Maoist military commander in Bengal, Venkateswar Reddy alias Telugu Deepak, has confirmed that his men — and not the CPM — gunned down senior Trinamool Congress leader Nishikanta Mondal in Nandigram because he “betrayed them”.
Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee had all along accused CPM of the killing, though Kishanji claimed responsibility for the murder. Deepak’s statement indicates that no matter how close one is to the Maoists, their ‘friendship’ comes at a price.
Deepak, who is learnt to be handling interrogators with ease, answering questions selectively, surprisingly opened up on the Nishikanta killing, say sources. “We killed him because he was a friend turned enemy,” he is reported to have said.
Friday, March 5, 2010
NHAI increases the distance between Delhi & Meerut expressway
As it embarks on an ambitious plan to construct highways to criss-cross the country, government may be making people pay more by getting them to travel longer on a tolled road.
This is evident from the way the proposed alignment of Delhi-Meerut expressway has been finalized. As per details available , NHAI had carried out a feasibility study and detailed project report to improve connectivity between the two cities by widening a portion of NH-58 from Delhi border upto Hindon river, and a new 4-lane road between Hindon and Meerut bypassing Ghaziabad, Muradnagar and Modinagar, which could come to 44km. Later, it was decided to construct a 66km expressway instead.
This is evident from the way the proposed alignment of Delhi-Meerut expressway has been finalized. As per details available , NHAI had carried out a feasibility study and detailed project report to improve connectivity between the two cities by widening a portion of NH-58 from Delhi border upto Hindon river, and a new 4-lane road between Hindon and Meerut bypassing Ghaziabad, Muradnagar and Modinagar, which could come to 44km. Later, it was decided to construct a 66km expressway instead.
Temple stampede in UP - another stampede death after 2004 in UP
Sixty-three people, all women and children, were killed and another 64 injured in a massive stampede at an ashram at Mangarh in Pratapgarh district of Uttar Pradesh on Thursday.
The tragic incident took place when a portion of the entrance gate collapsed under pressure of the surging crowd that thronged the ashram belonging to Kripalu Maharaj to collect food and utensils. The dead included 37 children and 26 women. An official spokesman put the death toll at 61.
The function at the ashram, located 80 km from the district headquarters of Pratapgarh and about 200 km from here, was held to commemorate the death anniversary of Kripalu Maharaj's wife.
The tragic incident took place when a portion of the entrance gate collapsed under pressure of the surging crowd that thronged the ashram belonging to Kripalu Maharaj to collect food and utensils. The dead included 37 children and 26 women. An official spokesman put the death toll at 61.
The function at the ashram, located 80 km from the district headquarters of Pratapgarh and about 200 km from here, was held to commemorate the death anniversary of Kripalu Maharaj's wife.
Retired Women army officer sentenced for a year
For the first time in the Army, a woman officer, who retired in 2007, was sentenced to one-year rigorous imprisonment and cashiered on Thursday by a general court martial (GCM).
Major Dimple Singla, 37, who had served in Judge Advocate General branch for 10 years under short service commission, was found guilty by GCM under sections 63 and 69 of Army Act (read with Prevention of Corruption Act).
Major Dimple Singla, 37, who had served in Judge Advocate General branch for 10 years under short service commission, was found guilty by GCM under sections 63 and 69 of Army Act (read with Prevention of Corruption Act).
Thursday, March 4, 2010
No ban on Migrants in Mumbai - Mahatastra Governor
Lauding the spirit of Mumbai by saying that “Mumbai can compete only with Mumbai”, the new Maharashtra Governor, K Shankaranarayanan on Thursday opined that a ban cannot be imposed in migrants.
“India now has a population 110 crore, during Independence it was 36 crore. Anyone can live in Mumbai.....Mumbai is a city that can compete with itself...Mumbai can compete only and only with Mumbai,” Shankaranarayanan told a select gathering of newsmen during an informal chat at Raj Bhavan.
“People from all classes, be it the rich, middle class or poor, they stay here.... they stay here for bread....People stay in America for bread or for that matter Kerala,” he said.
“India now has a population 110 crore, during Independence it was 36 crore. Anyone can live in Mumbai.....Mumbai is a city that can compete with itself...Mumbai can compete only and only with Mumbai,” Shankaranarayanan told a select gathering of newsmen during an informal chat at Raj Bhavan.
“People from all classes, be it the rich, middle class or poor, they stay here.... they stay here for bread....People stay in America for bread or for that matter Kerala,” he said.
BSF officer accused of Killing a teenager in Kashmir surrender before Police
The suspended BSF officer in the case of killing of a Kashmiri teenager surrendered before the police on Thursday (March 04).
R K Birdi, who was posted as a commandant of 68th battalion of Border Security Force(BSF), has been accused of killing Zahid Farooq, a teenager, in Nishat near Srinagar on February 5.
Birdi himself handed over the accused BSF constable, Lakhvinder to police.
Birdi's Counsel Moulvi Ejaz while addressing the media said that his client was never absconding but was cooperating with the investigation team.
R K Birdi, who was posted as a commandant of 68th battalion of Border Security Force(BSF), has been accused of killing Zahid Farooq, a teenager, in Nishat near Srinagar on February 5.
Birdi himself handed over the accused BSF constable, Lakhvinder to police.
Birdi's Counsel Moulvi Ejaz while addressing the media said that his client was never absconding but was cooperating with the investigation team.
Goan Police officer's link with drug dealer - video footage in YouTube
YouTube airs Israeli drug dealer’s link with Goa police: Popular website YouTube recently aired a video of an Israeli drug dealer’s alleged link with Goa police.
This created a flap in the state. Orenben Yaish had uploaded this video on YouTube on 20th April, 2008. This video features Atala, an Israeli drug peddler.
“This Panjim police… this narcotics the chief. Big chief. Maybe he is one giving drugs. Maybe… he said something to give it to friend. All the time he is giving me five kg charas, ecstasy”.
This created a flap in the state. Orenben Yaish had uploaded this video on YouTube on 20th April, 2008. This video features Atala, an Israeli drug peddler.
“This Panjim police… this narcotics the chief. Big chief. Maybe he is one giving drugs. Maybe… he said something to give it to friend. All the time he is giving me five kg charas, ecstasy”.
