on the fact that such efforts were critical in promoting Kabaddi as a sport in the country.



Results (quarterfinals):

Arunoday Krida Mandal bt Om Creation 46-24; Parle Sports Club bt Swastik Krida Mandal 44-25; Siddhi Krida Mandal bt GSPM 23-17; Om Sai Krida Mandal bt Shivsena Krida Mandal 19-18.

The winning team will be announced at the end of the tournament this evening and will be rewarded with a cash prize of Rs. 15,000/-, the runners up will receive a prize of Rs. 10,000/- and the best player will be handed over Rs. 5000/-

The last phase of “U Mumba Future Stars” Knock-out challenge will be held tomorrow and will feature 8 teams representing the top clubs in Thane District. On conclusion of the Knock-Out Challenge, the strongest four players from the winning teams of each region will be selected to form “U Mumba Future Stars.


About Unilazer Sports (www.unilazer.com)

Founded by Ronnie Screwvala, Unilazer Sports, a division of Unilazer Ventures Private Limited operates with a focus to be part of best preparing the present and planning for the future of Sport in India. Unilazer Sports aims to transform the way we live, persevere, learn, compete, enthrall, inspire and entertain ourselves.

With “U” as the umbrella brand for Unilazer Sports’ franchisee, it’s as much Unilazer as its U and youth. U Mumba, the Kabaddi franchise for Pro Kabaddi, is derived from Mumba, the mother island that gave birth to a mega city that is today Mumbai.

About Pro Kabaddi (http://prokabaddi.com/index)

Pro Kabaddi is an eight-city league to be held between July 26th to August 31st 2014.

The league will be carried live on prime time TV by Star Sports.

This unique effort has the formal backing by the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF), the Asian Kabaddi Federation (AKF) & the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI), who will be closely associated with the organization and delivery of this event.

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वरिष्ठ पत्रकार उमेश उपाध्याय को ने

समाचार4मीडिया
To Me
Today at 6:19 PM
Saturday 5 July 2014
वरिष्ठ पत्रकार उमेश उपाध्याय को नेटवर्क18 में मिल सकती है अहम जिम्मेदारी !
रिलायंस इंडस्ट्री के मीडिया प्रवक्ता व वरिष्ठ पत्रकार उमेश उपाध्याय को नेटवर्क18 में अहम जिम्मेदारी दी जा सकती है...

इतने बेबाक माने जाने वाले राजदीप ने खुद पर क्यों नहीं दिखाई बेबाकी
सीएनएन आईबीएन और आईबीएन7 में जब छंटनी शुरू हुई तब से ही ये खबर मार्केट में थी कि राजदीप सरदेसाई की विदाई तय है...

UPPSC का स्टिंग ऑपरेशन कर आजतक ने यूपी सरकार की उड़ाई नींद
उत्तर प्रदेश लोकसेवा आयोग (यूपी पीसीएस) में राज्‍य सेवा के लिए होने वाली भर्ती परीक्षाओं में जमकर धांधली होने की खबर सामने आई है...

रेडियो क्षेत्र को बढ़ावा देंगे सूचना एवं प्रसरण मंत्री
सूचना एवं प्रसारण मंत्री प्रकाश जावड़ेकर ने रेडियो क्षेत्र को...

होंडा के ऐड में देखें कपिल का ये चुटीला अंदाज
बॉलिवुड में एंट्री के बाद कॉमेडी किंग कपिल शर्मा अब डिजिटल विज्ञापन में भी नजर आने लगे हैं... 

व्हिस्पर पर पहचान छिपाइए, दिल की बात खुलकर बताइए
सोशल मीडिया पर पहचान जाहिर होने के डर से लोग... 

स्केटिंग के पैशन ने इंटरनेट पर बनाया पॉपुलर
अमेरिका में कैलिफोर्निया की सेन डिएगो सिटी के पास छोटा सा कस्बा...

नहीं रहे वरिष्ठ फिल्म पत्रकार रामकृष्‍ण
वरिष्ठ फिल्म पत्रकार रामकृष्ण अब हमारे बीच नहीं रहे। गुरुवार सुबह उनका निधन हो गया...

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MEDIA INVITE
The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
&
US Green Building Council (USGBC)
cordially invites you to the signing of MoU on
IndiaBanner-b

In the distinguished presence of:
·        Dr. R.K. Pachauri, Director General, TERI
·        Mr. Mahesh Ramanujam, COO, USGBC, and President, GBCI
·        Mr. Scot Horst, Senior Vice President, LEED, USGBC
·        Ms. Mili Majumdar, Director, Sustainable Habitat, TERI


Programme Schedule

Day/Date: Monday, July 7, 2014
Time: 1.00 PM onward
Venue: TERI University, 10 Institutional Area, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi

Note to the Editor:
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Conspiracy to force CAG to drop discoms audit
From: Media Cell AAP <mediacellaap@gmail.com> Sun, 6 Jul '14 5:42p
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Show full Headers
                                   Sunday, July 6
The latest letter by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) to the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has exposed the conspiracy hatched to prevent the frauds committed by private power distribution companies from being made public.
The ongoing CAG audit has made the discoms extremely nervous and after all their desperate attempts to stall their account books from being scrutinised have failed, they have hatched a conspiracy with active help from the BJP and the Congress to delay the audit and frustrate the CAG.
It is extremely shocking that the top CAG officials have been forced to remind the LG and the Delhi administration run by him about their duty to ensure that it is mandatory for the discoms to provide all their account books to the auditors.
The manner in which the discoms are hiding their account books and other related data with active connivance from top Delhi administration, is a clear and incriminating evidence about the attempts being made to force the CAG to drop this important audit.
Already the audit process has been delayed for more than six months and on the other hand, the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC), is set to announce a steep hike in the electricity tariffs anytime now.
This injustice being imposed on the people of Delhi will not be tolerated any further.
The Aam Aadmi Party is of the firm view that there is no justification to delay the CAG audit and till the time this process is going on, any decision to hike the electricity tariff is nothing short cheating the people residing in the national capital.
First the people were given false excuses by the then Shiela Dikshit’s Congress government for a decade that accounts of discoms cannot be audited since they are privately controlled and later, a further falsehood of discoms having obtained a stay from the court was floated.
The AAP government called this bluff within 48 hours of coming to office and asked the CAG to find out about the frauds committed by these discoms.
Now, it has been nearly six weeks since Narendra Modi’s BJP government is controlling Delhi administration. The silence of BJP on the CAG audit and power tariff hike is baffling.
Nobody expects the Congress which systematically allowed the discoms to raise electricity tariffs for a decade and loot the people of Delhi, to now support the CAG audit, to now support this scrutiny.
The BJP, which promised a 30% reduction in electricity tariffs needs to break its silence on the fraud being committed on the people.  
The people of Delhi are eagerly awaiting the views of union power minister Mr Piyush Goyal on the social media platforms on this subject.
The AAP demands that the central government should direct the Delhi administration to warn the discoms that their attempts to scuttle the CAG audit will result in cancellation of their licences.
The AAP will lead an unprecedented protest in the national capital in case the DERC goes ahead with its plan to raise the electricity tariffs without waiting for the findings of the CAG audit. (ENDS)
Regards
AAP Media Cell

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Aam Aadmi Party Reaction on Rail Budget

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From: Media Cell AAP <mediacellaap@gmail.com> Tue, 8 Jul ’14 4:05p
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Show full Headers
Tuesday, July 8
The AAP is of the view that the first rail budget of the BJP-led NDA government turned out to be a missed opportunity. The Narendra Modi government could have used its maiden rail budget to spell out its long term vision for the improvement of the health of railways, but it is unfortunately missing.
The people of the county had expected that the new government to lay down its roadmap to improve the efficiency of the railways by curbing the price distortion and corruption, two major problems currently plaguing this critical sector, but the budget appears to be silent on addressing these long term concerns and belies expectations of a long term vision.
There is nothing concrete in this budget on the improvement of safety and maintenance of the massive railway network across the country. Nearly 2.5 lakh posts are lying vacant in the railways and out of these 1.6 lakh posts are in departments directly concerned with the railways safety, but nothing has been done to fill up these posts.
The common man (aam aadmi) forms the bulk of railway passenger traffic, but the focus on such passengers is missing. Infact, the focus of the budget provides a reason for alarm in this aspect – the trend in the budget is to focus on the upper class of commuters, whose number is miniscule in terms of passenger traffic.
Facilities should be provided to all categories of passengers, but the focus on those who can spend more for facilities does not set a healthy trend.
The railways minister has made an honest confession about the large number of pending projects. The AAP agrees with the government that the focus should be on execution of existing projects, but in this respect too, the minister did not mention any roadmap on how the government plans to complete the job.
The AAP, in principle, does not oppose Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in railways, but the minister’s announcement did not specify in which field does the NDA government propose to invite the FDI. The impression created is that the government is ready to go ahead with the FDI in all fields, except in operations. There are many sensitive sectors in Railways, like the one handling the spectrum that cannot be opened to foreign investors.
The hurry to attract FDI in Railways could create a dangerous situation and the government should hold widespread consultations before going ahead with the introduction of FDI in railways.
The thrust on implementing the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model in railways is a dangerous trend. The concept of PPP model so far in the country has been that the public sector bears the risk and the private sector walks away with profit, such a model can spell disaster for the railways.
The AAP does not agree with the minister’s announcement about the proposal to restructure the Railway Board. It is one of the rare board/corporation in the government sector which is not controlled by the IAS officers, and is run by professionals.
Unless the government clearly specifies what kind of restructuring it wants, the announcement appears to be an attempt to undermine the Board’s autonomy. Restructuring for improving the fiscal health of railways and bringing professionalism is welcome, but it cannot be allowed to become ministry Vs board fight.
The Aam Aadmi Party also sees a regional imbalance in announcement of new train services. A government cannot ignore the requirements of one region appease the other.
Regards
AAP Media Cell


 

AVJ Group desires a transforming budget for real estate sector

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Mr. Vinay Jain (CMD, AVJ Group)

“Now a stable and full majority led NDA Govt. is at the centre and we expect the inflation to be control in 2014.The sector is expecting number of policy initiatives, along with an analysis of FDI rules in housing, REIT. The focus of government should be on single window clearance system as it would help boost the sector in long run, tax incentives for affordable housing. Government should raise the tax exemption limit for interest payment on housing loan from 1.5 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs p.a. The sector must be given an industry status by the RBI, since it is the second largest employment provider in the country. The government must scrap the service tax on under construction properties from buyers prospective, as it adds to the overall cost of the property. Adding to this, the government must restore ATIB for affordable housing which allowed profits under it not to be taxed at the corporate level.”


 

India successfully test-fires BrahMos supersonic cruise missile

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India today successfully test-fired an advanced version of the 290-km range BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from Chandipur-on-Sea off Odisha coast. The missile was test-fired from a mobile launcher from launch complex number three of the Integrated Test Range(ITR) at about 10.38 this morning. The missile is capable of carrying a conventional warhead of 300 kg. BrahMos, one of the fastest cruise missiles in the world, has a top speed of Mach 2.8 and can be launched from ships, aircrafts and submarines. The two-stage missile, the first one being solid and the second one ramjet liquid propellant, has already been inducted into the Army and the Navy and the Air Force version is in final stages of trial. The induction of the first version of Brahmos system in the Indian Navy commenced from 2005 with the missile being deployed on-board warship INS Rajput, it is now fully operational with two regiments of the Army. Brahmos Aerospace, an Indo-Russian joint venture company, is also working to develop the air as well as the
submarine-launched versions of the missile system and work on the projects is in progress. The Army has so far placed orders for the Brahmos missile to be inducted by three of its regiments and two out of them have already become operational.


