A Journalist Speaks..........

Placating Muslims – order of the day in Bengal

2011-12-17T06:16:00.000-08:00

Hooch compensation, Alia University manifest minoritariansm gaining persistently

Hooch (illicitly distilled and inferior form of alcoholic liquor) catastrophe in the Indian state of Bengal refuses to end and in accordance with latest info, the death toll has risen to 171. However, the concerned authority is yet to have a sigh of relief since fears of more deaths are booming large in the environs. As per the Chief Medical Officer (Health) S Adhikary, the tragedy claimed 171 lives in M R Bangur Hospital, Diamond Harbour sub-divisional Hospital and at National Medical College and Hospital.

It has also been learnt, 90 more victims are under rigorous observation yet and conditions of some of them are critical. Without a doubt, the gruesome deaths of commoners have brought life at Sangrampur in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, hotbed of the incident, to a standstill. Myriad reports do also confirm that almost all of casualties, including laborers, rickshaw pullers and hawkers, are Muslims. Deaths have taken place, as stated by health authorities, because of “cardio-respiratory failure” arising out of methyl poisoning.

Well, blame game has already started and no stone is being left unturned to communalize the situation. Mohammad Salim, CPIM MP, during a conversation in a news channel has stated clearly, making lots of hue and cry, that deaths occurred in a particular community even if it is no longer a secret that Muslim individuals happen to be primary customers in these illegal hooch shops, operated by Muslim kingpins in Sangrampur and its vicinity.

Now the question remains whether the governance and its present opposition (remaining at the helm of affairs prior to the last Assembly Election) have the courage to take the culpable persons into custody. Investigations conducted by our media cell reveal a perilous state of affairs – tip of the iceberg only. The liquor shop, source of the tragedy, belongs to Khora (lame) Badsha, aka Noor Islam. Badsha and Shahabuddin are under the leadership of Salim – infamous underworld don in the area. Salim operates more than 100 liquor shops in the area and among these 30 are in the region of Mograhat. Badsha and Shahabuddin lead lots of persons to run illicit shops. Some of these are Noor Mohammed Mollah, Zafar Laskar, Abbas Ghazi, Madar Mollah, Sheikh More and Loba Mollah.

All these prove that the entire incident is a fine game between Muslim traders of hooch and Muslim customers. And with it the myth of Islamic prohibition against consumption of alcohol is busted on the whole.

Here are a few excerpts from al-Qur'an: “They ask Thee concerning Wine and Gambling, Say: In them is great sin, and some profit, for men; but the sin is greater than the profit.” (Surah Al-Baqarah:219).

“O Ye who believe! Intoxicants and Gambling, Sacrificing to Stones, and (divination by) Arrows, are an abomination, of Satan’s handiwork; Keep away from such, that Ye may prosper.”

Muslim victims of hooch tragedy, thus, have committed an un-Islamic job and their families, by any means, can’t be beneficiaries of Rs 2 lakh compensation announced by the reigning state government of Bengal. This also brings forth another issue. Would the state government have been so prompt if the victims were Hindus? The answer is no. Reason? Whether it is laying the foundation stones of Alia University and Hajj Tower at Rajarhat or compensating Muslim families in Sangrampur, the government gets the best opportunity to become Muslim-friendly, basis of secularism in India.

Armed Bangladeshi Muslim intruders plunder bordering Hindu village in India

2011-10-14T12:55:00.000-07:00

Sovereignty of India compromised; government sleeps

It was another day of Koojagari Laxmi Puja – almost 70 years after the gruesome Nokahali genocide (the series of massacres initiated on the same Puja day on October 10, 1946) – when the village of Sutia, P.S. Bongaon, Dist. 24 Paraganas (South), in India-Bangladesh border area became victim to the assaults of hundreds of bloodthirsty Muslim intruders (cattle smugglers) from Bangladesh on October 11, 2011 at dead night. The intruders, as per villagers, came from the village of Ghibe, Dist. Jessore in Bangladesh to take reprisals for unanimous Hindu effort to ward off Muslim cattle smugglers from the village on the pervious day, October 10, 2011.

While talking with a number of villagers it was learnt that cattle smuggling has always been a major problem in the area. Even if a few impoverished people in Sutia and its neighborhood join the smugglers, it is controlled by Muslims (wholly) from the neighboring areas in Bangladesh who intrude India day in and day out. How does it happen? Well, the border is quite porous and the presence of river Kodalia and lack of BSF’s virility makes intrusion from Bangladesh most comfortable. This became most decipherable when the villagers found intruders’ gathering in the village at 9 pm on Tuesday. The river was used as transit.

The terrible onslaught (starting around 11.30 pm) went on for almost one-and-half-hour leading to the destruction of Hindu households, temples, shops, cultivable lands and also vehicles. No one was killed but a few villagers, playing strong roles in defense program on October 10, 2011 to fight off Muslim cattle smugglers, were terribly injured. They include Jadab Mandal (age 35), Madan Mandal (age 28), Dipankar Mandal (age 20), Murali Biswas (age 55), Subir Biswas (age 30). Children were also not spared – Sudip Mandal (age 7), son of Jadab Mandal, was battered and also warned unless his father steer clear of any such rebellious activity, hell would unleash on them soon. Property worth half-a-million rupees has been destructed, according to estimation. Villagers are considering the entire program as an admonition and failure to comply with it will lead to complete ruin.

Don’t villagers have faith in BSF? When asked this question, villagers gave a strong reply that reveals a naked truth and also the over-generous attitude of India and its pathetic consequences. Hindu villagers said unanimously that BSF was their pal till the other day but not any more. What is more shocking, they said, on the very day, the murderous Bangladeshi Muslim mob was just waiting for the passage of a BSF squad through the village. Once it passed the crusade started against Hindus in the village.

Villagers allege that BSF was well-informed of every development but thanks to absence of government order to shoot they preferred to stay away from the fast-worsening situation. Why didn’t local BSF unit contact its superior authority then? It should have been as the entire incident was compromising sovereignty of India most importantly. When asked, the local unit preferred to remain tight-lipped while one of them mildly cited the latest government order.

What does the latest government order state? Union Government of India has ordered BSF not to fire at people seeking to cross over along the extensive porous India-Bangladesh border except self-defense. This was stated by Mr. P. Chidambaram, Union Home Minster in the month of July. This has made BSF futile hence and Hindu villagers are paying this weird policy through destruction of their properties.

Hindus in the village are desolate, frustrated – they have nowhere to go and are living in a country that they can’t have faith in.

Durga Puja signifies valor and power; persistent struggle to defeat injustice

2011-10-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

Durga Puja, regarded as mainstay of Bengali Hindus across the globe, contrary to the general belief that it was started by Raja Krishna Chandra Roy of Nadia to celebrate British victory over Muslim force in the Battle of Plassey – 1757, was initiated in the mediaeval era to unify the then fragmented Hindu forces in Bengal against the Islamic tyranny including brutal Hindu persecution. And the person who did all these was none other than Raja Kangsha Narayan, undisputed supreme lord in Taherpur, District: Rajshahi. He is also known as Ballal Sen No. 2 for his astuteness, generosity and leadership to Hindus in history.

What would be the best answer if there is any question of its necessity then? If the history is explored properly it will be found that those were the darkest days in Bengal; kingdom under the auspices of its Islamic bosses was always ready to hound Hindus. And growingly persecution of Hindus under any pretext became a norm.

It was the rule of Hussein Shah and following the unfortunate downfall of Raja Ganesh, Hindus accepted the Islamic suzerainty. Moreover, the collapse of Kamtapur or last nail in the coffin made Muslims more joyous and Hindus more dejected. Only an apposite program of religious awareness (Dharma Jagaran) could be the best way to make Hindus virile once more. The role of Krittibas Ojha must be commemorated with veneration in this respect. The most momentous contribution of his to Bengali literature and culture has been the Bengali translation of Ramayana, one of the greatest Hindu epics. He is also responsible to render the notion of Akal Bodohon to the Bengali Hindu society.

Prior to the appearance of this theory, Durga Puja was celebrated in the month of Chaitra, first month in the national civil calendar of India, and it was known as Basanti Puja. But the historical endeavor of Raja Kangsha Narayan, conforming to the theory of Akal Bodhon, as propounded by Krittibas Ojha, led to the beginning of Durga Puja in the month of Sarat or Autumn. Akal Bodhon denotes the worship of Devi Durga by Sri Ram Chandra before the victory over and killing of Ravana, the demon king.

All these affirm that Durga Puja is related more to valor and power, essential to overpower and annihilate any form of injustice. This basic thought got more popular during the anti-British independence movement, especially among the revolutionaries in Bengal.

There can’t be any second or alternative thought to this and even if there is development of any such, it must be stamped out without delay.

Brutal police repression on Hindus in Asansol to appease Muslim miscreants

2011-10-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

Hindu youth dies on the spot

While the sun remains unvarying days and climates do change – likewise even if a sweeping change has altered political scenario in Bengal, some issues remain consistent – appeasement of Muslims and religious persecution of Hindus by Islamic fundamentalism and its ugliest expression was witnessed on October 06, 2011(auspicious day of Vijaya Dashami) at Asansol city of Bardhaman district when Sujit Kumar Verma, 18 year oldHindu youth, succumbed to death following a bullet injury. The bullet, without a shred of doubt, was fired by police to quell Hindus protesting against police effort to subdue their legitimate rights of going through their traditional route following the immersion of Holy Deity of Goddess Durga. The entire police effort was designed to placate a band of riotous Muslims.

It has been learnt, bullet entered through throat of Sujit and exited through his ear; he died on the spot as a result. Sujit Kumar Verma was playing music in a band party which was accompanying the Korapara Hanuman Akhara procession with Durga Mata deity meant for immersion (bisarjan).

It is worthwhile to mention that the same Akhara procession happens to be a regular annual program. This year, at about (around) 7 am, while the procession was passing through Hutton Road of Asansol city, a Muslim boy came out from the Hutton Road Mosque and disconnected the wire of the microphone of the music on the ground of disturbance of (in) Namaz. This resulted into a scuffle between the Hindus and Muslims.However police took prompt action and no major untoward incident happened (had taken place). Police made arrangements to pass the procession devoid of much disturbance.

But it was not the end in any way.

When the procession was returning, Muslims, at the crossing of Ramdhani Mor(crossing), created obstruction and demanded that the procession should go through another route. Bowing down to their unfounded demand, police too ordered the procession to (be re-routed) take the other route. Hindus in the procession, naturally, refused to obey the order and lodged strong protest against such a nasty effort.

Hindus stated clearly, since formal police permission had (already) been obtained0, they would go through the same traditional route. So, they stuck to the old traditional route. The refusal led to the initiation of severe clashes between the two communities andseveralshops of the Hindus were simply torched and destroyed.

To quash the situation, police started lathicharge and firing tear gas shells. Butastonishingly, the entire police force was directed towards the Hindus only. HundredsHindus including women and children, if not more got heavily injured. In due course police opened fire, as a result of which Sujit Verma died, although police denied that it is their bullet (but they failed to explain if it was not their bullet, how could Muslims use it in presence of them and went with impunity). The body of Sujit Verma was taken to hospital (The post mortem report must substantiate the origin of bullet).

What happened next was a brutal police repression on Hindus in the environs.

During the same night, police started raiding the Hindu areas, mainly the ፥thor Para⠨sweeper menⳠlocality) and arresting them. Seven Hindus were rounded up and beaten up by the police black and blue. Five of the arrested Hindus, having severe injuries thanks to brutal police repression, are admitted in Asansol Sub divisional Hospital at the moment.

What has been the role of political parties in this regard? All political parties, including the ruling Trinamool Congress, have been backing Muslims and leaving no stone unturned tocoerce police to take stringent actions against the Hindus to please their Muslim vote bank.

Repression of innocent Hindus has created a sensation in the city of Asanasol, undoubtedly. All Hindus of Asansol, cutting across political line, are extremely aggrieved by the torture and injustice upon the Hindus. Accordingly, all the markets of Asansol are closed since that clash. Today on 9 October, a daylong Ⴁndh⠨as been called by the Asansol Akhara Committee and City Durgapuja Coordination Committee. Asansol is (in) standstill today.

Last but not least, on the same day, a few Muslim miscreants damaged the Durga Mandir under construction at Bastin Bazar.

Simonti’s own harrowing account – how she was persecuted by her Muslim boyfriend-turned-husband and his family

2011-10-11T13:43:00.000-07:00

This is neither any news nor any fiction but the heartrending truth of a young girl – well-bred, highly educated, jovial, hailing from an affluent and decent Hindu family – Simonti (name changed), from Kolkata, who became an easy prey to Love Jihad and how her life was wrecked while she remained subservient in an alien, Islamic environment. What is Love Jihad then? It’s an illegal activity, conducted under aegis of Islamic bigots, where a few Muslim boys target college girls belonging to non-Muslim communities, especially Hindu, for conversion to Islam by shamming love. The movement that started in Kerala and Mangalore has reached the shores of Kolkata too. And Simonti’s harrowing experience is an eye opener.

What is described below is not to depict hatred to any individual but to make Hindu girls cautious of the fate any inter religious relationship. May Simonti’s destiny make them have a second thought prior to get into a Hindu-Muslim love relation.

Simonti is the second daughter of her parents and hence, there was no dearth of love for her in the family. She, hence, had a good education in a prominent English medium school of the metropolis, scored good marks in exams and got admitted to a prestigious college in the morning section. Well, the morning section had an uncanny phenomenon; it was dominated by Muslims students altogether and as a result, Simonti came across a few Muslim friends before long.

It was at this time Simonti was introduced to Mohammed Zafar (name changed) through a female friend of her. Zafar introduced himself as a businessman with high aspirations and this was enough to impress a naïve girl like her (ignorant of Hindu fate in a Muslim household). Life was going on as usual but all changed in the 1 st week of April, 2004. Without doubt, Simonti had become somewhat soft to him, thanks to his courteous behavior and their frequent meetings in parks and restaurants, and gradually it led to love. Taking advantage of this, on one fine morning, Zafar came to her college and said that it was no longer possible for him to live without her. And if she wasn’t ready to marry him, he would commit suicide.

The situation was quite perplexing for Simonti and when she said that she was not prepared for the same, Zafar said categorically in that case he would reveal the love affair to her parents (Zafar, as a Muslim youth, was confident that such a relation was beyond acceptance to Simonti’s family).It’s to be noted that Simonti’s parents were already informed of the development and that's why, she was cautioned. However, indeed, on that day Zafar’s words of committing suicide while returning from the college unless Simonti accepted him and his weeping (portraying his desperation) frightened her a great deal. This was, in reality, a play but it wasn’t possible for Simonti to comprehend any such attitude. She was all alone under the sun.

So, exploiting her perilous situation, Zafar took her to Bankshal Court and forced her to get converted to Islam there – Simonti, as a result, got a new name, Jannat Begum. After that she was taken to Tipu Sultan Mosque in Kolkata and Zafar’s brother Akram was already there. Zafar asked the Moulavi there for marriage; there was a need of three witnesses to do it but all were arranged in a lightening speed, indicating the conspiracy to woo and convert a Hindu girl was hatched earlier. But it was not possible for Simonti alias Jannat Begum to understand it. She was then asked by Zafar to phone her father. Well, she wasn’t ready at all but was compelled to do so. And the Hindu family’s reaction in any such circumstance needs no more mentioning. She was castigated heavily by her parents.

Simonti or Jannat was then taken to Zafar’s house, located in Narkeldanga, an infamous slum area of Kolkata. This is enough to prove what the main intention behind such type of courtship remains. Zafar’s family, strikingly, remained normal and Simonti was addressed coldly. But since it was not safe for the Muslim family to keep the couple in the house secretly, they were promptly sent to Hyderabad on the very next day. Berths were already reserved! And Simonti perceived that Zafar was being given a good amount of money by his own brother to manage upcoming expenses. They were sent to Zafar’s aunt’s house in Hyderabad.

It was then that Simonti witnessed a complete reversal in Zafar’s attitude. He, in a stern voice, in the railway compartment, asked her to conform to Islamic rituals and learn and start everything as soon as possible. Reason? Zafar said that Simonti was from a Kafir family after all!

What did happen in Hyderabad? Zafar’s cousin was in the station to receive the couple and he was seen to congratulate Zafar for attaining such a great success – wooing and converting a Hindu girl – regarded as one of the prime activities of Muslims.

Both Zafar and Simonti were accepted in the house cordially and they stayed there for 10 days at a stretch. During the stay, Zafar asked her day in and day out, at times harshly, to remain as a good Muslim bride and the same was done by other members of his aunt’s family, including women. Whatever it is, during the stay she was not physically beaten that started once she came back to Kolkata. This entire episode (stay in Hyderabad) was indeed a drama to diffuse the tension in consequence of the inter-religion marriage.

A great change took place after their return. Contrary to the first time, Simonti at this time was put in a utterly inhospitable environment. Not the room was dirty only but it was not fit for stay of a married couple also. But she had no choice. She was forced to do all household jobs (nearly unbelievable in her own house) including cleaning and cooking for the whole family. And just after a month she found that Zafar had lied to her of everything, his family and his own occupation. What she found was that Zafar was unemployed, never had any business and had great inclination to sexual excesses.

But Simonti was the last person to lose hope. She started to apply for jobs and after a while she got one night-shift job. Simonti was permitted to do it on condition that she would submit Rs. 3, 000 to the family per month. Simonti found it as a bargain for short independence. This was too essential for her as by that time she became an easy prey to all forms of mental and physical tortures of Zafar and his family members. As per her own account, there was hardly any day when Zafar didn’t relish intercourse with her for less than 5 times. Zafar also allowed her to do the job but it happened only after she agreed that he would be given Rs 4, 000 per month as installment of his bike.

This new arrangement continued for 3 months without interruption. Nevertheless, at times for Zafar’s inhuman tortures Simonti used to express her anger and out of rage even censured Islam for two or three times. She was belted heavily for saying so. A beloved and dutiful husband! Isn’t it?

This new episode unfurled a new chapter; excessive tortures started to get more supports from mounting sexual offences against her at the same time. Even Simonti was threatened that she would have to share bed with three more Muslim youths – if she failed to gratify Zafar’s lecherousness (on the rise steadily). This was a straight case of perversion which from then on became a recurrent one. Simonti felt that Zafar’s failure to convince her to have some money from her father led him to perversion. But she was wrong. This was not the only reason; Zafar’s increasing abuses proved that it was the ideal fate of any Kafir (non-Muslim) girl, in particular Hindu. Simonti never got any medical assistance from the Muslim family, remaining nonchalant all the way.

Rising sexual torturing was totally unbearable for Simonti but due to Zafar’s insistence and also threatening she underwent 3 abortions. Was not it necessary for Zafar to adopt preventive measures during intercourse? Certainly but even after repeated pleas of Simonti to have those, Zafar shunned it citing religious factors. Persecutions made Simonti firmer than ever before and being advised by doctor not to opt for 4 th abortion, she gave birth to a girl child in 2009. And there was no resentment in the Muslim family against Simonti for this since she had got a job in WIPRO and agreed to contribute Rs. 5,000 per month. Meanwhile, out of the blue Simonti (forced by Zafar) called her father one day to provide her Rs. 30,000. He father turned the proposal down and instead asked her to return. Zafar fumed as a result, thrashed Simonti once more and decided to teach her a new lesson. What is this new lesson?

A few days ago to all these, Zafar had set up his own small factory and now he brought all the materials there (for working) to his residence stating that this way was cost-effective. To make way for all these, Simonti had to move to a bunk atop of the room, remaining in an outrageous condition. But nothing was there for Simonti; she had the right to submit to any wrongdoing only. How many years did she live there for? It’s for 2 and half years! It’s the most sordid experience in her life, accompanied by Zafar’s family’s slang languages and gestures.

Here are a few more significant and shocking facts. Prior to giving birth to her daughter (to steer clear of 4 th abortion risking her own life) Simonti went to Hatiara, Dist: 24 Paraganas (North), to evade further negligence of Zafar’s family. Since she was providing the necessary money on a monthly basis, none in the family did object to this decision. Within a week a house in Hatiara was found and Simonti started living there all alone. It was a tenants’ quarter; Simonti’s room was in the ground floor and she had to sharer bathroom with others. Zafar remained in his own house in Kolkata and used to visit this place once a week.

After living there for 6 months, Simonti found herself to be pregnant. When it was reported, Zafar, in spite of great unwillingness, took her to his own residence. He was not ready to kill a chicken providing a golden egg on every month. Here Simonti was frequently asked whether her child would be male. The Muslim family had a weird revulsion to female child and Zafar’s mother considered any female child as sin. During this time Simonti was forced to consume beef to ameliorate her own health. When she expressed her displeasure to have it on the first day, Zafar slapped her.

When on earth the daughter was born, Zafar was not present in the hospital. He came on the very next day, though reluctant. His baby became vulnerable to serious diseases but Zafar hardly cared. Simonti had to fight with him virtually to transfer the newborn infant to International Institute of Health Care in Kolkata, reputed medical institution, from the hospital. During this period presence of Zafar in the Institute was almost zero. Though Simonti made up her mind to leave the area permanently, she retuned to relatives-in-law’s house once more. And when her daughter was of four months old in 2009, Simonti decided to leave Zafar’s house once and for all. Simonti returned to her paternal abode finally.

But Zafar was not ready to leave her so easily. He used to visit Simonti’s paternal residence once per week and force her to have money from her father. Such pressure led to deterioration of her health and soon Simonti was attacked with jaundice due to malnutrition and her rough treatment. In Rubi Hospital Simonti was found to be underweight and was in need of complete rest. But Zafar’s family planned to take her to an exorcist! Such a heinous plan foiled thanks to strong fight of her family.

Once Simonti recovered, she decided not to return to Zafar’s house ever. Such a resolute decision ensued into a schism between Simonti and Zafar, who asked her to collect Rs. 20, 000 for him. He even threatened her of dire consequences if there was any refusal. At this time, to save her own and also daughter’s life, Simonti lodged a formal complaint against Zafar to the local police station. Zafar’s family, for the first time, stopped to proceed further due to fear. But strange enough, Simonti didn’t get any help from police.

Simonti didn’t know what to do next. But she was lucky enough as she got refuge from Hindu Samhati and with its help she got divorce in Islamic manner.

Simonti has returned to Hinduism once again and is waiting to convert her baby to Hinduism.

What is Simonti’s assessment of this episode in her life then? Simonti has finally concluded that Zafar married her to obtain copious amount of money from her father and she was trapped only after her family’s affluence was studied. There was not even an iota of love for her within Zafar.

Simonti is indeed lucky to finally break up shackles of Islamic love to her unlike tens of thousands of other hapless Hindu women, becoming easy preys to Love Jihad, without respite. Others either become victims of Islamic lust or are compelled to enter flesh trade and endure subhuman lives.

The above incident authenticates how Hindu girls, making love affairs with Muslim boys, end up. If any reader continues to disbelieve the above-mentioned account, complete devastation of their daughters’ lives can be the best eye opener. Is anyone ready to take up the challenge?

Anna Hazare’s historic success inspires all but Muslims

2011-10-11T13:38:00.000-07:00

The long and valiant crusade of Anna Hazare on the issue of corruption (escalating exponentially), with obtaining positive disposition of Parliament of India on most crucial facets of much talked Jan Lokpal Bill, has finally come to an end. Venerable Anna broke his fast on August 28, 2011 around 10.20 am by having a glass of coconut milk mixed with honey from a Dalit and Muslim girl, Simran and Ikrah respectively. Without doubt, entire nation had a sigh of relief while perceiving Anna breaking his 12-day-old fast.

All these have brought to the fore a new issue as well and it’s the inclusion of the Muslim girl in breaking Anna’s fast. Was it too essential, especially when the Muslims were advised not to partake in the same battle? Perhaps there was a need to make the struggle as entirely secular and in India secularism stands for hugging Muslims and nothing else. By now if any reader has started to get skeptical of this scribe’s moral fiber, I am helpless. Personally, I have no problem with the Muslim girl, another manifestation of Mata (mother) to me. The problem remains with the derisory attitude, reflected time and again (through wooing Muslims) to testify secular credentials of India. Alas, Team Anna has failed to be any different.

You have every right to question what the problem with Islamic mindset is. It must be kept in mind while a section of national media has termed the anti-corruption struggle (getting a national spectrum amazingly fast much to the dismay of others) as a Hindutva sponsored movement, majority of Muslim controlled media, if not more, has termed Anna as Gandhi of media and Hindutva forces. What impedes Muslims from shouldering the burden of mounting corruption along with others? A good answer to this from the questioner ever ready to nail me of abovementioned issues is appreciated. Why do they get busy to find out benefits of Muslims only because of participation in any general movement? If anyone tries to play this divisive tendency down, he/she must be prevented.

In the last few days, lots of similar concepts, regarding Anna Hazare struggle, have come to the fore thanks to Muslim thinkers, journalists and even bloggers. And the name that comes to us before all is of Syed Ahmed Bukhari, Imam of Jama Masjid in Delhi. He advised Muslims to steer clear of Anna’s campaign since it was under leadership of Hindutva forces and was against the Muslim ethos too. Slogans, Vande Mataram and Bharat Mata ki Jai, chanted myriad times caused his ire.

He also stated in public Anna did not want to engage Muslims in the anti-corruption protests. "He could at least have met some leaders of the minority community and made references against communalism to make his campaign look more inclusive," he said.

Here is the definition of partisanship. It denotes an inclination to favor one group, view or opinion over alternatives. What are the views of Mr. Bukhari then? It is a blatant and partisan view. But he is not alone. Masoom Muradabadi, senior journalist has also stated alike views. As per him, Anna is dancing to the tune of RSS. He has also stated that leadership of Anna in line one, two or three are in hand of Hindutva minded people and no representation of OBC, Dalit and minorities in the leadership. Dr Mohammad Manzoor Alam, chief of All India Milli Council, considers Anna has been encircled by all kinds of fascists and devious characters.