India asks US to ensure the weapons they supply to Pak won't be misused
Raising concern over the reported decision of the United States to supply sophisticated arms to Pakistan, New Delhi on Thursday said Washington should ensure that the military aid was not used against India.
Defence Minister A.K. Antony expressed concern over the move to supply a whole array of sophisticated laser guided bomb kits, surveillance drones and latest-model F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.
In a statement here, Mr. Antony said: “Given our bitter past experience of how Islamabad used such aid against India, Washington should ensure that the latest tranche of military aid is used only for the purpose of countering al-Qaeda and Taliban terrorists and not against India.”
Defence Minister A.K. Antony expressed concern over the move to supply a whole array of sophisticated laser guided bomb kits, surveillance drones and latest-model F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.
In a statement here, Mr. Antony said: “Given our bitter past experience of how Islamabad used such aid against India, Washington should ensure that the latest tranche of military aid is used only for the purpose of countering al-Qaeda and Taliban terrorists and not against India.”
Controversial Godman Nithyananda & Modi's Link
A controversy has erupted over an alleged sex scandal involving Swami Nithyananda who has an Ashram outside Bangalore.The Swami was allegedly filmed in a room with a woman in Tamil Nadu.
People attacked the ashram, even as his followers say the video is a defamatory conspiracy.
The Swami is said to have to have about 2 million followers around the world, and counts among them Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
Only a few months ago, Modi was present at a book release function of the swami in Vadodara.
At the programme, Modi had some words of praise for the swami.
Nithyananda was considered as an enlightened master involved in a worldwide movement for meditation and inner bliss.
People attacked the ashram, even as his followers say the video is a defamatory conspiracy.
The Swami is said to have to have about 2 million followers around the world, and counts among them Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
Only a few months ago, Modi was present at a book release function of the swami in Vadodara.
At the programme, Modi had some words of praise for the swami.
Nithyananda was considered as an enlightened master involved in a worldwide movement for meditation and inner bliss.
Kerala Govt requests MCI to increase MBBS seats in 2 of its renowed Colleges
The State Government has decided to approach the Medical Council of India and the Union Health Ministry to increase the MBBS seats in the Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode Medical Colleges.
The Government has already written to the Medical Council of India in this regard.
In a letter sent to the MCI, the Government has requested to increase 50 more MBBS seats each in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode Medical Colleges.
At present, both the colleges are having 200 MBBS seats each.
The Government has already written to the Medical Council of India in this regard.
In a letter sent to the MCI, the Government has requested to increase 50 more MBBS seats each in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode Medical Colleges.
At present, both the colleges are having 200 MBBS seats each.
2 Pilots killed in flight crash in Begumpet crash are experienced - Navy
Two experienced pilots of the Indian Navy, each with over 1,000 flying hours to their credit, were killed when the trainer aircraft belonging to INAS 551 at INS Hans, Goa, Sagar Pawan, crashed into a two-storeyed building during an air show on Wednesday at Hyderabad. The Navy has ordered an inquiry into the accident.
The two naval pilots, Cdr Suresh K Maurya (39) and his co-pilot Lt Cdr Rahul Nair (33), were performing in the aerobatics display when the aircraft crashed into a building. They were performing at the inaugural function of the India Aviation 2010 Air-show at Hyderabad. Posted at INS Hansa, Goa, the two fly fighter jets and are specialised pilots.
The two naval pilots, Cdr Suresh K Maurya (39) and his co-pilot Lt Cdr Rahul Nair (33), were performing in the aerobatics display when the aircraft crashed into a building. They were performing at the inaugural function of the India Aviation 2010 Air-show at Hyderabad. Posted at INS Hansa, Goa, the two fly fighter jets and are specialised pilots.
Chandhok to team up with Hispania in F1 races - second Indian to drive in F1 races
The 26-year-old position as team-mate to fellow novice Bruno Senna was officially announced as Hispania unveiled their new car on Thursday.
Hispania is the new name for the former Campos team, whose position on the grid has been confirmed after a winter of battling to secure their future.
Team boss Colin Kolles said: "We have a platform for a strong 2010."
Chandhok has won two races in the last three years in the GP2 feeder series, in which he was Senna's team-mate in the iSport team in 2008 when the Brazilian was runner-up in the championship.
Hispania is the new name for the former Campos team, whose position on the grid has been confirmed after a winter of battling to secure their future.
Team boss Colin Kolles said: "We have a platform for a strong 2010."
Chandhok has won two races in the last three years in the GP2 feeder series, in which he was Senna's team-mate in the iSport team in 2008 when the Brazilian was runner-up in the championship.
Spain beat India in Hockey WC match
Spain dented India's hope for a semi-final berth when they beat the hosts 5-2 in the Pool B encounter in the hockey World Cup at Major Dhyanchand Stadium.
India failed to convert a penalty corner and trailed Spain 0-2 at the end of first-half.
Spain took an early lead when Albert Sala scored his first goal in the 19th minute in the first half.
Spanish captain Pol Amat extended the lead with 14 seconds to go in the first half.
India failed to convert a penalty corner and trailed Spain 0-2 at the end of first-half.
Spain took an early lead when Albert Sala scored his first goal in the 19th minute in the first half.
Spanish captain Pol Amat extended the lead with 14 seconds to go in the first half.
Suicide attacks in Baghdad affects polling
Suicide bombers have attacked two polling stations in Baghdad, killing at least seven soldiers, while an explosion near another voting place not yet in use took the lives of seven civilians. The blasts occurred as early voting got under way for Sunday's national elections.
Iraqi security is out in force across Baghdad, but the stepped up presence was not enough to stop the attacks.
Many of those taking part in the early balloting were soldiers who, along with medical staff and others, are needed at work Sunday when most of the voting takes place.
Iraqi security is out in force across Baghdad, but the stepped up presence was not enough to stop the attacks.
Many of those taking part in the early balloting were soldiers who, along with medical staff and others, are needed at work Sunday when most of the voting takes place.
M F Husain says - He is still an Indian
Painter MF Husain has asserted that he is still an Indian, “an original Indian”, and that being physically away from India will not take that away from him.
At the same time, he said, he was no longer a youth who had a physical need to be in India to be Indian.
Husain accepted honorary citizenship of Qatar last week.
He said he had no complaints about the Indian government.
“The government is doing its job. I am doing mine.”