 

Railway Reservation System to be Revamped 

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D. V. Sadananda Gowda has said that Indian Railways is on its way to fulfill the long cherished dream to run a Bullet Train. Presenting the Railway Budget 2014-15 in Parliament today, he said, the Railways proposes bullet trains by starting off with an already identified Mumbai-Ahmedabad sector, where a number of studies have been done.
The Minster said, under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modiji, the Railways is embarking on an ambitious plan to have a Diamond Quadrilateral Network of High Speed Rail, connecting major Metros and growth centers of the country. A provision of Rs.100 crore has been made in the Budget for high Speed project to RVNL/HSRC (High Speed Rail Corridor) for taking further steps.
He said, while bullet trains would require completely new infrastructure, higher speed for existing trains will be achieved by upgrading the present network. The Minister said, hence, an effort will be made to increase the speed of trains to 160-200 kmph in select sectors so as to significantly reduce travel time between major cities. The Minister said, the identified sectors are:
i) Delhi-Agra
ii) Delhi-Chandigarh
iii) Delhi-Kanpur
iv) Nagpur-Bilaspur
v) Mysore-Bengaluru-Chennai
vi) Mumbai-Goa
vii) Mumbai-Ahmedabad
viii) Chennai-Hyderabad and
ix) Nagpur-Secunderabad.
The Minister of Railways Shri D. V. Sadananda Gowda has said that Railway Reservation System will be revamped into Next Generation e-Ticketing System. Ticket booking through mobile phones and through Post Offices will be popularized.
Presenting the Railway Budget 2014-15 in Parliament today he said, the Indian Railways will improve the system capabilities in e-ticketing to support 7200 tickets per minute as against 2000 tickets per minute and allow 1,20,000 simultaneous users at any point in time.
The Minister said, facility of Coin Operated Automatic Ticket Vending Machines will be experimented.
He said, efforts will also be made to provide facility of buying Platform Tickets and unreserved tickets over internet. Parking-cum-Platform Combo Tickets will be launched to facilitate the passengers and to save their time.
He said that online booking facility of Railway Retiring Room will be extended to all the stations during the course of the year. Presenting the Railway Budget 2014-15 in Parliament today he said, the Indian Railways is expanding the scope of online booking for people to book a Train, book a Coach, book a Berth and book a Seat in Chair Car.


 

Ghani wins Afghan election on preliminary results

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Ghani wins Afghan election on preliminary results
Former World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani won Afghanistan’s presidential election, according to preliminary results released on Monday, with 56.4 percent of the run-off vote to Abdullah Abdullah’s 43.5 percent.
Officials said the turnout was more than eight million in the June 14 vote out of an estimated electorate of 13.5 million voters — far higher than expected, and a figure likely to trigger further allegations of fraud from both sides.”The IEC (Independent Election Commission) admits that despite best efforts for a better election, there were some technical mistakes and shortcomings in the process,” IEC head Ahmad Yusuf Nuristani told reporters.
“We can not deny fraud and violations in the process, in some cases some security forces were involved, in other cases senior government officials like the governors or lower-level officials were involved.”
Last-minute talks delayed the release of the results by nearly five hours today, as the two campaigns tried to thrash out a deal over fraud allegations that threaten to fuel instability.
Abdullah has vowed to reject the preliminary result, alleging he was the victim of “industrial-scale” ballot-box stuffing, while Ghani has said he won fairly.
Central to the talks is how many of the total 23,000 polling stations will now be put through an anti-fraud audit.
“We agreed for an audit of 7,000 polling stations, but they had other conditions that we couldn’t agree with, so for now there is only partial agreement,” Ghani’s spokesman Daud Sultanzoy said before the result.
Abdullah’s spokesman Fazel Sancharaki said: “Our main demand was for the inspection of 11,000 polling stations under the close supervision of the United Nations.
Seven thousand polling stations is not enough.
“The negotiations are still ongoing. If they produce a result, we will enter the process, otherwise… we will not recognise it.”
Both sides said the UN was involved in the talks, but its spokesman declined to give further details.



 

RSS leader Ram Madhav deputed to BJP

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RSS leader Ram Madhav deputed to BJP
 Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has decided to depute its spokesperson and member of its Akhil Bhartiya Karyakari Mandal Ram Madhav to the BJP. The decision was taken by top RSS leaders during its ongoing brainstorming session from July 1-8, at the Jain pilgrimage centre of Mohankheda in Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. Madhav has confirmed that he would join BJP formally next week and serve the party.
Top RSS leaders including Mohan Bhaghwat, Bhaiyaji Joshi, Suresh Soni, Dattatray Hosabale and Krishna Gopal were huddled in Mohankheda to deliberate on its future strategies. The session will conclude on Tuesday.
According to sources, another RSS leader Shiv Prakash has also been deputed by the Sangh to work for the party now.
Prakash was a regional ‘pracharak’ of RSS in western Uttar Pradesh, a state where BJP had put up a splendid show in recent Lok Sabha elections.
The Sangh, the ideological mentor of BJP, had earlier too deputed many of its leaders from time to time, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had been a full-time RSS ‘pracharak’ (organiser), in the party.
The party seeks to revamp itself ahead of assembly elections due in states like Maharashtra, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand later this year and early next year.


 

Bullet, high speed railplan, derails Sensex Sinks 600 Pts after Budget

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Bullet trains, network of high speed rail on anvil
 BSE Sensex retreated from record highs by falling 600 points to dip below the 26,000 mark in mid-session trade on Tuesday after the rail budget failed to impress investors. Sinks 600 Points after  Budget
Introduction of bullet trains starting off with the Mumbai-Ahmedabad sector and an ambitious plan to have a Diamond Quadrilateral network of high speed rail connecting major metros and growth centres are on the anvil.
The announcement was part of the Rail Budget presented by Railway Minister D V Sadananda Gowda in Lok Sabha on Tuesday which also spoke of efforts to increase the speed of trains in select sectors to up to 200 km per hour.
The Rail Budget has identified nine sectors in this regard that includes the prestigious Delhi-Agra rail line and the busy Delhi-Chandigarh and Mumbai-Ahmedabad sectors.
Besides, the speed of trains is to be increased to 160-200 km in the Delhi-Kanpur, Nagpur-Bilaspur, Mysore-Bengaluru- Chennai, Mumbai-Goa, Chennai-Hyderabad and Nagpur-Secuderabad sectors.
A provision of Rs 100 crore has been made in the Budget for High Speed project to Railway Vikas Nigham Limited/High Speed Rail Corridor for taking further steps.
“It is the wish and dream of every Indian that India runs a bullet train as early as possible. Indian Railways is on its way to fulfil that long cherished dream,” Gowda said.
The Minister said while bullet trains will require completely new infrastructure, higher speed for existing trains will be achieved by upgrading the present network.
“Hence, an effort will be made to increase the speed of trains to 160-200 kmph in select sectors to significantly reduce travel time between major cities,” he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said it is for the common people as it aspires for better service, speed and safety with focus on development of the country.
He said the Rail Budget presented in Parliament by Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda shows where his government wants to take India through the railways as it focusses on strengthening institutional mechanism, transparency and integrity.
“Congratulations to the Railway Minister for presenting a futuristic & growth oriented budget. It is a budget for the common people,” Modi tweeted.
He said the Rail Budget “aspires for better service, speed and safety. It is an effort to create a modern Railways contributing towards a developed India.”
In a series of tweets, Modi said, “Rail Budget shows the important role of Railways in India’s development journey.” He said the Budget keeps in mind the development of India.
“This Budget shows where we want to take the railways and at the same time where we want to take India through the railways,” Modi said, adding, “We can see the great use of technology also.”
Hailing the Railway Budget, Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said it is “realistic and comprehensive” as honest analysis had been made about the state of affairs and health of Indian railways.
“The way forward has been clearly outlined in the Budget. Safety, security and service…all these three aspects have been taken care of and the Railway Minister has also made a realistic assessment about the need to complete the ongoing projects,” Naidu told reporters outside Parliament House.
He said hundreds of projects were announced in the previous budgets but the works have not been completed.
“So this government has taken up that responsibility of completing all ongoing projects on priority,” the Minister said.
“Instead of going populist and becoming unrealistic and creating hardship to the people in the long run, the Railway Minister has made efforts to see that the safety, security and service aspect is given high priority and also completion of ongoing projects have taken on a priority,” Naidu said.
The high speed trains, bullet trains they all are “indication of the thinking of the government”, he said.
“The entire India is connected and I am more happy about the emphasis given on the projects in the northeastern region of the country. No region has been discriminated, every state has been given its due attention,” Naidu said.
The Minister also alleged that the opposition was trying to “politicise and trivialise” the budget.
“People of the country are watching….It is expected of the members of Parliament to hear the budget with attention and subsequently utilise the opportunity to comment on the budget when the occasion come for the discussion of the budget proposals in details,” Naidu said.
“If some people have chosen not to hear the proposal, that means they are doing injustice to the people who have elected them to this House,” he said.
“Some people seems to be not able to digest the fact that the new government has come, a new approach has been taken and a true national budget has been presented,” Naidu added.


 

Record plan outlay for railways

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Govt proposes highest ever plan outlay for railways
The Government on Tuesday proposed highest ever plan outlay of Rs 65,445 crore to the railways for the current fiscal, with a budgetary support of over Rs 30,000 crore.
Presenting the Railway Budget for 2014-15, Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda said the “highest ever plan outlay” would include market borrowing of Rs 11,790 crore and internal resources of Rs 15,350 crore.
Another Rs 6,005 crore would be mopped up through public private partnerships (PPP) mode, while railways would create a safety fund of Rs 2,200 crore.
As per Budget Estimates for 2014-15, total receipts are projected at Rs 1,64,374 crore, while total expenditure at Rs 1,49,176 crore.
Operating ratio would be 92.5 percent, which is an improvement of 1 percent over the last fiscal.
While passenger traffic grew by 2 percent, passenger earnings stood at Rs 44,645 crore after revenue foregone of Rs 610 crore on account of rollback in monthly season ticket fares, Gowda said, adding freight earnings are estimated at 1,05,770 crore for this fiscal.
The expenditure on pension is pegged at Rs 28,850 crore, while Rs 9,135 crore would be spent on dividend payment.
On the challenges facing railways, Gowda said, “Surplus revenues are declining. There is hardly any adequate resources for development works.”
The surplus resources, which stood at Rs 11,754 crore in 2007-08, is estimated to be only Rs 602 crore in the current financial year, he added.
He also said Rs 5 lakh crore was required to complete the ongoing projects alone as only 317 of the 674 projects sanctioned in last three decades could be completed.
Completing the unfinished projects would require Rs 1,82,000 crore, he said.
Observing that most of gross traffic receipts was spent on fuel, salary and pension, track and coach maintenance and on safety works, Gowda said that Rs 1,39,558 crore was the gross traffic receipts and total working expenses were at Rs 1,30,321 crore last year.


