Mobile phones can play a vital role in increasing productivity of the agricultural sector by bridging the information gap between labs and the fields, says a study.
ICRIER, a Delhi—based think tank, in its Paper on socio-economic impact of mobile phones on Indian agricultural sector said mobile telephony had provided a platform to farmers for easily accessing information about crops, fertilisers and mandi rates.
The information received through SMS or voice messages connects the user to real-time information, tailored to his needs.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Delhi metro erects 100mts long span in Okhla
A 100 metre-long concrete span being erected to pass over four rail tracks in south Delhi's Okhla area will be the longest segment so far used by the Delhi Metro for a bridge, an official said on Sunday.
"The longest span built by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is being constructed on a bridge which will pass over the Indian Railways tracks near Okhla. This bridge will have a 100 metre-long span built over an operating railway line in Delhi," DMRC spokesperson Anuj Dayal said.
"The longest span built by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is being constructed on a bridge which will pass over the Indian Railways tracks near Okhla. This bridge will have a 100 metre-long span built over an operating railway line in Delhi," DMRC spokesperson Anuj Dayal said.
Lunascape releases the worlds first browser with triple engine
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To download Lunascape for windows click here
Microsoft raises concern over Google's activities
Microsoft Corp made its most vehement and public attack on Google Inc on Friday, calling its Internet rival's actions potentially
anti-competitive, and urging victims to file complaints to regulators.
The broadside comes days after a Microsoft-owned business, along with two other small online companies, complained to European Union regulators about Google's operations there. Microsoft is also fighting a plan by Google to digitize millions of books, currently under scrutiny by the US Department of Justice.
anti-competitive, and urging victims to file complaints to regulators.
The broadside comes days after a Microsoft-owned business, along with two other small online companies, complained to European Union regulators about Google's operations there. Microsoft is also fighting a plan by Google to digitize millions of books, currently under scrutiny by the US Department of Justice.
Wipro reshuffles its financial management team.
Software major Wipro on Saturday said its internal investigation into embezzlement of funds by a company employee that came to light in December 2009 has found that the amounts involved ($4 million) was “not material” from a financial reporting perspective given the size of the company and the scale of its operations. The Bangalore-based company, however, announced changes in certain key positions in the controllership team.
The probe revealed the embezzlement involved only one employee who transferred amounts from the company’s accounts to his personal account in several transactions over a period of three years beginning November 2006. The company managed to recover $2 million before the employee allegedly committed suicide.
The probe revealed the embezzlement involved only one employee who transferred amounts from the company’s accounts to his personal account in several transactions over a period of three years beginning November 2006. The company managed to recover $2 million before the employee allegedly committed suicide.
China to strenghten its internal safet measures after the firework accident during Lunar New Yr celebrations
China has issued an urgent order to local authorities to strengthen safety measures after an explosion triggered by Lunar New Year fireworks killed 21 people and injured 48 in a southern village.
The State Council's Work Safety Commission said in a notice that authorities around the country should learn from the mistakes that caused the blast late Friday in the southern province of Guangdong, the deadliest accident of the 15-day Spring Festival.
The celebrations are set to end Sunday with a lantern festival. Fireworks are often a key part.
The State Council's Work Safety Commission said in a notice that authorities around the country should learn from the mistakes that caused the blast late Friday in the southern province of Guangdong, the deadliest accident of the 15-day Spring Festival.
The celebrations are set to end Sunday with a lantern festival. Fireworks are often a key part.
Bharti Walmart sees Positive growth as FDI investment increased in Retail sector
Bharti Wal-mart, an Indian joint venture of the world’s largest retailer Wal-Mart, has said it is optimistic of India allowing Foreign Direct Investment in the retail sector, given the “progressive” nature of the current government.
“We are optimistic that India’s progressive government will move ahead with its policies of economic and social reforms, including allowing FDI investment in front-end retail,” Bharti Wal-mart MD and CEO Raj Jain said.
“We are optimistic that India’s progressive government will move ahead with its policies of economic and social reforms, including allowing FDI investment in front-end retail,” Bharti Wal-mart MD and CEO Raj Jain said.
ISI suspected for attack in Kabul
While India may not want to straightaway point a finger at Pakistan for Friday's Kabul attacks, which came a day after the resumption of dialogue between the two countries, there are indications that the suicide attacks could have been carried out at the behest of Pakistan's ISI.
Highly placed government officials confirmed that India's external intelligence wing, RAW, had repeatedly warned the government about meetings between the Taliban and ISI officials since September last year aiming to attack Indian interests in Kabul.
Highly placed government officials confirmed that India's external intelligence wing, RAW, had repeatedly warned the government about meetings between the Taliban and ISI officials since September last year aiming to attack Indian interests in Kabul.
Mild termor felt in Kashmir
A moderate intensity tremor measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale jolted Kashmir early on Sunday, but no loss of life or damage to property was reported, officials said.
"An earthquake measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale hit the Valley at 4.51.am," Amir Ali, in charge of the disaster management cell for Kashmir province, told in Srinagar.
"We have not received any report of casualties or damage to property so far," he said.
The official said the epicentre of the quake was located in the Hindukush mountain range of Afghanistan.
"An earthquake measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale hit the Valley at 4.51.am," Amir Ali, in charge of the disaster management cell for Kashmir province, told in Srinagar.
"We have not received any report of casualties or damage to property so far," he said.
The official said the epicentre of the quake was located in the Hindukush mountain range of Afghanistan.
Godman & 6 others arrested on sex racketing in south Delhi
From earning a meagre Rs 2,000 to raking in a princely Rs 5 lakh every month, Shiv Murti Dwivedi alias Sant Swami Bhimanand Ji Maharaj Chitrakoot Wale (39) has come a long way in the past 22 years. Dwivedi, a self-styled godman, was arrested by south district police on Friday for operating a high-profile sex racket. It involved former airhostesses and students.
Starting as a security guard at a five-star hotel at Nehru Place in 1988, he landed in the middle of a prostitution racket in his quest for quick riches. He was first arrested in Lajpat Nagar in 1997 for running a prostitution racket with a massage parlour as a facade.
Starting as a security guard at a five-star hotel at Nehru Place in 1988, he landed in the middle of a prostitution racket in his quest for quick riches. He was first arrested in Lajpat Nagar in 1997 for running a prostitution racket with a massage parlour as a facade.
Personal data will be protected by laws in UID scheme - Nilekani
Privacy will be protected under the Unique Identity (UID) project and personal data will not be accessible to everybody, insists Nandan Nilekani, chairperson of the Unique Identification Authority.
"We are also conscious of the privacy issue. In fact the UID database cannot be read by anybody. The only thing you can use it for is authentication. We are making all efforts technically and legally to see privacy is protected," Nilekani, formerly with Infosys, told in an interview.
"At the same time we need a larger debate of privacy and what laws we need in the country. Today we don't have any privacy laws," said Nilekani who quit Infosys last year and was handpicked by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to head the authority.
The first of these UIDs for India's billion plus citizens, says Nikelani, is expected to roll out any time between August 2010 and February 2011.
"We are also conscious of the privacy issue. In fact the UID database cannot be read by anybody. The only thing you can use it for is authentication. We are making all efforts technically and legally to see privacy is protected," Nilekani, formerly with Infosys, told in an interview.
"At the same time we need a larger debate of privacy and what laws we need in the country. Today we don't have any privacy laws," said Nilekani who quit Infosys last year and was handpicked by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to head the authority.
The first of these UIDs for India's billion plus citizens, says Nikelani, is expected to roll out any time between August 2010 and February 2011.
IIT- Roorkee student arrested for murdering IIT-delhi student
An IIT-Roorkee student was arrested in Haryana early Sunday for allegedly murdering a female IIT student with whom he had checked into a hotel here Friday night, police said.
A 22-year-old female student of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, who came here with a male student of IIT-Roorkee, was found murdered in a hotel room here Saturday. Since then, the accused had gone missing.
"The accused, Gaurav Verma, a third-year architecture student of IIT-Roorkee, was arrested from Jagadhari in Haryana Sunday morning," Shimla Superintendent of Police R.M. Sharma told.
A 22-year-old female student of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Delhi, who came here with a male student of IIT-Roorkee, was found murdered in a hotel room here Saturday. Since then, the accused had gone missing.
"The accused, Gaurav Verma, a third-year architecture student of IIT-Roorkee, was arrested from Jagadhari in Haryana Sunday morning," Shimla Superintendent of Police R.M. Sharma told.
CAT results declared by IIMs
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) on Sunday, Feb 28, announced the much awaited CAT 2009 results.
The results are available on the CAT website. Candidates can check their results at by entering the following data:
* CAT Registration Number
* E-mail address exactly as supplied during CAT registration, as it appears on the Admit card.
The website also mentions that if students are unable to locate the details, they can contact Candidate Care or call the Toll Free Number 1 800 103 9293.
The seven IIMs at Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, Lucknow, Kozhikode, Indore and Shillong have also separately put up the lists of candidates shortlisted by them for the next stage of their admission process.
CAT 2009 was the first time that the examination was conducted as a computer-based online test.
The results are available on the CAT website. Candidates can check their results at by entering the following data:
* CAT Registration Number
* E-mail address exactly as supplied during CAT registration, as it appears on the Admit card.
The website also mentions that if students are unable to locate the details, they can contact Candidate Care or call the Toll Free Number 1 800 103 9293.
The seven IIMs at Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, Lucknow, Kozhikode, Indore and Shillong have also separately put up the lists of candidates shortlisted by them for the next stage of their admission process.
CAT 2009 was the first time that the examination was conducted as a computer-based online test.
Japan feels safe after Tsumani passes away
Nearly a half million people in Japan were ordered to higher ground on Sunday, as coastal areas across the vast Pacific region braced for lethal tsunami waves. But only small waves appeared, and there were no reports of damage.
Areas ranging from Sydney, Australia, to the Russian Far East to the Hawaiian islands conducted evacuations and warned residents to be on the lookout for large waves following the 8.8-magnitude earthquake that devastated parts of Chile on Saturday. The Asia-Pacific region waited in suspense for almost 24 hours, the time that scientists predicted it would take shock waves from the powerful earthquake to race across the ocean in the form of massive waves.
Areas ranging from Sydney, Australia, to the Russian Far East to the Hawaiian islands conducted evacuations and warned residents to be on the lookout for large waves following the 8.8-magnitude earthquake that devastated parts of Chile on Saturday. The Asia-Pacific region waited in suspense for almost 24 hours, the time that scientists predicted it would take shock waves from the powerful earthquake to race across the ocean in the form of massive waves.
BJP demands SriKrishna commitee to visit Telangana region
BJP Andhra Pradesh unit on Sunday demanded that the members of justice Srikrishna Committee to visit villages in Telangana districts of Andhra Pradesh.
Speaking to reporters in Hyderabad, the state party chief and former Union Minister Bandaru Dattatreya said the people of Telangana regions have been demanding for a separate state and they support the BJP, which is the only party openly supporting the people's wish.
Speaking to reporters in Hyderabad, the state party chief and former Union Minister Bandaru Dattatreya said the people of Telangana regions have been demanding for a separate state and they support the BJP, which is the only party openly supporting the people's wish.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Britain troops to remain in Afghan for another 5 Yrs on Military role
Britain will be "militarily engaged" in Afghanistan for a further five years, the head of the Army has said.
General Sir David Richards told while on a visit to Helmand, that he expected the military conflict to "trail off in 2011".
But British troops will continue in training and support roles, he said.
He also warned that coalition troops could not afford to fail and said UK forces now "for the first time" had the resources they had wanted.
General Sir David Richards told while on a visit to Helmand, that he expected the military conflict to "trail off in 2011".
But British troops will continue in training and support roles, he said.
He also warned that coalition troops could not afford to fail and said UK forces now "for the first time" had the resources they had wanted.
Paypal to resume its Indian services from Mar 3 ,2010
PayPal has finally resumed personal payment services in India. With the individual customers of PayPal will be able to withdraw funds into their local bank accounts. The personal fund withdrawal will start from March 3, 2010 (Wednesday).
However before receiving payments, PayPal customers need to fill "Export code". This code will have information related to nature of exports for which payment has been received from abroad. The customers who need to make payment overseas can continue to make payment.
However before receiving payments, PayPal customers need to fill "Export code". This code will have information related to nature of exports for which payment has been received from abroad. The customers who need to make payment overseas can continue to make payment.
Crew with Boat made of recycled materials to sail from California to Sydney
An explorer has come up with a sailboat known as 'Plastiki', which is constructed of more than 12,000 recycled plastic bottles.
According to a report in National Geographic News, the boat has been developed by David de Rothschild, who plans to sail the remarkable craft from California to Sydney, Australia.
Joining him will be a crew that includes skipper Jo Royle, co-skipper David Thomson, and Josian and Olav Heyerdahl.
According to a report in National Geographic News, the boat has been developed by David de Rothschild, who plans to sail the remarkable craft from California to Sydney, Australia.
Joining him will be a crew that includes skipper Jo Royle, co-skipper David Thomson, and Josian and Olav Heyerdahl.
MD of Adani grp arrested on tax evasion case
The managing director of the Ahmedabad-based Adani Group was arrested Saturday for allegedly evading customs duty of Rs.1.07 crore. Ten customs and central excise officials from Goa are also being probed in the case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said.
'We arrested Rajesh Adani from Ahmedabad for causing a loss to the exchequer of Rs.1.07 crore,' a CBI spokesman said.
He was arrested after the CBI's Goa branch registered a case against him and 10 officials of Goa customs and central excise for cheating and criminal conspiracy. The case was registered April 25, 2008.
'We arrested Rajesh Adani from Ahmedabad for causing a loss to the exchequer of Rs.1.07 crore,' a CBI spokesman said.
He was arrested after the CBI's Goa branch registered a case against him and 10 officials of Goa customs and central excise for cheating and criminal conspiracy. The case was registered April 25, 2008.
9 Indians among those killed in Afghan terror attack
Nine Indians were among 18 people killed in a series of attacks by the Taliban in central Kabul on Friday.
The Indians are believed to have included an army officer working at the Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital in Kabul and Nawab Khan, a noted tabla player who was there for a cultural programme.
According to Indian Foreign Minister SM Krishna, “the deceased Indians include government officials.” Three Indians were reported missing.
The Indians are believed to have included an army officer working at the Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital in Kabul and Nawab Khan, a noted tabla player who was there for a cultural programme.
According to Indian Foreign Minister SM Krishna, “the deceased Indians include government officials.” Three Indians were reported missing.
Britain to investigate on fradulent Passport use issue in Dubai
Investigators from Britain's Serious Organized Crimes Agency have arrived in Israel to interview dual nationals whose names were used on forged passports by the assassins of a Hamas commander in Dubai last month, the Independent reported on Saturday.
The British agency said Friday that arrangements were already being made to speak to the six British-Israeli dual nationals whose names were among those used by the alleged hit squad.
Hamas military commander Mahmoud al-Mabhouh was killed last month in his hotel room in what Dubai police have said they are near certain was a hit by Israel's Mossad spy agency. Police said the killers traveled to the Gulf Arab emirate using forged European and Australian passports.
The British agency said Friday that arrangements were already being made to speak to the six British-Israeli dual nationals whose names were among those used by the alleged hit squad.
Hamas military commander Mahmoud al-Mabhouh was killed last month in his hotel room in what Dubai police have said they are near certain was a hit by Israel's Mossad spy agency. Police said the killers traveled to the Gulf Arab emirate using forged European and Australian passports.
Earthquake measuring 8.8 hits Chile - triggers Tsunami warning for 53 countries
A massive earthquake has hit the coast of Chile, killing dozens of people, flattening buildings and triggering a tsunami.
The 8.8-magnitude quake, the country’s largest in 25 years, shook the capital Santiago for a minute and half at 3:34am (6:34am GMT) today.
A tsunami warning has been extended across 53 countries, including most of Central and South America and as far as Australia, Hawaii and Antarctica.
The wave has already caused serious damage to the sparsely populated Juan Fernandez islands, off the Santiago coast, and is now travelling across the ocean at several hundred km per hour.
The 8.8-magnitude quake, the country’s largest in 25 years, shook the capital Santiago for a minute and half at 3:34am (6:34am GMT) today.
A tsunami warning has been extended across 53 countries, including most of Central and South America and as far as Australia, Hawaii and Antarctica.
The wave has already caused serious damage to the sparsely populated Juan Fernandez islands, off the Santiago coast, and is now travelling across the ocean at several hundred km per hour.
