Dulla Pehalwan from the US, Jassa from Italy and Jinder Amli from Canada have all gathered in Punjab for the first edition of the World Cup Kabaddi Punjab 2010 that is turning out to be quite a gathering of Punjabis from all over the world playing the game.
While the Canadian team in the nine-nation tournament boasts of names like Jinder Amli, Lucky Kurali, Bhoora and Aman Kundi, the US side has two Pehalwans - Dulla Pehalwan and Jassi Pehalwan - in its ranks.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
ValueFirst acquires Tagg.in
Tagg.in, a 2-year old firm started by Vatsal Desai, was incubated by Aurum Ventures, which continues to be an investor.
ValueFirst Messaging, a Gurgaon-based enterprise mobility and communication services company, has acquired a majority stake in social media firm Tagg.in for an undisclosed sum. Tagg.in, a Mumbai-based company, runs web and SMS based microblogging site which allows users to build communities and blog via SMS.
ValueFirst Messaging, a Gurgaon-based enterprise mobility and communication services company, has acquired a majority stake in social media firm Tagg.in for an undisclosed sum. Tagg.in, a Mumbai-based company, runs web and SMS based microblogging site which allows users to build communities and blog via SMS.
ONGC more eco-friendly than other oil Cos
State-owned explorer Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) on Monday said it has received 10,722 emission reduction certificates from the United Nations for a waste heat recovery project at its Mumbai High fields, making it the first public sector undertaking to generate revenue by trading in carbon credits.
The heat recovery project is the first of the six that ONGC has registered with the clean development mechanism (CDM) of the United Nations framework convention on climate change, the company said in a statement from New Delhi.
The heat recovery project is the first of the six that ONGC has registered with the clean development mechanism (CDM) of the United Nations framework convention on climate change, the company said in a statement from New Delhi.
TTD lauches new e-Ticketing facility
Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam (TTD) is an new online ticket booking service launched by TTD trust to assist the people from different parts of Andhra Pradesh to the Holy place Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam. This service is run by a travel agency.
Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam is one of the most popular and visited religious place in Andhra Pradesh. There are many other travel agencies that provide tour and travelling assistance at minimal rates.
Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam is one of the most popular and visited religious place in Andhra Pradesh. There are many other travel agencies that provide tour and travelling assistance at minimal rates.
HP slate details leaked
Just hours after HP teased us with another short video of its Slate tablet, Engadget revealed even more details about the upcoming device. Those details are courtesy of an internal HP presentation, which shows the specs of the upcoming device, including both its advantages over the iPad and its weaknesses--such as half of the battery life of Apple's tablet.
The leaked HP Slate presentation, which looks genuine, elucidates many of the mysteries around the device, starting with the price: $549 for the 32GB model and $599 for the 64GB version. In comparison, the introductory price of an iPad starts at $499 for a Wi-Fi-only 16GB model.
The leaked HP Slate presentation, which looks genuine, elucidates many of the mysteries around the device, starting with the price: $549 for the 32GB model and $599 for the 64GB version. In comparison, the introductory price of an iPad starts at $499 for a Wi-Fi-only 16GB model.
HCL re- launches its BeanStalk series
HCL Infosystems has re-launched the Beanstalk series desktops in India after it was first launched in 1995.
The desktop range, in the price band of Rs39,990 to Rs85,000, is equipped with a one-touch button service to address all customer queries and comes with a three-year warranty and McAfee Antivirus access.
The desktop range, in the price band of Rs39,990 to Rs85,000, is equipped with a one-touch button service to address all customer queries and comes with a three-year warranty and McAfee Antivirus access.
Microcoft to lauch Social networking Mobiles
Microsoft Corp. plans to introduce a new line of mobile phones Monday with social-networking capabilities aimed at young consumers, part of the technology giant's effort to turn around its struggling mobile-phone strategy, people familiar with the matter said.
The new devices, based on a Microsoft development project code-named "Pink," will be available later this month in the U.S. through a partnership with Verizon Wireless, the carrier owned by Verizon Communications Inc. and Vodafone Group PLC., one of these people said.
The new devices, based on a Microsoft development project code-named "Pink," will be available later this month in the U.S. through a partnership with Verizon Wireless, the carrier owned by Verizon Communications Inc. and Vodafone Group PLC., one of these people said.
Tech issues in iPad reported by users in Apple forum
New complaints about technical issues with the iPad emerged today, as Apple celebrated selling hundreds of thousands of the new devices over the weekend.
Apple has maintained its silence over reports about glitches with its new tablet computer. New iPad owners have posted comments on Apple forums claiming that their wi-fi was poor or fluctuating, where other internet devices worked well. Today, new reports suggested there could also be issues with charging the device and compatibility with apps designed for the iPhone.
Apple has maintained its silence over reports about glitches with its new tablet computer. New iPad owners have posted comments on Apple forums claiming that their wi-fi was poor or fluctuating, where other internet devices worked well. Today, new reports suggested there could also be issues with charging the device and compatibility with apps designed for the iPhone.
J & K Govt imposed ESMA to tackle emplotee strike
The Government of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday imposed the Essential Service Maintenance Act (ESMA) as government employees continued with their strike for the third consecutive day.
The employees have been on strike for the last three days to press their demand for the release of arrears prescribed by the Sixth Pay Commission Report and the enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60.
The state's cabinet on Monday, at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, decided to impose ESMA, which will deny employees their salaries if they do not come for work.
The employees have been on strike for the last three days to press their demand for the release of arrears prescribed by the Sixth Pay Commission Report and the enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60.
The state's cabinet on Monday, at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, decided to impose ESMA, which will deny employees their salaries if they do not come for work.
HTC Magic for Vodafone has worm - Trend Micro reports
Viruses have known to be making an attempt to infect mobile phones. It has now been reported that the manufacturing lines of HTC Magic being offered by Vodafone are likely to have been infected. An Internet Security firm called Trend Micro has discovered the presence of the virus.
Vodafone’s HTC Magic runs on the Android operating system. It so happened that one of the infected handsets was received by an employee of an anti virus firm called Panda Security. The Trend Micro blog has reported that a worm WORM_SILLY.QT is spreading with the smart phone memory. The moment the phone is connected to the PC the worm infects the recipient computer.
Vodafone’s HTC Magic runs on the Android operating system. It so happened that one of the infected handsets was received by an employee of an anti virus firm called Panda Security. The Trend Micro blog has reported that a worm WORM_SILLY.QT is spreading with the smart phone memory. The moment the phone is connected to the PC the worm infects the recipient computer.
Telecom Cos welcome online auction of spectrum
Telecom operators have endorsed the online mechanism designed by NM Rothschild for conducting 3G spectrum auction, saying the process virtually eliminates any scope for unrealistic bid.
All the top telecom firms including Airtel, Vodafone, Idea, Aircel, RCom and Tatas would be participating in the e-auction process, the first of its kind in the world, to acquire 3G spectrum for which the auction begins on April 9.
All the top telecom firms including Airtel, Vodafone, Idea, Aircel, RCom and Tatas would be participating in the e-auction process, the first of its kind in the world, to acquire 3G spectrum for which the auction begins on April 9.
Corporate frauds on the fast lane - KPMG
Corporate fraud in India is on the rise, a fact corroborated by 75 per cent of the top executives surveyed by consultancy firm KPMG.
An increasing number of employees are indulging in fraudulent activities, mostly driven by financial stress and dissatisfaction with their company management, according to ‘KPMG Fraud Survey Report 2010’. Global consultancy KPMG conducts the survey every two years across all sectors.
An increasing number of employees are indulging in fraudulent activities, mostly driven by financial stress and dissatisfaction with their company management, according to ‘KPMG Fraud Survey Report 2010’. Global consultancy KPMG conducts the survey every two years across all sectors.
Revaluation of Yuan - its China's choice
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said he was confident that China would see that it is in its own interest to make its currency more flexible, and said global economic recovery "looks quite strong now."
Geithner, in an interview on Tuesday with India's NDTV, said it was "China's choice" whether or not it revalues the yuan.
"As I said before and I'll say it again, but I want to make sure I am repeating myself, I am confident that China will decide it's in their interest to resume the move to a more flexible exchange rate, that they began some years ago and suspended in the midst of the crisis," he said in India's capital.
Geithner, in an interview on Tuesday with India's NDTV, said it was "China's choice" whether or not it revalues the yuan.
"As I said before and I'll say it again, but I want to make sure I am repeating myself, I am confident that China will decide it's in their interest to resume the move to a more flexible exchange rate, that they began some years ago and suspended in the midst of the crisis," he said in India's capital.
DoT conducts Mock auction - real auction on friday
The government today held mock auction for 3G spectrum and has convened a meeting tomorrow in which the bidders will be briefed about the nittty gritties of the real auction on Friday.
The Department of Telecom (DoT) conducted the mock auction to familiarise the nine 3G and 11 broadband wireless access (BWA) bidders with the system and clarify their technical queries about the auction.
Bidders logged onto the DoT's mock auction network since morning to understand the nitty gritties.
The Department of Telecom (DoT) conducted the mock auction to familiarise the nine 3G and 11 broadband wireless access (BWA) bidders with the system and clarify their technical queries about the auction.
Bidders logged onto the DoT's mock auction network since morning to understand the nitty gritties.
Reliance's Zapak to buy Codemasters' 50% shares
Anil Ambani Group company Reliance Big Entertainment today said it will acquire 50 per cent stake in U.K.-based gaming firm Codemasters.
Reliance Big Entertainment has agreed to acquire 50 per cent shareholding in Codemasters, the company said in a statement. The company, however, did not disclose amount involved in this deal.
Reliance Big Entertainment has agreed to acquire 50 per cent shareholding in Codemasters, the company said in a statement. The company, however, did not disclose amount involved in this deal.
India's Defence network systems compromised by Chinese hackers - China denies the report
China on Tuesday dismissed reports that Chinese hackers have broken into top secret files of the Indian Defence Ministry and embassies around the world, saying that it was firmly opposed to hacking and regards it as an international crime.
"We have been hearing frequently these kind of news and I do not know the purpose to stir up issues," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jiang Yu said, replying to questions about reports of hacking of sensitive Indian sites in the media today.
"We have been hearing frequently these kind of news and I do not know the purpose to stir up issues," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jiang Yu said, replying to questions about reports of hacking of sensitive Indian sites in the media today.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Techie arrested for creating profile of a girl to harass her...
A software engineer was arrested in Hyderabad on Saturday for allegedly creating a fictitious vulgar profiles of a girl on social networking sites, Cyber Crimes Police said.
The parents of Shiva Shankar Madisetty, a software engineer at a MNC software firm in Bangalore, had asked for the girl's hand for their son but were turned down by her parents. Apparently dejected, Madisetty wanted to harass the girl, CID Superintendent of Police B Sumathi said.
After collecting details (including cell phone number) of the girl through social networking sites, Madisetty created a fictitious profile of the girl with her photo and added vulgar content, the police officer said.
The parents of Shiva Shankar Madisetty, a software engineer at a MNC software firm in Bangalore, had asked for the girl's hand for their son but were turned down by her parents. Apparently dejected, Madisetty wanted to harass the girl, CID Superintendent of Police B Sumathi said.