 

India Railways to attract FDI

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No hike in fares, Railways to attract FDI
Sparing passengers of any further fare hike, Railway Budget for 2014-15 proposes to attract private domestic and FDI in infrastructure projects and pursuing private-public partnership to boost the finances of the cash-strapped railways.
Having hiked fares to the tune of 14.2 percent recently, Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda who presented the new government’s first budget in Lok Sabha on Tuesday said he plans to leverage railway PSU resources by bringing in their investible funds in infrastructure projects.
He announced plans to introduce a bullet train in Mumbai- Ahmedabad sector and setting up of a Diamond Quadrilateral network of high speed rail connecting major metros and growth centres. A sum of Rs 100 crore has been provided for initiating the project.
Increasing the speed of trains to 160 to 200 kms per hour on nine select sectors was another highlight of the budget, which proposes to allow all experimental stoppages to lapse after September this year.
The Budget disclosed that traffic growth declined and expenditures went up in 2013-14 as compared to the revised estimates of previous financial year.
Gross traffic receipts stood at Rs 1,39,558 crore, short of revised estimates by Rs 942 crore over the previous year. The ordinary working expenses and pension outgo were also higher.
The budget estimates for 2014-15 assumes a freight loading 1101 metric tonnes, 51 metric tonnes more than the previous year, growth in passenger traffic at 2 percent and freight earnings at Rs 1,05,770 crore.
Passenger earnings will be Rs 44,645 crore after a revenue sacrifice of Rs 610 crore on account of monthly season ticket fares.
Total receipts for the current year have been pegged at Rs 1,64,374 crore and expenditure at Rs 1,49,176 crore.
Disclosing that he needs more than Rs nine lakh crore to completing the Golden Quadrilateral Network and Rs 60,000 crore for introducing one bullet train alone, Gowda told the House, “Can I depend only on hiking fare and freight rates and burden the public to realise these funds? This is unrealistic. I need to explore the alternate means of resource mobilisation.”
He proposed to launch a scheme to bring in investible surplus funds of railway PSUs in infrastructure projects which can generate attractive returns.
Proposing private investment in railways through domestic and FDI, Gowda said growth depends heavily on availability of funds for investment in rail infrastructure.
Internal revenue sources and government funding are insufficient to meet the requirement, the Railway Minister said, adding the ministry is seeking Cabinet approval for allowing FDI in rail sector.
FDI, however, will be limited to infrastructure development and not allowed in operations, he said.
He said the concept of PPP has not been successful in raising substantial resources for railways.
“It is my endeavour to pursue this in right earnest. It is our target that bulk of our future projects will be financed through PPP mode, including the high-speed rail, which requires huge investments.”
Apart from mobilising resources, Gowda said he needed to strategically manage other aspects of planning and administration by adopting a near-holiday approach, setting timelines for ongoing projects, strategic partnership and aggressive indigenisation of imported projects.
The annual plan for 2014-15 has been fixed at the highest ever outlay of Rs 65,445 crore with gross budgetary support at Rs 30,100 crore, Railway Safety Fund Rs 2,200 crore, internal resources Rs 15,350 crore, external market borrowing Rs 11,790 crore and EBR-PPP Rs 6,005 crore.
The budget provides higher funds for ongoing projects in North East, including 11 national projects. Rs 5,116 crore earmarked for projects in North East, which is 54 percent higher than the previous year.
While Udhampur-Katra rail link in Jammu and Kashmir has been dedicated to the nation, the focus will now be on completion of the missing link between Banihal and Katra.
18 new line surveys have been announced, which include rail connectivity to ‘char dham’ — Kedarnath, Badrinath, etc, and Shimoga-Sringeri-Mangalore.
Five Jansadharan trains are being introduced along with five premium trains, six AC express trains and 27 express trains and eight passenger trains.
The premium trains are between Mumbai Central and New Delhi, Shalimar-Chennai, Secundarabad-Hazrat Nizamuddin, Jaipur-Madurai and Kamakhya-Bangalore.
In order to strengthen security in trains and stations, the budget proposes to recruit 4000 women RPF constables. Already 17000 RPF constables have been recruited and shall be available for deployment shortly.
Gowda said safety of passengers is of paramount importance and it is estimated that over Rs 40,000 crore would be needed to be invested in track renewals, elimination of unmanned railway crossings and road overbridges and underbridges.
A provision of Rs 1,785 crore has been earmarked for railway overbridges and underbridges.
Outlining IT initiatives, the minister said the railway reservation system is being revamped to move into next generation E-ticketing system, which will support 7200 tickets per minutes to allow 1,20,000 simultaneous users.
Railways will move to paperless offices in five years, provide wi-fi services in A-1 and A category stations and in select trains, real-time tracking of trains and rolling stock, mobile-based wakeup call system for passengers and mobile- based destination arrival alert.
Following are the highlights of the Railway Budget 2014-15:
* No new increase in passenger fares and freight charges * Bullet train on Mumbai-Ahmedabad Sector
* Diamond quadrilateral for high speed trains
* Plan to hike speed of trains to 160-200 km/hr in 9 sectors
* Online booking to support 7,200 tickets/minute; to allow 1.2 lakh users log in simultaneously
* Reservation system to be revamped, ticket-booking through mobile phones, post offices to be popularized
* Online platform, unreserved tickets * Combo parking-platform tickets at stations
* Women RPF Constables to escort ladies coaches; 4,000 women constables to be inducted
* Retiring room facility to be extended to all stations
* Battery operated cars for differently abled and senior citizens at major stations
* Feedback services through IVRS on quality of food
* Food can be ordered through SMS, phone; Food courts at major stations
* Cleanliness budget up by 40 pc over last year
* CCTVs to be used at stations for monitoring cleanliness
* Setting up of corpus fund for stations’ upkeep; RO drinking water at stations and trains
* Automatic door closing in mainline and sub-urban coaches
* 58 new trains and extension of 11; 864 additional EMUs to be introduced in Mumbai over 2 years
* FDI in railway projects, except in operations.
* FDI, domestic investments in rail infrastructure
* Office-on-Wheels: Internet & Workstation facilities on select trains
* Wi-Fi in A-1, A category stations and in select trains
* Rail university for technical and non-technical subjects
* Some stations to be developed to international standards through PPP model
* Parcel traffic to be segregated to separate terminals to make passenger traffic unhindered
* Loss per passenger per kilometre up from 10p (in 2000-01) to 23p (2012-13)
* Solar energy to be tapped at major stations
* Highest ever plan outlay of Rs 65,455 crore for 2014-15
* Expenditure in 2014-15 pegged at Rs 149,176 crore.
58 New Trains to be Introduced 11 Existing Trains to be Extended
Railways proposes to introduce 58 new trans which includes five Jansadharan Trains, five Premium Trains, six AC Express Trains, 27 Express Trains, eight Passenger Trains, two MEMU services and five DEMU services this year.
Announcing this in Parliament today while presenting the rail budget, the Minister of Railways D. V. Sadananda Gowda also proposed to extend the run of 11 existing trains.
Gowda said these services would be meeting the demand surges which manifest themselves on special occasions.
He said that special trains would continue to run to meet the holiday and festival rush including services for Melmaruvathur, Velankanni, Jhalawar etc.
NEW TRAINS
Jansadharan Trains i) Ahmedabad–Darbhanga Jansadharan Express via Surat Ii Jaynagar–Mumbai Jansadharan Express ii) Mumbai–Gorakhpur Jansadharan Express iv) Saharasa–Anand Vihar Jansadharan Express via Motihari v) Saharasa–Amritsar Jansadharan Express
Premium Trains i) Mumbai Central–New Delhi Premium AC Express ii) Shalimar–Chennai Premium AC Express iii) Secunderabad-¬ Hazrat Nizamuddin Premium AC Express iv) Jaipur–Madurai Premium Express v) Kamakhya–Bengaluru Premium Express
Bullet Trains and Diamond Quadrilateral Network of High Speed Rail
The Minister of Railways D. V. Sadananda Gowda has said that Indian Railways is on its way to fulfill the long cherished dream to run a Bullet Train.
Presenting the Railway Budget 2014-15 in Parliament on Tuesday, he said, the Railways proposes bullet trains by starting off with an already identified Mumbai-Ahmedabad sector, where a number of studies have been done.
The Minster said, under the leadership of Narendra Modiji, the Railways is embarking on an ambitious plan to have a Diamond Quadrilateral Network of High Speed Rail, connecting major Metros and growth centers of the country.
A provision of Rs.100 crore has been made in the Budget for high Speed project to RVNL/HSRC (High Speed Rail Corridor) for taking further steps.
He said, while bullet trains would require completely new infrastructure, higher speed for existing trains will be achieved by upgrading the present network.
The Minister said, hence, an effort will be made to increase the speed of trains to 160-200 kmph in select sectors so as to significantly reduce travel time between major cities.
The Minister said, the identified sectors are:
i) Delhi-Agra
ii) Delhi-Chandigarh
iii) Delhi-Kanpur
iv) Nagpur-Bilaspur
v) Mysore-Bengaluru-Chennai
vi) Mumbai-Goa
vii) Mumbai-Ahmedabad
viii) Chennai-Hyderabad
ix) Nagpur-Secunderabad.


 

Ukraine’s gas bill rises another $838mn, exceeds $5bn

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    ’s gas bill rises another $838mn, exceeds $5bn (DETAILS) 
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Morning Post

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नेटवर्क 18 का अधिग्रहण पूरा, दीपक पा 
समाचार4मीडिया
To Me
Jul 7 at 8:35 PM
Tuesday 8 July 2014
नेटवर्क 18 का अधिग्रहण पूरा, दीपक पारिख और आदिल जैनुलभाई बने स्वतंत्र निदेशक
नेटवर्क 18 के पूरा नियंत्रण अपने हाथ में लेने के साथ ही आईएमटी ने दीपक पारिख और आदिल जैनुलभाई को “NW18” के बोर्ड में स्वतंत्र निदेशक के रूप में नियुक्त किया है…

हिन्दुस्तान, लखनऊ से वरिष्ठ पत्रकार नवीन जोशी हुए रिटायर

वरिष्ठ पत्रकार और कई सालों तक हिन्दुस्तान अखबार के लखनऊ एडिशन के स्थानीय संपादक रहे नवीन जोशी हाल ही में संस्थान से रिटायर हो गए है…


तनु शर्मा मामले में वरिष्ठ पत्रकार हरतोष सिंह बल और पाणिनी आनंद ने उठाया सवाल
टीवी एंकर तनु शर्मा के खदुकुशी के प्रयास मामले ने मीडिया इंडस्ट्री पर भी तमाम सवाल उठने लगे है। दूसरों की आवाज बुलंद करता ये मीडिया क्या खुद इतना कमजोर है…

एबीपी न्यूज ने दस साल पूरा करने वालों का किया सम्मान
एबीपी न्यूज़ (पहले स्टार न्यूज) के साथ दस साल पूरे कर चुके लोगों के लिए पिछला हफ्त जोरदार रहा…

कपिल के होंडा के ऐड ने तोड़े ऐड दुनिया के तमाम रूल्स…!