3G to become a realty by Sep 2010
Mobile phone users will finally be able to access advanced data transfer and high-speed internet on their handsets through 3G technology and broadband wireless access (BWA), post-September 2010. The department of telecom (DoT) has set September as the timeline when successful bidders will be allowed to use the allotted airwaves for commercial operation.
The government on Thursday issued the notice inviting bids from private telecom players to participate in the auction of 3G airwaves, allowing three private players each in 17 circles, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and four in the remaining five circles including Punjab, West Bengal and Bihar. The number of slots up for auction excludes those already allotted to the state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam (MTNL). It has also invited bids for BWA auction, which is scheduled to happen two days after the 3G auction closes.
The government on Thursday issued the notice inviting bids from private telecom players to participate in the auction of 3G airwaves, allowing three private players each in 17 circles, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and four in the remaining five circles including Punjab, West Bengal and Bihar. The number of slots up for auction excludes those already allotted to the state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam (MTNL). It has also invited bids for BWA auction, which is scheduled to happen two days after the 3G auction closes.
Spectrum license fee increased - telecom cos hit with fear
In a development that would hit telecom operators' profits, the government today announced an up to 50 per cent increase in spectrum
charges for all GSM and CDMA technology based service providers.
The increased spectrum charges would be effective April, this year, according to an official order/notification.
Telecom service providers have to pay a percentage of their adjusted gross revenue (AGR) to the government as spectrum usage charge. This charge depends on the quantity of spectrum allotted.
charges for all GSM and CDMA technology based service providers.
The increased spectrum charges would be effective April, this year, according to an official order/notification.
Telecom service providers have to pay a percentage of their adjusted gross revenue (AGR) to the government as spectrum usage charge. This charge depends on the quantity of spectrum allotted.
Cong. allies TMC & DMK demands roll back fuel price hike
The raise in customs and excise duties in the Union Budget presented on Friday led to a hike in petrol and diesel prices from midnight Friday.
Any decision which may cause more hardship to common people and poor should be reversed or put on hold, said Trinamool Congress MP Sudip Bandopadhayay.
"Rolling back is not something new. We hope good sense will prevail," Bandopadhayay said in Kolkata on Saturday.
Trinamool Congress took to streets protest on Saturday in Kolkata against the fuel price hike.
Any decision which may cause more hardship to common people and poor should be reversed or put on hold, said Trinamool Congress MP Sudip Bandopadhayay.
"Rolling back is not something new. We hope good sense will prevail," Bandopadhayay said in Kolkata on Saturday.
Trinamool Congress took to streets protest on Saturday in Kolkata against the fuel price hike.
BSNL launches WiMax in Kerala - First operator to do launch WiMax
BSNL today commercially launched the country's first mobile broadband fourth generation Internet access network--Mobile WiMAX in Kerala.
Union minister of state for Agriculture and Consumer Affairs K V Thomas, launched the facility at a function here today.
BSNL is also the first operator in the country to launch the service, for which technology has been provided by AVIAT, formerly Harris Stratex.
Union minister of state for Agriculture and Consumer Affairs K V Thomas, launched the facility at a function here today.
BSNL is also the first operator in the country to launch the service, for which technology has been provided by AVIAT, formerly Harris Stratex.
India to make yougsters play in the last ODI against SA
A revamped Indian outfit will clash with a wounded South African side in the third and final One- day International at the Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium in Motera, on the outskirts of the city, on Saturday.
With the series already in the bag, India have opted to test their bench strength ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup in West Indies in April- May. The youngsters will be up against a charged up Proteas side, which insists it is not lacking in motivation. The hurt of defeat is writ large on the usually jovial faces in the team, and the players will be keen to win back their pride.
With the series already in the bag, India have opted to test their bench strength ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup in West Indies in April- May. The youngsters will be up against a charged up Proteas side, which insists it is not lacking in motivation. The hurt of defeat is writ large on the usually jovial faces in the team, and the players will be keen to win back their pride.
Tobbaco products to cost more - FM increases Cess on Tobacco products
Cigarettes and gutka are going to cost you dear, and not just in terms of health. The FM — who often struck a debonair pose with his pipes —having kicked the habit, on Friday announced dramatic structural changes in excise duties on tobacco products, along with increases in rates, that will burn a hole in your pocket if you are in the "unhealthy habit".
Although the move was not entirely unexpected, the quantum of the hike — about 17%— came as a shock to companies. Analysts say the manufacturers are likely to pass on a substantial part of the additional costs to consumers.
Although the move was not entirely unexpected, the quantum of the hike — about 17%— came as a shock to companies. Analysts say the manufacturers are likely to pass on a substantial part of the additional costs to consumers.
Jaguar & Land rover makes profit in the Third quarter for Tatas
The turnaround of Jaguar Land Rover helped Tata Motors report a consolidated net profit of Rs 650.26 crore for the third quarter ending December 31, 2009 against a loss of Rs 2,732.59 crore for the corresponding period a year ago. The revenue grew by 47 per cent to Rs 26,774 crore for the period against Rs 18,247 for the year-ago period.
The market gave a big thumps up to Tata Motors consolidated results as its stock moved up 6.33 per cent to Rs 711.05 on BSE on Friday.
The market gave a big thumps up to Tata Motors consolidated results as its stock moved up 6.33 per cent to Rs 711.05 on BSE on Friday.
Private Bks to be Operational soon - RBI discusses the matter
No sooner had the finance minister announced that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will consider banking licences for applicants from private sector and non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), the market started speculating on probable candidates.
The buzz was justified since the RBI will consider applications from private sector players for banking licences after a gap of 10 years. The last time RBI had issued banking licence to private players was in 2000, when Kotak Mahindra Bank and Yes Bank received regulatory nod.
The buzz was justified since the RBI will consider applications from private sector players for banking licences after a gap of 10 years. The last time RBI had issued banking licence to private players was in 2000, when Kotak Mahindra Bank and Yes Bank received regulatory nod.
FM Pranab reduces tax for personal income
Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee was not really expected to do much on the personal tax front this Budget. Largely because he had already signalled a move towards a new Direct Tax Code (DTC) from next year. But perhaps given the difficult times we live in and given the high rate of inflation and an almost zero increment year for salaried employees. He has decided to give Rs 50,000 worth of extra money through tax savings for those earning above Rs 5 lakh per annum.
The gain is much lesser for those below the Rs 5 lakh per annum level, but there is still something on the table. Add to this a new section that allows a deduction of upto Rs 20,000 on investments in infrastructure bonds, though it still remains to be seen what their tenure and returns structure would be, and would they be attractive for citizens. He could have simply given tax sops to infrastructure sector dedicated funds that would have also brought much needed equity money into this sector, but he has chosen not to.
The gain is much lesser for those below the Rs 5 lakh per annum level, but there is still something on the table. Add to this a new section that allows a deduction of upto Rs 20,000 on investments in infrastructure bonds, though it still remains to be seen what their tenure and returns structure would be, and would they be attractive for citizens. He could have simply given tax sops to infrastructure sector dedicated funds that would have also brought much needed equity money into this sector, but he has chosen not to.
Investigation on War Crimes during Gaza war demanded
The General Assembly renewed its demand on Friday that Israel and the Palestinians conduct credible, independent investigations into possible war crimes during the Gaza war, to be completed within five months. The Goldstone report, issued by the United Nations Human Rights Council last fall, said there was evidence that both sides, but Israel in particular, committed war crimes and crimes against humanity during the three-week war in the winter of 2008-09. The resolution, which passed 98 to 7 with 31 abstentions, echoed a similar demand passed last November. Riyad Mansour, the ambassador representing the Palestinian Authority, which sponsored the resolution, said the vote indicated that “the great majority of humanity is asking for the Goldstone report to be implemented.” But other ambassadors suggested that repeated resolutions with little effect was more likely to be a sign of the report’s slow, bureaucratic death.
Strong earthquake hits Japan - Meteorological agency issues Tsunami warning
The U.S. Geological Survey said the 7.3 magnitude quake struck at 5:31 a.m. on Saturday (2031 GMT on Friday) 52 miles east of the island's capital of Naha, a city of about 320,000 about 1,600 km (1,000 miles) south of Tokyo.
The Japan Meteorological Agency, which put the magnitude at 6.9, warned residents near the coast to evacuate to high ground, but the tsunami warning was later lifted.
Okinawa prefectural police official Noritomi Kikuzato told there were no reports of injuries or major damage.
The Japan Meteorological Agency, which put the magnitude at 6.9, warned residents near the coast to evacuate to high ground, but the tsunami warning was later lifted.
Okinawa prefectural police official Noritomi Kikuzato told there were no reports of injuries or major damage.
Infra industry gets a Boost in Union budget 2010
If there’s one industry, which received adequate emphasis in Budget 2010, it’s the infrastructure sector. The government has increased the allocation to 46 per cent of the total outlay to Rs 1.73 lakh crore. Besides, the finance minister also announced building of 20 km of national highways per day, apart from increasing the allocation for road construction by 13 per cent.
“The increase in allocation of 13 per cent to Rs 19,894 crore on development of roads augurs well for the sector,” said T V Sandeep Reddy, Managing Director, Gayatri Projects Ltd. He added that the initiative to develop 20 km of roads per day will provide fillip to the industry.
“The increase in allocation of 13 per cent to Rs 19,894 crore on development of roads augurs well for the sector,” said T V Sandeep Reddy, Managing Director, Gayatri Projects Ltd. He added that the initiative to develop 20 km of roads per day will provide fillip to the industry.
India sends aircraft to bring back dead & injured from Afghan
India on Saturday sent a special aircraft to Afghanistan to bring the back the bodies of its nationals, including army officials, who were killed in suicide attacks in Kabul.
A Boeing 737-200 aircraft from the Palam-based Communication squadron took off from New Delhi on Saturday morning to bring back all dead bodies and those injured, IAF officials said in the Capital. The aircraft is carrying a team of medical officers and medicines.
A Boeing 737-200 aircraft from the Palam-based Communication squadron took off from New Delhi on Saturday morning to bring back all dead bodies and those injured, IAF officials said in the Capital. The aircraft is carrying a team of medical officers and medicines.
Nuclear deal to power up Pak households not in the agenda now - US officials
The US has categorically told Pakistan that it would not get any atomic power plant or civilian nuclear deal on the lines of the one signed with India.
"The United States is working closely with Pakistan to help meet its growing needs. Nuclear power is not currently part of our discussions," a senior Administration official told.
"The United States is working closely with Pakistan to help meet its growing needs. Nuclear power is not currently part of our discussions," a senior Administration official told.
J & K political parties battling each other using modern era tools
All's not well in Jammu and Kashmir. Political parties are caught up in battle over a poster that features three generations of the Abdullah family. The National Conference has blamed the PDP for the smear campaign.
This poster of the film '3 Idiots' on Facebook, morphed to spoof the first family of politics in Jammu and Kashmir - the Abdullahs - has left the National Conference fuming. It features founder Sheikh Abdullah, his son and former Chief Minister of the sate Farooq Abdullah and grandson, sitting Chief Minister Omar, calling them the betrayers of Kashmir. The ruling party alleges Opposition leader and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti sent out an SMS promoting the poster.
This poster of the film '3 Idiots' on Facebook, morphed to spoof the first family of politics in Jammu and Kashmir - the Abdullahs - has left the National Conference fuming. It features founder Sheikh Abdullah, his son and former Chief Minister of the sate Farooq Abdullah and grandson, sitting Chief Minister Omar, calling them the betrayers of Kashmir. The ruling party alleges Opposition leader and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti sent out an SMS promoting the poster.
Musharaff says militancy in Kashmir region is nurtured in Pak since 1989
Former Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf has admitted that militancy in Kashmir was actually fathered in Pakistan way back in 1989 and the process of fanning insurgency in the region was still continuing.
Addressing a meeting on the subject of 'Leadership' at the House of Lords committee here earlier this week, Musharraf said Kashmiri Mujahideen groups, that first came to the scene twenty years ago, enjoyed great support in Pakistan and the case is similar even now.
Addressing a meeting on the subject of 'Leadership' at the House of Lords committee here earlier this week, Musharraf said Kashmiri Mujahideen groups, that first came to the scene twenty years ago, enjoyed great support in Pakistan and the case is similar even now.
Union budget has more fund to reduce the shortage in Medical manpower
The acute shortage of trained medical manpower has finally received some attention. The finance minister increased allocation for human resources in health from Rs 62 crore in 2009-10 to Rs 323 crore in 2010-11. India is short by six lakh doctors, 10 lakh nurses and two lakh dental surgeons.
The overall allocation for the health ministry increased by 14% — from Rs 19,534 crore to Rs 22,300 crore for 2010-11. Programmes to combat cancer, diabetes, mental health and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) also received a major push. While allocation for cancer research increased from Rs 77 crore to Rs 155 crore, the mental health programme has nearly doubled, to over Rs 103 crore. Cancer kills 50 people in India every hour while 7% of the country's adult population is estimated to be suffering from mental health problems.
The overall allocation for the health ministry increased by 14% — from Rs 19,534 crore to Rs 22,300 crore for 2010-11. Programmes to combat cancer, diabetes, mental health and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) also received a major push. While allocation for cancer research increased from Rs 77 crore to Rs 155 crore, the mental health programme has nearly doubled, to over Rs 103 crore. Cancer kills 50 people in India every hour while 7% of the country's adult population is estimated to be suffering from mental health problems.
M F Husain accepts quatar citizenship
After living in self-imposed exile for four years following a spate of litigation against him for his paintings of Hindu goddesses, India’s iconic artist M.F. Husain has accepted the offer by Qatar to confer its nationality on him.
“He has accepted Qatar’s offer for citizenship and the formalities are under process,” Owais Husain, the legendary artist’s son living in Dubai
“He has accepted Qatar’s offer for citizenship and the formalities are under process,” Owais Husain, the legendary artist’s son living in Dubai
NLC GM arrested on bribery charges
CBI's anti-corruption wing on Thursday arrested the general manager of Neyveli Lignite Corporation while taking a bribe of Rs 50,000 from a Chennai-based contractor.
The Chennai CBI court remanded P Kirupanandan in judicial custody till March 12 and sent him to Puzhal jail.
Kirupanandan was caught red-handed in his office while taking the bribe. CBI sleuths raided two houses owned by Kirupanandan and seized several incriminating documents and unaccounted assets worth Rs 1 crore, including Rs 22 lakh in cash, sources said.
The Chennai CBI court remanded P Kirupanandan in judicial custody till March 12 and sent him to Puzhal jail.
Kirupanandan was caught red-handed in his office while taking the bribe. CBI sleuths raided two houses owned by Kirupanandan and seized several incriminating documents and unaccounted assets worth Rs 1 crore, including Rs 22 lakh in cash, sources said.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Samsung caliber - a must see review
Tech enthusiasts may go ga-ga over this new chic Samsung phone which is now available through MetroPCS. This new Samsung device entitled Caliber (SCH-r860) is equipped with superior attributes. The handset sports Samsung’s TouchWiz User Interface. The UI integrates exclusively-designed widgets that enable users to customize and personalize their mobile phone.
Social networking applications such as Facebook and MySpace can be accessed by means of the phone’s full HTML web browser and messaging features that embrace IM and personal e-mail. The handset adorns a 3.2-inch WQVGA, 262K TFT display. The Samsung Caliber provides MetroPCS applications and services in addition to downloads, along with a collection of other attributes to keep users connected. The device includes superior voice recognition, MetroNavigator GPS navigation system, Metro 411 Directory Assistance and MetroWEB.
Social networking applications such as Facebook and MySpace can be accessed by means of the phone’s full HTML web browser and messaging features that embrace IM and personal e-mail. The handset adorns a 3.2-inch WQVGA, 262K TFT display. The Samsung Caliber provides MetroPCS applications and services in addition to downloads, along with a collection of other attributes to keep users connected. The device includes superior voice recognition, MetroNavigator GPS navigation system, Metro 411 Directory Assistance and MetroWEB.
Mi-Fone unveils 4 handsets in India
Africa’s growing mobile phone manufacturer, Mi-Fone has introduced four handsets to the Indian consumers. Just two years old Mi-Fone has become one of the most popular brands across the continent. Mi-Fone ranges of mobile handsets presently available in India are: Mi-Q family, Mi-5QS, Mi-2010, Mi-338, Mi-323 and Mi-350a.
The handsets are designed keeping in mind the young adults who are technosavvy globally.
The handsets are designed keeping in mind the young adults who are technosavvy globally.