At the same time, he said, he was no longer a youth who had a physical need to be in India to be Indian.
Husain accepted honorary citizenship of Qatar last week.
He said he had no complaints about the Indian government.
“The government is doing its job. I am doing mine.”
Earthquake hits Taiwan - measures 6.4 in richter
A powerful earthquake jolted southern Taiwan on Thursday, injuring 64 people, toppling farm houses and derailing a carriage on a high-speed train.
Panicked residents fled shaking buildings in the 6.4-magnitude quake, which also momentarily cut off electricity to more than half a million homes.
The US Geological Survey said the tremor struck about 70 kms from the island's second-largest city Kaohsiung, but it was felt as far north as the capital Taipei, several hundred kilometres away.
Panicked residents fled shaking buildings in the 6.4-magnitude quake, which also momentarily cut off electricity to more than half a million homes.
The US Geological Survey said the tremor struck about 70 kms from the island's second-largest city Kaohsiung, but it was felt as far north as the capital Taipei, several hundred kilometres away.
IIT-M Professor developed drug for chronic kidney failure
An indigenous drug, developed by scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, which can remove toxic phosphorous from the body of a patient with chronic kidney failure has been awarded a process patent.
Sevelamer Hcl, the oral medicine introduced in the market four years ago by Pune-based pharmaceutical company Emcure under the brand name Foseal, is a gel-like substance which swells up within the body and binds the phosphorous. It then exits the body through faeces. The drug was developed by organic chemist and IIT-M professor S Sankararaman along with Madras Institute of Nephrology (MIN). Until then patients had to either use metal-based drugs with high side-effects or import a similar drug at a very high cost.
Sevelamer Hcl, the oral medicine introduced in the market four years ago by Pune-based pharmaceutical company Emcure under the brand name Foseal, is a gel-like substance which swells up within the body and binds the phosphorous. It then exits the body through faeces. The drug was developed by organic chemist and IIT-M professor S Sankararaman along with Madras Institute of Nephrology (MIN). Until then patients had to either use metal-based drugs with high side-effects or import a similar drug at a very high cost.
Twitter, the most used website across the Net- 1500% growth in last yr userbase
The micro-blogging site Twitter is rapidly growing in the popularity chart, if the humongous rise in the number of registered accounts is any indication - a staggering 1,500-plus per cent growth last year.
“In the course of a year, the numbers of registered Twitter accounts have grown more than 1,500 per cent,” Twitter co-founder Biz Stone said in a statement here. He further said the number of his staff also rose significantly to 140 during the reporting year.
A study by online analysis software company RJMetrics said the number of Twitter users reached an estimated 75 million by the end of 2009.
“In the course of a year, the numbers of registered Twitter accounts have grown more than 1,500 per cent,” Twitter co-founder Biz Stone said in a statement here. He further said the number of his staff also rose significantly to 140 during the reporting year.
A study by online analysis software company RJMetrics said the number of Twitter users reached an estimated 75 million by the end of 2009.
TouchScreen in your forearm skin - a modern solution
Annoyed with the tiny touchscreens on today's mobile devices? Well, your forearm can now solve that problem by becoming a part of a skin
-based interface that effectively turns your body into a touchscreen, say scientists.
An international team has come up with a system, called Skinput, which has the ability to detect the ultralow-frequency sound produced by tapping the skin with a finger, and the microchip-sized "pico" projectors now found in some cellphones, reports New Scientist.
-based interface that effectively turns your body into a touchscreen, say scientists.
An international team has come up with a system, called Skinput, which has the ability to detect the ultralow-frequency sound produced by tapping the skin with a finger, and the microchip-sized "pico" projectors now found in some cellphones, reports New Scientist.
Chandrayaan mission more fruitful than expected
If you thought the Chandrayaan Mission was over a few months ago, please be prepared to be proven wrong. After scrutinizing evidence garnered from various scientific instruments aboard the Chandrayaan, the NASA had last year announced the presence of "little" amount of water on the moon. It was back then, hailed a very significant discovery. A few months down the lane, NASA's Mini SAR probe aboard the Chandrayaan has managed to discover significant amount of water on the moon in an area near the north pole of our closest celestial neighbor. The mini SAR is a very small scientific instrument that weighs less than 10 kgs.
A K Antony to open CPM's Kairali tower - Corporate office of CPM's TV channels
Their supporters refuse to meet eye-to-eye in Kerala. But Thiruvananthapuram will witness a rare coming together of Congress and CPM leaders on Friday to inaugurate the new corporate office of Malayalam Communications Ltd, a CPM-backed venture which operates a bouquet of three channels — Kairali, We and People.
Union defence minister and senior Congress leader A K Antony will inaugurate the new multi-storeyed Kairali Tower, while CPM general secretary Prakash Karat will launch the ‘‘Studio Complex'' at a ceremony to be witnessed by the who's who of the political and cultural establishment.
Opposition leader and former CM Oommen Chandy will be the chief guest along with CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan. Cinestar Mammotty, who is the chairman of Malayalam Communications, will deliver the keynote address.
Union defence minister and senior Congress leader A K Antony will inaugurate the new multi-storeyed Kairali Tower, while CPM general secretary Prakash Karat will launch the ‘‘Studio Complex'' at a ceremony to be witnessed by the who's who of the political and cultural establishment.
Opposition leader and former CM Oommen Chandy will be the chief guest along with CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan. Cinestar Mammotty, who is the chairman of Malayalam Communications, will deliver the keynote address.
Swine flu kit developed by India is cheaper & better than that developed by WHO
Scientists of the Defence Research & Development Organisation and Indian Council of Medical Research claim the H1N1 flu testing kit they have developed is more efficient than the one designed by the World Health Organisation.
The Indian kit can analyze a sample within one hour and without Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction, a laboratory technique. Interestingly, while the WHO kit cost Rs 8,000, the Indian one costs only Rs 1,000.
At the 14th convocation ceremony of Nimhans here on Wednesday, Dr W Selvamurthy, chief controller, DRDO Research & Development, said: "The Indian flu kit will compete with the WHO kit as it is more efficient. Currently, technology is being transferred to Bigtech, a Bangalore-based pharma company. With the increase in demand, the technology will be shared with more companies."
The Indian kit can analyze a sample within one hour and without Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction, a laboratory technique. Interestingly, while the WHO kit cost Rs 8,000, the Indian one costs only Rs 1,000.