ऐड जगत में कपिल शर्मा का ऐड कैम्पेन चर्चा में है, जो उन्होंने होंडा मोबीलियो के लिए किया है। इस ऐड को पब्लिक के बीच चर्चा में लाने के लिए यही काफी है…


अमर उजाला के मैनपुरी प्रसार प्रभारी की हादसे में मौत
मैनपुरी में अमर उजाला के प्रसार प्रभारी अविनाश शुक्ला की गुरुवार रात सड़क हादसे में मौत हो गई। अनिवाश का एक हफ्ते पहले ही मैनपुरी से आगरा के लिए स्थानांतरण हुआ था…

वरिष्ठ पत्रकार ओम थानवी ने प्रधानमंत्री के दौरै पर जाने वाले संपादकों पर उठाया सवाल
संपादकों को दुनिया देखने का सुनहरा और निरंतर अवसर प्रधानमंत्रियों के साथ विदेश दौरों में मिलता है…

डिस्कवरी किड्स चैनल ने यह काफी पहले ही महसूस कर लिया था कि भारतीय टेलिविजन पर बच्चों से जुड़े कार्यक्रमों की भरमार है। बच्चों के पास तमाम विकल्प मौजूद हैं…
रजनीकांत एक ऐसा नाम है, जो किसी परिचय का मोहताज नहीं। पिछले दिनों सुपरस्टार रजनीकांत ने सिल्वर स्क्रीन की तरह ही डिजिटल मार्केटिंग की दुनिया में भी धमाकेदार एंट्री की…
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Take action against Shiela Dikshit for unauthorised colonies scam

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From: Media Cell AAP <mediacellaap@gmail.com> Mon, 7 Jul ’14 5:32p
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Show full Headers
Monday, July 7

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) demands strict action against former Delhi chief minister Mrs Shiela Dikshit for her involvement in the Rs 3,000 crore unauthorised colonies scam.
The latest report of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) now with the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, corroborates the findings of the former Lokayukta Justice Manmohan Sarin on the issue.
The AAP government headed by Arvind Kejriwal, had on February 3 this year, recommended to the President strictest possible action against Mrs Dikshit for the fraud committed by her government on the poor people.
The President had sought the state government’s views on the findings of the Lokayukta report, submitted in November 2013.
The Congress-led UPA’s central government, during its last days in office, shockingly appointed Mrs Dikshit as governor of Kerala, in place of taking action against her for fooling poor people living in unauthorised colonies by providing them regularization certificates without ensuring basic amenities like water connections, roads, sewers and drainage lines between during her tenure.  This was done by Mrs Shiela Dikshit’s Congress government in complete violation of the Supreme Court judgment of 2006, in which it was clearly laid down that no government can regularise unauthorised colonies without providing basic facilities.
The Shiela Dikshit government played with the lives of around 40 lakh people residing in such colonies, by cheating them before every assembly election by distributing regularisation certificates which had no legal sanctity.
It also needs to be investigated where actually this Rs 3,000 crore which has been shown in official papers as having been spent on providing basic facilities, has been siphoned off.
According to the CAG, there are virtually no sewer lines in around 895 colonies and nearly half of these are without roads and drainage lines. Where has this money been spent ?
When an elected government had recommended action to probe this fraud, it is the duty of those currently running the Delhi administration to promptly ensure that the CAG report is placed in Parliament during the ongoing budget session itself so that the people of Delhi can see how they were cheated during the 15 years of Shiela Dikshit rule.
Can the Congress answer the question why it hurriedly appointed a person as a governor who had been indicted by the Lokayukta for this scam and against whom the AAP government had recommended strictest possible action ?
Was she not appointed a governor to allow her to escape prosecution for her acts of omission and commission during her tenure as chief minister?

Regards
AAP Media Cell


 

Invitation to Korean B2B Trade Meet ( Mumbai & Delhi)(2)

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shubhangi gurav Dear Sir, We are pleased to invite you to an INDO-KOREAN TRADE MEET (buyer seller meeting) between Indian companies and Korean suppliers listed below. The objective of the one to one meet is to enable
Today at 11:39 AM
shubhangi gurav
To jatindraengg@gmail.com
Today at 11:41 AM
Dear Sir,
We are pleased to invite you to an INDO-KOREAN TRADE MEET (buyer seller meeting) between Indian companies and Korean suppliers listed below.
The objective of the one to one meet is to enable Korean manufacturers to locate distributors/ importers / retailers and hence develop a mutually beneficial business relationship.
Please note that on account of the trade agreement (CEPA) between India and South Korea the custom duties on various products from Korea have been reduced.
SCHEDULE
Date: 26th Aug 2014
Venue: MAJESTIC BALLROOM, The Lalit, Mumbai
And
Date: 28th Aug 2014
Venue: Regal Room,Lalit Hotel, Barakhamba Road, Delhi
To Register Free of Charge to meet one or more of these Korean Companies, please fill the below form and send it back to us at the earliest -
Name of Company:
Contact Person:
Address:
Telephone:
Mobile:
Email:
Website:
Company Business Line:
Annual Turnover / Sales Volume:
Number of Employees:
Time of Attending (anytime between 10 am – 5 pm):
Korean Company You Want to Meet (please choose from the list above):
Looking forward to receiving your registration.
See you at the Meet!
Best Regards
Shubhangi Gurav
Zenith Events
C1604, Synchronicity Building
Chandivali Mumbai 400072
India


 

Highlights of the Indian Railway Budget 2014-15

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Union Railways Minister, Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda interacting with media persons after presenting  
Embedded image permalink

PHD Research Bureau
To sunitag@phdcci.in
Today at 2:25 PM


Dear All,
Highlights of the Railway Budget 2014-15
Focuses on Investments, Cleanliness and Safety

Railway Budget 2014-15 emphasizes on boosting investments, capacity utilization, cleanliness, safety and provision of better amenities for the passengers. It is a progressive budget which promises to launch network of high speed trains in the country. The Budget has given priority to raise surplus funds for the Railways through improving infrastructure by public private partnerships (PPPs), mobilizing foreign direct investment flows, allocating substantial outlay for safety and bringing transparency in execution of projects. Some remarkable initiatives have been introduced keeping different sections of society into consideration.

Achievements / Initiatives
Major landmark achievement in National Project of Kashmir –
·         XIth Five Year Plan Targets exceeded in New Lines (2,207 km) , Doubling (2,758 km) and Electrification (4,556 km), Production of Diesel  (1,288) & Electrical (1,218) Locos and Acquisition of Wagons (64,875)
·         Dedicated Freight Corridors on the Eastern and Western Routes – leading to strategically critical capacity augmentation.
·         Railways met from its own means the total additional impact of Rs one lakh crore due to implementation of 6th Pay Commission
·         In 2013-14, 1532 km of New Lines, Doubling and Gauge Conversion commissioned.
·         Production commenced at the new factories – Rail Wheel Plant, Chhapra ; Rail Coach Factory, Rae Bareli ; and Diesel Component Factory, Dankuni.

Measures for improving Safety & Security

·         No unmanned Level Crossing. A total of 5,400 unmanned level crossings eleiminated – 2,310 by manning it and 3,090 by closure / merger / construction of ROBs or RUBs.
·         Improved audio – visual warning to road users in advance of approaching trains.
·         Induction of indigenously developed Train Collision Avoidance System
·         Development of ‘crashworthy’ coaches

Financial Health

  • Rail infrastructure by cost sharing arrangement with State Governments; Karnataka, Jharkhand, Maharashtra , Andhra Pradesh and Haryana agreed to several projects
  • Several Public Private Partnerships (PPP) projects are in the pipeline.
  • FDI being enabled to foster creation of world-class rail infrastructure.
  • Rail Land Development Authority raised Rs 937 crore so far.

Modernisation and Technology Induction

  • High Speed Trains
                                I.      Joint feasibility study by India and Japan for Mumbai – Ahmedabad Corridor to be co-financed by Japan International Cooperation Agency
                              II.      Business Development Study by SNCF for Mumbai – Ahmedabad corridor.
  • Semi- High Speed Projects
                          I.      Exploring low cost option of speeds 160- 200 kmph on select routes
Green Initiatives
·         Railway Energy Management Company becomes functional. Windmill and solar power plants to be set up with 40% subsidy from Ministry of New & Renewable Energy.
·         200 Stations, rooftops of 26 buildings and 2,000 level crossing gates to be covered.
·         Railways bagged 22 out of 112 awards given by the Government.
·         ‘Green Curtains’ along the track close to major stations; Pilot work at Agra and Jaipur
·         Coverage of Bio-toilets in 2,500 coaches and would be increased progressively.


Passenger Friendly Initiatives

  • Overwhelming public response to e-booking of ticket
  • On-line tracking of exact location and running of train movements
  • 51 Jan-Ahaar outlets for Janta Meals ; 48 passenger escalators commisionsed at stations and 61 more being installed ; air-conditioned EMU services in Mumbai from July 2014 ; information display system in important trains to indicate stations & arrival time.
  • ‘Upgradation’ scheme extended to AC Chair Car and Executive Chair car passengers.

Revenue Freight Traffic
  • Loading target of 1047 Million Tonnes for 2013-14 would be surpassed
  • Empty Flow Discount Scheme to be implemented
  • Carrying Capacity + 9 tonne + 1 tonne routes being planned
  • Easing of some restrictions on movement of imported commodities through Containers
  • Carrying capacity of 20 feet containers increased by 4 tonnes
  • Parcel Terminals & Special Parcel Trains with scheduled timings.
  • New policy on parcels to encourage transportation of milk.
  • New concept of ‘hub and spoke’ for parcel business
  • Third party warehousing in Special Parcel Terminals envisaged.

Budget Estimates 2014-15

  • Loading target of 1,101 Million Tonnes
  • Gross Traffic Receipts targeted at Rs 1,60,775 crore with Passenger Earnings (Rs 45,255 crore), Goods (Rs 1,05,770 crore), Other Coaching &  Sundry Earnings (Rs 9,700 crore)
  • Ordinary Working  Expenses placed at Rs 1,10,649 crore, higher by Rs 13,589 crore
  • Pension Outgo budgeted at Rs 27,000 crore against Rs 24,000 crore for 2013-14
  • The entire Dividend of Rs 9,117 crore to General Exchquer will be paid
  • Fund Balances likely to be Rs 12,728 crore.
  • Operating Ratio budgeted at 89.8%
Annual Plan 2014-15
  • Annual Plan envisaged at Rs 64,305 crore with a Budgetary Support of Rs 30,223 crore , Internal Resources of Rs 10,418 crore and Extra Budgetary Resources of Rs 19,805 crore
  • New Surveys: 19 New Lines & 5 Doubling

New Services

New Trains
  • 17 Premium trains
  • 38 Express trains
  • 10 Passenger trains
  • 4 MEMU
  • 3 DEMU

Extension and Increase in frequency
  • 3 Extension of trains


 

FIFA WORLD CUP @The Italian Cultural Institue! Semifinals,

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FIFA WORLD CUP @The Italian Cultural Institue! Semifinals, Third Place Game and Final, 9-14 July 2014
Cultural Program
To Undisclosed Recipients
Jul 7 at 3:58 PM
FIFA WORLD CUP 2014
@
The Italian Cultural Institute!
Semi-Finals, Third Place Game & FINAL
9 – 14 July 2014



MATCH
DATE [IST]
TIME [IST]

Brazil vs Germany
Wednesday, 09-07-2014
01:30



Netherlands vs Argentina
Thursday,  10-07-2014
01:30



Third Place Play-Off

(SATURDAY NIGHT)
SUNDAY, 13-07-2014
01:30



FINAL
      (SUNDAY NIGHT)
MONDAY, 14-07-2014
00:30





For more information, please visit our website www.iicnewdelhi.esteri.it/IIC_Newdelhi
Regards,

Italian Embassy Cultural Centre
50-E, Chandragupta Marg
Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110 021
Phone: 0091-11-26871901/03/04
Fax: 0091-11-26871902


 