Weekend Masti for Reliance Mobile customers
Reliance Mobile has launched a new offer for its GSM and CDMA subscribers all over India. Under this new "Weekend Masti" offer, users have to recharge their phones with Rs. 33 and they can make unlimited free local calls to any other Reliance Mobile (GSM or CDMA) throughout the weekend (Saturday and Sunday).
This pack is valid just for one weekend (00:01 hrs of Saturday to 23:59 hrs of Sunday).
This plan is offered to subscribers via e-recharge too. If you call to networks apart from Reliance, you will be charged as per your existing plan
This pack is valid just for one weekend (00:01 hrs of Saturday to 23:59 hrs of Sunday).
This plan is offered to subscribers via e-recharge too. If you call to networks apart from Reliance, you will be charged as per your existing plan
Iranian rebel confess of his US links
An alleged member of a Sunni Muslim group fighting the Iranian government has said in a televised confession that his group received help from the United States.
Abdolmalek Rigi, the leader of Jundallah, said on state-run TV on Friday that Iranian authorities had detained him on his way to a meeting with a "high-ranking American person" in Kyrgyzstan.
Rigi was reportedly seizedafter Iranian warplanes forced a flight from Dubai to Kyrygzstan to land at an Iranian airport.
Abdolmalek Rigi, the leader of Jundallah, said on state-run TV on Friday that Iranian authorities had detained him on his way to a meeting with a "high-ranking American person" in Kyrgyzstan.
Rigi was reportedly seizedafter Iranian warplanes forced a flight from Dubai to Kyrygzstan to land at an Iranian airport.
BSNL to introduce Country's Ultrafast BroadBand services
If your slow Internet connection has been a cause of great distress to you, BSNL now gives you a reason to stop complaining. The state-owned telecom operator has introduced a new plan that offers broadband speeds of up to 24Mbps.
To avail this service, subscribers will have to pay Rs. 4,999 a month for speeds up to 16 Mbps and Rs 9,999 a month for speeds of up to 24 Mbps. This new high-speed broadband is being made available with Digital Subscriber Loop (VDSL) Technology.
Sounds too good to be true? Well, sadly, there is always some drawback that tags along with such good news. While 24 Mbps broadband will be available only to customers located at a distance of up to 500 metres from the BSNL exchange, 16 Mbps broadband is available to only those residing up to about 1 km away.
To avail this service, subscribers will have to pay Rs. 4,999 a month for speeds up to 16 Mbps and Rs 9,999 a month for speeds of up to 24 Mbps. This new high-speed broadband is being made available with Digital Subscriber Loop (VDSL) Technology.
Sounds too good to be true? Well, sadly, there is always some drawback that tags along with such good news. While 24 Mbps broadband will be available only to customers located at a distance of up to 500 metres from the BSNL exchange, 16 Mbps broadband is available to only those residing up to about 1 km away.
Thai Supreme Court orders Former Thai PM to give $2.3 Billion
Thailand's Supreme Court has ruled that former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's family should be stripped of more than half a contested $2.3bn fortune.
The court said $1.4bn (£910m) of the assets were gained illegally through conflict of interest when Mr Thaksin was prime minister.
The funds were frozen after Mr Thaksin's elected government was overthrown in a military coup in 2006.
Mr Thaksin, who is living abroad, has denied any wrongdoing.
The court said $1.4bn (£910m) of the assets were gained illegally through conflict of interest when Mr Thaksin was prime minister.
The funds were frozen after Mr Thaksin's elected government was overthrown in a military coup in 2006.
Mr Thaksin, who is living abroad, has denied any wrongdoing.
ICICI Bk hikes Interest rate for long term deposits following HDFC & IDBI
ICICI Bank has hiked interest rates on long-term deposits by 25-50 basis points. The move comes a day before Rs 12,000 crore gets
withdrawn from the banking system as the second phase of RBI’s increase in cash reserve ratio comes into effect.
ICICI is the second lender after HDFC Bank which has increased its interest rates in the past one week. ICICI Bank, however, has hiked rates only for two of its slabs unlike HDFC Bank which had hiked interest rates across different slabs for periods above one year. The cash reserve ratio is the portion of deposits that banks are required to park with RBI as a part of prudential measures.
withdrawn from the banking system as the second phase of RBI’s increase in cash reserve ratio comes into effect.
ICICI is the second lender after HDFC Bank which has increased its interest rates in the past one week. ICICI Bank, however, has hiked rates only for two of its slabs unlike HDFC Bank which had hiked interest rates across different slabs for periods above one year. The cash reserve ratio is the portion of deposits that banks are required to park with RBI as a part of prudential measures.
Steel demand may raise after the Budget's stress on Urban & rural Infra development
The union budget proposals of finance minister Pranab Mukherjee, will indirectly boost the overall demand for steel. In particular, the
decision to raise outlay on urban development and housing by 75% to Rs 5,400 crore and an additional 25% of plan outlay for rural infrastructure, has come as a shot in the arm for domestic steel companies.
Base metals analyst at Angel Broking, Reena Walia Nair said: "Though no specific mention has been made with regard to steel, growth in infrastructure will obviously translate into growth for the steel sector as well. We have already seen a surge in equity stocks following the FM’s budget speech. The market seems to have responded very positively to the budget. Going forward, steel stocks are likely to look up too." On Friday, Tata Steel shares gained up 1.11% to Rs 573.65, while the Steel Authority of India (Sail) stock jumped 3.26% to Rs 218.45 on the BSE.
decision to raise outlay on urban development and housing by 75% to Rs 5,400 crore and an additional 25% of plan outlay for rural infrastructure, has come as a shot in the arm for domestic steel companies.
Base metals analyst at Angel Broking, Reena Walia Nair said: "Though no specific mention has been made with regard to steel, growth in infrastructure will obviously translate into growth for the steel sector as well. We have already seen a surge in equity stocks following the FM’s budget speech. The market seems to have responded very positively to the budget. Going forward, steel stocks are likely to look up too." On Friday, Tata Steel shares gained up 1.11% to Rs 573.65, while the Steel Authority of India (Sail) stock jumped 3.26% to Rs 218.45 on the BSE.
SUU KYI's appeal for her release rejected by court
The Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi failed in her latest bid to end more than a decade of house arrest today after the country's highest court threw out an appeal against her sentence.
The supreme court's decision was widely expected but her lawyer said he would launch a final special appeal to the supreme court after establishing the reasons why the latest attempt had been rejected. "The court order did not mention any reasons," he said.
The British ambassador Andrew Heyn attended the court session along with diplomats from Australia, France and the US.
The supreme court's decision was widely expected but her lawyer said he would launch a final special appeal to the supreme court after establishing the reasons why the latest attempt had been rejected. "The court order did not mention any reasons," he said.
The British ambassador Andrew Heyn attended the court session along with diplomats from Australia, France and the US.
TN CM urges CPI(M) to end controversial talks in W R Varadarajan's death
DMK president and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karuanidhi today urged that controversy surrounding the death of state CPI(M) leader W R Varadarajan should end, saying "maligning" him in his death would not be "politics of culture".
Referring to CPI state secretary D Pandian's remarks that Varadarajan's death should kindle a debate in CPI(M) over its functioning, Karunanidhi said this should "not be ignored".
Referring to CPI state secretary D Pandian's remarks that Varadarajan's death should kindle a debate in CPI(M) over its functioning, Karunanidhi said this should "not be ignored".
Naveen Patnaik disappointed by Union Budget
Terming the union budget as disappointing, Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today said it would fuel inflationary trends even as poor and backward regions of the state were denied special development packages announced for some provinces.
"Against the backdrop of soaring food prices, there is no mention whatsoever about the much promised scheme of delivery of rice and wheat to the common people at Rs three per kg," Patnaik said in a statement.
Fearing that hike in the prices of diesel and petrol was expected to further fuel the inflationary trends in the country, Patnaik said, "This is likely to have a cascading effect on the prices of all other commodities as well.
"Against the backdrop of soaring food prices, there is no mention whatsoever about the much promised scheme of delivery of rice and wheat to the common people at Rs three per kg," Patnaik said in a statement.
Fearing that hike in the prices of diesel and petrol was expected to further fuel the inflationary trends in the country, Patnaik said, "This is likely to have a cascading effect on the prices of all other commodities as well.
ESMA in Manipur to end State govt Employees strike
The Manipur government is likely to invoke the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) to break the indefinite strike of state government employees since Jan 16 demanding higher salaries, officials said here Friday.
'In view of the strike, the functioning of government hospitals is paralysed and the out-patient departments (OPD) are even closed since Wednesday,' a government official told reporters.
'The ESMA could be applied against those agitating leaders who were on strike as it has inconvenienced thousands of people,' he added.
'In view of the strike, the functioning of government hospitals is paralysed and the out-patient departments (OPD) are even closed since Wednesday,' a government official told reporters.
'The ESMA could be applied against those agitating leaders who were on strike as it has inconvenienced thousands of people,' he added.
Auto parts Cos relieved - expects more reforms than announced in union budget
Auto parts makers heaved a sigh of relief after the finance minister announced a lower-than- expected rollback of an excise duty cut and
did not raise service tax, industry officials and analysts said on Friday.
"It's a good budget. It was a tightrope walk for the finance minister. He has tried to continue the growth stimulus with a lot of prudence," said Vishnu Mathur, Executive Director at the Auto Components Manufacturers Association.
"The increase in excise duty was expected. He has not increased service tax, which was one of our main worries," he said.
did not raise service tax, industry officials and analysts said on Friday.
"It's a good budget. It was a tightrope walk for the finance minister. He has tried to continue the growth stimulus with a lot of prudence," said Vishnu Mathur, Executive Director at the Auto Components Manufacturers Association.
"The increase in excise duty was expected. He has not increased service tax, which was one of our main worries," he said.
UID project gets Rs 1900 Crore - Govt to set up a Tech Advisory
One of India’s most ambitious projects, Unique Identification (UID)–where every Indian will be given a unique number–has received a huge boost with Dr Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of Finance, allocating Rs 1900 crore to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) for 2010-11.
The Finance minister said that the UIDAI is on track to issue the first set of UID numbers this year. The allocation of funds will help the UIDAI speed up execution, as it gets into the operational phase.
The Finance minister said that the UIDAI is on track to issue the first set of UID numbers this year. The allocation of funds will help the UIDAI speed up execution, as it gets into the operational phase.
6800 more rural hospitals necessary to cope with the rural population in India
This Thursday, the annual Economic Survey released a report stating that India is in need of over 6,800 additional hospitals especially in rural areas.
This will help to provide better basic health amenities as well as improve health infrastructure.
The survey further stated that “There is still a shortage of 4,477 primary healthcare centres and 2,337 community healthcare centres as per the 2001 population norms”.
This will help to provide better basic health amenities as well as improve health infrastructure.
The survey further stated that “There is still a shortage of 4,477 primary healthcare centres and 2,337 community healthcare centres as per the 2001 population norms”.
CAT results by the end of Feb
The wait would soon be over for candidates who are aspiring to get into the country's top business schools. The eagerly awaited result is expected to be out anytime now. Last week IIM official's announced through their official website that the results are to be further delayed and would only be out by end of the month.
This year's CAT was the first time that the examination was conducted as a computer-based online test. It was conducted in the paper-and-pencil format for 33 years. The original schedule for the test was between November 28 and December 7, which was extended by a day to December 8 to accommodate thousands of students who could not appear during the ten-day window because of technical glitches at several centers across the country.
This year's CAT was the first time that the examination was conducted as a computer-based online test. It was conducted in the paper-and-pencil format for 33 years. The original schedule for the test was between November 28 and December 7, which was extended by a day to December 8 to accommodate thousands of students who could not appear during the ten-day window because of technical glitches at several centers across the country.
opposition stages walk out as FM presents Budget in Parliment
The opposition on Friday walked out of the Lok Sabha during Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee's budget presentation to protest some tax proposals - a development many veteran MPs believe may be a first in the history of India's parliament.
Members of the BJP, the Janata Dal-United (JD-U), the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Left parties, the Samajwadi Party (SP), AIADMK and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) rose from their seats when Mukherjee spoke of the basic duty on crude oil being restored.
Members of the BJP, the Janata Dal-United (JD-U), the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Left parties, the Samajwadi Party (SP), AIADMK and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) rose from their seats when Mukherjee spoke of the basic duty on crude oil being restored.
Excise hike on petro products catalyst for Price hike on Petro products from tonight
The government is set to announce a hike in the prices of auto fuels like petrol prices by Rs 2.71 per litre and diesel prices by Rs 2.55 per litre with effect from tonight, Oil Secretary S Sundareshan said today.
The development came hours after Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee announced an increase in excise and customs duty on petroleum products. During the Budget, opposition leaders staged a walk-out protesting the move would lead to an increase in fuel prices.
The development came hours after Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee announced an increase in excise and customs duty on petroleum products. During the Budget, opposition leaders staged a walk-out protesting the move would lead to an increase in fuel prices.
Govt to boost Farm sector by 4% this fiscal yr
The government will boost farm spending and lift agriculture sector growth to 4% in the medium term, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said on Friday, but analysts said the Budget failed to introduce measures to curb rising food prices.
The government, in its annual Budget for the fiscal year 2010/11 beginning from April, introduced a clutch of measures aimed at spurring rural economy, including withdrawal of service tax on testing and certification of seeds and on transportation of cereals and lentils by road.
Mukherjee said farm credit target for 2010/11 would be raised to Rs 3.75 trillion from Rs 3.25 trillion in the previous year.
The government, in its annual Budget for the fiscal year 2010/11 beginning from April, introduced a clutch of measures aimed at spurring rural economy, including withdrawal of service tax on testing and certification of seeds and on transportation of cereals and lentils by road.
Mukherjee said farm credit target for 2010/11 would be raised to Rs 3.75 trillion from Rs 3.25 trillion in the previous year.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
General Motors to shed Hummer bcoz of its loss of popularity
General Motors Co will wind down its iconic but tarnished Hummer brand after Chinese regulators rejected a $150 million bid by an obscure Chinese machinery maker to buy the money-losing SUV line.
GM had been trying to complete the deal by the end of February after reaching a definitive agreement in October to sell Hummer to Tengzhong, a little-known heavy machinery company based in Sichuan province.
The collapse of the deal represents another setback for GM, which had been working to shed unprofitable brands and focus on its four core brands -- Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC -- after emerging from bankruptcy in July.
GM had been trying to complete the deal by the end of February after reaching a definitive agreement in October to sell Hummer to Tengzhong, a little-known heavy machinery company based in Sichuan province.
The collapse of the deal represents another setback for GM, which had been working to shed unprofitable brands and focus on its four core brands -- Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC -- after emerging from bankruptcy in July.
Sachin & dal price - a comic comparison by BJP
The government has "run out of ideas" on controlling the spiralling prices of essential commodities and is "only looking for alibis" to cover up for its failures, main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said on Thursday.
"Has this government run out of ideas on how to control prices?" Leader of Opposition Arun Jaitley asked while initiating a short duration discussion on the subject in the Rajya Sabha. "Obviously it has. The government is only looking for alibis."
"Could the government not anticipate the supply-side shortfall," he wondered. "Today, we are facing a situation where the government's inability to control inflation has become an indirect tax on the consumer."
"Has this government run out of ideas on how to control prices?" Leader of Opposition Arun Jaitley asked while initiating a short duration discussion on the subject in the Rajya Sabha. "Obviously it has. The government is only looking for alibis."
"Could the government not anticipate the supply-side shortfall," he wondered. "Today, we are facing a situation where the government's inability to control inflation has become an indirect tax on the consumer."
CPI - M suspends one of senior mem & Kollam mayor
A senior Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader in Kerala lost his job as Kollam Municipal Corporation mayor and was suspended from his party on Thursday for being present at a function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
N Padmalochan inaugurated the organising committee office for state-level meetings of the RSS here early this month. Ever since he lit the lamp there, his rivals in the CPI-M were up in arms demanding that he be asked to quit the post of mayor.
N Padmalochan inaugurated the organising committee office for state-level meetings of the RSS here early this month. Ever since he lit the lamp there, his rivals in the CPI-M were up in arms demanding that he be asked to quit the post of mayor.
Post Master Gen. of Maha & Goa arrested on bribery charges
The Chief Post-Master General of Maharashtra and Goa was today arrested for allegedly taking a bribe of Rs 2 crore to transfer government land meant for post offices to private parties. The CBI has called it the biggest catch in the last 60 years.
Manjit Singh Bali was apprehended by the anti-corruption wing of the investigative agency, officials said.