At the 14th convocation ceremony of Nimhans here on Wednesday, Dr W Selvamurthy, chief controller, DRDO Research & Development, said: "The Indian flu kit will compete with the WHO kit as it is more efficient. Currently, technology is being transferred to Bigtech, a Bangalore-based pharma company. With the increase in demand, the technology will be shared with more companies."
Emploees in Passport offices across the country may go on strike for 2 days
Employees of passport offices across the country demonstrated for an hour during the lunch break, protesting against the government's mo
ve to involve a private firm in the management of passport services.
"We had a demonstration during lunch time at all the 37 passport offices. We will continue this tomorrow too," president of All India Passport employees association Raj Kapoor said.
The external affairs ministry has been trying to launch a project, Passport Seva, to improve efficiency in passport offices by roping in the private sector.
ve to involve a private firm in the management of passport services.
"We had a demonstration during lunch time at all the 37 passport offices. We will continue this tomorrow too," president of All India Passport employees association Raj Kapoor said.
The external affairs ministry has been trying to launch a project, Passport Seva, to improve efficiency in passport offices by roping in the private sector.
Hi-Tech Bangaluru policing
At last, the IT city is moving into e-mode in traffic enforcement. Project BlackBerry started by the Bangalore traffic police in 2008 has now reached its final stage.
At a function near Ashoknagar police station on Wednesday, all traffic officers up to the rank of ASI were given BlackBerries and Bluetooth-supported printers. City police commissioner Shankar Bidari said the advantages of BlackBerries included a robust database of traffic offenders, real-time access to history of offences, enhanced punishment for habitual offenders, catching those who didn't bother to settle their traffic violation notices and a real-time Management Information System which monitors performance of officers, logs types of vehicles being penalised and category of offences and makes the information instantly available to traffic personnel.
At a function near Ashoknagar police station on Wednesday, all traffic officers up to the rank of ASI were given BlackBerries and Bluetooth-supported printers. City police commissioner Shankar Bidari said the advantages of BlackBerries included a robust database of traffic offenders, real-time access to history of offences, enhanced punishment for habitual offenders, catching those who didn't bother to settle their traffic violation notices and a real-time Management Information System which monitors performance of officers, logs types of vehicles being penalised and category of offences and makes the information instantly available to traffic personnel.
Degradable bag acts a single use toilet
A Swedish entrepreneur is trying to market and sell a biodegradable plastic bag that acts as a single-use toilet for urban slums in the developing world.
Once used, the bag can be knotted and buried, and a layer of urea crystals breaks down the waste into fertilizer, killing off disease-producing pathogens found in feces.
The bag, called the Peepoo, is the brainchild of Anders Wilhelmson, an architect and professor in Stockholm.
“Not only is it sanitary,” said Mr. Wilhelmson, who has patented the bag, “they can reuse this to grow crops.”
Once used, the bag can be knotted and buried, and a layer of urea crystals breaks down the waste into fertilizer, killing off disease-producing pathogens found in feces.
The bag, called the Peepoo, is the brainchild of Anders Wilhelmson, an architect and professor in Stockholm.
“Not only is it sanitary,” said Mr. Wilhelmson, who has patented the bag, “they can reuse this to grow crops.”
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
PayPal releases the purpose code in its Blog
PayPal's Blog for purpose code.
From 3rd March onwards, PayPal will allow new bank withdrawals for its customers in India after receiving a 'Purpose Code' for the transaction
Electronic payment gateway PayPal has said that it would allow new bank withdrawals for its customers in India after receiving a 'Purpose Code' for the transaction.
In his blog, PayPal's business head for Asia-Pacific, Farhad Irani said, “When you select the ‘Withdraw Funds’ option on your PayPal account after 3rd March, we will ask you to fill out a new field entitled ‘Purpose Code’. This information is required under the laws of India in order to identify the nature of cross-border merchant transactions."
Mr Irani also clarified that Indian users will no longer be able to receive personal payments. Customers of Indian PayPal users will have three options for making any payment such as using the pay for purchases (goods or services) tab, completing PayPal checkout at the user's website and responding to PayPal “Request Money” instructions (invoices). However, for each payment, transaction users will have to provide a purpose code for the transaction.
The purpose code will help banks in India to furnish information required by the Reserve Bank of India to identify the nature of cross-border transactions, Mr Irani said.
He also said that according to Indian law, based on the value of withdrawal and the purpose code in the Indian customer's declaration, banks may require him/her to provide documentary proof such as invoices or goods receipt forms as applicable to reconcile with withdrawal.
From 3rd March onwards, PayPal will allow new bank withdrawals for its customers in India after receiving a 'Purpose Code' for the transaction
Electronic payment gateway PayPal has said that it would allow new bank withdrawals for its customers in India after receiving a 'Purpose Code' for the transaction.
In his blog, PayPal's business head for Asia-Pacific, Farhad Irani said, “When you select the ‘Withdraw Funds’ option on your PayPal account after 3rd March, we will ask you to fill out a new field entitled ‘Purpose Code’. This information is required under the laws of India in order to identify the nature of cross-border merchant transactions."
Mr Irani also clarified that Indian users will no longer be able to receive personal payments. Customers of Indian PayPal users will have three options for making any payment such as using the pay for purchases (goods or services) tab, completing PayPal checkout at the user's website and responding to PayPal “Request Money” instructions (invoices). However, for each payment, transaction users will have to provide a purpose code for the transaction.
The purpose code will help banks in India to furnish information required by the Reserve Bank of India to identify the nature of cross-border transactions, Mr Irani said.
He also said that according to Indian law, based on the value of withdrawal and the purpose code in the Indian customer's declaration, banks may require him/her to provide documentary proof such as invoices or goods receipt forms as applicable to reconcile with withdrawal.
HUL to be sued by P&G for controversial Ad .
Only a month back, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) was dragged to the advertising regulator by Procter & Gamble (P&G) for a shampoo ad.
But now, P&G is planning to take legal action against HUL because it says its detergent brand Tide has been shown in bad light in the latest Rin ad.
The battle for ‘safedi ki chamkaar’ and better fragrance will now move from TV screens into the courtrooms, as P&G is planning to file a defamation case against arch rival HUL for the latest Rin ad, said sources.