IR – Bullet Train Revenue, Gutter Grade Service

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Ravinder Singh
To Ajit Jhaamitabhth@yahoo.comAnand Ganesh and 353 More…
Today at 12:31 AM
IR – Bullet Train Revenue, Gutter Grade Service
July07, 2014
Just hours from Indian Railways budget presentation it important to
say that Indian Railways is worlds most Inefficient and worst in
service.
IR is operated by Incompetent and Corrupt Railway Board. It is
economical to replace Old and Heavy Coaches and Wagons with Lighter
New Coaches and Wagons. Fuel economy alone justify and pay for
replacements.
It is important to mention that Revenue earned by Rajdhani Express is
not less compared to Bullet Trains second class in revenue earning.
Bullet Train between Shanghai and Beijing carry around 300 passenger
at 50% capacity each paying around 500 Yuan or Rs.4000 in second class
or Rs.1.2m which is equivalent to First AC fare but average fare of
all classes is Rs.2500 and train is always over booked and carry 1000
passengers so earn Rs.2.5m Twice More revenue but is very slow, old in
comparison and extremely poor service.
Likewise Mumbai Suburban services carry over 4000 passengers making 10
Trips at Rs.5 per passenger too earn Rs.2 lakh per day or Rs.8 crore
annually and Rs.80 crores in 10 years. These are the Cheapest
Transport in the world.
Even Barauni express carry 5000 passengers average fare of Rs.500 per
passenger this too earn Rs.2,5m.
The difference is in People Serving Indian Railways – Staff Engaged by
China Railways is working all the time during working schedule whereas
IR is absent and work probably less than one hour in a day.
There is massive Loot and Corruption. Tracks that ought to be
inspected and serviced daily are neglected.
Some trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi and Superfast trains average
over 1000 km a day on average log 3.5m kilometers in 10 years but even
30-40 years old coached are repaired and serviced than replacing with
new lighter and efficient coaches.
In 40 years I have not seen any Officer on Platforms inspecting and
motivating staff except when Railway Minister arrived in Special VIP
Coach attached to a super fast train.
Perhaps there is only one VIP coach in entire IR Fleet.
But politicians make IR run unviable trains that largely run partially
loaded and on branch lines large number of passengers in trains travel
without tickets.
There is no or inadequate Inspection of freight & passenger trains and
there is huge leakage of revenue.
Ravinder Singh, National General Secretary.
Sabka Bharat Mission 2019
Y-77, Hauz Khas, New Delhi -110016
Ph: 9650421857, 9718280435
Sabkabharatmission2019@gmail.com


 

Tanu Sharma in the FIR alleges that she was harassed and “mentally tortured”.

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Naresh Kumar Sagar,
Here’s what’s trending on Twitter this week.
Naresh Kumar Sagar
Tanu Sharma in the FIR alleges that she was harassed and “mentally tortured”.
05 Jul
On 22 June, the Noida police registered a First Information Report that went largely unreported by the mainstream media. The FIR charged Anita Sharma Bisht and MN Prasad, senior executives of the news
5
RELATED TWEETS


 

Talk on “Democracy and Expertise”

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 Dear Friends:
The Centre for Policy Research is delighted to invite you to a talk by 
Prof. Robert C. Post
 Dean and Sol & Lillian Goldman Professor of Law at Yale Law School 
  On
Democracy and Expertise 
 Date: Wednesday, 9 July 2014

 Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

 Venue: Conference Room, Centre for Policy Research, DharamMarg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021
Brief BioRobert Post is Dean and Sol & Lillian Goldman Professor of Law at Yale Law School. Before coming to Yale, he taught at the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law (Boalt Hall). Dean Post’s subject areas are constitutional law, First Amendment, legal history, and equal protection. He has written and edited numerous books, including Democracy, Expertise, Academic Freedom: A First Amendment Jurisprudence for the Modern State (2012); For the Common Good: Principles of American Academic Freedom (with Matthew M. Finkin, 2009); Prejudicial Appearances: The Logic of American Antidiscrimination Law (with K. Anthony Appiah, Judith Butler, Thomas C. Grey, and Reva Siegel, 2001); and Cons titutional Domains: Democracy, Community, Management (1995). He publishes regularly in legal journals and other publications; recent articles and chapters include “Theorizing Disagreement: Reconceiving the Relationship Between Law and Politics” (California Law Review, 2010); “Constructing the European Polity: ERTA and the Open Skies Judgments” in The Past and Future of EU Law: The Classics of EU Law Revisited on the 50th Anniversary of the Rome Treaty (Miguel Poiares Maduro & Loïc Azuolai eds., 2010); “Roe Rage: Democratic Constitutionalism and Backlash” (with Reva Siegel, Harvard Civil-Rights Civil-Liberties Law Review, 2007); “Federalism, Positive Law, and the Emergence of the American Administrative State: Prohibition in the Taft Court Era” (William & Mary Law Review, 2006); “Foreword: Fashioning the Legal Constitution: Culture, Courts, and Law” (Harvard Law Review, 2003); and “Subsidized Speech” (Yale Law Journal, 1996). He is a member of the American Philosophical Society and the American Law Institute and a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He has an A.B. and Ph.D. in History of American Civilization from Harvard and a J.D. from Yale Law School.


 

Popular TV actor Vishal Kotiyaan launches Big Magic’s new mini-series, Chota Birbal

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~The actor who will be hosting the quiz series was present along with the other contestant kids~
BIG MAGIC, India’s comedy destination recently launched the mini-series, Chota Birbal in presence of TV actor, Vishal Kotiyaanand child artist Saloni Daini. Vishal Kotiyaan, who currently is seen as the witty minister, Birbal on BIG MAGIC’s popular show ‘HAR MUSHKIL KA HAL – AKBAR BIRBAL’ will be hosting this new quiz show for kids.  Child artist, Saloni Daini will be seen as one of contestants who will be competing with other kids to win the coveted title of ‘Chota Birbal’
The two week- long series has been conceptualized as an extension to the Historical Comedy ‘HAR MUSHKIL KA HAL – AKBAR BIRBAL’. The series begins with a small enactment of the almighty Akbar, who throws a challenge to his witty minister, Birbal to find a kid equivalent to his intelligence. Resulting out of the challenge, CHOTA BIRBAL is a special series that will not only tickle the funny bone of the audience but will also put kids’ logic to test.  All the contestants on the show will be below 9 years of age and in the finale week; only two contestants will contest each other to win the most respectful title of ‘CHOTA BIRBAL’.
Catch Chota Birbal every weeknight exclusively on Big Magic at 7:00 pm!

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Amit Shah is BJP President 

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Amit Shah appointed BJP President
Amit Shah, who delivered crucial Uttar Pradesh to BJP in the Lok Sabha elections, appointed party president on Wednesday.
Shah, a close aide of Modi, was appointed to the top post in BJP at a meeting of Parliamentary Board where incumbent Rajnath Singh resigned after a tenure of one-and-a-half years.The former Minister of State for Home in Gujarat and who faces charges in the Sohrabuddin fake encounter case is largely credited for BJP’s stunning performance in UP where it got 71 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats.
The meeting was attended among others by Modi, senior leaders L K Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, M Venkaiah Naidu, Nitin Gadkari and Sushma Swaraj.
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, who had to table the pre-Budget Economic Survey in Lok Sabha, joined the press conference where the announcement was made by Singh before all these leaders.
“From now and now on, Amit Shah will be the president of the BJP and lead the party. His appointment was asp proved unanimously,” he said flanked by Modi and other leaders.
Shortly after the announcement, Modi and Singh offered sweets to Shah while other leaders including Advani, Joshi, Swaraj and Jaitley gave him bouquets.
As reporters started plying him questions, Shah replied “I will speak later” bringing the brief ceremony to a close.
MASTER STRATEGIST SHAH SCRIPTS HISTORY IN BJP
BJP’s key election strategist who crafted an unprecedented victory in Uttar Pradesh. Shah, 50, scripted history by becoming the youngest president of the party in which veterans have called the shots since its inception.
Considered an invaluable deputy to any neta, he has taken less than a year to catapult himself from a Gujarat BJP strongman to the party’s supremo on the national stage.
Most leaders in the BJP agree that Shah, who was associated with the RSS in his early days, has earned every bit of his success.
What worked eventually in favour of Shah was his extra-ordinary political performance in UP where as BJP’s general secretary in-charge he led the party to a dream run wresting 71 of the total 80 Lok Sabha seats in the politically crucial state.
Together with Apna Dal, a new ally which Shah got on board, the BJP won 73 seats in the state leaving a handful for the ruling SP and the Congress in the state.
Shah’s organizational skills came in handy for the BJP in bordering Bihar as well where the party forged alliances with the LJP and OBC strongman Upinder Kushwaha to score a staggering 22 alone and 31 out of 40 seats with allies and reducing the state’s incumbent JDU government to a virtual naught.
With his master act of scripting LJP leader Ram Vilas Paswan’s return to the NDA fold after over a decade since Godhra riots, Shah managed a massive political makeover for his boss Modi, who had long been denounced by Paswan for the 2002 Gujarat riots.
That apart, Shah’s poaching of LJP and Kushwaha who had been eager to ally with the Congress, forced political realignments in Bihar with the JDU and Lalu Prasad’s RJD coming together to face the BJP’s new political challenge.
UP, Bihar and Gujarat put together, Shah’s stamp was visible in half of the total number of seats the BJP won in the 16th Lok Sabha elections, driving the party to its best ever performance under the Modi-Shah combine.
Political acumen apart, Shah’s controversial past has continued to haunt him until lately. Accused of fake encounters involving Sohrabuddin Sheikh, Tulsi Prajapati among others, Shah spent three months in the Sabarmati jail before he secured bail in 2010.
The bail cleared the hurdles in


 

    WEC India Energy News

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WEC India members Energy News-9th July 2014
To WEC India Energy News – India GroupWEC India Energy News – NTPC Group
Today at 12:45 PM

WEC India Energy Portal

One Stop Energy Resource Center

Global Energy Mix comparison 2030

Global Energy Mix comparison of IEA, EIA, WEC Scenarios for 2030 has been added to Total Primary Energy Consumption (TPEC )  Section of Global Scenarios.
  1. Tata Power & Reliance Power bet big on renewable energy, to spend Rs 1,500 cr each
    India’s largest power producers Tata Power & Reliance Power are betting big on renewable energy & will spend about Rs 1,500 cr each on clean energy projects this fiscal.
  2. Coal India offers to revoke termination of 126 employees
    CIL offered to revoke termination orders of 126 employees, who were sacked in May for indiscipline, provided they vacate land in lieu of which they were offered the jobs.
  3. SC tells CBI not to close coal scam cases
    Orders appointment of special prosecutor and judge for coal scam trial like 2G scam case
  4. Sreenivasan Jain: The ghosts of India’s power ‘crisis’ return
    The new regime seems determined to recycle the mythologies over the shortage of coal and power
  5. National Thermal Power Corporation to set up 300-MW solar park in Guntur
    NTPC Chairman and Managing Director Arup Roy Choudhury informed this to Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu during a meeting here today.
  6. Purchased power to meet state demand: MP energy minister
    In contrast to the tall claims made by state government that it produces sufficient power, the state energy minister Rajendra Shukla today admitted that state owned power management company purchased power to meet the demand in the state
  7. NTPC likely to start work on 4000 mw power plant in Telangana
    NTPC chief Arup Roy Choudhury called on Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao and the duo discussed details of the plant.
  8. Power-starved UP eyeing private investment in solar energy
    Power-starved Uttar Pradesh is eyeing greater private investment in solar energy sector to tide over persistent electricity crisis in the state.
  9. Budget 2014: Introduce CER taxations to mitigate power crisis and address global warming, says KPMG
    The recent power crisis in India has been a subject matter of great concern in India as well as garnered global news reporting.
  10. Power plants running out of coal, imports to surge
    Coal India, the world’s largest coal miner, has failed to raise its output fast enough to meet demand, and millions of Indians still go without power.
  11. Power subsidy provision: It’s up to Centre now
    The Delhi budget will require the approval of both houses and it is up to the government to introduce measures like a power subsidy.
  12. Nearly half of India’s coal power plants have one week of stocks
    Power minister says 26 out of 100 coal-based plants have enough to meet requirements for less than four days
  13. Government asks power producers to increase import of coal
    “During the period April-May, 2014 power utilities have imported 7.6 MT against pro-rata target of 9.0 MT,” the minister added.
  14. Power producers meet AP CM
    The members of the delegation included Anil Ambani of Reliance Group, GV Krishna Reddy of the GVK group, L Madhusudhan Rao of Lanco group and GBS Raju of GMR group
  15. United Kingdom to share best practices on nuclear power safety with India
    Dispelling concerns over safety of nuclear power plants, a British minister today said that her country was ready to exchange best practices on the subject
  16. Narendra Modi’s power pledge set to lift coal imports to record high
    Overseas purchases are estimated to increase to about 145 million MT this year from 135 million tonnes in 2013
  17. Standard Chartered PE to invest Rs500 crore in Sterlite Power Grid
    The proceeds will be used for equity contribution in existing as well as new power transmission projects, says company
  18. June coal imports highest in 2014 as prices fall: mjunction
    India’s import of coal and coke rose 12% to 18.5 million tonnes in June from a year earlier, says mjunction data
  19. Urban grime foils Narendra Modi’s solar power ambitions
    Plans of harnessing the sun by installing solar panels on telecom towers is being hampered by dust and urban sprawl
For more information Contact – WEC India Secretariat, C/o NTPC Limited, 7th Floor, Core-6, SCOPE Complex, New Delhi-110 003, India
Email: info@wecindia.in, Phone: 011-2436 3719, Fax: 011-2436 9530, Website: http://www.wecindia.in