After collecting details (including cell phone number) of the girl through social networking sites, Madisetty created a fictitious profile of the girl with her photo and added vulgar content, the police officer said.
Riot Panel waiting for Modi to appear
Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi has so far not appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) enquiring into the 2002 Gujarat riots.
The SIT has given Modi a week starting from Sunday to come and answer questions in a case filed by Zakia Jafri, wife of late Congress MP Ehsan Jafri who along with 68 others were killed in the Gulbarg Society massacre of February 28, 2002.
The summons though does not make it mandatory for Modi to make an appearance before the SIT team headed by RK Raghavan. Narendra Modi is consulting his top legal advisors whether he should appear or not before the panel.
The SIT has given Modi a week starting from Sunday to come and answer questions in a case filed by Zakia Jafri, wife of late Congress MP Ehsan Jafri who along with 68 others were killed in the Gulbarg Society massacre of February 28, 2002.
The summons though does not make it mandatory for Modi to make an appearance before the SIT team headed by RK Raghavan. Narendra Modi is consulting his top legal advisors whether he should appear or not before the panel.
Maharaja Exp. flagged off- Offers a royal travel experience
Now, travel through the heart of India in the lap of luxury. Equipped with LCD TVs, panoramic windows and internet connectivity, the new Maharajas' Express promises to make the journey from Kolkata to Delhi a royal experience.
The train is the latest offering from Indian Railways on the lines of the Palace On Wheels to generate revenue and help tourists explore India. It possesses elegant features and international-level comfort.
The journey from Kolkata to Delhi by Maharajas' Express has been christened Celestial India. It will cover pilgrim and tourist centres like Gaya and Varanasi, the Bandhavgarh forests, Khajuraho, Agra and Gwalior before terminating in Delhi.
The train is the latest offering from Indian Railways on the lines of the Palace On Wheels to generate revenue and help tourists explore India. It possesses elegant features and international-level comfort.
The journey from Kolkata to Delhi by Maharajas' Express has been christened Celestial India. It will cover pilgrim and tourist centres like Gaya and Varanasi, the Bandhavgarh forests, Khajuraho, Agra and Gwalior before terminating in Delhi.
Moto's Android Phone "Milestone" debuts in India
March 22, 2010 will see the launch of Motorola Milestone in India. Motorola Milestone is the GSM version of Motorola Droid and the handset is based on Google Android 2.0 Operating System. It is however predicted that the Indian customers may have the mobile phone without free Google navigation and other free services.
Motorola Milestone, which has already pre-loaded Android 2.1 version with its US counterpart, has started showing some technical problems in the Android 2.1 OS. There is anticipation in the market that Motorola is likely to hold its 2.1 Android in the US.
Motorola Milestone, which has already pre-loaded Android 2.1 version with its US counterpart, has started showing some technical problems in the Android 2.1 OS. There is anticipation in the market that Motorola is likely to hold its 2.1 Android in the US.
India to Interrogate Headley - US Officials
Indian investigators can interrogate David Headley, said a US official on Saturday adding that the Pakistani-born Lashkar-e-Taeba operative's extradition to India was still possible, but not on charges of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
"With respect to the Headley case, the plea bargain agreement was announced and part of that agreement was that the US would not extradite Headley either to India or Pakistan or Denmark for the charges for which he has now admitted guilt," US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Robert O Blake told reporters in New Delhi.
Asked if Indian investigators would be allowed to quiz him, Blake said: "My answer would be yes."
"With respect to the Headley case, the plea bargain agreement was announced and part of that agreement was that the US would not extradite Headley either to India or Pakistan or Denmark for the charges for which he has now admitted guilt," US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Robert O Blake told reporters in New Delhi.
Asked if Indian investigators would be allowed to quiz him, Blake said: "My answer would be yes."
Kochi gets its New IPL team along with Pune...
Irrepressible Shashi Tharoor added a new dimension to his expansive profile when he got leading business magnets to come together as Rendezvous Sports World Ltd. that bagged a team for Kochi in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Tharoor gave Kerala a reason to cheer for when he lent his support to the franchisee to bid $333.33 million (Rs 1,533.33 crore) to get Kochi one of the two new IPL teams from the next season. Sahara Adventure Sports Group bagged Pune.
Tharoor gave Kerala a reason to cheer for when he lent his support to the franchisee to bid $333.33 million (Rs 1,533.33 crore) to get Kochi one of the two new IPL teams from the next season. Sahara Adventure Sports Group bagged Pune.
Muslim Law Board increases the No. of Women in its panel ....
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) may been silent on the women's reservation bill. But when it came to reconstituting its executive body, it unanimously increased the representation of women from one to five.
Announcing this on the last day of the board's three-day annual convention at the Nadwa Darul-Uloom Islamic university here, AIMPLB spokesman-cum-legal adviser Zafaryab Jilani told reporters Sunday: 'We have nominated five women this time on the board's executive committee.'
Socialite Begum Naseem Iqtidar was the lone woman on the committee till now.
Announcing this on the last day of the board's three-day annual convention at the Nadwa Darul-Uloom Islamic university here, AIMPLB spokesman-cum-legal adviser Zafaryab Jilani told reporters Sunday: 'We have nominated five women this time on the board's executive committee.'
Socialite Begum Naseem Iqtidar was the lone woman on the committee till now.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Sexual assault to replace rape in IPC soon
Every 54 minutes a woman is raped in India, but less than 36 per cent of the rapists end up in jail. Rape has long been considered one of the worst crimes, almost at par with murder.
For years, lawyers and activists have argued that the penalty for rape, currently seven years, is far too lenient. Now, the Indian Penal Code (IPC) is all set to introduce dramatic changes, not just on rape but all sexual crimes.
For years, lawyers and activists have argued that the penalty for rape, currently seven years, is far too lenient. Now, the Indian Penal Code (IPC) is all set to introduce dramatic changes, not just on rape but all sexual crimes.
ISRO shoot out a misunderstanding - Karnataka Govt
The shootout at the sensitive Deep Space Network (DSN) facility of India's space agency ISRO near here appears to be the result of a "misunderstanding" and should not be given importance, the Karnataka government clarified on Wednesday.
"It appears to be result of misunderstanding and there is no need to give the incident importance," state home minister V S Acharya told reporters after briefing chief minister B S Yeddyurappa on the progress of the police probe into the incident that occurred early Tuesday morning.
"It appears to be result of misunderstanding and there is no need to give the incident importance," state home minister V S Acharya told reporters after briefing chief minister B S Yeddyurappa on the progress of the police probe into the incident that occurred early Tuesday morning.
Few Techies in Touch with Jihandis on Pak - Report
Recent security audits of some of the top software firms, including Indian MNCs headquartered in Bangalore, have revealed that some of their employees are in touch with jihadi elements in Pakistan, via the internet, or are surfing and posting messages on radical Islamic sites and blogs during their work hours.
The cyber security audits at the software majors started almost three months ago and are still continuing, sources in the security establishment revealed. The adverse findings, pointing to internet exchanges between employees and suspected jihadists using their respective firm’s web systems, have been reported to the police and intelligence agencies for further probe.
The cyber security audits at the software majors started almost three months ago and are still continuing, sources in the security establishment revealed. The adverse findings, pointing to internet exchanges between employees and suspected jihadists using their respective firm’s web systems, have been reported to the police and intelligence agencies for further probe.
TTSL announces DIALOG- internet through TV sets.
Telecom service provider Tata Teleservices Ltd (TTSL) has announced the launch of DIALOG, a product that enables customers to connect to the internet on their television set.
Customers can access the internet without a desktop or laptop, transforming the TV set into a multimedia device with the help of DIALOG.
"We are launching the product first time in the country simultaneously in Chennai and Kolkata. We will take three months for the testing period and after that we will go for an all-India launch of DIALOG in the first quarter of FY11," TTSL national sales head Abhijit Sanyal said here at a press meet.
Customers can access the internet without a desktop or laptop, transforming the TV set into a multimedia device with the help of DIALOG.
"We are launching the product first time in the country simultaneously in Chennai and Kolkata. We will take three months for the testing period and after that we will go for an all-India launch of DIALOG in the first quarter of FY11," TTSL national sales head Abhijit Sanyal said here at a press meet.
TTSL & RCom launched 3G in CDMA segment - Vodafone wants DoT to levy more
Escalating the war of words over spectrum, Vodafone Essar has now alleged that Reliance Communications and Tata Teleservices have already launched third-generation (3G) services and therefore should be charged higher levies that are applicable to 3G operators.
Telecom companies that offer third-generation services are required to pay a higher spectrum usage fee. In the case of CDMA operators, both second generation (2G) and 3G services are offered using the same airwaves or spectrum. Incumbent GSM operators have alleged that the high-speed data services offered by RCom and Tatas constitute 3G services. GSM operators are, however, waiting for 3G airwaves auction that are scheduled to begin next month.
Telecom companies that offer third-generation services are required to pay a higher spectrum usage fee. In the case of CDMA operators, both second generation (2G) and 3G services are offered using the same airwaves or spectrum. Incumbent GSM operators have alleged that the high-speed data services offered by RCom and Tatas constitute 3G services. GSM operators are, however, waiting for 3G airwaves auction that are scheduled to begin next month.
Garland of currency wirth lakhs & Crores put around Mayawati.
The Congress on Wednesday dubbed as "vulgar display" of money in politics the garlanding of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati with currency notes.
"This is a vulgar display of money in politics. This is not good for any political party or a political leader," Congress spokesman Shakeel Ahmed said.
Ignoring all criticism, the BSP chief today got herself garlanded with currency notes said to be of the value of Rs 18 lakh. The garland comprising notes of various denominations was put around her neck at a meeting of party leaders despite opposition outcry over her being presented a similar garland of value estimated between Rs 21 lakh and Rs 15 crore on Monday.
"This is a vulgar display of money in politics. This is not good for any political party or a political leader," Congress spokesman Shakeel Ahmed said.
Ignoring all criticism, the BSP chief today got herself garlanded with currency notes said to be of the value of Rs 18 lakh. The garland comprising notes of various denominations was put around her neck at a meeting of party leaders despite opposition outcry over her being presented a similar garland of value estimated between Rs 21 lakh and Rs 15 crore on Monday.
MSD to miss IPL 3 matches for 10 days -Raina to lead Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been ruled out of the next few IPL games after an elbow injury. He may be out of action for the next 10 days.
"Dhoni has been diagnosed with an elbow injury and has been advised 10 days rest," team manager Russell Radhakrishnan said.
Suresh Raina will stand in as Chennai captain. Dhoni hurt his elbow while batting against the Kolkata Knight Riders in Tuesday's match at Eden Garden. A delivery from new KKR buy and pacer Shane Bond hit Dhoni on the right elbow. Later he underwent an x-ray test.
"Dhoni has been diagnosed with an elbow injury and has been advised 10 days rest," team manager Russell Radhakrishnan said.
Suresh Raina will stand in as Chennai captain. Dhoni hurt his elbow while batting against the Kolkata Knight Riders in Tuesday's match at Eden Garden. A delivery from new KKR buy and pacer Shane Bond hit Dhoni on the right elbow. Later he underwent an x-ray test.
Xerox to open a Reasearch Lab in Chennai - First in India
Xerox Corp, the largest maker of high-speed colour printers, is opening its first research laboratory in a developing market, aiming to expand its services division.