But now, P&G is planning to take legal action against HUL because it says its detergent brand Tide has been shown in bad light in the latest Rin ad.
The battle for ‘safedi ki chamkaar’ and better fragrance will now move from TV screens into the courtrooms, as P&G is planning to file a defamation case against arch rival HUL for the latest Rin ad, said sources.
Cement & steel to cost more
The rollback of the stimulus package has started making its impact. A 2 per cent hike in excise duty to 10 per cent and Rs 50 per tonne cess on coal coupled with raised fuel prices, have ensured an increase in cement prices, which are, of course, to pass through.
Sanjay Ladiwala, head of Cement Stockists and Dealers Association, said, “Since demand is strong in north and west, passing of excise duty is not a problem as even the transportation costs have increased. All regions except south have increased the prices. We are likely to see further price increase due to increased demand. We have just entered the peak demand period, which is likely to continue till mid-June.”
Sanjay Ladiwala, head of Cement Stockists and Dealers Association, said, “Since demand is strong in north and west, passing of excise duty is not a problem as even the transportation costs have increased. All regions except south have increased the prices. We are likely to see further price increase due to increased demand. We have just entered the peak demand period, which is likely to continue till mid-June.”
Ford to launch FIGO in India by March 9
Carmaker Ford India on Wednesday reported 22.67 per cent rise in its February sales at 3,223 units, as against 2,636 units in the same month of last year.
The company will also launch its small car Figo on March 9. "We are seeing an overwhelming response to our product line-up with the Fiesta and Endeavour recording strong year-on-year growth of more than hundred per cent," Ford India Executive Director (Marketing, Sales and Service) Nigel Wark said in a statement.
He said the company will continue to leverage the momentum in the run-up to the launch of the Ford Figo.
The company will also launch its small car Figo on March 9. "We are seeing an overwhelming response to our product line-up with the Fiesta and Endeavour recording strong year-on-year growth of more than hundred per cent," Ford India Executive Director (Marketing, Sales and Service) Nigel Wark said in a statement.
He said the company will continue to leverage the momentum in the run-up to the launch of the Ford Figo.
Olive launches Mobile phone with AAA battery module for use during empty mobile battery situation
Olive Telecommunications launched the FrvrOn hybrid mobile that runs on AAA batteries.
Priced at Rs. 1699, the phone is aimed at rural users who do not have access to a steady supply to power. The phone for the most part runs on a standard Li-ion battery. But when this battery runs out of power, the user can switch over to an AAA battery to continue using the phone.
The phone’s features include a 1.5-inch colour display, FM radio, polyphonic ringtones, stereo handset and speakerphone. Olive has previously launched a range of 3G enabled Netbooks called Zipbooks in India.
Priced at Rs. 1699, the phone is aimed at rural users who do not have access to a steady supply to power. The phone for the most part runs on a standard Li-ion battery. But when this battery runs out of power, the user can switch over to an AAA battery to continue using the phone.
The phone’s features include a 1.5-inch colour display, FM radio, polyphonic ringtones, stereo handset and speakerphone. Olive has previously launched a range of 3G enabled Netbooks called Zipbooks in India.
US FDA refuses to approve Ranbaxy's Flomax
India's largest drugmaker by sales Ranbaxy's US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) woes continue. The company was expected to launch a drug called Flomax in the US on Tuesday, which it could not after the FDA refused a final approval.
How big a hit is this to Ranbaxy's immediate and medium term valuations?
Sentiment was hit and the stock was down 6 per cent at one point in the trading day and all that because Ranbaxy could not launch generic Flomax in the US.
Ranbaxy failed to get a regulatory nod for launching a cheaper version of Astellas Pharma's Flomax, a drug used to treat an enlarged prostate gland.
How big a hit is this to Ranbaxy's immediate and medium term valuations?
Sentiment was hit and the stock was down 6 per cent at one point in the trading day and all that because Ranbaxy could not launch generic Flomax in the US.
Ranbaxy failed to get a regulatory nod for launching a cheaper version of Astellas Pharma's Flomax, a drug used to treat an enlarged prostate gland.
a Saudi women to get 300 lashings & 18 mnts imprisonment for complaining against authorities
A SAUDI woman's to get 300 lashings and 18 months' prison for filing complaints against court officials and being in court without a male guardian.
A human rights group said today Sawsan Salim was convicted last month in a court in Rass, in Qassim province, after petitioning officials in the kingdom's capital Riyadh.
The petition included King Abdullah over what she alleged was years of abuse by local justice officials, the US-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in a statement.
A human rights group said today Sawsan Salim was convicted last month in a court in Rass, in Qassim province, after petitioning officials in the kingdom's capital Riyadh.
The petition included King Abdullah over what she alleged was years of abuse by local justice officials, the US-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in a statement.
Taliban condemns on live coverage ban
They banned music, television and education for girls during their rule of Afghanistan, but the Taliban on Wednesday condemned a government ban on live broadcasts of their own attacks.
The Western-backed government has banned live coverage of militant assaults in a bid to prevent the Taliban exploiting television news to send messages to their operatives.
As the measure -- which applies to domestic and international media -- was criticised by journalists and rights groups, the Taliban joined the fray, calling it an attack on free speech.
The Western-backed government has banned live coverage of militant assaults in a bid to prevent the Taliban exploiting television news to send messages to their operatives.
As the measure -- which applies to domestic and international media -- was criticised by journalists and rights groups, the Taliban joined the fray, calling it an attack on free speech.
2 Newspaper offices in Karnataka attacked on Controversial Taslima issue
Two newspaper offices have been attacked in India's Karnataka state in unrest over an article allegedly written by the writer Taslima Nasreen.
Two Muslim protesters were killed in clashes with police after the article, which challenges the Muslim practice of veil wearing, appeared in local papers.
An unidentified group vandalised the office of the Kannada Prabha newspaper, which carried the article, police said.
Ms Nasreen has denied writing the article for the newspaper.
Two Muslim protesters were killed in clashes with police after the article, which challenges the Muslim practice of veil wearing, appeared in local papers.
An unidentified group vandalised the office of the Kannada Prabha newspaper, which carried the article, police said.
Ms Nasreen has denied writing the article for the newspaper.
Andhra to reinstitute Octopus Security force to curb rural terror
The state government is in no mood to restore to Octopus its original role of fighting urban terrorism and wants to use it as one of the security agencies of the police department.