Hamid Noomani, Secretary of Jamiat Ulema Hind, feels that the cause is genuine but the path Anna has chosen is not correct.

Maybe a few Muslims have contradictory views but they are minority and their thoughts are considered as blasphemous also. Hence, those are unworthy.

Leaders and newspapers do represent people and a society; aforesaid statements prove Anna Hazare, for not speaking of Muslim issues too, have antagonized Muslims in India.

Is Bengal next homeland of Kashmiri Muslims?

2011-03-10T13:22:00.000-08:00

It may sound unbelievable to many but in point of fact, no less than 50 Kashmiri Muslim families have been occupying a distinct land in the Indian state of West Bengal. Are you shocked? Have you started recalling harrowing experiences of thousands of Kashmiri Hindu families? It is quite natural for a sensible individual like you but not for the controlling authority calling the shots at every time barring anything related to Muslims or the saga of secularism. It has come to the knowledge that the aforementioned families have raised tents next to Dakshineshwar temple in the northern fringes of Kolkata for two months.

To be precise, a big section of unoccupied land at Rajabagan, predestined for an Expressway only, has turned out to be the provisional address for 350 to 400 Kashmiri Muslim refugees. It is worthwhile to mention that the majority of these people hail from Baramulla, Badaun and adjacent areas of the tumultuous Kashmir valley. Here is a brief description of these alleged hapless people. Among these people there are fruit vendors and tangawalaas (drivers of horse-driven carts) and are representing a few known places like Patnitop and Pahelgam.

What makes these people come all the way from Kashmir and stay in Bengal, even if temporarily? There has been no straight answer to all these but Kashmiri Muslims have maintained that regular strifes were making their lives miserable. Whatever it is all these have resulted in a deep encouragement among Muslim teenagers who are leaving no stone unturned to help them. How do these people reside in an alien land then?

The acts of imprudent, egotistical, ignorant and above all, great adorers of secularism can’t be overlooked. While they have water from Kishore Sangha, a local club along with adjacent municipal taps, foods are served by local mosques, NGOs and Gurudwara Singh Sabha of Baranagar. Truly a contest is going on before election in Bengal to prove oneself as most on-key secularist! Male members are being found to earn some money through doing jobs of daily laborers and rickshaw-pullers.

How is the government machinery dealing with these sudden and strange guests? Majority of the government echelons remain ignorant of this, as usual. But the clued-up ones made enquiries and the answers satisfied them to a large extent.

Now the question remains – how can these people be depended on. How can people representing majority section of the state, vociferous and also outrageous to the existence of innocent minority Hindus leaving for centuries there, be tolerated? The answer is simple – in no way. Surely the same issue is haunting millions of Hindus across the state as well but they have no option to stand unitedly against all these nefarious designs.

Who knows this is a good way to inject terrorism in a state already beleaguered with exponential increase in minority Muslim population and instigations from across the border? Unless they start standing together, Hindus’ future is doomed forever.

Hindus succeed to thwart pogrom in Chapra, Nadia

2011-03-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

The word scuffle or fracas has several meanings on the whole. While on one hand it implies disorderly fighting, on the other it also entails an unceremonious and disorganized struggle. All these are said since scuffles between people, groups of people and even between localities were quite common in the Indian state of West Bengal. But with the winds of change in the state at the moment, changes are occurring in other spheres too. Scuffles are being replaced by fighting with more violence and if there is a contention between Hindus and Muslims, pogroms against Hindus have become order of the day. Chapra, noted town with a police station and a community development block in Nadia district remained witness to the same foray or pogrom or self-styled Jihad.

In reality, the fateful incident took place the Alfa village of Alfa Gram Panchayat under Chapra Development Block within Chapra Police Station (Krishnanagar Sadar Sub-Division of Nadia district) and the victim was none other than Bablu Ghosh, known for his courage, virility and competence to lead Hindus against all adversities.

He was returning to own abode in the Alfa village at about 8:30 pm on 6th March, 2011. All at once a group of Islamic felons blocked off his motorcycle and started beating him up out of the blue. Even if Bablu resisted a lot, soon he was overwhelmed, kidnapped and taken to a nearby Muslim locality. The incident was reported to Ghoshpara(Goala) before long and to save Bablu’s life Hindus got united. The united endeavor of the locality got victorious by rescuing Bablu. The enraged Muslims, as a result, counterstriked the Hindu area and molested a few women along with destroying properties. But at this time too the local administration sided with Muslims and arrested Hindus (seven altogether) at random just to truckle their Islamic bosses.

This led to a panic among Hindus; all Hindu men left their villages keeping their women unsafe. Well, police arrested three Muslims also on the following day when Hindus burst into protest. However, as per the locality, it is nothing except a ploy to calm the Hindus down.

Further investigation by this scribe and his worthy teammates confirm that the pogrom was organized through introducing Muslim crooks from adjoining areas including Betberia, Brahmhanagar, Bhatgachhi of neighboring Hridaypur Gram Panchayat. It is needless to mention that these are Muslim dominated areas. What is most striking, Gholam Halsana, Prodhan (Head) of Alfa Gram Panchayat, also partook in the pogrom.

The list of arrested Hindus is in the following:

Nimai Ghosh, S/o- Kartick; Kesto Ghosh, S/o Shyam; Sudhamoy Ghosh, S/o Anil; Sukanta Ghosh, S/o Samar; Bansi Ghosh, S/o Kalipada; Ganesh Ghosh, S/o Lt. Ranjit; Penga Saha, S/o Lt. Kartick

Last but not least, police asked Hindus to fork out Bablu Ghosh and in exchange the administration would mull over releasing arrested Hindus. But the proposal was declined at the same instant.

Women – eternal subject in Islam

2011-03-01T07:52:00.000-08:00

This request is not made to the youngsters but people who have already attained the middle of their lives; to put it briefly, middle-aged people. They can surely remember the Shah Bano case and the subsequent debate that rocked the political and social arena in both 80s and 90s in India. This single event has been both significant and infamous for several reasons at the same instant. While on one hand it proves Muslim fanaticism can make administration and judiciary kowtow before it, it has changed the following political dominion to a large extent. But above all, the case proves that freedom or the dream to have it is a utopia for Muslim women and till they reside within the periphery of this ominous ruling, they would have to lead a subhuman life.

Perhaps the aforementioned section has astounded youngsters a great deal. They surely have started to think by now that these are applicable in wild societies on the whole. If you are one of these readers, you don’t have to travel any longer. All you have to do is to comprehend the strange fate of Mosammet Hena.

Who is Mosammet Hena? She was a simple 14-year-old girl who was whipped to death thanks to instructions of Islamic clerics in Bangladesh (in the first week of February, 2011). Reason? She was accused for purportedly having a dishonest relationship with a married man. What was the aftermath? Hena was instructed to be whipped by 100 lashes in a religious court at a village in the outer edge of Dhaka. But she gave way in the middle and by that time she was whipped 70 times in public along with a bamboo cane. She was rushed to the hospital, died a few hours later.

The 40-year-old man, Hena was having an affair, had to undergo 100 lashes too. But the man fled to break away from the sentence.

Even if this form of justice has led to a strong reaction among both commoners and judiciary in Bangladesh, people in charge of conducting such courts are audacious enough. All these prove that growling of administration and judiciary in an Islamic country against human rights violations is simply futile.

There is no position of women in the alleged sacrosanct tenets of Islam and the position of Muslim women in India is no different.

Vasudev Balwant Phadke; ceaseless and inspiring legacy

2011-03-01T07:50:00.000-08:00

Has the saga of Indian history become forbidden owing to law? Is it a sin to talk of all these in academic seminars and even in any tête-à-tête? The question is asked at the beginning for a few factors perceived recently. These days, names of India’s freedom fighters are being flimsily mentioned. Perhaps the word marginally is more applicable in this case. Now your next question would be – whether this scribe is insane. Well, I would love to be sane but to do it the reader has to answer my one simple question. Is he/she acquainted with the name of Vasudev Balwant Phadke? I’m confident that he/she is not and almost none, cutting across ages.

Who is Vasudev Balwant Phadke on the whole? As per a few schools of thoughts, he is the Father of Revolution in Indian Soil; others opine that he is the perfect specimen affirming a single individual can do lots, even against the mighty British Empire, only if he is steadfast and also bold enough.

Phadke was born on 4 November 1845, and was deeply touched by the then mounting plights of Indians. He hailed from the Marathi Chitpavan Brahmin family in Shirdhon village of Panvel taluka based in Raigad district in Maharashtra state and as usual, he was inclined to physical training.

With the passing of years he started realizing factors leading to rising financial despondencies among people, especially farmers. However, he also comprehended at the same instant mere speeches would not be enough to have justice or rights from British Empire. The development in Baroda gave him a shot in the arm. In 1875, British administration toppled Gaikwad ruler of Baroda and to call these processes a halt, Phadke initiated protest speeches against the government. But it had hardly any effect on the administration. He didn’t get support from intellectuals, middle class in his drive to create a free republic, essential for betterment of Hindus.

He became instrumental in gathering a band of people from Ramoshi along with Koli, Bhil and Dhangar communities and gradually formed a radical group, known as Ramoshi. The group commenced an armed struggle to bring the British Raj down and launched regular raids on affluent English businessmen to get funds for their liberation struggle. But he came to the notice of all when Phadke caught British soldiers off guard in one of his sudden attacks. His successes were short lived in spite of great and valiant endeavors. What led to his defeat then? Phadke was betrayed at several times by his tried comrades and was put behind the bars soon.

To protest against all these, Phadke went on a hunger strike to death. On 17 February 1883 he breathed his last because of his hunger strike in protest against rising British atrocities.

Undoubtedly, contribution of Vasudev Balwant Phadke in Indian history has been immense. But sadly, his role has not found recognition.

We must shed this felony at once.

Hindu temple desecrated, destructed in Sankrail

2011-02-23T08:24:00.000-08:00

Is it a crime to construct Hindu temple? This is not a simple question only but a heart-rending fruition of Hindus, especially in the Indian state of West Bengal, also. With the passing of each day, it is becoming more and more difficult for Hindus here to live with due dignity and conform to own rituals. You don’t need to go anywhere; situation in village Howapota, P.S: Sankrail in Howrah district reveals the atrocious truth.

Howapota is one of the numerous villages in West Bengal and as usual local Hindus were worshipping in a make-shift temple for years. Only recently they collectively decided to render it a permanent shape. With this simple intention the project had a good start and everything was going fine till 9 am on 13/02/11 when hell came down on the villagers. The villagers witnessed that a group of Muslims led by Sheikh Bulgan, Jehangir and Sk. Laltu (all noted criminals), comprising no less than 300, were defiling the aforementioned temple out of thin air. They were destructing the latest construction with full might. This led to a deep outrage among Hindus in the vicinity even if no more than 8 of them were in the spot.

Strikingly, police led by Muslim police officers arrived there only after Islamic felons put the last touches on the holy endeavor. And soon it was comprehended that their attention was on to save their co-religionists altogether. Hindus getting more enraged and having no other option blocked the adjoining main road till the evening. This led to anger in different echelons of administration and during evening police lathi-charged Hindu protestors brutally.

More than 100 Hindus got wounded severely and the condition of 15 of them was undoubtedly serious, especially of Rabi Jana, tortured viciously. His wife, member of local Panchayat at the moment, was also injured.

The following excerpt would surely make you raise your own eyebrows. Finding no other way Rabi Jana (arrested already) was sent to the Hazi S.T. Malik Govt. Hospital for a first-hand medical treatment. The doctor, who was attending the case, was forced by police to give fitness certificate of the severely injured Rabi Jana in spite of strong unwillingness of the doctor. Other Hindus including Arun Karmakar, Biswajit Chakraborty and Benu Darii were arrested in the meantime.

Arrested Hindus were bailed out within the following day but tension prevails in the village.

Police debarred the Hindus to offer evening prayer and lit the religious lamp in the temple. The great Shivaratri festival is approaching shortly. Hindus are extremely apprehensive that they will not be allowed to perform the most sacred rituals on that day in the temple. They are collecting mass signature and will submit memorandum to the higher authorities in this regard.

Hindu Samhati’s congregation creates History

2011-02-21T01:12:00.000-08:00

The word history has lots of definitions. While on one hand it is an aggregate of past events; on the other it also denotes discipline that records and interprets past events involving human beings and to some extent, gamut of events occurring in succession leading from the past to the present and even into the future. To put it briefly, all these are said to make people comprehend the main view of this article. Well, it depends on the people how would they classify it but in truth, the mammoth Hindu Congregation in Kolkata, taking place on 14th February under the aegis of Hindu Samhati, is a history. The congregation occurred to mark the Third Anniversary of Hindu Samhati.

How is history made? This is also a difficult question that has remained unanswered through centuries. How can Hindu Samhati’s giant congregation be termed a unique history then? The history was not made owing to enthusiastic participation of almost 30,000 people in the meeting along with a confident Hindu leadership only. On the contrary, history has occurred owing to implication of the same. Never before any Hindu organization dared to give such a clarion call to Hindus, a call to get conscious of mounting dangers on the society and learn ways to strike those back. Calls were definitely given by other Hindu groups in the past but those were shrouded in soft tones and secular outlooks.

The vast Hindu Congregation was addressed by a distinguished leadership. It included Swami Pradiptanandaji of Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Swami Tejasanandaji, Srimad Bandhu Gaurav Brahmachari, Dhananjay Pathak, Sailendra Jain, Manish Munjal, Arvind Mishra, Tulsi Prasad Bhattacharjee. Eminent Human Rights activists like Dr. Richard Benkin and Ms. Miriam Jones, respectively from USA and Australia, also graced the occasion. The meeting was presided over by Tapan Kumar Ghosh, Founder and President of Hindu Samhati.

Speaking to the assemblage Srimad Bandhu Gaurav Brahmachari stated the religious persecutions on Hindus are being strengthened more and more with the passing of every day. While the Muslims have the mission to malign and destruct Hindu Dharma in every manner, their cohort, in this case, is none except the Indian administration. He also cited references of plights of Hindu priests and the intensifying financial benefits of Imams. As per him, time to wage a war against all these has appeared and Dharma endorses these endeavors.

Swami Tejasanandaji, while concentrating on similar issues, stated with conviction that Dharma is ingrained in Hindu temperament and hence, there is no time to remain apathetic to all these. A Hindu has to get pro-active to stop all these. Tulsi Prasad Bhattacharjee narrated the precarious conditions of Hindus in Assam and also stressed on the need to get pro-active and to make Hindus distinct by wearing tilak daily. The two Human Rights activists focused on the saga of refugees and the increasing plights of Hindus. They put forward that these are nothing except travesty of humanity and must be called a halt or the existence of noble words like humanness would cease to exist. Ms. Miriam Jones stated that she would do necessary jobs to make people across the globe heed the untold, atrocious story of gross human rights violations of Hindus.

Swami Pradiptanandaji stunned the crowd by revealing the grievous reality. What is the reality? Muslims happen to be majority in 5 districts of West Bengal and are expanding their strength in adjoining areas by leaps and bounds. All Hindu organizations must come forward to stop this curse of oppression; force must be stopped by force. Dhananjay Pathak hoped that Bengal would rise once again only if this scourge (including Muslim intrusions from across the border) is checked. He also referred to the East-West corridor of Pakistan through Indian mainland as was demanded by the then Pakistani authority (just after partition) and rejected by the Indian authority simultaneously. As per him, making worst apprehensions true, the same is becoming a reality thanks to rising illegitimate Muslim infiltration from Bangladesh and horrific activities of Pakistan.

Tapan Ghosh, Founder and the President of Hindu Samhati, thanking the crowd for making the congregation a success, posited among all problems the inhuman dearth of a Hindu solidarity plays a great role. In his words, entire political system, not to speak of police and administration, has turned into a wishy-washy buffoon and is busy in truckling to its Islamic mentor. He accentuated determination of Hindu Samhati to fight Islamist expansionism across the eastern frontiers of India and particularly in West Bengal. He also expressed serious concerns of exponentially mounting Islamic aggression and the atrocities perpetrated on the rural Hindus by their neighboring Muslims, great portion of which contains illegal migrants from Bangladesh.

To corroborate his apprehension, he referred to the recent assault in Deganga, North 24 Parganas (resulting from a planned and nefarious planning) where local Hindus numbering into several hundreds were brutally tortured. Hindus’ homes were looted and destroyed, temples and Deities were desecrated and shops were also put on fire by their Muslim neighbors. They, as a result, had to leave own residences in September of 2010. As a mark of protest, not a single Durga Puja was performed by Hindus in the entire Deganga block.

Strikingly, even if all these happened within 50 km from Kolkata, common Bengalis remained unaware of their plight. Through all these Sri Ghosh elucidated that a silent migration of Hindus , not only from the border areas of Bengal but from rural areas of entire West Bengal also, is going on into several cities of India leading to a demographic upheaval and a lasting change in the landscape of West Bengal. When urban, educated and privileged Bengalis stay asleep, the contours of rural Bengal are experiencing a silent, ominous and undying transformation - an Islamic Lebensraum.

Abduction of Hindu girls rising exponentially

2011-02-16T11:27:00.001-08:00

The article may seem to be a serious offence to the Bhadralok Bengalis or to those Bengalis preferring to shroud themselves in the myth of Marxism. Well, the true yet cruel facts revealed here are sure to sadden people, fleeing from their ancestral land in search of a utopia or Shangri-la of worldwide communism. Whatever it is they have got to accept the Hindu identity of their ancestors sealed the fate on the whole and they haven’t ever made an effort in their lifetime to open it up.

Truly, partition of undivided India has been one of the worst disasters in the human civilization and even if lots of schools of thoughts love to remain engaged in war of words and academic notions about this, some things do never change. I am not speaking of plights of Hindus in Bangladesh but of the fate of Bengali Hindus in India especially. In Bangladesh it has been deteriorating ever since creation of Pakistan and strikingly, malign motives to persecute Bengali Hindus are rising in this side of the border too.

Lots of efforts of denial of the same have already been made but governmental documents confirm that it is becoming harder for Hindu women and girls to save their own chastity, dignity. In fact, no reports of torments of Hindu women by Muslim miscreants have come to surface yet but mounting abductions of Hindu girls all over in West Bengal is a reality.

This accusation may amaze you a lot; news of this type is never displayed in the mainstream media and surely, there will never be unless a radical change takes place. Now a brief look on the utmost rise in the number of abductions. It is a foolish act to go after a single name or mention some cases in particular. These are happening every day and the outcome everywhere remains the same.

The victimized families run from pillar to post in search of justice and local administration along with police remains most inimical. And the families remain hapless as the first day. The situation is no different regarding cases of Pinky Dolui and Madhumita Dutta. Both these girls (inhabitants of Narit, Howrah) were virtually abducted by Muslim miscreants and in spite of several petitions, the police, thanks to governmental and unknown political pressure, is yet to move properly. Moreover, police has started to abuse the families in total.

What type of justice can be provided to these persons? What is your thought?

Sankrail remains tense; administration prefers to cajole Muslim zealots

2010-11-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

Time is changing very fast and one of its best instances can be found in Sankrail. Do you know where Sankrail is? Sankrail happens to be a census town in Sadar subdivision of Howrah district in the Indian state of West Bengal and has been witness to the mounting Islamic rage in the neighborhood. What did happen in reality? Well, to the amazement of Hindu community the approach and also the frame of mind of Muslims have been changing with the passing of each day almost!

The situation that rocked Sankrail in recent days had its beginning with the unfortunate death of a Muslim girl owing to the accident of a road trekker. The situation proved to be enough to stimulate local Muslims to go on a rampage and the prime target was none other than innocent Hindus and their fairly affluence. What did startle the Muslim zealots the incident did enrage Hindus in return; the tit for tat played a good role in bringing down the intensity.

Nevertheless, in the entire incident, the most disheartening, scandalous role was played by none other than Shital Sardar, local MLA representing Trinamool Congress (TMC), a perfect Vaishnavite in appearance. Mr. Sardar, along with 2-3 Muslim leaders of TMC, made a brief visit to the area and tried to pacify the fuming Hindus and did all that could make position of Hindus more insecure. It is alleged that he was instructed by the party top brass to calm the situation and disarm Hindus at any cost. This proves furious Hindus can send a shudder through the spine of administration.

The situation in the dominion of Sankrail continues to be tense but not out of control. However, the antipathy of local police and administration against local Hindu youth continues, continuing harassment and threats against them remain supreme. This can be discerned from the fact that local VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad) office is yet to commence anew.

Hindus prove strength can subdue all adversaries

2010-11-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

What is making Muslims aggressive all the time more? What makes Hindus apprehend the Indian state of Bengal can turn into a new Kashmir if something is not done right away? Is it due to the escalating Muslim appeasement by political parties heading statewide election? The issue is too complicated to get a simple answer without ado. But, without a shred of doubt, the situation is getting out of the frying pan into the fire and if you are in quest of a perfect specimen, have time and look into Gankur, Itahar in Dinajpur, one of the most prominent districts in the Indian state of West Bengal.

The problem started with the immersion of the holy idol of Ganga Puja. As usual the Hindu mob went ahead with dhak (percussion instrument similar to other two-sided drums in India) and ceremonial elegance and splendor. While returning through another way following the immersion (with the same pomp) the mob was prevented by Muslims alleging the grandeur was injuring the sanctity of the local mosque. The entire Hindu mob consisting of women mainly was manhandled, abused for trying to insult Islam, and was also even threatened with dire consequences.

The situation did infuriate local Hindus who reported the incident to the local police station and also stated that it was time for Hindus to adopt apposite measures if the administration proved its helplessness yet again.

Well, intensity of the worsening incident instigated police to act fast; an accord took place soon. As a result display of mike in the local mosque has been stopped. Calmness prevails at the moment.

What can be deduced from the said instance? “Those who want to live, let them fight, and those who do not want to fight in this world of eternal struggle do not deserve to live”. What do you say?

Hindus in Basanti go on shivering – in fright and uncertainty

2010-11-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

There seems to be no respite for the Hindus at Ranigarh, Jyotishpur Bazar, P.S.: Basanti, West Bengal, who dared to voice their protests against the sinister designs of the administrative scenario, local and also state-wide, under the cloak of secularism.

Not only a deep uncertainty and panic do exist in the Hindu-infested areas, but their houses are also getting subject to forceful searches, abuses and what not. Even the Hindu women are not being spared all at once. It seems that the local administration has got partisan in hurling abuses too – Hindu women, thanks to their intrinsic tender and motherly attitude, seems to be a better choice.

No spectacle of development in the political environment has been perceived yet. What is most striking, Hindu-Muslim Milan Utsav (whose potential celebration on 30/31 October had been announced and was deferred owing to the timely intervention of Subhash Naskar, Irrigation Minster of the State of West Bengal and local RSP leader) has become bone of contention once again. It is being alleged that pressures are piling up on local governmental councils to make Utsav a success. The situation is tensed and heavy presence of police contingents in the neighborhood can be seen.

In the meantime, Banamali Dalui who has been arrested as an alleged miscreant against the FIR No. 327/10/10 is languishing in the Alipore Central Jail and has been charged under Sections – 149,186, 353, 323, 565. The next hearing will be on 28.10.10.

Can Hindus get justice in secular India ever? Time to evade such a daydream

2010-11-03T06:55:00.000-07:00

Religious discrimination is always blameworthy and allegations of state-sponsored majoritarian communalism, especially from the alleged votaries of secularism – Leftists and Islamists, are not new. But the same forces prefer to retain a strange silence when the situation gets reverse and the same is going on at Ranigarh, Jyotishpur Bazar, P.S.: Basanti, West Bengal in full swing.

The neighborhood is known for its Radha Krishna Temple, has been performing Durga Puja, greatest festival of Bengali Hindus, for 32 years at a stretch. But the situation started to worsen when the Muslim community of the vicinity did settle on to organize an Id-Milan Utsav in the field adjacent to the said Temple on 31.10.10. The decision, clearly discerned as a ploy to usurp political control of the entire area was enough to stimulate local Hindus and owing to their determination and struggle tooth and nail, the sinister design did suffer a humiliating defeat.

Meanwhile local leaderships of CPM & RSP did leave no stone unturned to go on with the Id-Milan Utsav, but the resistance of Hindus proved to be strong for them.

Situation was out of the frying pan into the fire when local Muslims started to avenge the defeat – Nagar Sankirtan teams of the Temple (a common Vaishnavite ritual taking place early in the morning) were insulted, threatened for consecutive days and women were manhandled in particular. However, this was somewhat trivial compared to the recent events on account of Laxmi Puja. The pandal or makeshift temple for worshipping the Goddess in the Radha Krishna Temple did suffer a sacrilege. The head of Idol of Goddess Laxmi along with two hands were chopped off; the entire pandal was also desecrated.

The situation was enough to infuriate the local Hindus who burst into protest. Witnessing the mounting Hindu rage police contingents were deployed with immediate effect but it was all to no avail. Even Subhash Naskar, Irrigation Minster of the State of West Bengal and local RSP leader tried to pacify the situation. But, contrary to his own belief, he was gheraoed for no less than almost two hours and could get out of the place under police protection and certainly benevolence of local Hindu youth.

Police officers (I.C. Pinaki Roy and others) tried to their best to make Hindus immerse the broken idol but the obstinacy of Hindus, not ready to do the same till taking into custody of the culprits, could not be dealt with by them. Nevertheless the partisan attitude of the administration has got revealed though several incidents hitherto – gravest of these has been non-availability of any authentic number or governmental authorization even after lodging an FIR.