The lab in Chennai, India, will work with local universities to develop document-management services for emerging markets, the Norwalk, Connecticut-based company said.
Xerox has two research centers in the US and one each in Canada and France.
The lab in Chennai, India, will work with local universities to develop document-management services for emerging markets, the Norwalk, Connecticut-based company said.
Xerox has two research centers in the US and one each in Canada and France.
Pak does not take serious steps to destroy terror outfits in Pak
Defence Minister A.K. Antony on Wednesday said Pakistan “was not taking serious steps” to destroy 42 terror camps on its soil. Stating that India was “exploring all possibilities”, Mr. Antony also said he did not expect any “miracles” from the dialogue with Pakistan.
“All the terror camps in Pakistan are active. Pakistan has not taken any serious steps to destroy these camps,” Antony told a press conference on the sidelines of the launch of Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) offshore patrol vessel (OPV) Vishwast at the port town of Vasco, 30 km from here.
“All the terror camps in Pakistan are active. Pakistan has not taken any serious steps to destroy these camps,” Antony told a press conference on the sidelines of the launch of Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) offshore patrol vessel (OPV) Vishwast at the port town of Vasco, 30 km from here.
Vodafone to shut its GPS business
Vodafone, the world's largest mobile operator by revenue, is to close its navigation business as it could not compete with free services pr
ovided by Google and Nokia.
Vodafone, which bought a Swedish navigational software firm Wayfinder for $30 million in December 2008, said it would close the offering with the loss of 95 jobs across Sweden, Romania and Britain.
Vodafone said the commercial proposition for navigational services had completely changed after the introduction of free services in the last six months.
ovided by Google and Nokia.
Vodafone, which bought a Swedish navigational software firm Wayfinder for $30 million in December 2008, said it would close the offering with the loss of 95 jobs across Sweden, Romania and Britain.
Vodafone said the commercial proposition for navigational services had completely changed after the introduction of free services in the last six months.
Call Rates may fall in the quarter - RCoM
Reliance Communications (RCom), the country's second-largest telecom service provider, today said the price war in the sector is likely to
intensify in months ahead and the pressure on operators to reduce call charges will continue to be there for a few more quarters.
"There are two-three greenfield operators who are likely to enter the Mumbai market which may further intensify the tariff war. We are always competitive in all respects and we will continue that," RCom's President Mahesh Prasad said that it may intensify further.
intensify in months ahead and the pressure on operators to reduce call charges will continue to be there for a few more quarters.
"There are two-three greenfield operators who are likely to enter the Mumbai market which may further intensify the tariff war. We are always competitive in all respects and we will continue that," RCom's President Mahesh Prasad said that it may intensify further.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Delhi HC asks Govt to file report on its stand in rural health care
The Delhi High Court Wednesday asked the government to make its stand clear on a plea that a short-term course on primary health was required to allow non-MBBS persons to practise medicine in rural areas.
A division bench of acting Chief Justice Madan B. Lokur and Justice Mukta Gupta directed the government to file a detailed affidavit specifying whether it has accepted the recommendations given by the Central Council for Health and the Task Force which recommended a three-year course for practitioners.
The Medical Council of India (MCI) informed the court that it has not accepted all the recommendations of the Task Force and will file an affidavit in this regard by April 7.
A division bench of acting Chief Justice Madan B. Lokur and Justice Mukta Gupta directed the government to file a detailed affidavit specifying whether it has accepted the recommendations given by the Central Council for Health and the Task Force which recommended a three-year course for practitioners.
The Medical Council of India (MCI) informed the court that it has not accepted all the recommendations of the Task Force and will file an affidavit in this regard by April 7.
Thermax in JV with B&W PGG to Manufacture critical boilers for power sector
Energy and environment solutions company Thermax Wednesday announced a joint venture with US based Babcock & Wilcox Power Generation group (B&W PGG) to manufacture super-critical boilers for the power sector.
Thermax will own 51 percent share of the joint venture while B&W PGG will have 49 percent.
The new entity will also manufacture sub-critical boilers of over 300 MW in capacity.
'In B&W, our joint venture partner, we have a global technology leader whose boilers generate over 300,000 MW of power around the world,' said M.S. Unnikrishnan, managing director and chief executive of Thermax.
Thermax will own 51 percent share of the joint venture while B&W PGG will have 49 percent.
The new entity will also manufacture sub-critical boilers of over 300 MW in capacity.
'In B&W, our joint venture partner, we have a global technology leader whose boilers generate over 300,000 MW of power around the world,' said M.S. Unnikrishnan, managing director and chief executive of Thermax.
Govt's steps to look on Rising sugar Price
India's sugar mills have backed out of import deals to the tune of 100,000 tonnes, and traders have diverted cargoes as prices tumble.
Analysts and traders believe if lower prices do not improve, mills can back out of import deals of another 500,000 tonnes.
A top industry official on Wednesday told Reuters that the supply situation was now "comfortable" and the country did not need further imports.
Analysts and traders believe if lower prices do not improve, mills can back out of import deals of another 500,000 tonnes.
A top industry official on Wednesday told Reuters that the supply situation was now "comfortable" and the country did not need further imports.
Indian Micro Finance Institutions set up self regulating body
As many as 31 microfinance institutions (MFIs), including the top 10 in the country, have come together to set up Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN), a self-regulatory organisation that aims to work with regulators to promote microfinance to achieve larger financial inclusion goals.
“MFIN is the response of NBFC (non banking financial company) MFIs in the country to concerns of overborrowing by clients and unregulated credit practices in the microfinance sector. This level of unity and commitment to client protection is unique and has not been seen in any other sector in India. MFIN members now collectively represent almost 80 per cent of the entire microfinance sector in the country. We are confident that a co-ordinated and united approach from the members of MFIN would enable us to support the government’s initiative of taking forward on a significant manner the process of financial inclusion to the masses in a transparent and sustainable basis,” MFIN president and Basix chairman, Vijay Mahajan, stated in a press release.
“MFIN is the response of NBFC (non banking financial company) MFIs in the country to concerns of overborrowing by clients and unregulated credit practices in the microfinance sector. This level of unity and commitment to client protection is unique and has not been seen in any other sector in India. MFIN members now collectively represent almost 80 per cent of the entire microfinance sector in the country. We are confident that a co-ordinated and united approach from the members of MFIN would enable us to support the government’s initiative of taking forward on a significant manner the process of financial inclusion to the masses in a transparent and sustainable basis,” MFIN president and Basix chairman, Vijay Mahajan, stated in a press release.
Mobile app to provide Updates of BSE soon
Trading at your fingertips may soon become reality. One may soon be able to trade real time through ones mobile phone.
Going by the push that stock exchanges are giving to mobile-based applications, it looks like market players are ready.
Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has launched an application that will show the 30 Sensex scrips on mobile phones, real time, claiming it to be just the first small step.
Ashish Chauhan, deputy CEO of BSE, said, “In India there are 1 crore personal computers, but 50 crore phones. We hope to penetrate a large customer base through mobile phones."
Going by the push that stock exchanges are giving to mobile-based applications, it looks like market players are ready.
Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has launched an application that will show the 30 Sensex scrips on mobile phones, real time, claiming it to be just the first small step.
Ashish Chauhan, deputy CEO of BSE, said, “In India there are 1 crore personal computers, but 50 crore phones. We hope to penetrate a large customer base through mobile phones."
Ford to launch its global products in Indian Market soon
Automobile major, Ford India, plans to launch more global products in the Indian market, a top company official
"We are going to bring more global products into the Indian market. We will look at options for Indian customers' needs out of our global stable," Ford India's Managing Director and President, Michael Boneham, told here today.
"We plan to launch a new car every 12-18 months, which would include small and medium-sized cars in India, Boneham said.
"We are going to bring more global products into the Indian market. We will look at options for Indian customers' needs out of our global stable," Ford India's Managing Director and President, Michael Boneham, told here today.
"We plan to launch a new car every 12-18 months, which would include small and medium-sized cars in India, Boneham said.
No plan sale stakes in ONGC & IOC - Oil secy
The government has no immediate plans to sell stake in state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) and Indian Oil Corp (IOC) , Oil Secretary S. Sundareshan told reporters on Wednesday.
"There is no serious consideration (on follow-on public offerings in IOC and ONGC) at this juncture," he told reporters here.
Both IOC and ONGC are not in favour of raising money through equity route as valuations are being impacted due to uncertain fuel pricing policy.
Also, market conditions were not right for FPOs. "(These are) not the correct market time for FPOs," he said.
"There is no serious consideration (on follow-on public offerings in IOC and ONGC) at this juncture," he told reporters here.
Both IOC and ONGC are not in favour of raising money through equity route as valuations are being impacted due to uncertain fuel pricing policy.
Also, market conditions were not right for FPOs. "(These are) not the correct market time for FPOs," he said.
TATA DoCoMo offers carry Forward offer for its customers
Tata Docomo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices Ltd, on Monday launched a tariff plan for its enterprise customers, which carries
unused free talk time and SMS forward for a period of three months.
Under the 'Rollover Plan' (RO Plan), customers pay by month and enjoy the facility of carrying forward their unused free talk time and SMS for a period of three months, TTSL said in a statement.
"Today I am proud to say that we are launching yet another industry first-- The Rollover Plan-- exclusively for our Tata DOCOMO Enterprise Customers," TTSL Managing Director Anil Sardana said.
unused free talk time and SMS forward for a period of three months.
Under the 'Rollover Plan' (RO Plan), customers pay by month and enjoy the facility of carrying forward their unused free talk time and SMS for a period of three months, TTSL said in a statement.
"Today I am proud to say that we are launching yet another industry first-- The Rollover Plan-- exclusively for our Tata DOCOMO Enterprise Customers," TTSL Managing Director Anil Sardana said.
IPL 3 to be Ad free in Sun Direct HD platform
Sun Direct will show the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in high-definition (HD) on Max.
As per the deal, Max will provide the HD feed of the IPL matches without any advertisements. With dolby digital for the audio and sound with 16:9 ratio, Sun Direct claims that the HD telecast will deliver in-stadia like experience to viewers.
The HD telecast will be available on Sun Direct HD platform.
As per the deal, Max will provide the HD feed of the IPL matches without any advertisements. With dolby digital for the audio and sound with 16:9 ratio, Sun Direct claims that the HD telecast will deliver in-stadia like experience to viewers.
The HD telecast will be available on Sun Direct HD platform.
Nissan Micra to cost between 3.3 lac -3.8 Lacs in India
Nissan Micra is a new car from Nissan India in the small car segment. Nissan Micra is a premium hatchback model with attractive features and specifications. The Nissan Micra car is expected to face competition with the small car segment majors like Maruti Alto, Hyundai Santro, Ford Figo, Wagon R and Chevy Beat.
The Nissan Micra car will be available to Indian customers by May 2010. The company aims to price Nissan Micra in India in the range of Rs. 3.8 lac to Rs. 5 lac.
The Indian small car segment will have Nissan Micra in both petrol and diesel options. The petrol option has 1200 and 1300CC variants and the diesel option has 1600 CC variant. The car will be available in 11 amazing hues like Roma Red, New York Blue,Madrid Ebony, Paris Blue, London Rose, Vienna Garnet, Geneva White, Tokyo Silver, Rio Latte and Monaco Platinum.