The government has not taken any action so far on the suggestion of principal home secretary Gautam Kumar that the use of Octopus commandos for guarding strategic installations and important places of worship would render them useless to fight terrorists. “There are agencies that are trained to guard places on the hit list of terrorists. Octopus which has a specific task cut out for itself should not be wasted,” Gautam Kumar said at a meeting chaired by the chief minister. Soon after the meeting it seemed that Kumar’s sane advice would be given heed to, but a few days later this idea has been given up.
The government has not taken any action so far on the suggestion of principal home secretary Gautam Kumar that the use of Octopus commandos for guarding strategic installations and important places of worship would render them useless to fight terrorists. “There are agencies that are trained to guard places on the hit list of terrorists. Octopus which has a specific task cut out for itself should not be wasted,” Gautam Kumar said at a meeting chaired by the chief minister. Soon after the meeting it seemed that Kumar’s sane advice would be given heed to, but a few days later this idea has been given up.
US extends help to Indian aviation sector on its development
The US has offered to work with the Government and private sector to make the country a regional aviation hub.
"The US will work with Indian public and private sector partners to create economic opportunities and jobs in both countries," US Ambassador Timothy J Roemer told the ongoing India Aviation 2010 conference here today.
The US-India Aviation Programme, a public private partnership, will work together with the Director General of Civil Aviation on aviation security, he said. The US is the focus country in the five-day event which is being organised jointly by the Civil Aviation Ministry and industry Ficci, while France is the partner country.
"The US will work with Indian public and private sector partners to create economic opportunities and jobs in both countries," US Ambassador Timothy J Roemer told the ongoing India Aviation 2010 conference here today.
The US-India Aviation Programme, a public private partnership, will work together with the Director General of Civil Aviation on aviation security, he said. The US is the focus country in the five-day event which is being organised jointly by the Civil Aviation Ministry and industry Ficci, while France is the partner country.
Hyderabad Metro rail to employee 50,000 skilled & unskilled
Hyderabad Metro Rail is expected to trigger mammoth economic activity in and around the city and provide employment to about 50,000 people, Andhra Pradesh chief minister K Rosaiah said on Monday.
The chief minister, who reviewed the Rs 12,132-crore project at a meeting here, said it would provide employment for about 5,000 engineers and about 45,000 skilled and unskilled workers.
The chief minister, who reviewed the Rs 12,132-crore project at a meeting here, said it would provide employment for about 5,000 engineers and about 45,000 skilled and unskilled workers.
Plane crash in Begumpet airshow left two dead
Describing the crash of an Indian Navy aircraft in Hyderabad as tragic, US ambassador Timothy J. Roemer, who was present at the air show, said "these heartbreaking losses have even more piercing impact when you are part of the event".
Roemer is leading an American delegation to India Aviation 2010 in Hyderabad.
"What began as such a promising day has sadly ended so tragically," he said in a statement. "As the full extent of this tragedy is still becoming known, all of our thoughts and prayers are with those who lost their lives or were injured, and with their families," the US envoy said.
Roemer is leading an American delegation to India Aviation 2010 in Hyderabad.
"What began as such a promising day has sadly ended so tragically," he said in a statement. "As the full extent of this tragedy is still becoming known, all of our thoughts and prayers are with those who lost their lives or were injured, and with their families," the US envoy said.
Apple files lawsuit against HTC
Apple’s patent lawsuit against HTC will not cause major problems for the Taiwan technology company in the short term, analysts said Wednesday. But it could strain its relations with partners in the crucial U.S. market and test its leadership, adding to its challenges in the increasingly competitive smartphone field.
About half of HTC’s revenue comes from the United States, where its smartphones are bundled with services from providers like T-Mobile. HTC makes the Nexus One phone for Google under contract and also makes phones under its own brand.
About half of HTC’s revenue comes from the United States, where its smartphones are bundled with services from providers like T-Mobile. HTC makes the Nexus One phone for Google under contract and also makes phones under its own brand.
Pravin Mahajan assasin of Pramod Mahajan died in Hospital
Pravin Mahajan, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his brother BJP leader Pramod Mahajan, died at a hospital in Thane on Wednesday after a prolonged illness.
He was admitted a hospital on December 11 last year after complaining of high blood pressure and later slipped into coma.
Pravin had been put on life support system and was struggling for life but failed to recover at the Jupiter Hospital where he was admitted, a close aide of the family said.
He was admitted a hospital on December 11 last year after complaining of high blood pressure and later slipped into coma.
Pravin had been put on life support system and was struggling for life but failed to recover at the Jupiter Hospital where he was admitted, a close aide of the family said.
Pilgrimage centres in terror map - central agencies
Pilgrimage centres, including the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu, are on terror radar, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Mullappally Ramachandran said on Wednesday.
The Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu could be targetted by terrorists,
the minister told the Rajya Sabha in response to a written question.
“Central security agencies have furnished inputs based on intelligence intercepts to that effect. It is not in public interest to disclose these facts.”
The Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu could be targetted by terrorists,
the minister told the Rajya Sabha in response to a written question.
“Central security agencies have furnished inputs based on intelligence intercepts to that effect. It is not in public interest to disclose these facts.”
Pak to take on England in Hockey WC match
Pakistan are back in contention for a semi-final slot after their hard-fought win against Spain, but they have their task cut out as they take on European champions England in a Pool B encounter of the Hockey World Cup on Thursday.
Pakistan left behind the disappointment of a 1-4 loss to India on Sunday to regroup and carve out a 2-1 win over Spain with a determined effort that also saw the sub-continental side cutting down on their traditional flair at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
Pakistan left behind the disappointment of a 1-4 loss to India on Sunday to regroup and carve out a 2-1 win over Spain with a determined effort that also saw the sub-continental side cutting down on their traditional flair at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
Pak to get advanced weapons from US
Pakistan will also soon take possession of a dozen American-made surveillance drones and 18 late-model F-16 fighter jets, sharply expanding the Pakistani military's ability to track and strike targets in remote, insurgent-controlled parts of the country.
The laser-guided-bomb kits could spark some unease in India, where officials have been warily watching the expanded U.S. military aid to Pakistan and wondering if the weapons would one day be turned against them. India lobbied against recent U.S. legislation giving Pakistan billions of dollars in new nonmilitary aid, though the measure passed anyway.