In the evening a mob of 200-300 Muslims gathered to assault the Hindus but checked by the timely intervention of the police. Tension reigns supreme in the neighborhood.

P.S.: The police has forced Hindus to immerse the desecrated Idol of Goddess Laxmi and has taken a few Hindu youth into custody to maintain tranquility. However, any culprit is yet to get arrested.

One…….two……….three – create many Mograhat

2010-11-03T06:52:00.000-07:00

There is a calculated myth across the globe (and more among the adversaries of Dharma) that pluralist Hindus can’t fight at all and succumb to the first shot of every onslaught. As already said this is nothing else save for a long drawn out parable and the time has come to break the same altogether and prove Hindus can also struggle for the sake of Dharma. Well, there is nothing to lose hope as village of Dakshin Marjada under Mograhat P.S. in South 24 Parganas district has shown the way.

How did the new saga begin? Well, the main perpetrators in the entire incident have been the responsible (?) police personnel in Mograhat P.S. who were quick enough to ask the local 'Dakshin Marjada Sovarani Atheletic Club" to bring their 26 year old Durgapuja to a close in the wake of Ayodhya verdict. The police proved to be proficient to realize celebration of the biggest festival of Bengali Hindus would be another assault on the Muslims wounded by the verdict. Well, they were not alone; the local Trinamool Congress dominated Panchayat (under the aegis of Muslims completely) proved to be the foremost player behind this sudden diktat.

However, something did go wrong. Hindus, instead of getting demoralized, did gear up and pledged to go on with the Puja no matter what. But what was most striking, an influential member of the local Trinamool Congress, Rathin Kumar Das (Buroda) requested local Hindus not to include Hindu Samhati in the entire episode. However, he remained futile to ask Muslims to maintain the same coveted tranquility, witnessed to prepare themselves with all kinds of dreaded arms and ammunitions. The local mosque became the meeting point apart from becoming the greatest storehouse of munition. Even Muslims from Mallickpur, Park Circus in Kolkata, Shankarpur, Gazir Hat, Mograhat, Sangrampur, Netra, Bajeberia and other places in neighborhood were included in the local militia to foment worst attacks on the local Hindus.

On Saturday evening Muslims were found to regroup themselves in mosque close at hand, an incident enough to alarm the Hindus, who started to prepare themselves too. Even the prearranged BDO meeting to settle the issue of Puja was hindered by Muslims under leadership of Khalil Sheikh and Jalil Sheikh. Khalil Sheikh was found to state that they have the power to show! The situation and its mounting intensity alerted the local administration, compelled to deploy Black Cat to vacate the land of Muslims.

Nevertheless, in spite of all troubles created by Muslim hoodlums and owing to resolve of Hindus in particular, the said meeting went on. In the meeting Maulanas were found to say that they were ready to cooperate with Hindus in the celebration of Puja or else they feared energized Hindus, as a result, might create havoc. All these did take place even if Khalil did remain adamant.

What is the end result then? As far as the decision of local administration, Hindus will go on with the Puja. Triumphant Hindu community brought out procession to celebrate the victory.

Mograhat proves Hindus can also triumph.

Databazaar Media Ventures asserts its enduring pledge to endorse Bengali films worldwide

2010-09-19T02:22:00.000-07:00

Even the greatest adversary of Bengali film industry is no more ready to believe that the prospect of indigenous films is going down; he is well conscious the situation is quite reverse at the moment. The graph is standing up owing to its newly found market in North America and the entire credit, in this context, goes to Databazaar Media Ventures, media arm of Databazaar.com, the leading internet retailer of printer consumables globally, all set to depict the success of home-grown industry across the globe banking on its pioneering exemplar for distributing and screening of quality Bengali films. Truly speaking, within a little over a year of the endeavor, Databazaar Media Ventures has advanced a great deal and has also added scores of feathers to its hat.

It is worthwhile to mention that Databazaar Media Ventures, within a span of little over six months, has been able to procure distribution rights of nine major Bengali films for the markets of United States and Canada. What can be better than to aver all these through a gala affair in Kolkata? And the same took place at “The Conclave” in Kolkata, where eminent dignitaries (involved with different films under the aegis of DMV) including Aparna Sen, Director of “The Japanese Wife” were handed over cheques marking the commercial development of Bengali films overseas.

Among the other dignitaries to grace the occasion, there was Arijit Dutta, Director, Priya Entertainment and also a key member of DMV. Mr. Dutta, these days, sees to content and acquisition of DMV and hopes that the disparity between production costs and domestic sales, besetting modern Bengali movies for years at a stretch, will now be addressed suitably thanks to the potent presence of Databazaar Media Ventures and through the opening up of the coveted market of North America.

On the word of Oney Seal, founder of DMV and also Databazaar Group, “this is the first time Bengali films are seeing income from overseas. Our venture has managed to take these films to a large audience comprising the Bengali Diasporas as well as non-Indian population who watch foreign films”.

Hindus can strike back and trounce Muslim thugs

2010-09-14T01:38:00.000-07:00

Only a few witnesses, at the moment, are there of the horrific deeds of partition, and a fewer of them are hale and hearty to narrate the developments that did change the Indian subcontinent. But surely those octogenarians and their immediate scions are desolate (these days) watching the plights of Hindus and how its indigenous leadership has failed to establish a clout of its own on the whole. But there were indeed good hopes in the initial years, especially among refugees of (erstwhile) undivided Punjab and Bengal, as they thought independent India, unlike Pakistan, would give the Hindu community its coveted rights. Had those individuals predicted the ongoing incidents, they definitely would have asked their descendants to adhere to martial trainings as well apart from opting for businesses or services.

Here is the reality – positions of Hindus are getting vulnerable to Islamic marauders increasingly with the passing of each day almost and the best specimen of this can’t be save the length and breadth of West Bengal, undergoing the mounting onrushes. The recent incident of SingerHat can be an eye-opener to the ignorants, still having somewhat conviction in the inexplicable saga of state-sponsored Secularism. The incident that did initiate as a mere scuffle between the two communities, under the auspices of their youth representatives, turned into a major schism, that is becoming a major feature in parts of West Bengal these days.

What did lead to the scuffle? Well, as usual, the brawl was instigated by the Muslim youths who leave no stone unturned to hurl ridicules on the Hindu beliefs. The Muslim youths were found to malign Hindu pantheon and beat Hindus mercilessly but what did amaze them at this time was a grand resistance from Hindus (energized by Hindu Samhati) equipped and also competent enough to resist any nefarious design. Well, the sole credit goes to Shyamal Patra, local Rural Guard Party (Rural Police Volunteer Force) leader and also a pro-Hindu activist.

But what did happen afterwards proves the existing stance of the state structure of India, committed in considering Muslims as Caesar’s wife (who can’t be questioned ever). The colossal Hindu contingent of Kornojoli Gram Panchayat comprising 20 villages under Kulpi PS, South 24 Parganas made the local governance green about the gills or simply perturbed. Mr. Patra who was asked to visit the local police station (PS) for a meeting was completely harassed and also mentally tortured during the meeting, participated by local leaders of all parties (Trinamool Congress and CPM) also, by the police and administration.

What is more striking, the police, aghast at any form of Hindu virility and adept in placating Muslim thugs, did not miss out any opportunity to hound Mr. Patra in the hospital (where he was admitted as per doctor’s advices) even and did harangue him in all possible manners. However, the Hindu manliness, at this time, was too for the police and administration along with political parties. As a result, police had to assure that there would be no more problems in Singerhat and the local administration would fully lend the Hindu population a hand, to ensure that no Hindu properties would be appropriated by dishonest Muslim encroachers.

The assurance was enough to calm down Hindu strugglers. But a leopard can’t change its spots…………….as far as fresh sources are concerned, local Muslims under the headship of Trinamool Congress leaders like Akbar Paik, Habib Purkait (both heads of Kamarchak Gram Panchayat) and Shahabuddin Gaji, influential CPM leader in the neighborhood, are planning to inflict the worst attacks on the Hindus. The first and foremost intent, at this time, is to raze the local Hindu organization in order that Muslims can conquer the Singerhat market area yet again and drive all Hindu shopkeepers and others for good.

Hindu Samhati is keeping tabs on the entire situation to forestall any untoward incident.

Is India really developed?

2010-08-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

Truly speaking, it’s not easy to make a full-fledged review of India’s economic development in a few paragraphs. It does depend on the frame of mind of the reviewer or how does he/she evaluate the economic stability in India. It is quite obvious that a staunch Left does find everything wrong in the Indian state structure whereas a Right happens to be the supporter of the Indian state structure and the coveted domination of capitalist class on the whole. Nevertheless, to asses the present economic scenario in India you have got to be liberal or open-minded.

Each and every open-minded or unprejudiced person has got to admit that the Indian economy has advanced a lot qualitatively from the year 1991 (year that witnessed India’s economic transition). Ever since then the whole nation has witnessed exceptional growth in an assortment of sectors and any comparison with the country’s economy during state control makes the scenario more authentic. Now the question remains whether India’s experiments in 50s and 60s were utterly wrong. Well, nothing can be far from truth if the same is said. In reality, the country was quite successful to achieve targets during the first two plans and that led to the financial basis of the country. The sole credit goes to the founding fathers of the nation; they did adopt the doctrines of mixed economy and thanks to that India could steer clear of economic disasters over the time period.

Well, something went wrong in the following decades and from late 60s to early 90s negative growth ruled the show. The adoption of strategy of economic transition was highly opportune and it did save the country from economic disaster. But there is also a question. Where are we heading to? Even if the rate of growth has been exponential and rising with the passing of years, a large section of native population is yet to get its benefits. Hence, we find polarization in social sphere is rising by leaps and bounds.

While the urban India is taking pleasure in Coca-cola, rural India is coping with the reality of poor sanitation and inhumanly disastrous drinking water situation. What is more pitiable, India’s human development index is getting worse. Bear in mind that the Naxal problem (India’s greatest internal threat) does stem from an escalating class struggle, a domino effect of mounting economic schism. Is this also a development?

Online text books – advantageous and convenient

2010-08-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

I am both confident and definite that there is no need to introduce text books to anybody including you. This can be regarded as something that is inseparably related with the student life of any individual, regardless of countries and regions. Be it a country like the United States of America or any third world country, text books do remain indispensable and play considerable roles in the life of a student. You may say that there is nothing new in this. Whether you pay money for the books from a land based store or online, it’s your personal preference. It’s your decision only that will and (at every time) is going to fix on the amount of money you will expend on the study objects.

However, there have been considerable changes also. Quite a few smart alternatives to the conventional concepts of text books have come to the fore – one of these is certainly online. Thanks to the saga of online text books, you can explore a whole new world and within minutes. What is most striking, even my friends, devoid of the basic knowledge of internet a year back, have become highly interested to gather PDF formats of text books! This is indeed striking and proves how deep influences of changes can be.

Well, even I don’t know the city where you do live in but am confident that there also students are opting for online versions of text books. Now there is a question – what makes them so interested. While on one hand this is a new notion, on the other hand, there is also another factor – price. When on earth any semester examination draws closer, demand for college text books skyrocket and the effect is quite clear to us. This situation brings about a scarcity of books in market, prices increase naturally. This was a normal practice for years but now there is a way to save yourself. Take the help of cyberspace or online text books and this will enable you to have a sigh of relief.

Believe it or not, at the moment, all over the globe (certainly in the cyberspace) online text books are available at standard rates. You will surely be glad to know that these books’ prices do not get higher during the season of examinations. Take this info into consideration that rates of online text books happen to be standard and also below under your expectation or what you do pay at the standard bookstores.

Now we must crack down on the main benefits of purchasing online text books. One of the biggest advantages is that the entire procedure is exceedingly convenient. The study material can be carried out in an assortment of convenient or transportable electronic equipments and thanks to the same reality, you can access the information in no time at all. In addition, it is easy to rummage around for or seek out information in online text books. After all, you don’t have to flip pages!

A good number of websites bringing forth online text books are existing already in the cyberspace. You have to found them out through an extensive research.

Get best home furniture to produce more

2010-08-08T13:35:00.001-07:00

Home based business is no longer any illusion and thanks to the expansion of internet (spreading like a wild fire across the globe, at the moment), it has become a reality. Copious numbers of people (it is too numerous to be counted) are engaged with the home business and it is definite more will come to the fore in the coming days. Now the question remains of the success. Are all these new businesspersons successful? Not at all and the reasons are too obvious. Even if this is a home business, it doesn’t begin and end with the computer screen or CPU. You have got to transform your work station into a full-fledged office (dominated by a business environment) and this can be done only by home furniture. Take for instance, there is the need of a crucial meeting with a potential clientele. Can you take him/her to any nearby restaurant? Neither this is plausible nor will this increase your image.

On the contrary, a home office with proper home furniture can solve the problem. What is your first job then? As you have got hold of the mantra, your task is to chant with round the clock. This does indicate you have to find out furniture that both are both conducive to you and save space at the same time. Remember that you, as a perfect professional, remain in need of furniture, enough to stimulate you to work more and produce better. Again, a home office has got to be multifunctional all at once. When on earth your home office does perform the role of a sleeping accommodation, office chamber, you require home furniture that’s resourceful and well-designed. In addition, your office furniture should never make you feel restricted. Bear in mind, the more sensible and well-organized your workspace turns out to be, the more realistic and competent your work routine will be.

Before I end, you have to opt for space-saving home based office furniture for ever and a day. It can lend you a hand to form a tranquil workstation, a place somewhere you can really concentrate on vital tasks.

Nokia 6303i Classic – new candybar mobile phone

2010-08-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

The name of Nokia to a cell phone user is almost synonymous to the position of Old Testament to a devout Christian. Within a very short time, Nokia, thanks to its own proficiency and exemplary professionalism, has become a highly acclaimed identity in the worldwide business of cell phones. In conjunction with the passing of years the expertise of the company has been attaining new heights and by now it has turned out to be a revered identity. Nokia, in this day and age, is active in the construction of an extensive array of mobile devices together with pioneering services and software. Now we have Nokia 6303i classic that speaks of the en suite conviction, professionalism and proficiency of the company at the top of the voice.

If you are desirous to know the basics of Nokia 6303i classic in short, it can be said that this device is the perfect specimen of candybar mobile phone from Nokia. It, at the same time, does feature both 3.2 megapixel camera and 2.2 inch display screen. Perhaps these are falling short of stimulating you! If this the reality, some more of Nokia 6303i classic has got to be said. What you can get in a while include stylish design in hard-wearing stainless steel; spontaneous compressed user Interface for easy managing of texts along with calls. What is more, each and every user shall have the ability to systematize and perceive pictures with ease together with the superior Gallery solution.

Do you have any idea of Nokia Messaging solution? Nokia Messaging solution, in short, does mingle email and instant messaging; it does also render a very expedient way to remain in touch with your relations and cohorts.

The said sentences form the preface only. You can get the whole story once the Nokia 6303i classic is bought. Do it at once!

Smokeless cigarette – good and effective for human health

2010-08-08T13:30:00.001-07:00

There is hardly any doubt that throughout the contemporary world an ant-smoking drive is going on tooth and nail. Gone are the days when a Marlon Brandon or Gregory Peck or Charlton Heston would bring out a cigarette from his own packet, light it and women would die for that stance. Nowadays the situation is just the opposite and as already said, a worldwide anti-smoking consciousness is proceeding with full vigor. Not only in the leading metropolises but also in hardly known rural centers cigarette smokers are being banned from bars, restaurants. Even on a number of occasions, the smokers are subjected to specialized zones and in these areas only they are allowed to smoke.

Are these good measures to lessen the saga of smoking? Well, lots of reports published of late, have stated the opposite. As per them, human obsession towards smoking is getting higher! What is most remarkable, regardless of great deeds of governments (by means of reducing cigarette-related ads, marketing programs and raising taxes) there is simply no end to smoking. Latest reports are stating that cigarette smoking is on the rise all over the globe. But it is also true that the radical measures to put an end to the saga of smoking (on the part of governments or concerned authorities) are frustrating or treating the smokers cruelly. How can they be dealt with? After all it is not easy to relinquish smoking cigarette or turn away from cigarettes.

There is a way; it is to make use of smokeless cigarette. Don’t get amazed as this is the other name of electronic cigarette. Electronic cigarette or smokeless cigarette does include a nicotine cartridge consisting of liquid nicotine. The minute a smoker draws in, a minuscule battery powered atomizer turns a small quantity of liquid nicotine into vapors. Inhaling of nicotine vapor renders the smoker a nicotine hit in seconds before minutes with gum. There is another important feature as well. At whatever time the smoker inhales, a small LED light on the electronic cigarette shines orange that duplicates a valid cigarette.

As far as the smoker is concerned, the smokeless cigarette does accomplish two foremost aims for his or her. One of these is that the smoker can longer be subjected to the smoking persecution, going on in full might at different parts of the globe. There is hardly any doubt that a smokeless cigarette happens to be a people-friendly device and does generate smoking satisfaction for the smoker while not imposing any kind of harm to others. You may not believe that some past smokers of tobacco-based cigarettes and current votaries of smokeless cigarette have opined in different forums that smokeless cigarette should also be provided in movie halls along with tickets. They consider this as one of the best entertainments unknown hitherto.

Now we come to the next aim; smokeless cigarette plays a strong role in improving the health of the smoker. Smokeless cigarette, in short, does abolish the hazardous tar and carcinogens found in cigarettes and this does diminish risks of heart disease along with that of cancer.

Benefits of cell phone jammer are immense

2010-08-08T13:27:00.001-07:00

Before we delve into the basis benefits of cell phone jammer or strive to gauge reasons behind its burgeoning popularity, we have got to get acquainted with the basics of a cell phone jammer.

A cell phone jammer, to cut a long story short, happens to be a device that assists to send out radio signals to severed connections between the cell phone and cellular base-stations surrounded by divergent synchronized area. But the picture was not same incessantly. In the initial days, military and police department people used to make use of cell phone jammer as a rule and the same job was done to break up or barge in connections between ruffians, felons and dreaded terrorists.

The situation has changed to a large extent by now. In contrast to earlier days, nowadays, cell phone jammer is used by diverse sections of people. It has turned out to be a highly beneficial device to almost all people to bring forth cell phone-free environs within inadequate range. Perhaps you can surely conceive how a cell phone jammer can land you a hand in restaurants, theaters, temples, churches, schools, departmental stores, meeting halls and others.

There have been lots of developments in the form of cell phone jammer as well. In the beginning jammers could be found with large antennas climbing on trailers and these were quite hard to hold. There has been a considerable change by now and these days lots of different and user-friendly models along with an assortment of dimensions are in the market. These are done so as to go well with the magnitude of the cell phones. There is no particular location of this portable cell phone jammer; any such device consists of a covering array of almost 50 to 80 feet. There is also a division between the portable jammers. One of the two is networks in Europe and Asia together with a frequency of 900-1800 MHz. Another one is for the Americas and Canada networks in conjunction with the frequency of 1900 MHz. It’s for the user to find out the most apposite cell phone jammer for him or her.

We have discussed the basic structure of cell phone jammer (thus far) and the benefits of the same to a lesser extent. From now on we will be focusing on the benefits of utilizing cell phone jammer more. One of the greatest benefits is that the user can block any cell phone signal from getting into. When on earth you are executing a trade, you are pretty aware that people will get into and talk profusely the entire time. Now, if you manage to suppress or refute any signal you do not have to be anxious about people any longer coming into your trade. It will seem as if the entire environs have suddenly turned into a temple!

There is another more benefit of cell phone jammer; it does thwart people from being diverted by the phone. You know that any such incident is highly unprofessional and thanks to the application of cell phone jammer (from this time forth), you will be able to finish off all your conversations.

Short guideline on eyeglasses

2010-08-08T13:22:00.000-07:00

Lots of reasons making people opt for eyeglasses do exist. We need not get into those details but it can be said not only myopic or hyperopic but other reasons do also induce people to choose eyeglasses. Some of these are working on computers or laptops for longer hours, working in workshops under bright lamps and several others. However all these lead to a drastic change in the personality of the wearer. Now if you are the wearer, the instant you do apply a novel pair of eyeglasses, it can transform your entire appearance. Surely you will look smarter and lots of ways are there to make you smarter. Do you wish for to know the reason? Hundreds of thousands of celebrated and non-branded eyeglass manufacturers generating a range of eyeglass frames do dominate the global market..

There was indeed a time when most of spectacled persons (all over the world) used to go for eyeglasses with black frames. The only reason was that black frames (in those days) were related to intellectualism and leading intellectuals, especially of London School of Economics and Political Science, Oxford University, Cambridge University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), were found to be votaries of the same. However the time has changed a great deal and since both myopia and hyperopia have become parts of human lives, rather than anything exceptional, eyeglasses of an assortment of forms do prevail. Thanks to the emergence of internet, the saga has become easier substantially. All you have to do these days is to go for online shopping and both eyeglasses and frames can be selected from the convenience of your own home. But you have to go to the clinic of ophthalmologist or oculist or eye doctor to test the eyes.

Never forget that the ultimate selection depends on you only. You can go for eyeglasses of Winston Churchill’s era or of Beatrice Webb or something colorless and sexy. You would prefer to single out something matching your individuality and standard of living. It is to be noted adopting the precise eyeglass frames will make or break the image you might be tagging along. In short, there is a vast range of various materials to decide on. There is also an erroneous belief; prescription glasses, unlike your belief, can also be expensive. Well, it depends on what you go for.

If this is the first pair of eyeglasses in your life, get cautious of some crucial matters from the very beginning. When on earth you pay money for eyeglasses, you have got to pay for lenses and frames (at the same time). If you are inquisitive to know of the charges, it cannot be predicted and the reasons are not hard to see. Charge from the frames for your prescription eyeglasses does vary greatly from pair to pair. If you are planning to go for designer frames, learn from the very beginning that these can make you expend more than a few hundred dollars. If this info is not enough for you, commit to memory that some precise characteristics may improve the expenditure of frames. Frames produced by titanium-based permit identified as Flexion are competent to revert to their regular shape instantly after getting damaged.

Well, if you love to remain within a budget, affordable frames made from plastics are most suitable for you. Don’t go for designer models. They do cost more.

Dharamsala, where spiritualism meets reality

2010-08-08T13:18:00.000-07:00

Dharamsala or Dharamshala, whatever it is branded as, is known across the globe as the land of Dalai Lama, an amiable little town with graceful bungalow. Even if you visit the land, preferred home of the spiritual and temporal head of the Tibetan people, for a few days only, you will also turn into one of its aficionados. Perhaps you are eager to raise a lot of questions and the first of it is perhaps regarding its uniqueness. Dharamsala is set against the splendid environment of the soaring Dhauladhar ranges, rising up to over 4000 meters and is hanging up on the high slopes in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley. The literal meaning of Dharamsala is The Holy Refuge and had its commencement in the year 1855. There is another history too. It is one of the 80 hill resorts developed in 17 th century under the aegis of the British and the first and foremost intention was to get rid of the heat and debris of the scorching plains.

There are other distinctiveness as well. Dharamsala, unlike several other hill stations, is divided into two halves. Well, the lower Dharamshala at 1250 meters happens to be the main town but more and more people love to go to upper Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj. There is a strong reason to visit lower Dharamshala too and it is to perceive the Kangra Art Museum. The museum does consist of a treasure of the art and crafts of the entire region. Don’t miss it!

If you are an admirer of the British Raj, its elegance and order, this is the right place for you. This has to be said since the remnants of the Raj dot the township still. The most important of those is the church of St. John in the backwoods. There is also a well-maintained, old graveyard and you may find a good similarity between the graveyards of your own city and this.

One of the major tourist attractions of Dharamsala is McLeodGanj, also known as the Little Lhasa, influenced by a strong Tibetan cultural feel all at once. Let me narrate my first experience. I was completely befuddled (better to say astounded) witnessing the completely different world, where the brittle breeze is broken by means of chanting of the hymns with the tinkly of the prayer wheels. McLeodGanj, in short, has lots to offer, ranging from spiritual stuff to the hungry palette.

Nowadays a lot of Tibetan run restaurants dominate the area and enable travelers like us to have some new yet sumptuous and yummy foods. Perhaps you are already familiar with Tibetan foods like momo and thukpa; McLeodGanj is surely the capital then. Never forget to visit Tsongkha Restaurant, , Snowland, Yak Restaurant, famed for serving excellent food.

Dharamshala, as already said, is regarded as Dalai Lama's dwelling and Tibet's Government-in-exile following the Chinese invasion of Lhasa in October 1959. Try to get a glimpse of an assortment of monasteries dotting the hillsides or else the visit will remain incomplete.

Make a visit to the Namgyal Monastery, having the Center of Tibetan Studies at the moment and this may make you realize how reverential can a community remain to its ancient culture in spite of experiencing onslaughts down the ages.

Some of the well known hotels in Dharamsala include Hotel Anupam Resorts, Snow Hermitage Resorts, Hotel Palace Heights.

Rishikesh – ideal saga of tranquility, religiousness

2010-08-08T13:14:00.000-07:00

If Kashi or Beneras is regarded as the capital of worldwide Hindu religion, Rishikesh, situated at the Garhwal region of north India, is its base. In fact, this entire region is blessed with the presence of lots of holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites; Rishikesh is one of the major attractions both to holy people and commoners. It’s completely futile to ask what you can get in Rishikesh; it’s better to ask what you cannot. A single visit to this place will make you realize what the true significance of religion is and how can a religion like Hinduism, devoid of any central authority unlike the Abrahamic religions, can go for thousands of years.