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News around the globe

9072014

​Russia accepts John Tefft as new US ambassador to Moscow


Russia has accepted veteran US diplomat John Tefft as Washington’s next ambassador to Moscow, presidential aid Yury Ushakov confirmed. He declined to comment on whether the Russian government was concerned with Tefft’s reputation of a hawk and allegations that he was the mastermind behind ‘color revolutions’ in Georgia and Ukraine, where he served as ambassador previously. Tefft is to replace Michael McFaul, who resigned in February.

​Jakarta Governor Jokowi leading Indonesia elections


Jakarta Governor Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo from Indonesian Democratic party is leading the country’s elections, according to an exit poll conducted by the Indonesian Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). After the polls closed at 1pm local time (06:00 GMT), Jokowi took the lead with 45.1 percent of votes. His main rival, former General Prabowo Subianto from the Great Indonesia Movement Party, had garnered 42.2 percent.

​Japan’s super typhoon heads to Russia’s Far East


A super typhoon Neoguri which has already struck Japan, killing at least two people and injuring dozens more, is heading to Russia’s Far-Eastern island of Sakhalin. The island borders on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. Sakhalin authorities say Typhoon Neoguri will bring heavy rains to the region. A high alert warning was declared on the Island.

Four dead after homes collapse in central NY state


A powerful storm – and possible tornado – in New York on Tuesday has reportedly knocked down several homes in the central part of the state, killing at least four people. According to the Los Angeles Times, the severe storm caused the collapse of several structures in Smithfield, located in New York’s Madison County, resulting in “immense” damage and forcing local authorities to dispatch a number of ambulances. The Smithfield Fire Department confirmed to the Times that four people died as a result of the weather-inflicted destruction.

North Korea launches possible Scud missiles


The reclusive and bristly nation of North Korea appears to have launched two projectiles off its eastern coast in a continuation of recent missile and artillery test launches, according to a South Korean defense official cited by AP. Analysts believe the large number of test-firings of missiles and rockets are partly in protest against Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent trip to South Korea, which was the first time a Chinese leader had ventured to Seoul prior to visiting Pyongyang. North Korea is also angry over US-South Korean military drills in the region. Regular short-range missile launches are interpreted by Washington and nearby countries as a warning by the DPRK not to interfere with its nuclear weapons program.

Al-Shabab militants attack Somali presidential palace


Armed Islamist al-Shabab militants attacked Somalia’s presidential palace in the country’s capital of Mogadishu and gained access to the building, an al-Shabab spokesman said. All the militants were killed, the government official reported, and the fighting is now over. The president of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, was not in the residence at the time of the attack. The Al Qaeda-linked al-Shabab controlled Mogadishu till 2011, but they still regularly attack the city.


2 people dead in Washington State medical center shooting – police


Two people died in a shooting in a medical center in Spokane, Washington, local police said. Apparently, a man came into the institution, where his wife worked, killed her and subsequently shot himself, AP reported. Local media say the incident happened in the Deaconess Medical Center complex. There are no reports of other victims.


Marijuana shops open in Washington State


The first legal marijuana shops, where pot can be bought for recreational use without a doctor’s prescription, opened in Washington State on Tuesday. Currently, only 25 proprietors have a license to sell marijuana, Reuters reported. Washington became the second state after Colorado to give out retail marijuana licenses – the regulators have already accepted 334 applications.


15:35

Two British men arrested on attempted terrorism charges


Two British men, Mohammed Nahin Ahmed and Yusuf Zubair, are currently on trial for attempting to engage in acts of terrorism. The childhood friends set off to Syria to assist rebel forces last year, and subsequently spent eight months in the crisis-ridden state. Prior to their departure, they had been in contact with Islamic extremists based in the UK. The young men, both aged 22, were arrested by a UK counter-terrorism unit upon their return to Britain in January. Both admitted to a single count of preparing to engage in terrorism acts at London’s Woolwich Crown Court on Tuesday.

25 recent Ebola deaths in West Africa – WHO


Fifty new cases of Ebola have been diagnosed and 25 people have died of the virus in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea since July 3, the World Health Organization reported on Tuesday. All the cases except two were registered outside Guinea, where there has been a reduction of the disease, the United Nations agency said. The epidemic broke out in Guinea in February, and since that time throughout the three countries there have been 844 cases recorded, with the death toll reaching 518.


3 injured during Spain’s San Fermin bull runs


Three people were injured in the second running of the bulls at the San Fermin festival in Spain on Tuesday. One of the injured, a 23-year-old man from England, is in a critical condition after sustaining severe chest trauma and rib fractures, the Navarra regional government reported. The other two injured men were from Japan and Spain. Another man was hurt on Monday. San Fermin, which attracts thousands of tourists, is an outdoor festival in Pamplona, whose main feature is the running of the bulls, which results in dozens of injuries every year.

​Japan outraged at Chinese map showing Hiroshima, Nagasaki nuked


Tokyo said it will make a stern protest to China after a regional newspaper Chongqing Youth News printed a map of the country showing mushroom clouds hovering over the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which suffered from US nuclear bombings during World War II. The controversial picture, accompanied by the words “Japan wants a war again,” came with an article decrying Japan’s turn away from post-war pacifist policies to what the author characterized as warmongering. It was later removed from the paper’s website.

Iraq’s parliament reschedules next session to July 13


Iraq’s new parliament rescheduled its next session to July 13, the day after proclaiming a five-week delay. On Monday, parliament put off its next meeting because they had not reached an agreement on new government nominations – a decision that has drawn intense criticism. Parliamentary representative, Mahdi al-Hafidh, claimed the delay is a threat to the security of the country currently being torn apart by Sunni Islamist insurgency.

20 rockets fired into southern Israel, Hamas claims responsibility

At least 20 rockets have been fired on Israel according to the Israeli Defense Forces’ Twitter page. Four of them were intercepted and 16 of them landed on open ground near Be’er Sheva. Hamas has taken the responsibility for the attack, Al Arabiya reported. Hamas has vowed revenge on Israel after seven of its members were killed in an airstrike on Monday over a tunnel used by the armed group. Israel has also said it will escalate air strikes on Gaza, after experiencing daily rocket fire in the past few days.

Two cylinders seized by Syrian troops contained sarin – UN

Deadly chemical sarin was discovered in two cylinders reportedly seized by Syrian government troops in August 2013 in an area claimed to be controlled by armed opposition groups, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a letter to the UN Security Council published Monday, Reuters reported. The cylinders were declared “abandoned chemical weapons” by the government. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) monitoring the destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons stockpile analyzed the contents of the cylinders on June 14 and “confirmed that these contained sarin,” Ban Ki-moon’s letter said. Syrian government pledged in September to destroy its entire chemical stockpile under a US-Russia brokered deal following a deadly sarin gas attack on the outskirts of the capital, Damascus on August 21, 2013.

Prominent Kuwaiti opposition figure freed on bail

Musallam al-Barrak, who had been detained for questioning after allegedly insulting Kuwait’s judiciary, was freed on bail of around $18,000 on Monday and his case was delayed until September, his lawyer said. The former lawmaker, who draws support from some of Kuwait’s powerful tribes, was sentenced to jail for insulting the ruling emir in 2013. He and other opposition politicians then said that changes earlier made to an election law in Kuwait were intended to prevent them from taking power. Barrak’s arrest and conviction triggered a series of street protests and he was later acquitted.
16:11

Israel denies killing six Hamas militants

Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, a senior Israeli military officer, denied Monday that his forces had killed six Hamas militants in an air strike, claiming the men had died when explosives went off in a tunnel they had dug. Lieutenant Lerner also told reporters Israel was preparing for a possible escalation of hostilities along the Gaza frontier and had called up several hundred reservists, after experiencing daily rocket fire from Gaza militants in the past few days. Hamas has vowed revenge on Israel after seven of its members were killed in an airstrike on Monday morning over a tunnel used by the militant group. Hamas said “the enemy will pay a tremendous price” for the attack.
16:10

London 7/7 memorial defaced with graffiti hours before 9th memorial service

The Hyde Park monument to the victims of the 7/7 terror attack in London in 2005, which consists of 52 stainless steel columns, one for each of the 52 people killed, was defaced with slogans written in red and black. The columns were vandalized with messages that said “4 innocent Muslims,” “Blair Lied Thousands Died” and “J7 truth.” Boris Johnson, the mayor of London, vowed Monday that the city will “never give in” to terrorists. The memorial was defaced just hours before Monday’s ninth memorial service to the terrorist attacks, which was held at the monument in Hyde Park.
15:34

Afghanistan’s Ghani wins presidential election – preliminary results

Former World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani has emerged as the winner of the second round of the Afghan presidential race, gaining 56.4 percent of the vote, the election commission chief said Monday. His rival, Abdullah Abdullah, picked up 43.4 percent, but according to local TV he is not accepting his loss. Ghani’s campaign said earlier in the day they were going to audit 7,100 polling stations to make sure the vote was clean. Both rounds of the vote to replace President Hamid Karzai have been plagued by accusations of fraud and other violations. The US has also been watching the process, as outgoing President Hamid Karzai refused to sign a military cooperation pact with Washington, leaving this decision to the country’s next leader.

Italian navy saves over 2,600 migrants in the Mediterranean

Italian rescue vessels and helicopters have saved more than 2,600 migrants from boats in the Mediterranean over the weekend, Reuters reports, citing the Italian navy. The search and rescue mission picked up predominantly male migrants, along with some minors and a pregnant woman in the Strait of Sicily. The number of migrants reaching Italy from Africa this year has surged to a record with calm weather in recent months encouraging more people, many fleeing war, forced conscription and poverty at home, to make the crossing. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, had counted 63,600 arrivals on July 4, before this weekend’s influx, surpassing the previous record of around 62,000 set in the whole of 2011.