The laser-guided-bomb kits could spark some unease in India, where officials have been warily watching the expanded U.S. military aid to Pakistan and wondering if the weapons would one day be turned against them. India lobbied against recent U.S. legislation giving Pakistan billions of dollars in new nonmilitary aid, though the measure passed anyway.
Suicide attack in school kills a boy in Pak - More attacks reported
Taliban militants blew up a boys' school and assailants threw grenades at a music event, killing a student, in separate incidents in north and southwest Pakistan, officials said Wednesday.
The boys' school attack took place overnight in the Spin Qabar area of Khyber, a lawless district that straddles the main supply line for NATO troops fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan.
"All four rooms of the government boys' primary school were completely destroyed. Taliban are responsible," Khyber's top administrative official Shafirillah Khan told .
The boys' school attack took place overnight in the Spin Qabar area of Khyber, a lawless district that straddles the main supply line for NATO troops fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan.
"All four rooms of the government boys' primary school were completely destroyed. Taliban are responsible," Khyber's top administrative official Shafirillah Khan told .
Air India to get more fund in the next fiscal -- Praful Patel
National carrier Air India would get Rs. 1200 crore more next fiscal as committed by the government in the annual budget, Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel said Wednesday.
"This will be over and above Rs.800 crore ($160 billion) equity infusion which was approved by the government last month for Air India," Patel said, addressing reporters here on the sidelines of the International Exhibition and Conference on Civil Aviation.
"This will be over and above Rs.800 crore ($160 billion) equity infusion which was approved by the government last month for Air India," Patel said, addressing reporters here on the sidelines of the International Exhibition and Conference on Civil Aviation.
23 Hrs power supply for Bangalore city - assures CM
Believe this only if you're an incorrigible optimist - from Wednesday, Bangalore will get 23 hours of uninterrupted power every day; other cities/towns for 22 hours. We're now so used to constant outages that we're ready to clutch at any promise.
This assurance came from none other than chief minister B S Yeddyurappa himself, at the assembly on Tuesday. In rural areas, it'll be 6 hours of power through three phase, 6 hours through single phase and uninterrupted power supply from 7 pm to 11 pm.
This assurance came from none other than chief minister B S Yeddyurappa himself, at the assembly on Tuesday. In rural areas, it'll be 6 hours of power through three phase, 6 hours through single phase and uninterrupted power supply from 7 pm to 11 pm.
Govt revives 3 closed stateowned vaccine units ..
Faced with acute shortage of vaccines, the Centre had given its nod for revival of three stateowned vaccine manufacturing units, the Central Research Institute at Kasauli in Himachal Pradesh, Pasteur Institute of India at Coonoor and BCG Vaccine Laboratory in Chennai.
After a calculated assessment and evaluation, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had revoked the suspension of licences of these vaccine manufacturing units.
The government had suspended the licences of these vaccine manufacturing units two years ago.
After a calculated assessment and evaluation, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had revoked the suspension of licences of these vaccine manufacturing units.
The government had suspended the licences of these vaccine manufacturing units two years ago.
AI staffer arrested on molesting a 9 Yr old NRI in Airport- released on bail after a hour
An Air India staffer, asked to safely escort two sisters aged 9 and 6, molested the elder girl in the high-security international terminal of the airport early on Tuesday.
The molester, Reza Ahmed (54), and a colleague who tried to help him out were arrested but got bail on a surety of just Rs 1,000 each. They have been suspended by Air India.
The incident is an indicator of the state of affairs at the airport. The crime was caught on CCTV, but the CISF reacted only when the mother — an NRI — started screaming and passengers started thrashing Ahmed.
The molester, Reza Ahmed (54), and a colleague who tried to help him out were arrested but got bail on a surety of just Rs 1,000 each. They have been suspended by Air India.
The incident is an indicator of the state of affairs at the airport. The crime was caught on CCTV, but the CISF reacted only when the mother — an NRI — started screaming and passengers started thrashing Ahmed.
Lok Sabha Adjourned for an Hour after protests by Oppn
The Lok Sabha was on Wednesday adjourned for an hour till noon after Opposition members protested against the hike in fuel prices.
As soon as the House convened for question hour after a four-day Holi break, Samajwadi party members went close to the speaker's podium shouting slogans. The main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members followed suit.
Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar sensed the mood of the opposition MPs and adjourned the house for an hour.
As soon as the House convened for question hour after a four-day Holi break, Samajwadi party members went close to the speaker's podium shouting slogans. The main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members followed suit.
Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar sensed the mood of the opposition MPs and adjourned the house for an hour.
Proteas will play in IPL-3 despite security concerns - Smith
South African players due to play in the Indian Premier League later this month are likely to honour their contracts despite security concerns.
That is according to Proteas captain Graeme Smith, who is confident the authorities in India will provide sufficient security for players.
"It's an ongoing thing," Smith said. "I think it's 99% certain that every player will be going. I know Cricket South Africa, the player associations and the IPL are doing everything possible to make sure that everyone's security fears are addressed."
That is according to Proteas captain Graeme Smith, who is confident the authorities in India will provide sufficient security for players.
"It's an ongoing thing," Smith said. "I think it's 99% certain that every player will be going. I know Cricket South Africa, the player associations and the IPL are doing everything possible to make sure that everyone's security fears are addressed."
Aus defeat India in Hockey WC match
A dismal India were jolted out of their euphoria as Australia spanked them 5-2 in the hockey World Cup on Tuesday night.
On a high after Sunday's fairytale 4-1 victory against Pakistan, the Indians were in for a shock as Olympic silver medallist Australia opened their account as early as in the second minute and there was no stopping them.
The mighty Australians toyed with the Indian defence and scored through Glenn Turner (10th minute, 43rd), Liam De Young (2nd), Desmond Abbott (26th) and Luke Doerner (42nd).
For India, Vikram Pillay (35th) and captain Rajpal Singh (53rd) sounded the board.
On a high after Sunday's fairytale 4-1 victory against Pakistan, the Indians were in for a shock as Olympic silver medallist Australia opened their account as early as in the second minute and there was no stopping them.
The mighty Australians toyed with the Indian defence and scored through Glenn Turner (10th minute, 43rd), Liam De Young (2nd), Desmond Abbott (26th) and Luke Doerner (42nd).