The Nissan Micra car will be available to Indian customers by May 2010. The company aims to price Nissan Micra in India in the range of Rs. 3.8 lac to Rs. 5 lac.
The Indian small car segment will have Nissan Micra in both petrol and diesel options. The petrol option has 1200 and 1300CC variants and the diesel option has 1600 CC variant. The car will be available in 11 amazing hues like Roma Red, New York Blue,Madrid Ebony, Paris Blue, London Rose, Vienna Garnet, Geneva White, Tokyo Silver, Rio Latte and Monaco Platinum.
IPL 3 needs some Good Pace attack - Zaheer
Mumbai Indians fast bowler Zaheer Khan believes fast bowlers will play a key role in the upcoming third season of the Indian Premier League , starting in Mumbai on March 12.
"I think bowling is important. If you see in the last auction as well, all the teams were going for genuine fast bowlers, because everyone now feels the importance of fast bowlers upfront due to the Powerplay.
"A good bowler can definitely increase the chances of giving an early breakthrough, which definitely restricts opponents from getting off to good starts. With the first six overs of Powerplay rule it is very important for the bowling side to get that early wicket," Zaheer said in Mumbai on Wednesday.
"I think bowling is important. If you see in the last auction as well, all the teams were going for genuine fast bowlers, because everyone now feels the importance of fast bowlers upfront due to the Powerplay.
"A good bowler can definitely increase the chances of giving an early breakthrough, which definitely restricts opponents from getting off to good starts. With the first six overs of Powerplay rule it is very important for the bowling side to get that early wicket," Zaheer said in Mumbai on Wednesday.
Aus to fight with Nethers in FIH semis
Australia's speed and firepower will be up against the free-flowing game of the Netherlands as the two title favourites clash in the semi-final of the Hockey World Cup here Thursday.
The two sides are bracing for their fifth-ever tryst in the pre-summit round of the World Cup after a contrasting run in the Pool stage. The Australians began with a shock defeat and then won three games, while the Dutch saw their three-game victorious stint broken following a draw against Germany and a loss against Korea in the last two outings.
Australia have been the most prolific with 23 goals in the tournament, with Luke Doerner (6), Jamie Dwyer and Glenn Turner (5 each) finding their names in the top scorers' list. The Kookaburras' 12-0 whipping of South Africa has been the most lopsided game of the competition at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
The two sides are bracing for their fifth-ever tryst in the pre-summit round of the World Cup after a contrasting run in the Pool stage. The Australians began with a shock defeat and then won three games, while the Dutch saw their three-game victorious stint broken following a draw against Germany and a loss against Korea in the last two outings.
Australia have been the most prolific with 23 goals in the tournament, with Luke Doerner (6), Jamie Dwyer and Glenn Turner (5 each) finding their names in the top scorers' list. The Kookaburras' 12-0 whipping of South Africa has been the most lopsided game of the competition at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
Kapil added to ICC's Hall of Fame
India may have produced many a cricketing legend but only three have made it to the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Hall of Fame. Odd but true. On Tuesday, Kapil Dev became the latest member of the elite club which boats of 59 other gems including compatriots BS Bedi and Sunil Gavaskar.
However, Kapil isn’t someone who gets into all those intricacies. On a day when he felt “honoured and happy”, India's only World Cup-winning captain was just counting his blessings.
“Don’t worry. Many more players from India will make it to the Hall of Fame. Sachin (Tendulkar), Rahul (Dravid) and Virender (Sehwag) will all make it. They are still playing,” he told from Dubai.
While the ICC has recognised him for his cricketing prowess, Kapil still can’t find favour with the Board of Control for Cricket in India. “They (ICC) gave me the award, I accepted it. It’s simple. I have no differences. I never keep grudges. If someone has differences with me, then good luck to them.”
However, Kapil isn’t someone who gets into all those intricacies. On a day when he felt “honoured and happy”, India's only World Cup-winning captain was just counting his blessings.
“Don’t worry. Many more players from India will make it to the Hall of Fame. Sachin (Tendulkar), Rahul (Dravid) and Virender (Sehwag) will all make it. They are still playing,” he told from Dubai.
While the ICC has recognised him for his cricketing prowess, Kapil still can’t find favour with the Board of Control for Cricket in India. “They (ICC) gave me the award, I accepted it. It’s simple. I have no differences. I never keep grudges. If someone has differences with me, then good luck to them.”
IKDRC creates method for less pain Kidney transplantation
Sanjay Sharma, 32, and Ramesh Dabhi, 48, recently underwent a second kidney transplant surgery. This time, they endured less pain, had a faster recovery and the surgery cost less compared to the earlier one.
Sharma and Dabhi have got to thank the experts at the Institute of Kidney Disease and Research Centre (IKDRC) and the Dr HL Trivedi Institute of Transplantation Science (ITS) who used a new surgical technique on the patients. IKDRC and ITS successfully performed the first laparoscopic kidney transplantations on the two patients on March 4.
The laparoscopic kidney transplantation is a minimally invasive complex surgery and the entire operation is carried out without making a large incision.The major advantages are less post-operative pain, rapid recovery, and shorter hospital stay.
Sharma and Dabhi have got to thank the experts at the Institute of Kidney Disease and Research Centre (IKDRC) and the Dr HL Trivedi Institute of Transplantation Science (ITS) who used a new surgical technique on the patients. IKDRC and ITS successfully performed the first laparoscopic kidney transplantations on the two patients on March 4.
The laparoscopic kidney transplantation is a minimally invasive complex surgery and the entire operation is carried out without making a large incision.The major advantages are less post-operative pain, rapid recovery, and shorter hospital stay.
Ruchika Case hearing adjourned till Apr 15
A Chandigarh court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing of the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case, which involves former Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) SPS Rathore till April 15 on the plea that his lawyer was still recovering from an assault on him last month.
Rathore arrived in the court accompanied by his lawyer-wife Abha Rathore and a Haryana cop. Abha Rathore told the court that Rathore's counsel N D Sharma was still recovering from the assault on him outside the court premises last month.
Rathore was on February 8 punched and stabbed thrice with a blunt instrument outside the court premises by Utsav Sharma, a student of the prestigious National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad. The former DGP's lawyer had also sustained injuries in the attack and both had to be hospitalised.
The court had last month passed the adjournment order on medical grounds.
Rathore arrived in the court accompanied by his lawyer-wife Abha Rathore and a Haryana cop. Abha Rathore told the court that Rathore's counsel N D Sharma was still recovering from the assault on him outside the court premises last month.
Rathore was on February 8 punched and stabbed thrice with a blunt instrument outside the court premises by Utsav Sharma, a student of the prestigious National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad. The former DGP's lawyer had also sustained injuries in the attack and both had to be hospitalised.
The court had last month passed the adjournment order on medical grounds.
Govt has taken measures to provide Healthy Mid Day Meals
Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal on Wednesday in a written reply in the Lok Sabha said the government has made elaborate arrangements through the guidelines for Mid Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) to ensure that children get good quality meals.
Sibal added that two to three adults, including at least one teacher, taste the mid-day meal before it is served to the children.
Under the scheme, the government has fixed 450 calories and 12 grams of protein intake for primary and 700 calories and 20 grams of protein intake for upper primary children, claimed Sibal.
"The energy and protein requirement is met through food cooked," he added.
Sibal added that two to three adults, including at least one teacher, taste the mid-day meal before it is served to the children.
Under the scheme, the government has fixed 450 calories and 12 grams of protein intake for primary and 700 calories and 20 grams of protein intake for upper primary children, claimed Sibal.
"The energy and protein requirement is met through food cooked," he added.
Glaucoma & the 12 million affected Indians
In World Glaucoma Week, know how to guard yourself against the disease that has affected an estimated 12 million Indians
So how often do you go for an eye check? With most of us leading a lifestyle that strains our eyes on a daily basis (like long hours in front of computers), a routine eye check up every three months, doctors suggest, is a good idea to keep track of your eyesight. This week, ending March 13, the world is observing Glaucoma Week, highlighting, among other things, the fact that regular eye examination, particularly by those above 40, helps early detection of the disease and, in turn, would help in preserving one's vision. Glaucoma is a hereditary disease but there are other factors that can make you a potential glaucoma patient.
So how often do you go for an eye check? With most of us leading a lifestyle that strains our eyes on a daily basis (like long hours in front of computers), a routine eye check up every three months, doctors suggest, is a good idea to keep track of your eyesight. This week, ending March 13, the world is observing Glaucoma Week, highlighting, among other things, the fact that regular eye examination, particularly by those above 40, helps early detection of the disease and, in turn, would help in preserving one's vision. Glaucoma is a hereditary disease but there are other factors that can make you a potential glaucoma patient.
CBI & RJD
CBI on Wednesday stood by RJD Chief Lalu Prasad, who has parted ways with the UPA government, in the Supreme Court by the decision of the Nitish Kumar government in Bihar to challenge his acquittal in a disproportionate assets case.
Prasad and his wife's stand that Bihar government has no locus standi to appeal against their acquittal was supported by CBI which said the right to file an appeal lies with the agency which probed and prosecuted the case.
"The case was investigated and prosecuted by CBI and it is for the Centre and not for state government to take a decision to file an appeal in the case of acquittal," senior advocate A Mariarputham, appearing for the agency, submitted before a Bench headed by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan.
Prasad and his wife's stand that Bihar government has no locus standi to appeal against their acquittal was supported by CBI which said the right to file an appeal lies with the agency which probed and prosecuted the case.
"The case was investigated and prosecuted by CBI and it is for the Centre and not for state government to take a decision to file an appeal in the case of acquittal," senior advocate A Mariarputham, appearing for the agency, submitted before a Bench headed by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan.
Delhi to use Hi-Fi system for its streetLighting
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has decided to do its bit for the environment by adopting a remote-controlled street-lighting system. This means the streets of Delhi would light up automatically at dusk and it would be lights-out after sunrise.
The system is sub-geography specific, so south Delhi wouldn't waste unnecessary power when it's dusk only in Noida.
All the lights are individually monitored and controlled from a central server. In the event of a fault, an SMS is directly sent to the maintenance staff for speedy and timely action.
The system is sub-geography specific, so south Delhi wouldn't waste unnecessary power when it's dusk only in Noida.
All the lights are individually monitored and controlled from a central server. In the event of a fault, an SMS is directly sent to the maintenance staff for speedy and timely action.
EFF posts Apple's license aggrement
ONLINE FREEDOM advocacy group the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has got its hands on and posted Apple's developer programme license agreement to lift the lid on the cappuccino firm's firewalled SDK application process.
How did the EFF get its hands on the licence agreement when developers have to sign in blood not to reveal any details? EFF spokesman Fred Von Lohmann wrote, "When we saw the NASA App for Iphone, we used the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to ask NASA for a copy, so that the general public could see what rules controlled the technology they could use with their phones. NASA responded with the Rev. 3-17-09 version of the agreement."
How did the EFF get its hands on the licence agreement when developers have to sign in blood not to reveal any details? EFF spokesman Fred Von Lohmann wrote, "When we saw the NASA App for Iphone, we used the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to ask NASA for a copy, so that the general public could see what rules controlled the technology they could use with their phones. NASA responded with the Rev. 3-17-09 version of the agreement."