Bali, a 1978 batch civil services officer, is among the top 10 senior officers of the country.
Manjit Singh Bali was apprehended by the anti-corruption wing of the investigative agency, officials said.
Bali, a 1978 batch civil services officer, is among the top 10 senior officers of the country.
ISRO to launch JUGNU - built by students os IIT-K
A satellite developed by IIT Kanpur 'Jugnu' that will provide information on natural calamities will be handed over to scientists of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on March six by President Pratibha Patil.
After testing it, ISRO will launch the satellite from Sriharikota, IIT-K Registrar Sanjeev Kasalkar told PTI.
The satellite will help in gathering prior information regarding flood, drought and disaster management.
After testing it, ISRO will launch the satellite from Sriharikota, IIT-K Registrar Sanjeev Kasalkar told PTI.
The satellite will help in gathering prior information regarding flood, drought and disaster management.
CCTV footage broadcast banned - ATS still clueless on the blast
Broadcast of CCTV footage of the bombed German Bakery here has been banned by a court to protect witnesses and ensure unhindered investigations in the case.
The court issued its directive on an application filed by the Maharashtra ATS, Pune Police Commissioner Satyapal Singh said.
The order also applies to the CCTV footage from the five star hotel adjacent to the site of the blast on February 13, he said. Sixteen people have died in the blast.
The court issued its directive on an application filed by the Maharashtra ATS, Pune Police Commissioner Satyapal Singh said.
The order also applies to the CCTV footage from the five star hotel adjacent to the site of the blast on February 13, he said. Sixteen people have died in the blast.
M F Husain - a Quatar citizen - no more an Indian.
Indeed a sad day for India as Qatar has welcomed MF Husain, one of India's greatest artist.
Since 2006, when the Hindutva hate campaign against him escalated, the artist has been living in Dubai, spending his summers in London.
Husain has been conferred Qatar nationality - something that is very rarely given. The artist told this to The Hindu from Dubai, early on Wednesday morning.
Since 2006, when the Hindutva hate campaign against him escalated, the artist has been living in Dubai, spending his summers in London.
Husain has been conferred Qatar nationality - something that is very rarely given. The artist told this to The Hindu from Dubai, early on Wednesday morning.
MCD discards ghost employee issue
Less than three months after Municipal Commissioner K S Mehra acknowledged that there are 22,853 employees on the civic body’s payroll who are neither registered for biometric attendance nor attend work, the MCD’s counsel told the Delhi High Court on Wednesday that no employee is being paid without work.
Ajay Arora, counsel for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), told the court that the issue of “ghost employees” was blown out of proportion, and that the inquiry initiated by the MCD last November might find there were no such employees.
Ajay Arora, counsel for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), told the court that the issue of “ghost employees” was blown out of proportion, and that the inquiry initiated by the MCD last November might find there were no such employees.
FBI shares more info on Headley's India visit
Major defence establishments in and around Pune, including National Defence Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla, were on the radar of US-based jihadi David Coleman Headley who had not only videographed these places in detail but also shared it with his Lashkar handlers in Pakistan in March last year.
This was revealed by the FBI to India during its recent exchanges over the ongoing probe, making it clear that Headley -- who is currently in American jail -- had specifically been asked by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) to scout for "defence installations", besides Jewish centres and places frequented by foreigners, after the 26/11 attacks.
This was revealed by the FBI to India during its recent exchanges over the ongoing probe, making it clear that Headley -- who is currently in American jail -- had specifically been asked by Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) to scout for "defence installations", besides Jewish centres and places frequented by foreigners, after the 26/11 attacks.
India needs GM crops to provide food security to its Increasing POPULATION
Pushed to a corner by Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh’s peremptory freeze on Bt brinjal, the UPA government took the first step of finding a way out. And it needed the authority of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to do that.
In a clear enunciation of the government’s policy on GM crops — a policy that got clouded by Ramesh’s rhetoric — the Prime Minister underlined the importance of biotechnology in productivity and food security, called for private investment in biotech, a time-frame for a decision on Bt brinjal and a national biotechnology regulatory authority.
In a clear enunciation of the government’s policy on GM crops — a policy that got clouded by Ramesh’s rhetoric — the Prime Minister underlined the importance of biotechnology in productivity and food security, called for private investment in biotech, a time-frame for a decision on Bt brinjal and a national biotechnology regulatory authority.
Intel to boost its workforce strength
Giant US technology company Intel Corp is working with a range of venture capital firms to organize $3.5 billion in investment in promising technology, $200 million of which will come from Intel itself, Intel President Paul Otellini has said.
Intel also announced plans for it and other companies to double their hiring of college graduates, creating more than 10,500 jobs. Otellini estimated the annual paychecks would total more than $1 billion.
The chipmaker has organized a group of 24 venture capital firms to invest in technologies to create economic growth and jobs, he said.
Intel also announced plans for it and other companies to double their hiring of college graduates, creating more than 10,500 jobs. Otellini estimated the annual paychecks would total more than $1 billion.
The chipmaker has organized a group of 24 venture capital firms to invest in technologies to create economic growth and jobs, he said.
Rail Budget fails to cheer the market mood
The populist rail budget for 2010-2011 presented by Rail Minister Mamata Banerjee failed to enthuse investors and marketmen and stocks across the board snapped the last two days gains and closed lower than their previous levels in a choppy trading session in which nearly 65 per cent of stocks declined as compared to advance of 33 per cent.
The benchmark BSE Sensex closed down by 30.35 points at 16,255.97 after touching an intra day low of 16187.44, while the NSE Nifty closed down by 11.45 at 4858.60 level from its earlier day closing of 4870.05.
The benchmark BSE Sensex closed down by 30.35 points at 16,255.97 after touching an intra day low of 16187.44, while the NSE Nifty closed down by 11.45 at 4858.60 level from its earlier day closing of 4870.05.
Still address proof verification, a incomplete process.
It's the number on everyone's lips since Tuesday evening — 9734695789. The Vodafone number reportedly belongs to Maoist leader Kishanji. This is the number he publicised through media and asked Union home minister P Chidambaram to dial on February 25 for peace negotiations.
An investigation has revealed the number was never registered in the name of Koteswar Rao (Kishanji's actual name). Though vodafone india has not officially confirmed this, sources said the SIM card is registered in the name of Sisir Kanti Nag and was bought at Kharagpur town. The address reportedly registered with vodafone india against this SIM card is: Inda Ward 11, Kharagpur Town, Midnapore West 721301.
An investigation has revealed the number was never registered in the name of Koteswar Rao (Kishanji's actual name). Though vodafone india has not officially confirmed this, sources said the SIM card is registered in the name of Sisir Kanti Nag and was bought at Kharagpur town. The address reportedly registered with vodafone india against this SIM card is: Inda Ward 11, Kharagpur Town, Midnapore West 721301.
Chandigarh failed to bring back the wotks of its designer
Decades after master architect Le Corbusier designed Chandigarh, the only planned city in independent India, its administration is fighting to retrieve his artefacts which have been auctioned in France.
After failing to stall the Feb 16 auction of Corbusier's works in Paris, the administration is now looking for a glitch in the sale so that it can sue.
Ignoring a notice from the Chandigarh union territory's government, Paris-based auction house Artcurial had auctioned works of Corbusier and his team -- including wooden carvings of sketches, graphs and drawings prepared under the supervision of the architect.
After failing to stall the Feb 16 auction of Corbusier's works in Paris, the administration is now looking for a glitch in the sale so that it can sue.
Ignoring a notice from the Chandigarh union territory's government, Paris-based auction house Artcurial had auctioned works of Corbusier and his team -- including wooden carvings of sketches, graphs and drawings prepared under the supervision of the architect.
Sachin's Double hundred - a rewritten history
Milestone man Sachin Tendulkar said he sensed he could be the first batsman to hit an ODI double century only after he had reached 175 in the second one-dayer against South Africa.
Tendulkar, whose unbeaten 200 earned him a slice of one day history, said he was merely striking the ball well early in his innings. It was only in the final eight overs that he realised he stood a chance to re-write history.
"In the first half an hour, I was striking the ball well and timing well. The ball was coming nicely onto the bat," Tendulkar said after the match.
"I was not thinking about it all along. It was only when I crossed 175 and realised that it was still the 42nd over, I felt I have an opportunity. So I decided to take singles and give strike to (Mahendra Singh) Dhoni who was hitting so well," said the batting great.
Tendulkar, whose unbeaten 200 earned him a slice of one day history, said he was merely striking the ball well early in his innings. It was only in the final eight overs that he realised he stood a chance to re-write history.
"In the first half an hour, I was striking the ball well and timing well. The ball was coming nicely onto the bat," Tendulkar said after the match.
"I was not thinking about it all along. It was only when I crossed 175 and realised that it was still the 42nd over, I felt I have an opportunity. So I decided to take singles and give strike to (Mahendra Singh) Dhoni who was hitting so well," said the batting great.
UN blames India for rising drug abuse in neighbouring countries
The United Nations narcotics control division, International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), has blamed India for the rising drug abuse in its neighbourhood, particularly in Bangladesh and Bhutan.
Worse, the UN agency says India is the primary source of injectible drugs such as pethidine and morphine widely abused in these countries. In fact, more and more addicts in these countries are shifting to injectible narcotics abuse.
Worse, the UN agency says India is the primary source of injectible drugs such as pethidine and morphine widely abused in these countries. In fact, more and more addicts in these countries are shifting to injectible narcotics abuse.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Airwaves must be saved to offer quality mobile telephony in future- RIM CEO
Taking aim at rivals like Apple Inc, BlackBerry-maker Research in Motion Ltd said on Tuesday that smartphone manufacturers must start developing less bandwidth-guzzling products or risk choking already congested airwaves.
As users abandon traditional cellphones for netbooks, wireless modems and feature-rich smartphones, like Apple's iPhone, wireless data traffic has exploded and is threatening to saturate network capacity, RIM co-CEO Mike Lazaridis said.
Wireless carriers, especially in congested North American urban centers, are already showing signs of stress, with dropped calls and slower data transfer speeds.
As users abandon traditional cellphones for netbooks, wireless modems and feature-rich smartphones, like Apple's iPhone, wireless data traffic has exploded and is threatening to saturate network capacity, RIM co-CEO Mike Lazaridis said.
Wireless carriers, especially in congested North American urban centers, are already showing signs of stress, with dropped calls and slower data transfer speeds.
Sony Ericsson & Samsung introduces new Smart Phones to compete with the giants in the market
Samsung Electronics and Sony Ericsson unveiled their new top smartphone models on Sunday, both hoping to improve their positions in the more lucrative part of the phone market.
Samsung, the world No 2 handset maker, unveiled its flagship smartphone model Wave -- using a new touch screen technology and the first phone to use its bada operating system.
"Samsung's commitment to Bada is underlined by the fact that it is using it to power its flagship product for the show but it's going to be an uphill struggle to get the developer community on board," said Ben Wood, research director at CCS Insight.
Samsung, the world No 2 handset maker, unveiled its flagship smartphone model Wave -- using a new touch screen technology and the first phone to use its bada operating system.
"Samsung's commitment to Bada is underlined by the fact that it is using it to power its flagship product for the show but it's going to be an uphill struggle to get the developer community on board," said Ben Wood, research director at CCS Insight.
3 Cos in EU complains against Google in Antitrust regulators
European Union antitrust regulators said on Wednesday they were looking into complaints filed by three online companies against Google.
"The (European) Commission can confirm that it has received three complaints against Google which it is examining. The Commission has not opened a formal investigation for the time being," the EU executive said in a statement.
The Commission did not identify the companies.
Google said earlier on Wednesday that British price comparison site Foundem, French legal search engine ejustice.fr and Microsoft Corp- owned Ciao from Bing had complained to the Commission regarding its practices.
"The (European) Commission can confirm that it has received three complaints against Google which it is examining. The Commission has not opened a formal investigation for the time being," the EU executive said in a statement.
The Commission did not identify the companies.
Google said earlier on Wednesday that British price comparison site Foundem, French legal search engine ejustice.fr and Microsoft Corp- owned Ciao from Bing had complained to the Commission regarding its practices.
Pak army fired at us says BSF, Pak rangers denies the reports
Indian border guards said their troops came under fire from Pakistan on Wednesday, a day before the two nuclear-armed neighbours are set for the first official talks since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
"The firing from across the border started early morning. A BSF (Border Security Force) personnel was injured," Vinod Sharma, a spokesman for the border guards, Reuters reports.
Pakistan denied any shooting by its troops.
"The firing from across the border started early morning. A BSF (Border Security Force) personnel was injured," Vinod Sharma, a spokesman for the border guards, Reuters reports.
Pakistan denied any shooting by its troops.
Akio Toyoda- Prez Toyota - to face probe in US on safety concerns in the products
The president of Toyota will face tough questioning from US politicians later as their probe into safety problems at the firm continues.
Akio Toyoda is to be quizzed on events that led to 8.5 million vehicles being recalled worldwide and how his firm responded to the public's concerns.
Mr Toyoda has already released opening remarks which admitted that the firm's expansion "may have been too quick".
The Congress committee has already been scathing of Toyota's US boss.
Akio Toyoda is to be quizzed on events that led to 8.5 million vehicles being recalled worldwide and how his firm responded to the public's concerns.
Mr Toyoda has already released opening remarks which admitted that the firm's expansion "may have been too quick".
The Congress committee has already been scathing of Toyota's US boss.
UP revokes ban on sugar import to check the rise of sugar price
Shares in sugar firms opened down more than 1 percent on Wednesday after media reported that the Uttar Pradesh government revoked a ban on imports of raw sugar, making available an additional 1 million tonnes of the sweetener in the open market.
The move will pressure sugar prices in the local market, hurting companies' realisations, traders said.
Economic Times and Financial Express newspapers reported on Wednesday that the northern state lifted the ban late on Tuesday to tame rising prices.
The move will pressure sugar prices in the local market, hurting companies' realisations, traders said.
Economic Times and Financial Express newspapers reported on Wednesday that the northern state lifted the ban late on Tuesday to tame rising prices.
Nemmeli desalination plant will be operational by Dec 2011-- Dy CM
The 100-MLD (million litres per day) capacity desalination plant at Nemmeli on East Coast Road will be commissioned by December 2011, Deputy Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said here on Tuesday.
Laying the foundation stone for the plant, he said many suburban areas en route to the site would benefit once the plant is commissioned. The Centre had released Rs.300 crore as the first instalment of the total grant of Rs.871.24 crore announced for the scheme.
The 40.05-acre site chosen for the plant was taken on a lease of 30 years by Chennai Metrowater.
Laying the foundation stone for the plant, he said many suburban areas en route to the site would benefit once the plant is commissioned. The Centre had released Rs.300 crore as the first instalment of the total grant of Rs.871.24 crore announced for the scheme.
The 40.05-acre site chosen for the plant was taken on a lease of 30 years by Chennai Metrowater.
Nemmeli desalination plant will be operational by Dec 2011-- Dy CM
The 100-MLD (million litres per day) capacity desalination plant at Nemmeli on East Coast Road will be commissioned by December 2011, Deputy Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said here on Tuesday.
Laying the foundation stone for the plant, he said many suburban areas en route to the site would benefit once the plant is commissioned. The Centre had released Rs.300 crore as the first instalment of the total grant of Rs.871.24 crore announced for the scheme.
The 40.05-acre site chosen for the plant was taken on a lease of 30 years by Chennai Metrowater.
Laying the foundation stone for the plant, he said many suburban areas en route to the site would benefit once the plant is commissioned. The Centre had released Rs.300 crore as the first instalment of the total grant of Rs.871.24 crore announced for the scheme.
The 40.05-acre site chosen for the plant was taken on a lease of 30 years by Chennai Metrowater.
American Towers confirms its deal to buy Essar Towers of India
Telecoms tower firm American Tower Corp is close to signing a deal to buy Essar Group's telecom towers in India for an enterprise value of $450 million, a person familiar with the deal said on Wednesday. "The deal is done. Total value is $450 million including some debt," the source said, adding an announcement could be made only after the companies sign formal documents.
The Economic Times on Wednesday reported the deal and said an announcement was likely later in the day. It said the valuation included $300 million in equity and assumption of $150 million of debt held by India-based Essar's tower business.
U.S.-based American Tower is spreading its wings in India and bought local tower firms Xcel Telecom and Transcend last year. The company currently owns about 2,000 tower sites in India, and more than 26,000 globally, according to its website.