Rishikesh is also the origin of yoga and is visited by sages and pilgrims from across the globe. It is better to say at the outset that there is no special season in Rishikesh when you can visit. It does exert a pull on thousands of tourists on almost every month and these people visit here so as to find mental peace amid the monotonous modern life. A glance of the bathing ghats along with
temples will make you identify this truth. The town is also attractive to people who do remain in quest of adventure and excitement.

Let’s have a few words on the exact location of Rishikesh. Rishikesh, in a nutshell, is situated in the northern part of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and at 238 km northeast of the Indian capital of Delhi. It is also at 24 km north of Haridwar (another globally celebrated Hindu religious center) and extends on the right banks of the Ganges, at its convergence with the Chandrabhaga watercourse. Rishikesh is enclosed by hills on three sides and is balanced at an elevation of 356 meters over sea level. The name of Rishikesh has been prominent from the days of Vedas and hence, we need not get into those details. But it is rally amazing Rishikesh continues to attract people in the same fashion.

If you want to know of the major attractions of Rishikesh, it has to be said that nothing exists outside the dominion of Hindu Dharma. Rishikesh pullulates with temples. The majority of
pilgrims going through Rishikesh on their way to the Himalayan shrines of the Char Dham take a breather here for a holy dip and puja at Triveni Ghat. Perhaps you have heard of the aarti (evening worship) in Rishikesh when on earth oil lamps float on the water. It is one of the most spectacular experiences and do not dare to give it a miss.

A number of famous temples are in Rishikesh. One of these is the Bharat Manidr, oldest temple in the town and it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. There is also the Chandreshwar temple, standing at the convergence of the Chandrabhaga and the Ganges. Some of the well-known places around Rishikesh include the Vilas Vinay Palace, which is almost 10 km from the main township, is a garden palace. The others are historical township of Narendra Nagar, Rajaji National Park at Chilla, Nilkanth Mahadev, east of Rishikesh, one of the most sanctified shrines.

Rishikesh can be reached through air, rail and road. Nowadays an extensive array of accommodation facilities is available in the city.

Kullu amazes with its imposing presence

2010-08-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

Perhaps there is no Indian who is yet to hear of Kullu and here lies its popularity. But it’s also true in spite of all these, people are not fully aware of precise location of Kullu and hence, confusion continues. If you are also one of those, let me tell you that Kullu is situated in the amiable Kullu valley, set against the background of the impressive Himalayas. You can certainly call it a town but it is renowned for its temples and festivals, especially the Dussehra festival held once a year. Both these factors pull in hundreds of thousands of tourists and the proficiency of the township in handicrafts does happen to be an added attraction.

Now we come to its precise location, in a more vivid manner than ever before. Kullu, to be precise, is situated in the central part of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and it is known that Himachal Pradesh is in the northern region of India. It is positioned In the middle of the Himalayas at an elevation of 1200 m on top of sea level at the convergence of Beas and Sarvari rivers. The other particulars of Kullu are here – it is located at 240 km north of Shimla; weather in Kullu happens to be alpine. The summer season is in between the months of April and June but they remain mild altogether. The winter season is from November to February. Kullu gets southwestern monsoon rains during July-September. For all these reasons, the best time to go to Kullu is during summers and between the months of April and June. You can also visit during the Dussehra festival.

There are lots of sightseeing attractions of Kullu but they are related with the Hindu Dharma as the region is famous for both temples and festivals. The first and foremost tourist attraction of Kullu happens to be the Raghunath Temple, devoted to Lord Ram, one of the principal incarnations of Lord Vishnu and the main deity of the entire Kullu valley. There is also the
Jagannathi Devi Temple or the Bekhli temple and it is situated at 3 km from Kullu in the village of Bekhli. Remember that the journey is tiresome and there is the need of a hard 1½ hour climb to reach this temple. But you can get a marvelous and panoramic view of Kullu from here. There is also Bijli Mahadev Temple, situated at the height of 2460 m.

The major attractions around Kullu do include a number of shrines. Basheshwar Mahadev Temple at Bajura (which is15 km from Kullu) is renowned for its beautiful carvings. Other important shrines include Vaishno Devi Temple (4 km) and the Vishnu Temple at Dayar (12 km).

But don’t miss the tourist spots around Kullu ever. Manikaran (45 km) is a small town but is celebrated for its hot sulfur springs. The town is situated at an altitude of 1737 m in the Parvati River valley. Other places worth visiting are Kaisdhar (15 km), Kasol (42 km), Shoja (69 km),
Raisom (13 km), town of Naggar (23 km).

The transport system of Kullu is well-developed. Its nearest airport is at Bhuntar, 10 km south of Kullu. The nearest railhead is at Jogindernagar (95 km). Kullu has a well-developed road connection with prominent cities like Shimla, Chandigarh, Delhi and others.

Procedures to attain best results in gym

2010-08-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

Short Introduction

Weight training along with muscle building are not exclusive for bodybuilders only. Anyone can have the same provided that he has the commitment and apply the key (most feasible) strategies.

Content:

How can I have the weight training and muscle building simultaneously? This is not any general question but the core idea that does motivate each and every partaker or a beginner in gym. Even though the trainers are found to induce the participants differently, the basic principles remain the same. If you become acquainted with those from the very beginning, you can also develop and attain best results even in your home gym. Your first and foremost task should be to consume enough protein. What makes protein so important?

Protein does play a great role as it is vital to build muscle. What may happen if you do the reverse? Devoid of sufficient protein, you could pick up weights ceaselessly and not construct any new muscle. But there is a problem too and it does revolve round the word enough. If you do not know, learn from now that a number of best protein sources, including milk and meat, do remain high in fat and this is not good for any bodybuilder. How can the problem be dealt with?
All you have to do is to eat no less than a single gram of protein for each pound of body weight. Do you get the simple mathematics? This does indicate if you do weigh 160 pounds, you are required to have 160 grams of protein on a daily basis. Don’t ever think to compromise with this even, this 160 grams of protein is highly essential to build up the muscle mass. Well, if you do remain anxious of fat content, opt for skim milk. You can also go for low-fat protein sources like fish, chicken.

There is also the need of recovery time. Learn this by heart if you do not know. A number of bodybuilders in gyms in due curse turn into bodybuilding freaks or almost addicted to exercising day in and day out. This is no good for the body even if the dedication may appear imposing. On the contrary, it is exceedingly harmful. As per medical researches, the saga of building muscle doesn’t hinge upon exercises only. As a bodybuilder, you are supposed to give your muscles an option to recuperate after straining them rigorously. What type of recovery is being stated here? There might be different processes of recovery. Some of these include taking absence between training sessions, substituting fluids following workouts, consuming proportionate meals together with adequate nutrients.

What’s of compound movements? This is also a vital procedure to attain best results in the gym and hence, this can’t be disregarded even for once. Try to focus on compound movements like weightlifting for the time being. This procedure is known to build up muscles more quickly compared with other forms of workouts targeting secluded muscle groups. But this is also not an easy game and each and every player has got to be familiar with how to pick up correctly so as to obtain the expedited muscle building advantages.

On the whole, what one needs to do is to select weights to lift that does appear heavy for him. Does this point out one must go for the heaviest weights in the gym only? Not at all! It just indicates the bodybuilder needs to experience the muscles working whenever he lifts weight. If you are desperate to have benefits within the quickest possible time, try to stick to the same strategy. Are you just a newcomer in the arena of bodybuilding? If it is so, lifting heavy may stand for making use of a 20 pound weight. Well for experienced guys, it might be synonymous to lifting 50 to 100 pounds.

Ways to develop bicep training

2010-08-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

Short Introduction:

It is no good to get demoralized witnessing the initial failures regarding biceps training. A few adjustments to the workout module may better the entire scenario.

Content:

Without a doubt biceps training is regarded as one of the arduous jobs in a bodybuilding regimen. While on one hand, the concerned doer has to remain steady and also committed to the cause until the end of time, one the other hand he has to stick to the instructions. What may happen if there is failure even after these? There is the need of a few adjustments to the workout module. Prior to this, we must simplify the basics of biceps. It may make our impending job easier. Biceps is nothing save any skeletal muscle consisting of two origins; as per fitness gurus, it is above all the muscle that does bend the forearm.

Keep in mind that biceps are straightforward to train for development and the reasons behind this proposition can be found with no trouble. Biceps, in short, happens to be a condensed muscle group. Even though it is quite surprising, it is a reality that scores of bodybuilders remain unacquainted of how to improve their arms effectively. But you have nothing to worry, albeit you’re a tenderfoot. You will be able to have massive biceps after you begin making use of one or two crucial biceps training techniques. However, you have to have a committed soul in conjunction with a thorough and steadfast biceps routine.

What should be your first and foremost focus in that case? Make a point to correct your exercises frequency and steer clear of any form of overtraining. If you can abide by these two principles, there can be a good improvement in your workouts in a short time. It is worthwhile to mention that efficacy of your biceps exercises is lessened as soon as you do train too long. In order to stay away from this, make use of only one targeted exercises comprising five or added sets concentrated on the biceps only on one occasion a week. Is application of biceps to do other exercises during the week feasible? In accordance with fitness gurus it is feasible but on condition that you segregate the biceps on one occasion a week.

What are the other effective processes? Make use of your full array of movement when on earth you segregate your biceps. It is generally found that bodybuilders working their biceps using excessive weights are inclined to bring a small range of motion into play. They do not place their arm completely down. What is more, they do not even lift it completely upward. There is no doubt that this is a smaller range but the same does thwart growth. The only reason behind this development is that all muscles of the bicep are not strained. What ought to be done to use all muscles in the bicep? You have got to set in motion together with your arm completely extended. Do this too. It is to check your extension by means of temporarily flexing your triceps the instant the arm is downward. Learn by heart that it’s not possible for you to do this if not your bicep is totally extended.

What can be the ideal food in this case? Well, you can continue with your common breakfast, lunch and dinner. Have a breakfast consisting of seven scrambled eggs (1 complete+6 or more whites), 1 full cup of cooked non-instant oatmeal (porridge made of rolled oats), 1 full cup of coffee and also 1 glass of apple juice. If you wish for, 1 protein shake can also be included.

But never forget to drink water. Water, in a few words, does play an extremely important role in any bodybuilding diet plan. Even doctors do also recommend drinking in the region of 8-9 glasses of water day by day. Therefore, you have got to remain attentive about consuming sufficient water each day.

Importance of a strong and effective bodybuilding diet plan

2010-08-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

Short Introduction:

Each and every bodybuilder, having the ambition to have a good pack of muscles in no time, must follow a strict regimen of bodybuilding diet plan. If anyone does fail to do the same, the whole endeavor is set to become futile.

Content:

When on earth any individual wishes for to become a bodybuilder or a proud possessor of a pack of shining muscles, he remains in need of a great strength of mind or self-discipline, commitment, complete change in both his routine or standard of living, daily work out, a healthy diet. Truly speaking, the saga of bodybuilding is inseparably related with the presence of a bodybuilding diet plan. What is truer, except body builders, no other athlete has been able to use their body precisely the manner that they wish for to.

It is also true (thanks to studies and also experiences) bodybuilders do possess a exclusive talent of losing and acquiring body weight and this is done by means of fine-tuning their diet the precise manner. Without a doubt an apposite workout program is imperative to have an ideal V-shape body together with stuffed muscles. However the diet is equally important and if anyone fails to find the reasons behind this, must stop exercising straight away. A number of persons do consider
not eating will lend them a hand to shed weight. Is this true? Even if it is true (to a certain extent), it is not at all a strong manner of casting off additional weight.

On the contrary, eating well can lead to loss in weight and this is tried and true. But this doesn’t point out you can go out, chomp anything and look forward to lose weight. Keep in mind always if you wish for to get rid of extra weight and regulate your physical structure, there is the need of an apt, healthy diet plan. Now it’s the time to focus on what a bodybuilding diet plan is all about.

What must be the main features of a bodybuilder’s diet? If truth be told, a bodybuilder’s diet is supposed to be loaded with nutrition, healthy foods in apt quantities. What is the basic definition of healthy foods in this case? Foods that are necessary to build up a well-toned healthy muscular physical structure. Healthy foods must remain at every time and there can’t be a single compromise in this context.

What should be an ideal breakfast? It ought to comprise seven scrambled eggs (1 complete+6 or more whites), 1 full cup of cooked non-instant oatmeal (porridge made of rolled oats), 1 full cup of coffee and also 1 glass of apple juice. If you wish for, 1 protein shake can also be included.

With regard to lunch, there must be the presence of 1 can of tuna fish, 2 slices of wheat bread, 1 large glass of water and 1 protein shake. Make sure that you take 1 portion of brown rice, 1 baked boneless chicken breast, 1 quota of green beans, 1 large glass of water during dinner. As far as the bed time regimen is concerned, try to limit it with 1 protein shake and 1 small glass of water.

What other imperative info do you get from here? Water happens to be the most common denominator in all of the meals and this is certainly not without reasons. Water, to cut a long story short, does play an exceedingly important role in any bodybuilding diet plan. In general, doctors do recommend drinking in the region of 8-9 glasses of water on a daily basis. As a result, you have got to remain on your guard about consuming sufficient water each day. Water is important and plays a highly important role in improving building process of the physical structure.

To put it briefly, for a strong, well toned body, the most important factor is to aide by a good quality, vigorous diet program.

Need of fiber for bodybuilders

2010-08-08T12:52:00.000-07:00

Short Introduction:

It is no longer a secret that fiber does play a highly significant role in the general health and also betterment of a physical structure. However this type of carbohydrate is truly quite useful to bodybuilders.

Content:

Let’s begin with the definition of fiber. This may make the job easier. Fiber is defined as a slim and greatly elongated substance capable of being spun into yarn; it is also defined as any of more than a few elongated, threadlike cells (in particular a muscle fiber or a nerve fiber). Where is fiber found? Fiber, to put it briefly, is found in the cell walls of plants. It can also be procured from an assortment of food sources and the foremost of these include fruits, beans, vegetables, grains, oat bran. Fiber, thanks to its own chemical structure, happens to be stodgy to human beings and continues fully unbroken as it moves through the body. What inference can be drawn then? Fiber, in reality, is a carbohydrate. However it does act another way as it cannot be broken down into its basic glucose building blocks.

Now all these lead to a new question. it is already learnt that fiber can’t be digested even for once. How can it remain imperative to bodybuilders then? In accordance with experts, albeit fiber is deemed as something dispensable nutrient, it does play a key role during the building of muscle, and maintenance of the overall health of an individual. Fiber, aside from all these, is also eminent for its competence to encourage bowel movements on a regular basis.

Have you got all the answers regarding the importance of fiber in muscle building? There is almost no doubt, since you are striving to build as much muscle as possible, you will most likely be consuming no less than one gram of protein per pound of bodyweight on a daily basis. Do you know one of the main sources of this protein is animal meat like chicken or beef? But even this practice is not free of problem. What is the quandary then? Learn from now if any kind of meat does remain in the digestive tract for excessively long it can turn out toxins. As per medical dictionary, toxins can be defined as a poisonous substance produced during the metabolism and development of certain microorganisms and a few higher plant and animal species. In reality, toxins cause enduring negative health costs. What might be the benefit of taking fiber daily in this context? Well, intake of ample amount of fiber on a daily basis does guarantee that foods are moving along with no trouble throughout the digestive system.

There are also other benefits of the intake of fiber. Fiber, as indicated by studies, plays a good ad effective role through decelerating the pace of gastric emptying. Do you have any ides of gastric emptying? Gastric emptying, in short, is a procedure where foods are moved from the stomach to the small intestine. When on earth foods consisting of fiber are consumed, they turn out to be “gelled” in the stomach and decelerate this entire process. Perhaps you are already familiar with the term small intestine. It happens to be the longest component of the alimentary canal; where digestion is finished. You can also term the small intestine as that portion where nearly all nutrients are absorbed, pumped into the bloodstream after that.

Through decelerating the transfer of food to the small intestine, the physical structure becomes able to take out the nutrients more competently. These are all digestive benefits and with the exception of this, fiber is also apt enough to standardize levels of blood sugar. What can be its effects? There shall be more steady discharge of sugars into the bloodstream as a result and probability of redundant insulin spikes and useless fat storage will lessen. If you are in the path of building muscles, try to consume in the region of 25-35 grams of fiber every day for utmost benefits.

MI5 set to counter terrorism’s new offensive – social networking sites

2010-04-14T16:03:00.001-07:00

Two issues must be concentrated on before we move further, MI5 and need of proficiency in computers, to be more precise, in social networking sites. I’m confident that you have already got baffled since your small effort to find out a correlation between these two leads to nothing. Well, wait a minute. We all are aware of MI5 (Military Intelligence, Section 5) and it is the government agency in the United Kingdom that is responsible for internal security and counterintelligence on British territory. Now the same prime UK government agency is bent on expelling a number of its tried comrades or older staff. Reason? These warriors of yesteryears are not skilled enough to get over social networking sites, especially Facebook and Twitter.

The development is certainly painful but MI5 has its own justifications. On the word of key personnel of MI5, worldwide dreadful terrorist groups are making use of the internet to plan more and more attacks. The rampant uses of globally acclaimed social networking sites so as to communicate have got to be monitored by officers and there is hardly any other alternative, speaks key intelligence officers. As per sources, Britain could be crippled by a successful cyber onslaught before long.

If we take the version of Jonathan Evans, Director General of MI5 into account, redundancy programme to MPs Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee last month attains the greatest focus owing to several factors. In accordance with him, the programme would take account of both "voluntary and compulsory redundancies" alleged to mainly impact upon older workers. Well, to compensate such a loss a recruitment drive is being aimed at students with computer degrees.

If you are still raging, Patrick Mercer, Chairman of the Parliamentary subcommittee on counter-terrorism, United Kingdom, can help you to comprehend the changing reality. As indicated by him, pattern of terrorism is changing across the globe and hence counter-terrorism must be smart and professional enough to cope with the same. MI5 has got to be completely comfortable using computers and the latest technology and there can’t be any compromise with the same.

UK in favor of body scans at airports

2010-04-14T16:01:00.000-07:00

There have been lots of controversies regarding body scans yet and all these did induce Islamic hardliners to issue Fatwa even. But, if the current attitudes of people in United Kingdom are taken into account, the majority or 90% of them have started to accept body scans at airports. In accordance with a recently published poll by security group Unisys, the approval rate is far higher for the UK compared to many other countries. The poll involved Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Germany, Hong Kong, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, the UK and the USA.

There have been other developments as well. Among the 10 other nations surveyed, as many as one in three people in Germany and Belgium would object to the machines. In the realm of Hong Kong, only 45% of people were in favour of the scanners, whereas Mexicans were even less enthusiastic. 76% of the population saying they were against the new technology. Again as per the survey, 91% of the UK's public would be willing to submit biometric data, for instance iris scans and fingerprints, to identify them when travelling by air. The poll did make a survey among 10,000 people, including 977 in the UK.

Commenting on this laudable development, Neil Fisher of Unisys, stated, together with airport operator BAA also reporting positive responses to the full-body scanners, it does appear that the early controversy surrounding the technology has died down. People are taking a pragmatic approach to their safety, added Fisher. But this enthusiasm of holidaymakers to accept the scanners hasn’t come as a surprise to the Association of British Travel Agents. What do they consider, the same is the maturity of public opinion.

It is to be noted that scanners were introduced to the UK following the attempted bombing of a plane over Detroit on Christmas day last year. The machines, at the moment, are in place at Heathrow and Manchester airports, in spite of objections by some groups considering the same do violate passengers' right to privacy.

Is Microsoft’s financial prudence drive decisive for selecting Infosys?

2010-04-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

It’s certainly a great achievement on part of Indian IT giant Infosys Technologies even though many may term the same as the mere addition of a feather to its colorful hat. Infosys Technologies, if truth be told, has been able to have a three-year IT outsourcing deal with the globally acclaimed technology giant Microsoft. Certainly Microsoft needs no new description. It is a widely celebrated multinational computer technology corporation that develops, manufactures, licenses, and supports a wide range of software products for computing devices and covers, in short, 104 countries, if not more.

What shall be the first and foremost focus of Infosys in this context? Well, Infosys will deal with Microsoft's global internal IT services and these include helpdesk, desk-side services, IT infrastructure and applications support. Nevertheless the value of the transaction ha remained undisclosed yet but in accordance with leading pertinent analysts, it has got be in excess of 100 million dollars by any means.

Has there been any official comment from the Indian IT giant? As stated by Infosys, it will be in charge of operating Microsoft's in-house services for applications, devices and databases in 450 locations. It, in this regard, has partnered with Unisys so as to proffer worldwide desk-side support and service desk services.

Lots of views are coming to the fore owing to the selection of Infosys Technologies. One school of thought considers owing to declining sales in more than a few major divisions, Microsoft has been on a financial prudence drive and the Indian IT giant has been selected to cope with the rapidly changing reality. Whatever it is, competence and expertise of Infosys is overwhelming.

Infosys Technologies Limited is a multinational information technology services company headquartered in Bangalore, India. It is the second-largest IT company in India with 105,453 professionals (including subsidiaries) as of Nov 9, 2009 and has offices in 22 countries and development centers in India, China, Australia, UK, Canada and Japan.

Can DIALOG thrive?

2010-03-09T23:47:00.000-08:00

Tata Teleservices doesn’t need any new reference; it is a part of the Tata Group of companies and has brought to the fore DIALOG. You may get curious to know more. Well, DIALOG happens to be an exclusive product and has the intrinsic ability to convert one’s humdrum TV into a full-blown Internet device. Isn’t this great and wonderful? Surely it is!

It’s time to get more specific. The DIALOG kit, on the word of the company, consists of a set top box that links to the TV set directly and enables it with browser and photo viewing abilities. This set top box, in addition, consists of USB ports (four, in point of fact) and thanks to this the user can plug in his pen drives and perceive videos and listen to movies right on TV screen. What’s more, the USB port can be used to connect a Tata Photon Plus EVDO modem, in so doing bring Internet access to your TV.

Make a note of this as well. The DIALOG will be available in two options, while one of them is with Photon Whiz at Rs. 6,699, other one is available at Rs.7,699 with Photon Plus. Nevertheless, at the moment the service is limited only to the cities of Chennai and the Kolkata but there shall be a gradual expansion across India in the upcoming months. It seems that, the existing service is in the Test Run period and this would continue for the next three months.

What are the views of experts? As per the majority of them, the Tata DIALOG could develop into the easiest way to go online given that computer penetration remains low throughout India. But there is another fact too. If the sorry condition of electricity, TV penetration in the rural India and also the high prices of the set top box and the usage are taken into account, the scene doesn’t seem to be bright. Can DIALOG be successful then? We’re, indeed, cynical.

Maruti Suzuki suffers a snag, vows to recall 100,000 cars forecasting worse

2010-02-24T10:31:00.000-08:00

Maruti Suzuki, subsidiary of Japan's globally celebrated Suzuki Motor Corp., and also leading carmaker of India, suffered a major ignominy when it had to acknowledge publicly that it is on the verge of recalling 100,000 cars in India and abroad on account of potential fuel leakage problems. There is almost no doubt that this is the first time when such a giant automobile maker is going through such a bad phase. As per the latest reports, close to 50,000 of the popular A Star hatchbacks have been recalled since November, from India and from export markets including Europe, Australia and North Africa. This has also been corroborated by company spokesman Puneep Dhawan.

It is worthwhile to mention that Maruti Suzuki makes about one of every two cars sold in India and with the A Star, it is transforming India into a small car production hub for export. However, there are other aspects as well. The recall comes in the shadow of Toyota Motor Corp.'s worldwide recall of 8.5 million vehicles in order to fix acceleration and braking problems in more than a few models. But none of them is in India. Keep in mind that A-Star is branded as the Alto in Europe, where it is also retailed as the Pixo by Nissan. It is known as the Celerio in non-European markets.

Now the question lies regarding the origin of this crisis. In accordance with the company, automobiles manufactured between November 2008 and August 2009 consist of a flawed fuel pump gasket and O-ring, which can leak as soon as the fuel tank is topped. On the word of Mr. Puneep Dhawan, company spokesman, the hitch was found out during an internal check and there is a relief too, no customers have complained up to now.

The news had an instant impact on the company's shares on the Bombay Stock Exchange and it did suffer a jolt.

Why is Indian education system on the wane?

2010-02-24T10:30:00.000-08:00

“Access to the Vedas is the greatest privilege this century may claim over all previous centuries.” ---- J. Robert Oppenheimer ('Father of the Atomic Bomb'1904-1967)

“What we shall find in Modern Physics is an exemplification, an encouragement and a refinement of old Hindu wisdom." Julius R. Oppenheimer -- (1904-1967),

“Indian philosophers’ subtleties make most of the great European philosophers look like schoolboys.” ---- T.S. Eliot

The quotations of these two noble laureates have been used at the outset to prove the India that was once upon a time. India, at that time, was not only known for acumen, efficiency but also for innovation (that got depicted at times through science, philosophy and also literature). On the contrary, the present India stands for steady degradation, where the education system emphasizes text- book based knowledge more. What is most striking, Indian technological sector, especially the engineering colleges do also abide by the same principle. Indian engineering colleges still evaluate students' skills based on their ability to repeat the text- book knowledge in the exams, rather than on their aptitude to think 'out-of-box.' Even though this is a painful realization, it is cruel and true.

But never assume this as any mere speculation. Even premier Indian educationalists have started to acknowledge the same and one of them is certainly Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Head of Electrical Engineering Department at IIT Chennai. As per him, "Education system is one cog in the wheel, which affects students to a certain level" and all these proves his bitter experiences in a few words.

Nevertheless, Dr. Jhunjhunwala is not alone, he is joined by none other than Professor K Gopinath, Computer Science & Automation (CSA), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. In accordance with Professor Gopinath, India's education system shoots down the spirit of creation or simply innovation among students by not enabling them to exemplify their skills at university level.