UP CM atlast annouces compensation to those who died in temple stampede
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati on Wednesday announced a compensation of Rs. 2.50 lakh each for the next of kin of those who died in the Kripalu Maharaj ashram stampede in Pratapgarh district on March 4. A compensation of Rs. 75,000 each was announced for the injured.
In a related development, the manager of the ashram, Hiranmay Chaterjee, and two employees, Shiv Kumar and Amit, were arrested by the police on Wednesday. The manager and the organiser of the ashram complex had been named in the FIR lodged at the Kunda police station.
Sixty three persons were killed and about 74 injured in the stampede.
In a related development, the manager of the ashram, Hiranmay Chaterjee, and two employees, Shiv Kumar and Amit, were arrested by the police on Wednesday. The manager and the organiser of the ashram complex had been named in the FIR lodged at the Kunda police station.
Sixty three persons were killed and about 74 injured in the stampede.
Sajjan's bail makes stir in the Sikh Community
Scores of Sikhs gathered outside the Karkardooma court in here on Wednesday to lodge their protest against the bail granted by the court to the Congress leader, Sajjan Kumar, in cases related to 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Earlier, the court had issued two non- bailable warrants against the accused.
Sajjan surrendered before the court on Wednesday morning.
Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Lokesh Kumar granted bail to the accused, including Sajjan Kumar, after they all appeared before him.
Protestors were agitated after Sajjan was granted bail.
Sajjan surrendered before the court on Wednesday morning.
Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Lokesh Kumar granted bail to the accused, including Sajjan Kumar, after they all appeared before him.
Protestors were agitated after Sajjan was granted bail.
PCB on punishment mood - Bans vital players for lifetime
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt has done a volte-face on the life ban imposed on former captain Younis Khan and Mohammad Yousuf, saying no such action has been taken.
Pakistan's cricket authorities on Wednesday morning banned Younis and Yousuf and took stern action against five other national cricketers on charges ranging from misconduct to ball tampering.
Those punished included former captain Shoaib Malik, Rana Naveed-ul-Hasan, Shahid Afridi and the Akmal brothers, Kamran and Umar.
Pakistan's cricket authorities on Wednesday morning banned Younis and Yousuf and took stern action against five other national cricketers on charges ranging from misconduct to ball tampering.
Those punished included former captain Shoaib Malik, Rana Naveed-ul-Hasan, Shahid Afridi and the Akmal brothers, Kamran and Umar.
Women's bill would be passed in LokSabha b4 Mar 16
The government intends to push through the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha before the house adjourns on March 16 for a three-week break, parliamentary affairs minister P K Bansal said here on Wednesday.
Setting to rest speculation about the fate of the contentious bill that gives 33 percent representation to women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures and was passed by the Rajya Sabha Tuesday, Bansal said the bill would be passed in the lower house before March 16.
"That's our intention," Bansal told .
Setting to rest speculation about the fate of the contentious bill that gives 33 percent representation to women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures and was passed by the Rajya Sabha Tuesday, Bansal said the bill would be passed in the lower house before March 16.
"That's our intention," Bansal told .
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Orissa mining scam costs 3 lakh crore Rupees
The Congress on Monday released a book on the multi-crore mining scam in Orissa. Titled Satabdira Mahadurniti (The greatest scam of
the century), the 40-page makes a graphic presentation of several irregularities that have reportedly taken place during the present state government headed by Naveen Patnaik.
The book says the Naveen Patnaik government has “plundered” mineral wealth of Orissa to the tune of Rs three lakh crore and seeks a CBI probe into the scam.
Releasing the report of the fact finding team constituted by the Orissa Pradesh Congress Committee to probe the alleged scandal, the OPCC general secretary Naba Kishore Das claimed the scam might cross Rs three lakh crore mark, if taken into account all the irregularities in mining and trading of the minerals. He said this fact has been admitted by various departments of the Orissa government in last ten years.
the century), the 40-page makes a graphic presentation of several irregularities that have reportedly taken place during the present state government headed by Naveen Patnaik.
The book says the Naveen Patnaik government has “plundered” mineral wealth of Orissa to the tune of Rs three lakh crore and seeks a CBI probe into the scam.
Releasing the report of the fact finding team constituted by the Orissa Pradesh Congress Committee to probe the alleged scandal, the OPCC general secretary Naba Kishore Das claimed the scam might cross Rs three lakh crore mark, if taken into account all the irregularities in mining and trading of the minerals. He said this fact has been admitted by various departments of the Orissa government in last ten years.
Taxi driver of Indian origin roam around the city with child's body in Boot of his car- Oz Police
Part-time taxi driver Gursewak Dhillon apparently ran out of fuel and was helped by a woman in this Australian city while he was driving around with three-year-old Gurshan Singh Channa in the boot of his car, the police said.
Police intend to speak with the woman they believe stopped to help Dhillon between 12 pm and 3 pm on Thursday, Australian news agency AAP reported.
Dhillon is alleged to have placed the child in the boot of his car unconscious, but still alive.
Gurshan's body was found on Wildwood Road on Thursday night after a massive search following a complaint by his parents who were staying in Lalor, over 20 km away.
Police intend to speak with the woman they believe stopped to help Dhillon between 12 pm and 3 pm on Thursday, Australian news agency AAP reported.
Dhillon is alleged to have placed the child in the boot of his car unconscious, but still alive.
Gurshan's body was found on Wildwood Road on Thursday night after a massive search following a complaint by his parents who were staying in Lalor, over 20 km away.
Diabetes & Coffee at lunch
Drinking coffee cuts diabetes risk, but you may need to enjoy your java with lunch if you want to get any benefit.
Over a dozen studies have linked coffee drinking to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes - the type closely linked to obesity. But the mechanism behind the relationship hasn't been established and no studies have looked at whether the timing of coffee drinking influences this effect.
To investigate, researchers looked at 69,532 French women participating in a large European nutrition study. The women ranged in age from 41 to 72 years when they were enrolled in the study, and were followed for 11 years, on average.
Over a dozen studies have linked coffee drinking to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes - the type closely linked to obesity. But the mechanism behind the relationship hasn't been established and no studies have looked at whether the timing of coffee drinking influences this effect.
To investigate, researchers looked at 69,532 French women participating in a large European nutrition study. The women ranged in age from 41 to 72 years when they were enrolled in the study, and were followed for 11 years, on average.
Govt to review guidelines for Tourist & Conference Visas - Home Secretary
Home Secretary G.K. Pillai Tuesday indicated the government was agreeable to re-examine the new guidelines issued for granting tourist and conference visas if there were real grievances and said the ministry has received a number of representations.
'The government makes rules and regulations which may not be correct. But in a democracy there is a system, we correct ourselves if a mistake is made. If an error is made, we correct it,' he said here addressing a seminar, 'Thought Policing or Fighting Terror?'.
Tightening up visa procedures, the union home ministry last month asked all central ministries and state chief secretaries to strictly adhere to the revised procedure for grant of visas to foreigners coming to India to attend international conferences and seminars.
According to the new guidelines, security clearance for grant of conference visa would be required for participants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan and in respect of foreigners of Pakistani-origin and stateless persons.
'The government makes rules and regulations which may not be correct. But in a democracy there is a system, we correct ourselves if a mistake is made. If an error is made, we correct it,' he said here addressing a seminar, 'Thought Policing or Fighting Terror?'.
Tightening up visa procedures, the union home ministry last month asked all central ministries and state chief secretaries to strictly adhere to the revised procedure for grant of visas to foreigners coming to India to attend international conferences and seminars.
According to the new guidelines, security clearance for grant of conference visa would be required for participants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan and in respect of foreigners of Pakistani-origin and stateless persons.
Journey of Women's Bill dates back to 1996
The 14 years journey of the Women’s Reservation Bill was marked by high drama and hit roadblocks in each of its outings in Parliament before the historic measure cleared the first legislative hurdle on Tuesday.
The battle for greater representation to women in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies was routinely punctuated by frayed tempers and war of words which sometimes got physical, as different governments since 1996 tried to get the Women’s Reservation Bill passed in Parliament without success.
The Bill also lapsed each time the House was dissolved and was re-introduced by the Government of the day.
The battle for greater representation to women in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies was routinely punctuated by frayed tempers and war of words which sometimes got physical, as different governments since 1996 tried to get the Women’s Reservation Bill passed in Parliament without success.
The Bill also lapsed each time the House was dissolved and was re-introduced by the Government of the day.
Chinese investors prefer Baidu for Google as it lost its Market in China
When Google, owner of the most popular Internet search engine, said on January 12 it may close its website in China, Edinburgh money man
ager James Anderson sold the stock and bought Beijing-based rival Baidu Inc.
Since then, Baidu has risen 34% and Google has lost 8.5%. That kind of call helped propel Anderson’s closed- end fund, Baillie Gifford & Co’s £1.87 billion ($2.8 billion) Scottish Mortgage Trust Plc, to the best performance among its UK peers over the past year.
“Google was admitting they had lost in China,” said Anderson, who is Baillie Gifford’s chief investment officer and responsible for £56 billion in total. “It was revealing and added to the imputed value of Baidu.”
ager James Anderson sold the stock and bought Beijing-based rival Baidu Inc.
Since then, Baidu has risen 34% and Google has lost 8.5%. That kind of call helped propel Anderson’s closed- end fund, Baillie Gifford & Co’s £1.87 billion ($2.8 billion) Scottish Mortgage Trust Plc, to the best performance among its UK peers over the past year.
“Google was admitting they had lost in China,” said Anderson, who is Baillie Gifford’s chief investment officer and responsible for £56 billion in total. “It was revealing and added to the imputed value of Baidu.”
TCS VC Ramadorai to head BSE - Board Members
The Bombay Stock Exchange has appointed TCS vice-chairman S Ramadorai as the chairman of the bourse.
The decision to appoint Ramadorai as chairman was taken at a BSE board meeting held here. Currently, the BSE board has 10 members, including managing director Madhu Kannan.
Serving as the vice-chairman of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Ramadorai has been associated with the IT major for the past 37 years.
Last week, Jagdish Capoor resigned from the post of non-executive chairman as well as from the board of BSE on health grounds.
Ramadorai took over as the CEO of TCS in 1996 and has been instrumental in building TCS to a $6-billion company.
The decision to appoint Ramadorai as chairman was taken at a BSE board meeting held here. Currently, the BSE board has 10 members, including managing director Madhu Kannan.
Serving as the vice-chairman of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Ramadorai has been associated with the IT major for the past 37 years.
Last week, Jagdish Capoor resigned from the post of non-executive chairman as well as from the board of BSE on health grounds.
Ramadorai took over as the CEO of TCS in 1996 and has been instrumental in building TCS to a $6-billion company.
Daimler AG sells its shares in TATA Motors
German auto major Daimler, which holds a 5.34% stake in Indian automobile giant Tata Motors, is soon expected to sell its entire stake, consisting of nearly 2.56 crore shares. At the current market price, Daimler's stake is valued at about Rs 2,050 crore (nearly $450 million).