The Economic Times on Wednesday reported the deal and said an announcement was likely later in the day. It said the valuation included $300 million in equity and assumption of $150 million of debt held by India-based Essar's tower business.
U.S.-based American Tower is spreading its wings in India and bought local tower firms Xcel Telecom and Transcend last year. The company currently owns about 2,000 tower sites in India, and more than 26,000 globally, according to its website.
Track record in Gwalior - a positive edge for Men in Blue
A narrow one-run win over the proteas in the first match of the series notwithstanding, the Indian team's morale would be high going into the second match today given their record at the Captain Roop Singh Stadium here.
The hosts have won seven out of the nine ODI's that they have played here including one against South Africa, when they trounced the visitors by 38 runs in a 45 over-match on November 12, 1991.
Despite the then skipper and now batting coach Kepler Wessels' valiant knock of 71, India tamed the proteas following half centuries by Kris Srikkanth (68), Navjot Singh Sidhu (61) and Sanjay Manjrekar (52). Batting maestro Sachin
Tendulkar could contribute only four runs in that match.
The hosts have won seven out of the nine ODI's that they have played here including one against South Africa, when they trounced the visitors by 38 runs in a 45 over-match on November 12, 1991.
Despite the then skipper and now batting coach Kepler Wessels' valiant knock of 71, India tamed the proteas following half centuries by Kris Srikkanth (68), Navjot Singh Sidhu (61) and Sanjay Manjrekar (52). Batting maestro Sachin
Tendulkar could contribute only four runs in that match.
Bihar & WB are the states always highlighted in Railway Budget.
Mamata Banerjee will be presenting her second Railway Budget on Wednesday.
No other ministry is as political as the Railway Ministry, for if one cannot give a train to his/her state and can not understand the art of distributing political largesse then that person cannot be the person heading the Rail Bhawan.
"Every single railway minister has sought to nurse his or her constituency," says political analyst Paranjoy Guha Thakurta.
For the past fifteen years it has been West Bengal and Bihar that have been showered by gifts in the form of new trains, stations and rail projects. The railway ministers are all strong regional players.
No other ministry is as political as the Railway Ministry, for if one cannot give a train to his/her state and can not understand the art of distributing political largesse then that person cannot be the person heading the Rail Bhawan.
"Every single railway minister has sought to nurse his or her constituency," says political analyst Paranjoy Guha Thakurta.
For the past fifteen years it has been West Bengal and Bihar that have been showered by gifts in the form of new trains, stations and rail projects. The railway ministers are all strong regional players.
Maoists in return send a mobile number Home ministry to contact them
Maoist leaders will respond to the Union Home Ministry by sending a fax about their 72-day ceasefire proposal on Wednesday.
The Ministry had on Tuesday released statement signed by Home Minister P Chidambaram which called for the Maoists to send a fax about their ceasefire offer.
"I would like a short, simple statement from Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoists). I would like no ifs, no buts. They should send the fax to 011-23093155. Once we receive the fax, I'll consult the Prime Minister and other colleagues and respond promptly," Home Ministry Spokesperson Onkar Kedia read from the statement.
The Ministry had on Tuesday released statement signed by Home Minister P Chidambaram which called for the Maoists to send a fax about their ceasefire offer.
"I would like a short, simple statement from Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoists). I would like no ifs, no buts. They should send the fax to 011-23093155. Once we receive the fax, I'll consult the Prime Minister and other colleagues and respond promptly," Home Ministry Spokesperson Onkar Kedia read from the statement.
Another Person abducted in Pak, demanding 10 million ransom
Even as Pakistan's Sikh community mourns the lost of 2 of its members, a Pakistani Hindu has now been abducted in Peshwar and a huge ransom demanded for his release.
Robin Singh, a computer engineer by profession was kidnapped by unknown persons from a market on Peshwar's University Road last Friday -- Singh was kidnapped while heading to the town of Nowshera for some work.
The kidnappers have demanded 10 million rupees from Singh's relatives. His brother, Rajan has registered a case at Peshawar's West Cantonment police station. In a statement issued yesterday, President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the kidnapping of Robin Singh.
Robin Singh, a computer engineer by profession was kidnapped by unknown persons from a market on Peshwar's University Road last Friday -- Singh was kidnapped while heading to the town of Nowshera for some work.
The kidnappers have demanded 10 million rupees from Singh's relatives. His brother, Rajan has registered a case at Peshawar's West Cantonment police station. In a statement issued yesterday, President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the kidnapping of Robin Singh.
Goa - party town to drug & rape town
Goa is emerging as a drug and sex destination, the state's apex commerce and industry lobbying group has said.
The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has issued strict caution to the state government, asking it to shore up its act on tourism, in a pre budget note which was handed over to chief minister Digambar Kamat on Tuesday.
"Tourism in Goa of late is getting a bad name with Goa slowly emerging as a drug and sex destination," GCCI president Cesar Menezes said in the pre budget note. Lamenting the fact that Goa's top grossing industry was lying in shambles, Menezes said that much needed to be done on the tourism front to save the sector from doom.
The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has issued strict caution to the state government, asking it to shore up its act on tourism, in a pre budget note which was handed over to chief minister Digambar Kamat on Tuesday.
"Tourism in Goa of late is getting a bad name with Goa slowly emerging as a drug and sex destination," GCCI president Cesar Menezes said in the pre budget note. Lamenting the fact that Goa's top grossing industry was lying in shambles, Menezes said that much needed to be done on the tourism front to save the sector from doom.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Aqua Logistics shares rose by 7% on the day of its listing in BSE
Shares of Aqua Logistics, a third party logistics provider, listed at 219.40 rupees on the BSE on Tuesday, a narrow discount to its issue price of 220 rupees a share, but rose as much as 6.5% in early trade.
The firm's shares listed at Rs 225 on the NSE.
The firm is raising about Rs 1.5 billion through the issue 6.87 million shares.
Saffron Capital Advisors and Centrum Capital were the managers to the issue.
At 9:02 am shares were trading at Rs 230.5 after hitting a high of 234.4 rupees on the BSE in a weak Mumbai market.
The firm's shares listed at Rs 225 on the NSE.
The firm is raising about Rs 1.5 billion through the issue 6.87 million shares.
Saffron Capital Advisors and Centrum Capital were the managers to the issue.
At 9:02 am shares were trading at Rs 230.5 after hitting a high of 234.4 rupees on the BSE in a weak Mumbai market.
Wipro employee alleged for $4million fraud in the company commits suicide
Anoop Agarwal, the employee allegedly responsible for a $4 million fraud at Wipro, is believed to have committed suicide.
"The employee committed suicide within 10 days of the incident coming to light", a Wipro source told on condition of anonymity.
There was, however, no official word from either the police or the company on how he died.
Agarwal had been working with the company for the past three years in the ‘controllership’ division within the finance department. This cell is responsible for keeping the company’s financial books and also has powers to authorise payments whenever needed. The employee is believed to have embezzled about $4 million by stealing a password and transferring money from Wipro’s account at a bank.
"The employee committed suicide within 10 days of the incident coming to light", a Wipro source told on condition of anonymity.
There was, however, no official word from either the police or the company on how he died.
Agarwal had been working with the company for the past three years in the ‘controllership’ division within the finance department. This cell is responsible for keeping the company’s financial books and also has powers to authorise payments whenever needed. The employee is believed to have embezzled about $4 million by stealing a password and transferring money from Wipro’s account at a bank.
Maruti to recall 1 Lakh AStar following problem in its Fuel tank
It is the Indian version of a recall that global automobile manufacturers are in the midst of. Maruti Suzuki, the country’s biggest car maker by sales, is replacing fuel pump gaskets of one of its small car, the A Star, following reports of anomalies in the fuel tank.
Approximately 1 lakh cars, manufactured during a certain time frame, will get new fuel pump gaskets and O rings. An e-mailed reply from the company spokesperson said the company came across this issue last November as part of a regular quality monitoring process.
Approximately 1 lakh cars, manufactured during a certain time frame, will get new fuel pump gaskets and O rings. An e-mailed reply from the company spokesperson said the company came across this issue last November as part of a regular quality monitoring process.
Credit Card related complaints increase by 26% in 08-09 -- RBI
The report said RBI has started taking ‘class action’ , by issuing general directions to all banks to protect their customers. Such general
directions are issued by the regulator in cases that could benefit not only the applicant, but all those customers similarly placed without having to approach their respective banks.
The report said RBI has initiated class action against a foreign bank regarding the mode of calculation of interest rates on deposit accounts. A PSU bank was advised to recalculate interest rate on all housing loans as per terms of agreement entered into with all the borrowers without their application for relief. Yet another PSU bank was asked to recredit insurance premium that was debited to savings bank account holders without their concurrence under the group insurance scheme.
directions are issued by the regulator in cases that could benefit not only the applicant, but all those customers similarly placed without having to approach their respective banks.
The report said RBI has initiated class action against a foreign bank regarding the mode of calculation of interest rates on deposit accounts. A PSU bank was advised to recalculate interest rate on all housing loans as per terms of agreement entered into with all the borrowers without their application for relief. Yet another PSU bank was asked to recredit insurance premium that was debited to savings bank account holders without their concurrence under the group insurance scheme.
Oil exploration in Falkland island begins amid Argentina's claims
A British rig has begun drilling for oil in the territorial waters of the Falkland Islands, despite strong opposition from Argentina.
The platform has been towed to a point 100km (62 miles) north of the UK territory in the South Atlantic.
Argentina claims sovereignty over what it calls the Islas Malvinas and has imposed shipping restrictions.
UK Defence Minister Bill Rammell said the government had a "legitimate right" to build an oil industry in its waters.
The platform has been towed to a point 100km (62 miles) north of the UK territory in the South Atlantic.
Argentina claims sovereignty over what it calls the Islas Malvinas and has imposed shipping restrictions.
UK Defence Minister Bill Rammell said the government had a "legitimate right" to build an oil industry in its waters.
Suicide attack in SWAT valley left 6 dead
A suicide attack on a military vehicle in the Swat Valley killed at least six people, including two soldiers, according to a Pakistani security official and local news outlets. The bomber, who the official said was on foot, attacked a vehicle in central Mingora, the Swat Valley’s main town. Dozens of people were reported to have been injured in the attack.
Turkish PM attacked with the new technique - footwear attack
On a visit to Spain, you might be expecting the Turkish Prime Minister, to meet with his counterpart, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero. Instead, Recep Tayyip Erdogan had a near-miss with a zapato – the Spanish word for shoe. The 27 year old man who threw the footwear was promptly arrested in Sevilla. He is now accused of attempted assault on a head of state.
Earlier in the day, the two premiers did manage to meet in Madrid to discuss Spanish support for Turkey’s bid to join the European Union. While Spain holds the EU’s rotating presidency, Zapatero is promising efforts to speed up Turkey’s entry.
Earlier in the day, the two premiers did manage to meet in Madrid to discuss Spanish support for Turkey’s bid to join the European Union. While Spain holds the EU’s rotating presidency, Zapatero is promising efforts to speed up Turkey’s entry.
NATO commander apologize for the attack on civilians in Afghan
The commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan took his apology for a weekend airstrike that killed civilians directly to the Afghan people on Tuesday, with a video in which he pledged to work to regain their trust as NATO continues a mass offensive against the Taliban in the south.
U.S. Marines and Afghan ground troops pushing from the north and south of the insurgent stronghold of Marjah finally linked up after more than a week, creating a direct route across the town that allows convoys to supply ammunition and reinforcements.
In the video, translated into the Afghan languages of Dari and Pashto on a NATO Web site, a stern Gen. Stanley McChrystal, apologizes for the strike in central Uruzgan province that Afghan officials say killed at least 21 people.
U.S. Marines and Afghan ground troops pushing from the north and south of the insurgent stronghold of Marjah finally linked up after more than a week, creating a direct route across the town that allows convoys to supply ammunition and reinforcements.
In the video, translated into the Afghan languages of Dari and Pashto on a NATO Web site, a stern Gen. Stanley McChrystal, apologizes for the strike in central Uruzgan province that Afghan officials say killed at least 21 people.
Mad,Inhumane protest in J & K left 10 yr boy dead ...
In a fit of madness, the protesters killed an 10-day-old infant
as they pelted stone on the car in which the family was traveling on Monday, Feb 22, media report said.
The four-year-old brother of the baby Irfan Ahmed has also sustained injury during the attack.
Police said that protesters, who were calling for a shutdown in Baramulla, intercepted the vehicle in which the family was traveling to take Irfan for treatment.
as they pelted stone on the car in which the family was traveling on Monday, Feb 22, media report said.
The four-year-old brother of the baby Irfan Ahmed has also sustained injury during the attack.
Police said that protesters, who were calling for a shutdown in Baramulla, intercepted the vehicle in which the family was traveling to take Irfan for treatment.
Maoists attack police camp in WB after offering National ceasefire ..
Maoist rebels have attacked a police camp in West Bengal state, hours after a Maoist leader offered a national ceasefire, police say.
Three rebels were killed during the clash in the troubled area of Lalgarh.
The government, which recently launched a major offensive against the rebels, has asked the rebels to put the ceasefire offer "in writing".
The rebels want communist rule in large parts of India. More than 6,000 people have died during their 20-year fight.
Three rebels were killed during the clash in the troubled area of Lalgarh.
The government, which recently launched a major offensive against the rebels, has asked the rebels to put the ceasefire offer "in writing".
The rebels want communist rule in large parts of India. More than 6,000 people have died during their 20-year fight.
Advani confident of Gadkari's leadership to turn up BJP's fate
Nitin Gadkari's forthrightness has been able to melt away the despondency set in by two successive setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections and turned the BJP upbeat at the just concluded Indore conclave, senior leader LK Advani said today.
In his latest blog posting, Advani said that before the three-day Indore conclave, the question bothering BJP delegates was whether Gadkari will be able to inspire confidence in the party cadre, "seemingly disheartened and disappointed by two successive setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections of 2004 and 2009?"
In his latest blog posting, Advani said that before the three-day Indore conclave, the question bothering BJP delegates was whether Gadkari will be able to inspire confidence in the party cadre, "seemingly disheartened and disappointed by two successive setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections of 2004 and 2009?"
Good Taliban Vs Bad taliban
The Manmohan Singh government may have expressed its willingness to try out the US’ “good Taliban, bad Taliban” differentiation,
but the Congress is just not buying into this argument.
Reacting to the beheading of two Sikhs by the Taliban in FATA of Pakistan, Congress spokesman Manish Tewari said the incident is reprehensible. “This unfortunate incident is a message to those forces who make a distinction between ‘good Taliban and bad Taliban’. There is nothing called good Taliban. They need to be crushed with a resolute resolve of the civilised world,” Mr Tewari said.
but the Congress is just not buying into this argument.
Reacting to the beheading of two Sikhs by the Taliban in FATA of Pakistan, Congress spokesman Manish Tewari said the incident is reprehensible. “This unfortunate incident is a message to those forces who make a distinction between ‘good Taliban and bad Taliban’. There is nothing called good Taliban. They need to be crushed with a resolute resolve of the civilised world,” Mr Tewari said.
Religare in acquisition mood - Northgate in the list next
Religare Enterprises is close to buying a majority stake in a venture capital and private equity investment firm co-founded by former
top-flight American sportsmen, company officials said, as part of its plan to grow into a global financial services provider through overseas acquisitions.
Religare, owned by the former promoters of Ranbaxy Laboratories Malvinder and Shivinder Singh, has signed a definitive pact to buy about a 65% stake in California-based Northgate Capital for some $200 million (about Rs 1,000 crore), persons familiar with the development said. The deal is expected to close by July. “The partnership will accelerate our process of seeking similar partnerships in other asset classes,” CEO & MD Sunil Godhwani wrote in a statement to ET. He declined to disclose the value of the deal.
top-flight American sportsmen, company officials said, as part of its plan to grow into a global financial services provider through overseas acquisitions.
Religare, owned by the former promoters of Ranbaxy Laboratories Malvinder and Shivinder Singh, has signed a definitive pact to buy about a 65% stake in California-based Northgate Capital for some $200 million (about Rs 1,000 crore), persons familiar with the development said. The deal is expected to close by July. “The partnership will accelerate our process of seeking similar partnerships in other asset classes,” CEO & MD Sunil Godhwani wrote in a statement to ET. He declined to disclose the value of the deal.