Who is most blameworthy then? Is it the Indian education system or the Indian society in general? What do you think?

Is Google trying to avert crisis through enhancing Internet speed?

2010-02-16T11:20:00.001-08:00

Is Google too in a fix? Well, this scribe is not sure of any such eventuality but seeing the hurriedness of Google Inc. or its vigor to increase speed of Internet connections in the realm of U.S., this question comes to the brain only. So let’s put the question straightly. Is everything fine for Google? If we look at its revenues, there can’t be any reason to get skeptical but there is also an aphorism – It’s only the wearer knows where the shoes pinches. Has Google worn such a shoe? Or are the coming days getting tough for Google? Perhaps the second question is more relevant.

Maybe you have gone through this issue already. If not, let me say again. The globally acclaimed search giant is prepared to take a provisional step toward fixing one of its longest-held gripes: the speed of Internet connections in the U.S. Whatever may be the formal announcement, it seems Google Inc. is leaving no stone unturned to do the same.

The issue that was in air for some months got strengthened when in the blog post on Feb. 10, Google product managers Minnie Ingersoll and James Kelly presented the company's plan to render as many as 500,000 people in a small number of venues with fiber-optic Internet connections capable of one gigabit per second (Gbps). This is in excess of 100 times faster than the typical U.S. broadband connection speed these days. The project is not only too buoyant but exceedingly expensive also and if we rely on analysts, costs could run north of $1 billion to install and maintain the new network.

How do you find the same? You may concur that Google Inc. can do anything but there must be some specific reason behind such a desperate approach. Isn’t it?

Read this recent annunciation of Google Inc. "We want to see what developers and users can do with ultra-high speeds, whether it's creating new bandwidth-intensive 'killer apps' and services, or other uses we can't yet imagine." Do you find any agony or an aggression? Offence is surely the best defence; without doubt Google is playing the same strategy.

RIM brings forth modernized Internet browser, to exist and expand

2010-02-16T11:19:00.001-08:00

Research In Motion Ltd refuses to bow down to any and in order to be ahead of all raging contenders, it has brought to the fore a modernized version of Internet browser for its devices. Well, the first and foremost intention is always the same; it is to attract non-business customers to a larger extent.

Speaking on this accomplishment, Mike Lazaridis, Co-Chief Executive Officer and inventor of the BlackBerry (RIM is maker of the BlackBerry phone) stated with vigor, the new offer can expand the market opportunity for the BlackBerry platform to a greater extent. Lazaridis played the important role in displaying the new WebKit browser at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain.

How do you define this initiative then? Is Research In Motion too desperate to attain the height of success? Well, even though nothing is confirmed yet, it seems so. It is to be noted that in the month of October Research In Motion (RIM) became instrumental in launching renovated variant of the Storm -- a larger-screen BlackBerry for easier browsing. The main idea was to retort to assorted reviews of the first edition and competition from Apple Inc.’s iPhone and Motorola Inc.’s Droid. Well, some experts have already made it clear that RIM needs to ameliorate its browsers in order to allure clientele in a market spilling over with contending devices.

It ought to be mentioned that RIM’s competitors have brought better browsers to the market thus far and in order to exist in the rapidly changing market and also to attain success it is high time for RIM to do something.

Research In Motion happens to be a prominent designer, manufacturer and vendor of innovative wireless solutions in the realm of international market of mobile communications. RIM, by means of developing integrated hardware, software and services that strengthen the saga of multiple wireless network standards, brings forth a solid foundation for consistent and coherent approach to time-sensitive information like email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications.

Samsung firm to proffer reasonable smartphones to arrest new consumers

2010-02-16T11:17:00.001-08:00

Even though coming days, as stated by copious numbers of studies, are going to be tough for the global business scenario, Samsung, globally acclaimed multinational conglomerate, seems to be confident and the company, thanks to the changing reality, shall focus on smartphones more than ever before. It has also been found that the same is going to be the crux of Samsung's mobile strategy in 2010 and the company will leave no stone unturned to distinguish itself through proffering more reasonable options. You may be wondering of the source. All these have come out from Hankil Yoon’s chin-wagging with press and media at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Keep in mind that Hankil Yoon is Vice President – Samsung (Product Planning).

What makes the Samsung bigwig talk in this way? On the word of Yoon, a new section of clientele in quest of light and easy-featured phones has come to the fore. It’s not easy to convince them even though diversification of OS offerings can do the magic. What did Yoon confirm more? As stated by Hankil Yoon, Samsung did not finish up launching any Android phones at MWC this year, but the platform has the ability to have rapid footing in 2010. Windows 7 and the Linux-based LiMo are also "on the horizon."

However experts are giving emphasis to Bada to a great extent and as per a large number of them, it can become Samsung’s most formidable weapon in the coming days. What is Bada then? Bada is basically a Samsung-only platform that is based on Samsung's feature-phone OS and is adding many APIs for third party developers to generate well-off applications.

It is worthwhile to mention that Samsung, only on Sunday, brought to the fore its first Bada-based phone, the Wave S8500. Wave S8500 has been found as a slim, touchscreen phone and consists of a Samsung-made 1-GHz processor, a "Super AMOLED" screen and 720p high-def video capabilities.

Proper education helps people to thwart heart diseases

2010-02-16T11:16:00.001-08:00

How can heart diseases be thwarted? There are, if truth be told, lots of ways across the globe but if you are in quest of success stories only, you shall have to focus on Wilkes-Barre General Hospital situated in the US state of Pennsylvania. Now the question is why should we? Well, the one and only answer is that they have got the success. How? If we take into consideration views of Dr. Mark Bernardi, DO, Medical Director of The Heart and Vascular Institute at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, the prognosis from the doctors is well and effective and with the passing of each year, the rate of success in increasing by leaps and bounds.

It should be remembered that among the populace in the vicinity of hospital or medical institution the rate of heart dieses were high. The concerned doctors or medical practitioners from Wilkes-Barre General Hospital started educating the people of the perilous causes of heart disease and how to avert the same. In their own words, the public is getting better at making the choices for a heart-healthy lifestyle and for recognizing the risks of heart disease and the symptoms of heart attacks. As stated by Dr. Bernardi, all these endeavors have led to fewer heart attacks each year and what is more striking, the number of survivors have increased even among patients having heart attacks. Isn’t this quite great? There is no doubt in this.

Dr. Bernardi has no qualms in stating public awareness continues to get better to a large extent. Take for instance the views of Alfred S. Casale, Associate Chief Medical Officer, Geisinger Health System, NE, and Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pearsall Heart Hospital, Geisinger Wyoming Valley. As per him, the consciousness has been such even if the concerned prey fails to recognize the attack, one his loved ones become successful to identify the same pernicious development.

Nevertheless, the rate of smoking in the vicinity is still high and this bitter truth continues to perturb the doctors. This, they have stated, is an alarming trend although some successes in stopping smoking in younger persons, in particular females, have been found.

What can we conclude then? Proper education and consciousness helps people to get rid of heart diseases. Do you have any other view? Perhaps not!

"My Name Is Khan" – too slapdash

2010-02-13T11:47:00.001-08:00

There have been lots of diatribes from right-wing Hindu conservatives against the screening of 'My Name Is Khan" in India; the film, especially its content, has been termed as the brainchild of pro-Pakistan elements in the realm of the nation. All these led to a curiosity among commoners and in the Indian metropolises copious numbers of Shahrukh Khan aficionados were found to rush to the theaters in close proximity to have a view. What has been the end result then? Before getting into the same it ought to be said had the conservatives perceived the film, there wouldn’t have been any such fuss. The film is not only too mediocre but fails to exhibit the basic thought also.

What went wrong then? Till now the majority of viewers have not been able to discern the real subject of the movie. What is it about? Is it a protest against terming Muslims as terrorists across the globe in general or is it a love story in an uncanny ambiance? It’s too confusing, if truth be told.

One can find all sorts of contentious subjects ranging from racial biases, aftermath of 9/11, war on terror and many other closet issues along with a love affair between Khan (Shahrukh Khan), a man afflicted with a type of autism and a single mother (Kajol). The main protagonist Khan (Shahrukh Khan) moves to US, falls in love and marries the heroine (even if we become able to assign such importance to her).

Their life changes after 9/11 incident in US and Khan gets vulnerable to racial attacks and also dressing downs and he sets off on the lookout for President Obama believing that, if he meets him, all will be fine. But the confusion starts from here. What’s after that and where does it go from there? There is no precise answer and we get confounded.

This is the crux of the film and perhaps director Karan Johar wanted to convey the same message. Let the audience remain befuddled! What’s the success then? Well, I have failed to get any even if the film is on a large scale and beautifully shot. Words like jihad, 9/11 and al Qaeda were used too frequently but still now none knows the necessity of bringing those to the fore. Surely those are without context. The film is undoubtedly too shoddy. Can I use the word slapdash?

Mercedes-Benz to seize Indians with its all-new flagship sedan

2010-02-13T11:45:00.000-08:00

Long before others we made a forecast – Indian fiscal scenario, quite unaffected in spite of worldwide brunt of recession (causing envy among its western counterparts), is changing for betterment steadily. It has been proved and by none save for Mercedes-Benz. The globally acclaimed German manufacturer of luxury automobiles has brought to the fore its all-new flagship sedan, the ‘S350 L’ and the ‘S350 CDI L BlueEFFICIENCY’ in India and all these indicate competition in the higher end luxury car segment in Indian soil is rising once again.

However, it is to be noted that S-Class, with in excess of 53% of market share, is the market leader in the Indian scenario and thanks to the latest approach of its parent company, the brand, from this time forth, will go together with a horde of features all aimed at mollycoddling its esteemed clientele with high levels of comfort and safety.

What are the novel distinctive traits then? There is the presence of climatised seats together with a massage function for the rear seats are customary in conjunction with an Advance Parking Guidance system, ATTENTION ASSIST, LED Light Package and a first for the 2010 S-Class, SPLITVIEW technology. This makes it easier for both driver and front passenger to view different functions on the same screen in unison.

What may be the benefit if you prefer to opt for the back seat? In that case, the car has the intrinsic competence to treat you to redesigned entertainment screens with two wireless headphones and a remote for easy use.

On the word of company officials, ‘S350 L’ will bring out a 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine generating 272 HP and 345 NM or torque whereas the oil burner is a 3.0 litre V6 rendering the driver with a total of 210 horses and a mammoth 490 NM of torque at just 1600 rpm. What are the prices then?

The aforesaid lines prove that they are meant affluent Indians only and the prices for the diesel and petrol versions of the luxury barge are Rs 80.5 lakh and Rs 82 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) respectively.

Apple’s iPad enlivens moribund scenario, admits Flurry Analytics

2010-02-12T12:21:00.001-08:00

Certainly one single instrument or device or innovation or even approach can create a major difference between two contenders fighting neck and neck and can inflict a harsh defeat in due course. Perhaps you have got baffled by now and without making more fuss, I must reveal the name which is being discussed. Well, it’s Apple’s iPad, quite responsible to create a sensation and enliven a moribund market yet again. On the word of Flurry Analytics, acclaimed mobile analysis firm, based on number of applications available for each type of device, Google's (GOOG) Android OS was closing the gap with Apple's (AAPL) iPhone throughout the second half of 2009 but iPad has made the difference altogether.

What was the precise observation of Flurry then? As indicated by the firm, through following new application starts, it did realize a 25% month-over-month growth in new Android projects over that period and a slender loosening in the number of new iPhone apps. But the difference took place in the month of January, and Apple moved ahead. Again, as per Flurry, only in the same month of January, the number of iPhone developers adding its tracking code to new projects moved three-fold over December.

All these have come to the fore thanks to Flurry Analytics’ latest endeavor, release of its most recent edition of the "Smartphone Industry Pulse" for January 2010. We have already stated but it must be made clear yet again that the beginning of 2010 has been massive and stands for largest surge in application starts in the history of the analysis firm's tracking. Flurry initiated its journey in January with more than 1,600 new applications in contrast to fewer than 600 in the month of December.

In accordance with Flurry Analytics, the sole credit goes to Apple's iPad event in January and more are still to come.

Don’t go for shoveling; it’s dangerous

2010-02-12T12:20:00.001-08:00

If you do live in an area vulnerable to snowstorm and are also having a weak heart, never try to opt for shoveling. The same instruction applies for middle aged people or older people, especially with a history of heart problems. If you are new to this, learn it from now that shoveling is quite dangerous and any type of carelessness or inadvertence may lead to death. Have you got the message?

Well, it may be that you are getting skeptical of the wise advice and still consider that shoveling is nothing more than any fun. I think that you should go through the websites dealing with the snowstorm that has subdued the United States, especially the capital Washington DC. The situation is not only dreadful owing to the latest wave of snowstorms that struck snow-novice areas of Maryland and Washington D.C., a number of deaths have been reported as well. Never think that all have occurred owing to sudden cardiac death but shoveling has also been playing a great role.

Where lies the problem then? If we take the views of experts into consideration, problem hails from people’s ignorance. Little they do know that a shovel full of wet snow can weigh as much as 15 to 16 pounds. For that reason if someone is shoveling snow at a rate of 12 shovelfuls per minute, he will have moved nearly a ton of snow if shoveling his driveway in only 10 minutes. There is a need of great physical strength hence. Do you have it within yourself? Are you sure?

This is highly important. If you develop acute symptoms while shoveling, you ought to stop shoveling first and sit down and rest inside.

Google Buzz pains us

2010-02-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

Online social networking is already in vogue and as far India goes, Orkut and Facebook, certainly Twitter too, is dominating the national scenario. Latest news is that you can even come across (given that the fortune sanctions) some of the busiest Indian politicians in Twitter! All these made us optimistic of Goggle Buzz, being knowledgeable of Google’s marvels exceedingly. But with painful heart we have to acknowledge that something is missing in Google Buzz. What’s that? None knows it yet but already within a day it has annoyed a good section of worldwide people – the number is increasing steadily.

Is the wrong with Google solely? Or has the technology applied failed to deliver? This also remains unknown so far but many have already alleged Google Buzz is breaching their privacy tooth and nail and some have even stated that through merging two worlds, personal and professional, it is a new menace. Have you gone to Google Buzz? Well, I’ve and am in the first group hence. Well, you have every right to hold opposing views.

What’s the aim of Google Buzz? Is it almost like Orkut or Facebook? Well, Google Buzz is believed to list the people one follows and the people following him depending on whom he contacts the most. But this has not been the case and contrary to the popular belief, it has proved difficult to block some followers, many of whom have not been contacted for a long time. This became mostly exasperating when it appeared that there was no obvious mechanism to do so.

There have been other potent reasons of annoyances too but we don’t want to deal with those since further developments are awaited.

However, it can certainly be said, even if we don’t know whether there shall be improvements in near future, Google Buzz has pained us.

Is PayPal recklessly determined to ravage Indian economy?

2010-02-06T06:49:00.000-08:00

What may happen if your bank or depository financial institution stops payments out of the blue? There is hardly any doubt that hell will fall upon you and leave you fuming and pertinent organizations, regardless of right or left, will leave no stone unturned to transform the gross anger into a mass struggle. Well, the situation with Indian users of PayPal is just the same but there has been no mass upsurge yet. Reason? The entire situation is baffling as PayPal, notable online payment and money-transfer service that allows you to send money via email, phone, text message or Skype, has not issued any statement thus far in this regard. What can be done then? This question is not of only you but of thousands of users as well.

Is this the fallout of any major conspiracy to inflict a heavy blow on the vigorous and mounting Indian economy? We do not want to think in this way but such theories can’t be brushed aside too for the reason that India’s relatively safer position in the previous worldwide recession astounded the western big players substantially.

What are the traditional PayPal users doing then? They can’t do anything save for criminating the online payment and money-transfer service and this is haunting them most at the moment. A number of users whose transactions have been reversed are giving vent to their frustration on online forums and message boards. It has been found that funds requested through PayPal India are being canceled officially without more ado and users are totally clueless, without a shred of doubt.

Even if you are not a PayPal user, its standard response to own clientele appears to be nothing less than farcical and this is quite certain. The rejoinder states categorically, “Your payment of xxx has been sent back to the sender of the payment. We reversed this payment because we have stopped allowing personal payments to be sent to or from India.”

“If this was a payment for a purchase of goods or services, and not a personal payment, then you may contact the buyer and have him or her resend the payment as follows: (a) click the Send Money tab, (b) select “Goods,” and (c) provide a shipping address.

“If this payment was a personal payment such as a gift, then we have requested that the sender find another payment method until we restore personal payments to and from India. We are trying to resolve this issue as quickly as possible and we’re sorry for any inconvenience.”

What conclusion can be drawn from here? It seems that the issue is not going to be resolved so soon and even if this happens, it is a temporary arrangement. Perhaps worse is still to come.

What is the Indian government doing then? Though there has been no official government retort yet, perhaps, as usual it is keeping tabs on the development. Will the Indian government be able to do anything? How can you expect it? After all, you are an Indian and hence, are an orphan.

Is RIM BlackBerry Bold 9700 ideal for a commoner?

2010-02-01T10:58:00.001-08:00

What is the first and foremost issue then? It is nothing other than whether the latest exclusive form of Blackberry Smartphone from RIM (Research In Motion) - RIM BlackBerry Bold 9700 can cater the needs or simply gratify the rising aspirations of the common people. Well, the whole world and certainly experts are, in point of fact, divided over its chances of success. While one group seems to have the conviction, the other seems to be hesitant a bit yet. What can we deduce then? This is the million dollar question and what we ought to do is to check out the merits and demerits (if there is any).

The majority of experts do confirm that the sleeker design of RIM BlackBerry Bold 9700 is unique and the presence of aspects like optical trackpad, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a brilliant display make the whole superstructure more elegant. It is to be noted that the Smartphone is 3G proficient and brings forth Wi-Fi with UMA support, Bluetooth, and GPS. It also gets a faster processor and updates to BlackBerry OS 5.0.

Is this all? Perhaps not since some faults have also been identified. On the word of few experts,the BlackBerry browser doesn't compare to the competition in any way. What is more, even though the handset's compact size brings about a smaller display and keyboard, but they aren't deal-breakers. Whatever it is, professionals have not shied away from praising the device extensively; they do consider that RIM BlackBerry Bold 9700 brings T-Mobile its first 3G BlackBerry and surpasses its predecessor with a sleeker design and more supremacy. Is it ideal for a commoner then? It seems so.

Research In Motion happens to be a prominent designer, manufacturer and vendor of innovative wireless solutions in the realm of international market of mobile communications. RIM, by means of developing integrated hardware, software and services that strengthen the saga of multiple wireless network standards, brings forth a solid foundation for consistent and coherent approach to time-sensitive information like email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications.

Government ought to tackle distractions to lessen car accidents

2010-01-30T11:00:00.000-08:00

It may be that you are not aware but the concept of talking on or sending text messages with cell phones while driving has become not only problematic but also a bane by now and the brunt is being felt by the concerned government departments and officials only. Even though the problem has become rampant in leading metropolises across the globe, US is feeling the heat to the greatest extent but the laws banning the aforesaid tasks are already proved as effete. In brief, they have failed to make any substantial impact; the risk of traffic accidents has not lessened considerably. What can be done then? Experts advocate managing the problem of distracted drivers in general seems to be the best option at the moment.

Now the question remains whether this is feasible or not. Well, we have to get into the observations of Highway Loss Data Institute, a nonprofit organization funded by the auto insurance industry, at the outset. The Institute made a detailed analysis (through minute comparison) of monthly collision claims in four states, known for banishing handheld cell phone use prior to and after the bans became operative. The researchers have the conviction that car collision rates didn't alter after bans became operational--and they didn't change for nearby states devoid of such bans, either.

The study makes it clear that laws prohibiting handheld phone practice have been useful in getting people to bring hands-free devices for driving into play. However, it fails to ensure that
hands-free devices have lessened the number of car accidents that take place in general. The situation, if truth be told, is baffling indeed.

What conclusion can be drawn from here? Each and every aspect indicates that the problem starts and ends with the driver and above all with his/her distraction. To cut a long story short, instead of cell phone, distraction leads to accidents and its burgeoning effect on the society. Bear in mind that distraction can be anything ranging from texting a message in cell phone, programming a GPS navigation system, eating French fries to anything else.

Government has to deal with distraction instead of phones or texting to decrease number of accidents.

Proper rest makes brain more active

2010-01-29T12:12:00.001-08:00

Whatever may be the advancements in the medical world, brain is still an enigma and hence, lots of rumors and certainly speculations do revolve around the same. Do you know why at times we fail to remember most common things? Learn the answer from here. As stated by a panel of eminent researchers, it may be that you or any concerned person or even we think of the same too often. Do you find any difference? You may since this is the age that doesn’t believe that an idle mind is a devil’s workshop.

Lots of changes are happening almost at each moment and more are still to come; hence, it is the time for you to look at those that have remained unnoticed thus far. So long scientists used to concentrate on volunteers in action, appraising their physiological or biochemical responses as they completed specific mental tasks. However, a sea change has occurred recently and the credit in this regard goes to the proliferation of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), accurately maps brain activity founded on changes in blood-oxygen levels. With the help of it neuroscientists have concluded that crucial activity in the brain — connected specifically to memory and learning — may crop up when it is at rest.

Is this study any wonder? Perhaps not since copious numbers of studies over the past decade have made it clear that sleep is exceedingly important to the consolidation of memories and learning; what is more, people who take a nap after learning a new task, for instance, remember it better in contrast to people who don't have forty winks.

Now as per as the novel study from the lab of New York University (NYU) cognitive neuroscientist Lila Davachi, there is akin evidence that the brain at rest, even while remaining awake, is conducting significant action. In short, the scientist suggests that certain forms of brain activity actually augment during waking rest and are associated with better memory consolidation.

New form of journalism to get unfolded

2010-01-29T12:11:00.001-08:00

What is the future of journalism? Let me put the question in this way. What is the future of print journalism? Is it going to be as extinct as the dinosaur very soon? The question is quite obvious, the existing trends do confirm that the days of print journalism are too limited and the way in which web-based journalism has started to control the scenario already, we are heading towards a web-based revolution in the journalism industry too. Perhaps you have already become acquainted with the term online journalism. But what you were familiar with was nothing save for the first generation of the same online journalism; surfacing of the new Apple iPad is going to change the rest altogether straight away and analysts assume that may happen in an instant.

Are you getting flummoxed thanks to this bombardment of info? Let me help you. Have you seen Minority Report? I’m talking of Steven Spielberg's 2002 sci-fi spectacular. Can you recall the scene when the main protagonist or Tom Cruise is sitting on a near-future subway car, and a passenger across the aisle is reading a paper-based USA Today? What does the scene speak about and consist of? On the front page was moving video of Cruise underneath a headline warning that he was running wild. Then the headline changes to depict the other top stories of the moment, round about mid-21st century. Do you get the idea? Perhaps we are heading towards the same right away.

Maybe you are still having troubles to envisage the near future. Let me put in this way that the day when integrated circuits, wireless connectivity and impressionable screens can combine to project images on a paper-based product is not far away. And whatever may be the dominating troubles of the current market economy, necessity knows no law and thanks to this age-old principle, we will conform to the new notion and discard the old at the same instant.

What shall be the new business models and pattern of jobs then? Old order will change yielding place to new and a new form of journalism will get unfolded.

Scourge of texting while driving getting almost omnipotent

2010-01-29T12:09:00.000-08:00

Surely there is no one who is yet to know of texting, communication by means of sending a text message to a mobile phone or other electronic device. Well, even if the definition looks to be simple, the reality is just the opposite and the passion of texting, believe it or not, has become almost a scourge in several metropolises across the globe. How can this scourge be checked? The pertinent governments are devoid of any precise answer yet and what is more frightening is that a recent study states clearly, state laws meant to desist drivers from texting are effete in reality and have hardly any effect on crash rates.

The study was conducted in New York, Washington, D.C., Connecticut and California and the Highway Loss Data Institute left no stone unturned in comparing hits of 100 insured vehicles per year in four different jurisdictions previous to and after bans on handheld cell phone use and texting became operative. It is to be noted that data were also collected from states in close proximity for comparison. Days of arduous struggle made the researchers conclude that monthly fluctuations in crash rates didn't amend after bans were enacted and what is more, rates of crashes compared to places close at hand devoid of texting or handheld phone bans also didn't change.

What were the earlier deductions then? Earlier studies by the Institute, funded by insurance companies, did come across four-fold increases in injury-related crash risk linked with cell phone use, as a result this result was surprising to a great extent. However, the Institute is not ready to take this lesson lightly and on the word of its President Adrian Lund, it has got busy in gathering data to comprehend this disparity.

What can be the possible reasons behind this occurrence? If we rely on Adrian Lund, drivers are simply switching to hands-free phone use. Some studies even suggest that the hazard of hands-free phone use when driving is little different from that handheld phone use.

Coca Cola – newest prey of a global desire

2010-01-21T09:55:00.001-08:00

Why is Coke always in news? Well, it is one of the most preferred drinks and as per the claim of the company, it records 6 billion servings per day of its 500 brands in 200 nations and if it is a reality, the company has lots of reasons to boast of. However there have been sordid developments as well and several malpractices connected with Coke have caught our attentions. While on one hand it has been maligned for (allegedly) violating environmental chastity, on the other hand it has been framed for other misdemeanors also. But, it is back in news again and at this time, it is due to the new allegation – coke is an excellent biofuel.