However, institutional broking sources said Daimler is planning to sell the shares at some discount to the current market price. On Monday, Tata Motors shares on the BSE ended at Rs 797, marginally up 0.2% over Friday's closing price.
Market sources pegged the price discount between 4-7%, i.e. in a range of Rs 737 and Rs 761 per share. At the upper end of the price band, the total deal could be worth nearly Rs 1,950 crore (about $427 million). Citigroup was handling the issue. A Daimler official declined to comment on the reported share sale and a Tata Motors spokeswoman did not offer any comment.
However, institutional broking sources said Daimler is planning to sell the shares at some discount to the current market price. On Monday, Tata Motors shares on the BSE ended at Rs 797, marginally up 0.2% over Friday's closing price.
Market sources pegged the price discount between 4-7%, i.e. in a range of Rs 737 and Rs 761 per share. At the upper end of the price band, the total deal could be worth nearly Rs 1,950 crore (about $427 million). Citigroup was handling the issue. A Daimler official declined to comment on the reported share sale and a Tata Motors spokeswoman did not offer any comment.
UN appoints Marie Orler as Police advisor for peacekeeping Ops
Marking International Women's Day, UN Chief Ban Ki-moon has appointed Ann-Marie Orler as Police Adviser for the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, which makes her the first woman to hold the top rank.
"Now, the United Nation's top cop is a woman. That is a wonderful way to celebrate International Women's Day," Ban told journalists here yesterday.
"Gender equality and women's empowerment are among my top priorities. Women are central to the Millennium Development Goals and all our hopes for progress and peace and stability and human rights," he noted.
Orler worked with the Swedish National Police for almost 20 years before joining the United Nations, and has served as UN's Deputy Police Adviser since 2008.
"Now, the United Nation's top cop is a woman. That is a wonderful way to celebrate International Women's Day," Ban told journalists here yesterday.
"Gender equality and women's empowerment are among my top priorities. Women are central to the Millennium Development Goals and all our hopes for progress and peace and stability and human rights," he noted.
Orler worked with the Swedish National Police for almost 20 years before joining the United Nations, and has served as UN's Deputy Police Adviser since 2008.
Reliance Mobile lauches 3G ready app 'Socially' .
Reliance has launched a 3G ready application called "Socially" for phones using its network. The application, now accessible via Reliance's RWorld portal, allows users to post simultaneous status updates over multiple social networks. The "supported networks" include Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
Socially also shows up-to-date social information of the caller during an incoming call and collates significant events across social networks and pushes them as alerts on select smartphones supporting the application, enabling users to have better conversations.
Socially also shows up-to-date social information of the caller during an incoming call and collates significant events across social networks and pushes them as alerts on select smartphones supporting the application, enabling users to have better conversations.
Nexus One sales forecast down
Google's plan to release its own mobile phone - the Nexus One - seems to have backfired as sales estimates have been slashed.
Such was the hype around the search giant's own phone that some analysts predicted that the Nexus One would sell 3.5m units in its first year.
But the lack of marketing around the phone (coupled with the fact the HTC Desire is essentially the same device with greater functionality) means that investment bank Goldman Sachs has dramatically reduced its estimates.
"We previously estimated that Google might sell 3.5 million Nexus One units in 2010," said the firm, according to ZDNet.
Such was the hype around the search giant's own phone that some analysts predicted that the Nexus One would sell 3.5m units in its first year.
But the lack of marketing around the phone (coupled with the fact the HTC Desire is essentially the same device with greater functionality) means that investment bank Goldman Sachs has dramatically reduced its estimates.
"We previously estimated that Google might sell 3.5 million Nexus One units in 2010," said the firm, according to ZDNet.
MNS workers Vandalised Airtel showrooms in Mumbai
Some might find it an odd sort of commemoration, but vandalizing two Airtel showrooms is what Raj Thackeray's men did on Tuesday, on the fourth birthday of their party, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).
Raj Thackeray addressed MNS workers on Tuesday morning. Hours later, they attacked Airtel showrooms in Mumbai and Thane because Airtel does not use Marathi in its pre-recorded messages for customers.
Thackeray, in his speech, said Airtel had been warned to switch to Marathi for their Interactive Voice Reponse (IVR) messages - the pre-recorded messages customers hear e.g. Dial 1 for Account Update.
Raj Thackeray addressed MNS workers on Tuesday morning. Hours later, they attacked Airtel showrooms in Mumbai and Thane because Airtel does not use Marathi in its pre-recorded messages for customers.
Thackeray, in his speech, said Airtel had been warned to switch to Marathi for their Interactive Voice Reponse (IVR) messages - the pre-recorded messages customers hear e.g. Dial 1 for Account Update.
Women's bill - most wanted , PM thank Oppn gor supporting the bill
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during the debate on the Women's Bill, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said the bill "is a historic and giant step towards empowering women and a celebration of their rights."
He added, "Women are facing discrimination at home, there's domestic violence, unequal access to health and education. This has to end."
Manmohan Singh congratulated the Opposition for supporting the Bill.
The Prime Minister also apologised to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, Hamid Ansari, for the unruly behaviour on Monday of MPs from parties opposed to the bill. They had grabbed mics, and torn up copies of the bill which they threw at Ansari. Seven MPs were suspended on Tuesday for this, but said they are not sorry.
He added, "Women are facing discrimination at home, there's domestic violence, unequal access to health and education. This has to end."
Manmohan Singh congratulated the Opposition for supporting the Bill.
The Prime Minister also apologised to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, Hamid Ansari, for the unruly behaviour on Monday of MPs from parties opposed to the bill. They had grabbed mics, and torn up copies of the bill which they threw at Ansari. Seven MPs were suspended on Tuesday for this, but said they are not sorry.
Pak sponsored 26/11 mumbai attacks - Nikam
Describing the 26/11 attacks as a “classic case of state-sponsored terrorism”, the prosecution on Tuesday opened its final arguments and pin-pointed the role of Pakistani Army establishment behind the November 26-29, 2008 Mumbai terror attacks and revealed that the Lashkar-e-Toiba fidayeens were taught the al-Qaeda manual.
“State actors from the security apparatus of Pakistan were behind the attacks,” Nikam told Additional Sessions Judge M L Tahaliyani in presence of Maharashtra Home Minister R R Patil and Minister of State for Home Ramesh Bagwe, who had come down to the Arthur Road Jail especially to witness the opening address of the prosecutor. The statement of Nikam assumes importance in the wake of the fact that Pakistan has denied involvement of “state actors” and have refused to arrest LeT founder and Jamaat-ud-Dawa boss Hafeez Saeed.
“State actors from the security apparatus of Pakistan were behind the attacks,” Nikam told Additional Sessions Judge M L Tahaliyani in presence of Maharashtra Home Minister R R Patil and Minister of State for Home Ramesh Bagwe, who had come down to the Arthur Road Jail especially to witness the opening address of the prosecutor. The statement of Nikam assumes importance in the wake of the fact that Pakistan has denied involvement of “state actors” and have refused to arrest LeT founder and Jamaat-ud-Dawa boss Hafeez Saeed.
Google tests its new engine to Search Tv progrmmes
Internet search giant Google is testing a new TV programming search service with satellite television operator Dish Network Corp, a move
that would allow users to find content from television and the Web.
Attributing to people familiar with the matter, The Wall Street Journal reported Google is testing a new TV programming search service with Dish Network Corp.
The report said the service, which runs on TV set-top boxes containing Google software, allows users to find shows on the satellite TV service as well as video from websites like YouTube.
It also allow users to personalise the line-up of shows.
that would allow users to find content from television and the Web.
Attributing to people familiar with the matter, The Wall Street Journal reported Google is testing a new TV programming search service with Dish Network Corp.
The report said the service, which runs on TV set-top boxes containing Google software, allows users to find shows on the satellite TV service as well as video from websites like YouTube.
It also allow users to personalise the line-up of shows.
Self charging Handsets to be real in Future - Nokia
Experts have come up with a cellphone that can recharge its own battery by harvesting energy from the owner's motion.
The self-charging handset by Nokia, who has already filed for a US patent, was predicted to work with heavier components, such as the radio transmitter circuit and battery, supported on a sturdy frame.
The frame apparently could shift along two sets of rails, allowing it travel up and down and side to side, New Scientist reported.
Each rail apparently hosted strips of piezoelectric crystals at its end, capable of generating a current when compressed by the frame such that motion, by the user or the movement of the phone, generates electricity.
That in turn charged a capacitor and subsequently the battery, boosting the charge.
The self-charging handset by Nokia, who has already filed for a US patent, was predicted to work with heavier components, such as the radio transmitter circuit and battery, supported on a sturdy frame.
The frame apparently could shift along two sets of rails, allowing it travel up and down and side to side, New Scientist reported.
Each rail apparently hosted strips of piezoelectric crystals at its end, capable of generating a current when compressed by the frame such that motion, by the user or the movement of the phone, generates electricity.
That in turn charged a capacitor and subsequently the battery, boosting the charge.
Telangana delay - a reason for suicides in Andhra
Desperate over the delay in formation of a Telangana state, another student of the Osmania University committed suicide on Tuesday.
Sai Kumar, a second year B. Tech student, ended his life by hanging in his hostel room in the campus. A suicide note purported to have been written by him said he was taking the extreme step as he was upset over the delay.
Police said some hostel inmates saw Sai Kumar hanging from the ceiling fan. Kumar, who hailed from Nalgonda district, was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead.
Sai Kumar, a second year B. Tech student, ended his life by hanging in his hostel room in the campus. A suicide note purported to have been written by him said he was taking the extreme step as he was upset over the delay.
Police said some hostel inmates saw Sai Kumar hanging from the ceiling fan. Kumar, who hailed from Nalgonda district, was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Search Engines - faster & efficient .
For all those who use Google to search the web, and most of us probably do, here's a quick question. Have you ever hit the "I'm feeling lucky button" on the search engine and accessed the results? For the uninitiated, the button takes you directly to the number one result your query fetched. Whether it's the answer you were searching for depends entirely on your luck – hence the "I am feeling lucky" tag. Ironically, this is true of most web search results today.
Search engines may be speedy but are they precise enough? "Not necessarily. There is still a lot of confusion there," says usability professional, Manish Sinha, whose work involves providing suggestions to websites to improve the user's browsing experience. Sinha says that ambiguity creeps in because a user gets results that largely depend on the keywords used. "For example, if you type in windows, the results would range from the Microsoft software to the windows in homes. Similarly, if you type Paris, the search could show the city as well as Hilton, the socialite."
Search engines may be speedy but are they precise enough? "Not necessarily. There is still a lot of confusion there," says usability professional, Manish Sinha, whose work involves providing suggestions to websites to improve the user's browsing experience. Sinha says that ambiguity creeps in because a user gets results that largely depend on the keywords used. "For example, if you type in windows, the results would range from the Microsoft software to the windows in homes. Similarly, if you type Paris, the search could show the city as well as Hilton, the socialite."
Operators oppose TRAI's move to charge for Number
Telecom operators, including the PSUs BSNL and MTNL, have opposed the TRAI move to charge a price for allocating new numbers, saying an additional levy is totally unwarranted.
Sectoral regulator TRAI’s main reason behind suggesting a price on allocating new numbers is that the numbers are not being efficiently utilised and it feels a price can make the operators not to dole out numbers to lure more customers. It has also sought opinion on the methods of pricing.