Reliance needs Fame to be in the ADAG group of Company list
There is a curious M&A situation that’s developed over the weekend. Reliance’s interest in Fame has only strengthened and what was at one time just a proposal – verbal one at that too – has now become a concrete open offer at a substantial premium to the price that Inox paid for the very same transaction. Inox paid Rs 51 a share – the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG) is willing to put Rs 83 a share on the table.
The only curious part of this transaction is that the ADAG is doing an open offer for 62% whereas 51% of this company is already owned by the Inox group.
The only curious part of this transaction is that the ADAG is doing an open offer for 62% whereas 51% of this company is already owned by the Inox group.
Kalpataru power transmission to raise funds upto $125 million
The board of power equipment maker Kalpataru Power Transmission has approved raising up to USD125 million via a qualified institutional placement or other modes of follow-on offerings, the company said in a statement on Tuesday.
It touched an intraday high of Rs 1,065 and an intraday low of Rs 1,045. At 10:40 hrs the share was quoting at Rs 1,060, up Rs 13.10, or 1.25%.
It was trading with volumes of 537 shares. Yesterday the share closed down 0.59% or Rs 6.25 at Rs 1,046.90.
It touched an intraday high of Rs 1,065 and an intraday low of Rs 1,045. At 10:40 hrs the share was quoting at Rs 1,060, up Rs 13.10, or 1.25%.
It was trading with volumes of 537 shares. Yesterday the share closed down 0.59% or Rs 6.25 at Rs 1,046.90.
Many sectors continue to be hurt very badly-- Anand Sharma
There is no doubt in Commerce Minister Anand Sharma's mind that the Indian economy will grow by 8% in FY11. In a speech opening the Budget session of Parliament, President Pratibha Patil said the economy was likely to grow about 7.5% in FY10 and that the government would aim for a annual growth rate of 8% in FY11 and 9% in FY12.
Sharma stated that inflation is of serious concern and said there is a shortage of pulses and edible oil in country. Exports, he added, are firmly in positive territory. Food prices are growing at the fastest pace in 11 years and the government fears a backlash from millions of rural poor who are its main voters.
Sharma stated that inflation is of serious concern and said there is a shortage of pulses and edible oil in country. Exports, he added, are firmly in positive territory. Food prices are growing at the fastest pace in 11 years and the government fears a backlash from millions of rural poor who are its main voters.
3G Auction likely by April 1st week -- 4 Private operators in each circle
In a move that will give the long-pending auction process for 3G spectrum a big push, telecom minister A Raja on Monday said the government will issue a notice inviting application (NIA) for bids from operators by the end of this week. The auctioning of 3G spectrum would start after 45 days of issuing the notice, he added, indicating that the auction would take place only by the next fiscal starting April 2010.
“NIAs will be released this week. Then, auction can take another 40-45 days,” Mr Raja said. The government will auction four slots of 3G spectrum in each circle, in addition to the one already allotted to state-owned telcos BSNL & MTNL, he added. The ministry got moving after the Prime Minister’s Office asked the Telecom Commission, the apex policy-making wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), to wrap up the auction of 3G spectrum by March 31, 2010. It also asked DoT to ensure that each circle has four private players offering 3G services, besides the state-owned telcos BSNL and MTNL.
The 3G spectrum auction has been delayed by close to two years due to glitches over freeing up of spectrum and fixing bid prices. The defence ministry, which is supposed to release the airwaves held by them in phases once the alternative fibre network for the armed forces is ready, earlier accused the telecom department of not fulfilling its commitment of building the fibre network.
The law ministry also objected to a clause in the draft NIA that successful bidders may ask for compensation in case they were not allotted spectrum within the stipulated time. However, the telecom minister on Monday said all these differences among the ministries have been resolved.
For consumers, the urgency shown for the upcoming auction of 3G airwaves means they will be able to access high-end data services including ultra-fast internet, video-conferencing, interactive gaming and mobile TV services by next year when the operators roll out their commercial 3G services.
Currently, all telecom services in the country are offered on the 2G platform, except state-owned telcos BSNL and MTNL who already have commercial 3G services in place. While 2G widely caters to the voice market, 3G is believed to spur data traffic in the country.
“NIAs will be released this week. Then, auction can take another 40-45 days,” Mr Raja said. The government will auction four slots of 3G spectrum in each circle, in addition to the one already allotted to state-owned telcos BSNL & MTNL, he added. The ministry got moving after the Prime Minister’s Office asked the Telecom Commission, the apex policy-making wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), to wrap up the auction of 3G spectrum by March 31, 2010. It also asked DoT to ensure that each circle has four private players offering 3G services, besides the state-owned telcos BSNL and MTNL.
The 3G spectrum auction has been delayed by close to two years due to glitches over freeing up of spectrum and fixing bid prices. The defence ministry, which is supposed to release the airwaves held by them in phases once the alternative fibre network for the armed forces is ready, earlier accused the telecom department of not fulfilling its commitment of building the fibre network.
The law ministry also objected to a clause in the draft NIA that successful bidders may ask for compensation in case they were not allotted spectrum within the stipulated time. However, the telecom minister on Monday said all these differences among the ministries have been resolved.
For consumers, the urgency shown for the upcoming auction of 3G airwaves means they will be able to access high-end data services including ultra-fast internet, video-conferencing, interactive gaming and mobile TV services by next year when the operators roll out their commercial 3G services.
Currently, all telecom services in the country are offered on the 2G platform, except state-owned telcos BSNL and MTNL who already have commercial 3G services in place. While 2G widely caters to the voice market, 3G is believed to spur data traffic in the country.
Judicial corruption a reality
Hectic lobbying is on to seek a raise in the retirement age of Supreme Court judges by another two years. The apex court judges now
retire at 65. In the event of this proposal getting through, Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishnan could continue for another two-and-a-half years.
But there is stiff resistance to the proposal from within the judiciary as many high court judges could find their elevation prospects blocked. Sources say that there are several competent high court judges who are waiting to be elevated to the Supreme Court.
retire at 65. In the event of this proposal getting through, Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishnan could continue for another two-and-a-half years.
But there is stiff resistance to the proposal from within the judiciary as many high court judges could find their elevation prospects blocked. Sources say that there are several competent high court judges who are waiting to be elevated to the Supreme Court.
Melbourne not safe for Indians - Oz opposition leader
Streets of Melbourne were not safe for Indians and the Government should spend money on policing and preventing racial attacks to improve relationship, Australia’s opposition leader Tony Abbott said on Tuesday.
The remarks came in the wake of the Government’s move to arrange accommodation for a team of Indian journalists touring Down Under.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is spending A$250,000 on flights and five-star accommodation for the journalists in a bid to clear up a diplomatic row over a series of attacks on Indians, the AAP reported quoting Herald Sun.
The remarks came in the wake of the Government’s move to arrange accommodation for a team of Indian journalists touring Down Under.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is spending A$250,000 on flights and five-star accommodation for the journalists in a bid to clear up a diplomatic row over a series of attacks on Indians, the AAP reported quoting Herald Sun.
NIA may take over investigation Pune blast from ATS
As the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad has been unable to provide a breakthrough, the Centre is seriously considering handing over investigations into the German Bakery blast to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Sources told that the issue had already been discussed at the highest levels in the Home Ministry and a decision to hand over investigations to NIA could be taken this week “if the ATS was not able to identify the vital clues” that could identify the group behind the blast.
Sources told that the issue had already been discussed at the highest levels in the Home Ministry and a decision to hand over investigations to NIA could be taken this week “if the ATS was not able to identify the vital clues” that could identify the group behind the blast.
IAF to unleash its full strength in exercise VayuShakti -2010 at Pokhran on Feb 28
Even as IAF gears up to unleash a massive high-voltage firepower exercise Vayu Shakti-2010 at Pokhran on February 28 to showcase its `shock and awe' capabilities, plans have also been set in motion to hold the first-ever air combat exercise with China.
"We hope to hold an exercise with China around 2012. The Army has already taken a lead in this. The planning has already commenced, but political clearances, suitable dates etc take some time to come,'' said IAF chief Air Chief Marshal P V Naik on Monday.
"We hope to hold an exercise with China around 2012. The Army has already taken a lead in this. The planning has already commenced, but political clearances, suitable dates etc take some time to come,'' said IAF chief Air Chief Marshal P V Naik on Monday.
Independant Power transmission project to be implemented by Sterlite
Today Sterlite Technologies announced about the first independent power transmission project in India.
The company also announced about the LoI (Letter of Intent) which it had received from the PFC (Power Finance Corporation Limited) for the development of an interconnecting power transmission project for the NE.
This 800 crore project is awarded on BOOM (Build Own, Operate and Maintain). It will connect the states of West Bengal, Bihar and Assam. The lines will be ready within three years.
The company also announced about the LoI (Letter of Intent) which it had received from the PFC (Power Finance Corporation Limited) for the development of an interconnecting power transmission project for the NE.
This 800 crore project is awarded on BOOM (Build Own, Operate and Maintain). It will connect the states of West Bengal, Bihar and Assam. The lines will be ready within three years.
Mamta kept her promises in the buget 09-10
Soon after railway minister Mamata Banerjee finished reading out her 2009-10 budget speech in Parliament, there were some who smirked and said: "It is a good budget if she has the next five years in mind to implement all the projects." Even as Mamata gets ready for the 2010-11 railway budget, those who made the snide remarks have egg on their faces. She has succeeded in keeping most of her promises. It is another matter altogether that new trains, remodelled stations and plans for industry, hospitals and colleges do not necessarily constitute a good railway budget.
"Mamata has been largely successful. She has gone beyond railways and considered the overall development of the state. The people of West Bengal have always felt that the Centre has not done enough for the state. Mamata has given a lot. What she has done is unprecedented," said Bhaskar Chowdhury, former chief commercial manager, Metro Railway.
"Mamata has been largely successful. She has gone beyond railways and considered the overall development of the state. The people of West Bengal have always felt that the Centre has not done enough for the state. Mamata has given a lot. What she has done is unprecedented," said Bhaskar Chowdhury, former chief commercial manager, Metro Railway.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Hockey teams flying in for Hockey World Cup in Delhi
Amid heightened security cover, the Pakistan and Australian hockey teams arrived in India on Monday for the World Cup beginning in New Delhi on February 28.
The Australian hockey team was the first to reach New Delhi in the wee hours on Monday while the Pakistan team entered India through the Wagah Border.
"The Pakistan team crossed the Wagah Border at around 1 p.m," BSF spokesperson Jagir Singh said.
The Australian hockey team was the first to reach New Delhi in the wee hours on Monday while the Pakistan team entered India through the Wagah Border.
"The Pakistan team crossed the Wagah Border at around 1 p.m," BSF spokesperson Jagir Singh said.
ASUS releases new NetBook EeePC 1008P in a fresh hardware platform
ASUS Eee PC 1008P is a stylish “designer” netbook on fresh hardware platform. Excellent product if you are not afraid of the nuances of ergonomics and not very long battery life. It is the newest member of the family EeePC, the 1008P, designed by renowned designer Karim Rashid. This has an unusual aesthetic and appealing to the more knowledgeable of the fashion world.
The notebook comes with the Dimensions and weight 262 × 180 × 26 mm, 1.14 kg, Processor Intel Atom N450 (1.66 GHz),Chipset Intel NM10,Graphics Intel GMA 3150, Memory 2 GB.
Display Screen 10,1”(1024 × 600 pixels), glossy, Brightness (min / max) 0 / 80 cd/m2 (15 gradations)
Drive 250 GB SATA-II (5400 rpm),External connectors 2 × USB, RJ45, mini-VGA, audio
Communications SD (HC) / MMC, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Battery 2900 mA • h, 10,95 In
Endurance (maximum load / read mode) 2 h 37 min / 4 h 42 min, OS Preinstalled Windows 7 Starter
with 1.3 megapixel webcam.
The notebook comes with the Dimensions and weight 262 × 180 × 26 mm, 1.14 kg, Processor Intel Atom N450 (1.66 GHz),Chipset Intel NM10,Graphics Intel GMA 3150, Memory 2 GB.
Display Screen 10,1”(1024 × 600 pixels), glossy, Brightness (min / max) 0 / 80 cd/m2 (15 gradations)
Drive 250 GB SATA-II (5400 rpm),External connectors 2 × USB, RJ45, mini-VGA, audio
Communications SD (HC) / MMC, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Battery 2900 mA • h, 10,95 In
Endurance (maximum load / read mode) 2 h 37 min / 4 h 42 min, OS Preinstalled Windows 7 Starter
with 1.3 megapixel webcam.
Nearly Thousand Lufthansa flights cancelled due to walk-out by pilots
Air travellers braced for chaos Monday as pilots for Lufthansa, Europe’s largest airline, began a four-day walkout that was expected to force the cancellation of thousands of flights.
The German flag carrier was operating a sharply reduced schedule that involved scrubbing roughly 800 out of 1,800 scheduled flights per day for the duration of the strike. A spokeswoman for the carrier said early Monday that the number of flights cancelled was likely to rise as the day wore on, as some pilots that had been scheduled to work through the strike were not showing up.
“We have already had a few additional cancellations this morning,” said the spokeswoman, Stefanie Stotz.
The German flag carrier was operating a sharply reduced schedule that involved scrubbing roughly 800 out of 1,800 scheduled flights per day for the duration of the strike. A spokeswoman for the carrier said early Monday that the number of flights cancelled was likely to rise as the day wore on, as some pilots that had been scheduled to work through the strike were not showing up.
“We have already had a few additional cancellations this morning,” said the spokeswoman, Stefanie Stotz.
Lt.Gen Prakash to question witnesses in Sukna army land scam
The Armed Forces Tribunal on Monday gave interim relief to former Military Secretary Lieutenant General Avadhesh Prakash in the Sukna army land scam.
The court granted permission to Lt. General Prakash to cross-examine witnesses who earlier gave statement against him before the Court of Inquiry.
According to Lt. Gen Prakash's lawyer, both of them were not present during the cross examination of the eight officers, who provided evidence against Lt. Gen Prakash's involvement in the land scam.
The court granted permission to Lt. General Prakash to cross-examine witnesses who earlier gave statement against him before the Court of Inquiry.
According to Lt. Gen Prakash's lawyer, both of them were not present during the cross examination of the eight officers, who provided evidence against Lt. Gen Prakash's involvement in the land scam.
Airstrike kills 33 civilians in souhtern Afghan
At least 33 civilians have been killed in a Nato airstrike in southern Afghanistan.
Initial reports indicated that Nato attacked a convoy of three vehicles on Sunday as they travelled towards Kandahar. The dead included four women and one child and 12 others were injured.
Amanullah Hotak, head of the Uruzgan provincial council, said that the people had been travelling in three mini-buses through a pass in the Char Cheno district.
Initial reports indicated that Nato attacked a convoy of three vehicles on Sunday as they travelled towards Kandahar. The dead included four women and one child and 12 others were injured.
Amanullah Hotak, head of the Uruzgan provincial council, said that the people had been travelling in three mini-buses through a pass in the Char Cheno district.
Abuse of European passports - a concern for EU
The European Union is "extremely concerned" at the use of European passports in the killing of a Hamas commander in Dubai, the Spanish EU presidency said Monday.
"We are extremely concerned that European passports... can be used in a different manner for a different purpose," Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos told reporters as he arrived for a meeting with his EU counterparts in Brussels.
"We are extremely concerned that European passports... can be used in a different manner for a different purpose," Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos told reporters as he arrived for a meeting with his EU counterparts in Brussels.
Two Pak Sikhs beheaded by extremists
Two Pakistani Sikhs have been beheaded, weeks after being kidnapped in separate incidents in the country's tribal north-west, officials say.
Jaspal Singh was taken while travelling in the Khyber district one month ago. His body was found on Sunday.
Mastan Singh was kidnapped in the Orakzai region at about the same time.
The neighbouring regions are home to crime syndicates involved in carjacking and kidnappings, which are known to have links with extremist groups.
Jaspal Singh was taken while travelling in the Khyber district one month ago. His body was found on Sunday.
Mastan Singh was kidnapped in the Orakzai region at about the same time.
The neighbouring regions are home to crime syndicates involved in carjacking and kidnappings, which are known to have links with extremist groups.
Food security law to be enacted - Prez in Parliment
With food inflation upsetting the common-man's household budget, a concerned government today said it was committed to enacting a law to provide cheaper rice and wheat to the poor.
"My government is committed to bringing forth a legislation to ensure food security," President Pratibha Patil said in her address to the joint sitting of both the houses of Parliament.
"My government is committed to bringing forth a legislation to ensure food security," President Pratibha Patil said in her address to the joint sitting of both the houses of Parliament.