For India, Vikram Pillay (35th) and captain Rajpal Singh (53rd) sounded the board.
Tendulkar suggested for Bharat Ratna - Maha Govt
Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, whose name has been suggested for the highest civilian award by Maharashtra Government has said that the 'Bharat Ratna' is every Indian's dream.
The Maharashtra Government has asked the Centre to confer Tendulkar with the prestigious 'Bharat Ratna' for his contribution to the game and making the country proud.
The Maharashtra Government has asked the Centre to confer Tendulkar with the prestigious 'Bharat Ratna' for his contribution to the game and making the country proud.
Maoists offer for talks a Bizzare - Chidambaram
Union Home Minister P Chidambaram today described as "bizarre" last month's reported offer by Maoist leader Koteshwar Rao for a truce and talks because, barely three hours later, the Maoists attacked a joint patrol party of the West Bengal and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Lalgarh, West Bengal.
At a press conference held here to present the monthly report of his Ministry, Mr Chidambaram recalled that the patrol party had retailiated and three people were killed.
At a press conference held here to present the monthly report of his Ministry, Mr Chidambaram recalled that the patrol party had retailiated and three people were killed.
BIG 92.7 Fm set to launch Mobile radio in 17 Languages
According to a company release, BIG Mobile Radio, which is an initiative from BIG 92.7 FM, will give mobile users the option to listen to 17 multi-lingual specially programmed channels. BIG 92.7 FM is run by Reliance Media World's radio division.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
PM in talk with Naga rebels to end Insurgency
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday met with Naga rebels in an attempt to end one of India's longest-running insurgencies in the remote northeast, a rebel spokesman said.
India is offering wide autonomy to Naga people as it already has rejected the rebels' demand for an independent homeland in northeastern India bordering Myanmar, where most of the 2 million Nagas live.
The Naga insurgency is India's first ethnic rebellion, claiming around 25,000 lives for more than 55 years since 1950s. The NSCN-IM wants a 'greater Nagaland' comprising Naga-inhabited areas of the neighbouring states of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, that would unite 1.2 million Nagas.
India is offering wide autonomy to Naga people as it already has rejected the rebels' demand for an independent homeland in northeastern India bordering Myanmar, where most of the 2 million Nagas live.
The Naga insurgency is India's first ethnic rebellion, claiming around 25,000 lives for more than 55 years since 1950s. The NSCN-IM wants a 'greater Nagaland' comprising Naga-inhabited areas of the neighbouring states of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, that would unite 1.2 million Nagas.
Tharoor backed by UPA - in his controversial talks
Congress today backed Union minister Shashi Tharoor, who had sparked a controversy by saying Saudi Arabia can be an interlocutor between India and Pakistan, saying he had said nothing about mediation.
"It is totally false. What Tharoor had said has nothing to do with mediation (between India and Pakistan). What prime minister had clarified and what Tharoor said there is no room for any controversy," AICC general secretary Janardhan Dwivedi told reporters.
"It is totally false. What Tharoor had said has nothing to do with mediation (between India and Pakistan). What prime minister had clarified and what Tharoor said there is no room for any controversy," AICC general secretary Janardhan Dwivedi told reporters.
Fossilized remains of a 67 million-year-old snake found in India
The fossilized remains of a 67 million-year-old snake found coiled around a dinosaur egg offer rare insight into the ancient reptile's dining habits and evolution, scientists said Tuesday.
The findings, which appeared in Tuesday's issue of the PLoS Biology journal, provide the first evidence that the 11.5-foot- (3.5-meter-) long snake fed on eggs and hatchlings of saurapod dinosaurs, meaning it was one of the few predators to prey on the long-necked herbivores.
They also suggest that, as early as 100 million years ago, snakes were developing mobile jaws similar to those of today's large-mouthed snakes, including vipers and boas.
The findings, which appeared in Tuesday's issue of the PLoS Biology journal, provide the first evidence that the 11.5-foot- (3.5-meter-) long snake fed on eggs and hatchlings of saurapod dinosaurs, meaning it was one of the few predators to prey on the long-necked herbivores.
They also suggest that, as early as 100 million years ago, snakes were developing mobile jaws similar to those of today's large-mouthed snakes, including vipers and boas.
I still love India. But India doesn't need me. -- M F Husain
Political leaders, intellectuals and artists in India kept silent when right-wing outfits targeted him, legendary painter M.F. Husain says 'with deep pain' in his heart.
"I still love India. But India doesn't need me. I am saying this with deep pain in heart," Husain told Gulf Madhyamam, Kerala-based Malayalam daily Madhyamam's Doha edition, in an interview.
"India is my motherland. I can't hate my motherland. But India rejected me. Then why should I stay in India?" the 95-year-old painter said in his first interview after accepting Qatar citizenship.
"I still love India. But India doesn't need me. I am saying this with deep pain in heart," Husain told Gulf Madhyamam, Kerala-based Malayalam daily Madhyamam's Doha edition, in an interview.
"India is my motherland. I can't hate my motherland. But India rejected me. Then why should I stay in India?" the 95-year-old painter said in his first interview after accepting Qatar citizenship.
India clear about talks with Pak - Chidambaram
Home Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday criticised Pakistan for allowing Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed to make provocative anti-India statements despite New Delhi having given clear information of his role in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
"We are very clear of the role of Hafiz Saeed (in the Mumbai terror attack). It is a role that deserves to be investigated. Any responsible government would have acted on the information. Far from investigating, the Pakistan government is allowing him to make provocative statements," Chidambaram told reporters.
"We are very clear of the role of Hafiz Saeed (in the Mumbai terror attack). It is a role that deserves to be investigated. Any responsible government would have acted on the information. Far from investigating, the Pakistan government is allowing him to make provocative statements," Chidambaram told reporters.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Mobile phones - vital part in Agro industry in future
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.
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.
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
Lunascape is the world's only triple engine browser. What this means is that you can have the best features, performance, and speed of Windows Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Apple Safari all in one browser and can view any website in an optimal way without a need to open another browser. Yeah, that's right. Lunascape = IE (Trident) + Firefox (Gecko + Chrome + Safari (Webkit). On top of that, our proprietary technology realizes one of the fastest browsing speed and provides you with full of features and customizable options. It is light, snappy, and fun.
To download Lunascape for windows click here
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