Experts suggest, even though many consider the same as one of the best drinks known hitherto, other than having carbohydrates and caffeine to make one revel it, Coca Cola is a sugary drink that is enough competent to run even a mobile phone. Is this true? Can this be accepted? The question is quite difficult since it is not expected that a globally acclaimed company can dupe its own loyal clientele in this way. It is also heard at times that Coke is used as an outstanding industrial cleaner and is used by hospitals to keep catheters clean and US police apparently make use of it to wash blood off the road.

The situation is quite baffling, without a doubt. However a new study refutes all these and sneers at the development. As per it if phosphoric acid is used to generate energy in Coke, lots of beverages and foods contain more phosphorous. While Coca-Cola classic contains 41 mg of phosphorous per 8 ounce serving, milk contains 228 mg per 8 ounce and peanuts have 288 mg per ½ cup serving. How can Coca Cola be held culpable then?

On the word of Adam Best, a scientist from Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), a coke powered battery is improbable to be commercially used for the reason that it is will not be well-organized and also pricey to make.

What is the reality then? Truly speaking, whenever crude oil prices skyrockets, a new search for alternative miracles commences and Coca Cola has become the newest prey of a global desire.

Dubai real estate getting vulnerable to Chinese dragon!

2010-01-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

It doesn’t matter whether one is strong or weak, it, if there is any prospect, has to undergo continual onslaughts from imperialist powers. You may consider this as a ramshackle and effete feudal war principle and hence, it has got rejected by now but in reality, only you are erroneous. The same notion exists in full force, only the domain and way of expressing the same has changed, and realty sector of Dubai is going to be its new target.

The one and only reason is that a group of Chinese investors is close to arrive in Dubai next month with the aim of capitalising on hard-pressed properties now available in the market and the same has been confirmed by media reports posted on the Chinese Ministry of Commerce official website. It has been learnt that the group comprising twenty investors from the Zhejiang province in eastern China is contriving to visit Dubai at the end of February.

"When they learned of such an opportunity to visit Dubai, more than twenty members expressed an interest in joining the visiting group," Zhou Dewen, head of the Wenzhou SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) Business Development and Promotion Association, told the English-language China Daily newspaper. "Although the economy there has not revived yet, we believe big business opportunities exist not only in property, but also in export trading," he added.

What makes these investors interested in Dubai all of a sudden? If we rely on reports, investors from Wenzhou were badly affected by the downturn in their local property market and on the word of Zhou, the group may have lost up to $7.4bn on their investments in the region. Nevertheless, the region is having a direct property link to the emirate. Around 150,000 Chinese expatriates are learnt to live in Dubai and the report says in the region of 20,000 of them are from the Wenzhou region.

But this not all and there are more factors to mull over. Analysts are considering that the government of China is also taking active interest in the realty sector of Dubai and any such attempt of industrialists will benefit China, already recognised to expand its tentacles in several sectors across the globe.

Wake up Kashmiri Hindus

2010-01-19T10:20:00.000-08:00

Let me begin with a very short narrative. During the last October, two persons, completely unknown to each other prior to the summit, had a chance meeting in New Delhi, national capital of India, thanks to a human rights conference on refugee problems across the globe. While one Kartik Banerjee came all the way from Calcutta, the other one Manish Kaul has roots in the Kashmir valley. There was nothing common between the two, hailing from two different cultures except two. Both of them were Hindus and victims of Islamic persecutions. Mr. Banerjee is a Bengali Hindu driven out from current Bangladesh, representing a community waiting for justice for the last 63 years, Mr. Kaul is a Kashmiri Hindu in quest of justice for last 20 years. Both of them still shiver due to their horrific experiences; Mr. Banerjee can’t forget incidents that reduced his community from 29% in 1948 to less than 10% currently, Mr. Kaul still has memories of 19 th January, when Kashmiri Hindus were shown the door (for eternity?).

What is most unfortunate, even after 20 years most of India is unaware of the horrific developments that led to the expulsion and of the day when all hell broke loose in the valley of Kashmir on the peaceful, patriotic community of Kashmiri Hindus. What is their condition at present? The whole community has been left in lurch but still hopes that one day it shall return to the native land.

Well, they have received lots of assurances in the meantime both by the Union governments and self-claimed custodians of the Hindu society. But if one has to comprehend the staggering reality, he must visit Kashmiri Hindu refugee camps in Mishriwala, Jammu. They are languishing in refugee camps, don’t know how long they will be there and many youngsters have not only become frustrated and lost hopes but are found to fume also at the uncanny antipathy of the Indian governments, irrespective of party ideologies.

Now the question remains can there be any comeback. If we take into account Indian government’s dealing with Bengali Hindus, the answer is no. It can’t be since the Indian psyche, thanks to slavery of Hindus throughout the last millennium, can’t get pro-active ever. Whom should Kashmiri Hindus go for justice then? Should they go for UN or Amnesty International? It’s not known whether these premier human rights organizations are even aware of plights of these hapless people. Truly speaking, I don’t know.

But surely you can’t ask of the same to the community that gave birth to Fatah, Hamas, Hezbollah or even Black September, responsible for the Munich massacre, when members of the Israeli Olympic team were taken hostage and finally murdered. What do these make us conclude? Islam is not a religion but a political doctrine that thrives through rapid expansions to the detriment of Kafirs or infidels.

There is another question. What ails the Sangh or self-claimed custodians of Hindus? Are they mere paper tigers? If the developments are analyzed, they will definitely prove to be worse than that. Do you recall Maulana Masood Azhar still? The dreaded Pakistani terrorist was freed by the Indian government in exchange of passengers on the hijacked Indian Airlines Flight 814 (IC814) that had eventually landed in Kandahar, Afghanistan and the whole program was supervised by BJP’s iron man, known for melting at each and every occasion.

What can India do for Kashmiri Hindus then? There is no answer as India is lost in political squabbles, behaving like a rudderless ship and Kashmiri Hindus have to make their own destiny.

Hence, instead of expecting India to wake up, Kashmiri Hindus must wake up if they still have the desire to exist and flourish.

Kolkata surpasses others in property values

2010-01-18T04:38:00.000-08:00

Perhaps, after going through decades of “stable stagnation”, thanks to Leftist morons and their belligerence and Center’s anti-Bengali Hindu mindset, Kolkata is having a resurgence. Recent reports suggest that Kolkata, once called the second city after London in British Empire, is gearing up bit by bit through capitalizing on the recent worldwide developments and has already started surpassing other prominent Indian cities, especially in the realty sector.

In accordance with the National Housing Bank’s (NHB) Residex—an index of property prices, property values in Kolkata have risen at the fastest pace among Indian metros ever since 2007. To be brief, property values in Kolkata did increase by an average of 16.8% while those in Bangalore fell by 15.6% in the period. Fewer speculative deals and lower base prices witnessed the eastern Indian metropolis surpass hotter property markets such as Mumbai and Delhi, where property values rose at a comparatively sedate average of 7.5% and 7.3%, respectively.

What is the job of NHB residex then? NHB residex had its inception in July 2007 and is credited for measuring property prices in six-monthly intervals precisely. The index, at this point in time, captures data submitted by a variety of sources, including housing finance companies and real estate agents, for 15 cities, with plans to widen the index to 63 so-called tier I cities and state capitals in the future. As per NHB, among the 15 cities, only the Bengal capital Kolkata, Faridabad in the national capital region, and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh saw average double-digit growth in this period.

What has led to this sudden development? On the word of NHB officials, one of the reasons for Kolkata’s numbers was people investing the proceeds of the Sixth Pay Commission payouts last year. Jaipur, on the other hand, did face declines on account of massive oversupply.

Google wishes for to command US online realty industry

2010-01-18T04:37:00.000-08:00

Is Google, globally acclaimed internet giant, has one and only aim and that is to become omnipotent in all sectors? Don’t consider this as any repartee and we have no better way to express the recent happenings. Google Inc., as per an assortment of reports, is on the verge of entering the realty sector with a great might but what it does wish for is to have a complete sway in the segment of online real estate.

How can one be so sure? Well, this question is quite obvious but if we take cue from an executive of the search giant, saying at a conference last week that they are "actively looking to acquire one to two small real estate companies a month”, we get somewhat convinced. However there is a quandary still. Sam Sebastian of Google used the word “small” for several times (quite deliberately) and this has led to a new problem. Because the very word can take on a range of definitions for a company with a market value of $184 billion.

All these indicate that Google Inc. is set to grab hold of mounting sector of online real estate and will leave no stone unturned to trounce others. Many analysts are considering that the development may induce Google to take over a few realty companies in Seattle, the focus of the US online real estate industry.

Which companies are getting most susceptible to the mighty onslaught of Google? Many are terming that the most prominent of them is San Francisco-based Trulia, others include the Bellevue company, ActiveRain and Redfin; both of them do hail from Seattle.

Google Inc. is an American public corporation, earning revenue from advertising related to its Internet search, e-mail, online mapping, office productivity, social networking, and video sharing services as well as selling advertising-free versions of the same technologies and has also developed an open source web browser and a mobile operating system. The company, if truth be told, is running thousands of servers worldwide, which process millions of search requests each day and about 1 petabyte of user-generated data every hour.

3-D TV is hit, more innovations needed to make it blockbuster

2010-01-15T10:01:00.000-08:00

Innovation at times is not only the mantra of success but also happens to be the lifeblood of a civilization and due to the absence of the same, we lose momentum and the life becomes futile. Isn’t it? But this is not the case with the worldwide entertainment industry as counting on 2009’s biggest blockbuster Avatar, foremost TV manufacturers are all set to find out a new alternative. It is the saga of 3-D TVs and if everything goes in the right direction, Hollywood is going to have this future before long.

It has already been learnt that celebrated worldwide TV manufacturers are placing a big bet on 3-D video with exceptional high-end televisions scheduled for commercial release this year.

Now the question remains will the same become victorious. Even though it is too early to predict, there is already a huge thrill among commoners and only in the last week, Consumer Electronics Show attendees, putting on dorky glasses, crowded booths of Sony, Panasonic, LG, Toshiba, Mitsubishi and Samsung only to have a look at the big-screen 3-D TVs on display. The development is impressive, without a shred of doubt, and it has made a number of video companies consider that 3-D TV will be huge this year.

Will you go for the same? This is a big question also since only a few persons will be ready to wear dorky glasses to watch a 3-D soccer game. There is the need of other things as well and these include 3-D-capable Blu-ray player or, in the future, cable box. Besides, you’ll have to pay money for special Blu-ray discs that are clearly labeled to make use of the same 3-D tech as your TV and glasses. So look before you leap since there is a scarcity of all these apposite tools in the market.

But this reality is failing to cow leading manufacturers as they have the conviction that consumers will come along for the 3-D ride ultimately. The Consumer Electronics Association reckons that 4 million 3-D TV sets will be sold in 2010, the majority of them in the fourth quarter.

Indian realty projects yielding to slums

2010-01-15T03:16:00.000-08:00

The word slum may appear as alien to a great part of the world, especially to the populace of both United States and Europe, even though it enjoys a huge presence in Asia and certainly Indian subcontinent, better to say in India. What is a slum then? Well, if we do follow the definition ordained by United Nations agency UN-HABITAT, it is a derelict area of a city characterized by inferior housing and squalor and lacking in tenure security.

In accordance with the studies of United Nations, the proportion of urban dwellers living in slums diminished from 47 percent to 37 percent in the developing world between 1990 and 2005. Nevertheless, on account of increasing population, the number of slum dwellers is also rising. One billion people worldwide live in slums and the figure will likely grow to 2 billion by 2030. You can surely understand what can be the situation in India then.

What is more, the most affected city in the realm of this budding superpower is Mumbai, its financial capital and as per studies, no less than 55% of the city’s populace, if not more, dwells in slums and the adjoining cities like Pune are also witnessing the same scenario increasingly.

Is the indigenous government having any plan to deal with the same issue? Well, it, like a true unprofessional and effete entity, seems to be baffled and the latest reality is that local builders and developers association are afraid of that new slums will crop up in the city owing to paucity of development planning on the part of the government and the PMC. What can be done then? However, it is also true that slum leaders and organizations demand reasonable housing and apposite restoration.

"The fact is that lack of proper development plans has resulted in new slums. There are patches of land in the city which are sold by owners in fragmentation as the state government is not taking a decision on change in intention (that is to convert agriculture land into residential purpose). New slums will come up here and again a new rehabilitation plan will follow," says Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (Credai) Pune president Satish Magar. The process goes on likewise for the eternity hence.

Studies reveal that other Indian states are also moving towards the same direction bit by bit. What’s about realty projects and lofty dreams of ensuring better living standards to commoners then? Dump it for now.

UK Gurkha veterans would fight on despite losing case of equal pension

2010-01-14T10:51:00.000-08:00

Let’s begin with these statements, it may make the topic easier for you. On the word of erstwhile Chief of Staff of the Indian Army, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, “If a man says he is not afraid of dying, he is either lying or he is a Gurkha.” Heed this too. As said by none other than the Nazi dictator Adolph Hitler, if he had Gurkhas then he can win all over the world. He went further and said "there is nothing in the world I scare of but Gurkhas."

I think that you are already impressed and have already borne some veneration of the Gurkhas. Truly speaking, a Gurkha or a member of Hindu people descended from Brahmins and Rajputs who live in Nepal is one of the most fearless persons the world has ever known and the aforesaid statements prove their commitments to the cause, valiance and certainly fierceness in combat. Even the former British Empire regarded it as one of the brightest jewels in the royal crown and had no other way save for taking one Gurkha brigade back home after the Indian independence in 1947.

Nevertheless all these greatest virtues and valor prove to be futile for UK Gurkha veterans as they have lost their High Court attempt to claim the same pensions as their British comrades. The Hon’ble court rejected their case that the Ministry of Defence illegitimately discriminated against them on the grounds of age and race. It is to be noted that the Gurkha veterans were tying their best so as to raise the pensions of those who retired before 1997, which are a third of those paid to British soldiers.

What is more shameful, even these payouts are only available to troops who served for at least 15 years. Nevertheless the Gurkhas were supported by 90 MPs, including Tory Ann Widdecombe. She said: 'It is an injustice to give a pension based on their country of origin instead of the country in whose Army they loyally served.'

What shall be the next step of the hapless Gurkha community? True to their spirit, Gurkhas are still stubborn and as per Major Tikendra Dewan, Chairman of the BGWS, they would fight on despite the 'shattering blow'. He added: 'We are bitterly disappointed. We had hoped British justice would prevail.

'All we were asking for is equal pay for equal service, so Gurkha veterans can live in dignity. But we will appeal and take it to the European Court of Human Rights if necessary.'

Is Malaysia becoming India’s realty destination gradually?

2010-01-14T05:47:00.001-08:00

Why shouldn’t Malaysia move on further when most of others enthused by decline of worldwide recession are doing the same? Even if anyone thinks quite the reverse, he is highly erroneous since Malaysia seems to be recklessly determined to strengthen indigenous realty sector and to pull more foreign direct investments (FDI) into its real estate sector, it is leaving no stone unturned to earn major investments from countries like Singapore, UK, Korea and India. Nevertheless, from an assortment of recently made statements, it seems that India is getting lots of attentions at the moment.

It is to be noted that the Foreign Investment Committee (FIC) of the Government of Malaysia has annunciated of late of a wide-ranging deregulation of investment guidelines to help smooth inflow of investments into the country. What is more, as part of its India investments initiative, the Malaysian government is going to organize a property expo in Chennai from January 22-24. The expo will be inaugurated by Malaysian Prime Minister Mohd Najib Tun Razak, as stated by Kumar Tharmalingam, member, board of governors, Malaysia Property Incorporated (MPI).

“The most important aspect in purchasing Malaysian real estate is the land law system that allows for transparency and enforceability of ownership. Foreigners also have no impediment to buying freehold Malaysian real estate and to sell when the need arises without restriction,” Tharmalingam said.

Is this enough for tempting Indian realty tycoons to Malaysia? If this is your question, let me remind you that only in 2008, Indian investors were the fourth largest in residential property investments in Malaysia after Singapore, UK and Korea. The locations of choice were Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor with a price range of $150,000-$300,000.

It has also been learnt that the expo is being organized in tandem with the Confederation of Indian Industry’s Partnership Summit 2010. It will be exhibiting some of Malaysia’s award winning developers and their latest projects. The firms that are going to participate include IJM Berhad, Glomac Berhad, IOI Properties Berhad, Metro Kajang Holdings Berhad, the Eastern Corridor Economic Regional Development, the ministry of tourism, Matrix Concept Holdings Berhad and Zerin Properties.

Google Inc. tarnishes totalitarian China

2010-01-14T04:34:00.000-08:00

It’s not sure, thus far, whether Google, globally acclaimed US internet giant will pull out from China finally, but the situation has already become sour and if no miracle happens in the meantime, this is the final option for Google Inc. China seems adamant at the moment. Now the question remains whether this (attempts to hack Gmail accounts of human rights activists) is anything new. Perhaps not and if we heed copious numbers of security firms having good presence in China, this has been a regular affair almost.

However, before proceeding to anything else we must have a good knowledge of present-day China. The country under the communist hegemony has witnessed long days of arduous struggle and in spite of being under the dogma of “collective leadership” is, to put it briefly, an adherent of the principle “party controls the gun”. For that reason anything critical of China and CPC is exceedingly eye sore to the indigenous governance of People's Republic of China, whether it is the Tiananmen Square-famed tank man or human rights activists fighting tooth and nail for Freedom for Tibet to Falun Gong supporters and those involved in Liberation of Taiwan.

It is to be noted each of the aforementioned causes and their supporters remain under the strictest surveillance of CPC and PRC and there is no wonder, taking cue from the recent statement of Mikko Hypponen, of security firm F-Secure, hacking of email accounts of select persons under the auspices of PRC is a day-to-day affair. Nevertheless, defiance of Google is not only uncanny but first-of-its-kind since the majority of companies dealing with the same undue government interferences don’t dare to go public. It has to be taken into account that Google has operated in China ever since 2006 and as per its latest statement, it is no longer willing to censor results on its Chinese search engine as the government call for.

There is another question as well. Is it really the handiwork of PRC government or some excessively potent private bodies? Well, Google Inc. has the conviction that perpetrators or cyber-criminals are highly organized (may find it difficult to wok without a strong backing like government) and hail from China, without a shred of doubt.

Facebook, this was not expected

2010-01-13T06:54:00.000-08:00

At times (it may happen to anyone) you get ditched by your close friends and do not have the assured bounty which you were supposed to get. How do you feel then? You feel both cheated and humiliated and pained too, without a shred of doubt. These feelings are with the users of Facebook too, at the moment, believe it or not. A new message appeared on behalf of the Facebook, globally acclaimed social networking website, that it had added a new feature that allows users to respond to comments directly through email without having to log into the site. Unfortunately, the same is not working.

But, nothing appeared like this at the very beginning and on the contrary, millions of users of the social networking website across the globe were indeed happy as browsing through Facebook inbox or check out photos from time to time has become one of the most preferred hobbies by now and getting thrashes in workplaces or schools and colleges for the same is also getting common increasingly. As per the message on the social networking site, this shouldn’t be an issue anymore.

Aside from this, it was also stated without any compunction that unless you alter personal settings in order that they stop incoming email notifications, you are expected to receive an email whenever someone tags you with a picture, video, posts comments on your status or sends you Wall posts. All you have to do, as soon as you receive an email notification about comments, is to click “Reply” and start typing a comment at the top of the email. Then hit “Send” from your email and your reply will automatically be added as a comment on Facebook without you having to even log in.

What is the situation then? It is not working and the reasons from Facebook on the failure is that the company is rolling out the feature over the next couple of weeks. Furthermore, if anyone is unable to have the same, he must be patient and check back again in the next few days; the new facility has been sent to a small percentage of users only.

We can surely understand the bug but it’s evident Facebook, like a true business concern, doesn’t condole with its loyal members. This was certainly not expected.

Bell Labs’ Green Touch initiative set to instate a green future

2010-01-13T02:50:00.001-08:00

This is certainly a rare initiative but aside from this, also owing to its noble aim and the colossal endeavor to attain the same, Alcatel-Lucent’s research division, Bell Labs has the right to have both approval and commendation of ours. We have no other way too for the reason that Bell Labs became instrumental in leading the launch of a global consortium of academics, operators and vendors on Monday, tasked with the remit of developing technologies proficient of making the global communications network 1000 times more energy efficient than it is at the moment.

While the launching event was going on in London, it was found that the Green Touch initiative had under its sway noted researchers from industry, academia and government labs, and the enterprise proposed to invent and convey sweeping new approaches to energy efficiency that will play decisive roles in the realm sustainable networks in future. However, what did haunt the invitees was the striking absence of industrial peers on the founders’ roster, but the undaunted Green Touch initiative, in spite of that, didn’t withdraw from issuing an open invitation to all members of the tech and communications community to join the initiative.

On the word of Jeong Kim, President of Bell Labs, the end game of a thousand fold reduction is almost synonymous to being able to power the world’s communications networks, including the internet, for three years using the same amount of energy that it now takes to run them for a single day. He said that this kind of shift has need of a redesigning of the global network’s infrastructure components from the ground up.

“From time to time we need to make a system level change, and not just make incremental advancements to existing technology,” Kim said. “But in order to do this, we need collaboration between engineers and scientists.”

Some of the founding members of the initiative include service providers AT&T, China Mobile, Portugal Telecom, Swisscom and Telefonica; academic research labs: The Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Research Laboratory for Electronics (RLE), Stanford University’s Wireless Systems Lab (WSL), the University of Melbourne’s Institute for a Broadband-Enabled Society (IBES).

StrataXL hopes to thrive high through neighborhood websites

2010-01-13T02:47:00.000-08:00

It has come to the knowledge that Vancouver, BC - based StrataXL Software Inc. is going to introduce their neighborhood websites at INMAN News’ Real Estate Connect Conference, January 13-15 2010 at the Marriott Marquis, Time Square. Now the question remains what makes the company interested in online technology all of a sudden. This may be your question too but before drawing any conclusion check the facts mentioned below. It’s a simple request.

In accordance with recently published real estate statistics, majority of home buyers (not less than 87% in any way) initiate their home search online, and 96% make use of the internet at some point in their search. What happens to be their most favored subjects for searching? Well, they happen to be properties in specific neighborhoods. Perchance you can surely comprehend now what makes StrataXL opt for the same.

Nevertheless, StrataXL is both apt and professional and more than anything else it has specialization in creating real estate focused neighborhood websites that connect the communities they are in. It is also true that in many cities there aren’t trouble-free ways to come across all the real estate in one neighborhood, in particular not with comments, rankings, and other social feedback tools.

StrataXL, counting on its own intrinsic capacity, has developed a network of community sites - Liveinsites.com - these sites concentrate on local real estate, whilst providing business directories, news and blog channels for residents, companies, and all users. Keep in mind that these websites do enjoy high rankings in search engines and the only reason is that they do leverage community involvement, and the majority of content is user driven.

Now, make a note of this. At 2010’s Inman Real Estate Connect 2010 Conference, StrataXL will be openly launching their hyper-local-social network of neighborhood websites to a group of technologically savvy real estate industry professionals.

"StrataXL’s network of websites has been in Private Beta for more than a year as we worked out features and tested the system. We are excited to be launching it to the public at such a prestigious event." said company founder Riel Roussopoulos.

Use Realtor.com iPhone app to succeed in realty deal

2010-01-13T02:46:00.000-08:00

The credit goes to Realtor.com (R) exclusively for enabling the iPhone(i) users to avail the same. What’s so special then? In short, thanks to Realtor.com (R), from this time forth in excess of 40 million iPhone(i) users can have one-touch mobile access to 4 million properties nationwide and this can be done by means of simply downloading the new Realtor.com® Real Estate Search iPhone app. Bear in mind that the innovative app render the users active access to directly browse the largest and freshest collection of properties available for sale all over the United States of America.

Let’s crack down on the core benefits of users. The feature-rich real estate iPhone app makes it possible for users to have details on their ideal property, find it using the GPS feature, take pictures, save notes using the app's Notes and Rating feature. Then they can send a link to that property in real time by means of email, Twitter or Facebook to family, friends, or a Realtor®. There is hardly any doubt that a quick call and conversation with friends or a Realtor can instantly help settle on if that home remains on the buyer's list.

What would you do then? Remember this that the free Realtor.com Real Estate Search iPhone app is well-matched with iPhone OS 3.0 or higher and the iPod Touch, and can be downloaded at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/real-estate-search/id336698281?mt=8 or by going to a consumer information page on Realtor.com at www.realtor.com/iphone?source=a27508

Commenting on this, Errol Samuelson, President of Realtor.com, stated, "The Realtor.com iPhone app places the power of Realtor.com in the hands of millions of highly mobile consumers that depend on us to deliver the largest collection of properties with the freshest and most accurate information available on the market." "By combining our unmatched search power with the ability to instantly share listings and feedback by email, Twitter or Facebook from an iPhone, millions now have mobile access to a phenomenal property search experience superior to other apps already on the market. We expect Realtors and their clients will appreciate the ease and convenience that our app brings to their experience as they work together to find the ideal property."

VoIP is exceedingly useful and necessary; bag it now

2010-01-12T09:06:00.001-08:00

A time comes, rarely in history, when you can’t proceed with the conventional notions any longer and owing to the onslaught of new thoughts, you have to accept the new reality. This does happen once in a blue moon but, at this point in time, we are witnessing the same through Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). What is VoIP then? Well, it is a general term for a family of transmission technologies for delivery of voice communications over IP networks such as the Internet or other packet-switched networks. What is more vital to mention is that this novel process of for person-to-person communication has changed the overall scenario substantially and some precise VoIP features are playing the foremost roles.

What are those? What make them allure people so much?