Aussie cricket board urges players not to play in IPL over security fears..
AUSTRALIAN cricketers, along with their counterparts in England and South Africa, will be warned not to compete in the Indian Premier League next month or that they do so at their own risk, according to reports in Britain.
An English newspaper claims the security report commissioned by the international players' union says player safety cannot be guaranteed and threats issued by a group associated with Al-Qa'ida last week are credible.
An English newspaper claims the security report commissioned by the international players' union says player safety cannot be guaranteed and threats issued by a group associated with Al-Qa'ida last week are credible.
Depleted India defeats strong Proteas in the 1st ODI at Jaipur
India overcame the absence of four top stars to beat South Africa by one run in a thrilling One-Day International on Sunday and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Wayne Parnell was run out off the final delivery, attempting a second run that would have tied the match, to leave the Proteas on 297 all out in reply to India's 298/9.
The tourists were tottering at 225/8 in the 43rd over when the ninth-wicket pair of Parnell and Dale Steyn swung the day-night match around by adding 65 off 38 balls.
Wayne Parnell was run out off the final delivery, attempting a second run that would have tied the match, to leave the Proteas on 297 all out in reply to India's 298/9.
The tourists were tottering at 225/8 in the 43rd over when the ninth-wicket pair of Parnell and Dale Steyn swung the day-night match around by adding 65 off 38 balls.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Intex launches handset with Tri-SIM compatibility
Till now, Intex Technologies used to pioneer in Dual SIM handsets only. Recently it has broken the barriers and has gone a step ahead by launching its new triple SIM handsets. A handset which supports three SIMs, (GSM + GSM + CDMA). The handset is called IN 5030.
The handset features a Currency Checker. The handset measures 111×48x14.8mm and has a 2 inch TFT screen with 65K colours. The handset is is JAVA-enabled, has Mobile Tracker and auto call record facilities too.
The handset features a Currency Checker. The handset measures 111×48x14.8mm and has a 2 inch TFT screen with 65K colours. The handset is is JAVA-enabled, has Mobile Tracker and auto call record facilities too.
Aircel to launch its services in Haryana, Punjab & Rajasthan by April
The year 2010 is proving lucky for Nokia Siemens. Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) bagged a big deal of $700 million from country’s largest operator Bharti Airtel a few days back and now it has won a $300-million deal from mobile operator Aircel.
The four year contract would see furnish GSM radio, core and microwave network and services in three states.
Aircel is expected to roll out services in Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan in April.
The four year contract would see furnish GSM radio, core and microwave network and services in three states.
Aircel is expected to roll out services in Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan in April.
Passenger Service System to implemented soon in AirIndia
Global air transport communication and IT solutions provider SITA is in advanced stages of discussion with NACIL to provide the
much-needed IT platform for integrating flight codes of Air India and erstwhile Indian Airlines into a common one, sources said.
Apart from its benefits in the sale of tickets, a common code is an essential requirement for the national carrier, which joining a global airlines' alliance-- Star Alliance.
much-needed IT platform for integrating flight codes of Air India and erstwhile Indian Airlines into a common one, sources said.
Apart from its benefits in the sale of tickets, a common code is an essential requirement for the national carrier, which joining a global airlines' alliance-- Star Alliance.
Probe ordered on Minaret collapse in Meknes
The Lalla Khenata mosque's minaret collapsed in the old Bab el Bardiyine neighborhood of the imperial city of Meknes during Friday mass prayers, burying most of the 300 worshippers gathered there.
The state prosecutor visited the site after the collapse occurred and a special incident unit was set up by the prosecutor's office to simplify formal procedures for victims and their families, MAP said.
The state prosecutor visited the site after the collapse occurred and a special incident unit was set up by the prosecutor's office to simplify formal procedures for victims and their families, MAP said.
Inmtes of Bhopal jail makes Solar Water heater.
After successfully manufacturing a 200 litres solar water heater to promote use of green energy, the prisoners are now trying their hand at preparing a 2,000 litre capacity to meet the needs of Central Jail in Bhopal, officials said.
"The inmates in the Bhopal central jail have successfully manufactured a 200 litres solar water heater recently for promoting green energy. Now they are trying their hands at preparing a 2000 litres solar energy driven heater," Madhya Pradesh Jail Director General of Police P L Pandey.
"The inmates in the Bhopal central jail have successfully manufactured a 200 litres solar water heater recently for promoting green energy. Now they are trying their hands at preparing a 2000 litres solar energy driven heater," Madhya Pradesh Jail Director General of Police P L Pandey.
Godrej requests Govt not to increase CenVAT
The government should not raise the central value-added tax (Cenvat), which was reduced to 8 per cent as part of the stimulus measures, Godrej group chairman Adi Godrej has said.
“At present, Cenvat is 8 per cent. It is very important that the finance minister does not raise the Cenvat rate, because very soon we will be shifting to the goods and service tax (GST) regime. The best way forward is to merge the present fiscal stimulus with the introduction of the GST," he said on the sidelines of theCII-organised brand summit in Bangalore.
“At present, Cenvat is 8 per cent. It is very important that the finance minister does not raise the Cenvat rate, because very soon we will be shifting to the goods and service tax (GST) regime. The best way forward is to merge the present fiscal stimulus with the introduction of the GST," he said on the sidelines of theCII-organised brand summit in Bangalore.
MMS Scandal pushed a teen to commit suicide
An 18-year-old schoolgirl and her paramour allegedly committed suicide after video clippings of her kissing a classmate were posted on the Internet, police said on Saturday.
The girl, a student of Class XII at a school in Kannur, and a 27-year-old plumber, who is believed to be her boyfriend, were found hanging from a tree at the latter's residence, police said.
The girl, a student of Class XII at a school in Kannur, and a 27-year-old plumber, who is believed to be her boyfriend, were found hanging from a tree at the latter's residence, police said.
Missing communist leader W R Varadharajan found dead in the Porur Pond
The Chennai police have found a decomposed body which they suspect could be of the missing Communist leader W R Varadarajan.
According to his wife Saraswathy, a few identification marks match but police say they can confirm only after forensic test reports.
The veteran trade union leader has been missing for 10 days now after he was removed from the party's highest decision making body, the central committee following adverse reports from the state unit.
According to his wife Saraswathy, a few identification marks match but police say they can confirm only after forensic test reports.
The veteran trade union leader has been missing for 10 days now after he was removed from the party's highest decision making body, the central committee following adverse reports from the state unit.
Iran urges IAEA to reconsider on the nuke reports
Head of Iran's Parliament National Security and Foreign Policy Commission Alaeddin Boroujerdi on Sunday urged the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency ( IAEA), Yukiya Amano, to reconsider his report on Iran's nuclear activities.
Boroujerdi told reporters that "since Mr. Amano is to present his report to the agency's Board of Governors next Monday, he'd better use the chance and change the report," the official IRNA news agency reported.
Boroujerdi told reporters that "since Mr. Amano is to present his report to the agency's Board of Governors next Monday, he'd better use the chance and change the report," the official IRNA news agency reported.
Flash floods left at least 40 people dead,Portuguese island of Madeira
Rescue workers are searching mud-filled streets and houses on the Portuguese island of Madeira after flash floods left at least 40 people dead.
More than 120 others were injured and an unknown number are missing, raising fears that the death toll could rise.
Heavy rains brought tonnes of mud and stones down the slopes of the island, flooding the streets of the regional capital, Funchal, and other towns.
Water, power and telecommunications were cut in some areas.
More than 120 others were injured and an unknown number are missing, raising fears that the death toll could rise.
Heavy rains brought tonnes of mud and stones down the slopes of the island, flooding the streets of the regional capital, Funchal, and other towns.
Water, power and telecommunications were cut in some areas.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Viru No.1 In ICC Test ranking
Virender Sehwag, the Indian opener, has taken the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test rankings after hitting successive centuries against South Africa. With a rapid 165 in the Kolkata Test, which India won to stay top of the ICC rankings for teams, and 109 in Nagpur before that, Sehwag has displaced good friend and fellow Test opener Gautam Gambhir.
Sehwag sits top of the pile with 863 points, while Gambhir has dropped to fifth position with 824. He had tremendous success in 2009 - an average of 108.98 in six Tests - and in the four Tests he has played this year, Sehwag already has two centuries. He was also the recipient of the prize for best Test innings, for the second year running, for the ESPNcricinfo Awards where his audacious 293 against Sri Lanka in Mumbai was chosen over four other nominations shortlisted for the award.
Sehwag sits top of the pile with 863 points, while Gambhir has dropped to fifth position with 824. He had tremendous success in 2009 - an average of 108.98 in six Tests - and in the four Tests he has played this year, Sehwag already has two centuries. He was also the recipient of the prize for best Test innings, for the second year running, for the ESPNcricinfo Awards where his audacious 293 against Sri Lanka in Mumbai was chosen over four other nominations shortlisted for the award.
Narang bags another gold in CommonWealth Shooting tournament
India's gold count in the Commonwealth Shooting Championship increased with Gagan Narang winning the men's 10 metre air rifle singles
event and Navy man Sanjeev Rajput bagging the silver at the Karni Singh Shooting Range here Saturday.
Narang shot a total of 699.5 (595 qualification, 104.5 finals) for the yellow metal and also came close to breaking his own championship record of 699.7 set in Australia in 2005.
event and Navy man Sanjeev Rajput bagging the silver at the Karni Singh Shooting Range here Saturday.
Narang shot a total of 699.5 (595 qualification, 104.5 finals) for the yellow metal and also came close to breaking his own championship record of 699.7 set in Australia in 2005.
Fonseka getting 5 Star facilties in jail - Rajapakse
Sri Lanka's president says arrested ex-army chief and defeated presidential candidate Sarath Fonseka is getting "five-star" treatment in custody, it was reported Saturday.
Fonseka, whose detention came two weeks after being beaten in presidential elections in late January by President Mahinda Rajapakse, is being held by the military pending court-martial proceedings on unspecified charges.
Fonseka, whose detention came two weeks after being beaten in presidential elections in late January by President Mahinda Rajapakse, is being held by the military pending court-martial proceedings on unspecified charges.
3G auction issue will be resolved soon-- A.Raja
Telecom Minister A. Raja has said that the issue of auctioning 3G-spectrum to telecom companies is likely to be resolved this week.
Earlier, Finance Secretary Ashok Chawla had said that the government was not sure if it could conduct a 3G wireless spectrum auction before the end of the current fiscal.
The current fiscal ends on March 31.
"I hope everything will be resolved this week. It is not the question of money alone. It is the question of utilising the technology. We should not be lagging behind the international community," Raja announced on the sidelines of the launch of BSNL 3G mobile services in Bangalore.
"Government of India is committed, whether it is finance, whether it is law. As a whole, Government of India is committed to have this technology at the earliest possible," Raja added.
Earlier, Finance Secretary Ashok Chawla had said that the government was not sure if it could conduct a 3G wireless spectrum auction before the end of the current fiscal.
The current fiscal ends on March 31.
"I hope everything will be resolved this week. It is not the question of money alone. It is the question of utilising the technology. We should not be lagging behind the international community," Raja announced on the sidelines of the launch of BSNL 3G mobile services in Bangalore.
"Government of India is committed, whether it is finance, whether it is law. As a whole, Government of India is committed to have this technology at the earliest possible," Raja added.
Number Portability from May- launch in Chennai & B'lore
The government would launch the much-awaited mobile number portability (MNP) by the first week of May, starting from Chennai and Bangalore, said Communication and Information Technology Minister A Raja today.
“By May first week, the number portability will be introduced in Chennai and Bangalore,” Raja said, during the launch of 3G services here by state-owned BSNL.
The MNP, which would allow users to switch service providers without changing phone numbers, was earlier scheduled to be introduced in March this year. However, it got delayed as the government was unable to get security clearance for the devices which were imported from other countries.
“By May first week, the number portability will be introduced in Chennai and Bangalore,” Raja said, during the launch of 3G services here by state-owned BSNL.
The MNP, which would allow users to switch service providers without changing phone numbers, was earlier scheduled to be introduced in March this year. However, it got delayed as the government was unable to get security clearance for the devices which were imported from other countries.
Water diapute B/w India & Pak need to be solved -- Holbrooke
President Obama's Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Holbrooke has said Washington is in consultations with India and Pakistan to help both countries resolve water disputes between them.
In an interview with a private television channel, Holbrooke termed Pakistan's water crisis as the second most worry for that country after its sagging economy.
"Pakistan's water crisis is the second most dangerous crisis after its economic turmoil," The Daily Times quoted Holbrooke, as saying.
In an interview with a private television channel, Holbrooke termed Pakistan's water crisis as the second most worry for that country after its sagging economy.
"Pakistan's water crisis is the second most dangerous crisis after its economic turmoil," The Daily Times quoted Holbrooke, as saying.
Indian Hockey Players in controversy yet again
Indian hockey has been rocked by yet another controversy with organisers of a charity event on Saturday claiming that the players demanded Rs 5 crore to feature in the matches, an allegation the national team members denied.
Hardeep Sandhu, a member of the organiser committe of AMR foundation, on Saturday claimed that hockey players led by Prabhjot Singh, Rajpal Singh and Deepak Thaukar were demanding a Rs 5 crore to play in the four charity matches of 15 minutes each featuring Bollywood and TV stars.
Hardeep Sandhu, a member of the organiser committe of AMR foundation, on Saturday claimed that hockey players led by Prabhjot Singh, Rajpal Singh and Deepak Thaukar were demanding a Rs 5 crore to play in the four charity matches of 15 minutes each featuring Bollywood and TV stars.
DMK's stand on new panel for MullaiPeriyar issue...
The legal tangle between Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the Mullaperiyar Dam dispute took a new twist on Saturday with ruling DMK saying there was no need for the State to nominate its representative to the committee constituted by the Supreme Court to go into the dam’s safety aspects.
DMK’s General Council, which met here, in a resolution said it was not in a position to accept the Supreme Court’s ruling constituting the five-member committee to examine the safety aspects of the over century-old reservoir.
DMK’s General Council, which met here, in a resolution said it was not in a position to accept the Supreme Court’s ruling constituting the five-member committee to examine the safety aspects of the over century-old reservoir.
No relation with Indian Maoists-- says Nepali Maoist
Nepal's former Maoist guerrillas have objected to the Indian police's chargesheet against Indian Maoist leader Kobad Ghandy containing a reference to a meeting with their chief Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, saying it had no relevance to the present situation.
Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Maoist lawmaker and vice chairman of Nepal's largest party, the Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), said highlighting an alleged meeting between Prachanda and arrested Indian Maoist leader Kobad Ghandy was a bid to create an unnecessary controversy.
Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Maoist lawmaker and vice chairman of Nepal's largest party, the Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), said highlighting an alleged meeting between Prachanda and arrested Indian Maoist leader Kobad Ghandy was a bid to create an unnecessary controversy.
Will RTE be successfully implemented ?? - Kapil Sibal comments
The Centre will check commercialisation of education and seek consensus among states to implement the Right to Education (RTE) Act from April 1, said Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal on Saturday.
"Our aim is to ensure that all children in India get quality education, but we are against commercialisation of education. Incessant hike of fee and overcharging from parents is something we do not support," Sibal told reporters in New Delhi.
In order to implement the RTE Act in its true spirit, the minister said, he will hold meetings with various state governments.
"Our aim is to ensure that all children in India get quality education, but we are against commercialisation of education. Incessant hike of fee and overcharging from parents is something we do not support," Sibal told reporters in New Delhi.
In order to implement the RTE Act in its true spirit, the minister said, he will hold meetings with various state governments.
All Party JAC for Telangana struggles Coz of differences in the resignation issue
The all-party Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC) and the Congress formally snapped ties on Friday with both of them declaring separately that they would have nothing to do with each other in the struggle for statehood.
It was the Congress that fired the first salvo announcing its decision to quit the JAC as the latter’s condition of asking MLAs to resign was not acceptable. The JAC later said it was also not keen on a friendship with Congress since the party had distanced itself from people of Telangana who were firm that resignation by public representatives was the only way to mount pressure on the Centre to concede separate Telangana. About the Telugu Desam (TDP), which has maintained a low profile with JAC in the last few days, the committee’s convener M. Kodandaram told presspersons that a final view would be taken after speaking to its leaders. The TDP had taken the stand that its MLAs would resign only after their counterparts from Congress quit.