The existing National Numbering Plan was formulated for a projected forecast 450 million mobile and 300 million basic subscribers. Due to the tremendous growth in subscriber numbers, the plan has fallen way short of designed capacity in case of mobile numbering resources as the current subscriber base is more than 550 million.
Sectoral regulator TRAI’s main reason behind suggesting a price on allocating new numbers is that the numbers are not being efficiently utilised and it feels a price can make the operators not to dole out numbers to lure more customers. It has also sought opinion on the methods of pricing.
The existing National Numbering Plan was formulated for a projected forecast 450 million mobile and 300 million basic subscribers. Due to the tremendous growth in subscriber numbers, the plan has fallen way short of designed capacity in case of mobile numbering resources as the current subscriber base is more than 550 million.
Bt Cotton failed to control PESTS - Monsanto field study
In what is bound to strengthen environment minister Jairam Ramesh's stand that GM crop technology should be handled with precaution, Monsanto on Friday admitted that its Bt cotton variety had failed to control pests in four districts of Gujarat.
Monsanto said that during field monitoring in 2009, the Bt cotton variety used in four Gujarat districts — Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagarh and Rajkot — was found to attract the pink bollworm, a major pest that attacks cotton plantations.
Monsanto said that during field monitoring in 2009, the Bt cotton variety used in four Gujarat districts — Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagarh and Rajkot — was found to attract the pink bollworm, a major pest that attacks cotton plantations.
GroundWater ,a serious concern for Indians by 2020- World Bk report
With the growing number of aquifers in India reaching unsustainable levels of exploitation, about 60% of them will be in a critical condition within 20 years if the current trend continues, says a World Bank report released on Friday.
This will have serious implications on the sustenance of agriculture, long-term food security, livelihoods and economic growth. Over a quarter of the country’s harvest is estimated to be at risk.
The World Bank in its findings called, “Report on Deep Wells and Prudence: Towards Pragmatic Action for addressing Groundwater Overexploitation in India”, has called for an urgent need to change the status quo.
This will have serious implications on the sustenance of agriculture, long-term food security, livelihoods and economic growth. Over a quarter of the country’s harvest is estimated to be at risk.
The World Bank in its findings called, “Report on Deep Wells and Prudence: Towards Pragmatic Action for addressing Groundwater Overexploitation in India”, has called for an urgent need to change the status quo.
AI to operate a long haul flight will all women crew on Women's Day
On the occasion of Women's Day on Monday, Air India will make history, deploying an all-women pilot team on the ultra long haul, non-stop flight (AI-141) from Mumbai to New York.
The Boeing 777-200 Long Range aircraft will be operated by a double set of all-women crew, supported by women of the National Aviation Company of India Limited (NACIL), the holding company of AI.
Captain Rashmi Miranda and Captain Sunita Narula will be the commanders, and Captain Swati Rawal and Captain Neha Kulkarni First Officers on the 14-hour flight. Mrs. Harpreet A De Singh will carry out a line observation safety audit; the flight will be despatched by Nandita Deshpande and the load and trim sheet will be prepared by Ferzin Kuruvilla.
The Boeing 777-200 Long Range aircraft will be operated by a double set of all-women crew, supported by women of the National Aviation Company of India Limited (NACIL), the holding company of AI.
Captain Rashmi Miranda and Captain Sunita Narula will be the commanders, and Captain Swati Rawal and Captain Neha Kulkarni First Officers on the 14-hour flight. Mrs. Harpreet A De Singh will carry out a line observation safety audit; the flight will be despatched by Nandita Deshpande and the load and trim sheet will be prepared by Ferzin Kuruvilla.
Stars urge BBC to relook on the closing of its Asian radio station matter
Jay Sean, Shilpa Shetty and Amir Khan were among a host of stars who urged the BBC Saturday to drop plans to close the Asian Network radio station.
Hip-hop artist Sean, Bollywood actress Shetty and world light welterweight boxing champion Khan said a key outlet for South Asian talent would be "tragically lost" if the station closed down.
They were among 158 public figures who made the plea in a joint letter to The Guardian.
"We are writing to express our profound shock at the BBC director general Mark Thompson's proposals to close down the BBC Asian Network as a national station," the signatories said.
Hip-hop artist Sean, Bollywood actress Shetty and world light welterweight boxing champion Khan said a key outlet for South Asian talent would be "tragically lost" if the station closed down.
They were among 158 public figures who made the plea in a joint letter to The Guardian.
"We are writing to express our profound shock at the BBC director general Mark Thompson's proposals to close down the BBC Asian Network as a national station," the signatories said.
Its now US to improve relations with us - Chinese Foreign Ministry
China said Sunday that it is up to the United States to improve relations that soured over U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and a meeting between President Barack Obama and the Dalai Lama.
Despite the tough line, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said China's newly assertive diplomacy is simply an attempt to safeguard its core interests and shouldn't be interpreted as combativeness.
Beijing was incensed by Washington's January announcement of a $6.4 billion weapons package for Taiwan, the self-governing island it considers Chinese territory. Beijing suspended military exchanges and has threatened to retaliate against U.S. aerospace firms involved in the deal.
Despite the tough line, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said China's newly assertive diplomacy is simply an attempt to safeguard its core interests and shouldn't be interpreted as combativeness.
Beijing was incensed by Washington's January announcement of a $6.4 billion weapons package for Taiwan, the self-governing island it considers Chinese territory. Beijing suspended military exchanges and has threatened to retaliate against U.S. aerospace firms involved in the deal.
Obama's mission to reduce N-Weapons
US President Barack Obama has pledged to reduce the number of nuclear weapons and curtail their role in his country’s national security strategy, even while maintaining a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent.
In a statement to mark the 40th anniversary of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, Obama also said that his administration would seek ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty by the US Senate and negotiate a treaty to end the production of fissile material for use in nuclear weapons.
“Our forthcoming Nuclear Posture Review will move beyond outdated Cold War thinking and reduce the number and role of nuclear weapons in our national security strategy, even as we maintain a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent,” he said.
In a statement to mark the 40th anniversary of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, Obama also said that his administration would seek ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty by the US Senate and negotiate a treaty to end the production of fissile material for use in nuclear weapons.
“Our forthcoming Nuclear Posture Review will move beyond outdated Cold War thinking and reduce the number and role of nuclear weapons in our national security strategy, even as we maintain a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent,” he said.
Four police officers in Pakistan have been sacked over their handling of the kidnap of a five-year-old British boy.
Sahil Saeed, from Oldham, was snatched by armed robbers on Wednesday while visiting relatives with his father.
But the police did not initially respond to the family's emergency call to "Rescue 15", the Pakistani equivalent of 999.
Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik met with Sahil's father and said he hoped the boy would be recovered soon.
But the police did not initially respond to the family's emergency call to "Rescue 15", the Pakistani equivalent of 999.
Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik met with Sahil's father and said he hoped the boy would be recovered soon.
Nithyanandha in Varanasi , will return on March 18
Even as speculation continues over the whereabouts of Swami Nithyananda, who is at the centre of a controversy now, his lawyer on Friday claimed that the godman had not absconded but was in Varanasi. “He is attending the Kumbh Mela, along with 4,000 devotees from world over, and is scheduled to return on March 18,” M Shreedhar, who is representing the godman in Madras High Court, told .
Asked about Nithyananda’s association with the woman seen with him in the video that had created a furore, Shreedhar said the film star started visiting the ashram to overcome depression caused by a failed marriage and soon became a devotee of the swami. Nithyananda was seen in a compromising position with the actress in the video aired by a Tamil TV channel recently.
Asked about Nithyananda’s association with the woman seen with him in the video that had created a furore, Shreedhar said the film star started visiting the ashram to overcome depression caused by a failed marriage and soon became a devotee of the swami. Nithyananda was seen in a compromising position with the actress in the video aired by a Tamil TV channel recently.
Nirupama Rao on 3 day visit to SriLanka
Visiting Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao called on Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa here on Sunday and exchanged views on whole range of issues of mutual interest to both the counties in general and the ongoing rehabilitation and resettlement of the nearly three lakh Tamil civilians displaced during the war between the Sri Lankan forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the course of the 34 month war (July 2006 to May 2009) in particular.
Ms. Rao is here on a three day visit on the invitation of the Sri Lankan Government to the island nation for interaction with her interlocutors on a wide range of issues of mutual interest to both the counties. Her visit comes days after the External Affairs Minister, S.M. Krishna told Rajya Sabha in a written answer that the war in the island nation is over but the search for a political settlement continues.
Ms. Rao is here on a three day visit on the invitation of the Sri Lankan Government to the island nation for interaction with her interlocutors on a wide range of issues of mutual interest to both the counties. Her visit comes days after the External Affairs Minister, S.M. Krishna told Rajya Sabha in a written answer that the war in the island nation is over but the search for a political settlement continues.
Pak says India didn't ask for the arrest of Saeed over Mumbai attack connection
Expressing ‘surprise’ over Pakistan's claim that the issue of arrest of Hafiz Saeed, one of the 26/11 masterminds, was not taken up during Foreign Secretary- level talks, India said on Sunday that it has been demanding action against him since the barbaric and dastardly attacks in Mumbai and the matter was raised ‘strongly’ during the parleys.
"Saeed's activities including his recent vitriolic and venomous statements aimed at fomenting further acts of terrorism against India and the unhindered public space and freedom he enjoys in Pakistan was raised strongly by India during the Foreign Secretary-level talks," External Affairs Ministry spokesman said in a statement here.
Talking to reporters in Multan, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had claimed that India never demanded the arrest of the Jamaat-ud-Dawah chief Saeed nor discussed the issue at the talks between Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao and her Pakistani counterpart Salman Bashir here on February 25.
"Saeed's activities including his recent vitriolic and venomous statements aimed at fomenting further acts of terrorism against India and the unhindered public space and freedom he enjoys in Pakistan was raised strongly by India during the Foreign Secretary-level talks," External Affairs Ministry spokesman said in a statement here.
Talking to reporters in Multan, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had claimed that India never demanded the arrest of the Jamaat-ud-Dawah chief Saeed nor discussed the issue at the talks between Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao and her Pakistani counterpart Salman Bashir here on February 25.
Maya Govt has no money to offer to Victims & no legal action taken yet
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh may have announced Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of those killed in the Pratapgarh ashram but Mayawati, the Chief Minister of the state where the accident happened says she has no money to offer to the victims.
Rs 2000 crore have been spent on building the statues of Dalit icons, but there is no money to help those who died in the Pratapgarh stampede.
In a press release issued on Friday night the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said that the state will not be able to provide compensation to the victims due to financial constraints.
Rs 2000 crore have been spent on building the statues of Dalit icons, but there is no money to help those who died in the Pratapgarh stampede.
In a press release issued on Friday night the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said that the state will not be able to provide compensation to the victims due to financial constraints.
ISRO tests its New Gen GSLV for its flight scheduled by end of 2011
The long-duration test-firing of the core stage of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV- Mark III) (for about 200 seconds) at Mahendragiri near Nagercoil in Tamil Nadu was stopped on Friday evening after 150 seconds owing to a deviation in one of the parameters, said an official of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The core stage, powered by 110 tonnes of liquid propellants, is called L-110.