3 suspects confess to killing of Palestinian teenager – official

Three suspects in the killing of a Palestinian teenager have confessed to the crime, an Israeli official said. He added that the three were re-enacting the killing of Mohammed Abu Khdeir for authorities on Monday. The confession comes the day after six Jewish male suspects were arrested in connection with Abu Khdeir’s death. The identities of the suspects have not been released.

Passengers evacuated from Channel Tunnel as train failure results in long delays

Hundreds of passengers were evacuated from the Channel Tunnel between the UK and France on Monday after a train failure. The train got stuck at about 0630 GMT due to a problem with the overhead power line, a spokesman for operator Eurotunnel said. Customers were transferred through the service tunnel and onto an empty train. The failure in the 50 kilometer (30 mile) tunnel resulted in long delays on the crossing between Britain and France, with several Eurostar train services canceled.

Hamas pledges revenge on Israel after 7 members die in airstrike

Hamas has vowed revenge on Israel after seven of its members were killed in an airstrike on Monday morning over a tunnel used by the militant group. Hamas said “the enemy will pay a tremendous price” for the attack. Two militants from a different group, who had been firing rockets at southern Israeli communities, were also killed in a separate airstrike. The Israeli military has said it carried out airstrikes on at least “14 terror sites” in Gaza overnight in retaliation for a recent increase in rocket attacks from Gaza. About a dozen rockets were fired at Israel from Gaza last night injuring a soldier and another 25 during the day on Sunday.

Afghanistan presidential hopefuls fail to agree on election outcome

Rival Afghan presidential candidates Abdullah Abdullah, a former anti-Taliban fighter, and Ashraf Ghani, an ex-World Bank official, held a meeting on Monday, but failed to resolve differences over the outcome of the election, Reuters reports. The announcement of preliminary results of the election’s second round has once again been postponed. Abdullah and Ghani could reportedly be discussing additional checks at polling stations that would establish if the vote was fair. Both rounds of the presidential election were marked by accusations of mass fraud.

Greenpeace anti-fracking protesters block access to Chevron shale gas exploration

Greenpeace activists have chained themselves to the gates of a Chevron shale gas exploration well in eastern Romania to protest fracking there. Activists from Romania, Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Germany came to the Pungesti site, wearing bright yellow jackets and holding banners reading“Pungesti-anti-Chevron quarantine area” and “Stop fracking.” US energy major Chevron began work on the exploration well in the village of Pungesti in eastern Romania in December. Exploration start was postponed several times because of protests.

Moscow concerned about Kiev troops shelling civilian territories

Moscow is concerned with reports of eastern Ukrainian towns abandoned by self-defense forces, including Slavyansk and Kramatorsk, still being shelled by Ukrainian troops, according to a statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry’s commissioner for human rights, Konstantin Dolgov. He described the shelling as a way for the Ukrainian government “to exert pressure” on those who are “dissatisfied, and do not want to reconcile themselves with the plans the authorities in Kiev are imposing on them.” Dolgov has called for an immediate termination of the military operation by Kiev.

​ Afghan rocket attack kills at least 5 children

A grenade attack in northern Afghanistan has left at leave five children dead and a further six injured, officials have said. Taliban militants reportedly launched the grenade that struck a house in the Kunduz province. The six injured were all from the same family and included the parents of the deceased

​Vietnam helicopter crash kills 16

A Russian-made, Vietnamese military helicopter has crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 16 people and injuring five, officials told AP. The helicopter was on a parachute mission and crashed close to the Vietnamese capital, Hanoi. Doctors said the injured are now being treated for burns in a Hanoi hospital.

​Israeli fighter jets strike targets in Gaza

The Israeli Air Force has launched a series of airstrikes on Palestinian territory in response to Hamas firing 25 rockets at southern Israel on Sunday. Altogether nine targets in Gaza sustained direct hits as a result. Hamas has acknowledged seven of its fighters were killed and four wounded, thus making it the worst day in casualties for the armed wing of the organization since its cross-border war with the Israeli Defense Forces in 2012.

​US spying allegations are serious – Merkel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said allegations of a German working as a double agent for the US intelligence are “serious” and if proven correct contradict the spirit of bilateral cooperation, Reuters reports. The German government demanded an explanation from Washington over the US’ apparent contact with a German man arrested last week, the interior minister said. Washington has yet to comment on the arrest of a 31-year-old employee of Germany’s BND foreign intelligence agency.



 

Kanpur Central will not look like this–or would it?

9072014
Indian Rail Budget 2014:
So hopefully, the platform at Kanpur Central will not look like this–or would it? 
Indian Rail Budget 2014:<br /> So hopefully, the platform at Kanpur Central will not look like this–or would it? :-)” width=”296″ height=”394″ /></div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div class=


 

Economic Survey envisaged rational expectations

9072014



Economic Survey envisaged rational expectations

India’s GDP to grow between 5.4% -5.9% in FY2015

Economic Survey of India 2013-14 focuses on reforms for long term-growth prospects on three frontsnamely low and stable inflation regime, tax and expenditure reform and regulatory framework. Further survey suggests removal of restriction on farmers to buy, sell and store their produce to customers across the country and the world. Rationalisation of subsidies on inputs such as fertilizer and food is essential and the Government needs to eventually move towards income support for farmers and poor households.


Highlights of Economic Survey 2013-14

STATE OF THE ECONOMY AND PROSPECTS
  • Economy to grow in the range of 5.4 – 5.9 per cent in 2014-15 overcoming sub-5 percent growth.
  • Growth slowdown was broad based, affecting in particular the industry sector.
  • Aided by favourable monsoons, agricultural and allied sector registered a growth of 4.7 per cent in 2013-14.
  • Industry and Service sectors also witnessed slowdown.

PUBLIC FINANCE
  • The fiscal policy for 2013-14 was calibrated with two-fold objectives; first, to aid growth revival; and second, to reach the FD level targeted for 2013-14.
  • The Budget for 2013-14 followed the policy of revenue augmentation and expenditure rationalization to contain government spending within sustainable limits.
  • The fiscal outcome of the central government in 2013-14 was achieved despite the macroeconomic challenges of growth slowdown, elevated levels of global crude oil prices, and slow growth of investment.

PRICES AND MONETARY MANAGEMENT
  • High inflation, particularly food inflation, was the result of structural as well as seasonal factors.
  • IMF projects most global commodity prices are expected to remain flat during 2014-15.
  • The RBI with a view to restoring stability to the foreign exchange market, hiked short term interest rate in July and compressed domestic money market liquidity.

FINANCIAL INTERMEDIATION
  • RBI has indentified five sectors — infrastructure, iron and steel, textiles, aviation and mining as the stressed sectors.
  • Public sector banks (PSBs) have high exposures to the ‘industry’ sector in general and to such ‘stressed’ sectors in particular.
  • The New Pension System (NPS), now National Pension System, introduced for the new recruits who join government service on or after January 2004, represents a major reform of Indian pension arrangements.
  • The next wave of infrastructure financing will require a capable bond market.

BALANCE OF PAYMENTS
  • The India ’s balance-of-payments position improved dramatically in 2013-14 with current account deficit at US $ 32.4 billion as against US$ 88.2 billion in 2012-13.
  • India’s foreign exchange reserves increased from US$ 292.0 billion at end March 2013 to US$ 304.2 billion at end march 2014.
  • India’s external debt has remained within manageable limits due to the external debt management policy with prudential restrictions on debt varieties of capital inflows.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE
World trade
  • World trade volume which decelerated to 2.8 per cent in 2012 has shown signs of recovery in 2013, albeit slow with a 3.0 per cent growth.
  • The sharp fall in imports and moderate export growth in 2013-14 resulted in a sharp fall in India ‘s trade deficit by 27.8 per cent.
  • In April-May 2014, trade deficit declined by 42.4 per cent.

AGRICULTURE AND FOOD MANAGEMENT
  • Record food grains and oilseeds production of 264.4 million tonnes (mt) and 32.4 mt is estimated in 2013-14.
  • Horticulture production estimated at 265 mt in 2012-13 has exceeded the production of foodgrains and oilseeds for the first time.
  • Due to higher procurement, stocks of foodgrains in the Central Pool have increased to 69.84 million tonnes as on June 1, 2014.
  • The net availability of foodgrains increased to 229.1 million tonnes and that of edible oils to 12.7 kg per year in 2013.

INDUSTRIAL PERFORMANCE
The latest gross domestic product (GDP) estimates show that industry grew by just 1.0 per cent in 2012-13 and slowed further in 2013-14, posting a modest increase of 0.4 per cent.

SERVICES SECTOR
  • India ranked 12th in terms of services GDP in 2012 among the world’s top 15 countries in terms of GDP (at current prices).
  • India has the second fastest growing services sector with its CAGR at 9.0 per cent, just below China ’s 10.9 per cent, during 2001 to 2012.
  • In 2013-14, FDI inflows to the services sector (top five sectors including construction) declined sharply by 37.6 per cent to US$ 6.4 billion compared to an overall growth in FDI inflows at 6.1 per cent resulting in the share of the top five services in total FDI falling to nearly one-sixth.

ENERGY, INFRASTRUCTURE AND COMMUNICATIONS
  • Major sector-wise performance of core industries and infrastructure services during 2013-14 shows a mixed trend. While the growth in production of power and fertilizers was comparatively higher than in 2012-13, coal, steel, cement, and refinery production posted comparatively lower growth. Crude oil and natural gas production declined during 2013-14.
  • The performance of the coal sector in the first two years of the Twelfth Plan has been subdued with domestic production at 556 MT in 2012-13 and 566 MT in 2013-14.
  • A total length of 21,787 km of national highways has been completed till March 2014 under various phases of the NHDP. In spite of several constraints due to the economic downturn, the NHAI constructed 2844 km length in 2012-13, its highest ever annual achievement. During 2013-14 a total of 1901 km of road construction was completed.
  • From the infrastructure development perspective, while important issues like delays in regulatory approvals, problems in land acquisition & rehabilitation, environmental clearances, etc. need immediate attention, time overruns in the implementation of projects continue to be one of the main reasons for underachievement in many of the infrastructure sectors.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT & CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Human- induced Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are growing and are chiefly responsible for climate change.
  • The world is not on track for limiting increase in global average temperature to below 2◦C, above pre-industrial levels. GHG emissions grew on average 2.2 per cent per year between 2000 and 2010, compared to 1.3 per cent per year between 1970 and 2000.
  • There is immense pressure on governments to act through two new agreements on climate change and sustainable development, both of which will be global frameworks for action to be finalized next year.
  • The cumulative costs of India ’s low carbon strategies have been estimated at around USD 834 billion at 2011 prices, between 2010 and 2030.

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
India’s Human Development Rank and performance
  • According to HDR 2013, India has slipped down in HDI with its overall global ranking at 136 (out of the 186 countries) as against 134 (out of 187 countries) as per HDR 2012. It is still in the medium human development category.
  • The poverty ratio (based on the MPCE of Rs.816 for rural areas and Rs.1000 for urban areas in 2011-12 at all India level), has declined from 37.2 per cent in 2004-05 to 21.9 per cent in 2011-12.
  • In absolute terms, the number of poor declined from 407.1 million in 2004-05 to 269.3 million in 2011-12 with an average annual decline of 2.2 percentage points during 2004-05 to 2011-12.
  • During 2004-05 to 2011-12, employment growth [CAGR] was only 0.5 per cent, compared to 2.8 per cent during 1999-2000 to 2004-05 as per usual status.