It was the Congress that fired the first salvo announcing its decision to quit the JAC as the latter’s condition of asking MLAs to resign was not acceptable. The JAC later said it was also not keen on a friendship with Congress since the party had distanced itself from people of Telangana who were firm that resignation by public representatives was the only way to mount pressure on the Centre to concede separate Telangana. About the Telugu Desam (TDP), which has maintained a low profile with JAC in the last few days, the committee’s convener M. Kodandaram told presspersons that a final view would be taken after speaking to its leaders. The TDP had taken the stand that its MLAs would resign only after their counterparts from Congress quit.
Traffic restrictions in Hyderabad to prevent Telangana protest rally..
The State capital witnessed an unprecedented traffic grid lock in major parts of the city, especially those on the southern and western parts after the police imposed traffic restrictions on a massive scale to prevent the pro-Telangana students from carrying out their threat of laying siege to the State Assembly on Saturday.
Osmania University campus, the nerve centre of agitation for bifurcation of state remained peaceful, as massive contingents of police kept a close watch on a gathering of about 500 students. By 10.30 p.m. the assemblage of students were moving towards the NCC gate of the University, apparently in a bid to take out a rally to the Assembly.
Osmania University campus, the nerve centre of agitation for bifurcation of state remained peaceful, as massive contingents of police kept a close watch on a gathering of about 500 students. By 10.30 p.m. the assemblage of students were moving towards the NCC gate of the University, apparently in a bid to take out a rally to the Assembly.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Fall in Violence rate in J&K but Infiltration worries--PC
Kashmir has witnessed reduction in number of incidents of violence last year which was a "silver lining", but infiltration attempts have gone up, Home Minister P Chidambaram said today.
"Infiltration has not reduced. Incidents of violence have reduced...and I attribute it to Army, paramilitary and Jammu and Kashmir police," he said.
The policy that Jammu and Kashmir police should take the lead has been successful, the minister told women journalists during an interaction here.
"Infiltration has not reduced. Incidents of violence have reduced...and I attribute it to Army, paramilitary and Jammu and Kashmir police," he said.
The policy that Jammu and Kashmir police should take the lead has been successful, the minister told women journalists during an interaction here.
AP Govt warns of Naxals in Telangan movement
Andhra Pradesh government on Thursday claimed Maoists have infiltrated into the movement for a separate Telangana state as the Supreme Court stayed the State High Court's direction for withdrawal of paramilitary forces from Osmania University campus, the hotbed of the agitation.
However, Justice Singhvi, who heads a two-member bench of the apex court, said "I don't think there are any Naxalites in the university."
However, Justice Singhvi, who heads a two-member bench of the apex court, said "I don't think there are any Naxalites in the university."
Abducted BDO released by Maoists
Abducted Dalbhumgarh BDO Prashant Kumar Layak was released by the Maoists on Friday after 5 days of captivity.
The officer was found near Hariyan village near Orissa-Jharkhand border.
The report was confirmed by Jharkhand Home Secretary J B Tubid.
The Jharkhand government was under tremendous pressure from the opposition for the safe release of the government official.
The officer was found near Hariyan village near Orissa-Jharkhand border.
The report was confirmed by Jharkhand Home Secretary J B Tubid.
The Jharkhand government was under tremendous pressure from the opposition for the safe release of the government official.
Indian Shooters dominates 10m air rifle team event in Commonwealth Championship
Gagan Narang and PT Raghunath set a new record in the 10m air rifle team event as Indian shooters dominated the proceedings with two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze medal on the opening day of the Commonwealth Championship in New Delhi.
Narang was the star of the day as he shot 599 out of 600, whichhelped Team India to win its first gold medal in the championship. Raghunath shot 594/600 to take the team score to an aggregate of 1193 points, breaking the previous championship record of 1183 points set by Narang and Manoj Kumar in 2005.
Narang was the star of the day as he shot 599 out of 600, whichhelped Team India to win its first gold medal in the championship. Raghunath shot 594/600 to take the team score to an aggregate of 1193 points, breaking the previous championship record of 1183 points set by Narang and Manoj Kumar in 2005.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
we let ourselves down in the first innings with the bat- Smith
South Africa captain Graeme Smith admits his side's first innings collapse gave India the upper hand during the second Test in Kolkata.
The Proteas fell to an innings and 58-run loss at Eden Gardens on the final day of the Test as India squared the series at 1-1, and Smith believes his side's dismal session on the first evening left them chasing the game.
Outplayed
"It would have been terrific had we pulled it off," said Smith.
The Proteas fell to an innings and 58-run loss at Eden Gardens on the final day of the Test as India squared the series at 1-1, and Smith believes his side's dismal session on the first evening left them chasing the game.
Outplayed
"It would have been terrific had we pulled it off," said Smith.
India victorious in their Battle for No.1 Spot in Test rankings..
India beat South Africa by an innings and 58 runs in the second Test in Kolkata to level the two-match series.
The visitors began the day on 115-3 and faced an uphill task to save the match after their first-innings collapse.
Batsman Hashim Amla worked superbly to frustrate India with his second century of the match, finishing on 123 not out.
The visitors began the day on 115-3 and faced an uphill task to save the match after their first-innings collapse.
Batsman Hashim Amla worked superbly to frustrate India with his second century of the match, finishing on 123 not out.
2 militants killed in a gun battle in Kashmir.
Two separatist guerrillas of Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) outfit were killed after a daylong gunfight in south Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday, police said.
Security forces surrounded a house in Shangarpora village, 37 km from Srinagar, in Pulwama district this (Thursday) morning following specific information about presence of guerrillas inside, a senior police officer said here.
The militants were asked to surrender but instead opened fire at the security personnel, leading to the gunfight.
Security forces surrounded a house in Shangarpora village, 37 km from Srinagar, in Pulwama district this (Thursday) morning following specific information about presence of guerrillas inside, a senior police officer said here.
The militants were asked to surrender but instead opened fire at the security personnel, leading to the gunfight.
New Guidelines for Conference Visa seekers from 8 nations
The security clearance for conference visa seekers from eight countries, including Pakistan and China, besides that for foreigners of Pakistani-origin and stateless persons will only be given by the home ministry from now on.
As per revised guidelines for granting visa to foreigners coming to India for attending international conferences, seminars and workshops, people from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Sudan and people of Pakistani origin and stateless persons will be getting clearance from the home ministry, an official statement said.
As per revised guidelines for granting visa to foreigners coming to India for attending international conferences, seminars and workshops, people from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Sudan and people of Pakistani origin and stateless persons will be getting clearance from the home ministry, an official statement said.
NSG to probe German Bakery blast in Pune..
A National Security Guard team has collected samples from the site of the blast here that claimed 11 lives.
The four-member research team of NSG's National Bomb Data Centre arrived here last night and collected samples from the blast site at Koregaon Park area where the German Bakery was located.
Pune Police Commissioner Satyapal Singh said while the investigators were yet to establish the nature of trigger mechanism, the evidence collected so far did not rule out the use of remote control device in the blast.
The four-member research team of NSG's National Bomb Data Centre arrived here last night and collected samples from the blast site at Koregaon Park area where the German Bakery was located.
Pune Police Commissioner Satyapal Singh said while the investigators were yet to establish the nature of trigger mechanism, the evidence collected so far did not rule out the use of remote control device in the blast.
Delhi Airport named in World's Top 30 airports by travellers
Some welcome news for the Delhi Airport. It was ranked 300, but has now leapt to the Top 30 airports that handle 15-20 million passengers a year.
The rankings come from Airport Service Quality (ASQ) survey that collects feedback from passengers. It's conducted by Airports Council International (ACI), an autonomous body representing world airports.
The rankings come from Airport Service Quality (ASQ) survey that collects feedback from passengers. It's conducted by Airports Council International (ACI), an autonomous body representing world airports.
TEESIDE to be closed from Friday following huge loss in TEESIDE operations..
Steelmaker Corus will begin the partial mothball of a plant on Teesside in northern England on Friday, a move that may signal the beginning of the end for steelmaking in the traditional industrial town.
Corus, owned by India's Tata Steel, said that the Teesside cast products plant would be kept ready for a possible future restart and that it was open to "credible offers".
The company had said in December that it would begin the mothballing, leading to the loss of 1,700 jobs, in early 2010 after it failed to secure a long-term partner for the site's output.
Corus, owned by India's Tata Steel, said that the Teesside cast products plant would be kept ready for a possible future restart and that it was open to "credible offers".
The company had said in December that it would begin the mothballing, leading to the loss of 1,700 jobs, in early 2010 after it failed to secure a long-term partner for the site's output.
Air India gets $173 million from Govt.
India approved a cash infusion for ailing national carrier Air India Thursday, part of an expected $432 million bailout of a company many once considered a proud symbol of the nation.
The $173 million injection "would not only ease the cash flow situation of the company but would also preclude borrowings from the markets at a high cost," the Ministry of Civil Aviation said in a statement.
Other carriers have stumbled in the wake of the global financial crisis - notably Japan Airlines which filed for bankruptcy in January. Analysts say many of Air India's problems are homegrown, born of decades of mismanagement and underinvestment.
The $173 million injection "would not only ease the cash flow situation of the company but would also preclude borrowings from the markets at a high cost," the Ministry of Civil Aviation said in a statement.
Other carriers have stumbled in the wake of the global financial crisis - notably Japan Airlines which filed for bankruptcy in January. Analysts say many of Air India's problems are homegrown, born of decades of mismanagement and underinvestment.
Govt to Subsidise Fertilisers based nutrient content from Apr 1
The government has approved the nutrient based fertiliser subsidy (NBS) plan with effect from April 1. This is likely to have positive sentimental impact on share prices of fertiliser companies.
Under the new policy, the companies can fix retail fertiliser prices. However the urea prices will be increased by Rs 483 per tonne or 10 per cent.
“The hike in urea prices is not going to impact the bottomline or EPS of fertiliser companies as extra 10 per cent will go from farmer’s pocket directly. However, looking at the shift in policy, it’s a big positive for the industry,” said an analyst from a local brokerage.
Under the new policy, the companies can fix retail fertiliser prices. However the urea prices will be increased by Rs 483 per tonne or 10 per cent.
“The hike in urea prices is not going to impact the bottomline or EPS of fertiliser companies as extra 10 per cent will go from farmer’s pocket directly. However, looking at the shift in policy, it’s a big positive for the industry,” said an analyst from a local brokerage.
LAVA Mobiles unveils mobie with tons of features for Rs.3400
Lava Mobiles, an Indian firm based in Uttar Pradesh, has announced the launch of its latest mobile phone, the Lava A9, in the Indian market. The phone, a feature packed device, is priced very competitively and is aimed at consumers who want to more phone for less money.
Let us delve into the features of the A9 now. It features a 2.4-inch TFT screen that is capable of displaying 262k colors. A 3.2 MP camera adorns the rear of the phone. The multimedia intention is clear with a fully featured music and video player too making their presence felt. The A9 has 256MB of onboard memory that can be expanded upto 8GB using microSD cards.
Let us delve into the features of the A9 now. It features a 2.4-inch TFT screen that is capable of displaying 262k colors. A 3.2 MP camera adorns the rear of the phone. The multimedia intention is clear with a fully featured music and video player too making their presence felt. The A9 has 256MB of onboard memory that can be expanded upto 8GB using microSD cards.
BOTNET affects 75000 sys worldwide-- steals 75 GB of data & huge SSL certificates.
Security researchers at Herndon, Va.-based NetWitness Corp. have unearthed a massive botnet affecting at least 75,000 computers at 2,500 companies and government agencies worldwide.
The Kneber botnet, named for the username linking the affected machines worldwide, has been used to gather login credentials to online financial systems, social networking sites and e-mail systems for the past 18 months, according to NetWitness.
A 75GB cache of stolen data discovered by NetWitness included 68,000 corporate login credentials, login data for user accounts at Facebook, Yahoo and Hotmail, 2,000 SSL certificate files and a large amount of highly detailed "dossier-level" identity information. In addition, systems compromised by the botnet also give attackers remote access inside the compromised network, the company said.
The Kneber botnet, named for the username linking the affected machines worldwide, has been used to gather login credentials to online financial systems, social networking sites and e-mail systems for the past 18 months, according to NetWitness.
A 75GB cache of stolen data discovered by NetWitness included 68,000 corporate login credentials, login data for user accounts at Facebook, Yahoo and Hotmail, 2,000 SSL certificate files and a large amount of highly detailed "dossier-level" identity information. In addition, systems compromised by the botnet also give attackers remote access inside the compromised network, the company said.
Google extend helping hands to SMBs in India
World's leading search engine Google would offer free advertising coupons for small and medium businesses (SMBs) across the country,the global firm's Indian subsidiary said on Thursday.
"All SMBs with online presence will be able to avail our advertising coupons worth Rs 2,500 by calling toll free number 1860 266 6622 and registering their websites with our AdWords platform," Google India online sales head Sridhar Seshadri said in a statement here.
The SMBs can register at http://adwords.google.co.in.
"All SMBs with online presence will be able to avail our advertising coupons worth Rs 2,500 by calling toll free number 1860 266 6622 and registering their websites with our AdWords platform," Google India online sales head Sridhar Seshadri said in a statement here.
The SMBs can register at http://adwords.google.co.in.
Tiger Census need to advanced - Meghalaya wildlife Dept
With unofficial estimates of the tiger population in India being as low as 1,100-1,200, forest officials in Meghalaya have called for the availability of advanced techniques for more accurate census-taking.
Forest Officer S. Kumar has said that the forest department has asked the Wildlife Institute of India to use advanced census-taking techniques to find the exact number of tigers in the state.
Forest Officer S. Kumar has said that the forest department has asked the Wildlife Institute of India to use advanced census-taking techniques to find the exact number of tigers in the state.
Windows Mobile 7 to be charged in the competetive Mobile S/W market
Earlier in the week, Microsoft showed off its attractive new mobile platform. The new operating system, Windows Phone 7 Series, promises a radical change in the world of Microsoft-powered phones, but one thing that remains the same, the company confirmed, is that phone manufacturers will still have to pay to license the software. With Android (and now Symbian) open source, and the BlackBerry and iPhone software not available to third parties at all, this means that Windows Phone will be the only major smartphone OS available on a paid basis.
TATA Teleservices become No.1 operator in new subscriber base for 6th month in a row
Mobile services provider Tata Teleservices (TTSL) today said it has added 2.98 million subscribers in January 2010 to become the number one operator in terms of subscriber addition for the sixth straight month, pipping rivals Bharti Airtel and Vodafone.
Bharti Airtel added 2.85 million new users, closely followed by Vodafone which added 2.7 new users, GSM operators' body COAI said in a release.
Bharti Airtel added 2.85 million new users, closely followed by Vodafone which added 2.7 new users, GSM operators' body COAI said in a release.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Stimulus to be withdrawn gradually in 2010-11
The government will gradually wind down its growth-supporting stimulus over the next fiscal year beginning on April 1, but will still need to borrow a record amount from the market, a Reuters survey of economists showed.
The government will present its budget for the fiscal year 2010/11 on Feb. 26, with markets waiting for details on the stimulus, borrowing, and fiscal deficit as well as a roadmap for introducing a new Goods and Services Tax (GST).
The government will present its budget for the fiscal year 2010/11 on Feb. 26, with markets waiting for details on the stimulus, borrowing, and fiscal deficit as well as a roadmap for introducing a new Goods and Services Tax (GST).
BSE moves +ve - ends 16415 & Nifty ends green
Equities pulled back above psychological resistance levels following positive opening of European markets. All the sectoral indices were
in the green led by metals, banks and auto stocks.
Bombay Stock Exchange’s Sensex closed at 16415.91, up 189.23 points or 1.17 per cent. The index touched a high of 16480.49 and low of 16228.91.
National Stock Exchange’s Nifty ended at 4910.75, up 55 points or 1.13 per cent. The broader index hit a high of 4929.70 and low of 4857.60.
in the green led by metals, banks and auto stocks.
Bombay Stock Exchange’s Sensex closed at 16415.91, up 189.23 points or 1.17 per cent. The index touched a high of 16480.49 and low of 16228.91.
National Stock Exchange’s Nifty ended at 4910.75, up 55 points or 1.13 per cent. The broader index hit a high of 4929.70 and low of 4857.60.
Court can order CBI probe without a State's consent
The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the constitutional validity of courts' powers to order Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation without the prior permission of state governments with a provision that this should be used carefully and cautiously.
A five-judge Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan in a unanimous judgement said such powers have to be exercised cautiously by the apex court and the High Courts.
A five-judge Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan in a unanimous judgement said such powers have to be exercised cautiously by the apex court and the High Courts.
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