The first of them is that it is both user-friendly and cheap to run. Thanks to the presence of the infrastructure already (if you own a high-speed Internet connection), it’s easy on the pocket and you don’t have to get burdened with additional fees. This is also important. In several cases, application of VoIP is just the same for the user as making a regular phone call. He or she only makes use of a phone, and the call goes to the recipient’s phone without delay. Is there any difference then? Well, it is how the information gets transferred, butd this is not your cup of tea and you don’t have bother at all.

The other leading features include VoIP brings forth more information in contrast to others, brings an expansive network into play, renders the very user loads of options. VoIP is also exceedingly accessible (at any time) and owing to its inherent potency, can be used to call from computer to computer.

Bear in mind that VoIP technology can also be applied in order to call a telephone given that the other person is devoid of any VoIP capability. To end with, VoIP can be used to call from phone to phone, too, even though the call’s receiver does not make the most of VoIP.

Aren’t you finding the same as useful and absolutely necessary? VoIP has become the order of the day, bag it straight away.

Can BOPV help India to thwart poliomyelitis?

2010-01-12T09:05:00.001-08:00

Perchance, if we begin by sharing some basic information on polio or poliomyelitis or an acute viral disease marked by inflammation of nerve cells of the brain stem and spinal cord, the entire subject may get clearer. The disease has already been identified as an acute viral disease and it is also true, even though, the majority of polio infections bring about no symptoms by any means, affected individuals can show signs of an assortment of symptoms provided that the virus enters the blood stream.

It is also admitted that India has been one of the most-affected countries in this regard but it can have a sigh of relief from this time forth. Reason? India, after loads of endeavors, has been able to have a new weapon to fight off the perilous presence of poliomyelitis and also to do away with it.

What is the new weapon then? Well, it happens to be the first bivalent oral polio vaccine (BOPV) launched by the government and it is confident that the same will be able to thwart both strains of polio found in the country.

It is to be noted that at the moment the monovalent kind of vaccine is in use in India and even though it can act against one strain of the disease, it falls through with regard to both. The MOPV1 vaccine is used against the P1 strain of polio, while MOPV3 vaccine works against the P3 strain of the disease.

The BOPV was launched only on yesterday, being National Immunization Day (NID), under the auspices of the President, Smt Pratibha Patil and she was found to administer the vaccine to about ten infants at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. Health officials, in the meantime said that in the region of 2.5 lakh children would be immunized making use of the new vaccine during the first phases of the campaign itself.

There is no doubt in it that India is conscious of the mounting cases of polio and to get rid of the same, it spends as much as Rs 1,200 crore and of it almost half is used to pay money for vaccines. Despite that, the dreaded disease has still not been successfully eradicated in the country.

Can BOPV help India attain the long-awaited success? We, albeit not skeptical, are waiting for the same.

Can Bengal have its brawny industrial basis?

2010-01-09T10:19:00.001-08:00

Let’s say a few words in the beginning. Bengal, which plays a highly imperative role in several sectors of India viz. history, politics, economy, and certainly culture, has been receding (better to say worsening) for decades without a single break and while one of the reasons of this steady downfall has been the left-wing adventurism and its colossal follies, strange anti-Bengali Hindu mindset prevalent in Delhi can’t be overlooked too. The state had enjoyed a competitive advantage over others thanks to its preeminence in British India and was able to retain this clout till last 60s, ended soon thanks to Left and Union Government, more interested to replace Calcutta by Bombay as the economic hub of the vast nation.

Nevertheless, the emergence of Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee as the Chief Minister of the hapless state (replacing the effete, grand Communist patriarch) led to a strong optimism and his vibrant speeches focusing on mantra “Do it now” created almost a frenzy. Nevertheless, almost a decade after those convulsions of emotions or exhilaration, the impetus has died down and the government’s catastrophe in both Singur and Nandigram proved to be too costly for the state’s industrial map.

Nevertheless, the Bengal CM is not ready to give up so easily and has been found, once again, to gear up for forging a strong industrial basis for the wretched state. This becomes more evident from the fact that he has requested members of the ASSOCHAM to help the government advance its 1994 industrial policy.

Commenting on this D S Rawat, Secretary of ASSOCHAM, said, "He wants an industrial policy that can capture the future course considering the comparative advantages the state has, and also suggest the suitable education for backward linkages."

It is to be noted that the Bengal Chief Minister, in an effort to solve land acquisition problems and imbroglio, wants the ASSOCHAM to appraise the compensation offered to the land losers in contrast to the package in other states. By the way, ASSOCHAM has given the CM a report on industrialization and as per it, Bengal is one of the foremost states to have fetched the maximum investment in the last decade.

According to the study, the state has received a cumulative investment proposal (till September 2009) of Rs 5.30 lakh crore in last 12 years in 1002 projects. Out of this 457 projects with an aggregate investment of Rs 2.25 lakh crore is under implementation.

Nothing can be said of the future. But at this time there is the need of hard precedents (in brief, good successes) instead of mere pompous words, if Bhattacharjee wants to ensure a come back. The state election is round the corner!

East Kolkata Wetlands – Bengal’s new Frankenstein

2010-01-08T04:25:00.000-08:00

Whatever may be the baits of money and power (certainly originating from outlawed processes), the law takes its own course and however may be the initial successes, the triumph is attained by righteousness only. This is an age-old principle, appreciated across the globe despite differences of ethnicity, religion, language and culture and the same precept found expression through latest ruling of the Calcutta High Court.

The state of Bengal witnessed loads of uproar concerning illegal land deals, in the recent past that not only led to violent skirmishes (advocated by adverse political groups) but also slayings. But credit must be given to Calcutta High Court which stopped repetition of the same by means of halting a new attempt to encroach on the East Kolkata Wetlands.

Let’s get specific. The court directed the "buyers" of a one-bigha plot opposite ITC Sonar Hotel directly to return it to Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) by February 15. It is to be noted that the East Kolkata Wetlands Management Authority (EKWMA) had tried to stop construction on the plot in Boinchtala mouza (in the past) but was restrained by an injunction.

The culpable persons including Nasim Ahmed Siddique and three others moved high court claiming that they had purchased the land from its owner. Nevertheless counsel for KMC and EKWMA argued that the transaction was against the law for the reason that the land belonged to KMC and was part of the Ramsar site where construction is forbidden without the EKWMA's approval.

Advocate Aloke Ghosh while appearing for KMC, termed KMC as the real possessor of the entire area and as per him, nobody had the privilege to sell land in Boinchtala to anyone else. In addition, Ghosh pointed out that under the West Bengal Wetland (Conservation & Management) Act, 2006, no one could change the character of the wetland without the EKWMA's consent.

Ghosh made it clear that the KMC, as well, had to get hold of permission from EKWMA to build a water treatment plant at Dhapa. The site under consideration is close to the plot where the treatment plant is under construction.

We would not extend this report but would end with a more dangerous note. A stated by EKWMA Chief Technical Officer Nitai Kundu, threats to the wetlands from real estate developers are increasing by leaps and bounds and promoters are the biggest challenge. On the word of him, almost 40% violations are reported in Sonarpur area followed by 25% each in Salt Lake and Tiljala and the apathy of the local administration is exasperating the situation.

Indian real estate getting imperialist

2010-01-08T04:24:00.000-08:00

It had started in the decade of 50s when India witnessed the heyday of state-controlled planned economy based on Soviet model. There was a great demand and appreciation of foreign or multinational investments in the length and breadth of the country and this fervor increased to a greater extent in the following decades and anything foreign, certainly funds, was regarded as a blessing. Nevertheless, the situation is no more the same and from 1991 (that had the inception of market economy in India) to now, the scenario has changed to a certain extent.

The best specimen of this changed circumstances and also perception is that in the region of 100 Gujarat builders will try for in excess of 150 properties in Dubai at an auction to be held at the ballroom of the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa.

The news is not only authentic but it has also been learnt that a delegation of Confederation of Real Estate Developers of India (CREDAI), Gujarat chapter, is going to Dubai to attend the national convention of CREDAI on January 23. The delegation, by means of dwelling more will participate in an auction specially organized for them by an association of agents.

On the word of Jaxay Shah, President of CREDAI, Gujarat chapter, the first and foremost thought is to remain in Dubai for a couple of days after the CREDAI meet and explore opportunities for builders who are flush with funds. He said, in addition, at this point in time, real estate prices in Dubai are down by up to 40 per cent on account of the financial crisis; this uncanny situation has stimulated the Gujarat builders to give vent to their interests and establish business in the emirate.

Well it is not sure how far they will get successful. Well, whatever may be the outcome, the approach must be appreciated. All these indicate that Indian realty is not getting global but also has the proficiency to consume others.

So Indian real estate is getting imperialist, a nice show and it can certainly benefit Indian economy provided that the impetus is retained.

India to launch 'electronic dog' to thwart terror plans

2010-01-07T14:22:00.000-08:00

Only a very few countries other than Israel has undergone the war of terror like India of late and all these have made the country, considered by many as the citadel of religious tolerance, pluralism and tranquility, well-experienced. India, after going through a series of terror onslaughts, has concluded that the battle against this spate of violence and jihad can’t be won through retaining its age-old stances (wait, watch and if necessary act) but by blood and iron.

All these have made the Indian government bring forth newer devices to fight against and defeat this venomous standpoint and thanks to it, Indian scientists, at the moment, are engaged in developing an electronic device that will nose out explosives like RDX, known for remaining unnoticed by existing security equipments.

On the word of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-Mumbai) professor V. Ramgopal Rao, an archetype of the e-device is under development to smell explosives from a distance by a sensor coated with nano materials. It has come to the knowledge that the government has assigned the electrical engineering department of the IIT to develop the high-tech device in association with the High Energy Materials Research Lab of the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at Chandigarh and the Madras Atomic Power Station at Kalpakkam near Chennai.

How can the novel device be used? As stated by the revered professor, so as to augment
security and check use of improvised explosive devices (IED) by terrorists and other criminal elements, the device with nano sensors could be installed at airports, railway stations, bus stands and other vital installations to detect them in solid, liquid or vapor form and seize before they are timed to explode.

What is its uniqueness then? The device with an electronic nose will be able to sniff presence of IED or RDX in any of the three forms in the way trained canines can do. What is more, this 'electronic dog' is a good option in contrast to training dogs, known for making a mess of many things at times.

Mercedes-Benz set to trounce contenders through novel sports car

2010-01-06T06:43:00.001-08:00

The setting is ready and if everything goes right, the next innovation of Mercedes-Benz, globally acclaimed German manufacturer of luxury automobiles, the new sports car may not only exceed the magisterial contenders but trounce them as well. It has come to the knowledge that the celebrated manufacturer is engaged with working on a new sports car based on an abridged version of the 2010 SLS AMG’s platform and has the sole intention to overwhelm Porsche 911 in all possible manners.

What is more, the groundbreaking (alleged) Mercedes-Benz sports car will copy the SLS AMG’s aluminum construction but will fail to retain the funky gullwing doors.

What shall be the case then? Well, as per company officials, there shall be the introduction of standard front-hinged doors and this may lessen costs to a large extent. There shall also be the inclusion of AMG’s next-generation V-8 engine, a 5.5-liter unit with direct-injection and turbocharging technologies and an output of around 500-horsepower; surely these are enough to make the blue-blooded vehicle more gallant.
This may attract you a lot; acceleration times for the 0-60 mph dash are likely to plunge around the 4.5 second mark.

It has been learnt that the novel sports car is tipped to be called the SSK AMG and is due for launch in 2014--an open top roadster version is a well-nigh conviction.

What has made Mercedes-Benz launch the novel sports car? Is it to rout Porsche 911 only? Well, analysts consider that there are a few reasons save for this. They indicate that the decision to build more individual AMG models is to help set up the Mercedes-Benz in-house tuner as a separate sports car manufacturer and through this it can pose a direct challenge to smaller players in the supercar arena including Pagani and McLaren.

Mercedes-Benz is a German manufacturer of luxury automobiles, buses, coaches, and trucks and is, at the moment, a division of the parent company, Daimler AG (formerly DaimlerChrysler AG.

Indian real estate getting stabler

2010-01-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

Well, the New Year – 2010 has kicked off already and hence, an assortment of speculations is in the air, especially regarding the Indian realty sector. What is in the future? How will the Indian real estate sector behave in the upcoming months? These thoughts are getting more importance than ever before and the reasons are not hard to see. The Indian realty sector did undergo a severe jolt thanks to the global recession and the atypical deeds of it (at that juncture) are still fresh.

Nonetheless, Indian realty captains have reasons to laugh. It is getting more and more evident that the Rs 70,000-crore Indian real estate sector is on the verge of witnessing fresh investments to the tune of $1.5 billion in residential deals under the aegis of exclusive real estate funds in the financial year 2010-11. As per industry analysts, this is three times more than the total quantum that such funds invested in FY 2008-09.

These funds include Sun Apollo, HDFC India Real Estate Fund, RedFort Capital, ICICI Prudential Infrastructure Fund and Xander Real Estate Partners. It has come to the knowledge that the investments will be both in the metros in addition to Tier II cities in India and we can certainly be hopeful of a revitalization and bright future.

However, there is another development. Both international funds and domestic real estate funds will play equal roles and there might be a healthy competition between the two concerning the contributions. Domestic real estate funds may lead to overall investments of around $400 million, international funds are likely to deliver forth in excess of $1.2 billion in the real estate sector during the period.

Speaking to Financial express of late, Amit Goenka, National Director - Capital Transactions, Knight Frank India Private Ltd said, “These estimates are based on the total active domestic and international funds and their existing corpus strengths. There are some active domestic players like HDFC, ICICI Prudential Fund, IndiaREIT, Milestone and ASK who are expected to do deals in 2010. The bulk of the funds are, however, foreign, with much larger corpuses.”

Smacking is efficacious for students

2010-01-05T04:52:00.000-08:00

Is smacking good or bad? The question may amaze you a lot since any act of smacking (act of smacking something; a blow delivered with an open hand), these days, is despised and even copious numbers of educational institutions across the globe have already issued diktats against it. But the present issue goes against the same outright and as per the recent revelations of a US professor of psychology smacking children can make them do better at school.

Let’s have a brief yet detailed analysis of the same. The research states without any compunction that any act of smacking kids makes them brainier and in accordance with the research from Marjorie Gunnoe, professor of psychology at Calvin College in the US State of Michigan, children smacked before the age of six perform better at school when they become teenagers. They are also more expected to do charitable work and to want to go to university than their peers.

However, it must be stated that the notion of smacking is not alien to some countries, in particular India, the land of ancient gurukul system, a form of residential school, where sishyas or students used to live and learn all the necessary tasks from the teachers or gurus. Smacking is one of the ways to develop the students there and also to make them best in respective disciplines.

There are, if truth be told, hordes of instances in Indian scriptures that prove how smacking can help students. To come to the point, if we take a look at the lives of several scholars, the efficacy of smacking can be found without a shred of doubt.

It is to be noted that corporal punishment is prohibited in 20 European countries including Spain and Germany; in Britain “reasonable chastisement” in the home is permitted only if it doesn’t leave a mark – on their body, if not the soul.

Smacking is good and effective for students – we can certainly conclude.

Is Pakistan moving towards a violent collapse?

2010-01-02T05:52:00.000-08:00

Is Pakistan moving towards a collapse bit by bit? The question is enough to astound people who are yet to get familiar with the worsening situations in the country, albeit I don’t know who is still unconscious of the degeneration in the Pakistani mainland. Ever since Pakistan intensified its onslaughts against the dreaded Taliban outfits (allegedly under US pressure), the situation is gradually yet steadily going out of the frying pan into the fire. Of late one of the bloodiest bombings in more than two years that killed at least 89 people makes us more skeptical of the chance of reinstatement of the Muslim republic that occupies the heartland of ancient south Asian civilization in the Indus River valley.

The attack took place at volleyball game on Friday and hinted Al Qaeda-linked Taliban insurgents were focusing more on bombing large crowds of civilians. Reason? This is perhaps the best way to them to wreak highest casualties and spread terror, rather than attacking hard targets such as security forces. What has been the fallout then? Not only the blast has pushed the whole country towards the wall and made its foremost ally USA incredulous of Pakistan’s potency, it has also enraged the overwhelming Muslim bourgeoisie, seen fuming and raising voices of protest for the first time.

Even though no such drastic measure has been adopted by US, known for considering Pakistan as the key frontline state in the war against a resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan, it is alarmed without a shred of doubt.

Now the question remains who can salvage the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in this hours of need. Will the Pakistani President be able to take up the cudgel for the hapless country? Even the Pakistanis, in particular the patriotic intellectuals have lost confidence almost and as per them, beleaguered President Asif Ali Zardari is under pressure on several fronts, both at home and from abroad. While on one hand he is at loggerheads with the omnipotent Pakistani military establishment, on the other hand his close aides are awaiting to cope with rejuvenated corruption charges.

Again, Pakistan Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervz Kayani (though on a different issue and regarding India majorly) said "An army supported by 170 million people, with faith in Allah, is a formidable force to reckon with." But even this force is failing to gratify its guardians in the West, as it has not been able to trounce the militants thus far.

Militants, if we rely on an assortment of studies, have successfully exploited hardships to recruit sensitive young men with promises of magnificent holy war. What should be done then? analysts opine that the government has to win the confidence of millions of Pakistanis suffering from poverty and lack of basic services such as electricity and this can be done if a pseudo-feudalistic, pseudo-capitalist economy is transformed to a modern one.

Is this possible? Perhaps not and this deficiency is heightening internal dissensions, quite enough to balkanize Pakistan and spiflicate the most potent representative of Islamic Ummah for the time being.

What conclusion can be drawn? The country that was born through overwhelming violence, arsons, fratricides and certainly genocides is certain to undergo a violent collapse before long and with this the dream of a powerful, poised, technically sound, self-determining Muslim middle-class, considered by many analysts as more lethal than even Islamic hardliners or militants, will end forever.

Can India comprehend true worth of NRIs this time?

2010-01-02T05:44:00.001-08:00

It’s winter again in India and the corporate ambiance of this budding superpower is gearing up to celebrate the annual fête of diaspora, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Will it be able to create any good impression, especially in the Indian governance, this time? This is the big question of the day and truly speaking, overseas Indians are expecting a good deal to be heard in the corridors of power. Can this be? We don’t know yet.

Our lack of knowledge hails from a number of factors. The first and foremost of these is that by now the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has found a reduction in attendance (the number of attendees is falling rapidly through the consecutive years) and as per founding fathers of the jamboree, by now it has fallen to around a fifth of what earlier editions did perceive. Recently this statement of a senior Foreign Affairs official came to the press and media, “The novelty of PBD is fading and there is no magic formula to increase the numbers. We cannot rotate the venue as it is difficult to get government officials to attend the meetings for three full days. Even if we invite the Union Home Minister for the function, he cannot stay more than a few hours. Last time, we got around 1,000 people since it was held in Chennai.”

What shall be the picture at this time? We can certainly be wannabe albeit we don’t know when the Indian governance will comprehend NRIs as part and parcel of the Indian soil and one of the best weapons for forging a colorful destiny. There is also another factor. Can you belittle the anguishes the NRIs suffered thanks to their interests in investing in India?

To cut a long story short, hundreds of thousands of rupees worth of property across the country has been provided of no value to the NRI owners because of a surfeit of legal squabbling and bureaucratic rigmarole. Far away from home and generally lacking local help to deal with these matters, a large number of overseas Indians find themselves in the excruciations of depression and distraction.

What can we do then? We can only hope that Pravasi Bharatiya Divas would be able to shun its agonies and Indian governance, in spite of being under the sway of morons, can get the true worth of NRIs.

Restoration of commercial real estate in 2010 – a bleak prospect

2010-01-01T12:03:00.000-08:00

Have my best wishes of a “Happy New Year” at the very outset and I really hope that this year-2010 comes up as the best for you. But I can’t share these good wishes with many others, especially people associated with some specific industries like realty sector. Reason? Taking cue from a recently completed survey, it can be said that things may not improve for some industries in the coming year and you know lots of similar deliberations are already in the air since consumers and businesses keep on to face foreclosures and other problems with debt.

Let’s get specific without wasting time. The survey was conducted under the aegis of Turnaround Management Association and as per its poll, 49 percent of respondents said that economic improvement in "distressed" industries will perhaps not appear until the latter half of 2010. What is more, even though around 30 percent of responders expressed they found the economy has made it through the worst part of the recession, 20 percent felt as though it "has yet to hit rock bottom." Wide-ranging studies indeed!

Which industry can get most vulnerable? The majority of responders (no less than75 percent, if not more) were unanimous and stated without hesitations that the commercial real estate market will face the toughest time in 2010. On the word of thirty-one percent of respondents, the automotive market would continue to face difficulties. This is good since 51 percent answers apprehended the same in 2008.

When questions regarding joblessness were asked, answers said that unemployment could be lowered by tax incentives, investments in technology and capital spending, assuming that an economic recovery doesn't create jobs on its own.

"To a lesser degree, respondents think stimulus spending to create public works and youth employment projects and repatriate manufacturing jobs could help absorb some of the millions of out-of-work Americans," a report from the TMA said.

Indian insurance sector to get more global tie-ups

2009-12-31T12:26:00.001-08:00

By now it has become evident that 2010 is going to be a boon for the Indian insurance sector and the reasons behind this are not hard to see. A number of insurance tycoons across the globe are getting interested to capitalize on this mounting (in terms of revenues) and certainly vibrant market and foremost of them happen to be the celebrated insurance companies hailing from Japan.

One of these is, without a shred of doubt, Mitsui Sumitomo, an exceedingly acclaimed insurance player in the realm of Japan, and the company, at the moment, is busy is exploring opportunities to enter the Indian insurance sector. What is its aim at the moment? Well, as far information goes, it is to set up shop in India. It has to be stated, in this context, Indian Government’s proposal to lift the FDI cap in the insurance sector from 26 per cent to 49 per cent has stimulated Japanese and Korean companies to a large extent.

Why shouldn’t the same be too? Recent studies suggest that India and China are among the fastest growing insurance markets following the recession. Is there any difference between the two? As indicated by industry analysts, even if China is a bigger market, India’s distribution system is more evolved and it is believed to be acting as the Unique Selling Proposition at this moment in time.

There have been other inspiring facts as well. As said by industry officials, global companies by and large prefer to have a presence in both India and China and the market grapevine has it that a couple of Japanese and Korean insurance players are looking at possible joint venture deals with some of the financial services firms having extensive distribution networks.

Bear this in mind. Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (London Management) Ltd (MSILM*) is part of the Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Group (MSIG). MSILM, through its subsidiaries, is one of the most innovative and forward thinking insurers in the market at present.

Indian insurance sector awaiting a showdown

2009-12-31T12:25:00.001-08:00

There is no doubt in it that the New Year – 2010 is going to be the best in your life and will gratify your most of long-standing aspirations. Will the same be for everyone? Well, I am not so sure but surely it is not going to be for the Indian insurance sector. Reason? A bitter struggle between the insurance and markets regulators in the Indian scenario is imminent and the questioning of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to HDFC Standard Life regarding the absence of life insurance cover under its pension plan has already initiated the scuffle.

Experts assume the market regulator looking for product details from a company which comes under the realm of the insurance regulatory and development authority is not unusual but the same development could intensify issue of regulatory turf. The only reason is that insurance companies are allowed to put up products for sale only after a rigorous approval process by IRDA.

Nevertheless, HDFC Standard Life Insurance has preferred to retain a strange silence over the issue thus far. But industry analysts are anticipating a bitterer development. As per the majority of them, IRDA may take the matter up with SEBI owing to the fact that the pension plan like all other products was cleared by the insurance regulator. It is to be noted that the launch of
unit-linked insurance plans has wakened the lines between a mutual fund and a life insurance company.

It has come to the knowledge, in order to distinguish the products the insurance regulator has prescribed minimum lock-in period for life companies. The approach, without a shred of doubt, is surprising since all life insurers sell similar pension plans without any life cover. HDFC Standard Life can’t be held culpable as a result.

We are waiting for a showdown.

Real estate woes tormenting Indian government much

2009-12-30T11:54:00.000-08:00

Even though economic pundits in the realm of India are considering the indigenous realty sector as one of the most vivacious and prospective sectors (certainly in terms of generating revenues) known hitherto, the picture is perhaps getting bleak bit by bit owing to several unforeseen developments. What makes one issue such ruthless remarks?

Go through the following and I hope that you may also abide by my standpoints.

It is getting evident an increasing number of non-resident Indians (NRIs) is getting vulnerable to real estate woes and as per some of the preys, negligence of governance happens to be supreme. To cut a long story short, copious numbers of complaints of real estate deals getting sour, crooked and dishonest encroachment and unauthorized occupation of properties have flooded the ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA).

What we can say is that this is nothing new but the recent saga of Satyam scam casting its shadow on Maytas Properties has made the situation out of the frying pan into the fire. There is hardly any doubt that apprehensions amid overseas investors, thanks to all these tainted events, have deepened.

What has been the response of Government of India? After all, it is the foremost authority and can’t leave us in the lurch. Well, it has expressed own views and as indicated by Vayalar Ravi, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister, "Property dispute is one of the most frequent complaints by NRIs. They are unable to protect their property due to long absences or lack of awareness of laws."

Bear this in mind too. The majority of complaints are from major real estate markets like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Punjab.

What types of complaints are there then? The nature of the complaints, it has been found, are mostly protection of property that has been forcibly occupied or encroached, dispute relating to division of property or inheritance and cases where investors have been cheated by real estate developers.

On the word of the minister, following this deluge of complaints, he had written to state governments asking them to appoint nodal officers for civil, judicial and police matters. These nodal officers are free from NRI cells that are dedicated for issues related to financial or welfare interests of overseas Indians.