 

Sam Pitroda, is on World Wide Web Foundation Board of Directors

9072014

Today, we are pleased to announce that the World Wide Web Foundation has elected two world-leading innovators to serve on its Board of Directors. Sam Pitroda, an internationally respected development thinker, policy maker, telecom inventor and entrepreneur, and Alex Johnston, a leading communications expert, will join other board directors in shaping the strategic direction of the World Wide Web Foundation as it seeks to achieve its mission: establishing the open Web as a global public good and a basic right.
Established by the inventor of the Web, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the World Wide Web Foundation pursues its mission based upon three key pillars: affordable access to the Web, online rights and participation. In each of these areas, the Foundation combines robust original research with powerful advocacy and coalition building initiatives to deliver sustainable change. Pitroda and Johnston join a diverse international board, which works under the Chairmanship of Rick Haythornthwaite, and includes prominent individuals from the technology, philanthropy, academic and business sectors. All members of the Web Foundation’s Board of Directors serve on a pro bono basis and do not accept remuneration for their services.
Welcoming the election of the two new board members, Anne Jellema, Chief Executive Officer of the World Wide Web Foundation said:
We are delighted that Sam and Alex have been elected to join our Board of Directors.Their broad international experience and deep sector expertise will prove invaluable as we pursue our mission of building an open, free and universal Web to enhance the human rights of all.”


 

State Government of Chhattisgarh must act to protect constitutional rights

9072014
The State Government of Chhattisgarh must act to protect constitutional rights
The Religious Liberty Commission of the Evangelical Fellowship of India has conveyed to the Union government and the Government of the State of Chhattisgarh its deep apprehension that the decisions of a number of village Panchayats in the Bastar region banning the entry of Christian workers could lead to the large scale persecution of the minority community by aggressive groups.
The government must reverse the decisions of these Panchayats immediately to restore the confidence of the Christian community in Chhattisgarh, which is under considerable stress in recent days. There seems to be well thought out pattern and sinister design behind these actions.
Mr. Suresh Yadav, Bastar district president of the VHP, has said over 50 Gram Panchayats in Bastar have passed orders under Section 129 (G) of the Chhattisgarh Panchayat Raj Act banning all “non-Hindu religious propaganda, prayers and speeches in the villages.” Some of these include the Sirisguda Gram Sabha, Belar in Lohandiguda and others. The District Collector has admitted that such orders have been passed by three Gram Panchayats. In addition to this, there seems to be a social boycott of Christian villagers, some of whom have also been denied basic amenities including rations.
Such actions are entirely ultra vires of the Constitution of India. They militate against guarantees to all citizens of Freedom of Faith, Freedom of Express and free movement, which are basic human rights. They discriminate against religious minorities, and specially the Christian community.
The delayed action of the district authorities, and the fact that the State government has not acted so far, encourage hostile political elements and their supporters into taking the law into their own hands. The Christian community finds itself extremely vulnerable in these circumstances. There are also accusations that vested commercial interests are encouraging such divisive action by the village Panchayats.
We appeal to the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, and the Chief Minister, Dr. Raman Singh, to take urgent action to reverse these motivated decisions of the village Panchayats, and to order the district authorities to ensure their safety and security of the Christian community, their properties and their places of worship. The government must also ensure the local Christians are given their requirements of essential commodities.
Rev. Dr. Richard Howell,
General Secretary,
Evangelical Fellowship of India,
New Delhi, India
Evangelical Fellowship of India (established 1951) is a charter member of World Evangelical Alliance, an accredited NGO with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations

Rev. Vijayesh Lal

National Director
Religious Liberty Commission
Evangelical Fellowship of India
805/92, Deepali Building,
Nehru Place, New Delhi – 110019
email: vijayesh@efirlc.org

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India State of Forest Report 2013 (ISFR)

9072014


  India State of Forest Report 2013 (ISFR)


The biennial report on “India State of Forest Report (ISFR)” has been released. The report covers the ground realities pertaining to the Environment. The India State of Forest Report 2013 contains information on forest cover, tree cover, mangroves cover and growing stock inside and outside the forest areas. The report has also given special thematic information on forest cover such as hill districts, tribal districts, and north eastern region. The report has presented information of forest cover for all the States and districts for the current assessment and changes with respect to forest cover of previous assessment.            

According to the present assessment, the total forest and tree cover of the country is 78.92 million hectare which is 24.01% of the geographical area of the country. As compared to the assessment of 2011, an increase of 5871 sq km has been observed in the forest cover of the country. The majority of the increase in the forest cover has been observed in open forest category mainly outside forest areas. The maximum increase in forest cover has been observed in West Bengal (3810 sq. km.) followed by Odisha (1444 sq. km.) and Kerala (622sq km).

The report highlights that Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest cover of 77,522 sq. km. in terms of area in the country followed by Arunachal Pradesh with forest cover of 67,321 sq. km. Further, Mizoram has the highest percentage of forest cover with respect to total geographical area with 90.38% followed by Lakshadweep with 84.56%. The present assessment has also revealed that 15 states/UTs have above 33% of the geographical area under forest cover. Out of these states and UTs, eight states namely Mizoram, Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Island , Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Manipur and Tripura have more than 75% forest cover while 7 States namely Goa , Sikkim , Kerala, Uttarakhand, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Chhattisgarh and Assam have forest cover between 33% to 75%.

Further, the total growing stock of India’s forest and trees outside forests has been estimated at 5,658.046 million cum which comprises 4,173.362 million cum inside the forests and 1484.68 million cum outside the forests. In the present assessment, total carbon stock in country’s forest has been estimated at 6941 million tonnes. An increase

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Eubiq Singapore with its convergence innovation

EUBIQ SINGAPORE WITH ITS CONVERGENCE INNOVATION

PRESS RELEASE
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Press release
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Eubiq Singapore with its convergence innovation in the field of fifth generation cable management to drive the telecom features in its holistic efficiency . We have started our operation in India. Eubiq India Pvt Ltd has pan India presence. We are the first of its kind in electrical power management system. 
We are product based out of Singapore www.eubiq.com, We Have a strong presence in the retail industry in Dubai, Singapore and Some Parts of Europe.
Eubiq Singapore is the inventor and manufacturer of GSS System – The World’s Most Flexible Power Outlet System. Now open our own Marketing operation in India.
The Eubiq System, the world’s first-of-its kind electrical power outlet system, that is practical, green, safe and simply beautiful well suited for residential use including kitchens, living rooms, study rooms, AV rooms, masters rooms.
The system is easy to install, easy to use and most importantly safe as all live parts are securely hidden.
GSS viz Ground Sentry Shutter is a patented safety features found in all Power Tracks and Wall Sockets. With prior wiring, GSS effectively grounds all conductive objects in contacts with it. The system is therefore child-safe, virtually impossible for any hazardous shock. Embrace the freedom of Eubiq – because electrical power in now anywhere you want it to be with ultra safe, unique modular concept, architecturally versatile, sleek design, quick and easy installation, universal system, cost-saving, 40Amp High Current Carrying Capacity plus freedom of movement.
Clients for references are -:
Hotels-:  Ramada Gurgoan,  ITC Maurya Sheraton Delhi, Hilton Delhi, Westin Pune, Duet Pune, Oberoi Hilton Mumbai, Spa, Margaon Goa, Base Hospital Delhi, City Hospital Delhi, Sir Ganga Ram, Dr R M L Hospital,Tata Memorial Hospital,
Other listed are -: L&T Corporate Office Chennai, Siemens Ltd, Chennai, Gurgaon, Cipla India Mumbai & Pune, Nestle Goa and Gurgoan, Crompton Greaves Goa and Glaxo Smithkline Pharmaceuticals Ltd. etc
GSS System is the infrastructure platform of the future – all your Power, Data and Communication (Audio, Video and Telephone) needs can be neatly integrated onto a single track.
 GSS System is a worldwide patented Flexible power outlet system which enables truly flexible access to power “when and where it is needed”. GSS provides the ability to safely and easily add, remove or reposition power points where and when required. Fixed Power points, Power boards and Multi-point Adaptors will be a thing of the past.
GSS is CE marked and confirms many international standards. Along with completely flexible access to power, Eubiq provides other features such as safety, superior aesthetics, 100% modularity, long term cost savings, child-proof design, energy saving/ emission reduction and provides complete freedom in room layout.
With all the above advantages Eubiq is ideal for use in both Industrial and commercial environments such as Work-stations, cabins, utility room, pantry, conference rooms in offices for public places such as conference halls, media halls, restaurants, hospitals.
Eubiq also has potential to provide any customized solution based on your needs: If you need 6/16 AMP single phase power , as well as channels for data cable & other multimedia cables. Then, Eubiq can integrate its GSS system base power track with a wide range of Aluminum housings which can be used as both recessed (tables & walls) and surface application.
Below are some videos which would assist you in understanding our product range & Technology.
We are interested to sell / market our product  any enquiry on this subject are solicited.
Eubiq India P Ltd,
Shop no 1 Basement  Sheetla Lane
Sheetla lane,Sector 17-18 Dividing Road,
Gurgoan-12201, Haryana
 With Regards,
Director
Eubiq India P Ltd 
 Office phone : 01244233816

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G Romero takes Argentina to World Cup final

Goalie Romero takes Argentina to World Cup finalUpdated on : 10-07-2014 01:29 PM
Goalkeeper Sergio Romero pulled off two stunning saves as Argentina edged out the Netherlands 4-2 in the penalty shootout in a grinding semifinal match to set up a World Cup summit clash against Germany in Sao Paulo on Thursday.


The second semifinal between the two heavyweight teams ended scoreless in the regulation 90 minutes and 30 minutes of extra time and its result had to be decided via penalty shootout.

Captain Lionel Messi, Ezequiel Garay, Sergio Aguero and Maxi Rodriguez scored for Argentina while only Arjen Robben and Dirk Kuyt could found the target for the Netherlands.

Romero turned out to be the hero for Argentina as he blocked shots from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder to take his side to the fifth World Cup final.

Two-time champions Argentina now take on three-time winners Germany in the summit clash at the iconic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.

This will be Argentina's first World Cup final entry in 24 years after 1990 when they lost to Germany in the final under Diego Maradona.

In stark contrast to the goals galore in Germany's 7-1 humiliation of Brazil in the first semifinal on Friday, today's match was more of a battle of attrition with very few goal-scoring chances with both sides trying to break down their opponents gradually.

The clash between the two heavyweights was though not without some tense and gripping spells with some fine build-ups but none of the two sides either blinked or committed mistakes to give the other team a chance.

The Dutch were able to keep Argentine captain Messi quiet for most part of the match with Ron Vlaar doing a great job by denying the four-time World Player of the Year free space, stopping him with fine tackles on a couple of occasions.

Messi's opposite number in the Dutch team, Robin van Persie, who made it to the starting line-up after recovering from a stomach problem just in time for the match, had a forgettable outing though he played the full 90 minutes before being substituted six minutes into the extra time.

Rodrigo Palacio had a glorious chance to score for Argentina five minutes before the end of extra time but he headed into the hands of Dutch goalie Jasper Cillessen who was at his mercy.

The first half was a cagey and tense affair with both sides unable to create clear chances, the closest either team came to breaking the deadlock was Messi's free kick in the 20th minute that Cillessen dived to his right to comfortably save.

Argentina came close to scoring in the 75th minute when an Enzo Perez delicious through ball was toe-poked towards the goal by Gonzalo Higuain only to hit the side nettings.

The Netherlands pressed hard and laid sieze of Argentina citadel towards the close of regulation time and Arjen Robben was sent clean through inside Argentine penalty area by Wesley Sneijder in the 90th minute but Javier Mascherano made a remarkable recovery to deflect the Dutch winger's shot.
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