The test took place at ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
ISRO officials said the data from the test was being analysed to find out why the deviation occurred.
The core stage, powered by 110 tonnes of liquid propellants, is called L-110.
The test took place at ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
ISRO officials said the data from the test was being analysed to find out why the deviation occurred.
23 yr old Man of Indian origin held for death of child in Melbounre
A 23-year-old man of Indian origin was charged on Sunday with the death of Indian boy Gurshan Singh Channa, whose body was found far away from his home in this Australian city, a media report said.
Dhillon Gursewak has been charged with manslaughter due to criminal negligence, Australian news agency reported.
Gursewak is not a relative but he lived in the same house in David Street where Gurshan stayed with his parents visiting from Punjab.
Gurshan was found dead on Wildwood Road on Thursday night after a massive search after his parents complained that the boy had gone missing. The body was found about 20 km away.
Dhillon Gursewak has been charged with manslaughter due to criminal negligence, Australian news agency reported.
Gursewak is not a relative but he lived in the same house in David Street where Gurshan stayed with his parents visiting from Punjab.
Gurshan was found dead on Wildwood Road on Thursday night after a massive search after his parents complained that the boy had gone missing. The body was found about 20 km away.
MCOCA invoked against Godman arrested in Delhi
Delhi police today invoked provisions under stringent MCOCA against a self-styled Godman recently arrested on charges of running a multi-crore prostitution racket in the national capital.
"We have invoked the provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against Shiv Murat Dwivedi," DCP (south) HGS Dhaliwal said.
39-year-old Dwivedi alias Ichchadhari Sant Swami Bhimanand Ji Maharaj Chitrakoot Wale, who had set up a temple in south Delhi's Khanpur, was arrested along with a man and six women, including two airhostesses, on charges of prostitution.
"We have invoked the provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against Shiv Murat Dwivedi," DCP (south) HGS Dhaliwal said.
39-year-old Dwivedi alias Ichchadhari Sant Swami Bhimanand Ji Maharaj Chitrakoot Wale, who had set up a temple in south Delhi's Khanpur, was arrested along with a man and six women, including two airhostesses, on charges of prostitution.
Respect the views of victims of Rape - CJI
Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishnan on Sunday said that judges, lawyers and social activists should give "due regard" to the wishes of a rape victim if she chooses to marry the rapist or have the baby conceived from the crime.
"Judges, lawyers and social activists should also ensure that they do not take an overtly paternalistic approach when they have to make decisions for the welfare of rape victims," he said at a seminar in Delhi.
"Due regard must be given to their personal autonomy since in some cases the victim may choose to marry the perpetrator or choose to give birth to a child conceived through forced intercourse," he said.
"Judges, lawyers and social activists should also ensure that they do not take an overtly paternalistic approach when they have to make decisions for the welfare of rape victims," he said at a seminar in Delhi.
"Due regard must be given to their personal autonomy since in some cases the victim may choose to marry the perpetrator or choose to give birth to a child conceived through forced intercourse," he said.
Infy in trouble in Chandigarh SEZ develpoment
IT major Infosys has landed in trouble over alleged violation of norms in connection with the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) land it is developing in Chandigarh.
As per the established norms, the SEZ land should be vacant for getting approval. But there were some structures on Infosys' SEZ land even before the approval, alleged the revenue department in the Finance Ministry.
"Land was not vacant, some structures were there. Investigation has come up. Information has been sought," a senior CBEC is quoted as saying.
As per the established norms, the SEZ land should be vacant for getting approval. But there were some structures on Infosys' SEZ land even before the approval, alleged the revenue department in the Finance Ministry.
"Land was not vacant, some structures were there. Investigation has come up. Information has been sought," a senior CBEC is quoted as saying.
Pak will use the Modern arms provided to it by US for its Internal security - Pak spokesman
Pakistan has rejected India’s concerns regarding the sophisticated armaments being provided to it by the United States, saying the country’s military doctrine is purely defensive in nature.
Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit instead blamed India of ‘massive militarisation’ describing it as a threat for the region.
"It is India’s dangerous military doctrines and massive militarisation that are matters of huge concern for regional stability whereas Pakistan has always acted to protect its legitimate security interests. Our military doctrine is purely defensive in nature,” The News quoted Basit, as saying.
Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit instead blamed India of ‘massive militarisation’ describing it as a threat for the region.
"It is India’s dangerous military doctrines and massive militarisation that are matters of huge concern for regional stability whereas Pakistan has always acted to protect its legitimate security interests. Our military doctrine is purely defensive in nature,” The News quoted Basit, as saying.
Nithyananda's Disciple provides more of His guru's leela's in Ashram
In the latest development in the Swami Nithyananda's scandal, a disciple, Nithya Premananda, alias Lenin Karuppan, who admitted to leaking out the tape, has been provided police security.
According to Times of India report, Lenin has sought protection from Nithyananda's disciples, whom he alleged were attempting to eliminate him.
The scandal broke out on Tuesday night, Mar 2, after a television channel telecast a tape, showing the long-haired godman in a sexual romp with a Tamil actress.
According to Times of India report, Lenin has sought protection from Nithyananda's disciples, whom he alleged were attempting to eliminate him.
The scandal broke out on Tuesday night, Mar 2, after a television channel telecast a tape, showing the long-haired godman in a sexual romp with a Tamil actress.
Passport Seva - a gift to applicants , a curse to officials
If long queues outside shoddy passport offices gives you the jitters and, the thought of brokers and touts stops you from getting your passport by right, here is some good news for passport seekers.
Getting a passport will soon be hastle free with the revolutionisation of the current process, which at best, can be described as arduous.
It is learnt that External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, who hails from IT city Bangalore and, is very tech savvy, is walking that extra mile to facilitate the implementation of the landmark Passport Sewa E- Governance initiative.
Sevety-seven hi-tech state-of-the-art IT-enabled Passport Sewa offices are likely to come up across the country under the new initiative.
Krishna recently inspected two such centers in Bangalore.
Getting a passport will soon be hastle free with the revolutionisation of the current process, which at best, can be described as arduous.
It is learnt that External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, who hails from IT city Bangalore and, is very tech savvy, is walking that extra mile to facilitate the implementation of the landmark Passport Sewa E- Governance initiative.
Sevety-seven hi-tech state-of-the-art IT-enabled Passport Sewa offices are likely to come up across the country under the new initiative.
Krishna recently inspected two such centers in Bangalore.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Tata Indicom started a Charter to Pay back Customers if they are not satisfied with a particular Service
Tata Teleservices (TTSL) has come up with a industry-first, ‘Customr Service Charter’ initiative wherein the company guarantees pre-determined levels of service and support and which also includes a compensation clause to pay back subscribers if they do not feel that the set levels have been met.
The offer presently is available only to TTSL’s CDMA subscribers under the Tata Indicom brand.
TTSL says that it aims to differentiate itself from competitors in terms of customer service.
The Charter includes five salient propositions identified by TTSL namely The Bill Dispute Commitment, The Call Drop Commitment, The Handset Replacement Commitment, The VAS Commitment and The Call-Back Commitment.
The offer presently is available only to TTSL’s CDMA subscribers under the Tata Indicom brand.
TTSL says that it aims to differentiate itself from competitors in terms of customer service.
The Charter includes five salient propositions identified by TTSL namely The Bill Dispute Commitment, The Call Drop Commitment, The Handset Replacement Commitment, The VAS Commitment and The Call-Back Commitment.
Tata DoCoMo in Gujrat Now
Tata Teleservices today launched its GSM services offered under TATA DOCOMO brand name in Gujarat circle.
The company has positioned the tariff for its services under the “Pay-for-what-you-use” model which includes per-second pulse tariff structure.
“The value proposition offered by TATA-DOCOMO is a unique and revolutionary idea which symbolizes the spirit of innovation and inventive genius. This launch is truly a moment of triumph for the consumer. The launch of the pay-per-use concept by TATA-DOCOMO will create a paradigm shift in the overall telecom experience for the customer and provide a service that is refreshingly different,” said Mr Ratan Tata, Chairman, Tata Sons.
The company has positioned the tariff for its services under the “Pay-for-what-you-use” model which includes per-second pulse tariff structure.
“The value proposition offered by TATA-DOCOMO is a unique and revolutionary idea which symbolizes the spirit of innovation and inventive genius. This launch is truly a moment of triumph for the consumer. The launch of the pay-per-use concept by TATA-DOCOMO will create a paradigm shift in the overall telecom experience for the customer and provide a service that is refreshingly different,” said Mr Ratan Tata, Chairman, Tata Sons.
MicroMax launches its New handset C112 in partnership Tata Indicom
Micromax mobile has rolled out its new handset C112. Micromax has partnered with Tata Indicom offering for its prepaid customers Tata Indicom connection free of cost along with 200 minutes of talk-time with per second billing option.
Subscribers also have a choice of recharging with a RCV of Rs. 38 as many times they want till May 31, 2010. The validity for each installment of promotional talk-time is 30 days.
C112 is a basic handset which is equipped with 1.44 inch screen with 65k colours. The handset weighs only 70gms. The phone is vaunts FM Radio receiver with features like 20 channels and scheduled FM recording. It also comes with a Hindi keypad, a calendar and a mobile tracker.
The handset has a CDMA band (800 Mhz). The Dimensions of the handset are 107*47*12.57. The handset is incorporated with five way navigation key, talk time up to three hours and standby up to five days.
Other features of the handset include:
• Games
• Phonebook Memory – 500
• SMS Memory – 300
• speakerphone
• SMS
Micromax C112 comes with an affordable price tag of Rs. 1699.
Subscribers also have a choice of recharging with a RCV of Rs. 38 as many times they want till May 31, 2010. The validity for each installment of promotional talk-time is 30 days.
C112 is a basic handset which is equipped with 1.44 inch screen with 65k colours. The handset weighs only 70gms. The phone is vaunts FM Radio receiver with features like 20 channels and scheduled FM recording. It also comes with a Hindi keypad, a calendar and a mobile tracker.
The handset has a CDMA band (800 Mhz). The Dimensions of the handset are 107*47*12.57. The handset is incorporated with five way navigation key, talk time up to three hours and standby up to five days.
Other features of the handset include:
• Games
• Phonebook Memory – 500
• SMS Memory – 300
• speakerphone
• SMS
Micromax C112 comes with an affordable price tag of Rs. 1699.
IPL licesed rights to transmit over Mobile platform to vRock
Indian Premier League (IPL), the world's largest cricket league, on Thursday licensed the exclusive rights for its transmission over various mobile platforms across the world.
This move will curtail a revenue stream for the telecom companies, which were offering IPL updates to their customers for a fee.
Lalit Modi, chairman and commissioner of IPL said the league has partnered with Gurgaon-based vRock Mobile Communications (vRock Mobile) for taking the events and news related to the third edition of IPL to mobile subscribers.
This move will curtail a revenue stream for the telecom companies, which were offering IPL updates to their customers for a fee.
Lalit Modi, chairman and commissioner of IPL said the league has partnered with Gurgaon-based vRock Mobile Communications (vRock Mobile) for taking the events and news related to the third edition of IPL to mobile subscribers.
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