Wen Jiabao vows to retain "proactive" fiscal stance

2009-12-29T13:31:00.000-08:00

China is in a real fix and the experts fear the real estate bubble may attain alarming proportions, if not restrained in time. All these have stimulated the Communist Government of China to get cognizant of each and every development in the pertinent area and the Chinese Premier has come out with a phenomenal assertion. In accordance with Wen Jiabao, the Chinese Premier, from this time forth the government will dampen down property prices, resist pressure for the yuan to appreciate and keep inflation at "reasonable" levels.

"Property prices have risen too quickly in some areas and we should use taxes and loan interest rates to stabilize" them, Wen said yesterday in an online interview with the official Xinhua News Agency. China will "absolutely not yield" to calls for currency gains, he stated in addition.

Take a look at some other crucial facts. Recent reports suggest elucidate that China's property prices climbed last month at the quickest pace ever since July 2008 and all these made industry analysts predict record lending and inflows of money will inflate asset bubbles in the world's fastest-growing major economy. What was the last statement of Fan Gang? Only on November 18 the Central bank adviser said that the nation needs to be on alert for stock, real-estate and commodity bubbles for the reason that global capital flows into emerging economies.

"It's difficult to see how serious the government is about cooling the property market," said Andy Xie, former Morgan Stanley chief Asian economist. "The issue isn't about introducing new measures but enforcing existing measures."

We must focus more on the statement of the Chinese Premier. China should anticipate inflation on account of factors including rising global commodity costs, Wen said, pledging to keep price increases in a "reasonable range." The government will leave no stone unturned to retain a "moderately loose" monetary policy and a "proactive" fiscal stance, Wen said, adding that it would be a mistake to extract stimulus measures too quickly.

Israel’s military triumphs strengthen own realty sector

2009-12-28T04:55:00.001-08:00

This picture, without a shred of doubt, is contrary to the belief. We, at the moment, are dealing with Israel but more with its successes, instead of anguishes as usual. The whole of Jewish republic in southwestern Asia at eastern end of Mediterranean, at present, is enjoying a housing boom and the sole credit, in this context, goes to its political leadership. How? If you recall whilst Israel launched a massive offensive in the Gaza Strip a year ago, political leaders said the primary objective was to quench cross-border rocket fire against villages in southern Israel.

What is the current situation then? Well, all tensions have dissolved almost as the military mission has largely been accomplished. It must be taken into consideration that launches of short-range Qassam rockets plummeted 90 percent to a decade low in 2009. All these positive developments have stimulated the country-wide realty sector and there has been a upsurge in demand for homes in a region that people had been fleeing. There is hardly any doubt that most of Gaza remains in ruins thus far. Nonetheless, improved interest in real estate in Sderot, the main target of the Qassam rockets, has pushed home values up by as much as a 30 percent.

A sense of optimism is being witnessed in the kibbutz, or farming collectives, around Gaza, as well. On the word of leading real estate marketing executives in the region, sales of new homes have tripled while prices have risen 15 percent. As per the majority of them, the situation has changed drastically by now and the role played by improved security conditions, in this regard, can’t be belittled.

Is this the beginning of a new era? We surely would love to envisage in this way but some fears still continue to torment Israelis and according to the beliefs of majority, a new, worse flare-up is only a matter of time. If recent Israeli army intelligence assessments are relied upon, Hamas is learning the lessons of the war and stocking hundreds of missiles in preparation for another round of fighting.

But surely Israel is steadfast and this defiant attitude is being expressed through each aspect, the buoyant Israeli realty sector is one. Truly, it is unlike India, the Asian giant, mostly susceptible to terror strikes and getting lost in political squabbles bit by bit.

Can US leaders restrain subsequent healthcare legislation hurdles?

2009-12-24T09:32:00.001-08:00

How can a struggle be won? Lots of pundits are there to express personal standpoints in this context but we, commoners remain in need of extremely explicit specimens to stimulate ourselves. US healthcare reform Bill – gallant struggle to set up the essence and to emerge victorious after a long, arduous struggle, if truth be told, is itself a specimen that will encourage the generations to come.

The history was created as soon as US Senate approved the ground-breaking legislation and by now it’s a reality that it would play a great role in extending healthcare for tens of millions of uninsured Americans. Now the question remains whether the victors can have a sigh of relief yet and the reasons are not hard to see.

As per a considerable section of pertinent analysts, substantial hurdles await the legislation to a large extent. It has come to the knowledge that the work will embark on in the New Year to reconcile the Senate legislation with a House of Representatives Bill that was passed last month, which is more left wing. Make a note of this as well. Potentially tough negotiations are likely all over January for the reason that the two Bills have significant differences.

Experts state that the Senate Bill does not include the "public option" - a government-backed insurance programme - which is a crucial part of the House legislation. The provision is likely to be hard fought for by liberals in the House. Nevertheless any public option risks losing the key votes of moderate Democrats in both the House and Senate.

Is this all? Perhaps not! Another conceptual separation between the two bodies is how the reforms will be financed. The House Bill would enforce a surtax on high-earning individuals and couples, whereas the Senate Bill applies a 40 per cent tax to be paid by insurance companies on alleged "Cadillac plans" or the health insurance premiums that cost above $8,500 a year for individuals and $23,000 for families.

South Korea firm to fortify own defense science and technology might

2009-12-24T09:30:00.000-08:00

The political climate of Asia is changing fast with China and (to some extent) India getting belligerent than ever before. What should other nations do other than fortifying own boundaries and potencies? South Korea is doing the same and in accordance with the country’s Ministry of National Defense, it has unveiled revised plans on developing the country's defense science and technology from 2010 to 2024. Without a shred of doubt, the task is both humongous and intricate but what else can be done. One should not forget that South Korea shares border with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, known for its uncanny approaches, dogmatism, and unwavering fealty to communist principles in the global arena.

Now let’s have some words regarding revised plans. As per the Ministry of National Defense, the revised design has set improving technologies for high-tech weapons system as a mid-term goal and securing independent technology for it as a long-term aim. Nevertheless, there shall be far-reaching consequences and it is likely that South Korea’s investment in research and development on national defense, at the moment at 5.6 percent of the total military spending, will climb up to 7 percent by 2012, and to 10 percent by 2020. This is not only a sharp rise compared to the original plan but is competent to make the nation more poised than ever before.

It is to be noted that South Korea, at this time, is the world's 18th largest weapons seller and also aims to increase its arms sales by 2024 to become the 10th exporter.

But there have been some other talks as well. Government records suggest that changes in plans are believed to be made every five years. What led to this bizarre development then? Experts state that the changes did surface in advance than standard following the latest revision in 2007 on account of policy changes on national defense under the Lee Myung-bak administration, which assumed office in February 2008.

Can insurance schemes with feudal overtone benefit?

2009-12-23T05:54:00.000-08:00

The Preamble to the Constitution of India declares the nation to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic, republic but I am confident that none can have the glimpse of it in the reality. Though this is shameful and I do also feel bitter while stating the same, truth can’t be enshrouded. Perhaps there is no other country where each and every aspect of feudalism reigns with such vigor while remaining under the clout of democracy.

There is, without doubt, no country other than India where posthumous awards or schemes dedicated to departed leaders rule the show. Take for instance Congress General Secretary and budding PM (or Super PM?) Rahul Gandhi. The royal scion (who can dare to be majestic save for him?) launched Rajiv Gandhi Artisans Health Insurance scheme for women associated with self-help groups, bringing his slain father’s charisma yet again to the public.

Inaugurating the scheme in his own constituency launched as an enterprise between the ICICI Bank and Union Textile Ministry, Rahul said free medical treatment of upto Rs 6,000 would be provided to women connected with the SHGs. What shall be the other benefits? Cards will be issued to the beneficiaries under the scheme, which will enable them for free treatment at the Sanjay Gandhi hospital.

There was, if truth be told, a festivity to mark the visit of Congress General Secretary and ten OPD camps were organized on the occasion at Sanjay Gandhi hospital, where free medical examination and treatment was provided to locals. The Congress leader himself, projecting himself as a true leader, inspected the camps and enquired about medical examination and treatment being given to the patients.

What do you envisage then? The insurance scheme had been necessary, it was introduced but we have strong doubts of its application.

No scheme with feudal flavor has been successful thus far. If you fail to accept this and contradict me, I shall be happiest.

Anita can’t be disowned, She is our Daughter and shall ever be

2009-12-17T08:32:00.000-08:00

Where are we heading to? This sentence at the very outset may astound you a good deal. Well, before going to any further, let’s check out some readily available facts.

Ever since Islam stepped into the realm of Bengal, forceful conversion of Hindus has been one of the most preferred ploys of the Muslim zealots to make the whole community kowtow. Throughout the Muslim hegemony and 19th century, it was in full swing and gained new momentum with the onset of the 20th century backed by several doctrines. It has been unabated in both erstwhile East Pakistan and contemporary Bangladesh but the same malicious campaign is being witnessed in the Indian state of Bengal too, thanks to the tacit understanding between the pseudo-secular sections and Islamic fundamentalist forces and certainly the uncanny silence of the culpable democratic society.

What is more striking, even the Hon’ble Calcutta High Court, considered as the highest form of judiciary in the state, is corroborating the same spiteful intents. What else can be said if we look at the strange development of the case of Ms Anita Ray?

Ms Anita Ray (aged 15) and Shahidul got married only after she was misled by him. Anita, at the behest of Shahidul, ran from her paternal residence, got converted into Islam and married the venomous guy. Mr. Suvendu Ray (Anita’s father) got infuriated and with the help of police got hold of the estranged daughter only on 20th October, six days after the couple took flight.

From that period Shahidul was absconding and even though he appealed to the lower court for bail in advance, it was rejected altogether. Strangely enough, Calcutta High Court has sanctioned the same citing that marriage of women under 15 years is lawful under the Muslim Marriage Act, unlike Hindus.

What does this lead to? Does the court wish for to affirm that any such act is glorious? Does it want to convey the message that Muslim society is omnipotent and what it does is just? Before that, Anita, at the time of conversion, was of 15 years old only. How can a minor be converted?

It’s definite that the Ray family didn’t consent or respond favorably to the proposal, not to speak of Anita, a minor girl who can’t decide on any such crucial issue, in accordance with Indian Penal Code.

What can you say then? This is one of the gravest conspiracies known hitherto and must be trounced, forget about remaining indoors and continue to doggone or wish harm upon Shahidul. Without a shred of doubt, he has been backed by the considerable section of Muslims in close proximity, may be there is the involvement of Calcutta section as well.

The line of battlefield has been drawn already and we are taking all types of measures to make the heinous conspiracy bite the dust. Be it legal or…………

Intel and investigative journalism – nice combination!

2009-12-15T12:56:00.001-08:00

Let’s begin by having a few words of a highly controversial subject that may leave you wondering of its relevance in this regard. It’s investigative journalism, a form of journalism in which reporters deeply investigate a single topic of interest, often involving crime, political corruption, or a scandal. However, there is also a difference. Unlike the past, business enterprises and tycoons have become the focal point of investigative journalism, and the situation has already become perilous.

Who can understand this better than Intel? Thanks to a leaked report, it has been learnt that Intel's imminent "Gulftown" 32nm, six-core processor will be known as the Core i7-980X and could be a part of new Mac Pro systems from Apple in early 2010. This is not all, surely.

In accordance with leaked information relayed by Hardmac, the English-language version of French Apple site MacBidouille, in contradiction of earlier reports, the new processors will not adopt the Core i9 name, and will purportedly retain the Core i7 title. The new processor, code-named "Gulftown" will fall under the i7 "Extreme Edition" category, the first of which will be the i7-980X.

The so-called roadmap from Intel depicts that the processor will clock in at 3.33GHz. That chip is likely to arrive in March 2010, but in the past, Apple has reached exclusive agreements with Intel to be the first to carry its new processors. A number of preceding reports have suggested Apple is testing the new Xeon chip, anchored in the Gulftown architecture, in its Mac Pro desktop. The new, upgraded processor features more horsepower and lower power consumption, and will be the first dual-socket, six-core processor for Intel.

It has also been learnt that the novel 32 nanometer chips have 12MB of L3 cache, and six cores with 12 threads for each CPU. Apple, by and large, doubles the processors in its high-end professional workstations, therefore it's feasible the new Mac Pro system could have a total of 12 cores and 24 threads. The new hardware could be released sometime in the first quarter of 2010.

Is iMac’s built in demerits ailing Apple Inc.?

2009-12-15T12:55:00.001-08:00

There had been large talks with regard to the launch of iMac, Apple Inc.’s 27-inch all-in-one desktop computer both in and out of the company and it was formally released in October. But even after this, when people thought that all settled, shipping on orders of the cutting-edge device has been delayed by two weeks. Reason? Well, Apple has given a justification in this regard but to most of people it is nothing but a ploy to enshroud own demerits and hence it is largely feeble. Is it so?

On the word of Apple Inc., the delays are on account of high demand for the all-in-one desktop computer, its largest model yet. "The new iMac has been a huge hit and we're working hard to fulfill orders as quickly as possible," Apple's official statement says. "We apologize for any inconvenience or delay in delivery this may cause our customers." As already said, many are considering it as feeble and smell a rat. Copious numbers of conjectures are running high, as a result.

Let’s crack down on unofficial sources then. Many analysts have started saying that the 27-inch iMac has display problems. Chatter about cracked screens began in Apple's discussion boards last month, and Macworld's test unit suffered the same fate. A great talk is also going on regarding flickering displays; it's the most frequently reported issue at a website committed to documenting the 27-inch iMac's woes.

Do you want to lend ears to the versions of sharp detractors? One of them is surely BroadPoint AmTech analyst Brian Marshall who lays the blame directly on ATI's graphics cards. "They should've stuck to Nvidia," Marshall told MacNewsWorld. Apple brings ATI cards into play in both its 27-inch iMacs and one of its 21-inch models, but only the larger models have been delayed. Marshall, in addition, questioned Apple's claim that its flagship iMac is a huge hit, calling it a "low-volume product."

Can Microsoft appropriate Plurk’s code and content?

2009-12-15T12:54:00.001-08:00

This is unusual for a multinational computer technology corporation like Microsoft even. The internationally celebrated organization is under a close scrutiny, it is alleged to have got inclined to stealing of both code and content from a rival. This is not only a crucial stage for the company but any impulsive act may lead to an irreparable damage to its brand identity also.

The plaintiff, in this context, is Plurk, known for operating Asia's top microblog and it claims Microsoft's Juku service chisels its look, structure and also mode of operation to a large extent. Through one of its blog post Plurk officials stated, "Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but blatant theft of code, design, and UI is just not cool." Juku "is by and large an EXACT copy of Plurk's innovative left-right timeline scrolling navigation system," Plurk officials said in their post.

This is not all and the officials posted afterwards how they came to know all these. "We were first tipped off by high profile bloggers and Taiwanese users of our community that Microsoft had launched a new Chinese Microblogging service that looked eerily similar to Plurk," the officials said.

"Needless to say we were absolutely shocked and outraged when we first saw with our own eyes the cosmetic similarities Microsoft's new offering had with Plurk. From the filter tabs, emoticons qualifier/verb placement, Karma scoring system, media support, new user walkthroughs to pretty much everything else that gives Plurk its trademark service," the officials stated this too.

It is to be noted that Microsoft introduced MSN Juku Dec. 1 in beta form. It lets users post 140-character messages, a la Twitter.

The veracity is yet to come out but the allegation has shocked lots of people given that Microsoft’s involvement with crusade against software piracy and theft of intellectual property in the Asian market is known.

However, we are groping in darkness still.

Bangladesh in search of a tech-savvy identity

2009-12-11T01:38:00.000-08:00

It seems that Islamic Bangladesh, always vulnerable to specter of religious bigotry and hardliners, has come to the conclusion that the country (considered as “rural slum” by erstwhile British rulers) can’t proceed devoid of latest versions of science and technology. Well, all these have come to light as Sheikh Hasina as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister (PM) (for the time being), also daughter of slain leader Mujib, has expressed her solemn pledge to build a science and technology-based modern Bangladesh free from hunger and poverty by means of implementing its development goal: "Vision 2021".

The PM was engaged in a video conference with the local people after inaugurating a newly-installed 1000 kilowatt medium wave transmission of Bangladesh Betar at Dhamrai where she said, "We are working to carry forward the country by using modern technology as well as ensuring balanced development across the country in line with our election pledges." In addition, Ms Sheikh Hasina stated that it would be possible to create jobs for the young generation and build Bangladesh a modern one with the finest application of new generation technology.

At an earlier time, the PM officially launched the transmission of the state-run Bangladesh Betar by pressing a button at Super Power Transmission Centre and Information Secretary Dr Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury briefed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina about the transmission, its efficacy and on the entire installation project.

An enormous gathering consisting of Information Minister Abul Kalam Azad, local lawmaker and local people were present on the occasion.

The PM said the country's development process has been disrupted for a number of times on account of grabbing state power through unconstitutional means by vested quarters after the brutal assassination of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Can tech-savvy Indian Police ensure a better security?

2009-12-10T14:19:00.000-08:00

It all did happen in the late 60s and early 70s when the whole of Calcutta (Kolkata) and Bengal was tumultuous on account of the Naxalite Movement in full swing. Even though several harsh methods (that have remained focal points of human rights organizations yet) were used, Calcutta Police, especially its IB and Special Branch were able to quell the intensity and earned the title “Scotland Yard of the East.” There was hardly any presence of new technology but the Calcutta Police emerged victorious thanks to strong public-police coordination. The question remains whether the Indian Police force still enjoys the same confidence.

All these are being asked since Dakshina Kannada district police of the state of Karnataka has launched its own website - www.dkpolice.org and it hopes that this will lead to a new chapter of professionalism, greater competence and much more.

It has to be stated that the same district police did start blog (spdk.blogspot.com) as a public-police interface four years ago, an unique experiment and first-of-its-kind in India. The blog, without a shred of doubt, became popular and inspired many district police units in Karnataka as well as across India to do the same. It has been learnt that this exceptional official police blog will be yanked off the net before long and become an integral part of the official police website, under its own domain.

On the word of B Dayananda, SP at the time of launching the blog and now Deputy Inspector-General of Police (Intelligence), while the blog started by him was a novel concept in the police department, websites were not new. "Many district police units in India, and abroad started their websites, but majority of them are not regularly updated or are in a state of limbo," he said to TOI.

The website maintained and designed by Goal IT Solutions, Mangalore, has been funded owing to special innovations project fund given by DGP Ajai Kumar Singh. This is the first time ever that the district police have received such funding such efforts are on to make the website more comprehensible, SP said.

We end with a humble question. Can the new tech-savvy Indian Police assure us of a better security? Can it surpass the feats of Calcutta Police?

Indian cyber security is greatest casualty, must be renovated before long

2009-11-26T05:13:00.001-08:00

Terrorism or the methodical application of terror especially as a means of coercion has been present in the worldwide civilized society for decades. But even this violent political or social philosophy has changed to a great extent by now and cyber terrorism or at least cyber crime has become its newest manifestation. What can India, one of the prime targets of this trigger-happy doctrine, do? In order to save its own skin and kith and kin, it must build up a commendable and potent cyber security. Well, we are not sure how far the country has comprehended this new danger but it must be said the consciousness is rising.

One of the exponents of this school of thought is Ankit Fadia, eminent cyber security expert. According to his views, courses on cyber security should be launched in schools and colleges in India straight away, while cyber cells need to be set up in police to check cyber crimes.

Ankit Fadia, known as one of the computer whiz kids in the world once, prefers to introduce himself as an ethical hacker and is, at present, engrossed with the task of advising companies, governmental bodies and security agencies both in India and abroad on cyber security.

‘International cooperation should be increased. India should propose something like an Interpol or a United Nations body for cyber security, ‘he said.

Speaking to the press and media recently, he told that educational institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) ought to operate courses on ethical hacking - practice of hacking sites and e-mail ids to identify the defects to organizations and individuals concerned and bring forth remedies to plug the loopholes. What is more, he opines, youngsters must be both informed and trained on the problem of cyber crimes and possible solutions. There is hardly any doubt of this necessity; it is already recognized that 26/11 terror attack on last year made use of most advanced technologies for communication.

‘India is no doubt the world’s IT capital. But as far as security is concerned, our country has fallen far behind, ‘Fadia said. We have no skepticism in this and the sooner India heeds this the better it is.

India remembers 26/11, can’t thwart another too

2009-11-26T02:30:00.000-08:00

There have been several versions of terrorism in the post-WWII decades. While on one hand there was the presence of Red Army Faction or one of postwar Germany's most violent and prominent left wing groups once, there has also been the presence of dreaded Islamic hard-line outfit Lashkar Taiba or LeT. But it will be simply erroneous if you dare to place them in one-half. On the contrary there is a vast and never-ending difference between the two.

Red Army Faction or RAF asserted that it was a communist and anti-imperialist "urban guerrilla" group engaged in armed resistance against what they deemed to be a fascist state. The RAF was founded in 1970 by Andreas Baader, Gudrun Ensslin, Horst Mahler, and Ulrike Meinhof. But Lashkar Taiba or LeT is one of the largest and most active Islamist militant organizations in South Asia and has been grown in order to trounce and balkanize India, the land of infidels. While left wing terrorism springs up owing to mounting polarization and economic inequality, Islamic terrorism is set to uproot an entire civilization.

In all these years, thanks to exponential growth in worldwide technology and a profound transformation in global economy, Islamic outfits have extended considerably. Each and every attack of them, especially in India is lethal and what did Mumbai witness on the last 26/11 may be the beginning of a new chapter.

Nevertheless Mumbaikars (residents of Mumbai) are upbeat and in spite of remaining busy with their scheduled tasks, they were found to pause in their tracks to honor the memory of the 166 people killed in the shocking 60-hour terror strike last year. A similar scene was witnessed when thousands of daily commuters rushing to their offices stopped so as to pay respects to those who slaughtered in the attacks on the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST).

Well, there would be many other moments of silence, remembering and mourning slated all over the day. But the morning rush hour showed the spirit of India's financial and entertainment capital without a doubt.

However all these make us pose a new question. Is India prepared to thwart another 26/11? Perhaps not since the country even doesn’t dare to reach an eventuality with Azmal Kasav, terror face of the Mumbai attack. What a quirk of fate!

Potent, imperialist US-China entente in the pipeline!

2009-11-19T12:04:00.003-08:00

Though the relation of China with several countries, especially India, is getting embittered increasingly, it has found a new supporter in the global arena out of the blue. It’s no save for the United States of America and owing to a volte face (seemingly) it is busy in showering praises, for the time being, on the Asian Dragon. "The rise of a strong, prosperous China can be a source of strength for the community of nations," Mr. Obama said in a speech in Japan's capital, Tokyo.

He also said, better US ties with Beijing do not mean a weakening of relations with US allies in the region. Furthermore, describing himself as the first "Pacific" US president, he said the US was committed to the area's security. Well, Mr. Obama is now in Singapore so as to attend an Asia-Pacific economic summit.

Speaking on this development, Obama’s trade representative Ron Kirk, who is already at the APEC meeting, says the US wants barriers to trade and investment removed to promote an open global trade system. It has also come to the knowledge that Mr. Obama will brush up his week-long Asian tour with stops in China and South Korea.

All this make us raise a very pertinent yet uncomfortable question and it does deal with the US-North Korea relation. Well, this subject was raised in Tokyo too and Mr. Obama told the gathering Washington’s commitment to the region's security was "unshakeable", in spite of its commitments in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In accordance with his statement, the US would chase "pragmatic co-operation" with Beijing on issues of mutual concern. He also warned that he would not be indecisive from raising human rights concerns with Beijing, but preferred to retain silence on specific concerns, for instance Tibet.

Last but not least, the US president necessitated the need of more assistance from China to frustrate the nefarious ambitions of North Korea, and warned there would be tough, unified action by the US and its Asian partners if Pyongyang failed to abandon its nuclear weapons program.

Is this a just posture from a new friend of China or the beginning of a potent, imperialist US-China entente?

Joining Indian police force? Think twice

2009-11-19T03:20:00.001-08:00

Can you envisage a day without police or the local or state administration deploying personnel for manning streets? No you can’t and none of us as police and administration is a vital part of the society and its absence may wreak havoc among us. I know that you do feel in the same way even though most of us don’t waste any opportunity to despise these people. There have been other factors also.

For decades, we have been taught that police and administration is an inseparable part of the State structure and hence, it is a tool of repression and comprises morons only. All these have led to skepticism among public and the dearth of essential facilities in conjunction with low pay envelopes have made the jobs less attractive among unwaged youth too.

Why should they join? Perhaps you are not acquainted with the horrific reality. Do you know the ways through which these security personnel have to work? At most occasions they go without basic facilities for boarding and lodging and accommodations are arranged either in municipal schools or local parks or perchance in the barren pavements of the urban markets. The highest echelon of police has the proud record of having the highest disregard to the lowest echelon of police.

This picture is not limited to any particular or a handful of Indian states; the picture is similar, whether it is Naxal-infested Gadchiroli or Lalagarh, Jangalmahal in Bengal, engrossed in dealing with Maoist disturbances.

What is most striking, life of the platoon of 30-odd jawans that works 24/7 to man four bunkers inside the Taj Mahal Hotel, focal point of 26/11 terror attack, is no different. These persons are in huge problems regarding everything ranging from meals, rests to morning ablutions. At the moment the Taj genially provides three meals a day and jawans don’t know when it may cease to exist. For morning ablutions they have to go to police stations or public toilet in close proximity and we prefer to keep quiet regarding the amenities there.

Now let’s crack down on the pay packets of these people, who brave all odds to let civilians have sound sleeps. It is not fit to meet the needs of a college student even.

Do you want to join this elite (you can surely ask Leftists for attaching this tag) force? Think twice.